Coccidioidomycosis (alley fever and Tuberculosis Essay

Coccidioidomycosis (alley fever and Tuberculosis - Essay Example T., & Dunning, M. B. 2009). Tuberculin relates to an extract of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that is used in the detection of tuberculosis infection. Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) is a form of tuberculin which is made of a combination of complex mixtures of antigens. PPD functions by creating a mild as well as delayed allergic reaction that takes place among patients likely to be infected by Tuberculosis. The test is usually conducted by injecting a lower level of fluid into the skin located in the lower section of the arm. The swelling on the arm is then checked after a period between 48 and 72 hours for any reaction to the skin. Its size is measured using a ruler and the doctors use the measurement for their analysis based on well known established facts. Positive tuberculin test is between 5, 10 and 15mm. The size of the swelling will help in finding out if the person has already been infected by the disease or is at risk of being infected. Positive skin test is an indication of infection by the tuberculosis bacteria while a negative skin test is an indication of absence of the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis. The test is however limited in some cases especially where it had been used before on the same individual. It is worth noting that the test cannot be fully relied upon but must be supported by other tests such as the blood test in order to establish if the disease is latent or active. The blood test necessary for tuberculosis is known as Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) which exists in two forms namely QuantiFERON-TB and T-SPOT. Sputum cultures as well as smears tests are conducted for acid-fast bacilli in circumstances in which a patient undergoing the test is producing a lot of sputum. The method can be achieved through fluorescence microscopy. The disease which is caused by a fungal infection is can be diagnosed through a number of ways which include blood tests, sputum test, chest X-ray among other methods.

Coptic Christians Essay Example for Free

Coptic Christians Essay As one of the most dominant sources of primary readership in the world newspapers have a great deal of power over what their recipients read and believe; with this being the case it is no surprise that it is the editorial standpoint of the articles presented in your local newspaper that dictate how you feel about particular subjects, especially those of international appeal, not unlike the varying views of the recent pig culls in Egypt. With tensions in the area high and ready to boil over the Egyptian government has started a controversial pig cull that has left outside nations confused and poverty stricken pig farmers throwing stones. After having learned some very hard lessons with mad cow disease and bird flu fatalities, the Egyptian government began the cull to prevent the infestation of swine flu and it has since been deemed a general health measure of great concern and unending debate. People consider newspaper articles to be almost as valid a source as a first-hand account, often viewing news reports as individuals writing â€Å"live† from the location of the story as if a part of the incident taking place; it is never taken into account the fact that a great deal of newsprint stories are taken down from the Associated Press and reported in the way that the writer and editors of newspaper should see fit. Thus, with the story being reported and relayed differently the perceptions of readers in France, America, the United Kingdom and various other parts of the world are likely to be very different when it comes to stories like this one. Although the story has been reported all over the world, the only way to get the mixings of the real story with all of its elements would be to include the information obtained in every newspaper that has covered the story, or to at least take representative samples from varying parts of the world like what has been done here. Where one country may report predominantly on the religious aspects of the dispute another country may focus more on money and another on class, so in order to get the full story you must put together the pieces that you receive from the sources you review. In presenting information like the fact that the World Health Organization reports that the swine flu outbreak was spread through a person-to-person system of transmission and that in none of the more than 700 cases reported worldwide was there believed to be any animal-to-person transmission, nor were there any fatalities or serious cases reported outside of Mexico it is clear that BBC News is attempting to portray the views and understandings of various international organizations like the United Nations and their World Health Organization. This newspaper is attempting to present how the issue is being perceived by international health officials. BBC News also spent a great deal more time presenting the religious argument than on the monetary aspects and the class issues over the controversy of physical disputes. They reported that most people living in Cairo are Muslim, so it is the belief of the pig farmers, as Coptic Christians, that the pig cull is a personal attack on them as a direct insult against their chosen faith. With Muslims having taken a vow against pork, the pig farming and consumption that takes place in Egypt is enacted by its Coptic Christian minority, which constitutes only about 10% of the Egyptian population. BBC News is trying to make clear here that the Coptic Christians are being unfairly targeted as the lower class minority, an element not very well touched on in some of the other periodicals.

Ecological Role of Termites in Dry Environments :: Environmental Ecology Research Papers

Ecological Role of Termites in Dry Environments Termites are predominantly thought of as destructive and menacing creatures that serve only a small part in Earth’s ecology. The contrary, however, is a more accurate description of the incredible niche that this animal fulfills, particularly amid arid and infertile environments. The inhospitable outback of Australia receives a minute amount of annual precipitation. The shortage of moisture has led to an astounding adaption of the few animals that continue living there, notably the termites. Water is required by all living things to stay alive; this fact is not lost on termites. Several species of termites have evolved to such a degree that entire colonies are able to exist entirely within their self-manufactured environments, sometimes even entirely within a piece of dead wood. Recycling everything they use, the termites construct ingenious mounds with their waste materials and prevent moisture from escaping by packing everything together, forming water proof pavements. The t ermites’ ability to metabolize cellulose with a mutualistic symbiotic relationship allows them to decompose dead plant material and recycle the nutrients back to the environment. Overall, termites are the most important decomposers in dry environments because of their ability to recycle nutrients, form soil, and retain moisture. Introduction It seems natural to dislike termites. Most of them are very small, off-white, alien-looking insects, they live in the darkness, and they have a reputation for being â€Å"pests† by causing millions of dollars in damage to wooden structures and vegetation all around the world. Thomas Snyder exhibits this widespread negative view of termites in the title of his 1948 book, Our Enemy The Termite. Nevertheless, recent studies and discoveries have begun to correct the downbeat view of the termite. Surely a creature that exists (or has existed) on every continent in a wide range of environments has a greater ecological niche than a â€Å"pest†. Recent studies into the evolution of this order of insects suggests a much more accurate relationship of their contribution to the environment now and in the millions of years they have existed. The termites’ ability to adapt to arid environments has led them to fill the important role of decomposition where common decomposers su ch as bacteria and fungi cannot function. Australia is an ideal place to study the effects of dry environments on termites because of the low precipitation and elevated heat levels of the desert and savanna. Background Taxonomically, all termites can be placed into Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta, and Order Isoptera.

Medicated Child

â€Å"The Medicated Child† The documentary â€Å"Medicated Child† shows how there is a lack of knowledge on how to diagnose and treat children with Bi Polar Disorder. Early on before proper research was done, children were often diagnosed with ADHD instead of the proper BI Polar diagnosis. This can be attributed to the fact that the symptoms are so similar. Doctors often feel treatment of such disorders can only be treated by medications, however, some psychologists believe that there are other methods that can be used. They do not want children to be on so many daily medications.In my opinion the doctors in this documentary were to quick to diagnose and medicate the children with these disorders. They used educated guesses on the type of treatment to use. In some cases the children were on 8 or 9 different medications daily. This much medication or any mind-altering substance given to a child whose mind is still developing could have and is shown here to have long term effects on the rest of their lives and development in society. There is a chance that the children may have grown out of these stages in their lives but were never given the chance to come into their own.The parents seemed to be looking for a quick fix to their kids acting out. When in reality, what child from 3-5 doesn’t have emotional outbursts and the inability to control their impulses? Parenting and guidance need to come into come into play for these children. Children in this age range are easily molded and might just need some guidance and structure added to their life before going straight to medications. This is not to say that mental illness does not exist in some young children, but in some cases other outlets of help and treatment should to be sought out before giving strong and heavy doses of medications to your child.The health care providers in the video seemed to neglect further testing or options of treatment for the young patients and just opted to add more prescriptions and raise dosages of already existing medications. The parents appeared to have a feeling that something wasn’t right but went along with doctor’s orders anyway due to their lack of knowledge on the subject and situation. Jacob was diagnosed with Bi polar disorder at 3 years old when his teachers suggested to his parents that he was to hyperactive and needed ome sort of treatment. He was initially diagnosed and treated for ADHD but soon after his parents decided that he was being too heavily medicated and wanted him to be taken off the meds. It was discovered shortly after the hospital stay where he was being detoxed, that he actually had Bi polar disorder. At 16 Jacob is still on medications to treat bi polar disorder, but I feel that the over medication and vast array of chemicals he was exposed to when he was a child heavily influenced and distorted his development into adolescence.It is my overall opinion from this video that we need to look at all o ptions when treating children with mental illnesses. Medication can be useful but needs to be monitored carefully and combined with therapies. Parents need to be educated on what the medications can do to their child. The young children in this video will grow up to be adults living in our society and we want them to be as happy, healthy and productive as possible.

