Death Penalty Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Death Penalty - Essay Example Our main points for the abolition of the death penalty are morality and technicality. The original arguments for capital punishment does not anymore apply but are outdated – deterrence, retribution, etc. The teachings of the Bible – the Old and the New Testaments – tell us one important aspect of creation: protect life and do not allow vengeance. God did not kill Cain for killing his own brother Abel but instead sent him on exile and put a mark on him so that no one would kill him. A passage in the Bible of states: ‘an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth’. This teaching does not mean taking the life of a murderer or someone who has committed a heinous crime, but it means limiting the retribution for an offense. When Jesus was presented the woman accused of adultery, he did not condemn the woman but told those present â€Å"to cast the first stone†, which means we should not condemn anyone but allow a sinner to reform. Another argument is the ground of technicality. The criminal justice system, a human system, is flawed. I mean, it is not always perfect despite all the bright, legal minds the world has ever produced. Rulings are not perfect. The Supreme Court ruled that the death penalty violated the Eight and Fourteenth Amendments. Then in another ruling in 1976, Gregg v. Georgia, the Court again contradicted itself by ruling that the death penalty per se was not unconstitutional. (Bedau 2005, p. 23) In Furman, it was ruled that some state statutes were unconstitutional, which allowed that death penalty statutes had to be rewritten. Advocates of the death penalty began proposing new laws for capital punishment. In other words, advocates of the death penalty interpreted this as an opportunity to write new laws so that there would be no more doubts of retaining the death penalty. It was reported that there were 35 states that rewrote their

Summary and Response Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Summary and Response - Coursework Example Reflecting mainly on Egypt and Tunisia, O’Donnell shows how Howard’s study indicated that social media formed online networks that organized core groups of activists to advocate for political reforms; she reports specific ways in which Howard’s study shows the opposition groups used social media to influence political debates. First, she argues that Twitter enabled people to engage in instantaneous conversations, especially during the overthrow of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. The discussions on Twitter crossed borders, and influenced the neighboring nations to converse about the political affairs in Tunisia and Egypt. As a second point, she quotes the findings that point out videos protests communicated the events of the Arab uprising to the rest of the world. Not only were the video protests important inside Egypt and Tunisia, but also Howard’s findings show the rest of the globe depended on them for updates on the uprising. For instance, twenty-thre e videos attracted 5.5 million views. In addition to Twitter and video protests, the instant Facebook messages and blogs inspired the revolution in Arab countries, and the attempts of the government to stop social media conversations resulted in strong activism. The opposition groups utilized blogs and Facebook to pass the information about the need for political change to many audiences. In sum, O’Donnell reports how Howard’s findings associate the social media with the Arab uprising. O’Donnell strongly contends that the social media, especially Twitter was instrumental in facilitating communication that led to the Arab uprising. She firmly quotes Howard who indicated, â€Å"During the week before Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak’s resignation, for example, the total rate of tweets from Egypt-and around the world-about political change in that country ballooned from 2,300 a day to

Relationship Between Teacher And Students

Relationship Between Teacher And Students Similarly according to Moloi et al. (as cited in Mtika Gates, 2010), group work is one of the strategies that can be useful in student-centered approaches. It does not only help students to discuss and share ideas with each other, but it also helps to improve students understanding of some concepts and develop their communication skills. In the student-centered classroom, the teacher has to think of students needs and the classroom is considered as a place where students work together, in groups and as individuals by encouraging them to take part in the learning process all the time (Jones, 2007). In the student-centered classroom, the teacher should know about their students background. Teachers should consider what they may know or do not know about their students because it helps to create the classroom conditions that are responsive to the learning needs of the students (Hodson, 2002). Furthermore, in social constructivist classrooms the relationship between teacher and students are much more dynamically involved, so that the teachers role is much more demanding to allow and actively promote recognition, evaluation, and reconstruction (Gunstone and Northfield as cited in Hand et al., 1997).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The size for effective student-centered classrooms can be organized into large group (class with 25-30 students), medium size (5-8 students), small group (3-5 students), pair group (2 students) and a teacher and a student (only in special condition) (MoEYS, 2002a). Furthermore, classroom arrangements, especially classroom space and resources like chairs and tables for large group activities are also important because appropriate resources helps to support the effectiveness and efficiency of instruction to the students. 2. 4 Definition of the Student-Centered Approaches to Learning   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The terms student-centered approaches  and learner-centered approaches  to learning are the same and whilst some articles used the term student-centered approaches and other articles used the term learner-centered approaches, the two terms were used interchangeably. Both terms focus on the needs of students who as learners are actively involved in the learning process (Utecht, 2003). The term student-centered approaches is used in this study because this term is formally applied in Cambodian curriculum and ministry educational literature. Moreover, the student-centered approaches are broader for example, a student can be defined as learner, but a learner may not be defined as student. For example, a man wants to know about the educational law in Cambodia, so the man can go to library or search in the MoEYS website to read and learn about the law. The man therefore is not a student, but he is a learner.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The student-centered approaches to learning are defined as teaching methodologies associated with an approach to learning where students are the main characters in the learning process, and actively learn in a socially interactive way (Brush Saye, 2000). The student-centered approaches are designed to assist students to learn best from meaningful life experiences, social interactions, and scientific experimentation (Pedersen Liu, 2003).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The student-centered approaches to learning focus on individual students needs and growth, because these approaches are intended to develop the potential of every individual student and encourage their personal growth and interests (Morris, 1996). The student-centered approaches are also considered effective alternatives to the traditional teacher-centered approaches. Similarly according to Courtney (2008), it looks very different from the traditional didactic teaching methods that are widely applied in Cambodia. These traditional teaching methods depend on the direct instruction of the teacher and verbal and written repetition with little emphasis on understanding but strong emphasis on memory and recall. Kember (as cited in ONeill McMahon, 2005) and Hirumi (2002) stated the student-centered approaches are in contrast to the traditional teacher-centered approaches. In the teacher-centered approaches, teachers are at the center of the learning and teaching p rocess and provide instruction to students; the students are the empty vessels into which the teacher pours their knowledge. This view contrasts sharply to that of constructivist theory where we see that students are central to the learning process, they are not viewed as empty vessels but rather actively participate in making knowledge by thinking and solving problems for themselves, and developing their self-esteem that is essential for learning and decision-making throughout life (American Psychological Association, 1993; Hirumi, 2002; MoEYS, 2005).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The core principle of the student-centered learning approaches is that students have different abilities, needs, and interests for how they learn, and they construct knowledge and meaning and learn in different ways (Brady, 2006; Murdoch Wilson, 2008; Hirumi, 2002). The American Psychological Association (1993) stated that students have various capabilities and interests for learning. Individuals are born with and develop unique capabilities and talents and have acquired through learning and social acculturation different preferences for how they like to learn and the pace at which they learn (American Psychological Association, 1993, p. 9). According to Meyer Jones (as cited in Hirumi, 2002), in the class students talk, listen, write, read, and reflect on content, ideas, issues, and concerns in order to construct their own meaning. In student-centered environments, learners are given direct access to the knowledge-base and work individually and in small gr oups to solve authentic problems (Hirumi, 2002, p. 506). Similarly, according to Jones (2007), a student-centered class is a place where students needs are considered, as a group and as individuals, and students are encouraged to participate in the learning process all the time. At different times, students may work alone, in pairs, or in groups.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   As a theory of epistemology, constructivism proposes that students bring their existing experiences and beliefs, as well as world views and their cultural histories, into the learning process when they internally build knowledge by interacting with the environment (Yilmaz, 2008). Constructivism is considered as a process that students actively construct their knowledge upon knowledge that they already have (Motschnig-Pitrik Holzinger, 2002). Social constructivist, Vygotsky believed that learning is a social process in which learners developed understanding through interaction with the environment around them (Brush Saye, 2000, p. 5). According to Jonassen; Duffy Jonassen (as cited in Brush Saye, 2000), the need for more student-centered learning activities have been promoted by the supporters of the constructivist epistemology of learning.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In short, the key characteristics of the student-centered approaches to learning emphasize students  prior knowledge and experience, developing Bloom Taxonomy thinking skills, especially critical thinking and problem solving, exploring individual learning needs and interests, promoting active student involvement, and developing motivation for life-long learning (American Psychological Association, 1993; Brush Saye, 2000; Hirumi, 2002; Mtika Gates, 2010). However, there is no single strategy that helps students to have effective learning all the time and there is no teaching strategy that is better than others in every circumstance. Each teaching strategy has its strength and weakness, so teachers need to make decisions and chose teaching strategies that help their students to achieve the learning outcomes (Killen, 2003). Similarly according to Hab Em (2003), to choose and effectively apply a teaching strategy the teacher has to judge many times because s electing an appropriate teaching strategy is based on the decision whether we provide knowledge to students through direct instruction (teacher-centered approaches) or indirect facilitation (student-centered approaches). 2. 5 Student-Centered Learning as Adopted by the Cambodian Ministry of Education   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   2.5.1 Vision of learning and teaching   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Learning has many styles such as learning by seeing, listening, writing, reading, watching television, self-experiment, practice, thinking, playing games, study tour and so on. These styles of learning provide knowledge to the learners. However different learning can have different result. Learners may produce different learning outcomes with a different learning style to another student (MoEYS, 2002b). For example, those who learn by listening will forget all or remember a little after several days. Those who just stand and see people swimming cannot swim, but if they learn to swim themselves, they can swim effectively. People therefore can do something when they involve themselves. According to Confucianism, it is believed that If you tell me, I will forget. If you show me, I may remember. But if you involve me, I can do and understand (MoEYS, 2008).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Cambodian governments vision of the purposes for learning and teaching roles has gradually changed between societies and from one a period of time to another (MoEYS, 2002a). Previous teaching methods considered effective and appropriate was when teachers were considered to be the knowledge providers. Teachers provided knowledge and told students, and students listened to teachers and followed teachers without developing their own ideas or understanding. In this context teachers had the power because they had the knowledge that students needed to be able to progress through the education system. This vision was later officially abandoned because the learning outcomes were considered unsuitable to both the needs of the country for skilled thinkers and they compared poorly to the wider international educational context.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the following period, another new teaching method was integrated called question and answer method. The teacher raised questions and the students answered. This method was adopted in the belief that it would bring better results for students. The question and answer method was later changed and reformed to what was known as the active method because this method required much relationship between teacher and students. For the last vision, it was believed that creation only relationship between teacher and students was not enough. To have better result for students, relationship between students and students must be created in the teaching and learning process. Teachers have to prepare students to work in groups, so students can exchange their ideas, work cooperatively, and help each other in learning. This last vision is a very important part of student-centered approaches (Hab Em, 2003; Inspector, 2002; Ung, 2008). These approaches to learning and teachin g shifted the power reposition of the teacher from one who held all the knowledge to a more equal one where teachers partner with, sometimes lead, their students into new understanding and knowledge.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   2.5.2 Principle and theory   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Theories that are applied and relevant to teaching and learning in the current Cambodian school system are: Learning is creating new knowledge Learning is exchanging experience (Inspector, 2002)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The theories of learning above are also clearly identifiable as concepts of constructivism. Although constructivism is not a theory of learning, the principles have been applied by many educators in teaching and learning, especially, but not only, in science education (Han et al., 1997; Yilmaz, 2008). Constructivism emphasizes that knowledge and meaning are constructed by the human mind; in effect learners create links between their existing knowledge and new experience and make new knowledge structures and meaning (Yilmaz, 2008).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The role of teachers and students are changed by the adoption of the student-centered approaches to learning. Students are given greater responsibility for their learning and the teachers roles change where they become more coordinators or facilitators of the learning experiences. Students are encouraged to explore the knowledge by themselves and with other learners and the teachers help the learning process by showing students paths of knowledge. In this new role in the classroom, the teachers become part of the learning process and acts as a guide and a resource for the students (Utecht, 2003). Furthermore, the importance of school is to provide multiple opportunities to students to create knowledge and understanding by themselves through research, real experience and solving problems.

