Critical Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Critical Analysis - Essay Example Healthcare expenditure of the United States constituted almost 17% of the GDP. Healthcare costs rise at a rate faster than the income of the nation. Healthcare costs are expected to rise in future. A control in the rise is the need of the hour as healthcare costs are negatively affecting the growth and economic stability of the nation. Even though health care systems of America are benefited from the investments in healthcare, the heavy increase in healthcare costs, increasing federal deficit and the general economic slowdown are negatively affecting them. Medicare, Medicaid and other health-insurance coverage sponsored by employers are extremely burdened with increasing healthcare costs. Family premiums available for healthcare coverage sponsored by employees also increased, putting trouble on workers as well as employers. Income of workers is growing at a fast rate when healthcare costs are increasing at a fast rate. Medicare and Medicaid and other government systems contribute a b ig chunk of healthcare expenses. However, compared to private insurance government programs are increasing at a slow rate. Enrolment in government programs have increased significantly because of economic recession. Expenditures of government programs have increased considerably these days. The high spending figures is putting government programs under great pressure. Affordable Care Act or The Patient Protection Affordable Care Act signed by US president in 2010 is considered as a highly beneficial healthcare reform (Mantel 221). It is a far-reaching and useful healthcare reform. It is expected to bring good result like what Medicare did. This Act makes the Health and Human Services (HHS) department to offer essential health benefits to people. These benefits should be dispensed through health plans, covering the plans that include in the health insurance markets. However, this process that extends

The Omnivore Versus the Forest Essay Example for Free

The Omnivore Versus the Forest Essay The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan describes the everyday struggle between the omnivore and its food choices. The omnivore’s dilemma comes about every time the omnivore becomes hungry. There is the question of â€Å"What do I want to eat? † for each meal. Pollan believes that the omnivore has three main food chains: the industrial (corn), the pastoral (grass), and the personal (forest). I chose Part III Personal of The Omnivore’s Dilemma. The personal food chain is where the hunter-gatherer finds their food within the forest. I will be reviewing chapters 15 through 17, The Forager, The Omnivore’s Dilemma, and The Ethics of Eating Animals. The Omnivore’s Dilemma offers an interesting insight of the omnivore overall however, does it meet my common expectations of readability, storyline development, and maintaining interest. The way a book reads in terms of words and language used is readability. When an author uses uncommon or unknown words throughout, it affects the way the book reads. When I am constantly looking up words that are unfamiliar or I cannot determine from the context, I lose interest. The constant stopping distracts from how it reads. There were a few words I did not know such as chanterelle and surfeit. Chanterelle turns out to be a species of mushroom, which I was able to determine from the context of the paragraph. I had to stop to look up surfeit, which means an intemperate or immoderate indulgence in something. Overall chapters 15 through 17 have great readability. Storyline development is another important aspect of a book. The story must gradually build onto itself without becoming stagnant. A storyline that builds to climax fast and leaves the rest of the story with nothing or a storyline that takes forever to develop will ensure that I will stop reading. Chapters 15 through 17 add to the storyline of The Omnivore’s Dilemma. Chapter 15 starts with the gatherer or forager. Pollan begins with his gathering experience of helping his mother collect clams, berries, and beach plums during childhood. He then adds to the storyline with his adulthood experience gathering in the forest for mushrooms to getting his hunting license. Chapter 16 builds into how the omnivore’s dilemma applies to the hunter-gatherer. Pollan explains how the omnivore overcomes the defenses of plants and animals and thus creates the dilemma. Chapter 17 then adds in the how the omnivore feels about eating animals, how the vegetarian chooses how to eat, how animals suffer (both being hunted and farm animals), the happiness of farm animals, the extreme vegetarian – the vegan, and the clean kill. The last aspect of a book is maintaining interest. I will only read a book if my interest is peaked and maintained throughout. Maintaining my interest is the culmination of the other two aspects: readability and storyline. The first three chapters of Part III have some interesting parts however, my interest went in waves. Chapter 15 was the most interesting of the three chapters. Pollan held my interest by providing some background and telling his story of the first attempts at foraging. Chapters 16 and 17 did not hold my interest at all. I had to force myself to keep reading. The Omnivore’s Dilemma met two of the three common expectations I have for reading books. Unfortunately, the book was not able to hold my attention as expected. A book can read well and have a good developed storyline but if it fails to keep me interested, I will never finish the book. The interesting insight The Omnivore’s Dilemma provides is not enough for me to keep reading.

Make Up Artists In Movies

Make Up Artists In Movies From massive scars and head wounds to flawless skin and supermodel good looks, many actors have only one person to thank the make up artist. All sorts of cinematic magic have relied on the skill and imagination of the movie make-up artists. Depending on the ideas and thoughts of the director and the script, film make-up artists made need to put their skills to the test and push the boundaries in order to get the perfect look. Make up artists need to be able to adapt from creating a sophisticated, high fashion look to showing an actor who has aged 50 years, has an injury or even looks like an alien or cartoon character. From the earliest days of the movies, make-up artists have had to combine their art with film-making technology. Actors in silent films, for example, had heavy yellow make-up to compensate for the monochromatic film that was insensitive to the red end of the light spectrum. Today, make up techniques and computer-generated images come together to create visions like Spock ears from Star Trek and Hellboys red facial prosthetic. Behind the magic on the screen, the world of a make-up artist is a demanding one. These facial masks can take hours to create just to be used in a very short seen in a movie, yet the movies would not be half as effective without these characteristics. Responsibilities of a Movie Make-up Artist The responsibilities of a movie make-up artist vary depending on the type of work and level of responsibility that the make-up artist has. Hollywood union regulations classify movie make-up artists based on the area of the actors body being made up: A make-up artist is allowed to apply cosmetics only from the top of the head to the top of the breastbone, from fingertips to wrists and from toes to ankles. A body make-up artist applies cosmetics as required to any other areas of the actors body. While the regular make-up artist generally works throughout filming, the body make-up artist is hired per day when needed. Different Make-Up Artists and their Role in the Film The key make-up artist is in charge of the make-up department for a movie. They decide what will be the best approach to the make up of a certain character and make sure that this idea is seen through. During pre-production, the head make-up artist reads the script and meets with the director and screenwriter to discuss their needs and ideas for the films make up. This is done to make sure the final product shown in post-production is the same as the starting idea. The key make-up artist also will work with the main hair designer, costume designer, set designer and director of lighting throughout the film. Together they will discuss exactly what is that needs to be done in order to pull the make up off successfully. The head of make-up then researches and determines how to design the make-up and special make-up effects for the film. They will often need to work with special effects companies in order to pull off some harsher make up looks (such as scars, major wounds on limbs, major disfiguration of a body part etc.) The key make-up artist also hires the additional make-up artists needed, sets the work schedule and supervises the make up team during production. The senior make-up artist oversees the work of the other make-up artists and usually become primarily responsible for the actions of all the make-up artists. This means making sure that actors make-up remains the same or changes as filming requires, such as the addition of scars after an accident or evidence of aging as the film progresses. This job is vital in a film and needs the artist to be 100% focused, commuted and knowledgeable about the script. Make-up artists do the actual work in making actors looks match the designs set for the movie. They also apply and touch up the make-up when necessary. Assistant make-up artists handle lower-level make-up chores such as fixing up mistakes in the make-up and assisting the make-up artists. Working as a Make-up Artist in Movies Working as a movie make-up artist means starting work very early in the day and working for very long periods of time. During daily production, the make-up artists need to be at the location before dawn each day to lay out supplies, get prepared for the actors and set up any other special equipment for each specific actor. The movie make-up artists work off a schedule of make-up, hair and wardrobe calls for each actor. The assistant director sets the schedule, based on the scenes to be shot that day and passes it out late the day before. This then lets all the different departments know what exactly will need to be done that day and how many hours they will be working for. Each film make-up artist is assigned specific actors to look after. The make-up artist will have detailed notes, sketches and photos as reference to help achieve the right look for their actor. Throughout the day, the make-up artist or an assistant will touch up the actors make-up and change it as required by the scenes being filmed at that time. Achieving the right look can be a time-consuming process, particularly if the make-up includes special effects Hellboys make-up took four hours everyday with only short breaks in between for the actor. Foam pieces covered the actors back, chest and head. Once everything was on, the suit had to be painted and hair was added. Imagine having to go through this process every single day? At the end of the filming day, another long process has to begin for the make-up artists. The make-up artist has to remove all the actors make-up, hairpieces, prosthetic facial features (if any were used) and other effects and store them all so they are easy to find the following morning. While working as a make-up artist can be grueling but fun, movie jobs are not easy to find for most people and it is very difficult to break into the market of films. Becoming an experienced make-up artist means starting at the bottom, as an assistant. From there, an aspiring make-up artist has to work his/her way up the ladder by learning on the job, as well as building a strong portfolio of work and gaining a reputation with directors, actors and key make-up artists. For some it may take years to be able to achieve what they set out to achieve while for others luck and pure, raw talent may be enough to win them the job in a higher ranking. Becoming a Make-Up Artist Just like any other job in the film industry, youll need knowledge, experience, skill, luck and the right contacts in order to make your mark. For starters, you shall want to consider the right education. The best way to start off would be through a cosmetology school. You may even consider an art school if you wish to work with the prosthetic side of the movie make-up world. These schools often include a movie make-up course in their curriculum and also can give you the chance to learn more about the film-making industry and how to become apart of it. In addition to this, schools with a film focus may be able to help you get internships, jobs and make contacts with potential clients. Once completed, you will have to pass a state licensing exam. This will give you the license to work as a registered make-up artist. Student films can give you a start on your work portfolio, which will be a valuable tool in seeking work and becoming successful in finding a job. Make-up artists and directors will then be able to sift through your portfolio to see what you are able to do and can therefore decide where to go from their. Major Hollywood feature films require union membership which is unlike independent films. Although school will give you a good heads start, your training really will come from working in the industry itself. That may mean starting off with make-up in television or theatre, or even starting as an assistant to an already established make-up artist. By being on a set working with make-up challenges, youll learn how production works and pick up tips on how to be effective as a make-up artist. With solid training behind you, a strong portfolio and your eyes to the future, you should be ready to create some movie make-up magic of your own.

