Airport Design Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Airport Design - Research Paper Example The stakeholders of the airport include customers, transporters, Government agencies, airlines companies, civil aviation authorities, airport management and the staff members. Therefore, the airport design should facilitate all of them in a balance so that there can be efficiency in all the working areas of the airport and thus giving benefits to the airport management. all of these aspect of the airport design should be managed in the planning session therefore it is the duty of the engineers to keep these things at preference. The purpose of this research paper is to provide a guideline about the planning of an airport design. The main persons included in the process will be the airport managers, airport staff, airport planners, architects, and the overall aviation industry. However, these are the main persons in the planning process and then the construction process but throughout the planning and construction their main focus should be on considerations of the stakeholders and their concerns about the usage of the building. There are many of the important considerations or the factors, which are very important for the planning processes of an airport design. These factors or considerations are safety, Security concerns, operational ability, commercialism, financial support, aid, and the environmental conditions. In addition to this, there is a requirement of settlement with the local Government bodies and the civil aviation authorities. So that the airport management will not face any problem, form the legal agencies regarding any law or rules. In this section of the report, there is a detailed description of the step by step procedure of planning the airport design, analysis of all the necessary components of an airport design and an overview of the primary users of the airports. In the planning process of airport design, the first step is to gather and

Intrinsic Properties and Abortion Debate Essay Example for Free

Intrinsic Properties and Abortion Debate Essay The philosophy of intrinsic property rights has created many problems for those who can justify abortion but believe that new born infant has to be treated as a human being. The intrinsic property philosophy also makes it difficult to justify killing animals but not humans. This soul searching debate is the subject of this essay. An intrinsic property is a property within the object or organism. Mass of a body is an intrinsic property, while weight of the body would depend on its location and its gravity and is an extrinsic property. The debate regarding protecting moral and legal rights of a living being when applied to fetuses creates a new set of problems for the pro-abortionists. Is a fetus entitled to the same rights and privileges as a new born? Can we regard a fetus with the same rights and privileges as a living human? It is morally and legally wrong to kill innocent human beings. The fetus is capable of developing within itself, meeting its needs with the ability it has within itself to appropriate nourishment and grow. These intrinsic properties qualify the fetuses as living organism and if we consider this living organism as an innocent human being, the conclusion would be that it is morally as wrong to abort (or kill) a fetus as it is morally wrong to kill an infant. The pro-abortionists argue that the fetus cannot be given the same importance as a newly born infant [McNeil, 2000]. Many feminist philosophers argue [Warren, 1973] that this approach to morality is based on abstract rules and conflict of rights and is inappropriate. Some feminist philosophers have declared that the concept of moral right may be inconsistent with the social nature of persons [Wolgast, cited in Warren, 1973] The philosophical views on the right of fetuses have debated various aspects of the morality or otherwise of abortion. The acknowledgment of intrinsic property rights means that an individual has certain moral rights. The presence or absence of a single determining factor of that intrinsic property which entitles an individual to these moral rights has been open to interpretation. This single criterion [Warren, 1973] which distinguishes between those who have intrinsic property rights and those who do not is in itself a dilemma. Accepting the intrinsic property argument makes the right of the woman carrying the fetus as irrelevant as the moral right of the fetus demands that its right be protected and it is allowed to develop as a separate entity. The single criterion and intrinsic property right taken together give a new born baby the same rights as a nearly mature fetus, if we accept this argument than late abortion tantamount to infanticide. [Summer, 1983] argues that sentience (ability to sense) should be used as the criteria for permissible abortion. Summer uses the sentience argument to limit abortion to first trimester. The problem with the intrinsic property and single criterion becomes more complicated when we find that philosophers like Tooley argue that both infants and nearly mature fetuses are incapable of desiring their own existence as they have no concept or experience of being a person. The conclusion drawn by him are rather shocking as he shows that infanticide in past history was not treated at par with other murders. [Warren, 1973] rightly points out that sentience alone, cannot be considered a criterion for comparing moral equality of the fetus and of an infant, as if we were to give equality on the basis of sentience mice and other animals which have much higher recognizable sentience are not treated as such. Sentience argument unlike fetus viability however draws an identifiable boundary as fetus viability can change with time and place. In developing countries with poor medical resources even a nearly mature fetus cannot be kept in an incubator and have the required life support to survive. In developed countries with excellent health care facilities nearly half term fetuses already have a reasonable chance of survival. Treating infants and fetuses at par as necessary under to doctrine of intrinsic property would subject the women undergoing a miscarriage to investigation for murder. [Warren, 1973] cites an actual example when an irresponsible pregnant woman was charged for negligent homicide as she failed to observe the precautions and suffered a miscarriage. It is clear that an infant and an unborn fetus cannot be treated as equal in terms of intrinsic property rights. Warren rightly concludes that birth marks an important point of distinction of rights for the infant, the fetus and for the woman. An infant can have a life of its own, in mothers care or even with foster organization/parents. Even if the infant is still dependent on others for survival the birth marks the beginning of a socially responsible individual or person. Pregnancy whether in advance term or at the beginning does not award the right of parenthood, the birth is the clear difference between the fetus and infant and while fetuses in advance state of development need to be protected as indeed they are, they cannot be considered equal to infants in their rights. In brief Warrens philosophy is to give people the rights of a moral community and have moral rights. She defines personhood as meeting five important criteria; ability to recognize internal and external objects, ability to feel pain, ability to reason, self motivated activity, capacity to communicate and self awareness [McNeil, 2000] Peter Singers is an advocate of utilitarianism. His views, although though provoking cannot be described as mainstream, he appears to believe in sentience theory but without a species distinction. He believes that species-ism is a kind of racism or gender based discrimination. [Singer, 1999] also refuses to acknowledge that human lives are more precious because of humans are more intelligent. He argues that if intelligence were to be the criterion we would permit medical experiment on mentally retarded! He appears to be less concerned about infanticide or abortion and his theory is that of great moral good. Singer presents very thought provoking debates but several of his arguments would create serious social right issues. He considers experimentation on animals as immoral but the possible benefit to millions by the sacrifice of a few is permitted in Singers logic. This type of logic can be used to justify slavery, genocide of a minority and create many more similar dilemmas. Warrens philosophical views on the moral and legal status of abortion on the other hand are a serious and practicable discussion and presents logical views. Singer defends a quality-of-life view in ethics and has little regard for sanctity-of-life view. Bibliography McNeil, M. A. , (2000), The Real Problem with Abortion, [Online] retrieved from Internet on May 05, 2007, http://www. abortionessay. com/files/realproblem. html Singer, P. , (1999), Practical Ethics, Cambridge University Press 2nd Edition, ISBN-10: 052143971X Tooley, M. (1983), Abortion and Infanticide, Oxford: Oxford University Press, Cited in [Warren, 1973] Warren, M. A. , (1973), On the Moral and Legal Status of Abortion, The Monist, LaSalle, Illinois, Vol. 53. Also published in James Rachels’, The Right Thing to Do: Basic Readings in Moral Philosophy (2nd Ed. , McGraw-Hill College, 1999)

Trinity Church :: essays papers

Trinity Church Henry Hobson Richardson designed his most famous building, Trinity Church in Copley Square, after winning a competition in 1972. James O’Gorman described Trinity as â€Å"a cultural even of the first importance in American history.† â€Å"The building both represents a departure of the Boston’s mind from its Puritan past, and emergence of American creativity as a force in architecture.† Born in 1838, Richardson was raised just outside New Orleans and surrounded by the colorful stucco buildings of New Orleans. He was from an American family but was greatly influenced by the French culture of his area. After being denied admission to West Point, Richardson graduated Harvard, class of 1859. After Henry Hobson Richardson graduated Harvard University, he decided to remain in the North to study rather than return to New Orleans. He had the opportunity to study in Paris at the Ecole des Beaux Arts, travel to London, travel through rural England, and through Southern France and Spain, making some trips with his friend Henry Adams. Richardson collected postcards throughout his trips that would eventually amount to over 3000 images. Later, he returned to the US and began practicing in New York. Richardson served on the Staten Island Commission, and then moved to Brookline, MA in 1874 after completing several commissions in Boston. Richardson then designed Trinity Church during his remaining twelve years that he spent in Massachusetts. Trinity Church is a prime example of revival architecture. When the â€Å"New Republic† of the United States gained its independence, the â€Å"New Democratic Citizens† wanted their place in history reflected in their architecture. The people of the 18th century were proud people, with rights, rights to build homes and communities of their own. And so, the revival style was born, a style built upon the perceptions of their predecessors, the Greeks and Romans. The difference was they had more freedom than their predecessors. This revival style continued into the 19th century when Trinity Church was designed in a Romanesque Revival Style. The primary difference was scale as churches grew dramatically in size. Furthermore, the construction of the Trinity Church brought about the Richardsonian Romanesque Style. This architecture style remained prevalent during the Victorian period, primarily as a result of the widespread influence of the Trinity Church that displayed bold stonework, complex roof patterns, and arched openings. One defining feature of Romanesque architecture is a round-headed arch. Trinity is articulated with many round-head arches that frame its windows and entrances.