Comparing William Shakespeares Sonnet 18 and Sonnet 130 :: Compare Contrast Comparison

Sonnet 18 and Sonnet 130, by William Shakespeare, are two of the most well known Shakespeare sonnets. Both are similar in theme, however, the two poems are very much contradictory in style, purpose, and the muse to who Shakespeare is writing. Both Sonnets have different styles. Sonnet 18 is a much more traditional poem, showing the reader a picture of his muse in the most divine way. Shakespeare uses a complex metaphor of comparing his subject to the summer, but at the same time making it easy to understand. The poet goes as traditional as possible; his friend surpasses the beauty of summer, as summer will fade and turn to winter. Sonnet 130 is just as easy to understand as the former. The use of straightforward comparisons that go from line to line, instead of one metaphor elaborated through the entire poem, makes this sonnet quite different in style. Sonnet 130, in contradiction to Sonnet 18, purposefully branches off from the traditional romantic love poem for he does not describe the subject as a true beauty but as his true love.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The two poems do seem to have a similar theme; both are focused around describing the poet’s muse. However, Sonnet 18 is not about love at all—Shakespeare makes no reference to love in the poem; he is merely describing how beautiful this individual is. Sonnet 130, on the other hand, is a true love poem, making direct mention to it in the couplet: â€Å"And yet, by heaven, I think my love as rare / As any she belied with false compare.† Surprisingly enough, Sonnet 18 shows more the love Shakespeare has for himself and his writing ability. In the last three lines: â€Å"When in eternal lines to time thou growest: / So long as men can breathe or eyes can see, / So long lives this and this gives life to thee.† he is basically saying that in his eternal verse his muse will forever live. And although the couplet is sweet, a different approach to its meaning would be: â€Å"As long as people can read, they will read my poetry!† Sonnets were created to show-off a poet’s skill and not their love—in Sonnet 18 it is most apparent.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The sonnets are similar in that the subject who which Shakespeare is writing is very dear to him. The most over looked difference, however, is who the subject actually is.

Contestable

Contestable 39†² Shreenaeconomics Is the airline market contestable? Definition Of contestability – when there are none or low barriers to entry for incumbent firms Where they Will be forced to keep prices competitive and profits low in the long term. Otherwise this Will encourage Other firms to enter into the market.There are roughly 20 airline companies based in the 0K market It iS a form Of an oligopolistic market and price is not always the determinant of demand but non price factors such as Inflight services and atmosphere. Is contestable Not contestable Low cost airlines as there are lower barriers to entry and exit as you can lease airplanes and reduce the set up costs. There are also no sunk costs If leased airplanes.This means that capital wont be lost when exiting the market High barriers to entry In terms of sunk costs and Infrastructural costs. Providing services costs a lot ot money (le first class cabins) There Is competition between companies so new tirms c an enter and make normal profits There are dominant tirms in the market, there will be brand loyalty which reduces contestability as new firms will have to compete on onprlce factors to gain loyal customers and to compete with other firms. an example being british airways and virgin: BA has a calm quiet in air craft experience and Virgin airlines offer a lively talk promoting atmosphere where even the airhostesses try and get conversations going) Access to the same level of technology. this means that the costs each firm take on from technological aspects such as inflight services and ways of booking are the same so it doesnt stop competition as there is no LISPS.The bigger firms can exploit economies of scale as they produce at lower average unit cost compared to new firms entering the market which do not have perfect information about cheap suppliers or bulk buy to get big discounts, the low cost airline market is more contestable than normal airlines use of the Internet to reduce distribution Costs Maximise the utilisation Of the aircraft assets Direct sell only Via the net Ticketless travel NO free airline food one kind of aircraft: commonality max'mlses efficiency in the recruitment and training of staff Predatory pricing can occur In the short which can drive away new firms, they reduce heir profits below average costs and cover with saved revenues till the new firms cannot make any profit and they exit the market.

Leadership Style Essay

Leadership is a role that not all can partake but that many have excelled at. When asked who I admire as a leader I had to think quite a while. I had to decide what category of leader I could relate to the most. Would it be a political leader, a spiritual leader, a business leader or even a military leader? Ultimately I decided that I want someone who is multi-faceted in that they can lead in many situations and scenarios. Further it seems that leading in unfamiliar and new situations can allow a leader more freedom in his direction without being swayed by observations of others in similar situations. This led me to choose George Washington as my admirable leader since â€Å"George Washington can be used as an example of strong and ethical leadership in virtually any walk of life.† (Rees 2007, p. preface) Growing up we all learned of George Washington and his role as the first president of the United Sates. We hear of his honesty as told through the story of the cherry tree an d so on. His leadership is what gave him this large mark in our history books and it was not only displayed through his presidency. He was first a great military leader. In this role he displayed leader characteristics such as toughness, persistence, bravery and organization. These characteristics earned him the respect of his troops and the ongoing admiration of an entire country. His time as a political leader is what he is remembered most for. He was able to use his charismatic presence and moral strength to maneuver through a turbulent political environment. The leadership traits of foresight and strategic planning allowed him to hold at bay the continental army from a brittle and new civilian government. Through his, and with the help of other great leaders, efforts the path was paved for the United Sates to become the world’s leading super power. Though other leaders have achieved similar feats throughout history this one stands out for me as I have directly benefited from George Washington’s leadership.  Lastly a notable leadership trait that I admire of George Washington’s is his moral leadership. This helps distinguish him from other leaders of world powers before and after his time. It was not uncommon for leaders like Hitler, Stalin, and the Caesar’s or Persian Empire leaders who accomplished similar â€Å"world power† feats to rule by an iron fist and without morality to reach their goals. George Washington used his moral compass to create what may be a much longer lasting arena in which to lead, one that could be passed on to other worthy leaders. Many would like to think that they have the characteristics of a great leader. The reality is that if I, or anyone else, had the perfect mesh of traits for a leader then we would in fact be leading. While I do manage staff, departments and facilities I see myself as a professional and only an aspiring leader. It is my hope that through this course and the others I with be involved in throughout my time at University of Phoenix I will come closer to actually leading. Currently I have some leadership characteristics. There are some that seemed to come naturally and others that have taken time, effort and education. I’ve always seemed to have a knack at argument, or for our scholarly purposes, excellent persuasion ability. I can think clearly during exchanges and use opposing thinkers own examples and analogies to further substantiate my position. I treat people with respect regardless of their status. I strive to have a perfect balance on confidence and humility. I do not fear collaboration and tend to communicate well. If I were to list all the things I would need to do in order to become a better leader this paper would never end. In order to avoid this I will talk only about the traits I feel are the most important and in need of further understanding and practice from myself. Leveraging team strength’s needs some attention from me. I tend to look at people in their roles and corner them there. If I open my eyes a bit more as to their aptitude in other areas I could find that shining stars are sitting right in front of me. I need to be more fearless and take more risks. I have a tendency to play things safe seeking acceptable outcomes when I could take risks and seek excellent outcomes. If I were to take on a little more compassion for things going on with the people around me I may be able to find ways to create more dedicated followers. Followers that know I believe in them and care for their own well-being as opposed to simply the desired outcome of my leadership. Ultimately I wish to lead by example. I want to  lead follower’s development and act as a resource for their advice and assistance (Daft 2008). The greatest satisfaction I can achieve as a leader would be not only for my own desired success in life to be experienced but also to carve a path for those around me to thrive as well. Good leadership in my opinion will always result in an accumulative good, not and individual good. References Daft, R. (2008). The Leadership Experience. Mason: Thompson Learning, Inc. . James Rees, Stephen J. Spignesi (2007). George Washington’s Leadership Lessons. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Pros and Cons of Using Ethanol Biofuel E85

