Computer engineer Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Computer engineer - Research Paper Example Bachelor's degrees in software engineering or computer science are a common place to start. Coursework to prepare the student Computer Engineer will include such topics as database design, systems analysis, critical thinking and technical writing. Because computer technology is a field that is constantly changing, continued education is vital to a successful career in Computer Engineering. High school students interested in pursuing this type of work should study mathematics, computer science, and physics. They should also take computer- programming courses in school or learn computer languages in their spare time. When in college, students should try to gain experience by getting an internship with software engineers. Most employers require that computer software engineers have a college education in computer science or software engineering. For more demanding jobs, a graduate degree is preferred. Knowledge of the major computer languages is a must. National certification courses ar e offered for most major computer languages, including C++, Java, and XML. ... ties and Responsibilities of a Computer Engineer Computer software engineers develop and maintain computer software programs, which are coded instructions that tell the computer what to do in logical steps. Software engineers work on a wide range of projects. They work in manufacturing, industry, engineering, government offices, and educational institutions. Sometimes they work on improving computer systems already in use. When asked to develop a program, a software engineer would first analyze the task and apply techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis to come up with the best solution. The software engineer would then prepare systems flow charts that show diagrammatically how information would flow through the computer and its peripheral equipment to get the job done. Finally, they would create an outline of the actual program. In a large organization, such as a computer software company, computer engineers would instruct computer programmers to write the actual code that makes up the program and intercede only when the programmers have a problem. Once the program has been developed, the software engineer may test it for problems and examine it for errors in logic or data. Some programs require days to write, while others may require a year or so. (Cited from Barbara Bellesi; Computer Engineer-Duties and Salaries) Industry Growth and Wages Computer engineers will be in hot demand as computer networks grow in importance for companies both large and small. As a computer engineer, you can find employment in a variety of industries in both the public and private sectors, such as business, telecommunications, government, and health care. Computer engineers specializing in the Internet will be successful in finding employment for businesses

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 - Research Paper Example Many firms have been able to meet these long-standing regulations by relying on the domain knowledge while the periodic regulations were met through the knowledge from corporate legal staff. However, this system has since changed and adapted a new regulatory environment that includes the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Sarbanes-Oxley). All the publicly traded companies are required to comply with this new act; changing the regulator culture from the initial legislative act. Sarbanes-Oxley and a host of other related regulations has fostered for the governance, risk and compliance aspects of regulations for both American-based and international companies. The congress enacted this act with the aim of mitigating unprecedented financial fraud. Its core objective is to ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of corporate financial disclosures for purposes of safeguarding the interests of investors and other shareholders. Before the introduction of this act, most of the public corporations were reluctant to abide by some of the regulations such as complying with the environmental reporting requirements. With the introduction of the Sarbanes-Oxley act, more accountability has been realized and tougher penalties have been set for defaulters, compelling most of the organizations to abide by the set regulations. This is a clear indication of the efficiency of the act in minimizing fraud (Orin, 2008). Sarbanes-Oxley also requires that the SEC undertakes regular reviews on financial reports in a systematic and professional manner for the reporting companies. The scope of this review encompasses environmental liabilities to ascertain whether the system is in compliance with regulations. The top executive officials of the firm are obligated to ensure accurate and authentic disclosure of potential liabilities to the public domain. With increased scrutiny and accountability, the regulatory act works to avoid fraud now and in the future (Orin, 2008). As documented in the

