Renal system

The renal system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. (virtual medical center 2006) It consists of all the organs responsible for the formation and release of urine. The kidneys perform vital functions like getting rid of waste through the excretion of urine. It regulates the amount of water in the body and allows filtration of sodium and chlorides. (virtual medical center 2006) It maintains the volume and composition of body fluid. (renal system 2006) The kidneys are â€Å"bean-shaped organ located in the lower part o the belly, situated in the posterior wall of the abdomen. (renal system 2006)The left kidney is slightly higher than the right in the abdomen to allow for the liver. (renal system 2006) There are two distinct regions of the kidney; medulla and cortex. The blood supply is taken directly from the aorta thru renal arteries and returned to the inferior vena cava thru renal veins. (renal system 2006) The nephron is the unit of the kidney that acts and respon sible for ultrafiltration and excretion of the waste products. (renal system 2006) Urine, the filtered waste material, will be passed down the ureters and collects in the bladder. (renal system)The ureters are tubes lined with smooth muscle. The 25-30cm long tubes help carry the urine through the bladder. The urine will be forced forward with the help of the muscular tissue. (virtual medical center 2006) Then the urethral sphincter at the base of the bladder relaxes, the detrusor contracts, and urine is negated thru the urethra. (renal system 2006)The bladder is located in our pelvis and pyramidal in shaped. It stores the urine and releases it into a tube which extracted the urine out of the body. (virtual medical center 2006) It can normally hold up to 500mls of urine. It has three openings which includes two for the ureters and one for the urethra. (virtual medical center 2006) The main muscle of the bladder is called detrusor that contracts to allow the urine to flow. The nervous control of the bladder that sends signal and tell us that the bladder is full is located in the brain and spinal cord. (virtual medical center 2006) The blood supply of the bladder is from many blood vessels named vesical arteries, obturator, uterine, gluteal and vaginal arteries. (virtual renal system site)The tube that is located from the bladder neck to the top of the vaginal opening is the female urethra whereas, the male urethra is running from the bladder to the tip of the penis. Female urethra is more prone to infections from bacteria than male urethra due to it is shorter in size. (virtual medical center 2006) The blood vessels of the female urethra are the internal pudendal and vaginal arteries. The male urethra is supplied through inferior vesical and middle rectal arteries. (virtual renal system site)An acute renal failure is a disease of the kidneys and a common medical condition that complicates hospital and intensive care unit admissions. (virtual medical center 2006)    It occurs suddenly and initiated by primal causes like dehydration, infection, kidney injuries and chronic use of over the counter pain medications. (virtual medical center 2006) It is often reversible and with no lasting damage. In renal failure, kidneys are not functioning properly or not work at all. Kidneys are unable to filter waste, produce urine and imbalances fluids. The dysfunction of the kidneys results building up of toxins which produces complications. (Gunsch 2006)Renal failure symptoms include edema or the accumulation of fluid distinctive in swelling, decrease in urination, general ill feeling, exhaustion and headaches. (Gunsch 2006)Often, these symptoms were not experience by a person with renal failure. (Gunsch 2006) A person with renal failure can actually lead a normal life. The recovery of the patient with renal failure will be depending on the severity, treatment options and patient’s coping to the rigors of renal failure.But to some cases, dialysis and kidney transplant is needed. (Gunsch 2006) Management of the treatment includes general measures or monitors to prevent complications, treat precipitating cause, and can be treated with medications or may require dialysis.   (wirual medical center 2003)Mary is admitted to the ward with acute renal failure. She is very confused and anxious. She is accompanied by her husband and daughter. She has high blood pressure and a respiratory rate of 30. She also has low urine out put. Mary might have felt self pity and a burden to her family. In Roper et.al’s activities of living model (1918-2004), it stresses patient’s continual assessment, facilitation of normal activities of living and individualized care. It considers and respects the characteristics of a person prior to development. (Roper et.al 1918-2004)The â€Å"model of living† incorporates twelve activities that engaged a person whether sick or well. (Roper et.al 1918-2004) It includes maintaining a safe e nvironment, breathing, communication, mobilizing, eating and drinking, eliminating, personal cleansing and dressing, maintaining body temperature, working and playing, sleeping, expressing sexuality and dying   Ã‚  (Roper et.al 1918-2004)To be able to provide care for Mary without making her feel as a burden or imbecile, she should be given the chance to have her individualism. Although she should be given special care and attention, she should be given a part to the treatment she is undergoing. Like if in case she needs to take her medicine, she should be the one to take it but her family or the attendants should also notify her the appointed time that it should be taken. Communication is highly regarded in this situation as well. Through having conversation with the patient not only shows that you care for her but also makes her feel that she is not disgusting.Mary should also be given assistance in personal cleansing, dressing and maintaining to have a good environment but not to a point that her personality will be injured. Her family should be involved in every activities or treatment that she is undergoing. Mary could have a certain activity every week that will detach her in always thinking about her sickness that makes her confused and anxious.Certain social activities or programs should be conducted or if in case having a new learning experience like training for dressmaking, cosmetology, or the likes that will be useful as well when she’ s already well. Death issues should also be planned so that she will have a pain free and dignified death wherever possible. Spiritual emphasis is also helpful for Mary to cope up with the situation. Lastly, she should also be treated and informed that her sickness could be cured and not malignant.REFERENCES:Answers.com retrieved 13 October 2006, Kidney, Available at: http://www.answers.com/renal%20systemGunsch, J. 2006, What is Renal Failure?, Available at: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-renal-failure.htmN orthern Care Homes Directory 28 August 2000, Hulton Care Nursing Home, Available at: http://www.nchd.co.uk/Middleton/hulton_care.htmRenal System retrieved 13 October 2006, Available at: http://www.le.ac.uk/pathology/teach/va/anatomy/case4/4_1.htmlRoper, Nancy, et.al 1918-2004, Activities of Living Model, Available at: http://www.nursingtheory.net/gt_alm.htmlVirtual Medical Center 28 March 2006, Anatomy & Physiology of the Renal System, Available at: http://www.virtualrenalcentre.com/anatomy.asp?sid=14Virtual Medical Center   9 October 2003,   Renal Failure – Acute, Available at: http://www.virtualrenalcentre.com/diseases.asp?did=205Wikipedia retrieved 13 October 2006, Kidney, Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renal

