Saturday, August 31, 2019

Introduction to Environmental Science Essay

Be able to define an environmental factor. There are two types (condition and resource). What is the difference between a condition and a resource? Be able to categorize particular environmental factors as conditions OR resources (for example, temperature is a condition and not a resource). Be able to rank from smallest to largest: ecosystem, landscape, biome, biosphere Be able to rank from smallest to largest (in terms of numbers and diversity of life): species, population, biota and biosphere. Also, what is the difference between a population of a species and a species overall? Make sure you can explain the Law of Limiting Factors. What is the difference between the optimum conditions, the zones of tolerance and the zones of stress? Can life exist outside of the zones of tolerance? Outside of the zones of stress? Be able to list the primary atoms in organic compounds. What is the difference between a producer and a consumer? Be able to classify life as one or the other. Make sure you know the products and reactants for photosynthesis and cellular respiration. In each of the following cycles, be able to identify the primary source for each atom (atmosphere, lithosphere, biosphere): Carbon cycle, Nitrogen cycle, Phosphorous cycle. Be able to categorize an environmental resistance factor as population density-dependent or density-independent. Some examples may include food availability, water availability, disease, temperature, wind and available space/shelter. What are biotic potential and environmental resistance, and how are they related? Be able to define critical number (what this means for a species survival), threatened and endangered. Make sure you can list characteristics of a K-strategist versus an r-strategist. Is an elephant a K- or r-strategist? What about a fly? Be able to describe, and identify, the following community interactions: predation, competition, mutualism, commensalism, amensalism. What is an adaptation? Be able to identify common types of adaptations of organisms (camouflage, prickles on cactus, ability to store water in the desert, hibernation in cold climates, long necks to reach food, etc. see table in your Power Point and textbook). See more: introduction paragraph example How does the process of selective pressure influence the processes of evolution and speciation? What IS the process of speciation? What is time frame for evolution and/or speciation of complex species (i.e., not single-celled organisms like bacteria)? Can species that evolve from other species still mate with the species from which they evolved? How are the Theories of Evolution and Continental Drift complimentary? Be able to identify the exponential growth rate equation and the logistic growth rate equation. What are the differences between the two? (For example, carrying capacity is only in logistic growth, the shapes of the curves are different.) Be able to describe how (in what way) each of the four human population revolutions impacted the carrying capacity for humans on Earth. Make sure you can tell me what each of the letters stands for in this equation, I = (P x A x T)/S, and how increasing and decreasing each will change environmental impact (I). Make sure you know what each of these trophic categories or food web terms are: Autotrophs, Heterotrophs (includes decomposers, consumers), Producers, Consumers (first-order, second-order, third-order). Where do herbivores, carnivores and omnivores fit into the consumer classes? Be able to list the 6 major biomes, and compare them in terms of precipitation and temperature (precipitation is the primary factor that determines biomes, and temperature is the second most important factor). What are common values that humans place on biodiversity? What was the goal of the Endangered Species Act? Does it protect the organism only, or also its habitat?

Friday, August 30, 2019

Applying Information Security and SDLC Essay

Write a paper of no more than 3,000 words in which you discuss one of the bookstores, use the SDLC method to implement a new technology into the bookstore, and detail a disaster recovery plan for the bookstore. Cite at least five references in your paper. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. If you are thinking of joining a fraternity or sorority, take the time to look into what each individual house has to offer. While there are similarities, many houses are different in the types of community service they do, the types of activities they prefer, and the overall attitude they portray. This pack contains BIS 320 Week 5 Applying Information Security and SDLC to Business General Questions – General General Questions Resource: University of Phoenix Material: Applying Information Security and SDLC to Business Write a paper of no more than 3,000 words in which you discuss one of the bookstores, use the SDLC method to implement a new technology into the bookstore, and detail a disaster recovery plan for the bookstore. Cite at least five references in your paper. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. If you are thinking of joining a fraternity or sorority, take the time to look into what each individual house has to offer. While there are  similarities, many houses are different in the types of community service they do, the types of activities they prefer, and the overall attitude they portray. This pack contains BIS 320 Week 5 Applying Information Security and SDLC to Business General Questions – General General Questions Resource: University of Phoe†¦ https://bitly.com/12BDPWw If you are thinking of joining a fraternity or sorority, take the time to look into what each individual house has to offer. While there are similarities, many houses are different in the types of community service they do, the types of activities they prefer, and the overall attitude they portray. General Questions – General General Questions Resource: University of Phoenix Material: Applying Information Security and SDLC to Business Write a paper of no more than 3,000 words in which you discuss one of the bookstores, use the SDLC method to implement a new technology into the bookstore, and detail a disaster recovery plan for the bookstore. Cite at least five references in your paper. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Airline Management (Analysis of the ‘four pillars’)

