Biography of Valerie Solanas, Radical Feminist Author

Valerie Jean Solanas (April 9, 1936 – April 25, 1988) was a radical feminist activist and author. Her major claims to fame were her SCUM Manifesto and her attempt on the life of Andy Warhol. Fast Facts: Valerie Solanas Full Name: Valerie Jean SolanasBorn: April 9, 1936 in Ventnor City, New JerseyDied: April 25, 1988 in San Francisco, CaliforniaParents: Louis Solanas and Dorothy Marie BiondoEducation: University of MarylandKnown For: Radical feminist author who penned the anti-patriarchal SCUM Manifesto and shot Andy Warhol in a paranoid episode Early Life Solanas was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, the first daughter of bartender Louis Solanas and dental assistant Dorothy Marie Biondo. She also had a younger sister, Judith Arlene Solanas Martinez. Early in Solanas’ life, her parents divorced and her mother remarried; she did not get along with her stepfather. Solanas said that her father had sexually abused her, and as she got older, she began rebelling against her mother as well. As a young teenager, Solanas was often in trouble, ditching school and getting into fights. At age 13, she was sent to live with her grandparents. When describing this period of her life, Solanas often described her grandfather as violent and alcoholic. She left their home when she was 15, became homeless, and had a son at age 17. The boy was put up for adoption and she never saw him again. Despite all this, she did well in school and got a degree in psychology from the University of Maryland, where she also hosted a radical feminist radio advice show and was openly lesbian. Solanas then went to grad school at the University of Minnesota before dropping out and taking a few classes at Berkeley, but never completed her graduate degree. Critical Writings and Involvement With Warhol Solanas moved to New York City to write, and she earned money through begging and prostitution or through waitressing. She wrote an autobiographical short story, as well as a play about a prostitute that was so provocative and obscene that, when she approached Andy Warhol about producing it, he thought it was a trap by the police. To assuage her anger, he cast her in a small part in one of his films. After signing an informal contract with publisher Maurice Girodias, she became paranoid that he had deceived her to steal her work and that he and Warhol were conspiring against her. On June 3, 1968, Solanas went to producer Margo Feiden, and, after an unsuccessful attempt to persuade Feiden to produce her play, reportedly vowed that Feiden would produce her play because she was about to become famous for killing Warhol. Solanas confessed to shooting Andy Warhol in 1968, claiming she had good reason. Bettmann/Getty Images That same afternoon, Solanas tried to make good on her threat. She went to Warhol’s studio, The Factory, met Warhol there, and shot him and art critic Mario Amaya. Warhol underwent successful surgery and made a recovery, though he barely survived and suffered physical effects for the rest of his life. Solanas turned herself in, claiming in court that Warhol was out to own and ruin her career, and was sent for psychiatric evaluation. Initially deemed unfit to stand trial, she was eventually diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, pled guilty to assault, and was sentenced to three years in prison. The SCUM Manifesto and Solanas Radical Feminism Solanas’ best known work was her SCUM Manifesto, an intensive critique of patriarchal culture. The premise of the text was that men had managed to ruin the world and that women must overthrow society and eliminate the male sex altogether in other to fix the broken world. While critiquing patriarchal constructs is a common concept in feminist literature, Solanas took it much farther by suggesting that men were not only a problem as part of the deep-rooted patriarchy, but that they were inherently bad and useless. The manifesto also had as a core belief the concept of men as incomplete females and lacking empathy. Solanas theorized that their whole lives were spent trying to live vicariously through the women around them, and that their lack of a second X chromosome made them mentally and emotionally inferior. Her vision of a utopian future is one that is wholly automated and wholly without men. These extreme opinions put her at odds with most of the contemporary feminist movement. Later Life and Legacy Although many mainstream feminist movements disavowed Solanas’ radicalism, others embraced it, and the media reported on it. Solanas herself was reportedly disinterested in contemporary feminist organizations and dismissive of their goals as not radical enough. After being released from prison in 1971, she started stalking Warhol and several others. As a result, she was re-arrested, institutionalized, and subsequently vanished from the public altogether. In the later years of her life, Solanas reportedly continued writing, with at least one semi-autobiographical text rumored to be in the works. By the mid-1980s, Solanas had left New York for good and moved to San Francisco, where she reportedly changed her name to Onz Loh and continued revising her SCUM Manifesto.  She died of pneumonia at the age of 52 at the Bristol Hotel in San Francisco on April 25, 1988. She may have been working on something new at the time of her death, but her mother burned all her belongings after her death, so any new writings would have been lost. The grave of Valerie Solanas in Fairfax County, Virginia. Sarah Stierch (CC BY 4.0)/Wikimedia Commons Solanas was credited with kickstarting a wave of the radical feminist movement, despite her extreme actions. Her work did pioneer new ways of thinking about gender and gender dynamics. In the years and decades after her death, her life, work, and image have all been interpreted and contextualized in a variety of ways; the truth of her life will likely always be shrouded in mystery and contradiction, and those who knew her seem to think she would have wanted it exactly that way. Sources Buchanan, Paul D. Radical Feminists: A Guide to an American Subculture. Santa Barbara, CA: Greenwood, 2011.Fahs, Breanne. Valerie Solanas: The Defiant Life of the Woman Who Wrote SCUM (and Shot Andy Warhol). New York: The Feminist Press, 2014.Heller, Dana (2001). Shooting Solanas: radical feminist history and the technology of failure. Feminist Studies. Vol. 27, issue 1 (2001): 167–189.

Technology And Its Impact On The Classroom - 1277 Words

Technology in Classroom Ali Boholaiga Kathrine Barrett ELI 084 Technology in Classroom Technology is all over our minds and concerns whether in regard to social impact, dependency or its use at educational institutions. It is currently the most debated issue in our modern society. Technology, it is believed, will become necessary for our survival in the future. It is the agent who will preserve the human race. The use of technology in classrooms is one example that the future will be better and students will turn out to be multi-dimensional in their thought processes and in the application of knowledge in future. Critics are always there. It is argued that technology in the classroom is a distraction in gaining information from lectures, and it is playing a negative impact on the minds of young generation. Is it really technology which is a source of disruption or is it individually based? A thought which is worth considering! Technology is the faster way to grow the education up in the future. It seems like there is a war on implementing the use of technology for teaching purpose. Teachers have different perspectives. There are those who are ‘old school’ and prefer delivering verbal lectures in the classroom. For them, the best way to have an attentive child is to keep them far away from distractions. Is this really true? Who can guarantee that a student is 100 percent attentive in class? The teachers complain that the child was foundShow MoreRelatedTechnology And Its Impact On The Classroom1571 Words   |  7 PagesTechnology in the school has become an increasingly challenging and somewhat disruptive aspect in today’s educational system. In order to maintain what is considered the status quo, schools have focused their energy and resources on banning cell phones, wireless Internet and blocking social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter in schools. However, as technology continues to grow in our society outside of the school, many believe tha t effectively involving these technologies into the classroomRead MoreTechnology And Its Impact On The Classroom1313 Words   |  6 PagesTechnology in the Classroom In our progressive society, we are all aware of the development of technology and the effect it has had on daily lives. People use technology as a way to communicate with each other, a form of entertainment, or as a tool to give them instant information at all times. Technology has a significant influence on many different parts of society. Concerning education, certain electronic devices such as computers, smart boards, and tablets assist the learning process for studentsRead MoreTechnology And Its Impact On The Classroom1601 Words   |  7 Pagespast decade, technology has transformed society and has changed many aspects of daily living. Presently, the world consists of quickly advancing technology and people competing all around the world to be considered the best. Many educators argue that the only way to continue to have control within the classroom and to have students be successful within the classroom is to properly integrate technology into the classroom. Currently, the p roblem in the education system is that technology is often difficultRead MoreThe Impact Of Technology On The Classroom2298 Words   |  10 Pagesis technology in the classroom. Per the Merriam-Webster dictionary, technology is defined as â€Å"a manner of accomplishing a task especially using technical processes, methods, or knowledge.†. Technology in the classroom started way back in the early 1980’s. Classrooms are changing every day, with the never-ending improvements of technology. Technology today is playing a large role in students’ lives, from the elementary rooms, to full computer labs. Technology hasn’t always been the technology weRead MoreTechnology And Its Impact On The Classroom Essay3638 Words   |  15 Pagesand more advanced beings, has become interwoven with technology, as nearly all aspects of one’s life, whether it being at home, for leisure, at work, or in the educational sector- is entwined with elements of digitality. This notion leads one to see that the participation with technologies can be an essential aspect of one’s progression in this new contemporary society. The emergence and subsequent dominance of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in this digitally mediated world has led to theRead MoreThe Impact Of Technology On The Classroom2018 Words   |  9 PagesThe Significance of Technology in My Classroom The impact on technology in the classroom has opened many new windows for educators. Technology can be used in various ways while working in a classroom, whether that be a first grade classroom or a class of juniors in high school. Technology can help our students widen their knowledge. When planning lessons, it is important that teachers incorporate some types of technology. When technology is used in your lessons, the students will be able to achieveRead MoreImpact Of Technology On The Classroom1921 Words   |  8 PagesTechnology in the classroom is important for teachers, parents, and students alike, because technology use has become a necessary skill for survival in today’s vastly expanding technology driven global economy. Research has shown an increase in student’s success rates when exposed to technology in the classroom. Also technology has opened lines of communication between educators and parents to keep students on track, and help teachers educate better. Since children today have become digital natives;Read MoreThe Impact Of Technology On The Classroom1323 Words   |  6 PagesUpon entering a classroom in the United States the room is typically full of desks and chairs in symmetrical rows, the teacher’s desk is stacked with resources, and a considerable amount of textbooks, papers, and posters are located around the room. Among these objects there may be one or two computers, in some instances smartboards, but overall the influence of technology in the classroom is limited. This scene is practically identical to every other classroom across the country. Although societyRead MoreThe Impact Of Technology On The Classroom1332 Words   |  6 Pageswhich technology is being developed and is becoming a part of our everyday life. One of the largest arguments with the advancing technology is whether or not it’s good for teaching and learning purposes in the classroom. From email to online classes, computers are defiantly manipulating our lives, and can enhance learning in the classroom in various ways. The growing popularity of technology emphasizes the importance for students and administrators to support and encourage computer technology in ourRead MoreThe Impact Of Technology On The Classroom Essay1586 Words   |  7 Pagesevolution of technology in education has reached an all-time high. Back to school shopping lists now require the purchase of various technologies and their accessories in place of the paper and pencils of past generations.. Technology is becoming crucial in society, it is to the point where people are hooked to their smartphones, unable to part with them even for just a hour long class. Can this addiction to technology be positively brought into the classroom? To what extent does technology become harmful

Concentration, Solution, Density Essay Sample free essay sample

This research lab involved utilizing equipment to thin a sugar H2O solution. It besides created solutions incorporating varying degrees of concentrations and densenesss. Equations were used to calculate the molecular weight of the sugar. and the figure of moles of sugar in the volumetric flask. There was besides an equation to calculate the Molarity. every bit good. As a consequence of the experiment. I now have a better apprehension of the denseness of a concentration. and what Molarity is. ObservationsData Table 8: Initial ConcentrationChemicalMass ( g ) Molecular Weight ( g ) Moles in Volumetric FlaskTotal Volume ( L ) Molarity ( mol/L ) Sugar ( C12H22O11 ) 8331. 230. 0241525 0. 9961 *As a side note. upon researching the molecular weight of sugar. I found it to be 342. 30 g. non 331. 23 g. nevertheless. in my computation I used 15. 00 g as the molecular weight of O2. whereas online 16. 00 g was used. Eight8 g of sugar were placed on the graduated table. and so transferred into the volumetric flask ( Table 8 shows the computations of the molecular weight. We will write a custom essay sample on Concentration, Solution, Density Essay Sample or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page moles. mass. volume and molar concentration recorded before making so ) . Distilled H2O was added to the sugar until a sum of 25mL were in the flask. Then the flask was capped. and the solution was assorted together until the sugar was dissolved. Once dissolved. the solution was transferred into the glass beaker. and certain facets were measured and recorded in table 9. Once this measure was complete. 2. 5 milliliter were removed from the solution. and diluted in the volumetric flask. The stairss were so repeated utilizing different sums of the diluted solution each clip. Data Table 9: Dilution SeriessDilutionVolume ( milliliter ) Mass ( g ) Density ( g/mL ) Initial Concentration ( M ) Volume Transferred ( milliliter ) Final Concentration ( M ) 025 mL27. 41. 0960. 96610 mL0. 9661125 mL24. 60. 9840. 96612. 5 mL0. 09661225 mL24. 60. 9840. 096614. 5 mL0. 01739325 mL24. 40. 9760. 017393 mL0. 00209425 mL24. 60. 9840. 002096 mL0. 0007*Excel would non maintain concluding 0’s at the terminal of the Numberss for important figure intents. As the solution was going more diluted. the denseness appeared to be reduced really somewhat or remain the same. but the concentration was perceptibly going less. ( Molarity is y-axis. Density is x-axis ) QuestionsH. ) How would you fix 10 milliliter of a 0. 25M HCl solution if 1M HCl was available? How much 1M HCl is needed? How much distilled H2O is used? You would hold to thin 1 M HCl in distilled H2O to acquire a less concentrated 0. 25 M HCl. To make this. you would hold to find the sum of moles in the concluding concentration of 10 milliliter 0. 25 M HCl solution by utilizing the expression M1*V1 = M2*V2. M1*V1 = M2*V2M1 = 0. 25 MeterV1 = 10 milliliterM2 = 1 MV2 = M1*V1 / M2 =0. 25 ten 10 / 1 = 2. 5 milliliter A 10 mL solution incorporating 2. 5 milliliter of 1 M HCl needs to be prepared. To find the sum of distilled H2O to be used. you would necessitate to take the entire solution minus the sum of HCl to be used. 10 mL – 2. 5 mL = 7. 5 milliliter of distilled H2O I. ) From the Excel chart of Molarity vs. Density. what was the relationship between the molar concentration of the sugar solution and the denseness of the sugar solution? From the chart. you can state that the relationship between the molar concentration of the sugar solution and the denseness of the sugar solution vary. It seemed at first that the higher the solution denseness. the higher the molar concentration. and the lower the denseness. the lower the molar concentration ( and frailty versa ) . However. the denseness appeared to stay the same for several dilutions. but the molar concentration kept dropping. so one could presume that there is no relationship between the molar concentration and the denseness.

