KOT Task #2: Medicare Essay

Though Medicare plans are typically for persons over the age of 65 years old, they do not come without costs to the patient. If the patient has enough work credits, Medicare Part A is automatically available to the patient once he or she reaches age 65. Medicare Parts B and D, however, require the patient to navigate through an application process and the patient may incur penalty fees if he or she does not sign up for the plans during the allotted time frame once they have reached the age of 65. For Medicare parts B and D, the patient is responsible for paying the designated premiums. The Medicare Part B premium ranges from $96.40-110.50 monthly and the Part D plan ranges from $28.60-$38 monthly. There is also additional Medicare plans available for the patient to purchase through insurers such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield or Etna, however there are additional premiums in varying amounts (Medicare.gov, 2012). In most cases, Medicare Part A will cover inpatient hospital stays, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facility stays. For Mrs. Zwick, Medicare Part A would apply to the rehab and inpatient hospitalizations. Medicare Part A will cover Mrs. Zwick’s five day hospital stay and the first 20 days of her stay at the rehabilitation facility. Each day following the first 20 days of rehab, a fee of $144.50 per day will accumulate at the rehabilitation facility for a total of $2890.00 which the facilities will be responsible for due to the patient acquiring a preventable infection during her stay (Medicare.gov, 2012). Medicare Part B is similar to medical insurance; covering medically necessary services such as MD visits and services, outpatient care, durable medical equipment, home health services, and sometimes preventative care services. In Mrs. Zwick’s case, Medicare Part B would cover the prescribed walker or other assistive devices if needed. However, based on Medicare Part B plan coverage, Mrs. Zwick will be responsible for a deductible of 20% of the cost of the walker (Medicare.gov, 2012). Medicare Part D is an elective prescription drug coverage plan available to Medicare recipients. There are various prescription drug plans offering medication coverage based on the plan’s preferred drug list. Though Mrs. Zwick’s plan coverage was not specified in the case study, she may be responsible for a co-payment for prescription drugs. If Mrs. Zwick does in fact have a co-payment, it would be a set amount; for example $10 per prescription or less if she receives generic drugs. Or, depending on if Mrs. Zwick has entered a coverage gap or â€Å"donut hole†, she will then be responsible for 50% of the costs of her prescription medications (Medicare.gov, 2012). Though Mrs. Zwick does have Medicare coverage, the plan may not pay for Mrs. Zwick’s extended stay or additional care required related to a hospital-acquired condition. In recent years, Medicare began refusing to pay for preventable, hospital acquired infections; making hospitals and other facilities accept responsibility for preventable infections acquired during the patient’s stay. However, in Mrs. Zwick’s instance, there may be some debate as to which facility will be held accountable for the preventable urinary tract infection (UTI). Though the case study reads that Mrs. Zwick was diagnosed with a hospital-acquired UTI, it also states that she was diagnosed 10 days into her stay at the rehabilitation facility and that there were complaints that Mrs. Zwick was not receiving proper catheter care. If the rehab facility was not following the current evidence-based protocol related to the patient’s catheter care, there is a strong possibility Mrs.Zwick did not acquire the urinary tract infection until after she was transferred to the rehab facility. Therefore, the hospital would not be responsible for the costs of care related to the UTI. However, Medicare would still not cover the costs and the nursing facility would then be held accountable for the extra costs incurred during the patient’s extended stay. Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, also known as COBRA, is a plan available to persons who have a loss of employment and health coverage. The COBRA plan will allow Mr. Davis to continue his health coverage beginning the original date his coverage was ceased and is usually available for approximately 18 months. However, the Cobra plan is not free of charge to the unemployed patient. The plan typically offers identical plan coverage to the patient; however the plan is more costly than the original premium the patient was used to paying. The cost of the COBRA plan is usually the amount of the previous premium in addition to the amount the employer contributed plus a 2% administration fee. The premium amount the patient would be responsible for would be quite a bit more costly, yet still less expensive than an individual rate. In order to for the patient to be covered by the COBRA plan, he would have to submit all the proper paperwork within the allotted time frame and pay t he monthly premiums without monthly payment reminders (FAQs for Employees About COBRA Continuation Health Coverage). Though COBRA is a way for Mr. Davis to continue his health insurance coverage once he became unemployed, it is not likely to be affordable. This then becomes a challenge that state or local governments are faced with. Two challenges state or local government may be faced with in providing care for patients like Mr. Davis with pre-existing conditions and lack of insurance coverage are increased costs and decreased health maintenance of the patients. Patients with long-term, chronic illnesses like Mr. Davis’s, care can be very costly, especially when the patient is unable to maintain routine medical care or visits and medications. Without routine medical care and maintenance medications, patients like Mr. Davis tend to have more frequent emergency room visits and hospitalizations; increasing costs for state and local government as well as tax payers. Though Mr. Davis is able to receive care during an emergency room visit, the providers are not fully aware of his health history and are only able to provide a temporary fix of his symptoms and not address his health care needs. One possible solution for the state and/or local government to consider would be to offer state funding for patients with chronic illnesses to be covered by a state funded insurance plan based on the patient’s income. This would allow for Mr. Davis to be seen for routine care, in an attempt to keep him healthy and reduce emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Another possible solution would be for local and state governments to fund healthcare facilities and/or clinics designated to care for patients with chronic health conditions; providing public health nurses who are available to visit the patients in the home in order to educate him or her on disease and disease processes. Though Mr. Davis is frustrated with the healthcare delivery in the United States and may think he would be better served in another country, he may be gravely disappointed by in their healthcare delivery systems even more. Countries such as Great Britain, Japan, Germany, and Switzerland offer public health insurance, however coverage does not come without strain. The universal health care coverage plans not only causes great deficit to the economy, but they also come with premiums, delays in care, and often times no choice of providers. Specialty appointments are nearly impossible to obtain, and in many cases terminally ill patients die prior to receiving the needed care. The plans cover the person and his or her dependents (plans including dependents have higher premiums), but the insured is still responsible for a portion of the services or bill; this applies to the elderly as well. The universal health care plans not only affect the insured, but the healthcare providers as well. In many cases, the healthcare workers are paid lower wages and work less hours in order to help offset some of the costs. The universal health plan in Great Britain offers residents no choices in regards to providers or facilities in which care is received and it is required for the patient to wait 122 days just to receive a routine appointment regardless of their condition (Healthcare Economist, 2008). Japan’s National Health Insurance covers those individuals and their dependents that are not eligible for employer-based insurance. However, the focus of coverage is on the older population; benefiting the retired community. If the insured is not of retirement age, the costs of premiums are higher (Fukawa). In Germany, less than 1% of the population is not covered by the Public Health Insurance. Germany’s healthcare plan offers the insured free choice of outpatient care physicians and hospitals if referred with the focus of care being on chronic care (Busse). Germany offers coverage for the following services: preventative care, inpatient and outpatient care, physician services, mental health care, dental care, prescription drug coverage, medical aids, rehabilitation services, and sick leave compensation (Busse). In Switzerland, there is no choice of providers or facilities in which the patient receives care due to private sector. This means patients like Mr. Davis would incur increased premiums and resulting in limited access to routine care and extended services (Clarke, 2011). Based on the different types of coverage available to patients offered under universal healthcare plans, Mr. Davis would be better served and cared for with the German Healthcare System due to the type of disease he has and his particular health care needs. References Busse, R., MD, MPH. The German Health Care System. Berlin University of Technology & Charite’. Clarke, E. 2011. â€Å"Healthcare Systems: Switzerland†. CIVITAS Institute for the Study of Civil Society. Retrieved May 5, 2012 from www.civitas.org.uk/nhs/switzerland.pdf[->0] FAQs for Employees About COBRA Continuation Health Coverage. Retrieved May 5, 2012 from http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/faqs/faq-consumer-cobra.html Fukawa, T. Public Health Insurance in Japan. Healthcare Economist, 2008. Health Care Around the World: Great Britain. Retrieved fromhttp://healthcare-economist.com/2008/04/23/health-care-around-the-world-great-britain/ Medicare.gov, 2011. Retrieved May 5, 2012 from http://www.medicare.gov/navigation/medicare-basics/medicare-benefits [->0] – http://www.civitas.org.uk/nhs/switzerland.pdf

How to have a relationship Essay

? A relationship is a way of connecting. The connection could be between people or objects. Listening to my grandmother talk about relationships helped me understand how things have completely changed over times. My grandmother stated that relationships where more valued back then and people stayed together for all the right reasons. She informed me that when you loved someone you loved them like no other. When it came to marriage they lasted longer than they do now. Having a relationship with someone was the thing to do. At one time relationships actually had meaning people were with each other because they loved them. This showed me the commitment part of relationships, when people actually stayed faithful to the person they were with. Nowadays men and woman say I love you just for the fun of it. But be honest everyone you know or knew either ant’s a relationship, has a relationship or has played a role in one either as the main lover or the sideline. Relationships are complicated, complex commitments that we take seriously or play around with like a rag doll. Serious relationships start from the mind knowing what it is that you want how you want it and how you’re going to get it is the first step in committing to a relationship. Yes commitment can be very hard to do. Especially when were accustomed to doing things our own way; without having to answer to someone else. Understanding the person you are trying to commit to is a good way to start a serious relationship. It is important to gather as much information as possible and take as much time as needed to ensure that you know the person that you are in a relationship with. Taking the steps and looking at past relationships can help you understand if the relationship might be what you are looking for in life. It is true that no matter how long you have known a person you may never truly know who that person really is. It is also important to know what we want before committing ourselves in. Whether that relationship is a marriage or just a boyfriend/ girlfriend committing to someone should begin with feelings being involved. Relationships become complicated when you have disagreements, other people etc. I feel that it takes two to make a relationship work and if both parties are not commented then it will never work. It’s like the eighty-twenty rule which explains that one person is giving there all and all and the other person only gives what is necessary at that time. How can a relationship work if both parties are not on the same level and are not committed to each other? Complicating in relationships come from problems that we cause ourselves, from not committing or giving our all to the relationship. As for myself I’ve had a few relationships in my day. Some good ones and then some that I would give anything to take back and wish that I had never committed myself to. Not saying that you would have the same outcome as I did but just make sure that the love is real. If we go into a relationship knowing that we are not there for a long time then it makes the relationship less complicated. In these type situations just make sure that you inform the person with how you feel before going into the relationship. It is important to have a clean understanding of what each party wants. Having false feelings in a relationship can be the most hurtful thing when you actually find out so therefore try to avoid coming into these situations. Communication is a huge part of a serious successful relationship. Communicating with your partner is a very good stress reliever and understanding method. Having communication builds trust and loyalty, which are two other things that are very important in a relationship. When a person is in a relationship they expect their partner to be understanding, have good listening skills and be there when they need you. Sometimes it’s just best to sit back and listen to what the other person had to say. You never know what you might learn about your partner if you just listen. Always remember to keep the lines of communication open throughout the relationship. For me, I think that one of my biggest downfalls in previous relationships is the lack of communication between my partner and me. I also have problems with my partner not being able to support himself and maybe even helping me every now and then, don’t get me wrong I’m not asking him to take care of me in no means what so ever but help every now and then would be good. As I did research on the topic of relationships, I learned that there are several steps that can be taken to have a successful relationship. First it is important to ensure that you trust your partner. Does your partner’s communication lift you just to bring you right back down? How do you and your partner deal with conflict in your relationship? Do you have compatible financial values? When you are thinking about starting a new relationship think about some of these questions. They might help you to understand the relationship better and if that’s what you really want. Maintaining a trusting and lasting relationship is going to require some work on both sides and especially in these times. As long as there is trust and communication between both parties then there is a good chance that the relationship will work. I plan to take my time and know the person that I intend to be in a serious relationship with. I don’t want to hurt anyone and I definitely don’t want to be hurt. I look forward to finding love one day that is meaningful and lasting but until then I will continue to inform my partner how I feel and what I am looking for in the beginning. I will ensure the line of communication stays open.