Rate of Chemical Reaction between Magnesium and Hydrochloric Acid :: Papers

Rate of Chemical Reaction between Magnesium and Hydrochloric Acid Aim: - ====== I plan to investigate the effect of temperature, to see if it increases or decreases the rate of reaction between magnesium and hydrochloric acid. Prediction: - ============= I predict that as the temperature of the hydrochloric acid increases, the quicker the rate of reaction will be. This is due to the molecules in the hydrochloric acid gaining energy from the heat. Consequently, the molecules have increased kinetic energy, which will produce more activation energy. The particles will have more successful collisions resulting in a faster reaction rate. No heat Heat present Lines of reaction [IMAGE] Mg turnings Beaker [IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE] Hcl [IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE][IMAGE] The above diagram show that when there is more heat present there are more lines of reaction than if there was less heat. This is due to the number of successful collisions being far greater when the hydrochloric acid is heated. I predict also that if I did a graph showing the volume of gas against time it would look like the following. [IMAGE] From the above graph you can see that when the Time Increases the volume of gas being produced goes up, then it levels off. It levels off because the volume of hydrogen gas being produced is slowing down because all the magnesium and hydrochloric acid is being used up. Fair test ========= In order to keep my experiment as fair as possible I will have to make sure I keep the following factors the same: - Volume of acid (25cm3) Mass of Magnesium (0.1g) I will make sure the gas syringe is connected correctly and securely to the side arm conical, so no hydrogen gas can escape. I will start the syringe at 0 for each run. Also I would make sure to put the bung on quickly, to prevent the hydrogen gas escaping.

Representations of Either Male or Female Characters Essay

In the films I studied, (A clockwork Orange, From Russia with love, Carry on camping and a Hard days night) women are represented in similar ways but in very different circumstances. Firstly in A Clockwork Orange, women are seen as an objectified sexual obsession to the male gang. In almost every seen of the film women are presented in one way shape or form for example in the bar with the erotic, female shaped tables or the posters of women on the walls in Alex’s room. On the topic Kubrick has previously said â€Å"In the film, women are the ultimate harbingers of sexual desire, and it is only them who can suppress it. This power leaves the male ‘Droogs’ inwardly feeling threatened, which in part leads to cowardly rape.† I feel this quote explains the representation of females in the film perfectly as Alex, a man who feels he has great power over the rest of society, is surrounded by women and is always met with his sexual desire for them; Although the idea of sex in A Clockwork Orange is not an expression of love or intimacy, but rather an exhibition of power and violence. In this case Alex feels that to remain ‘powerful’ over everyone else he needs to use women as a object to satisfy his growing needs for power. In From Russia with Love, women are again seen as a object and are infamously named ‘the Bond Girls’ showing how in the larger scale there roles are minor compared to the ‘amazing’ Mr Bond. The opening title to the film shows barely clothed belly dancers dancing and parading there bodies to the Bond theme tune, showing how there bodies are more important then the woman herself. Throughout the film it is apparent that women are only good for a number of tasks: giving massages to the male characters, belly dancing and for casual sex and even then its when the man wants and not the woman. Despite this, in the film the female lead Tatiana played by Daniela Bianchi, shows woman’s slowly growing power and independence, for example Tatiana smoking representing the freedom that she perhaps now felt, although she is sitting down and Bond is standing over her, clearly in a position of more power. It is felt that the woman in the film are constantly being overlooked by men for example Tatiana killing the villain, which in normal circumstances would make her the ‘hero’ in the film, but this is undermined by the way Bond immediately takes the gun off her, as though it does not belong with her or she is not safe with it. In the film A Hard Days Night whenever the The Beatles perform, the members of the band are all distinguished as four individual, male characters. This massively contrasts with the role of women in the film, as there have been no main female characters; women are either portrayed as screaming, uncontrollable girls or again as sex objects. The idea behind this shows that women have no individuality in the film and are really only there to worship, flirt or to sexually satisfy the boys in the band. Finally the idea of women being perceived as objects is again mirrored in the final film Carry On camping, where the women are seen as objects for the men to flirt with and pursue in a sexual manner. Although Carry on camping differs from the previous films as there are several female characters which are seen to have hierarchy over certain male characters. For example the character Harriet Potter had the power in the relationship and often bossed her husband around in a comical manner. Overall in all the films it is obvious that women are often being represented as objects to satisfy mens needs and don’t serve a real purpose in any of the films and if they do it is only in a comical manner to retrieve laughter from the audience.

Contempt of Court essays

Contempt of Court essays In this age of computers and fax machines, we as a people have devised and set up laws that protect us and keep us on the right track. However these laws and rights that each American shares and enjoys today, have not always existed. Common people, who were forced to face injustices and were railroaded by the system because at that time, no one before them sought to challenge the laws or there was no need to change them, has fought them for. Even though, these laws were changed and new ones were put in their place back in the early part of this century, when they were still new, there was still a problem. Some of these laws and rights were somehow looked over when the subject of race came up. For example, in the book Contempt of Court, Leroy Phillips and Mark Curriden tell about the story of Ed Johnson. Johnson was a black man who lived in Chattanooga at the turn of the century. Now, Johnson himself was not really of any importance. He didnt invent a new way of picking cotton or disc over a cure for some prevalent disease that was sweeping the countryside, nothing like that at all. In fact he was a nobody, just a common person, with a poor education to boot. The only thing that is important about Johnson is his case, State of Tennessee v. Johnson, in which Ed Johnson was accused of the crime of rape, but not just raping anyone, a white woman, and not just any white woman, but a young, white woman in the South at the turn of the century. Johnson, being a black man and being accused of such a heinous crime did not win him any fans, which is the reason for the importance of this case. Because he was black and it was early in the century only forty years after the Civil War, the people of Chattanooga were outraged and wanted quick justice. They didnt really care if they had the right man as long as he was black and somewhat fit the description of the perpetrator. This is part of the reason that Johnsons case is...

Fur Trade essays

Fur Trade essays When the Europeans came to America, there were fur-bearings animals everywhere. The best quality of furs came from the north, the reason why, is because in the north the animals needed a thicker coat to protect themselves from the harsher winter. The Indians were only hunting the fur-bearing animals for food, and for the fur for clothing, but since they didnt hunt them for sport the population of the animals remained fairly steady. Later on, when the Europeans arrived, they wanted as many furs as they could get, and soon after the population of animals declined greatly in many areas. The earliest fur traders in North America were French explorers and fishermen who arrived in what is now Eastern Canada during the early 1500's. Trade started after the French offered the Indians kettles, knives, and other gifts as a means to establish friendly relations. The Indians, in turn, gave pelts to the French. By the late 1500's, a great demand for fur had developed in Europe. This demand encouraged further exploration of North America. The demand for beaver increased rapidly in the early 1600s; when fashionable European men began to wear felt hats made from beaver fur. Such furs as fox, marten, mink, and otter also were traded. In 1608, the French explorer Samuel de Champlain established a trading post on the site of the present-day city Quebec. The city became fur-trading centre. The French expanded their trading activities along the St. Lawrence River and around the Great Lakes. They eventually controlled most of the early fur trade in what became Canada. The French traders obtained furs from the Huron Indians and, later, from the Ottawa. These tribes were not trappers, but they acquired the furs from other Indians. The French also developed the fur trade along the Mississippi River. There was a great chain of people who were involved in the fur-trade and everyone had a different task to do. They worked very hard to a ...

Fashion in the 1970s essays

Fashion in the 1970s essays Throughout the 20th Century, fashion has been a major influence in the United States. It has helped people express their beliefs in a controlled manner and shaped the way for womens rights. Each decade has had a profound effect in todays world, but one decade that really stands out is the ME decade, also known as the 1970s. Fashion in the 1970s was a way for people, especially women, to express their feelings about the times and the changes that were happening around them. Before understanding the fashions of the 1970,s it is important to look back and understand how fashion started in the first place. In the beginning of humanity, people were only interested in their survival. In order to survive man needed food and shelter. When it became cold, some migrated to warmer places. Others found techniques for keeping warm, such as clotheing and fire. Those who could not adapt died from statvation or exposure. Clothing was part of human culture. Fashion began as a way to keep warm, and protect the body from outside things such as weather, sharp rocks and plants. Initially humans wrapped themselves in animal skins, later they laced the skins together with strips of leather. Just as history tells people about the life of humanity, fashion tells us about history. During early civilization of ancient Egypt we have learned through the discovery of the tombs found in the pyramids how the people of that time dressed. Women wore jewelry, perfume and make-up. Most people wore linen clothes. Women wore shawls and sheer ankle-length dresses. During this, time levels of class became important. Members of the upper class, middle class and the lower class all dressed differently. Even today, the class of people can be determined by what they wear. Throughout humanity, man has been wearing clothes. At first, it was for warmth and survival reasons, but later it became someth...