This should be included into a broader package of measures including new aircraft technology, more efficient operations and better use of infrastructure, (ICAO, 2013) [Online]. The industry determined that a carbon-offsetting policy would be the best method, giving carriers the opportunity to tailor their response to their business development; in effect, ensuring that carriers feel the plan still allows for expansion to meet rising demand, (IATA, 2013) [Online]. The meeting concluded with the following, (ATAG, 2013) [Online]: Agree a roadmap for development of a single global MBM for aviation to be implemented from 2020 that can be adopted at ICAO’s next Assembly in 2016. Agree the principles for development of a global MBM, including: o The goal of carbon-neutral growth from 2020; o That aviation emissions should only be accounted for once; o That a global MBM should take account of different types of operator activity. This report will evaluate the progress made on ONE of the four pillars to reduce emissions from the aviation sector; whilst also paying attention to the barriers that carriers face in achieving these targets. The first section will provide a brief introduction to the four pillars as well as reasoning behind the choice in evaluation. A discussion will then follow answering the requirements of the report, before a conclusion summarises the findings. FOUR PILLARS The four pillars cover the entire scope of feasible methods to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The pillars are technological process, improved infrastructure, operational measures and economic measures. Table 1 below provides a summary: This report has chosen to focus on the development of operational measures; the decision was driven by an interest in the development of fuel efficiency, business optimisation and carrier integration in a bid to reduce emissions from an industry that has always been labelled a major global polluter. With demand for air travel booming on the back of global urbanisation and emerging economies, more attention is being paid to carbon emissions from air travel. According to data from the Air Transport Action Group [ATAG] (2014), global emissions from air travel total 689mt, against a total of 34Billion tonnes of CO2 produced annually from human activity. With these figures, CO2 emissions from air-travel total 2% of annual emissions; in terms of transport, aviation is responsible for 12% of total emissions, compared with 74% from road transport. OPERATIONAL MEASURES As mentioned above, there are a number of factors, which with improvement can lead to a reduction in emissions. This section will concentrate on fuel efficiency, which will touch upon optimal aircraft use, new aircraft design and route optimisation. Also mentioned with be business optimisation, paying attention to carrier ‘load factor’, optimisation on ground-operations and also integration between carriers, which has included MA activity and also the introduction of alliances in the industry. The discussion will touch upon carrier cost reduction, which has become a major supporter of reduction on CO2 emissions given its link to fuel usage and so exposure to high oil prices. FUEL EFFICIENCY In terms of achievements so far, the issue of fuel efficiency has supported in recent years by the economic downturn and high oil prices. Carriers have look to reduce their fuel bills to stay profitable, focusing on a number of methods which also support fuel efficiency. To start, carriers have invested heavily in new aircraft after developments from both Boeing and Airbus support greater fuel efficiency. Airbus experienced its biggest year in 2011, receiving net orders for 1,419 new aircraft, buoyed by the launch of its A320neo, (Morrow, 2013) [Online], with similar success from Boeing, (BBC Business, 2014) [Online]. USA EXAMPLE Figure 1 shows that out of U.S. carriers Alaska Airlines came out as the most fuel efficient airline; what is most surprising is that the company has increased its business and routes by 33% 2000-2010, however has reported no increase in fuel use/emissions as investing in new planes has improved fuel efficiency greatly. The report also found that the fuel-efficiency gap between the best/worst airlines was 26%, (ICCT, 2013); the report also found that about one-third of the variation in efficiency likely comes from the deployment of different technology; for example Allegiant operates a fleet of McDonnell Douglas aircraft that date back to the 1970’s, while Alaska Airlines uses new Boeing planes that have technologies like ‘winglets’ to reduce fuel burn. These finding bode well for Boeing and Airbus as they continue to offer newer models. Recent additions such as Boeings 777X, a more fuel efficient version of the 777 Jumbo and Airbus’s A320 family have been well received; according to Boeing (2013) [Online], customers for the 777X include Gulf carriers along with Cathay Pacific and Lufthansa, with record breaking orders of 259, while Airbus (2013) [Online] confirmed its backlog of orders for the A320’s at over 10,000. These new planes will reduce both emissions and n oise pollution, allowing for negative externalities to be controlled as expansion continues. BUSINESS OPTIMIZATION Carriers have adopted a number of methods to optimise their operations. One factor has been the adoption of alliances between carriers, allowing for them to effectively ‘share’ their capacity. This has reduced the need for such aggressive expansion by some, which would have created too much competition on some routes. Furthermore, airlines have invested in newer aircraft to meet the needs of routes, such as smaller aircraft for new, short-haul routes and larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A380 for busier, long-haul routes. Emirates currently have orders for 90 A380’s as the carrier looks to expand capacity on a number of routes, (Wall, 2013) [Online]. FUTURE PROJECTS FOCUS (VIRGIN ATLANTIC) As more attention is paid by governments and consumers onto CO2 emissions and other negative externalities, company’s such as Virgin Atlantic (2013) have put more into reporting their impact on the environment from sustainability reports; in some continues such as the UK, reporting into emissions and environmental impact are becoming mandatory for listed companies, (UK Government, 2013), which will only increase the amount of information that the aviation sector will make public, (Sustainable Aviation, 2014) [Online]. According to Virgin Atlantic (2013), through its Sustainability Report 2013, the company focuses on a number of programs to improve sustainability. These include: Reducing CO2 emissions by 30% between 2007 and 2020. Improving the fleet of aircraft – currently Virgin Atlantic are taking delivery of 10 Airbus 330-300, which will replace the older Airbus 340-600 and be 30% more fuel efficient. Implementing technology to monitor aircraft fuel-use and routes to identify further carbon savings. PESTEL ANALYSIS This section will touch upon PESTEL analysis to look into the future possibilities to meet operational measure targets. In terms of driving-forces, a number of carriers will look to improve operational performance in a bid to lower costs and remain profitable as low-cost carrier reduce market prices and higher oil prices affect carrier margins. However, it has been noted that each carrier will take a differing approach, designed to also meet the requirements of current expansion plans. For example, take British Airways (BA); currently the carrier is involved in its ‘One Destination’ initiative, with a number of schemes underway to make the carrier carbon neutral from 2020, (Brittlebank, 2012) [Online]. According to British Airways (2013) the international community’s aim is to cut net CO2 emissions by 50% by 2050 (relative to 2005 levels). Figure 2 below provides a graphic to the proposal, identifying some of the key factors which will support the reduction. As mentioned prior, one of main drivers will be the continued improvement and market adoption of new aircraft. For example, British Airways (2013) estimates that the new Airbus A380 will have a 16% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the aircraft it will replace, mainly down to the capacity of the aircraft, which can be used on longer routes, such as Hong Kong and Los Angeles. Improvements such as these will continue to drive down CO2 emissions per passenger kilometres, a metric widely used in the airline industry to measure efficiency. In 2012, BA aircraft emitted 101.9g/CO2 per passenger kilometre, while Emirates emitted 100.6 (Emirates, 2013), Lufthansa 109.3 and EasyJet 95.6 (EasyJet, 2013) [Online]. One factor that each airline has in common is major deliveries of new aircraft. While new aircraft will continue to benefit both the environment and also the airline in terms of lower fuel bills, headwinds will appear in the long-term. While the current spate of aircraft order s has been supported by growth opportunities and profitability in the industry, long-term risks to demand could dampen the need and justification to purchase new aircraft. Furthermore, it has also been noticed that the recent rise in airline purchases has been fuelled by expansion projects from carriers in the Middle East and Asia, while European airlines seen less reluctant to purchase than previously as profitability has waned. Given this, the risk is that in the long-term, order may decline, which would impact on carriers ability to further reduce emissions. For example, British Airways (2013) are targeting efficiency of 83g/CO2 per passenger kilometre by 2025, which will require the support of capital expenditure. Given the current reduction in the carriers profitability over the year, continued weakness may make current expenditure plans un-obtainable. Figure 2 also highlights the potential for low-carbon fuels to support the four pillars. Both BA and Cathay Pacific (2013) among other have highlighted development into biofuels as a future growth area. The process involves inputting commercial/ residential organic waste into a boiler, where extremely high pressure plasma breaks down the waste into gases. These gases are then cooled and cleaned, before the Fischer-Tropsch process re-forms the gas into low-carbon jet fuel, (British Airways, 2013). BA is currently involved in a UK-based project with Solena Fuels Corporation to construct a waste-to-fuel plant, which at its peak will convert 500,000 tonnes of water into 50,000 tonnes of jet fuel each year, (British Airways, 2013). Cathay Pacific (2013) also remained optimistic on biofuels, implementing a number of projects itself. While development will be buoyed by social/ political acceptance of biofuels in the future and the green-credentials it provides, there are also factors, such as the costs involved and its competitiveness with current kerosene supplies. Another driver to mention will be the potential for demand. Figure 2 highlights that in the long-term, BA see a reduction in demand as one support for lower emissions; however this may not be the same for carriers such as Emirates, or others in Asia, Africa. Emirates recently reported a 4.5% in aircraft movements given new routes and higher demand, (Emirates, 2013). Given this, the need for a streamline of global initiatives is needed as emerging airlines increase slights to meet increased demand. Another driver identified is the purchase of emission reductions, or ‘carbon offsets’, with the money invested into initiatives to reduce emissions in other areas, which could be seen to offset the emissions from carrier operations. For example, Cathay Pacific (2013) has used money raised to invest in hydropower/ wind power projects in China. These programmes are now run by over 35 airlines, however require voluntary donations from passengers, IATA (2014) [Online]. The main risk is that the projects rely on the social responsibility of customers; an over reliance on these programmes to reduce emissions could back-fire if customers do not share the view; PriceWaterhouseCoopers (2013) suggests that carriers may need to purchase an extra ˆ1.1Billion of carbon offsets annually by 2030 to reach targets. PriceWaterhouseCoopers, hereafter PWC, (2013) backs up the above in its latest report. After mentioning the halving on aviation emissions by 2050, PWC shows its scepticism, saying that reaching the target will not be easy and would require improvements in carbon intensity of 5.1% every year. Ultimately, advances in fuel efficiency would need to be accelerated along with adoption of biofuels. To add, the report mentioned that a global consensus on sustainable aviation was needed before acceleration in improvements can be seen. The fear is that any improvement from airlines operating in advanced economies could be offset on a global scale by less-efficient emerging airlines from China and India etc., who may not have the financial means to invest heavily in the newest aircraft. GROUND OPERATIONS As mentioned in the Four Pillars, efficiency in ground operations will also support a reduction in emissions. Easyjet (2013) [Online] mentioned that they avoid ‘congested hubs’, such as Heathrow and Frankfurt, to help reduce taxiing and holding patterns, which will use less fuel and so emit less carbon. Furthermore, low-cost airlines have also been known for quick turnaround, allowing for greater efficiency from their current fleet, (Barrett, 2009). SUMMARY The report chose to focus on operational management as a tool to reduce emissions, focusing on fuel efficiency, new aircraft, and route optimisation. The report found that fuel efficiency, driven by new aircraft models has become a high priority; while the decision will have been impacted by a move to reduce emissions, there is also the thought that the trend of high-oil prices, coupled with lower earnings over the economic crisis would have pushed a number of carriers to seek cost-reductions and efficiency drives. Given this, past improvements in efficiency have been strong; however, strong growth in demand from emerging economies has led to a marketable rise in flights, pushing overall emissions higher. For example, Emirates, seen as one of the fastest growing carriers could be used as a barometer. While the carrier has reported improvements in fuel efficiency, due to new aircraft and routes, the carrier reported a 15.9% increase in overall CO2 emissions to 22.4Million tonnes, (Emirates, 2013). Looking ahead into the future, the report has highlighted a number of factors for improvement; being higher adoption of new aircraft, increased adoption of biofuels and purchase of emission reductions. Carriers will continue to place attention on new aircraft/ biofuels as focus remain firmly on cost-reductions; however, the level of long-term success will depend upon profitability, which will impact directly on future capital expenditure plans. To add, not all carriers may share the same plans as emerging carriers may focus on growth and profitability over the environment. To combat this, PWC (2013) identified that a global consensus is needed; currently regulation in the USA/ Europe is much higher than seen in Asia/ Middle East/ Africa, creating unfavourable discrepancy to airlines, such as BA. Carbon offsetting was also identified as a major growth initiative, however as mentioned this currently relies on customer donations; as so both social and political attention on the effects of emissions need to be heightened to encourage offsetting by the public. Operational measures provide great opportunities to further reduce emissions; however, carriers need to ensure they have the funds available for capital expenditure, and the public support/ donations to move ahead with carbon offsetting plans. Finally, it is important to mention that while fuel efficiency will continue to improve, strong increases in demand may lead to overall emissions increases as flight numbers/routes are increased by emerging airlines. This has been seen with data from Emirates; under these circumstances carriers would need to accelerate all initiatives in a bid to meet targets that would seem ambitious. All four pillars will need a global consensus to support target achievement. REFERENCES Airbus (2013) [Online]: Orders Deliveries, Available at http://www.airbus.com/company/market/orders-deliveries/, Accessed 12/01/2014. Air Transport Action Group (2014) [Online]: Facts and Figures, Available athttp://www.atag.org/facts-and-figures.html, Accessed 12/01/2014. ATAG (2013) [Online]: 38th ICAO Assembly, Available at http://www.atag.org/our-activities/38th-icao-assembly.html, Accessed 22/03/2014. Barrett, S (2009): Deregulation and the Airline Business in Europe, EU, Routledge. BBC Business (2014) [Online]: Boeing reports record orders and deliveries for 2013, Available at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25622236, Accessed 22/03/2014. Boeing (2013) [Online]: Media Releases; Boeing launches 777X with record-breaking orders, Available athttp://boeing.mediaroom.com/Boeing-Launches-777X-with-Record-Breaking-Orders-Strengthens-Partnerships-in-the-Middle-East-at-the-2013-Dubai-Airshow, Accessed 12/01/2014. British Airways (2013): Corporate Responsibility Summary, London, British Airways. Brittlebank, W (2012) [Online]: British Airways aims for carbon neutral growth, Available at http://www.climateactionprogramme.org/news/british_airways_aims_for_carbon_neutral_growth/, Accessed 22/03/2014. Cathay Pacific (2013): Sustainability Matters, Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific. EasyJet (2013) [Online]: In the air, Available at https://www.easyjet.com/EN/environment/green_in_the_air.shtml, Accessed 22/03/2014. Emirates (2013): The Emirates Group Environment Report 2012-13, UAE, Emirates Group. IATA (2013) [Online]: IATA Carbon Offset Program, Available at https://www.iata.org/whatwedo/environment/pages/carbon-offset.aspx, Accessed 22/03/2014. IATA (2014) [Online]: Fact Sheet: Carbon Offset, Available at http://www.iata.org/pressroom/facts_figures/fact_sheets/pages/carbon-offsets.aspx, Accessed 22/03/2014. ICAO (2013) [Online]: 38th Assembly Session, Available at http://www.icao.int/Meetings/a38/Pages/documentation-wp-presentations.aspx, Accessed 22/03/2014. International Council of Clean Transportation (2013); U.S. Domestic Airline Fuel Efficiency Ranking 2010, USA, ICCT Publications. Morrow, D (2013) [Online]: Airbus close to setting new order record, Available at http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/airbus-close-to-setting-new-order-record-393827/, Accessed 23/03/2014. PriceWaterhouseCoopers (2013): A sustainable future for aviation; the future of international aviation emissions could be determined in the next 12 months, London, PWC. UNFCCC (2008): The right flight path to reduce aviation emissions, USA, UNFCCC. Virgin Atlantic (2013); Sustainability Report 2013, UK, Virgin Atlantic. Wall, R (2013) [Online]: Emirates orders additional 50 airbus 1380’s to expand fleet, Available at http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-11-16/emirates-said-in-talks-to-order-50-airbus-a380-superjumbos-1-.html, Accessed 22/03/2014. Airline Management (Analysis of the ‘four pillars’) This