Defining Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

In order to move forward clinically or in research to address the problem of emotional and behavior disorders one must first have a solid definitive grasp on the nature of the problem and what it ultimately is, definitionally. Unfortunately, there’s no universally accepted definition for emotional and behavioral disorders. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines the disorder as followers: â€Å"a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree, which adversely affects educational performance: An inability to learn which cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors. An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers. Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances. A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression. A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems† (Council for exceptional, 2011). The federal definition also includes those children who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, but excludes children who are socially maladjusted unless they are seriously emotionally disturbed (Ibid). Gargiulo points out that although research continue to argue over a concrete definition of emotional and behavioral disorders, there are some common denominator/factors in the various definitions. He indicates four key factors that an individual must exhibit that will contribute to diagnosis of emotional and behavioral disorder. 1. There must be a high frequency (or rate) at which the behavior occurs. 2. The high intensity of the behavior. 3. The length or duration of the behavior. And 4. The age appropriateness of the behavior (Gargiulo, 2006). The terms emotional and behavioral disorders, mental disorders, emotional disturbance, behavioral disorders, and mental illness are all umbrella terms that are often used interchangeably in the field and in the literature. Beneath these terms, there is a wide range of specific conditions all different from one another in their characteristics and in their treatment (National dissemination center, 2010). Some examples of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders are, adjustment disorder, anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, selective mutism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anorexia nervosa disorder, bipolar/manic depressive disorder, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorder.

Humanitarian Intervention Essay

The United Nations is an international organization that fights for world peace, and strives to control international law, international security, economic development, social progress, and human rights. In the United Nation’s preamble, it states the organization is â€Å"determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war†¦Ã¢â‚¬  and â€Å"†¦to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom.† However, the U.N. can often be ineffective and it has been an ongoing debate between the world’s leaders whether or not intervention is justified when inhumane acts are committed in foreign lands. Too many human beings have been victims of violence, rape and/or other crimes on the U.N.’s watch all because the organization is not authorized to forcefully intervene in another country. The United Nations Security Council is responsible for preserving peace between nations and even within nations, and when a nation is com mitting atrocious acts against its citizens, the U.N. and other nations should have the right to intervene militarily to end those abuses. Just as if a teenager would take on the responsibilities of providing a home and food for themselves when they move out, a country assumes the responsibility of taking care of its citizens when it becomes independent. When a country proves to the outside world it is not capable of controlling its citizens and maintaining a peaceful nation, blue helmeted U.N. troops may invade these unstable regions. It would be inhumane for the U.N., any country, or any human to witness a population suffering and not try to interfere in some way. To look the other way would be immoral and an inhumane act of itself. When trying to obtain peace in foreign countries, peaceful negotiations are not always successful and other means are necessary. In the past, the U.N. has not been able to aid suffering populations militarily and has failed to protect the citizens from vicious crimes. In a survey taken by the U.N. in 2007, â€Å"which covered a total of 14 countries, plus the Palestinian Territories, [it] found that solid majorities in each of 12 national pools believe that the U.N. Security Council should have the right to authorize the use of military force to protect innocent people from genocide and other massive abuses, even against the will of their own government† (Lobe). Even with the support of the majority of world, the U.N. still does not have the authority to forcefully protect innocent people from cruelty. When tens of thousands of people were being killed in Darfur, and Rwanda, it was the U.N.’s responsibility to step in and save the lives of those living in a country at an unfortunate time. However, by following their rules of procedure, the U.N. troops were not allowed to use force unless fired upon. Since 2003, â€Å"tens of thousands of people have being killed and over one million people displaced† in Darfur and in 1994, Hutus killed an estimated 800,000 Tutsis in Rwanda (Spectators to Genocide). â€Å"As a result of the massacre [in Rwanda], there are more than one million orphans† (Rust). But when the blue helmeted troops entered the Rwandan chaos, there was not much they could do to stop the genocides that were taking place right before their eyes. It took the United Nations three years after the United States declared the events taking place in Darfur as genocide to interfere, and even still the U.N. has done nothing beneficial to help those suffering in Darfur. Unable to seize weapons, the blue helmets stand by powerless. Had the United Nations involved itself earlier in Rwanda and Darfur and at full force, millions of people’s lives could have been saved or bettered. If the U.N. involved itself militarily, it is possible that the U.N. may have a few casualties, but the United States Army has lost a good number of soldiers over the years while fighting for causes they believe in. Sometimes sacrifices need to be made, and if a few members of the U.N. were lost in effort to protect the lives of thousands of people and potentially save a population, it would be an admirable sacrifice. It should be the world’s responsibility to defend civilians when its government is guilty of neglecting to â€Å"protect their populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity† (Reeves). Had the United Nations acted quicker when the Hutus began killing the Tutsis, and put an end to the vicious attacks that took place during those days, future genocides could have possibly been prevented. Instead, the word genocide can be heard more frequently and little is being done to stop that. Thousands of lives could have been saved or altered had the United Nations been able to step in and militarily defend the helpless populations of Rwanda and Darfur. Justification of humanitarian intervention is essential in order to protect the lives and rights of those suffering from genocide. The U.N. should want a reputation of not allowing genocides to take place, but instead the organization is being criticized for the lack of effort and aid being lent to those countries in need. Over the years, too many lives have been lost or damaged due to genocide and other inhumane acts. Humanitarian intervention needs to be allowed when a country is not protecting its citizens, in effort to save the lives of populations. The United Nations’ ineffectiveness in the past should be enough of a reason for why humanitarian intervention should be justified. It is imperative that the United Nations be entitled to militarily involve itself when innocent lives are in danger. Works Cited â€Å"Charter of the United Nations: Preamble.† Welcome to the United Nations: It’s Your World. Web. 03 Nov. 2010. . Jim Lobe. â€Å"U.N.: POLL SHOWS BROAD SUPPORT FOR U.N. ACTION AGAINST GENOCIDE. † Global Information Network 6 April 2007 Research Library, ProQuest. Web. 3 Nov. 2010. Reeves, E. â€Å"Failure to Protect: International Response to Darfur Genocide. † Harvard International Review 29.4 (2008): 84-85. Research Library, ProQuest. Web. 3 Nov. 2010. Rust, Selina. â€Å"RWANDA: REMEMBERING THE UNFORGETTABLE. † Global Information Network 9 April 2010 Research Library, ProQuest. Web. 9 Nov. 2010. â€Å"Spectators to Genocide. † Wall Street Journal 2 Aug. 2007, Eastern edition: National Newspaper Abstracts (3), ProQuest. Web. 3 Nov. 2010.

Free Essays on Bitter Harvest

Think back to when you were a child and the areas in which you lived, played and socialized. Remember if you will, the â€Å"territories† which you and your gang of friends called yours. This territory may have been an alley behind your house, a set of trees on an abandoned lot or even a fort you and your friends built- whatever your territory was, you felt you had the sole rights to it. No other children were going to come into your territory and take it away and if they tried, it was not without a fight. A group of children across from my house have a fort that they have set up and play in. This fort had been vacant for many years- left to whoever stopped or dropped in. See, at one time, there were a group of children who played there periodically, but they seem to have lost interest and moved away. Well, just a few weeks ago, another group of children came to the fort and started really making it quite the spectacle. Day after day, hour after hour, I saw these children at their fort making improvements. They play that they are farmers, reaping crops from the fields of dry crested grass and they set up shops to help with the harvest of those crops. They barter and trade with one another and seem to have the same set of beliefs. Each child gets off the bus at 3:30 and heads to the fort for a couple hours and at 6:30 each day, these children leave for supper and don’t return until the bus drops them off from school the next day. They seem to have similar lives, beliefs a nd aspirations for their fort. A few weeks ago, I witnessed something interesting about the fort across from my house; I noticed a new gang of children hanging out near the fort. Although they were not the same children that I see day after day, they were similar in race and stature. Although they were similar, I can tell there was a difference. The difference seemed to be in their aspirations for the fort and beliefs in how they govern the fort... Free Essays on Bitter Harvest Free Essays on Bitter Harvest Think back to when you were a child and the areas in which you lived, played and socialized. Remember if you will, the â€Å"territories† which you and your gang of friends called yours. This territory may have been an alley behind your house, a set of trees on an abandoned lot or even a fort you and your friends built- whatever your territory was, you felt you had the sole rights to it. No other children were going to come into your territory and take it away and if they tried, it was not without a fight. A group of children across from my house have a fort that they have set up and play in. This fort had been vacant for many years- left to whoever stopped or dropped in. See, at one time, there were a group of children who played there periodically, but they seem to have lost interest and moved away. Well, just a few weeks ago, another group of children came to the fort and started really making it quite the spectacle. Day after day, hour after hour, I saw these children at their fort making improvements. They play that they are farmers, reaping crops from the fields of dry crested grass and they set up shops to help with the harvest of those crops. They barter and trade with one another and seem to have the same set of beliefs. Each child gets off the bus at 3:30 and heads to the fort for a couple hours and at 6:30 each day, these children leave for supper and don’t return until the bus drops them off from school the next day. They seem to have similar lives, beliefs a nd aspirations for their fort. A few weeks ago, I witnessed something interesting about the fort across from my house; I noticed a new gang of children hanging out near the fort. Although they were not the same children that I see day after day, they were similar in race and stature. Although they were similar, I can tell there was a difference. The difference seemed to be in their aspirations for the fort and beliefs in how they govern the fort...