Innate Immune System Components

Innate Immune System Components There are individual systems of the immune system, innate immunity which we are born with and it is non-specific. It is genetically based and passed on to our offspring and adaptive immunity in which we acquire through humoral and cell mediated immunity. Innate and adaptive immune systems are distinct systems but act together at numerous levels to develop a complete defense against invading pathogens. Both systems have mechanisms for distinguishing self from non-self, therefore, under normal situations they are not directed against the hosts tissues and cells. Innate Immunity Elements of the innate immune system (figure 1.8) have been known for many years. However, in the past few years there has been a greater focus on innate immunity and its role in protection against infection and tissue injury and its role in tolerance to self-antigens. Innate immunity defines a collection of protective mechanisms the host uses to prevent or minimize infection. The innate immune system operates in the absence of the specific adaptive immune system but is tied to adaptive immunity in many ways. The innate immune system is characterized by a rapid response to an invading pathogen or foreign or effete cells. In addition to the rapid response, it is also non-specific and usually of a short duration. Innate immunity lacks immunological memory and there is no clonal expansion of lymphocytes as seen in the adaptive immune response. The innate immune response is also important in directing the specific, long-lived adaptive immune response. The host defense mechanisms associated with innate immunity consist of a number of physical barriers (intact skin) and secretions accompanied by a number of serum factors such as complement, certain cytokines, and natural immunoglobulins. The cellular components of innate immunity include a number of cell types, many of which are found at potential points of entry of pathogens. Examples of these cells include natural killer (NK) cells, (figure 1.2), polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs), macrophages (figure 1.3), and dendritic cells (DCs), (figure 1.2). The intact skin and mucosal tissues provide considerable protection against invading infectious agents. However, once the agents pass through the skin a number of important events take place. This includes activation of the complement cascade that triggers the development of a number of substances to attract phagocytes to the area. A number of antimicrobial peptides are produced at epithelial cell surfaces. These antimicrobial peptides play an important role in local defense mechanisms, disrupt bacterial cell membranes, and probably play a role in preventing skin infections. Antimicrobial Peptides (figure 1.4) Human ÃŽÂ ²-defensins are produced by epithelial cells in the mucous membranes of the airways and intestinal tract. Defensins are small cationic peptides that have broad antimicrobial activities against a number of microbial agents including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses. Defensins are non-glycosylated peptides containing approximately 35 amino acid residues, and ÃŽÂ ²-defensins have six cysteine residues that provide a distinct structure. Stimulation of the epithelium by certain cytokines can induce defensin production. The exact mode of action of defensins antimicrobial activity is unknown. There are three defensin subfamilies: ÃŽÂ ±-defensins, ÃŽÂ ²-defensins, and ÃŽÂ ¸-defensins The Complement System The complement system (figure 1.5) is another important component of innate immunity. The system consists of 30 proteins found in serum or on the surface of certain cells. Activation of the complement system results in a cascade of biochemical reactions that ultimately ends in lysis and disruption of foreign or effete cells. Without activation, the components of the complement system exist as pro-enzymes in body fluids. As a by-product of the activation of the cascade, a number of biologically reactive complement fragments are generated. The complement fragments can modulate other parts of the immune system by binding directly to T lymphocytes and bone marrow-derived lymphocytes (B lymphocytes) of the adaptive immune system and also stimulate the synthesis and release of cytokines. Natural Antibodies Natural antibodies have been recognized for some time but recently they were described as a component of the innate immune system. Natural antibody is defined as an antibody that is found in normal, healthy individuals who have no evidence of exogenous antigenic stimulation. Natural antibodies are believed to develop in a highly regulated manner; they are usually found in low titer in serum and are low-affinity antibodies. A high percentage of the natural antibodies found in serum are of the IgM class. These antibodies are produced by a primitive B lymphocyte, called the B-1 lymphocytes. B-1 cells are usually CD5+ and considered to be long-lived and self-replicating. Natural antibodies play an important role as a first line of defense against pathogens and other types of cells, including precancerous, cancerous, cell debris, and some self-antigens. Toll-Like Receptors (TLR) TLRs (figure 1.6) are found on phagocytic cells, including mononuclear phagocytes, circulating monocytes, tissue macrophages, and endothelial cells, and are important components of the innate immune system. TLRs make up a family of cell surface protein receptors present on several cell types that function to recognize certain conserved molecular components of microorganisms and signal that microbes have breached the bodys barrier defences. TLRs serve as first responders in a mammalian host to recognize the presence of an invading pathogen. They also generate an inflammatory response to attempt to remove the invading agent. Phagocytosis (figure 1.7) Polymorphonuclear neutrophilic leukocytes have been well-known components of the innate immune system for many years. Detailed studies of PMN phagocytosis and intracellular killing of microorganisms have led to a better understanding of important defense mechanisms against invasion by pathogenic bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses. PMNs are attracted to the site of microbial invasion, recognize the microbe, become activated, kill the microorganisms, resolve the infection, undergo apoptosis, and are then ingested and removed by either macrophages or neighbouring endothelial cells to resolve the inflammatory response. PMNs arise as myeloid progenitors in the bone marrow. Specific growth factors and cytokines mediate the differentiation of myeloid precursors into mature PMNs. After entering the circulation, the PMNs have a half-life of about 8-12 h before undergoing a programmed cell death (apoptosis) and are reabsorbed through endothelial walls. The PMN turnover is about 1011 cells per day. Cytokines and Chemokines Cytokines and chemokines are small, secreted polypeptides that regulate essentially all functions of the immune system. Cytokines participate in determining the nature of the immune response by regulating or controlling cell growth, differentiation, activation, immune cell trafficking, and the location of immune cells within the lymphoid organs. Cytokines are a group of intercellular messengers that contribute to inflammatory responses through activation of the hosts immune cells. Cytokines are host-derived products that enhance the recruitment of circulating leukocytes as a response to the presence of pathogens. Cytokines also play important roles in leukocyte attraction by inducing the production of chemokines, which are known to be potent mediators of chemo-attractant activity for inflammatory cells. Chemokines and cytokines provide a complex network of signals that can either activate or suppress inflammatory responses Natural Killer Cells Initially, NK cells were referred to as non-specific lymphocytes because NK cells could kill certain virally infected and malignant cells without known prior sensitization. NK cells were known to resemble large lymphocytes morphologically and were referred to as large granular lymphocytes. Approximately, 10-15% of the lymphocytes circulating in peripheral blood are NK cells. NK cells are distinct from T- and B lymphocytes because they express neither immunoglobulin receptors nor T-cell antigen receptors. There are other distinctions including phenotype and function. NK cells have receptors that recognize major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigens. Because NK cells have cytotoxic properties, their function is highly regulated in their interactions in both the innate and adaptive immune systems. NK cells play important roles in innate immune responses and immune regulation. They communicate with other cells through a complex of both activation and inhibitory signals through cell surface receptors. Dendritic Cells The DCs develop in the bone marrow from hematopoietic pluripotential stem cells. Precursor DCs are constantly generated in the bone marrow and are released into the peripheral blood. After leaving the bone marrow, the precursor DCs home to a number of different tissues where they reside as sentinels waiting to interact with antigen. The precursor DCs express low-density MHC class II antigens and after encountering a proper stimulus differentiate into highly endocytic and phagocytic iDCs. Precursor DCs circulate in the environment and on contacting a pathogen produce cytokines, that is, ÃŽÂ ³-interferon, and undergo maturation to iDCs. The iDCs increased phagocytic and endocytic capabilities that lead to binding antigen by the iDCs and then maturation to mature DCs. Adaptive Immunity In contrast to innate immunity, adaptive immunity (figure 1.8) is flexible, specific, and has immunological memory, that is, it can respond more rapidly and vigorously on a second exposure to an antigen. Immunologic memory provides a more powerful response to a repeated exposure to the same foreign substance or antigen. Adaptive immunity is more complex because it provides the ability to respond very specifically. Innate and adaptive immunity responses interact effectively to enhance the bodys defense mechanisms against foreign or damaged host cells. Inherent in both innate and adaptive immune responses are the mechanisms to distinguish self from non-self. The primary blood cell elements of the adaptive immune system are T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes. These T- and B-cells provide the unique specificity for their target antigens by virtue of the antigen-specific receptors expressed on their surfaces. The B- and T-lymphocyte antigen-specific receptors develop by somatic rearrangement of germline gene elements to form the TCR genes and the immunoglobulin receptor genes. This recombination mechanism provides unique antigen receptors capable of recognizing almost any antigen encountered, and provides the specific immunological memory for a rapid, vigorous, and specific response to a later exposure to the same antigen. It is estimated that millions of different antigen receptors may be formed from a collection of a few hundred germline-encoded gene elements. For many years, innate and adaptive immune responses were studied as separate systems because of their different mechanisms of action. However, it is now understood that synergy between the two systems is required to provide adequate immune reactivity against invading pathogens. Innate immune responses, through their barrier and relatively broad types of actions, represent the first line of defense against pathogens. At the time the innate system is getting activated, the adaptive system becomes activated also. The adaptive response becomes evident a few days later because it requires time for sufficient antigen-specific receptors to be generated through clonal expansion/proliferation. There are multiple interactions occurring between the two systems, which results in the co-amplification of each respective response and leads to the ultimate destruction and elimination of the invading pathogen. B lymphocytes The primary function of B lymphocytes is the production of antibodies that are specific for a given antigenic component of an invading pathogen. Antibodies are encoded by the heavy (H)- and light (L)-chain immunoglobulin genes. Antibodies may be secreted or cell surface-bound on B lymphocytes. There are five classes of immunoglobulins: IgM, IgG, IgA, IgD, and IgE; and the classification is based on the isotypes of the H chain. B lymphocytes represent roughly 10-15% of the peripheral blood lymphocyte population and free immunoglobulins make up a considerable proportion of serum proteins. After an encounter with a specific pathogen and an antibody response is generated, the level of specific antibodies to that antigen decreases in serum over a relatively short period of time. However, immunological memory persists in the B-cell population, which is capable of rapid clonal expansion upon re-exposure to that same antigen. T lymphocytes Whereas B lymphocyte products recognize extracellular pathogens, T lymphocytes are adept at identifying and destroying cells that have been infected by intracellular pathogens. For T cells to recognize antigenic peptides, the peptide must be presented in the context of cell surface MHC class I or class II proteins. In other words, T cells can only recognize molecular complexes consisting of the antigenic peptide and a self-structure, that is, the MHC. Depending on whether the antigenic peptide has been synthesized within the host cell or ingested by the cell and modified by proteolytic digestion, either MHC class I or class II proteins are required. Proteins of the MHC are intimately tied to T-lymphocyte responses and recognition of antigenic peptides. The MHC class I proteins consist of three HLA classes: HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C with hundreds of allelic variants of each. Structural studies have shown that class I molecules exist as cell surface heterodimers with a polytransmembrane ÃŽÂ ±-chain associated (noncovalently) with a nonpolymorphic ÃŽÂ ²2 microglobulin protein. The protein chains are folded in such a way as to form a physical groove capable of binding up to an 11 amino acid long peptide. Antigenic proteins are degraded by proteolytic enzymes to about this size for binding to th e MHC class I proteins for antigenic presentation. Antigenic peptides are bound in the groove of the HLA molecule and expressed to the cell surface for presentation to initiate a T-cell response. Humoral Immunity (figure 1.9) The human immunoglobulins are a family of proteins that confer humoral immunity and perform vital roles in promoting cellular immunity. Five distinct classes or isotypes of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, and IgE) have been identified in human serum on the basis of their structural, biological, and antigenic differences.1-4 IgG and IgA have been further subdivided into subclasses IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 or subclasses IgA1 and IgA2 on the basis of unique antigenic determinants. Multiple allotypic determinants in the constant region domains of human IgG and IgA molecules as well as kappa (ÃŽÂ º) light chains indicate inherited genetic markers. Finally, there are several immunoglobulin-associated polypeptides such as secretory component (SC) and J chain that have no structural homology with the immunoglobulins, but serve important functions in immunoglobulin polymerization and transport across membranes into a variety of secretions (e.g., saliva, sweat, nasal secretions, breast milk, and colostrum). This diversity of the immunoglobulin components of the humoral immune system provides a complex network of protective and surveillance functions. Human IgA Polymeric secretory IgA (figure 1.10) is composed of two four-chain basic units and one molecule each of SC and J chain (approximately 400,000 MW). It is the predominant immunoglobulin in colostrum, saliva, tears, bronchial secretions, nasal mucosa, prostatic fluid, vaginal secretions, and mucous secretions of the small intestine. In contrast, 10% of the circulating serum IgA is polymeric, whereas 90% is monomeric (160,000MW). Together, they constitute approximately 15% of the total serum immunoglobulins. Trimers and higher polymeric forms can exist, but in small amounts. Two subclasses of IgA have been identified (IgA1 and IgA2), which differ by 22 of the 365 amino acids. In terms of complement activation, IgA poorly activates the classical pathway. This process has been hypothesized as a host mechanism for attenuating inflammatory responses induced by IgG antibodies at the mucosal surface. In contrast, IgA reportedly activates the alternative pathway of complement to provide some direct protective functions. IgA, once bound to a bacterial or parasitic surface antigen, may bind CD89 (IgA receptor) on infl ammatory cells (monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and eosinophils), leading to their destruction by means of antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Moreover, its binding to viral or microbial surface antigens may restrict the mobility of microorganisms and prevent their binding to mucosal epithelium. Finally, secretory IgA can play an important first line of defense in antigen clearance by binding to antigens that leak across an epithelium and transporting them back across to prevent their entry. To summarize,  IgAs unique structure resists proteolysis and it functions to block uptake of antigen, bacterial o r viral attachment, limit inflammation induced by classical pathway complement activation, and promote microbial destruction through ADCC by binding to leukocyte receptors. Human IgD IgD (figure 1.11) is a four-chain monomer of approximately 180,000 MW with a long hinge region that increases its susceptibility for proteolytic cleavage. Although IgD is normally present in serum in trace amounts (0.2% of total serum immunoglobulin), it predominantly serves as a membrane-bound antigen receptor on the surface of human B lymphocytes. Despite suggestions that IgD may be involved in B-cell differentiation, its principal function is as yet unknown. As such, IgD is rarely quantified in a general workup of an individual suspected of a humoral immune deficiency or a B-cell dyscrasia. Hyperimmunoglobulinemia D with serum IgD levels >100 U/mL, however, has been noted in conjunction with periodic fever syndrome. This condition is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder that is characterized by recurrent episodes of fever accompanied by abdominal distress, lymphadenopathy, joint involvement, and skin lesions. It appears to be particularly responsive to anti-tumor necrosis factor ( TNF) treatment. Mutations that lead to this disease occur in the mevalonate kinase gene, which encodes an enzyme involved in cholesterol and nonsterol-isoprenoid biosynthesis. Human IgE IgE (190,000 MW) was identified in 1967 as a unique immunoglobulin that circulates in serum as a four-chain monomer. Although IgE constitutes only 0.004% of the total serum immunoglobulins, it possesses a clinically significant biological function by binding through its Fc region to the alpha chain on high-affinity receptors (FcÃŽÂ µR1) on mast cells and basophils. On subsequent exposure to relevant protein allergens from trees, grasses, weeds, pet dander, molds, foods, or insect venoms, IgE antibodies on mast cells become cross-linked. This process triggers the production and release of vasoactive mediators (e.g., histamine, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes) that can induce mild to severe immediate type I hypersensitivity reactions in sensitized  atopic individuals. Human IgG In healthy adults, the four polypeptide chain IgG monomer (150,000 MW) constitutes approximately 75% of the total serum immunoglobulins. IgG is approximately equally distributed between intra- and extravascular serum pools. Moreover, IgG possesses the unique ability to cross the placenta, which provides protection for the fetus and newborn. Human IgG has been subdivided into four subclasses on the basis of unique antigenic determinants. IgG1, IgG2, and IgG4 possess an MW of approximately 150,000, whereas IgG3 is heavier (160,000 MW) as a result of an extended 62-amino acid hinge region that contains 11 interchain disulfide bonds. IgG3s highly rigid hinge region promotes accessibility of proteolytic enzymes to sensitive Fc cleavage sites, which results in an increased fractional catabolic rate and a shorter biological half-life (7-8 days) than has been observed for IgG1, IgG2, and IgG4 (21-24 days). In terms of complement activation, IgG1 and IgG3 are the most effective, whereas IgG4 due to its compact structure does not readily activate the classical pathway of complement. IgG4 antibodies are also unique in that they appear to be functionally monovalent due to in vivo exchange of IgG4 half-molecules. As such, thi s is believed to lead to the formation of small IgG4 immune complexes that have a low potential for inducing immune inflammation. Moreover, IgG4 antibodies have the ability to interfere with immune inflammation caused by the interaction of complement-fixing IgG subclasses with antigen. Researchers in the field of allergy have speculated that IgG4 antibodies also scavenge antigen that prevents mast cell-bound IgE antibody from being cross-linked by antigen, and thus blocking IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions in atopic individuals who have undergone immunotherapy. Other important structural and biological differences among the human IgG subclasses relate to their Fc receptor binding, and the different binding sites on the constant region domains for rheumatoid factors, complement components, and bacterial proteins (protein A and protein G). Human IgM IgM (figure 1.12) is a pentameric immunoglobulin of approximately 900,000 MW that is composed of a J chain and five IgM monomers. Pentameric IgM constitutes approximately 10% of serum immunoglobulins in healthy individuals. Along with IgD, monomeric IgM is also a major immunoglobulin that is expressed on the surface of B cells where it serves as an antigen receptor. The C-terminal portion of pentameric secreted IgM differs from that of its monomeric cell-bound form. Secreted IgM has a mu chain with a 20-amino acid hydrophilic tail and a penultimate cysteine that facilitates polymerization. Cell membrane-bound IgM has a 41-amino acid membrane tail that contains a hydrophobic 26-amino acid segment that anchors the IgM molecule in the B-cell membrane lipid bilayer. IgM antibodies are clinically important because they predominate as an antigen receptor in early immune responses to most antigens. With a functional valency of 10, IgM antibodies are highly efficient in activating the classi cal complement pathway. IgMs actual functional valency, however, is only 5 due to steric hindrance among its many antigen-binding sites. Cell Mediated Immunity Cell Mediated Immune response (CMIR) (figure 1.9) is the functional effectors pf the immune response for phagocytosis, cell killing by cytotoxic T cells, NK and K cells Macrophage Activation While the production of antibody through the humoral immune response can effectively lead to the elimination of a variety of pathogens, bacteria that have evolved to invade and multiply within phagocytic cells of the immune response pose a different threat. Cell Mediated Cytotoxicity Cell Mediated Cytotoxic immune response is implicated in refusal of foreign grafts and the exclusion of tumors and virus-infected cells. The cells involved in these methods are cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, NK-cells and K-cells. NK cells Also known as the large granular lymphocytes are normally non-specific, MHC-unrestricted cells involved mainly in the elimination of neoplastic or tumor cells.   Once the target cell is recognized, killing occurs. K cells K-cells contain immunoglobulin Fc receptors. They are involved in Antibody-dependent Cell-mediated Cytotoxicity (ADCC). ADCC occurs as a result of an antibody being bound to a target cell surface via specific antigenic determinants expressed by the target cell. Once bound, the Fc portion of the immunoglobulin can be recognized by the K-cell. This type of CMIR can also result in  Type II hypersensitivities.