Fashion Assignment - Armani Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Fashion Assignment - Armani - Essay Example The essay "Fashion Assignment - Armani" concerns Giorgio Armani's fashion. To best understand the brand design architecture of Giorgio Armani, we fist need to create an understanding of the environment in which it operates. Armani has diversified into many brand facets, adding more levels to its brands pyramid, with the original Giorgio Armani still at the apex. This shows the pride which it wishes to create for its parent brand, while forwarding its legacy down to the following brands. The setting up of standards is very crucial for Armani, as whenever, a new brand is launched, it is overseen to be aligned with the set standards of the parent brand itself. Giorgio Armani (at the top of the grid) is a very successful and elite corporate brand with a sole proprietorship; being the first in line showcasing the exquisite collection of couture gowns and suits to match the new fashion trends, targeting the segment of the elite class groups between the age of 35 – 50 with a high ran ge of prices and superior quality. While targeting the elite class, the line of Armani brands has made sure to target the upper middle class as well. The Armani Collizioni, caters to the segment of customers who love Armani as a brand but cannot afford the originally luxurious Armani and so Collizioni incorporates lower prices than that of its parent brand with a little simpler designs in order to sell to this segment of population. Similarly, Armani exchange caters to a very different and casual market grouping with realistic prices., unlike their couture lines. It is for the general public to take pride in wearing Armani and to create an association with the parent brand. Armani exchange is the most affordable and accessible brand in the Armani chain of stores. To be noted here, is Armani’s way of targeting each and every segment in the market while also not decreasing the perceived value and luxurious image of the brand. Each and every segment is targeted with a new name a long with the originally created legacy of its parent Brand (Magnoni & Roux, 2011). Going totally diverse from its initial offerings, Armani features a furniture line named as Armani Casa which entails the alluring Armani pride while offering high-end home decor; magnificently designed furniture, lamps, linens and fine dining essentials. In contrast to its other brands, Casa has only 40 stores worldwide which shows their lack of focus towards their range of furnishings. However, to make its furniture line more exclusive, all Armani hotels and Cafe’s are furnished with its own brand Casa (Giorgioarmani.com, 2012). Armani emphasizes greatly on its logo and towards creating its brand image, this is exceptionally evident through its efforts of framing the brand luxury and stressing on the brand name in all its sub brands. For clothing Armani has made sure to cover all market segments with naming its stores differently, however, the parent brand still has been associated with the new store names (Tungate, 2008). Brand Architecture The brand architecture of Armani communicates its marketing philosophy. The way Armani caters to all market segments is by highlighting the uniqueness of the brand itself and through appealing to different population segments based on their personalities (Magnoni &

Project Management - Forming the Project Team Research Paper

Project Management - Forming the Project Team - Research Paper Example Therefore, Royal Tires & More Inc. will need to create and fill the roles or positions of accountants who will handle the accounting duties as well as the payroll, inventory manager/ supervisor or a store manager, who will be in-charge of the company’s inventory, cashiers who will use the point of sales system. In addition, the implementation of the new system will require Royal Tires & More Inc. to have mechanics who will use the customer and vendor management system while transacting with the customer on a face-to-face basis. According to Barry and Jamie (2004), a well-qualified accountant should be a certified public accountant, whom must have undergone an accountancy course and passed, and therefore he or she is well conversant with all accounting duties that range from financial accounting, tax accounting, and even the preparation of the payroll. In the case of Royal Tires & More Inc., they will require accountants who have knowledge and experience in using accounting software such as Sage, QuickBooks, or Pastel, and even payroll software. The accountants should have at least a work experience of one to two years. The store managers who will be in-charge of the inventory should have a knowledge on store keeping or inventory management, secondly they should be conversant with the use of inventory management software such as NetSuite. In addition, the store managers should also have a one to two years experience (Kieso et al. 2007). Thirdly, there is no specific qualification for the cashiers and they may even be recruited from amongst the mechanics who are good in calculations and are fast learners. There will be no experience required for this role as it not complex and even using the point of sale system does not involve any complexity. Lastly, the mechanics should have qualifications in the field of mechanical engineering with at least one and a half years of experience. As for the use of the customer

Personal Challenge Experience Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Personal Challenge Experience - Essay Example I was only ten years old in a family of two children when it was evident that their relationship had turned into a sour grape and was beyond repair. At the time, I could hardly tell what was happening with between as I was asked out of the room every time their conversations took a turn. Although I was young, the memories I have are illustrative of a happy family that we were before all went south. Our parents were efficient providers and we never lacked in any way. I remember walks in the park on Sunday afternoons, as my father pushed my sister on the stroller, an indication of a happy model family. At the age of ten, one does not have an abiding opinion on with regard to family relations, and this seemed to be rubbed in my face by the fact that my parents did not consider telling me what was happening. All that happened was arguments followed by the diminishing presence of my father. It was years later that I understood the full effect of divorce and wish that the system protected me better to avoid the hurt I went through. A shared parenting plan was implemented, but I spent most of my time with mother due to my tender age until she filed and was granted sole custody. It is for this reason that I lacked a father figure to help me deal with my teenage issues and did not know anyone to turn to for the problems I had. As a result, I kept to myself and avoided all confrontation however necessary they should be. I grew dejected and weary by the day, pulling away from society as my emotions raged within me. I was angry that my parents placed a burden on me to choose who I interacted with among them. I was not ready for the sudden change of lifestyle and I resulted to hating them for the choices they made. Violent outbursts initiated by the existence of happy families existed around me became norm since I failed to understand how this came to be. I lost friend following tantrums and to make matters worse, boys picked on me, calling names and teasing me at every opp ortunity. Feelings of rejection, loneliness, and dejection characterised the period following my parents’ divorce. My grades flopped and not a week passed with a visit to the principal’s office. I recall cutting classes, hiding in empty halls and wishing that the nightmare would end. Ignorance seemed to have saved me from the harm I craved as revenge over society. I remember contemplating the death of all smiling faces around me and I all that lacked was the means to implement. Great emotional turmoil ruled my social life and sought refuge in activities that I deemed to relief my condition. Great emotional turmoil ruled my social life and sought refuge in activities that I deemed to relief my condition, which saw locked doors to avoid mother. In my view, my parents showed no compassion in their decision to part ways and thus she had no right to ‘pretend’ she cared. However, she extended her concerns to my school where after a full report on my performance and behaviour, it was recommended that I attend counselling sessions. Following sessions with the school’s counsellor and a contracted therapist, all evidence pointed to back to the divorce. I had trouble coping with the effects of the separation, which explains my behaviour. The healing process proved long, but effective although I held nothing except remorse for the events

Corporate governance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Corporate governance - Essay Example bility and performance of the product and services are sustained and improved so that firms are not only able to retain existing customers but also attract new consumers. Thus risk management through effective governance, innovation, knowledge management and value addition become critical elements for protecting and sustaining the value of the products for consumers. All people directly or indirectly associated with the company are called stakeholders. Thus, customers, employees, shareholders, creditors, debtors, suppliers, regulators action groups etc. all become stakeholders in the company as they are, one way or another, affected by the business’ activities (Solomon, 2007. The identification of various stakeholders is important they are linkages that significantly impact the performance of the firm and promote development of society in general. In the contemporary environment of competitive business, the firms are not only motivated by financial benefits but play wider roles in the development of the society as a whole. Various stakeholders ensure that the business is having positive impact on the wider imperatives of social causes like environment, better HR practices, effective CSR practices etc. The analysis of stakeholders also helps the firm to proactively support the community welfare and at the same time, meet the changing preferences of the customers, thereby significantly impacting it productive outcome and improving its image and credibility amongst the stakeholders. The corporate governance gatekeepers are people who are in position to influence the decisions and activities of the management for improved and ethically delivered objectives and goals of the company. The main gatekeepers of the firm are: independent and competent board; independent and competent auditors; objective and competent legal council; and competent financial advisors. The responsibilities of different gatekeepers is to ensure that board is given the right advice regarding

Alzheimer's disease relate to aging Research Paper

Alzheimer's disease relate to aging - Research Paper Example This document examines the prevalence of Alzheimer’s among the elderly persons and the resources available in Marshall County for helping the victims of the condition. As persons advance in age, the body undergoes various changes in their brains and results to dementias (UCSF Memory and Aging Center, 2014). For example, the brain shrinks that occur in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The shrinking of the brain interferes with memory, learning, planning, etc. The changes in neurons and neurotransmitters can degrade the white matter and result to reduction in communication (UCSF Memory and Aging Center, 2014). In some instances, plagues and tangles structures develops outside and inside of the neurons respectively thus causing the brain cells to stop working and eventually die thus causing failure of memory, change in characters and complications with carry out day to day activities (Swaab et al., 2011). Also, changes in blood vessels occur with age, resulting to reduced blood flow due to narrowing of the arteries and less growth of new capillaries. With age, there is an increase in brain inflammation and increase in damages caused by free rad icals that interfere with normal functioning of the brain (Swaab et al., 2011). The changes in brain that occurs with age are the most likely cause of Alzheimer’s among the elderly persons. The most notable change in brain with age is atrophy or the shrinking of some parts of the brain, the secretion on wobbly molecules known as free radicals, the brain inflammation and dysfunction of the mitochondrial resulting to collapse of generation of energy within the cells (Swaab et al., 2011). Various studies have established that five percent of persons with Alzheimer’s occur due to inherited factors from the parents. An example is the familial Alzheimer’s disorder caused by alterations occurring in one of the inheritable genes in human

Critical Summaries Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Critical Summaries - Essay Example Mimics and gestures are also predetermined by culture. At the same time, some facial expressions are universal. Russell (1991) considers different points of view and recognizes limitations of his study. Provided literature review clearly explains different approaches to emotion categorization. Significance of culture and language in emotion cognition become clear when Russell (1991) supports them with examples and observations. This article becomes the point of departure for further research in sociocultural aspect of emotions. The article The Construction of Emotion in Interactions, Relationships, and Cultures by Boiger and Mesquita (2012) presents the main argument that emotions are constructed in the process of social interactions. Authors list three main contexts of interactions which can be moment-to-moment, ongoing relationships and sociocultural. Moment-to-moment interactions motivate emotional responses in people which become parts of ongoing relationships that exist in bigger sociocultural context. All these contexts define uniqueness and character of emotional response people express in the process of communication. Boiger and Mesquita (2012) oppose naturalist models which define emotions as universal, invariant and innate programs. Their line of reasoning relies on developmental psychology which studies emotion formation in infants and adults. For instance, infants develop their in the process of interaction with their caregivers. Being in relationships, people do not only express their emotions, but share them. As a result, their emotions adapt to the kind of relationships they have. Finally, sociocultural context often defines expected emotional responses in particular situations. Overall, Boiger and Mesquita (2012) back their argument referring to other relevant research with makes their article persuasive. They present enough facts and examples to apply their theory practically and show how it works.