Barbara Kingsolver

Barbara Kingsolver’s novel called The Poisonwood Bible beautifully illustrates the lessons learned in a journey that is both physical and metaphysical. As this family travels from Bethlehem, Georgia to the Congo, Africa in order for Nathan, the father, to become a missionary, they each take their own journey of gargantuan proportions. As each character takes very different ideas out of their experiences in Africa, the reader too, is able to experience Africa from the vantage point of multiple narrators. Kingsolver asks the reader from the very beginning to take the journey with this family.â€Å"Oh, but I know better and so do you†¦Take your place then. look at what happened from every side and consider all the ways it could have gone† (Kingsolver 8). In an interview from Book Page, Kingsolver offers some explanation for looking at history. â€Å"We can never know, never look at history with anything but a narrow and distorted window,† says the author. We ca n never know the whole truth, only what's been recorded for us and what our cultural and political predisposition understands. Leah says history is never much more than a mirror we can tilt to look at ourselves† (Kanner).Many members journey from Georgia to the Congo and from ignorance to understanding. In the first section called â€Å"The Things They Carried,† Kingsolver shows the characters packing all the necessary things that they carry into the Congo on this journey. They hide objects in their waistbands that they can’t live without, like band-aids, scissors, cake mixes, and more. The cake solidifies before they are even able to attempts to use it. Before they even get there, Leah realizes these objects weigh her down. What hey realize is that they don’t â€Å"need† any of the objects they brought with them, and that our concept of need is warped by our culture.These possessions stand out against the items of the Congo. The demonstration garde n is a symbol that shows many characteristics of this journey of ignorance and understanding. Nathan’s purpose in the demonstration garden is to show the Congolese agricultural techniques. This garden is symbolic of the attitude that the family carries into the Congo. they believe that their way is superior and Africans are hopelessly backward. However, the plants that they bring are inappropriate to Africa as are the attitudes of the family.The plants are useless; they bear no fruit just like the attitudes of the family. When Mama Tataba tries to advise Nathan, he cannot heed her advice because he believes the Congolese are so backward that she doesn’t know what she is talking about. It never occurs to him that there are reasons other than â€Å"backwardness† as to why there is no agriculture in Kilanga. The journey continues as more attitudes change throughout the course of the novel. Adah believes that it is so terrible that so many children and adults die in Africa of things we can cure.So people like her have brought medicines and inoculations. However, this leads to overpopulation and food shortages and more. Another lesson the family learns on this journey is that human beings cannot change the balance of nature. Nature always finds a way to retain its own balance. Not all characters succeed in taking the journey. Nathan Price never â€Å"sees the light† of his journey. He arrogantly believes that he can change these ancient traditions to his own, and this would be for the betterment of everyone. His way of life is simply superior, but he is blind in so many ways.He actually is physically almost-blind in one eye because of an old war wound. He is figuratively blind to anyone outside his own version of his divine mission. He then loses sight temporally by ignoring Mama’s advice about the poisonwood tree. Kingsolver ultimately longs for the reader to make this journey as well, a journey to explore what really happened in the Congo. She wants the reader to question what we did in the Congo and how we respond to its destruction. This is why we hear the story from five different narrators. There is no right answer; there is only the journey of exploring the possibilities.Orleana is paralyzed at the end of the book. Rachel refuses to accept any part. Leah becomes an activist, attempting to right the wrongs of the world. Adah responds with science, wanting to figure out and understand her world. What this family’s ultimate â€Å"journey† becomes is one of arrogance and superiority to one of understanding and open-mindedness. â€Å"We aimed for no more than to have dominion over every creature that moved upon the earth. And so it came to pass that we stepped down there on a place we believed unformed, where only darkness moved on the face of the waters.Now you laugh, day and night, while you gnaw on my bones. But what else could we have thought? Only that it began and ended with us. What d o we know, even now? Ask the children. Look at what they grew up to be. We can only speak of the things we carried with us, and the things we took away† (Kingsolver 10) Works Cited Kanner, Ellen, Barbara Kingsolver turns to her past to understand the present. 1998 Retrieved June 3, 2007. from First Person Book Page site http://www. bookpage. com/9811bp/barbara_kingsolver. html Kingsolver. Barbara, The Poisonwood Bible. HarperCollins, Canada. 2005.

Impact of the Dynasties On China essays

Impact of the Dynasties On China essays Everything in China seems larger than life, its culture and its civilization goes back five thousands years. Its vast area of more than 3,690,000 square miles is the third largest in the world. With a population of more than 1 billion, it is earth ¡Ã‚ ¯s most populated country. The Himalayas along China's southwestern region with India are the world's tallest mountains. China's greatest river, the Yangtze, is the world's fourth longest. The Taklimakan Desert, in western Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is one of the driest spots on Earth. China has a great wealth of mineral and natural resources. Reserves of coal, petroleum, iron ore, tungsten, tin, bauxite, copper, limestone, and many other minerals needed in modern industry are abundant. Used in manufacturing and exported for money, these resources provide China with a foundation for industrial growth. With these great resources and lands China were able to grow into one of the world ¡Ã‚ ¯s longest lasting historical nation. For China to maintain in current level of power 13 or more times the ruling dynasties were changed. Through all of them there are four dynasties that effected China in every aspect of the life currently, those dynasties are Qin, Han, Tang, Yuan, and Qing. For the first time China was unified in 221 B.C. This dynasty formed because it was the most aggressive group of the Warring States, from its other rival states. (Qin in Wade-Giles romanization is Ch'in, from which the English China probably formed.) Once the king of Qin came into power, he took the title Shi Huangdi. The Qin kings had relied heavily on scholar-advisers. Qin was well known for frequent military expeditions pushing forward the borders in the north and south. To defend off barbarian intrusion, the walls built by the warring states were connected to make a 5,000-kilometer-long great wall. What is commonly referred, as the Great Wall is actually four great walls rebuilt or extended during the We...

Free Essays on Relationships In Everyday Use

Relationships in "Everyday Use" Like Dee in "Everyday Use", some people never learn the real value of family love. There is an unconditional love that comes with family. You love someone for the person they are inside. That is what is important. It is not where you live, or what type of clothes you have, or even what your family looks like. The material things should not matter. Unfortunately, some people forget this and loose sight of what really matters. The story of "Everyday Use" is a perfect example of this. The author lets us know right at the beginning that there is some kind of conflict between the mother and Dee that has kept them apart. When the mother starts to tell us about a dream she has where she and Dee meet again on a TV talk show, she makes a reference to the way she really looks, "large big-boned woman with rough, man working hands" (492). Then she says that is not the woman she is on the show. She is the way her daughter wants her to be, "a hundred pounds lighter, my skin like an uncooked barley pancake" (492). If Dee really loved her mother, she would not care what she looked like. Early on when both Dee and Maggie are still children, their house burned down. Maggie was severely burned in this fire. As the mother carries Maggie out of the burning house, she sees Dee watching the fire "with a look of concentration" (492) on her face. The mother felt that Dee hated this house and also hated Maggie. Dee always wanted more. She was ashamed of her family and the way they lived. Maggie and the mother were never ashamed. This is their life and they seem happy with it and with each other. Maggie has always been in "envy and awe" of her sister. She thinks her sister always has and always will get what she wants. After the fire, the mother and the church raised the money to send Dee away to school. When Dee comes back to visit as an adult, the mother and Maggie are both nervous. They... Free Essays on Relationships In Everyday Use Free Essays on Relationships In Everyday Use Relationships in "Everyday Use" Like Dee in "Everyday Use", some people never learn the real value of family love. There is an unconditional love that comes with family. You love someone for the person they are inside. That is what is important. It is not where you live, or what type of clothes you have, or even what your family looks like. The material things should not matter. Unfortunately, some people forget this and loose sight of what really matters. The story of "Everyday Use" is a perfect example of this. The author lets us know right at the beginning that there is some kind of conflict between the mother and Dee that has kept them apart. When the mother starts to tell us about a dream she has where she and Dee meet again on a TV talk show, she makes a reference to the way she really looks, "large big-boned woman with rough, man working hands" (492). Then she says that is not the woman she is on the show. She is the way her daughter wants her to be, "a hundred pounds lighter, my skin like an uncooked barley pancake" (492). If Dee really loved her mother, she would not care what she looked like. Early on when both Dee and Maggie are still children, their house burned down. Maggie was severely burned in this fire. As the mother carries Maggie out of the burning house, she sees Dee watching the fire "with a look of concentration" (492) on her face. The mother felt that Dee hated this house and also hated Maggie. Dee always wanted more. She was ashamed of her family and the way they lived. Maggie and the mother were never ashamed. This is their life and they seem happy with it and with each other. Maggie has always been in "envy and awe" of her sister. She thinks her sister always has and always will get what she wants. After the fire, the mother and the church raised the money to send Dee away to school. When Dee comes back to visit as an adult, the mother and Maggie are both nervous. They...