The Writings of Zora Neale Hurston Examine the Relationships Between th

The Writings of Zora Neale Hurston Examine the Relationships Between the Sexes African-American literature is the voice of a race and a people who have a very passionate existence. They have existed in harsh conditions in this country for many, many generations. Their stories told orally, and those that were eventually written down, describe life as members of African tribes forced to adapt their cultural beliefs to a new way of life, slaves with almost no rights or respect, finally free men and women, and as American citizens who are also black. In their writings the reader comes to understand the African-American history and community. By far, one of the most wonderful, fascinating aspects of the African-American community is the emphasis on the relationships between the sexes. Authors such as Alice Walker, Lorraine Hansberry, Toni Morrison and many other wonderful female writers give their readers an understanding of the beauty, pain, ecstasy, and confusion that exist in the relationships of African American men and women. All of the authors mentioned are female because à ¬their literature is about black women; it takes the trouble to record the thoughts, words, feelings, and deeds of black women, experiences that make the realities of being black in America look very different from what men have writtenà ®(Washington 35). Zora Neale Hurston, one of the most famous and passionate black writers of the twentieth century, wrote many stories about women and their relationships. à ¬The Guilded Six-bits,à ® and à ¬Magnolia Flowerà ® are two examples by Hurston in which the female characters play a large role in the dynamics of the story and the relationship. In these stories, the men and women find their roles as lovers, her... ...lack, Reading Feminist: A Critical Anthology. Ed. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. New York: Meridian, 1990. 307-317. Hurston, Zora Neale. The Complete Stories of Zora Neale Hurston. New York: Harper, 1995. Lionnet, Francoise. à ¬Autoethnography: The An-Archic Style of Dust Tracks on a Road.à ® Reading Black, Reading Feminist: A Critical Anthology. Ed. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. New York: Meridian, 1990. 382-394. Saidi, Pouria. à ¬Individualism and the Issue of Race in the Works of Zora Neale Hurston.à ® Brighton High School, English Department Webpage. (1997): Online. Available: http://www.bcsd.org/BHS/english/mag97/papers/hurston.htm Washington, Mary Helen. à ¬The Darkened Eye Restored: Notes Toward a Literary History of Black Women.à ® Reading Black, Reading Feminist: A Critical Anthology. Ed. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. New York: Meridian, 1990. 30-43.

A Comparison of Third World Journalism and Modern Journalism

Information is a very important factor that contributes to the progressive civilization of the human society. It could be tracked down through history that with the existence of a way of passing information to the masses, it could be noticed that progress has been easily passed on through generations as well. The birth of journalism paved way to a revolution of information overflow in the human society worldwide.As for a fact, history has been written and has been possible for being studied by latter generations because of journalism. Important researches by science have also been passed on to the public through the art of journalism.With these truths, it could then be an interesting topic to discuss on how far journalism has already been developing through the years as it enters the new era of technological advancements. First, it would be much beneficial to know what journalism really pertains to.1.1 What is Journalism?Journalism is among the arts of communication processes that ar e referred to as a means by which the public is being connected with the whole society. Hence, having the connotation that it is a major way of being publicly informed, journalism has also been connected with numerous issues of being true and highly dependable. For this reason, numerous experts have been trying to etch the basic points of consideration when journalism is being discussed.Developmental journalism is also one of the key issues that is discussed by the journalist professionals who would like to make it a point that the said field of communicating to the public is highly reliable for the people in the society.Numerous forms of journalism are used to send important messages to the public. It could either be in form of written, oral, verbal or audio information. Several mediums are also utilized by journalists to be able to convey their message to the public. Such mediums include television, radio, print materials such as newspapers or broadsheets and magazines as well.Wit h the use of the said mediums, the informations that are believed to be essential for public knowledge are served to the intended receivers of the informations. How far have the said mediums been accepted by the public?1.1.1 TelevisionAfter analyzing 102 local TV newscasts from 52 metropolitan areas in the United States for content and presentation, a media-watch group found that only 41.3 percent of the programs contained news. What makes up the rest of the newscast? On an average, 30.4 percent of airtime of local TV news consists of commercials.In fact, some of the stations surveyed devoted more time to commercials than to news. In addition, news airtime is often filled with fluff, states the report summarizing the findings of the study. Under the heading â€Å"Fluff,† the report groups â€Å"the cumulative air-time given to chit-chat between anchors, promotions and previews of upcoming stories, the ‘soft’ or silly news and the items about celebrities.†A sample of some fluff stories: â€Å"Terrible Tenors Contest,† â€Å"Reporter Takes ‘Awesome, Incredible, Astounding’ Ride

Apple Swot

Apple SWOT In the 2011 Fortune 500 rankings Apple finished 35th, jumping from the 56th position it established the year before. As of January 2012 Apple surpassed Exxon to become the largest Corporation in the world. Apple’s rapid climb from virtual bankruptcy in 1996 is an incredible story. (Eberhard) Strengths: The products The company's reputation as an innovator Strong, loyal following Control over applications and operating systems Brand AwarenessWeaknesses – Apple's â€Å"All In† philosophy has some drawbacks – for example, my Windows phone will not sync on my Macbook. This perceived â€Å"if you're not one of us, you are one of them† mindset makes new converts to Apple products wary. Apple doesn't â€Å"fail† often but when they do it makes major headlines. Apple Maps served to show how big of a blunder one Apple branded failure can really be. (Goldman). The lack of forethought into the iPad.No matter how great of a success – an d it certainly is – Microsoft's Surface's screen size and inclusion of USB ports and a keyboard is going to make the next generation of the iMac – which could very well be a super charged iPad with all the required ports and a new OS – make Apple look like it is playing catch up instead of leading the innovation themselves. Closed source applications and operating system Brand perceived as â€Å"elitist† Diversity of products Cost of product vs. competitors Over saturation (iPhone)Opportunities – Apple is readying a Pandora like streaming music service and Apple TV could change the way we view our programing much in the same way the iPod and iTunes revolutionized the music business. Music streaming service Apple TV Shifting more production to US factories The Chinese Market yet to be fully tapped Integration with automakers Threats – Basically everyone who isn’t Apple – Google/Android, Microsoft/Windows 8, Samsung, the list goe s on – if you plug it in and talk, listen touch, type, or surf on it and it isn't an Apple, it is a threat to Apple.Apple's threats come from all directions because Apple not only produces product, it also produces all of the operating systems for it's product and tightly controls what content outside vendors can sell on the App Store. Changes in economy Changes in marketplace Chinese labor controversies Google's Android OS Microsoft's Windows 8 and Surface tablet Windows retail stores http://www. heavy. com/news/2012/12/google-maps-returns-to-iphone/ http://robeberhard. com/? page_id=130 Samsung SWOT Samsung was founded in 1938 as a fish and vegetable grocer. After the Korean War, Samsung's assets were divested and the grocery business was laid to rest.In 1969 SEC, the Samsung Electronic Corporation was created, beginning the Samsung as we know them today. Samsung now produces televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, DVD and Blu-Ray players, MP3 players, cameras and sem iconductors. Over the years as they acquired new business and branched out into new ventures they have been subject to a variety of lawsuits involving copyright infringement, including those with watchmaker Rolex, mobile phone maker Ericsson and most recently Apple Computer. Apple recently surpassed Samsung to take the number one spot in marketshare in the mobile phone category. Tinari) Samsung's partnership with Google has provided a consistent OS (operating system) for it's mobile devices with Android. Android is an â€Å"open source† operating system, which, unlike Apple's, allows for third party users to openly contribute application and programs without company interference or oversight. While this gives users a wider variety of applications, there is no quality control over them, nor is there a way for Samsung to provide the customer service often required of these applications as Samsung has no part in their creation and distribution.Samsung recently won one of many la wsuits with Apple over the design of their popular Galaxy tablet. The recently released Microsoft Surface tablet and the Kindle Fire are Samsung's largest non-Apple competition in this market, however there are a number of super low cost tablets coming out of China that are also relying on the Android OS. These low cost, low quality tablets are forcing Samsung to advertise more aggressively to assure they are not lumped into this sub group of iPad knock offs. Strengths: Wide range of products Multiple partnerships with other brands, particularly Google and their Android operating system Growing marketshareHigh brand value Open source operating system Weaknesses: Lack of control over product once it's partners become involved Slow to release new product Lack of focus on one core product Lower price means lower perceived quality Complaints of not being â€Å"user friendly† Opportunities: Open more retail outlets Partnership with new brands means more innovation Reintroduce phon es with more user friendly interface Capitalize on Apple's failures Provide more customer service Threats: Continuing legal battle with Apple over copyright infringement Low cost competition in the tablet marketEmulation phones with Android OS weaken Samsung's image Microsoft's Surface tablet Windows Retail stores Changes in marketplace Changes in economy image: www. businessweek. com image: www. talkandroid. com image: www. obamapacman. com http://www. intomobile. com/2013/02/01/apple-grabs-34-mobile-market-share-passing-samsung-become-1/ http://www. businessweek. com/articles/2012-07-03/samsungs-smartphone-pitch-fuels-mobile-ad-boom http://www. talkandroid. com/154223-samsung-ramped-up-advertising-in-2012-outspent-apple-by-68-million/ http://obamapacman. com/2010/11/fail-samsung-galaxy-tab-flash-pop-up-ad-annoys-cnn-users/