Corporate governance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Corporate governance - Essay Example bility and performance of the product and services are sustained and improved so that firms are not only able to retain existing customers but also attract new consumers. Thus risk management through effective governance, innovation, knowledge management and value addition become critical elements for protecting and sustaining the value of the products for consumers. All people directly or indirectly associated with the company are called stakeholders. Thus, customers, employees, shareholders, creditors, debtors, suppliers, regulators action groups etc. all become stakeholders in the company as they are, one way or another, affected by the business’ activities (Solomon, 2007. The identification of various stakeholders is important they are linkages that significantly impact the performance of the firm and promote development of society in general. In the contemporary environment of competitive business, the firms are not only motivated by financial benefits but play wider roles in the development of the society as a whole. Various stakeholders ensure that the business is having positive impact on the wider imperatives of social causes like environment, better HR practices, effective CSR practices etc. The analysis of stakeholders also helps the firm to proactively support the community welfare and at the same time, meet the changing preferences of the customers, thereby significantly impacting it productive outcome and improving its image and credibility amongst the stakeholders. The corporate governance gatekeepers are people who are in position to influence the decisions and activities of the management for improved and ethically delivered objectives and goals of the company. The main gatekeepers of the firm are: independent and competent board; independent and competent auditors; objective and competent legal council; and competent financial advisors. The responsibilities of different gatekeepers is to ensure that board is given the right advice regarding

Critical Summaries Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Critical Summaries - Essay Example Mimics and gestures are also predetermined by culture. At the same time, some facial expressions are universal. Russell (1991) considers different points of view and recognizes limitations of his study. Provided literature review clearly explains different approaches to emotion categorization. Significance of culture and language in emotion cognition become clear when Russell (1991) supports them with examples and observations. This article becomes the point of departure for further research in sociocultural aspect of emotions. The article The Construction of Emotion in Interactions, Relationships, and Cultures by Boiger and Mesquita (2012) presents the main argument that emotions are constructed in the process of social interactions. Authors list three main contexts of interactions which can be moment-to-moment, ongoing relationships and sociocultural. Moment-to-moment interactions motivate emotional responses in people which become parts of ongoing relationships that exist in bigger sociocultural context. All these contexts define uniqueness and character of emotional response people express in the process of communication. Boiger and Mesquita (2012) oppose naturalist models which define emotions as universal, invariant and innate programs. Their line of reasoning relies on developmental psychology which studies emotion formation in infants and adults. For instance, infants develop their in the process of interaction with their caregivers. Being in relationships, people do not only express their emotions, but share them. As a result, their emotions adapt to the kind of relationships they have. Finally, sociocultural context often defines expected emotional responses in particular situations. Overall, Boiger and Mesquita (2012) back their argument referring to other relevant research with makes their article persuasive. They present enough facts and examples to apply their theory practically and show how it works.

System of judging the plays in Ancient Athens Essay Example for Free

System of judging the plays in Ancient Athens Essay Do I think the system of judging the plays in Ancient Athens was a good one?  In Athens, theatre was a very important aspect, both of religion, and life for the Athenians. As it was a competition, every play would need a Judge. Or 10. Judging the plays was a very democratic system, and one that I feel was very effective.  To choose the judges, each tribe put names of citizens into a sealed urn. There were 10 tribes, each named after a mythical hero. They were:  Erechtheis – This tribe was named after the eponymous hero Erechtheus who was an early King of Athens, he was killed by Poseidon. Aegeis – Aegis was named after the hero Aegeus who was another early King of Athens, and the father of Theseus.  Pandionis – This tribe was named for the hero Pandion, who, once again, was an early King of Athens.  Leontis – Leontis was named after Leos, who was the son of Orpheus.  Akamentis – Named after Akamas who was the son of Theseus. Oineis Named after Oeneus, who was son of Dionysus.  Kekropis – Kekropis were named after the hero Kekrops who was another early King of Athens.  Hippothontis – Named for Hippothoon, who was a hero at Eleusis.  Aiantis – Aiantis was named after the great hero Aiax/Ajax who was a hero in the battle for Troy.  Antiochis – Named after Antiochos, son of Herakles. At the beginning of the Festival of Dionysia, the urns were broken open, and a name selected at random from each. The 10 people whose names were drawn, would become the Judges. This was a very good way to choose in my opinion, as it eliminated bribery (unless you were extremely rich) and you could choose to vote for yourself, or others. On the 5th day of the festival, after all the Tragedies had finished, each Judge would write down the names of the Playwrights in order of merit. The tablets were then placed in a sealed urn (again), and an Archon would draw out 5 of the 10 tablets. The Playwright with the most votes was declared the winner. There would be a separate judging for Comedy.  Overall, I think it was a fair, unbiased and very modern way of judging the plays. The democratic style of judging reflected on the City’s politicians, and was very clever, much like many other things accomplished by the Athenians.

