America's Involvement in WWI Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

America's Involvement in WWI - Research Paper Example Nevertheless, WWI became a focal point in American history because it gave an opportunity for America to assert its dominance as a foreign power and give rise to social reforms. America entered WWI for array of reasons. First and foremost, Americans wanted to abandon the policy of isolationism. The domestic issues that plagued American enticed Americans to take as a lead as a huge superpower. Secondly, the sinking of Lusitania was a huge focal point as it carried American soldiers and ammunition. It is crucial to understand that even prior to entering the war, the US was supplying aid to allies. Although it called itself neutral, it clearly was not. The icing was "discovery" of the Zimmerman Telegram, which threatened the USA> At this point, Germany’s conquest of winning the war was too easy to ignore. Thirdly, it was evident that the U.S. had huge economic investments with the British and French. If the Germans continued to impose their will, then they would not be able to pay the U.S. debt back. Another huge reason was the political scheme for the leaders of the US. It was clear that Woodrow Wilson did not want to go to war but also did not want to lose to his counterpart- Teddy Roosevelt. As usual, Roosevelt has been aggressive with the war of Spanish-American war and had no problem for Americans to enter a political issue that needed leadership. When Teddy Roosevelt decided to run for another term, Wilson felt that it was best for him to also enter the country into this war (Micahels 40). Hence, President Wilson wanted to make the world safe for democracy Without a doubt, WWI was turning point in American history because it gave an opportunity to America to display its awesome power. World War was a war that was indisputably fueled by American propaganda by portraying the Axis power as supreme evil. Unmistakably, this was heavy task since so many European descents resided in America. Europe’s condition at this point

Action research project (for non-experienced teacher on English Essay

Action research project (for non-experienced teacher on English Language Teaching (ELT) setting) - Essay Example However, this experience of learning is made more significant and poignant when one is the teacher. This is claimed on the premise that in the context of being the teacher, one is no longer just responsible for the things that one learns for oneself but one becomes responsible for the things that one will share with the class, of how to share it with the class and of engaging the class in the process of learning. And all of these are geared towards the hope that in the end, the aims and goals of the discussion are attained. In acknowledging the multidimensionality of the responsibilities of the teacher plus the personal context and condition from where the teacher is coming from, creates the feeling of nervousness in the teacher. Now it is known. Teachers, too, feel nervous in class (Fives & Buehl, 2010). And addressing this feeling is of primordial importance since teacher anxiety or nervousness affects the learning process both for the teacher and the students (Kaufman, 2003; Fives & Buehl, 2010; Coates & Thoresen, 1976; Mintz, 2007). Being such, looking into this concern is vital if an authentic and holistic learning is to be attained. In recognising the reality of teacher nervousness or anxiety and its effect in the learning process, this paper will be addressing the question: ‘how can teachers overcome nervousness or anxiety in the classroom?’ In order to address the question raised by this paper, the mixed method was utilised. A literature review regarding the subject matter and a qualitative interview were undertaken. For the literature review, the electronic databases Academic Source Complete, Jstor, ERIC, and Primary Research were searched using the combination of the following key terms: teacher anxiety, teacher nervousness, English as a second language, classroom environment, classroom management, learning and language. Articles written only in English and published in

Building Maintenance Management Systems

Building Maintenance Management Systems Building maintenance management just like the Cinderella of construction industry. This is because building maintenance management team has to do various job and bear the function of other parties, namely architects, surveyors, engineers, or facilities managers. Building maintenance management also has never been recognized in its own right (Allen, 1993). There are numerous definitions of building maintenance as it different to different people. According to the Chartered Institute of Building, building maintenance is defined as work conducted to keep, restore or improve every facility, that is every part of a premise, site and its service to an acceptable standard. The accceptable standard is determined by the balance between the need and available resources. While White suggest that maintenace also is similar with controlling the condition of the building so that its feature lies within specific regions (White, 1969). Other definition comes from Bushell and quoting from BS 3811, th at defines maintenance as a combination of any action carry out in order to perpetuate the things in or restore it to an agreed condition (Bushell, 1985). Another more practical definition mentioned by Allen is the combination of all technical and associated administrative actions to pertuate an item or restore it to a condition that it can perform its desired function. Hence, building maintenance is very crucial as it is required since the beginning of the construction period. However, its importance was not recognized (Allen, 1993). Maintenance is needed to ensure the building perform well and the best over its life cycle (Olanrewaju, 2009). A regular and good maintenance of a building may enhance the sustainability of any building either it a heritage or non-heritage building (Arazi, 2010). Lee (1984) has elaborate more that maintenance is also required in order to ensure that buildings are used effectively and economically as possible (Lee, 1984). Meanwhile, according to the inv estopedia, efficiency mean the degree of performance that reflects a process that uses the lowest amount of resources to create the greatest amount of outcomes. Efficiency is an important character as all resources such as time, money and raw materials are scarce. So, it is makes sense to conserve the resources while maintaining an acceptable level of outcomes or a general production level. Efficient also can be simply said as reducing the amount of wasted resources. Therefore, ensuring efficiency in building maintenance practices in this paper means the work undertaken in order to preserve and conserve a building to enhance the value of a building is done with the lowest amount of resources without wasting it. Nevertheless, there are five objectives of building maintenance that are mentioned by Alner and Fellows (1990). The objectives are to ensure that the buildings and their associated services are in a safe condition, to ensure the buildings are suited for use, to ensure that the state of the building fulfill all statutory requirements, to run the maintenance work necessary in order to maintain the value of the building stocks physical asset and also to run the work needed in order to maintain the quality of the building. THE WAYS TO ENSURE EFFICIENCY IN BUILDING MAINTENANCE PRACTICES In order to ensure a building is keep, preserve, restore and improve without wasting all resources, a number of efficient ways can be carried out by the property manager, building maintenance management or any related party. Firstly, the maintenance management team should involve in the design stage of the construction to draw some strategies in order to make sure the efficiency in building maintenance practices over the life cycle of buildings. A number of the design strategies mentioned by Nayanthara (2010) are design for adequate safety, design for maintenance needs, design for the environment, plan for easy maintenance and design for efficient access. Design for adequate safety is the most crucial design strategy for maintainability of buildings. A proper design for the load carrying, joint design and detailing, structures suitability and the piping are able to avoid many failures such as cracking and leaking of the building, therefore can provide the adequate safety againts thos e failures. Design for maintenance needs is also important strategy as it can reduce the maintainability cost in the future. For example in the design stage of the construction, the maintenance team has make the option to use the low-maintenance materials, components and elements in constructing the building. The selection of those materials, components and elements in design stage may lessen the maintenance cost in the future. While, there are two fragments of environment under the design for the environment, that are micro-environment and macro-environment. Micro-environment can be describe through the degree of exposure to the external climate, level and the nature of usage. While macro-environment can be evaluted as location of building and different zones such as industrial, coastal area, urban and rural. The environment aspect should be taken into account while designing the building as Malaysia has tropical climate which is high humidity, uniform temperature and has abundant rainfall throughout the year. Nayanthara also mentioned that in the design stage, the builders team should plan for easy maintenance in the future. This strategy is related to the design for the environment strategy. The builders team should choose the material that is durable in order to less maintenance work and cost, for example, the type of paint for external wall must be weather shield so that it is long last and no need to repaint the building frequently. In addition, design for easy access for maintenance work such as roof and basement can ensure the efficient maintenance work (Nayanthara, 2010). The second way that can be adopted to ensure the efficiency in building maintenance practices is by controlling the quality of construction or workmanship. It is very important to make an assurance of the quality during the construction stage to avoid failures such as cracks, spalling and leakage. Assurance of construction quality could be determined by the consistency of materials in the design stage and construction stage. The builders team must strictly follow the planning during design stage. In addition, the election of good contractors, consultants and efficient workers who have well experience are also essential to assure the quality of the building construction. Quality assurance in the construction stage may help in reducing the failures in the future and hence, the maintenance of buildings will be efficiently done (Nayanthara, 2010). Strategy for maintaining buildings can be split into three strategies namely corrective, preventive and condition-based strategies (R.M.W. Horner, 1997). In ensuring the efficient building maintenance practices, a good strategy for the maintenance work should be properly done by the building maintenance team or else, the cost for maintenance will rise. The most crucial is preventive maintenance schedule. The preventive maintenance schedule must be done after the completion of the building over its life cycles. Preventive maintenance schedule is to preserve the physical of the building and wipe out the corrective maintenance cost. An efficient preventive maintenance schedule includes daily maintenance, weekly maintenance, monthly maintenance, quarterly maintenance, bi-annually maintenance and annually maintenance. Daily maintenance for building such as cleaning the toilets, common areas, ground areas, vacuuming elevators must be done everyday, even more than once a day. Daily or routi ne maintenance is very important among others as it involve major operating expense. Cleaning and housekeeping work must be carefully scheduled and controlled because costs can be easily become excessive (Kyle, 1999). With the existence of preventive maintenance schedules, buildings and equipment in the building will last longer and run more efficiently. Building maintenance team also will be seen as a professional team as they work with the efficient preventive maintenance schedule. The forth way that can be adopted is by using computer-aided system in the building maintenance work. In maintaining buildings, computerized system is very necessary because a lot of information and data such as the completion date of buildings, the contractors and engineer that involved in construction, the financial statement, information of past maintenance work, and etc that need to be recorded, saved and remembered. In addition, property atributes such as basic property information like address, telephone number, person incharge for maintenance , area, number of floor and age; component information like type and model number of boilers and pump; and maintenance information like inspection cycles and painting cycles have to be recorded and saved. Computerized system is much more efficient as it is fast in recording the ample information, retrieving any data needed and capable in analysing the data (Pitt, 1986). If the building maintenance team work manually with the substantial d ata, all the works will be slower and not efficient. Maintenance schedule also can be done by using computerized system, indeed it is more effective and practical for maintenance team. Last but not least, the implemention of Malaysias Building and Common Property Act 2007 is necessary in ensuring the efficiency of building maintenance practices, especially for strata property such as condominium, apartments, gated community developments, flats, commercial buildings like offices, shopping complexes, mixed developments and industrial buildings. Malaysias government provide this act after realizing that there is a lack in Housing Developers Act and the Strata Title Act as well as existence of wide gaps between developers and purchasers, for appropriate maintenance and management of buildings and also common property (Isma, 2011). All this while, there are many problems arise between the developers, purchasers and management corporation (MC) of strata properties. Some of the problems are developers failed to apply for the Strata Title because the management corporation (MC) is unable to be formed. The management corporation (MC) could not be formed due to the committee s of the management corporation (MC) must be solely the owner of the unit and the management of the building is totally managed by them without interfered by the developer, but, the management corporation (MC) can only be formed after one-quarter of the aggregate share unit has been transferred to the owner. The management corporations power to practices their duty is also limited and not effective (Isma, 2011). Other than that, the problem also arise when there are defaulting developers and inefficiency property managers who take advantage and trying to make huge profits by providing lower quality services but charging a high fee to the purchasers (Tiun, 2009). So, to eliminate the problems that are arise before, Joint Management Body (JMB) and Commissioner of Building (COB) is formed under the Malaysias Building and Common Property Act 2007. The Commissioner of Building is created to ensure that all parties play their role effectively. The efficient building maintenance practices coukd be formed by the empowered of Commissioner of Building to issue warrant to those purchaser who does not pay the maintenance charges for six months and it is mandotary to all developers to submit the audited maintenance account yearly to the Commissioner of Building (COB) (Isma, 2011). With the provisions, building maintenance work for strata properties will be more transparent, efficient and no longer developer who take advantage towards purchasers.