Role of Green Marketing in Sustainable Development -an Opportunity for Innovation Essays

Role of Green Marketing in Sustainable Development -an Opportunity for Innovation Essays Role of Green Marketing in Sustainable Development -an Opportunity for Innovation Essay Role of Green Marketing in Sustainable Development -an Opportunity for Innovation Essay Role of Green Marketing in Sustainable Development -An Opportunity for Innovation * Mrs.. Kajal Maheshwari Abstract- â€Å"Sustainability is the mother lode of innovations that yield both bottomline and topline returns The most forward-thinking and progressive businesses today are seeing environmental issues as an opportunity to innovate and change how they operate their companies, how they develop new products, and how they relate to stakeholders in the marketplace. Environmentalists, too, are seeing an opportunity to collaborate with business. They are taking a more open-minded view toward the role that business can play in solving big problems. The best way to succeed in making sustainability a source of value is to drive it deep into the organization and broadly across the enterprise is to go Green. What we call smokestack or tailpipe industries - the energy businesses, utilities, oil and gas, transportation, chemicals - they had to tackle these issues because of the significant impact theyve had. But now we see retailers and technology companies and services companies and hospitality and all sorts of new sectors that are embracing sustainability because theyre finding value there. This article briefly give idea about the companies General Electric, General Motors, Chevrolet volt, Pfizer and Novartis, energy companies like BP, HCL etc. investing in Ramp;D amp; innovation in environmental amp; clean tech area. This article covers terms and concepts of green marketing, briefly discuss why going green is important and also examine some of the reason that organizations are adopting a green marketing philosophy. These days, only marketing doesnt seem to be working as well as it has in the past. For sustainability and growth a marketer has to consider innovative environment friendly trends It also focuses some of the opportunities and challenges in green marketing. Therefore, implementing green marketing is pivotal to the sustainable development of industry.

Bias in the Media essays

Bias in the Media essays News broadcasters have a basic job , that of supplying their viewers with the facts. With this occupation news anchors and reporters can remain seen as human beings, humans with feelings and opinions. However, their job is not to reveal these to the public. Viewers should be able to feel confident that a program will be sharing factual information on subjects and then they will be able to form their own opinions and judgments. Unfortunately with many of todays newsmakers this ideal can not always be made possible. The number of democratic party members is very high in journalism. In fact in a 1996 survey, as reported in a book titled Bias: A CBS Insider Exposes How the Media Distort the News by Bernard Goldberg, a considerable eighty nine percent of journalists voted for Bill Clinton in the presidential election compared to only a forty-three percent vote from the general American population. In particular primary news sources, CNN, CBS, NBC and ABC have long been viewed my many people as possessing and distributing a liberal tone (1). Many viewers are easily swayed to more liberal ways of thinking due to the structure of the reporting by these newscast stations. Many viewers however can realize that the women and men of television are political partisans. They take the facial expressions, aside comments and tone of voice, used by these professionals light heartedly and it has been accepted. However it becomes unaccepted when their political opinions bring about falsities delivered to the public as facts. On September 8th of this year CBS news anchor, Dan Rather, reported documents concerning President George W. Bushs Air National Guard service during his nightly show 60 minutes. Details of the documents included that Bush had been receiving requested special treatment in order to avoid his service commitments. Mr. Rather spent most of the following week defending his sources and the l...

Arithmetic Mean and Five-step P-value Approach

A manufacturer of chocolate candies uses machines to package candies as they move along a filling line. Although the packages are labeled as 8 ounces, the company wants the packages to contain a mean of 8. 17 ounces so that virtually none of the packages contain less than 8 ounces. A sample of 50 packages is selected periodically, and the packaging process is stopped if there is evidence that the mean amount packaged is different from 8. 17 ounces. Suppose that in a particular of 50 packages, the mean amount dispensed is 8. 159 ounces, with a sample standard deviation of 0. 051 A. Is there evidence that the population mean amount is different from 8. 17 ounces? (Use a 0. 05 level of significance. ) B. Determine the p-value and interpret its meaning. 9. 27 In New York State, savings banks are permitted to sell a form of life insurance called savings bank life insurance (SLBI). The approval process consists of underwriting, which includes a review of the application, a medical information bureau check, possible requests for additional medical information and medical exams, and a policy complication stage in which the policy pages are generated and sent to the bank for delivery. The ability to deliver approved policies to customers in a timely manner is critical to the profitability of this service. During a period of one month, a random sample of 27 approved policies is selected, and the total processing time, in days, is recorded (and stored in insurance): 73 19 16 28 31 56 45 17 22 18 91 92 50 51 69 A. In the past, the mean processing time was 45 days. At the 0. 05 level of significance, is there evidence that the mean processing time had changed from 45 days? B. What assumption about the population distribution is needed in order to conduct the t test in (a)? C. Construct a boxplot or a normal probability plot to evaluate the assumption made in (b). D. Do you think that the assumption needed in order to conduct the t test in (a) is valid? Explain. 93. 1 One operation of a steel mill is to cut pieces of steel into parts that are used in the same frame for front seats in an automobile. The steel is cut with a diamond saw and requires the resulting parts must be cut within Ð’Â ± 0. 005 inch of the length specified by the automobile company. The file Steel contains a sample of 100 steel parts. The measurement reported is the difference, in inches, between the actual length of the teel part, as measured by a laser measurement device, and the specified length of the steel part. For example, a value of -0. 002 represents a steel part that is 0. 002 inch shorter than the specified length. A. At the 0. 05 level of significance, is there evidence that the mean difference is not equal to 0. 0 inches? B. Construct a 95% confidence interval estimate of the population mean, Interpret this interval. C. Compare the conclusions reached in (a) and (b). D. Because n= 100, do you have to be concerned about the normally assumption needed for the t test and t interval? 9. 45 In recent year, the Federal Communications Commission reported that the mean wait for repairs for ATT customers was 25. 3 hours. In an effort to improve this service, suppose that a new repair service process was developed. This new process, used for a sample of 100 repairs, resulted in a sample mean of 22. 3 hours and a sample standard deviation of 8. 3 hours. A. Is there evidence that the population mean amount is less than 25. 3 hours? (Use a 0. 05 level of significance. ) B. Determine the p- value and interpret its meaning. 9. 47 You are the manager ot a restaurant that delivers pizza to college dormitory rooms. You have Just changed your delivery process in an effort to reduce the mean time between the order and completion of delivery from the current 25 minutes. A sample mean of 22. 4 minutes and a sample standard deviation of 6 minutes. A. Using the six- step critical value approach, at the 0. 05 level of significance, is there evidence that the population mean delivery time value of 25 minutes? B. At the 0. 05 level of significance, use the five-step p-value approach? C. Interpret the meaning of the p- value in (b). D. Compare your conclusions in (a) and (b). 9. 53 The U. S. Department of Education reports that 46% of full-time college students are employed while attending college (data extracted from The Condition of Education 2009, National Center for Education Statistics, nces. ed. gov). A recent survey of 60 full-time students at Miami University found that 29 were employed. A. Use the five- step p-value approach to hypothesis testing and a 0. 05 level of significance to determine whether the proportion of full-time students at Miami University is different that the national norm of 0. 6. B. Assume that the study found that 36 of the 60 full-time students were employed and repeat (a). Are the conclusions the same? 9. 55 One of the issues facing organizations is increasing diversity throughout the organization. One of the ways to evaluate an organizations success at increasing diversity is to compare the percentage of employees in the organization in a particular position with a specific background to the percentage in a position with that specific background in the general workforce. Recently, a large academic medical center determined that 9 of 17 employees in a particular position were female, whereas 55% of the employees for this position in the general workforce were female. At the 0. 05 level of significance, is there evidence that the proportion of females in this position at this medical center is different from what would be expected in the general workforce? 9. 57 One of the biggest issues facing e-retailers is the ability to reduce the proportion of customers who cancel their transaction after they have selected their products. It has been estimated that about half of prospective customers cancel their transactions after they have selected their products (data extracted from B. Tedeschi, E- Commerce, a Cure for Abandoned Shopping Carts: A Web Checkout System That Eliminates the Need for Multiple Screens, The New York Times, February 14, 2005, p. C3). Suppose that a company changed its Web site so that customers could use a single page checkout process rather than multiple pages. A sample of 500 customers who had selected their products were provided with the new checkout system.