Gays in the media essays

Gays in the media essays Homosexuals are now the targets of a new frenzy; the media frenzy. The gay and lesbian demographic is taking huge steps toward total recognition and acceptance. The GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender) community is finding a voice in society. Additionally, marketers are finding that the community has deep pockets. It is estimated that the GLBT market has a buying power of $450 billion and that they make up about 10% of the population (Prince, 2003). If 10% is an accurate figure, this means that approximately 29 million people in the United States belong to the GLBT community. So do marketers ignore 29 million people with 450 billion dollars to spend? Of course they dont. Companies are fighting over the gay dollar. Subaru was the first automaker to market its cars specifically to gay and lesbian communities starting back in the mid-1990s. Subaru found that there were female heads of household that bought their cars. It turned out that most of these women identified as lesbian (Prince, 2003). They naturally started marketing to lesbians and it has been a successful plan. I have personally heard Subaru referred to as the lesbian vehicle of choice. Now, Ford has decided to try for a piece of the gay dollar. Ford has introduced a new Jaguar ad that targets the GLBT market. Ford did extensive research and now recognizes that gay consumers are well worth [their] time (Prince, 2003). The print ad shows a man, a winding road, and a picture of the Jaguar X-Type. The text reads, Life is full of twists and turns. Care for a partner? (Prince, 2003) The ad tries to convey meaning in two ways. The treacherous roads are easier to navigate with a well-equipped vehicle. There is also a more pers onal meaning. Gay peoples lives are often filled with twists and turns. Those twists and turns in life are sometimes easier to navigate with some help, namely a partner. ...

Lightning Warning Signs You Shouldnt Ignore

Lightning Warning Signs You Shouldnt Ignore Nothing ruins a summer cookout, dip in the pool, or  camping trip  like a thunderstorm. If you are outdoors when a thunderstorm rolls up, it can be tempting  to stall as long as possible before going indoors. But how do you know when its time to stop what youre doing  and head inside? Keep a lookout for certain signs; theyll  warn you when its time to seek shelter indoors and when  lightning  may be about to strike. Signs of Lightning Cloud-to-ground lightning is nearby if you notice one or more of these early signs. Seek shelter immediately to reduce the risk of lightning injury or even death. A rapidly growing cumulonimbus cloud. Although cumulonimbus clouds appear  bright white and  form in sunny  skies,  dont be fooled- theyre the beginning stage of a developing thunderstorm. If you notice them growing taller and taller in the sky, you can rest assured that a storm is in the making and headed your way.Increasing winds  and a darkening sky.  These are telltale signs of an approaching storm.Audible thunder.  Thunder is the sound created by lightning, so if thunder can be heard, lightning is near. You can determine how near (in miles) by counting the number of seconds between a flash of lightning and a thunderclap and dividing that number by five.A severe thunderstorm warning.  The National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm warning whenever severe storms have been detected on weather radar  or confirmed by storm spotters. Cloud-to-ground lightning is often the  main threat of such storms. Lightning always occurs during thunderstorms, but it isnt necessary for a storm to be directly overhead for you  to be in danger of a lightning strike. The threat of lightning actually starts  as a thunderstorm approaches, peaks when the storm is overhead, and then gradually diminishes as the storm moves away. Where to Seek Shelter At the first sign of approaching lightning, you should quickly seek shelter, ideally in an enclosed building or other structure, away from windows. If youre at home, you may want to retreat to a central room or closet. If you cannot find shelter inside, the next best option is a vehicle with all of the windows rolled up. If for whatever reason, you are stuck outside, you should make sure to stand away from trees and other tall objects. Keep away from water and anything that is wet, as water is a strong conductor of electricity. Signs of an Immediate Strike When lightning strikes you or the area immediately nearby, you may experience one or more of these warning signs a few seconds beforehand. Hair standing  on endTingling skinA metallic taste in your mouthThe smell of chlorine  (this is ozone, which is produced when nitrogen oxides from lightning interact with other chemicals and sunlight)Sweaty palmsA vibrating, buzzing, or crackling sound coming from metal objects around you If you notice any of these signs, it may be too late to avoid being struck and possibly injured or killed. However,  if you find that you do have time to react, you should run as fast as you can to a safer location. Running limits the amount of time that both of your feet are on the ground at any given  moment, reducing the threat from ground current (lightning that travels outward from the strike point along the ground surface). Sources NOAA. NWS Lightning Safety Page.NOAA. NWS Weather Fatality, Injury, and Damage Statistics (2013, May 6).

Teaching Exceptional Children Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Teaching Exceptional Children - Research Paper Example The concept of ‘exceptional children’ refers to children who exhibit exceptional qualities which are drastically different, in any way, from that of regular children in the same age group. Such children are either far below or above average and hence, the type of education provided to them, must be different than what is provided to regular children. It is only through the right approach to education, that the learning abilities / disabilities of such children can be dealt with in an appropriate manner. The term exceptional children refer to those children whose physical attributes or learning abilities differ greatly from regular children. It includes children who have learning disabilities as well as those with exceptionally developed learning abilities; children with physical impairment; behavioral problems; as well as children who are intellectually gifted and talented (Education.com, 2010). The learning styles of such children, hence is drastically different from regular children. The notion of ‘one size fits all’ does not hold any relevance, especially in the field of education, since the level of knowledge of every child depends on various factors such as: Children when enrolled in school differ in terms of knowledge they possess. Certain children come with very little knowledge and / or support from their parents while others come with a level of knowledge which far exceeds their age and experience (Tomlinson, 1999). According to Caine & Caine (1990) there can be a difference of up to five years, in terms of maturation between ‘average’ children. Such gap is even wider in case of children with exceptional learning needs. The deprivation of exceptional children from a healthy environment causes an adverse impact on the development of their mental and cognitive abilities such as the ability to memorize, focus, concentration, discrimination etc. among others. The manner in which we think and

Loan process - Small Business Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Loan process - Small Business - Case Study Example The process therefore is as follows: - Assessment of credit factors: - credit factors are majorly the factors that are considered by the financial institutions or credit providers before they extend their loans to any business venture. It depends much on the amount required and whether you can provide security for the funds borrowed. They include factors such as credit worthiness of the small business. To an extent, this is looked at with reference to Current Assets and Current Liabilities with the business (Harper, 2006). More assets with less debts means the firm is a going concern and the difference would tell us the extent of liquidity of the business. The business should also consider if it has partners that can act as the business guarantors. Lenders are also very keen on how the funds if given out would be managed. If they detect they would be embezzled then they would rather keep them than give out as loans (Harper, 2006). The second step is the determination of why the small business needs financing: - here, assessment of the current financial situation is mandatory. The owners should be in the position of knowing whether they are comfortable in their current situation or not, they should also be able to know why they need the cash i.e. for expanding operations or for managing risks, the urgency of the needed money should also be of importance to the owners. The most critical in this part is to know the extent to which finance requirement agrees with the business plan (Green, 2011). A plan is the tool to convince any lender and a small business without this should strive to have one to be in a position to convince investors who may be willing to engage their funds in such ventures. The third step is the Checklist for Business Loans: this is based on the fact that businesses have diverse areas to obtain funds. This part only helps us decide where to get our loans after considering factors such as interest rates and loan repayment periods vs. the cash fl ows to be received from the business and the frequencies of such flows. This is dictated by the listing of the business by the business lister depending on their performance in the market (Harper, 2006). The question of whether a loan will be provided from the institution where the business applies from depends on whether a conclusive and relevant document is submitted to the lending agency. Some agencies normally accept some documents of application and do not accept others (Green, 2011). General documents entail; personal backgrounds of the business, resumes to tell about the business profile, a business plan which is the most fundamental for any financial provider, both personal and business credit reports and lastly a collateral security report and legal documents showing the legal existence of the business (Harper, 2006). The forth step is that the owners of the business need to make a very detailed submission of the business as any information ignored might be of interest to t he lender and this may jeopardize there willingness to advance such loans. With respect to your application, it is also important to state the industry that your business target as well as those which poses threats to your business (Harper, 2006). This again will help your lender to make informed decision regarding the prevailing circumstances on whether to advance the loan or not. A loan application

How does clothing become a part of the self-realization of people Essay

How does clothing become a part of the self-realization of people - Essay Example The paper "How does clothing become a part of the self-realization of people" discovers the fashion and identity. In marketing, Vieira (2009) defines fashion as the broad based behavioral phenomenon evidenced by a variety of material as well as non material contexts. More aptly, it has been defined as an ever changing trend that is frivolous, and has a deep influence on the life of people and is accompanied by frivolous reasons. Clothing has a huge influence on not the perception of person wearing them but also on the people around the individual. In the fictional story of Batman, in Gotham, better portrays this continuum. For instance, an individual wearing a suit is attributed to certain perception generally, and the same applies for an individual wearing a street wear. When in a suit Gordon seemed trustworthy and professional but when in street wear, he was almost misidentified, and mystical. Clothing worn on a person’s personality and identity always makes one feel confide nt and organized, for instance for an athlete whose work demands means donning the sports attire, and the same individual may behave different, for instance when in a suit. The outer perception of an individual on the persons’ choice clothing is may be determined by societal cultural patterns. Consequently, clothing carries a message and creates a pseudo message that is needed by a circumstance individuals find themselves in Ozipek. In this case Bruce Wayne’s costume is the perfect example and as seen in Batman.