John Carlos Story Essay -- Sports

The â€Å"John Carlos Story† is a book about the struggles of growing up black in America at a time when much of the nation was still segregated. John Carlos was a member of the â€Å"Olympic Project for Human Rights.† After winning the bronze medal, John Carlos and a friend and teammate, Tommy Smith, who won the gold medal, raised their fists in opposition of racial inequality and in unity of civil rights. This book shows examples of sociology in everyday life which can be explained through theories and concepts, which centers mainly on the event surrounding their win at the Olympic Games. A seemingly non-emotional, non-verbal, non-violent protest over racism was met with a great deal of negativity at the Olympic Games. Because of the location of their â€Å"protest† over racial inequality, many people did not agree with what they were doing. It was not considered socially acceptable to let their opinion on the matters of race play a part of the â€Å"opinion-free† Olympic Games. Instantly, the audience at the game did not like their way of letting the people know of their beliefs as the crowd went silent. As John Carlos stated in his book, â€Å"There’s something awful about hearing fifty thousand people go silent, like being in the eye of a hurricane. Then, as the national anthem played in full force, the calm before the storm ended and the ‘boos’ started coming down† (Carlos 121). Smith and Carlos were then able to walk off the field but it just got worse, â€Å"the shock was gone and it was officially getting ugly† (Carlos 121). The audience started to yell at them and called them â€Å"anti-American† (Carlos 121). Because of the social setting, people did not understand the purpose of what they were doing or what it had represented. There was ta... ... period of time (1968) in which there was no race cohesion and blacks were not viewed positively by some Americans. Also, the place was likely not the proper location for such a â€Å"demonstration.† Again, people had different reactions and to some, Carlos and Smith were heroes. This can be considered â€Å"labeling theory† which focuses on â€Å"how people define deviance – what is or is not ‘normal’-which is a core issue† (Ballantine/Roberts 175). In the end, those that thought he was a hero were helpful to John Carlos and with his book, society accepts him for his efforts and if there are individuals that still do not, they are the minority in society. Works Cited Ballantine, Jeanne and Roberts, Keith. Our Social World, Introduction to Sociology. Pine Forge Press, 2011. Carlos, John. The John Carlos Story. (With Dave Zirin). Haymarket Books, Chicago, IL 2011.

Directed Writing: Report on Water Pollution Essay

Water is one of human beings most important basic needs. Human can survive without food for couples of days but somehow going without water, human will not survive. Using safe, clean, water is a basic human right. Mother Nature gifts us free water but selfish human beings keeps polluting the water with actions such as chemical leaks, littering into water, disposing industrial waste and also ship waste into the water. Water pollution may affects a lots of things in our daily life. Here in this little village outside the town is one of the victim that suffered a lots of water pollutions. Recently, we received a complaint letter from the villagers that claimed that their daily life is difficult to go on with heavily polluted water supply. We checked out at the village water supply locations and found some shocking discoveries. The rivers are heavily polluted with litters such as plastic bags, bottles, paper cups, straws, unused furniture, and many more rubbishes. The river water is so heavily polluted that the water had turn into brown and discolored. The rubbish that was threw into the river became the major factor that pollute the water. The water supply in the village is not suitable to use, neither drink nor carry out daily tasks. The villagers doesn’t have enough supply of clean water after using the clean water to cook and drink, they needed clean water to carry out daily tasks such as bath, clothes washing, and housework. The dirty water in the village might be the major causes of illness such as diarrhea. The water is not clean and safe enough to drink that maybe the water still carries bacteria or even viruses. Other than that, the clogged drains and water stagnant in the village will provide mosquitoes a perfect environment for its breeding. Some dangerous mosquito species may carry virus that capability to kill a person by just a sting. Mosquitoes such as Aedes carries Dengue virus that maybe causes Dengue Fever. People that have a strong and healthy body maybe survive the sting but those people with weak immunity system may die under the Dengue Fever. Dengue Fever kills at least 20 villagers last year. The selfishness and laziness of the villagers shows their irresponsibility attitude to the village. The villagers will throw the rubbish everywhere especially dump area that closes with water supply. This causes a lots of bacteria breed from the rubbish dump site that formed an unhealthy living environment. These pollutions will also endanger the aquatic living things that live under the water. If these living things were being sold in the market or ate into human body, what harm or diseases will bring to these innocent victims? As a first step to solve the water pollution, the most important thing is the local authorities must take action. The authorities such as government may consider to enforcing laws on water pollution. Local authorities of the village should form a team or committee that control and supervise the water pollution, they can caught and send those who polluter the water to police officers or higher authorities. Once they form a committee, the villagers will not to litter into the river. Whoever litters into the river should be punish heavily either by prisoning, whipping, or fine. After these actions of authorities taken, they people will be aware, not to do it again. Other than that, the government should educate the villagers on the importance of water and ways to dispose unused rubbish or chemical waste correctly. The committee that responsible to the village cleanliness should also provide more rubbish bins and also recycle stations. The government can also launch camp or seminar that related to the important of water and ways to prevent water pollution. Local authorities can try to improve the water supply by launching clean-up activities. The villagers must be responsible to their own village. Hence, the committee should require the villagers to get involve to the clean-up activities for compulsory. Action will be taken to the family that doesn’t involve in the activities. To clean up a heavily polluted river need a long time and a couple lots of procedure for example picking up the floating rubbish, cleaning up the rubbish that sink into the river bed. All this procedure needs really long time to purified a polluted river. â€Å"Teamwork divides the tasks and multiple the success.† If the villagers of the village could be  cooperative and do their job together, it will really speed up the recovery of the river. Besides than the government, the villagers also should give fully co-operations that needed by the village. Every individuals also responsible to their village. Do not throw litter or harmful substances into the river or lakes. Do your part by picking up the litters and throw them in to the rubbish bin. Villagers also should promote the ways to prevent water pollution to relatives and friends so that they can also advocate this concept. In addition, if you saw any villager that litter or polluting the river, should report or contact the appropriate authorities so that they can take actions. Villagers also should avoid of water wastage. Ensure that there are no drips or leakages in the house plumbing. Saving water will ultimately lead to the reduction of water that flows into the sewage treatment. As for daily tasks, use laundry detergents that have low levels of phosphate only as phosphate is a major water pollutant that will heavily affect the water supply when the used water flowed back to the river. As a conclusion, water is essential for us. Thus, we must appreciate it because Mother Nature gifted us with water for free. We show our thankful to Mother Nature by not polluting it and keep it clean at all time. These water will be used by our next generations in near future. Hence, for their health, we should start to maintain these good habits and passing this habits to our next generation.

