Banking Regulations And The Current Financial Crisis Essay

Banking Regulations And The Current Financial Crisis - Essay Example Thus we can say that even a stable banking system with all proper regulations in place failed to stop such a financial crisis from occurring. The paper intends to trace out the reasons behind such a failure with the help of findings and analysis and the relevant steps undertaken for this. Reasons behind failure of banking regulations Economists and policy makers of various countries have tried to find the conditions which led to the crisis. They tried to find out those faulty policies and the incorrect measures taken by the bank that led to its failure of crisis prevention. It was found that at the time of the crisis the interest rate was really low. Financial investors in such a scenario became optimistic regarding the prices of assets along with the underlying risks. The banking regulations directed towards changes in financial landscape led to extension of leverage and this made accurate risk prediction more difficult. Investors transformed into risk lovers and excessive risk taki ng began in the markets (Caruana). Neither banking regulations nor effective supervision could stop such a phenomenon. The fragmented banking regulation again proved to be wrong. No connection could be traced out in the activities of regulated and non regulated markets. All over the markets and institution there was prevalence of asymmetric information. Some loopholes existing in the legal procedures were also equally responsible (Caruana). The macroeconomic policies implemented during this time were inadequate. The easy liquidity banking policy made structures of debts, especially the heterogeneous ones more incomprehensive. Criticisms have been against the supervisory regulations of bank. Easy loans were given to individuals without careful examination of the underlying default risks (Neuman). Monetary policies were framed in such a way that cash flow becomes easy across the economy. Such an instance is proved by statistical evidence. Table1: Data showing low interest rate policy adopted by the banks Source: Neuman The interest rate considered is for the Euro zone. The data is for short term real interest rate which continued till 2005. Such data shows that banks have adopted a low interest rate policy during the given years. This paved the way for easy liquidity. The banking regulations of 2004 led to significant credit expansion and credits involving high risks became the main reasons for initiating such crisis. It first led to subprime losses in March 2008 with Bear Sterns incurring huge subprime related losses. Ultimately Federal Reserve had to take over the firm. Detoriation of subprime loan holdings eventually culminated into the crisis. Banking sectors have earlier avoided such high risk alerts generated by the economists in 1999 (Nichols, Hendrickson and Griffith). Easy financing act of 2005 became the strategy for banking operations. During this time some big American and European banks even violated banking regulations by setting up companies for s uch short term financing purpose. Such companies were not disclosed in balance sheets. Banking sectors however did not pay attention to the fact that such a low interest rate policy regime adopted by banks in 2003 after European Central Bank followed suit was slowly increasing

Vitamin D as Hormone Essay Example for Free

Vitamin D as Hormone Essay INTRODUCTION: Bioactive vitamin D or calcitriol is a steroid hormone that has long been known for its important role in regulating body levels of calcium and phosphorus, and in mineralization of bone. More recently, it has become clear that receptors for vitamin D are present in a wide variety of cells, and that this hormone has biologic effects which extend far beyond control of mineral metabolism. Vitamin D is thus not a true vitamin, as it can be synthesized in adequate amounts by most mammals exposed to sunlight (cats and dogs cannot synthesize vitamin D and must receive it in their diet). An organic chemical compound (or related set of compounds) is only scientifically called a vitamin when it cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by an organism, and must be obtained from their diet. However, as with other compounds commonly called vitamins, vitamin D was discovered in an effort to find the dietry substance that was lacking in a disease, namely, rickets, the childhood form of osteomalacia. ROLE OF VITAMIN D IN REGULATION OF SEVERAL GENES: The vitamin D hormones have essential roles in human health. Vitamin D hormones act by binding to and activating the vitamin D receptor (VDR) to regulate the expression of genes in a tissue-specific manner. Vitamin D hormones regulate blood calcium levels by controlling intestinal absorption of dietary calcium and reabsorption of calcium by the kidneys. Concomitantly, vitamin D hormones also suppress the production of the calcium regulating hormone, parathyroid hormone (PTH), which is produced by the parathyroid glands. The vitamin D hormones also participate in the regulation of cellular differentiation and growth, as well as bone formation and metabolism. Additionally, vitamin D hormones are required for the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal, immune and renin-angiotensin systems. There is a growing body of evidence linking vitamin D insufficiency with cognitive and neural dysfunction. The widespread beneficial effects of vitamin D hormones are continually being elucidated through studies directed to the intracellular VDR and the corresponding networks of VDR-responsive genes in nearly every human tissue. It is becoming evident that vitamin D insufficiency has a widespread and significant impact on a number of key physiological systems. METABOLISM OF VITAMIN D: Both forms of vitamin D undergo identical metabolism . Some evidence indicates that vitamin D2 may be metabolized more rapidly than vitamin D3, but with regular daily intake they can be considered bioequivalent. Both forms of vitamin D are converted to 25-hydroxyvitamin [25(OH)D] in the liver, and the serum level of 25(OH) D is measured to determine the adequacy of vitamin D status. In the kidney, 25(OH)D is hydroxylated to 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1, 25(OH)2 D], which is the only biologically active form of vitamin D. Acting principally on the duodenum, 1, 25(OH)2 D increases calcium absorption. It also acts on bone cells, both osteoblasts and osteoclasts, to mobilize calcium. The synthesis of 1, 25(OH)2 D is tightly regulated and stimulated primarily by serum parathyroid hormone THE VITAMIN D RECEPTER AND MECHANISM OF ACTION: The vitamin D system is unique in that distinct calcium homeostatic functions and cell growth regulatory activities are mediated through a single ligand, calcitriol, acting through a specific receptor exhibiting ubiquitous tissue expression, the vitamin D receptor (VDR). The VDR is a member of a superfamily of nuclear steroid hormone receptors which regulate gene transcription by interacting with response elements in gene promoters. Structure-function analysis of the VDR protein has defined distinct domains involved in DNA binding, ligand binding, receptor dimerisation and gene transactivation, including a C-terminal activation function domain (AF-2) that is important for cofactor interaction. A model for regulation of gene transcription by the VDR is evolving and proposes VDR interaction with various components of the basal transcriptional machinery, including newly defined coactivators and corepressors, which may act to regulate gene transcription by altering histone acetylation and chromatin structure. This review describes the vitamin D endocrine system and the role of the VDR in regulating this system, including the molecular basis for the diverse actions of synthetic calcitriol analogues in the treatment of autoimmune disease and cancer. ROLE OF VITAMIN D AS HORMONE Vitamin D and Bone Cell Activity: Approximately 60 genes are known to respond to vitamin D. Many of these vitamin D responsive genes are expressed by the bone forming cells (osteoblasts) which include: * type I collagen. * alkaline phosphatase, * osteocalcin * tumour necrosis factor ligand member (RANKL) Tumour necrosis factor ligand member (RANKL) is central to osteoclastogenesis. The bone resorbing cells (osteoclasts) also express vitamin D-responsive genes. It is evident that 1,25(OH)2D plays a major role in controlling osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption through its modulation of the RANKL gene in osteoblasts. Bone mineralization: These types of results are increasing interest in the view that the modulation of vitamin D activity within bone cells, either through the vitamin D receptor or metabolism of vitamin D, has effects on the levels of bone mineral. It is through such a mechanism that higher levels of vitamin D in the elderly may provide protection against hip fractures. Cancer prevention: Role of vitamin D in prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men in the United States. Developing new treatment strategies is critical to improving the health of men. Our research has focused on four areas in which we have pursued the possible use of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) and its analogs to treat prostate cancer.The results of a clinical trial of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) treatment of patients with early recurrent prostate cancer. We provide preliminary evidence that 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) may be effective in slowing the rate of PSA rise in selected cases of prostate cancer. In conclusion, we believe that 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) has a role in thetreatment and/or prevention strategies being developed for prostate cancer. However, to increase antiproliferative potency without increasing side-effects, the use of less calcemic analogs appears to be the most reasonable approach. Role of vitamin D in breast cancer: In addition to its role in calcium homeostasis and bone health, vitamin D has also been reported to have anticancer activities against many cancer types, including breast cancer. The discovery that breast epithelial cells possess the same enzymatic system as the kidney, allowing local manufacture of active vitamin D from circulating precursors, makes the effect of vitamin D in breast cancer biologically plausible. Preclinical and ecologic studies have suggested a role for vitamin D in breast cancer prevention. Inverse associations have also been shown between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level (25(OH)D) and breast cancer development, risk for breast cancer recurrence, and mortality in women with early-stage breast cancer. Clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation, however, have yielded inconsistent results. Regardless of whether or not vitamin D helps prevent breast cancer or its recurrence, vitamin D deficiency in the U.S. population is very common, and the adverse impact on bone health, a particular concern for breast cancer survivors, makes it important to understand vitamin D physiology and to recognize and treat vitamin D deficiency. In this review, we discuss vitamin D metabolism and its mechanism of action. We summarize the current evidence of the relationship between vitamin D and breast cancer, highlight ongoing research in this area, and discuss optimal dosing of vitamin D for breast cancer prevention. Role of vitamin D in auto immune diseases: Vitamin D and its prohormones have been the focus of a growing number of studies in past years, demonstrating their function not only in calcium metabolism and bone formation, but also their interaction with the immune system, which is not surprising, since vitamin D receptors are expressed in different tissues, such as brain, heart, skin, bowel, gonads, prostate, breasts, and immune cells, as well as bones, kidneys, and parathyroid glands.Current studies have related vitamin D deficiency with several autoimmune disorders, including insulindependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), multiple sclerosis (MS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In view of those associations, it has been suggested that vitamin D is an extrinsic factor capable of affecting the prevalence of autoimmune diseases. Vitamin D seems to interact with the immune system through its actions on the regulation and differentiation of cells like lymphocytes, macrophages, and natural killer cells (NK), besides interfering in the in vivo and in vitro production of cytokines. Among the immunomodulatory effects demonstrated we should mention: a reduction in the production of interleukin-2 (IL-2), gamma interferon (INFÃŽ ³), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF); inhibition of the expression of IL-6; and inhibition of the secretion and production of autoantibodies by B lymphocytes. Vitamin D modulation of immune responses: Dendritic cells (DCs) are primary targets for the immunomodulatory activity of 1, 25(OH)2D3, as indicated by inhibited DC differentiation and maturation, leading to downregulated expression of MHC-II, costimulatory molecules (CD40, CD80 and CD86) and decreased production of IL-12. Moreover, 1, 25(OH)2D3 enhances IL-10 production and promotes DC apoptosis. Together, these effects of 1, 25(OH)2D3 inhibit DC-dependent T-cell activation. In particular, the active synthesis of 1, 25(OH)2D3 seems to exert an autoregulatory function by inhibiting the differentiation of monocyte precursors into immature DCs and the subsequent ability of the immature DCs to undergo terminal differentiation in response to maturation stimuli. FIG. Mechanisms involved in vitamin D modulation of the immune responses. DCs are primary targetsfor the immunomodulatory activity of 1, 25(OH)2D3, as indicated by inhibited DC differentiation and maturation, together with inhibition of differentiation of monocyte precursors into immature DCs. 1, 25(OH)2D3 suppresses Th1 (and Th17)driven cytokine responses, induces Treg cells, induces IL-4 production (Th2) and enhances NKTcell function. Differentiation and maturation of B cells is also inhibited. Th are CD4+ helper cell subsets (Th1, Th2, Th3-Treg, Th17) originating from naÄ ±ve T cell (Th0). Thin arrows (left) indicate cytokines that induce differentiation of Th0 cells and thicker arrows (right) indicate cytokines produced by activated Th cell subsets. All T cells that have been tested express the VDR. B cells and NKT cells are also reported.The yellow circles indicate the cytokines/activities inhibited by vitamin D.On the contrary, the green circles indicate the cytokines enhanced by vitaminD. Conclusions: Knowledge of the physiology and pathology of vitamin D is currently increasing at a rapid rate. The realisation that vitamin D can act in a paracrine and autocrine manner in addition to its well-described endocrine action opens up considerable opportunities for the development of new understanding of the requirement for an adequate vitamin D status for optimal health. It is encouraging that the relatively simple and cheap practice of maintaining an adequate vitamin D status has the potential to provide health benefits in a number of areas, which afflict an increasing proportion of the population, as well as consume an increasing proportion of the healthcare budget to provide treatment. The reduction of the risk of hip fracture in the elderly is one such area. A high priority of research must be to identify the critical 25OHD values required to maintain a healthy skeleton in the elderly. As well research must determine whether a low vitamin D status influences the development of cancer, whether it increases the absolute risk of cancer or whether it modulates the growth or invasiveness of cancers. Clinical laboratory professionals have a responsibility to improve the precision and accuracy of current 25OHD assays in clinical use. This work will require the collaboration between the profession and instrument and reagent manufacturers. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine is in an optimal position to coordinate such a project.