The city of ember

The city of ember Tobacco Smoking and Alcohol Drinking Cancer of the upper respiratory and alimentary tracts claimed over 23,000 lives in 1989 and 57,000 additional cases were diagnosed. The majority of individuals who fall prey to this type of cancer are males who abuse both alcohol and tobacco. What is the risk you might ask. The fact that the risk of developing cancer of the esophagus, lip, tongue, mouth, pharynx or larynx. increases dramatically in people who are heavy users of alcohol and tobacco is substantiated by 30 years of collective research.Studies demonstrate that the risk to individuals dually addicted far utweighs the risk to Individuals who abuse only one substance. This confirmed link between alcohol and tobacco abuse and an increased risk in upper alimentary and respiratory tract cancer makes this type ot disease among the most preventable. The Correlation Between Smoking and Drinking . 1t has been observed that Individuals who drink alcohol have d greater tendency to smoke than non-drinkers. One of the first studies to establish and quantify the degree of association between drlnklng and smoking was reported In 1972.The Investigation compared 130 alcoholic men hospitalized for alcohol withdrawal to 100 non-alcoholic psychiatric utpatients, Ninety-four percent of the alcoholic men smoked one or more packs of cigarettes per day, as compared to only 46 percent of the non-alcohollcs, who smoked one or more packs per day. Another study. which compared male and female alcoholics enrolled In an army drug and alcohol rehabllltatlon program to non- alcoholic army personnel and their relatives, affirmed the smoking-drinking association.The report found that individuals who were alcoholics smoked an average of 49 cigarettes per day, but that the non-alcoholic subjects smoked only 13 cigarettes per day. In addition, the study established a high correlation between the umber of cigarettes smoked and the grams of alcohol consumed by alcoholics, as opposed to a very weak association for the non-alcoholic control group. similar report, 58 percent ot the non-drinkers were non-smokers, but the individuals who were alcoholics did not abstain from smoking.The finding that smokers who did not drink smoked significantly less than smokers who did drink was further substantiated In additional studies. Why Do Many Drinkers Smoke More? Studies released in the late 1950s, correlating heavy coffee consumption with smoking and drinking, suggested that a strong oral drive caused drinkers to smoke ore frequently. However, new evidence suggests that a strong oral drive is not the culprit. In one study, alcoholics who had successfully stopped drinking demonstrated no appreciable Increase In smoking.In tact, some even smoked less with alcohol abstinence. If a strong oral drive was responsible for the drinking-smoking association, one would expect an increase in smoking during periods of alcohol abstinence. An alternative theory claimed that drinkers smo ked more due to just as much as alcoholics who drink in the company of other people dispelled this theory. The most plausible explanation is that drinkers smoke more than non- rinkers due to a greater physiological need for nicotine. Nicotine, the main psychoactive component of tobacco, is a potent chemical.It has a stimulating effect on the nervous system, causing, among other things, increased heart rate and mental stimulation. Once addicted to nicotine, a person may experience tremors of shakiness as blood levels of nicotine decrease to critically low levels. The smoker will crave another cigarette as blood levels reach this threshold to avoid these uncomfortable symptoms. Alcohol apparently causes blood levels of nicotine to fall more rapidly in smokers by activating enzymes in tissues which metabolize drugs. For example, rats pretreated with ethanol cleared nicotine from their blood more rapidly than rats not receiving ethanol.This research, coupled with numerous independent ob servations, strongly suggests that drinkers must smoke more in order to maintain the blood nicotine levels upon which they have become dependent. Why Is There More Cancer Among Alcohol and Tobacco Users? Investigations are under way to find an answer to this question. Laboratory studies have shown that alcohol enhances the metabolism of several tobacco associated carcinogens, including nitrosamines. It is known that tobacco and its smoke contain many classes f chemical carcinogens which must be activated to react with DNA and initiate steps towards carcinogenesis.Important in this activation process are cytochrome P-450 enzymes, which are induced by alcohol in heavy drinkers. Thus, alcohol and smoking are synergistic in increasing cancer risk. Since alcohol increases the metabolism and hence the need for nicotine, it follows that the success of smoking cessation programs will be improved if drinking habits of patients are controlled. Treatment of incipient alcoholism thus becomes a prerequisite for the ultimate success of behavior modification aimed at the elimination of smoking. The City of Ember The City of Ember is a post apocalyptic fantasy about Ember. I was written by Jeanne DuPrau and published in 2003. Ember is a city which was built by people, in the book know as â€Å"The Builders†, they built this city underground to house its citizens for 200 years. They say that the earth is uninhabitable for those years but never specify why. During these years a box with instructions is passed from mayor to mayor but a plague is spreading and the seventh mayor thinks the box may contain a cure so he tries opening it but dies before it is opened. The box was never returned and it is currently missing. It is now year 241 and the towns recourses are dwindling down. The power source is also not doing well because of the generators age it is not producing enough power. Lina and Doon are two graduates of their school and are both assigned jobs they don't like so they decide to switch. When She finds the box and it has the letter in which the escape route is stated. She does not know and before she can find out her sister chews it until their are hole in it. Lina and Doon eventually make a run for it after unraveling the letters meaning. They are amazed to find a whole new world outside of the small world they lived in. When they eventually reach safety in their newly discovered world they throw the directions down to the city they lived in. The book leaves off with Mrs. Murdo, Lina's guardian finding it and it is a mystery from then on. Overall I enjoyed the book because it was suspense filled and all the action that went on made it fun to read. The ending even had suspense and i would definitely recommend this book to others as a fun read but I stress it is not a challenging one. The city of ember The city of ember Tobacco Smoking and Alcohol Drinking Cancer of the upper respiratory and alimentary tracts claimed over 23,000 lives in 1989 and 57,000 additional cases were diagnosed. The majority of individuals who fall prey to this type of cancer are males who abuse both alcohol and tobacco. What is the risk you might ask. The fact that the risk of developing cancer of the esophagus, lip, tongue, mouth, pharynx or larynx. increases dramatically in people who are heavy users of alcohol and tobacco is substantiated by 30 years of collective research.Studies demonstrate that the risk to individuals dually addicted far utweighs the risk to Individuals who abuse only one substance. This confirmed link between alcohol and tobacco abuse and an increased risk in upper alimentary and respiratory tract cancer makes this type ot disease among the most preventable. The Correlation Between Smoking and Drinking . 1t has been observed that Individuals who drink alcohol have d greater tendency to smoke than non-drinkers. One of the first studies to establish and quantify the degree of association between drlnklng and smoking was reported In 1972.The Investigation compared 130 alcoholic men hospitalized for alcohol withdrawal to 100 non-alcoholic psychiatric utpatients, Ninety-four percent of the alcoholic men smoked one or more packs of cigarettes per day, as compared to only 46 percent of the non-alcohollcs, who smoked one or more packs per day. Another study. which compared male and female alcoholics enrolled In an army drug and alcohol rehabllltatlon program to non- alcoholic army personnel and their relatives, affirmed the smoking-drinking association.The report found that individuals who were alcoholics smoked an average of 49 cigarettes per day, but that the non-alcoholic subjects smoked only 13 cigarettes per day. In addition, the study established a high correlation between the umber of cigarettes smoked and the grams of alcohol consumed by alcoholics, as opposed to a very weak association for the non-alcoholic control group. similar report, 58 percent ot the non-drinkers were non-smokers, but the individuals who were alcoholics did not abstain from smoking.The finding that smokers who did not drink smoked significantly less than smokers who did drink was further substantiated In additional studies. Why Do Many Drinkers Smoke More? Studies released in the late 1950s, correlating heavy coffee consumption with smoking and drinking, suggested that a strong oral drive caused drinkers to smoke ore frequently. However, new evidence suggests that a strong oral drive is not the culprit. In one study, alcoholics who had successfully stopped drinking demonstrated no appreciable Increase In smoking.In tact, some even smoked less with alcohol abstinence. If a strong oral drive was responsible for the drinking-smoking association, one would expect an increase in smoking during periods of alcohol abstinence. An alternative theory claimed that drinkers smo ked more due to just as much as alcoholics who drink in the company of other people dispelled this theory. The most plausible explanation is that drinkers smoke more than non- rinkers due to a greater physiological need for nicotine. Nicotine, the main psychoactive component of tobacco, is a potent chemical.It has a stimulating effect on the nervous system, causing, among other things, increased heart rate and mental stimulation. Once addicted to nicotine, a person may experience tremors of shakiness as blood levels of nicotine decrease to critically low levels. The smoker will crave another cigarette as blood levels reach this threshold to avoid these uncomfortable symptoms. Alcohol apparently causes blood levels of nicotine to fall more rapidly in smokers by activating enzymes in tissues which metabolize drugs. For example, rats pretreated with ethanol cleared nicotine from their blood more rapidly than rats not receiving ethanol.This research, coupled with numerous independent ob servations, strongly suggests that drinkers must smoke more in order to maintain the blood nicotine levels upon which they have become dependent. Why Is There More Cancer Among Alcohol and Tobacco Users? Investigations are under way to find an answer to this question. Laboratory studies have shown that alcohol enhances the metabolism of several tobacco associated carcinogens, including nitrosamines. It is known that tobacco and its smoke contain many classes f chemical carcinogens which must be activated to react with DNA and initiate steps towards carcinogenesis.Important in this activation process are cytochrome P-450 enzymes, which are induced by alcohol in heavy drinkers. Thus, alcohol and smoking are synergistic in increasing cancer risk. Since alcohol increases the metabolism and hence the need for nicotine, it follows that the success of smoking cessation programs will be improved if drinking habits of patients are controlled. Treatment of incipient alcoholism thus becomes a prerequisite for the ultimate success of behavior modification aimed at the elimination of smoking.

International Business Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

International Business Strategy - Essay Example While smartphone brands are differentiated to some extent, majority of other smartphones that fall in the same price range possess similar functions (Ogunsanwo, 2013: p54). This makes the threat of substitute products high. In addition, now consumers can use 3rd party applications and internet based calls. The number of substitute products makes it easier for consumers to move to another product and get similar benefits. Concentration of smartphone customers is low, ensuring that they do not have much influence over smartphone prices, which, in turn, makes the buying power of consumers low. However, some rival producers like Apple have influences that extend to their channels of distribution (Ogunsanwo, 2013: p55). This threat is reduced somewhat since consumers have the ability to buy from other smartphone manufacturers even when they do not necessarily give them better prices or incentives. The high number of substitute products gives smartphone suppliers less leverage over them be cause of substitute competition. This increased competition has a positive effect on the smartphone manufacturers (Ogunsanwo, 2013: p56). In addition, the increased competition among the suppliers leads to a reduction in price. Finally, supplier bargaining power is reduced by the similarity of input products. Finally, smartphone manufacturers are not under threat when it comes to rival entrants since the smartphone market is difficult to enter. Rival entrants require proprietary knowledge, as well as many patent requirements that continue to embroil even the established smartphone manufacturers like BlackBerry (Ogunsanwo, 2013: p56). The new entrants will also lack brand power that is essential to sales. Strategic Analysis of BlackBerry Shareholder Value: Earnings per Share Year August 2013 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 BlackBerry -0.60 -0.60 4.20 6.34 4.37 3.43 2.26 Samsung 18.85 15.79 15.02 8.07 10.99 6.89 3.68 Apple 8.26 11.13 8.75 7.03 4.64 4.10 3.60 (BarChart, 2013: p1) From th e above figures, it seems that the EPS for BlackBerry has decreased consistently from 2010 to the present, indicating that their earning power is decreasing. This has been in sharp contrast to Samsung and Apple who’s EPS is rising consistently. Samsung’s earnings per share are relatively higher than for both Apple and BlackBerry, indicating that, among the three major smartphone makers, Samsung’s earning power is increasing mostly due to manufacturing the most new models of smartphones, as well as its more diverse electronics range. Price/Earnings Year August 2013 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 BlackBerry 0.00 -17.85 7.24 9.38 15.34 26.24 0.00 Samsung 7.453 10.39 9.10 8.60 16.10 23.3 8.8 Apple 13.12 11.16 14.61 15.35 21.63 31.73 26.39 (BarChart, 2013: p1) The P/E trend for BlackBerry and other smartphone industry players has been falling since 2009 because of the financial crisis. The current P/E ration level for BlackBerry shows that it is very easy to buy at th e moment unlike Apple and BlackBerry who have relatively high P/E ratios, making them more difficult to buy. However, there is a fluctuation of the ratios for both Apple and Samsung, which still seem to be feeling the effects of the financial crisis in 2008/2009 as well. However, it seems BlackBerry was unable to turn its decline around most likely because they failed to introduce any new brands in the period immediately after the crisis. Long

Energy Resources in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries Essay

Energy Resources in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries - Essay Example Saudi Arabia exists as the largest state among the GCC countries with the Shi’i population placed on the oil producing gulf coast of eastern province. The discovery of oil dates back to 1930s with its commercial production beginning shortly after the Second World War. Saudi Arabia became the largest producer of oil by 1993. Similarly, Kuwait became an oil producer ever since 1946 before gaining its independence from Britain in 1961. The country received independence before massive revenues from oil could be concentrated on the hands of the ruling family possessing overwhelming power. As well, cohesion and the historical organization of unique merchant families had significant contributions. Bahrain emerged as the first oil producing country among the six GCC countries with initial production occurring in 1932. The oil wealth possessed by Bahrain from the beginning gave it a head start to develop social and educational institutions. As a result, this contributed significantly t o its status as the best socially liberal over its neighbors in the GCC countries. However, Bahrain’s current oil reserves remain almost exhausted. By contrast, tourism and finance service industries play the main role in Bahrain’s present day economy (Gause 5-8). Abu Dhabi, Fujayra, Dubai, Ajman, Ra’s al-Khayma, ’Um al-Qaywayn and Sharjah constitute the seven emirates making up the federation of the UAE. Large production of oil began in the 1960s within the UAE mainly in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Shaarjah. UAE’s per capita national income remains among the highest worldwide. Most notable would be Dubai which continues to develop into a regional communications, services and business center.