Challenge of Training Global Workers Education_revised final

Challenge of Training Global Workers: Education Recently, globalization has become more and more common in everyday business and world politics. Different countries can contact each other easily allowing foreign trade to flourish, but, with the ease of communication and travel comes some issues that should be accounted for, for example, before hiring workers from different countries, you need to get to know their individual culture, which in turn would be beneficial in training them.There are too many problems with global workers, as we know, training a global employee requires the company to rely on a mass of vigor, manpower, and financial ability, so it is not easy to do business in foreign countries. In my opinion, the key to success of a company is its workers, even though business strategies are made by the leaders, it is the workers who turn these ideas into products and services. And the quality of products and efficiency of labor are the critical factors are indispensable in the company's prosperity. However, training the higher-qualified workers is not as easy as it appears.Diversity, language, educational background, and religion are all important aspects of international workers that quire not only training, but adjustment to the new country and way of business. The business world has witnessed the globalization of different cultures over the decades. It is inevitable for people from different backgrounds having opposite opinions on the same things. Maybe you tell them they should do it in this way, but they think they can't do it in your way, because it's not allowed in their culture. As a transfer student coming from China, Vive been here for about 2 years.So I know the differences between China and America, such as social structure, collectivism vs.. Individualism, business relations, freedom of speech, etc. As I know, China has a very formal and hierarchical social structure that extends to business, institutional and family life. In my homeland, my education and culture teach people that they must follow elders' advice, even if they make the wrong decision, but in America, they could talk equally and exchange ideas without much consideration for identity and to pick up the one decision that suits them best.With collectivism and individualism in China, people always consider others more than themselves. Before Chinese people cake decisions, they always consider what they can do to satisfy others. In America, people consider themselves more than others. American people prefer to consider what they can do to get the most profit for themselves. Considering freedom of speech, as I said, Chinese people always consider others more, so before they speak, they always think about how should they express themselves to avoid to hurt others. In America, people can express themselves freely.They don't need to consider whether this conversation is suitable or not. So diversity would be a challenge for raining international workers. Secon dly, language is another challenge due to the rising trend of globalization, international companies are more likely to hire workers from developing countries. This results in the difficulties of communication. People need to communicate with others that they can express their idea and exchange them. Sometimes they can combine them to think out a better idea. Also when they communicate, they should notice the way to speak, because most conflicts are caused by lack of communication.The world today is not only globalizes in terms of companies and products, but errors as well, and with that, comes difficulty for managers to see eye-to-eye with their workers when training them. With the vast differences of cultures and levels of education, overseas workers could bring new ideas to the table, or, it could adversely slow development and production for companies. Entirely dependent on the type of industry, an international worker might not be able to comprehend the culture of another count ry that can make or break a product's appeal to the consumers.Creativity and Ability are two entirely different attributes that a worker can have, and it's up to their educational background to determine which will take precedence and will be their strength or weakness. The easiest way to show these differentiation in skill assets is the influences of the American and Chinese education systems on their students. Boiled down, Ghana Ruffian, a Chinese student studying in the U. S. Says â€Å"Back in China I learned about gravity from a Powering slide†¦ That's it. † (2013).China's Education system is less about application and firsthand experience, and more about data and memorization of formulas. Tests and exams replace lab experiments, and codebooks replace classroom discussions. In Mining, director of the Shanghai Education Commission's basic education department, stated at an education convening in Shanghai, â€Å"When American high school students are discussing the l atest models of airplanes, satellites and submarines, China's smartest students are buried in homework and examination papers,†¦ † (2012).In explicitly states the stark difference between American and Chinese education, which to the very educators themselves, know is a problem. In the United States, we imagine high school and university science classrooms as avian 2 or 3 person shared desks, with lab equipment scattering the classroom, from beakers, to Bunsen burners, and even having dissecting tables in a stack in the back of the room. In China the same classroom would have individual desks, and the most colorful object in the room might be a AD molecular model made of toothpicks and colored cotton balls.A student's education is not dependent on the school's department's ideas of what should be taught, but what is tested in the infamous GAO college entrance test. If it is not in the entrance exam, it is not needed in the lassoers, and since lab experiments are not tested , schools in China will not spend money on lab equipment. â€Å"On a 2009 standardized test that drew worldwide attention, students in Shanghai finished first in the sciences among peers from more than 70 countries, while the United States came in 23rd†¦ † (Levin, 2013).Chinese censorship and limitations inversely affect the country's ability to be creative and increasing individual freedom of expression seems to be near impossible. Without political and social restraints, China could slip below that 1st place mark, but in the end, is being #1 truly the best? Having not produced any Nobel Prize winners in the past, is being number one truly the best thing? Without having students think outside the box, China will surely plateau in terms of science and innovation. If a Chinese graduate comes to the U.S. And works for a tech company that relies on innovation and engineering, the manager would find that despite the Chinese worker's high test scores, asking him to come up wi th a new idea would simply be too much. China must foster innovation before it can truly call itself a world leader in technology and science. Chinese students can complete the most difficult math equations ever deemed possible a million times over, but if they cannot simply find new ideas and create new things, then China will go nowhere. Most students in the U. S. Therapeutically think of Chinese students as walking, talking calculators†¦ And sadly they are not far from the truth. Ghana Ruffian's mother explains her reasons for sending her son to high school abroad as â€Å"l didn't want my son to become a book-cramming robot,† (2013) But even with the issue of innovation in Chinese education, why then, are Chinese workers sought after in the Job market? If Chinese workers can't innovate, their next best attribute, thanks to the Chinese education system, is their efficiency and dedication to getting the answer as soon as possible and with as few mistakes as possible.To Chinese workers, the answer is the priority, and the question is Just an obstacle. In America, where questions are encouraged, living here can make a lot of workers become overwhelmed by how many flaws their American counterparts make. So who is truly behind? American workers in China are equally sought after, with the rowing western culture in China and other Asian countries, as such, Americans are just as easily wanted as Chinese workers are in America for their ability to be creative and innovative.Another aspect in the training of international workers that could make or break any good manager-worker relationship that is more far-reaching than culture, but more impacting, is the different in religion. To the business world, profit and production take control of business culture, and a company's workers are expected to understand this. For example, all workers in a company are required to show up for ark, wear clothes according to a dress code, or even come to work on specific d ays.This is extremely touchy in the event that a new international worker might be hired. When considering other cultures, it also requires the consideration of the culture's religion, or else there would be drastic deficiency in training the workers, and you could also inadvertently offend his religion. If a manager is not well educated in world cultures, most workers will overlook this and understand their misconceptions, however it seems that in this day and age, if a manager does not understand elisions beliefs, it tends to be more offensive.If a manager has a new international worker come work on Saturdays, when it is expected that he should know his new worker practices his recognized religion on Saturdays, it could cause some cultural or even legal issues with the company policy. † Overall, the incidence of workplace conflicts and discrimination over religion seems to be a fairly significant issue, (Gibson 2013) Thanks to globalization and business culture becoming more international, cultures can mix easily without too much hesitation, but to say that without talking bout education backgrounds is something to be argued.Is it Chinese culture to study the way they do now? Or will the culture change as soon as the demand for innovation becomes more prevalent in the future? With workplace diversity comes intermixing of ideas, but in the case of western development, it seems that the need for Chinese workers is not strictly for exchanging of ideas, but to increase workplace efficiency and accuracy. If China becomes more open to innovation and creativity, would Chinese workers be less sought after? Reference Bennett, R. (n. D). Difference Between American & Chinese Culture. How.