Resistance To Change A Critical Analysis Management Essay

Resistance To Change A Critical Analysis Management Essay Now a days organizations are required to make changes for their survive. It is very important to response quickly to the modern technological advancement and competition to internal and external levels (Edmonds, 2011). So change is a everyday experience in private and governmental organization for its development. The purpose of this study is to analyse the issue of managing organizational change by various approaches. The paper will argue concisely on the factors of resistance to change and how the resistance is handled for successful implementation of a change plan through reviewing relevant literature on the topic. It will further examine the scope of effective management of organisational change process. In this paper, the analysis into effective management of resistance to organisational change is achieved through three main sections. Firstly, change is defined in the light of organisational development. Secondly, factors influencing change and resistance to change are discussed analytically in two consecutive sections. Finally, it discusses management of resistance to change elaborately before concluding the motion. What is change Change is defined as any alteration of the status quo (Bartol and Martin, 1994;199). Organizational change may be defined as new ways of organizing and workingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.. (Dawson, 2003: 11 ). Breu and Benwell (1999), Ragsdell (2000) as well as Bamford and Forrester (2003), define organisational change as the process of moving an organisation from some present status to new status whether it is planned or unplanned. Organizational change is a form of difference from its long term old position to introduce a new idea and action for better performance and adjustment of new environment (Schalk et al.,1998). From different perspectives , we can observe different types of changes but in generally organisational changes can be classifieds into two types- incremental and radical (Ragsdell, 2000; McAdam, 2003; Milling Zimmermann, 2010). Literature argues that the incremental change is a small scale change on its present structure and functions which is continuous, on the other hand radical change involves a large-scale basic change (McAdam, 2003; Cunha, et al, 2003; Romanelli Tushman, 1994). Furthermore, Beugelsdijk et al (2002) argue that, organisational change process initially begins with radical change and follow the incremental change that creates a prospect or a threat. In contrast, Del Val and Fuentes (2003) state that change is a general procedure of response to organisational settings because real changes are not only incremental or transformational but also a mixture of both. However Bamford and Forrester (2003) have further classified organisational change as planned and emergents.The planned approach organisational change highlights the different status which an organisation will have to shift from an unacceptable position to recognized desired position (Eldrod II and Tippett, 2002). The emergent approach change suggests that it is an unpredictable and undesirable continuous process of adjustment to changing circumstances (Burnes, 1996, 2004; Dawson, 1994). But uncertainty of circumstances create emergent approach more significant than the planned approach (Bamford and Forrester, 2003). So, it is import to any organisation to identify the requirements for its prospects, and how to deal with the required changes and it is the unseparable strategy of an organization (Burnes, 2004; Rieley and Clarkson, 2001).Managerial proficiency is very much needed for successful change (Senior, 2002). Although for the existence and effective competition successful management of change is highly required (Luecke, 2003; Okumus and Hemmington, 1998). Factors Influencing Change: Hughes (2006) argues that, different factors can influence organisational changes, from the effect of internal control, to external rolls in consumer behaviour, or changing the business settings. The most common reasons are: Legislation, incorporation or attainment, competitive market, world economy, Structural change, technological advancement and Strategic re-organisation. Moreover, Haikonen et al (2004) argue that different important internal and external factors which influence change as policy, structure, control system, organisational culture, and power distribution. Moreover, Saka (2003) state that the external factors as national or international rules and regulations influence the organization to accept new strategies to survive in changed situation. Furthermore, many other factors related to market competition, economic growth, and living standard also oblige organisation to commence change programmes for update and manage the external forces (Beugelsdijk, et al, 2002; Breu Benwell, 1999; Carr Hancock, 2006). Consequently, the technological advancement create internal and external demands to generate the capabilities of organizations and assess their strategies regularly (Harris Wegg-Prosser, 2007; Ragsdell, 2000; Shaft, et al, 2008). Finally, Eisenbach et al (1999) also recognized different factors that compel change such as innovation, new technology, workforce, productivity and working quality. Similarly, McAdam (2003) and Mukherji and Mukherji (1998) emphasize that availability of skilled employees, changing customer behavior, free flow of information and cultural change make very impact on organization for modification on their activities and compel it to readjust or large scale change for transforming from deadlock to effectiveness. Finally, internal change factors like leadership, organizational culture, employee relationship, workload, reward system, internal politics, and communication system compel the organization to take up change strategy (Bhatnagar, et al, 2010; Potter, 2001; Van Marrewijk, et al, 2010; Young, 1999).On the whole, Breu and Benwell (1999) as well as Rees and Hassard (2010) emphasized the development of capabilities of managers to evaluate the situation exactly from different factors to effective management of resistance to change program. Resistance to Change Resistance is a phenomenon which affect the change process by slowing down its starting, obstructing its accomplishment and rising its costs(Ansoff, 1990; Del Val Fuentes, 2003; Young, 1999). In contrast, resistance is a manner that tries to maintain the status quo, so it is comparable to inertia which tries to avoid change (Maurer, 1996; Rumelt, 1995). Similarly, Jansen (1996), Potter (2001) as well as Romanelli and Tushman (1994) argue that organisational change permeates resistance from the persons as their calm sector are influenced by creating stress, insecurity and uncertainty. Moreover, Ford et al (2002) as well as Reissner (2010) support that resistance comes about since a change program threatens existing status, or causes fear of supposed consequences like trouble in personal security and apprehension about new capability and skills to perform in the changed surroundings.On the other hand, resistance by workforce may be seen as a general part of any change process and in t his manner a valuable source of knowledge and useful in learning how to manage successful change process (Antonacopoulou Gabriel, 2001; Bhatnagar, et al, 2010; Bovey Hede, 2001). Furthermore, Antonacopoulou and Gabriel (2001) and Lamb and Cox (1999) argue that unusual community will resist any change program for various reasons including misunderstanding, inconvenience, negative rumor, economic proposition, low tolerance for change and fear of the unknown. However, the observation of annoyance in long standing custom associated with change initiatives finally contribute in the appearance of resistance, mainly from middle managers who resist for the reason that of the fear of threat to their current position and supremacy (Marjanovic, 2000; Ragsdell, 2000; Saka, 2000). Moreover, in manipulative business environment, where major focus is on productivity and centralisation, occurrences higher rate of resistance than manipulative business units having a more open culture, giving freedom to explore new capacities and technologies (Mirow, et al, 2008; Valle, 2002).Accordingly, Lamb and Cox (1999) and Trader-Leigh (2002) indicate that dispute of resistance in public sector is much higher than that of private sector.However, Bovey and Hede (2001) as well as Del Val and Fuentes (2003) discover that when change principles and organizational principles are usually different then the workers show resistance to change while individual anxiety, ineffective management, failure precedent, little inspiration, insufficient tactical vision and pessimism are several sources of resistant. So, if the ground of change is not well planned and competently managed then the employees may prevent the change initiatives and they will apply protection policy to resist because of apprehension that they will be oppressed by others (Bovey Hede, 2001; Perren Megginson, 1996). Nevertheless, Jones et al (2008) argue that employees do not generally resist the change, but rather theoretical undesirable results of change or the process of execution the change.For that reason, all managers are necessary to give appropriate concentration on human and socio-cultural issues to obtain a distinct policy for successful implementation of change.(Diefenbach, 2007; Lamb Cox, 1999). How to manage Resistance Resistance to change is an important matter in change management and participatory approach is the best way to manage resistance for successful change(Pardo-del-Val et al., 2o12). Potter (2001) and Ragsdell (2000) support that resistance to organisational change have to be observed as a prospect and preparing people for change as well as permitting them to vigorously participate in the change process. Furthermore, Conner (1998) affirms that the negative effects of resistance occurred from major changes can be minimize by open discution. Moreover Judson (1991) asserts that effective change can be committed and resistance can be reduce by commitment and participation of employees. In addition, contemporary managers required to examine and categorize all the stakeholders as change worker, impartial, conservatives or resistor as per their function in resistance to change so as to apply obligatory approach upon the definite form of people so that they feel like accommodating the change pr ogram willingly (Chrusciel Field, 2006; Lamb Cox, 1999). Moreover, it is essential to engage people in all stages of the procedure for successful completion of change where effective communication of change objectives can play one of the most important roles (Becker, 2010; Beugelsdijk, et al, 2002; Frahm Brown, 2007; Lamb Cox, 1999). Accordingly, Potter (2001) as well as Van Hoek et al (2010) suggests that for managing resistance to change successfully, organisations must build up the capability to predict changes and working approaches to the changes and thereby engage the employees to face the challenges sincerely with complete preparation. Similarly, Caldwell (2003) and Macadam (1996) propose that smooth running of organization managers should be open for involvement of employees at every steps of decision making process and productivity. Moreover, usually resistance happens as a result of misinterpretation among peoples and hence, in each change program it is essential that everyone concerned realizes the reason following the change from upper level to the lower level where training and cooperation may speed up the procedure (Beugelsdijk, et al, 2002; Bovey Hede, 2001; Johnson, 2004; Taylor, 1999). In addition, at the moment of crisis and ambiguity people require results, accomplishments and successful communication which will assist reduce anxiety and eventually produce enthusiasm for change amongst the employees (Hill Collins, 2000a; Potter, 2001). Consequently, the new public management emphasizes new type of policies which presume a flexible, open and more creative structure and therefore proactively illustrative targets, setting superior examples and creating exciting position might be regarded as a number of core leadership capabilities essential for routing change (Beugelsdijk, et al, 2002; Chrusciel Field, 2006; Harris Wegg-Prosser, 2007). Moreover, Aladwani (2001) rationalizes that opening human abilities of the workers by permitting them to use their intelligence being innovative at work takes place to be important where the function of managers have to be renamed from manager to trainer as to donate continuously on self-confidence building all over the business. Furthermore, alongside the background of rapidly growing technological improvement and deregulation since the early 1990s, ritual approach can no longer arrange the modern perception of shocking ambiguity and insistent change relatively dispersed organisations are probable to authorize the employees (Caldwell (2003; Harris Wegg-Prosser, 2007). In addition, Andrews et al (2008) and Caldwell (2003) have the same opinion with Frahm and Brown (2007) that not like the conventional top-down bureaucratic systems; the present managers must receive bottom-up participatory strategy by discussing with stakeholders. Caldwell (2003) more recommends that change managers should uphold possession of the change approach along with the stakeholders by connecting them in the process, who distinguish the authenticity of the business and it is usually they who grasp answer key to the problems. Lastly, as contextualization is the main element of any societal and organisational change, in the twenty-first century circumstance, the status quo is not a suitable preference and organisations must get slant and vigorous for the modern world of digital convergence (Carr Hancock, 2006; Harris Wegg-Prosser, 2007; Milling Zimmermann, 2010). Moreover, Bamford and Forrester (2003), Diefenbach (2007) and Eisenbach et al (1999) consent that in the growing approach to managing change, elder managers transform themselves from administrator to facilitator and the major accountability of execution vest on the middle managers. Also, Diefenbach (2007) more highlights that middle managers should cooperate with peers, divisions, consumers, dealers and also with the senior managements as if they are the key player of organisational change programs. Furthermore, Bamford and Forrester (2003) as well as Diefenbach (2007) consider Lewinà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¸s (1958) three step model of freezing, unfreezing and refreezing, have supported that prior to effective implementation of any new manners, the old one has to be untrained.