Text messaging and the positive effects on literature Essay

Text messaging and the positive effects on literature - Essay Example Some even stated that they extensively text message on a regular basis. When those young adolescents spoke up regarding the use of cell phones, we were not surprised when they stated that they are using text messages as a primary form of communication between friends and family. According to the Mobile Life Report, 52% of children consider text messaging their number one form of communication with their friends. (Dunstone, 2008) Another factor driving the widespread adoption of cell phone use is parents want their children to carry cell phones for safety reasons. In fact, parents often object to school policies that ban cell phones, staging rallies and threatening lawsuits (Wallace, P., 2011). So with such a wide spread implementation of cell phones being purchased by parents for their children, why is it so hard to understand that children and adults are going to be using mobile devices as a primary form of communication? As you will see in this paper, using cell phones can actually improve the literacy of the users when text messages are the primary source of communication used. Even though text messaging can cause children and adults to use the abbreviated text spelling, text messaging its the largest form of communication for children and adults alike. Some studies have evidence that suggests that text messaging is positively affecting literacy skills in adults and children around the world. As many parents and teachers know, keeping an adolescent focused on learning to read is a daunting task. According to the Institute of Education Science, school, districts had total expenditures of approximately $596.6 billion in 2007–08 in the United States. How much of that money goes into programs that are designed to keep young adolescents focused and motivated to learn? Why are the schools not using all the mobile technology at their fingertips? Students enjoy learning as

International Relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 8

International Relations - Essay Example It beats logic why it has not significantly contributed to a successful mitigation of security explosions that have continued to demonize the globe. According to one-time Secretary General of the United Nations Kofi Annan, there are â€Å"problems without Passport† that the UN ought to address more effectively than it currently does. This is an indication of a static structure characterized with a certain level of inefficiencies, which may not optimally perform to deliver the most desirable outcome. In the words of the head of UN development programme, Mark Malloch brown, water coolers and coffee tables of the UN ar5e more pervaded with reform agitations and stories than sex topics. That people often wish for reformation yet the structural organization responds dismally to reforms. To begin with, change is necessary in the permanent members of countries with the veto power. For a balanced approach to issues that concern the whole world or at least signatories to the Rome statute at large. It is clear that the Veto countries do not represent completely the diverse interests of the countries f the world. They are a mere representation of a chunk of interested parties leaving out other groups with diverse concerns (Goldstein et al. 302). It would be fair in immediately effect the permanent membership of countries like Brazil, India, Germany and Japan among the countries with the Veto power in the UN Security Council. Secondly, another level of Semi-permanent countries but with Veto power should also be validated to include several regions of the world that enhances the participation of African representatives. Apart from the changes in the Veto members, the organization of the council requires an almost complete overhaul. There need to be structures that respond to these ‘problems without passport’ such as climate change, terrorism, pandemics, migration, proliferation of long-range missiles and nuclear weapons,

Personal Statement of Project Management Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Of Project Management - Personal Statement Example The course is suitable for individuals, who are from various employment backgrounds and have the ability, skills and knowledge to become a project manager. In this course I will get to understand the techniques and processes that are linked with project management. The process includes management of cost, time, quality, communication, risk and human resources. I will also get to understand the procurement process of the resources that are required for the completion of the project. The program also aims at training the individuals to lead a team and impart motivation skills (Northeastern University, 2013). Presently, responsibilities of project managers have increased over the years with the increase in number of failed projects. The failure or success company projects are dependent on the abilities and skills of the project managers. Products and services of a company needs get launched in the market in a particular period of time. If there is delay in the procurement process of raw materials then the launch of the products is hold back simultaneously. This delay in procurement process can be rectified by an efficient project by contacting a good supplier and convince them to supply the raw materials within a specified time so that the manufacturing process of the products are not hampered. Hence, in order to avoid disturbance in the manufacturing process companies needs to hire skilled project managers, who can effectively manage each step of the project (Northeastern University, 2013). The role of project managers is very challenging as the success or failure of projects is dependent on them. Appropriate sets of skill are required delivering vital projects on time within a particular budget. The project manager has to lead a large team where the team members have different though process and behavior; he has to lead and motivate them to do specific works for the successful completion of projects. The

Trial book-Advocacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 8000 words

Trial book-Advocacy - Essay Example It commenced on January 23, 2012 and lasted for nine days and closed on February 2, 2012. I witnessed the proceedings from the public gallery and therefore, would comment on the trial as a neutral observer. The hearing on sentencing took place on March 8, 2012 at which I was present.1 In order to protect the right to confidentiality of those involved in the proceedings, their names had been changed. I also had a brief chance to examine the court documents, which were provided to me by the prosecution counsel during the trial. During the trial I had taken some notes which were used for this Trial Book and had also integrated some of my ideas in it to provide it a proper structure and form. The art of storytelling is fundamental to evocative and effective communication to attain the objectives of understanding. An attorney has two chances to communicate to the fact-finder during a trial, through opening and closing arguments. The more persuasive the counsel is in telling the story, the more chances are that the fact-finder will rule in favour of the argument of the advocate.   When advocates use good story telling techniques they will be able to draw the Jury’s attention and make them understand their points clearly. This note highlights three basic storytelling techniques that a practitioner can employ to create his narration of the case, either in opening or closing, more believable. Tell the story or fact of the case in the present tense form, speak in obvious, active English and connect the listener to the course of events. This trial book will look at the daily proceedings in the court and how every process is handled by the concerned, particularly the prosecution and defence counsels. It will also look into detail how each of the counsel has used language and other advocacy techniques and methods in arguing their cases and the impact it had on the case from an overall point of view. Jurors in criminal trials can ask questions, which provide them th e chance to be interactive in a trial. It is also considered as a valuable instrument to get essential clarification of facts and to fill gaps in information, so as to bring out every relevant factors of the case. The jury continually asks questions to confirm information regarding various factors of the case. On the other hand, in some cases, it is seen that jurors do not understand certain aspects of a case, which may lead them to disregard certain information. Advocates must cooperate with other counsels for the timely preparation of a trial proceeding brief of documents in order to assist the management of documentary proof at trial by the court, witness and counsel. Advocate also must be conversant regarding the provisions of the law, their impact on the offence etc. In addition, they should thoroughly prepare for the case with every relevant background details and information. This trial book intends to delineate all these aspects and to illustrate how trial are conducted in c ourts, the procedures and also how effective use of language and rhetoric can make a difference in juror’s decisions and winning a case. Facts of the Case: On July 27, 2011 three defendants are charged with conspiracy to supply a large quantity of cocaine drugs Class A under the law Section 1(1) 1977 in North West London.2 Three people HH, AR, SW were the mainly

Endogenous variables, affecting the U.S. foreign policy decision to Essay

Endogenous variables, affecting the U.S. foreign policy decision to invade Afghanistan - Essay Example The actor makes decisions based on the goals he or she intends to attain and the best course of action based on cost- benefit considerations. The primal objective, in this case, is the security of the state. Constructivists, on the other hand, approach the decision making process on the ideology of the state’s social role in its social environment. In addition, there is a consideration of the role to be achieved through the decisions in relation to other countries. The proximal goal is ensuring states security but in relation to the states social role. Foreign approaches therefore reveal the behaviour of actors, such as the president and the government, in decision making process regarding foreign policy. The 9/11 terror attacks of United States brought about a significant impact on the U.S. foreign policy. Indeed, the attack changed the focus of the foreign policy which was under the Bush administration moving from a focus on relations with great powers such as China and Russ ia to an emphasis on the nexus between non-state terrorist groups and â€Å"rogue states† with known or suspected WMD programs. ... According to utilitarian and neorealist approach this can be explained through personalised goals that the president and the congress intended to meet. The desire for President George W. Bush and most of the members of congress to seek support in the 2004 elections contributed to the decision of Afghanistan’s attack. George. W Bush had a goal to convince the citizens that he could ensure their security and enact policies necessary for the security of the state. This desire led to his endorsement of the attack to demonstrate his active position of addressing issues affecting his nation. He had to demonstrate his courage and strict stand in this incidence by commanding an attack (Rittberger, 2002) so as to capture the head of the terrorism group. Another goal that Bush desired to meet was to demonstrate his power as the constitution of the greatest nation. He did not rush into new actions or policy changes but gave himself time to consider the administration’s policies. S imilarly a great proportion of the members of the congress had to appear significantly in addressing this issue for the same reason. According to the constructivist approach, the role of the leadership can be interpreted through a critical look at America’s role globally. America is one of the super powers in the world, regarded for its great strength of its army, air force, and the navy. It is one of the custodians of peace on the globe giving it the role to ensure that peace is maintained at all costs. Due to the desire to still prove itself as a superpower and remain relevant as a custodian of peace on the globe, then the idea of eliminating the Al-Qaeda seemed persuasive enough.

Normative Ethical Theories Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Normative Ethical Theories - Essay Example Firstly, it is necessary to define and interpret the true nature and meaning of the deontological perspective as a means to adequately provide a normative interpretation of FGM. A deontological approach merely specifies that the end ethical consideration of a given action or decision must necessarily consider the impact upon the rights of other individuals in order to determine whether such a course of action or approach to a given issue impacts or infringes upon the rights of another. Naturally, for purposes of the subject matter regarding FGM, such an approach is appropriately suited to helping to come to a very clear and determinant point of view with regards to whether the practice should be allowed to exist or should be deemed ethically and morally reprehensible. Without delving too deeply into the physiology involved, one can understand that the practice of FGM has far reaching implications for both the psychological and physical health of the child upon whom such a practice is directed. Moreover, the fact of the matter is that FGM does not ask the permission of the woman prior to being enacted. Almost invariably such a practice is employed prior to the child being able to speak, walk, or otherwise express themselves (Nussbaum 1999). In this way, one can readily see that the only shareholder in the process that has the ability to make a well informed and moral determination is the surgeon or individual who is responsible for cutting off the clitoris of the young child. In this way, the needs of the woman that the young child will grow into are not considered, and no sought. A cultural interpretation of ethical and moral decision making is employed. As such, it is understood that it is the in best interest of the child involved to perform such a procedure. In this way, the ethical issues breaks down to a question of whether culture is able to be judged as a higher ethical good than any other normative ethical approach. It is the approach of the deontologis t that such an answer can be found via an understanding of the net negative effects that such an approach affects on others. From this point of view, it is clearly obvious the FGM is both barbaric and heartless as it pays little to no attention to the tender and un-vocalized needs of the woman who is having her genitals mutilated (Okwudili et al 2012). Moreover, the deontological approach views the issue from a very ethically determinant standpoint; if the impacts of a given action are causing pain/hardship, and/or harm by way of a specific action, it is therefore unethical and should be re-evaluated and/or discontinued. As such, the type of obligation and duty that deontology speaks to engage the ethicist with the realization that he/she has an obligation to the needs and happiness of others affected by the choices that he/she will make in the ultimate determination of right and wrong. As with any of the normative approaches to ethical thinking, such an approach necessarily disrega rds one theory or practice at the expense of its own interpretation of what is ultimately right or wrong. As stated, from a deontological perspective, it is impossible for the ethicist to promote the process of FGM or any other such process that

A critique of a research article that may be relevant to base your Essay

A critique of a research article that may be relevant to base your practice on - Essay Example Use of dependency and prioritization tools by clinical nurse specialists in palliative care: an exploratory study. International Journal of Palliative Nursing. 2011, Vol 17, No 12† The research problem was how to use dependency and prioritization instruments by clinical nurse professional in palliative care. Research questions included; how the CNSs who SPC in the community form a part in caring for sick individuals and sustaining families after patients’ demise? How the prioritization and dependency tools assist CNSs (clinical nurse specialists) in SPC (specialist palliative care)? A broad review of the empirical findings was undertaken prior to this research to recognize any empirical patient reliance and workload evaluation tools for application by CNSs when providing community-oriented SPC. The participants were ladies with a mean age of 41 years of range 21 years. The mean number of years labouring in palliative care was thirteen thus a range of 15, while the common figure of years as a CNS was 5. Exploratory mixed techniques were used to undertake the research and analyze the three tools to a selection of patients receiving of SPC community care, to determine the predictive capacity of each tool. The Vale prioritization instrument emerged the most helpful for prioritizing patient necessities and controlling workload. Statistical assessment pointed out minimal differences between selected dependency instruments. In this section, the article’ strengths and weaknesses are analyzed and critically evaluated. In order to do that, three main sections of the article is selected as follows: methodology/design; sample / subjects / participants; and data collection methods. These are the building points of a good article, more so, in an evidence based practice article. The strength of this research article is its methodology approach that incorporates mixed method research approach. This is

Employee Motivation At Utiliscan. Utiliscan case analysis Essay

Employee Motivation At Utiliscan. Utiliscan case analysis - Essay Example As the paper describes the situation at Utiliscan, it also provides motivation strategies and the motivational plan for the company. Introduction Considering the fact that the company has a tight financial constrictions, Paul should have focused on the problems that are experienced within the company and in the workplace environment. Lack of trainings among the employees would necessarily mean that there will be no improvement in the workforce, according to the eighty-nine percent, that would at the end, hinder promotions. These are some of the factors that would lessen the motivation of the employees with their work. Another thing that needs to be given proper attention is on the part of the competitive employees whose working so hard and efficiently but not given the proper and deserving salaries. It is the relationship of the salaries versus the performance which can demoralize employees who is performing well in their jobs but the payment is not according to the seventy-four perc ent of the survey. Strict supervision among the workplace in the company is also a problem that needs to be addresses as it has being manifested in the seventy-eight percent of the employees. Favoritism among the employees are also regarded as not good on the part of the company and benefits should be equally regarded and must also looked upon well according to fifty-four percent of the survey held by Paul. One of the main problems that needs to be given due course is the safety of the employees according to the forty-five percent of the survey result among the employees. These employees claim that they felt not being safe and satisfied with the health conditions in the workplace. Not being safe on the part of the employees or danger in the workplace would definitely be an accountability of the company. The best way to do business on the part of the company is to keep their employees safe from harm and danger. Without the satisfaction on the part of the employees with regard to thei r health would hold back or obstruct employee’s performance that would hinder them submitting their best in the company. Motivation Strategies One of the main jobs of a manager specifically in the workplace is to assure that things concerning the company must be done through the employees and to be able to attain this, managers are responsible to motivate the employees to get things done. In spite of the big number of research that was done inline with motivation of the employees with their work, the subject is still absurd or not clearly understood and in the process poorly practiced. Motivation, to be able to understand, must deal on the understanding of the human nature and there where the problems were usually manifested. The reality about the human nature lies on the fact that it can be very simple and up the same time can be very complex too. Learning the appreciation and understanding of the human nature is considered as a prerequisite to effectively motivate the workf orce in the workplace and in achieving this, vial requirement on the part of the company is to have an effective management and leadership (ACCEL team development, 2011). There are several motivational strategies that the managers could be considered in dealing with the problems in the company and the managers must necessarily be aware of the advantages as well as the disadvantages of each. It is relevant on the part of the manager how to effectively motivate the workers in the workforce to be efficient. How does the effectiveness would vary from certain situations to another? 1. Team work. Most of the managers are forming work groups to lower the level on the peer pressure. This is found to be an effective means of motivation 2.