Psychology - Self Esteem Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Psychology - Self Esteem - Essay Example Materialistic people believe that possessing physical things or property will lead to their satisfaction, content, and happiness. Apparently, studies have found this to be the opposite, such that, with the increase in material wealth, people tend to be unhappier. Caprariello and Reis in their study identified that people who spend more on life-experience events were happier than those acquiring material possessions. Having been identified as two important factors in defining human character, research has also been carried out to identify the correlation between self-esteem and materialism. Some of the findings have identified that there is an inversely proportional relationship between self-esteem and materialism; people with low self-esteem tend to use material possessions to satisfy their self-consciousness and insecurities (Park and Roedder 73–87). People’s self-esteem and need for materialistic possession are the main causes of societal problems. One of the problems associated with individual’s self-esteem and materialistic needs is poor health. As we have identified in earlier statements, individual’s character is mostly defined by their desire to achieve attain happiness, and this can be achieved through high self-esteem or use of material possessions. However, since nothing is perfect in this world, those unable to cope with the realities of life will likely fall victim to various health problems such as anxiety and depression. In a study carried out by Sowislo and Orth, they identified that low self-esteem was strongly related to depression. The results showed that, low self-esteem contributed to depression and depression was found to erode an individual’s self-esteem. The study further identified that low self-esteem was also a determinant for anxiety (Sowislo and Orth 214). People experiencing low self-esteem are known to seek material possessions in order to fulfill their desire for content and

Lunching new product in Qatari market Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Lunching new product in Qatari market - Essay Example Weaknesses: A major setback for the company is the underlying marketing cost of this product as well as the acceptance of this innovative product by the masses. The market research is prone to validity and reliability issues and even a company with excellent management and marketing personnel, it is feared that not many buyers are actually attracted. Also, since the cost of a PVC sometimes goes up to $400 per cell, the production cost of these cars might exceed the estimated budget. These cars also get extremely heated from the inside and may be prickly to drive (Why to buy a Solar powered Car, n.p.). 4 Opportunities: Solar cars are the most environment friendly cars to use. This factor can be cashed whilst generating a positive word of mouth for the company. Affiliating with organizations that promote Go Green concept can also benefit the new born company. With consumers needs shifting to preferring environment friendly products, this can go into the company’s benefit. Moreover, the economy of Qatar is permeable to new entrants and Smart Solar Cars can survive. 4 Threats: Competitors, both local and international, are an obvious threat. The fear of unsuccessful marketing efforts made to shift Qatari consumers from the conventional cars to solar powered cars, as well as the constant terror of unpredictable recession stay as major threats. 5 The company is named Smart Solar Cars Ltd which is an entirely new brand to be launched in Qatar. The main target market that these cars cater to, are the young individuals, and first time buyers of the car. The company is anticipated to be launched in Qatar in January 2012. The primary mission is to ‘go green’ in the future and save the natural resources to their maximum. The main objective of launching this product is to create awareness amongst people on the usefulness of the solar

Psychology - Self Esteem Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Psychology - Self Esteem - Essay Example Materialistic people believe that possessing physical things or property will lead to their satisfaction, content, and happiness. Apparently, studies have found this to be the opposite, such that, with the increase in material wealth, people tend to be unhappier. Caprariello and Reis in their study identified that people who spend more on life-experience events were happier than those acquiring material possessions. Having been identified as two important factors in defining human character, research has also been carried out to identify the correlation between self-esteem and materialism. Some of the findings have identified that there is an inversely proportional relationship between self-esteem and materialism; people with low self-esteem tend to use material possessions to satisfy their self-consciousness and insecurities (Park and Roedder 73–87). People’s self-esteem and need for materialistic possession are the main causes of societal problems. One of the problems associated with individual’s self-esteem and materialistic needs is poor health. As we have identified in earlier statements, individual’s character is mostly defined by their desire to achieve attain happiness, and this can be achieved through high self-esteem or use of material possessions. However, since nothing is perfect in this world, those unable to cope with the realities of life will likely fall victim to various health problems such as anxiety and depression. In a study carried out by Sowislo and Orth, they identified that low self-esteem was strongly related to depression. The results showed that, low self-esteem contributed to depression and depression was found to erode an individual’s self-esteem. The study further identified that low self-esteem was also a determinant for anxiety (Sowislo and Orth 214). People experiencing low self-esteem are known to seek material possessions in order to fulfill their desire for content and

Corporate Income Taxes - Client Letter Research Paper

Corporate Income Taxes - Client Letter - Research Paper Example Equity financing on the other is when a company issues shares of the company’s stock and receives money in return. Depending on the capital raised through equity, the company may relinquish about 25% to 75% of the business. The advantage of using debt to finance capital expenditure is that you will not give up control of your business. The lender who is usually a bank or lending institutions does not have any right to manage or oversee how things are run in the business. By simple means, your only obligation will be to repay the loan in regard to the agreed terms. Additionally, interest paid on the loan is tax deductible thus it could be savings in term of tax when the business is still small (Hovakimian, Opler, & Titman, 2001). There is some predictability with debt as the corporation knows exactly how much it owes. The disadvantage for this form of capital formation is that the money has to be paid within a fixed period regardless of the business success. Relying too much on debt may prove to be strenuous if the business cash flows do not balance. Potential investors may also run away as a huge debt is termed as a high risk. Loans are not just expensive, the lender might also ask for collateral which includes the business assets or personal guarantee which will put you on the hook in case the payment defaults. Equity financing on the other hand does not have to be repaid. The risks and liabilities of the company are shared between the ownership and the investors that come on board. Since no debt is being repaid, cash flows generated can be used to reinvest back into the company and promote further growth or may be to diversify to other areas of interest. Having a low debt equity ration is advantageous as it puts the company on a better position to acquire loans in future (Klein, O’Brien, & Peters, 2002). Equity investment may sound good but it also means that the corporation has to give up

Difference Between Business Proposal and Formal Research Essay Example for Free

Difference Between Business Proposal and Formal Research Essay The final objective of the business proposal and a formal research establishes the differences between the two studies. Business proposal has a practical orientation and is designed to find the best solution to a problem in order to generate either financial savings or greater revenue (Bazerman, M. H., Moore, 2009). On the other hand, a formal research builds upon other comparable research to discover, demonstrate or test a hypothesis. It has no financial implications and generates a wide variety of findings that may be made applicable in a wide variety of contexts. Business proposal defines the problem as a business decision making concern, formal research estimates the problem as a potential contribution to scholarly research. When it comes to data gathering and use, business proposal looks for available data sources to make a decision, formal research produces own data to make a discovery. The approach for business proposal is to analyze different alternatives, for formal research is related to performing an experiment. Business proposal normally doesn’t use theoretical work ; on the other hand, formal research defines the theories that support the variable utilized in the hypothesis. The capability of the formal research consists of contributions to the academic world and the scholarly work while capability of a business proposal is to find solutions to business problems. Despite the many differences between business proposal and research project, there are some commonalities. One of them is that the findings in both cases may or may not be presented with headings and subheadings (Bazerman, M. H., Moore, 2009). Business proposal and formal research should work together. If no formal research is present , the proposal will be useless. To write a business proposal, there is a need to conduct a formal research on the market. The reason it is so important is that the viability of the business can be determined. It wouldn’t be logic to initiate any kind of business if the products or services are not needed by the visualized market. Business decisions require intelligence and how research can provide that intelligence. Business proposals contextualize the findings from formal research in an existing organizational structure.