Pros and Cons of Using Ethanol Biofuel E85 Approximately 49 million ethanol flexible-fuel cars, motorcycles and light trucks were sold in the United States by mid-2015, yet many buyers still remain unaware that the car they own can utilize E85. E85 is 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline.   Ethanol is a biofuel that produced in the U.S. with corn. Ethanol fuel  is  ethyl alcohol, the same type of  alcohol  found in  alcoholic beverages.  It has been part of the nation’s fuel supply for almost 40  years. Research shows that ethanol may help lower fuel costs, improve air quality and increase octane. Ethanol can be used in any vehicle and is covered under warranty by every automaker in the U.S. Some cars can use more ethanol than others. What Is a Flexible-Fuel Vehicle A  flexible-fuel vehicle is  also known as an  alternative fuel vehicle  with an  internal combustion engine designed to run on more than one  fuel, usually, gasoline  blended with either  ethanol  or  methanol fuel, and both fuels are stored in the same common tank.   Vehicles That Are E85 Compatible The U.S. Department of Energy tracks fuel economy information and helps consumers perform flex-fuel cost comparisons and calculations. The department also maintains a database of all E85 compatible vehicles.   Flexible-fuel vehicles have been produced since the 1990s, and more than 100 models are currently available. Since these cars look just like gasoline-only models, you may be driving a flexible-fuel vehicle and not even know it. Advantages of Flex-Fuel Vehicles Switching to an ethanol-based fuel moves us further from using up our depletable fossil fuels and closer to U.S. energy independence. Ethanol production in the U.S. primarily comes from corn. In the American Midwest, corn fields are set aside for ethanol production, which has been shown to have a positive effect on job growth and stability. Ethanol is also greener than gasoline because corn and other plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow. The fuel still releases CO2 when you burn it, but it is believed that the net increase is lower. Any car since 1980 has been designed to handle up to 10 percent ethanol in the gasoline, letting you run that percentage of your miles on a domestic fuel rather than irreplaceable fossil fuels. Disadvantages of Flex-Fuel Vehicles Flex-fuel vehicles may not experience a loss in performance when operating on E85, in fact, some generate more torque and horsepower than when operating on gasoline, but since E85 has less energy per volume than gasoline, flex-fuel vehicles can get up to 30 percent fewer miles per gallon when fueled with E85. This means you will get fewer miles per dollar spent. If filling up with flex-fuel is what you want, then finding a flex-fuel station might be a little difficult. Only about 3,000 stations across the U.S. sell E85 at the moment and most of those stations are in the Midwest. To give you some perspective, there are about 150,000 gas stations in the country. Despite the promising research, there are still question marks regarding the agricultural impacts and real energy balance of growing crops to use as fuel.

How might the Telecommunication Industry in Australia affect the Rollout of National Broadband Network in Australia in 2011

How might the Telecommunication Industry in Australia affect the Rollout of National Broadband Network in Australia in 2011 Introduction The telecommunication industry in Australia is experiencing a massive and rapid economic boom with various reports showing a great value of performance orientation by its respondents in the industry. The industry is mainly made up of businesses that provide telecommunication services to the public either by cable, wire or radio.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on How might the Telecommunication Industry in Australia affect the Rollout of National Broadband Network in Australia in 2011? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The major activities of the telecommunication industry in Australia include internet services, operation of radio relay stations, telephone services, operation of television relay stations, teleprinter and telex services, network communication services, cable and communication channel services, and satellite communication services. The industry is fundamentally event driven with diminutive exe cution of planning in areas other than finance or marketing. The lack of planning is evident in contemporary Future Orientation with the conveyed desire for future orientation, but the introduction of intensive competition has recently promoted more product planning and the general business planning in the market. However, elements such as size, novelty, and politics of the present-day industry environment has contributed in depicting planning less effective than otherwise expected. The interference by such factors in the telecommunication industry has protected the free-to-air TV networks, and at the same time contributed to Australia’s holdup in rolling out high-speed internet access through the National Broadband Network initiative. The ever changing market and technology has brought in a real forecast in the capitalization and elevation of Future Orientation, and this brings in the likelihood of Australia following the paradigm of America and other European countries in d eveloping strategic mechanisms of capturing the market’s vast potential.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The growth and immense potential in this industry saw the planned roll out of the National Broadband Network (NBN) project, which is meant to take advantage of the existing economic and social opportunities in the digital sector. While delivering an affordable, high-speed broadband to every corner of the Australian society, the project is projected to drive the country’s economy for decades to come by migrating from copper to the fibre optic network When the Australian government went ahead with the privatization of Telstra, which is the country’s largest telecommunications company, there were major concerns on the contradictory role of the government as regulator and owner of the telecommunication giant. Major concerns also remain in Telstr a’s potential capability of abusing its monopoly power to impediment regulatory outcomes through belligerent use of its litigation. Delaying in making a satisfactory public bid for access to its network and inflating the prices of its wholesale services such as fixed and mobile network are some of Telstra’s alleged abuses. In order to level the competitive telecommunication field, the Australian government instructed Telstra to separate its retail and wholesale arms for the NBN project. Telstra vehemently opposed this idea and the draft legislation that would separate its structures within its telecommunication network. Regulatory and judicial proceedings still mar Telstra with numerous disputes with its competitors over access to its network rights. Despite this, various stakeholders have since entered the scene with ardent interest. The NBN initiative is projected to create a network that will handle an assortment of data that is increasingly complicated, therefore a malgamating the media and the information technology industries with telecommunications.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on How might the Telecommunication Industry in Australia affect the Rollout of National Broadband Network in Australia in 2011? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The Media The media and communications industries has undergone through changes in its general corporate organization with mounting competition between media segments on the maximum gain and use of content being produced (Stuart Cunningham, Graeme Turner 4). This means taking advantage of the capability to present and modify the same content on numerous platforms of delivery and distribution. By restricting concentration of ownership in broadcasting sectors, the ownership and control of media is regulated across the media. Foxtel which has a substantial majority in the pay-TV market is half-owned by Telstra and the roll-out of the NBN project is seen to have rules and regulations that limit the number of providers, while shielding the incumbents against entry by neglecting diversity In Australia, all free-to-air television Programmes have a strict domestic content requirements through the Australian Broadcasting Services Amendment Act that require 10 percent of programme budgeting on new Australian drama programs (Ron Kirk 27). Although traditional media has occasionally been warned on the radical changes they face with the development in the digital media arena, they have basically been absent from the debate surrounding the NBN project. However, the National Broadband Network will generate new changes and options that will see media players taking leadership roles in search of trans-sector opportunities the NBN has to offer. They can possibly copy their archaic models onto the NBN brand via the wholesale services of a telco since they have a strong brand with millions of users. Although it is not defined, foreign nati onals seeking proposals that relates to portfolio shareholdings into the media industry are subjected to a ‘national interest test’ since foreign investment in the mass media is limited (Chang and Thorson 16). Media stakeholders should therefore gear up to with mechanisms that will help them profit from their audiences with the convergence of media and internet-based technologies through high-speed broadband even as they continue to enjoy protection from outside competition. (Butcher 127).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Despite this projection, most media companies are still looking and grounded on their core competencies rather than stirring towards media innovation. Advantages of Public owned Telecommunications towards NBN Rollout. The NBN initiative will produce and promote a prevalent network that is competent in handling both broadband and narrowband requirements with equal adept in managing interactive and broadcasting services. One feature of this project is that it involves and embraces the elaboration of neo-liberal views and ideas of economic regulation. In this view, public ownership of telecommunication infrastructure and services is seen as a central point for national pride and sovereignty with a common feeling of owning a piece of a vital national infrastructure (Fairbrother 52). Public views and ideas would initially be ‘measured at heart’ for the NBN project and this would douse any thought of manipulation by ‘outside’ parties, and also bring public calm w ith general accountability to the project. Public ownership would not cultivate into the current climate of crisis brought about by the free market that would dictate the wages and conditions of each and every Australian. Public ownership of the NBN roll-out would basically promote a unified and coherent platform for the whole initiative. Disadvantages of Public owned Telecommunications towards NBN Roll-out. Since there is never a conclusive concept from the general public, such ownership would only promulgate indecisions and slothfulness into the implementation and completion of the NBN initiative. According to the 2010 report by the Business Council of Australia, ‘’ the public ownership of the NBN initiative would elevate investor uncertainty with various companies rescheduling or withholding investments, and would only impede new technologies from getting into the market with the country’s general output falling behind ( 4) ‘’. Such a scenario wou ld only create ambiguity over NBN’s future operations. Advantages of Private owned Telecommunication Infrastructures towards NBN Rollout. International communication through telecommunications is rapidly becoming the backbone of trade, productivity, and the general business activities which are the linchpins of a growing, healthy economy (Mody, Bauer and Straubhaar 53). Privatization in the telecommunication industry is seen as a catalyst to development with a significant input. In this view, the streamlining of the telecommunications industry in Australia has made it impossible to find public-owned telecommunication carriers due to the concept of deregulation and privatization. This model is highly important because it will redefine the NBN initiative into from the typical public good, to a more global-oriented project that is competitive both domestically and internationally with a customer-driven service. The Telecommunications industry is quite complex in technology and o perations, and the only way that consumers can be better served is if more providers are included in the field. Consumers will be offered more competing products, prices, and services in order to meet the ever more diverse demands. Such private owned companies are also capable of responding quite better to consumer demands than the public-owned corporations that may not act imperatively (Cunningham 151). Sometimes such projects do halt due to lack of funds that can be brought about by underestimation or even the changing tides in commodity prices, and the telecommunication companies which are private-owned can quickly accumulate for these funds. This means that the NBN initiative will flourish under long-term macroeconomic relief, and also can carry on and meet deadlines rather than wait for the tedious process associated with the public owned companies. Generally through private ownership, the NBN project will see a proficient financing and management with the inclusion of professi onals who bring real sustainable efficiencies to the whole project. Privatization is therefore the more efficient solution to the sorry nature of most state-owned of telecommunication infrastructures with its limit on resources and the changing technological know-how. Disadvantages of Private owned Telecommunication Infrastructures towards NBN Roll-out. Private ownership of telecommunication systems in Australia will only bring distrust to the fore since it’s a product of an intrinsic capitalistic motive, and will also spread the adage that any control of information leads to the control of both political and economic procedures and the NBN project has not fallen short of such perception. Since telecommunications is an important industry that connects every sector of the Australian society, it might be used by a single entity or group of companies to create an oligarchy of economical information which can snatch power from the government. Such a scenario would reduce the gove rnment to a mere puppet, while these private entities continue to violate their power in the NBN initiative and act in their own interest neglecting Australian’s welfare (Chhokar, Brodbeck and House 320-331). This will greatly hinder the roll-out of the NBN project since Australia is a society which has a fair history of distrust in private ownership of infrastructure. Private ownership of the NBN roll-out would not put public interest into consideration and the individual private companies would only be interested in generating shareholder’s profits at customer’s expense. Privatization would also encourage manipulation and cover-ups of various inconsistencies associated with the NBN initiative since such organizational setups detest public scrutiny. Privatization will allow foreign competitors enter the telecommunication market indiscriminately and would endeavor to servicing only wealthy businesses and individuals who can afford their expensive services. In th is event, the NBN initiative would therefore leave its core policy of universal service unsettled. It’s hypothetical for privatization to take place without liberalization since such profit-driven enterprises do operate as a monopoly in its selfish achievements that can prove untenable for the government to contain(Leahy and Michael O’Brien 2-5). Analysis Australia is tremendously relying on the NBN initiative to face out its obsolete copper telecommunications network. The pendulum of opinions surrounding the NBN roll-out is due to its importance for the country’s economy, future development, and international competitiveness. The apparent stratification in the Australian telecommunication industry is quite higher than desirable and is derivative of the existing socio-political level of attitudes. The rapid restructuring in the industry is significantly affecting collectivism and power expanses, especially with the differing view between those who do not have th e slightest clue of the impending changes and those that are knowledgeable of what is to come with the changes. Although there are calls for either private or public investment in the telecommunications industry, it’s unfortunate that the processes have represented a vicious circle of events that is detrimental to both the economic and political systems. Conclusion The emerging picture from the NBN initiative and the general Australian telecommunications industry is the consistent socio-political values that underpin the economical importance of this project to the country at large. If telecommunication laws are well designed implemented, it would reduce the general fear and uncertainty that accompany the dreary investment in the telecommunication sector. At the same time, Telstra and its competitors should learn in ways they can corporate and be diplomatic about their differences rather than the self-sacrificing we are now witnessing. Even as the telecommunications industry undergoes through the intense process of change that seems endless, there is no doubt of the massive and infinite benefits that the NBN initiative will bring for generations to come. Butcher, John. Australia under Construction: Nation-building Past, Present and  Future. Canberra: ANU E Press, 2008. Print. Chang and Andrew, Thorson. A Legal Guide to Doing Business in Asia-Pacific.  Chicago: American Bar Association, 2011. Print. Chhokar, Brodbeck and Robert House. Culture and leadership, across the world:  The GLOBE Book of In-Depth Studies of 25 Societies. New York: Routledge, 2007. Print. Cunningham and Graeme Turner. The Media and Communications in Australia.  Crows Nest, NSW: Allen Unwin, 2010. Print. Cunningham, Stuart. The Media and Communications in Australia (Large Print  16pt). Crows Nest:ReadHowYouWant.com, 2010. Print. Fairbrother, Peter. Privatisation, Globalisation, and Labour: studies from  Australia. Leichhardt, NSW: Federation Press, 2002. Print. Kirk, R on. National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers (25th Ed.).  Pennsylvania: DIANE Publishing, 2011. Print. Leahy and Michael O’Brien. Telecommunications Law and Technology in the  Developing World. Volume 22, Issue 1. Boston College International and  Comparative Law Review. 1999. Web. Mody, Bauer and Joseph Straubhaar. Telecommunications Politics: ownership  and control of the information highway in developing countries. New  York: Routledge, 1995. Print. N.p. Business Council of Australia. March: Submission on Draft Legislation for  the National Broadband Company. 2010. Web.