How to Prepare Common Base Solutions

How to Prepare Common Base Solutions Prepare solutions of common bases using this handy reference table which lists the amount of solute  (concentrated base solution) that is used to make 1 L of base solution. Stir the base into a large volume of water and then dilute the solution to make one liter. Use care when adding sodium hydroxide to water, since this is an exothermic reaction that generates considerable heat. Be sure to use borosilicate glass and consider immersing the container in a bucket of ice to keep the heat down. Use solid sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide to prepare solutions of those bases. Use concentrated (14.8 M) ammonium hydroxide for those preparations. Base Solution Peparations   Name / Formula / F.W. Concentration Amount/Liter Ammonium Hydroxide 6 M 405 mL NH4OH 3 M 203 F.W. 35.05 1 M 68 0.5 M 34 0.1 M 6.8 Potassium Hydroxide 6 M 337 g KOH 3 M 168 F.W. 56.11 1 M 56 0.5 M 28 0.1 M 5.6 Sodium Hydroxide 6 M 240 g NaOH 3 M 120 F.W. 40.00 1 M 40 0.5 M 20 0.1 M 4.0

What is the role of community in service learning Essay

What is the role of community in service learning - Essay Example Perfection is the point where education leads a human being. By following a well planned path of education, he or she is able to serve the community for an overall benefit. All service towards the community germinates from a sense of responsibility and this sense is an outcome of appropriate learning process which one has to avail. Although service learning calls for many interpretations, there is a core meaning which is applicable from all perspectives. Many stalwarts discussing the idea of service learning have been unanimous on a certain point and they have expressed: â€Å"Service-learning combines’ service objectives with learning objectives with the intent that the activity changes both the recipient and the provider of the service. This is accomplished by combining service tasks with structured opportunities that link the task to self-reflection, self-discovery, and the acquisition and comprehension of values, skills, and knowledge content.†(Defining Service Learning 2002) The Definition: Service learning is a learning experience enriching process which contributes in community service. Person going through a service learning process becomes responsible as a citizen and this individual gain ultimately results in empowering the community. There are many little responsibilities which can be learned by this gradual process, as for example: a person can learn how he or she should take care of the city restricting the chances of pollution. Communication skill is an integral part of the study of this subject too. Although career interest is given priority, it is guided in such a direction so that a positive impact on the concerned social milieu becomes prominent. Public policy, environment and science are the three career objectives for the people who go through a service learning process. Service learning is, in many ways, an activity aimed

Managing and Improving Quality Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Managing and Improving Quality - Term Paper Example There are three performance improvement methodologies described in this paper. Six Sigma is one of the methodologies and was initiated by Motorola then publicized by General electric. It is a manufacturing methodology whose focus is on variance reduction via a problem solution approach in order to improve quality of output. Lean thinking which was pioneered by Toyota as the company’s key to success. The methodology aims at reducing waste in order to improve the performance of business via workflow improvement. Theory of Constraint is a methodology which focuses on constraints of the manufacturing system and stresses on quicker systems throughput in a system process. Comparison of performance Improvement Methodologies Agenda Six sigma Lean thinking Theory of constraints Theory Reduce variation Waste elimination Constraint management Targeted Organizations Manufacturing manufacturing Manufacturing spotlight problems Flow of work Systems limitation Applications Definitions Analyz ing Improving Controlling measuring Value recognition Recognizing value stream Perfection Pull and flow Recognizing limitations and exploiting them. Subordinate process Constraint elevation Cycle repetition Assumptions Problem existence Quick throughput Limited inventory Fluctuations Measurement of performance for managers. Quality improvement. Removal of waste improves the performance of business. Several but small improvements are preferable compared to systems analysis. Speed and volume emphasis. Use of existing systems. An independent process. Primary effect Output process is uniform Decreased flow time Quick throughput Use of Six Sigma in healthcare organizations Six Sigma offers healthcare organizations a structure for Quality improvement both as a measurement as an application. Six Sigma is important in a healthcare organization for viability reduction in clinical service delivery. The application of Six Sigma in healthcare is a quality improvement plan in the process of medi cation application. Its presentation in this methodology demonstrates the versatility of these quality improvements in the healthcare organizations. Six Sigma in QI plan is a concept in statistics that represents the differences in data which has been set about its mean. In healthcare organizations the process capability measures the mean of the process in relation to the closest patient specifications limit. Six sigma as a management methodology provides the healthcare organization with the ability to systematically reduce its current errors and defects occurrences to low levels. This is achieved with a specific goal of delivering services with minimum error for maximum opportunities. Therefore in healthcare services the QI plan for six sigma is consider as a measurement and a methodology as well. In the healthcare organizations Six Stigma is applied in reducing variation sources found in various process of the organization. These processes include patient treatment, billing, patie nt triage and technology use by employees. Six Sigma was chosen by the many healthcare organizations due to its ability to evaluate process capability in performing defect free in a case where the defect is defined as something that patient satisfaction. At the same time, Six Sigma helps in designing,

Creating a Plan for Positive Influence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Creating a Plan for Positive Influence - Essay Example In order to be able to invoke a motivated, well allied team, we will have to generate an inspiring milieu in which it can toil also discover victory. This implies making sure that every affiliate of the team is aware of the reason that the team is existent to support. If we are able to clearly define the mission to the team members they would be able to recognize the broader perspective. It ought to clearly affirm the final purpose that the team members need to work towards. Being able to convey this to the members of the team implies being able to motivate the team, in addition to also helping them concentrate on it. - Reverence for one other: This consists' of vigorous listening, giving opinion, also respecting variety with reference to the morals, expertise, and forte of every team member. Vigorous listening is one of the most influential announcement tools anybody can implement. - Variance management: Though a lot of individuals are hesitant to it, variance can now and then be an ingenious force, adding new thoughts and vigor to a team. Ingenious conflict desires daring and directness, though; unreceptive argument ought to be kept away. Instituting strategies for administering a conflict is essential. - Taking decisions: If there is a difference of opinions in opinions, the resolution mechanism should be designed beforehand. The leader of the team will have some influence over the decisions but the team members. - The management of time along with the obligation: This may perhaps take in a principle heartening punctual onset at the meetings, or else daunting diversions throughout the team actions, like the usage of mobile phones or else other handheld devices (Drillings, 1994, pg 149). Comprehending the team member's viewpoint towards motivation, satisfaction and performance: Each and Every individual's sagacity of remuneration as well as satisfaction for their input to a team exertion will be diverse. It is significant to categorize this for every team affiliate so that the responsibilities can be given away efficiently also suitably. A few team members might have a distress in mounting new potential, in which case they might wish for a task that is not within row with their practice. This will call for added maintenance also training from the team leader. A few others may possibly favor a team task that boosts their skill within a specific region. An efficient leader can assist team members in looking for a role with which they are relaxed by providing deliberation on their potency as well as practice. Allocating tasks In order to work efficiently and competently, a variety of tasks have got to be crammed. If everybody is after breeding thoughts, there will be no one to realize them. If everybody is anticipating to be enthused, no motivation will take place. The complete variety of task responsibilities have to be allocated to make sure that the entire execution procedure is enclosed, from thought formation to liberation as well as conclusion: The individual goals ought to be: - Precise - Computable -

Reflecting imaging Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Reflecting imaging - Essay Example Cameras form the central part in understanding the image formation processes. The analogue forms the start of modern imagery with components remaining the same over the years. The principle of using reflected light from the object still forms the integral part in image formation. Some cameras such as those used at night in infrared radiation detection are one of the few types that do not use the same principle of reflection target object. Significant similarity between human eyes and digital cameras is very clear. Capturing, storage and display of the images has improved overtime with current images store in data form and displayed on the camera.in the article, an explanation of digitisation and the processes involved such as quantisation and sampling has remained elaborated. The article further explains terms and problems associated with this digitisation. Imaging is a form of visual representation of an object or reproduction of the same visual object. Reflection is the property of waves changing direction by bouncing off the surface of object as they cannot pass through or get absorbed. The bouncing of light is the most common and it is important in image formation even to human eyes. Reflected light imaging is the process of forming images when electro-optical waves bounce from the target to the camera or recording device. However, transmission imaging involves waves passing through the object before reaching the camera or recording device. In this imaging technique, the images produced depend on the absorption and reflective properties of the object at the specific wavelength of the incident light. Classification of images leads to an image being a digital or analogue image based their properties. Digital image relates to visual illustration of an object in an electronic form that can remains manipulated and stored by electronic devices, which are 2D image I[r, c]. These kinds of images are tangible but have

What make Abraham Lincoln an American Research Paper

What make Abraham Lincoln an American - Research Paper Example Varying aspects define America and as such define what Abraham as an American was. However, of surety is the fact that great Americans of all times have been described or defined by certain of these characteristics. This paper establishes the characters, which defined him to be a great American of all the times. The analysis of Abraham Lincoln as a great American revolves around the definition of Americanism to allude to great conviction or attitude that has special attention ascribed to the nation, US culture, political interest as well as the national interest of the great American state. Therefore, this paper has special attention in the deep political convictions and great oratory competence that saw him rise to the height of his political career and life as the sixteenth US president. To be specific, Abraham was described by his stern stand against slavery and discrimination, which has a great attention in what, defines the United States. His rise to power for instance signaled the divide, which saw the northern states as well as the Northern states separate on the bases of support of or against slavery. The Southern had great regard to slave and slave trade which according to Abraham created class divide among the Americans and which he strictly opposed. His governance was therefore characterized by the great opposition from the political elites who advocated for the class divisions as against the sovereignty of all Americans; the free and the slaves. In a century and over time in the history of America, Abraham Lincoln continues to have great perception amongst the American natives as well as across the globe. Penn Schoen Berland conducted a study to establish the perceptions of Americans towards Abraham and found out among other things that he is perceived to have been the best as well as most influential US president that has ever been. However, there were still a number who opposed the opinion and even lesser number having no knowledge about Abraham L incoln. In fact, a good percentage of the Americans in the current time reason that president Obama compares to some extent with Abraham Lincoln though not to a matching degree where there is still the perception that Abraham stands out against the current president in matters off ideal as well as leadership. In many aspects, among the legendary American heroes, Abraham Lincoln is depicted as being the ‘American original’ from his deep conviction of the sovereignty of the state and all the inhibitors, not defined by race or state of life; slaves and or free (Penn, 2-4). In an evaluation to his life, much lays an inspiration to many following his determination to hail from a very humble background and to forge his way to the highest office in the land and to command great leadership of all the time. His ambition and great determination, which saw him, uphold great integrity are among the basic traits that illustrated the great ‘American’ in him. He represent ed the ‘self made’ person of his time as the nobility in his character is often described. Though he was raised from a poor background, he struggled his way through academics through self-sponsorship, which led him to his law career. Having been brought up in the countryside by his step mother (having lost own mother at the age of 9 years), Lincoln had great determination to acquire formal education. Despite the great challenges that came his way, his staunch determination saw him rise to the House of Commons and thus engaged in his political career (Abraham Lincoln, para 1). It is within his service in the state legislature of Illinois that he started voicing his against slavery, not only

