Asthma Is A Chronic Inflammatory Disorder Biology Essay

Asthma Is A Chronic Inflammatory Disorder Biology Essay Introduction Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the bronchial tubes that causes constriction and inflammation of the airways. This results in narrowing of the airways. Airways narrowing in asthma is caused by three major processes that act on bronchi. These are: inflammation, bronchospasm and hyperreactivity. As a result, symptoms of wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath occur. (Womenfitness, 2004) This essay will aim to discuss the pathophysiology, epidemiology, aetiology and the various causes of asthma. Furthermore, it will compare recent prevalence rates and patterns that have arisen in recent years. It will also concentrate on the effects of asthma on children and exercise, and the long term effects this may have on lung function. Finally, it will present the hygiene hypothesis that has drawn great attention and speculation over recent years. C:UsersuserPicturesasthma2.jpg Figure 1 adopted from asthma.about.com//def_hyperresponsiveness.htm Phathopysiology: Asthma is known to be an inflammatory disease which is characterised by airway inflammation, airflow obstruction and bronchial hyperresponsivness.The mechanism of airway inflammation in asthma maybe acute, sub acute or chronic. Inflammation is the most important factor that causes narrowing of the bronchial tubes. It increases the thickness of the wall of the bronchial tubes and produces excess mucous that forms plugs and clogs the small airways resulting in a smaller passageway for air to flow through. In irregular air flow obstruction and bronchial airway reactivity, oedema and mucus secretion also contribute to further narrowing of the airways. Thus resulting in difficulty breathing. When asthmatic patients are exposed to triggers such as allergens, irritant and infections, the inflamed or constricted airways becomes more sensitive or reactive to those triggers leading to increase narrowing and inflammation of the airways. As a result an asthmatic person has to make a greater effo rt during expiration and inspiration. (Szeftel and Shiffman, 2009). Asthma is characterized by an increased number of mast cells, eosinophils, macrophages, activated T lymphocytes, dendritic cells and neutrophils in the bronchial tissues. During an asthma attack, antigen presenting cells e.g. (macrophages or dendritic cells) in the airways capture and process the inhaled allergen to T-lymphocytes which in turn becomes activated. Once T-lymphocyte becomes activated it produces TH1 cells and TH2 cells both secreting cytokines respectively. TH1 release (INF, lymphotoxin, IL-2) .TH2 release (IL-3, IL-4, IL-9, IL-13, IL-15).TH2cells (CD4 T-lymphocytes) has an important role in allergic response. Allergens drives the cytokine pattern towards TH2cells which in turn promotes B cells to produce immunoglobin E (IgE) and eosinophil recruitment .Then IgE binds to high affinity receptor for IgE, Fc-epsilon-R1 on the surface of mast cells and basophils. This leads to degranulation of the cells and the release of mediators such as histamine, leukotrienes and other enzymes. The production of histamine and leukotrienes result in bronchial hyperresponsivness and air way obstruction causing the symptoms of asthma. (Morris, 2009) Types of asthma: There are two main types of asthma: Extrinsic or allergy asthma: This type is more common and is responsible for 90%of all cases. It develops in children and is associated with features of atopy such as rhinitis or eczema. (Szeftel and Shiffman, 2009) Intrinsic asthma: This type is less common and presents for only 10%of all cases. It is more commonly found in women after the age of 30 and is typically not associated with allergies. (ibid 2009) Epidemiology 5.4million people in UK are currently receiving treatment for asthma. 1.1million children in UK are currently receiving treatment for asthma. There is a person with asthma in one in five household in the UK. (Asthma Uk,2008) The incidence of asthma has increased dramatically over the past 20 years. This is not due to the changes in our genetic makeup, however, due to environmental factors (allergens, infection, life style and diet) that influence on the development of asthma. The prevalence of asthma in Wales is amongst the highest in the world. With 260,000 people currently living with the condition and the rate of hospitalization for adults is 28%, it exceeds all other regions in the UK. (Asthma UK, 2009) Mortality and morbidity Asthma affects 5-10% of the population in United States or an estimated 22 million persons, including 6 million children. Asthma is common in industrial countries such as Canada, England, Australia, Germany and New Zealand. The prevalence rate of severe asthma in those countries ranges from 2-10% and is estimated to affect 300million people world wide. There are about 5000 deaths per year in U.S.and about 500 deaths per year in Canada. (Kelly, 2009) C:UsersuserPicturesasthm prevelance.gif Figure3: shows the high percentage of the population affected with asthma was reported in USA, Canada, UK, Australia and NewZeland (>10%). The lowest prevalence were reported in China and India (