Counselling; Humanistic Counselling Theory Outcome 1 Essay

Counselling; Humanistic Counselling Theory Outcome 1 - Essay Example Due to the complex nature of today’s modern life, people feel a need for professional counselling which can help them to understand the essence of their life. Professional counselling is one such discipline in which a competent counselor helps people suffering from distress and unhappiness, to resolve their emotional and psychological conflicts by guiding them in adopting new life supporting behavior patterns (Oates, 1974, p.9). In an attempt to be socially and professionally successful, people have ignored the importance of the emotional and spiritual fulfillment. Psychologists realized that the reason behind people’s unhappiness is that they are trying to fulfill the needs of the head by ignoring the needs of their heart (Nelson-Jones, 2001, p. 67). For a person to be completely happy, what is necessary is an integration of both, the head and the heart . Hence, to help people achieve a complete and happy life by developing a ‘wholeness’ in their personali ty, a discipline of psychological counselling called the ‘humanistic’ counselling , was introduced. Social structure plays a very important role in the development of human being. The society and the culture in which a person is born plays a very vital role in the development of his thoughts, beliefs and values. ‘Religion’, ‘faith’ and ‘philosophy’ are the most influential aspects of his life. Hence, if one has to understand and change the human nature, one has to study not only his mental aspect but also his beliefs, values, philosophies and spiritual aspects. People working in the field of psychology realized the need of integrating the philosophical and spiritual aspects of life with psychology to make the

Nikolay Gogols The Overcoat. The Conclusion Essay

Nikolay Gogols The Overcoat. The Conclusion - Essay Example In fact, the supernatural addition to the story gives it more power as we digest the entire meaning of the story. Without the supernatural ending, we are left with the notion that world is a bleak place to live. With the inclusion of Akaky's ghost exacting revenge upon the Person of Consequence, we see that there is justice in the world and that the world is guided by forces that lurk beyond the human realm. Gogol's fantastic ending is surprising and delightful and this adds to the depth of the story because it offers hope. "The Overcoat" makes more sense when it is considered in the way it is presented - a tale of truth. The story is often discarded when readers reach the conclusion because they feel that it remove any substantial meaning. The way to read the story, however, is to take it at face value. Gogol wanted this ending to his rather realistic tale for a reason. He wanted readers to stop and consider supernatural occurrences in this tangible world in which we live. Victor Peppard observes that there are two ways that the story can be interpreted and maintains that "The Overcoat" has a "definite and tremendously significant relationship to the genre of the supernatural tale, particularly those tales about corpses and ghosts who have, or seem to have, returned from the dead" (Peppard). He believes that the story is meant to be "instructive" (Peppard) because of Gogol's literary predecessors. He also adds that it is "helpful to establish to what extent Gogol models his story on the generic require ments of the supernatural tale and to what extent he modifies them for his own purposes" (Peppard). Either way, "The Overcoat" plays out to be a supernatural story with a very moral message. This interpretation allows the ghost that appears at the end of the to be "even more persuasive than the guilty conscience of the significant personage" (Peppard). It must also be noted that the guilty conscious of the Person of Consequence is secondary to his conversion at the conclusion of the story. When we consider the ghost as a real character, the story not only makes sense, but it serves a real purpose. The supernatural ending of the story is also intended to make the reader relate to Akaky's experience and rejoice with him that he did receive justice in the end. This is the only way that the story can end without the tale being a complete tale of travesty for the "little guy." Akaky is, in fact, the Person of Consequence's victim for a very long time. Gogol has spent much of the story allowing us to see Akaky's life and how he lives it. There can be no doubt that he is a simple man living a simple life. There can also be no doubt that he is a bit quirky and, as such, is the butt of many jokes. It is also important to notice that Akaky lives his life quiet peacefully. He does not impose upon anyone else and it appears that his only sin is the lust he develops for the new overcoat. From this perspective, we can determine that Akaky needs the supernatural ending as much as anybody does because that is the only way that he will see justice. We are forewarned of this when the narrator s tates that no one could have "imagined that this was not there was to tell" (Gogol 245) about Akaky. Then we are told that the story does have a "fantastic ending" (245). From this we can gather that Gogol wanted us to believe in the supernatural aspects of this tale and not only believe but take issues to heart. In short, there is justice in the world. In addition, the conclusion of "The Overcoat" is significant because it is unique when it is examined against the rest of the tale. The supernatural ending to the story is actually the only fantastical element in "The Overcoat." Because the rest of the story is realistic,

Issues on Down Syndrome Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Issues on Down Syndrome - Essay Example It is usual that open language skills to ageing adults with Down syndrome, are affected significantly compared to expressive skills (Carter Young & Kramer, 1991). Expressive language may remain intact over a long period, thus acting as a measure of overall ability. Studies have extensively examined adults with Down syndrome on their communication and language. Predictors such as school tutorials, how the person with the disorder grows up in the family, and enrichment therapies influence their academic performance (Bird &Thomas, 2002). Age, language and related skills in adults with downs syndrome Studies based on downs syndrome are increasing rapidly. Most of these studies seek to establish the connection among ageing, language and correlated skills in adults. According to Iacono, Torr, &Wong’s inferences, the measures of relationship between language and ageing fail to investigate linguistic domains but rather sensitivity to change. It is evident that expressive language tend s to decline with age among adults with downs syndrome compared to receptive language. Studies show that, receptive vocabulary is stronger with age than auditory sentence structure (Cooper & Collacott, 1995). In this case, the expressive language is weak, the speech delays or slows among ageing adults. According to Rasmussen & Sobsey 1994, longitudinal studies conducted on forty (40) years old adults with downs syndrome shows much loss in communication skills in particular receptive language. The study also indicated that dyspraxia sets in, a central nervous system condition affecting speech production. In addiction, this disorder affects the accuracy in gesture use. The ability to respond to auditory stimuli weakens with age meaning that the affected may not respond to when addressed verbally. There are difficulties in comprehending vocals, in this case the person with downs syndrome is poor in understanding spoken language and word discrimination. Scholars questions whether the la nguage decline was as a result of loss of memory, or part of adult-ageing process related to downs syndrome. Receptive language in downs syndrome individuals (40-49 years) shown to be low in comparison to the younger individuals (Dalton and Crapper-McLachlan, 1986). Predictors of intellectual attainments of young people with Down’s syndrome According to Turner, S., Alborz, A., & Gayle, V. 2008, most people think that academic achievement is anchored on the type and quality of education. Moreover, they lack knowledge on how parents can offer incredible support. In cases where children have a disability, people lack confidence on intellectual attainment of the child at home and school. However, school and guardians play a salient role in education. Stephen turner and his colleagues reported findings on a research they conducted. These findings identify school and parents as factors that influence academic achievements of young people with Down syndrome. The children in the long itudinal research were born between 1973 to 1980. The children under study varied in cognitive behavior, this was mainly to represent different abilities in downs syndrome. The researchers also choose families based on occupation and education backgrounds. Research indicated that young people with Down syndrome predict progress. Young people who attended mainstream school had impressive academic attainment in writing, reading and numbering even in their adulthood. Turner and Gayle points

A Day in the Sleep Clinic CS4 Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A Day in the Sleep Clinic CS4 - Case Study Example Clearly, perception is can be negative or positive, and the most positive it is then, the more efficiently a crisis can be averted. Dr. Williams had a negative attitude towards his clients whose children ended up not getting help. The most likely outcome is that the children will be taken back home, and their conditions will also worsen. People who view things at an optimistic angle can make sound decisions and be able to communicate with any person in a more effective way (Jones, 2012). If Dr. Williams was more positive and be patient with his clients then the children could have gotten the correct medication. Negative attitude brings negative emotions that are possible to avoid. The culture, ethnicity, race, and socioeconomic status have contributed to health illiteracy. Many individuals from these backgrounds do not can acquire process and comprehend basic health information (Hayward & Miles, 2000). Language barrier, for instance, sometimes leads to insufficient healthcare services because patients do not understand the doctors. It is easy to find that people from the minority races and ethnic groups are hospitalized due to limited literacy on healthcare. Health care disparities are making it difficult for patients to navigate and get medical attention. Ethnic and racial minorities also receive less medical care because sometimes they do not believe in any therapy provided by doctors. It is cultural beliefs that make some people use primitive measures to cure diseases affecting them. Research shows that Hispanic, African American and Asian patients have less trust in their physicians because they practice culture biomedicine that is difficult to relate wit h the practice of medicine (Kingston &Nickens, 2001). Socioeconomic status especially income and education levels affect health care system. Thus, people with low income are likely to have poor healthcare treatment. There are various

Womens History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Womens History - Essay Example Constitution was ratified by the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote. Formation of one group in 1890, National American Women Suffrage Association (NAWSA), Stanton being the president and the vice-president being Anthony was an effective strategy and vital policy to gain suffrage. The nonviolent approach was the suffragist’s logical strategy since Quakers and pacifists like Alice Paul, Lucretia Mott, and Susan B. Anthony who was its prominent leaders encouraged peaceful resistance in order to be equal with men. Another strategy that was used by the Suffrage Movement to outwit opponents was the involvement of professionals who had proved to be enormously competent, politically important, widely respected and highly influential like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone, Carrie Chapman Catt, Harriet Stanton Blatch, and Alice Paul. Vigorous campaigning was another major input which gave the movement victory in the long run after over 72 years of campaigni ng and pooling of resources to fund it. The campaigns were filled with commitment, intrigue, dedication, and frustration. Millions of dollars were pooled as hundreds gave such aid wherever and whenever they could together with constant interest. Hundreds of women gave possibilities of an entire lifetime. Enlisting of new members also proved to be above par policy and strategy in order to popularize the movement. The inclusion of men was another strategy as men had vital roles in casting votes that could only be cast by men. The 19th Amendment was approved by virtually all-male Senate and House and ratified by 36 all-male, virtually, legislatures.Though the movement fought for the women’s rights, it is regarded in some quarters as a cause that was inconsequential worth neither of respect nor attention.  