The Military Sealift Command

The Military Sealift Command Executive Summary The Military Sealift Command or MSC was designed to aid in the logistical and transportation needs of the United States Military, and specifically handles the transportation, supply, and personnel needs of the U.S. Navy and other seafaring vessels in the U.S. military.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Military Sealift Command specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Today, the MSC has three main divisions, including the Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force, the Special Missions Program, and the Prepositioning Program. Each subdivision operates under the jurisdiction of the federal government and employees a variable mixture of civilian mariners and enlisted officers. The purpose of this strategic plan is to further describe the current configuration of MSC, its operational nature, the overall vision and value system, and the foreseeable risks and opportunities in the future. Also, this plan will detail the implem entation of the most effective business strategy for the plan future endeavors as well as briefly outline a basic risk management plan. Based on available information, and a clear assessment of the foreseeable risks and responsibilities into the future, this strategic plan will suggest that the best operational framework in which MSC can operate is within an entrepreneurial system, where certain, logistical and routine needs are meet through the contracting of private entities who meet all the criteria for federal employment and contracting. Through this delegation of responsibility, MSC can more easily handle the more immediate needs of coordinating the logistical and transportation support needed by the U.S. Military and associated research and development vessels. Company Background Prior to 1949, marine transportation was controlled by four separate governmental agencies. However, after the end of World War II, it was determined that a singular entity would be better prepared to handle and supervise the multi-faceted arena of sea transportation and logistical support for the United States Department of Defense. Thus, the Military Sealift Command (MSC) was formed. The MSC has always assumed the responsibility for ocean transportation for the military and other governmental entities.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In modern times, MSC is utilized by the U.S. military and their civilian counterparts for the logistics and transportation of such things as fuel, humanitarian aid, research vessels, and military and civilian maritime personnel around the world. In addition, MSC vessels have also played a vital role in the nation’s fight against terrorism.Nearly 16 billion gallons of fuel as well as 110 million tons of supplies and equipment were delivered by MSC in 2008. In addition, medical vessels operated by MSC have been able to treat thousands of patients worldwide. Organizational Mission The organizational mission of the Military Sealift Command is fivefold: provide quality services to our clients, regardless of their needs, provide quality assistance to help them achieve their short and long term goals, to provide support to the Global War on Terrorism, to develop and maintain a support system for all staff and employees, ensure that our resources, including maritime and personnel are always able to meet the needs of our clients, now and in the future. In order to meet these goals and the changing demands of the maritime environment, the MSC is divided into three main subgroups. These subgroups include the Naval Fleet Auxiliary, the Special Mission Program, and the Prepositioning Program. The organizational structure of each of these sub-groups is described in the following paragraphs. Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force This subdivision of MSC contains more than 40 ships which are used for organizing the supply to the US Navy vessels by sea. The ships deliver such things as food, fuel, ordnance, replacement parts, mail service, and other necessary supplies. This resource allows naval vessels to remain at sea, and to have the ability to respond quickly during times of military or humanitarian need. Moreover, the Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force is also responsible for towing and salvage operations along with medical and rescue services. Individual ships are manned by a crew of civil service mariners, and may contain a small group of naval personnel aboard for operational support. The vessels are also operated under governmental ownership. Special Missions Program This section of MSC operates a total of 25 vessels which provide operational platforms and command vessels for both research and military ventures. Routine missions may include such things as oceanographic surveys, underwater surveillance, as well as hydrological and acoustic surveys, and various other missions involved in wartime support . These services are supplied to such entities as the U.S.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Military Sealift Command specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Fleet Forces Command, the Oceanographer of the Navy, the U.S. Air Force, the Strategic Systems Programs Office of the U.S. Navy, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency to name a few. The majority of ships within this section of MSC are operated by civilian mariners that work for private companies contracted by MSC. Also, some ships are operated by a hybrid crew, consisting of both civilian and military personnel that work under the supervision of a U.S. Navy captain. Prepositioning Program This portion of the MSC aids in the readiness strategy of the United States Military. Prepositioning is the act of placing military equipment and key supplies on designated vessels located in significant locations at sea. This ensures the availability of resources d uring times of increased conflict, war, a humanitarian operation, or other contingency. A total of 32 pre-positioning ships are in use by MSC to support all branches of the U.S. military and coalition allies. The Prepositioning fleet includes vessels owned by the U.S. government, chartered vessels, and ones that have been activated from the Maritime Administration Ready Reserve Force. The private contractors employed by the federal government are responsible for selecting the candidates for the crew of the ships which consist mainly of civilian mariners. Vision The overall vision of the Military Sealift Command is to deliver the most innovative and efficient delivery of resources and solutions within the maritime community (Military Sealift Command organization). Value Statements Above all else, Military Sealift Command values the people that make the realization of its vision and mission a reality. These include the employees, the clients, both military and civilian, and those who are affected by what we do for the military community, here and abroad. MSC also places a high value on maintaining a transparent and quantitative decision making process that is highlighted by professionalism, efficiency, and innovation.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Environmental Scan In order to assess and create an effective strategic plan, it is necessary to conduct an assessment of the external, internal and economic factors that will affect the Military Sealift Command. The following subsections will provide a summation of those factors. External Factors The following factors have been designated as external factors that would have a significant influence on MSC: access to global ports and sea-lanes, poor or inadequate infrastructure development, type of information and communication technology utilized, government regulations and fiscal restraints, and investment in new technology. Access to Global Ports and Sea-Lanes In the changing world of global dynamics, the transportation of materials and personnel to international ports and through international sea-lanes is becoming more crucial. Perceived opponents to the successful transportation of goods and services would undoubtedly try to prevent access to certain global ports and sea-lanes, critically affecting the ability of MSC to provide quality resources and personal to our clients. The freedom of access is crucial to the global economy as it facilitates the movement of both resources, and the natural growth and expansion of free trade. The inability of MSC to travel effectively would mean that that the supported presence of the United States Navy has the potential to be adversely effected in a number of established locations. Infrastructure Development Another significant external factor facing the MSC is the challenge of poorly developed or inadequate infrastructure in areas that the U.S. has shown future interests. The areas in question often lack the transportation and logistical necessities found in most developed areas, including airports, seaports, and established road networks. In addition, many of these areas have poor or inadequate water resources, poor sewer or electricity services. These shortcomings will most likely become a direct hindrance to the de ployment of military personnel and their support personnel by the United States and allied countries in a response to humanitarian necessity. Information Technology and Communications While current information technology and communication systems are important to the success of any military operation, the advancement of technology in this area also has the potential to cause problems for the military as well. Perceived opponents also have the opportunity to gain significant technological advances, including the technology currently being used by the United States military forces. These acquired technologies can then be utilized to attack, disrupt, or even degrade the ability of the U.S. military to communicate effectively. Governmental Regulations and Fiscal Restraints Since the military, and indirectly MSC operate under the supervision and guidance of the United States government, they must adhere to any and all regulations, budgetary restraints, and laws that could directly or ind irectly affect them. Currently, the United States government is having to manage a significant budget deficit which has affected many military operations, and therefore the ability to utilized support companies such as MSC. Investment in New Technology Based on the growing determination of the perceived enemies of the United States to utilize new and innovative technology to win the war on terrorism, it is essential that the United States government in new and remodeled programs, improved platforms. This will ensure the continued dominance of the United States military and their allies on the global stage. Internal Factors In addition to numerous external factors that influence the strategic planning of MSC, there are also a number of internal factors that must be accounted for. These include various strengths and weaknesses that have been revealed by a detailed analysis of the internal environment. A SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis was conducted for Military Sealift Command. It focused on four main areas, including resources, funding, naval-maritime relationships, and workforce. MSC Resources At the current time, MSC operates approximately one hundred and eleven non-combatant civilian-crewed ships worldwide. The MSC also operates approximately fifty military ships that are currently on standby, ready for military use. The headquarters of MSC is located in Washington D.C., and auxiliary branches are located throughout the county. MSC employs approximately 8,000 employees that are comprised of both military and