Factors Affecting Postharvest Quality of Fresh Fruits

Factors Affecting Postharvest Quality of Fresh Fruits A ripened ovary of a flower together with any accessory part associated with, is referred to as fruit (Lewis Robert 2002). In non-technical usage the term fruit normally means the fleshy seed-associated structures of certain plants that are sweet and edible in the raw state, for example apples, oranges, grapes, strawberries and bananas (Mauseth James, 2003). Fresh fruits and vegetables are living tissues which undergo continuous changes after harvest. Some of these changes are desirable, but from consumers point of view most of them are undesirable. It is not possible to stop the postharvest changes in fresh produce, but they can be retarded within certain limits (Kader, 2002). There are several atmospheric factors which affect the postharvest life of fresh fruits. Climatic conditions, specially temperature and light have a significant effect on the nutritional quality of fresh fruits and vegetables (Kader, 2002). FACTORS AFFECTING THE POSTHARVEST LIFE OF FRUIT RESPIRATION Respiration is the process by which stored organic materials are broken down into simple end products with a release of energy. During this process oxygen (O2) is consumed while carbon dioxide (CO2) is produced. All living organisms must carry out respiration at all times (Kader, 2002). Respiration Metabolism Even after the harvest, fruits and vegetables remain as living organs. Like all living tissues, harvested produce continues to respire throughout its postharvest life. The main purpose of respiration is to maintain sufficient supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).The process of aerobic respiration involves the regeneration of ATP from ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and Pi (inorganic phosphate) with the release of CO2 and H2O. In case of hexose sugar the overall reaction can be written as (Kader Saltveit, 2003) The different components in this reaction have different sources of destinations. The 1 mole of glucose (180g) can come from stored simple sugars (glucose, sucrose) or complex polysaccharides (starch). The 6 moles of O2 (192g) used to oxydize the 1 mole of glucose diffuses into the tissue from the surrounding atmosphere, while the 6 mole of CO2 (264g) diffuses out of the tissue. The 6 mole of water (108g) produced is simply incorporated into the aqueous solution of the cell.(Kader Saltveit, 2003) Aerobic respiration involeves a series of three reactions, each of which is catalyzed by a number of specific enzymes that either (i) add a phosphate group to a molecule, (ii) rearrange the molecule, or (iii) break down the molecule to a simpler one ((Biale, 1960);(Davies, 1980)). The three interconnected metabolic pathways are glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) and the electron transport system. Glycolysis The breakdown of glucose occurs in the cytoplasm, which produce two molecules of pyruvate. 10 different sequential reactions are catalysed by one enzyme. Phosphofructokinase (PFK) is the main enzyme in Glycolysis, which cleaves fructose 1, 6-diphosphate into two triose phosphate molecules. By controlling PFK activity of Glycolysis, cell can control their rate of energy production. ATP is used as a negative feedback inhibitor to control the activity of PFK (Davies, 1980). Besides pyruvate, Glycolysis also produces two molecules of ATP and two molecule of NADH (reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) from the breakdown of each molecule of glucose. Tricarboxylic Acid (TCA) Cycle The TCA cycle occur in mitochondrial matrix, involves in the breakdown of pyruvate into CO2 in nine sequential enzymatic reactions. Pyruvate is decarboxylated to form acetate, which condenses with a co enzyme to form Acetyl CoA. This compound then enters the cycle by condensation with oxaloacetate to form citric acid. Citric acid has three carboxyl groups, from which the cycle derives its name (Kader Saltveit, 2003). Through a series of seven successive rearrangements, oxidations and decarboxylations, citric acid is converted into oxaloacetate, which is then ready to accept another acetyl CoA molecule. The TCA cycle also produces one molecule of FADH2 (reduced flavin adenine dinucleotide) and four molecules of NADH for each molecule of pyruvate metabolism. Electron Transport System The electron transport system occurs in the cristae of mitochondria, results in the production of ATP from the FADH2 and NADH. The energy produced is more than the cellular process requirement. In a series of reactions, one NADH molecule produces three ATP molecules and one FADH2 molecule produces two ATP molecules, but the exact number of ATP produced during electron transport depends not only on the energy of NADH and FADH2 but also on the chemical environment within the cell and mitochondria. In the absence of O2, NADH and FADH2 accumulates, the TCA cycle stops and Glycolysis become the only source of ATP production. In anaerobic respiration hexose sugar is converted into alcohol and CO2 in the absence of O2. Pyruvate produced in Glycolysis is decarboxylated by the enzyme pyruvate carboxylase to form CO2 and acetaldehyde. The acetaldehyde is converted by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase to ethanol with regeneration of NAD+. Two moles of ATP and 21 kcal of heat energy are produced in anaerobic respiration (alcoholic fermentation) from each molecule of glucose (Kader Saltveit, 2003). Respiration Quotient (RQ) The respiration quotient (RQ) determines the amount of substrates utilized in the respiration process. In other words RQ is the ratio of CO2 produced to O2 consumed measured in mole or volumes. In the aerobic respiration of carbohydrates the RQ is near 1, while is 1 for organic acids. Very high RQ values usually indicate anaerobic respiration in those tissues which produce ethanol. GAS EXCHANGE Barrier to Diffusion Gas exchange between a plant organ and its environment follows Ficks first law of diffusion. The sequential steps are (i) diffusion in the gas phase through the dermal system (i.e. cuticle, epidermis, stomata etc.); (ii) diffusion in the gas phase between the intercellular spaces; (iii) exchange of gases between the intercellular atmosphere and the cellular solution (cell sap) and (iv) diffusion in solution within the cell to centres of O2 consumption and from centers of CO2 production. This exchange is a function of the resistance of the dermal system to gas diffusion, the surface area across which diffusion can take place etc. CO2 produced within each cell will raise the local concentration and this will drive diffusion of CO2 outward, toward the lower concentration near the cell-wall surface adjacent to the intercellular space. Diffusion of CO2 into intercellular space continues toward regions of lower concentration until it reaches the intercellular space below the dermal system. From there, CO2 moves through the cuticle or openings in the commoditys surface to the air (Burton, 1982). Movement of O2 within plant tissue is in a reverse but similar process to that mentioned above for CO2. In senescent tissue, O2 diffusion may be slowed down if the intercellular spaces become filled with cellular solution that anaerobic conditions develop within tissues. The rate of gas movement depends on the properties of gas molecule and the physical properties of the barriers (thickness, density etc.). Solubility and diffusivity of each gas are important for its diffusion across barrier. CO2 moves more readily than O2, while diffusion rate of C2H4 and CO2 are similar. Internal concentration of CO2 and O2 in plant organs depend upon the maturity stage at harvest, the current organ temperature, the composition of external atmosphere and any additional barrier. Maturity stage influences the dermal system that effects gas diffusion. Increased temperature results raised rate of respiration as a result internal CO2 level increases as the O2 level decreases. If all other factors are held constant and the movement in the gas concentrations is the driving force for diffusion, then the concentration of O2 and CO2 within the tissue will fluctuate according to the fluctuation in the external atmosphere. Methods to Alter rates of Gas Exchange There are three types of barriers to gas exchange that affect the postharvest handling of fresh produce (Fig. 1). These are (i) the structure of the dermal system such as thickness of cuticle, number and distribution of stomata and breaks in epidermis etc. Resistance to gas diffusion can be increased by adding barrier such as wax coating or covering produce with polymeric films. (ii) The package in which the commodity is shipped can be additional barrier to gas diffusion. (iii) The degree of gas tightness of the transit vehicle or storage room will also affect gas exchange with outside air. Schematic model of a commodity and its environment with three levels of gas exchange: B1=structure of dermal system and added barriers (waxing and film wrapping), B2= Permeability of package to gas diffusion, and B3 = gas tightness of the storage room Source: (Kader Saltveit, 2003) Ficks first law of diffusion states that the movement or flux of a gas in or out of a plant tissue depends on the concentration gradient across the barrier involved, the surface area of the barrier and the resistance of the barrier to the diffusion. Ficks law can be written as follows: J = A. ΆC/R Where J =Total flux of gas to be diffused (cm3.s-1) ΆC= Concentration gradient across the barrier A=the surface area of the barrier R= Resistance to diffusion If the production or consumption rate of the gas by the organ and the concentration of the gas in the internal and external atmosphere is known, then the resistance is calculated as follows: R = Concentration gradient/ Production or consumption rate Different harvested fruits and vegetables have different rates of respiration; some respire at a faster rate (more perishable), while some respire at a relatively slow rate (less perishable vegetables) (Table 1). Table 1: Classification of Sample Horticultural Commodities According to Respiration Rates (Wilson, 1999). Respiration Rates Types of Fruits and Vegetables Very Low Dried fruit and nuts Low Apples, garlic, grapes, onions, potatoes (mature), sweet potatoes Moderate Apricots, cabbages, carrots, figs (fresh), lettuce, nectarines, peaches, pears, peppers, plums, potatoes (immature), tomatoes High Artichokes, Brussels sprouts, cut flowers, green onions, snap beans Extremely High Asparagus, broccoli, mushrooms, peas, sweet corn The process of respiration is very important during ripening of fruit. In general there is an inverse relation between the rate of respiration and the postharvest life of fruit. Postharvest produce are classified according to their respiration rate as climacteric or non- climacteric. The rate of respiration increases in climacteric fruits during ripening while non-climacteric fruit shows no change in their low CO2 and ethylene production rates during ripening (Kader, 2002). If prevention or decrease in respiration is achieved, this will prolong post-harvest storage life. Ethylene causes the increase in respiration, so decreasing ethylene is also a strategy used to increase post-harvest storage life. Factors affecting respiration rate Environmental Factors Temperature Temperature is important environmental factor in the postharvest life of fresh produce due to its outstanding effect on rates of biological reactions, including respiration. Within the physiological temperature range, the velocity of biological reaction increases two to threefold for every 10  °C rise in temperature (Vant Hoff rule). The ratio of reaction rates at two dissimilar temperatures is called the temperature coefficient (Q10) if the interval between the two temperatures is 10oC. If the temperature interval of Q10 is not exactly 10o C then it can be determined by the following equation: Q10 = (R2/ R1) 10/T2-T1 Where R2 = rate of respiration at T2 R1 = rate of respiration at T1 T1 and T2 = temperature in  °C Scientists have found that Q10 is not constant for most biological processes over a wide range of physiological temperatures. Usually Q10 ranges from 1 to 5, although higher value may occur. For most biological reaction the Q10 is between 2 and 3 for temperature between 10 to 30  °C that means the reaction rate will be double or triple with every 10  °C increase. O2 and CO2 Concentration Practically, respiration can be controlled by either increasing carbon dioxide or decreasing oxygen. Decrease in oxygen near to zero is not desirable, though the O2 concentration reduces below that in air (20.9%) and especially below 10%, a significant reduction in respiration rate is observed (Gorny, 2001). However when O2 concentration drops to less than 2 %, anaerobic respiration rate become predominant and CO2 production increases. (Figure 2) (Kader Saltveit, 2003). Ethylene Concentration Exposure of climacteric tissues during their pre-climacteric stage to ethylene raises the rate of respiration. Once the respiration rise has begun, the endogenous rate of ethylene production increases and the internal ethylene concentration also increases, reaching levels that saturate its biological activity. However, unlike the case in climacteric tissues in non-climacteric tissues endogenous ethylene production remains unaffected (Kader Saltveit, 2003). Internal factors Type of Commodity Fruits and vegetables vary greatly in their respiration rate (Table. 