Immigration Law of Arizona Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Immigration Law of Arizona - Assignment Example The Supreme Court could admit the case or decline to take it on. This paper will discuss the likelihood of the Supreme Court taking the case and the possible decision it may make as well as the impact of that decision. Likelihood of Supreme Court to Admit the Case The decision whether the Supreme Court should undertake the case is both constitutional and policy based. This is a case that has been very controversial with dissenting decisions from inferior courts. The Arizona immigration law does not only involve all the states of America but it is also a matter of international concern on human rights. Upon its enactment, several UN experts and special rapporteurs raised strong concerns on its legality under international law. The legislation conflicts with several international law instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which US became a party to in 1992. But most importantly, the law has serio us implications on the obligation of US to comply with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), which requires party states to take all measures in order to prevent, ban and condemn all manner of racial discrimination, (Lewis, 2011). Under the convention, the US is also required to ensure that all its agencies comply with these provisions. Therefore, it is important that such a global matter should be dealt with by the highest judicial body of the land which is the Supreme Court. The court should also take up the case so as to clarify constitutional issues arising from the case such as the Supremacy Clause that is dealing with the preemptive clause. The Supreme Court being the highest tribunal in the land has the ultimate responsibility of interpreting the constitution for the people of America, (Anonymous, 2011). It acts as the guardian to uphold the constitution and under this responsibility it has the responsibility to formall y overturn unconstitutional decisions from lower courts through judicial review to ensure constitutional supremacy is maintained at all times. Further, at this stage when the nation is under the process of enacting immigration laws to solve the inherent problems facing the country on the issue, it is the role of the Supreme Court to step in and provide other states on how to draft their immigration laws. The decision of the Supreme Court on immigration will serve to direct the other states on how immigration legislations should be drafted generally without conflicting with the constitutional and most of all the fundamental rights of individual citizens. Besides, its decision will form precedents to be adopted by lower courts and will go a long way down the history of the immigration issues. With all these considerations, the Supreme Court cannot afford to leave such an important matter in the hands of the lower courts. It has to step in and provide the way forward not just for the c ountry of the US but also the global world in general. Likely Decision Even though most provisions of the law are legally unobjectionable, the SB 1070 contains some unconstitutional parts which are sections 2(B), 6, 3 and 5(c). The first contention is the requirement of the SB 1070 that the immigration officers determine the status of the

Bridge Management System for Saudi Arabia Research Paper

Bridge Management System for Saudi Arabia - Research Paper Example Hence, there is need for the development of a bridge management system in Saudi Arabia. This study provides a background on the infrastructural setting and bridges in Saudi Arabia. A detailed look at the preservation considerations is followed by inquiry into the improvement considerations available for the existing bridges in Saudi Arabia. The natural hazards that may impact bridge infrastructure in Saudi Arabia is then discussed, followed by a look at the policy considerations, project considerations, economic/non-economic considerations and prioritization to base decision support for the bridge management system proposed. Provisions for updating of the bridge management system are given before providing a summary of the study. Background Saudi Arabia is an oil-dependent economy in the Arabian Peninsula with a $350 billion budget in infrastructure development as of the year 2007. The main infrastructural developmental goals for the country aim to transform it into a global industrial force. According to Business Week (2007), this transformation is to be supported by positioning the country as a regional transport and logistics hub. As a result, plans for the $5 billion budget Saudi Landbridge project connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf Coast to be constructed by a private consortium are underway. The consortium will have a 50 year operating rights on the bridge. The other major project is the Saudi-Egypt Causeway that has a causeway and a bridge component, meant to link Egypt and the Arabian Peninsula to boost development in the region. The project will is projected to cost about $4 billion and will be owned by the two governments. The two bridges described above are an addition to the already existing Jamaraat Bridg e whose purpose is to enable pilgrims to throw stones at the Jamrah pillars. The bridge may sometimes carry about one million individuals, leading to serious safety issues and need for maintenance. The bridge has been under reconstruction into a nine-storey one that will be able to accommodate about 9 million people a day (Saudi Info, 2004). Besides the three bridges mentioned in this background, there are about 4,200 bridges in Saudi Arabia’s highway network. Philosophical Approach As Hearn et al. (2007) argues, bridge management systems represent a unique convergence of a number of disciplines including structural engineering, economics, operations research, planning, and information technology. There is need for prudent data collection to support decision making in bridge management systems. Collection of timely and quality data enables the parties in charge to discern crucial information about bridge conditions, costs of the project and effectiveness. This study calls on the disciplines listed above to produce a formidable report on bridge management in Saudi Arabia. The study will explore the preservation conditions, improvement considerations, extreme event considerations and then detail possible

Should you worry about cell phone, cellular antenna and Wi-Fi device Research Paper

Should you worry about cell phone, cellular antenna and Wi-Fi device radiation why or why not - Research Paper Example Therefore, every individual should be worried about cell phone, cellular antenna and Wi-Fi device radiation (Mercola, 2008). Studies conducted by scientists have indicated that exposure to electromagnetic waves cause significant changes on the human body. Doctor Mercola indicates that although extensive research has not been carried out to determine the clear effects that radio radiation has on individuals, it would be a grave mistake to conclude that the emissions are inconsequential (Mercola, 2008). Some scientists have used rats to conduct similar experiments and have concluded that the radiation emitted by these devices has an effect on the biological and maturation processes of the rodents. Other researchers have scientifically linked some health complications such as sleep disruptions, dementia, fatigue, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Autism, Headaches, poor concentration and failing memory to the electromagnetic waves emitted by cell phones, cellular antenna and Wi-Fi devices. However, these health implications have other causes as well, although the radiation emitted from these devices ca nnot be ruled out. Cell phone, cellular antenna and Wi-Fi device radiation seems to create potential health risks to humans. Therefore, people should be worried about being exposed to this kind of radiation, as it has adverse effects on their health (Shelly and Vermaat,

Critical Factors Relating to Customer Expectations Essay

Critical Factors Relating to Customer Expectations - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that customers are users of products and services provided by businesses. Every customer has some expectations for the product he/she uses. The attitude a customer shows towards a product largely depends upon the way it is marketed and the customer’s experience with the product. The products or services which match the expected performance of the customer satisfy the customer. In this competitive age, customer satisfaction has become the top priority for businesses. The customer today has become more demanding and is only satisfied as long as his requirements are constantly met. The success of a company largely depends on customer satisfaction and for this, the businesses throughout the world are focusing on measuring and improving the satisfaction level of both internal and external customers. The expectations of the customers are simple; all they desire are timely quality solutions within budget. Meeting these expectations results in customer satisfaction. The basic condition for delivering superior service is to understand customer expectations; customers have preconceived expectations when judging a firm’s service. The Theory of Expectations is the most commonly accepted theory in this regard. It states that the customer has a predetermined standard of expectations and the satisfaction or dissatisfaction results from a comparison between these predetermined sets of expectations and the actual performance of the product or the service. Given the fact that the extent to which customer expectations are met will decide their level of satisfaction from the services, it is very important to understand their expectation in the first place and then to deliver on those expectations. Keiningham and Vavra further explain that the customer satisfaction can be broadly categorized into three zones: the zone of pain where the customer expectations are not met; the zone of mere satisfaction where, although the custo mer expectations are met, but the company is not offering anything unique which would distinguish itself from others in the market. In this case, the customers can easily switch over to similar products offered by other companies and finally is the zone of delight. The zone of delight is that where the customer expectations are not only fully met but are exceeded, which leads to customer loyalty and word of mouth marketing. For instance, iPhones and iPads are more popular among people because the Apple Store has a greater content of music, films, books, TV shows and other multimedia apps which the users can download directly; these are the extra services which ensure customer expectations are exceeded. Types of Customer Expectations Jugulum and Samuel have stated the customer expectations to be of three types: performance, perceptions and outcome expectations. The first two expectations are linked to the products delivered to the customers and for this reason, are also known as the product expectations. The third type of expectation – the outcome expectation – exists in the absence of the products as well. The performance expectations can be measured and revolve around the quality of the product, cost, and availability. Â  

To what extent has Henry VIIs success as the first of the Tudor Essay

To what extent has Henry VIIs success as the first of the Tudor Monarchs been exaggerated - Essay Example This was shown in his productive use of the chamber system for money matters during his â€Å"personal rule† from 1503-1509, which Edward IV (1471-1483) introduced previously. Furthermore, we find fault in Christine Carpenter’s observation that Henry â€Å"became king under better circumstances than any other† – because the country itself was battered and bruised from the long and arduous Wars of the Roses. The above issues are just some of the arguments that make Henry VII’s alleged success controversial and exaggerated. But in order to come to a conclusive and relatively balanced position as to how exaggerated Henry’s success has been, it is imperative to review some of the historiographical evidence available to us from contemporary and modern day accounts. Why would anyone want to distort or exaggerate Henry’s success? Usually the answer can be found embedded in matters concerning patronage, flattery and the obvious fact that few individuals would wish to risk their lives in making the king appear ignorant or incompetent. For starters, I can easily understand what Michael Sittow’s portrait of Henry in 1505 was trying to depict. Sittow conveyed a man that is richly dressed (showing his omnipotent Tudor badge) with the faint presence of what seems a slight, grudging smile. Here, we first encounter the exaggeration in terms of his physical appearance. If Sittow’s portrait were entirely accurate, for instance, then why would Pietro Torrigiano’s sculpture be so very different? As Dawson stated, they are so peculiarly distinct from each other that the latter’s Henry â€Å"could be a different man.† Torrigiano used higher cheekbones and a longer nose, which, no doubt, modified to take after the â€Å"high Roman fashion† reflected in Shakespeare’s own, Antony and Cleopatra. Obviously, the sculptor aimed to create a domineering, decisive and commanding figure.