Hemingways Hills Like White Elephants Essay -- Hemingway Hills White

Hemingway's Hills Like White Elephants   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Everyday people make decisions that affect their future lives. Do people make the right decisions? What makes a decision a right one? What may be right to some, may be wrong to others. There are no right or wrong decisions but those that people choose and believe to be right varying from each individual. In Hemingway's realistic story, Hills Like White Elephants, Jig attempts to make a crucial change in her life by making the right decision, but is unable to because of her weak characteristic flaws. Jig is indecisive about her decision. Even though she realizes the possibilities, she has difficulties letting go of old habits, has a low self-esteem that leads to her being submissive, and puts up a frail fight by hiding her feelings behind her sarcastic comments.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jig faces an immense decision that will change her future. She must choose between the old and the new lifestyle. It is hard for her to let go of old habits that consists of taking no responsibility and the sole intention of seeking pleasure. She must go from a young worriedless rebel to a stable adult taking responsibility. It's a hard process since there are three steps to changing: realization, doing the deed, and committing to the change. She definitely realizes she needs to change, but only goes that far. She does walk to the end of the station and looks upon the fertile side of the valley and comments "and we could have all this," but she ...

Application of Background Methodology Essay

In addition, childhood obesity can adversely affect social and economic development and lead to adult obesity causing more adverse health conditions. The costs of treating obesity in the United States are steadily increasing. Estimates show the direct and indirect costs associated with treating obesity was near $139 billion in 2003 (Li, & Hooker, 2010). The focus of this paper is to examine a peer-reviewed research article conducted by Ji Li, PhD. and Neal Hooker PhD published in the Journal of School Health, to show how the application of background and methodology of the research process can be applied to problems in health care. By examining the purpose of the study, the hypothesis, the variables employed, and the framework used to guide the study, a better understanding of the research process will be gained. Study Purpose Schools have been the subject of many research studies regarding childhood obesity. Surveys have examined issues such as race, ethnicity, and gender-specific differences relating to issues such as how television viewing affects weight gain and how physical activity effects academic achievement. The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) School Breakfast Program (SBP) and have been the subject of many studies (Li, & Hooker, 2010). The studies examined food choices; comparing the nutritional content of program meals to other competitive food choices available in the cafeteria. A different study observed the effect of NSLP eligibility and food insecurities on child welfare. The results of the study indicated no evidence of benefit associated with participation in the NSLP and child well-being (Li, & Hooker, 2010). Past research, associating childhood obesity and school-related programs and activities have been limited. The research did not differentiate between either public or private school types or were only composed of public school findings. Moreover, past research studies have employed only limited perspectives on the issue. The purpose of this article’s study is to delve further into the effects family, school, and community play on childhood obesity in hopes of understanding better the correlation (Li, & Hooker, 2010). By doing so administrators of health care will be better equipped to advise parents, educators, and policies makers of the importance of wellness and nutrition among school-aged children. Research Questions Many questions are posed in this study. The main question asked is, what is the correlation, if any, between school type, physical activity, participation in the NSLP, and other independent variables on body mass index (BMI) of children living in the United States? In addition, does the type of school, public or private, make a difference in the BMI of children? Last, does the physical activity level of the parents have an effect on a child’s BMI (Li, & Hooker, 2010)? Hypotheses This hypothesis of the study is not clearly stated within the article