1). Differences among plant parts and in the nature of their surface coatings (e.g. cuticle thickness, stomata, lenticels) influence their rate of diffusion characteristic and consequently their respiration rates. Stage of development at Harvest The respiration rate is usually high at early stages of development and decreases as plant organs mature. Thus fruits and vegetables harvested during the active growth phase have high respiration rates. Chemical Composition Respiration rate decreases with a decrease in water content of the tissue. The value of Respiration Quotient (RQ) is usually controlled by the rate of utilization of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids etc. ETHYLENE PRODUCTION Ethylene (C2H4) is a gaseous hormone produced from bacteria, fungi and all parts of higher plants such as shoots, flowers, seeds, leaves, roots, and fruits (Pech et al., 2003). It is a flammable and colourless gaseous compound (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002). Being a ripening hormone ethylene play a very important role in the postharvest life of many horticultural products, like increasing senescence speed and reducing shelf life but beneficially it improves the quality of the fruit and vegetables by manipulating uniform ripening process (Reid, 2002, p. 149). Because of the enormous influence of ethylene on the physiological development and postharvest life of fruits and vegetables, its biosynthesis, action, and control have been intensively investigated (Reid, 2002; Pech et al., 2003). The biosynthetic process of ethylene is usually completed in three major steps. The ethylene biosynthetic pathway is given in the figure 3. Step I: The biosynthesis of ethylene hormone is started by the conversion of Methionine (MET) to S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) by the enzyme methionine adenosyltransferase (Pech et al., 2003). However, methionine adenosyltransferase is thought to consider as a rate limiting enzyme in ethylene biosynthesis because formation of SAM depends on the activity of this enzyme and SAM levels may indeed regulate ethylene production. Therefore, the sensitivity or importance of methionine adenosyltransferase to SAM implies that this enzyme may play a regulatory role in ethylene biosynthesis (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, p. 13). Step II: SAM is consequently converted to 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic-acid (ACC) by a pyridoxal enzyme ACC synthase (ACS) (Figure 1). Actually, before the discovery of ACC, as intermediate, immediate precursor in MET dependent ethylene production process, the ethylene biosynthetic pathway was intangible (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 11-50). The conversion of SAM to ACC by ACS is another rate-limiting step in the biosynthetic pathway of ethylene. ACS is a cytosolic enzyme (found in the cytoplasm of plants) (Paliyath Murr, 2008b) and its activity is strongly inhibited by aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) (a competitive inhibitor) and aminoisobutyric acid (AIB) (an inhibitor of pyridoxal phosphate-mediated enzyme reactions) (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 11-50). Moreover, the activity of ACC synthase is also influenced by factors such as fruit ripening, senescence, auxin levels, physical stresses, and chilling injury. The synthesis of this enzyme increases with an increase in the level of auxins, indole acetic acid (IAA) and cytokinins (Wills et al., 1998, p. 42). Step III: At last the ACC converts into ethylene by the action of ACC oxidase (known as ethylene forming enzyme or EFE) (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 11-50; Pech et al., 2003). However, ACC oxidase is a bi-substrate enzyme as it requires both oxygen and ACC. Moreover, this enzyme also requires Fe2+, ascorbate and CO2 for its activity. Activity of ACC oxidase is inhibited by cobalt ions, and temperatures higher that 35oC (Wills et al., 1998, p. 42). The sub cellular position of ACC oxidase is still a point of controversy because there is a large number of data is available showing that this enzyme is associated with plasma-membrane or with apoplast or tonoplast. The activity of this enzyme (ACC oxidase) has been studied in many horticultural crops like melon, avocado, apple, winter squash, pear and banana. The activity of ACC oxidase is not highly regulated as ACS. It is constituted in most  vegetative tissues and it is induced during fruit ripening, wounding, senescence and fungal  eli citors (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 11-50). In fruits and vegetables several metabolic reactions starts after harvesting. In most cases, an increase in biosynthesis of gaseous hormone like ethylene serves as the physiological indication for the ripening process. During ripening process, in some fruits large amount of ethylene is produced which is usually referred as autocatalytic ethylene production response. However, fruits are divided into two main categories on the basis of ethylene production, i.e. climacteric (those produce large amount of ethylene) and non-climacteric fruits (those produce smaller amount of ethylene). In climacteric fruits like apple, pear, banana, tomato and avocado, ethylene production usually ranges from 30-500 ppm/(kgh) during ripening. While non-climacteric fruits like orange, lemon, strawberry and pineapple, produce 0.1-0.5ppm/(kgh) of ethylene (Paliyath Murr, 2008) (Table 2). Therefore application of even a very low concentration of ethylene (0.1-1.0 ÃŽÂ ¼L/L) is sufficient enough to accelerat e full ripening of climacteric fruits; however, the magnitude of the climacteric rise is not dependent on the amount of ethylene treatment. On the contrary, application of ethylene causes a temporary rise in the rate of respiration of non-climacteric fruits and the degree of increase depend upon the amount of ethylene (Wills et al., 1998). Moreover, the difference in the respiratory patterns of climacteric and non-climacteric fruits is associated with the different behaviour in terms of the production and response to ethylene gas (Burton, 1982). The increase in respiration, as influenced by ethylene application, may happen several times in non-climacteric fruits, but only once in climacteric fruits (Wills et al., 1998). Indeed, ethylene is produced by all parts of the plant but the magnitude of ethylene production varies from organ to organ and also depends on the stage and type of growth and developmental process. In fact, recent ethylene based research findings have increased the understanding of biosynthetic pathways and enzymes involved in ethylene production, as well as the development of several ways to manipulate ethylene production e.g. by genetic alteration of plants (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002). Ethylene is produced by various plant parts growing under normal conditions however, any kind of biological, chemical or physical stress (e.g. wounding) strongly promotes endogenous ethylene synthesis by plants. Among stress induced ethylene production, pre-harvest deficit irrigation is one of the most important factor causing higher ethylene production rates in fruits like avocado (Adato Gazit, 1974) and tomato (Pulupol et al., 1996). REGULATION OF ETHYLENE BIOSYNTHESIS In plants, ethylene itself stimulates the ability of the tissue to convert ACC into ethylene, which is also regarded as phenomenon of auto-regulation. In ripening fruits, regulation of ethylene biosynthesis is a characteristic feature and is triggered by the exposure to exogenous ethylene by the activation of ACC synthase and/or ACC oxidase (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 25-27). On the other hand, sometimes ethylene inhibits its own synthesis, as negative feedback has already been recognised in a number of fruits and vegetable tissues. In such cases, exogenous ethylene significantly inhibits the production of endogenous ethylene, induced by ripening, wounding and/or treatment with auxins. Moreover, this auto inhibitory effect seems more directed towards limited availability of ACC in the presence of AVG, an inhibitor of ACC synthase (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 25-27). Scientists have also revealed that the inhibition or negative regulation of ethylene synthesis is the result of activity of a gene, E8 whose expression leads to the inhibition of ethylene production in tomatoes (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 25-27). MECHANISM OF ACTION The response of ethylene action can be classified into two categories namely concentration response and sensitivity response. The concentration response involves the changes in concentration of cellular ethylene while the sensitive response involves the increase in tissue sensitivity to ethylene. Moreover, both of these responses involve the binding of ethylene to some components of the cell to mediate the physiological effects (Arshad Frankenberger, 2002, pp. 28-36). Wills et al. (1998, pp. 42-45) likewise explained that plant hormones control the physiological processes by binding to specific plant or fruit receptor sites, which trigger the succession of events leading to visible responses. In the absence of ethylene, these receptor sites are active, allowing the growth of plant and fruit to proceed. During fruit ripening, ethylene is produced naturally or, if it is artificially introduced in a ripening room, it binds with the receptor and inactivates it, resulting in a series of events like ripening or healing of injuries in plant organs. Ethylene action can be controlled through modification of the amount of receptors or through disruption of the binding of ethylene to its receptors. Binding of ethylene is believed to be reversible at a site which contains metal like copper, zinc, or iron (Burg Burg, 1965, as cited in Burton, 1982). The affinity of receptor for ethylene is high in the presence of oxygen and decreases with carbon dioxide. Changes in the pattern of ethylene production rates and the internal concentrations of ethylene associated with the onset of ripening have been studied in various climacteric fruits. For instance, tomato and honeydew melon exhibited a rise in ethylene concentration prior to the onset of ripening, determined as the initial increase in respiration rate. On the other hand, apple and mango did not show any increase in ethylene concentration before the increase in respiration (Wills et al., 1998, pp. 42-45). Ripening has been associated with senescence as it leads to the breakdown of the cellular integrity of the tissue. It is part of the genetically programmed phase in the development of plant tissue with altered nucleic acid and protein synthesis occurring during the onset of the respiratory climacteric resulting in new or enhanced biochemical reactions operating in a coordinated manner (Wills et al., 2007, p. 40). These concepts confirm the known degradative and synthetic capacities of fruit during the ripening process. The ability of ethylene hormone to initiate biochemical and physiological events leads to the theory that ethylene action is regulated at the level of gene expression (Pech et al., 2003; Wills et al., 1998, pp. 45-46). TRANSPIRATION/ WATER LOSS Plants depend more on the availability of water than any other single environmental factor (Kramer and Boyer, 1995). Water loss is very important in determining the shelf life and quality of harvested plant organs. As long as the harvested produce retains water, it remains fresh. Transpiration is one of the main processes that affect postharvest life of the fruit (Ben-Yehoshua Rodov, 2003) Most fresh produce contains from 65 to 95 percent water when harvested. Within growing plants there is a constant flow of water. Fresh produce continues to lose water after harvest, but contrary to the growing plant it cannot replace lost water from the soil and so must use up its water content remaining at harvest (Gustavo et al., 2003). This loss of water from fresh produce after harvest is a serious problem, causing shrinkage and loss of weight. When the harvested produce loses 5 or 10 percent of its fresh weight, it begins to wilt and soon becomes unusable. To extend the usable life of produce, its rate of water loss must be as low as possible (Wilson et al., 1995). Although temperature is the prime concern in the storage of fruits and vegetables, relative humidity is also important. The relative humidity of the storage unit directly affects water loss in produce. Water loss means salable weight loss and reduced profit (Wilson et al., 1995). Transpiration of fresh fruits is a mass transfer process in which water vapor moves from surface of the plant organ to the surrounding air. Ficks law of mass transfer explains this process as follows: J = (Pi-Pa) At / (RDT)r Where Pi and Pa are the partial gas pressures in intercellular spaces and in the ambient atmosphere respectively; At is surface area of fruit; RD is the gas constant per unit mass; T is the absolute temperature; r is the resistance; and J is the gas flux. According to Ficks law, the movement of any gas in or out of the plant tissue is directly proportion to the partial pressure gradient (Pi-Pa) across the barrier involved and the surface area of the barrier and is inversely proportion to the barrier to diffusion. Therefore the driving force of transpiration is the difference of water vapor pressure (WVP) between the tissue and the surrounding air. While the water vapor pressure deficit (VPD) of the air is difference between the WVP of air and that of saturated air at the same temperature. Relative Humidity is the most popular term for expressing the water content of air. It can be defined as the ration of actual WVP in the air to the saturation WVP at a given temperature. Water loss depends on the difference between the water vapour pressure inside the fruit and the pressure of water vapour in the air. To control water loss in fresh produce as low as possible, it must be kept in a moist atmosphere. Air movement also plays a vital role in the water loss from the fresh produce. Water loss is directly proportion to the air movement in the surrounding. Though air movement through produce is also indispensable to remove the heat of respiration, but the rate of movement must be kept as low as possible (Gustavo et al., 2003). ROUTES OF WATER TRANSMISSION As the harvested fruits and vegetables are detached from plant, the xylem vessels are blocked with air and their operation is stopped (Burton, 1982). Therefore, water has to use different routes to move through the tissue. Following are the major potential pathways for water movement in harvested produce. Symplast The cytoplasm of connected cells is interconnected by plasmodesmata, filled with protoplasm and lined with the plasmalemma. Therefore symplast is formed throughout the interior of a plant organ. Water and dissolved solutes move through the symplast system from cell to cell by diffusion (Ben-Yehoshua Rodov, 2003). Apoplast The cell wall surrounding symplast also form a continuous system, termed as apoplast. The apoplas provide an alternative avenue for liquid water movement by hydrostatic pressure through the interfibrillar spaces in the cell wall (Woods, 1990). Intercellular Atmosphere The plant also contains a system of intercellular gas-filled spaces that form a continuous network and serve as main pathway for O2 and CO2 transport. This field of air space provide adequate gas exchange in bulky organs (Ben-Yehoshua.S, 1969). MAJOR EVAPORATION SITE: COMMODITY SURFACE There are three major routes for moisture loss from harvested commodities to the atmosphere: (a) through outer layer that forms a surface for evaporation (cuticle and epicuticle wax; periderm) resistance for water movement through (b) the apertures in the surface connecting the internal and external atmosphere (stomata, lenticels) and (c) through the stem scars or pedicel. Cuticle and Epicuticular wax This layer, which lines all interfaces between the plant and the atmosphere, protects the plant from its relative dry environment. Resistance to water movement is derived from cuticular layer (Ben- Yehoshua, 1969; (Burg Burg, 2006). The cuticle cosntains a matrix of cellulose, polyuronic acids, proteins and phenolic compounds. These are combined with variation of amount of waxes embedded over its surface (Kolattukudy, 1980). Permiability to water usually depends more on amount of waxes than on the thickness of cuticle (Kramer Boyer, 1995). Periderm Periderm is a corky peripheral tissue. This tissue consists of several layers of cells that become corky as a result of deposition of waxes on their cell walls, and they lose their living contents. The periderm is not readily permeable to water and is permeable to gases only through lenticular pores, which replace the stomata of the original epidermis. About 97% of the total water lost from the potato tubers migrates through cell walls to the periderm, where it evaporates (Burton, 1982). Trichomes and Hairs Unicellular or multicellular projections develop on the epidermis of all parts of plants. Their exact function is still vague, but they are considered to reduce water loss (Cutter, 1976). The presence of trichomes can decrease the driving force of transpiration by reducing the surface temperature and increasing the boundary layer resistance. Stomata Before harvest, most of the evaporation occurs from undersides of leaves via stomatal guard cells and adjacent cells (Kramer and Boyer, 1995). Stomata occur in many fruits at early stages of development, but sometimes they are not found in mature fruits of some species, for example, in the grape berry (Possingham et al., 1967). Orange has greatest stomatal density reported so far for any fleshy fruit (Banks, 1995). Stomata usually function less effectively in mature fruit (Blanke and Leyhe, 1988). In most cases it is reduced with maturation and usually of minor importance for fruit water loss during postharvest period (Ben-Yehoshua Rodov, 2003).