The Far and the Near by Thomas Wolfe free essay sample

There is so many themes put into such a short story. The more you read into the story you think It would get happier but there is a total plot twist. Also the way the title Is put Into work In this story is awesome. This story really hit me hard for multiple reasons Including the theme of disappointment and expectations. Because I usually have such high expectations when I get a new pet and then I get let down by my mom and dad when they have to give away the puppy or kitty because It Is ruining the couch or Is too such to take care of.I also really adore trains so that Is why this story really caught my eye from the beginning. The overall tone of this story Is hopefulness. The way It happens for 20 years Is Just Insane. So you would Imagine after that many years, something would have happened right? I know If I were to pass someone every single day rain or shine and wave to them, something good must come out of It. We will write a custom essay sample on The Far and the Near by Thomas Wolfe or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page This guy Is absolutely insane for not making a move quicker. The tone seems kind of neutral till the end because it obviously did not go as he planned as neither did she.It went from 100-0 real quick. From neutral to down right depressing. And that is how I will tie in the theme of this sad but wonderful short story. You should not judge a book by its cover. Like when they saw each other it did not click as it should have. When I was reading this story I was really hoping they would kick it off and you know maybe it would not be so awkward. But you know, we always cannot have what we wish for. I do not see why it would be regret also. He was trying to be friendly and made his journey over to her house to actually introduce himself.But they ended up be so hostile on which I do not understand. Do they not know first impression is everything? That is for sure another theme that I should touch up on. I think about this the more sad it gets and looked pieces me off. And with his expectations with this woman turned into a disappointment when it did not click. The connections between them was different. He was hoping of this beautiful old woman with her daughter and friendly and she ended up being like my own grandmother with the hostility and sagged wore out sallow folds.And I feel as if she was shocked and maybe felt kind of intruded with him Just showing up at her door. The conclusion and the title are common because the far seemed to be so perfect but when he got near It all fell apart. It is all about the perspective of life. So many themes were placed throughout the story. But the most Important one Is not to Judge a book by Its cover. You never know what could be deep down Inside. They both seem to have great personalities it Just about opening up to the right person and getting to know them.

Biology Lesson 3 Essays

Biology Lesson 3 Essays Biology Lesson 3 Paper Biology Lesson 3 Paper Primary producers or autotrophs are the ones that can produce complex organic substances or â€Å"food† from an energy source and inorgranic materials and in the illustration shown, these are the algae.   Herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores are classified as heterotrophs or organisms that get their energy by consuming organic substances.   Herbivores feed on plants, and in the illustration shown, these are the small animals and protists which feed on algae. Carnivores get their energy from eating live animals, and these are the killer whale, elephant seal, leopard seal, crabeater seal, and adelie penguin.   Omnivores feed on both plants and live animals, and these are the cod, squid and krill which feed on algae and small animals and protists. Detritivores are animals and plants that consume decomposing organic materials or detritus.   Decomposers on the other hand are organisms that consume decomposed or dead organisms. They both contribute to decomposition and the recycling of nutrients. In the food chain or food web, detritivores can be the millipedes, woodlice, and worms that consume dead organic matter like a dead elephant, and decomposers are the bacteria and fungi that digest and decompose organic matter more fully than the detritivores. The system of feeding relationships as shown in the illustration is better defined as a food web because of the complexity of the network of interactions.   Food chain is just a simple straight-forward linear pathway from one organism to the next and so on.   In the illustration, it is obvious that the path of the flow of energy looks like a web, meaning the flow of energy from one source to another and so on is interconnected by different paths. Burning fossil fuels emit CO2, a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere which in turn contributes to the increasing temperature change in the atmosphere.   The increase in temperature change in the atmosphere is a phenomenon called global climate change or more popularly known as the global warming. In the graph shown, increasing concentration of CO2 directly results to an increasing temperature change in the atmosphere as time passes.   The graph also has direct relation to the industrial revolution happening on our planet. More and more industries and power plants have come out as time passes and most of these industries and power plants rely on burning fossil fuels as their primary source of energy.   This brings a detrimental effect on our planet resulting to an increasing temperature in the atmosphere.

Answers to Questions About Subject-Verb Agreement #2

Answers to Questions About Subject-Verb Agreement #2 Answers to Questions About Subject-Verb Agreement #2 Answers to Questions About Subject-Verb Agreement #2 By Mark Nichol Here are some questions from DailyWritingTips.com readers about subject-verb agreement and my responses. 1. In your post concerning subject-verb agreement, why would you use a singular verb for ten liters of water? â€Å"Of water† is a prepositional phrase, and the subject is liters. We have always been taught to ignore the prepositional phrase that modifies the subject when determining agreement. The sentence I used in this post exemplifies an exception to the rule: When the first noun in a â€Å"[noun] of [noun]† phrase is a percentage, distance, fraction, or amount, the verb agrees with the second noun. 2. I have a question about noun-verb agreement in conjunction with and. For example, should a sentence read, â€Å"There was no moon and no clouds† or â€Å"There were no clouds and no moon†? Either construction is acceptable; the verb form should agree with the form of the nearest noun. However, â€Å"There were no clouds and no moon† is better because the plural form of the verb agrees with both clouds and the combination of â€Å"clouds and . . . moon,† so it feels more natural. 3. When I write sums, I normally use plus and equals, but if I use and instead of plus, should I use is, or are, before the sum? In mathematical equations, when we put two or more numbers through an operation, they are considered a single set. As you note, we use a singular verb we say or write, for example, â€Å"One plus two equals three,† not â€Å"One plus two equal three† so â€Å"One plus two is three† is correct. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Grammar category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:How Many Tenses in English?26 Feel-Good WordsEbook, eBook, ebook or e-book?

Evaluation of L-Proline as a Catalyst for an Asymmetric Aldol Reaction Lab Report

Evaluation of L-Proline as a Catalyst for an Asymmetric Aldol Reaction - Lab Report Example The product was then extracted with 10mL of ethyl acetate. Drying was done over MgSO4 . the separation of the drying agent was done via gravity filtration, whereas that of the solvent was done through rotary evaporation. The product was further taken through purification steps, which involved the use of flash chromatography using 50% petroleum ether/ 50% ethyl acetate as the eluting solvent. The fractions were then combined and the solvent eliminated via evaporation method. The massed of the obtained products were then recorded, and verification obtained. To conduct the Mosher analysis, 15mg of the Aldol product were dissolved in 0.9mL of anhydrous CH2Cl2 in a flame dried vial. 1.5mg of 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAO) followed by 15á ´ «L pyridine and MTPA-Cl were added. The solution was then sealed and allowed to react under nitrogen. After the reaction was complete, the isolation process followed. The crude reacrion was washed with 0.1 N HCL (0.5 mL), saturated bicarbonate solution (0.5 mL) and brine (0.5mL). The ratio of diastereomers by H-NMR was determined and enantiomeric excess of the Aldol reaction computed. From the analysis of the results obtained from the experimentation, it was clear that L-proline functions as a catalyst in a reaction involving Aldol. The product was further quantified by use of the Mosher ester approach. Consequently, a conclusion was drawn that L-proline functions as a catalyst in Aldol reactions. One of the powerful methods through which carbon-carbon bonds can be formed is through nucleophilic addition of an enolate to a carbonyl group. An example of the scenarios in which this principle has been applied is in the de novo generation of carbohydrates which results from the development of aldolase enzymes, which catalyze biological Aldol reactions. The ability of aldolases to produce enantiomeric product exclusively is a notable feature, difficult for the modern synthesis

Hobbes and Lockes Legitimate Political Authority Essay

Hobbes and Lockes Legitimate Political Authority - Essay Example Similarities and differences between Hobbes and Locke Both Hobbes and Locke agree that the government is a necessity. As reiterated by Hobbes, people form government for purposes of self-preservation. In any society, the creation of government is often perpetuated by fear. However, Hobbes is against limited government and supports absolute sovereignty since limited government is not sufficient in terms of safeguarding citizen’s right to self-preservation. In essence, absolute power as addressed by Hobbes arises when citizens give power to an individual or group of individuals. Consequently, the sovereign has the mandate to, for instance, wage war, impose taxes or declare peace. Hobbes further believes that establishing a government is necessary resorting to the state of nature. Hobbes also maintains that a government plays a role in preserving citizen’s lives (Hobbes, 1994). Locke believes in a government that is established by the people and works for the people. However, such a government does not create absolute soverei gnty as posited by Hobbes. Locke also asserts that the people have a right to change a government that does not respect natural laws and human rights. On the other hand, while Hobbes and Locke recognize the importance of having a government, they differ on the amount of government and ruling respectively (Dunn, 1969). With regards to rights and equality, Hobbes believes in the right of self-preservation. He also reiterates that men are equal in terms of their physical and mental capabilities.

The Intermountain Region Essay Example for Free

The Intermountain Region Essay The Intermountain Region is a region that is located in parts of Canada and America, while lying between the Rocky and Coast Mountains, the Cascades and the Sierra Nevada. The high plateaus and isolated mountains with the only deserts in the US of A are very sparsely populated (excluding major cities). In Canada, this region is consisted of the interior plateau valleys of BC and the Yukon. The economic development of the Intermountain Region is greatly affected by its topography which is full of streams and rivers which instead of flowing into the sea, instead flow into the brackish lakes or disappear into desert sinks. However, there are still some that do reach into the ocean. The dry deserts of parts of the Intermountain Regions do not do well when it comes to agriculture- farming operational costs have increased greatly because of the need for irrigation which means that contrastingly irrigation companies generate lots of income for the region and nation as a whole. But this may be dangerous as the companies are going into long term debt from rushing to upgrade their systems in the next century. Death Valley does just fine though with its lack of water, do to being a large tourist attraction with its warm climate in that area, contributing to the economic development. As before mentioned, the climate in the Intermountain Region varies with elevation and location, in some parts it is cold and wet or dry and hot in winters. Going southward winters are lacking in precipitation and are dry and short. North, precipitation is also scarce but the climate is more moderate with dry, hot summers and moist winters. Also in the north, because the summers are shorter the growing season is shorter as well, which does  not help the agriculture industry. As you go farther down the eastern slopes of the mountains, air retains moisture and warms up. The Intermountain Region is so dry because of this rain shadow effect. As a cause of this, vegetation is made up largely of sparse grassland and plants that do well in semi-desert or desert climates. The Intermountain Region is full of contradictions however, as the areas that are higher up are covered in forests full of pine trees. These pine trees cover over 60 million hectares contributing 15 Billion dollars to the foresting industry, but because of the industrys clear cutting of old growth forests and damaging logging practices, approximately 36 million hectares are now protected. Now, will be moving on to the settlement patterns of the Intermountain Region. Climates in the Intermountain Region also make for an unappealing living area, going from extremes of being either cold and wet or hot and dry. As these climates are so inhospitable, vegetation is few and far and do not make for easy access to produce, etc Most areas of the Intermountain Region are thinly populated because of the deserts and high mountains. They are more densely populated around major cities such as Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Denver in the south. In the north there is Prince George and Williams Lake. In conclusion, Topography, climate and vegetation greatly influence the economy of regions as well as the settlement patterns. The Intermountain Region is diverse in its ways of economic gain and topography.