The Making of the American Revolution in Virginia Research Paper

The Making of the American Revolution in Virginia - Research Paper Example According to the research the people of Virginia were reluctant to sever their ties with Great Britain. Having been governed and influenced by a traditional and affluent group of farmers for much of the 18th century, the people of Virginia viewed their cultural and economic wealth at the mercy of favorable affiliations with the mother country. However, with the drastic changes after the Indian and French War, such as unfair British taxes, rapid swelling of multicultural and heterogeneous population, settlement growth in the interior, and the effect of an oppressive labor system, a large number of Virginians became disappointed with the colonial government. According to Woody Holton, the author of Forced Founders: Indians, Debtors, Slaves, and the Making of the American Revolution in Virginia, the colonial aristocracy of Virginia, which is the most renowned nobility in America, did not rashly take part in the revolution but was provoked by other groups and individuals. The historical account of Holton celebrates the Ohio Indians, whose efforts in supporting a wide-ranging confederation forced Britain to implement the 1763 Proclamation Line and abiding by it, thus spoiling the desires of land opportunists like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington. Holton puts the slaves of Virginia into the picture, who were persuading Governor John Dunmore to accept their services prior to his release of the well-known 1775 declaration and whose pursuit of independence drew the attention of a vast population throughout the colony, encouraging loyalists like William Byrd to join the patriots’ cause.... hites, renters, and smallholders whose choice to hold back the selling of tobacco in 1773 set off the campaign for non-exportation and whose claims for freedom reinforced the ultimate separation from the colonial government. It was the resistance and struggle of these people against the newly developed and unequally organized minuteman—members of squads of chosen individuals during the American Revolution—businesses that presented the first notion of a different political system in the colony and that alongside occupant conflicts and rebellions over poverty and other hardships to generate a grassroots revolution. Holton’s Virginia Holton (1999) discusses how the motives of the affluent Virginian nobility collided with the interests of the British traders and the Indians. The nobility had long aimed to enlarge their land holdings and thereby riches to comprise the region of Kentucky, a source of subsistence for numerous Indian populations. In order to resist the i ncursion of the White people, the Cherokee, the Delaware, and the Shawnee triumphed over their past conflict and cleverly collaborated to build a union. Great Britain, frightened of a disastrous pan-Indian conflict, initially released the 1763 Proclamation which disallowed every effort toward further colonialism and afterward, ratified in Quebec Act in 1774, giving all contested territories to the region of Quebec. The conflict of the nobility with British traders emanated from the Navigation Acts. This decree obliged Virginians to sell their tobacco only to the mother country. The settlers were deeply indebted to the traders somewhat due to their own extravagance, but they also attributed their huge debts to the decrease in earnings from selling tobacco (Holton 1999). The House of Burgesses proposed a

What make Abraham Lincoln an American Research Paper

What make Abraham Lincoln an American - Research Paper Example Varying aspects define America and as such define what Abraham as an American was. However, of surety is the fact that great Americans of all times have been described or defined by certain of these characteristics. This paper establishes the characters, which defined him to be a great American of all the times. The analysis of Abraham Lincoln as a great American revolves around the definition of Americanism to allude to great conviction or attitude that has special attention ascribed to the nation, US culture, political interest as well as the national interest of the great American state. Therefore, this paper has special attention in the deep political convictions and great oratory competence that saw him rise to the height of his political career and life as the sixteenth US president. To be specific, Abraham was described by his stern stand against slavery and discrimination, which has a great attention in what, defines the United States. His rise to power for instance signaled the divide, which saw the northern states as well as the Northern states separate on the bases of support of or against slavery. The Southern had great regard to slave and slave trade which according to Abraham created class divide among the Americans and which he strictly opposed. His governance was therefore characterized by the great opposition from the political elites who advocated for the class divisions as against the sovereignty of all Americans; the free and the slaves. In a century and over time in the history of America, Abraham Lincoln continues to have great perception amongst the American natives as well as across the globe. Penn Schoen Berland conducted a study to establish the perceptions of Americans towards Abraham and found out among other things that he is perceived to have been the best as well as most influential US president that has ever been. However, there were still a number who opposed the opinion and even lesser number having no knowledge about Abraham L incoln. In fact, a good percentage of the Americans in the current time reason that president Obama compares to some extent with Abraham Lincoln though not to a matching degree where there is still the perception that Abraham stands out against the current president in matters off ideal as well as leadership. In many aspects, among the legendary American heroes, Abraham Lincoln is depicted as being the ‘American original’ from his deep conviction of the sovereignty of the state and all the inhibitors, not defined by race or state of life; slaves and or free (Penn, 2-4). In an evaluation to his life, much lays an inspiration to many following his determination to hail from a very humble background and to forge his way to the highest office in the land and to command great leadership of all the time. His ambition and great determination, which saw him, uphold great integrity are among the basic traits that illustrated the great ‘American’ in him. He represent ed the ‘self made’ person of his time as the nobility in his character is often described. Though he was raised from a poor background, he struggled his way through academics through self-sponsorship, which led him to his law career. Having been brought up in the countryside by his step mother (having lost own mother at the age of 9 years), Lincoln had great determination to acquire formal education. Despite the great challenges that came his way, his staunch determination saw him rise to the House of Commons and thus engaged in his political career (Abraham Lincoln, para 1). It is within his service in the state legislature of Illinois that he started voicing his against slavery, not only

Product Assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 4

Product Assessment - Essay Example The table on the right shows that about 85% of the total population in the United States uses mobile phones. The age group which owns a mobile phone ranges from 18-29 years old while the age group with the least percentage of mobile phone ownership is the 65+ age group which stands at only 58%. The mobile phones have lost the popularity in the recent years and statistics reveal that it is likely that the product will continue to decline given the emergence and the sudden rise in the popularity of smartphones. It is estimated that in the year 2012, almost half of all the mobile phone users will have switched to the smartphones and this will mean that with time, mobile phone ownership and usage will decrease before it becomes more or less a non-existent product eventually. (Stewart) Companies such as Apple, Samsung and HTC have witnessed huge rises in their sales in the recent years and their popularity has gone sky high thanks to the introduction of newer versions of smartphones which offer an incredible amount of functions and opportunities to explore. This gives the mobile phone manufacturers and marketers enough to worry about with the US census supporting the view that people may actually shift from mobile phones to smartphones in the near future. The table above shows the methods used by the American households to use the internet. The usage of internet in the United States is very high and is now considered as one of the basic necessities of the public. The table shows the data from a US census in the year 2010 and it shows that about 9.1% of the households now use mobiles for internet usage. The internet accessibility in mobile phones is very limited and people have started to shift to smartphones due to the fact that these smartphones offer a wide range of internet options and much better accessibility and surfing options. Also the competition among the top 4 smartphone