Autism And Savant Syndrome Essay -- Biology Essays Research Papers

Autism And Savant Syndrome A little boy quietly sits in front of a piano, with his fingers poised over the bright white keys. His teacher, seated beside him on the bench, plays a complicated series of chords, filling the air with a beautiful melody. After a single hearing, the boy begins to play, perfectly reproducing the song he has just heard. As the last notes fade away, the boy sits still for a moment and then begins to rock gently back and forth, only stopping once the music begins again.... A genius. A prodigy. One might label this child as such after witnessing this type of performance, were it not for the little nuances of the situation: the rocking, the cold, unemotional expression on the boy's face, and his lack of response to the voices around him. Instead, this boy is diagnosed with Savant Syndrome, a disorder in which individuals with neurological developmental delays in socialization and communication (3) possess "astonishing islands of brilliance that stand in stark, markedly incongruous contrast to the over-all handicap" (6). From absolute pitch and chess playing skill to the card-counting talent popularized by Dustin Hoffman in Rain Man, savants may be developmentally delayed, but certainly posses a genius of sorts that is almost unmatchable. In this respect, I am fascinated by the biological and societal origins and significance of the existence of individuals with an IQ well below average who are capable of performing tasks about which some geniuses could o nly dream. The implications of these individuals are huge in terms of genetics, the nature of intelligence and the varying processes of thought present within humanity. I find that it is the presence of a "weakness" such as autism and its development... ...avant. WWW Sources 1)The Neurobiology of Infantile Autism http://www.mhsource.com/narsad/autism.jhtml?_requestid=60911 2)Autism Fact Sheet http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/autism/detail_autism.htm 3)Pervasive Developmental Disorder http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/pdd/pdd.htm 4)Autism and the Cerebellum http://www.autism.org/cerebel.html 5)Autism and the Limbic System http://www.autism.org/cerebel.html 6)The Savant Syndrome:Islands of Genius http://www.wisconsinmedicalsociety.org/savant/default.cfm 7)Autistic Savant http://www.wisconsinmedicalsociety.org/savant/default.cfm 8)Tune in, turn off http://www.newscientist.com/ns/19991009/tuneinturn.html 9)The Savant in All of Us http://www.saveachild.com/netnews/feb00resr.htm#Savant 10)Phenomenal Talent-The Autistic Kind http://www.nexus.edu.au/teachstud/gat/hendric1.htm

The History of Computers :: Technology Technological Computers Essays

The History of Computers The idea of a machine that would make man’s calculations easier, faster, and more accurate is no new notion. The Abacus, â€Å"Napier’s rods†, the â€Å"Calculating Clock†, and the â€Å"Stepped Reckoner† are a few examples of early computer ideas In the more recent history of the computer, we can see how computers have morphed (or dwarfed) from clunky, million-dollar machines into the compact and convenient parts of our everyday lives (Computer Science Student Resource Website, 2003, â€Å"Evolution of Computers: From Stone to Silicon†, Section 1). The Academic Press Dictionary of Science and Technology informs us that John von Neumann’s name is most well-known among the potential â€Å"founders† of the first computer, but to whom the credit belongs can be debated†¦von Neumann wrote a memorandum explaining the ENIAC, and thus his name is recorded (Academic Press, 2002, Section 2, â€Å"Historical Perspective†). The ENIAC (the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator) was developed by J. Preper Eckert and John Mauchly of the Moore School of the University of Pennsylvania in the mid-1940s. The credit for this â€Å"invention† is â€Å"shady† because Mauchly reportedly visited John Atanasoff before building the ENIAC. Atanasoff and his graduate student Berry built the Atanasoff/Berry Computer in the early 1940s at Iowa State University. At any rate, von Neumann’s name is the most well-known and thus settles the issue! The model von Neumann came up with for the basic computer structure is still today, with modifications for speed and size, the foundation for many computers (Academic Press, 2002, Section 1, p. 527). The Academic Press Dictionary states that von Neumann’s report was so well-received because it had incredible â€Å"focus on the logical principles and organization of the computer rather than on the electrical and electronic technology required for its implementation† (p. 527). As â€Å"Evolution: From Stone to Silicon† reports, the first computers were mechanical and used vacuum tubes. These tubes needed to be replaced constantly (Computer Science Student Resource Website, 2003, Section 3). The EDVAC (Electronic Discrete Variable Computer) invented in 1952 used magnetic tape, a revolution from the mess of wires that needed to be moved and replaced to run new programs.

Why Was Slavery Abolished in 1833?

Why was slavery abolished in 1833? The Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 was the culmination of the dedicated effort of a great many people and marked the end of slave ownership in British colonies. In order to assess and understand the relative influences on the passing of this act we can break them down into three broad categories; social, economic and political. In 1833 Britain was a country that prided itself on its forward thinking and enlightened nature. With the onset of the industrial revolution, modernisation was at the forefront of peoples minds and had made slavery seem to many, a barbaric throwback to another age.This is due in part to an influx of people moving into the cities which increased the amount of middle class non conformists such as the Quakers or Methodists. This is very important as the Great Reform Act of 1832 meant that most of the middle classes now had the right to vote. This added a great deal of political weight to the public voice which could obviously the n be used to help get slavery abolished. Another social aspect that influenced whether the slave trade was abolished was the greatly increased numbers of slaves who were converted to Christianity, but also the amount of slaves who were born Christian.Much of this was thanks to the Methodist missionaries of the time who travelled to British colonies to spread the word of God amoung the slaves. This posed an awkward moral question to the leaders of a devoutly Christian Britain, as they could not deny that it was against their own religion to enslave a fellow Christian, thus providing another reason for the immediate abolition of slavery. Social issues amongst the slaves themselves also provided fuel for the abolition arugment. There was growing unrest among the slave population, due to the incorrect assumption among many that the 1807 Slave Trade Act would mean that they would be freed.This unrest had maifested itself in three major rebellions between 1807 and 1833 in Barbados, Demera ra and Jamaica. Each rebellion had its own parituclar impact. For example the rebellion in Barbados set a precedent among slaves that they could and would fight for their freedom, even in a very well established British colony. As well as this, the rebellion in Demerara and the subsequent abhorrent retaliation by the white slave owners outraged many British people, no doubt made them even more sympathetic to the slaves cause and provided evidence to propogate the immorality of slavery.Finally, the largest rebellion of the three consisting of over 60,000 slaves actually led to a feeling amongst slave owners that they were ready to accept abolition due to the fear and risk now associated with maintaining their plantations. Even more directly than this, as a result of what happened in Jamaica,parliament actively began looking for ways to end slavery which Is obviously an extremely imporant aspect of why it was indeed abolished. Along with the social issues, and in some cases closely ti ed in to them are the economic explanations for the abolition of slavery.Chief among these reasons was the dawning realisation that slave produced sugar was becoming less and less economically viable. This was shown by renowned economist Adam Smith who explained to the public that due to the adoption of free trade which took away the extortianate import duties on non slave produced sugar, slave produced sugar was no longer cheaper. This meant that the plantation owners and other pro-slavery lobbyists had lost their strongest argument.Furthermore, while this was happening British industry was rapidly moving forward and the country was no longer dependant on the sugar trade. Due to this, many of the people who had financial ties with the slave trade had a way to re-invest their money, in many cases into the lucrative trade of housebuilding in the ever expanding cities. As such many people lost their main cause for supporting slavery, or at least were no longer forced to support it for fear of losing their income. Finally, we can look at the direct political influences on the abolition of slavery.The anti-slavery lobby which had gained such support leading up to the aboltion of the slave trade in 1807 had initially scaled down much of their activity as it was believed that the slave trade would slowly die out without the supply of new slaves being transported from Africa. However once it became clear that many slave owners were simply taking steps to ensure they maintained the levels of slaves at their disposal, by means of better healthcare and living conditions or even encouraging their slaves to ro-create, they began to re-assemble and re-organzie themselves and set about gathering more evidence to put forward to parliament. This conviniently coincided with the changing political structure at the time which as I mentioned earlier had increased the number of non conformists with the right to vote dramatically. In turn the evidence gathered in the colonies reach ed the sympathetic ears of people like the Methodists and Quakers, who unlike in 1807 had the right to vote.This combined with the fact that at the time that potential members of parliament were forced to declare their stand point on slavery meant that the will of the people now had an effective way to influence the politicians who could affect a change in the law. In conclusion, it's hard to say which one factor may have had the greatest impact on slavery eventually being abolished in 1833. Certainly, you could argue that the dwindling profit potential of slave produced sugar must have been a very important factor, but would that of been enough on it's own to prompt parliament to abolish slavery?I would argue that a combination of the modern enlightened way of thinking amongst the British people coupled with their new found political freedom was absolutely vital to the cause. It provided the voice which could not be ignored by any man in power and coupled with the testament of Adam Smith provided a seemingly irrefutable argument to parliament which gave them no choice but to pass the Slavery Abolition Act. Abolition then, was the result of not a single argument, but the new world and social values with its vastly different Social, Economic and Political influences than in times past.