Benjamin Franklin Essay -- Biography Biographies Bio

Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin was an American printer and publisher, author, inventor, scientist, and who was a diplomat born on January 17th 1706 and died in Philadelphia on April 17th 1790. Franklin was one of ten sons of seventeen children of a man by the name of Josiah who was a soap and candle maker and mother by the name of Abiah, a discrete and virtuous woman (Van Doren 7). Ben was raised in a Puritan heritage household which they had left to avoid England's Restoration Era of 1683. Franklin had a blend of Puritan heritage, Enlightenment philosophy, and New World environment ideals. Ben Franklin had a fascination public and interpersonal life. Franklin's life consisted of his reflections of his own behaviors and embracing curiosities of the whole moral and physical world around him (Ford 60-64). Ben married in September 1st 1730 to a woman by the name of Deborah Read. Franklin was an apprentice under his brother and a printer of a Boston newspaper called the Pennsylvania Gazette, the Almanac of Poor Richard and a good share of printing in that era (Van Doren 69). Ben also a philosopher, who followed the secular world view of Sir Isaac Newton, John Locke and favorite author named Joseph Addison. Franklin was a civic leader starting in 1727 who helped in putting together the Organization of Junto, a club of tradesmen in Pennsylvania who helped with civic improvements of that city which were: a library, fire company, college, insurance company and hospital (Van Doren 63). Ben was also an inventor who discovered bifocals and the ability to harness electricity through a lightening bolt in 1746 (Phelps 485). These achievements were just a small fraction of what Franklin was capable of doing. Ben was also a politician... ...on of a new government. Benjamin Franklin would not have been best known today as one of the Great Founding Fathers of The New World known as North America. Along side with him were Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, George Washington, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Hancock. Without all seven of these true Americans, there would not be a free and independent nation called the United States of America. Bibliography Ford and Grillparzer. Encyclopedia of World Biography. Detroit: Gale, 2004. Issaacson, Walter. Benjamin Franklin: An American Life. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2003. Phelps, Shirelle and Jeffrey Lehman, eds. West Encylopedia. New York: Gale, 2005. Rakove, Jack. The Beginnings of National Politics. Baltimore and London: John Hopkins U Press, 1979. Van Doren, Carl. Benjamin Franklin. New York: Garden City Publishing, 1941.

Airbus Company Essay

1. Why is Airbus interested in building the A3XX? What are its objectives? Airbus predicts that there would be demand for more than 1500 super jumbos over the next 20 years that would generate sales in excess of $350 billion. And they could sell as many as 750 over jumbos over the next 20 years with a break even on undiscounted cash flow basis with the sales of only 250 planes. There is a huge profit in this business if Airbus succeeds in the industrial launch of A3XX jumbo jets. In addition, Airbus has received over half of the total large aircraft orders for the first time in 1999 thanks to the â€Å"cross crew qualification† feature. Capturing more than half of the very large aircraft (VLA) market with the A3XX would constitute an enormous financial success and would position Airbus as the commercial aviation industry leader. Despite the gains in the market share, Airbus still did not have a product to compete with Boeing’s 747 in the VLA market. Airbus wants to brea k the monopoly of the 747. The A3XX would have more space, be safer, and offer a higher operational margin for the Airlines. And it is especially attractive on longer routes. Once introduced, A3XX would have higher sales than 747. Moreover, Airbus believed it had solved all of the problems due to the large size of the plane and had begun the necessary procedures for regulatory approvals in the United States and elsewhere. Based on its Airbus’s Global Market Forecast (GMF), the company believes Airline would attempt to increase aircraft size when it was no longer feasible to increase flight frequencies. Hence, there is an increasing demand for super jumbos. Airbus predicts the growing economy in Asia like China will contribute greatly to the demand for VLAs in the future. Airbus felt confident in its analysis that capacity increases would eventually prevail. Airbus wants to embrace the same success in the A3XX as 747 had before. 4) The growth in the perpetuity comes from rising prices. Hence, the growth rate equals to the inflation rate. Airbus needs to sell 39 aircrafts annually in order to break even on the investment.The total demand for very large aircraft is 1,235 over the next 20 years (GMF 2000). The annual demand from 2009 to 2019 would be 62. So the breakeven point is much less than the total demands. 3. As Boeing, how would you respond to this situation? How does your answer depend on what you think Airbus is likely to do? Please provide some calculations to support your answers.

Mobile marketing trends

Mobile marketing trends in India Marketing is the social process by which individuals and groups obtain what they need and want through creating and exchanging products and value with others. The marketing concept is a philosophy. It makes the customer, and the satisfaction of his or her needs, the focal point of all business activities. It is driven by senior managers, passionate about delighting their customers. Marketing Is a mall element for the successful sale of any product.Products like a soap or toothpaste or a car and lots more require a good marketing strategy. Mobile phone is most commonly found product and which does require marketing plans to Improve its sale. Mobile marketing requires high funds and therefore the funds are sanctioned. Samsung, MicroVAX, spice, and many other Internationally recognized brands spend a lot of money for mobile marketing. Under marketing plans mobile marketing has gained a huge exposure and is one the most popular marketing. What is mobile m arketing?Using different techniques of marketing like manners or advertisements or newspaper pictures or clippings or banners on buses or rickshaws to increase the sale of the mobile phone is mobile marketing. The purpose of this essay Is therefore to analyze the ways in which mobile marketing works and the factors that led to the huge success behind It. Whilst it is clear that there are many factors, which influence a particular decision, in a similar way many factors influence marketing of a mobile phone. Factor such as substitute or complementary goods for mobile phone will surely affect marketing strategy of a particular mobile phone.If tablets or Pads have better marketing plans then It will definitely create an Impact on the consumers. The sale of mobile phones will see a downfall. Another such factor would be the special Influences and then the main factor is the tastes and preferences. Producers have found out the taste of the consumers or the main objective behind buying su ch devices and create different marketing plans based on the consumers interest. They try to attack the weakness of the consumer and somehow convince them to buy the mobile.Mobile phones use the social networking APS and special plans created by the outwork carriers, which help the poor to buy a mobile phone too. Social networking APS are the main target. Social networking basically is – Interpersonal interaction is the gathering of people into particular gatherings, in the same way as little provincial groups or an area subdivision, in the event that you will. Albeit person-to-person communication is conceivable In individual, particularly in the work environment, colleges, and secondary schools, It Is most famous on the web.This Is on the grounds web is loaded with a large number of people who are looking to meet other individuals, to accumulate and impart direct data and encounters about cooking, playing golf, planting, creating companionship proficient collusions, discove ring occupation, business-to-business Advertising and even gatherings offering data about preparing treats to the Flourish Development. The points and premiums are as differed and rich as the story of our universe. Regarding online long-range interpersonal communication, sites are ordinarily utilized.These sites are known as social locales. The most used social networking sites are backbone, twitter, IBM. These social networking sites have their APS, which can be installed in the smart phones and phones. Mobile marketing trends have been dominating the early 2014 (business insider INDIA). The way social networking sites have created a huge impact on the mobile marketing trends are somewhat like, better gee targeting. Gee focusing on or area based portable Promoting is truly energize for advertisers and has picked up massive prevalence throughout the last few years.This is a vital pattern that truly brings quality to shoppers by giving them a chance to discover items and administrati ons in their area when they need. Gee focusing on is one of the heavenly vessels of specialty focusing for advertisers in light of the fact that it makes your brand pertinent to the buyers, helping it to addition footing. Inns, restaurants and stores are the leaders in terms of gaining by the area-based administrations. Time for nonirritating and micro content are also very different trends that commonly are known. Nonirritating alludes to focusing on a particular set of individuals from a given gathering.For instance, while arriving at crowds on a social outworking stage like Backbone one can thin down the intended interest group focused around their experience, demographic, areas, and so forth. Case in point, assume you are beginning up with operations Just in India couple of neighboring nations, then why squander your valuable Advertising bucks on arriving at everybody. Simply narrowest! Make a fight for the individuals in these geologies and receive the best in return. Nonirrita ting will be considerably more vital in the following few months to come as substance with setting is getting to be more critical by the day.Portable promoting makes it much simpler. 3 Concerning substance in the versatile advertising space, it has gotten shorter and will keep on getting shorter. That is the manner by which it better speaks to versatile viewers. A six second feature or a snatch photograph with a reasonable message is fit for doing a ton greater to your brand than one can envision. 3 Mobile instant messaging is the aspect that has been targeted and is still used by the producers to gain the attention of the consumers. There is a gigantic surge in the quantity of dynamic clients of versatile based social informing applications likeWeight, Watchstrap, Trek Errand person, and so on. This plainly shows that buyers are truly snared on by the testing versatile applications and there lies an extraordinary as far as making messages that achieve buyers and are pertinent to th em and not interrupting. 3 Personalization and customization and increasing interest in the wearable technology are another two most different trends, which contribute, in the marketing strategy. While versatile purchasing of items is not a huge pattern yet, there is a solid pattern of scrutinizing items for portable and afterward set disconnected from the et to purchase them.This is at the end of the day a gigantic open door. This is the place customized and modified offers can assume an incredible part. Advertisers can utilize customized offers to change over these searchers into real purchasers. For instance, if a purchaser is perusing and investigating travel ends of the line in Europe, he or she will perceive ads blazing with less expensive flight tickets AND Inns in those goals. 3 All things considered, simply a couple of years back wearable engineering may have quite recently seemed like an extravagant thing from a science fiction motion picture, et not any longer.With items like Google Glass and save. â€Å"y' watches, wearable innovation is changing a considerable measure as far as the way purchasers carry on. While the wearable engineering may not be a pattern yet, however it unquestionably is getting up to speed. When it turns into a piece of day-by-day lives of buyers, there will be entire better approach to charm them. 3 Another trend on which the focus can go would be emails. This trend isn't much popular but it still contributes. Messages may have begun decade's prior as PC- centered correspondence, however they aren't that any longer.