Issues on Down Syndrome Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Issues on Down Syndrome - Essay Example It is usual that open language skills to ageing adults with Down syndrome, are affected significantly compared to expressive skills (Carter Young & Kramer, 1991). Expressive language may remain intact over a long period, thus acting as a measure of overall ability. Studies have extensively examined adults with Down syndrome on their communication and language. Predictors such as school tutorials, how the person with the disorder grows up in the family, and enrichment therapies influence their academic performance (Bird &Thomas, 2002). Age, language and related skills in adults with downs syndrome Studies based on downs syndrome are increasing rapidly. Most of these studies seek to establish the connection among ageing, language and correlated skills in adults. According to Iacono, Torr, &Wong’s inferences, the measures of relationship between language and ageing fail to investigate linguistic domains but rather sensitivity to change. It is evident that expressive language tend s to decline with age among adults with downs syndrome compared to receptive language. Studies show that, receptive vocabulary is stronger with age than auditory sentence structure (Cooper & Collacott, 1995). In this case, the expressive language is weak, the speech delays or slows among ageing adults. According to Rasmussen & Sobsey 1994, longitudinal studies conducted on forty (40) years old adults with downs syndrome shows much loss in communication skills in particular receptive language. The study also indicated that dyspraxia sets in, a central nervous system condition affecting speech production. In addiction, this disorder affects the accuracy in gesture use. The ability to respond to auditory stimuli weakens with age meaning that the affected may not respond to when addressed verbally. There are difficulties in comprehending vocals, in this case the person with downs syndrome is poor in understanding spoken language and word discrimination. Scholars questions whether the la nguage decline was as a result of loss of memory, or part of adult-ageing process related to downs syndrome. Receptive language in downs syndrome individuals (40-49 years) shown to be low in comparison to the younger individuals (Dalton and Crapper-McLachlan, 1986). Predictors of intellectual attainments of young people with Down’s syndrome According to Turner, S., Alborz, A., & Gayle, V. 2008, most people think that academic achievement is anchored on the type and quality of education. Moreover, they lack knowledge on how parents can offer incredible support. In cases where children have a disability, people lack confidence on intellectual attainment of the child at home and school. However, school and guardians play a salient role in education. Stephen turner and his colleagues reported findings on a research they conducted. These findings identify school and parents as factors that influence academic achievements of young people with Down syndrome. The children in the long itudinal research were born between 1973 to 1980. The children under study varied in cognitive behavior, this was mainly to represent different abilities in downs syndrome. The researchers also choose families based on occupation and education backgrounds. Research indicated that young people with Down syndrome predict progress. Young people who attended mainstream school had impressive academic attainment in writing, reading and numbering even in their adulthood. Turner and Gayle points

Womens History Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Womens History - Essay Example Constitution was ratified by the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote. Formation of one group in 1890, National American Women Suffrage Association (NAWSA), Stanton being the president and the vice-president being Anthony was an effective strategy and vital policy to gain suffrage. The nonviolent approach was the suffragist’s logical strategy since Quakers and pacifists like Alice Paul, Lucretia Mott, and Susan B. Anthony who was its prominent leaders encouraged peaceful resistance in order to be equal with men. Another strategy that was used by the Suffrage Movement to outwit opponents was the involvement of professionals who had proved to be enormously competent, politically important, widely respected and highly influential like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone, Carrie Chapman Catt, Harriet Stanton Blatch, and Alice Paul. Vigorous campaigning was another major input which gave the movement victory in the long run after over 72 years of campaigni ng and pooling of resources to fund it. The campaigns were filled with commitment, intrigue, dedication, and frustration. Millions of dollars were pooled as hundreds gave such aid wherever and whenever they could together with constant interest. Hundreds of women gave possibilities of an entire lifetime. Enlisting of new members also proved to be above par policy and strategy in order to popularize the movement. The inclusion of men was another strategy as men had vital roles in casting votes that could only be cast by men. The 19th Amendment was approved by virtually all-male Senate and House and ratified by 36 all-male, virtually, legislatures.Though the movement fought for the women’s rights, it is regarded in some quarters as a cause that was inconsequential worth neither of respect nor attention.  

Desert Survival Situation Essay Example for Free

Desert Survival Situation Essay The desert survival scenario taught me how to think rationally and demonstrate effective interpersonal skills. There is a certain time when we need to act as a group to achieve a goal, maybe to survive. The SDI and the desert survival scenario were intertwined especially during discussions. In a group. In SDI, we have four colors red, hub, blue and greed and each represent behaviors. Red characteristic behaviors tend to be competitive, forceful risk taker and self confident, Blues trust, helpful, modest, devoted, caring and supportive. Green characteristics are cautious, principled, fair and reserved. Hubs posses the three characteristics combined. All these four colors have an overdone side of each. In our discussion during the desert survival, were put in group and each group had members who were in these categories of colors. Interestingly,some group agreed to rank the items in a different ways, while others were able to almost come up with a list almost the experts rankings, Why?.Looking at their color characteristics, if a group had only gree, blue and hub, they were most likely to come up with no challenge. On the other hand, if we had all reds in a group there was not going to gain anything because all the will do is everyone compete and try to dominate. If all were green, they were likely to avoid and start talking out of the discussion. The Kilman conflict mode also can be applied in this analyses.For example,if in our discussion ,we had a competing member and all the others are avoiding mode,what will happen?. The red(competitor) will control all what the others say. No one will object anything and I thing the discussion will yield nothing at the end. If we have majority of accommodating members and avoiders, what will happen?.Everything will be â€Å"yes, I will do it† or avoid all. In order for the group to function, we need to have all the above members balanced. In an organization, if the manager is competing and a subordinate staff answerable to the manager is accommodating, that will lead to overworked, overwhelmed and misuse. In my society, women do not hold powers like men in every aspect of their lives. Although it is now changing the perception has not changed much. They are not entitled to posses or inherit properties. Not like in this country. In our class discussions, the professor does divide students into small groups to discuss the certain topic. I like how small group play because in this class we have members, who are adults and have experiences from their ages. They know how to handle and talk about issues. There personalities and attitudes are positive in how they interact with others. I have not been contributing much to the class and I think that is not being rude but this is something that I have struggle all along in my life.