civilian personnel. In addition, another 4,000 civil servants derived from both the United States Marines and federal governments are utilized to strengthen its non-combatant naval auxiliary and special mission ships. Funding There are two major sources of fiscal resourcesfor MSC. These include the transportation working capital and the navy working capital fund. Each funding source is designated for a set of unique purpo ses. The purpose of the Transportation working capital is to finance the operation of sealift services, while the main purpose of the navy working capital fund is to support the naval taskforce, operations, and other military entities. It should be noted that MSC does not obtain funding through its command operations. Operational funding is provided through either a working funds capital, or from invoicing of MSC clients. These are the financial resources utilized by MSC to finance its command operations. MSC is a non-profit making entity, and therefore no profits are built into the budget. Naval-Maritime Relationship According to the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA) of the 1990s, an agreement was reached between the US government and the maritime industry. The purpose is to provide joint planning and assured access for the commercial ships at rates agreed upon in cases of national emergency. VISA allows the United States military to use the offshore transport equipment as well as private ships during emergencies, and in times of war. The treaty also allows the government to provide the maritime industry subsidies, and or contracts that involve the transportation of military equipment in times of peace. This enables the establishment of a relationship between the private firms and military, which can later be used during times of conflict. Workforce MSC’s workforce consists of approximately 9,000 employees worldwide. Approximately 80% of those employees are working at sea. The majority are mariners who are employed through a civil service in their respective federal governmental agencies. Other portions of MSC employees work for private firms as commercial mariners, civil servants, or as members of the reserve military. All MSC ships are operated by civilians, as opposed to naval vessels which are operated by military personnel. While operated by civilians, MSC vessels still may be involved in military operations during times of war or conf lict through the transport of military supplies, and communication equipment. This is accomplished through the use of small military compartments and departments that are specifically designed to facilitate these operations. Strength Analysis Based on the information provided above, MSC strengths include a highly trained workforce and a management system that is focused on both quality and safety considerations. Weakness Analysis Despite its apparent strengths, there are a number of weaknesses that have become apparent in the analysis of MSC. One such weakness is the relatively slow hiring process for new shoreline employees. Another weakness is the scarcity of available resources for use by MSC to support military operations in the forms of force sustainment, delivery of combat equipment, fuel, vehicles, ammunition in times of war and peace. This apparent shortfall of supplies has, unfortunately led to misappropriate use of funding in the past. This misuse is due in part to decisio ns made during mission implementation, where the priorities are not financial, but rather logistical. Another weakness, specific to military personnel is the added performance pressure that is experienced due to high turnover rate and the expectation of high performance and promotions. Often these personnel face the dilemma of choosing between careers and professional interests when they are involved in the decision making process (MSC, 2010). Economic Factors In addition to internal and external factors that the MSC strategic plan has identified, there are also a number of economic constraints that can be considered to have both internal and external components. One such economic influence is the changing use and need for energy resources. Since a larger percentage of fossil fuels are being utilized by emerging countries, these limited resources will most likely become unavailable in the foreseeable future. Therefore, alternative energy sources must be found and developed for use b y the U.S. military and their associated civilian operations (MSC 2010). Strategy Organization The primary objective of strategic planning is to understand how a particular business will be implemented, operated in the future, and how the entity will manage expected risks and new developments. There are a number of available strategies that the MSC could undertake, and one of the best alternatives will be discussed in the following paragraphs. Based on information obtained, the most beneficial strategic organizational structure is that of an entrepreneurial company (Pearce, Robinson, 2004, p 34). This assessment is based on a number of criteria, including the expected enhancement of the effectiveness and efficiency in MSC operations. The extensive amount of business management knowledge that has been made available to entrepreneurial systems will allow for a more seamless operation of administrative functions. In addition to operating under an entrepreneurial model, it is also impor tant for MSC to adopt the use of external resources such as outsourcing services that are designed to meet specific criteria and functional uses. By outsourcing certain routine aspects of their operations, some financial resources may be made available for additional employee benefits, additional research and development, or to provide a more stable financial foundation for future endeavors. Another possibility is to utilize more of the civilian workforce than is currently. In most cases, military personnel demand a higher wage, and more benefits than their comparable civilian counterpart. By using more of the civilian resources available, MSC could potentially reduce its overall cost of doing business. Implementation Plan While developing this implementation plan, one should first identify the major objectives that have to be attained by Military Sealift Command. These objectives are as follows: Establish more productive partnerships with private suppliers; Improve HR management i n the organization, especially when we are speaking about slow hiring process and high turnover of military personnel. Increase the speed of internal operations within the agency; Develop better control mechanisms over the resources. The achievement of these objectives is crucial for the effective functioning of the MSC. However, in order to reach these goals one has to single out a set of specific tasks. They can be presented in this way: Make a call for tender in order to attract private contractors. The private contractors of MSC have to be assessed in terms of their reliability, pricing policies, experience in the field, and ability to collaborate with military agencies. Set more stringent accountability standards for private contractors. One of the key issues, faced by MSC is the inability of this organization to control contractor-operated ships. The thing is that in many cases, MSC has to be twice for the same job (GAO, 1995, p 2). They need to make sure that the prices of contractors are reasonable and that overhaul work is done properly. Purchase or design an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) application that would enable the administration to gain a better control over such areas as human resources, financial reporting, supply chain, etc. Establish a department that would be occupied solely with the recruitment of the civil personnel. As a rule, Military Sealift Command often has to deal with numerous employment agencies, acting as mediators between the employer and the candidate and a result the process of hiring is usually very slow. Therefore, it is advisable to incorporate this agency into the structure of MSC. Review and modify remuneration policies of MSC. It has been mentioned before, the turnover rate in MSC is very high. In part, it can be explained by the fact that the employees are not content with the compensation that they receive for their work or they may be dissatisfied with the way their performance is assessed. It is possible to single out several milestones in this plan: the beginning of tenders and their ending; the design and installation of ERP system; the adoption of new accountability standards. The efficiency of this plan should be measured according to such parameters as the speed of operations, organizational costs, and turnover rate within the company. The administration of MSC has to establish at least workgroups, which would do the following tasks: organization of tenders and assessment of the offerings, made by various private entities; the evaluation of reporting practices within organization and development of new accountability policies; the design of ERP system; recruitment of the civil personnel. Such allocation of human resources seems to be the most appropriate for the needs of MSC. When speaking about the budget estimations, we need to say that it is too early to make them now because at first it is necessary to assess IT needs of the organization. Only on the basis of this assessm ent one would be able to determine what kind of software and hardware is needed by MSC. Besides, one would have to determine the costs of tenders and the costs of creating a new HR department in the organization. Without these data, it is rather difficult to carry out break-even analysis. At this point is rather difficult to set some specific deadline for the implementation of plan. However, we may argue that it will take MSC at least a year and a half to put the plan into execution because tendering process and the development of ERP system are very time-consuming. Overall, the implementation of this plan depends on several success factors: the availability of funding and the willingness of the employees to collaborate with the administration. Risk Management Risk management and contingency planning is defined as the recognition of foreseeable risk, the development of plans to manage those risks, as well as the specific steps that will be taken to minimize the impact from currently unrecognized future risk and problems. The goals of such planning and implementation is to increase the overall prosperity of the company, assess and effectively manage current and future risks, increase the ability of the company personnel to make effective and timely decisions, and to become proactive in managing new situations. Conclusions Based on the current information, and the foreseeable risks and responsibilities in the future, it is believed that the best strategic plan of operation for the MSC is to create a system modeled after entrepreneurial businesses, where coordination is handled by a more centralized administration, and certain routine or other logistical needs of the clients are met through subcontracting qualified private companies. Through this division of labor, it is believed that MSC will be more able to handle the changing risks and operational needs of its clients. Reference List Barney, J. B. (2007). Gaining and sustaining competitive advantage. Upper Sad dle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. Government Accountability Office. (1995). Weak Control and Management of Contractor-operated Ships. Government Accountability Office. Web. Military Sealift Command organization. (n.d.) n.a. Web. Pearce, J., A., Robinson B. (2004) Strategic management: Formulation,  implementation and control. Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill.