Health Essays Chronic Disease Management

Health Essays Chronic Disease Management Chronic Disease Management Chronic diseases have an effect on all countries, and the augment in their prevalence is to a great extend attributed to varying demographics, improved life expectancy, changing lifestyles, better disease management and management and a better understanding of the factors that cause poor health and disease. Laboratory, clinical and population-based research has revealed that a few risk factors are responsible for the prevalence of most chronic diseases: unhealthy diet and high energy ingestion, lack of physical activity and use of tobacco. Alcohol intake, environmental pollutants, age and hereditary factors also play a role. These risk factors are the same in men and women and across all regions in the world. The associated healthcare, financial and social burden of chronic diseases, which include diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive airway disease, hypertension, chronic depression, osteoporosis, end stage renal failure and stroke, are progressively on the increase. In the US alone to be specific, some 125 million people now suffer from at least one chronic disease. Chronic diseases are a tremendous burden to individuals and to countries and the available traditional healthcare methods are not able to meet the requirements for preventing and reducing this burden. It is because of this problem that chronic disease management has emerged as a new approach towards caring for patients with chronic diseases. Chronic disease management in clinical circles can be defined as an elaborate, systematic, multicomponent strategy to delivering healthcare while involving all members in the population or community who suffer from similar infections. Cardiovascular disease is chronic and is the first cause of death among the elderly in all countries. This observable fact was evident even 60 years ago, as Roberts noted that diseases of the circulatory system and pneumonia were the first causes of death among the aged in Jamaica in 1950. These diseases are to some extent the sequelae of advancing age. As life expectancies are increasing the prevalence of all noncommunicable disease is also increasing. Thus, one could adopt the approach that these are an foreseeable consequence of ageing and the focus therefore has to be on simply treating them when they do occur and applying the acknowledged interventions for secondary prevention once the first disease episode has occurred. It is possible to reduce the mortality from chronic diseases in general. Some of the developed countries such as Canada, Australia and the United States have succeeded in reducing mortality by applying preventive measures. Meeting the multifaceted needs of patients with chronic diseases is the single supreme challenge facing our healthcare system in most countries today. With the increasing numbers of patients suffering from chronic diseases, it is of the essence that clinicians, healthcare administrators and health policy makers plan and ensure that the healthcare delivery system is tailored to provide care for these patients across the band of their healthcare needs. Chronic disease management has been known to be the best and most comprehensive approach for providing holistic and comprehensive care for patients with chronic illnesses. The Kaiser Permanente care triangle has frequently been used to conceptualize Chronic disease care at three main levels Supporting self-care for patients suffering from chronic disease who are at low risk of complications and hospitalization. Disease management for people who are in need of regular routine follow-up and are at high risk of chronic disease. Case management for people who have complex needs and those who are high-intensity users of unplanned less important care. Managing chronic diseases at the system level has been the focus of many latest publications.1-4 In the US, the recent Institute of Medicine Report – Crossing the Quality Chasm – focused on the need to reorganize care delivery to meet the healthcare demands of populations of patients who suffer from chronic illnesses. In October 2001, the British Medical Journal and the Western Journal of Medicine both published special issues focusing on the problem of chronic diseases and tinted how various nations are dealing with this ever rising epidemic. It is therefore timely that all nations focuses on coming up with a better program to address the needs of patients with chronic disease, on the advances in clinical and non-pharmacological management, and the challenges faced in ensuring that patients receive optimal care meeting the needs at the various stages of their disease. Programme for chronic disease management A successful chronic disease management program should be designed while considering fundamental factors that are critical to its sustainability. First of all the program should be aimed at a certain specific condition within the population suffering. Then the nest important factor concerns the availability of evidence on which its functions should be based. A good program has to keep in its consideration the existence of obstacles which may be a hindrance to its successful implementation. Adequate measures should be put in check to ensure that there is a balance between quality and the economic of the objectives of the care to be given United States In the United States chronic disease management programs, also known as chronic care management, have become extensive. They are being favored by employer groups, health-care organizations and health payers, these programs are being increasingly raising concern because very little scientific evidence is available to justify their effectiveness and economic impact. Disease management was introduced and launched in 1990 by drug companies for the purpose of helping patients to comply with various medications and also to increase their sales. This programs have developed in the private sector to become such a competitive industry that these companies contract health plans to offer comprehensive care to various groups. They are then paid a fee by the health plans to guarantee a saving. Disease management programs are wide in the private sector; they offer care and support as part of benefits and support from physicians. Some programs have been organized in such a way that the physician can receive alerts whenever the patient needs medical attention or even when the services for preventing chronic diseases are long overdue. Some use professional clinical information systems which can integrate participant’s data for instance data which concerns claims data or self reports. This can be even acquired from multiples sources. However there is only a small number of beneficiaries who suffer from chronic illness and therefore account for the unproportionate share of medical expenditure. This results in such patients receiving fragmented care from a number of site providers and to add on the insult they receive repeated and costly hospitalization. The manifestation project was endorsed by the Medicare, Medicaid,and SCHIP Benefits Improvement and Protection Act of 2000 (BIPA). In adding together to the BIPA projects, there arenumerous of other coordinated care demonstrations approvedby Congress in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, a capitatedDM demonstration recently initiated by the Bush administration,and an end-stage renal disease management demonstration. People are demandingto figure out ways to do disease management in the public sector that act in responseto patient-privacy concerns and that admiration the traditionalrole of the physician. Disease management programs have no effect on the state budget as they pay for administrative services while they are guaranteed by the government a savings offset in form of claims reduction. It is important to point out that even though the opportunities for cost savings and step up inhealth outcomes is great, the challenges of introducing disease management onwide scale in the Medicare program are momentous The patients increasing population is likely to bring up challenges which are not found in the private sector. France In France studies have shown a tremendous improvement in the state of health and quality of life for chronic illness patients. There has also been significant reduction in costs due to the implementation of coordinated networks for the treatment of asthma. The reduction in costs cannot be attributed to spontaneous national changes in management but rather it can be explained by the effect of the intervention program. This initiative can be said to be the first attempt towards implementation ofa disease management program in France. Italy In Italy the health system is aiming at utilizing Information technology tools to manage chronic diseases. In this country the population f over 65 years has be noted to be on the rise. What is worrying is that the number of chronic diseases also increases with this range of age. Approximately 90% of the aged people are suffering form chronic diseases and something has to be done in effect to prevent further repercussions. In the past Italian doctors have raised concern over the time that is used in treating patients with chronic diseases and therefore cam up with a resolution to use community care which such a program there is a shift from hospital based care to community based care. Such a program aims at reducing on the number of patients admitted with chronic diseases, removes patients out of hospital quicker and improving on the network for helping people with chronic diseases. This is to be done while the records are kept centrally and monitored while the services are moved to the community. In Italy there is also another program being put in place and it is called sole project as it is aiming at networking all hospitals with communities to give the citizens services. The program is also aiming at controlling flow of information so as to help the elderly patients. The idea must have been copied from the UKs pathways to telecare. Germany In German two laws were passed in the year 2001 to address the main problems in the healthcare system. Despite advance which have been made in diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, patients still experience secondary complications, The purpose of disease management program in Germany is to avoid repetition of diagnostic testing, by specialists or in hospitals thus assisting in containing the cost. In Germany chronic diseases management programs have a legal basis under which they operate. For instance in the year 2002 there was a reform law which laid down a complicated procedure for the establishment and implementation of disease management programs. These procedures included the characteristic features of a disease which qualifies to be included in the management programs. Implementation of disease management programs in Germany has been influenced by politics which is not like in the other countries. Germany has a longer experience with disease management programmes than the United States. The healthcare system in Germany has characteristics which have seen the introduction of disease management programs. This includes the free choice of the non-profit sickness funds who have to strike a balance between spending and income. There are also issues regarding to efficiency and quality on the side of those who are chronically sick The ministry of health in Germany anticipated that disease management programs will help to reorganize the fragment care for people suffering from chronic illnesses. The main challenge towards implementation of the programs regards to the defining of the minimum standards proves to be contentious and time consuming as people continue to suffer. Another challenge has been on implementing the program for Diabetes whose care requirements has been attacked by more than ten scientific societies. These scientists argue that the government and the sickness funds favored a minimal program which was created basing on studies with the highest level of evidence. Some claim that the programs were created under extreme time pressure. (R. Busse 2001) By way of the German-style DM programs the government anticipated a radicalGordian explanation to a knot of disheveled problems. While theauthentic experience with DM programs is by a long way larger and longerin the United States than in Germany, the German strategy couldbe of interest in the United States, where we have cream skimming andadverse selection having in fact blocked managed care infiltrationinto the Medicare population. One observable difference is theownership of the DM programs; in the United States they are to some extent connected with pharmaceutical companies or special DMP vendors. Whendisease management came up in Germany, analogous companies appearedon the market, with the hope for commercial triumph. Some sicknessfunds contracted them to assist them in preparing DM programs, but suchcompanies have more or less disappeared from the market The UK According to statistics in the U K lack of proper care to manage chronic diseases on a day today basis can lead to unnecessary complications and premature death. Children also suffer from chronic diseases for instance children below five years account for 15% of the cases(General household survey 2002) Self care has sometimes been ignored in the UK but it is a well proven approach to improving the situation of chronic diseases. According to data from the Department of Health’s Economic and Operational Research the effects of self care include; Reduced to visits to GP Sby over 40% for the high risk cases. Reduction in admissions to hospitals by about 50% in a Parkinson’s diseases The length of stay in hospitals for mental health problems reduce. Off work days can reduce by even more than 50% for patients suffering from arthritis Self care or management is not just an issue of providing information to the patients but it involves a range of other things to make it workable. Patients need care education regarding to self management of their sickness by helping stand what they ought to do and how to make adjustments towards their medical dosage and how and when they need healthcare. They also need quick reminders of when they should be attending to certain measures concerning their health. They need support from knowledgeable patients or even an expert in their disease and broader networks which can include attending to group practices involving the same kind of health condition. Their s uncertainty as regarding to self care however it is likely to improve in relevance because of the following: The increase of information that is availed to the patients. The ability of information technology to support self care. The possibility of having reliable and accurate home monitoring systems. The greater anticipation by many patients to be the locus of control. In the UK the main providers of care for chronic diseases are the primary care teams. They include community nurses, pharmacists, dieticians, opticians, podiatrists, and physiotherapists. Barriers for implementing disease management programs One major factor which hinders the implementation of these programs is the lack of proven after investment. This has tended to limit the health plan and interest of the disease management organization. Future of Disease management programs There is no acceptable best way to chronic disease management. Evidence that has been observed throughout the world brings out clearly that, to be successful, policy-makers should put into consideration: Providing well-built leadership and vision at the national, regional or organizational level which should oversee all that is required for the programs to succeed. They should ensure full-bodied collection of information and data-sharing among all the stakeholders in the health sector. Care should be provided based on people’s needs and an ability to identify people with different levels of need; They should also put in place measures that target key risk factors, including widespread disease prevention initiatives. Growing towards supporting self-management and empowerment of people with chronic diseases Policy brief should involving a wide range of stakeholders such as individuals, the voluntary and community sector, clinicians, private industry and public services. Future Disease management programs should be tailored to reduce the costs associated with care for people suffering from chronic illnesses. The growing costs of operations such as dialysis are still a major concern in most countries. But with the Disease management programs in place these costs are expected to decline and lead to improved care even through public health for chronic disease cases. However reducing the costs with DM programs has been successful in some areas but the drug treatment especially in diabetic cases seems to be an area where the growing costs are inevitable.