Game Mechanics in Racing Game: Research

Game Mechanics in Racing Game: Research Introduction The very first racing game built by KONAMI was Road Fighter (Konami, 1984). The goal of the game was to reach the finish line without running out of fuel. The interesting part was each time the player gets close to finish line without getting crashed; a superman flies by and the player gets extra 1000 points. If you havent noticed before, the superman has K marked on his dress, which probably stands for Konami. But, if you see from a developers point of view, the superman bonus is the result of reward and feedback game mechanics. This point bonus encourages players to play better. It makes the game more interesting and players concentrate more in order to get the bonus Superman points. Game mechanics is a huge subject. It has been used in many fields today, other than video games. Game mechanics have been used for growing the players interest and involvement in gameplay, but as the area of game mechanics became largely successful, it started being used in other fields for other purposes. With the research on game mechanics, I try to study and understand the vast game mechanics subject and its application in various fields. I have also tried to form up a definition and apply it to study gameplay in various games. At last, a thorough study of game mechanics in racing games is attempted, and I introduce a new mechanics for racing games. Research Context The example above explains the game mechanics at quite brief extent. Here, I present some definitions by various researchers as well as own thoughts, experience and some examples. Game Mechanics Definitions Different researchers provide different game mechanics definitions, most likely related to their research. Here are some of the definitions given by some authors. Miguel Sicart defines game mechanics as: Methods invoked by agents for interacting with the game world. (Sicart, 2008) Here, Sicart offered a formal definition for game mechanics as he exercises this definition with a comparative analysis of Shadow of Colossus (Team Ico, 2005), Rez (United Game Artist, 2002) and Every Extend Extra (Q Entertainment, 2006) to research game context and user experience. One of the game mechanics definitions that Sicart has mentioned in his research is by Lundgren and BjÃÆ' ¶rk (2003) as: any part of the rule system of a game that covers one, and only one, possible kind of interaction that takes place during the game, be it general or specific. The definition given by Lundgren and BjÃÆ' ¶rk covers traditional board games and puzzle games, rather than video games. However, they mention that most of the mechanics identified in their research can easily be brewed into video games played on PCs and consoles. It would have been easy to describe these game mechanics without starting from traditional games, but, starting from traditional games also opens up a way that allows easy comparison between computer-based games and non-computerized games. Mike stout (2010) explains how to come up with a better game mechanics when the gameplay is repetitive and boring. Stout describes game mechanics as A major chunk of gameplay. He gives an example of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (Nintendo, 1991) and the game mechanics used in the game like: sword combat, block pushing, boomerang throwing, swimming, button based puzzles, Hazard-avoidance, etc. (Stout, 2010) Amy Jo Kim explains game mechanics applied in functional softwares and social media as The system and features that makes games fun, compelling and addictive. Kim also explains how game mechanics is brewed into social media like eBay, Facebook, YouTube etc, (Kim, 2009). Game mechanics is a subject that is used in many fields other than video games like, social media, social games and entertainment, consumer products and services etc. Game Mechanics in Social Media Social media sites like facebook.com, eBay.com, youtube.com etc. Implements game mechanics at a very large scale. Amy Jo Kim (2009) explains how collection, points, exchange, feedback and customization mechanics is implemented in social media. For example, ebay.com gives rating and feedback score to the sellers based on the feedback received from customers or buyers. The feedback is accessible through sellers profile page where any user can check the ratings and score. This mechanics improves the seller services. Tesco PLC has implemented point mechanics to attract more customers. The customer gets certain points for purchases made at Tesco shops through Tesco Clubcard. Later, they can redeem points for other offers of items. Tesco makes various offers available through Clubcard points which drive customers to purchase more products. (Tesco, 2010) Jesse Schell (2010) presented multiple examples of game mechanics used in non-game media in his presentation Design outside the Box at DICE Summit 2010. Schell mentions new Ford Fusion hybrid car that comes with an EcoGuide facility, which is basically an implementation of feedback mechanics. Its a virtual plant in techno meter; the plant sprouts more leaves as your miles-per gallon go up, indicating how green your motoring is. (Goodwin, 2009) Here, feedback mechanics is used in such a way that might affect the way people drive their car and possibly encourage them to drive in an eco-friendly way. MouseHunt (HitGrab, 2008) and other facebook games are mainly based on points, feedback, collection, and customization mechanics and MouseHunt can be the best example of it. The player is required to build a mouse trap to catch mice and when a mouse is caught, the player is awarded with points and gold. The game keeps a track of points and gold on leaderboard. The mice caught by the player are added in his collection. Game Mechanics in Mainstream Games Quake (id Software, 1996) popularized rocket jumping mechanics. Rocket jumping is the technique of firing a rocket launcher or similar explosive pointing at the ground or at wall and jumping at the same time. The explosion propels and accelerates the players jump to large distance. Rocket jumping mechanics was introduced in Marathon (Bungie, 1994) and Rise of the Triad (Apogee, 1994), adapted in Team Fortress 2 (Valve, 2007) Unreal Tournament (Epic Games, 1999) and others. (Wikipedia, 2010) Another popular game mechanics is slow motion. The gameplay of Max Payne (Rockstar, 2001) involves bullet time-based action sequences. Bullet time slows the passage of time down to a certain level and enables the player to perform special moves. Time based mechanics is also one of the main features in later versions of Prince of Persia series (Ubisoft, 2003). This mechanics makes the prince able to slow down or rewind the time and perform special combat moves. Portal (Valve, 2007) is a single player Puzzle-Platformer game that consists primarily of a series of puzzles that must be solved by teleporting the players character and simple objects using the portal gun, a unit that can create inter-spatial portal between flat planes. The game received praise for its unique gameplay and darkly humorous story. Portal seems a perfect combination of Challenge and Skills, though its gameplay consist teleportation based puzzles only. The gameplay contains no combat sequence or rocket jumping or slow motion. Kill.switch (Namco, 2003) introduced cover and shoot mechanics which was adapted into Gears of War (Epic Games, 2006). As described by Miguel Sicart (2008) Gears of War introduced an effective combat tactic where the player takes cover behind a block or a pillar and patiently shoots enemies. This third-person combat design also influenced Grand Theft Auto IV (RockStar North, 2008) and became highly popular. But Grand Theft Auto series is more popular for its variety of gameplay which consist of action, adventure, driving, racing, and stealth elements. The GTA series is also a good example of open world type of video game level design concept where a player can roam the virtual world at any point in the game. It also contains sandbox style nonlinear gameplay where the player can complete challenges in any sequence. The Game sold 2.5 million units in the America on the first day. (Mazel, 2008) The roots of open-world game concept go back to space simulator Elite (Acornsoft, 1984). However, we get to see open-world gameplay implementations in Midtown Madness (Microsoft, 1999), Need for Speed Underground 2 (EA Games, 2005) and Burnout Paradise (EA, 2008) as well. Game Mechanics in Racing Games The main gameplay in racing game is driving the car. However, many racing games offer various gameplay that are unique to the game itself. Need for speed: Underground (EA Games, 2003) has a unique win condition. The player has to finish the race at first place only in order to win the race, even if there are more than two players playing. This finish-first only mechanics deliberately increased the challenge level in the game. Underground emphasis heavily on import racing scene and featured vehicles associated with it. Cars can be customized to increase performance and visuals. Underground also featured EA Trax (EA Games) which is a collection of soundtracks. Overall, Need for Speed Underground contains multiple game mechanics that appealed many racing game lovers. According to VGChartz.com, the game sold 6.49 million units of PS2 version of the game till date. (VGChartz, 2010) Trials HD (RedLynx, 2009) is a combination of puzzle and stunt bike driving. It doesnt have any competitive race, as in the player has to get through a number of obstacles with as few crashes as possible. The challenge in the game is to balance and control the speed so that the player can pass through obstacles successfully. The game uses 3D graphics but the player can only more forward and backwards. However, the player can lean front or back to perform special moves or stunts. With such limited movement, the controls are also made simple. Trials HD also has a leaderboard feature, and when connected to Xbox Live, the player can compare his progress with his friends. Split Second (Disney, 2010) introduced destructive environment, which, when triggered by player it creates obstacles for other players. As a player performs stunts like drafting, drifting or precision driving, the powerplay meter builds up which allows the player to trigger special events like creating obstacles, enabling shortcuts or altering the race track entirely. High speed racing, imported cars, customization, stunts, crashes and motion blur can be noted as features of a racing game required to make it best selling. Burnout (Acclaim Entertainment, 2002) is noted as the initial in a series of high-speed racing games which also includes high risk gameplay mechanics. Burnout paradise (EA, 2008), the recent release in burnout series, features an open world environment called Paradise City, with day-night cycle. Game Mechanics include stunts, car crashes, and motorcycles. A very player favourite and famous gameplay is Crash Mode in which players can cause car crashes. However, in burnout paradise, the Crash Mode is called Showtime and records are kept for players biggest crash. The game contains best time for every street in the game which encourages the player to keep on driving to get the best time. Recently released blur (Activision, 2010) incorporates real world cars with arcade style handling and vehicular combat. It introduces a completely new type of gameplay to the current racing genre. However, it is brewed with the power ups mechanics that has been used in many games. It also uses the ranking and perk system. The race starts without a count-down timer which is currently popular; we can see such game mechanics in Split second and need for speed series. Results and Contribution The Definition I would like to give a brief explanation rather than a definition. It is possible that this has been mentioned some or other way in many articles. Game mechanics is a set of rules that builds a specific gameplay which makes the game more challenging, interesting and player-involving. Game mechanics can also introduce new ideas or variety within a game, which ultimately makes a game fun. Game mechanics can be used to build up such a gameplay that motivates or manipulates human behaviour. The definition explained here has been used to study and understand the game mechanics and gameplay in a variety of games mentioned in the research. Game Mechanics In Racing Genre When it comes to racing games, speed is everything. The faster the gameplay is, the more the excitement, interest and challenge will be. In a racing game, the player is not given a high performance car at the beginning of the game, but as he levels up in the game, faster cars or performance upgrades that can boost up the speed are unlocked. This mechanism creates a need of high performance car, and as the player progresses further, the game feels more rewarding. Free roam mode or open world environment plays a crucial part in racing games. Player gets a chance to explore the environment and start the race whenever he wants to, which gives a realistic feeling to the game. Players usually get attracted towards imported cars. Car customization has become an important feature of racing games. Models of original cars are highly praised by players and. They have a tendency to customize their cars and show off as well. Leaderboards allow players to compare their best times, high score and achievements, which also keeps a player engaged in game. Challenge is not the only element a player is looking for in racing games. A number of games provides stunts and car crash based gameplay. Trials HD (RedLynx, 2009) and Burnout series (Criterion Games) are good examples of it. Player can drive through a signboard or perform a stunt in burnout paradise to gain extra boost, where Trials HD is all about passing through obstacles by performing stunt moves. Such game mechanics inserts the element of fun in games. A few arcade style racing games have been avoiding the use of start up countdown. The round starts with ongoing race and the player gains control of the car after a cut scene. This type of mechanics is seen in triple-A titles like Blur and Split second. However, Simulation style racing games, where the realism is more persistent, follows the traditional countdown start-up of a race. Need for speed underground featured finish-first only mechanics. In order to win the round, the player has to finish at first place and first place only. This increases the challenge at a high degree, but it also seemed to be improving the player skills. Other notable game mechanics or gameplay features includes motion blur, car pursuit, allowing player to create tracks etc. Music and soundtracks also play an important part in making the game more interesting. Who wouldnt listen to hip hop or rock music while driving ones favourite car at top speed? It is believed that EA Trax has played an important part in the success of Need for Speed series. Gameplay is designed by brewing multiple game mechanics together. There is no specific recipe to make a best-selling racing game, but a game with various gameplay is more likely get popular. Developing a new Game Mechanic for Racing Games Whether a player is performing stunts, chasing a car, trying to make a huge crash score, or just playing a normal race, the core element is speed. Wouldnt it be great if a car never lose speed unless it is commanded to? Here, I have attempted to come up with such a game mechanic. During a race, if a player hits an obstacle, the car will lose health points but not the speed; the car will continue running throughout the track without losing its speed. However, massive loss in health points will ultimately result the player lose the round. The game presented here demonstrates the game mechanics with some other features as well. The demo consists of a single straight track. Instead of solid obstacles, the player will face white ghosts on track. On colliding with a ghost, the car will go through it but will lose health points. The race does not start with a countdown; instead it begins with the player car running at minimum speed; which increases the challenge from the beginning. On the other hand, if the player runs out of health, or fails to finish the race at first place, he loses the round. But, if the player finishes at first place without losing any health points, he wins a perfect finish. The demo also features some power ups. If the player picks up a health pack, the car health is restored. Slow motion slows down the game, allowing player to easily move through ghosts. Once activated, the game runs in slow motion for 10 seconds. Another power up is a shield which protects player from getting hurt by ghosts or opponent cars. The shield, once activated, stays active for 5 seconds. Shield provides a great advantage. When activated, the car will run 2 points slower than the real speed. Opponents do not collide or influence the players game; however, if collided with opponent cars, the player car will lose health. Evaluation Game Mechanics The following racing mechanics have been implemented into the demo, speed mechanics, power ups, random obstacle mechanics, competition mechanics, countdown less start up and finish first only. The gameplay was changed regularly as the demo was forming up in order to get the optimum effect of the mechanics. Multiple values were changed to improve the difficulty and challenge. However, it was also ensured that the difficulty is not far above the ground. Besides game mechanics, the gameplay can be improved with better feedback, graphical and visual effects, music and sound, more rewards or other bells and whistles. The Gameplay A game demo or a beta version of a game is made for testing purposes. The developers would test the graphics, frame rate or overall performance. Here, the game demo was made for an identical aim. The game demo was given to a group of game enthusiasts. Afterwards the reaction of the players towards the game mechanics was observed. The demo has a look and feel of classic road fighter (Konami, 1984) and the players did miss the superman bonus point. Random obstacles increased the challenge; it made the demo interesting as well. The demo has proved to be an ideal combination of challenge and skill. The players had to concentrate more in order to achieve the perfect finish; several players attempted more tactical approach to win the race. When asked about each feature of the game separately, the replies were encouraging and prove the success of the demo. User Comments Here are some comments given by players who tried the game demo. The game is quiet good; the ghosts were terrible as they ate up all my health in the first round. I rate it 4 out of 5. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" Pratik Solanki The concept was different from other games, though the difficulty level was maintained throughout the demo. It seemed easy to win the game, but it was tough to achieve the perfect finish. 3.5 out of 5 à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" Kushal Joshi The game gets addictive as soon as you start playing   Dirk Fortmeier The Research Game development is not quite possible without understanding game mechanics. Gameplay is an important factor that attracts a player. The research on game mechanics helped to understand why a particular gameplay is more interesting and player involving.