The Impact of Social Norms on Seat Essay Example

The Impact of Social Norms on Seat Essay Example The Impact of Social Norms on Seat Essay The Impact of Social Norms on Seat Essay Every person entering the theater thereafter is subject not only to their wan theater experience preferences but more importantly by the seating selections of all the people already seated. There are many norms for attending a movie theater. These include explicit norms, norms that have been openly written or spoken (Starker, 1) and implicit norms, norms that are understood but not precisely recorded (Cornball, 59). Explicit or formal norms have clear rules for punishment. Creating a disruption during the movie Is grounds for ejection from the theater. Most theaters openly state during the previews that cell phones need to be turned off and that talking should be kept to a minimum. Implicit or Informal norms regulate seat selection In a theater where at least one person is already present and seated. These informal norms are strengthened by the anticipation of a crowd. The anticipation of a crowd has been shown to encourage more socially isolated seating choices and an increase in the avoidance of contact with others (Greenberg, 672). As additional people enter the theater, their seating choices are no longer based on the anticipation of a crowd but on the reality of the remaining availability of seats. The dwindling number of empty seats forces the choice of seats that are closer to other people. For example, the first persons entering the theater chooses the seat they consider perfect, the center seat In the center row. The second person enters, surveys the locations of any other patrons In the theater and picks a seat using a loosely formed set of Informal norms or rules. All subsequent people repeat these steps taking Into account the locations of each of the seats filled. The unstated rules are either more or less strictly interpreted based on the percentage of the theater capacity filled. The second and third people entering the theater are expected to interpret the rules strictly, thus anticipating a crowd in the theater. As the theater fills, the interpretation weakens. Most of the norms are related to the amount of personal space around each person in the theater. In American society intimate space is defined as 0-18 inches, personal space 1. To 4 feet, and social space 4 to 10 feet. (iron) These distances serve as a basis for the social norms used to select seating. In an attempt to explain the decisions related to seat selection in a movie theater, I propose the following as the Implicit norms observed by American movie theater patrons; 1) do not obstruct anyone elses view of the screen, 2) do not it directly In front of another person, 3) do not sit directly behind another person, and 4) do not sit In the seat adjacent to another person.. The second and third people entering strictly interpret the norms by choosing seats in entirely different sections; I. E. Ten TLS person chosen center row, center seat; Ten second person wall choose the right front section, and the third person will chose the left section closer to the rear. These seats were chosen as a way of avoiding contact with those already seated and creating the greatest amount of social isolation possible. As the theater ills, the implicit rules are interpreted less strictly. Eventually the amount of social isolation is decreased to the point where the norms are actually broken. High attendance on opening night at many popular movies will cause all of the implicit norms to be broken. The previously defined social norms must be adjusted slightly when couples or groups are attending a movie together. If the couple is two females or a male and female then the two are likely to sit side-by-side. Two males will often leave an empty seat between them. Groups will usually sit together in a general area sometimes using similarly located seats on multiple rows. Their seats may not be located side-by-side but are considered a single unit. Available seats that comply with the implicit norms are still not directly in-front of or directly behind any person in the couple or group. Also, at least one seat should be vacant to the left and right of the couple or outermost members of the group unless extremely high movie attendance prohibits. What happens when the implicit rules are not properly interpreted while determining seat selection? More specifically, how would a person react if a stranger sat in the adjacent seat in a nearly empty movie theater? As a jugular movie theater patron I evaluated my own reaction were I put in the proposed situation. If a stranger sat beside me in a theater where there were numerous other seats available, I believe I would get up and move too different seat. I posed this question to several other people and each replied they would be uncomfortable and relocate to another seat. I decided to break this informal norm and observe whether the affected person reacted as anticipated. I needed a movie that had a low percentage of the theater seats filled. To predict which movie would have low attendance I took into consideration the number of weeks the movie had been in heaters, the amount of current publicity about the movie and the stereotype of the average person attending the movie. Movies showing at discount cinemas have been in theaters the greatest number of weeks. So I picked the Pollack Tempe Cinema which shows second-run movies for $2. 00. To ensure the smallest number in attendance at the Pollack Tempe Cinema, I also had to pick a night other than Tuesday, when the ticket prices are reduced even further to $1. 5 and attendance soars. Next I deduced that movies having recently won an Oscar would have an increased amount of publicity thus leading to an increase in attendance. Lastly, I decided to eliminate childrens movies from my choices because that implies an audience of parents and children and might discourage single individuals from attending. Ultimately, I chose a 7:pm showing of Oceans 12 on a Thursday night. I entere d the theater at almost exactly 7:pm. The lights were dimming and the previews beginning as I studied the available seating locations throughout the theater. This theater had a seating capacity of 400 and on this particular night was about 25% full. There were numerous seats available that did not violate any of the implicit norms regulating seat selection. My observation partner, Alistair, took a seat in the center of the second row from the rear. The nearest occupied seats were located two rows forward to the left and one row behind in the right section separated Dye Ten ales . Alligators seat console neared to all AT Ten Internal norms. In the fifth row from the rear, three seats to the left of the aisle sat a lone male, Ralph. Since he was alone and in clear view of my observation partner Ralph seemed to be a perfect choice. I walked down the aisle and decided that I would sit in the second seat from the aisle, which was the adjacent seat on Rallys right. This would mean that Ralph would have to cross in front of me to easily relocate to another seat, which was what I expected. When I arrived at the end of Rallys aisle I leaned down, gestured toward the empty seat to his right and asked if the seat was taken. This offered Ralph an opportunity to protect his personal space and create a reason why I should not sit in the available seat. Instead, it seemed as if he stammered for a moment but ultimately replied no. This indicated to me that Ralph was aware that I was taking the seat and he was not stopping me. I sat down in the center of my seat, UT my soda in the cup holder to my right and began eating my popcorn. I sensed unease from Ralph but did not turn to face him or acknowledge him any further than my initial question about the availability of the seat. Since I was already nervous about sitting down next to a stranger in a dark movie theater, I was unsure if the perceived unease was real or imagined. Alistair, later stated that from his rear viewpoint it appeared as if Ralph was extremely uncomfortable but he continued watching the preview on the screen. He did not turn toward me again after I sat down but rather shifted in his seat to the side furthest away. As the first preview ended and the second began, I wondered if Ralph would remain in his seat throughout the entire movie. I speculated that if the roles were reversed I would have probably relocated to a new seat already. As each moment passed I felt my own apprehension dissipating. Then out of my peripheral vision I saw a women walking slowly down the aisle to my right. Silently I begged her to keep walking past me but somehow I already knew where she was going. Fully aware of her presence as she stopped at the end of the row shared only by Ralph and myself, I realized that Ralph was not alone as I had previously deduced. Instead Ralph and Alice were attending the movie as a couple. Not only had I purposely broken the social rules affecting seat selection but I had inadvertently broken a much stronger social norm that extends beyond the movie theater. Do not sit adjacent to the opposite sex member of a couple, when another less invasive seat is available. In response to Lices arrival at her seat, which I was currently occupying, I rose with my popcorn and soda in hand and moved to the aisle. Alistair reported that from his vantage point, it appeared as though I realized I had taken someone elses seat and was moving to another location in the theater. Instead of relocating I decided to sit down in the open seat between Alice and the aisle. I continued eating my popcorn and watching the movie previews as though nothing out of the ordinary had occurred. Alice did not speak to me or look in my direction after she sat down. She began talking to Ralph loudly in Spanish, which I could not understand. She was gesturing emphatically and acting very agitated. Ralph responded in Spanish but his tone was much quieter. Alistair later said that he could hear Alice from three rows back and that she was directing her irritation toward Ralph. Alistair described Ralph as quietly facing the screen while being berated by Alice. After a few minutes of outwardly ignoring the disturbance beside me I decided to take a quick peek at the situation to my let Alice was gesturing toward me Walt near let nana Ana speaking spans quickly with an angry tone. I decided that if I remained in my seat much longer that Alice might decide to direct her anger toward me. I quickly rose and moved to the seat beside my observation partner. Immediately upon my departure Alice became silent. For nearly thirty minutes there was silence between Ralph and Alice. They leaned away from each other in their seats and did not share any physical contact. Then Alice left the theater and returned with popcorn. They quietly shared the popcorn while slowly shifting in their seats. First toward the center of their seats but by approximately 8:20 they were intimately pressed shoulder to shoulder. After the movie ended, I quickly left the theater. I had initially planned to break only one social norm by sitting beside a stranger. In the process, I had actually broken an even stronger norm by taking the seat adjacent to that of someones spouse or significant other. I was concerned that Alice might feel a need to confront me about what she possibly perceived as an attempt to intrude on her relationship with Ralph. This experiment clearly showed how breaking one social norm can easily result in the violation of additional unexpected norms. Movie theaters offer an unusual environment for seating. Movies are shown in the dark which creates an intimate setting. Ata movie theater the price of the ticket is not related to the location of the seat, unlike concerts or live performance theaters. Also, movie theater patrons chose their own seats, unlike restaurants where the establishment often provides a hostess o direct seating locations. American society has developed a set of informal norms to regulate which seats people choose in a theater in the absence of official guidance.

How to Focus When Youre Writing

How to Focus When Youre Writing How to Focus When Youre Writing How to Focus When Youre Writing By Ali Hale Do you ever find yourself distracted when you’re writing? I don’t think I’ve ever met a writer who could honestly answer â€Å"no† to that question! Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, checking the news headlines, browsing a few webcomics, answering emails, ordering that book from Amazon you’d forgotten about there are so many distractions just a click away. The good news is, there’s plenty you can do to help yourself to focus as you write. I’ve split my suggestions into three different categories, so you can tackle whichever area you feel is holding you back the most (or whichever is easiest for you to change right now). They are: How to make your writing environment work for you What to do before you write What to do while you’re writing I’ve also included a bonus tip on something you can do after you write, to help you gradually focus better over time. How to Make Your Writing Environment Work For You #1: Get Away from Home If you normally write at home, try writing in a local coffee shop (or library, etc) instead. This cuts out a ton of potential distractions and a change of scene can make it much easier to be creative. Some of my best, most focused, writing happens when I get away for an afternoon, evening and morning at a local hotel. There’s no laundry pile, no dishes, no kids, no TV, and the wifi there doesn’t work on my ailing laptop. I can write for hours! Even if you can’t get away for very long, just an hour in a coffee shop might be enough to help you get past a creative block that you’ve been struggling with. #2: Get Rid of Intrusive Noise When I’m in the writing zone, I tune out pretty much everything (including my long-suffering husband). But getting into that zone in the first place can be tricky if there’s a lot of distracting noise going on. In our house, â€Å"noise† is normally the kids playing / fighting / singing at the top of their lungs. Maybe that sounds all too familiar to you – or maybe the noise you’re trying to block out is construction work going on nearby, or your roommate watching yet another repeat of Friends. Whatever the noise, a pair of headphones will help (I like in-ear ones, because they’re cheap and act a bit like earplugs to muffle external noise). It’s entirely up to you what you listen to: some writers like to focus with ambient sound from a site like Noisli.com; others like movie soundtracks; still others pick a particular artist, album or even song that fits with the mood of their work-in-progress. Do whatever works for you. #3: Sit at a Desk or Table If you normally write while sitting on the sofa, or even while lying in bed, try sitting at a table or desk instead – even if that means clearing some space or rearranging a room. You might find it makes a huge difference to your concentration levels. As well as feeling more like a â€Å"work† space, a seat at a table or desk is likely to be better for your posture than hunching over with your laptop on your lap, or lying in bed with your laptop propped up on your knees. (If you do decide to stick with your sofa or bed, though, you might want to   look into something like a laptop bed tray to make it easier to write there.) What To Do Before You Write #4: Make a Plan Whatever you’re about to write, you need a plan. That might be a few words scribbled on a sticky note, or it might be a detailed document outlining your whole book. But whatever your plan looks like, it’s a vital tool for keeping you on track and focused. If you begin writing without a plan, it’s all too easy to lose focus. You don’t know where you’re going next – and as soon as you come to the natural end of one train of thought, you’ll probably find yourself getting distracted by something that has nothing to do with your writing at all. #5: Set a Goal for Your Writing Session What do you want to achieve during your writing session? If you’re writing, say, a blog post, you might simply want to work through your plan – but if you’re working on part of a longer project, you may need to come up with a specific goal. For instance, if you’re writing a novel, your goal might be â€Å"write the first 1,000 words of chapter 10† or â€Å"write the scene with Jo confronting Dwayne†. If you find that setting goals can be daunting or off-putting rather than helpful, you might want to set a â€Å"minimum† goal and a â€Å"stretch† goal – that might be â€Å"write 200 words† as the minimum and â€Å"write 1,000 words† as your stretch goal. Even if you only achieve the minimum, you can still give yourself a pat on the back. #6: Decide How Long You’ll Focus For You don’t necessarily need to work with 100% focus for the whole of your writing session. You might decide to focus for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break. (Those particular time intervals are part of the Pomodoro technique, which you might find helpful.) Set a timer to keep you on track as you write. While the timer is running, your job is to only write – you can’t check emails, go on Facebook, and so on. It might feel surprisingly hard at first to stay focused in this way, but you’ll soon find it becomes more natural. If you’re fighting a long-entrenched distractibility habit, you might want to use an app like Freedom.to to help you – you can block specific websites, or even the whole internet, for a period of time. What to Do While You Write #7: Keep a â€Å"Distractions† Notebook to Hand One simple tool that I find very helpful is a notebook, diary or even scrap of paper where I can jot down distractions. These are often things I need to remember to do (â€Å"Order Le Guin book† is on my list right now, because as I was drafting this post, I remembered that the science fiction book group I attend is meeting in a couple of weeks) You can use a distractions list not only for â€Å"to do† items, though, but also for impulses that crop up. Stuff like â€Å"see what’s new on xkcd† or â€Å"look up next season of Lucifer† can go on your list, too! Once you get to a break, you can delve into some of those distractions, guilt-free. #8: Don’t Stop to Look Things Up How often are you writing a blog post (or a scene of your novel, or a chapter of your book) – only to realise that you need to look up a name or a fact or a link? And how often do you stop, look it up and end up spending the next half an hour in an internet rabbit-hole? I do this more often than I’d care to admit! But as much as possible, I try to not look things up when I’m writing. Instead, I put a [note to self] in square brackets in my draft, so I can come back and insert the name/fact/link/etc later on. Here’s an example from the draft of this very post: #9: Don’t Edit While You’re Writing I know you’ve been told this one already, but it’s a piece of advice that always bears repeating: don’t edit while you’re writing. Is it okay to occasionally backspace and fix a typo, or restart a sentence that somehow came out wrong? Sure. (Though some â€Å"don’t-edit† purists might disagree with me!) However, if you draft a paragraph, change three sentences, draft another paragraph, cut everything you’ve written so far and start again you’re not going to get far. If you change your mind about something as you’re writing, just pop the section you’re unsure about into italics. Make a quick note about what you’re thinking about changing (e.g. â€Å"remove John from this scene†) and then proceed as if you’d already made that change. That way, you don’t lose momentum – and you don’t waste time editing something that you might later decide to change yet again. What to Do After You Write #10: Record How Your Writing Session Went If you’ve never tried keeping a writing journal before, give it a go. You could have a document on your computer where you jot down how you got on, you could make an entry in your diary, you could use a notebook whatever works for you. Each time you finish a writing session, take a minute or two to note what went well and what didn’t quite work out. For instance, â€Å"started well but got distracted half-way by answering an email from Jenny† or â€Å"took ages to get going but really got into the flow after a few paragraphs†. If you keep up your journal for a few weeks, you’ll find that you can spot patterns – and that you become more aware of what does (and doesn’t) work for you. All writers can focus, and often, being distractible is simply a bad habit. How could you make your next writing session a great one? Pick one idea – or more! – from the list above, and let us know in the comments how you get on. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Writing Basics category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Homograph ExamplesWhat to Do When Words Appear Twice in a RowPreposition Review #1: Chance of vs. Chance for