The Role of free Will Essay Example for Free

The Role of free Will Essay Fate is by definition the occurrence of inevitable events that are predestined to happen in a mans life. In literature, fate has a strong connection with the concept of free will because both can guide a character to a certain destiny. In Oedipus the King, written by the Sophocles, Oedipuss ominous fate of parricide and incest is prophesized by the Oracle at Delphi. However, it is not fate that led to Oedipuss destruction, but his overwhelming curiosity, impetuous actions, and irrational judgments. Oedipuss voracious curiosity forces him to discover the horrible truth of his crimes and ancestry. His curiosity often sets him unsatisfied, and provokes him to investigate many gratuitous details. In Corinth, a drunkard bawled out that Oedipus was not [his] fathers son (44)1. Overwhelmed with frustration, Oedipus questions his parents about his identity. Although he got the desired response, he still feels that the thing had hatched a scruple in [his] mind (44). His superfluous curiosity encourages him to steal away from home to Delphi, to the oracle (44), where he then learns of the horrible prophecy. This curiosity leads him to depart his safe homeland into a foreign land where he eventually meets his grievous end. Oedipuss copious curiosity is also presented when he stubbornly pursues his self-identity search. Jocasta warns Oedipus to terminate his investigation for [his] own lifes sake (59). However, spurring from his curiosity, Oedipus still chooses not to consider her warnings thoughtfully. Not only do Oedipuss curiosities contribute to his downfall, Oedipuss hasty actions are also essential. Oedipuss impulsiveness acts as a guide that pushes him to meet his own disastrous destiny. When Oedipus left Corinth, he was [forced] off the road (44) by men who seemed to be urging on. Without serious considerations of the mens possible identities and intentions, Oedipus in fury landed [one man] a blow (44). Eventually Oedipus kills all the men, including his real father, Laius. This preventable issue is set as a foundation to Oedipuss future tragedy. As a leader, his actions also play a pivotal role in his future outcome. When Creon comes back with information from Apollo, he asks Oedipus if he wants to discuss the matter privately. Without a second thought, Oedipus demands him to speak out to all (8). Oedipus frenetically eliminates the necessity of this pivotal piece of information to be interpreted thoughtfully first. His feral personality is shown again through his conversation with Jocasta. When she tries to prevent Oedipus from knowing the repugnant truth, Oedipus blindly accuses her of bridling at [his] paltry origin (60) with all a womans pride (60). These officious words will become a part of ignorance and guilt he eventually has to bear. Although Oedipuss fierce actions play a major role in his future, his vague judgment also plays a crucial part. Oedipuss way of analyzing problems creates flaws that direct him to meet his destiny. As the King of Thebes, Oedipus does not fulfill the requirement of being a successful leader. He leads Thebes to follow fifteen years (3) of a sham prosperity cloaking corruption (3). It was not until Thebe is struck by plague (3) that Oedipus finally picked up the responsibility and asks for advice from the God. When Creon returns with advice from Apollo, Oedipus does not calmly interpret the Gods message. Instead, he openly requests for the killer of Laius. When this method fails, unsurprisingly, Oedipus reacts with rage. He curses the killer, whether slipping off alone or with a band of men (15) to be [called] down a life to fit a life dragged out in degradation (15). As Oedipus hastily searches for the murderer, he also makes the discovery of his own crimes more inevitable. This way of solving the issue leads Oedipus fervently to seek for a solution. Oedipus was encouraged by Creon to find Tiresias, the blind man with great insight. Oedipus pleads Tiresias to stir himself to help where help he can (18) and describes him honorably as the intuitive, didactic master of the finite and the infinite (17). However, when Tiresias claims the murderer of the man whose murder [Oedipus] pursues is [him] (22), Oedipus responds by calling Tiresias a purblind man, in ears and mind and vision (22). It can be seen that Oedipuss trust for Tiresias is not genuine. The infuriated Oedipus loses his judgments, and does not consider the reliability of Tiresiass words or to examine the case privately. Instead, he carries on his mistake by accusing Creon of plotting with Tiresias to overthrow and snatch (22). Creon tries to explain to Oedipus that he could not covet kingship for itself when [he] can be a king by other means (33), and he asks Oedipus to take [him], kill [him] (34) if he is found unfaithful. However, Oedipus neglects Creons fifteen years of loyalty and still claims to want [him] dead (34). By not giving Tiresiass prophecy a second thought and blindly accusing Creon, Oedipus extends his own dreadful deeds. His hatred towards Creon leads him to hear from Jocasta that Laius was murdered at a spot where the road from Delphi meets the road from Daulia (41). This incident strikes Oedipus as he recalls that he had killed some men at the same spot. From this point on, the truth began to unravel as Oedipus is urged to find the surviving herdsman of Laius. These anticipating events resulting from Oedipuss own problematic judgments cause him to meet his acrimonious destiny. Oedipus the King presents the inevitable fate of the main character, Oedipus, of incest and parricide. However, it is not the predetermined force of fate that drives Oedipus inescapably to his destiny. Free will and Oedipuss own choice are the main sources that destroyed his life. Oedipus, with his immense curiosities, rash actions, and inconsiderate judgments, led him to meet his own doom.