Vitamin D as Hormone Essay Example for Free

Vitamin D as Hormone Essay INTRODUCTION: Bioactive vitamin D or calcitriol is a steroid hormone that has long been known for its important role in regulating body levels of calcium and phosphorus, and in mineralization of bone. More recently, it has become clear that receptors for vitamin D are present in a wide variety of cells, and that this hormone has biologic effects which extend far beyond control of mineral metabolism. Vitamin D is thus not a true vitamin, as it can be synthesized in adequate amounts by most mammals exposed to sunlight (cats and dogs cannot synthesize vitamin D and must receive it in their diet). An organic chemical compound (or related set of compounds) is only scientifically called a vitamin when it cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by an organism, and must be obtained from their diet. However, as with other compounds commonly called vitamins, vitamin D was discovered in an effort to find the dietry substance that was lacking in a disease, namely, rickets, the childhood form of osteomalacia. ROLE OF VITAMIN D IN REGULATION OF SEVERAL GENES: The vitamin D hormones have essential roles in human health. Vitamin D hormones act by binding to and activating the vitamin D receptor (VDR) to regulate the expression of genes in a tissue-specific manner. Vitamin D hormones regulate blood calcium levels by controlling intestinal absorption of dietary calcium and reabsorption of calcium by the kidneys. Concomitantly, vitamin D hormones also suppress the production of the calcium regulating hormone, parathyroid hormone (PTH), which is produced by the parathyroid glands. The vitamin D hormones also participate in the regulation of cellular differentiation and growth, as well as bone formation and metabolism. Additionally, vitamin D hormones are required for the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal, immune and renin-angiotensin systems. There is a growing body of evidence linking vitamin D insufficiency with cognitive and neural dysfunction. The widespread beneficial effects of vitamin D hormones are continually being elucidated through studies directed to the intracellular VDR and the corresponding networks of VDR-responsive genes in nearly every human tissue. It is becoming evident that vitamin D insufficiency has a widespread and significant impact on a number of key physiological systems. METABOLISM OF VITAMIN D: Both forms of vitamin D undergo identical metabolism . Some evidence indicates that vitamin D2 may be metabolized more rapidly than vitamin D3, but with regular daily intake they can be considered bioequivalent. Both forms of vitamin D are converted to 25-hydroxyvitamin [25(OH)D] in the liver, and the serum level of 25(OH) D is measured to determine the adequacy of vitamin D status. In the kidney, 25(OH)D is hydroxylated to 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1, 25(OH)2 D], which is the only biologically active form of vitamin D. Acting principally on the duodenum, 1, 25(OH)2 D increases calcium absorption. It also acts on bone cells, both osteoblasts and osteoclasts, to mobilize calcium. The synthesis of 1, 25(OH)2 D is tightly regulated and stimulated primarily by serum parathyroid hormone THE VITAMIN D RECEPTER AND MECHANISM OF ACTION: The vitamin D system is unique in that distinct calcium homeostatic functions and cell growth regulatory activities are mediated through a single ligand, calcitriol, acting through a specific receptor exhibiting ubiquitous tissue expression, the vitamin D receptor (VDR). The VDR is a member of a superfamily of nuclear steroid hormone receptors which regulate gene transcription by interacting with response elements in gene promoters. Structure-function analysis of the VDR protein has defined distinct domains involved in DNA binding, ligand binding, receptor dimerisation and gene transactivation, including a C-terminal activation function domain (AF-2) that is important for cofactor interaction. A model for regulation of gene transcription by the VDR is evolving and proposes VDR interaction with various components of the basal transcriptional machinery, including newly defined coactivators and corepressors, which may act to regulate gene transcription by altering histone acetylation and chromatin structure. This review describes the vitamin D endocrine system and the role of the VDR in regulating this system, including the molecular basis for the diverse actions of synthetic calcitriol analogues in the treatment of autoimmune disease and cancer. ROLE OF VITAMIN D AS HORMONE Vitamin D and Bone Cell Activity: Approximately 60 genes are known to respond to vitamin D. Many of these vitamin D responsive genes are expressed by the bone forming cells (osteoblasts) which include: * type I collagen. * alkaline phosphatase, * osteocalcin * tumour necrosis factor ligand member (RANKL) Tumour necrosis factor ligand member (RANKL) is central to osteoclastogenesis. The bone resorbing cells (osteoclasts) also express vitamin D-responsive genes. It is evident that 1,25(OH)2D plays a major role in controlling osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption through its modulation of the RANKL gene in osteoblasts. Bone mineralization: These types of results are increasing interest in the view that the modulation of vitamin D activity within bone cells, either through the vitamin D receptor or metabolism of vitamin D, has effects on the levels of bone mineral. It is through such a mechanism that higher levels of vitamin D in the elderly may provide protection against hip fractures. Cancer prevention: Role of vitamin D in prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men in the United States. Developing new treatment strategies is critical to improving the health of men. Our research has focused on four areas in which we have pursued the possible use of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and its analogs to treat prostate cancer.The results of a clinical trial of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) treatment of patients with early recurrent prostate cancer. We provide preliminary evidence that 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) may be effective in slowing the rate of PSA rise in selected cases of prostate cancer. In conclusion, we believe that 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) has a role in thetreatment and/or prevention strategies being developed for prostate cancer. However, to increase antiproliferative potency without increasing side-effects, the use of less calcemic analogs appears to be the most reasonable approach. Role of vitamin D in breast cancer: In addition to its role in calcium homeostasis and bone health, vitamin D has also been reported to have anticancer activities against many cancer types, including breast cancer. The discovery that breast epithelial cells possess the same enzymatic system as the kidney, allowing local manufacture of active vitamin D from circulating precursors, makes the effect of vitamin D in breast cancer biologically plausible. Preclinical and ecologic studies have suggested a role for vitamin D in breast cancer prevention. Inverse associations have also been shown between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level (25(OH)D) and breast cancer development, risk for breast cancer recurrence, and mortality in women with early-stage breast cancer. Clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation, however, have yielded inconsistent results. Regardless of whether or not vitamin D helps prevent breast cancer or its recurrence, vitamin D deficiency in the U.S. population is very common, and the adverse impact on bone health, a particular concern for breast cancer survivors, makes it important to understand vitamin D physiology and to recognize and treat vitamin D deficiency. In this review, we discuss vitamin D metabolism and its mechanism of action. We summarize the current evidence of the relationship between vitamin D and breast cancer, highlight ongoing research in this area, and discuss optimal dosing of vitamin D for breast cancer prevention. Role of vitamin D in auto immune diseases: Vitamin D and its prohormones have been the focus of a growing number of studies in past years, demonstrating their function not only in calcium metabolism and bone formation, but also their interaction with the immune system, which is not surprising, since vitamin D receptors are expressed in different tissues, such as brain, heart, skin, bowel, gonads, prostate, breasts, and immune cells, as well as bones, kidneys, and parathyroid glands.Current studies have related vitamin D deficiency with several autoimmune disorders, including insulindependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), multiple sclerosis (MS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In view of those associations, it has been suggested that vitamin D is an extrinsic factor capable of affecting the prevalence of autoimmune diseases. Vitamin D seems to interact with the immune system through its actions on the regulation and differentiation of cells like lymphocytes, macrophages, and natural killer cells (NK), besides interfering in the in vivo and in vitro production of cytokines. Among the immunomodulatory effects demonstrated we should mention: a reduction in the production of interleukin-2 (IL-2), gamma interferon (INFÃŽ ³), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF); inhibition of the expression of IL-6; and inhibition of the secretion and production of autoantibodies by B lymphocytes. Vitamin D modulation of immune responses: Dendritic cells (DCs) are primary targets for the immunomodulatory activity of 1, 25(OH)2D3, as indicated by inhibited DC differentiation and maturation, leading to downregulated expression of MHC-II, costimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80 and CD86) and decreased production of IL-12. Moreover, 1, 25(OH)2D3 enhances IL-10 production and promotes DC apoptosis. Together, these effects of 1, 25(OH)2D3 inhibit DC-dependent T-cell activation. In particular, the active synthesis of 1, 25(OH)2D3 seems to exert an autoregulatory function by inhibiting the differentiation of monocyte precursors into immature DCs and the subsequent ability of the immature DCs to undergo terminal differentiation in response to maturation stimuli. FIG. Mechanisms involved in vitamin D modulation of the immune responses. DCs are primary targetsfor the immunomodulatory activity of 1, 25(OH)2D3, as indicated by inhibited DC differentiation and maturation, together with inhibition of differentiation of monocyte precursors into immature DCs. 1, 25(OH)2D3 suppresses Th1 (and Th17)driven cytokine responses, induces Treg cells, induces IL-4 production (Th2) and enhances NKTcell function. Differentiation and maturation of B cells is also inhibited. Th are CD4+ helper cell subsets (Th1, Th2, Th3-Treg, Th17) originating from naÄ ±ve T cell (Th0). Thin arrows (left) indicate cytokines that induce differentiation of Th0 cells and thicker arrows (right) indicate cytokines produced by activated Th cell subsets. All T cells that have been tested express the VDR. B cells and NKT cells are also reported.The yellow circles indicate the cytokines/activities inhibited by vitamin D.On the contrary, the green circles indicate the cytokines enhanced by vitaminD. Conclusions: Knowledge of the physiology and pathology of vitamin D is currently increasing at a rapid rate. The realisation that vitamin D can act in a paracrine and autocrine manner in addition to its well-described endocrine action opens up considerable opportunities for the development of new understanding of the requirement for an adequate vitamin D status for optimal health. It is encouraging that the relatively simple and cheap practice of maintaining an adequate vitamin D status has the potential to provide health benefits in a number of areas, which afflict an increasing proportion of the population, as well as consume an increasing proportion of the healthcare budget to provide treatment. The reduction of the risk of hip fracture in the elderly is one such area. A high priority of research must be to identify the critical 25OHD values required to maintain a healthy skeleton in the elderly. As well research must determine whether a low vitamin D status influences the development of cancer, whether it increases the absolute risk of cancer or whether it modulates the growth or invasiveness of cancers. Clinical laboratory professionals have a responsibility to improve the precision and accuracy of current 25OHD assays in clinical use. This work will require the collaboration between the profession and instrument and reagent manufacturers. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine is in an optimal position to coordinate such a project.

orld Trade Organization Essay Example for Free

orld Trade Organization Essay On November 30, 1999, major governments met at a World Trade Organization (WTO), ministerial meeting at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center in Seattle, Washington. During this meeting an enormous public protest took place in the streets of Seattle. The protestors were representing human rights groups, students, environmental groups, religious leaders, labor rights activists and members of numerous other groups. The groups were not only from the United States, but had come from all over the world. All of these people were peacefully protesting the practices of the WTO in the name of free trade. The protestors stated that the WTO upheld trade practices that allowed child labor, low wages and environmental destruction. The WTO justified these practices in the name of free trade. Tens of thousands of people were in Seattle to protest peacefully, and the protests did start peacefully, but they did not end that way. A small number of anarchist groups were in Seattle to cause civil disobedience and acts of vandalism and property damage. These groups conducted deliberate acts of vandalism on corporate offices in Seattle. The Seattle Police Department did not have the number of officers, even with help from other departments, to handle the number of protestors. The officers used pepper spray, tear gas, stun grenades and eventually rubber bullets to try to unblock congested city streets. Some of the anarchists fought back by breaking windows and vandalizing storefronts. Dumpsters were pushed out into intersections and they were lit on fire and tires on police cars were deflated. The National Guard was finally called in, but did not get to Seattle until the next morning. Once the WTO packed up and went home, the protestors packed up and went on their way. When the meeting finished, businesses had suffered millions of dollars in damage and lost sales, over 500 people were arrested. No deaths were attributed to the protest and no one was seriously injured. There was controversy over city response and the Seattle police chief resigned. The anarchist protestors felt the protest was a success. Before the Seattle Protest, there was almost no mention of anti-globalization in the U. S. media but the protest had forced the media to report on why anyone would oppose the WTO. Good or bad, the message of the protestors was broadcast to the world.

