ShantanuT01/DACTYL-Pretraining huggingface dataset:
Studies have shown that human beings are susceptible to mad cow disease, as a large number of Britons has been confirmed to carry the human form of the disease (Falco par.1). This implies that in every 2,000 people, one person has the protein that is associated with the disease. From these statistics, 30,000 Britons carry the protein. However, research has not revealed the number of carriers that are likely to develop the disease. Creutzfeldt-Jakob is the scientific and medical name used to refer to the human form of mad cow disease (Falco par.2). Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a disorder that damages the brain. It is caused by consuming meat that is contaminated by mad cow disease. The protein that codes for this disease in humans is known as prion protein (PrP) (Falco par.4). There is high likelihood that many people will develop the disease at some point in their life. The incubation period of the disease is not yet known although scientists estimate it to be approximately 8 years. The results of the research study were obtained from an analysis of 32,441 appendixes. The researchers tested them for the abnormal prion protein. The protein was found in only 16 samples (Falco par.4). This equated to one case in every 2,000 people. Currently, only 177 cases of the disease have been reported in Britain. However, millions of people could be carriers of the disease.The research gave estimates based on the number samples that tested positive. The estimated number of carriers may be erroneous because of the technological limitations of methods used to analyze the samples. In addition, researchers are not certain how long it takes to detect prions (Falco par.6). This implies that more people might be carriers of the disease only that prions have not yet reached the detection stage. Genetic profiling carried out by researchers on the samples revealed that more Britons could be carriers. Two types of variations on the gene that codes for the causative proteins exist. These are VV variation and MM variation (Falco par.7). Four samples that tested positive were obtained from individuals with VV variation. Research indicates that only 15% of Britons have this type of variation. On the other hand, four samples that tested positive came from people with MM variation. Research indicates that approximately 45% of Britons have this type of variation (Falco par.9). The relationship between the protein and these variations has not yet been clearly established. However, all the reported cases of the disease involved people with MM variation. Researchers have suggested an incubation period of eight years. Therefore, it might take long before detection of more cases of the disease (Falco par.9). Works Cited Falco, Miriam. 30,000 May Carry Human Form of Mad
Introduction Oil refineries hold various chemical substances, including flammables, combustibles, acids and bases in the form of liquids, gases, vapours or solids. Consequently, oil refineries are susceptible to fires due to the nature of these substances. A full surface fuel fire, which may be defined as an inferno that burns petroleum near the exterior of an oil tank, is a common type of fire in the storage areas of petrochemical industries. Full surface fires generate high amounts of radiated heat and induce the structural collapse of tanks. Such fires can spread to adjacent tanks, spill in the bund area, boil over or slop over. Therefore, it is important to extinguish fires promptly to minimise the loss of lives and destruction of property. This report describes the preplanning arrangement for full surface fuel fire at an oil tank refinery. Operational Preplanning Handling hazards on-site assumes the worst-case scenario and requires the initiation of the right measures. These precautions include determining the access and egress routes as well as RV points. It is necessary to determine holding areas and other fixed installations within site. Since the firefighting process requires vast resources, water and foam supplies in addition to other firefighting resources should be found. It is important to establish the drainage of water from the fire and the removal of toxic substances to ensure the safety of the firefighting crew. Command functions should also be activated to initiate the firefighting process. Checking the Wind Direction Checking the direction of the wind helps to determine the most appropriate firefighting strategies and prevent the inhalation of toxic gases. The wind direction also establishes the course of blazes and areas that are likely to be affected by radiative heat. This step also prevents the spread of fire. Firefighting Tactics A defensive firefighting mode is chosen to stabilise the fire and prevent it from worsening. A defensive operation is usually initiated when the fire conditions do not allow attacking the fire from the inside, for example, when a structure is unsafe, and no human lives can be saved. Thereafter, an offensive mode is used. Offensive firefighting entails approaching the fire to remove its source. This process involves preventing the emission of flammable gases and closing the valve. The firefighting team organises itself into two equal groups in a straight line holding two fire hoses. The team leader stands between the two groups to guide them by tapping the shoulders of the two people at the front of the lines and urging them to move forward. Upon receiving the command, the team members spray the fire with water to protect themselves and their leader. The teams then move forward towards the valve, close it and step back while still facing the regulator. The rule of the operation is to avoid turning their backs towards the fire. Water sprays are used on products with high flash points instead of jets. Water lowers the temperature of the product, stops