should be included into a broader package of measures including new aircraft technology, more efficient operations and better use of infrastructure, (ICAO, 2013) [Online]. The industry determined that a carbon-offsetting policy would be the best method, giving carriers the opportunity to tailor their response to their business development; in effect, ensuring that carriers feel the plan still allows for expansion to meet rising demand, (IATA, 2013) [Online]. The meeting concluded with the following, (ATAG, 2013) [Online]: Agree a roadmap for development of a single global MBM for aviation to be implemented from 2020 that can be adopted at ICAO’s next Assembly in 2016. Agree the principles for development of a global MBM, including: o The goal of carbon-neutral growth from 2020; o That aviation emissions should only be accounted for once; o That a global MBM should take account of different types of operator activity. This report will evaluate the progress made on ONE of the four pillars to reduce emissions from the aviation sector; whilst also paying attention to the barriers that carriers face in achieving these targets. The first section will provide a brief introduction to the four pillars as well as reasoning behind the choice in evaluation. A discussion will then follow answering the requirements of the report, before a conclusion summarises the findings. FOUR PILLARS The four pillars cover the entire scope of feasible methods to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The pillars are technological process, improved infrastructure, operational measures and economic measures. Table 1 below provides a summary: This report has chosen to focus on the development of operational measures; the decision was driven by an interest in the development of fuel efficiency, business optimisation and carrier integration in a bid to reduce emissions from an industry that has always been labelled a major global polluter. With demand for air travel booming on the back of global urbanisation and emerging economies, more attention is being paid to carbon emissions from air travel. According to data from the Air Transport Action Group [ATAG] (2014), global emissions from air travel total 689mt, against a total of 34Billion tonnes of CO2 produced annually from human activity. With these figures, CO2 emissions from air-travel total 2% of annual emissions; in terms of transport, aviation is responsible for 12% of total emissions, compared with 74% from road transport. OPERATIONAL MEASURES As mentioned above, there are a number of factors, which with improvement can lead to a reduction in emissions. This section will concentrate on fuel efficiency, which will touch upon optimal aircraft use, new aircraft design and route optimisation. Also mentioned with be business optimisation, paying attention to carrier ‘load factor’, optimisation on ground-operations and also integration between carriers, which has included MA activity and also the introduction of alliances in the industry. The discussion will touch upon carrier cost reduction, which has become a major supporter of reduction on CO2 emissions given its link to fuel usage and so exposure to high oil prices. FUEL EFFICIENCY In terms of achievements so far, the issue of fuel efficiency has supported in recent years by the economic downturn and high oil prices. Carriers have look to reduce their fuel bills to stay profitable, focusing on a number of methods which also support fuel efficiency. To start, carriers have invested heavily in new aircraft after developments from both Boeing and Airbus support greater fuel efficiency. Airbus experienced its biggest year in 2011, receiving net orders for 1,419 new aircraft, buoyed by the launch of its A320neo, (Morrow, 2013) [Online], with similar success from Boeing, (BBC Business, 2014) [Online]. USA EXAMPLE Figure 1 shows that out of U.S. carriers Alaska Airlines came out as the most fuel efficient airline; what is most surprising is that the company has increased its business and routes by 33% 2000-2010, however has reported no increase in fuel use/emissions as investing in new planes has improved fuel efficiency greatly. The report also found that the fuel-efficiency gap between the best/worst airlines was 26%, (ICCT, 2013); the report also found that about one-third of the variation in efficiency likely comes from the deployment of different technology; for example Allegiant operates a fleet of McDonnell Douglas aircraft that date back to the 1970’s, while Alaska Airlines uses new Boeing planes that have technologies like ‘winglets’ to reduce fuel burn. These finding bode well for Boeing and Airbus as they continue to offer newer models. Recent additions such as Boeings 777X, a more fuel efficient version of the 777 Jumbo and Airbus’s A320 family have been well received; according to Boeing (2013) [Online], customers for the 777X include Gulf carriers along with Cathay Pacific and Lufthansa, with record breaking orders of 259, while Airbus (2013) [Online] confirmed its backlog of orders for the A320’s at over 10,000. These new planes will reduce both emissions and n oise pollution, allowing for negative externalities to be controlled as expansion continues. BUSINESS OPTIMIZATION Carriers have adopted a number of methods to optimise their operations. One factor has been the adoption of alliances between carriers, allowing for them to effectively ‘share’ their capacity. This has reduced the need for such aggressive expansion by some, which would have created too much competition on some routes. Furthermore, airlines have invested in newer aircraft to meet the needs of routes, such as smaller aircraft for new, short-haul routes and larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A380 for busier, long-haul routes. Emirates currently have orders for 90 A380’s as the carrier looks to expand capacity on a number of routes, (Wall, 2013) [Online]. FUTURE PROJECTS FOCUS (VIRGIN ATLANTIC) As more attention is paid by governments and consumers onto CO2 emissions and other negative externalities, company’s such as Virgin Atlantic (2013) have put more into reporting their impact on the environment from sustainability reports; in some continues such as the UK, reporting into emissions and environmental impact are becoming mandatory for listed companies, (UK Government, 2013), which will only increase the amount of information that the aviation sector will make public, (Sustainable Aviation, 2014) [Online]. According to Virgin Atlantic (2013), through its Sustainability Report 2013, the company focuses on a number of programs to improve sustainability. These include: Reducing CO2 emissions by 30% between 2007 and 2020. Improving the fleet of aircraft – currently Virgin Atlantic are taking delivery of 10 Airbus 330-300, which will replace the older Airbus 340-600 and be 30% more fuel efficient. Implementing technology to monitor aircraft fuel-use and routes to identify further carbon savings. PESTEL ANALYSIS This section will touch upon PESTEL analysis to look into the future possibilities to meet operational measure targets. In terms of driving-forces, a number of carriers will look to improve operational performance in a bid to lower costs and remain profitable as low-cost carrier reduce market prices and higher oil prices affect carrier margins. However, it has been noted that each carrier will take a differing approach, designed to also meet the requirements of current expansion plans. For example, take British Airways (BA); currently the carrier is involved in its ‘One Destination’ initiative, with a number of schemes underway to make the carrier carbon neutral from 2020, (Brittlebank, 2012) [Online]. According to British Airways (2013) the international community’s aim is to cut net CO2 emissions by 50% by 2050 (relative to 2005 levels). Figure 2 below provides a graphic to the proposal, identifying some of the key factors which will support the reduction. As mentioned prior, one of main drivers will be the continued improvement and market adoption of new aircraft. For example, British Airways (2013) estimates that the new Airbus A380 will have a 16% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the aircraft it will replace, mainly down to the capacity of the aircraft, which can be used on longer routes, such as Hong Kong and Los Angeles. Improvements such as these will continue to drive down CO2 emissions per passenger kilometres, a metric widely used in the airline industry to measure efficiency. In 2012, BA aircraft emitted 101.9g/CO2 per passenger kilometre, while Emirates emitted 100.6 (Emirates, 2013), Lufthansa 109.3 and EasyJet 95.6 (EasyJet, 2013) [Online]. One factor that each airline has in common is major deliveries of new aircraft. While new aircraft will continue to benefit both the environment and also the airline in terms of lower fuel bills, headwinds will appear in the long-term. While the current spate of aircraft order s has been supported by growth opportunities and profitability in the industry, long-term risks to demand could dampen the need and justification to purchase new aircraft. Furthermore, it has also been noticed that the recent rise in airline purchases has been fuelled by expansion projects from carriers in the Middle East and Asia, while European airlines seen less reluctant to purchase than previously as profitability has waned. Given this, the risk is that in the long-term, order may decline, which would impact on carriers ability to further reduce emissions. For example, British Airways (2013) are targeting efficiency of 83g/CO2 per passenger kilometre by 2025, which will require the support of capital expenditure. Given the current reduction in the carriers profitability over the year, continued weakness may make current expenditure plans un-obtainable. Figure 2 also highlights the potential for low-carbon fuels to support the four pillars. Both BA and Cathay Pacific (2013) among other have highlighted development into biofuels as a future growth area. The process involves inputting commercial/ residential organic waste into a boiler, where extremely high pressure plasma breaks down the waste into gases. These gases are then cooled and cleaned, before the Fischer-Tropsch process re-forms the gas into low-carbon jet fuel, (British Airways, 2013). BA is currently involved in a UK-based project with Solena Fuels Corporation to construct a waste-to-fuel plant, which at its peak will convert 500,000 tonnes of water into 50,000 tonnes of jet fuel each year, (British Airways, 2013). Cathay Pacific (2013) also remained optimistic on biofuels, implementing a number of projects itself. While development will be buoyed by social/ political acceptance of biofuels in the future and the green-credentials it provides, there are also factors, such as the costs involved and its competitiveness with current kerosene supplies. Another driver to mention will be the potential for demand. Figure 2 highlights that in the long-term, BA see a reduction in demand as one support for lower emissions; however this may not be the same for carriers such as Emirates, or others in Asia, Africa. Emirates recently reported a 4.5% in aircraft movements given new routes and higher demand, (Emirates, 2013). Given this, the need for a streamline of global initiatives is needed as emerging airlines increase slights to meet increased demand. Another driver identified is the purchase of emission reductions, or ‘carbon offsets’, with the money invested into initiatives to reduce emissions in other areas, which could be seen to offset the emissions from carrier operations. For example, Cathay Pacific (2013) has used money raised to invest in hydropower/ wind power projects in China. These programmes are now run by over 35 airlines, however require voluntary donations from passengers, IATA (2014) [Online]. The main risk is that the projects rely on the social responsibility of customers; an over reliance on these programmes to reduce emissions could back-fire if customers do not share the view; PriceWaterhouseCoopers (2013) suggests that carriers may need to purchase an extra ˆ1.1Billion of carbon offsets annually by 2030 to reach targets. PriceWaterhouseCoopers, hereafter PWC, (2013) backs up the above in its latest report. After mentioning the halving on aviation emissions by 2050, PWC shows its scepticism, saying that reaching the target will not be easy and would require improvements in carbon intensity of 5.1% every year. Ultimately, advances in fuel efficiency would need to be accelerated along with adoption of biofuels. To add, the report mentioned that a global consensus on sustainable aviation was needed before acceleration in improvements can be seen. The fear is that any improvement from airlines operating in advanced economies could be offset on a global scale by less-efficient emerging airlines from China and India etc., who may not have the financial means to invest heavily in the newest aircraft. GROUND OPERATIONS As mentioned in the Four Pillars, efficiency in ground operations will also support a reduction in emissions. Easyjet (2013) [Online] mentioned that they avoid ‘congested hubs’, such as Heathrow and Frankfurt, to help reduce taxiing and holding patterns, which will use less fuel and so emit less carbon. Furthermore, low-cost airlines have also been known for quick turnaround, allowing for greater efficiency from their current fleet, (Barrett, 2009). SUMMARY The report chose to focus on operational management as a tool to reduce emissions, focusing on fuel efficiency, new aircraft, and route optimisation. The report found that fuel efficiency, driven by new aircraft models has become a high priority; while the decision will have been impacted by a move to reduce emissions, there is also the thought that the trend of high-oil prices, coupled with lower earnings over the economic crisis would have pushed a number of carriers to seek cost-reductions and efficiency drives. Given this, past improvements in efficiency have been strong; however, strong growth in demand from emerging economies has led to a marketable rise in flights, pushing overall emissions higher. For example, Emirates, seen as one of the fastest growing carriers could be used as a barometer. While the carrier has reported improvements in fuel efficiency, due to new aircraft and routes, the carrier reported a 15.9% increase in overall CO2 emissions to 22.4Million tonnes, (Emirates, 2013). Looking ahead into the future, the report has highlighted a number of factors for improvement; being higher adoption of new aircraft, increased adoption of biofuels and purchase of emission reductions. Carriers will continue to place attention on new aircraft/ biofuels as focus remain firmly on cost-reductions; however, the level of long-term success will depend upon profitability, which will impact directly on future capital expenditure plans. To add, not all carriers may share the same plans as emerging carriers may focus on growth and profitability over the environment. To combat this, PWC (2013) identified that a global consensus is needed; currently regulation in the USA/ Europe is much higher than seen in Asia/ Middle East/ Africa, creating unfavourable discrepancy to airlines, such as BA. Carbon offsetting was also identified as a major growth initiative, however as mentioned this currently relies on customer donations; as so both social and political attention on the effects of emissions need to be heightened to encourage offsetting by the public. Operational measures provide great opportunities to further reduce emissions; however, carriers need to ensure they have the funds available for capital expenditure, and the public support/ donations to move ahead with carbon offsetting plans. Finally, it is important to mention that while fuel efficiency will continue to improve, strong increases in demand may lead to overall emissions increases as flight numbers/routes are increased by emerging airlines. This has been seen with data from Emirates; under these circumstances carriers would need to accelerate all initiatives in a bid to meet targets that would seem ambitious. All four pillars will need a global consensus to support target achievement. REFERENCES Airbus (2013) [Online]: Orders Deliveries, Available at http://www.airbus.com/company/market/orders-deliveries/, Accessed 12/01/2014. Air Transport Action Group (2014) [Online]: Facts and Figures, Available athttp://www.atag.org/facts-and-figures.html, Accessed 12/01/2014. ATAG (2013) [Online]: 38th ICAO Assembly, Available at http://www.atag.org/our-activities/38th-icao-assembly.html, Accessed 22/03/2014. Barrett, S (2009): Deregulation and the Airline Business in Europe, EU, Routledge. BBC Business (2014) [Online]: Boeing reports record orders and deliveries for 2013, Available at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25622236, Accessed 22/03/2014. Boeing (2013) [Online]: Media Releases; Boeing launches 777X with record-breaking orders, Available athttp://boeing.mediaroom.com/Boeing-Launches-777X-with-Record-Breaking-Orders-Strengthens-Partnerships-in-the-Middle-East-at-the-2013-Dubai-Airshow, Accessed 12/01/2014. British Airways (2013): Corporate Responsibility Summary, London, British Airways. Brittlebank, W (2012) [Online]: British Airways aims for carbon neutral growth, Available at http://www.climateactionprogramme.org/news/british_airways_aims_for_carbon_neutral_growth/, Accessed 22/03/2014. Cathay Pacific (2013): Sustainability Matters, Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific. EasyJet (2013) [Online]: In the air, Available at https://www.easyjet.com/EN/environment/green_in_the_air.shtml, Accessed 22/03/2014. Emirates (2013): The Emirates Group Environment Report 2012-13, UAE, Emirates Group. IATA (2013) [Online]: IATA Carbon Offset Program, Available at https://www.iata.org/whatwedo/environment/pages/carbon-offset.aspx, Accessed 22/03/2014. IATA (2014) [Online]: Fact Sheet: Carbon Offset, Available at http://www.iata.org/pressroom/facts_figures/fact_sheets/pages/carbon-offsets.aspx, Accessed 22/03/2014. ICAO (2013) [Online]: 38th Assembly Session, Available at http://www.icao.int/Meetings/a38/Pages/documentation-wp-presentations.aspx, Accessed 22/03/2014. International Council of Clean Transportation (2013); U.S. Domestic Airline Fuel Efficiency Ranking 2010, USA, ICCT Publications. Morrow, D (2013) [Online]: Airbus close to setting new order record, Available at http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/airbus-close-to-setting-new-order-record-393827/, Accessed 23/03/2014. PriceWaterhouseCoopers (2013): A sustainable future for aviation; the future of international aviation emissions could be determined in the next 12 months, London, PWC. UNFCCC (2008): The right flight path to reduce aviation emissions, USA, UNFCCC. Virgin Atlantic (2013); Sustainability Report 2013, UK, Virgin Atlantic. Wall, R (2013) [Online]: Emirates orders additional 50 airbus 1380’s to expand fleet, Available at http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-11-16/emirates-said-in-talks-to-order-50-airbus-a380-superjumbos-1-.html, Accessed 22/03/2014.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