Ellen Moore Working in Korea Essay Example for Free

Ellen Moore Working in Korea Essay Ellen Moore has been assigned to a project in South Korea. The project is a joint venture (JVI) between Western Systems Inc. (WSI), a North American company and Korean Conglomerate Inc. (KCI), a Korean company. Ellen was chosen to run the project on behalf of Andrew Kilpatrick, who is part of the System Consulting group at WSI. Andrew was to manage the project on a part time basis from North America. He chose Ellen to lead project on site as a result of her strengths in project management. Andrew also felt that Ellen’s previous success working in Bahrain showed that she would be able to handle the cultural differences. Andrew was aware of the culture difference in Korea and before he sent Ellen he was assured by American consultants that as long as Ellen was qualified for the position she would be accepted. Andrew wanted to consult the Korean consultants on this matter but was assured by the American consultants that is would be ok. In addition to Ellen, Scott Adams would also join Ellen a few months after her arrival in Korea. What Ellen experiences throughout her time in Korea does not suggest that the Korean consultants are ok with her being a woman. Why is Ellen a successful manager? The following characteristics seen in the case make Ellen a great manager/leader: * Competitive Highly Motivated – Without these she wouldn’t have gotten so far so fast. Both of these characteristics are why she graduated high school at 16. Ellen loves to learn; a great example of this is her learning the Korean language as she sits in traffic traveling home from work even though she is exhausted, by reading the signs. * Teacher – She enjoys teaching and does so whenever the opportunity presents itself. Her natural leadership qualities show when after her short period of working with the group in Jack’s absence you see members of the team sticking by Ellen when this wasn’t the case prior to Jack’s absence. They are naturally following her. * Compassionate/great mentor- Ellen is a natural leader, this is evident when she finally gets her chance to work with the group while Jack Kim is away. Upon return he finds them questioning what he wants stating that they are doing something for Ellen. * Assertive- Assertive but no so aggressive as too turn others off. * Self Confidence- Ellen always exudes confidence. One particular example of this at the dinner with Jack and other colleagues. Jack asked the translator to not translate for Ellen, the translator is fearful of losing her job if she tells Ellen why, so Ellen interrupts Jack’s speech saying the translator is having a hard time hearing him rather than sitting there letting his show continue. * Respectful but not passive – She tries to understand why her fellow workers do certain things by asking questions of them to help her understand. An example of this is when she questions the ill Korean worker who refuses to leave until his boss does even though his work is complete. She illustrates respect for his values but tries to show him there are alternatives. What would you advise Ellen to do and why? Before advising Ellen it is crucial to understand why she has experienced the conflicts she has in Korea. Koreans are more influenced by Confucian ways than any other business culture including China. So what does that mean? * It is important to make a friend first before a client, Koreans need to have this relationship built so that you’ll be trustworthy, honorable and respectable to them. They value family and similar relations a great deal. * Korean companies are vertically hierarchal; decisions are made at the top and delegated downwards. Age alone can dictate seniority regardless of skills and previous achievement. * Confucian values stresses obedience and loyalty. In return for this obedience and loyalty a manager provides the support needed by subordinates. * It is important to have relationships established before holding meetings, in fact initial time spent in meetings is generally to develop such relations. This will establish your honorableness, it is important to do some research so that you who the more senior contacts are to show them respect. It is also important to have the right levels at a meeting a more senior level person would not be expected to meet with less experienced individuals from other organizations. * Confrontation is not a good thing, Koreans work well in comfortable environments and when it isn’t this, they will flounder and become uncooperative. This stems from their family virtues they like harmony. Although Koreans like harmony they can become quite emotional, likely as a result extreme hardship they have experienced in the past. If a Korean is quiet in a meeting it is a good sign that the meeting is floundering. * Koreans do not like â€Å"no† as an answer. You must listen for subtle clues that they are not happy they will not voice their objections loudly. If you are trying to persuade them it is very important to remain calm and polite at all times. * Gift giving is important. If traveling to Korea you should have a number of small wrapped gifts to distribute. A good bottle of alcohol is a popular gift. * Dress is important as well as body language. Slouching or over exaggerated body language would cause concern on their part. Proper dress would be dark suit with ties for men and no trousers for women. * The role of women in Korean business is evolving but is still highly influenced their previous values. Women are seen as being inferior to men, they often hold low level positions and rarely succeed. A woman from another country can be accepted but it’s likely they will not receive the respect that a man would. Koreans do not react well to confrontation and it is crucial that you build a relationship of trust with them. It is clear from the case that Andrew reaching out to Mr. Song sent him to talk to Mr. Park before he’d meet with Andrew, most likely to get his stance on the issues first. Korea has a strong since of family and Mr. Song as a result will most likely take the side of Jack and Mr. Park. Given this and now the confrontation between Mr. Song and Andrew I feel there are two options available to WSI, which Ellen should suggest. One is to have Ellen move on to a new project and either Andrew or her colleague Scott Adams become the co-manager along with Jack Kim. This will require time to repair the relations between KCI and WSI but if they want to continue on in Korea than this is their best option. They likely will need to make concessions to the Korean’s and the project will be considerably extended both on a financial realm and time. The second option is to walk away from the assignment. As noted in the case, Andrew and his managers viewed this as a favor to WSI and really had no plans of developing their business in Korea. I think that the first option is the best; failure or walking away could be detrimental to business for WSI and although SCG’s group itself wasn’t planning on doing business in Korea they are a part of WSI and therefore have a stake in the JVI success. Leaving the project would not only cost them their position of the leading system implementation in Korea but their reputation which would cost them other business opportunities as well hurt future growth. Andrew and his managers will need to work with Mr. Scott and Mr.  Park to assure the relations are established this will involve a lot of schmoozing. They will have to accept a longer project line as a result. With the proper strategy and patience I believe they will be able to build a relationship with the Korean group and have a success in the end. Of course, this would not involve any women within the WSI group. For Ellen, I believe she is better off convincing them to move her to another project. Given her objectives below she really doesn’t have much to lose from leaving the project and a considerable amount more to gain by moving to a new assignment. She is an expatriate and therefore should expect to stay on any project or any job for a long period of time. What are her objectives? Are these objectives and actions consistent with what you would do if you were in her situation? Ellen objectives are: * Run a successful project and have it succeed and accomplish what they had set out too. This is not only because she feels she has an investment in the project but also will help her career the better she does the better she looks. * Try to gain experience to propel her to her next endeavor. Try to get along with Jack Kim to help the project but also because it will help her be more involved with the others on the projects so she can lead/mentor them. * Learn as much about the South Korean culture as possible and coexist within this environment. * Ellen is an expatriate so she is also trying to make her time with the company as pleasant as possible in addition to achieving the goals set out by the project. * Ultimately, Career growth Ellen’s objectives are consistent with what mine would be if I were in her position. I also believe her actions and what I have advised her to do going forward is what I would also do. That being said, I feel the issue was more a lack of preparation before going to Korea. The team from North American did not take the time to build the relationships needed so that they could be successful in meetings and lead the consultants in Korea. Although Andrew expressed the need to assure the Korean consultants were alright with Ellen being a woman this did not happen. I believe that if they were consulted they might have been more receptive of Ellen. If for no other reason than the mere consulting would of help formed a relationship, started some camaraderie between the North Americans and the Koreans. Additionally, adequate preparation would of prepared Ellen for what she would likely encounter. Had she had this knowledge maybe there were different actions she should of taken during her work there. I stress the maybe; it seems to me she handled herself quite well. Finally, I am all for women rights but businesses need to succeed and in this case maybe the mere fact that Ellen was a woman disqualified her for this particular assignment.