Florida Panther Essay -- Florida Panther Restoration

As the deer fed at the marsh's edge, it's tail flickering as it nibbled tender and ripe green growth. Then the nervous animal pauses in it's feeding and lifted its head to listen. Whatever hint of danger the deer had sensed was ignored once the threat could not be located. It stamped a forefoot, lowered its head and began to eat once more, this deer had failed to detect a Florida panther that was downwind (going into the wind) crouched low in the underbrush. Amber eyes however, estimated the distance between himself and the deer. Then at the right moment attacked the deer, with bounds at over twenty feet at a time the panther exploded out of the underbrush pouncing on the deer and forcing it to the ground. Within fifteen seconds that panther stood breathing heavily over his unfortunate victim of life and death. This scene has been going on for many years, the battle of predator and prey, but know the new predators are humans almost virtually wiping out the entire population leav ing only an estimated 30 - 50 Florida panthers left. Should the environmental leaders of Florida protect the Florida panther? The people of Florida think so, and that is why they named it their state animal. This panther is one of about thirty subspecies of Felis concolor. The subspecies, coryi is one of the rarest and most endangered animals in the world. Panthers, also called pumas, cougars, screamers, and mountain lions, once ranged from the southern end of South America into Canada. In appearance the Florida panther is similar to other panthers, however this rare subspecies has several distinct characteristics such as, white flecks on the shoulders, a cowlick on the back (a cowlick is a tuft of hair that cannot easily be flattened) and a crook in the tail. This is formed by the last three bones in the tail, that is bent forming the stump on the end. Panthers have an average length of six to nine feet from the nose to the tip of tail, stand up to twenty-eight inches in height, and weigh from fifty to one hundred-thirty pound s. These panthers are solitary and territorial animals and seldomly live together except for mating season. Following an approximate 90 day gestation period the females are more sedentary once the usual two to three kittens are born, but more than one kitten rarely survives and that is another reason for the low panther count. Flor... ...eestablish this subspecies' old and unoccupied range areas. These goals were assisted in 1983 when the Florida Legislature established the Florida Panther Technical Advisory Council. The commission is firmly committed to take all necessary actions within their given authority to assure recovery for the Florida panther. The panthers are still going to need broad public support and active cooperation among all management. â€Å"Civilization is the main threat to the survival of the Florida panther†¦Ã¢â‚¬ , and so it will be until we learn how to respect these species that occupied the land we take before us. A land that was not ours to take and land we truly do need as bad for survival as these creatures. Works Cited: 1. Alden, Peter, Rich Cech, and Gil Nelson. 1998. National Audubon Society Field Guide to Florida. New York: Knopf. 2. Brown, Larry W. 1997. Mammals of Florida. Miami, Florida: Windward Publishing. 3. Land, Darrell, and Sharon K. Taylor. 1998. Florida Panther Genetic Restoration and Management. Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. 4. Taylor, Sharon K. 1997. Florida Panther Biomedical Investigations. Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission.

Motivation, Intelligence Essay

Second language learning is the process of learning a different language other than one’s mother tongue resulting in the ability of an individual to use one or more languages different from his first language. It can take place in a natural setting or through classroom instructions; however, the degree of proficiency differs (Gomleksiz, 2001). Learning is a conscious process that includes thorough explanation of grammar rules, practice of those rules, as well as memorizing lists of vocabulary, usually in a classroom setting (Wisniewski, 2007). Learners usually use their culture, first language, environment, background and personal experiences among others to learn a second language. Second Language learning is necessitated by the different situations of different people. For instance, it can be for social or academic purposes. Learners are affected by many factors in the second language acquisition process such as level of cognitive development, socio-economic and cultural background, age, motivation or ability and intelligence (Gomleksiz, 2001; Wisniewski, 2007). This paper will however concentrate on how intelligence or aptitude and motivation affect the learning of a second language. According to (Wisniewski, 2007), second language learning process differs from first language acquisition, with the latter taking place usually from infancy in a community using a  Ã‚  Ã‚   specific language and affected mainly by neurological developments in the brain (McCain, 2000) while the former taking place usually in schools or later in life and affected by age and associated characteristics (McCain, 2000). It is necessary to draw a distinction between foreign language and second language learning. According to (Wisniewski, 2007), a language learnt in a community that uses a different mother tongue, is said to be a foreign language, and the process, a foreign language learning. For instance, a Kenyan student learning French in Kenya is said to be learning a foreign language, since French is not the common language in Kenya. In contrast, a language learnt in a community that uses the language, is said to be a second language. For instance, a Kenyan student studying is Spain will study Spanish as a second language. According to Holt (2001), motivation in second language learning is the learner’s orientation with regard to the goal of learning a second language. It is a desire for learning (Gomleksiz, 2001). That is, it is the inner force or strength that drives an individual toward learning a second language. A below average student with the motivation to learn a second language is likes to succeed than an intelligent student not motivated. Motivation is divided into two basic types- integrative and instrumental (Holt, 2001; McCain, 2000). Integrative motivation is the learner’s positive attitude towards the target language group and the desire to integrate into that target language community. For instance, if an individual loves and would like to identify with the Maasai community, he would learn their language. It is thought that students most successful in learning a target language are those who like the people that speak the language, admire the culture and have a desire to become familiar with or even integrate into the society in which the language is used (J. Falk 1978) cited in Holt (2001). This kind of motivation is essential in helping an individual assimilated in a community to develop some proficiency in the language and also in developing a social life with the people in the community, especially if it is the only language widely spoken. It becomes a necessity. Instrumental motivation on the other hand, underlies the goal to gain some social or economic reward through the second language. It is a more functional reason for language learning. For instance, an individual who would like to be an air hostess may learn other languages to enable her easily get the job. The end of instrumental motivation is basically utilitarian such as meeting the requirements of a school, job or achievement of higher social status (Holt, 2001). In this case, the second language acquisition takes place with little or no integration in the community using the language; however, this knowledge comes in handy if one is to ever visit the community. Factors other than social integration necessitate the acquisition of the second language. Both forms of motivation are essential for success in the learning of a second language, however, integrative motivation has been found to sustain long term success (Crookes and Schmidt, 1991). Instrumental motivation has only been acknowledged as a significant factor in some research, whereas integrative motivation is continually linked to successful second language acquisition (Holt, 2001). According to Holt (2001), Generally students select instrumental reasons more frequently than integrative reasons for the study of a second language. Those who choose an integrative approach to language study are usually more highly motivated and in overall more successful. (n.p) Instrumental motivation can only be successful if the student is provided with an opportunity to actively use the language and possibly interact with the community of the target group; otherwise, the language is easily forgotten as it was only a means to an end. Interaction with the community of the target language helps the student learn more than what is learnt in class such as accent, expression and a whole new words and the context of usage; usually, the student is exposed more to language users than in a class setting. Interaction helps the learner solve his or her problems in the learning process. The language becomes part of the student and the degree of proficiency is higher, this is why integrative motivation has far higher long term success rates. The knowledge of the language becomes more than just professional. For students however, instrumental motivation is usually the major underlying factor for the study of the language (Holt, 2001). Holt (2001) in citing H. D. Brown (2000) states that, both integrative and instrumental motivations are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Learners rarely select one form of motivation when learning a second language, but rather a combination of both orientations. For instance, a Spanish student wishing to study in the U.K will learn English both as a requirement for academic purposes and also to enable her integrate well in the English community. According to Teepen (n.d), intelligence and aptitude are significant virtually in all aspects of second language learning. Regardless of all other factors like age, personality, attitude and motivation, some people happen to be better at learning a second language than others (Bot, Lowie, and Verspoor, 2005). The writers at http://www.slideshare.net/cupidlucid/3-factors-affecting-l2-learning-presentation (n.d) refer to intelligence as the mental abilities measured by an Intelligence Quotient (IQ) test, usually measuring the Verbal or Linguistic and Mathematical or Logical intelligence and in some cases, Spatial, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal and Musical intelligence (Bot, Lowie, and Verspoor, 2005). Research findings indicate that intelligence, is a strong factor in language learning that involves language analysis and rule learning. In this case, intelligence has a strong positive relation with second language learning (Teepen, n.d.). It was however found to be of less importance in language learning that focuses on communication and interaction (http://www.slideshare.net/cupidlucid/3-factors-affecting-l2-learning-presentation, n.d.). Intelligence is complex as it has various dimensions thus giving people different abilities and strengths. Therefore, an individual with strong academic performance does not necessarily make a second language learning success story. The writers at http://www.slideshare.net/cupidlucid/3-factors-affecting-l2-learning-presentation (n.d.) also describe aptitude as the potential for achievement and that it is designed to make a prediction about an individual’s future achievements. Aptitude can be seen as a characteristic that is similar to intelligence, which cannot be altered through training (Bot et al. 2005). Aptitude for language learning is usually composed of; the ability to identify and memorize new sounds, the ability to understand the function of particular words in sentences, the ability to figure out grammatical rules from language samples and finally, the ability to memorize new words and phrases (Bot et al. 2005). A person’s inherent capability of second-language learning is called Language Learning aptitude (Bot et al. 2005). A number of language aptitude tests have been developed to assess language aptitude, the most common being the Modern Language Aptitude Test (MLAT) by Carroll and Sapon (1959) and the Pimsleaur Language Aptitude Battery (PLAB) by Pimsleaur in 1966. Both tests have shown high correlations with proficiency scores in schools, however, the tests are completely geared towards formal second-language learning and in particular, the way in which the language is taught in classrooms (Bot et al. 2005). Past researches have also revealed significant findings. A significant positive relationship between aptitude for language learning taught with grammar translation or audio-lingual methods, but irrelevant to second language learning taught with a more communicative approach, that is, with a focus on meaning rather than on form (http://www.slideshare.net/cupidlucid/3-factors-affecting-l2-learning-presentation, n.d). Just like in intelligence, successful language learners are not necessarily strong in all the components of aptitude. In conclusion, success in second language learning depends on many factors; motivation, aptitude and intelligence are just a number of important ones. For motivation, it has been found that, motivated students are more successful than those not motivated. Motivation is the most important factor compared to intelligence and aptitude, though it has to be considered in light of other factors. This is because, as long as an individual is motivated, even if his IQ and aptitude are low, he will be able to succeed in language learning. In a nutshell, the greater the motivation, intelligence and aptitude levels of a student, the greater the chances of succeeding in learning a second language. References Bot, D. K., Lowie, W. and Verspoor, M. (2005). Second Language Acquisition: An advanced Resource Book. Madison Avenue, New York: Routledge Applied Linguistics Crookes, G., & Schmidt R.W. (1991). Motivation : Reopening the research agenda. Language Learning, Vol. 41, No. 4, p. 469-512. Gomleksiz, M. N. (2001). The effects of Age and Motivation in Second Language Acquisition. Firat University Journal of Social Science, Vol. 11, No. 17, p. 217-224 Factors affecting Second Language Learning. Accessed April 29, 2010 from http://www.slideshare.net/cupidlucid/3-factors-affecting-l2-learning-presentation, n.d) Holt, J. N. (2001). Motivation as a Contributing factor in Second Language Acquisition. The Internet TESL Journal, Vol. 7, No. 6. Accessed April 28, 2010 from http://iteslj.org/Articles/Norris-Motivation.html McCain, J. (2000). Language Acquisition and affective Variables. Accessed April 28, 2010 from http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/biology/b103/f00/web3/mccain3.html Teepen, J. (n.d.). On the Relationship between Aptitude and Intelligence in Second Language Acquisition. Columbia University Working Papers in TESOL & Applied Linguistics, Vol. 4. Accessed April 29, 2010 from http://journals.tc-library.org/index.php/tesol/article/viewFile/69/75