The Coliseum :: essays papers

Architecture of the ancient Roman Empire is considered one of the most impressive of all time. The city of Rome once was home to more than one million residents in the early centuries. The Romans had a fine selection of building monuments in the city of Rome including the forums for civic services, temples of worship, and amphitheaters for recreation and play. The Romans made great use and pioneered great architecture mechanisms including arches, columns, and even mechanical elements in pulleys and early elevators. However, when one tends to think of great buildings, one building stands out in Rome. This building is the Flavian Amphitheatre, or better Known as the Coliseum. The Coliseum is the greatest standing building of Rome, and one of the most recognized worldwide architectural achievements to this day. The amphitheater is a type of architecture that was without Greek precedents. This makes sense since its primary purpose was to hold gladitiator fights and brutal shows which were banned in Athens at the time. Such events held in Roman amphitheaters were horseracing, gymnastics, mock cavalry battles, footraces, prizefighting, wrestling, fights between animals, between men, animals and men, and even naumachiae, or mock sea battles. The great building although fitting and plain in design to its surroundings of Rome still stood out due to its sheer monstrosity and oval shape. Although the site viewed today is still a marvel, back in the days of its prime it was a spectacular site that would be difficult to apprehend with only words. The emperor given credit for the idea of the coliseum was Vespasian. Building commenced around 72 AD. But Vespian would not live to see his greatest accomplishment finished. Titus, Vespasian's son, completed his fathers dream around 80 AD. The dedication of the Coliseum was a lavish gladiator show that lasted for exactly one hundred days in which over nine thousand animals were killed. A typical day at the Coliseum show usually started with a bloodless comic relief battle, often times with dwarfs, women, or cripples battling with wooden objects. The gladiator fights were the most popular and prominent fights. These featured two highly trained men battling for courage, strength, and dignity. They would often rather take a blow and stand strong than whimper and run in defense. It is written that famous women would even leave their husbands for famous gladiators, which were known to be very scarred and ugly by Roman standards.

As Computing Mark Scheme

UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL EXAMINATIONS GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level and GCE Advanced Level MARK SCHEME for the May/June 2009 question paper for the guidance of teachers 9691 COMPUTING 9691/01 Paper 1 (Written Paper 1), maximum raw mark 90 This mark scheme is published as an aid to teachers and candidates, to indicate the requirements of the examination. It shows the basis on which Examiners were instructed to award marks. It does not indicate the details of the discussions that took place at an Examiners’ meeting before marking began, which would have considered the acceptability of alternative answers. Mark schemes must be read in conjunction with the question papers and the report on the examination. †¢ CIE will not enter into discussions or correspondence in connection with these mark schemes. CIE is publishing the mark schemes for the May/June 2009 question papers for most IGCSE, GCE Advanced Level and Advanced Subsidiary Level syllabuses and some Ordinary Level syllabuses. Page 2 1 (a) Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 (i) To allow the user to give the computer data/change data into computer understandable form (ii) To allow the computer to give information/communicate with the computer/to change information from computer into human understandable form (iii) To keep data while the computer is not using it (1 per dotty) [3] (b) -Black and white laser -e. g. Use in office to produce letters -Produces high quality/speedy so does not develop large queue on a LAN -Colour laser -e. g. To produce reports for a meeting -High quality outputs/can produce large quantity quickly -Dot Matrix – e. g. Print receipts at checkout/tickets on railway -Produces more than one copy at a time, one for customer + one for shop -Inkjet -e. g. Doing homework at home -Relatively cheap and slowness does not matter -Plotter -e. g. Produce architect’s plans -Precision drawing tool -Braille printer -Producing documents/books for blind people -Outputs physical/3D form of data (3 per type, max 3 types, max 9) 2 (a) (i) Name: Text/String/alpha/alphanumeric Description: Text/String/alpha/alphanumeric Cost: Currency/integer/real/float Whether: Boolean Number: Integer (1 for first three, 1 for last 2) (ii) Field Sizes: 10 50 4 1 1 66 – 50 – 250 – 8 – 4 – 313 bytes (1) [9] [2] Total (1) for showing that the field sizes should be added up Multiply Total by 1000 (1) = 66000 to 313000 bytes Add extra (10%) for overheads (1) = 72600 to 344300 bytes Convert to sensible unit (? 024) (1) = 70. 9Kb to 344. 3Kb. (5 possible mark points, max 4) [4]  © UCLES 2009 Page 3 Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 (b) Advantage: -Processed/Searched more easily/quickly/Estimate of file size is easier -e. g. When a customer wants to kn ow the availability of an item the record can be found quickly/makes selection of storage easier Disadvantage: -The size of fields must be determined before use so space is often wasted/not sufficient -e. g. The â€Å"description† field may not be large enough for a particular item. 1 per -, max 4) [4] 3 -Working from home -Fewer journeys/more free time/less supervision†¦ -Different types of jobs/jobs lost/job opportunities arising -Production line/manual jobs being lost/replaced by more technical jobs -Work done can be more visible to managers -All work/times working can be seen/leading to rewards where appropriate/sanctions when poor effort -Safety of workers is improved -Computers/robots do dangerous tasks/can be used to accurately monitor dangerous processes -Work time can be less rigid -Work can be fitted in round other commitments/leads to simpler ways of job sharing -The 24 hour job/office/commitment/world workforce -Workers may always be contactable/throughout th e world/communications. (Up to 2 per group, max 3 groups, max 6) [6] (a) Line X A OUTPUT CONDITION 1 1 3 1 1 4 1 1 1,1 5 2 1 6 2 1 TRUE 3 2 4 4 2 4 2,4 5 3 4 6 3 4 FALSE 7 3 4 (1 for values of X and matching line numbers; 1 for values of A corresponding to values of X; 1 for giving correct outputs; 1 for giving 2 conditions) [4] (b) (i) Change X = 3 to X = 11 (ii) -A first line to allow user to input value (N) -UNTIL X = (N + 1) [1] [2] 4  © UCLES 2009 Page 4 (c) e. g. Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 X=5 REPEAT A=X*X OUTPUT X, A X=X+5 UNTIL X = 25 END Mark points: -Begins with 5 (as first output) -Loop with working condition -Counter correctly incremented 5 (a) (i) -Options appear on screen from which to select -Selection may lead to submenus -Menus arranged in a tree structure (from single root to many branches) Use: In a passive information system e. g. Tourist guide at a train station. (1 for use, + 2 other -, max 3) [3] [3] (ii) -Follows a spoken language allowing user to input queries in normal vocabulary/syntax -Computer understands keywords/positions in sentence to get idea of syntax -Will then search database for keyword to provide output or responses. Use: e. g. On an expert system or search engine. 1 for use, + 2 other -, max 3) [3] (b) -Provides utility programs to allow user to carry out maintenance tasks (any 3) -Provides security measures like passwords and identifications. -Controls the hardware and the operations they allow. -Provides translators to convert softwa re into a form useable by the computer. -Manages interrupts. -To provide a platform for the execution of software (1 per -, max 3) 6 (a) (i) Data is transmitted along a single wire/one bit at a time. (ii) Data is transmitted along a number of wires/one byte (or more) at a time. (iii) Data can only be transmitted in a single direction. (iv) Data can be transmitted in both directions but only one at a time. (b) (i) -Each byte contains an even number of 1’s -A special bit is set to 0 or 1 to ensure that total is even. Byte is checked for even number of 1’s after transmission. (1 per -, max 2) (ii) -When two bits are in error the errors cancel each other out/10101001. [3] [1] [1] [1] [1] [2] [1]  © UCLES 2009 Page 5 7 Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 -Data collected on site/by drilling /observation/explosions -Data collected remotely/by satellite/by electronic means -Collected data input to system via HCI/ automatically -Data input is compared to library of data to find matches†¦ -by inference engine†¦ -Using rules found in rule base -Decisions made about geologic structure reported through HCI. (1 per -, max 4) [4] 8 a) -Site map -a diagram showing the way the different screens fit together -shows the links between screens, -Gantt chart/progress chart -shows the different parts that need to be developed -shows which parts of the development are independent and which are reliant on each other. -Spider diagram -to show interaction between the different elements of the solution -and those parts which are independent of each other. -Flow diagram -to show the order of producing the parts of the solution -or to show the flow through the proposed site. (Up to 2 groups, up to 2 per group, max 4) [4] (b) -Documentation for owner of site -will be paper based -will contain instructions for changing/maintaining site -Documentation for viewer/visitor to site -will be on-screen -giving d etailed help on searches/use of facilities/communication with site owner†¦ [4] 9 -Sound -Music to accompany the pictures/speech to explain the pictures†¦. Video/animation -Moving pictures to better describe the object on the site -Automatic hard copy/saving -Automatic downloading of data to printer/hard drive for future reference. -Hyperlinks -Allowing access to different sites/parts of site (Up to 2 groups, up to 2 per group, max 4) [4] 10 Colour: -Contrast -Corporate schemes -Aggressive/passive/soothing colour schemes -Consistency over site to make site look cohesive -Use colour to provide emphasis -Accessability issues e. g. colour blindness  © UCLES 2009 Page 6 Mark Scheme: Teachers’ version GCE A/AS LEVEL – May/June 2009 Syllabus 9691 Paper 01 Layout: -Consistent layout so user gets used to ‘what is where’. Important things to top and left -Data spread out across whole screen -Tab order -Group similar data together Content: -Limit to amoun t of content on a page -Content on a page is cohesive -Content matches the published intentions of the site -Content is of sensible type and reading age for audience. (1 per -, max 2 per group, max 6) [6] 11 -The bit rate is a measure of the rate that data can be sent across the communication medium -Different communication media have different bit rates -For simple text/still pictures†¦a low bit rate connection is adequate -because volume of data per page is low and fixed -For (live) video/sound†¦bit rate needs to be high -because large volume of data which must be downloaded in real time because†¦ -information is time sensitive. 1 per -, max 4) [4] 12 (a) (i) -Custom written software is especially written/according to the requirements of the customer -Off the shelf is readily available/needs tailoring to the needs of the customer [2] (ii) -no delay as it is ready immediately -No shortage of experienced users/ready trained/No learning curve -Software should be error free -Help available through Internet/colleagues/courses -Compatible with other users/software (1 per -, max 2) (b) (i) -Check data input to ensure it matches source data -Typed in twice†¦ -by different people/at different times -inputs checked against each other for errors -manual check by comparing†¦ -screen output of input with original document. (1 for first -, + any 2 other -, max 3) (ii) -Check data input is sensible/follows set rules/are reasonable -Data type/should be numeric -Data format/should be in currency form/xxx. xx -Length check/input should be < x characters -Presence check/something has been input. -Range check/value between 0 and some upper limit (1 for first -, + any 2 other -, max 3) [2] [3] [3]  © UCLES 2009