Importation of Agricultural Products from Africa to the EU

Importation of Agricultural Products from Africa to the EU The Role Certification, including Grading and Standards Play in the Importation of Organic Agricultural Products from Africa to the EU CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION Abstract What are standards?; what is organic produce? What factors drive the economic climate in Africa and the EU? What is certification? What is the purpose of certification? and how important is the exportation of organic agricultural produce from Africa to the EU in terms of their economic relationship?, are all questions which go to the heart of this thesis. Accordingly they will be extrapolated throughout the thesis enquiry and where they intersect and overlap this will be explained throughout the thesis. Various themes will be incorporated into the thesis since these, too will be relevant to the answering of the above named questions. These themes include; the economic climate in Africa; poverty in Africa; the importance of the organic produce exportation market to African farmers; why regulation is important in the EU; supply chain management issues and their importance; business good practice; traceability of produce; pricing; productisation and marketing strategies. These themes an d the answers to these questions will highlight the role that certification, including grading and standards play in the importation of organic products from Africa to the EU. The purpose of these processes will be looked at throughout the course of the thesis and this will elucidate their role also. The place of certification, grading and standards processes will be assessed; and their overall contribution to the economic climate in Africa will be examined. In this sense, through analysis of contemporary and historical, economic and political issues, both in the EU and in Africa, a greater perspective on the role of these processes may be derived. Also, the importance of organic produce to consumers in the EU will be examined and the reasons for its growth in popularity will be analysed, since this too will shed light on the role played by certification, grading and standards processes in the importation of organic produce from Africa to the EU. Introduction The economic relationship between Africa and the EU is complex (Ake, C. (1996); p1), and may be described as of key economic significance to Africa, and, albeit to a lesser extent to the EU. The economic relationship in terms of organic commodity trade and exportation is also important. The market for organic produce in the EU is developing at an exponential rate. The reasons for this will be looked at in more detail, as the thesis progresses, but for the moment is is suffice merely to support this point in the following way: the Centre for the Development of Industry in the EU has estimated that the annual growth rate of the organic products market in global terms exceeds 20% (CDI, 1999; p1). Some more figures may put this statistic into perspective. This industry for organic commodity produce produces sales of an estimated 4.1 billion Euro, in Europe (as estimated in 1997) (CDI, 1999; p2). This is all the more significant for the EU, given that according to EPOPA (2006; Section 3.1 .1) the connections between Africa and the EU in the arena of organic exportation of agricultural produce are far more developed that those between Africa and Japan or between Africa and the United States[1]. This evidences the importance of the relationship between the EU and Africa, and the importance of sustaining this economic relationship by keeping standards of produce in terms of quality and integrity at a high threshold. This is one of the functions of the the process of certification, which will be examined in greater detail as the the thesis progresses. The European Union have strict regulations which apply to the importation of organic products from Africa into the EU, and this is particularly true of organically produced commodities such as coffee, vanilla and other foodstuffs produced by African farmers. Certification is one of these processes of regulation and it is a requirement which is just one of an amalgam of requirements which must first be satisfied before organic agricultural products may be exported from Africa to the EU. Many programmes and organisations have been established with the specific purpose of encouraging African farmers to export organic produce to the EU. Organic produce which is to be exported from Africa into the EU is required to be checked rigorously to ensure that its standards are acceptable for consumption in the EU. These standards, procedures and programmes and their purpose will be explained and discussed throughout this project. In particular, there will be a focus on the role that grading and standards play in the importation of organic agricultural products from Africa into the EU. The methodology which will be used throughout the thesis will be qualitative in nature and will revolve around the evaluation of secondary sources. Some quantitative material will be used but this will be evaluated qualitatively, in keeping with the emphasis which is to be maintained on the qualitative arm of research methodology. Research Aims and Objectives The objectives of the research are fairly straightforward. The primary concern of the research is to answer the thesis question as clearly and as concisely as possible. The writer wishes to formulate an originally conceived thesis and to draw conclusions on the basis of what has been discovered through the research enquiry. The limitations of the research will be assessed, and the best ways to lessen the effects of limiting factors will be identified and implemented. Therefore the writer wishes the thesis to contribute to research in the field and to be a source of information for others interested in researching the same field. It is the ultimate aim of the writer, to fully understand the role of certification (to include the process of grading and standards) in the importation of organic agricultural produce from Africa to the EU. Therefore these processes will be examined in depth and explained in full, with reference to academic publications and internet based resources. The socio-political and economic environment in which these processes operate is of crucial importance to the thesis, and accordingly it is the aim of the writer to fully explain these and the give illustrations of theory, where appropriate. A means of doing so effectively has been identified as the use of a case study. Accordingly, the country of Uganda has been chosen as the basis for the case study, and the socio political environment and the points made in relation to this will be illustrated through this mechanism. CHAPTER TWO METHODOLOGY Methodology This project will involve a qualitative evaluation of published and well known texts in the field. These will be secondary sources, as the topic is so far removed from Western culture and the resources available to the writer are such that credible primary research is perhaps not a feasible option. Nevertheless in depth and comprehensive insights will be gleamed from books, articles and web based resources. The methodology will therefore use secondary sources. Qualitative research mainly focuses on an interpretation of the world around the researcher. The researcher themselves is used as a mechanism of research and their observations form key elements in the research (Bryman, A. (1992); p45). Quantitative research, conversely focuses on scientific extrapolations of data (Bryman, A. (1992); p11) and quantitative research tends to predict and hypothesis about results whereas qualitative research results tend to be more malleable and subjective in their extrapolation. The focus on qualitative research was chosen for this project as it seemed more compatible with the ultimate aims of the thesis enquiry. A dearth of literature is available on the subject at hand and this may be explored through many means such as library based and internet based research. Therefore views and opinions, as well as the research of others were consulted in the course of the research. In the course of research of this nature, to preserve the integrity of the research; objectivity is obviously a prime concern. The writer must be careful not to extract views that are biased, or to formulate their own views through examination of biased material. Therefore a very wide scope was introduced to the research and a wide selection of texts were consulted. Where possible more than one text were used to substantiate points that are to be made. This scope will assist the writer to accumulate a more biased and open minded view of the issues which the research question will address. The objectivity of the research was also preserved as the writer consulted a wide range of sources published by interested parties, such as development agencies, non profit making organisations, government endorsed material and material available from the world of academia. The website of the European Union was also consulted as this is probably quite a reliable source of information, and reliability, like objectivity was paramount in the pursuit of the research objectives. Therefore sources that were disseminated through reliable and well recognised media like on-line book databases were consulted. In this sense therefore the qualitative research which was the objective of the project was gathered systematically and in a planned and structured manner. Potential drawbacks and potential problems for the thesis enquiry were also considered. Limited resources were obviously a primary concern, as any research project may be indefinitely improved upon through expenditure of money and availability of resources. However, since this is a university project and one which has a limited time scale, such investment was not feasible. Therefore the writer attempted to compensate for this by ensuring that the research objectives were identified clearly from an early stage of the research, so as to enable the writer to devote as much time as possible to the gathering of material for the project. The research was therefore well planned and executed in a consistent and methodical manner, adding credibility and depth to the finished piece. Ethics are also of primary concern to any credible researcher. Therefore, the writer ensured that they familiarised themselves with ethical research practices, prior to the execution of the research. In terms of ethics, for this research, which does not involve contact with human research subjects, the ethical concerns of the writer were probably much less onerous, as great care must be taken when human subjects are involved in research. Nevertheless, ethical concerns played a substantial part of the research skeleton and the themes of objectivity and reliability of sources were given much consideration, as has been explained above. The emphasis was on producing a wide, comprehensive, well thought out and ethically complied thesis and this is obvious from how the piece has been approached. CHAPTER THREE AFRICA, FARMING AND THE EU African Farmers and the EU Thousands of African farmers operate small farm holdings and they are, in many respects reliant upon these agricultural practices in terms of maintaining a healthy, or even subsistence standard of living. Poverty among this sector of Africans (the agricultural sector) has been explained in many ways, some of which are described in this passage: 'Tiffen et al.'s (1994) much-admired study of Machakos District, Kenya, demonstrates much success in agricultural development and improved rural welfare over the last 40 years. But there is precious little in that work about differentiation. Instead, we have had to wait for Rocheleau et al. (1995) for reports of increasing social differentiation in the District. This has been reinforced by the detail in Murton's recently published work (1999), based on surveys in one village in upper Machakos, supported by rapid appraisal for other villages.Forty per cent or more of households have not had the capital to invest in cash crops of coffee and French beans(Belshaw and Livingstone (2002); p110)'. The EU plays an important part in maintaining higher living standards for the African farmers, and a large part of this involves supporting the practice of exportation of organic produce from Africa to the EU. This supporting function engaged in by the EU involves the support and maintenance of various agencies and initiatives. The agencies to whom the responsibility of ensuring that the importation of organic agricultural products from Africa to the EU runs smoothly conduct research and gather data in relation to the operation of importing organic produce from Africa into the EU. They also offer advice to African farmers wishing to improve their circumstances through growing and exporting their products to the EU. Examples of the agencies and initives mentioned above include EPOPA (Export Promotion of Organic Products from Africa), Fairtrade and EFTA. EPOPA This is an organisation which is called a development agency. It was originally set up by the Swedish International Development Agency in 1997, and its aim is to educate African farmers about business strategy and awareness of the regulations which are involved in exporting their organic produce to Africa (EPOPA, 2006; p1). Specifically, this agency targets small holder farmers as this sector of the African population stand to gain the most from this education, advice and information provision service (EPOPA, 2006; p1). EFTA EFTA was established in 1990 and this term stands for the European Free Trade Association (http://www.efta.int/). This organisation operates as part of a network which involves eleven different Fair Trade organisations in various European countries, who import fair trade products from almost 500 economically disadvantaged countries, including Africa (http://www.efta.int/). Its head office is based in Maastricht in the Netherlands and its main official mission statement is to ensure that Fair Trade is conducted more efficiently and effectively; part of its role is also to disseminate information to farmers in Africa and to organise networks between farmers to ensure that they can exchange ideas and experiences of producing products, including agricultural products for sale in the EU (http://www.efta.int/). Markets for Organic Products It is important to be aware that the market for organic produce is limited when compared with the markets for more generic produce. Although it has been argued above that the market for organic produce in the EU is quite large, it is important to understand that this market is not comparable in terms of size with other markets, selling globally recognised merchandise and products such as Mc Donald's food and mobile phones. This puts the pressing need for quality standards in the organic food market into perspective, and highlights the need for processes of certification and quality control. In terms of organic trade the US, the United Kingdom and Germany have the biggest markets for the sale of organic produce; whereas the most significant per capita consumption can be found in Switzerland, Sweden and Denmark (EPOPA, 2006; Annex 2). This limited size exemplifies the importance of putting high quality produce into these markets; as often what drives the demand for organic produce is the perception that organic produce is of a superior quality and is more healthy for the purposes of consumption. Outlets for Organic Produce A look at the food outlets for organic produce throughout the EU will also allow the writer to gain perspective on the importance of quality and standards. This analysis will introduce the main thrust of the thesis, which is the role of certification, grading and standards in the importation of organic produce from Africa into the EU. In the EU, most organic produce tends to be marketing through hypermarkets and supermarkets (EPOPA, 2006; Annex 2). The emphasis is on cleanliness and presentability. This is an indication of the growing demands there are in the EU for organic produce. The features of organic produce are very marketable within the EU, in the face of public concerns about food safety and health issues connected with foodstuffs. The genetically modified food market has also perhaps strengthened the demand for organic foodstuffs within the EU, since this controversial issue has highlighted and contributed to the growing concerns there are among members of the public about the long term health impacts which may be the result of eating an unhealthy or overly chemically ridden diet. There are proven links between diet and cancer; proven links between some chemicals and cancer and obviously these health issues make the public image of organic foodstuffs very important. These factors have put organic food onto the shopping lists of many people within the EU, who perhaps traditionally would have regarded organic food as a luxury which was extravagant and unnecessary. The next section will focus on how Africa came to be one of Europe's main suppliers of these organic foodstuffs, that are growing in importance. CHAPTER FOUR AFRICA'S DEVELOPING ECONOMY Africa's Economic Climate and the Developments Which Have Affected the Agricultural Industry The Africa economy has undoubtedly become more sophisticated in recent years (http://europa.eu/pol/agr/index_en.htm) (Hanna, J. and Hanna, W. (1981); p81). Like the Republic of Ireland, Africa has seen a process of diversification. The age old dependency upon commodities for the economic well being of the country has been lessened through the process of diversification (Barber, W. (1961); p44) (Hyden, G., Kates, R. and Turner, B. (1993); p41). Mauritius is just one example; South Africa, Botswana, Senegal and Uganda are others. Commodities such as sugar cane, minerals and gold and diamond exportation and the manufacturing industries which have seen more investment have contributed to this emboldened leap forward(Arnold, G (2000); p91) (Konadu-Agyemang, K. (2001); p11). Strengthening political structures has also played a large part in the economic progress that has been seen to affect the commodity markets in particular in these countries (Yudelman, D. (1983); p3) (Ottaway, M. (1997); p15). Ottoway gives us some important detail here: 'The economy that the new democratic elites inherit in most African countries has typically suffered from two decades of mismanagement, exogenous shocks, and inappropriate policies, resulting in a growing debt crisis and a semipermanent process of negotiations and debt rescheduling with international creditors. In addition, the democratic transition itself has occasioned large economic costs, either because of extensive civil unrest and sometimes violence, or because of the fiscal recklessness of authoritarian leaders trying to hold onto power. Thus, the governments that emerge from the process of democratization face the daunting tasks of consolidating pluralist institutions and undertaking urgent economic reform simultaneously(Ottaway, M. (1997); p17)'. During the 1960s, when most African countries obtained independence from colonial rule, many commodity industries were subject to a process similar to the nationalised industry strategies we saw immediately prior to the Thatcher era in Britain (Aryeetey, E., Court, J., Nissanke, M. and Weder, B. (2003); p201). The commodity industries in most African countries therefore were heavily influenced by politicians often engaged in undemocratic practices (Reynolds, A. (1999); p28). Also, the absence of private enterprise which these national led economies fostered led to huge market inefficiency. These processes are slowly becoming more sophisticated, and African countries have moved from selling raw produce to packaging and marketing their own. Africa farmers are also engaged in direct trading with the West(Federici, S., McLaren, J. and Mwaria, C. (2000); p3); the EU in particular as we have seen explained in the introduction. Better investment in the economies of African countries has led to the availability of more education for more people. Interventions from agencies, described above have also contributed greatly to the increasing sophistication of the economies of African countries, paying dividends in terms of a strengthened economy and better stability for small holdings farmers (Abubakar, A. (1989); p83). Better roads have also been a dividend of this growing economic fervour, as these have led to better economic stability for producers who are able to sustain their own supply chains for private enterprise commodity exportation to the EU, and further afield. Specifically, this is of relevance to organic producers of agricultural produce for ultimate distribution in the EU. Sea and air freight are the most common forms of transportation used by African farmers to deliver their products to the EU (EPOPA, 2006; Section 3.1.3). However there are countries such as Uganda and Zambia, which may be descried as landlocked countries, and as such they need to rely upon established and well constructed roads in order to ensure that there business supply chain is uninterrupted and reliable. This is so that they may be able to reach ports and airports with their produce. What is Quality/What are Standards? This refers to a measure of how much value the product may be seen as having. Higher quality products tend to have higher values. Standards, in the context of the certification process refer to a measure of quality. Quality is important in the context of organic commodity export from Africa to the EU as it allows producers to measure how valuable their produce is in a comparative sense. In this sense, quality informs the end consumer of the product and it also informs each and every actor who has contact with products along the supply chain which brings the product to market. Quality is therefore of key significance to all concerned with the presence of organic agricultural commodities from Africa in the EU and global markets. Specifically, quality in the production of organic commodities in Africa is measured with reference to particular characteristics. These are: origin, service, volume, and reliability of exporter (EPOPA, 2006; Section 3.5). CHAPTER FIVE THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS AND WIDER ECONOMIC ISSUES Factors which an African Farmer Must Take into Account: The Certification Process Before an African farmer may export organic agricultural goods for consumption within the EU, the farmer must first obtain a certificate in Organic Standards (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.2). The purpose of the certification process is to ensure that the farmer is producing organic products that are of a high enough standard to enter the EU market and the homes of EU consumers. It is illegal for an African farmer to export goods from their farms, for distribution in the UK, without first obtaining such certification, and the organic certificate is only issued for a period of one year (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.3). While obtaining the appropriate certification, is often time consuming and expensive, there are many ways this certification can be obtained and the two major categories are external certification and internal certification (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.3). The farmers may engage in what is known as an Internal Control System or ICS. Small farmers can obtain certification in groups, which ameliorates the constraint of expense on the farmer in question (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.3). This system of internal certification is advantageous to farmers also as it maximises contact between farmers in similar situations and enables networks to the established between the farmers and therefore facilitates the building of economic relationships and the sharing of experience and expertise. These groups need to be monitored internally. External certification involves an external certifier gathering much information about the farmers who wish to export their agricultural organic produce to the EU. In order for standards and grading to be conducted in a fair and consistent manner the farmer in question must provide much information about their business and agricultural practices (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.3). The external certifier may organise inspections of the produce (and where quality suspicions have been raised, more inspections may be carried out at the certifier's discretion) which has been grown by the farmer wishing to export organic goods for sale and consumption in the EU and the certifier may make certain recommendations to the farmer; accordingly the external certifier holds much power and influence (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.3). What Does the Certifier Look For in the Pursuit of Consistent Standards of Product Integrity? The certifier will look at a number of issues before the issue of a certification which will enable the farmer to distribute his organic agricultural produce for consumption in the EU. Firstly there will be a need to ensure that organic and non-organic produce is keep separate; secondly there will be a need to ensure that products are traceable; thirdly the technologies which are used in the growth and production process are strictly monitored, and lastly there will be a need to ensure that controls are imposed on agents used in the production process of the goods (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.4). These are the main issues which a certifier will look at before a certificate will be issued to the farmer who wishes to export his agricultural produce to the EU. Perhaps the most important of these processes is the need for traceability. This process refers to the identification of foodstuffs and an ability to trace where the product has come from (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.3-2.4). This process is particularly important, where there are quality or health and safety issues with the organic foodstuffs. This process therefore involves a registration programme, where farmers are required to to register the full origin of the produce, including any supply chain transitions, so that the origin of the foodstuffs are always clearly identifiable (EPOPA, 2006; Section 2.3-2.4). In terms of the monitoring of technology and the other factors identified above; these are also very important in the process of standards and grading of the produce. Ethical factors are key here. Organic agriculture is often viewed by those who purchase and consume organic products as a safer and more environmentally friendly option. The certification process has to ensure that these standards are retained on a level which is commensurate with the levels of faith that consumers of organic produce place in them. Therefore technologies and production enhancement through the use of technology is strictly monitored in the standards/grading and certification process. The Need for Certification in Terms of Quality Control of Organic Agricultural Produce There is quite a broad spectrum of quality which may be expected from African producers of organic agricultural produce. This diversity exists even in spite of the checks which are imposed at certification level. The agencies which work closely with African farmers aim to eliminate these problems with quality. The certification process is just the first step, since even the checks which may be imposed at certification level can only guarantee a standard level of quality. In some cases, also the certification inspections may not be frequent enough to identify and eliminate sub standard produce. The long term solution to this problem therefore is arguably to attempt to look at why some African farmers are producing lower grade produce and in doing so to attempt to identify some possible solutions to this problem. Organic farming is also highly labour intensive and attracts very high distributions expenses. Also, in terms of organic produce from Africa, the African distributors often obtain very low prices for their products in EU markets and this encourages or even necessitates lower quality produce to be distributed (EPOPA, 2006; Annex 3). This is due to a number of factors, one of which is that the image of Africa and African produce is quite poor. Consumers are often very concerned with the origin of the products in question and, while this is an intangible issue, which is essentially reputation orientated; this does not imply that it cannot be addressed at source, by African farmers. One way to address this problem is to build rapport with the customer, by attaching recognisable names and personas to the produce, creating continuity and trust between producers and the end consumer. Examples of these 'personas' have been identified by EPOPA (2006; Section 3.2.1) as Tasty Toms, De l Monte Pineapples and Chiquita bananas. Branding therefore is a crucial part of the commodity market for sale of organic produce between Africa and the EU, as it builds trust and encourages the African farmers producing such commodities to maintain their reputations through strengthening the quality of the products they can distribute to end customers. The Fair Trade Certification Process This is a particular course of certification which may be acquired mainly for agricultural products (EPOPA, 2006; Section 3.3.3). It is similar to the generic process of certification, although it is perhaps not as widely recognised by exporters of produce to the EU, which is because this particular method of certification seeks to target small and disadvantaged commodity producers in Africa (EPOPA, 2006; Section 3.3.3). What is the Grading and Standards Process? The grading process is an essential part of the organic exportation business. It may be done by both farmers themselves and by exporters (EPOPA, 2006; Section 3.2.2). It ensures that minimum standards are adhered to and that there are levels of consistency in terms of quality instilled in the quality control processes surrounding the exportation of organic produce to the EU. Grading may be carried out in conjunction with other processes that are linked to the grading system. Bulking, cleaning, grading and packing are usually undertaken at the same time (EPOPA, 2006; Section 3.2.2), as this enables the grader to identify and separate lower quality produce, and to ensure that the produce is fully prepared for exportation. For example, if a certain commodity is packaged in a particular way, it may be graded in a better category, since it is to be expected that the packaging may preserve the produce better than inferior packaging or no packaging at all. Grading and its Links with Better Infrastructure Grading is inherently linked with economic and infrastructure development in African countries. It makes sense that processes like this should not be regarded as isolated processes. For example, the grading of produce may be significantly affected by the length of time it takes for their produce to reach points where exportation may begin. Therefore the point that economic processes may be seen to be intertwined so crucially with more macro economic