although the reading suggests there are several. The study suggests that children living in lower socioeconomic households and qualifying for the NSLP have greater chance of becoming obese. Children who attend public schools are more at risk of becoming overweight than those who attend private schools. In addition, children whose parents are physically active have less chance of becoming overweight. Last, parental education levels, smoking habits, and employment status can affect a child’s weight (Li, & Hooker, 2010). Study Variables To analyze how various factors effect childhood obesity, information was gathered about the children’s schools, families, communities, and daily activities from the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH). These sociodemographic independent variables include such information as the child’s age, gender, race, primary spoken language, physical activity level, television use, time spend playing computer games, extracurricular ctivities, and participation in the free or reduced lunch program (Li, & Hooker, 2010). Information about parental activities such as smoking practices, employment status, and education, economic, and activity levels were also included. The dependent variable body BMI was used as the measure of obesity. BMI can be defined as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. This method of mea surement is widely used by health providers to determine physical development (Li, & Hooker, 2010). Conceptual Model or Theoretical Framework The conceptual model used to understand the results of the study and to determine its empirical and scientific effectiveness, studies the relationships between childhood obesity and factors that contribute to the problem. By considering the multidimensional perspectives surrounding the lives of children in the United States, the effects on BMI as a measure of obesity can prove probable correlations. This study first applied a nonlinear regression model to survey data to examine important relationships. Next, the study constructed three model specifications to investigate the effects of the NSLP (Li, & Hooker, 2010). Last, discoveries were analyzed regarding the factors influencing the child’s probability for becoming overweight (Li, & Hooker, 2010). The conceptual model of the study provides correlations between socioeconomic status (SES) and other factors and childhood obesity by providing supporting facts. Review of Related Literature A review of the literature cited supports the need for this study. Research by Ogden, Carroll, and Flegal (2008) proves the BMI of children and adolescents in the United States are increasing steadily. A related study by Bouchard (1997) shows the relationship between childhood and adult obesity. In addition, the reference to Dietz (2004) shows that obesity can cause serious illness in children such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The high cost associated with treating obesity in the United States proves the need for further study into the problems associated to childhood obesity (Finkelstein, Ruhm, & Kosa, 2005). Study Design The study design employed was quantitative, consisting of data gathered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) 2003 and 2004 NSCH. The State and Local Area Integrated Telephone Survey Program was used to survey and investigate the physical and psychological health status of children age birth to 17 (Li, & Hooker, 2010). The households were randomly selected with the screening question of the presence of children under age 18 in the household was used. Observations of 62,880 children from different households living in the United States were studied through the value of BMI (Li, & Hooker, 2010). Conclusion The article from the Journal of School Health contains research collected from the NSCH conducted by the CDC to investigate the associations between children attending public and private schools, student eligibility for the free or reduced-cost meal programs, and family SES on children’s BMI (Li, & Hooker, 2010). Issues such as parent education and activity level in addition to child television and video game use are noted as possible associative factors that may lead to childhood obesity. The research further illustrates the implications for school health policy and its need for wellness curricula to promote healthy eating and physical exercise (Li, & Hooker, 2010). By examining the background and methodology used in the creation of this study, one can see how the data was used to help formulate and prove the hypotheses giving a greater understanding of the research process.