20 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on IT from the Academic Perspective

20 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on IT from the Academic Perspective Academically, IT has great potential to help and reform the learning abilities of a modern day student. There is so much to talk about the changes IT can bring in the world of education. If you want to write a comparative analysis in the form of an essay, this guide should prove very helpful. If you recall, the first in the series of these guides was 12 facts on it in the academic perspective for a compare and contrast essay, which helped you kick-start your research. This is the next part which will help pinpoint your research focus and choose a topic. Here are 20 topics on IT in the academic perspective for a compare and contrast essay: Codified Knowledge in IT System: Is It Required? Teaching Methods with IT Systems Issues in Adopting an IT Based System IT-based Performance Measurement Indicators Effects on Teaching Jobs: Tenures and Motivation if IT Is Implemented IT Systems Integration in the Autonomy of Teaching Staff Concept of Productivity Under IT IT Implementation and Economies of Scale How Non-Traditional Education Providers Can Offer High Quality Education through IT Based Systems Cost Comparison of IT Learning System and Traditional Education System Academic Administrative Record Keeping through IT Implementation Ease of Access to Education through IT and its Economic Repercussions on Traditional Institutes Ease of Preparation for Teaching Staff before a Lecture Due to IT System Integration Concept of Online Portals and How They Are Beneficial to Students Who Want to Revise Lectures Academic Research in IT-based Educational Systems Is Complete IT Reformation of Educational System Financially and Administratively Possible? Reprogramming IT Systems vs Retraining Teachers Printed and Electronic Educational Material: What Is Better? Outsourcing Teachers through IT Systems Time Management in IT Systems: The Problem of Relocating Time and Resources For now, here is a sample essay on one of the topics mentioned above. It is recommended that you read the following before we discuss how to write the actual essay, Sample Compare and Contrast Essay: Issues to Adopting an IT-based System In order to have full-scale implementation of IT strategies, methods and technology, one must understand and know how to address various issues revolving around the acceptance of IT in academic institutions. Even in nature or life, when we generally try to introduce change in an existing and established system, its first response is to fight back, much like immune systems respond to foreign organisms or bacteria. Similarly when we talk about changing the education system, there is a huge divide between different school of thoughts, primarily due to fear of the unknown and the financial investments that follow. People love consistency and they believe the existing educational system is perfect in every sense, and that IT integration is a bit of a farfetched and not really necessary concept. One of the biggest issues to full IT adoption is dealing with people who have invested in the traditional way of doing things like teaching techniques, how to scale productivity and faculty autonomy. Going in more detail of scale of productivity, for example, I believe the real factors are the student-teacher ratio, teaching loads and sizes of classrooms. One solution to the above is teachers changing their perspective and allowing change. Simply saying that they prefer things a certain way isn’t enough; for progress’s sake, the systems need to be upgraded. The concept of faculty autonomy comes under scrutiny if interconnectivity is introduced, meaning the teachers and professors will no longer be able to control where, when and what they teach. This alone gives them reason enough to make sure that the system doesn’t get IT upgrades, and this ultimately, affects the students’ learning productivity and capacity. Academic faculties are run by people and not everyone is good at their job, frankly speaking. Unfortunately, there is a sizeable amount of teaching faculties in the US who believe that productivity and quality learning is calculated through the sheer number of scholarships. Traditional teaching systems rely heavily on scholarship-based assessments rather than promoting education that can be used actively by students in their daily lives, It is natural that teachers will see this as a threat and they would prefer more faculty members rather than adopting IT. None of them would be in favor of going for the additional expenses of investing in an IT system either. But facts are facts; academic institutes have very little incentive to teach and a lot of incentive to carry out research work. This means that the institutes are heading towards more research work and seriously reducing class workload for students. In educational institutes, nearly all departments give little attention to teaching itself and the overall learning process; rather, research is evaluated in detail while teaching and learning aren’t properly scrutinized. While teachers do put in extra effort and evaluate each student individually, departments, however, do not strictly regulate educational objectives and performance assessments. Cost comparisons are where most IT proposals are rejected because traditional policy makers often can’t fathom the cost-cutting that eventually comes with an IT investment. For them, the initial investment is way too much, or so they think. Traditional policy makers have a â€Å"don’t change till it breaks† mindset and for them, it’s almost impossible to understand some of the rewards that come with making new investments. This concludes our sample compare and contrast essay on IT in the academic perspective. Make sure to check our guide on this academic genre and subject in our next piece. References: The Joint Task Force for Computing Curricula 2005.Computing Curricula 2005: The Overview Report (pdf) Using Information Technology to Enhance Academic Productivity. (n.d.). Retrieved July 19, 2016, from https://net.educause.edu/ir/library/html/nli0004.html Alrafi, A. (n.d.). Information systems adoption: A study of the technology acceptance model. Bouwman, H. (2005). Information and communication technology in organizations: Adoption, implementation, use and effects. London: SAGE. Centre for Education in Science Technology. (n.d.). Retrieved July 19, 2016, from cest.org.uk/importance-of-technology-in-schools/ Five Ways Teachers Can Use Technology to Help Students. (2013). Retrieved July 19, 2016, from brookings.edu/research/opinions/2013/05/07-teachers-technology-students-education-west-bleiberg Need and Importance of Information Technology in Education. (n.d.). Retrieved July 19, 2016, from http://wikieducator.org/Need_and_Importance_of_Information_Technology_in_Education

Unit 9 Tourist Destinations Essays

Unit 9 Tourist Destinations Essays Unit 9 Tourist Destinations Essay Unit 9 Tourist Destinations Essay I am writing an article to outline how the characteristics of destinations affect the appeal to tourists and issues likely to affect the popularity of tourist destinations. What I mean by this is what characteristics affect its appeal to current leading tourist destinations, like economic and social characteristics. Throughout this article I am going to be analysing the issues that are likely to affect the popularity of tourist destinations.Some of the leading tourist destinations like France, US and the UK all have economic characteristics, like France for instance although it’s a small country they have fairly important economic power, the sectors vary: * Car industry – that reached its peak in 2005 selling nearly 5. 75 million vehicles worldwide. * Raw material production – Michelin is the first tyre producer, France ranks second together the UK concerning the plastic industry. Fashion and luxury goods industry – with about 25% o f the market France is leading in the perfumes and cosmetics sector, this whole industry is worth about 39 billion euros. * Main French farming foods – cereals – first producer in the U. E and fifth worldwide; Wine – second producer worldwide after Italy. Concerning global tourism revenues, France ranks third worldwide just after USA and Spain with 32. 8 million euros, France is the most visited country in the world reeling in 75. 1 million foreign tourists a year. In 2004 the population in France was 62 million, the GNP (gross national product) was 1. 90. 76 billion euros in 2004 along with the GDP (gross domestic product) at 1. 551 milliards, making the growth rate 2. 5% and inflation 2. 2%. France operates a mixed economy that combines socialist and capitalist characteristics, capitalism involves private ownership of capital and other means of production. Under socialism the government directs economic activity and owns all or part of most industries. The Fre nch government has a lot of control over the economy, owning shares in many of the countries largest companies.One of the most visited attractions in France is the Fontainebleau forest and castle is located 55. 5 kilometres south to the centre of Paris, with 13 million visits annually. Known for its variety of wildlife and activities, the Fontainebleau forest is and outstanding protected natural reserve. Its mini Alps rugged landscape and hilly terrain makes it perfect for rock climbers in training, it’s a paradise of wildlife with hundreds of species of fauna and flora. The second most visited place in France is Disneyland Paris, bringing in 12. million visits a year, Disneyland is a fun filled place for the whole family old or young your guaranteed a good time, this year is Disneyland’s 20th anniversary so that will most likely bring a good amount more visits to France. Frances highest mountain is the mount Blanc, its 781 feet high, there are also the Alps massif, ce ntral and Pyrenees Mountains. In France they speak French, the religion in France is 90% catholic and 10% protestant, the literacy in France is 99% and the life expectancy is 71 for men and 79 for woman.The physical characteristics in France are fairly modern and up to scratch, every town has a clean water supply, adequate sanitation, more than enough utilities and a good service of transport. France is a republic, the fifth republic of France was establishes in 1958, it gave extensive powers to the presidents and ministers compared to the other western democracies. Its first president was General de Gaulle and his Prime minister was Michael Debre, it has been amended 17 times, most recently in July 2008 when the French congress (a joint convention of the two chambers of parliament) approved.The president must approve appointment of government, ministers, PM and presidents work together to form a government, in theory ministers are chosen by the PM in practice unless the president a nd PM are from different sides. The electoral system for parliamentary elections involves two rounds the first round a candidate can be elected by obtaining the majority of votes, the second round is a run-off between two or more candidates. The use of tourism for economic transformational reflect on the huge impact that tourist activity and the tourism industry has on political change