The Correlation Between Multiple Personality Disorder and Child Abuse :: Child Abuse Essays

Behind Closed Doors: The Correlation Between Multiple Personality Disorder and Child Abuse "Each day that we pretended, we replaced reality with lies, or dreams, or angry schemes, in search of dignity†¦ until our lies got bigger than the truth, and we had no one real to be" From "For Children Who Were Broken" by Elia Wise Have you ever wanted to be someone else? Throughout history the idea of not being just us has intrigued everyone from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde. But imagine having no control over who you are. Imagine having 30 people inside of you, and every one of them wanting to be in control. This is the case with Multiple Personality Disorder, and it effects thousands of people in the United States alone. But why does MPD fascinate us? It has often been found quite interesting. Movies, books, and even talk shows have been made trying to show the harsh reality of the disorder, but how seriously are we expected to take Truddi Chase and the "Troops" when they are on The Oprah Show? How worried are we for Sybil when we remember Sally Field as Gidget? As grim as this disorder is we often don't realize the severity unless we hear it from "the voices." Using the psychoanalytical approach, I will show how past abusive experiences have driven some to MPD. Citing case studies from such books as When Rabbit Howls, The Truddi Chase Story, Sybil, and Jennifer and Herselves the correlation between MPD and abuse will be made. There are more similarities to these examples than just MPD, all were driven to MPD due to excessive physical, ual, or emotional abuse from a parental figure. Also, each of these studies show the cause and effects this disorder has on . Most MPD sufferers are , in fact female MPD sufferers outnumber men by a ratio of nine to one (Hales, 1993). This may be true because will keep their feelings of hostility toward others to themselves, whereas men would be more likely to lash out in random acts of . For instance, Anna doesn't want to believe that she is getting beaten, so she believes if she becomes someone else, it is not really her that is taking the abuse. However, it is only a matter of time before the abuse increases or takes another form. The effect compounds, one more personality develops, and so on until "the voices" have consumed Anna and left her broken, with every facet of her personality now being an independent mind. With statistics showing that some form of abuse happens to as many as one out of