Introduction Pakistan is a well known state that supports Taliban fighters in their military war against Afghanistan. Although the nation’s intelligence denies this fact, there are clear evidences that the nation is still in support of the Taliban military. The intelligence department of Pakistan, ISI, is frequently mentioned as the supporters, and financers of Taliban. Therefore, in regard to its objectives and scale of efforts, it is easier to distinguish Pakistan and other nations of the world. Pakistan funds and supports the Taliban fighters in Afghanistan Different authors and reporters try to find evidence for the accusations that Pakistan funds and supports the Taliban in Afghanistan. Although there is no concrete proof, the little information that they gather is evident enough to draw the conclusion. Despite the fact that Pakistan denies the accusations, there are several evidences that are in contrast to this fact. The latest reports and studies in this field are undeniable since it is an open eye proof of the fact. For instance, there is evidence that Pakistan solicits funds and trains Taliban fighters in Afghanistan. Since its formation, it is the role of Pakistan to look for funds and train the Taliban fighters. This is as a result of a belief by many people that the Taliban came into existence as a result of Pakistan. Therefore, it is the role of Pakistan to train soldiers and solicit funds for the nation (Clements, 2003). Secondly, the nation gives significant influence over the Taliban operations as well as recruiting both skilled and unskilled manpower that aid in serving the military troops. Being the reason for its existence, Pakistan has a significant influence over all operations that Taliban carries out. There is evidence that Pakistan has a voice in the recruitment of manpower in the Taliban. It aids in acquiring individuals with the necessary skills to fill different gaps in the military force of the Taliban. This is because they have experience in the field and the confidence that the Taliban has in it. This implies that there is a strong belief in Pakistan by Taliban (Eide, 2012). Furthermore, there is evidence that Pakistan provides diplomatic support, plans and directs offensives, provide combat support, facilitate shipments of ammunitions, and fuel to the Taliban. Several reports have it that Pakistan is the sole provider of diplomatic support and director of offenses. A recent report by the outgoing U.S Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mike Mullen, accuses Pakistan of support providence attack on the Kabul mission. Although Pakistan denies the allegations, their meetings with diplomats might be the reason for the accusation against it. There is also evidence that the nation plans, and directs offensives. Basing on the fact that the nation has a voice in the recruitment of manpower in the Taliban, it is the role of Pakistan to plan and direct all offenses in the nation. All f
Introduction Cinematography is the dimension of art that combines multiple ways of expressing the ideas. With the help of a variety of narrative strategies and cinematic techniques, directors are able not only to entertain the audiences but also encourage them to think about serious social issues. One of the most popular subjects portrayed in the movies is the life in the city and its discourse. Film creators try to reflect the acutest problems of modern cities and the people living in them. Out of a vast variety of the movies dedicated to the issue of contradictions and ambiguities of the American cities, Fritz Lang’s Metropolis and Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing occupy a prominent place. Do the Right Thing as the Reflection of Contradictions in City Life Spike Lee created his famous movie about three decades ago, but the issues raised in it have not lost their actuality. The film is considered as a “masterpiece” for depicting such serious issues as social inequality and the division of people’s life opportunities depending on their origin and place in the city (Larson). The major theme in Do the Right Thing is the one of love and hate. However, the director did much more than that. Rather than showing the relationships between a boyfriend and a girlfriend, he demonstrated how the city could govern people’s lives and attitudes. Lee did not only think about making his name famous in the world of cinematography. The director wanted America to “look in the mirror” and realize how living in the city could impact people’s lives (Haber). By showing the state of affairs in one neighborhood, Lee demonstrated the way in which the majority of the cities were arranged. The city in Do the Right Thing is represented as a place where all the power is in the hands of white Americans. They may have allowed the minorities to live in the neighborhood and even do some business there. However, they never let the African-Americans relax even for a minute and forget about the divergences that existed between them (Do the Right Thing). New York’s borough, Brooklyn is depicted as a place full of hostility and rage. Not only White Americans express their dissatisfaction with the Blacks’ music preferences and behavior. Even the Italians allow themselves to show contempt for the African-American people. As the heat increases both in the direct and indirect meaning, Lee shows how small misunderstandings between the representatives of different groups of people living in the same city can lead to dramatic and even tragic outcomes. However, there is also one positive thing mentioned in regard to ethnic differences. When the conflict becomes too intense, a Korean man r