Bloodsucking Fiends: A Love Story Chapter 35

Chapter 35 Sculptures Sunset cast a warm orange across the great Pyramid, while below, the Emperor enjoyed a cappuccino on a concrete bench and Bummer and Lazarus battled for the remains of a three-pound porterhouse. â€Å"Men, would that I could let you, like Cincinnatus, retire like gentlemen soldiers to the country, but the City is still in need. The fiend is vanquished, but not the despair of my people. Our responsibility is legion.† A family of tourists passed the Emperor, hurrying to get to the cable-car stop at California Street before dark, and the Emperor tipped his cup in salute. The father, a balding fat man in an Alcatraz sweatshirt, took the Emperor's gesture as a request for spare change and said, â€Å"Why don't you get a job?† The Emperor smiled. â€Å"Good sir, I have a job. I am Emperor of San Francisco and Protector of Mexico.† The tourist scrunched his face in disgust. â€Å"Look at you. Look at your clothes. You stink. You need a bath. You're nothing but a bum.† The Emperor looked down at the fraying cuffs of his dirty wool overcoat, his rib-worn gray corduroys, stained with splatters of vampire blood, the holes in his filthy sneakers. He raised an arm and took a sniff, then hung his head. The tourists walked away. Cavuto and Rivera sat in leather wingback chairs in front of the fireplace in Cavuto's Cow Hollow apartment. The fireplace was burning, the fire crackling and dancing as it fought off the damp chill of the bay. The room was furnished with rugged oak antiques, the bookshelves filled with detective novels, the walls hung with guns and posters from Bogart movies. Rivera drank cognac; Cavuto, Scotch. On the coffee table between them stood a three-foot-high bronze statue of a ballerina. â€Å"So what do we do with it?† Cavuto asked. â€Å"It's probably stolen.† â€Å"Maybe not,† Rivera said. â€Å"He might have bought it from Degas himself.† â€Å"The black kid says it's worth millions. You think he's right?† Rivera lit a cigarette. â€Å"If it's authentic, yeah. So what do we do with it?† â€Å"I've only got a couple of years before I retire. I've always wanted to own a rare-book shop.† Rivera smiled at the thought. â€Å"The wife wants to see Europe. I wouldn't mind having a little business of my own. Maybe learn to play golf.† â€Å"We could turn it in and just finish our time. They're going to move us out of homicide after this, you know that? We're too old for narcotics. Probably vice – night after night of screaming hookers.† Rivera sighed. â€Å"I'll miss homicide.† â€Å"Yeah, it was quiet.† â€Å"I've always wanted to learn about rare books,† Rivera said. â€Å"No golf,† Cavuto said. â€Å"Golf is for pussies.† Tommy moved the futon so he could sit facing the two statues, then sat down to admire his handiwork. He'd worked all day in the foundry below, covering Jody and the vampire with the thin coat of conductive paint and putting them into the bronzing vats. The two biker sculptors had been more than happy to help, especialy when Tommy pulled a handful of cash out of the grocery bag that the Emperor had delivered. The statues looked very lifelike. They should, they were still alive under the bronze coating, except for Zelda, who stood next to the two vampires. Tommy had put Jody in a leotard before he applied the paint. He'd dressed the vampire in a pair of his own jockey shorts. It was amazing how fast the vampire had healed after drinking Jody's blood. The worst part had been waiting – waiting outside the bedroom where Jody had carried the vampire, waiting for them to go out at sunrise, listening to the soft murmur of their voices. What had they been talking about? Overall, the vampire looked pretty good. Almost all the damage to his body had healed by morning. Jody, even bronzed, looked beautiful. The finishing touch had been to drill ear holes through the thick bronze coating so he could talk to her. â€Å"Jody, I know that you're probably really, really mad. I don't blame you. But I didn't have a choice. It's not forever, it's just until I can figure out what to do. I didn't want to lose you. I know you wanted to just go away and I think you would have, but he wouldn't have. He would never have let me live.† Tommy waited, as if he would get some response from the statue. He picked up the grocery bag of money from the floor and held it up. â€Å"By the way, we're rich! Cool, huh? I'll never make fun of Lash for studying business again. In less than a day he fenced the art from the yacht and got us ten cents on the dollar. Our cut's over a hundred thousand. The guys flew to Vegas. We tried to give a share to the Emperor, but he would only take enough to buy a meal for Bummer and Lazarus. He said that money would distract him from his responsibilities. Great, huh?† He dropped the money and sighed. â€Å"Those two cops believed you. They're going to leave us alone. They reported that the killer was on board the yacht when it went up. Lash gave the gate guard some money to back up their story. I couldn't believe they were going along with it. I think the big cop kind of likes me. â€Å"I'm going to write a book about this. I came here to find adventure and being with you sure has been that. And I don't want to give it up. I know we're not the same. And we shouldn't feel lonely when we have each other. I love you. I'm going to figure I something out. I've got to sleep now. It's been days.† He got up and went to Jody. â€Å"I'm sorry,† he said. He kissed the cold bronze lips and was turning to go into the bedroom when the phone rang. â€Å"It's probably the Animals calling from some casino,† he said as he picked up the phone. â€Å"Hello.† â€Å"Uh, hi,† a man's voice said. â€Å"Could I speak to Jody, please?† Tommy pulled the phone away and looked at it, then put it to his ear and said, â€Å"Jody's†¦ well†¦ she's deceased.† â€Å"I know. Can I speak to her?† â€Å"You sick fuck.† â€Å"Is this C. Thomas Flood? The guy from the paper?† Who was this guy? â€Å"Look, buddy, that was a mistake. They got the guy who did those murders.† â€Å"Look, my name is Steve. I can't tell you my last name. Not until I'm sure it's safe. I'm a med student at Berkeley. I spoke to Jody the other night. We were supposed to meet the other night at Enrico's, but she never showed up. I'm kind of glad, I met a nice girl who works at the Safeway with you. Anyway, when I saw Jody's name in the paper I took a chance and looked up the number.† â€Å"If you saw the paper, you know what happened to Jody,† Tommy said. â€Å"This isn't very funny.† The line was silent for a moment, then Steve said, â€Å"Do you know what she is?† Tommy was shocked. â€Å"Do you?† â€Å"So you do know?† â€Å"She is, I mean was, my girlfriend.† â€Å"Look, I'm not trying to blackmail you or anything. I don't want to turn you in. I talked to Jody about reversing her condition. Well, I think I've found a way to do it.† â€Å"You're kidding.† â€Å"No. Tell her. I'll call you back tomorrow night. I know she's not up during the day.† â€Å"Wait,† Tommy said. â€Å"Are you serious about this? I mean, you can make her human again?† â€Å"I think so. It will probably take a few months. But I've been able to do it with cloned cells in the lab.† Tommy covered the mouthpiece and turned to the statue of Jody. â€Å"There's a guy here that says he can help you. We can be†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Vapor was streaming out of the ear holes in the brass and swirling into a cloud in the middle of the room. Tommy dropped the phone and backed away from the cloud. He could hear Steve's voice calling for him on the phone. Tommy backed against the counter in the kitchen. â€Å"Jody, is that you?† The cloud was pulsating, sending out tendrils, or were they limbs? It was as if it was condensing into a solid shape. Jody thought, Oh Tommy, you can't believe what I learned last night. You're going to have the adventure of your life, lover. And it's going to be such a long life. The things you'll see – I can't wait to show them to you. She became solid, stood before him, naked, smiling. Tommy held the phone to his chest. â€Å"You're pissed, aren't you?† â€Å"I was never going to leave you, Tommy. I love you.† â€Å"But what about him?† Tommy pointed to the bronzed vampire. â€Å"I had to make him think that I was going to go with him so I could find out what I needed to know. I've learned a lot, Tommy. I'm going to teach you.† She started moving toward him. â€Å"He taught you the mist thing, huh?† â€Å"That, and how a vampire is made.† â€Å"No kidding. That could come in handy.† â€Å"And soon,† she said. She looked back at the old vampire. â€Å"The bronzing was a pretty good trick. I didn't exactly know what I was going to do with him after I found out what I needed to know. Maybe later we can figure out a way to let him out and still be safe.† â€Å"So, you're not mad? You're really not leaving?† â€Å"No. I thought I would have to leave, but I never wanted to. You and I are going to be together for a very long time.† Tommy smiled. â€Å"Great, this guy on the phone says†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Hang up, Tommy. And come here.† â€Å"But he says†¦ he can change you back.† â€Å"Hang up.† She took the phone from him and set it down on the counter, then moved into his arms and kissed him.