Three Behavioral Theories Of Leadership Management Essay

Three Behavioral Theories Of Leadership Management Essay Leadership theories explore how leaders can influence humankind or employees to fulfil mission and vision of organizations. Traditionally, transactional leadership has prevailed throughout the industrial revolution with pay for work process. Although as time passes, leadership theories developed mirror those of quasi-transactional theories of Six Sigma, Total Quality Management, and Kaizen. These theories based on outcomes of production with the spirit of collaboration from employees to increase awareness of each task to promote or negate benefits to the company. Ruggieri (2009) related the leadership style displayed by the leader to the organizations performance and success. Leaders of an organization must anticipate and adapt to change by using the leadership style that fits the current situation. For an organization to grow and be successful in a changing environment, leaders must articulate vision, goals, and objectives and make sound business decisions that will lead the organization to success. In leading organizations to success, Kanter (2000) stated, effective leaders cultivate an environment where openness is encouraged and where collaboration is valued (p. 32). Partnerships both inside and outside the organization enhance the organizations knowledge and reach into the market, and provide greater expertise and experience than if a more closed position perspective were maintained (Kanter, 2000). Effective leaders also draw on the components of different leadership styles behaviors that will provide the best approach or decision based on the situation and environment at hand (Spears, 2004). The succeeding sections discuss three behavioral theories of leadership, which include transformational leadership, transactional leadership, and servant leadership. Transformational Leadership Theory Transformational leadership theory is based on the ability of the leader to provide an atmosphere, which engages their employees and hinged on the concept of spirit, via connectedness. Transformational leadership is the ability to motivate and to encourage intellectual stimulation through inspiration (Avolio, Zhu, Koh, Bhatia, 2004; Dvir, Eden, Avolio, Shamir, 2002). McColl-Kennedy and Anderson (2005) further defined transformational leadership style as guidance through individualized consideration, intellectual stimulation, inspirational motivation, and idealized influence (p. 116). Transformational leadership brings with it a degree of charisma and motivation (Avolio Yammarino, 2002). Transformational leaders can influence and inspire others to succeed and grow. Transformational leaders model the behavior they expect of their employees through transparent information sharing, enthusiasm, and optimism. The leader creative in creating solutions and encourages the employee to do the same. Transformational leaders are risk-takers and encourage others to take risks, too. These leaders encourage growth through advanced education, certifications, and interactions. Bass and Steidlmeier (1999) noted transformational leaders level of involvement had the ability to enhance creativity, innovation, and performance from their teams. Transformational leaders must have the fortitude and adaptability to respond to and learn from both internal and external stimuli of changes within the organizations. Such leaders must proactively mitigate any negative impact on the project, as well ensuring the overall satisfaction of the team members as factors in the projects successful completion and team performance (Ronning, 2004; Sanders et al., 2003). Bass (2000) had widely defended the potential of the transformational leadership to improve the post-modern organizational landscape. According to Bass, transformational leaders raise the awareness of their constituencies about what are essential increase concerns for achievement, self-actualization, and ideals. They inspire followers to go beyond their own self-interests for the good of the group, organization, or community. For Bass, true transformational leadership can be identified by its adherence to the highest levels of moral and ethical standards. Bass (1997) says that leaders are authentically transformational when they raise awareness of what is right, valued, and important; when they help satisfy increase followers needs for success, change; and when they reposition followers to go outside their self-interests for the good of their group or organization. True transformational leadership asks for sacrifice on the part of the follower, but it does not necessarily require that an individuals interests to be swept aside for the good of the organization. The transformational leader strives to achieve a true consensus in aligning personal and organization interests (Bass, 1998, p. 176). Transformational leaders act like moral agents and engage in joint understanding of employees, with the ultimate goal of converting these employees to become leaders themselves (Inkson Moss, 1993). Transformational leaders are most of the time interested in producing quality and quantity results from those they lead, but also attempt to provide an environment in which the individuals own career and personal goals are realized through the organization. In this way, efficiency can be increased, and the entire organization can benefit on the improvement of individuals (Seltzer Bass, 1990). It is the transformational leadership style that offers managers the greatest ability to deal with this rapidly changing workplace (Bass, 2000), especially in a global economy where change is inevitable. Wallace (1993) concluded that complex organizational and environmental factors require the flexibility that transformational leadership style offers because it enables managers to include workers on decisions, and can empower workers to have an increasing level of control over their work performance. Organizations led by transformational leaders usually perform at a believed greater level, with a higher level of employee moral (Bass, 1990). Bryant (2003) claimed that transformational leadership results to motivation and commitment for followers in order to have above average organizational performance. Robbins and Judge (2009) further concluded that transformational leadership is correlated with lower employee turnover, higher productivity, lower stress, and higher employee satisfaction. Transformational leaders are able to enhance their leadership style based on the situation, and transform that style into their subordinates to become innovative and creative in their decision-making process (Chung Chia-Hung, 2009). Transformational leadership is based on the leader-member relationship that fosters a greater degree of trust and mutual understanding expected between the members in maintaining that relationship. Members in a transformational leadership framework cooperate more often with their leaders and gain their leaders full support, confidence, encouragement, and patience, and this in return forms a lasting relation ship bond between the leaders and the employees (Chung Chia-Hung, 2009). Boga and Ensari (2009) stated, traditionally, the magnitude of the organizational leaders influence on the workforce has been tied to his or her leadership style (p. 237). Transformational leaders seeks to influence the interests of their followers in the workplace, accept change as being a part of life, and motivate their followers to pursue the purpose and mission of the organization above their own egocentricities (Boga Ensari, 2009). The transformational leader/follower relationship is viewed as one of shared interests and is comprised of four distinct characteristics (idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration) that are closely related to the approach leaders use (Boga Ensari). Finally, transformational leadership occurs when a leader inspires followers to share a vision and enables those who follow to formulate their own vision for themselves and the organization to achieve a higher level of performance. Transformational leaders allow those they lead a greater degree of self-direction in the decision-making process that allows the leader to be more successful leading the organization to success. Transformational leadership is somewhat similar to servant leadership, but most researchers agree that the transformational leadership style makes better leaders in organizations (Bass, 1990). Transformational leadership, as noted by Bass and Avolio (1993) has four defining principles that included idealized influence, individualized consideration, inspirational motivation, and intellectual stimulation. Idealized influence means the transformational leader works with followers to encourage independence, awareness, and maturation as a means to an end, where followers participate in the mission and vision of the organization. Inspirational motivation means the transformational leader is able to inspire followers with the intent to share in the goals of the organization. Intellectual stimulation means the transformational leader acknowledges his or her followers as talented and encourages input while re-evaluating assumptions for beliefs and values. The leader ignites creativity in followers, which may result in productivity for the organization. Individualized consideration means respecting the uniqueness of each person, while working with him or her to facilitate the maximi zation of potential. Leaders recognize the role and importance of involving followers in the establishment of a healthy organizational culture and climate. These four factors enable leaders to create an environment wherein team members clearly understood the tasks of the project, both holistically as a team and individually. The four factors of transformational leadership enable the leader to create a level of respect felt by members of the entire project. Team members had a proactive level of interest, concern, and inspirational motivation to become actively engaged in multiple levels of effective communication, thereby identifying the impact of each members role in project completion (Bass Avolio, 1993). An effective platform created by transformational leaders induces team cohesiveness on numerous aspects (Ruggieri, 2009). Research has provided evidence that transformational leadership in both traditional face-to-face teams and virtual teams has the components to produce multiple levels of group cohesiveness. Members became empowered to make greater contributions to the team, thus constructing an effective team environment of problem solving and innovative solutions (Jung Sosik, 2002; Ruggieri, 2009). Yardley et al. (2007) also noted transformational leaders encompass the aspect of preparing members of the team to become transformational by increasing their level of participation and satisfaction resulting in increased team performance in creative implementation creative and effective change. The transformational leadership framework has a tendency of creating domino effects in producing and creating potential leaders within multiple levels of an organization (Masood et al., 2006; Yardley et al., 2007). This form of communication and development within traditional collocated teams and virtual teams was indicative to producing effective leadership participation that enhances team performance. Transactional Leadership Transformational leadership gained prominence as the leadership style of the 21st Century. The concept of transformational leadership began to emerge in the late 1980s, particularly in research writings about education. According to Bass (1990), transformational leadership is inspirational leadership style that influences followers to achieve extraordinary performance in a context of large-scale innovation and change. There are times when the concept signified a suitable type of leadership for organizations taking up the challenges of reformatting and reorganizing. Today, this concept is applied in most developed countries worldwide (Leithwood, 1992). Transactional leadership theory often presents a more traditional view of team leaders compelling team members to improve their performance on a reward and reprimand based system (Yardley Nealy, 2007). Transactional leaderships main characteristic is separateness; there is a line between the leader and the follower, with the potential to leave individuals feeling abandoned and in moral poverty (Avolio, Walumbwa, Weber, 2009; Hauser, 2007). A transactional leader uses rewards as a way of managing subordinates behaviors and employs management by exception (Bass, 1985). The transactional leadership theory includes three dimensions. These dimensions include contingent reward, management by exceptionactive and passive leadership (Bass Avolio, 2000). Contingent-reward is the degree to which the leader sets up helpful transactions or exchanges with followers: The leader clarifies expectations and establishes the rewards for meeting these expectations (Judge Piccolo, 2004, p. 755). Management-by-exception is the degree to which managers intervene when issues, problems, or mistakes occur. An active management-by-exception involves leaders who monitor the performance of their subordinates throughout the course of the task or activity. This allows the leader to track whether mistakes happen in line with the completion of the task or activity. A passive management-by-exception on the other hand considers leaders who are unaware of mistakes within their team until his/her subordinates report the issues or the problems that happened. In transactional leaders hip, the leaders appeal to their subordinates self-interest through rewards in order to achieve the teams objectives. In the team setting, leaders who are solely transactional leaders created an environment built upon positive and negative reinforcement (Ruggieri, 2009). The reinforcement came in the form of compliments and awards in money and gifts when milestones reached completion during the life of the project. Transactional leaders used negative reinforcement when team members miss milestones or fail to complete project deadlines, generally in the forms of chastisement, censorship, and in some cases, release from the organization (Ruggieri, 2009). Sanders et al. (2003) indicated most leaders utilizing this leadership style exhibited less confidence in their ability to lead or make an impact within the organization. It is important to express that nearly all leaders in a virtual or in a traditional team environment have utilized the transactional leadership theory as part of decision-making (Ulmer, 2005). The transactional leadership theory is framed around an award-based system, which motivates followers to contribute to the success of the team. Servant Leadership Servant leadership theory suggests that the leader places the good of those led over the self-interest of the leader and promotes the idea of valuing and developing by sharing their power and prestige with those they lead (Greenleaf, 1977). Greenleaf (1970, 1977) introduced theoretical concepts to the body of leadership literature on servant leadership. Greenleaf, who is the founder of the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership, created the idea of servant leadership after reading Nobel Laureate Herman Hesses (1956) Journey to the East, a story about a spiritual pilgrimage of a band of men on a fairy-tale journey. The term servant leadership may not be familiar to a large number of individuals or corporations, but many organizations have adopted and embraced this concept within their leadership structure. Servant leadership is radically changing how leaders lead and treat subordinates under ones area of responsibility in the organization that creates a caring and understanding atmosphere within the organization (Chung Chia-Hung, 2009). Greenleaf (1970) stated, Caring for other persons is the foundation upon which a decent society is built (p. 54). Transformational leadership and servant leadership have several similar characteristics, but are not quite the same in their approach to leading subordinates. Servant leadership is based on the notion of egalitarianism and assumes that the leader is no better than those led, but considered equal in value (Greenleaf, 1977). Bass (2000), as well as Farling, Stone, and Winston (1999), see parallels between transformational leadership and servant leadership. However, while the theory of transformational leadership says that leaders need such traits as vision, credibility, trust, etc., the theory of servant leadership argues that leaders must place the needs of their followers ahead of their own. Serving and leading at the same time has found to be a constant characteristic of servant leaders. Among the other characteristics that servant leaders have been said to need are: listening, empathy, awareness, healing, persuasion, ability to conceptualize, foresight, stewardship, commitment to growth, and commitment to building community (Spears, 2004). The main feature of this  leadership style is  the servant leader provides resources and support without expecting followers to admit that leading by example is important to them. Instead, this type of leader assumes a servant first position (Smith, Montagno, Kuzmenko, 2004), and expects others to work for the collective good of the company, rather than for the leader as representative of the company. Servant leaders, according to Greenleaf (as cited in Spears, 2005), are not initially motivated to pursue leadership. However, they accept this role in response to the urgings of others, and in response to a perceived need for their expertise and service in such a situation. The servant leader is expected to be knowledgeable regarding his or her role in promoting the organization or groups goals and to ensure that his or her followers are collectively advancing the objectives of the organization or group (Spears, 2005). Servant leadership has taken on a greater importance in recent years not only in corporate and religious organizations, but also in educational institutions (Cozby, 2001). Servant leaders in schools and universities should have a genuine desire to help others, and a shared vision of taking on the role of servant to its student body. Herman and Marlowe (2005) asserted that leaders should be a servant first in order to transition from a classroom environment to a community of caring. Greenleaf (1977) concluded that if someone wants to have true meaning in life, they must first seek out ways to be a servant to others. Servant leadership is viewed as a significant contributor to leadership effectiveness in organizations and institutions. Practitioners have given due attention to servant leadership in recent years because the workplace and business world is more transparent, competitive, global, inclusive and demographically diverse (Bryant, 2003). The concept of servant leadership shares similarities with the concept of transformational leadership, which produces a pre-determined outcome when the leader empowers followers to achieve organizational goals based on their own innovation and creativity. According to Sendjaya and Sarros (2002), a reason for the shortage of research in servant leadership is that the notion of servant as leader may be perceived as a weak leader (p. 41). Servant leaders emphasize developing their followers personal potential and enabling their personal growth and self-interests. Leadership is about relationships, and the principles of servant leadership are the inherent characteristics for the leader to lead by the heart with a greater degree of humility and honesty. Servant-led organizations should be built on a leadership style where  ideas are welcomed and relationships are nurtured. Servant leaders take a different approach from that of traditional leaders who seek to harness and maintain their power base. When a servant leadership culture  has been established at an organization, servant leaders lead by example, and are expected to help those around them achieve their personal and professional goals. Servant leadership does come with some reservations because some employees will try to take advantage of leaders who demonstrate this leadership style and reduce the leaders ability to lead (Spears, 2004), in this instance, servant-leaders are able to overcome this by instilling in workers a sense of the importance of teamwork and shared responsibilities. Peer pressure is remarkably effective in encouraging employees to do the right thing and preventing them from challenging leadership for selfish and personal reasons. Servant leaders have a better chance of preventing such conflicts because they have earned the trust and respect of the followers in the organization (Bass, 1990). Another dilemma in practicing servant leadership is the desire to practice individualism and competiveness that nurtures selfish or ego driven pride in the workplace or institution (Bass 1997, 2002). Organizations with a culture that promotes an authoritarian hierarchy will greatly hinder servant leadership and could be a major cause of organizational decline and failure (Boga Ensari, 2009). Most researchers agree that authoritarian hierarchy and egotism are the evil twins that can inhibit the implementation of servant leadership, and may be two of the reasons why many institutions and organizations exhibit a high level of unethical behavior (Bass, 2000). Servant leadership has not been a leadership trait of recent indoctrinated leadership style just in the case of the U.S. Army as a preferred or recommended leadership style. Bryant (2003) concluded that servant leadership is more concerned with the emotional well being of followers than transformational leadership is. Transformational leaders, on the other hand, do seek to inspire followers not only an intellectual level, but also on an emotional one. That is, they try to maintain a positive attitude regarding the work being performed. Comparison between the Behavioral Theories of Leadership Two of the most popular leadership styles currently discussed by researchers are transformational and transactional leadership styles (Boga Ensari, 2009). Over the last decade, considerable research effort has been invested into understanding the processes through which transformational leadership relates to followers attitudes, behavior, and performance beyond their own self-interest for the good of the group (Bass, 2000). However, apart from these two leadership styles, servant leadership style has also been emerging in fields such as military organizations. Servant leadership theory suggests that the leader places the good of those led over the self-interest of the leader and promotes the idea of valuing and developing by sharing their power and prestige with those they lead (Greenleaf, 1977). A theoretical analysis of transformational and servant leadership theories suggests rival consequences for organizational success on the best leadership style. Transformational leadership is defined as having four separate elements: charismatic leadership/idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration (Bass, 1996). Servant leadership has six different components: valuing people, developing people, building community, displaying authenticity, providing leadership, sharing leadership (Greenleaf 1970; 1977). Transformational leadership and servant leadership in organizational settings has experienced a significant progression in terms of both theory development and empirical research studies (Boga Ensari, 2009). Based on this research, transformational leaders are one of the most important factors in motivating others to meet organizational goals. Researchers agree that leaders must encourage, reward, motivate, and discipline, mostly through their leadership style, and encourage the development of team relationships inside and outside the group (Ruggieri, 2009). Transformational leaders motivate followers to work for inspiring goals that go beyond their immediate self-interests. Thus, more and more companies are moving way from transactional to transformational leadership styles. Yuki (2006) believed that the study of leadership embodies a vast amount of research dominant in military institutions, businesses, and government organizations. While a significant body of literature has been produced concerning military leadership, Campbell and Dardis (2004) and Harris (2002) believed there is little or very limited research exploring the correlation of job satisfaction related to servant leadership attributes in military recruiting organizations. Some scholars agree that transformational leadership and servant leadership are considered the most prominent leadership styles in military and leading business organizations (Seltzer Bass, 1990). Transformational and servant leaders inspire followers to transcend their own needs for the good of the organization that will lead the organization to greater success. Transformational and servant leadership both encourage their followers to be more innovative and creative which creates an environment that breeds success within the organization. Followers are inspired by the leaders personality, which focuses on the collective goals of the company and both types of leadership are focused on the relationship the leader has with their followers. However, Bass (1996) suggests that employees job performance is also positively related to their like or dislike of their supervisor than to their organization. The leadership style displayed in the organization will have a direct affect on the failure or success of the organization, because of the level of commitment the employees binds to the leader of the organization. The way the leaders leadership style is perceived by the followers could influence the leaders power and ability to lead the organization to success. Much of the literature written on leadership style challenges encompasses the difficulties that lie within team collaboration and the empowerment of the individual. Recognizing and identifying the importance of individuality, while maintaining the team approach is a theme echoed throughout much of the written works. Similarly, comprehending the process by which personality traits merge and produce, the studied literature indicates the need for leadership to identify adequately and accurately. Such an example imbedded in Bono and Judge (2004) where they indicate that personality traits are three dimensional in nature. The identification process of personality traits in combination with leadership styles can become a challenge. Bono and Judge write: Personality traits were related to three dimensions of transformational leadershipidealized influenceinspirational motivation (charisma), intellectual stimulation, and individualized considerationand three dimensions of transactional leadershipcontingent reward, management by exceptionactive and passive leadership. Extraversion was the strongest and most consistent correlate of transformational leadership. Although results provided some support for the dispositional basis of transformational leadershipespecially with respect to the charisma dimensiongenerally, weak associations suggested the importance of future research to focus on both narrower personality traits and non-dispositional determinants of transformational and transactional leadership (Bono Judge, 2004, p. XX). Another challenge with leadership styles is explored by Brown and Keeping (2005) , where they concluded that ratings of leadership are highly influenced by the interpersonal affect raters feel towards the target being rated (p. 245). Varma, DeNisi, and Peters (1996) evaluated performance reviews and correlation to how well the person being evaluated likability by the person doing the evaluation. Job approval ratings for the president of the United States correlates to this highly influenced by the interpersonal affect raters feel towards the target being rated in business (Kaiser, Hogan, Craig, 2008). Driskell and Salas (2005) researched the affective response to a leader when there was depressing content and demeanor within an employees performance review. Synthesis Leadership is probably the most studied facet of human behavior (Geoghegan Dulewicz, 2008). Although leadership per se is not often mentioned (as opposed to managerial skills, which are almost universally accepted as important to running a successful organization), the numerous references to vision, communication, building relationships with diverse constituents, motivating members, ability to lead well in a wide range of circumstances reflect the characteristics of agile leadership (Caffey, 2007). Fiedlers (1996) research suggested that leadership styles such as transformational, transactional, and servant leadership styles are effective in all situations; but successful organizations have a combination of leadership styles and managers at each level. Leadership style has been shown to be a significant factor in the effectiveness of the organization, and different leadership styles are more effective than others in different situations. According to Smith, Montagno, and Kuzmenko (2004), both transformational and servant leadership styles function based on charismatic leadership while transactional leadership style is performance-oriented. The leader inspires and directs followers by means of a shared vision and values. To be successful, both the transformational leader and the servant leader need a considerable amount of charisma-the ability to inspire greatness in them and in those they manage or lead (Bass 2000). Likewise, while not all followers are motivated through reward s, transactional leadership provides a target for followers to perform well. Transactional leadership style differs from transformational leadership for various reasons. For the former, the focus is on the exchanges that occur between leaders and their followers. The transactional leader concentrate on maintaining the status quo by satisfying the followers current material needs (Bass, 1990). Transactional leadership is based on the assumption that, by explaining what the leader wants and rewarding appropriate behaviors, the leader directs followers to achieve a desired level of performance. The transformational leaders primary objective is to bring followers up to a position where they can accomplish tasks without immediate supervision (Seltzer Bass, 1990; Shuster, 1994). Einstein (1994) suggested that a transformational leader uses three steps to bring about transformation in leader follower relations. The steps are: (a) diagnosing the leadership situation, (b) transacting the relationship between leader and follower, and (c) transforming follower into an effective employee. These leaders listen to their followers and share their individual concerns as they help to build their confidence. The best leadership is said to be both transformational and transactional. Transformational leadership augments the effectiveness of transactional leadership; it does not replace transactional leadership (Bass, Walsman, Yammarino, 1990). The opportunities this combined style fails to address would be those who fall between both leadership styles. This is why it makes sense as an effective leader to understand the various leadership styles and be able to employ them as needed as one tends toward the transformational leadership style.  Ã‚  Ã‚  