St. Dominic essays

St. Dominic essays Dominic de Guzman was born in Calarago, Spain, in 1170. His parents were Joan of Anza and Felix de Guzman. Before his mother conceived him, she saw in a vision that a dog with a burning torch in its mouth would come forth from her womb and set the world aflame. At his baptism, his grandmother saw a star on his forehead. As a student, he sold his books to feed the poor in a famine, and offered himself in ransom for a slave. At the age of twenty-five he became superior of the Canons Regular of Osma, and accompanied his Bishop to France. There the ravages of the Albigensian heresy broke his heart, and his life was from now on devoted to the conversion of heretics and the defense of his faith. For this end he established his threefold religious Order. The convent for nuns was founded first, to rescue young girls from heresy and crime. Then a company of apostolic men gathered around him, and became the Order of Friar Preachers. Lastly came the Tertiaries, persons of both sexes living in the world. God blessed the new Order, and France, Italy, Spain, and England welcomed the Preaching Friars. Our Lady took them under her special protection, and whispered to St. Dominic as he preached. It was in 1208, while St. Dominic knelt in the little chapel of Notre Dame de la Prouille and prayed to the Mother of God to save the Church, Mary appeared to him, gave him the Rosary, and bade him go forth and preach. He revived the courage of the Catholic troops, led them to victory against overwhelming numbers, and finally crushed the heresy. His nights were spent in prayer; and, though pure as a virgin, thrice before morning broke, he scourged himself to blood. His words rescued many souls, and three times raised the dead to life. At length, on August 6, 1221, at the age of 51, Dominic de Guzman died. One symbol of his life is the star. Again, by his life and preaching, Dominic became a beacon light, guiding souls to Christ. In his s...

Jumping to an Erroneous Conclusion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Jumping to an Erroneous Conclusion - Essay Example However, the recruiter was very persistent in encouraging me to join the military and entailed a lot of benefits that can be gained from joining the military. The recruiter said that when I join the military, I could get the chance to travel around the world, to be a rich person, etc. Because the recruiter is smart, polite, and convincing, I have made an erroneous decision that have changed my life completely. Back then, I was an innocent and a naive senior high school student. The offer of a good life after joining the military have made me trust the recruiter. After graduation, I never really intended to join the military but because the recruiter was so persistent that he came to my house almost every day, I was convinced. In addition, I really wanted to enter college instead of joining the military but since I could not afford college at that time, I decided to join the military. The words of my recruiter instilled in my mind that when a person joins the army, one may experience the benefits of good life such as prospects of becoming rich and being able to travel around the world. When I was in the military, realization eventually crept in: that all the good things in life the recruiter had told me were not true after all. I jumped into an erroneous conclusion simply because of persistent prodding from other people. I failed to conduct a survey or interview from family members, friends, or other people from various perspectives; and neither did I analyze the situation first before arriving at a decision. However, even though the recruiter told me things that did not happen, I still continue serving the country by being an active member of the military. I never regret that I joined the military because I found it challenging and full of discipline. If one would have based on fixed-response attitude surveys, previous experiences, perceptions from others, and one’s own perception, one would have jumped into an erroneous conclusion(Stephens, Leach, Taggart, & Jones, 94).In my case, perceptions from others being inculcated into my own perceptions have made me jumped easily to an erroneous conclusion that all men who joined military will become rich.The perception I have could have influenced also other people so it is essential that a person should be cautious of inculcating it to others without prior analysis. Learning to put a clear boundary between a factual and an erroneous conclusion is deemed necessary to avoid conflicts in the future.

The Concept of Ethnocentrism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Concept of Ethnocentrism - Essay Example Several nations and their cultures have placed themselves at the top of an imagined hierarchy of cultures and nations and therefore they have assigned other cultures lower ranks than theirs. This has led to the incorporation of the belief that one nation, its culture is superior, and that it will always be ahead of the rest hence making people believe this form of deception naturally. This form of belief has resulted in a few nations becoming the center of admirations making all other nations to strive to emulate the nations at the center in order to move higher in the imaginary rank. For example, the United States of America has always thought of itself as more powerful, more economically positioned, and as generally better in all spheres than other nations. This has been evidenced by the country's dabbling in the matters of other nations without much regard to the right formality that should be followed. A good illustration of this dabbling in the country's current involvement in a ffairs of Middle East, which is mainly castigated by the perceived belief that it is a superpower. This has led to the country spending a lot on affairs of other countries, which are not necessarily in its control, rather than focusing on funding development in needy developing countries. Cultural ethnocentrism continues to prevail in the majority of the African communities where the communities believe that these cultures are better than the rest and they in, particular, tend to be unreceptive to the western culture. They normally feel that their cultural order is threatened by the arrival of new groups and they thus strive to resist what they term as invaders in their communities. This evidenced by the disagreements in cultural markers of identity such as clothing and other visible elements which the people try by all means possible to uphold them despite the foreign influence.

CSR- Accounting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

CSR- Accounting - Essay Example Numerous multidimensional and global issues are inculcated in its umbrella that has strategic implications for the business and its policy makers. It is concerned not only with what the business does with its profits but also with how it obtains them. Corporate social responsibility, in other words, addresses how the company manages its economic, social and environmental impacts along with its stakeholder’s relationships in all the key spheres of influence (SEEP, 2009). With the modern advent of the concept of corporate social responsibility, it is now expected of the businesses and the companies in general to be transparent and accountable in terms of their social performance. This idea of corporate social responsibility both reflects as well as drives the societies’ changing customs along with the social roles the businesses are expected to play (SEEP, 2009). In other words corporate social responsibility is basically about what the organizations do in order to be socially responsible. It encompasses the way the company’s managers respond to the diverse expectations that its stakeholders have from the company in terms of stakeholder management, issues management, as well as environmental scanning (Black, 2006). In view of the neo-liberal economists the concept of its contribution to the society was thought completely absurd. Despite the formation of a welfare state in the post war years, notable efforts had started initiating for engaging the businesses in society. However, increasing constraints were put on social aspirations of businesses following the expansion of corporate economy throughout 1940’s and 50’s. While, 1970 onwards the general interest of businesses towards corporate responsibility started to rise again which was finally consolidated in the 1980’s (Marinetto, 1999). Corporate social responsibility got developed due to the extension of a few contributing factors, such as the advent of the

Poetry- Hidden Social or Politicial Ideology or Agenda Essay

Poetry- Hidden Social or Politicial Ideology or Agenda - Essay Example His poems were much influenced by the African-American Jazz Music and the contents were radical. However, this was not given much attention. Because â€Å"his radical poetry was neglected,† a tone of frustration and the willingness to revolt are very evident in his poem, â€Å"Harlem† (Dawahare 21). The series of questions would lead the readers to realize the climax. â€Å"Harlem† is a poem which describes a people full of longing to be truly free from discrimination and marginalization; their ideals and dream of social equity is prevalent amidst the oppression of the white American community. The â€Å"dream† (Hughes line 1) being referred by Hughes is the yearning of the black Americans to equality; a dream stressing out that they too, are people with feelings and intellect and not mere slaves that the whites made them to be. The onset of abolitionism gave the African-Americans liberty and the government gave them rights that they were not able to exercise before such as the right to vote and the right to own a property. Despite of the government abolishing the slavery, they could not achieve fully what they really wanted. Hughes used images that appeal to the senses as if the dream he is talking about is tangible; can be seen and felt. The second â€Å"big question† mentioned in the poem: â€Å"Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?† (Hughes 2) might suggest a very symbolic representation of an African American ideal. Like a grape losing its juice when exposed to the sun for a long time, a dream may lose its vitality if it is not realized in time . Putting together side by side two very unlike objects which seem to set in the opposite poles adds more effect in the delivery of the message; a very large object, powerful, and made as a god by ancient people (the sun), and an object made from a preserved fruit, almost unnoticeable (the raisin). Next symbolism that can be

Causes for the 2007-2008 Subprime Mortgage Crisis the role of Dissertation

Causes for the 2007-2008 Subprime Mortgage Crisis the role of mortgage-backed securities on the bank leverage - Dissertation Example Limitations of the study 25 5. Implication of the Discussion 26 References 28 1. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 1.1 Chapter Introduction Research is not just the process of gathering information but it is answering the unanswered questions or creating something which is not currently existing (Goddard and Melville, 2004). In simple words research refers to the search of knowledge. Thus it can be defined as the systematic and scientific search for significant information on a definite topic. It involves defining and redefining a problem, preparing hypothesis or recommending solutions; collecting, analysing and evaluating the data; making inference and reaching conclusions and lastly the conclusions are to be judged properly to determine whether the conclusion fits to the hypothesis (Kothari, 2009). The present study deals with the factors that caused the Subprime Mortgage Crisis. The study focuses on the roles of the mortgage-backed securities on the bank leverage. In order to conduct this rese arch proper research method has been designed. This chapter introduces the background of the research, objectives of the study, problem and issues in the research and the theoretical framework used in the research. Apart from these the study also sheds light on the methodology used, justifies the methodology, research philosophies, sampling techniques and instruments used to collect data. Finally the study also explicates on the ethical side of the study. 1.2 Justification of Methodology The main objective of the study is to do an analysis on the causes of Subprime Mortgage Crisis and the effects it has caused on the global economy. In this context the study focuses on analysing the case studies on Lehman Brother and Northern Rock. At the same time it also focuses on the other cause like housing price index. In order to achieve the objectives, the study uses only qualitative research approach. The study heavily relies upon the secondary data and not on primary data. Primary data res ults from firsthand observation and experience whereas secondary data results from what others have observed or experienced. Secondary data are easily available and are cheap as compared to primary data (Guffey and Loewy, 2009). The secondary data are collected using newspaper, journals, electronic sources, books and magazines. Whereas primary data can be collected using the questionnaire. To meet these requirements, the study an extensive collection of only secondary data is required, which makes application of qualitative methodology obligatory. 1.3 Research objectives The primary objective of the research is to find the causes and effects of the subprime mortgage crisis that occurred in the year 2008. In order to successfully accomplish the study, an imperative understanding about the philosophical context of the research is necessary. Dainty (2007) emphasizes that while conducting research constructing an orientation and philosophical position towards the research is important. McCallin (2003) suggests that reviewing the philosophical background and considering the paradigm of inquiry should be done at an early stage of the research.