The 10 Strategic Points for the Prospectus, Proposal & Dissertation Assignment

The 10 Strategic Points for the Prospectus, Proposal & Dissertation - Assignment Example the difference between the high school low and high achievers closely related to personality, internal and external attribution to high school and post-secondary programs events as well as how attribution influences the school dropouts’ behavior (Iver, 2010: Borman and Dowling, 2010). iii. Emotional intelligent model base on the high school dropouts self-awareness and regulation to build an internal motivation that encourages them to learn their society role and get motivated to go back to school later in life (Rose, 2013) iii. Problem-based learning models based on the learning process and concepts that serves as a guideline motivates dropout learners to develop an alternative opportunity to encounter the challenges experienced in high schools in post-secondary schools (Renzulli and Park, 2012) iii. Effectiveness of classroom management and educational psychology concepts based on establishing a conducive learning environment and classroom tips and techniques that support clear learning goals, behavior expectations and effective teachers-learners relationships (Miller, 2012). i. Historical events: In American and global history, there have been little concern by the government and the global initiatives that have been enacted to resolve high school dropouts’ issues and drive support for those dropouts who decide to attend post-secondary school programs later in life to increase national security as well as global literacy. ii. High school dropouts tend to develop negative attitudes that have provoked initiation of intervention measures such as GED programs to help in overcoming some of the challenges face experienced (Miller, 2012; Iver, 2010). iii. National Security – Today’s America education systems continues to lose its footage as the top academic powerhouse to put measures in place to fight against increased high school dropouts and remain a global leader in quality education (Renzulli and Park, 2012: Rumberger, 2011). iv. Global Literacy -

Extra credit hrd495 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Extra credit hrd495 - Essay Example Secondly, he provides guidance on compensation and benefits scheme for employees. The manager stressed the fact that his role of developing employees places the responsibility of training and developing staff on him, including orientation of new employees, professional development workshops and seminars and leadership training. He consults with the executive management on strategic planning of the organization, hence serving as a link between the management and the employees to ensure that employees’ welfare have been catered for. The HR Manager had also been handing over legal counsel roles with regard to activities in risk mitigation to the newly appointed company legal secretary, the organization having grown bigger. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS (2012) sums up these responsibilities as planning, directing and coordinating the organization’s administrative functions. From the interview, I learnt that HR Managers operate on a kind of ad hoc schedule, as their schedule of tasks would largely be determined by the issues that arise on a day-to-day basis. Among the major issues faced by the HR Manager include the determination of the most appropriate employees during recruitment. Issues of remuneration also keep arising with employees always seeking to earn more irrespective of their contribution to the organization’s profitability. The establishment and distribution of benefits and managing outsourcing also stands out as major issues that the HR Manager handles on a regular basis. He faces the challenge of resolving conflict among employees and solving issues that jeopardize work safety. The HR Manager faces issues of resolving discrimination and harassment cases to ensure equality and respect among employees in the organization. To develop the field of HR, there would be need for more competent HR managers, thus the need for pursuance of relevant academic qualifications. A master’s degree such as Master

Intrastate semitruck transportation in Michigan Research Paper

Intrastate semitruck transportation in Michigan - Research Paper Example For instance, the construction data for the last semester of year 2009 showed Michigan to have experienced declines in the double-digits (-16.8%) which was reflected in the -6.4% decline of combined trade, transportation and utilities sector (www.bls.gov. 5 February 2010). A related industry to transportation and quarrying is mining and logging which also declined but this decelerated somewhat to only -6.3% over a 12-month period. All the above economic data pertain to number of jobs (in thousands, seasonally adjusted). What is more worrisome is the unemployment rate in state of Michigan which hovers around 15% (actually 14.6%) which is way above the national average of only 10%. But this is only the local picture for the state itself but there are many other issues to look at such as labor conditions, hiring patterns, economic competitiveness, safety, security, congestion, overall mobility, environmental impact and energy efficiency. Other than the economic factors that impinge on the industry, the one factor that has the greatest impact is deregulation. This is one factor more than interest rates or overall state of the economy that affects the industry. The entire US trucking industry is a $200 billion business and is highly fragmented. It means the 50 largest companies account for less than 30% of total industry revenues, unlike in other industries where there is an oligopoly or a high concentration of big players such as in the accounting industry (only 4 big players that can dictate prices). Economists call this as C4 or an industry where only 4 big players control more than 60% like US auto manufacturing or the oil industry. In short, the US trucking industry is over-saturated and lacks the necessary bargaining power with regards to customers and pricing. If we use Porters Five Forces Model then the trucking industry has very weak market power indeed. Of the five