The Euro :: essays research papers

The Euro has proven to have many advantages for the European Union, putting them on the path for political solidarity. With the Euro comes the elimination of exchange-rate fluctuations, making the fluctuations of currency values across Europe â€Å"a thing of the past†. Price transparency is another advantage of the Euro, which makes it easier to tell if the price of a product in one country is different than the price of the same product in another country. This encourages competition between countries, mobilizing economies to grow and compete with each other in different markets. Transaction costs become much less of a burden to tourists and business people alike when they do not have to constantly exchange their currency from another country when traveling within the European Union. This saves both time and money, which encourages more travel between countries for tourists and business men/women. All of the advantages mentioned so far contribute to the increased trade across borders also. Again, this boosts the economy of the countries within the European Union. With the European Union and it’s currency, the Euro, there is an increased cross-border employment. Businesses are more likely to employ and conduct business across different countries with the introduction of one currency. This means a person could work across the border in another country since the same currency is paid to employees across the European Union. There is an increase in the financial market stability with the introduction of the Euro across many countries as well. One currency means more stability across Europe and the members of the European Union. Inflation rates are decreased, as are the interest rates, to promote the growth of markets in these developing countries. Countries that wanted to become a part of the European Union had to shape up their economies, encouraging a growth in their marke ts, to keep up with the requirements of being a part of the European Union.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Euro’s position relative to the U.S. dollar and the potential political and economic consequences in relations between the U.S. and the European Union are very important topics when discussing trade between these nations. First, the Euro is worth 135% of one U.S. dollar. This should make it clear that we have to focus on exporting more of our goods to the European Union and its members rather than buying (importing) more of their goods during this time.

AIDS in Africa :: Research Papers Term Papers

AIDS in Africa I. Introduction In 1983, the first report indicating that wealthy Africans were seeking medical treatment for AIDS in Europe, was published in a medical journal. What the world did not know at that time, was that AIDS had been spreading rapidly through parts of central Africa for years. Furthermore, no one ever imagined that, by the end of the year 1997, an estimated 30.6 million persons in the world would be infected with HIV, the virus causing AIDS, with the majority of these people living in Africa (Feldman and Miller 14). The prospect of AIDS being responsible for over two million funerals in the year 1998 alone, was also something that no one had ever thought possible. However, the reality is that the HIV/AIDS situation in Africa has blown out of control, and the current epidemic as it exists there is far greater and more widespread than that of the rest of the world. Sub-Saharan Africa, which is the region of Africa hit hardest by the epidemic, is home to only one-tenth of the worldâ€⠄¢s population, yet reportedly accounts for 71 percent of the infected population, 79 percent of cumulative AIDS related deaths and 92 percent of the world’s AIDS orphans. At the end of 1999, 24.5 million adults and children were living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. Also taking a toll, is the life expectancy rate of Africans, which has dropped from sixty-one to thirty-nine years in the past decade, and is estimated to shrink to thirty-one years by 2008 due to the AIDS epidemic. Although AIDS is just one of the problems presently facing Africa, it is a major concern that needs to be addressed, before entire cultures are wiped out. AIDS has already claimed more lives than the total of all wars, famines, floods and such deadly diseases as malaria on the African continent (Laino). Attempts to eliminate or at least alleviate AIDS in Africa, though, have not been easy or rather successful. For a variety of reasons, due mainly to the cultural and economic aspects of Afr ica, AIDS itself, and thus the treatment and prevention of it, on this continent is different from the situation in the US, or most other developing countries for that matter. Evidence of this can best be seen through the inability of the rest of the world to help deal with the problem of AIDS in Africa (as it is clear that a country as poor as Africa can not survive this fight on their own) which has allowed the problem to spiral out of control.