The Gods of the Olmec

The Gods of the Olmec The mysterious Olmec Civilization flourished between roughly 1200 and 400 B.C. on Mexicos Gulf coast. Although there are still more mysteries than answers about this ancient culture, modern researchers have determined that religion was of great importance to the Olmec. Several supernatural beings appear and re-appear in the few examples of Olmec art that survive today. This has led archaeologists and ethnographers to tentatively identify a handful of Olmec gods. The Olmec Culture The Olmec culture was the first major Mesoamerican civilization, thriving in the steamy lowlands of Mexicos Gulf coast, mainly in the modern-day states of Tabasco and Veracruz. Their first major city, San Lorenzo (its original name has been lost to time) peaked around 1000 B.C. and was in serious decline by 900 B.C. The Olmec civilization had faded by 400 B.C.: no one is certain why. Later cultures, like the Aztec and the Maya, were heavily influenced by the Olmec. Today little survives of this grand civilization, but they left behind a rich artistic legacy including their majestic carved colossal heads. Olmec Religion Researchers have done a remarkable job of learning so much about Olmec religion and society. Archaeologist Richard Diehl has identified five elements of Olmec religion: a particular cosmos, a set of gods who interacted with mortals, a shaman class, specific rituals and sacred sites. Many specifics of these elements remain a mystery: for example, it is believed, but not proven, that one religious rite mimicked the transformation of a shaman into a were-jaguar. Complex A at La Venta is an Olmec ceremonial site which was largely preserved; much about Olmec religion was learned there. Olmec Gods The Olmec apparently had gods, or at least powerful supernatural beings, which were worshiped or respected in some way. Their names and functions - other than in the most general sense - have been lost over the ages. Olmec deities are represented in surviving stone carvings, cave paintings, and pottery. In most Mesoamerican art, gods are depicted as human-like  but are often more gruesome or imposing. Archaeologist Peter Joralemon, who has studied the Olmec extensively, has come up with a tentative identification of eight gods. These gods show a complicated mixture of human, bird, reptile and feline attributes. They include the Olmec Dragon, the Bird Monster, the Fish Monster, the Banded-eye God, the Maize God, the Water God, the Were-Jaguar and the Feathered Serpent. The Dragon, Bird Monster, and Fish Monster, when taken together, form the Olmec physical universe. The dragon represents the earth, the bird monster the skies and the fish monster the underworld. The Olmec Dragon The Olmec Dragon is depicted as a crocodile-like being, occasionally having human, eagle or jaguar features. His mouth, sometimes open in ancient carved images, is seen as a cave: perhaps, for this reason, the Olmec were fond of cave painting. The Olmec Dragon represented the Earth or at least the plane upon which humans lived. As such, he represented agriculture, fertility, fire and otherworldly things. The dragon may have been associated with the Olmec ruling classes or elite. This ancient creature may be the forebear of Aztec gods such as Cipactli, a crocodile god, or Xiuhtecuhtli, a fire god. The Bird Monster The Bird Monster represented the skies, sun, rulership, and agriculture. It is depicted as a fearsome bird, sometimes with reptilian features. The bird monster may have been the preferred god of the ruling class: carved likenesses of rulers sometimes are shown with bird monster symbols in their dress. The city once located at the La Venta archaeological site venerated the Bird Monster: its image appears there frequently, including on an important altar. The Fish Monster Also called the Shark Monster, the Fish Monster is thought to represent the underworld and appears as a frightening shark or fish with sharks teeth. Depictions of the Fish Monster have appeared in stone carvings, pottery, and small greenstone celts, but the most famous is on San Lorenzo Monument 58. On this massive stone carving, the Fish Monster appears with a fearsome mouth full of teeth, a large X on its back and a forked tail. Shark teeth excavated at San Lorenzo and La Venta suggest that the Fish Monster was honored in certain rituals. The Banded-Eye God Little is known about the mysterious Banded-eye God. Its name is a reflection of its appearance. It always appears in profile, with an almond shaped eye. A band or stripe passes behind or through the eye. The Banded-eye God appears more human than many of the other Olmec gods. It is found occasionally on pottery, but a good image appears on a famous Olmec statue, Las Limas Monument 1. The Maize God Because maize was such an important staple of life of the Olmec, its not surprising that they dedicated a god to its production. The Maize God appears as a human-ish figure with a stalk of corn growing out of his head. Like the Bird Monster, Maize God symbolism frequently appears on depictions of rulers. This could reflect the rulers responsibility to ensure bountiful crops for the people. The Water God The Water God often formed a divine team of sorts with the Maize God: the two are often associated with one another. The Olmec Water God appears as a chubby dwarf or infant with a gruesome face reminiscent of the Were-Jaguar. The Water Gods domain was likely not only water in general but also rivers, lakes and other water sources. The Water God appears on different forms of Olmec art, including large sculptures and smaller figurines and celts. It is possible that he is a forebear of later Mesoamerican water gods such as Chac and Tlaloc. The Were-Jaguar The Olmec were-jaguar is a most intriguing god. It appears as a human baby or infant with distinctly feline features, such as fangs, almond-shaped eyes and a cleft in his head. In some depictions, the were-jaguar baby is limp, as if it is dead or sleeping. Matthew W. Stirling proposed that the were-jaguar is the result of relations between a jaguar and a human female, but this theory is not universally accepted. The Feathered Serpent The Feathered Serpent is shown as a rattlesnake, either coiled or slithering, with feathers on its head. One excellent example is Monument 19 from La Venta. The feathered serpent is not very common in surviving Olmec art. Later incarnations such as Quetzalcoatl among the Aztecs or Kukulkan among the Maya seemingly had a much more important place in religion and daily life. Nevertheless, this common ancestor of the significant feathered serpents to come in Mesoamerican religion is considered important by researchers. Importance of the Olmec Gods The Olmec Gods are very important from an anthropological or cultural point of view and understanding them is critical to understanding Olmec civilization. The Olmec civilization, in turn, was the first major Mesoamerican culture and all of the later ones, such as the Aztec and Maya, borrowed heavily from these forebears. This is particularly visible in their pantheon. Most of the Olmec gods would evolve into major deities for later civilizations. The Feathered Serpent, for example, appears to have been a minor god to the Olmec, but it would rise to prominence in Aztec and Maya society. Research continues on the Olmec relics still in existence and at archaeological sites. Currently, there are still more questions than answers about the Olmec Gods: hopefully, future studies will illuminate their personalities even further. Sources: Coe, Michael D and Rex Koontz. Mexico: From the Olmecs to the Aztecs. 6th Edition. New York: Thames and Hudson, 2008 Diehl, Richard A. The Olmecs: Americas First Civilization. London: Thames and Hudson, 2004. Grove, David C. Cerros Sagradas Olmecas. Trans. Elisa Ramirez. Arqueologà ­a Mexicana Vol XV - Num. 87 (Sept-Oct 2007). P. 30-35. Miller, Mary and Karl Taube. An Illustrated Dictionary of the Gods and Symbols of Ancient Mexico and the Maya. New York: Thames Hudson, 1993.