Chef’s Toolkit

Case #2 Chef’s Toolkit – Case Anaylsis De? ne the Issues Chef’s Toolkit has exhausted all of their ? nancial resources trying to develop their product. The owner, Peter Jeffery, is seeking external investment to fund the launch of his product, and the potential investor, Dale Reid, has asked for projected ? nancial statements for the company’s pessimistic, expected, and optimistic projected sales for the ? rst year of operation ending July 30, 1995. Analyzing the Case Data Fragmented information was given in the case, along with a balance sheet and a production schedule for the expected sales of 10,000 units.There was no statement of cash ? ows, income statement or any information about their cash account or their accounts payable account. Generating Alternatives Dale Reid could choose to either invest $85,000 for 50% of the company, choose to invest more or less for a negotiated percentage of the company, or not invest in Chef’s Toolkit. The pessim istic projected sales is 5,000 units per month, totaling 60,000 units in the year. The expected amount of sales is 10,000 units, summing to 120,000 units per year.The optimistic projected sales is 30,000 units per month resulting in a total of 360,000 units sold in the year. In the optimistic option, a double mold is needed since the total required production exceeds the maximum amount for the single mold. Selecting Decision Criteria †¢ Low additional investment †¢ High revenues with low expenses †¢ Return on Investment †¢ Break Even Analysis Analyzing and evaluating alternatives Break Even = Revenues – Expenses = 0 Single Mold = x(1. 82) – x(1. 215) – x(0. 162) – 63,975 63,975 = x(0. 43) 144,413 = Break even units/year Single Mold (pessimistic and expected) = 12,035 units/month Double Mold = x(1. 82) – x[(1. 215+0. 865)/2] – x[(0. 144+0. 062)/2] – 125,975 125,975 = x(0. 677) 186,078 = Break even units/year Double Mold (optimistic) = 15,507 units/month Chef’s Toolkit – Case Analysis 1 Case #2 Chef’s Toolkit – Case Analysis ROI = (Cash in? ow-Cost of investment)/Cost of investment Pessimistic (-41,711-54,894)/54,894 = – 176% Expected (-4,791-36,724)/36724 = -113% Optimistic (194,983. 20-6,046. 70)/6,046. 70 = 3125%Both the pessimistic and expected sales forecasting show that with an investment well under the proposed $85,000 is required, a negative return of investment is expected. Also, according to break-even analysis operating with the single mold and excluding warehousing costs, a minimum of 12,035 units must be sold to break even. Under a similar situation with the double mold, 15,507 units must be sold to break even, which is about half of the optimistic sales projection. Also under the optimistic sales projection, a positive return on investment is expected.Because the company is turning pro? t,less additional investment is required. Additionally under the pessimistic and expected situation, the company turns losses, and under the optimistic projections, Chef’s Toolkit only has a net income of 13% of its revenues. Selecting Preferred alternative According to the above information and the projected pro-forma statements, Dale Reid should not invest his money in the company. The company’s lack of current assets, high expenses and low per-unit revenue create an unfortunate and unpro? able investment in pessimistic and expected situations. Only in the optimistic production and sales does the company begin to turn pro? t, but this pro? t is low. Chef’s Toolkit needs desperate restructuring and additional revenue sources before Dale Reid should invest. Developing and Implementing the Plan To reduce production costs, Chef’s Toolkit should look into ? nding less expensive producers and packagers. They should also look into additional revenue streams or ? nding a way to retail their product directly to the custo mer to take out the middleman.This would increase their revenue per unit signi? cantly. Chef’s Toolkit can explore online retailing since they essentially don’t have any sort of bricks-and-mortar store front, so it would ? ow with their current business model. Also, if they aim to sell 13,500 units per month, they will turn pro? ts (see break-even analysis-single mold) and not require a double mold since they will produce and sell a total of 162,000 units (the max for the single mold) within the ? rst year.However, presently Peter Jeffery and his wife have exhausted all of the company’s assets as well as substantial amount of their personal assets. The risk in their current situation is high and they need immediate revenue to start recouping their research and development costs. They also need money to even start producing the product so that they can sell it. This should be brought up in their discussion with Dale Reid, and hopefully Peter can persuade him to i nvest despite the bleak pro-forma ? nancials. Chef’s Toolkit – Case Analysis 2

Synthesis topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Synthesis topic - Essay Example † The discussion takes the form of an analysis, with a focus on unearthing the causative factors for the declining state of the American economy, while seeking the possible remedy to the situation. Thus, this discussion elaborates on the factors hindering the desired performance of the US economy, while suggesting the remedies as presented by the two articles. The essence of selecting this topic is because it is a current issue affecting America, and it is vital to understand the causes of the situation. Most importantly, it is necessary to understand the way forward. Discussion Having been considered the world’s largest trading nation, and having been ranked among the top wealthiest countries of the world, it is expected that the economy of the US should be performing better than the current situation (Kuhl, 44). The wealthy nature and the ability of the US to create employment opportunities over the years have attracted many immigrants, who come to the country to seek for employment opportunities. ... According to a survey carried out by the Institute for Supply Management Survey, the state of the manufacturing sector in the US has continued to contract (Summers, 53). It was observed that manufacturing firms hired the lowest number of workers starting late 2009, an indication that the state of the sector is wanting. Historically, the national factory activity for the US has always ranked above the 50 digit mark. However, in a clear indication of the dangers facing this sector, the index fell to 49.8 going by the index for July 2012. This crashed further to a 49.6 digit index according to the August 2012 data (Kuhl, 47). Considering that the manufacturing sector is among the most dependable and promising sectors of the US economy, this situation raises a red flag that things are not going in the right direction. The index presented above indicates that the ability of the US economy to export products to foreign countries has continued to shrink, posing a danger to its trading secto r, which also ranks as the world’s largest (Summers, 58). The worrying nature of the US economy is indicated by the current unemployment rate. Historically, the unemployment rate of the US has averaged at 5.3% (Summers, 33). However, Kuhl alleges that going by the data released by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment in the US stood at 7.9% in August 2012 (Kuhl, 68). This puts the number of the unemployed people in the US at 12.3 million. The growth in the number of employment opportunities created by an economy indicates it health status. However, considering that the US trade deficit has been increasing, it has been importing more than it exports

Thomas Stonewall Jackson Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Thomas Stonewall Jackson - Essay Example While he did not excel, he worked hard to complete his training and successfully graduated in 1846. His final grade placed him 17th among his class of 59 students, (Cooke, 1866) an indication of the potential that he was later to unlock. Following his graduation, Jackson transferred to Mexico where he received military training and served for five years. Within this time the Mexican war broke out, and he earned two brevets for his role in the war. In February 1852, he resigned from his designation in Army and accepted professorship at Virginia Military Institute. Soon he was recognized as a professor of artillery tactics and natural philosophy at Virginia Military Institute in Lexington. He had a significant role in the Civil War, commanding the confederation army, and fought in a number of important battles such as the battle of Chancellorsville. Jackson lost an arm as a consequence of this battle, and while he survived the amputation, complications brought on by pneumonia meant tha t he died eight days later. Thomas Jackson married twice in his life, first to Elinor Junkin and later to Mary Anna Morrison. He married Elinor Junkin in 1853 but she didn’t survive after giving a stillbirth and died due to postpartum hemorrhage on October 22, 1854, after just one year of marriage. Thomas Jackson married again in 1857 with Mary Anna and had two daughters, of these one survived, she was named Julia Laura. MILITARY CAREER Jackson is considered by many Military Historians to be the ‘most blessed’ tactical commander. He started his military career as a Second Lieutenant in United States Army in the artillery regiment. Due to his excellent commanding personality and strong decisive powers, he was sent on Mexican War for two years where he served at different battles like Chapultepec, Contreras and Mexico City. As a consequence of the battles he fought and his determination he earned two brevets and was promoted as First Lieutenant. During war in Mexic o, he met Robert Lee for the first time, this relationship would prove to be highly influential (Doak, 2005). One of Jackson’s key leadership traits was the ability to show strong decisive power, choosing a course and sticking to it, despite opposition. An example of this was during the battle at Chapultepec, where Jackson refused to obey orders which he considered to be wrong. He later argued that his denial was justified, as he considered the withdrawal of the army would do more harm than good under the circumstances surrounding that battle. However, he learned later in his career to follow instructions of those senior to him even when he knew that the decisions that they made were incorrect. It was this aggressive attitude that earned him his second brevet, and his subsequent promotion to Major. He was the only army officer to receive two promotions during the three year Mexico War. Jackson was complimented with a nickname†Stonewall† during first battle of Bull Run. Jackson resigned from his army service in February 1852 to follow up with his professorship. JACKSON AS A PROFESSOR After retiring from the Army, Jackson accepted a new career as a professor at Virginia Military Institute and taught Experimental Philosophy and was an Instructor of Artillery. The ideas and theories that he presented were unusual and many are still in use today. Many of his concepts are considered to be military