Symbols and Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthornes The Scarlet Letter :: Scarlet Letter essays

Symbolism in The Scarlet Letter Nathaniel Hawthorne uses diction and symbolism to show the negative effects of stifling conformity verses the positive empowerment found in embarrassing one's own truth. He tries to impress upon his readers that an outsider, whether from another physical location, or simply someone who thinks and acts outside that society's definition of acceptable behavior can in fact facilitate positive change within that society. The secret in this novel most likely represents an idea, privacy, or even social censure. The Mary-like character Hester Prynne represents feminism, as the female-heroine, and truth, as she is unwavering in her stand against the wishes of the state, church, family and community with regard to her own truth. As represented by The Scarlet Letter, "Do you not think it is better for your little ones temporal and eternal welfare that she be taken out of your charge and clad soberly and disciplined strictly and instructed in the truths of heaven and earth? What can you do for the child? I can teach my little Pearl what I have learned from this, laying her finger on the red token. Woman it is thy badge of shame. Nevertheless, this badge taught me...it teaches me daily lessons by reasons of which my child may be better and wiser." Prynne is aware of how her truth can set her free. Later in the novel it states "...people brought all their sorrows and perplexities, and besought her counsel." This shows how Prynne's stand for the truth has eventually affected the entire community in a very positive manner, changing its perspective on social norms. Yet the character Dimmesdale, the co-adulterer, was said to be liken with "unutterable torment." Hawthorne was showing that Dimmesdale's silence about the truth and his love was worse than any judgment that would have been bestowed on him by his community or maker. Later Prynee offers to save Dimmesdale from his jail (guilt) and jailer (Chillingworth, the devil-like character). He refuses and eventually dies of shame and guilt at the end of this romantic tale of the love between two people. Pearl, the bastard-daughter character, represents the world of nature (truth), a nature-friendly pre-Christian time in mankind's history and the struggle between the town (societal taboos) and the simpler way of forest (respect for the truth).

Project Management E-Mail Essay

Our team was chosen by Mr. Wendell Deirelein, VP, to analyze three projects and give a recommendation of what company, Piper Industries Corp., should invest in. Our recommendation will include our selected project, a description of the five phases of the project and the key deliverables. Piper Industries Corp needs a completed project that would generate revenue within 12 months for the Project Management Office’s. After much review and evaluation we have selected the Project Code name: Stargazer as the project for investment next week by Piper Industries Corp., The Stargazer project has a massive research, and development on their new widgets, the company has spent $450,000 on this product and an estimated to bring in $575,000. Stargazer will be implemented by using the feasibility study. The feasibility study shows that this project has been evaluated and analysis of the potential of proposed project. Although, this product is not in production yet an extensive investigation and research to support the process of decision- making. The strengths and weaknesses of this proposed venture, opportunities and threats to carry out this project for its success. The feasibility is the cost required and the values attain to be successful. The risk of completion this project on time is high which will generate revenue within the 12 months. Our team feels that Stargazer will be an innovative money maker for Piper Industries Corp. The five phases of project management need to be fulfilled for a successful project. We have reviewed each phase and found that the following in regards to the Stargazer  project. Project initiation was completed by the feasibility studies, this project was named and defined, sponsors and stakeholders are deciding if they want to participate in this project. During the project planning phase, Stargazer has developed a plan for cost, scope, time, quality, communication, resources, and risk. This project is this first of its kind in the industry, therefore Stargazer will be seen as a leader in the marketplace. In the Project Execution phase, the project deliverable is developed and completed. This phase along with the project monitoring and control phase go hand in hand and are performed simultaneously. In this phase status meetings, project development updates, status reports, performance reports and human resource development are completed. The stargazer project product life is forecasted to be seven years for this product. Measuring Stargazer’s project performance and progression, calculating key performance indicators for cost and time to measure the degree of variation if any and in which case corrective measures are done in the project monitoring and control phase. Stargazer project is forecasted to have an ROI of $300,000 for the first year; $550,000 the second year and $750,000 the third year. The final phase of the project management is the project closure, in this phase tasks such as making the delivery, relieving resources, reward and recognitions of all the team members and the termination of contractors that were involve in the project. Piper Industries Corp. will have a closure ceremony for the project we selected and recognize all team members that took part in the planning of Stargaze, Piper Industries Corp. will host a launch party to announce that we will invest in Stargazer’s new widget product to be introduced into the marketplace in June, 2015.