Data Requirements Strategic Supply Chain Management Essay

Data Requirements Strategic Supply Chain Management - Essay Example With these essential elements of the production process in the manufacturing of goods, the parts should be recorded in terms of the descriptions, brand and any other associated data. For instance, the term "bill of materials" may be used by various parts of the enterprise such as engineering, manufacturing, service and sales; although they may all have different definitions of what the bill of materials actually means. Even the basic terms "product" and "parts" may have several definitions within an enterprise. Since a manufacturing company makes use of numerous parts, inventory will help them with communicating clearly with other departments as to which parts are still needed or which have defects and have to be replaced, etc. An effective manufacturing product data model can lead to more integrated and comprehensive product data and information by clearly showing the information requirements of the products, parts and items throughout their life cycle from engineering to manufacturing to the deployment of products at customer locations. Relevant data which may be included in the record are the part identification number, name, and classification which may range from raw material, subassembly or finished good. Raw material is a piece used in making the product and does not need further enhancements for it to be usable. Subassembly means that the part is still composed of other parts. Finished good means that the part is completely done and processed and is ready for shipping. Product information need to indicate the product identification number, name, description, introduction date, sales discontinuation date, support discontinuation date and comments. Bills of materials and marketing packages are also part of the data required for manufacturing process. Manufacturers frequently use the term "bill of materials" to refer to how various parts are assembled into other parts and eventually into products. An enterprise may have a need to store parts used in a MARKETING PACKAGE that are never sold as individual products. Bills of materials consist of parent product identification number, child product identification number, from date, thru date, reason, quantity used, instructions and comments. Part composition has the same information with the bills of materials except for the classification which are engineering composition and manufacturing composition. Types of marketing offerings and types of parts that make up the marketing offerings are important and aside fro this inventory and deployment data should complete the data requirements for manufacturing process. Of course, there are actual physical items that may exist within the enterprise's inventory or that may be deployed at customer locations. Customer service data requirements deals with customer personal data which ranges from financial information, demographics, contact information professional and educational; background. These customer data are confidential and restricted access is provided with the creation and update of these records. While such "point deployments" bring immediate process and data efficiencies to the particular

Poetry- Hidden Social or Politicial Ideology or Agenda Essay

Poetry- Hidden Social or Politicial Ideology or Agenda - Essay Example His poems were much influenced by the African-American Jazz Music and the contents were radical. However, this was not given much attention. Because â€Å"his radical poetry was neglected,† a tone of frustration and the willingness to revolt are very evident in his poem, â€Å"Harlem† (Dawahare 21). The series of questions would lead the readers to realize the climax. â€Å"Harlem† is a poem which describes a people full of longing to be truly free from discrimination and marginalization; their ideals and dream of social equity is prevalent amidst the oppression of the white American community. The â€Å"dream† (Hughes line 1) being referred by Hughes is the yearning of the black Americans to equality; a dream stressing out that they too, are people with feelings and intellect and not mere slaves that the whites made them to be. The onset of abolitionism gave the African-Americans liberty and the government gave them rights that they were not able to exercise before such as the right to vote and the right to own a property. Despite of the government abolishing the slavery, they could not achieve fully what they really wanted. Hughes used images that appeal to the senses as if the dream he is talking about is tangible; can be seen and felt. The second â€Å"big question† mentioned in the poem: â€Å"Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?† (Hughes 2) might suggest a very symbolic representation of an African American ideal. Like a grape losing its juice when exposed to the sun for a long time, a dream may lose its vitality if it is not realized in time . Putting together side by side two very unlike objects which seem to set in the opposite poles adds more effect in the delivery of the message; a very large object, powerful, and made as a god by ancient people (the sun), and an object made from a preserved fruit, almost unnoticeable (the raisin). Next symbolism that can be

Data Requirements Strategic Supply Chain Management Essay

Data Requirements Strategic Supply Chain Management - Essay Example With these essential elements of the production process in the manufacturing of goods, the parts should be recorded in terms of the descriptions, brand and any other associated data. For instance, the term "bill of materials" may be used by various parts of the enterprise such as engineering, manufacturing, service and sales; although they may all have different definitions of what the bill of materials actually means. Even the basic terms "product" and "parts" may have several definitions within an enterprise. Since a manufacturing company makes use of numerous parts, inventory will help them with communicating clearly with other departments as to which parts are still needed or which have defects and have to be replaced, etc. An effective manufacturing product data model can lead to more integrated and comprehensive product data and information by clearly showing the information requirements of the products, parts and items throughout their life cycle from engineering to manufacturing to the deployment of products at customer locations. Relevant data which may be included in the record are the part identification number, name, and classification which may range from raw material, subassembly or finished good. Raw material is a piece used in making the product and does not need further enhancements for it to be usable. Subassembly means that the part is still composed of other parts. Finished good means that the part is completely done and processed and is ready for shipping. Product information need to indicate the product identification number, name, description, introduction date, sales discontinuation date, support discontinuation date and comments. Bills of materials and marketing packages are also part of the data required for manufacturing process. Manufacturers frequently use the term "bill of materials" to refer to how various parts are assembled into other parts and eventually into products. An enterprise may have a need to store parts used in a MARKETING PACKAGE that are never sold as individual products. Bills of materials consist of parent product identification number, child product identification number, from date, thru date, reason, quantity used, instructions and comments. Part composition has the same information with the bills of materials except for the classification which are engineering composition and manufacturing composition. Types of marketing offerings and types of parts that make up the marketing offerings are important and aside fro this inventory and deployment data should complete the data requirements for manufacturing process. Of course, there are actual physical items that may exist within the enterprise's inventory or that may be deployed at customer locations. Customer service data requirements deals with customer personal data which ranges from financial information, demographics, contact information professional and educational; background. These customer data are confidential and restricted access is provided with the creation and update of these records. While such "point deployments" bring immediate process and data efficiencies to the particular

Interoffice Memorandum Essay Example for Free

Interoffice Memorandum Essay The Tarasoff case involved a murder victim, Tatiana Tarasoff, who was killed by an alleged acquaintance Prosejit Poddar. Poddar was a client of a psychologist employed by the University of California, and during a therapy session he revealed his intent to murder Tatiana Tarasoff. The psychologist assessed Poddar as a danger and informed the campus police, and was held briefly and released. Shortly after Poddar was released he indeed murdered Tatiana. The parents of Tatiana Tarasoff, plaintiffs, sued the school, campus police, therapists and anyone else who had contact. The argument was over whether the third party had the right to be warned and had the right to be protected. The defendants maintained they owed no duty of care to the victim, and were immune from suit. The court stated that when a client presents a serious danger of violence to another there is an obligation, both legal and ethical, to use reasonable care to protect the intended victim against such danger. The therapist must take steps to determine or within their standard of profession determines the danger. This may call for the therapist to warn the intended victim or others likely to apprise the victim of the danger, to notify the police, or to take whatever other steps reasonably necessary under the circumstances. This ruling imposes a liability on all human service professionals to protect a victim from violent acts. There is a duty to protect and a duty to warn the potential third party victims to violence. This may cause implications with the confidentiality of the client-helper relationship and may also cause violent clients to avoid treatment. This indeed will change the environment for human services and confidentiality; as now helpers may need to divulge confidential information to third parties in certain circumstances. The professional necessity of keeping a client’s information private is rooted in the ethical codes as well as in statutory law. As professionals in the human services realm we also have a right to withhold confidential information in a court of law. To stay within the law and the code of ethics that govern us it is necessary to consider the situation from all points of view, develop a list of issues that represent multiple viewpoints, generate the possible decisions on whether to break client confidentiality, and what would the consequences of each decision. Each case in which the outcome of this case may implicate the duty to protect and warn, we must make sure we are addressing every avenue within a small amount of time in case of imminent danger that exists. This will be an adjustment with our client-helper relationships, and must be shared not only with each other but also shared with our clients.