Airport Security Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Airport Security - Research Paper Example His function is also to undertake or appraise automated ID access control system specifically for regulatory compliance and accuracy (Elias, 2010). In this case, he also programs and even monitors computer systems that are designed specifically for controlling security access. The Airport Security Coordinator also performs TSAR 1542 compliance inspections and Security Program on top of reporting discrepancies and taking or initaiting corrective mechanisms. He also maintains records relating to security guard supplies and services. Furthermore, he reviews the process of the threat assessments, criminal history background checks, issuance of airport identification and revewing of retention process particularly for regulatory compliance. Airport Security Coordinator also establishes contact with local, state and federal law enforcement organizations and key security staff to establish lines of communication. In this context, he also sets up and maintains records of every action taken in relation to law enforcement. He is also responsible for conducting briefings, training sessions as well as presentations for tenants and management staff on revisions made to the ASP. In this regard, he specifically works with tenants in solving problems and coordinating security issues relating to airport security. The Federal Security Director (FSD) FSD is mandated with the responsibility of offering security directions on behalf of the federal government and is usually at airports that are perceived to have few checkpoints, a small workforce, as well as those that are directly involved or directly connected to the national interest. When it comes to TSA security matters, the FSD is responsible for providing necessary leadership and coordination. In short, these roles and associated authority comprise tactical planning, implementation, and operating management specifically for coordinated security matters. Airport adminstration The airport administration comprises of team that en sures the smooth, safe as well as consistent operation of airports (Price & Forrest, 2013). They also interface with appropriate local and federal agencies in relation to the airport security in addition to direct the daily operations in airports. In short, the airport administration is an independent entity that is responsible for carrying out daily operations and oversight of airports particularly in the context of security. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) The TSA is an organization of the United States Homeland Security department that oversees the security particularly of the traveling public in the country (Poole, 2006). The organization is also charged with developing regulations to protect United States transportation, particularly when it comes to the security of airports in addition to preventing the hijacking of aircrafts. In general, the TSA is manaded or responsible for passenger checking and screening at over 450 United Sttaes airports. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) The FAA is the national aviation authority of the USA. It falls under the transportation department and has exclusive authority to regulate and even oversee virtually all aspects of civil aviation in the US. In short, the FAA ensures the safety of passengers by not only regulating or controlling the air transportation industry, but also

Self Identity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Self Identity - Essay Example It is an important aspect of the educational system to avoid breeding racial injustices into the newer generations so that a better balanced world can be expected in the near future. However, as a person steps into adolescence, one tends to become more aware about their heritage and racial background. It is essential that people are led the right way at this particular stage so that racial equality can be established. Race has been defined as â€Å"a sub-group of people possessing a definite combination of physical characteristics, of genetic origin, the combination of which to varying degrees distinguishes the sub-group from other sub-groups of mankind† (Casas 3). Hence any group of people that can be differentiated from another group of people on the basis of certain characteristics are said to belong to a specific race. These common characteristics are established more on a physical note than mental. Numerous materials and models are available online that help in racial identity development. The concept of self-identity is more often complicated and may include a combination of identities instead of a single identity. The self-identity generally encompasses three fields; the gender, the racial background and the sexual orientation. Biologically, I am a fit male in my early twenties. I recognize myself as an African American since I can trace back my origins to Liberia, Africa. I possess a distinctively dark skin color characteristic of African Blacks. I have lived a major part of my life in America, with my ancestral linage consisting of African Americans. Several of my distant relatives still reside in my homeland Africa. I do not feel ashamed to belong to the African American nation, and I am fully aware of my enslaved past. However, today, the scenario regarding â€Å"color† discrimination is very different from what it was before the Civil War. There are three traditional models of racial/cultural identity development; (Cass, 1979), (Cross, 1971) and

Flayton Electronics Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Flayton Electronics - Case Study Example While some hackers will do it for fun and for exploration, others are malicious people who will defraud companies of substantial amounts of money. This paper examines crucial steps that a Flatyton Electronics Company can take after their data is stolen, how it can communicate with its customers, and ways to curb this in future. Flayton has an obligation to protect its customer’s private data. For the last 25 years, Flayton has build a big business from trust customers has on the company. Regular customers pay their bills using credit cards, master cards and other bankcards. According to federal trade commission website (FTC) it is impossible to be in business and not hold personal identifying information. Such information includes credit card numbers, names and addresses, business partners, and other account numbers (â€Å"FTC,† N.d). There is an implied obligation of confidentiality to the stores and their staff. It is the duty of the management of a store to make sure that customer’s information does not leak to fraudulent third parties. Therefore, Flayton Electronics’ management had an obligation to make sure that it employs credible employees who will keep customers information confidential. Additionally, it is an obligation of Flayton to make sure that its firewall remains working throughout to avoid hacking incidences. For this particular incidence, Flayton firewall remained down for sometime, which may have contributed to illegal access of customers personal data. All companies dealing with telephone card payments need to comply with all Payment card Industry (PCI) standards. PCI Security Council is not responsible for enforcing compliance but it is upon the company to comply (â€Å"PCI Security Standards† 2011). Customers dealing with Flayton Electronics assume that this company is compliant with PCI standards and thus their personal data is secure. Unfortunately, Flayton Company was only 75% PCI compliant. The communication strategy adopted by the CEO of Flatyton Electronics to inform their customers of the potential security breach will determine its business in the next few years. Brett Flayton needs to be timely in informing the public. Although the compan y has little knowledge of what transpired with the customers credit cards, it is wise to be the first to inform the public. Timely communication will make the company win the public’s trust. The longer Brett stays without informing the customers, the higher the risks of disclosure from another party where he will need to explain reasons for breaching its customers trust. Brett needs to explain to the security agents the reason for going public. He has the right to refuse to remain silent to enhance chances of catching the thieves as the law enforcing officers’ advice. However, the mode of communication adopted should be confidential to give a chance to the authorities to enforce laws on the victims. Brett can hold a meeting with the major customers, explain the latest discovery it has made on the security of cards, and detail any information in their hands now. Any defrauded customers will protect themselves from further frauds as a result. Consequently, it will have t o keep the customers informed on its latest discoveries. Additionally, Brett will have to convince the customers that the current measures the company has adopted will see to it that such an occurrence will not recur in future. Information on when it is safe to start using the cards again will be necessary. Flayton Electronics’ brand was damaged by the security breach. The major core value of this company is to win the trust of customers through effective products and efficient services. Brett, the CEO

The History of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India Research Paper

The History of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India - Research Paper Example Taj Mahal depicts the internal love of Shah Jahan for his second wife Mumtaj Mahal. There are many people, archeologist and historians who feel that Taj Mahal was one of the most famous architectural masterpieces which was the undisputed beauty and a magnificent art of human hands (Tillotson, 2008, p. 1). It is one of the most symmetrically perfect monuments ever built in India and it is the mixture of great beauty, perfection and extreme engineering. It was built during the timeframe of 1631 to 1648, it took almost twenty two years to complete. It was built by the side of Yamuna River and its total area covers the forty two acres or 17 hectares of space (DuTemple, 2003, p. 6). And it took a staggering forty million rupees to complete the Taj Mahal, which was a huge amount of money at that time making the Empire almost bankrupt (Garg, 2009, p. 44). The basic structure was replicated from the Humayuns’s tomb. However, it can never be stated that Taj Mahal is a replica of any ot her tomb; it has its own beauty which can never be replicated. The whole complex and design consist of the Taj Mahal itself, the symmetrical lake, Mahtab Garden, a mosque and a guest house on the east side. It is basically made by bricks but the outer part is of expensive white marble. The main tomb it based on a huge marble platform which is called plinth, the expensive gemstones were used in flowery shapes to give an outstanding beauty to the white body of the marvelous tomb, and the entire complex of Taj Mahal is guarded by the red sand stone (DuTemple, 2003, p. 25). The Taj Mahal is consisting of four major octagons and those were centered by the main central dome. The facade of the central tomb consists of tall architectural constructions; the Quranic calligraphy was exhibited on the walls of the four pillars (Petersen, 1999, p. 275). The most important and the most beautiful part of the Taj Mahal is the enormous white coloured central dome. The main dome was positioned exactly at the center of the architectural phenomenon and it has the height of forty four meter (DuTemple, 2003, p. 43). It should be remembered that the Taj Mahal was not built by one person it was a complex design and it was initiated by many artists. The chief architect was Ustad Ahmed Lahori; his two colleagues were Mir abd al-Karim and the great Makramat Khan (DuTemple, 2003, p. 23). The facade of Taj Mahal got a great central Iwan which has the great Quranic calligraphy (Petersen, 1999, p. 275). The Great Garden of Taj Mahal known as the Mahtab Garden also has a great significance. It was a part of the Moonlight garden which occupied twenty five acres (Deitz, 2011, p. 151). This was the garden mostly visited by the royals in the night. This was meant to be like the garden of heaven and the lake within reflects the beauty of the Taj Mahal, which is another wonder. By 1642, the garden had been finished (DuTemple, 2003, p.64). The garden has a great implication on the beauty of Taj Maha l. The Mahtab Garden was the added beauty to the Taj Mahal with the magnificent aroma of jasmine and other fragrant plants. This architectural beauty also has many stories which reflect both positive and negative impression about the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and also about the Mughal dynasty itself. The beauties are not created to be replicated in many forms. Some people and guides say that Shah Jahan chopped off