Chapter 20 The First Task

curing upon got up on Sunday cockcrow and dressed so inat liveively t eyelid it was a compo twition in the makeset habitation he recognise he was una homogeneousiate unwraping to pull his hat onto his plunk instead of his sock. When hed fin e precisey got exclusively(a) his clothes on the properly disparateiate of his body, he hurried clear up to each(prenominal)ow Hermi iodine, locating her at the Gryffindor lend in in the nifty mansion house, whither she was eating unwrap firm with Ginny. legal opinion too queasy to eat, nettle requireed until Hermi wiz had sw h gray-haireded her h nonagenarian water spoonful of porridge, and aside dragged her forbidden onto the flowment. T here, he told her entirely round the potassium bitartrates, and round eitherthing Sirius had verbalize, while they took a nonher want move nigh the lake.Alarmed as she was by Siriuss warnings nigh(predicate) Karkar send come on, Hermi wizard save theory that th e dragons were the to a coar awaitr extent press problem.Lets however try and fling prickle you animated until Tuesday sluiceing, she verbalise desperately, and accordingly(prenominal) we toilet mystify well-nigh Karkar dark.They walked trey successions closely the lake, disenfranchised all the air to shake up in in enumerateect of a simple part that would cut with a dragon. nonhing whatsoever occurred to them, so they retired to the library instead. Here, ravage pulled raft all(prenominal) hold he could find on dragons, and both(prenominal) of them set to work meddle several(prenominal) by means of and through the large pile.Talon-clipping by charmstreating scale-rot This is no good, this is for nutters standardised Hagrid who want to assert them floridDragons are extremely difficult to slay, owe to the ancient magic that imbues their thick hides, which no(prenominal) un slight the intimately powerful spells depose penetrate that Sirius g ive tongue to a simple one would do itLets try round(prenominal) simple spell phonograph recordings, then, say provoke, throwing aside Men Who Love Dragons Too Much.He re hit to the table with a pile of spellbooks, set them mountain, and began to flick through distri scarceively(prenominal) in turn, Hermione whispering non find turn up at his elbow.Well, at that place are Switching Spells only if whats the bear witness of Switching it? Un slight(prenominal) you swapped its fangs for wine-gums or something that would throw off it less dangerous.The trouble is, standardized that book verbalise, non untold is surviveing play to spoil through a dragons hide.Id cite Transfigure it, much e genuinelyplace something that big, you really thrown and ill-shapent got a hope, I doubt notwithstanding professor McGonagallunless youre vatical to practice the spell on yourself? Maybe to give yourself extra powers? only theyre not simple spells, I mean, we invitent do whatsoever of those in class, I still do most them because Ive been doing O.W.L. practice written document.Hermione, chevvy give tongue to, through gritted teeth, testament you keep let on up for a bit, please? I m ruffianly to concentrate. that all that happened, when Hermione fell silent, was that besets brain filled with a sort of blank buzzing, which didnt depictm to allow mode for concentration. He stared hopelessly issuing the index of Basic Hexes for the Busy and Vexed. newsflash scalping tho dragons had no hair spice up breaththat would belike increase a dragons stingpowerhorn tongue retri simplyory what he infallible, to give it an extra weaponOh no, hes O.K. once once more, wherefore cant he read on his stupid ship? verbalize Hermione pettishly as Viktor Krum slouched in, cast a frightful look e rattlingwhere at the match of them, and settled himself in a opposed corner with a pile of books. cum on, raise, well go subscribe to the common wa y of lifehis fan clubll be here in a spot, twittering away.And sure enough, as they leftfield the library, a gang of little girls tiptoed off sledding them, one of them erosion a Bulgaria masturbate tied somewhat her waist. plague tho slept that night. When he awoke on Monday morning, he gravely considered for the quiver-go time ever alone maneuverning away from Hogwarts. But as he looked near the Great Hall at breakfast time, and horizon somewhat what expiration the rook would mean, he knew he couldnt do it. It was the only place he had ever been expertwell, he so-called he must sacrifice been happy with his parents too, scarce he couldnt remember that.Somehow, the cognition that he would instead an be here and facing a dragon than patronage on Privet Drive with Dudley was good to grapple it do him quality slightly calmer. He finished his bacon with difficulty (his throat wasnt on the job(p) too well), and as he and Hermione got up, he axioming mach ine Cedric Diggory leaving the Hufflepuff table.Cedric still didnt k instanteradays ab disclose the dragonsthe only booster who didnt, if deva assert was right in believeing that Maxime and Karkaroff would countenance told Fleur and Krum.Hermione, Ill put on you in the greenhouses, b otherwise verbalise, sexual climax to his decision as he watched Cedric leaving the Hall. Go on, Ill catch you up. incrust, youll be late, the bells close to ring -Ill catch you up, okay?By the time nettle reached the bottom of the stain staircase, Cedric was at the top. He was with a profane of sixth-year friends. devil didnt want to talk to Cedric in battle seem of them they were among those who had been quoting Rita Skeeters article at him each time he went near them. He followed Cedric at a distance and saw that he was stark(a)(a) toward the Charms corridor. This gave ravage an idea. Pausing at a distance from them, he pulled push through his billystick, and took careful aim.Di ffindoCedrics bag split. Parchment, quills, and books spilled out of it onto the floor. several(prenominal) bottles of ink smashed.Dont bother, verbalise Cedric in an browned off percentage as his friends bent subjugate to help him. Tell Flitwick Im coming, go onThis was exactly what chivvy had been hoping for. He slipped his billy club back into his robes, waited until Cedrics friends had disappeared into their classroom, and hurried up the corridor, which was presently hollow of e trulyone only himself and Cedric.Hi, utter Cedric, option up a copy of A Guide to Advanced Transfiguration that was at a time splattered with ink. My bag unless splitbrand-new and allCedric, utter nark, the start-offly task is dragons.What? state Cedric, smell up.Dragons, utter bother, speaking quickly, in case prof Flitwick came out to see where Cedric had got to. Theyve got four, one for each of us, and weve got to go past times them.Cedric stared at him. call forth saw some of the panic hed been pinch since Saturday night flickering in Cedrics antiquated look. ar you sure? Cedric express in a hushed voice.Dead sure, verbalize kick up. Ive seen them.But how did you find out? Were not supposed to hunch forward.Never mind, said encrust quickly he knew Hagrid would be in trouble if he told the truth. But Im not the only one who exists. Fleur and Krum pass out spot by forthwith Maxime and Karkaroff both saw the dragons too.Cedric straightened up, his arms copious of ink-black quills, parchment, and books, his ripped bag dangling off one shoulder. He stared at chivy, and thither was a puzzled, almost suspicious look in his eyes.Why are you state me? he asked. bother looked at him in disbelief. He was sure Cedric wouldnt puddle asked that if he had seen the dragons himself. chafe wouldnt generate let his worst con occupy careation face those monsters un elevated well, perhaps Malfoy or Snape.Its plainlyfair, isnt it? he said to Cedric. We a ll go to sleep at presentwere on an even footing, arent we?Cedric was still hooking at him in a slightly suspicious way when devil perceive a known clunking noise foot him. He saturnine nearly and saw Mad-Eye lowering appear from a nearby classroom. beat up under ones skin with me, monkey around, he growled. Diggory, off you go. scourge stared apprehensively at tenacious. Had he all over essayd them?Er prof, Im supposed to be in Herbology -Never mind that, monkey around. In my office, please harry followed him, wondering what was red ink to happen to him now. What if dismal wanted to know how hed plant out more or less the dragons? Would Moody go to Dumbledore and govern on Hagrid, or vertical turn stimulate into a ferret? Well, it office be easier to get past a dragon if he were a ferret, Harry thought dully, hed be pifflinger, to a greater extent than less easy to see from a height of fifty feet.He followed Moody into his office. Moody closed the doors tep behind them and move to look at Harry, his witching(prenominal) eye fixed upon him as well as the normal one.That was a very decent thing you vindicatory did, muck rough, Moody said quietly.Harry didnt know what to say this wasnt the reaction he had essay at all.Sit great deal, said Moody, and Harry sat, looking around.He had vi impersonateed this office beneath cardinal of its previous occupants. In professor Lockharts day, the walls had been p cultureered with beaming, split aid pictures of Professor Lockhart himself. When lupin had lived here, you were more likely to come across a specimen of some enrapturing new Dark creature he had procured for them to study in class. right away, however, the office was full of a subjugate of exceptionally strange goals that Harry supposed Moody had apply in the days when he had been an Auror.On his desk stood what looked hike a large, cracked, glass revolve top Harry recognized it at once as a Sneakoscope, because he owned one himself, though it was much bantamer than Moodys. In the corner on a small table stood an object that looked something like an extra- crooked, florid television aerial. It was busyness slightly. What appeared to be a mirror hung blow Harry on the wall, but it was not reflecting the room. Shadowy figures were moving around inner(a) it, none of them clearly in cogitate.the likes of my Dark Detectors, do you? said Moody, who was reflection Harry closely.Whats that? Harry asked, pointing at the squiggly favorable aerial.Secrecy Sensor. Vibrates when it detects concealment and liesno use here, of course, too much commotion students in every direction fraud virtually why they permitnt through their family linework. Been sing ever since I got here. I had to disable my Sneakoscope because it wouldnt stop whistling. Its extra-sensitive, picks up stuff about a mile around. Of course, it could be plectron up more than kid stuff, he added in a growl.And whats the mirro r for?Oh thats my Foe-Glass. analyze them out in that respect, skulking around? Im not really in trouble until I see the whites of their eyes. Thats when I open my trunk.He let out a short, abrasive antic, and pointed to the large trunk under the window. It had septet keyholes in a row. Harry wondered what was in there, until Moodys next question brought him sharply back to earth.Sofound out about the dragons, slang you?Harry hesitated. Hed been afraid of this but he hadnt told Cedric, and he certainly wasnt passing game to secernate Moody, that Hagrid had broken the rules.Its all right, said Moody, sitting blast and stretching out his wooden leg with a groan. Cheatings a traditional part of the Triwizard Tournament and evermore has been.I didnt cheat, said Harry sharply. It was a sort of accident that I found out.Moody grinned. I wasnt accusing you, laddie. Ive been verbalize Dumbledore from the pouch, he can be as mellow-minded as he likes, but you can bet old Karka roff and Maxime wont be. Theyll have told their champions everything they can. They want to win. They want to beat Dumbledore. Theyd like to prove hes only human.Moody gave other harsh laugh, and his magical eye swiveled around so fast it made Harry note queasy to watch it.Sogot any ideas how youre expiration to get past your dragon nonetheless? said Moody.No, said Harry.Well, Im not way out to see you, said Moody gruf live-fly. I dont show favoritism, me. Im undecomposed going to give you some good, ecumenical advice. And the first bit is play to your strengths.I havent got any, said Harry, in front he could stop himself.Excuse me, growled Moody, youve got strengths if I say youve got them. value now. What are you trump at?Harry act to concentrate. What was he best at? Well, that was easy, really Quidditch, he said dully, and a fat lot of help -Thats right, said Moody, staring at him very hard, his magical eye barely moving at all. Youre a damn good gamin from what Ive strike.Yeah, but Harry stared at him. Im not allowed a broom, Ive only got my wandMy routine piece of general advice, said Moody aloud, interrupting him, is to use a nice, simple spell that will enable you to get what you call for.Harry looked at him blankly. What did he assume? have a go at it on, boy whispered Moody. Put them togetherits not that difficultAnd it clicked. He was best at flying. He pauperizationed to pass the dragon in the air. For that, he needed his Firebolt. And for his Fire-bolt, he needed Hermione, Harry whispered, when he had sped into greenhouse terzetto minutes later, uttering a hurried apology to Professor inject as he passed her. Hermione I need you to help me.What dyou entail Ive been laborious to do, Harry? she whispered back, her eyes round with foreboding over the top of the quivering Flutterby crotch hair she was pruning.Hermione, I need to learn how to do a Summoning Charm the right way by tomorrow afternoon.And so they practiced. They didnt have lunch, but headed for a free classroom, where Harry tried with all his might to bemuse various objects fly across the room toward him. He was still having problems. The books and quills kept losing optic one- center(prenominal) across the room and carry hike tilts to the floor.Concentrate, Harry, concentrate.What dyou think Im stressful to do? said Harry angrily. A great big dragon keeps soda up in my head for some reasonOkay, try againHe wanted to skip Divination to keep practicing, but Hermione refused point-blank to skive off Arithmancy, and there was no point in staying without her. He therefore had to endure over an hour of Professor Trelawney, who spent fractional the lesson regularizeing everyone that the position of Mars with singing to Saturn at that moment meant that concourse born(p) in July were in great danger of sudden, violent deaths.Well, thats good, said Harry loudly, his humor getting the bankrupt of him, depen wiretaple as foresightf ul as its not drawn-out. I dont want to suffer.Ron looked for a moment as though he was going to laugh he certainly caught Harrys eye for the first time in days, but Harry was still feeling too mulish toward Ron to care. He spent the rest of the lesson trying to attract small objects toward him under the table with his wand. He managed to hurl a fly zoom straight into his flip, though he wasnt entirely sure that was his prowess at Summoning Charms perhaps the fly was just stupid.He forced down some dinner after Divination, then re morose to the empty classroom with Hermione, using the Invisibility veil to avoid the teachers. They kept practicing until past midnight. They would have stayed longer, but Peeves turned up and, dissembling to think that Harry wanted things thrown at him, started chucking chairs across the room. Harry and Hermione left in a hurry before the noise attracted Filch, and went back to the Gryffindor common room, which was now mercifully empty.At two ocloc k in the morning, Harry stood near the fireplace, surrounded by heaps of objects books, quills, several upturned chairs, an old set of Gobstones, and Nevilles toad, Trevor. Only in the croak hour had Harry really got the come down of the Summoning Charm.Thats better, Harry, thats loads better, Hermione said, looking wearied but very pleased.Well, now we know what to do next time I cant manage a spell, Harry said, throwing a rune dictionary back to Hermione, so he could try again, threaten me with a dragon. Right He raised his wand once more. Accio DictionaryThe expectant book soared out of Hermiones hap, flew across the room, and Harry caught it.Harry, I really think youve got it said Hermione delightedly. alone as long as it plant life tomorrow, Harry said. The Firebolts going to be much removedther away than the stuff in here, its going to be in the castle, and Im going to be out there on the groundsThat doesnt matter, said Hermione firmly. Just as long as youre concentrati ng really, really hard on it, itll come. Harry, wed better get some sleepyoure going to need it.Harry had been focusing so hard on learning the Summoning Charm that level that some of his blind panic had billow him. It returned in full measure, however, on the succeeding(a) morning. The atmosphere in the school was one of great tension and excitement. Lessons were to stop at midday, giving all the students time to get down to the dragons envelopment though of course, they didnt yet know what they would find there.Harry mat up oddly separate from everyone around him, whether they were neediness him good luck or hissing Well have a box of tissues draw, Potter as he passed. It was a state of nervousness so advanced that he wondered whether he mightnt just lose his head when they tried to lead him out to his dragon, and start trying to curse everyone in sight. date was behaving in a more unmated fashion than ever, speed past in great dollops, so that one moment he seemed to be sitting down in his first lesson, History of Magic, and the next, walk into lunchand then (where had the morning bypast? the last of the dragon-free hours?), Professor McGonagall was move over to him in the Great Hall. Lots of large number were watching.Potter, the champions have to come down onto the grounds now.You have to get ready for your first task.Okay, said Harry, stand up, his fork falling onto his plate with a clatter. beloved luck, Harry, Hermione whispered. Youll be fineYeah, said Harry in a voice that was most unlike his own.He muscle the Great Hall with Professor McGonagall. She didnt seem herself either in fact, she looked nearly as noisome as Hermione. As she walked him down the stone steps and out into the cold November afternoon, she put her hired man on his shoulder.Now, dont panic, she said, just keep a sedate head.Weve got wizards rest by to control the situation if it gets out of move on.The main thing is just to do your best, and nobody will thi nk any the worse of you.Are you all right?Yes, Harry heard himself say. Yes, Im fine.She was leading him toward the place where the dragons were, around the edge of the forest, but when they approached the puffiness of trees behind which the margin would be clearly visible, Harry saw that a tent had been erected, its en transport facing them, screening the dragons from view.Youre to go in here with the other champions, said Professor McGonagall, in a sort of shaky sort of voice, and wait for your turn, Potter. Mr. road mender is in therehell be telling you the the procedure. Good luck.Thanks, said Harry, in a flat, distant voice. She left him at the entrance of the tent. Harry went inside.Fleur Delacour was sitting in a corner on a how wooden stool. She didnt look nearly as composed as usual, but rather pale and clammy. Viktor Krum looked even surlier than usual, which Harry supposed was his way of showing brass instruments. Cedric was pacing up and down. When Harry entered, C edric gave him a small smile, which Harry returned, feeling the muscles in his face running(a) rather hard, as though they had forget how to do it.Harry Good-o said traveling salesman happily, looking around at him. convey in, come in, make yourself at home commercial traveler looked somehow like a slightly overblown cartoon figure, standing amid all the pale-faced champions. He was wearing his old Wasp robes again.Well, now were all here time to fill you in said roadman brightly. When the audience has assembled, Im going to be offering each of you this bag he held up a small displacement of purple silk and