142 Million Reasons to Vote Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

142 Million Reasons to Vote - Essay Example Voting is one of the most important civic privileges we have.Voter participation results in a better informed citizenry, allows us to directly participate in our political system, and assures that our founding principles will remain intact for future generations.When people vote, it demands that they make a decision on whom to vote for. In their effort to choose the candidates of their choice, they may seek information from a variety of sources. They watch the evening news and surf the Internet. They tune into the debates and measure the candidate's words carefully. By the time Election Day rolls around, the voter feels confident that they have made the right choice. When asked, "Why did you vote for her", the voter will be able to articulate all the reasons. This inevitably results in a better informed citizenry, and that spells better government.We often refer to our leaders as "the government" or hear people say "their policies". However, the correct phrases should be "our governm ent" and "our policies". By participating in the voting process, we decide what our government will look like and what our policies will be. This is especially true on a local level when there are decisions to be made about how to spend scarce tax dollars. Voting is our direct link to the political process and our policies, projects, and legislation

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Strategic Issues in Financial Services Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Strategic Issues in Financial Services - Essay Example There are 13 banks that were involved in the annual JD Power and Associates Retail Banking Customer Satisfaction Survey (O'sullivan 2010, pp. 2). Out of these, the Cooperative Bank of England performed exemplarily and emerged tops. Abbey was rated as the worst bank in the UK. In addition, Bank of Scotland, HSBC, Clydesdale and Barclay’s banks were considered as performing below par. The National Building Society and RBS were the other banks that were considered as being best performers. The rating of the banks was done based on six distinct parameters. The ease of problem resolution, convenience to the customer, transactions, the offering of products like account openings, account statements and the fees that the bank charged were the six parameters used. The overall confidence in the banking sector is considered to have improved, this despite the fall of the Northern Rock as well as the recent credit crunch. The survey further stated that only a quarter of the respondents wou ld not recommend their bank to others and the same number believed that the stability of the banking sector had changed little. Despite the overwhelming support that the sector has regained in the last year, a sizeable number of the 3,300 respondents in the survey stated that the fees charged by their banks were the major factor for their withheld support. In the last couple of years, the credit crunch has negatively affected the performance of the banking sector with some international banks requiring bailout. The collapse of the sub-prime lending bubble led to a fallout that affected many banks globally. However, some banks managed the crisis considerably well, assisted by sound strategies. In this discussion, the focus is on the leaders and laggards that emerged from management of the economic crisis. The leader in the discussion will be the Cooperative Bank that was considered as the best bank in the UK by the JD Power and Associates survey. The same survey pit HSBC as performin g below average and this will be the laggard in the subsequent discussion. Formerly, people did not consider the extent of global integration. However, the multiple collapse of many institutions in the global scene presented a picture of how much integrated the world really is. Governments intervened with massive bailouts and other monetary regulations that were aimed at stabilizing the financial situation. As if to worsen matters, the effects were further strained by the recession that followed. It is in this background that the best strategies for survival and growth are tested. Both the Cooperative Bank and HSBC operated against this backdrop. What was regarded as the norm had to change drastically in order to guarantee business considering the mistrust that the crisis created. The Cooperative Bank was not spared. It made losses on its risky investments but the amount it made in losses cannot be equated to the amount that private banks like HSBC incurred (Cogan 2008, p. 7). The c haracteristics of the bank that made it suffer less involve the fact that its customers are also its members and are the ones that own it. The strength in this principle is that all approaches must be driven by consensus and are not reliant on a single stakeholder as is the case with HSBC. There is also a concomitant view that is for the long-term and also a stance that is risk-averse that allow the bank to be more conservative in terms of the strategy adopted towards retail banking. The Cooperative

Monday, August 26, 2019

Mouth care to reduce ventilator-Associated pneumonia Essay

Mouth care to reduce ventilator-Associated pneumonia - Essay Example However, in most of the patients, the VAP is caused by a combination of organisms. The diagnosis of VAP is difficult, making it difficult to account for VAP incidences. The endotracheal tube increases the risks of VAP by prevention of cough, prevention of upper airways filtering and inhibition of epiglottis and upper ways reflex actions. The most risk patients are patients over the age of 65, with underlying chronic illness. This condition is also prevalent in patients with immunosuppressant and previous pneumonia infection. Oral hygiene The significance of a patient’s oral and nasal hygiene is overlooked in most cases, even though it is the most basic of all the nursing interventions. The use of closed suction system (CSS) contributes significantly to the reduction of these cases (Rello et al., 2010). The mouth is a host of both the normal flora and the pathogenic organisms. Most of the studies advocate the use of chlorohexidine. However, it is important to understand that ov eruse of this oral rinse could result in the reduction of the oral bacterial load. This could lead to the development of chlorohexidine resistant organisms. The common suction program can be used to reduce colonization. The installation of the endotracheal tube prevents the glottis closure. ... Oral hygiene is significant in prevention of ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) due to the oral factors, encouraging the colonization of the bacteria (Hutchins et al., 2009). For example, mechanically ventilated patients in neurological and intensive care units are at a higher risk of development of VAP due to factors such as decreased levels of consciousness, dry open mouth and the increased levels of micro aspiration of secretions. Several interventions could be adopted for the prevention of VAP. However, oral hygiene is one of the most important and significant intervention. The oral care includes timed tooth brushing, in combination with the other measures can be effective in the control of this condition. Some of the best practices include education of the staff on the effectiveness of oral hygiene in reduction of VAP incidences. The study should surround the factors surrounding the reduction of colonization and aspiration. In addition, avoidance of unnecessary antibiotics an d nasal intubation in addition to oral hygiene can contribute significantly to the reduction of colonization. Maintenance of a clean healthy mouth through the prevention of plaque buildup biofilm on the teeth helps in reducing the risks associated with the development t of VAP. Oral hygiene care involves the use of mouth rinses, gel or toothbrush in combination to the aspiration of different mouth secretions can increase reduces the risk of infection with VAP. Previous studies revealed that the use of chlorohexidine mouthwash or gelled contributes to approximately 40% reduction in the chances of development of VAP (Reagan, 2011). Some of the best practices include education of the staff on effectiveness of oral hygiene in reduction of VAP