buy custom Cancer of the Cervix essay

buy custom Cancer of the Cervix essay Introduction Cervical cancer is the cancerous infection that occurs as a result of abnormal growth of cells on the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that is connected to the upper portion of the birth canal. Cervical cancer is the second most common and fifth most deadly disease in women globally. In 2008 it was approximated that there were roughly 473,000 cases of cervical cancer (Blaustein Kurman, 2002). The annual deaths were at 253,500. This paper explores the pathological events that lead to infection of cervical cancer, its consequences, the related risk factors of the disease, signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Pathological events leading to Cervical Cancer Pathological studies that have been conducted demonstrate that cervical cancer develops as a result of the abnormal growth in the cervical tissue. The main cause of the cancer is the human papilloma virus (HPV). This virus is transmitted from one person to the other through sexual contacts (Shah Rohan, 2004). The vulnerability is increased in women that have early sexual contacts and more than one sexual partner. These often lead to the development of cervical-related lesions that may later grow to become cancerous. The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) exists in various types. However, not all of the viruses cause cervical cancer. On the same note, one can have the HPV for several years without knowledge. However, results of the research conducted on cervical cancer indicate that 70% of cervical cancer globally is caused by HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). This virus can stay in the body and cause cancerous infection several years later. This explains the recommendations of the medical practitioners that women should undertake Pap tests as frequently as possible so that any changes in the cervical cells can be detected and treated before they develop to be cancerous (Blaustein Kurman, 2002). Pap smear remains to be the commonest screening test for cervical cancer. However, confirmation of the diagnosis of the cervical cancer needs a biopsy. This is done through the use of colposcopy (Singer Monaghan, 2000). If not detected and treated early enough, cervical cancer can spread out to the bordering organs like the kidney, the renal tract and the birth canal. The survival rate for women diagnosed with cervical cancer is almost 100% if the precancerous changes in the cervix are detected and treated early. However, the success of treatment of invasive type of cancer is largely dependent on the stage of detection. Thus, the stage at which cervical cancer is screened, detected and treated determines the success and survival of the patient (Shah Rohan, 2004). For the earliest stages of cancer of the cervix, that is 0, 1A, approximately 90% of women are able to prolong their lives by at least five years. The later stages of development of cervical cancer are relatively challenging to effectively deal with. At this stage, only 20% or fewer patients survive (Shah Rohan, 2004). This is the same case with the stage IV of a developed cancer of the cervix. Risk Factors of Cervical Cancer The most common risk factor for getting cervical cancer is sexual activity. The risk is based on the association of cervical cancer with the human papilloma virus (HPV). This virus is transmitted through sexual contact with a person that has contracted it. This is particularly linked to the squamous cell cervical cancers (Shah Rohan, 2004). Therefore women who have multiple sex partners are greatly exposed to the risk of contracting cervical cancer. This risk remains if the women are in sexual relationship with a man who has sexual contacts with other partners (Rosdahl Kowalski, 2008). The cancer of the cervix is common in women who have been celibate throughout their lives. Such women are exposed to the risk of an adenocarcinoma cancer of the endocervix. However, on a general note, all sexually active women are at risk of developing cancer of the cervix (Blaustein Kurman, 2002). The risk of development of the cervical cancer is compounded further by smoking and sexual promiscuity on the part of the woman or her male sexual partner. Lack of regular Pap smear screenings also exposes women to the risk of developing cervical cancer. Those who are commonly diagnosed with cervical cancer are women who have not had regular and consistent screening of cervical cancer through Pap smear test (Shah Rohan, 2004). The risk factor that cervical cancer puts patients to include spread of the disease to other body tissues, organs and cells. For example, as the disease develops, it is growing to affect the neighboring tissues and organs such as the rectum, the lymphatic system, the birth canal, kidneys and even the liver (Shah Rohan, 2004). This can be very fatal for the patient. Cervical cancer puts pregnant women at a great risk of spontaneous miscarriage especially if the cervix is manipulated or biopsied in the first trimester of the pregnancy. In some cases women diagnosed with cervical cancer can be rendered infecund. This happens when the treatment procedures require total pelvic removal. In such cases, the uterus, tubes, ovaries, bladder, colon and the vagina are all removed. Such surgical procedures would thus leave the woman permanently infertile. Of all the risks associated with cervical cancer the most dreaded one is the painful reality that eventually the patient has to succumb to dea th if the disease was not detected early enough and treated. Diagnosis of Cervical Cancer The progress that has been made in diagnosis of cervical cancer is by use of Pap smear. This should be a regular process that involves examination of the pelvis. Cells that are on the surface of the cervix are collected and examined on a slide. In order to diagnose cervical cancer, a biopsy is taken for analysis under a microscope. The biopsy is usually examined by specially trained physician who is experienced in the diagnosis of diseases through examination of body cells and tissues. Shah Rohan (2004) cited that cervical cancer is also diagnosed through colposcopy. This is an examination procedure that involves the use of a special microscope known as colposcope to examine the cervix (Shah Rohan, 2004). For this to be done, the entire cervix is stained with a dye that is not harmful so as to enhance visualization of abnormall cells with clarity. Another method for diagnosis of cervical cancer is the use of the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). This involves the use of an electrified wire that is looped to pick samples of tissue from the cervix. This is often done by a gynecologist. Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer The signs and symptoms of cervical cancer are evident only in the advanced stages of the disease. For women in their post-menopause ages, the clear sign of the disease is the abnormal bleeding (Issah, 2010). In the advanced stages cervical cancer causes abnormal vaginal discharge. Most patients diagnosed with cervical cancer also complain of pelvic pain that is persistent and not related to other normal conditions of menstruation. Issah (2010) writes that pain can range from a dull ache to sharp pains that can be lasting for several hours. In some cases women with cervical cancer may experience abnormal pain during vaginal coitus. Besides, patients diagnosed with the disease often complain of pain during urinal discharge. This is a symptom for advanced cervical cancer. Further, increased frequency of urination and urinary infection can be an indication of a developing cancer. Treatment of Cervical Cancer Cervical cancer may be treated by use of radiation especially in stages where surgery cannot be done. Biopsy and LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure), though diagnostic procedures, can sometimes be used as treatment procedures as well (Rosdahl Kowalski, 2008). These procedures involve examination of a section of the cervical tissue for detection of the disease. This will then inform the practitioner whether the disease needs further examination or the best possible treatment approach that can be adopted. Treatment of cervical cancer can also be done through the use of cryocautery. This treatment procedure uses a steel instrument that is cooled to subzero temperature. This is done through immersion of the instrument in liquid nitrogen (Shalini, Chitrathara Amita, 2012). The intra-cooled instrument is thereafter applied to the cervical surface to freeze cells to the death. Once cells are dead they are sloughed-off and replaced by new cells of cervix. Infected tissues can al so be treated through laser ablation. This involves application of a laser beam to the specific areas of the tissues or its entire surface. This laser destroys the affected cells and leaves healthy cells in their place (Singer Monaghan, 2000; Shalini et al, 2012). However, success of cryocautery or laser ablation depends on followed follow-up examination such as the application of Pap smear. Conclusion The pathology, risk factors, prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer is a medical field that continues to attract scholarly research. However, the progress that has been made in this field indicates that cervical cancer still remains the greatest threat to women who are sexually active. The easiest and commonest screening procedure is the Pap smear. Although much effort has been made to contain the disease, the greatest level of success has been witnessed in protection and not treatment. Much more investigation is thus warranted. Buy custom Cancer of the Cervix essay

Quotes From Great Writers About the Month of April

Quotes From Great Writers About the Month of April April is a month of transition. It arrives when winter has just ended and spring is beginning, symbolizing a period of rebirth. With this roundup of quotes about April, learn how writers from William Shakespeare to Mark Twain viewed this key month of the year. The Nature of April Many poets and writers have focused on the natural beauty present in April- birds singing, rainbows, and the first flowers of spring. A gush of bird-song, a patter of dew, A cloud, and a rainbows warning, Suddenly sunshine and perfect blue- An April day in the morning.  - Harriet Prescott Spofford, April Again the blackbirds sings; the streams / Wake, laughing, from their winter dreams, / And tremble in the April showers / The tassels of the maple flowers.  - John Greenleaf Whittier, The Singer April comes like an idiot, babbling and stewing flowers.  - Edna St. Vincent Millay Now the noisy winds are still; / Aprils coming up the hill! / All the spring is in her train, / Led by shining ranks of rain; / Pit, pat, patter, clatter, / Sudden sun and clatter patter! . . . / All things ready with a will, / Aprils coming up the hill!  - Mary Mapes Dodge, Now the Noisy Winds Are Still Sweet April showers / Do spring May flowers.  - Thomas Tusser When April winds / Grew soft, the maple burst into a flush / Of scarlet flowers. / The tulip tree, high up, / Opened, in airs of June, her multitude / Of golden chalices to humming birds / And silken-wingd insects of the sky.  - William Cullen Bryant, The Fountain A Month of Symbolism For many writers, April symbolizes youth, newness, and promise. However, for some poets (such as T.S. Eliot), April also stirs up memories and prompts reminiscences of the past. April... hath put a spirit of youth in everything.  - William Shakespeare April is the cruelest month, breeding / Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing / Memory and desire, stirring / Dull roots with spring rain.  - T.S. Eliot, The Waste Land April is a promise that May is bound to keep.  - Hal Borland April prepares her green traffic light and the world thinks Go.  - Christopher Morley, John Mistletoe April Showers as Tears   Some poets and writers have described April rains as tears, symbolizing the passing of time and the changing of the seasons. Every tear is answered by a blossom, / Every sigh with songs and laughter blent, / April-blooms upon the breezes toss them. / April knows her own, and is content.- Susan Coolidge (Sarah Chauncey Woolsey), April For April sobs while these are so glad / April weeps while these are so gay,- / Weeps like a tired child who had, / Playing with flowers, lost its way.- Helen Hunt Jackson, Verses- April Old April wanes, and her last dewy morn / Her death-bed steeps in tears; to hail the May / New blooming blossoms neath the sun are born, / And all poor Aprils charms are swept away.  - John Clare, The Last of April Sweet Aprils tears, Dead on the hem of May.  - Alexander Smith, A Life Drama A Period of Joy and Promise For many poets and writers, April symbolizes renewal and rebirth. Our spring has come at last with the soft laughter of April suns and shadow of April showers.  - Byron Caldwell Smith Sweet April-time- O cruel April-time! / Year after year returning, with a brow / Of promise, and red lips with longing paled, / And backward-hidden hands that clutch the joys / Of vanished springs, like flowers.  - Mrs. Craik (Dinah Maria Mulock), April The April winds are magical, / And thrill our tuneful frames; / The garden-walks are passional / To bachelors and dames.  - Ralph Waldo Emerson, April The children with the streamlets sing, / When April stops at last her weeping; / And every happy growing thing / Laughs like a babe just roused from sleeping.  - Lucy Larcom, The Sister Months April 1. This is the day upon which we are reminded of what we are on the other three hundred and sixty-four.The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year.  - Mark Twain The sun was warm but the wind was chill. / You know how it is with an April day. / When the sun is out and the wind is still, / Youre one month on in the middle of May. - Robert Frost, Two Tramps in Mud Time

Online Market for Wedding Registries in Travel and Honeymoon Bookings Essay

Online Market for Wedding Registries in Travel and Honeymoon Bookings - Essay Example In this way, the gift registry is updated accordingly so that other buyers are able to see and track the process of buying gifts. Indeed, online wedding registries have become part and parcel of modern day weddings since they greatly help in the avoidance of duplication of gifts or buying of unnecessary gifts for the bridal couple (Sweeney 55). Wedding registries are normally sent along with the wedding invitation letters. Indeed, the industry has become very competitive as new entrants are offering specialized services which include charity registry and honeymoon registry (Delaney 12). The industry has grown extensively in Europe and the United States due to the fact that most Europeans at some point in their lives will either work or study abroad. In this regard, several guests are normally expected in their weddings (2012). Several merchants have now specialized in travel and honeymoon bookings and are offering plenty of additional and support services in this respect. The industry is effectively growing courtesy of the fact the honeymoons and travels will normally exist in the lives of people (Cross 33). However, it is realized that some people are still not conversant with the idea of wedding registries (Melendez 78). This calls for much advertisement in order to acquaint people with all the information regarding this important industry. Brooks, Chad, and BusinessNewsDaily Contributor. " Web-Based Gift Registries Level the Retail Playing Field | BusinessNewsDaily.com ." Home | BusinessNewsDaily.com . N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2012. . "First and Largest Comprehensive Bridal Registry Study Released by The Knot Market Intelligence | EON: Enhanced Online News." Online Press Release Distribution | EON: Enhanced Online News. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2012.