Do media in China enjoy more autonomy today Essay

Do media in China enjoy more autonomy today - Essay Example ile in many democracies, in the west, and the press is free to criticize the government without fears of reprisals, this is still a dream to the Chinese media. The CDP (Communist Partys Central Propaganda Department) is the main body charged with the censoring of all information be it on TV print or even the internet. In retrospect, the Chinese press may have enjoyed a degree of freedom in the past, today the communist government is tightening the leash against the media in an attempt to control the information that filers to the public. This is according to observers from both inside and outside China; interviewed by Deutsche Welle Wolfgang BÃ ¼ttner said that freedom of the press has taken a turn for the worse in the recent past (Blau, 2012). Herein, some of the problems that are experienced by the Chinese media (inclusive of online media) are examined with the conclusion entailing a projection of whether the situation is likely to change in the near future. One of the main courses of these increased clampdowns could be the revolutions in Egypt and Syria which were instigated from a social medial platform. The Chinese government fears that its citizens may attempt the same after an online appeal to the Chinese to follow suit (Bennett, 2011). The Chinese constitution requires that any online company should be ready to co-operate with the state in apprehending those who leak state secrets, however, the definition of state secrete is rather vague. Conveniently, this could be any information the government deems a threat to its economy or reputation, whether true or not. In 2010, the government launched its first white paper that requires for everyone using the internet in China, including foreign correspondents should adhere to the laws of China in what is commonly known as media sovereignty (Bennett, 2011). In view of the harsh economic times and the corruption that seems to be etching itself in government circles, the party is aware that the Chinese people might

Comparison of two Historical Buildings in the Greater Los Angeles Research Paper

Comparison of two Historical Buildings in the Greater Los Angeles - Research Paper Example It can be argued that the Forbidden City is the richest of the three classical buildings. It has vertical structural beams resting on raised stone pedestals that frequently rest on wooden piles.   The Thien Hau temple is raised as well though not as high as the Forbidden City. There are also large vertical structural beams as seen in both the Forbidden City and Thien Hau temple.   The vertical beams are made of wood and are set to rest vertically and as a result exert pressure on the ground to gain stability. The Chinese study center is also well founded as it has proven over time. Structural beams  Both the Thien Hau temple and the Forbidden City have large structural timbers which act as primary support of the roof.   Wooden timber is used as load-bearing columns and lateral beams for articulating and framing buildings to support the roofs. The Forbidden City is also outstanding as it is raised very high compared to the others.Structural connections  Ã‚  Timber frames are usually assembled with joinery and doweling alone, hardly ever using glue or nails. It is clear how the types of semi-rigid structural joints are put together when in the interior of the Thien Hau. The joints allow the timber structure to resist bending while under high compression. The long lasting buildings have proven to have structural stability which ensures longer duration. Amazingly, the weight of the timber structures doesn’t pull down the building. This further gives credit to the indigenous system of construction applied.

Do media in China enjoy more autonomy today Essay

Do media in China enjoy more autonomy today - Essay Example ile in many democracies, in the west, and the press is free to criticize the government without fears of reprisals, this is still a dream to the Chinese media. The CDP (Communist Partys Central Propaganda Department) is the main body charged with the censoring of all information be it on TV print or even the internet. In retrospect, the Chinese press may have enjoyed a degree of freedom in the past, today the communist government is tightening the leash against the media in an attempt to control the information that filers to the public. This is according to observers from both inside and outside China; interviewed by Deutsche Welle Wolfgang BÃ ¼ttner said that freedom of the press has taken a turn for the worse in the recent past (Blau, 2012). Herein, some of the problems that are experienced by the Chinese media (inclusive of online media) are examined with the conclusion entailing a projection of whether the situation is likely to change in the near future. One of the main courses of these increased clampdowns could be the revolutions in Egypt and Syria which were instigated from a social medial platform. The Chinese government fears that its citizens may attempt the same after an online appeal to the Chinese to follow suit (Bennett, 2011). The Chinese constitution requires that any online company should be ready to co-operate with the state in apprehending those who leak state secrets, however, the definition of state secrete is rather vague. Conveniently, this could be any information the government deems a threat to its economy or reputation, whether true or not. In 2010, the government launched its first white paper that requires for everyone using the internet in China, including foreign correspondents should adhere to the laws of China in what is commonly known as media sovereignty (Bennett, 2011). In view of the harsh economic times and the corruption that seems to be etching itself in government circles, the party is aware that the Chinese people might

Biodiversity Essay Example for Free

Biodiversity Essay Biodiversity presents occurrence of variety of species and their natural community in which they live. By the definition it is â€Å"The degree of variation of life forms within a given species, ecosystem, biome, or an entire planet. It is a measure of the health of ecosystems and is in part a function of climate.† (Rutherford) Ecosystem is on the other hand, â€Å" community and its abiotic environment†( Rutherford). Biodiversity exists in every ecosystem, weather it is big one, or just ecosystem of one garden, it has the same importance because without it nature loses its ability to perform major functions needed for life on Earth, as it is oxygen production. Trough this investigation, two different ecosystems will be explored and the level of their biodiversity on certain area. Research question â€Å"To what extend is one ecosystem more diverse than other one?† Hypothesis If ecosystem has more number of species and organisms within those species, it will have higher biodiversity. Justification of hypothesis According to formula for Simpson`s diversity index, D = N (N-1) / ÃŽ £ n (n-1), where N is total number of organisms, while n is sum of individuals within a specie, we can see that sum of all individuals and total number of organisms of particular species affect the biodiversity index. Variables Dependent variable Biodiversity of ecosystem. Dependent variable is key of the study and it will be tested on independent and controllable ones. It will be derived from sufficient collection of data and using Simpson`s index. Finally it is going to be presented as number of species in two different ecosystems. Independent variable Size of area of ecosystem tested, which is going to be presented in m2. This variable does not depend on other ones, and I decided to calculate biodiversity on 3 m2 in both ecosystems, making sure that conditions are same for both. Controllable variables: Time, weather conditions. These variables control the biodiversity index which is going to be derived and will be controlled as I will decide at which time am I going to measure number of species in ecosystem. In my case, it will be beginning of June. As well as I am going to make sure that I measure it on optimal temperature, without rain or strong sun. PROCEDURE Material: * Meter * Paper * Pen * Calculator * Thermometer Procedure Plan is the key point of each procedure. As I already found material needed for beginning of my investigation, I have to decide on two different location for measuring. It is going to be meadow and garden around family house. In both locations, area of measurement is going to be 3 m2 and I am going to make sure that during the measurement in both locations, conditions of temperature are approximately the same. As I labeled the area of 3 m2 in meadow, I will count the number of different species living there. In addition, I will count number of organisms of each specie. While doing that, I will see the temperature on the thermometer. The same procedure is going to be repeated in garden. After collecting all the raw data, it is going to be presented through value of biodiversity index.