Sunday, August 25, 2019

NR 6210 Practicum Experience Summery Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

NR 6210 Practicum Experience Summery - Assignment Example To start with, perinatal depression is a condition that affects women leading to major or minor depression either during the pregnancy period or within 12 months after giving birth. This is a common occurrence in women and studies have shown that minority and low-income women register most cases in the documentation patterns of screening and referral for postpartum depression. Therefore, as part of my behavioral objectives, I investigated problems associated with EPDS screenings and referral resources among low income perinatal clients in FCM. In the first day of the practicum, I was introduced to the program coordinator of FCM, Mrs. Damaris Montano who acted as my preceptor during the practicum period. The introduction was important part of the practicum since I was able to learn what it takes to run the department since my preceptor was preparing for performance review of the department that was to be carried out later. I also got a glimpse of how the internship will be carried out in the department. On the second meeting with my preceptor, I learned the administrative roles of MPH nurse at a public health department from the programs she supervised and coordinated. My receptor informed me that she coordinated 6 programs and that she ensured smooth running of the programs as part her responsibilities. To achieve this, she conducted weekly meetings with assistant supervisors in order to discuss issues concerning operation of the program. In addition, we decided to be meeting on Thursdays in preference of FCM program so that I could start reviewing old postpartum EDPS. On another aspect, I also identified some leadership gaps that could be addressed in management of FCM program. In one of the Health Works program staff meeting, a case worker presented an issue to my preceptor that involved a pediatric doctor who did not respond as required on an issue

GOOGLE - Research the company's history from inception to the present Paper

GOOGLE - the company's history from inception to the present. Write a detailing the company's history. In par - Research Paper Example That was when Google was born. Several days of brainstorming resulted in a name called ‘Google’ which is still used today. In august 1997, a $100,000 check was signed by co-founder Andy Bechtolsheim for Google Inc. which didn’t have any existence yet. Google’s first work place was established in Susan Wojcicki garage in the following September. On September 4, Google filed for incorporation and after that, Sergey and Larry opened a bank account in Google’s name and deposited the check signed by Andy (Brin, Sergey, and Larry Page). In December 1998, Google was reported as a search engine for Top 100 Web Sites for 1998. In 1999, the garage office was abandoned by Page and Sergey to move to 165 University Avenue located in Palo Alto with a team of eight employees. The first non-engineer, Omid Kordestani joined in May 1999 as a salesperson. In August 1999, Google Inc. moved to its first Mountain View area at 2400 E. Bayshore. It was few miles from Stanfo rd University which is north of Silicon Valley, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, and San Jose (Battelle, John; pgs 130-140). In 1999, Google realized that its search engine can exist on its own, and emphasize on something that most competitors were reducing focus on – a total emphasis on search and no cluttered homepage. The logo was a bit ugly at that time but this problem was solved in 2000. Â  On April 1, 2000 Google came up with Mental Plex which introduced the capability of Google to read a person’s mind as he or she visualizes the search results he or she wants. In May 2000, first ten languages of Google.com were released. First Webby Award was given to Google as Technical Achievement (Vise, David A, and Mark Malseed; pages 30-40). June 2000 marked Google’s partnership with Yahoo to become Yahoo’s default search engine. The first billion URL index was also announced in this month and Google became world’s biggest search provider. Google survived the contagious Y2K bug in 2000 and was named the ‘Best Search Engine’ by Internet Life Yahoo. In September, 2000 Google Inc began to offer other languages such as Korean, Japanese, and Chinese; thus bringing the total count of languages that Google offers to fifteen. The AdWords was launched with three hundred and fifty customers in October. This self-service advertisement program gives online activation with credit card, performance feedback and keyword targeting. Google Toolbar was released in December 2000 which makes it easier to search without actually visiting homepage of Google.com (Vise, David A, and Mark Malseed; pages 30-40). In 2001, Google Inc. came up with new services such as Google Web Directory, Google Groups, etc. 2001 can be considered the year where everyone in the world knew Google; however its growth has been rapid since its growth. Google began to show how many pages you have searched above the search box (this feature did not survive though). In Febru ary 2001, first public acquisition of Google was taken by Deja.com which is an archive of 500 million user net discussion. Google was now offered in twenty six different languages and image search was launched giving an access to about two hundred and fifty million pictures. First international office was opened in Tokyo (Vise, David A, and Mark Malseed; pages 100-120). In August 2001, Eric Schmidt became the Chief

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Critical thinking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Critical thinking - Essay Example affordable housing is housing where there is an intervention in the market through public subsidy† (2005, p.22).Other terms such as subsidized housing, attainable housing, and low-income housing can be used to mean affordable housing (Cowan, 2008). In recent years, the cost of property has grown more rapidly than incomes making it presently impossible for low and middle income earners to afford reasonable properties. First time buyers also form the group of people that is losing the most for lack of affordable housing (Whitfield, 2012). Due to this, some people have to search around for more affordable property in other areas. Sassi points out that â€Å"in the UK there is a deficit of between 30,000 and 45,000 affordable housing units being built each year† (2012, p.66). People working in high property value areas such as the South East and London are usually affected by the high prices of property. There is need for more affordable housing units to accommodate the needs of everyone, since even while housing benefits can reduce the burden that comes with housing for low income earners, the number of people in need of affordable housing is too big to be catered for through the housing benefits. The UK government has been investigating different approaches to increase the number of affordable housing, as well as planning on prefabricating parts and sometimes entire buildings to create room for more occupants. According to Sassi â€Å"prefabrication offers a good potential for creating energy-efficient housing by integrating higher levels of insulation in new construction systems† (2012, p.66). Prefabrication may be done on-site or off-site. However, off-site prefabrication carries more benefits over on-site fabrication since, in off-site fabrication manufacturing waste is reduced, while factory construction addresses the problem on construction skills shortage which is abound in the UK. In the United Kingdom, more than half of affordable housing is achieved

Friday, August 23, 2019

Legalization of marijuana Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Legalization of marijuana - Essay Example Despite the whole debate surrounding support for legalizing it, criticism over the effects or consequences emanating from its use has also been critical in the decision making process. In this regard, the decision of whether to legalize marijuana or not highly depends on the measure of whether there are more advantages or disadvantages of legalizing it. Earleywine (67) argued that although marijuana has medicinal value attached to it, many things have to be put into consideration when making the decision of whether to legalize it or not. Political, social economic and health issues are some of the facets to be considered when making the decision. In light of this, there are different tenets that have to be articulated upon to come up with sound decision. If marijuana is to be legalized, it translates to economic advantage to people that will be farming and retailing it. This is a great accomplishment as it translates to improved lives of the people to be involved in the business. In fact, the government will also have the opportunity of generating revenue from the tax collected from the marijuana business. People involved in the marijuana business will be better placed in taking care of their basic needs and other requirements such as their health, education as well as different development initiatives. In addition, if marijuana will be successfully legalized, the health sector will have a boost in terms of getting medicinal value from marijuana. In fact, health facilities will economically benefit from the drug especially from the money obtained from the sale of prescription marijuana. If marijuana is legalized, there will be a need to conduct extensive medicinal research to come up with appropriate prescription drugs from marijuana. Thus, many people involved in the research will equally benefit since this will act as a form of employment to them. On the other hand, people

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Condoms in Schools Essay Example for Free

Condoms in Schools Essay Should condoms be distributed among high schools? The answer to that very controversial subject is yes. Yes condoms should be distributed among the students. The question is controversial due to the main subject it discusses: sex. Some schools today are distributing birth control items to promote the thoughts and ideas of safe sex. Many also believe that along with condom distribution, there should be an availability of other methods of birth control, promotion of abstinence, and information for students on what being safe really means. Alternatively the critics of condom distribution suggest that there should be abstinence only education on this issue. Sex education in this context would encourage the young individuals to abstain from sexual activity in order to avoid pregnancy and diseases In today’s society, high schools should distribute condoms to students. This issue of condoms in schools is a growing concern because of increasing rates of sexual behavior, earlier onset of sexual activity, teenage pregnancy, and the spreading of STDs and HIV. It is important to educate teenagers about the use of condoms and how it prevents the spread of HIV, AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and pregnancy. Teenagers need to know that having unprotected sex puts them at risk of coming in contact with diseases that they can spread to others. Each year there are many unwanted babies born, or even worse aborted in this country. Many which are born to young people with little or no education about condom use and sex. With a little education about condom use and safe sex many of these unnecessary pregnancies could be prevented. Many parents do not educate their children about sex; therefore the burden usually falls on the schools. Condoms should definitely be readily available in the school system, along with a Sex Education program that includes how and why to use condoms properly. When young people are educated about condoms and the risk of pregnancy then they are more likely to use a condom. A lot of young people are getting bad myths and taboos from their friends and the media. Having the school really tell them about sex and what can really happen will help. Having condoms available in the school will allow students to have them their so they don’t have to worry about being embarrassed for walking in a store to buy them or ask their parents for them. More and more teens are getting pregnant as a result of not using a condom. Lots of teens believe in the â€Å"pull out† method, but they fail to realize that it will not work every time. Teens need to be educated properly and stop depending on tv and magazines to learn about sex. Many adults think that to provide condoms in school will only push student to have sex however, to have condoms available at high schools does not influence teenagers to have sex but shows them that if they are ready to have sex that condoms are always a must. If a girl or boy really wants to have sex then they are going to do it regardless of if there are condoms available to them. People believe that teaching abstinence will sway kids away from wanting to having sex. They believe that it you don’t show teens anything sexual then they won’t want to engage in sexual behavior but that it the total opposite. It will only make teens more curious about sex. If you tell them the facts up front then they will have all the facts and know all their risk. They will be able to decide for themselves whether sex is right for them or not. Having condoms there and ready for them if or when they make the decision to have sex is great. No teen should get pregnant their first time because someone convinced them that they can’ t get pregnant their first time having sex. Ignorance is leading teens to make bad decisions. Providing condoms to students are actually the morally realistic action to follow, educators do not have to encourage sex but they can motivate students to make wise choices when they decide to have sex. Believe it or not it is wise to know that some young individuals, regardless of the abstinence messages will have sex, in such cases such condom distribution is the better option. Also, providing access to birth control empowers women of today, giving them more control over their body. Historically women have suffered more due to the restrictive policies related to reproduction like abortion laws. Guys however do not have to face the consequences of their actions as much. Hence distribution of condoms boosts the responsibility of men and enlarges the choices for young girls. Giving young girls the choice of birth control can help them feel more prepared for sex. There are so many different birth controls available for girls to choose from. They can opt to take the pill or receive a shot or even get a patch to release birth control medication. It can make the girl feel better if she thinks that she has a say so in whether she gets pregnant or not instead of strictly depending on the guy to wear a condom. However, the use of birth control can go against the catholic religion. Most catholic communities choose not to put their daughters on birth control because it is against their beliefs. In my opinion, Why would you want to not give your daughter the choice of being protected. Would you rather want a daughter on birth control or a pregnant daughter? Although, getting pregnant is not the best situation, not wearing a condom can also pose a threat of catching a STD. More and more teens are coming in contact with STIs and STDs. Although some are easily treatable, there are some that can stick with you your whole life. AIDS and HIV are rising amounts young adults because of lack of protection. Even though most people think that you can only catch and STD through multiple sexual partners, some young teens catch STDs the first time they have sex because they think they know their boyfriend or girlfriend. Some people with STIs and STDs don’t even experience symptoms so how are you to know if they have caught something or not? Teens need to know they are always at risk if they do not wear a condom during sexual intercourse. It will be great for schools to have condoms on hand for teens to get whenever they need. Teens may joke or laugh around about condoms but in their mind they know that they will be protected.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Article Rebutal Essay Example for Free