The concerns of donating bodies for research

The concerns of donating bodies for research There have always been concerns on whether a person should donate his or her body to science. Some people say its morally wrong not to have a regular funeral. Others say its the right thing to do because you could potentially be saving peoples lives, or helping a life out in some way. There are many advantages and disadvantages. Some people may be confused by body donations and organ donations. When you donate your organs, the doctors usually only take the organs they need to perform surgery to another being. A body donation consists of using your body to run test and hopefully find new ways to cure illness and disease. There are many advantages to donating your body to science. Most of these are going towards the advancing of scientific studies. There are still many diseases and cancers that go un- treatable. There are some treatments you can take to lower your risk of getting cancer a second time, but chances are very likely that you will get it a second time. There are still thousands of diseases that we do not know the cure to or how to treat them and the only way to find out more about these cancers and diseases is to study them and learn from them. There are other ways to study these cancers and diseases, but the best way that doctors and scientists can figure these illnesses out is to study and research donated bodies. Of course there are some people who dont think it is right to donate their body to science, but others would rather help people in the future to hopefully find cures for some diseases. This will also develop the advances in medical sciences. Throughout history, people have studied the anatomy of mankind to learn more about the human race to become smarter. Many people choose to become organ donors when they receive their license or state I.D. Both kinds of donation are very important to science. Some people have a hard time deciding whether to donate their body to science. On one hand, it could help find cures to diseases and it could help the study of young doctors to train with them. For the people who decide not to donate, it may be an issue with their religion where it is not right to donate, and they want a regular burial service. Some of the people who decide not to donate believe they cannot donate because they will not have them in the afterlife. Some people choose not to donate for many reasons. One of these reasons being they feel that they should have a regular funeral arrangement with and open casket ceremony. Many people are very religious and will always go by what they believe, which there is nothing wrong with that. Some families want to have an open casket ceremony to say their final goodbyes and have them buried beside their loved ones. However it is possible to have a funeral ceremony and a showing for all of the families to say their goodbyes and then later donate the body to science. No matter what people decide to do there is no right or wrong in donating or not donating. It is simply a personal decision, or a religious decision. If I had to decide whether to donate my body to science, I would choose to have a regular funeral. All through my familys history we have always buried our loved ones beside each other and we will continue to do so. There are many reasons why I believe in a showing and burring families together. On the other hand I do believe in organ donations, but no donating your entire body to science. Even though some people believe its right to donate your body to science to help the future doctors of the world, there are many more ways to study human corpses without donating your whole body. There have even been instances where the morgue and doctors have taken organs from dead bodies without the consent of the parents. For example, in 2005 a kid got into a car wreck and passed away. The morgue or doctors took the brain of the child out of the body without the parents consent the parents. This is why there is always a debate on whether you should donate your body to science or not. My personal belief is that if you have always had a regular funeral and the history of your family has always done it that way, you should keep doing it. If you dont have many religious beliefs and you not sure what to choose, maybe body donations would be a good idea to do. I believe in regular burial services, but at the same time we need some people who do not mind what happens with their body after death, to donate their body to research. The reason some people choose to donate is because sometime in their life they needed an organ from someone else to keep living their life. In this case, the person who donates is trying to help someone in the future by hopefully giving someone an organ of his or hers to help someone in the future. In this case, I believe donating organs is the right thing to do. Many religions such as Christians, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism believe it is okay to donate organs to someone else, because they believe it is an act of kindness, and giving. My opinion is that if you are going to donate anything you should donate money, blood, and organs. Just by donating blood and organs you can help, and save many lives without donating your whole body to science and research. All of this is just a personal decision. Whatever someone chooses to do, they should consider others in their decision and how they can help somebody else before they pass away. Although there are many reasons why people should donate their body to science, I still believe you do not have to donate your entire body. Just organ donations alone can help save many lives and donating blood can potentially save up to three lives. For the people who are trying to decide whether or not they should donate something to science, I think they should talk about it with parents, friends, and doctors to make the best choice. In some cases, some peoples bodies would not be a good donation to science and would only be hurting the cause. If you have a past of drug use or alcohol abuse you would not be a good candidate to donate your body. If you have lived a long healthy life and you believe your organs could potentially save another persons life, then go ahead and donate. Many doctors and lawyers will tell you that you need to donate your body to science. But before listening to them, think to yourself what would be right. A lot of doctors say that body donations are the only way to advance in anatomy science and they need more and more donations. This is not true; there are many more ways to help with the advancement of science without donating your body. You could give blood and money, or just donate your organs alone. There are many disadvantages to donating your body to science. One of these reasons is that your never know exactly how you are going to die, and if for some reason the doctors and morgue dont like the condition your body is in, they do not have to accept your body. This will leave the loved ones of the dead body with un-expected funeral costs and everything that goes along with a funeral. In todays society money is a serious issue and people would like to know exactly whats going on with issues that involve money. In the end, no matter what you decide to do, whether its donating your whole body to the research of science and anatomy, just donate certain organs of your body, or decide to go with a regular funeral service, you should always think and talk about it to your loved ones first. Many people who decide one of these options usually go with what their family history has chosen in the past. This may be the best way, but in some cases its not. If you or a loved one has ever been in a situation where you need another persons organ to live, you will know what its like to have to go through that pain, and depression. In this case, I believe it is right to donate your organs, but you do not need to donate your whole body. I believe in conducting a normal funeral service along with being an organ donor. Usually the DMV will ask youre when you receive your license or state I.D. if you would like to be an organ donor. I elected to be an organ donor, because I know if I were in a situation where I needed someone elses organs to live, I would be hoping someone chose to be an organ donor. This goes back to being a religious family. Many religions believe in organ donning because it shows characteristics of kindness and unselfishness. It all depends on what youre and your family believes in. My family has always been the type of family to give organs, but at the same time have a regular burial service, and thats the way I believe it should be. Before you choose which way to go with donations, have some feelings for people who are in dire need for an organ to live a full and happy life. The book â€Å"Stiff† by author Mary Roach is a very interesting and exciting book. Normally you will read a book and it will end with a death or crazy climax. In â€Å"Stiff† the best part of the book begins after the death. She describes what really happens after death and puts it into a perspective where everyone can understand. She also makes her story kind of funny in some parts which keep the readers interested. Many other books like this seem boring and dull, but the way Mary Roach writes and the words she uses keeps the reading laughing through the whole book. Her writing is very vibrate and knowledgeable

Hemingways The Handle: Death and Deliverance :: essays research papers

The labyrinthine structure of what is perhaps Hemingway's least-anthologized novella, "The Handle," belies its peremptory dismissal by many critics as a hastily written jumble of vacuous dialogue wrapped around a poorly-contrived plot. "The Handle," a posthumously published novella that Hemingway penned in the frustrated years following his Nobel prize in literature for "The Old Man and the Sea," is the story of a farmer, set in a sleepy fictional province of rural Ohio, whose yearnings for a more transitory lifestyle are offset by a feeling of obligation to the land and the house and the profession of his father, his grandfather, and great-grandfather before him. Although the fields of Joseph Mallort are now little more than barren clumps of rock, tilled for generations until, as Hemingway writes, "the ground finally refused to yield," the farmer continues to plow his dusty, heat-cracked fields, hoping against hope to eek what little sustenance they might still provide. Although one may be tempted to draw the conclusion that Hemingway's barren fields are little more than a thinly-veiled expression of rising self-doubt about the author's own creative abilities that becomes prevalent in Hemingway's later years, to dismiss the story as nothing more than a straightforeward allegory is to do an injustice to its more intriguing thematic elements. Joeseph Mallort is a widower, living alone in the creaky old farmhouse of his father, who awakens in the predawn hours to milk the cows and get the plowing underway before the murderous sun beats down on him. By most afternoons he has succumbed to something that might be diagnosed as mild heat-stroke today, and wanders the fields aimless and slightly confused, murmuring one-sided conversations with his deceased wife, father, gandfather, and the original settler of the farm. Although the dialogue of "The Handle," represents a tenuous structural departure in that all of the secondary characters are either dead ghosts or mild halucinations, it is still chock full of the brisk versimilitude rendered in simple prose that is the hallmark of Heminway's finest passages. After a blight of cow-fever leaves Joseph without the chores of milking and feeding, he digs a mass grave for the cows and buries them under a mound of earth. Several days later, he's walking the perimeter of his fields, mending the barbed-wire fence, when the ghost of his grandfather begins to taunt him for wasting his time on the fence when all the cows are dead.

The Death of Antigone :: Essays on Antigone

In Sophocles’ Antigone, Antigone saw her action of burying her brother as a just one. It may not have been just in the eyes of Creon and the people of Thebes, but she was not concerned with the laws that mortals had made. Antigone saw the divine laws of the gods to be much more important than those of mortals. She felt that if she died while upholding the laws of the gods, that her afterlife would be better than if she had not. Our lives on this earth are so short, that to see a good afterlife over the horizon will make people go against the laws of humans. Early in the play, Antigone felt dying for her brother was a noble action. Death to her was not an ending, but a new beginning in a better place. Antigone’s family had been cursed for ages; death was something that followed at their heels. The people of Thebes would always look at her with suspicious eyes. Her father, Oedipus, had caused these looks to be placed on her family forever. Then her brothers killed one another on the same day; her life in Thebes was not good. With such a bad life in Thebes, an honorable death must have looked very appealing to Antigone. In most societies, as well as Thebes, the afterlife is taught to be much more important than your mortal life. The problem is that we do not know what is waiting on the other side for us. Antigone thought that if she were to please the gods in her life that she could only expect good things in the afterlife. The burial of Polyneices was her ticket to a good afterlife. The afterlife is eternal, and life is just a small spec, compared to the time spent in death. Antigone welcomed death at the time of burying her brother; she was not concerned with the consequences. She saw her actions as being true to the gods and religion. â€Å"I myself will bury him. It will be good to die, so doing. I shall lie by his side, loving him as he loved me; I shall be a criminal but – a religious one.† (Antigone, lines 81-85) To Antigone, the honor of her brother, and her family was all that was important. She may be going against Creon, but if her actions were true in her heart then the gods would see her in a good light.

Solving Proportions

A comparison of two numbers is referred to as a ratio, similar to fractions that can be reduced to lowest terms and then converted into a ratio of integers. Ratios allow one to compare sizes of two quantities and unit measurements. Any statement expressing the equality of two ratios is known as a proportion, which is used in numerous formulas in today’s real world settings and applications. Using proportions is an effective way to find solutions by using the extreme means property or cross-multiplying. Extreme means property is simply the end result of the product of the extremes equaling the products of the means.Cross-multiplying is a short cut in proportions providing it is a faster way to solutions rather than multiplying each side of the rational expression equation by the LCD. Applications of rational expressions involving formulas include finding the equation of a line, distance, rate, time, uniform motion, and work problems. Proportions are used on a daily basis withou t even one realizing it by comparing measurements, unit pricing, driving distances, and calculating populations and wildlife on a daily basis to find a solution.For example, I will be using the extreme means property to estimate bear population in Keweenaw Peninsula. I was asked to solve problem #56, on page 437 of Elementary and intermediate algebra, (Dugopolski, M. , 2012) which states, that conservationists captured, tagged, and released 50 bears. Over a one-year period, a random sample of 100 bears included only 2 tagged bears in Keweenaw Peninsula. To calculate the proportion, it will allow me to expect the ratio of bears that were originally tagged to the whole population is equal to the ratio of the returning bears totaling 100 but only 2 tagged bears to the size of the sample.The variable â€Å"b† for bears is applied, then followed by cross-multiplying the extremes and means to the proper set up of the proportion to find the solution. The two ratios are as follows: 5 0/b = the originally tagged bears to the whole population and 2/100 = the recaptured bears to the sample size. The means are 2 and b and the extremes are 50 and 100. 50 = 2 b 100Correct setup of proportion. 5,000 = 2b cross multiply the means (2*b) and the extremes (50*100) 2 2followed by division of 2. 2,500 Answer after division was carried out.x = 2, 500 The estimated number of bears in Keweenaw Peninsula. Continuing onto the second assignment involving proportions, the following equation must be solved for y. Since there are single fractions (also referred to as ratios) on both sides of the equation, the extreme means property will be used again in this proportion. y – 1 = -3 x + 3 4Written as an equation; solving for y. 4(y – 1) = -3x(x + 3)Cross multiplying was done. 4y – 1 + 4 = -3x +3 +3Distribute 4 on left side and 3 on the right side. y = -3x -3 + 1 Add 1 to both sides.4y = 2x -5Last step, 4 is divided on both sides. 4 4 y = -3 4 Linear equation in the form of y = mx + b and with a slope of -3/4. Taking notice that the slope of -3/4, is the same number as the number on the right hand side of the previous equation. I must continue trying another method but still use the extreme means property and try another method to see if I get a different solution. This may be an extraneous solution that I may come upon considering if the solution does not satisfy the rational expression.y – 1 = -3O riginal equation. x – 3 4 y – 1 = -3 Distribute (x-3) on both sides and multiply. x – 3 4 (x – 3)Cancel out common factors which eliminates denominator on left. y – 1 + 1 = -3x – 3 +1 To isolate y, 1 is added to both sides. Cancel common factors. y = -3 x -1 4Equation complete and simplified. For this equation, I could have multiplied the LCD to both sides, but I found the extreme means property was an efficient shortcut. Cross- multiplying allowed me to eliminate the fractions and have the same endi ng result.We can now consider this an extraneous solution because the number showing as the solution but causes zero (0) in the denominator. As rational expressions can be tricky when there is a variable involved in the denominator so caution must be adhered. The use of proportions is everyday life and real world settings and applications are used without one even realizing it. While proportions can determine a solution whether it be driving distance, estimated population count, unit measuring, gas mileage, or to estimate an average time for a job to be completed, it is a necessary tool that is used in many ways.The ratios that build the proportion can be easily solved by cross- multiplying the extremes and means in a fast and effective way. The wildlife can be assured that their tags will be calculated with an accurate solution for any conservationist inquiring about a certain species. So the next time you find yourself comparing two quantities, deciding the average time for a spec ific job, or determining how many miles you can go on a half of tank of gas on your next road trip, remember you are actually calculating proportions!