Rationale Classroom design serves the purpose of not only being aesthetically pleasing but also providing students with support through additional materials and engaging them in different activities by having various zones. Classroom Architect allows outlining the significant features of a classroom that can be used by teachers as a guide when approaching the task of creating a welcoming environment for students, which will be used in this case as well. This paper aims to present a design developed for children six to seven years old, explain the rationale for each choice, and provide a letter to families explaining the new features. Main Choices The primary purpose of designing this classroom was to create a welcoming environment for children. Also, it is vital to keep in mind the implications of age and best learning practices to leverage the available space and ensure that the environment encourages students to learn effectively. According to Barrett (2015), much attention is dedicated to the qualifications of school teachers and their competencies while “what is less known is what impact the room where children are taught has on their achievement or performance” (para. 1). Appendix B presents the depiction of the proposed design created using classroom architect (“Outline your classroom floor plan,” n.d.). It was developed in accordance with professional and ethical standards and aims to incorporate proper strategies for encouraging student learning. This classroom aims to accomplish several goals, with the main emphasis on having a comfortable and welcoming environment where students feel engaged and interested in participating in various activities. According to Kohn (1994), it is impossible to motivate students, although many apply rewards and punishments in an attempt of accomplishing the task. Instead, the author suggests that developing an appropriate classroom culture will be beneficial for improving a student’s interest in learning. This is substantiated by Porter (2013), who argues that educators have to be aware of how they act and more importantly react to student’s behaviour, especially disruptive one. It is vital to avoid labelling someone as right or wrong and instead listen and guide. This evidence suggests that while adequately arranging a classroom is necessary, the culture that is fostered by a teacher within the space should not be overlooked. Based on the examined evidence, the question of how to create a proper classroom environment for children aged 6 to 7 years old arises. A valid approach is to observe students and pre-plan the space prior to the beginning of classes based on their needs and preferences (“Environments that promote learning,” n.d.). However, some best practices and guidelines exist that can aid teachers and will be used in this paper. Reading and Discussions Firstly, the goal of the internal space was to create an environment that encourages interpersonal communication. This aspect is especially crucial for reading since Kohn (2010) recommends creating a community of readers to support the desire of children to read. For this purpose, a particular area dedicated to discussions about the mat
Introduction A recent visit to a children’s home where some of them have different forms and degrees of disability aroused our curiosity into understanding the real facts that surrounded the situation. Some of the children seemed happy while others were really disturbed all that time the visitors were in the vicinity. Key observations were later correlated to various aspects in life. Despite the varying perspectives between individuals with disability and the society in general, it is important to understand the distinction between the time of onset and time of diagnosis. Description The children’s home was inhabited by both the disabled and handicapped. It is important that the distinction between the two is elaborated for further understanding. Disability can be defined as a situation that restricts the performance of an activity in the normal human range (Smart, 2009). It is usually beyond medical curative powers. Handicap, on the other hand, is a situation that hinders the accomplishment of a role. Human agency plays a role in addressing handicap issues. Disability can manifest itself during birth or sometimes later in life. Congenital disability refers to that observed during birth while acquired disability comes at later stages of life. A further analysis into why some children seemed contented with their physical states while others were not is that whereas the former were associated with congenital disability the latter were associated with acquired disability. Persons who experience later-onset acquired disability are usually faced with a problem of low self-actualization and relating with able persons is difficult. According to Smart (2009), they usually undergo psychogenic pain and stress as they come to terms with the reality. The time of onset refers to the duration of symptoms. Symptoms for the disabled vary depending on whether the disability is physical or psychological. Parents are faced with a daunting task of observing these symptoms once a child is born and applying adaptive measures in time. The time of diagnosis refers to the moment when it is clear beyond any reasonable doubt that indeed a disability is present. Differential diagnosis refers to that process that separates one form of disability from similar ones. Early diagnosis is useful in helping family members recognize the trends in emotional and psychological behavior among the disabled. Age, gender, culture and ethnicity may have serious effects on disability. Therefore, research should be enhanced in order to probe into how these variables affect or are affected by disability. Several psychological measures are important in ensuring that cases of disability are diagnosed early enough. Medical experts can diagnose cases of disability by use of a set of self-report inventories and projective tests .A study conducted showed that people suffering from congenital blindness had a faster perception of touch. Accor