Article Rebutal Essay The flu shot. Should you or shouldn’t you get one? That is a very common question to ask as flu season quickly approaches. The Mayo Clinic offers an article on their website stating that the best way to avoid the flu is primarily by means of vaccination. Does this mean one cannot avoid the flu if they don’t receive the immunization? What happens to the people who cannot afford the shot, or those who cannot access the places to receive one? Is one to be plagued by sickness if they were to go against injecting the inoculation? While the Mayo clinic itself is a reputable hospital and research facility, the article, â€Å"Flu shot: Your best bet for avoiding influenza† (Mayo 2012) offered no evidence or support for the claim. There was support for avoiding getting the flu, but no proof that the shot itself would offer such protection. After further investigation, there were numerous studies repudiating the claims that are made regarding the efficacy of the flu shot. One such study (which was actually pro-vaccination) stated that the shot only provided moderate protection and was lacking in evidence in the 65 and up age range (Lancet). In another finding, namely the leaflet that comes inside the drugs packaging, the insert for FLULAVAL states â€Å"there have been no controlled trials adequately demonstrating a decrease in influenza disease after vaccination with FLULAVAL†. Then why take it? While the side effects of the flu shot can be mild such as soreness at the injection site or aching muscles, they can also be as severe as an allergic reaction causing, guess what, flu like symptoms. Who wants that? Plus there is the chance that the vaccines don’t match the viruses circulating (Mayo). Now wait a minute, somebody is predicting the upcoming viruses and then making the immunization? How does that work? Are these same people consulting a crystal ball or palm reading the other doctors and scientists by any chance? While it may be medically necessary for a person to receive an influenza vaccination while in a hospital setting or nursing home, the bottom line is sick people get sick while healthy people do not. To avoid the flu this season, eat well, exercise regularly, manage stress and take some vitamins. Keep your hands clean by washing them regularly and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth whenever possible but especially if the hands are not clean. Prevention is still the best medicine and as Thomas Edison so fabulously quantified, â€Å"The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest her or his patients in the care of the human frame, in a proper diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease†. References (Sept. 2012) Mayo Clinic Staff. Flu shot: Your best bet for avoiding influenza retrieved online from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/flu-shots/ID00017 (Jan 2012). The Lancet Infectious Diseases, Volume 12, Issue 1, Pgs 36 44, retrieved online from: http://www.naturalnews.com/033998_influenza_vaccines_effectiveness.html (Oct 2011). Adams, M. Natural News, retrieved online from: http://www.naturalnews.com/033998_influenza_vaccines_effectiveness.html

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

The Human Resources Management at Toyota

The Human Resources Management at Toyota Toyota Motor Corporation is one of the worlds second largest successful companies in making automobiles by sales and production after General Motors. The secret behind their success is that TMC management has relied on the right selection for their employees whereby TMC can differentiate between applicants which one can fill a particular job in terms of their performance in the job to achieve balance and harmony between the requirements and duties of the job and between their attributes, qualifications and characteristics as well as development of the human element which enables careers development in the organization because achieving the goals depends on it which is considered the most valuable resources to the management and the most influential in productivity at all. Also, TMC administration develops and improves the HR as it is the cornerstone to enhance the organization capacity and enable the organization to keep up with current and future challenges because they believe that HR is the reason for high profits or low profits in any corporation. HR can strongly contribute in achieving any corporation objectives and make it p rofitable and can be a financial burden on the corporation. TMC creates a good working environment for their employees and provide them with more career opportunities beside providing them with Øلن¦ÃƒËœÃƒËœÃ‚ ¯Ãƒâ„¢Ã…  ÃƒËœÃ‚ © ÙˆØلن¦ÃƒËœÃ‚ ¹Ãƒâ„¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒâ„¢Ã‹â€ Ãƒâ„¢Ã…  ÃƒËœÃ‚ © incentives to mobilize their productivity and creativity. Also they organize educational programs. Moreover, the administration is committed to train and develop all of their employees through training programs because they believe that learning is essential to increase the efficiency of the organization and the employees, so TMC and its subsidiaries provides appropriate opportunities for its employees to pursue higher education and specialization in their fields. As to achieve the best investment in HR, TMC has developed a comprehensive policy for transferring and reassigning among their branches and offices in the world. Analyst in the automobiles sector estimated that if Toyota continued this way it will overcome General Motors and become the first largest automobiles manufacturer in the world. Three keys of HRM activities I would like to work in private sector organizations, and Toyota is one of these organizations. Their Human Resources Department Functions are interesting because it includes a variety of activities and they can manage all the HR functions. Compensation and Benefits Salaries, bonuses, sick leave pay, compensations of workers and insurance such as dental and life are covered by compensation and benefits. Developing and administrating a benefits compensation system are the responsibilities of TMC HR Dept. this system serves as an inducement and make them to guarantee that the recruitment and the retirement of talented and skilled employees will stay in the organization. The compensation and benefit manager explains for the hired employees their benefits package by meeting one by one or in small groups. Finally, employees are obligated to make an informed decision and their signature is needed for processing purposes. Employee and Labour Relations These days the unethical practices and misbehaviour has increased in workplace, this includes race, gender, religion discrimination and sexual harassments. TMC ensures that all of there employees are fairly treated according to their compulsory abidance to the law rules and regulations. Concisely, if there were any authority abuses by the supervisor to lower employees, they have a place to turn on and the TMC HR Department will get involved as arbitrator and liaison the employees and legal entity to solve this issue in a proper way. Safety and Health TMC is concerned for their employees overall physical and mental well-being and believes that healthy employees will provide the cornerstone for better quality of life. So, they do their best to provide them with additional opportunities and their families to receive medical treatment which will contribute to life quality for employees and maintain the effective contribution to the organization. HRM academic models Harvard Model This model sees that employees as resources but not like other resources as they cannot be managed. In other words, it concentrate on people outcomes and business performance and stakeholder interests are does not ranked This model states that diversity of the personal relation activities can be dealt with four human resources categories or polices Human resource flow This is about managing people flows into and out of the corporation which means decisions are made on recruitment, selection, placement and promotion. Employee influence This is bout how much authority, responsibility, and power is willingly delegated by the management and by whom. Reward Systems States how employees get rewarded for their work whether it was externally or internally and these rewards should be pay systems and benefits such as health insurance. These leads to motivation and employees job satisfaction. Work system Is the arrangement of people, information, activities and technology in all of the organization levels. These four HR policies, leads to other HR policies which are called the four Cs and these 4Cs are commitment, competence, congruence and cost effectiveness. I believe that TMC follow the Harvard Model because And agree or DIS both are committed to employees; needs as long as the measures taken to meet those needs remain consistent with the strategy of the organization and management aims. Guest claims his model is more straightforward that the Harvard model because he simply prescribes that improved implementation of just seven HRM policies will result in better HR outcomes Hard approach This model considered hard HRM one because it emphasizes that employees are treated as means to achieve the strategy of the organization. This approach focuses on the organization and how can it respond to the external environment. This approach argues that Human Recourses cycle affects the individual and organization performance. And there are four functions which are: Selection Select people who are able to perform a job in a best way Appraisal Appraising the employee performance to facilitate the fair distribution of rewards and linking these rewards to high levels of management Rewards Development Enhance employees current performance likewise to prepare them to perform in future positions that they might hold. Harder approach is considered hard HRM as it is based on strategic control, orgnizational structure and managing people systems conclusion Works Cited Baehr, Ann. Human Resources Development. 2010. 27 9 2010 . Human Resources Managment Contribution. 26 9 2010 < http://www.oppapers.com/essays/Human-Resources-Management-Contribution/289845>. Liker, Jeffrey K. and Michael Hoseus. Human Resources Executive Online. 1 11 2008. 28 9 2010 . McNamara, Carter. Human Resources Management. 27 9 2010 . Objectives of Human Resources Managment. 4 10 2010 . Strategic Human Resources In World Airline Industry. 30 9 2010 . Toyota. 27 9 2010 . Appendix 1 SEDD Organizational Structure

Monday, August 19, 2019

Bhagavad Gita is the Ultimate Science of Yoga :: Yoga India Indian Spirituality Sprit Spiritual