The Evolution of the Mba

Reading List for Technology and Innovation Strategy: 463 – Management and Strategy, Kellogg School of Management Professor Shane Greenstein Students will be held accountable for all required readings. These must be read ahead of class discussion. Related readings are relevant background. These are included for the interested student. I highly recommend them for a fuller perspective on the topic. Topic 1: Basic Frameworks and Toolkits Topic 1a. Adoption and Evolution Required reading: Geoffrey Moore. Chapters 1 and 2, High Tech Marketing Illusion, High Tech marketing Enlightenment, Crossing the Chasm, Harper Business, 2006. Not in reading packet. Please purchase book. ) Rosenberg, Nathan, â€Å"Innovation’s Uncertain Terrain. † McKinsey Quarterly, pp. 170-185, Issue 3, 1995. In class video: Interview with Dan Bricklin, founder of Visicalc, from Triumph of the Nerds, An Irreverent History of the PC Industry, By Bob Cringely. Ambrose Video, RM Associates. 1996 Relat ed reading: Geoffrey Moore, To Succeed in the Long Term, Focus on the Middle Term, Harvard Business Review, July 2007. Wolter Lemstra, Vic Hayes and John Groenewegen, â€Å"Crossing the Chasm: the Apple AirPort. † Chapter 4 of The Innovation Journey of Wi-Fi: The Road o Global Success, Cambridge Press. Greenstein, â€Å"Virulent Word of Mouse. † And â€Å"An Earful about Zvi’s Email. † http://www. kellogg. northwestern. edu/faculty/greenstein/images/columns-older. html â€Å"Early Adopter, Enthusiast or Pioneer? A User’s guide to Technology Lingo. † http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ 1b: Capturing value in value chains: the basics. Greg Linden, Kenneth L. Kraemer, and Jason Dedrick, â€Å"Who Captures Value from innovation in global value chains? A Study of the iPod and Notebook PC. Industrial and Corporate Change, June, 2009. Greg Linden, Kenneth L.Kraemer, and Jason Dedrick, The Distribution of Value in the Mobile Phone Supply Ch ain Related reading Francesco Zirpoli and Markus C. Becker, â€Å"What Happens When you Outsource too Much? † SMR 374, Winter 2011. Topic 1c: Attackers’ advantage during diffusion Required reading: â€Å"The Crisis at Encyclopeadia Britannica,† Kellogg Teaching Case, Revised version, August, 2009. Joseph Bower and Clayton Christensen, â€Å"Disruptive Technologies: Catching the Wave† in (Ed) John Seely Brown, Seeing Differently: Insights on Innovation, Harvard Business Review Book, 1997See class page on Blackboard, under the Assignment folder. Related reading: John Hagel III, John Seeley Brown, Lang Davison, â€Å"Shaping Strategy in a World of Constant Disruption,† Harvard Business Review, October 2008. Greenstein, â€Å"Creative Destruction and Deconstruction. † http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/, October, 2004. Topic 1d: Installed Base and Standards Required Reading: Carl Shapiro and Hal Varian, Information Rules, Chapters 5, 6, 7 & 8. Recognizing Lock-in, Managing Lock-in, Networks and Positive Feedback, Cooperation and Compatibility, Harvard Business School Press, 1998. Not in case packet. Please purchase book. ) In class video: Interview with the founders of McAfee Associates, from Nerds 2. 0. 1, A Brief History of the Internet, Bob Cringely, PBS Home Video, 1998. Related Reading: â€Å"Bleeding Edge Mass Market Standards,† and â€Å"Bird Watching for Nerds: Splintering the Internet,† and â€Å"The Grocery Scanner and Bar Code Economy,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 1e: Attackers Advantage versus Installed Base: Microsoft and Netscape Required Reading: Browser Wars, 1994-98, HBS Case 9-798-094 In class video:Interview with Andreeson, Clark, Gates, Ballmer, Metcalfe, from Nerds 2. 0. 1, A Brief History of the Internet, Bob Cringely, PBS Home Video, 1998. Related Reading: Timothy Bresnahan and Pai-Ling Yin, â€Å"Standard Setting in Markets: The Browser Wars,† in Greenstein and Stango, Standards and Public Policy, Cambridge University Press, pp. 18-59. See class page on Blackboard, under the Assignment folder. Greenstein, â€Å"The Long Arc Behind Bill Gates’ Wealth, Part I and Part II,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 2: Systems and Platforms Topic 2a. Classic frameworks and new approachesRequired reading: Andrei Hagiu, Note on Multi-sided Platforms: Economic Foundations and Strategy, HBS Case, 9-709-484 Related reading: Michael Cusumano and Annabelle Gawer, Elements of Platform Leadership, Sloan Management Review. Spring 2002, (43) 3, pp 51- 58. â€Å"Gateway Economics,† and â€Å"The Lexicon of Network Economics,† and â€Å"Managing Complements,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 2b: Developing a multi-sided platform at Google Required reading: Google Inc, HBS Case 9-910-036 In class video: Hal Varian, Introduction to the Google Ad Auction, Made for YouTube. Related Reading:Andrei Hagiu and David Yoffie, â€Å"What’s your Google Strategy? † Harvard Business Review. R0904. Greenstein, â€Å"A Big Payoff,† â€Å"The Next Chapter at Google,† and â€Å"Did one invention lead to the decline of newspapers? † http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 2c: Entrepreneurial product development for a platform Required reading: â€Å"Developing an App for That,† HBS Case 9-711-415, August 2, 2011. Related reading: Bhide, Amar (1996). â€Å"The Questions Every Entrepreneur Must Answer,† Harvard Business Review, HBS Reprint 96603-PDF-ENG â€Å"Google’s Android: Will it shake up the Wireless Industry in 2009 and Beyond? Case SM-176. â€Å"Gaming Structure,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 3: Commercialization Topic 3a: Commercialization Strategy Required reading: Joshua Gans and Scott Stern, â€Å"The Product Market and the Market for Ideas: Commercialization Strategies for Technology Entrepreneurs. † Research Policy, In class video: Interview with Rod Cannon, in Triumph of the Nerds by Bob Cringely. 1996 Related reading: Seabrook, J. , â€Å"The Flash of Genius,† The New Yorker. Greenstein, â€Å"Imitation Happens,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 3b: Merger for knowledge transfer: Cisco SystemsRequired reading: â€Å"Cisco: Early if Not Elegant (A) and (B), Darden Case, UV 1632. Recommended reading: Bunnell and Brate, Making the Cisco Connection, Chapter 6, The Benevolent Predator. Geoffrey A. Moore, 2008, Dealing with Darwin, How Great Companies Innovate at Every Phase of Their Evolution, Penguin Group, pp 100-109, 159-167, and 181 -191 Ironport, Stanford GSB Case, E-334. Topic 3c: Commercialization experiments: Markets for intellectual property Required Reading: â€Å"Intellectual Ventures,† Case 9-710-423, Related reading: Nathan Myhrvold, Funding Eureka! HBR article, March, 2010. â€Å"When Pate nts Attack. † Originally aired on WBEZ/This American Life on 7. 22. 2011. http://www. thisamericanlife. org/radio-archives/episode/441/when-patents-attack Davis, Lee (2008). â€Å"Licensing Strategies of the New Intellectual Property Vendors,† California Management Review Greenstein, â€Å"Smart Phone patents and Platform Wars,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 3d. Commercialization Experiments: Online without intellectual property. Required reading: RadioHead: Music at your own price (A) and (B), Case 9-508-110, 9-508-111Related reading: â€Å"Pandora Radio: Fire Unprofitable customers? † HBS case 5-610-078, April 2011. â€Å"Digitization and Value creation,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 4: Firm boundary and scope Topic 4a: Extending functionality: Intel Required reading: â€Å"Intel Centrino in 2007: A new Platform Strategy for Growth. † SM-156. Related reading: Shane Greenstein â€Å"Economic Experime nts and the Development of Wi-Fi. † Edited by Steven Kahl, Michael Cusumano, and Brian Silverman. Advances in Strategic Managements, V 29. Chapter 1, pp. 3-33. Emerald Group Publishing; Bingley, UK.Greenstein, February 2007, â€Å"The High Costs of a Cheap Lesson,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ 4b: Climbing the value chain Required reading Flextronics International, LTD, 9-604-063, April, 2010. HTC Corp. in 2012, HBS case 9-712-423, September, 2012. Related reading Greenstein, â€Å"Outsourcing and Two Views for Climbing the Value Chain,† http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 4c: User-contributed content Required Reading: â€Å"Wikipedia in the Spotlight,† Kellogg Teaching Case. August, 2009. Recommended Reading: â€Å"Wagging Wikipedia’s Long Tail. â€Å"Another Venerable Establishment Surrenders to Wikipedia,† and â€Å"The Range of Linus’ Law. † http://virulentwordofmouse. wordpress. com/ Topic 4d: Entrepreneurship and user participation Required reading: â€Å"Triumph of the Commons: Wikia and the Commercialization of Open Source Communities in 2009. † Kellogg Teaching case, October, 2009. Yelp, Case 9-709-412 MentorMob and the Reinvention of Learning, August, 2011. Related Reading: Eric Raymond, The Cathedral and the Bazaar, First Monday. www. firstmonday. dk See class page on Blackboard, under the Assignment folder. Foursquare, HBS Case 9-711-418