The Project Scope Of Technical Requirements Information Technology Essay

The Project Scope Of Technical Requirements Information Technology Essay The project scope of the antique 2000 was to expand the sales of their products so that they could be sold in every corner of the world. Products which they wanted to sell among other things were being purchased from auctions and local antique shops and sell them on the Online using Internet for the profit price. To achieve their aim they came out with an idea of designing, developing and implementing a web based system in which customer from different parts can access to their products, hence increase the sales of their products. In one of the ways to succeed in their project, they initially managed to allocate $70,000 usd for purchasing the hardware and development of a system. 1.1.1 Technical Requirements of Antique 2000 Having seen the objectives and aims of the project, the next step will be to look into Technical issues in the implementation of a new system. Looking at the growth of Information technology, we can assume that most of us know how to use internet, how to browse internet for information. So for the antique 2000, allowing the people to find their needs on net by a click is very important to be considered. For this we need a website. Selling the products on net is also known as Ecommerce and which widely adopted by western countries. The major phase of designing Ecommerce is development of website and we need to look into many factors as follows. Programmers/web designers You have 4 programmers available; all are skilled in coding Visual Basic: Two are skilled at developing complex databases and spreadsheets. One is skilled at developing GUIs. One has skills in all areas, but will take 50% more time to do a task compared to the three specialists above. In order to come up with a highly designed and secured web, there is a need to hire competent developers who could utilize their skills in developing the site. It is expected these developers to be competent in Visual Studio Package software since it is the recommended package by the clients of the system that is to be implemented This is among the most important area of technical issues since the success of this project depend mostly in these experts. Web Designing Tool It is expected that after the process of designing a system is completed, the site will be developed using Visual studio 2008 software. The developing team decided to use this software because of its advanced features compared to others like HTML which do not have advanced secured features. By using VS2008, it is expected that the developing team could come up with the most secured website which could not be easily hacked by hackers and intruders. Web Hosting and Web Space This is another crucial area of technical requirements since after the implementation of the system is complete, there is a need for the website to be online so that customers from different corner of the world could have an easily access to the products of their company. Among other issues which needs be to taken into account is choosing the Internet Service Provider (ISP) who could help in this process of hosting the system online. To host a website on net, it is necessary to own our own space on web, i.e web space. Web Space is the place where one can host or place their web pages which are available to the customers. Here we could find the financial issues associated depending on the ISPs demand. Again the cost of web space depends on the competition existing between different ISPs. Web Maintenance As soon as the implementation of a system is complete, the next step is the maintenance of the system which includes error fixing, updates and necessary modifications because requirements are incorrectly understood or specified, requirement analysis is not completed in time, and the needs of the business have change. The Maintenance phase is being categorized into three types for the comprehensive running of the web system namely: corrective maintenance, perfective maintenance and adaptive maintenance 1.1.2 Non technical requirements for the Antique 2000 Licensed Office This is one of the most important aspects of non-technical requirements in implementing the Antique 2000 office. There will be some legal procedures to be follow to get the license of operating their business. The motive behind having the license is to establish the type or nature of the business the Antique 2000 is planning to do. This process usually involve some costs to be incurred Buildings This is another important area of non-technical requirements since the physical location of the office needs to be established. Obviously, it is expected that some funds will have to be used in the process of furnishing the office and legal cost incurred in acquiring the premise. Funding the Implementation This is the primary non-technical requirement of the Antique 2000 since almost for every step/process to be completed/continue, will basically depends on the availability of funds to finance the implementation of the project. Initially; they had allocated $70,000 for purchasing the hardware and develop a web-based system. Computers Developing Antique 2000 goes together with the devices in which the system is expected to be installed, here we mean computers in which at the end of the day, is going to be the place in which the site is expected to run. We also believe that users who will be accessing the site will be having enough exposure on the general knowledge of how to use the computers and particularly internet. 1.1.3 Things to be considered while designing website. The following are possible requirements to be taken into account when designing a web site for Antique 2000 namely: Browser environment Web designers of Antique 2000, must build pages in a manner that creates a few barriers as possible to getting to information, regardless of the users ability and the device used to access the Web. Internet Explorer Browser, Mozilla fire fox User Preferences As we have just insisted on the importance of accessibility in a web based system, user preferences is another important area which the wed designers of Antique 2000 must take into account as it gives the user a choice to change the format or layout of the page to his/her choice. This ensures that users who need to change the layout to meet special needs, such as enlarging type to compensate for impaired vision are able to do so. Simply by changing preference settings in the browser, anyone can affect the appearance and functionality of web pages in the following ways like changing font size and style, change the background and colors, turn images off, turn off pop-up windows etc. Platforms Another area which is expected to affects how users of Antique 2000 web site is the platforms of their computers since there will be a high probability that the expected users of the site might having different platforms installed into their computers. In order to make the system cop with different platforms, the following strategies could be of help as follows: There are some fonts, which are available in many platforms; the designers must provide a list back-up font in case your specified font is not available. Before you decide to use a particular media format, make sure it will be compatible with all platforms. Otherwise the designers of Antique 2000 will have to offer choice between Quick Time, Windows Media and Real Media and let the user making a choice. 1.Web Design, by Jennifer Niederst Robbins ibid pg 35 TASK 2 Resource Allocation and Time Management Resource allocation: Resource allocation is a plan of how the available resources can be used in the most successful way; these resources could be in different ways depending on the nature of the project, which is being done. It could also be the process of allocating resources to different stages of a project, like which resource should be present in the plan and what level of funding it should get. Resources that we refer here can be in terms of funding available, manpower and technical expertise available. The way the management is going to use these resources to achieve its aim and objectives of the project are very vital to the success and existence of the business. Given that the task that wants to design a web based system which could make the business run in a smoother way, it will be very vital to give priority to which departments need extra resources over others. 2.1.1 Resources required for Antique 2000 As we have already seen the desire of the Antique 2000 management to come up with the web based system, and the fact that we have already seen the importance of resource allocation, the next step could be the identification of resources required for the Antique 2000 project which among other things could be as follows: Web based System Designing a web site involves a number of issues from the first step of requirements analysis up to the point where the system is ready for use. The requirements analysis is expected to involve the owners of Antique 2000 who will be responsible in telling the developing team their requirements which they wan the system to meet. This is one of the most important areas since it is the focus of how the system is going to be implemented. Also accurate and up to date information is another important area needs to be considered if the business is to be successful from customers point of view Training During the implementation of the system, it is expected to have people who will be there to provide training to the management of the company so as to enable them have smooth running of the business there will be a need to hire or employ new staff with specialization on Information Technology aspects. In reality the management of Antique 2000will have assign some more resources with regard to funds so that it will help in the investment of the project and conducting training for its expected staff, they will have among other things to have some briefing meetings which will help in downloading worries since they will be having newly means of doing business online and hence there will be a chance that some staff might have fear on it. 2.1.2Time Scales and Allocation of resources: One of the most important parts of any project planning is time scale and time allocation since the delivery of the project will mainly depend on these two issues. If the project is not delivered on time then it is more likely that even the cost might rise up and hence the expected amount profits can as well get lost. During the process of timesclaling, it is important to make sure the allocation of time considers emergency issues or any interruptions that might come across by chance For these two issues to be addressed effectively, it needs experienced project manager who will be able to handle even unforeseen events One of the things that can give credit to the project manager is the ability to estimate the duration needed to implement a project. If timescales and allocation of resources are underestimated, then it is likely that the project might not be finished on times, which will results into the need to allocate more funds and resources unnecessarily. The advantage of chart is that it gives an indication of how task are timed and scheduled on weekly basis, each task and activity have a start and finish date and with the help of the project manager can plan his/her progress. Projects are often best run using simple Timetables and Action Plans. These should be prepared and negotiated with project staff to improve plans and get buy-in. During the project these will contain sufficient control points and deliveries to monitor project progress and take any appropriate remedial action. It gives an outline of time allocated for initiating and completing the project plan for implementing the new IS strategy for Antique 2000, the project is expected to finish after a period of 3 weeks The project shall begun with designing the web pages which can be done externally and need not interfere with normal office operations, therefore the first 1 week for web page design can accommodate the second week for general staff meetings to gauge staff reactions to proposed new strategies, this stage can help the project manager to identify areas where extra caution is needed based on feedback from the staff. The last week would be allocated for providing training for staff, it should also involve handing over the final completed project along with system and user documentation to the management, the report shall also include the progress made and advantages in strategic areas of the business due to the new IS strategy thereby ensuring that there is proper integration between each department during and after implementation of IS strategy. Simultaneously the new IS will be tested for flaws and corrective actions will be taken, 2.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gantt_chart (date of access 4th April 09) 3. TUJL;Shttp://www.blurtit.com/q980613.html (date of access 4th April 2009) 4. http://www.builderau.com.au/strategy/projectmanagement (date of access 4th April 2009) TASK 3 Leadership Styles When it comes to managing a team at work or anywhere else, leadership style which is going to be used is crucial to the success of the project. Therefore the understanding of these styles of leadership and their disadvantages can help in one way or another to become a good leader. Basically, there are three types of styles namely; The Democratic style, The Autocratic style, and Laissez-faire. 3.1 The Democratic Style In this style, team participation and involvement is a key component issue. However, the leader maintains the final decision making authority. Develops plans to help staff evaluate their own performance Allows staff to establish goals Encourages staff to grow on the job and be promoted Recognizes and encourages achievement 3.2 The Autocratic Style This style involves single point of authority and decision-making. Some appropriate conditions to use this system could be for the teams that are not performing, it can as well be used when there is no enough time and your teams are well motivated. The classical approach Manager retains as much power and decision making authority as possible Does not consult staff, nor allowed to give any input Staff expected to obey orders without receiving any explanations Structured set of rewards and punishments Greatly criticized during the past 30 years Gen X staff highly resistant Autocratic leaders: Rely on threats and punishment to influence staff Do not trust staff Do not allow for employee input 3.3 Laissez-faire Style This is the only style that involves letting people do what they want and make their own decision without telling them what to do. This is normally suitable for teams that perform highly creative works which needs good self-skilled and individual skills as the team will be working with a very little or no supervision at all when it comes to decision making. This can create a highly motivated team however the disadvantage is that since there is no clear line of authority the teams are likely to float from the main objectives. Also known as the hands-off ¨ style The manager provides little or no direction and gives staff as much freedom as possible All authority or power given to the staff and they determine goals, make decisions, and resolve problems on their own The financial consultant who is there to give advice to the management on financial issues will have to have meeting with the management about the fund required in the implementations of new IS that will make the business being conducted in a modernized way. Any attempt that threatens the job security of the staff is resisted very strongly. This is true of all technological innovations the introduction of which may make several jobs redundant. 5. http://www.skagitwatershed.org/~donclark/leader/leadstl.html (date of access 4th April 2009) TASK 4 TASK FOUR: Effective Communication in Antique 2000 Communication refers to the means in which information can be transferred from the source (sender) to destination (receiver).In other words we can say it is a two way communication process. Communication is a dynamic processà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Through this process we convey a thought or feeling to someone else. Looking at Antique 2000 scenario, it shows a number of problems that act as barrier to communication process. We need to have a through analysis these problems that Antique 2000 is experiencing; and a report that will shows where there is poor Communication and suggested solution to those problems Lack of IT skills to use the new System: One of the important issues to be taken into consideration is the plan of training the Antique 2000 management on how to use the system, this should be included in the project plan in the early stages of development since it will need funds to be allocated for it and this should unmistakably communicated effectively to the management before doing the Implementation. They need to be informed how beneficial is it going to be when it comes to questions from customers with regard to their product present on their websites. During the time of conducting this training, the department managers would have to prepare a good schedule of training so that the exercise would not interfere working hours of the company. Employees need to be informed of the importance of attending the training. The financial consultant who is there to give advice to the management on financial issues will have to have meeting with the management about the fund required in the implementations of new IS that will make the business being conducted in a modernized way. Any attempt that threatens the job security of the staff is resisted very strongly. This is true of all technological innovations the introduction of which may make several jobs redundant. As we had already seen, the existence of more than one Managing Director with different leadership style shown on the Antique 2000 scenario will create some problem, especially when it comes to the point that the customers need some information regarding the products, it can sometimes become difficult depending on the available person to disseminate the information. Suggested solution to this problem could be the need to allocate the person who will be ready to provide assistance to customers. Also the introduction of Antique 2000 website will enable a big number of customer to have an access to the list of all products available online hence reduce the problem of ineffective communication since they will have a chance to access the website even after normal working hours . Another type of problem which is very common is most website is the ability to display information in a proper way. We expect to have effective communication with the Internet Service Provider who hosted the site for further technical assistance. To make life conveniently to the management, the ISP need to respond very quick if at any time, the support is needed. This issue must be included in the terms of contract to ensure it is done effectively for the good convenience of customers. 6. http://www.translationdirectory.com/articles/article1409.php (date of access 2nd April 2009) 7. http://accurapid.com/Journal/41communication.htm (date of access 4th April 2009) 8. http://www.helium.com/knowledge/59593-effective-communication-for-project-managers (date of access 6th April 2009) TASK 5 5.0 Mentoring and Coaching Mentoring This process is almost the same as coaching, but the main difference comes from the relationship, whereby a mentor is a very senior staff in an organization and on the other hand, the person who receives guidance is called the Mentees In implementation of mentoring, sharing knowledge and wisdom is one of the important things needs to be taken into account as this problem have been seen in many organization as sometimes you might find that people who are more experienced with good technical knowledge leave the company, this leave the company with no good mentors! One of important issue with mentoring is to make sure the mentees are not forced to participate since this will not make the process successful; they need to be willing so as to make them participate effectively. Since it is mainly an internal process, it will also need the involvement of the organization Despite the advantages and disadvantages, they are both intangible and hence it becomes difficult to weigh them. In this case, advantage could be the increased confidence which is the result of advanced improved skills. And on the other hand, disadvantage could be the negative impression which is the outcome of jealousy, and internal political interest. Coaching This is a process which involves the relationship between two people namely coach and coachee who are on the same level in an organization. A coach needs to be a highly trained and certified since he is the one who will be doing the coaching to the coachee. The most crucial key factor for success in this process is the confidentiality as there are times you finds that it retards the development of successful internal coaching relationship. These two(Coaching and mentoring) are important mechanism to build up a culture since they help shift project thinking, and best practices which at the end of the day, it enables a project management organization to accommodate growth; and increase individual and team satisfaction. 5.1 Possible Areas Where Mentoring and Coaching may be needed As we have already seen above that the basic aim of Mentoring is to develop the abilities of Mentees. During the staff meetings of Antique 2000, one of the issues that are likely to face them was fearful of change in job responsibilities. Here mentoring is very critical as the Mentor can work closely with the staff and develop the confidence and morale of the demoralized staff, it can focus on the individual and develop his / her current skills to scale up to the expected levels of performance which new IS design and strategy will bring We expect Mentoring to be a helpful tool to solve non-technical problems at Antique 2000 as most of the staff will be new to the IS environment. They will have to work together so that it will be easier for the Mentor to know the Mentees problems in the system. Since new IS deployment will create a new working environment, the mentee and mentor may have some unexploited resources and knowledge base which can be explored and be utilized and become of use to the whole organization The common thread uniting all types of coaching mentoring is that these services offer a vehicle for analysis, reflection and action that ultimately enable the client to achieve success in one more areas of their life or work. 9. http://www.coachingnetwork.org.uk/resourcecentre/WhatAreCoachingAndMentoring.htm#definition 10. http://www.brefigroup.co.uk/coaching/coaching_and_mentoring.html(date of access 4th April 2009)