The Meaning of Yoga It is common to associate the word Yoga with a system of physical postures and meditation. But Yoga in its original form has a deep spiritual significance which is lost in today’s body-centered world. The Sanskrit word Yoga comes from the verb root Yuj, which means to link or to connect. When we talk about linking or connection, an obvious question arises: to connect what with what? The very word â€Å"connection† implies that there must be two different entities separated from one another, and they need to be connected. The ancient Vedic text Bhagavad Gita explains that these entities are the individual consciousness and the universal Supreme consciousness. Some may call this universal consciousness an all-pervading energy, whereas most theists consider this Supreme consciousness to be God. The Vedic philosophy combines these two apparently contradictory concepts very beautifully. It explains that there is definitely an all-pervading universal energy. But the very existence of energy implies that there also exists a possessor and controller of the energy – the energetic – who is an intelligent being. Our individual consciousness or energy is a manifestation of the spirit soul inside our body, and this soul is a part of the Supreme Soul or the Supreme Energetic or God. The purpose of Yoga is to connect the individual energy with the universal energy, or put another way, to connect the individual being to its source – the Supreme Being. Yoga or divine union with the Supreme does not mean that we merge into the Supreme and become one with Him. Bhagavad Gita explains that we do become one, but in quality and not in quantity. This oneness is spiritual, not physical. For example, the perfect realization of sugar is not becoming sugar, rather tasting its sweetness. Similarly, the perfect divine union means that we do not lose our individuality, but we become united with the Supreme * An ancient language in which most of the Eastern philosophy texts have been written. †  Vedas are the most ancient recorded scriptures of knowledge of the Self. in a deep, eternal, sweet, personal, loving relationship, and taste the nectar of its mellows. What is Bhagavad Gita? Bhagavad Gita literally means Song of the Absolute. It is a conversation between Arjuna and Krishna, which took place around 3000 B.C. in a battlefield. Krishna represents the Supreme Being and Arjuna represents an ordinary living being like us. Through Arjuna’s questions and Krishna’s answers, the complete science of Yoga is revealed. It is considered a science because it describes the concept of Yoga in a systematic step-by-step way. It tells us exactly how to follow the Yoga processes and also what will be the results of different practices. In modern days, Yoga is often misunderstood just Bhagavad Gita is the Ultimate Science of Yoga :: Yoga India Indian Spirituality Sprit Spiritual The Meaning of Yoga It is common to associate the word Yoga with a system of physical postures and meditation. But Yoga in its original form has a deep spiritual significance which is lost in today’s body-centered world. The Sanskrit word Yoga comes from the verb root Yuj, which means to link or to connect. When we talk about linking or connection, an obvious question arises: to connect what with what? The very word â€Å"connection† implies that there must be two different entities separated from one another, and they need to be connected. The ancient Vedic text Bhagavad Gita explains that these entities are the individual consciousness and the universal Supreme consciousness. Some may call this universal consciousness an all-pervading energy, whereas most theists consider this Supreme consciousness to be God. The Vedic philosophy combines these two apparently contradictory concepts very beautifully. It explains that there is definitely an all-pervading universal energy. But the very existence of energy implies that there also exists a possessor and controller of the energy – the energetic – who is an intelligent being. Our individual consciousness or energy is a manifestation of the spirit soul inside our body, and this soul is a part of the Supreme Soul or the Supreme Energetic or God. The purpose of Yoga is to connect the individual energy with the universal energy, or put another way, to connect the individual being to its source – the Supreme Being. Yoga or divine union with the Supreme does not mean that we merge into the Supreme and become one with Him. Bhagavad Gita explains that we do become one, but in quality and not in quantity. This oneness is spiritual, not physical. For example, the perfect realization of sugar is not becoming sugar, rather tasting its sweetness. Similarly, the perfect divine union means that we do not lose our individuality, but we become united with the Supreme * An ancient language in which most of the Eastern philosophy texts have been written. †  Vedas are the most ancient recorded scriptures of knowledge of the Self. in a deep, eternal, sweet, personal, loving relationship, and taste the nectar of its mellows. What is Bhagavad Gita? Bhagavad Gita literally means Song of the Absolute. It is a conversation between Arjuna and Krishna, which took place around 3000 B.C. in a battlefield. Krishna represents the Supreme Being and Arjuna represents an ordinary living being like us. Through Arjuna’s questions and Krishna’s answers, the complete science of Yoga is revealed. It is considered a science because it describes the concept of Yoga in a systematic step-by-step way. It tells us exactly how to follow the Yoga processes and also what will be the results of different practices. In modern days, Yoga is often misunderstood just Bhagavad Gita is the Ultimate Science of Yoga :: Yoga India Indian Spirituality Sprit Spiritual The Meaning of Yoga It is common to associate the word Yoga with a system of physical postures and meditation. But Yoga in its original form has a deep spiritual significance which is lost in today’s body-centered world. The Sanskrit word Yoga comes from the verb root Yuj, which means to link or to connect. When we talk about linking or connection, an obvious question arises: to connect what with what? The very word â€Å"connection† implies that there must be two different entities separated from one another, and they need to be connected. The ancient Vedic text Bhagavad Gita explains that these entities are the individual consciousness and the universal Supreme consciousness. Some may call this universal consciousness an all-pervading energy, whereas most theists consider this Supreme consciousness to be God. The Vedic philosophy combines these two apparently contradictory concepts very beautifully. It explains that there is definitely an all-pervading universal energy. But the very existence of energy implies that there also exists a possessor and controller of the energy – the energetic – who is an intelligent being. Our individual consciousness or energy is a manifestation of the spirit soul inside our body, and this soul is a part of the Supreme Soul or the Supreme Energetic or God. The purpose of Yoga is to connect the individual energy with the universal energy, or put another way, to connect the individual being to its source – the Supreme Being. Yoga or divine union with the Supreme does not mean that we merge into the Supreme and become one with Him. Bhagavad Gita explains that we do become one, but in quality and not in quantity. This oneness is spiritual, not physical. For example, the perfect realization of sugar is not becoming sugar, rather tasting its sweetness. Similarly, the perfect divine union means that we do not lose our individuality, but we become united with the Supreme * An ancient language in which most of the Eastern philosophy texts have been written. †  Vedas are the most ancient recorded scriptures of knowledge of the Self. in a deep, eternal, sweet, personal, loving relationship, and taste the nectar of its mellows. What is Bhagavad Gita? Bhagavad Gita literally means Song of the Absolute. It is a conversation between Arjuna and Krishna, which took place around 3000 B.C. in a battlefield. Krishna represents the Supreme Being and Arjuna represents an ordinary living being like us. Through Arjuna’s questions and Krishna’s answers, the complete science of Yoga is revealed. It is considered a science because it describes the concept of Yoga in a systematic step-by-step way. It tells us exactly how to follow the Yoga processes and also what will be the results of different practices. In modern days, Yoga is often misunderstood just

Romanticism in Germany :: European Europe History

Romanticism in Germany Romanticism was a European cultural revolt against authority, tradition, and Classical order (the Enlightenment); this movement permeated Western Civilization over a period that approximately dated from the late 18th to the mid-19th century. In general, Romanticism is that attitude or state of mind that focuses on the individual, the subjective, the irrational, the creative, and the emotional. These characteristics of Romanticism most often took form in subject matters such as history, national endeavor, and the sublime beauties of nature. According to historians, the mind-set of the Romantics was completely contradictory to the straightforwardness, impartiality, and serenity of 18th century Classicism. By the 19th century, Romanticism and Classicism had clearly been established and recognized as a major split in art. Masses of Europeans found the concepts of Romanticism appealing and the engagement of these concepts resulted in the reshaping of nineteenth century Germany. The Romant ic Movement played a significant role in intellectual life, influencing the country's nationalistic fervor. Nationalism was born with the French Revolution. Nationalism refers to the belief that the state and the nation should coincide as a single entity. It is best described in the equation 'people = nation = state.' In 1789 the people of France, defined themselves as the nation, took control of the state and the nation state was created. The sense of nationhood was intensified by the internal attempts to overthrow the revolution and by the experience of the war. Victories abroad instilled a feeling of national pride and of national duty. At first the fraternal wish was to free other subject peoples. Then later to civilize Europe by the export of French ideas and by the further control of foreign territory, which was an aim particularly, associated with the Napoleonic Era (1799-1815). Napoleon claimed that the sole purpose of regulating alien territory was to free Germans and Italians, but whilst he reconstructed the frontiers of the European states, he did very little to encourage nation alism directly. Nationalism developed as a reaction to French rule in the geographical areas of Germany. A general feeling of humiliation blanketed the populace of Germany after the invasion and people began to rise up against the empire of Napoleon I. The spirit of nationalism took a stronghold in Germany. Writers began to expound common culture, heritage and language that defined Germans. Works from Immanuel Kant (1724-1804), one of the earlier well respected German philosophers and writers of the time played a significant role in the development of the patriotic insurrection. Romanticism in Germany :: European Europe History Romanticism in Germany Romanticism was a European cultural revolt against authority, tradition, and Classical order (the Enlightenment); this movement permeated Western Civilization over a period that approximately dated from the late 18th to the mid-19th century. In general, Romanticism is that attitude or state of mind that focuses on the individual, the subjective, the irrational, the creative, and the emotional. These characteristics of Romanticism most often took form in subject matters such as history, national endeavor, and the sublime beauties of nature. According to historians, the mind-set of the Romantics was completely contradictory to the straightforwardness, impartiality, and serenity of 18th century Classicism. By the 19th century, Romanticism and Classicism had clearly been established and recognized as a major split in art. Masses of Europeans found the concepts of Romanticism appealing and the engagement of these concepts resulted in the reshaping of nineteenth century Germany. The Romant ic Movement played a significant role in intellectual life, influencing the country's nationalistic fervor. Nationalism was born with the French Revolution. Nationalism refers to the belief that the state and the nation should coincide as a single entity. It is best described in the equation 'people = nation = state.' In 1789 the people of France, defined themselves as the nation, took control of the state and the nation state was created. The sense of nationhood was intensified by the internal attempts to overthrow the revolution and by the experience of the war. Victories abroad instilled a feeling of national pride and of national duty. At first the fraternal wish was to free other subject peoples. Then later to civilize Europe by the export of French ideas and by the further control of foreign territory, which was an aim particularly, associated with the Napoleonic Era (1799-1815). Napoleon claimed that the sole purpose of regulating alien territory was to free Germans and Italians, but whilst he reconstructed the frontiers of the European states, he did very little to encourage nation alism directly. Nationalism developed as a reaction to French rule in the geographical areas of Germany. A general feeling of humiliation blanketed the populace of Germany after the invasion and people began to rise up against the empire of Napoleon I. The spirit of nationalism took a stronghold in Germany. Writers began to expound common culture, heritage and language that defined Germans. Works from Immanuel Kant (1724-1804), one of the earlier well respected German philosophers and writers of the time played a significant role in the development of the patriotic insurrection.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Essays --