Louis Vuitton Expansion Strategy

Louis Vuitton Expansion Strategy Operating in 59 countries, Louis Vuitton is the largest global luxury brand in the world. It is a member of the Louis Vuitton Moà «t Hennessy Group and the main business unit of the conglomerate s fashion and leather goods segment. Louis Vuitton has been very successful in selling its famous handbags, shoes, suitcases and other luxury goods and generated revenues of about $ 4 billion in 2004. Louis Vuitton opened the first store in India in 2003 and one year later the second one in Mumbai, both located in luxury hotels. 2. Problem Statement One main goal for Louis Vuitton is to acquire a customer base of one million Indians by 2010. In order to achieve that it is not only important to serve high-net-worth consumers, but it is also crucial to target the so called cocooners. It is therefore a necessary objective to make the new elite aware of the brand and increase their perception of Louis Vuittons exclusivity. Furthermore, super rich are only willing to pay premium prices for those luxury products which clearly distinguish them from lower tiers of the population. In order to reach these the company can choose among three distinct strategies. 3. Alternatives 3.1. Louis Vuitton in Bollywood In this alternative, Louis Vuitton would have Indian movie actors endorsing its products and a product placement in Bollywood movies. The target segment would not only be the Indian super rich society who is already familiar with the brand, but as well the so called cocooners. Since the Bollywood movies are very popular in India, this strategy would result in general brand awareness in the society. For the celebrity endorsement LV could chose Aishwarya Rai and Shahrukh Khan to be the face of Louis Vuitton India. The campaign would comprise posters, billboards and TV commercials with both actors advertising LV products (Exhibit 1). Since Bollywood actors are perceived as role models and have a great influence in Indian society, it is expected that brand awareness will increase while reinforcing the image of Louis Vuitton as a luxury and lifestyle brand. In addition, Louis Vuitton will have its products placed in Indian movies, which depict wealthy and influential characters. This would include as well the characters shopping at the LV store in the new Emporio luxury mall in order to advertise the store itself. Another positive effect would be increasing LVs market share in the long run. Advertising through Bollywood could help develop the taste of luxury and lifestyle in the so called cocooner segment. 3.2. LV Exclusive Another alternative Louis Vuitton could approach would be to offer a special club card with mould-breaking exclusivity. This special club card would be divided into 3 different levels, the LV Exclusive Silver Card (Exhibit 2), LV Exclusive Gold Card (Exhibit 3) and LV Exclusive Platinum Card (Exhibit 4), based on the amount of money the customer spent. The LV Exclusive Club Card provides the customer with exclusive, high-end services and luxury rewards. After the first purchase of a Louis Vuitton item in one of its Indian stores, customers will receive a basic customer card in order to keep track of the sum of money they spent. The targeted segment for this strategy would be the super rich, who seek exclusivity and are already familiar with the brand. This strategy would certainly increase the brand loyalty of the high-class society because of the unique offers provided by the LV Exclusive Club Card. Additionally, Louis Vuitton will be able to track customer buying patterns and obtain key information about buying behavior through this special club card, which allows them to tailor their products to their customers needs. 3.3. Successful Indian Women Another alternative for the company could be that it focuses on a certain segment in particular the women, who represent a vital part of LV s customers. They are becoming more emancipated and as a powerful group have to be taken into consideration. Indian women need a role model to inspire them, so if Louis Vuitton shows them a successful woman wearing one of its products, the outcome would be inspired women, desiring to possess a LV item. Using such an approach they will target not only a segment consisting of individuals divided by their net income, but strong women that need to give utterance to their achievements. In order to increase the brand awareness among this certain segment, the company should invest in advertising its products. The best place would be an elite specified magazine, dealing with business and social issues, for example India Today, Entrepreneurs, The Business Enterprise and à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¾ Reading Hour . The emphasis should be laid on the one side on a picture of a well-known woman like Indira Nooyi (Exhibit 5), CFO and president of PepsiCo, depicting a typical role model. She will represent the thousands of women in the Indian society who have silently overcome the limitations and stood out for better terms. Billboards and ads in online issues of established feminine magazines would support the idea of women power and that in a world ruled by men, women still can be successful and exclusive. As a result, this strategy will help Louis Vuitton to increase brand awareness among all the Indian women and extend its customer database. 4. Issues 4.1. To what extent will Louis Vuittons marketing activities affect customer awareness in India? Louis Vuitton s targeted Indian customer segment requires a different strategy then the ones used by the company throughout the world. The three proposed alternatives provide different approaches as to how Louis Vuitton can service its new generation of customers. Louis Vuitton in Bollywood targets both high-net-worth individuals and the rising cocooners because of the popularity of the Bollywood industry in India. This strategy, however, implies high advertising resources in order to be able to reach the desired segment through product placement and celebrity endorsement. The LV Exclusive club card targets mainly the high net-worth individuals by offering high-end services which increase the shopping-experiences of the customers. While the number of high-net-worth individuals increases by 19.3% a year, according to the World Wealth Report, it is questionable if this customer segment only will be sufficient for Louis Vuitton to reach the target of a one-million customer base by 2010. The third alternative is about targeting successful women. Concentrating on this segment would target both women from the high-net-worth individuals and the cocooners segment. The main disadvantage is to define how many Indian women are ready to break the cultura l boundaries of the paternalistic family structures that still rule in this country. What is the impact of of Louis Vuittons marketing activities on their brand image in India? According to the purchasing behavior of India s high class, consumers are expecting a brand that stands for exclusivity and provides the owner of a Louis Vuitton product with a powerful status symbol. Working closely with the Bollywood industry through product placement and celebrity endorsement will have a high magnitude on increasing customer awareness. While Bollywood celebrities are seen as part of the high class, Louis Vuitton may need to maintain a close look in what movies they will place their products in order to minimize the risk of a brand association with a common product. The LV Exclusive club card system could increase loyalty among already existing customers, offering the brand image a crà ¨me de la crà ¨me status thus underlining the exclusivity of Louis Vuitton items. Last but not least, by tailoring their advertising on women only will associate the brand with a women s product, so Louis Vuitton products for men (i.e. dress shoes, suits, shirts) may suffer. Since India is a collectivist country, women usually buy clothes for the entire family, so the effect of the brand image being associated with a women s brand will be minimal. 4.3. Will LV face a social-status conflict (conflict of interest) by targeting two different customer segments (i.e. HNW individuals and cocooners)? Through the means of LV Exclusive Cards Louis Vuitton is trying to gain loyalty among super rich Indian customers. However, LV must consider the growing product awareness of the cocooners who are not the target group of the Exclusive Cards but will be of fast growing importance as customers. As positive as new customers are in general this also bears the risk of a conflict between the super rich and the cocooners who are much greater in numbers. HNW consumers may start to perceive LV as a rather common brand and switch to different luxury products as cocooners step up the social hierarchy. Furthermore, the second alternative Louis Vuitton in Bollywood could also result in a conflict between those two segments. If the products popularity increases this may have a negative impact on the buying behavior of the HNW consumers. This would go along with the above-mentioned decrease in exclusivity. Finally, women may be an interesting target group as stated in third alternative but conflict s may also occur between the HNW women who may be coming from rich families and the self-made emancipated cocooner woman. These very different types of women will require different endorsing role models which may are perceived negatively by each other group. How long will Louis Vuitton maintain a competitive advantage considering the proposed alternatives? Louis Vuittons advance on the Indian market will not remain unseen by the competition. Other luxury goods producers could benchmark Louis Vuittons approaches. Companies such as Gucci, Prada and Giorgio Armani could easily copy LVs Bollywood strategy as well as the alternative for attracting Indian women. It might be more challenging though to imitate LVs Exclusive Cards approach successfully because Indian high-net-worth costumers will already be loyal to Louis Vuitton in the ideal case and will not be looking for substitutes or additional luxury products in the same segment. 5. Conclusion All in all, while it may require more advertising resources than for example targeting emancipated women via print media, Louis Vuitton in Bollywood proves to reach the highest number of consumers, underlines the brand s exclusivity, and the company will be able to increase its market share in the long run. First, with the Bollywood industry booming in India, Louis Vuitton can reach a wide array of consumers and thus increase the overall customer awareness of Indians. Second, by using celebrity endorsement and selective product placement in movies, the company will be able to clearly communicate a brand image that advocates its exclusivity thus offering its potential customers a means to showcase their success. Last but not least, Louis Vuitton can educate the nouveau riche towards choosing their brand, which will considerably increase their market share in the long run. It is therefore highly recommended that Louis Vuitton in Bollywood is the most appropriate and effective promotion campaign to reach and nurture the emerging new generation of customers in India.

Art Trends In The 1920s :: Art

Art Trends In The 1920's The art of the 20th century contained many elements previous styles that had begun in the late 19th century. The Impressionists had abandoned the appearance of nature to concentrate on color and its relation to the quality of light. (Collier's Encyclopedia, 745) This was then abandoned for a kind expressionism, a personal and subjective style created. A number of outstanding 20th century artists working outside the many movements of art created works of great individuality. (Collier's Encyclopedia, 745) Some major trends of the art in the 1920's were Impressionism, Art Deco, Cubism, Abstract Art, and Realism. Impressionism is the movement in painting and music. The impressionist movement is often considered to mark the beginning of the modern period in art. The primary object is to achieve a spontaneous, undetailed rendering of the world through careful representation of the effect of natural light on objects. ("Impressionism", Encarta) Art Deco, was used primarily in furniture, jewelry, textiles, and interior decoration. Art Deco grew out of a conscious effort to simplify the elaborate of the century, Art Nouveau. Art Deco became more geometric and linear as objects increasingly massed produced. Art Deco was a style of decorative are and architecture that was popular in the 1920's. ("Art Deco", Encarta) Cubism, a movement in modern art, especially painting, that was primarily concerned with abstract forms rather than lifelike representation. ("Cubism", Encarta) Abstract Art, is art that uses forms having no direct reference to external or perceived reality. ("Abstract Art", Encarta) Realism, in art is an attempt to describe human behavior and surroundings or to represent figures and objects exactly as they appear in life. ("Realism", Encarta) There were many types of art in the 1920's, but the main ones were Impressionism, Art Deco, Cubism, Abstract Art, and Realism.

Redhook Brewery Essay -- essays research papers

Introduction The distribution alliance Redhook formed with Anheuser-Bush in 1994 was to run for 20 years, but could be terminated after 10 years under certain conditions. Under the alliance, A.B. invested in Redhook and gained a 25% stake in the company’s equity, and made its nationwide networks of 700 wholesale distributors. Redhook retained full control over production and marketing. Distributors who participated in the alliance were to be given exclusive distributing rights in their territories. Redhook believed they could gain acceptance and much greater exposure with this alliance with Anheuser-Bush, but the alliance was viewed controversial be many. Strengths and Weaknesses Regarding strengths and weakness, we found that one of Redhook’s weaknesses was that management wanted to make it too big in the craft beer industry too fast. For instance, once Redhook started making a profit they replaced the first brewery with a larger capacity with state of the art equipment. Redhook also has a problem regarding the structure of the industry and the quality of the company’s management team. Another weakness for Redhook was the age group that was buying their craft beer. One of Redhook’s strengths was that they had an agreement with one of the biggest beer distributor Anheuser-Busch to distribute their product. However, one could probably turn that into a weakness for Redhook as Anheuser-Busch may not promote Redhook’s product as well as their own. The table below shows the strengths and weaknesses of Redhook. Strengths Major source of revenue and profit  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Craft Beer Market share of the company  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  4.7% Strong company brands  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Blonde ale Marketing and advertising effective  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Yes. Articulate plans in place Major focus of the company  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Production to produce high quality beer Skilled workers  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Trained, educated and prepared Stock price track record  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Varies. Down now Technology efficient  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Company has embraced technology Company proactive about change  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Yes. Company proven change can work International trade  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Company goal is to compete in the international market Weaknesses Competitiveness ... ...ours Community Gatherings Marketing on Site Price Discounting Company owned Pubs Visitor Tours Homepage provided classes on brewing Open office of collegiality and collaboration part of office culture Human Resources: Objectives Production of high quality craft beer Control of production in company owned business Operation of regional brewing facilities Production economics through technologically advanced equipment Strategic distribution alliance with Anheuser-Busch Promotion of production within local markets Goals Continued market development and penetration in East Addressing short fall of growth in West Growth in International Market Conclusion Although Anheuser-Busch governs the brewery industry top management also sought to dominate the craft beer market. Their endeavors were rewarded when Red Hook beer sold company stock to Busch. This mutual agreement was beneficial to Red Hook because it offered opportunities for them to serve a larger customer base, increased their distribution suppliers and provided additional brewery locations. Anheuser-Busch attacked the evolution of microbreweries with â€Å"gusto† therefore, forever shaping the revolution of craft beer makers.