How Accurate Was the Term Era of Good Feelings in the United States

In the 1800’s following the war of 1812, the term commonly applied to that era in the United States was known as the â€Å"era of good feelings†. While the United States was growing in several different aspects, such as politically, socially and economically, and changing as a country, there are several key factors that denote this term, and nullify its meaning. While the changes were significant, and the United States evolved at an exponential rate after the war of 1812, the accuracy of the term â€Å"era of good feelings† is way off, and the United States was anything but experiencing an â€Å"era of good feelings†. Following the war of 1812, growth occurred primarily economically, politically, and socially for the United States. These changes indicated symbolize development, expansion of both land and industry, and a sense of unifying nationalism within the citizens of the United States. Although Nationalism seemed to unify the nation, there was more of an underlying indication of a much larger problem, Sectionalism. Sectionalism is a relation to a geographic area. So whereas people could have felt patriotic towards the United States, they related more towards the region they lived in and not the country they were a part of. This sectionalism also indicates a difference in the economic, social and political stances of regions such as the North and the South, and the â€Å"era of good feelings† continued to simply widen that gap. Economically, the United States was experiencing growth. But looking further into sectionalism, there are two completely different growths present in the northern United States and the Southern United States. In the north, following the war of 1812, a rapid expansion occurred in the industry of the north. Technological advances such as the textile mills, and factory workers and the increase in the amount of factories in the North helped create a gap in the economy of the north itself. A lower class, comprised of the workers, got low wages and produced high quantities of product, and the middle class, who were the businessmen and managers. This rift created a class system which benefited the middle class as well as the Northern United States as a whole, as a free market economy developed and increased. Although this was increase throughout the United States, this economical situation occurred primarily in the North, and much less in the south. In the south, the economic increase was much different. Because of the large amounts of plantations and farms in the south, new land was needed so that the crops that had dried up the soil could continue to grow and the economy can continue to benefit. This growth in land and economy indicates that the economic benefit in the south came from crops and agricultural might, rather than industrial. These differences help identify that the â€Å"era of good feelings† and the nationalism that is implied is incorrect and inaccurate, as people have more of a connection towards the land that they make their money on, which implies sectionalism. Politically, the â€Å"era of good feelings† was extremely off. Even before the war of 1812, there had always been a major difference in the political parties and systems of the government. A major difference in this coming from extremely opposing ideologies of the parties and the lack of unity between the two. The difference between the parties is also present in Document C, which shows two different party tents during the fourth of july. Whilst the people are generally happy, the party tents show that the difference is quite evident, and especially how only one of the tents has an American flag flying above it. This difference helps show the gap in political unity and the disagreement between parties. Also, many parties were so discontent with the others, that one (the new England federalists) offered to secede from the Union so as to follow their own system. This shows that the â€Å"era of good feelings† only helped widen the gap between parties, as more and more minor parties came into existence. Socially, The United States was anything but experiencing an â€Å"era of good feelings†. The country was experiencing major problems as the south and the north fought for the Missouri compromise. The north, wanting a free state, fought for Missouri to be free. The south, wanting more power, wanted Missouri to be a slave state. The geographical differences indicate less of a feeling of nationalism and an extreme version of sectionalism. This is also evident in Doc F, â€Å" A geographical line, coinciding with a marked principle, moral and political, once conceived and held up to the angry passions of men, will never be obliterated; and every new irritation will mark it deeper and deeper†. This quote by Thomas Jefferson emphasizes the difference between the North and South. The usage of the term a geographical line only seems to magnify the situation that the United States is in. If anything nationalism isn’t even implied in the document, and the idea of sectionalism strikes itself deep in the line, indicating that the problems between the North and the South is not just a coincidence. It is because of increasing tensions and a lack of unity between the two regions. This rift clearly indicates that the â€Å"era of good feelings† is not only extremely inaccurate, but also opposite of what actually is occurring, which is an increasing divide in the country, as sectionalism continues to increase geographically, and socially. â€Å"The era of good feelings† is anything but a good feeling for the United States. The 1800s provide a turbulent earthquake that splits the nation economically, politically, and socially. The most common indication of this is the ever increasing difference in between the North and the South, which would culminate in 1861 with the deadly civil war that would leave about 620,000 Americans dead.

Contrast and Compare Absorption Costing with Marginal Costing Essay

Contrast and Compare Absorption Costing with Marginal Costing - Essay Example The Strict adherence to a particular costing method is critically important to effectively managing the finance in a firm since its management will be bale to make proper appraisal of the productivity as well as performance of various costs units in the firm. This piece of research reviews full costing and variable costing and outlines the conceptual framework and key assumptions of these cost methods. This paper compares and contrasts these approaches to product and services costing with a view to explain whether the choice of full costing or variable costing still matter or not. Full Costing: Conceptual Framework and key assumptions Full costing, also commonly termed as Absorption Costing, refers to a costing method in which all manufacturing costs, including variable as well as fixed costs, are attributed to the production costs. Hilton, Maher and Selto (200, p. 58) stated that full costing applies all manufacturing-overheads to manufactured goods along with direct materials and d irect labor costs. Full costing is also termed as absorption costing because it absorbs and recovers both fixed and variable costs (Heisinger, 2009, p. 276). The cost incurred for the production of a unit is considered as variable cost per unit plus an allocated share of the fixed overheads (Jawahar-Lal, 2008, p. 627, Nigam, Nigam and Jain, 2004, p. 398). In full costing, direct costs are directly allocated to the cost units and manufacturing overhead-costs are taken to the product and other overheads. Direct material costs and direct labor costs are variable costs and these are directly attributed to the product. But, fixed costs are charged over different products that the firm manufactures over a given period of time (Williams, Haka and Bettner, 2004, p. 923, Jiambalvo, 2009, p. 181). Inventory costs should include all production overheads with fixed as well as variable costs and therefore SSAP 9 considers Full Costing as an essential requirement for the external reporting purpos es if the firm has to undergo it (Broadbent, Broadbent and Cullen, 2003, p. 92). In Full Costing method, the demand of the product is never considered, but prices are considered as the functions of the costs. Full costing includes pasts costs that may not always be relevant to the present decision making purposes and pricing determinants (Jackson, Sawyers and Jenkins, 2008, p. 228, Drury. 2006, p. 227) In Full Costing method, the demand of the product is never considered, but prices are considered as the functions of the costs. Full costing includes pasts costs that may not always be relevant to the present decision making purposes and pricing determinants. It is therefore criticized that Full costing may not be able to provide reliable and accurate information in order to make decision making be effective (Boardguess, 2009). Variable Costing: Conceptual Framework and key assumptions As detailed above, Full costing includes direct materials, direct labors and both variable and fixed manufacturing overheads that are incurred in manufacturing a product. In contrast, variable costing doesn’