Holdens Depression in J.D. Salingers The Catcher in the Rye Essay

Everybody feels depressed at some time or another in their lives.   However, it becomes a problem when depression is so much a part of a person's life that he or she can no longer  experience happiness.   This  happens to the young boy, Holden Caulfield in J.D Salinger's novel, The Catcher in the Rye.   Mr. Antolini accurately views the cause of Holden's depression as his lack of personal motivation, his inability to self-reflect and his stubbornness to overlook the obvious which collectively results in him giving up on life before he ever really has a chance to get it started.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Holden lacks the essential ability to motivate himself, which he needs to survive in the 'real' world.   He continues to be kicked out of every school he attends because he fails to apply himself, his simple reasoning being 'How do you know what you're going to do till you do it? The answer is, you don't' (213).   Everybody else in his life tries to encourage him to care about school and his grades but it doesn?t make any difference.   From the start of the novel Holden?s history teacher at Pencey tells him ?I?d like to put some sense in that head of yours, boy.   I?m trying to help you.   I?m trying to help you, if I can? (14).   But the fact of the matter is he can?t help him, Holden has to help himself.  Ã‚   The drive to succeed has to come from within him, ?I mean you can?t hardly ever do something just because somebody wants you to? (185).   In order for Holden to succeed he has to want it for himself.   The only pr oblem being Holden is unable to will him into doing anything he is not genuinely interested in, therefore missing out on further knowledge he could acquire that would truly entice him.   Holden gives up on school because he fears if ... ...why he never found them.   He will not allow himself to because by this point he had given up on school and eventually he gave up on the whole world.   Tragically though, he gives it all up before he truly has a chance to get it started.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mr. Antolini?s theory as to what is wrong with Holden is right on, it?s just too bad he was unable to get through to Holden.   Due to the fact that Holden has already given up on himself and is unwilling to apply the valuable advice he has been given.   He has lost the substantial ability to find happiness in life and therefore can?t find the energy to motivate himself in anything he does.   It?s a tragedy that someone as bright as Holden Caulfield is unable to find the strength within himself to persevere in a world of insanity. Works Cited: Salinger, J.D. The Catcher in the Rye. London: Penguin Books Ltd., 1994.

Brazil’s Bioethanol Initiative Essay -- Essays Papers

Brazil’s Bioethanol Initiative The OPEC oil embargo caused many ripple effects throughout the world, but few places set in motion a response as dramatic as the county of Brazil. Brazil, a sprawling oil-poor country in South America was hit especially hard by the drop in ready world oil supplies. The county was gearing up for the transition from an agricultural and subsistence economy, to an industrialized one in the early seventies. This was accompanied by an increase in oil imports to the nation from overseas. Early in this effort, the balance of trade was relatively good despite the oil imports due to a strong sugar market. This led to a relative abundance of foreign or â€Å"hard† capital for the Brazilian government to use to implement widespread changes to the county’s infrastructure. With the advent of the oil embargo, that changed the economic picture. The blow was worsened by sugar prices plummeting on the commodities market during the same period, giving the Brazilian economy a reeling combination. The Government reacted by instituting a relatively daring national policy, designed to deliver a two -pronged benefit to the county. The plan was to use the national excess sugar production to make ethanol for vehicle use. This program began in 1975 and was to use traditional fermentation to make fuel. Fermentation is the best known process by which various microbes break down sugars to make ethanol. While there a wide range of yeasts and bacteria that can make alcohol, the base substrate remains essentially the same. It requires either glucose or sucrose for the biologic pathways to function. This is arguably the earliest biotechnological process in the world and has been used for fuel, consumption and feedstocks for cent... ...ion of cellulose can be utilized to make substrate for fermentation, a technology that Brazil has invested in recently to make better use of its fibrous wastes from cane and other crops. Brazil has taken bold steps to self-sufficiency in the last three decades and has been a model often pointed to by the alternative energy community. I believe that they have plotted a courageous course and will be in the position to gain the fruits of their labors soon. Perhaps they can lead the rest of us by example. References: Assessing the Impact of the Green Revolution, 1960-2000 Evenson, R.A. and Gollin D. ; May 2003, Science, vol.3 Brazilian Biomass Processing Meetings (1998/99) www.ieabioenergy.com/library/66_ieanews2.html IEA Task 26: Biotechnology for the Conversion of Lignocellulosics to Ethanol, No 2 May 1998 www.ieabioenergy.com/library/66_ieanews2.html

Discussion Luminary

Even in the 1960s the jungle remained terra incognita, an unknown land with the power to hold the technology of mechanized warfare beyond its periphery. And with good reason, Munro though. Men just did not belong there. He was not pleased to be back. Elliot, never having been in a rainforest, was fascinated†¦ [skip to next page] Because Elliot had looked forward to his first experience of the equatorial African rain forest, he was surprised at how quickly he felt oppressed–and how soon he entertained thoughts of leaving again.Yet the tropical rain forests had spawned most new life forms, including man†¦. As he walked through the forest, Elliot found himself thinking of it as an enormous hot, dark womb, a place new species were nourished in unchanging conditions until they were ready to migrate out to the harsher and more variable temperate zones. –This passage has a couple competing ideas that illuminate the other tensions of Congo. Munro says that humans do n ot belong in the jungle and despite Elliot’s initial enthusiasm his later feeling of â€Å"oppression† puts him closer to Munro.But Elliot also thinks that the rain forest is where life comes from, including humans, a place free from the â€Å"technology of mechanized warfare† that destroys life without replacing it. So, if we read this together, humans owe a debt to the universal origin of life but are now cut off from it and feel it as a mysterious enemy. In a way, though, language lets us re-enter or re-connect with this origin of life through Amy and her connection to the world of gorillas and humans. Day 8 Chapter 4: But he know what Munro was saying.Inevitably, people who raised apes found at a certain point they could no longer keep them. With maturity the animals became too large, too powerful, too much their own species to be controllable. It was no longer possible to put them in diapers and pretend they were cute humanlike creatures. Their genes coded inevitable differences that ultimately became impossible to overlook. –This passage is interesting because it helps to explain some of the commentary elsewhere in the book about how humans are affecting the world.Like apes, human civilization has grown up and escaped from the control of nature: we are too large and too powerful for the jungle to resist our bulldozers and chainsaws. This passage also seems to imply that each species has a genetic nature that it cannot resist, so we will probably be helpless to stop ourselves from exhausting our natural resources unless it is also part of our nature to check ourselves. Day 9 Chapter 1:He also found it off that the information recorded by the video camera had to travel more than twenty thousand miles before returning to the display screen, only a few feet away. It was, he said later, the â€Å"world’s longest spinal cord,† and it produced an odd effect. Even at the speed of light, the transmission required a tenth of a second, and since there was a short processing time in the Houston computer, the images did not appear on the screen instantaneously, but arrived about a half a second late. –Even out of context this passage is an interesting commentary on our every day lives.Although we know that light and sounds travel at certain speeds we are used to feeling like we are immediately connected to our surroundings; however, the infinitesimal gap between our selves and our world becomes apparent through technology. This is ironic since, as in the passage quoted, technology gives us knowledge of the world we otherwise wouldn’t have. But the price of knowing more about the world is that we are also farther away from it. Discussion Director In Day 11 Chapter 2 Ross says, â€Å"People worship what they fear†¦ oping to control it.† How might this be a commentary on Congo? Congo creates a magical and mythical species of gorilla to terrorize the intrusive Westerners. Although an alternative explanation in the novel explains what is happening in the city of Zinj, Congo represents to us what we fear. However, what we are led to â€Å"worship† is not the violence of the gray gorillas but Amy’s language abilities. The possibility that animals can be equal to humans in mastering language is something we fear and make stories about in the hopes of controlling it.Day 13 Chapter 1: What does the team’s reaction to the discovery of diamonds say about the difference between humans and animals? Animals are usually thought to respond to training in a relatively mechanistic way, whereas humans are thought to possess free will. The recent defeat of the gray apes agrees with this: they could not resist the broadcast with their own will and had to obey it. However, even though the humans are in danger for their lives they pursue the blue diamonds as if they are worth more than life itself.How does Crichton’s selection of References make you f eel about the truth of the novel? The references show that there are real scientific observations and facts underpinning some of the technical aspects of the novel. On the other hand, it is clearly a novel of fiction that depends on some pretty fantastic departures from the real world for its effect and to make its points about human-animal communication. Ultimately it indicates that even scientific facts can be bent around a convincing narrative and put to the service of something that is not scientifically verifiable.