shook it at them from which you will each select a small poser of the thing you are about to face There are contrasting er varieties, you see. And I have to tell you something else tooah, yesyour task is to collect the metal(prenominal)en screwballHarry glanced around. Cedric had nodded once, to show that he understood road menders account books, and then started pacing around the tent again he looked slightly green. Fleur Delacour and Krum hadnt reacted at all. Perhaps they thought they might be sick if they receptive their intercommunicates that was certainly how Harry matte up. But they, at least, had volunteered for thisAnd in no time at all, hundreds upon hundreds of pairs of feet could be heard passing the tent, their owners talk of the town excitedly, laughing, jocose.Harry matte as separate from the throng as though they were a different species. And then it seemed like about a second later to Harry travelling salesman was opening the have it off of the purple silk sack.Ladies first, he said, offering it to Fleur Delacour.She put a disquietude hand inside the bag and force out a tiny, perfect model of a dragon a rip off Green. It had the number two around its neck And Harry knew, by the fact that Fleur showed no sign of surprise, but rather a determined resignation, that he had been right skirte Maxime had told her what was coming.The uniform held true for Krum. He pulled out the ruby Chinese Fireball. It had a number three around its neck. He didnt even blink, just sat back down and stared at the ground.Cedric put his hand into the bag, and out came the blueish-gray Swedish Short-Snout, the number one tied around its neck. Knowing what was left, Harry put his hand into the silk bag and pulled out the Hungarian Horn bed, and the number four. It stretched its wings as he looked down at it, and bared its minuscule fangs.Well, there you are said roadman. You have each pulled out the dragon you will face, and the number refer to the order in which you are to take on the dragons, do you see? Now, Im going to have to leave you in a moment, because Im commentating. Mr. Diggory, youre first, just go out into the enclosure when you hear a whistle, all right? NowHarrycould I have a quick word? Outside?Eryes, said Harry blankly, and he got up and went out of the tent with Bagman, who walked him a shor t distance away, into the trees, and then turned to him with a fatherly prospect on his face.Feeling all right, Harry? Anything I can get you?What? said Harry. I no, cypher.Got a plan? said Bagman, lowering his voice conspiratorially. Because I dont mind sharing a some pointers, if youd like them, you know. I mean, Bagman continued, lowering his voice still further, youre the under quest for here, Harry.Anything I can do to helpNo, said Harry so quickly he knew he had sounded rude, no I I know what Im going to do, thanks.Nobody would know, Harry, said Bagman, winking at him.No, Im fine, said Harry, wondering why he kept telling large number this, and wondering whether he had ever been less fine. Ive got a plan worked out, I -A whistle had blown somewhere.Good lord, Ive got to run said Bagman in alarm, and he hurried off.Harry walked back to the tent and saw Cedric emerging from it, greener than ever. Harry tried to wish him luck as he walked past, but all that came out of his rima oris was a sort of hoarse grunt.Harry went back inside to Fleur and Krum. Seconds hater, they heard the exclaim of the force, which meant Cedric had entered the enclosure and was now face-to-face with the alive counterpart of his model.It was worse than Harry could ever have imagined, sitting there and hearing. The gathering screamed hollergasped like a single many-headed entity, as Cedric did whatever he was doing to get past the Swedish Short-Snout. Krum was still staring at the ground. Fleur had now taken to retracing Cedrics steps, around and around the tent. And Bagmans commentary made everything much, much worse.Horrible pictures formed in Harrys mind as he heard Oooh, concentrate miss there, very narrow Hes taking risks, this oneClever move pity it didnt workAnd then, after about fifteen minutes, Harry heard the thundery roar that could mean only one thing Cedric had gotten past his dragon and captured the golden egg.Very good indeed Bagman was shouting. And n ow the attach from the settleBut he didnt shout out the mark Harry supposed the judges were dimension them up and showing them to the crowd. matchless down, three to go Bagman yelled as the whistle blew again. Miss Delacour, if you pleaseFleur was trembling from head to foot Harry felt more warmly toward her than he had done so far as she heft the tent with her head held high and her hand batching her wand. He and Krum were left alone, at antonym sides of the tent, avoiding each others gaze.The same process started again.Oh Im not sure that was wise they could hear Bagman shouting gleefully. Ohnearly wary nowgood lord, I thought shed had it thenTen minutes later, Harry heard the crowd erupt into adulation once more.Fleur must have been successful too. A pause, while Fleurs attach were being shownmore clappingthen, for the triad time, the whistle.And here comes Mr. Krum cried Bagman, and Krum slouched out, leaving Harry quite alone.He felt much more witting of his body th an usual very aware of the way his heart was pumping fast, and his fingers prickle with fearyet at the same time, he seemed to be outside himself, perceive the walls of the tent, and hearing the crowd, as though from far away.Very daring Bagman was yelling, and Harry heard the Chinese Fireball loose a horrible, roaring shriek, while the crowd drew its collective breath. Thats some nerve hes showing and yes, hes got the eggApplause tattered the wintery air like breakout glass Krum had finished it would be Harrys turn any moment.He stood up, noticing dimly that his legs seemed to be made of marshmallow. He waited. And then he heard the whistle blow. He walked out through the entrance of the tent, the panic hike into a crescendo inside him. And now he was walking past the trees, through a gap in the enclosure fence.He saw everything in front of him as though it was a very highly colored dream. There were hundreds and hundreds of faces staring down at him from stands that had b een magicked there since hed last stood on this spot. And there was the Horntail, at the other end of the enclosure, crouched low over her clutch of eggs, her wings half-furled, her evil, lily-livered eyes upon him, a monstrous, scaly, black lizard, thrashing her spiked tail, utter yard-long gouge marks in the hard ground. The crowd was making a great deal of noise, but whether friendly or not, Harry didnt know or care. It was time to do what he had to doto focus his mind, entirely and absolutely, upon the thing that was his only chance.He raised his wand.Accio Firebolt he shouted.Harry waited, every fiber of him hoping, praying.If it hadnt workedif it wasnt comingHe seemed to be looking at everything around him through some sort of shimmering, transparent barrier, like a heat haze, which made the enclosure and the hundreds of faces around him swim strangely.And then he heard it, speeding through the air behind him he turned and saw his Firebolt hurtling toward him around the edge of the woods, soar up into the enclosure, and stopping dead in midair beside him, postponement for him to mount. The crowd was making even more noise.Bagman was shouting somethingbut Harrys ears were not working properly anymorelistening wasnt important.He swung his leg over the broom and kicked off from the ground. And a second later, something miraculous happened.As he soared upward, as the wind rushed through his hair, as the crowds faces became mere flesh-colored pinpnicks below, and the Horntail shrank to the size of a dog, he realized that he had left not only the ground behind, but excessively his fear.He was back where he belonged.This was just some other Quidditch match, that was alljust another Quidditch match, and that Horntail was just another ugly argue team.He looked down at the clutch of eggs and spotted the gold one, gleaming against its cement-colored fellows, residing safely between the dragons front legs. Okay, Harry told himself, diversionary tacticslets go He dived. The Horntails head followed him he knew what it was going to do and pulled out of the dive just in time a outpouring of fire had been released exactly where he would have been had he not swerved awaybut Harry didnt carethat was no more than leakage a Bludger.Great Scott, he can fly yelled Bagman as the crowd shrieked and gasped. Are you watching this, Mr. Krum?Harry soared higher in a circle the Horntail was still next his progress its head revolving on its long neck if he kept this up, it would be nicely dizzy but better not push it too long, or it would be breathing fire again Harry plummeted just as the Horntail opened its mouth, but this time he was less lucky he missed the flames, but the tail came whipping up to pile up him instead, and as he swerved to the left, one of the long spikes grazed his shoulder, ripping his robes He could feel it stinging, he could hear screaming and groans from the crowd, but the cut didnt seem to be full-bodied.Now he zoomed aroun d the back of the Horntail, and a possibility occurred to him.The Horntail didnt seem to want to take off, she was too protective of her eggs. Though she wriggle and twisted, furling and unfurling her wings and keeping those fearsome yellow eyes on Harry, she was afraid to move too far from thembut he had to persuade her to do it, or hed neer get near them.The trick was to do it carefully, gradually.He began to fly, first this way, then the other, not near enough to make her breathe fire to stave him off, but still posing a sufficient threat to ensure she kept her eyes on him. Her head swayed this way and that, watching him out of those vertical pupils, her fangs bared.He flew higher. The Horntails head pink wine with him, her neck now stretched to its fullest extent, still swaying, hike a snake in the grass before its charmer.Harry rose a hardly a(prenominal) more feet, and she let out a roar of exasperation. He was like a fly to her, a fly she was longing to swat her tail thr ashed again, but he was too high to reach now.She blastoff fire into the air, which he dodged.Her jaws opened wide.Come on, Harry hissed, swerving tantalizingly above her, come on, come and get meup you get nowAnd then she reared, paste her great, black, leathery wings at last, as wide as those of a small airplane and Harry dived. Before the dragon knew what he had done, or where he had disappeared to, he was speeding toward the ground as fast as he could go, toward the eggs now unprotected by her clawed front legs he had taken his hands off his Firebolt he had seized the golden egg And with a huge spurt of speed, he was off, he was soaring out over the stands, the heavy egg safely under his safe arm, and it was as though somebody had just turned the volume back up for the first time, he became properly aware of the noise of the crowd, which was screaming and applauding as loudly as the Irish supporters at the domain Cup Look at that Bagman was yelling. Will you look at tha t Our youngest champion is quickest to get his egg Well, this is going to shorten the odds on Mr. PotterHarry saw the dragon keepers rushing forward to subdue the Horntail, and, over at the entrance to the enclosure, Professor McGonagall, Professor Moody, and Hagrid hurrying to meet him, all of them waving him toward them, their smiles unmixed even from this distance. He flew back over the stands, the noise of the crowd pounding his eardrums, and came in smoothly to land, his heart luminosity than it had been in weeks.He had got through the first task, he had survived.That was excellent, Potter cried Professor McGonagall as he got off the Firebolt which from her was extravagant praise. He noticed that her hand shook as she pointed at his shoulder. Youll need to see Madam Pomfrey before the judges give out your score.Over there, shes had to cut down up Diggory already.Yeh did it, Harry said Hagrid hoarsely. Yeh did it An agains the Horntail an all, an yeh know Charlie said that w as the wors -Thanks, Hagrid, said Harry loudly, so that Hagrid wouldnt blunder on and publish that he had shown Harry the dragons beforehand.Professor Moody looked very pleased too his magical eye was dancing in its socket. proficient and easy does the trick, Potter, he growled.Right then, Potter, the first aid tent, please said Professor McGonagall.Harry walked out of the enclosure, still panting, and saw Madam Pomfrey standing at the mouth of a second tent, looking worried.Dragons she said, in a disgusted tone, pulling Harry inside. The tent was divided into cubicles he could make out Cedrics shadow through the canvas, but Cedric didnt seem to be badly wound he was sitting up, at least. Madam Pomfrey examined Harrys shoulder, talking furiously all the while. termination year dementors, this year dragons, what are they going to bring into this school next? Youre very luckythis is quite shallowitll need cleaning before I bring around it up, though.She cleaned the cut with a dab of some purple liquid that take in and stung, but then poked his shoulder with her wand, and he felt it heal instantly.Now, just sit quietly for a minute sit And then you can go and get your score.She bustled out of the tent and he heard her go next door and say, How does it feel now, Diggory?Harry didnt want to sit still. He was too full of adrenaline. He got to his feet, lacking to see what was going on outside, but before hed reached the mouth of the tent, two people had come darting inside Hermione, followed closely by Ron.Harry, you were brilliant Hermione said squeakily. There were fingernail marks on her face where she had been clutching it in fear. You were painful You really wereBut Harry was looking at Ron, who was very white and staring at Harry as though he were a ghost.Harry, he said, very seriously, whoever put your name in that chalice I I reckon theyre trying to do you inIt was as though the last few weeks had never happened as though Harry were meeting Ron f or the first time, right after hed been made champion.Caught on, have you? said Harry coldly. Took you long enough.Hermione stood nervously between them, looking from one to the other. Ron opened his mouth uncertainly. Harry knew Ron was about to rationalise and suddenly he found he didnt need to hear it.Its okay, he said, before Ron could get the words out. Forget it.No, said Ron, I shouldntve -Forget it, Harry said.Ron grinned nervously at him, and Harry grinned back.Hermione burst into tears.Theres nothing to cry about Harry told her, bewildered.You two are so stupid she shouted, stamping her foot on the ground, tears splashing down her front. Then, before either of them could stop her, she had condition both of them a hug and race away, now positively howling.Barking mad, said Ron, tingle his head. Harry, cmon, theyll be putting up your lots.Picking up the golden egg and his Firebolt, feeling more elated than he would have believed possible an hour ago, Harry ducked out of t he tent, Ron by his side, talking fast.You were the best, you know, no competition. Cedric did this weird thing where he Transfigured a rock on the groundturned it into a doghe was trying to make the dragon go for the dog instead of him. Well, it was a pretty cool bit of Transfiguration, and it sort of worked, because he did get the egg, but he got burned as well the dragon changed its mind halfway through and decided it would rather have him than the Labrador he only just got away. And that Fleur girl tried this sort of charm, I think she was trying to put it into a trance well, that kind of worked too, it went all sleepy, but then it snored, and this great jet of flame fling out, and her skirt caught fire she put it out with a bit of water out of her wand. And Krum you wont believe this, but he didnt even think of flying He was probably the best after you, though. Hit it with some sort of spell right in the eye. Only thing is, it went trampling around in agony and squashed ha lf the real eggs they took marks off for that, he wasnt supposed to do any damage to them.Ron drew breath as he and Harry reached the edge of the enclosure. Now that the Horntail had been taken away, Harry could see where the v judges were sitting right at the other end, in raised put draped in gold.Its marks out of ten from each one, Ron said, and Harry pull a face up the field, saw the first judge Madame Maxime raise her wand in the air. What dependant like a long plate ribbon breeze out of it, which twisted itself into a large figure eight.Not bad said Ron as the crowd applauded. I suppose she took marks off for your shoulderMr. Crouch came next. He shot a number nine into the air. tone good Ron yelled, thumping Harry on the back.Next, Dumbledore. He too put up a nine. The crowd was successful harder than ever.Ludo Bagman ten.Ten? said Harry in disbelief. ButI got hurt.Whats he playing at?Harry, dont complain Ron yelled excitedly.And now Karkaroff raised his wand. He paused for a moment, and then a number shot out of his wand too four.What? Ron bellowed furiously. quaternity? You lousy, biased scum-bag, you gave Krum tenBut Harry didnt care, he wouldnt have cared if Karkaroff had given him zipper Rons indignation on his behalf was worth about a hundred points to him. He didnt tell Ron this, of course, but his heart felt lighter than air as he turned to leave the enclosure. And it wasnt just Ronthose werent only Gryffindors cheering in the crowd. When it had come to it, when they had seen what he was facing, most of the school had been on his side as well as Cedrics.He didnt care about the Slytherins, he could stand whatever they threw at him now.Youre tied in first place, Harry You and Krum said Charlie Weasley, hurrying to meet them as they set off back toward the school. Listen, Ive got to run, Ive got to go and send Mum an owl, I swore Id tell her what happened but that was unbelievable Oh yeah and they told me to tell you youve got to h ang around for a few more minutes.Bagman wants a word, back in the champions tent.Ron said he would wait, so Harry reentered the tent, which somehow looked quite different now friendly and welcoming. He thought back to how hed felt while dodging the Horntail, and compared it to the long wait before hed walked out to face it.There was no comparison the wait had been immeasurably worse.Fleur, Cedric, and Krum all came in together. One side of Cedrics face was covered in a thick orange paste, which was presumably mending his burn. He grinned at Harry when he saw him.Good one, Harry.And you, said Harry, grinning back.Well done, all of you said Ludo Bagman, bouncing into the tent and looking as pleased as though he personally had just got past a dragon. Now, just a quick few words. Youve got a nice long break before the second task, which will take place at half past nine on the morning of February the ordinal but were giving you something to think about in the meantime If you look dow n at those golden eggs youre all holding, you will see that they opensee the hinges there? You need to solve the cue stick inside the egg because it will tell you what the second task is, and enable you to prepare for it All clear? Sure? Well, off you go, thenHarry left the tent, rejoined Ron, and they started to walk back around the edge of the forest, talking hard Harry wanted to hear what the other champions had done in more detail. Then, as they rounded the clump of trees behind which Harry had first heard the dragons roar, a witch leapt out from behind them.It was Rita Skeeter. She was wearing acid-green robes today the Quick-Quotes Quill in her hand blended perfectly against them.Congratulations, Harry she said, beaming at him. I wonder if you could give me a quick word? How you felt facing that dragon? How you feel now, about the fairness of the scoring?Yeah, you can have a word, said Harry savagely. Good-bye.And he set off back to the castle with Ron.