Handling, Storage and Disposal of Samples

Handling, Storage and Disposal of Samples Expectations of a Health Care Professional In the histology laboratory all specimens arrive fixed in 10% buffered formalin. In the laboratory, the specimen and the request form are labeled with the same lab number. The specimens are left in the same order the lab number is given and processed. Safety gloves and an apron are worn when processing the specimen. Unfixed specimens received in a plane container are fixed in 10% formalin which is commercially prepared and left for one day to process. This is done if the specimen requires fixation. Certain specimens are an exception to this rule. Lymph nodes are wrapped in gauze when lymphoma is suspected, skin sections for Immunofluorescence due to Pemphigus vulgaris are suspended in saline solution, and frozen sections are not fixed since fresh tissue is sectioned for microscopic examination. Whether the result has been reported or not determines which samples are disposed and stored if the result has been reported or not: After the samples are processed the pieces of the sample that were not inserted in the cassette are placed back inside the respective container. The fixed specimen in the container is refrigerated until the result is reported (figure1). 3 weeks after reporting the result a disposal list is created and the specimens to be disposed are packed inside boxes, labeled and then sent for incineration. Samples such as fetus are kept for burial. Empty containers are left for a week and a half as a quality control and for human errors. In many cases the label on the container shows the type of specimen so the empty containers are left in case verification of type of specimen is required. Blocks and slides are stored permanently inside a storage room. All blocks and slides are carefully and methodically filed so they are available for records or for future reference. As years pass blocks remain unchanged but stains on the slide tend to fade so there is sample deterioration. After cutting, the blocks are placed in numerical order according to the year and placed inside boxes. The first and the last number of the blocks in each box are written on the boxes. All sides and top box are labeled and sealed with tape. Slides are filed in numerical order after the report is issued. Slides are placed in a slide box and the lab number of the first and last slide are written on the box. Effective self-management of time and workload The opening hours for the histology are from 6.00 am till 5.00 pm. The lab is open from Monday till Sunday and time shifts are available so the laboratory remains more open and more service is given to the public. The laboratory does not open during night shift because results in the histology laboratory are not considered urgent. Results must first be seen by the pathologist so no immediate results are required so processing is done during the day. Samples that are considered urgent In histology, specimens are not considered urgent because they have to be viewed by the pathologist results are issued. Frozen sections are considered urgent since the sample must be quickly processed so an intra-operative decision can be taken by the surgeon. Samples can also be considered urgent when a pathologist needs the results in a quick time, due to surgery scheduled on that day or the following day. Career-Long Self Directed Learning What is CPD? CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development, an ongoing free training programme in histopathology including histology and cytology (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). It is defined as â€Å"The systematic maintenance, improvement and broadening of knowledge and skills, and the development of personal qualities, necessary for the execution of professional and technical duties throughout the practitioner’s working life† (The Chartered Institution of Highways Transportation, 2011). This means that CPD allows the employer to improve and to widen knowledge, quality, competence and skills in his/her profession. What constitutes CPD activity? A CPD is constituted by meetings, short courses, conferences or workshops that are created to inform other members of stuff or even the public. Organization and participation are essential for a successful CPD. It must be transparent, accountable and visible (Fox Fox, 2004, p.182). CPD can be done: To present one’s own research report With the aid of websites, journals, posters, books and other printed media To show something encountered during work, that can be of interest to rest of the workers To make and encourage new procedures and changes Introduce a new course that will be of interesting to the public or workers How does the CPD scheme benefit Pathology employers? A CPD scheme enables the biomedical scientist to develop the necessary knowledge, attitudes, personal effectiveness and skills for his/her professional practice. The employer must identify his/her and their employer’s learning needs. In order to improve patient care the employer must be up to date on facts, new concepts and most importantly on opinion and consensus (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). The employer can record activity and document all learning achieved (Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, 2010). All this is done not for only the present but also for future progression (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). What are the benefits to a biomedical scientist (the employee) participating in the CPD scheme? Keep up to date with current rapid and expanding knowledge (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Increases job satisfaction, productivity and quality of working life (Chen, Chang Yeh, 2006) Acquire new skills for safe and effective practice. This builds up confidence in the employee (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). Promote professional ideas and new initiatives, increasing job satisfaction (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). Documentation of all that is learned from the scheme is encouraged (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Benefit from quality control measures (Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, 2010). Encourage reflective practice (Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, 2010). Reduce risk of clinical isolation (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Prepare for new roles example managerial. Employers value employees that undergo continuous CPD since such employees show learning agility (Chen et al., 2006; Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Maintain a reputation of the biomedical possession and public assurance (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Where is the information relating to CPD displayed in Pathology? When a CPD meeting is going to be held all biomedical scientists are informed through an email. The email is sent to the principle to make sure that all the histology staff knows about the meeting. Vertical Audit Site of origin The trucut samples were taken from the right breast upper outer quadrant (Figure 2) Sample Taking and Description of sample The trucut biopsy is taken after a mammography showed a suspicious result. To diagnose, a trucut biopsy was performed. A trucut (core) biopsy is mostly done to sample tissues from a solid mass or calcium deposits, increasing sensitivity (Youk, Kim, Kim, Lee Oh, 2007). Very small masses or masses that are too deep are sampled using a guiding imaging technique. No scars are left after sampling. It has the advantage of being highly sensitive and specific (Sadler et al., 1994). The biopsy was performed at Mater Dei’s surgical operating theater (SOP) (in the Breast Clinic). The patient was given local anesthetic and left for a few minutes. A 16mm gauge core needle (figure 3) was then used to obtain the tissue samples. The tissues sampled contain tissues from the mass and normal healthy tissues from the breast. The sections sampled contain also provide more diagnostic information than mammography and fine needle aspiration. The samples are larger than FNA therefore results are more accurate (Kasraeian, Allison, Ahlmann, Fedenko Menendez, 2010). The clinician or nurse localised the mass and its boundaries and the mass was then immobilised. The needle was inserted through the skin into the lump and the tissue section was taken. To increase the chances of diagnosis 6 trucut specimens were taken. Their length varied from 9mm to 14 mm. The needle was then detached. The trucut specimens were then introduced into a container contain 10% buffered formalin. The container and the request form where received in the histology laboratory the following day. Specimen reception/numbering A courier brought the trucut specimen for histology processing into the histology laboratory. In the laboratory, the request form which comes together with the specimen was left for a day where registration and processing began. The following day, the receptionist used the HOE system to input data so they can be available only in the laboratory. The ID number of the patient was inputted followed by location the specimen was sampled example BOFFA, the name of the medical lab scientist, and the name of the pathologist/consultant. If available, the macro examination results were also included. A label containing the lab number, the letter on the cassette, the last two digits of the year, and the patient’ name and surname was prepared and printed. The label was prepared to label the slide after staining (in this case only one label was required). Specimen Registration The sample and its respective request form were both labeled with a barcode containing a specific laboratory number. The barcode was stuck on the top of the request form and at the back of the container (without covering any patient’s details). The laboratory number was also written with the aid of marker on top of the tap of the container. The request form was stamped at the top and at the bottom with the date in which it was received in the laboratory. The trucut specimen and the other histological specimens were left one after the other, according to the laboratory number. Specimen processing proceeded in this order. Specimen Processing 1. Cut-Up The trucut specimen was first processed in the laboratory at the cut-up laboratory. The name and surname of the patient and the lab number on the request form and on the specimen container were checked. The trucut biopsies in 10% buffered formalin were taken out from the container, using forceps, on the working bench. A macroscopic examination was performed on the 6 trucut biopsies obtained. Their length ranged in length from 9mm to 14mm. They were all embedded in one printed cassette labeled A1. Blue foam was also placed and the cassette was covered with a medal lid. It was then was placed in eosin with the other specimens. The trucut biopsies were then ready for further laboratory processing. After all specimens were cut, a histopathology worksheet was filled in. This included the case number of the patient, the number of tissues taken (6) , the tissue type (breast trucut), the number of blocks (A1), any comments such as left to fix (not applicable), the name of the pathologist who will examine the slides, and the name of the medical laboratory scientist (in this case who performed the cut up). 2. Tissue Processing (Impregnation) The biopsies were processed in an automated processing machine. This was performed in a closed system for trucut specimens using program A. It is important that the specimen is not larger than 3mm since it will not fit and cannot be cut afterwards. The closed system has 14 baths and it provides pressure, waving, bubbling and rotation to the tissues so the reagent can penetrate better. This is performed overnight, therefore the processor is programmed. When time for embedding is prolonged, the fixation time is prolonged to compensate. The tissues were first fixed in 10% buffered formalin so that the fixation was continued They were then dehydrated in 2 baths of 70% alcohol, in 1 bath 95% alcohol and then in 2 baths of absolute alcohol. The dehydrated sections were then moved into the chloroform and xylene. This step was done for clearing. Chloroform is a carcinogen and it affects the nervous system. The tissues were automatically moved in wax for tissue impregnation. This caused the tissues to harden. A temperature of less than 60oC was necessary because a higher temperature would have affected elasticity of the wax. Fumes go in a waste bottle and charcoal filter is present to filter leak. The tissues were now ready for embedding. 3. Embedding During embedding, the formalin fixed processed tissues are surrounded by wax so a solid paraffin block is obtained. This will enable the medical lab scientist to obtain thin sections from the block so that they can be stained and later viewed by the pathologist. The procedure involved was as follows: The cassette was taken from the processor to the warm compartment of the histocentre. The histocentre is an embedding center that facilitates paraffin embedding. It is equipped with a dispenser, specimen handling tank, warmed embedding moulds, warmed forceps wells and warm plate for orientation of the specimen in the melted paraffin. After checking the wax tank was properly filled, the cold plate and light were switched on. The cold plate helps in transferring of the melted paraffin. The tissue cassette was opened and the number on the labeled cassettes was checked with that on the worksheet entry. A suitable mould compartment corresponding to the size of the tissues in the cassette was chosen. The mould was filled with paraffin wax The tissue was placed at the bottom of the mould, correctly orientated. Incorrect orientation ruins the first section taken The trucuts were placed centrally aligned across long axis of the mould, and not placed at random. Adequate border of embedding medium must surround all sides of the tissue to give maximum cutting support. The mould placed in its cassette was placed on a cold plate and allowed to solidify. The block was scraped along a para trimmer to trim excess wax on surface. Tissues embedded must be perfectly flat to ensure that a complete section will be obtained. 4. Microtomy After the block was trimmed, thin sections were now cut using a microtome. The block was first trimmed to expose the area to be sectioned. A sharp non-rusted blade was used not to cause damage to the tissue by scoring. The microtome was cleaned from staples and sutures that remained to avoid damage of the blade. Microtomy was then started. The tightly screwed blade was checked and adjusted in the correct position. The micrometer gauge was set at a thickness of 18-22 µm. The block was placed inside the block holder of the microtome and secured. The block holder was in parallel to the edge of the blade so a straight ribbon of sections was obtained. The block holder was moved using the couae trimming device until the wax block was almost touching the edge of the blade. The fine trimming rotator device was when the block touched the edge of the blade and trimming of the block was started. Excess wax from the surface of the block was removed until the surface of the tissue was exposed. Debris due to coarse cutting was removed using a Camel hairbrush. The block was then placed on ice to cool giving the tissue and the wax similar consistency. Water absorbed by the tissue, slightly swelling it, so cutting is easier later on. If this does not occur sections tend to crease. The block was reattached to the microtome, leaving the left-hand rotator device. The micrometer gauge was then set at 3 µm. A series of sections forming a ribbon were cut and the first one was not used since it is usually thicker than 3 µm. 4 layers were taken. This means that the after the first section was achieved, the next few layers were ignored and then a second section was taken. The same was done for the third and fourth. This is done so that the pathologist can study many layers from the site taken so that diagnosis is more accurate. The appropriate ribbon section (for all the four sections obtained) was gently transferred into a water bath using forceps. The water bath is set a few degrees below the melting point of the wax. The sections were floated onto a glass slide containing 20% alcohol. The ribbon section was then released on the surface of a water bath (at a temperature less than that of melting point of wax i.e. 60oC. The sections were collected on an APES-coated glass slide. They were placed on near the other. Coated APES facilitates adhesion of the sections onto the glass slide. 4 slides were obtained (a slide for each layer taken). The number of the block was written on the glass slide using a diamond pen and placed on a slide rack. It was dried in an oven at about 60oC for 10 minute. 5. Staining Together with the other blocks from the other specimens the slides were dried and now ready for staining. The routine gold standard stain in histology is Haematoxylin and Eosin stain. This was done in an automated staining machine which followed the regressive method. This allowed overstaining of the tissues and removal excess dye by differentiation. The staining procedure was programmed as followed: The slides were left in the heating station so that all water is removed. The slides were dewaxed in a xylene for 4 minutes. This removed the surrounding wax from the tissues. They were then placed in xylene alcohol for 15 seconds. This started the gradual hydration process and prepared the tissues to be stained by haematoxylin dissolved in an aqueous solvent. The hydration process is followed by 2 baths of absolute alcohol (15 seconds each). The slides were then passed into four baths: 95% alcohol, 70% alcohol, 50% alcohol, and 30% alcohol (15 seconds each). They were then passed for 15 seconds in distilled water since haematoxylin stain is water based. The slides were then passed for 10 minutes in haematoxylin stain. The time inside the haematoxylin bath varies according to the properties of the stain. The prolonged use of the stain increases the time the slides pass in the bath. The slides were rinsed in two baths of distilled water, the first bath for 30 seconds and the second bath for 10 seconds. Differentiation then occurred in acid alcohol for 1 second. This allowed the nucleus to retain the stain and to decrease the pH (acidic) so colour changes to light purple. The slides were rinsed in distilled water for 15 seconds. Bluing occurred in tap water for 5 minutes. This raised the pH so sections became light blue. The slides were then passed into a bath containing distilled water for 15 seconds. The slides were passed in absolute alcohol for 15 minutes for dehydration and because this favours alcoholic eosin staining since it is alcohol based. Counterstaining was performed in a bath containing alcoholic eosin for 3.15 minutes. The time in alcoholic eosin varies according to the properties of the stain. The prolonged use of the stain increases the time the slides pass in the bath. Prolonging time allows the cytoplasm to take up the pink eosin stain. The slides were then dehydrated in four baths of acid alcohol, 15 seconds each. The slides were cleared in xylene alcohol for 15 seconds followed in 2 baths of xylene for 5 minutes each. This helps during mounting since DPX mountant is xylene based. The slides were left in the heating station so that all water is removed. The slides were taken out from the rack and mounted with DPX mountant. Quality Control: Two slides are stained with H E stain using the automated machine in the morning before starting routine staining. Errors in staining such as weak stains and contamination (example of eosin) can be detected so they can be solved. The 4 slides of the patient were therefore well stained since the machine passed QC on that day. Results: Nucleus: Blue Cytoplasm and other eosinophilic structures: Pale pink After processing, the number on the slides was checked with that of the cassette and the block. The slides were then labelled with their respective label. The cassette was placed on top of the slide to see if all the stained sections present on the block were sectioned. All the stained sections agreed with those on the block. Role of the Biomedical Scientist The role of the biomedical scientist is to perform all the above procedures. The medical lab scientists are divided into different sections throughout the histology laboratory: in the cut-up room and in the embedding and staining section of the laboratory (excluding immunohistochemistry laboratory). In addition, the biomedical scientist must also fill several worksheets. The initials of the biomedical lab scientists performing the cutup, macro-examination, LID and embedding are written in the histopathology worksheet. The MLS must monitor any changes example in reagents. Any injuries or misshapen occurring in the laboratory must be recorded. Pathologist Role/Result Reporting After staining, the pathologist viewed the slides under the microscope and performed a microscopic examination. The observed results were noted. The microscopic examination results were sent to the secretary who typed the result in the results form. The pathologist then read the results form for any errors and once the result was verified the pathologist authorised the result. Result Entering and Authorisation After the pathologist viewed the slides under the microscope he took the fully written request form to the secretary. The secretary separated the forms into different piles, according to the pathologist. The form was typed in a result form and printed as a result sheet. The written and the print result form were separated into 2 different racks. The report sheet was taken to the respective consultant/pathologist who reviewed the printed result sheet for any mistakes. This includes patient details, clinical details, and examination results. Once the pathologist verified the data written, he used the software to authorise the result. Once the pathologist authorised the result, this was available in the LIS of the cytology and histology laboratories. The CMI system allowed the results to be available to the wards. The result sheet was taken to the secretary where the result form was piled with other results forms according to the pathologist/consultant. Copies were made and sent to ward and patient. Result Issuing (Describe the results form) The results form contains the details of the patient, including the name and surname, address, date of birth, sex and the hospital number. The name of the clinician and the site from where trucut biopsy was taken (SOP) are included. The date the specimen was taken and the date and time it was received are also included. The lab number associated to the specimen is important to be included because besides identifying the patient it can be used for future reference. If the slides or block containing the sections are required they are labelled (including lab number) and stored and easily retrievable. The specimen type and site from where the biopsy was taken, the macroscopic examination and the microscopic examination are all included. The included, in this case â€Å"Benign breast parenchyma of the right breast†. The pathologist and the date and time the result was reported and authorised (by pathologist) and the date and time the result form was printed are also included. Benign Breast Parenchyma: The breast parenchyma forms part of the normal breast tissue. It was reported as benign during microscopy because of few scattered (not clustered) lobules seen in breast sections. Since no atypical features were observed, no special stains or immunohistochemistry staining (example ER or Her-2 stains) were required. It is ideal the patient undergoes regular breast screening. Sample Collection and Specialist Preparation The containers to process routine surgical specimens vary from small to large received in 10% buffered formalin. Very large containers are rare. The container used depends on the size of the specimens. Small specimens such as polyps, prostate scrapings, appendix, trucuts, and trephines are received in small containers containing 10% buffered formalin. Some specimens such as fetus vary in size such as fetus and colon so they received in larger specimens (medium when compared to small containers). Large specimens such as lung, breast, and colon are received in large containers containing 10% buffered formalin. Large specimens require more than one day to be cut. First the specimen is opened and left for an additional day or more for further fixation. The following are types of specimen the laboratory receives that require specialist preparation techniques and the actions taken: Trephine and Bone specimens: – Decalcification with EDTA or formic acid. EDTA is used example for bone marrow trephine and formic acid is used example on bone sternum for one day Figure 4 showing a femur bone undergoing decalcification in EDTA. Infective specimen example with HIV – Over fixation in formalin to kill infective cells* Lymph node –The time of fixation depends on the thickness of the specimen. More time the more the fixative is allowed to penetrate the lymph node.* It is left for two or three days depending on the thickness of the specimen. Over fixation will destroy the surface antigens causing artifacts and a false negative result during immunohistochemistry. Sural nerve: Sent from operation inside a gauze soaked with saline. The request from and case summary are required. The cut up laboratory gives the lab number and send the specimen to the immunohistochemistry laboratory. The tubular sural nerve is wet, and the two ends of the nerve are cut. One end is sent to a pathologist to get an idea of diagnosis and the centre part of the nerve and the other cut end are sent abroad. Muscle: This is received in saline and a lab number is given in the cut up laboratory and then sent to immunohistochemistry laboratory. It is frozen at -70oC and cut by a cryostat at -20oC. The thin sections are then stained with a series of special stains example Oil Red O and with immunohistochemistry stains example myosin. APES coated glass slides are used to prevent the tissue section from sliding off. Imprints: Example lymph node: A slide is pressed on the lymph node and the imprint is sent abroad. The lymph node is then worked normally in formalin. Imprints are used for genetic studies. Liver with no tumour: A series of special stains are performed: PAS – useful if there is a high glycogen content upon staining Reticulin Stain – useful in liver cirrhosis and liver fibrosis Masson’s Trichome Stain – Useful in liver fibrosis Iron Stain – useful for haemosiderosis, haemochromatosis Title: Frozen Sections Aim Performing a macroscopic examination by the pathologist Cut up of the specimen Obtaining sections at -17oC using a micrometer, inside a cryostat Staining the section/s by haematoxylin and eosin stain Performing microscopic examination of the stained section/s by the pathologist Introduction A frozen section is a specific type of biopsy performed during surgery so that a rapid diagnosis of the tissue extracted is made (Brender, Burke Glass, 2011). The tissue can be sectioned and stained in the laboratory for microscopic examination by the pathologist. The surgeon is given flexible intra-operative decision making according to the result given by the pathologist after the rapid processing (KarcioÄÅ ¸lu, 2005, p.121). Principle A surgery is booked and a biopsy is taken and sent to the laboratory. As soon as the fresh specimen arrives in the histology laboratory the pathologist and the selected biomedical scientists start processing the specimen. The pathologist performs a macroscopic examination on the specimen and the observed features are written down by the pathologist. The MLS then start cutting thin sections according to the specimen, using a microtome inside a cryostat at -17oC. The sections are then quickly stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain. In contrary to routine H E, the sections are not passed through xylene and dehydrated down to water. This is because the frozen sections are not embedded in paraffin wax prior staining. Since the stain is very fast there differentiation with acid alcohol is also not performed. After mounting the pathologist checks if the stained slide is satisfactory and after performs a microscopic examination. This lets the surgeon decide what to do next. Materials and Equipment required Cryostat, OCT medium, cryospray, Glass slides, cover slips, disposable pipettes, Procedure 1. Macro-examination The pathologist opens the container/s containing the specimen/s. A macro examination is performed on the specimen/s and the pathologist starts a description so that the medical lab scientist writes on the request form. The description includes the size dimension (length x width x height) in centimeters, the shape of the specimen and if it is soft or hard. The consultant suspects carcinoma and sampling is them performed. 2. Cutting the specimen The consultant cuts piece of the specimen that covers the whole area of the specimen. It is important the most suspicious is included in the segmented section so that the consultant can find and detect the tumour during microscopy. If required, multiple sections can be taken to make a diagnosis. The size cut depends on the size of the sample and tumour. More than one pieces of the specimen can be cut example: two sections from a liver (due to liver transplantation), and from a lymph node attached to the liver. 3. Cryostat The cut specimen/s is/are placed, with the aid of tweezers, in the center of a cryostat object disk containing OCT medium. The cryostat object disk with the tissue is placed on the cryobar (holder) inside the -17oC set cryostat. The tissue is left to settle so it gets cold and this is enhanced by using a cryospray. When the tissue solidifies it is placed onto an object disk holder. The machine is set at 5 µ on the control panel and the block is moved towards the edge of the blade. After making sure it is properly clamped trimming is started. The rotator on the right of the cryostat is turned. The section begins to curl as the block comes in contact with the blade. The section is held down slowly and gently with tweezers and cut until the surface of the tissue is visible. The cryostat is now quickly set at 30 µ (this is the thickness used for most of the specimens in histology). A good section is detached and taken onto a glass slide placed opposite of the block. As the tissue comes in contact with the glass slide it sticks onto it since it melts and adheres to it. The glass slide is immediately in the staining station found adjacent to the cryostat. Haematoxylin and eosin staining is performed. 4. Haematoxylin and Eosin Staining The glass slide with tissue section is f Handling, Storage and Disposal of Samples Handling, Storage and Disposal of Samples Expectations of a Health Care Professional In the histology laboratory all specimens arrive fixed in 10% buffered formalin. In the laboratory, the specimen and the request form are labeled with the same lab number. The specimens are left in the same order the lab number is given and processed. Safety gloves and an apron are worn when processing the specimen. Unfixed specimens received in a plane container are fixed in 10% formalin which is commercially prepared and left for one day to process. This is done if the specimen requires fixation. Certain specimens are an exception to this rule. Lymph nodes are wrapped in gauze when lymphoma is suspected, skin sections for Immunofluorescence due to Pemphigus vulgaris are suspended in saline solution, and frozen sections are not fixed since fresh tissue is sectioned for microscopic examination. Whether the result has been reported or not determines which samples are disposed and stored if the result has been reported or not: After the samples are processed the pieces of the sample that were not inserted in the cassette are placed back inside the respective container. The fixed specimen in the container is refrigerated until the result is reported (figure1). 3 weeks after reporting the result a disposal list is created and the specimens to be disposed are packed inside boxes, labeled and then sent for incineration. Samples such as fetus are kept for burial. Empty containers are left for a week and a half as a quality control and for human errors. In many cases the label on the container shows the type of specimen so the empty containers are left in case verification of type of specimen is required. Blocks and slides are stored permanently inside a storage room. All blocks and slides are carefully and methodically filed so they are available for records or for future reference. As years pass blocks remain unchanged but stains on the slide tend to fade so there is sample deterioration. After cutting, the blocks are placed in numerical order according to the year and placed inside boxes. The first and the last number of the blocks in each box are written on the boxes. All sides and top box are labeled and sealed with tape. Slides are filed in numerical order after the report is issued. Slides are placed in a slide box and the lab number of the first and last slide are written on the box. Effective self-management of time and workload The opening hours for the histology are from 6.00 am till 5.00 pm. The lab is open from Monday till Sunday and time shifts are available so the laboratory remains more open and more service is given to the public. The laboratory does not open during night shift because results in the histology laboratory are not considered urgent. Results must first be seen by the pathologist so no immediate results are required so processing is done during the day. Samples that are considered urgent In histology, specimens are not considered urgent because they have to be viewed by the pathologist results are issued. Frozen sections are considered urgent since the sample must be quickly processed so an intra-operative decision can be taken by the surgeon. Samples can also be considered urgent when a pathologist needs the results in a quick time, due to surgery scheduled on that day or the following day. Career-Long Self Directed Learning What is CPD? CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development, an ongoing free training programme in histopathology including histology and cytology (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). It is defined as â€Å"The systematic maintenance, improvement and broadening of knowledge and skills, and the development of personal qualities, necessary for the execution of professional and technical duties throughout the practitioner’s working life† (The Chartered Institution of Highways Transportation, 2011). This means that CPD allows the employer to improve and to widen knowledge, quality, competence and skills in his/her profession. What constitutes CPD activity? A CPD is constituted by meetings, short courses, conferences or workshops that are created to inform other members of stuff or even the public. Organization and participation are essential for a successful CPD. It must be transparent, accountable and visible (Fox Fox, 2004, p.182). CPD can be done: To present one’s own research report With the aid of websites, journals, posters, books and other printed media To show something encountered during work, that can be of interest to rest of the workers To make and encourage new procedures and changes Introduce a new course that will be of interesting to the public or workers How does the CPD scheme benefit Pathology employers? A CPD scheme enables the biomedical scientist to develop the necessary knowledge, attitudes, personal effectiveness and skills for his/her professional practice. The employer must identify his/her and their employer’s learning needs. In order to improve patient care the employer must be up to date on facts, new concepts and most importantly on opinion and consensus (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). The employer can record activity and document all learning achieved (Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, 2010). All this is done not for only the present but also for future progression (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). What are the benefits to a biomedical scientist (the employee) participating in the CPD scheme? Keep up to date with current rapid and expanding knowledge (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Increases job satisfaction, productivity and quality of working life (Chen, Chang Yeh, 2006) Acquire new skills for safe and effective practice. This builds up confidence in the employee (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). Promote professional ideas and new initiatives, increasing job satisfaction (Institute of biomedical Science, 2011). Documentation of all that is learned from the scheme is encouraged (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Benefit from quality control measures (Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, 2010). Encourage reflective practice (Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, 2010). Reduce risk of clinical isolation (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Prepare for new roles example managerial. Employers value employees that undergo continuous CPD since such employees show learning agility (Chen et al., 2006; Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Maintain a reputation of the biomedical possession and public assurance (The Royal College of Pathologists, 2010). Where is the information relating to CPD displayed in Pathology? When a CPD meeting is going to be held all biomedical scientists are informed through an email. The email is sent to the principle to make sure that all the histology staff knows about the meeting. Vertical Audit Site of origin The trucut samples were taken from the right breast upper outer quadrant (Figure 2) Sample Taking and Description of sample The trucut biopsy is taken after a mammography showed a suspicious result. To diagnose, a trucut biopsy was performed. A trucut (core) biopsy is mostly done to sample tissues from a solid mass or calcium deposits, increasing sensitivity (Youk, Kim, Kim, Lee Oh, 2007). Very small masses or masses that are too deep are sampled using a guiding imaging technique. No scars are left after sampling. It has the advantage of being highly sensitive and specific (Sadler et al., 1994). The biopsy was performed at Mater Dei’s surgical operating theater (SOP) (in the Breast Clinic). The patient was given local anesthetic and left for a few minutes. A 16mm gauge core needle (figure 3) was then used to obtain the tissue samples. The tissues sampled contain tissues from the mass and normal healthy tissues from the breast. The sections sampled contain also provide more diagnostic information than mammography and fine needle aspiration. The samples are larger than FNA therefore results are more accurate (Kasraeian, Allison, Ahlmann, Fedenko Menendez, 2010). The clinician or nurse localised the mass and its boundaries and the mass was then immobilised. The needle was inserted through the skin into the lump and the tissue section was taken. To increase the chances of diagnosis 6 trucut specimens were taken. Their length varied from 9mm to 14 mm. The needle was then detached. The trucut specimens were then introduced into a container contain 10% buffered formalin. The container and the request form where received in the histology laboratory the following day. Specimen reception/numbering A courier brought the trucut specimen for histology processing into the histology laboratory. In the laboratory, the request form which comes together with the specimen was left for a day where registration and processing began. The following day, the receptionist used the HOE system to input data so they can be available only in the laboratory. The ID number of the patient was inputted followed by location the specimen was sampled example BOFFA, the name of the medical lab scientist, and the name of the pathologist/consultant. If available, the macro examination results were also included. A label containing the lab number, the letter on the cassette, the last two digits of the year, and the patient’ name and surname was prepared and printed. The label was prepared to label the slide after staining (in this case only one label was required). Specimen Registration The sample and its respective request form were both labeled with a barcode containing a specific laboratory number. The barcode was stuck on the top of the request form and at the back of the container (without covering any patient’s details). The laboratory number was also written with the aid of marker on top of the tap of the container. The request form was stamped at the top and at the bottom with the date in which it was received in the laboratory. The trucut specimen and the other histological specimens were left one after the other, according to the laboratory number. Specimen processing proceeded in this order. Specimen Processing 1. Cut-Up The trucut specimen was first processed in the laboratory at the cut-up laboratory. The name and surname of the patient and the lab number on the request form and on the specimen container were checked. The trucut biopsies in 10% buffered formalin were taken out from the container, using forceps, on the working bench. A macroscopic examination was performed on the 6 trucut biopsies obtained. Their length ranged in length from 9mm to 14mm. They were all embedded in one printed cassette labeled A1. Blue foam was also placed and the cassette was covered with a medal lid. It was then was placed in eosin with the other specimens. The trucut biopsies were then ready for further laboratory processing. After all specimens were cut, a histopathology worksheet was filled in. This included the case number of the patient, the number of tissues taken (6) , the tissue type (breast trucut), the number of blocks (A1), any comments such as left to fix (not applicable), the name of the pathologist who will examine the slides, and the name of the medical laboratory scientist (in this case who performed the cut up). 