Various organizational police functions (local, state, federal) Essay

Various organizational police functions (local, state, federal) - Essay Example Local police officers: apprehend violators; preserve peace; prevent crime; enforce the law; protect human life and property; and serve the public (Johnson and Cox III, 2004). According to Shane (2010), the functions above differ from one another hierarchically [roles and powers are assigned to these levels hierarchically]. Federal police agencies enforce particular types of federal laws, state officers enforce state laws, and local police officers operate at the county level. In respect to the foregoing, a federal agent has jurisdiction over the entire country, while a local police agent has his jurisdiction limited to his town, city or county. A state police agent has jurisdiction over an entire state. There is no better solution to the way the present law enforcement system operates at each level because the hierarchical arrangement of the security systems allows for systematic distribution of roles and duties, and thereby helping extirpate confusion and superimposition of roles. Likewise, with this current system, law and order can be effectively and efficiently discharged, since there is flow of hierarchy. For instance, federal agencies such as the FBI can easily apprehend a criminal by acting on reports from state

Financial Crisis in Greece (2010-2013) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Financial Crisis in Greece (2010-2013) - Essay Example Public borrowing was undertaken heavily but grossly underreported leading to a debt-to-GDP ratio much above the 3% target. By 2009-2010 it became clear to investors that Greece would not be able to pay its creditors because of a huge fiscal deficit and government debt. The ongoing global financial crisis worsened the economic outlook for the country and it appeared that the country would default on its loan payments. Causes of the Greek Financial Crisis According to Dellas and Tavlas (2013), one of the main causes of the Greek debt crisis was the absence of an adjusting mechanism between money growth and credit growth. Historically, Greece has been running high public debts compared to its GDP which went largely ignored by foreign investors. As a result, there was little incentive for the country to reduce current and fiscal account deficits. Dellas and Tavlas (2013) explain that part of the reason was the fact that Greece did not use the gold standard and its currency was pegged to the Euro. There was an over-reliance by investing and financing countries on the willingness and enthusiasm by Eurozone core countries including Germany to bailout the Greek economy in case of a debt crisis. Throughout this period, the Greek economy continued to charge low interest rates in order to stimulate investment in the economy. As a result, the public borrowing continued to increase pacing the way for a sovereign debt crisis. In a paper presented at the Bank of Greece workshop, Manessiotis (2011) explains that poor fiscal discipline and lack of competitiveness in the economy were major factors that contributed to the crisis. These aspects of the economy should have received urgent priority following Greece’s entry into the Eurozone. Fiscal deficit ran up to 5.3% of GDP after 2006 whereas the target was 3.0%. Moreover, in 2008 the situation worsened with revenue falling by 1.3% compared to GDP while expenditures exceeded GDP by 1.2%. These problems were further exacerb ated by the international financial crisis that began in 2008. Conditions Imposed by IMF on Greece In 2010, it became nearly certain that Greece could not meet its sovereign debt payments and would inevitably default. The implications for the entire Eurozone region would have been severe. Hence, in May 2010, the Eurozone in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) prepared a bailout package worth â‚ ¬110 billion of which the IMF was to contribute â‚ ¬30 billion to enable Greece to improve its economy and avoid defaulting on its debts (Financial Post, 2013). This bailout package was subject to certain conditions. Mainly, the conditions required Greece to improve its fiscal performance and make the economy more competitive and open. The first condition imposed by the IMF required Greece to implement austerity measures in order to control the fiscal deficit. It was required that Greece reduce its public spending in order to narrow the fiscal deficit. Secondly, the fiscal debt problem was to be controlled by a policy of privatization of public assets. This measure would prevent the government from incurring additional debts to finance public organizations. By the end of 2015, the IMF required â‚ ¬50 billion worth of public assets to be privatized. Finally, the IMF required Greece to implement structural reforms in the economy to make it more business-friendly and competitive. This would stimulate business activity and help to strengthen the economy. However, the conditions have not been met satisfactorily

United States National Security Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

United States National Security - Article Example Policy developers will have to address these energy encounters – but none of them are an interrogation of yes or no, either, do or don’t. As an alternative, how the United States encounter those challenges will need choices-strategy judgments about infrastructure investment, government policy, investigation funding, and even external policy. The American security plan has a strong program scrutinizing how America-and the world-uses and yields energy. It is thought that the way Americans consume energy is unfavorable to their national security, their monetary well-being, and their environs. Without prejudice, we seek solutions. We focus on long-term, strategic sets that will control the well-being of their country until the next century. At this time, the fears for their security areas composite and varied as complex and diverse as extremism, the spread of weapons of mass devastation, climate change, deteriorating states and economic downfall. Many of these national trials will require answers that go beyond military capacity and utilize all the tools at their clearance. The American security mission is prominent in the development of new state security hallucination and strategy that generate a new American store for the twenty-first century that is open to the challenges and changes we face as a nation. The United States encounters many defies around the world that are composite because they are irregular in nature. Uneven challenges are those where the unlike performers and components have not the same welfares and proficiencies, but nonetheless, intermingle compound ways to make policy tremendously difficult.  

Evaluate Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Evaluate - Essay Example Evaluation Rationale The justification behind evaluation in human resource development can be attributed to instructional provision of empirical data that would be helpful in improving the outcome of the training program. Most organizations expect a better overall performance but this is attached to individual productivity. This explains the need for individual focused training that is likely to help trainees realize their unique and diverse potentials. There will be three general levels of evaluation and the first one will be perception. In this level, the recruits or employees will be initiated to develop sense of training environment where instructors use different approaches to express ideas (Piskurich, 2003). In this case, much attention will be shifted to level 2 type of evaluation which constitutes learning. This level of evaluation will be executed through administration of written test to find out the content knowledge of the trainees at the end of the program. In regard to biometric voter registration kits applications, this test may equally include practical requirement that trainees show their newly acquired skills in ease of using the kit, successfully assembling and disassembling it. The tests are taken through review by the human resource team to identify the strengths and weak points of each employee for further actions and improvement strategies. The last part and third part which is performance is critical as it will help the trainers and human resource team identify the pitfalls when the trainees have begun to undertake trials with the kit. The five W’s and H of learning as a critical aspect of training in human resource development and for the use of biometric voter registration kit is presented in the table below. Who What when where why how Perception Administered by electoral body Facilitator Measure recruits perception of the training Immediately after training session In the classroom before they leave the training program Determ ine if the recruits/staff were satisfied with the content and / or the instructor Survey Learning Administered by electoral body Facilitator Measure knowledge and skills learned in using the BVR kit Administered at the end of the training program In the classroom and on the job To ensure that recruits/staff have acquired necessary knowledge to use the kits Hands on test In class practice Performance Administered by electoral body HR Development and Training head. Measure of actual transfer of learning of assembling the BVR kit components, using it to successfully register potential electorate and disassemble after use. After the recruits finish a given stage of training On the orientation phase Determine recruits’ ability to understand and use the Biometric voter registration kit. Observation Supervisor assessment Performance checklist Evaluation Tools Level 1 Training Survey Evaluation Scale: Evaluation Scale (1) Superior (2) Excellent (3) Good (4) Fair (5) Poor The content of the module was practical and useful to my contract I will be able to use the knowledge and skills gained through this training program The content of this activity matched announced objectives The delivery method (handouts, videos and demonstration) were appropriate The instructor was

Regulatory and Economic environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Regulatory and Economic environment - Essay Example Based on the current exchange rate of RMB 8.28 yuan to one U.S. dollar, China is now the sixth largest economy in the world. Based on purchasing-power parity, it is the third largest economy after the United States and Japan. All this has taken place during a relatively short time. In fact, one can argue that true economic reform in China only started in the early 1980s.' - [M.W. LUKE CHAN, WENDY ROTENBERG] The Chinese economic environment had shown rapid progress during 1991-1997, it could be said that China experienced double digit GDP growth. However, from 1997 and so on there were economic crisis, yet, the Chinese GDP continued to grow at a rapid rate of 7.8%. Transparency and good supremacy have been the foundation issues observed in the post-crisis years, both in the circumstance of the 1997 monetary difficulties and the recent series of commercial scandals. This suits the accounting and audit profession where efforts have largely focused on "harmonizing standards" within APEC and ASEAN as well as for greater transparency and disclosure. The Chinese financial catastrophe showed that insufficient accounting practices and lack of transparency in financial information still prevail in the region. Usual accounting may no longer adequately reflect the necessary information from the position of regulatory and internal corporate control. Strengthening of accounting and auditing function to properly manage risks is one major task to make the private sector and government agencies competitive and free from corruption. In an internationalized economy, up-to-date accounting and auditing knowledge and skills are the basic institutional infrastructure for private enterprises as well as government agencies to promote good corporate governance and sound public management. The need for transparent information has been heightened, particularly in the situation of managing risks involved. Main challenges for the DMCs are to develop transparent and sound accounting practices to properly manage and regulate the private sector including banks. An overview of the economic framework in China: The economic system of China is based on the Interbank Lending Market, the negotiable instruments market and the Treasury bond repurchase market. Interbank Lending: A nationwide unified interbank lending computer network was put into operation on a trial basis on January 3, 1996. The interbank lending market was not integrated preceding this date. The establishment of unified interbank market helped in connecting all interbank markets through out the nation. Negotiable Instruments: A negotiable instruments market consists of commercial papers as their main instrument. Commercial paper activity started in China in 1981. Since 1981, commercial paper market developed gradually. The acceptance, rediscount and discount process of commercial paper has become standardized. Commercial bills are also another instrument used in China. It has increased drastically in the past few years. Also, the discount and rediscount maturities have increased rapidly providing the funding needs of the national industry development policies and credit policies to flow. Repurchase Transactions - Open Market Operations: The central bank got involved into the