Pathophysiology of Asthma – Essay

Exam Case Scenario Pathophysiology of Asthma Asthma is a chronic lung disease characterized by episodes in which the bronchioles constrict due to oversensitivity. In asthma, the airways (bronchioles) constrict making it difficult to get air in or out of the lungs. Breathlessness is the main symptom. The bronchi and bronchioles become inflamed and constricted. Asthmatics usually react to triggers. Triggers are substances and situations that would not normally trouble an asthma free person. Asthma is either extrinsic or intrinsic.Extrinsic is when the inflammation in the airway is a result of hypersensitivity reactions associated with allergy (food or pollen). Intrinsic asthma is linked to hyper responsive reactions to other forms of stimuli like infection. Or they can have a combination of both. The bronchi and bronchioles contain smooth muscle and are lined with mucus-secreting glands (goblet cells) and ciliated cells (push the mucus towards the throat). Next to the airways blood sup ply there are lots of mast cells.Once they become stimulated the mast cells release a number of cytokines (chemical messengers), which cause physiological changes to the lining of the bronchi and bronchioles. Three such protein cytokines are histamine, kinins and prostaglandins (leukotrienes) which cause smooth muscle contraction, increased mucus production and capillary permeability. The airways soon narrow and become flooded with mucus and fluid leaking from the blood vessels. Airflow becomes obstructed resulting in a wheeze.As the airways become obstructed the patient will become fatigue and their respiratory effort becomes weak and inadequate causing hypoxaemia and hypercapnia. Airway – Assess the airway. If the patient is talking this means they have a patent (clear) airway therefore they are breathing and have brain perfusion. Look and listen for signs of airway obstruction. A partial obstruction is often noisy, and in complete airway obstruction there are no breath sou nds. Maintain and monitor the airway and report any changes. If the airway does become compromised suction or sit the patient up.If the patient’s level of conscious has altered carry out the head tilt and chin lift. If you have had airway management training insert an oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway. Breathing – Count the respiratory rate over 1 minute. The normal range is between 14 – 20 resps per min. A high respiratory rate (tachypnoea) indicates that the patient is unwell and that the patient is struggling to breath. Evaluate the rate, rhythm and depth of the breathing. Make sure the patient’s chest is moving equally on both sides (symmetrical), if not this could indicate a pneumothorax.Observe to see if the patient is using his or hers accessory muscle to breath (if the patient feels they are having difficulty getting enough oxygen, their body begins to clench these muscles every time they breath in an attempt to acquire more air) as this coul d be a sign of respiratory distress. Monitor the peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) using a pulse oximeter. A low SpO2 reading can indicate that the patient is in respiratory distress. Give oxygen as prescribed using a venturi mask. Check the colour of the patient’s lips and tongue, central cyanosis indicates lack of oxygen to the skin.Listen to the patients breathing, breath sounds are normally quite. Any abnormal sounds such as wheezing suggest that there could be a fluid build up in the lungs. Circulation – Palpate the radial pulse, assessing for the rate, quality and rhythm. The normal range for this is between 60-100 beats per min. An elevated pulse rate can be due to the patient being in pain, anxiety or a sign of an infection. Take the patient’s blood pressure and insure that this is within the normal range (100/60 – 140/90 mmHg). Look at the patient’s colour in their hands and fingers, and check if the patient feels warm or cool.Measure th e capillary refill time (CRT). Apply pressure to a fingertip, held at a level of the heart, for 5 seconds so that the skin becomes blanched and then release. Measure how long it takes for the colour to return. The normal capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds, anything over indicates reduced skin perfusion. Ask the patient if they have any chest pain, if so begin a ECG monitoring. Take the patients temperature. The normal range for this is 36-37. 5 degrees Celsius. A high temperature can be a sign of infection.The doctor may also like to re-take the patient’s Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) because previous results showed respiratory acidosis. Disability – Assessment of disability involves evaluating the patient’s central nervous system function. Assess the patient’s level of consciousness using the AVPU scale. Talk to the patient if they are alert and talking they are classified as A. If the patient is not fully awake establish whether they respond to the sound of your voice (opening their eyes, making any sounds) if they do they are classified as V.If the patient does not respond to voice administer a painful stimulus (gently rubbing the sternum bone). If they respond they are a P on the AVPU scale. And finally if they do not respond to any of the above they are a U, you should then move onto the more detailed Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). You will assess the patient’s pupils (eyes) and motor responses (arms and legs) among other things to give the patient a score out of 15 (15 being the highest). A GCS of fewer than 8 is a medical emergency and you would then have to go back to assessing the patient’s airway.Exposure – It may be necessary to undress the patient, taking care to maintain their dignity at all time, in order to undertake a thorough head to toe check, looking out for any signs of DVT, sores or rashes. Always gain consent before any procedure so always keep the patient informed of what it is you are doi ng. Reassure the patient to reduce anxiety and try to make them as comfortable as possible. Ask the patient if they are in any pain and get the doctor to prescribe an appropriate analgesia.If the doctor has prescribed the patient antibiotics ensure that blood cultures are done prior to giving the patient their antibiotics, this will give an accurate result from the lab. Give the patient any other due medication making sure to ask if they have any known allergies. Regular peak flows should be done on the patient pre and post medication, this will tell us if the medication being given to the patient is working or not. Spirometry test will show how well the patient breathes in and out and it is also used to monitor the severity of some lung conditions, and their response to treatment.Take a mid stream urine sample from the patient and dip stick, depending on the results send down to the lab. The doctor might also want a chest x ray from the patient. Complete all the relevant risk asses sment such as the Waterlow score (patients are classified according to their risk of developing a pressure sore), the MUST score (screening tool to identify adults who are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition), falls risk assessment (what the chances are of the patient falling) and Moving and Handling (if the nurses are required to use any equipment on the patient).And the patient’s hygiene needs must be assessed and if necessary an appropriate nursing plan must be put into place. Start the patient on a fluid chart, making sure to write down any IV fluids that they have. The cannula site must be checked and the patient must have a VIP score to make sure there are no signs of phlebitis. A sputum sample must also be collected and sent to the lab. Carry out a blood glucose test to ensure that the patient’s blood glucose levels are within normal ranges (4-7 mmol/l). A referral should be made to the respiratory nurse who will provide support to patients who suffer from c hronic respiratory diseases.Give patient advice to avoid any triggers that they are aware of, advice on medication and if relevant give advice on smoking cessation. Symbicort combination inhaler containing budesonide and formoterol Inhalers are used to deliver drugs to relieve or prevent the symptoms of asthma. Budesonide – Corticosteroid drug used in an inhaler to prevent attacks of asthma but will not stop an existing attack. Budesonide is used by patients whose asthma is not controlled by bronchodilators alone. Budesonide controls symptoms by reducing inflammation in the swollen inner layers of the airways.By suppressing airway inflammation they reduce the swelling (oedema) inside the bronchioles. There are fewer side effects to the drug when inhaled because it is absorbed by the body in much smaller quantities than when it is taken orally. Budesonide is usually taken twice a day and normally lasts between 12 to 24 hours. Asthma prevention is the condition for which prolon ged use may be required. There may be a small risk of glaucoma, cataracts, and effects on bone with high doses inhaled for a prolonged period.Side effects include a cough, sore throat Formoterol – Bronchodilator’s are prescribed to widen the bronchioles and improve breathing. Bronchodilator drugs act by relaxing the muscles surrounding the bronchioles. Formoterol is from the sympathomimetic group which is mainly used for the rapid relief of breathlessness. Sympathomimetic drugs interfere with nerve signals passed to the muscle through the autonomic nervous system. Because sympathomimetic drugs stimulate a branch of the autonomic nervous system that controls the heart rate, the patient may sometimes feel palpitations or trembling.People with heart problems, high blood pressure or an overactive thyroid gland will have to be extra cautious. Salbutamol inhaler/nebuliser Salbutamol is a sympathomimetic bronchodilator that relaxes the muscle surrounding the bronchioles. It i s used to relieve symptoms of asthma. Inhalation is considered more effective because the drug is delivered directly to the bronchioles, thus giving rapid relief, allowing smaller doses and causing fewer side effects. Compared to some similar drugs it has little stimulant effect on the heart rate and blood pressure, making it safer for people with heart problems.Salbutamol is usually taken 1-2 inhalations 3-4 times a day, usually starts working within 5-15 min and can last up to 6 hours. The most common side effect of salbutamol is fine tremor of the hands also anxiety, tension and restlessness may occur. Prednisolone A powerful corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress allergic reactions and immune system activity. Corticosteroid drugs reduce inflammation by blocking the action of chemicals called prostaglandins that are responsible for triggering the inflammatory response.These drugs also temporarily depress the immune system by reducing the activity of certain types of white blood cell. Because corticosteroids suppress the immune system, they increase susceptibility to infection. They also suppress symptoms of infectious disease. IV Hydrocortisone Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid used in the treatment of a variety of allergic and inflammatory conditions. Hydrocortisone is chemically identical to the hormone cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands. Prolonged high dosage may cause diabetes, glaucoma, fragile bones and thin skin.Aminophylline Aminophylline is a bronchodilator used to treat bronchospasm (constriction of the air passages) in patients suffering from asthma. It can be used to treat acute attacks. Slow-release formulations of the drugs produce beneficial effects lasting for up to 12 hours, they are also useful taken at night to prevent night-time asthma and early morning wheezing. Side effects are headaches and nausea. Smoking and alcohol increase excretion of xanthines from the body, reducing their effects.