Comparing How Two Midwestern Towns Respond to Immigration Essay

How Two Midwestern Towns Respond to Immigration    The phrase, "small Midwestern towns," often brings to mind an unfortunate stereotype in the minds of big-city urbanites: mundane, backward people in a socially unappealing and legally archaic setting. Small Midwestern towns, however, are not all the hovels of provincial intellect that they are so frequently made out to be. The idiosyncrasies each of them possesses are lost on those who have never taken more than a passing glance at them. After living in two small towns, I have developed an appreciation for their unique respective qualities. Wausau, Wisconsin and Goshen, Indiana are no exception to this rule of singularity. In addition to their specific identities, these towns have the added variable of two distinct and sizable immigrant populations, Wausau's immigrants being largely Ming, Goshen's immigrants being largely Mexican. While Wausau and Goshen may seem similar on a map of size, population, and non-immigrant demographics, they share little in their economic makeup, positional character, or active response to immigration. These differences of identity shape their attitudes towards immigration. Wausau's identity is supple and accommodates the redefinition that immigration demands. Goshen's identity is taut and rejects the redefinition. One reason for Goshen's comparatively negative attitude towards immigration is the perceived threat to job security. There is a large population of blue-collar factory workers and there are numerous factories in the Goshen area. Indeed, one can hardly go anywhere within the Goshen municipality and be out of eyesight of some factory or industry-related structure. (My personal favorite o... ...ograms in place to protect immigrants are more effective and broadly supported. The political identities of these two towns shape their ability to respond effectively to immigration. Restricted by employment fears, a sense of urban expendability and relative political conservativism, Goshen's identity has little room for the challenge of immigration. Wausau's less industrial economy, stronger sense of urban importance and comparatively liberal politics create a more flexible and malleable identity. Once examined beyond the traditional barometers of population, region and size, Wausau, Wisconsin and Goshen, Indiana actually have little in common. Certainly neither town is in any way definable as, "mundane, backward or legally archaic," but rather each is striving, in their own singular ways, to achieve a balance between stable identity and unavoidable change.

How is Benedick presented in the scenes leading up to this point?

In these two extracts, Shakespeare provides two very different presentations of Benedick. The first: misogynistic, marriage-fearing Benedick which he projects to his audience. Second: the warm-hearted, love-sick Benedick who, despite his fiery demeanour, is very much in love with Beatrice. In the first part, Benedick soliloquises about the man who â€Å"dedicates his behaviours to love† is a fool, and the irony of becoming the â€Å"argument of his own scorn.† This pre-empts the drastic change in Benedick's behaviour later in the scene. Already we see a confident flurry of long, complex declaratives, signalling a kind of gusto to Benedick's emotions: he clearly feels strongly about this issue. However, the fact that he must say these things to himself may serve to highlight his insecurity with himself. It is quite obvious from earlier points in the play that Benedick is wholly uncomfortable with his feelings towards Beatrice and tries (unsuccessfully) to hide these feelings. In the next few lines, Benedick contrasts battle imagery such as â€Å"good armour† with softer, more romantic objects, such as a â€Å"new doublet.† This serves to illustrate his contempt for Claudio's utter turnaround. His tripling in this section further emphasises both Benedick's views, and indeed his own issues. The fact that he must use persuasive techniques such as parallelism suggests that he himself cannot truly bring himself to believe his apparent viewpoint. Benedick ends with a long list of characteristics which he wishes to see in his dream woman. Although utterly fantastic in terms of realistic prospects, it nevertheless contrasts with Benedick's view earlier in the narrative, where he insists that he will â€Å"die a bachelor.† His dogmatic disposition is obviously being broken down in small steps. The comment suggests that Benedick is not as opposed to the notion of taking a woman as he may be trying to convey; it is more a reluctance to settle for less, as it were. As we shall see, Beatrice proves to be this catalyst for his transformation. The second extract follows the planting of the idea that Beatrice is in love with Benedick into his mind, by Don Pedro, Claudio and Leonato. Once again, Benedick launches into an excitable monologues, consisting of a few very long declaratives. This certainly displays a lot of excitement on his part, and the fact that he uses an interrogative, a rhetorical question (â€Å"love me?†), shows a disbelieving sense of glee and does much to counteract the pessimistic Benedick from a few lines earlier. In conjunction with his earlier soliloquy, Benedick attempts to dismiss his earlier ideas, stating that â€Å"a man loves the meat in his youth, that he cannot endure in his age.† He seems to think that it is acceptable that he can change his views drastically over the space of a few minutes without any sort of continual repercussions. His metaphor serves as a hyperbolic piece of irony, the imagery not befitting the very short space of time that Benedick is describing. As Beatrice enters, we see Benedick misinterpreting her words in a very optimistic manner. He believes that her words truly confirm her feelings for him and fails to see the absurdity of his thoughts. The transformation, if you will, is complete. Benedick even goes so far as to recite some of the qualities listed and how they are apparent in Beatrice. Again, the use of tripling is effective, but here instead to show a rush of revelationary excitement that his slim hopes have been realised. Overall, the second extract serves to prove the insecurity conveyed in the first. Shakespeare presents Benedick as unsure and unnecessarily dogmatic, and this is confirmed by his behaviour in the second part. In the scenes leading up to this, we see the establishment of Benedick as the witty cynic, at odds with traditional values. I believe that Shakespeare's initial presentation of Benedick goes in stark contrast to his true character. In the first scene, he is called â€Å"a good soldier.† The later war of wits with Beatrice, and his misogynistic advice to Claudio and Don Pedro very much establishes Benedick as a â€Å"man's man,† if such a thing existed in Elizabethan times. However, I believe that this is merely a faà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ade, and that he does have a pretty clear motive. It seems to me like the reason for Benedick's disposition is, put simply, Beatrice. He is confused and frustrated at his feelings towards Beatrice, and attempts to counteract them through his words of scorn. Quite clearly, the other characters see through this, and this is what leads them to trick him later. Another aspect of Benedick's personality, his insecurity, also seems to stem from Beatrice. At the party scene, he shows exasperation at her description of him as a â€Å"jester† and â€Å"dull as a great thaw.† Benedick clearly cares about Beatrice's opinion of him, no matter what his exterior may suggest. His short monologue at the end of that scene is once again one where interrogatives are used in order for Benedick to reassure himself. Benedick is seen to have a sharp-tongued speaking style interspersed with witty metaphors and riddles. This singles Benedick out of someone with a high level of intelligence, but it also immediately identifies him as a counterpart to Beatrice. His militant anti-marriage stance is mirrored by hers, and his words of advice to Claudio convey his emotions in flowery prose, perhaps suggesting a reluctance to disclose any true information about himself. Overall, Benedick is presented as someone who is heavily influenced by Beatrice, and it seems that it is her actions that shape his personality, and define him as a character. Obviously, this is consistent with the narrative, and goes a long way to explain Benedick's sudden change of heart in Act 2 Scene 3.