Guide to Victorian Dance :: Victorian Era

Dance, Dancing, and Dancers: The How-To Guide to Victorian Dance It is with a great sense of responsibility and delight that I bring to you, young people on the verge of entering society, this short dissertation concerning the guidelines for cultured dance. I am confident that, as long as you adhere strictly to what is written in this manual, you will succeed in all your dancing endeavors. Dancer's Place in Society Due to the exquisite tastes of our Queen Victoria, dance, which is intimately aligned with musical ability, has become an integrated part of our society. Although the variety of dance ranges from the new Viennese waltz and the Sir Roger De Coverly to square dances and hornpipes, the most popular is the Polka. Learn it well ("Victorian"). As Mr. James Grant describes dance: " With what powerful emotions does many a fair bosom beat at the mere mention of it! It is the everlasting topic of conversation in the aristocratic circles" (Jackson). A Lady's Place in Dance Of all the things to remember, it is of the upmost importance to remember to properly present yourself as a sophisticated young woman. It is more valuable that your dress should complement your figure than be of the current style. Ladies must always be accompanied to a dance by an appropriate escort. Do not refuse a gentleman of your acquaintance a dance unless you have already accepted the invitation of another. If a gentleman with whom you are not acquainted asks permission to dance, politely refuse. Leaving the ballroom unaccompanied is unacceptable. When not dancing, avoid excessive whispering and chattering, and when dancing, always portray pleasure with your dancing partner. Finally, under no circumstances should a lady cross a ballroom unattended ("Ballroom"). Always portray yourself as a sophisticated young lady, remembering your duty to the host, to fellow guests, and to yourself. A Gentleman's Place in Dance Gentlemen are expected to know very well what is required of them. When asking a lady for a dance, use such phrases as, "Will you honor me with this dance?" or "Shall I have the pleasure?" A true gentleman will not sit next to a lady who is not an acquaintance of his. Under the circumstance that he knows her, he may ask permission to sit. Without proper introduction, a gentleman should not ask a lady to dance. White gloves must be worn at all times, taken off only to eat supper.

The Birth of Protestantism in Europe

Protestantism refers to the third branch of Christianity after Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. It is comprised of various denominations or groups each with their own set of traditions. This set of traditions is oftentimes unique to a denomination in terms of beliefs, organization and customs making it separate from other Protestant denomination. This makes Protestantism seem splintered when compared with the very organized structure of Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. But one common belief among Protestant denominations is that man can find salvation not through good actions but solely by his faith in Jesus Christ.The first Protestants come out from Europe in the 16th century in what is now called the Reformation. The actual word â€Å"Protestant† was originally coined when five princes of Germany sought reform in the Roman Catholic Church at the Diet of Speyer in 1529. They released a statement pronouncing unity against Roman Catholicism. Later in that centur y, the word was begun to be used to refer to two factions of reformation that broke away from Roman Catholicism: Lutheranism, founded on Martin Luther’s teachings, and Reformed, founded on the philosophies of Huldrvch Zwingli and John Calvin (McKim, 2005).Zwingli and Calvin headed the Protestant movement in Switzerland while John Knox for Scotland. In England, a middle fusion of Protestantism and Roman Catholicism was created in what is now called Anglicanism or the Church of England. From these major groups or denominations, a lot of smaller groups broke away and presently continue to happen as the movement expanded around the world. By tradition, the origins of Protestantism is traced back to October 31, 1517 when Martin Luther, a Roman Catholic priest that time, posted the â€Å"95 Theses† on the door of a church in Wittenberg, Germany.The theses condemn aspects of the Roman Catholic Church that he believed to be not founded on Scripture particularly concerning abso lution, confession and indulgences. Roman Catholics believe on indulgence as the complete or initial reduction of mortal chastisement owed for sins previously forgiven in confession. The growing practice of selling indulgences was regarded with huge skepticism since it symbolized a monetary transaction instead of an authentic repentance of the person. Luther viewed this as a serious desecration of the real purpose of confessing one’s sins and doing penance.He asserted that Catholics were fallaciously taught that forgiveness can be obtained by paying for indulgences. The Castle Church where Luther nailed his 95 Theses possessed one of the continent’s biggest collections of religious relics at that time. It was maintained that time that viewing these sacred relics gives the onlooker some indulgence in purgatory. The collector of the relics, Frederick III of Saxony, allowed the religious to view the relics once a year and visitors offered donations for the church’s preservation and receive indulgences in return.Another Dominican priest, Johan Tetzel, started to sell indulgences to help in a campaign to help fund St. Peter’s Basilica’s renovation in Rome. When these devout Catholics went to confess their sins, they handed over their indulgences and asserted that they did not have to repent because the indulgence document already guaranteed the forgiveness of their sins. This angered Luther and obliged him in exposing the deception by composing the 95 Theses, which was originally intended to be presented in public debate at the University of Wittenberg.That day on October 31, 1517, was the day when Martin Luther spoke to the Roman Catholic authorities with his reform appeals and introduced his theses. He also asked them to order the members of the clergy to bring an end to the wrongful practice of selling indulgence. The church authorities did not take any action and this led Luther to circulate his work in private. His 95 Theses proliferated swiftly and printing began in Leipzig, Nuremberg and Basel. All of a sudden the content of his work reverberated all over Germany and beyond, having acquired a growing recognition in a short span of time.Luther’s work echoed with believers not considering social status, wealth or class. The Roman Catholic Church released a response and identified errors in Luther’s work but the damage was already done. The Wittenberg chapel started to celebrate Lutheran services in 1522 instead of the Holy Mass in Roman Catholicism. Martin Luther quickly became popular mainly because of the common sentiment of Roman Catholic believers that time that they were not satisfied with the dishonesty and materialistic cravings and practices of the Roman Catholic Church.Starting in 1525, other principal European cities like Strasbourg, Nuremberg and Augsburg, officially joined the Reformation movement. Soon after, other principal German states like Saxony, Brandenburg and Hesse joi ned the movement. Denmark established its first Protestant church in 1357 and Sweden followed in 1539. Meanwhile, the final attempt to formally reconcile with the Roman Catholic Church fell short at the Colloquy of Regensburg in 1540 (Iserloh, 1968). The founding of Protestantism was then regarded as fully accomplished.

Non Financial Compensation

â€Å"Satisfied minds perform well† . Non Financial compensation which is not in the form of direct pay has great influence on employees motivation, performance and job satisfaction. Time is as precious as money and that encouraged many employees to request for a flexible benefits like flextime, compressed work week, telecommuting, part time work, job sharing, modified retirement. According to a nationwide survey of U. S. workers release by Gallup Organization and Carlson Marketing Group(Mondy, R. Wayne (2010), Human Resource Management (9th ed. ) ) indicates that nearly every seven out of ten employees say nonmonetary forms of recognition provide the best motivation and satisfaction which is directly related to the raise in company profits. The work life balance is a key factor for many employers in attracting and retaining the talented employees. This paper focuses on workplace flexibility at SSM IHT(Integrated health Technologies), which include flextime, compressed work we ek, telecommuting and part time work.SSM IHT provides Information technology services to the SSM Health Care organization which has group of hospitals in four states. Workplace flexibility plays a major role in daily lives of the employees here. Providing flexible work time for employees allows them to work at their most productive time, flextime. This creates healthy atmosphere and motivates employees to perform well. Everyone has preferences and commitments towards work & life, some prefers to work 4 days a week, by compressing the 40 regular hours, than the regular five days a week and spend remaining time with their familys.A 56 years old female employee at SSM IHT starts her work daily at 6am and ends day at 5pm, she works 10 hours a day for four days in a week and takes a day off either Friday or Monday, that way she wants to spend quality time with her family and also help her handicapped aunt. Her situation is a perfect example for a flextime and compressed workweek. However this flexibility has disadvantages, it adds extra load on other employees when she is not at work.Telecommuting is an essential way of doing the work from any remote location using computers which are connected through internet to their office, it is called as Work From Home(WFH) here at SSM IHT. Most of the Information technology service providers now provide telecommuting. At SSM IHT employees are provided with option of working from home more than a day , on some special cases they have provided WFH all five days a week for some employees. Telecommuting provides more flexibility and encourages employees to have work-life balance.Mainly during disasters and bad weathers SSM encourages employees to stay home and work, that way safety of the employees are addressed effectively by the organization and at the same time daily services are not interrupted. Also telecommuting addresses the challenge of ever growing work force and office space, this also saves the employees travel expenc es and promotes greener planet. Part-Time work employees work for less hours than full time work employees, usually students and parents with children prefer to work part time.Employees utilize this flexibility when they want to spend time in managing their personal business or managing their children. A manager of SAP Finance and BW ,who is parent of three children, opted to go from fulltime to part-time and only works from Tuesday to Thursday, she wanted to spend more time with children in educating them. This flexibility made her to stay back at this organization. In Summary, Non monetary benefits like workplace flexibility provide satisfaction and motivate employees at SSM IHT to perform well which increases the productivity.Due to these flexibilities employee retention is very high at SSM IHT where many employees are working for more than 20 years. Like every coin has two sides, these flexibilities also have its own pitfalls which adds extra load on employees, who has to take u p the tasks in their absence, results in extra fatigue. But these flexibilities enhances the organizations image and encourages new employees towards this organization.