Colin Dickey’s “Ghostland” as a Reflection of American History and Experience Stories about ghosts have always interested people. Some are excited whereas others are scared, but it is a rare occasion that a ghost story should leave a person indifferent. In his book, Colin Dickey describes some of the most exquisite ghost stories. However, he does so not with the aim of making the readers’ blood run cold because of the monstrous details of the ghosts’ past. *In his book, Dickey is trying to depict the American history, society, and family values through the prism of haunted places and ghosts inhabiting them. * The author divides his book into four parts, the first one being about haunted houses and mansions. Here, Dickey gives an account of some of the most well-known haunted houses in the country. While describing the haunted house at Salem, Massachusetts, the author calls the place “home to the most famous miscarriages of justice” in the country’s early history (21). Dickey pays much attention to the historical period in which the house was built and the events which took place in it. The writer says that this house, whose only significant outer feature is color (“it’s painted entirely in matte black”), was a witness of the late seventeenth-century events when many people underwent execution after witchcraft trials (21). Dickey spends some time retelling the visitors’ experiences, but he is more attentive to depicting the atmosphere of the period in the country’s life. He mentions that Salem has been a personification of a “contradiction in the bedrock of American consciousness,” in which religiousness was combined with hypocrisy (25). The author notes that the house bears a “stain of the past” which is difficult to remove (26). The second part of the book is about haunted business places such as hotels and restaurants. In these chapters, Dickey is explaining what tremendous impact society roles have on people. What is more important, he draws the audience’s attention to racial issues by raising a question about black ghosts (115). Dickey emphasizes that ghost narrations sometimes are the only way to speak about things from history which “people don’t want to hear” (115). The author mentions that in spite of our belief in ghosts, “the dead are watching” us, and there is no way of escaping punishment for our evil deeds (117). According to Dickey, narrations about ghosts are a part of the nation’s “oral tradition” which reflects “the knowledge and the folklore” (110). Hotels and restaurants are frequently haunted because due to the nature of such establishments, many people visit them, each having a different story and personal secrets. In the third part, Dickey describes haunted public places such as cemeteries and prisons. These places, by their nature, are inhabited by many dead people and even more stories about them. There is not much need to create a sinister feeling about the places of burial or torture since they have always been associated with tragic and sad events. In his book, Dickey is depicting the atmosphere of Moundsville prison to explain to the audience how not only the inmate
Introduction One of the things that people in the modern age shares with their ancient counterpart is their inquisitiveness regarding their destiny. The fact that there is limited information to go by, has not dampened man’s spirits but rather fanned the flame on his quest to demystify his destiny. Since the advent of time, theories and speculations have existed concerning the end of the world. Prophesies have over the years been made predicting the end of the world. However, most of this prophesies are soaked in religious ideologies and therefore elicit a lot of skeptics to their declarations. While most of these apocalyptic prophesies have proved to be fallacies, there exist others which appear to be more credible and evoke our interest in present times. The Mayan 2012 prophesy is one of the greatest plausible end-time prophesies of modern times. This is partially because it makes scientifically verifiable assertions. History of the Mayans Calendar system One of the great ancient civilizations known to man is that of the Mayan people. These people had a well developed writing system which made use of phonetics and ideograms. However, most of their written works perished with the disappearance of the civilization. The Mayan calendar is one of the most important relics from the Mayan civilization. It is widely contended that one of the greatest Mayan accomplishment was the creation of their intricate calendar system. Calendars were based on astronomical events such as the cycles of the sun, moon and planets. This heavenly body’s movement established the seasons with priest-astronomers pronouncing the advent of each new period. As such, this calendar was the center of the life and culture of the Mayan people. Anderson (2007), articulates that the Mayans wrote accurately depicting the Earth’s rotation around the sun in 365.24 and in addition to this documented the movement of planets that were in that age undiscovered. The Mayan people had three calendar systems. Of particular interest is their long count calendar which was based on a cycle of an estimated 5000 years. Ettington (2005, p. 36) asserts that “This calendar is a massive and highly accurate list of astronomical events and seasonal occurrences such as solstices and equinoxes.” It is advanced that the current long count calendar started counting down in the year 3114BC and will end in the year 2012 AD. It is predicted that the world will come to an end at the same time as when the calendar finishes its cycle. This is based on the fact that the sun will have aligned itself to the center of the Milky Way galaxy. While scientists acknowledge that this galactic alignment will occur as per the Mayan calendar, the consequences are controversial and they form the backbone of the 2012 prophesies which deduce and extrapolate the phenomena surrounding the sun aligning itself with the galactic center. Consequences of the Sun’s Alignment There are various consequences that are predicted to occur as