Maid Abuse in Malaysia

Maid abuse is no longer a new issue in Malaysia. What is maid abuse? It is known as an assault and coercive behaviour, which mainly includes physical, psychological and at times sexual too, by employer or household members of employer against a person hired as a domestic help. Malaysia is one of wealthiest countries in South East Asia and therefore acts as magnet for migrants fleeing here to work. In Malaysia, majority of the domestic workers are full time workers and most of them come from neighbouring poor countries. There are various factors that lead to maid abuse in Malaysia. The unfortunate thing is that maid abuse does not only cause both mental and physical injuries to the maids, but it also jeopardize our international friendship with countries involved. Hence, there is an urgent need to solve this social issue. One of the major causes of maid abuse over here in Malaysia is the lack of comprehensive national policies for maid protection by our Malaysian Government. As pointed out by D’Cruz (2009), foreign domestic workers here are vulnerable as they lack of legal protection, which subjects them to any kind of working condition an employer sees fit. There is also no specific law in Malaysia on violence against domestic workers (wao. com. my). As stated by Lourdes (2008), maids are stuck in a Catch -22 situation because the second they seek for help from the authorities, their employers or agents will lodge reports against them. The Employment Act provides them the right to redress but the Immigration Acts removes it by making them illegals living here. According to Dass (2008) in Lourdes (2008), the employers will be informed by the agents that maids who misbehave would be given counselling but this counselling turns up to be filled with punishing and abusing. Maids are being told that if they repeat their mistakes, they will be sold into prostitution. Other than that, they are slapped and beaten in beaten in front of others so that the rest will feel threatened. In addition, the maids’ very own attitude too, contributed to the many cases of maid abuse. They are not serious in their work and as an example, according to Ho, his maid washed one bucket of the family’s clothes and hid the other behind the house under a shed below the mango tree. There are maids who also tend to take advantage of their employers by stealing things and using stuff without permission. Based on Ho’s statement, many of his family’s belonging including his underwear have been stolen by his maid before. This is just a real life example of what may lead to why employers lash out all their temper by abusing the maids. The abusive mindsets and attitudes towards maids too, contribute to maid abuse. Many Malaysians have negative perceptions of migrant domestic workers which contributes to the frequency and severity of abuse. They are often viewed as culturally inferior, sometimes â€Å"less than human†, and not considered as deserving of the same respect and consideration given to other human beings (wao. com. my). Adiwara stated that Malaysians have the tendency to look down on Indonesians because of the economic gap between the two neighbouring countries. Employers misjudge the performance of the maids and scold them unnecessarily and this may be due to some shortcomings in the employers themselves. There are certain employers who are concerned that there might be a rift between the child and parent when the children are culturally influenced by the maids (wao. com. my). Another party that should be put to blame for is the involvement of non-professional maid recruitment services, or more generally known as the maid agencies. According to Wong (2008) in Azizan (2009), a lot of money will be charged by the maid agencies and in order to meet the market demand, a few of the agencies will hunt for girls from the village, get them cleaned up and will send them right away to their respective clients without any training. This issue of untrained maids is supported by the Malaysian Association of Foreign Mai Agencies (PAPA) president Alwi Bavutty as he admits that PAPA is hold responsible for the maids. Throughout so many years, there are quite a number of negative effects that are being identified which are caused from maid abuse and many people are reatly affected by all these consequences. One of the major negative effects and is usually published in local newspapers are that the victims suffer both mentally and physically from maid abuse. As stated by D’Cruz (2009), the types of physical abuse are they are beaten, raped or tortured with hot boiling water. To make matters worse, there are several maid abuse cases where babies are born from the result of rape. Besides that, nearly all maid abuse victims have been treated like slaves. According to D’Cruz (2009), they are given only plain rice, several occasions with non-halal food even for those who are Muslims. Lourdes (2008) too, states that permanent working hour, termination benefits, sick leave, rest days, public holidays, overtime and every other benefit that a normal employee is entitled to are not provided to them. To further add on, as mentioned by D’Cruz (2009), the victims are not paid wages for months or even years of tiring work. All of the above clearly violates basic human rights and the employers need to be taken into action legally. Negative effect is also present during the legal process to claim their rights as it is mentally damaging for the victims as stated by D’Cruz (2009). It is hard for them to avoid depression as they are forced to put their lives on hold while reliving the trauma of the abusive days. Referring to Earth Times (2009), the economy and lifestyle of the community will be disturbed due to maid abuse. For example, Malaysia maid agencies are predicted to suffer massive losses due to Indonesian’s indefinite ban on sending maids over. This will somehow affect the productivity of Malaysia’s economy since because a large amount of domestic help comes from Indonesia. Apart from that, lifestyle of the community will be disturbed as tens of thousands of household would face difficulties due to the delay in the arrival of their maids and this would lead to a larger obstacle in the long run as families will have a hard time coping with work and family without any extra hands. Subsequently, relationship between countries involved will be jeopardized. As emphasized by The Star (2009), In Malaysia, when maid abuse became a hot topic among both Indonesians and Malaysians, it resulted in causing Indonesia taking a serious action of threatening to temporarily stop sending heir people to work in Malaysia. This has caused the political relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia to become awkward and it took a lot of effort to restore the friendship between the two countries. The maid abuse cases which were made known internationally have indirectly portray Malaysia as a cruel country. Every problem has its’ own solution and this goes to maid abuse too. This problem can be curbed through the roles of government and community. Both have to perform their roles in order to overcome this issue. The government can tackle issues related to the interest and welfare of maids. For instance, the government may to resort into measures like conducting random checks on homes. Through this, the early signs of mistreatment can be detected which will prevent this issue from getting worse. Referring to Boo (2010), there are no simple solutions in solving the issue of maid abuse. The solutions in the end lead to the importance of education and enforcement. An agency responsible in managing the welfare of maids should be set up as a channel for the maids to know who to contact and how to report against their bosses who abuse their rights. However, education on their rights needs to be supplied to the maids first. Cooperation between Malaysian government and related countries such as Indonesia government is important in curbing this problem. As stated by Malaysian Digest (2010), there are several cases involving the abuse of Indonesian maids had been solved through the close cooperation between Malaysian and Indonesian officer It shows that this issue can be solves peacefully as long as both countries are willing to cooperate. Based on Malaysian Digest, (2010), our government and Indonesian government has taken a smart action by signed a Letter of Intent on the sending of Indonesian maids to Malaysia. This letter requires Malaysian employers to give one day off in a week to their Indonesian workers and their passports be kept by the workers themselves unless agreed upon by both sides that the passport be kept by the employers which occurs in certain cases. This had prevented misunderstanding between the maids and the employers regarding the maids’ day off and passport matters. As suggested by Hariani Azizan (2009), another solution to this problem is through the roles of community. There are quite a number of ways on how the community can help the government to overcome this issue. For example, authorities can organize a weekly meeting among its community and invite the officers who are experts in the field of the maid’s rights to speak to the maids as well as provide check-ups and counselling for the maids without invading people’s privacy. Another alternative solution is to actually build shelter homes for the maid abuse victims. According to Malaysian Digest (2010), â€Å"Rumah Kita†, a shelter home that was launched to provide temporary accommodation and food for Indonesian female migrant workers who are faced with difficulties such as being cheated by employment agencies or abused by their employers. It is more effective when everyone in their respective neighbourhood take on the role of looking out for any abuse in their community and report them to the authorities. To conclude, there is an urgent need for maid abuse to be curbed as it brings negative impacts to many parties, especially to Malaysia as a whole. Therefore, everyone including the maid themselves must come together as a unit and cooperate to demolish this issue.