How national and local guidelines affect day to day work Essay

National and local guidelines, policies and procedures for safeguarding that affect a practitioner’s day to day work relating to; Childcare practice The Education Act 2002 poses a duty on education authorities to promote and safeguard the welfare of children and young people. This affects my day to day work as I must be aware of the child protection procedures at all times, such as how to spot the signs of abuse, how and who to report my concerns, how to maintain a safe school environment, be aware of the health and safety of children and to be able to undertake any training required of me. Child Protection In my settings policies and procedures for safeguarding it states that all employees, volunteers and students should be properly vetted, which includes checks into the eligibility and the suitability, and that crb checks should be carried out. If I didn’t produce a crb check to make sure I didn’t have any criminal convictions or to check my suitability to work with children and young people then I would not be allowed to work in my setting. Risk assessment Risk assessments are an important factor in safeguarding children and in my day to day work, before I carry out any activity with children and young people I am required through my setting policies and procedures to carry out a risk assessment first to make sure all involved is safe, for example, if I were to plan an activity, such as an art and craft activity I would need to risk assess the potential danger of scissors, small objects, i.e beads and amend my plan accordingly to suit each individual. Ensuring the voice of the child or young person is heard Advocacy safeguards children and young people and protects them from abuse and poor practice. The government developed national standards for advocacy practice to ensure that children are able to speak out and have their views heard. The national Standards for the provision of children’s advocacy 2002Â  is this standard. This affects my day to day work as I need to know how to access advocacy services should a child require it and a child can request that I act as an advocate for them and in that case I will need to know where to look for support from the advocacy services. Supporting children and young people and others who may be expressing concerns Following my settings policies and procedures, if a child or young person were to express any concerns I would in my day to day work show a child that I am taking them seriously, that I am here to listen and have empathy, I would reassure the child that I will help in any way I can, I would record the conversation following the correct procedure, I would not make promises, or say that what has been discussed is confidential, I will not come to my own conclusions or ask questions and I would seek support and advice from the designated child protection officer.

Article on Discipline Essay

Discipline is not only necessary but also vital for any civilized society, as a matter of fact, discipline and Nature are synonymous with each other and whenever anything happens, which defies or interrupts the usual in Nature, it becomes a calamity, and similarly life without discipline can become chaotic. The term ‘discipline’ means any training intended to develop moral character or produce a particular pattern of behavior accepted by afferent institutions and society. Discipline is a way of life. It is vital in happing one’s personality. According to one school of thought, there are here forms of discipline i.e. expressionistic, impressionistic and self- discipline. If-discipline is usually considered to be the best form of discipline here in the term ‘discipline’ instead of standing as a rigid code of conduct obi strictly adhered to, denotes a process of normal growth and learning, of ways to monitor oneself. Self discipline is directly related t o the concept of freedom and motivation. If a child is motivated and given the freedom to choose, discipline becomes a natural way of life. In modern times, discipline is misunderstood and misinterpreted by some students as rigid and fixed set of rules enforced by others and to be followed without any questions being asked. They feel it is encroachment of their freedom and rights. Discipline is not a term which is limited to institutions like schools and colleges only. Neither is it a weapon or tool in the hands of adults to control the younger generation or in other words seeking unquestionable compliance. Discipline is neither suppression nor a means to assert one’s authority rather it is intrinsic motivation in a person to control oneself, one’s emotion, and desires and live in a uniform and orderly manner. That everything in this universe has to follow certain rules, the Sun rises in the East’ and sets in the West, come what may, the cycle of seasons also follows a pattern, Night follows, dusk which follows day and dawn, thus, we humans are also governed by rules and following the same is another term for discipline. In schools, discipline can be exercised through the medium of morning assembly, time table, uniform, break, activities, various competitions and talk shows. An example of discipline is also the happening of activities in t he school premises in a particular order, right from promptness in reaching the school, wearing the prescribed uniform, abiding with the school rules, attending classes etc.  etc. When one learns to conform to a particular set of rules he understands the importance and need to follow a particular pattern in life and how veering away from them can make life difficult and confusing, All successful people understand the importance of discipline in their lives and enjoy the fruits of success. An undisciplined person is prone to temptations and can easily fall prey to a lifestyle which could lead to his failure and doom. Discipline, thus! is inevitable as it gives direction to live life in a harmonious, and orderly way.

Overview of Ames Test

The AMES test also known as bacteria reversed mutation assay is used to evaluate the mutagenic properties of test articles. The test was first developed by Bruce Ames in 1974 (Krebsfaenger). The amino acid dependent strain of S. typhimurium and E. coli are used in this experiment where in the absence of the external histidine source, the cells cannot grow to form colonies. Specifically these strains of Salmonella are defective in 1. ) Repair of mutations (uvrB) and 2. A rfa mutation (eliminating a portion of lipolysaccharide (a coating of outer bacterial surface)). The rfa mutation here fulfills two purposes: 1. ) Helps Salmonella in growing in presence of sodium desoxycholate or crystal violet. and 2. ) Increases the cell permeability allowing more mutagen to enter the cell. The lack of uvrB gene in the decreases the rate of repair mechanism of mutations occurring resulting in the increased incidences of occurring mutations. These auxotrophic strain cannot grow on the media without histidine and biotine (due to uvrB).If these organisms are allowed to grow on the media lacking both of these, the strain get converted to prototroph resulting the organisms to grow on the mutagenic chemicals to be tested in the media. If the chemical being tested is mutagenic, the organisms will grow as some substance are capable of causing mutations in the cells at same site or at nearby sites resulting in restoring gene's function and these mutations in the cells can revert back the gene regaining its function (Tejs).These revertant cells are then able to grow on the media which does not contain histdine as it can now synthesize histidine on its own. This mutation causes the cells to divide continuously. If there is no further mutation occurring in the cell, the cells will die out like normal cell. But if any further mutation occurs which allows the cells to grow for many generations, then the cancerous cells will be formed. The principle of Ames test is specifically based on the hypothesis that any substance that is mutagenic for the bacteria used in this test may also turn out to be carcinogenic (compound causing cancer).The most important limiting points of the Ames test includes first an assumption that though Ames test is being tested on prokaryotic microorganisms, it will detect the mutagens or cancer causing agents in human beings. (Though this test uses rat liver enzymes, Ames test is not able to serve the perfect model for human beings. ) Secondly, mutagens found by this test might not be carcinogenic i. e. further test may be required. also all carcinogens are not mutagens ( i. e. Ames test is unable to find such agents eg: asbestos).Third, some nitrate containing compounds lie nitroglycerine can cause false positive production by producing nitric oxide. ? Works Cited 1. Krebsfaenger, Niels. â€Å"AMES TEST: Bacterial Reversed Mutation Assay. † Genpharmtox, Assay Sheet AMES TEST. Gen Pharm Tox, n. d. Web. 21 Nov 2012. . 2. Tejs, Sebastian. â€Å"The Ames Test: A methodological Short Review. † Environmental Biotechnology. Environmental Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury, n. d. Web. 27 Nov 2012. . 3.

Musical investigation of the Faahae Tabu using concepts of Music Essay

Musical investigation of the Faahae Tabu using concepts of Music - Essay Example The relationship of music to language has been a topic of renewed debate in recent years. Many orientations and methodologies have been applied to musico-linguistic studies, from Chomsky's generative grammar to semiotics. Many writers have felt that such linguistic approaches have been at best limited in their applicability to music, although some recent studies of syntax have generated interest. This article will advance a rationale for the study of music theoretical and perception issues in the light of contemporary advances in the area of linguistic prosody. While some issues in linguistics have been widely discussed in the music psychology and perception literature, much research in prosody has not been addressed. In order to understand the position adopted herein, the reader may find it helpful to review some previous avenues of exploration in the comparison of music and language. While Chomsky has recently rethought his theories of deep structure in language, applications of th is theory to music have held a fascinating lure for musicians and theorists, from Bernstein's Schenkerian speculations to Lerdahl and Jackendoff's Generative Theory of Tonal Music (hereinafter GTTM). One of GTTM's main contributions is a systematized version of the hierarchical structure of meter, incorporating the linguistic studies of Liberman & Prince. (Liberman 249-336) Referencing transformational grammars, GTTM places a good deal of emphasis on the deep structure in composition, particularly in regard to metrical hierarchies and tonality. Lerdahl & Jackendoff are less interested in the 'surface' structure of a piece, which is generally defined to include melody, rhythmic patterns (as opposed to meter), dynamics, timbre, register, etc. In an effort to empirically demonstrate the theories contained in GTTM, many cognitive scholars gave designed experiments to measure performance variables. Often, these experimental performances are judged on their ability to reflect and/or communicate to listeners the deep harmonic structure of a composition. (Deliege 325-60) Contrary to expectation, research in music cognition has faltered when it has attempted to verify musical response in the context of the deep structure of transformational linguistics. Sloboda and Cooke, among others, have found that emotional response occurs in very short fragments of music and in a very short space of time. (Cooke 64-95) Such response is not relevant to the large-scale structural hierarchy of the composition. Factors such as repetition, changes of texture, register or dynamics are much more important in perceptual grouping than such tonal factors as modulations, cadence points, or tonal closure. (Clarke 352-8) Rosner and Meyer have attempted to experimentally document Meyer's theory of melodic processes. (Meyer 1-40) Meyer distinguishes between structural and ornamental melodic notes (much in the manner of Schenker). Wishing to prove that the underlying structure of the melody is more perceptually important to the listener than low-level structures such as contour, the authors instead find a greater perceptual effect for melodic process. They also discover a much more important role for melodic contour than they had predicted. The idea of top-down processing of musical hierarchies been widely verified experimentally, (Narmour 1-26) yet from the standpoint of music theory, the level of surface has been subject to unwarranted neglect. If deep structure is significant in both music theory and language, why can its effects not be verified in music perception research In part, the attention paid to deep structure by scholars of music perception has come about through some confusion of purpose. The aims of theorists are not necessarily those of perception researchers. Theoretical analysis tends to be highly reductive in nature, insofar as