2. Tissue Processing (Impregnation) The biopsies were processed in an automated processing machine. This was performed in a closed system for trucut specimens using program A. It is important that the specimen is not larger than 3mm since it will not fit and cannot be cut afterwards. The closed system has 14 baths and it provides pressure, waving, bubbling and rotation to the tissues so the reagent can penetrate better. This is performed overnight, therefore the processor is programmed. When time for embedding is prolonged, the fixation time is prolonged to compensate. The tissues were first fixed in 10% buffered formalin so that the fixation was continued They were then dehydrated in 2 baths of 70% alcohol, in 1 bath 95% alcohol and then in 2 baths of absolute alcohol. The dehydrated sections were then moved into the chloroform and xylene. This step was done for clearing. Chloroform is a carcinogen and it affects the nervous system. The tissues were automatically moved in wax for tissue impregnation. This caused the tissues to harden. A temperature of less than 60oC was necessary because a higher temperature would have affected elasticity of the wax. Fumes go in a waste bottle and charcoal filter is present to filter leak. The tissues were now ready for embedding. 3. Embedding During embedding, the formalin fixed processed tissues are surrounded by wax so a solid paraffin block is obtained. This will enable the medical lab scientist to obtain thin sections from the block so that they can be stained and later viewed by the pathologist. The procedure involved was as follows: The cassette was taken from the processor to the warm compartment of the histocentre. The histocentre is an embedding center that facilitates paraffin embedding. It is equipped with a dispenser, specimen handling tank, warmed embedding moulds, warmed forceps wells and warm plate for orientation of the specimen in the melted paraffin. After checking the wax tank was properly filled, the cold plate and light were switched on. The cold plate helps in transferring of the melted paraffin. The tissue cassette was opened and the number on the labeled cassettes was checked with that on the worksheet entry. A suitable mould compartment corresponding to the size of the tissues in the cassette was chosen. The mould was filled with paraffin wax The tissue was placed at the bottom of the mould, correctly orientated. Incorrect orientation ruins the first section taken The trucuts were placed centrally aligned across long axis of the mould, and not placed at random. Adequate border of embedding medium must surround all sides of the tissue to give maximum cutting support. The mould placed in its cassette was placed on a cold plate and allowed to solidify. The block was scraped along a para trimmer to trim excess wax on surface. Tissues embedded must be perfectly flat to ensure that a complete section will be obtained. 4. Microtomy After the block was trimmed, thin sections were now cut using a microtome. The block was first trimmed to expose the area to be sectioned. A sharp non-rusted blade was used not to cause damage to the tissue by scoring. The microtome was cleaned from staples and sutures that remained to avoid damage of the blade. Microtomy was then started. The tightly screwed blade was checked and adjusted in the correct position. The micrometer gauge was set at a thickness of 18-22 µm. The block was placed inside the block holder of the microtome and secured. The block holder was in parallel to the edge of the blade so a straight ribbon of sections was obtained. The block holder was moved using the couae trimming device until the wax block was almost touching the edge of the blade. The fine trimming rotator device was when the block touched the edge of the blade and trimming of the block was started. Excess wax from the surface of the block was removed until the surface of the tissue was exposed. Debris due to coarse cutting was removed using a Camel hairbrush. The block was then placed on ice to cool giving the tissue and the wax similar consistency. Water absorbed by the tissue, slightly swelling it, so cutting is easier later on. If this does not occur sections tend to crease. The block was reattached to the microtome, leaving the left-hand rotator device. The micrometer gauge was then set at 3 µm. A series of sections forming a ribbon were cut and the first one was not used since it is usually thicker than 3 µm. 4 layers were taken. This means that the after the first section was achieved, the next few layers were ignored and then a second section was taken. The same was done for the third and fourth. This is done so that the pathologist can study many layers from the site taken so that diagnosis is more accurate. The appropriate ribbon section (for all the four sections obtained) was gently transferred into a water bath using forceps. The water bath is set a few degrees below the melting point of the wax. The sections were floated onto a glass slide containing 20% alcohol. The ribbon section was then released on the surface of a water bath (at a temperature less than that of melting point of wax i.e. 60oC. The sections were collected on an APES-coated glass slide. They were placed on near the other. Coated APES facilitates adhesion of the sections onto the glass slide. 4 slides were obtained (a slide for each layer taken). The number of the block was written on the glass slide using a diamond pen and placed on a slide rack. It was dried in an oven at about 60oC for 10 minute. 5. Staining Together with the other blocks from the other specimens the slides were dried and now ready for staining. The routine gold standard stain in histology is Haematoxylin and Eosin stain. This was done in an automated staining machine which followed the regressive method. This allowed overstaining of the tissues and removal excess dye by differentiation. The staining procedure was programmed as followed: The slides were left in the heating station so that all water is removed. The slides were dewaxed in a xylene for 4 minutes. This removed the surrounding wax from the tissues. They were then placed in xylene alcohol for 15 seconds. This started the gradual hydration process and prepared the tissues to be stained by haematoxylin dissolved in an aqueous solvent. The hydration process is followed by 2 baths of absolute alcohol (15 seconds each). The slides were then passed into four baths: 95% alcohol, 70% alcohol, 50% alcohol, and 30% alcohol (15 seconds each). They were then passed for 15 seconds in distilled water since haematoxylin stain is water based. The slides were then passed for 10 minutes in haematoxylin stain. The time inside the haematoxylin bath varies according to the properties of the stain. The prolonged use of the stain increases the time the slides pass in the bath. The slides were rinsed in two baths of distilled water, the first bath for 30 seconds and the second bath for 10 seconds. Differentiation then occurred in acid alcohol for 1 second. This allowed the nucleus to retain the stain and to decrease the pH (acidic) so colour changes to light purple. The slides were rinsed in distilled water for 15 seconds. Bluing occurred in tap water for 5 minutes. This raised the pH so sections became light blue. The slides were then passed into a bath containing distilled water for 15 seconds. The slides were passed in absolute alcohol for 15 minutes for dehydration and because this favours alcoholic eosin staining since it is alcohol based. Counterstaining was performed in a bath containing alcoholic eosin for 3.15 minutes. The time in alcoholic eosin varies according to the properties of the stain. The prolonged use of the stain increases the time the slides pass in the bath. Prolonging time allows the cytoplasm to take up the pink eosin stain. The slides were then dehydrated in four baths of acid alcohol, 15 seconds each. The slides were cleared in xylene alcohol for 15 seconds followed in 2 baths of xylene for 5 minutes each. This helps during mounting since DPX mountant is xylene based. The slides were left in the heating station so that all water is removed. The slides were taken out from the rack and mounted with DPX mountant. Quality Control: Two slides are stained with H E stain using the automated machine in the morning before starting routine staining. Errors in staining such as weak stains and contamination (example of eosin) can be detected so they can be solved. The 4 slides of the patient were therefore well stained since the machine passed QC on that day. Results: Nucleus: Blue Cytoplasm and other eosinophilic structures: Pale pink After processing, the number on the slides was checked with that of the cassette and the block. The slides were then labelled with their respective label. The cassette was placed on top of the slide to see if all the stained sections present on the block were sectioned. All the stained sections agreed with those on the block. Role of the Biomedical Scientist The role of the biomedical scientist is to perform all the above procedures. The medical lab scientists are divided into different sections throughout the histology laboratory: in the cut-up room and in the embedding and staining section of the laboratory (excluding immunohistochemistry laboratory). In addition, the biomedical scientist must also fill several worksheets. The initials of the biomedical lab scientists performing the cutup, macro-examination, LID and embedding are written in the histopathology worksheet. The MLS must monitor any changes example in reagents. Any injuries or misshapen occurring in the laboratory must be recorded. Pathologist Role/Result Reporting After staining, the pathologist viewed the slides under the microscope and performed a microscopic examination. The observed results were noted. The microscopic examination results were sent to the secretary who typed the result in the results form. The pathologist then read the results form for any errors and once the result was verified the pathologist authorised the result. Result Entering and Authorisation After the pathologist viewed the slides under the microscope he took the fully written request form to the secretary. The secretary separated the forms into different piles, according to the pathologist. The form was typed in a result form and printed as a result sheet. The written and the print result form were separated into 2 different racks. The report sheet was taken to the respective consultant/pathologist who reviewed the printed result sheet for any mistakes. This includes patient details, clinical details, and examination results. Once the pathologist verified the data written, he used the software to authorise the result. Once the pathologist authorised the result, this was available in the LIS of the cytology and histology laboratories. The CMI system allowed the results to be available to the wards. The result sheet was taken to the secretary where the result form was piled with other results forms according to the pathologist/consultant. Copies were made and sent to ward and patient. Result Issuing (Describe the results form) The results form contains the details of the patient, including the name and surname, address, date of birth, sex and the hospital number. The name of the clinician and the site from where trucut biopsy was taken (SOP) are included. The date the specimen was taken and the date and time it was received are also included. The lab number associated to the specimen is important to be included because besides identifying the patient it can be used for future reference. If the slides or block containing the sections are required they are labelled (including lab number) and stored and easily retrievable. The specimen type and site from where the biopsy was taken, the macroscopic examination and the microscopic examination are all included. The included, in this case â€Å"Benign breast parenchyma of the right breast†. The pathologist and the date and time the result was reported and authorised (by pathologist) and the date and time the result form was printed are also included. Benign Breast Parenchyma: The breast parenchyma forms part of the normal breast tissue. It was reported as benign during microscopy because of few scattered (not clustered) lobules seen in breast sections. Since no atypical features were observed, no special stains or immunohistochemistry staining (example ER or Her-2 stains) were required. It is ideal the patient undergoes regular breast screening. Sample Collection and Specialist Preparation The containers to process routine surgical specimens vary from small to large received in 10% buffered formalin. Very large containers are rare. The container used depends on the size of the specimens. Small specimens such as polyps, prostate scrapings, appendix, trucuts, and trephines are received in small containers containing 10% buffered formalin. Some specimens such as fetus vary in size such as fetus and colon so they received in larger specimens (medium when compared to small containers). Large specimens such as lung, breast, and colon are received in large containers containing 10% buffered formalin. Large specimens require more than one day to be cut. First the specimen is opened and left for an additional day or more for further fixation. The following are types of specimen the laboratory receives that require specialist preparation techniques and the actions taken: Trephine and Bone specimens: – Decalcification with EDTA or formic acid. EDTA is used example for bone marrow trephine and formic acid is used example on bone sternum for one day Figure 4 showing a femur bone undergoing decalcification in EDTA. Infective specimen example with HIV – Over fixation in formalin to kill infective cells* Lymph node –The time of fixation depends on the thickness of the specimen. More time the more the fixative is allowed to penetrate the lymph node.* It is left for two or three days depending on the thickness of the specimen. Over fixation will destroy the surface antigens causing artifacts and a false negative result during immunohistochemistry. Sural nerve: Sent from operation inside a gauze soaked with saline. The request from and case summary are required. The cut up laboratory gives the lab number and send the specimen to the immunohistochemistry laboratory. The tubular sural nerve is wet, and the two ends of the nerve are cut. One end is sent to a pathologist to get an idea of diagnosis and the centre part of the nerve and the other cut end are sent abroad. Muscle: This is received in saline and a lab number is given in the cut up laboratory and then sent to immunohistochemistry laboratory. It is frozen at -70oC and cut by a cryostat at -20oC. The thin sections are then stained with a series of special stains example Oil Red O and with immunohistochemistry stains example myosin. APES coated glass slides are used to prevent the tissue section from sliding off. Imprints: Example lymph node: A slide is pressed on the lymph node and the imprint is sent abroad. The lymph node is then worked normally in formalin. Imprints are used for genetic studies. Liver with no tumour: A series of special stains are performed: PAS – useful if there is a high glycogen content upon staining Reticulin Stain – useful in liver cirrhosis and liver fibrosis Masson’s Trichome Stain – Useful in liver fibrosis Iron Stain – useful for haemosiderosis, haemochromatosis Title: Frozen Sections Aim Performing a macroscopic examination by the pathologist Cut up of the specimen Obtaining sections at -17oC using a micrometer, inside a cryostat Staining the section/s by haematoxylin and eosin stain Performing microscopic examination of the stained section/s by the pathologist Introduction A frozen section is a specific type of biopsy performed during surgery so that a rapid diagnosis of the tissue extracted is made (Brender, Burke Glass, 2011). The tissue can be sectioned and stained in the laboratory for microscopic examination by the pathologist. The surgeon is given flexible intra-operative decision making according to the result given by the pathologist after the rapid processing (KarcioÄÅ ¸lu, 2005, p.121). Principle A surgery is booked and a biopsy is taken and sent to the laboratory. As soon as the fresh specimen arrives in the histology laboratory the pathologist and the selected biomedical scientists start processing the specimen. The pathologist performs a macroscopic examination on the specimen and the observed features are written down by the pathologist. The MLS then start cutting thin sections according to the specimen, using a microtome inside a cryostat at -17oC. The sections are then quickly stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain. In contrary to routine H E, the sections are not passed through xylene and dehydrated down to water. This is because the frozen sections are not embedded in paraffin wax prior staining. Since the stain is very fast there differentiation with acid alcohol is also not performed. After mounting the pathologist checks if the stained slide is satisfactory and after performs a microscopic examination. This lets the surgeon decide what to do next. Materials and Equipment required Cryostat, OCT medium, cryospray, Glass slides, cover slips, disposable pipettes, Procedure 1. Macro-examination The pathologist opens the container/s containing the specimen/s. A macro examination is performed on the specimen/s and the pathologist starts a description so that the medical lab scientist writes on the request form. The description includes the size dimension (length x width x height) in centimeters, the shape of the specimen and if it is soft or hard. The consultant suspects carcinoma and sampling is them performed. 2. Cutting the specimen The consultant cuts piece of the specimen that covers the whole area of the specimen. It is important the most suspicious is included in the segmented section so that the consultant can find and detect the tumour during microscopy. If required, multiple sections can be taken to make a diagnosis. The size cut depends on the size of the sample and tumour. More than one pieces of the specimen can be cut example: two sections from a liver (due to liver transplantation), and from a lymph node attached to the liver. 3. Cryostat The cut specimen/s is/are placed, with the aid of tweezers, in the center of a cryostat object disk containing OCT medium. The cryostat object disk with the tissue is placed on the cryobar (holder) inside the -17oC set cryostat. The tissue is left to settle so it gets cold and this is enhanced by using a cryospray. When the tissue solidifies it is placed onto an object disk holder. The machine is set at 5 µ on the control panel and the block is moved towards the edge of the blade. After making sure it is properly clamped trimming is started. The rotator on the right of the cryostat is turned. The section begins to curl as the block comes in contact with the blade. The section is held down slowly and gently with tweezers and cut until the surface of the tissue is visible. The cryostat is now quickly set at 30 µ (this is the thickness used for most of the specimens in histology). A good section is detached and taken onto a glass slide placed opposite of the block. As the tissue comes in contact with the glass slide it sticks onto it since it melts and adheres to it. The glass slide is immediately in the staining station found adjacent to the cryostat. Haematoxylin and eosin staining is performed. 4. Haematoxylin and Eosin Staining The glass slide with tissue section is f