The Importance Of Art - 856 Words

Art is all around us, it’s everywhere you go: cartoons, buildings, photography, even the architecture of streets and sidewalks. There are many forms of art, and it doesnt have to be just drawing or painting, it can also be singing, acting, poetry, fashion, etc. All of these talents are an embodiment of expression, it allows individuals to explore their creativity and enhances their learning abilities. Without art everything would be black and white, there would be no substance. In today’s age, not many people notice or appreciate any type of artwork. As an artist and an actress, creativity has always been my strong suit. When I’m on stage or drawing it’s like I’m telling a story. People take art for granted, it’s very disappointing how†¦show more content†¦Individuals who experience trauma or loss had an impact on their artistic thinking, for example, Frida Kahlo. John Lennon. Paul McCartney. Truman Capote. Robin Williams. Jerry Garc ia, some of the most revered creative minds in modern history have experienced major trauma. Psychologists call this phenomenon â€Å"post-traumatic growth.† When an individual experiences a major loss, the brain explores its own creative escape as part of â€Å"rebuilding† themselves, especially as our perspectives, priorities, and ways of thinking shift around. Post-traumatic growth has been explored in hundreds of scientific studies, including a 2004 study in the Journal of Traumatic Stress showing that 70% of survivors experienced some kind of positive psychological change after a traumatic experience. Art is extremely helpful with teen development. Since teenagers minds and emotions are so complex it is hard for them to express it directly to others. Adolescents go through times where they don’t feel accepted. Art is the ultimate form of expression which is why some teens who have a creative mind are able to revert to their talent, it could be through music, clothing, photography, painting, etc. Art can be therapeutic to those who are capable of tapping into their creative side, it could be the solution to their problem if they are able to understand the purpose of art. The creativity of adolescentsShow MoreRelatedThe Importance Of Art1760 Words   |  8 PagesThe question of how valuable art is, is something that has been debated for hundreds of years; as well as the that art has to have a purpose. People have used the arts for religious or political purposes for far longer than the idea that art can be for its own sake. For instance, in ancient Greece and Rome art was us ed for religious and political purposes and was not made for pure enjoyment. Also, within the early christian church it was seen as a tool for religious purposes. It was not until theRead MoreThe Importance Of Art On Body Art749 Words   |  3 PagesOpportunity of expression is essential, however not to a degree, that it anticipates intimidating body art. Does Individuals less than 21 years old should be allowed tattoos? I insist they must not to have the tattoos. They are a greater number of professionals than cons to help this subject. I trust that people under age 21 has a tendency to do hasty things without thoroughly considering the long haul results of their exercises. Irresponsible, imaginative, unconstrained – yes, you can at presentRead MoreThe Importance Of Art Education1561 Words   |  7 PagesAccording to art professor Karin Evans, â€Å"Art is an irreplaceable way of understanding and expressing the world.† Many people agree that art brings joy and co ols students down after all the other hard work they have to think about during the school day. Art education can do much more than taking the stress away from the students. It can help students who have difficulty in core classes and help decrease the chances of dropouts. Art advocates have been stressing the benefits of art education to schoolsRead MoreThe Importance of Art Essay655 Words   |  3 PagesArt is a form of human expression. Art can be seen as the artist sleight of hand on his mood. Art is in various media from posters to public wall of which we call â€Å"graffiti†. Art is elusive as the use of colors shapes and the surface used adds a new dimension. Art portrays various ideas, feelings such as triumph, love, happiness, sorrow and boredom in loss to mention a few. Art is beauty and creativity. During man’s evolution art has progressed over in its most primitive state up to its most modernizedRead More The Importance of Art Essay969 Words   |  4 PagesThe Importance of Art Throughout the ages art has played a crucial role in life. Art is universal and because art is everywhere, we experience it on a daily basis. From the houses we live in (architecture) to the movies we see (theatre) to the books that we read (literature). Even in ancient culture art has played a crucial role. In prehistoric times cave dwellers drew on the wall of caves to record history. In biblical times paintings recorded the life and death of Christ. Throughout timeRead MoreThe Importance Of The Arts At School1497 Words   |  6 Pages Importance of the Arts in School People often view artistic activities as a leisure activity, so though they may agree it is a nice thing to have, they may not think it is essential to a person’s life. It is the same for schools, with tight budgets, art is usually the first subject cut from a student’s learning experience because it is not viewed as a priority. However, with all of the academic benefits students can gain from being involved in any type of art subject, it is important that schoolsRead MoreThe Importance Of Public Art1031 Words   |  5 PagesWhat is art? The answer to that has been debated for thousands of years. The definition of art is too broad a topic to discuss in just a few words. Public art, though also varying wildly from piece to piece, can be defined more easily. Its not considered an art form, so to speak, because it can be any piece of art available to the public to view, of any size or medium. This includes sculptures, murals, and architecture. Some people may even consider graffiti to be public art. And its not justRead MoreThe Importance Of Arts In Education897 Words   |  4 PagesUnited States offer a variety of arts programs, while other schools may have mediocre to non-existent arts programs. Students in their early years of schooling from elementary to high school depending on whether he or she has an arts education can affect them in the long run. Art programs since the 1980s have integrated into public education, however the No Child Left Behind act has since put the arts in the decline. According to Americans, 93% of them agree the arts are vital to providing a well-roundedRead MoreThe Importance Of Art Artifacts1389 Words   |  6 Pagesownership on precious and ancient artifacts. These historical art pieces represent culture, history, and religion. There is a lot of knowledge and background stories that can be obtained from these art pieces that need to be spread around the world. Museums and countries from which the artifacts originated have been at battle on who should keep the art artifacts. From most people’s view, it is morally wrong and disrespectful that museums keep the art artifacts away from its origin. However, in reality, theRead MoreImportance Of Arts In Education868 Words   |  4 PagesThe arts should be known as a core academic subject. Arts should be in education at schools because it helps with all of the students classes. Music includes about every subject. Math, with the counting and rhythms. English in the reading of the music; Scien ce in the history of the writers the music and what time the music was written; History is the time frame of the songs and the music that tells a story; Physics, in the way the instructor conducts. Clearly music is a pretty important art. For