Evaluate Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Evaluate - Essay Example Evaluation Rationale The justification behind evaluation in human resource development can be attributed to instructional provision of empirical data that would be helpful in improving the outcome of the training program. Most organizations expect a better overall performance but this is attached to individual productivity. This explains the need for individual focused training that is likely to help trainees realize their unique and diverse potentials. There will be three general levels of evaluation and the first one will be perception. In this level, the recruits or employees will be initiated to develop sense of training environment where instructors use different approaches to express ideas (Piskurich, 2003). In this case, much attention will be shifted to level 2 type of evaluation which constitutes learning. This level of evaluation will be executed through administration of written test to find out the content knowledge of the trainees at the end of the program. In regard to biometric voter registration kits applications, this test may equally include practical requirement that trainees show their newly acquired skills in ease of using the kit, successfully assembling and disassembling it. The tests are taken through review by the human resource team to identify the strengths and weak points of each employee for further actions and improvement strategies. The last part and third part which is performance is critical as it will help the trainers and human resource team identify the pitfalls when the trainees have begun to undertake trials with the kit. The five W’s and H of learning as a critical aspect of training in human resource development and for the use of biometric voter registration kit is presented in the table below. Who What when where why how Perception Administered by electoral body Facilitator Measure recruits perception of the training Immediately after training session In the classroom before they leave the training program Determ ine if the recruits/staff were satisfied with the content and / or the instructor Survey Learning Administered by electoral body Facilitator Measure knowledge and skills learned in using the BVR kit Administered at the end of the training program In the classroom and on the job To ensure that recruits/staff have acquired necessary knowledge to use the kits Hands on test In class practice Performance Administered by electoral body HR Development and Training head. Measure of actual transfer of learning of assembling the BVR kit components, using it to successfully register potential electorate and disassemble after use. After the recruits finish a given stage of training On the orientation phase Determine recruits’ ability to understand and use the Biometric voter registration kit. Observation Supervisor assessment Performance checklist Evaluation Tools Level 1 Training Survey Evaluation Scale: Evaluation Scale (1) Superior (2) Excellent (3) Good (4) Fair (5) Poor The content of the module was practical and useful to my contract I will be able to use the knowledge and skills gained through this training program The content of this activity matched announced objectives The delivery method (handouts, videos and demonstration) were appropriate The instructor was

Understanding Business Research Terms and Concepts Essay Example for Free

Understanding Business Research Terms and Concepts Essay Historically, qualitative methodologies have been available much longer some as early as the 19th century as the quantitative tools marketers rely on so heavily. (2014) Donald R. Cooper Quantitative research attempts precise measurement of something. In business research, quantitative methodologies usually measure consumer behavior, knowledge, opinions, or attitudes. Such methodologies answer questions related to how much, how often, how many, when, and who (2014) Donald R. Cooper There are a few methods researchers’ uses to acquire or validate data; The interview is the primary data collection technique for gathering data in qualitative methodologies. Interviews vary based on the number of people involved during the interview, the level of structure, the proximity of the interviewer to the participant, and the number of interviews conducted during the research. The interview can be conducted individually (individual depth interview or IDI) or in groups. (2014) Donald R. Cooper Questionnaires often make use of Checklist and rating scales. These devices help simplify and quantify peoples behaviors and attitudes. A checklist a list of behaviors, characteristics, or other entities that the researcher is looking for. Either the researcher or survey participant simply checks whether each item on the list is observed, present or true or vice versa. A rating scale is more useful when a behavior needs to be evaluated on a continuum. They are also known as Likert scales. (Leedy and Ormrod, 2001) http://people.uwec.edu/ Some strengths of each statistical approach is that they can help to find the studies generalized to the population about which information is required, samples of individuals, communities, or organizations can be selected to ensure that the results will be representative of the population studied. Structural factors that determine how inequalities (such as gender inequalities) are produced can be analyzed, QUANT estimates can be obtained of the magnitude and distribution of impacts, QUANT estimates can be obtai ned of the costs and benefits of interventions. Some weakness of each  statistical is there is often no information on contextual factors to help interpret the results or to explain variations in behavior between households with similar economic and demographic characteristics, administration of a structured questionnaire creates an unnatural situation that may alienate respondents, studies are expensive and time-consuming, and even the preliminary results are usually not available for a long period of time, research methods are inflexible because the instruments cannot be modified once the study begins.(2014) interaction.org When it comes to statistic analysis, there are two classifications: descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. In a nutshell, descriptive statistics intends to describe a big hunk of data with summary charts and tables, but do not attempt to draw conclusions about the population from which the sample was taken. You are simply summarizing the data you have with pretty charts and graphs–kind of like telling someone the key points of the book as opposed to just handing them a thick book. (2012) mymarketresearchmethods Sampling is a shortcut method for investigating a whole population which it gathers data here on a small part of the whole parent population or sampling frame, and used to inform what the whole picture is like Systematic point sampling a grid can be used, and the points can be at the intersections of the grid lines or in the middle of each grid square. Sampling is done at the nearest feasible place. Along a transect line, sampling points for vegetation/pebble data collection could be identified systematically. Systematic line sampling the easting’s or nothings of the grid on a map can be used to identify transect lines, along a beach it could be decided that a transect up the beach will be conducted every 20 metros along the length of the beach Systematic area sampling A ‘pattern of grid squares to be sampled can be identified using a map of the study area. Advantages: It is more straight-forward than random sampling, a grid doesnt necessarily have to be used; sampling just has to be at uniform intervals, good coverage of the study area can be more easily achieved than using random sampling Disadvantages: It is more biased, as not all members or points have an equal chance of being selected; it may, therefore, lead to over or under-representation of a particular pattern In this article, we analyzed a dataset of fraudul ent credit card transactions to uncover patterns in fraudulent transactions and to demonstrate the importance of  focusing on suspicious transactions. We argue that revealed patterns in fraudulent transactions may help financial The ability to combine to combine different research approach across conventional methodological often frustrated. Qualitative and quantitative researchers often operate with a different set of assumptions about the world and ways of learning about it. These assumptions may be seen as mutually and inevitably irreconcilable. Researchers are often taught to master only one type of method and, so, become comfortable with their expertise in handling either quantitative or qualitative analysis, but not both After reading all the material provided I must say that the best and most appropriate research method in my business would be qualitative research because it goes more in depth into the study of the business platform would give me a better and clear picture of the stability and understanding, another approach would be sampling because it gives me different choices of how to find data and make it more accurate . Inferential Article, macromolecular structures calculated from nuclear magnetic resonance data are not fully determined by experimental data but depend on subjective choices in data treatment and parameter settings. This makes it difficult to judge the precision of the structures objectively. We used Bayesian inference to derive a probability distribution that represents the unknown structure and its precision. This probability distribution also determines additional unknowns, such as theory parameters, which previously had to be chosen empirically. We implemented this approach by using Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques. Our method provides an objective figure of merit and improves structural quality. Because conventional structure ensembles depend on user-specific parameter settings and the minimization protocol, it is difficult if not impossible to assign statistically meaningful error bars to atomic coordinates. In contrast, stochastic samples drawn from the joint posterior density p(X, ÃŽ ³, ÏÆ'|D,I) are statistically well defined and can directly be used to calculate estimates of mean values and standard deviations (14). As a special case, we can derive an average structure with atomise error bars and are thus able to define an objective figure of merit for NMR structures (2014) Inferential Structure Determination Descriptive article Walking is second only to private cars as the most common means by which individuals get from place to place in the USA and Europe. The speed at which individuals walk is relevant to their  functioning in the community, mortality of older adults, incident ischemic stroke among postmenopausal women, and incident dementia among older adults, this study does have several limitations. First, it is not comprehensive. Although four databases were used to find relevant literature, the final search was up to the end of 2008. Between that time and the present, relevant articles other than the two identified through hand searches may have been published. Of the relevant articles identified, some did not provide data in a manner that enabled inclusion Reference (2014) Donald R. Cooper Business Research Methods 12e Entire eBook http://www.mymarketresearchmethods.com/descriptive-inferential-statistics-difference/ http://people.uwec.edu/ http://people.uwec.edu/ http://www.rgs.org/OurWork/Schools/Fieldwork+and+local+learning/Fieldwork+techniques/Sampling+techniques.htm http://gbr.sagepub.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/content/14/3/373 http://www.interaction.org/annex-1-strengths-and-weaknesses-quant-evaluation-approaches http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/docview/213604856?pq-origsite=summon