BUSINESS ECONOMICS ASSIGNMENT--3 Question: 1)(a)Analyse both the conventional and unconventional tools used by central banks. Monetary policy means the measures that are adopted by the Central bank of the different nations implement in the country to achieve certain goals like: Goals of Monetary Policy- ïÆ'Ëœ Controlling Inflation: The monetary policy helps in controlling the inflation by controlling to supply of money. ïÆ'Ëœ Economic Development: It performs exceptionally viable part in pushing economic development by giving sufficient credit to gainful sectors. ïÆ'Ëœ Expand in the Rate of Employment: It has an alternate destination is to attain full job yet without increase in the inflation rate. ïÆ'Ëœ Distribution of Credit: It should additionally guarantee that appropriation of credit ought to be fair and deliberate. The credit necessity ought to be provided for backward territories. 1. Conventional Tools: ïÆ'Ëœ Change the reserves requirements that are Cash Reserve Ratio and the Statutory Liquidity Ratio: Every bank has to have a certain amount of reserves with them from the total deposits that have come in the bank this called as the statutory Liquidity ratio. And the amount of reserve that the bank needs to maintain with the central bank is called the cash reserve ratio. The central bank decides on the percentage of those reserves that the banks hold. ïÆ'Ëœ Open Market Operations:In this conventional tool the Central bank buys and sells financial assets from banks to maintain the economic stability in the country. ïÆ'Ëœ Change of its official interest rate; Bank Rate:The third conventional method that the Central Bank uses to maintain economic stability is change of its official interest rate on the loans taken by the commercial ban... ...on which will in itself require less non-renewable energies like the petroleum merchandise. CITATION- Pigou’s.L(1935) Theory Of Unemployment, Journal of Economics, 286-335 Stanley.D.M. & Warell Thomas, A( 2005) Economics For Business, UK : Prentice hall, Financial Times Press Soloman, H & Hinderston .K (2007) Regression Analysis, Quantitative Survey, Journal Of Business Surveys,299-315 Romer. (1982) Advanced Macroeconomics, New York : McGraw Hilton Alesina, K & M.Toyle(1997) Business Economics, Journal Of Business Economics, 67-89 Kuznets, H(1948) National Income: A new Version, Advanced Macroeconomics, 89, 102 Chapman, Greg.K(1997) Economics: An interactive Study Guide, Longman University: Melbourne Barzun, L(1958) Advanced Macroeconomics, Journal of Economics, 123-48 Keynes, J.M(1936) The General Theory Of Unemployment, Interest, MacMillan: London

Saturday, August 17, 2019

The Italian Renaissance Art

The Italian Renaissance was one of the most prolific periods in the history of art, with large numbers of exceptional artists to be found in painting, sculpture, and architecture. These leaders included Masaccio in painting, Brunelleschi in architecture, and Donatello in sculpture. Renaissance Art is divided into two main periods. The first period is known as Early Renaissance which took place in the fifteenth century during the Golden Age of Florence. This time included largess buildings, sculptures, and paintings, all of which questioned the rules of art. The next period is known as the High Renaissance, which was created mostly in the sixteenth century as it essentially built up upon and mastered the artwork created in the previous era. Art of this time period was marked by greater realism and the natural depiction of the human form. Humanism played a major part in Renaissance art as individualism that humanism cultivated led to a greater attention to the power of the individual. The Baptistry in Florence is known as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. During this rebirth of culture, a banking system was invented in Florence, largely thanks to the wealthy Medici family. The Baptistry is an octagonal dome with a Florentine Romanesque style. The Baptistery is renowned for its three sets of artistically important bronze doors with relief sculptures. Michelangelo called the doors on the eastern side, â€Å"The Gates of Paradise. † The Golden Age of Florence is known as The Early Renaissance with considerable artistic achievements. Sculpture was very important during this time, and Donatello’s statues David and Gattamelata. Donatello's bronze statue of David is notable as it is the first unsupported standing work in bronze cast during the Renaissance period. It depicts the young David with an enigmatic smile, posed with his foot on Goliath's severed head just after killing the giant. Most scholars assume the statue was commissioned by the Medici Family around 1440. Gattemelata by Donatello depicts the realism, humanism, and individualism of the Renaissance. Bronze like Donatello’s David, this statue is the first Renaissance equestrian statue and it served as a model for later sculptures honoring military heroes. Renaissance painting began with The Holy Trinity by Masaccio. This painting is also the first to invent perspective, in which a two-dimensional image has the appearance of being three-dimensional with the help of a barrel-vaulted chamber. This piece shows the intimacy of religion during this time as God is descending Jesus from the cross. Madonna and Child, likely the most popular painting in Italy during its time, further shows how religion is a central theme in the Renaissance. The most well known Renaissance painting today, however, is the Birth of Venus by Botticelli. It depicts the goddess Venus, having emerged from the sea as a full grown woman, arriving at the sea-shore. Botticelli rarely gave weight and volume to his figures and rarely used a deep perspective space. In this painting, Venus' body is anatomically questionable, with elongated neck and torso. Venus is an Italian Renaissance ideal as she is blonde, pale-skinned, and voluptuous. High Renaissance Artwork is dominated by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Leonardo is famous for mostly paintings, while Michelangelo worked in a wider range of mediums which included sculptures and frescos. Leonardo created Madonna on the Rocks, which shows his interest in geology. One of his better-known paintings is The Last Supper. It represents the scene of The Last Supper from the final days of Jesus as narrated in the Gospel of John 13:21, when Jesus announces that one of his Twelve Apostles would betray him. The Mona Lisa, another one of da Vinci’s masterpieces, encompasses the Italian Renaissance. The painting is a wedding portrait that depicts a seated woman whose facial expression is frequently described as enigmatic. The ambiguity of the woman’s expression, and the subtle modeling of forms and atmospheric illusion were new qualities that make the work fascinating. The image is so widely recognized, caricatured, and sought out by its visitors that it is considered the most famous painting in the world. Donato Bramante also created fine work during the High Renaissance, especially in architecture. In the year 1502 in Rome, Bramante build a church called Tempietto. Originally patronized by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain, the Tempietto marks the traditional location of St. Peter's crucifixion where he was crucified upside down. Inside, Michelangelo supplied some of the figure drawings, which further shows his significant role in the Renaissance. Michelangelo, unlike the painter da Vinci, created both paintings and statues. Pardon the pun; he truly was a Renaissance Man as he mastered a bevy of skills. He only piece Michelangelo ever signed was his Pieta. The Pieta, done in 1499, is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture that is housed in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. It is the first of a number of works of the same theme by the artist. This famous marble sculpture depicts the body of Jesus on the lap of his mother Mary after the Crucifixion. It is an important work as it balances the Renaissance ideals of classical beauty with naturalism. The statue is one of the most highly finished works by Michelangelo, and may be one of his favorites as it is the only one he signed. Another one of Michelangelo’s well-known statues is David. Michelangelo breaks away from the traditional way of representing David. He does not present us with the winner, like with the giant's head at his feet and the powerful sword in his hand. Rather, he portrays the youth as tense as he gathers power immediately preceding the battle. Unlike Donatello’s depiction of the biblical hero David, some say Michelangelo’s version does not say much about the legend. Rather, Michelangelo seems to be proving to the population that he can create and master a Greek Style statue. He seems to perfect the traditional contrapposto knee flexion, as many Greek heroes are represented. We can see further Greek elements, as David is a standing male who is nude. Michelangelo continues the High Renaissance with his Statue of Moses. Moses is depicted with horns, which may strike up a red flag to some viewers. However, before the bible was translated, horns were the symbol for halos. This is a significant theme of the wisdom of the Enlightenment. This marble sculpture was commissioned in 1505 by Pope Julius II for his tomb as Moses is holding the Ten Commandments under his arm. Oil paints were perfected in the Renaissance and allowed much advancement in many mediums, especially in frescos. Michelangelo’s first famous painting was likely his Lybian Sibyl from 1510 located on the Sistine Chapel. In this work, colors start to become much brighter than previously used, which gave the chapel a heavenly feel. His paintings are so detailed and bold that they actually look as if they were statues. The serpentine figure presents itself with a snake-like twist. Michelangelo showed his painting talents in a fresco in the Sistine Chapel known as the Creation of Adam. Michelangelo tries to tell a story on the entire ceiling of the church and does so with marvelous creations. In fact, this ceiling took a total of four years to created, in which Michelangelo worked on it every day. However, it ought to be noted that looking up at a ceiling for an extensive period of time can be very bothersome, so viewers sometimes lay on their backs to attempt to understand and appreciate the beauty of the frescos. This work specifically was the most condemned work of art after the Council of Trent because of all of the nude figures Michelangelo depicted. The Last Judgment by Michelangelo is the altarpiece at The Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo began working on it three decades after having finished the ceiling of the chapel. The work is massive and spans the entire wall behind the altar and it is a depiction of the second coming of Christ and the apocalypse. The souls of humans rise and descend to their fates, as judged by Christ surrounded by his saints. Shortly after the creation of this painting, the Jesuits began to spread. Michelangelo was accused of immorality and intolerable obscenity, having depicted naked figures, with genitals in evidence, inside the most important church of Christianity. The Fig-Leaf Campaign began to protest and give sensors to such art. Michelangelo does a self-portrait depicting himself as St. Bartholomew after he had been skinned alive. This is reflective of the feelings of contempt Michelangelo had for being commissioned to paint The Last Judgment. Michelangelo took his talents to architecture in the final stages of his career. He created the Dome of St.  Peter’s Basilica. This is the highest dome in the world, and is also the third widest. This was created with the intention of looking very classical. One of Michelangelo’s motifs is his double columns along the outside of the dome for decoration. Uniquely, Michelangelo's dome is not a hemisphere, but a parabola: it has a vertical thrust, which is made more emphatic by the bold ribbing that springs from the paired Corinthian columns, which appear to be part of the drum, but which stand away from it like buttresses, to absorb the outward thrust of the dome's weight. It would not do the Italian Renaissance justice to leave out Rafael’s masterpiece The School of Athens, created in 1510. This painting represents the philosophical inquiry of classical times. Ancient Greek architecture and clothing can be seen in the painting It was painted as a part of Raphael's commission to decorate with frescoes the rooms in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican, so today it is a nice fresco on the wall of the Pope’s office. The picture has long been seen as Raphael's masterpiece and the perfect embodiment of the classical spirit of the High Renaissance.