Monday, September 30, 2019

Nanotechnology in Aeviation Essay

†¢Nanotechnology in Aerospace Materials †¢Introduction Figure 1. The aerospace industry is under pressure to improve it’s environmental footprint, primarily by making aircraft more efficient. Image credit: Bureau of Labor Statistics. †¢There are few industries where the applications of nanotechnology are so clearly beneficial as in the aerospace industry. The primary development goals match almost exactly with the advantages offered by using various nanomaterials in the place of traditional bulk metals like steel. †¢The aerospace industry is one of the most important heavy industries in the world. Countless companies rely on the ability to ship products and people around the world with the speed that can only by achieved by air. The aircraft manufacturing market was worth xxx billion in 20xx, and the bulk of this was accounted for by military spending. †¢Along with this huge economic value, however, comes huge consumption, and one of the largest carbon footprints on the planet relative to the size of the market. For this reason, the major drivers in current aerospace R&D are towards lighter construction materials and more efficient engines – the overall goal being to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions associated with air travel and air freight. The significant interest in nanotechnology for the aerospace industry is justified by the potential of nanomaterials and nanoengineering to help the industry achieve this goal. †¢This article will review some of the nanomaterials which are already being applied in aerospace manufacturing, and the benefits they can provide. †¢Nanostructured Metals †¢Bulk metals with some nanoscale structure are already widely used in aircraft manufacturing. It is now well known that nanostructured metals – exhibit considerably improved properties compared to their counterparts with microscale or larger grain structure. †¢This is particularly noticeable for properties which are crucial for materials used in aircraft – primarily yield strength, tensile strength and corrosion resistance, coupled with low density which helps keep the total weight of the aircraft down. †¢ †¢Figure 2. Bulk nanostructured metals exhibit much better mechanical properties and corrosion resistance than their counterparts with larger crystal structures. Image credit: Los Alamos National Laboratory. †¢Polymer Nanocomposites †¢Various nanomaterials have been used as filler materials to enhance the properties of structural and non-structural polymers used in aircraft construction. The most commonly used nanomaterials include nanoclays, carbon nanotubes, nanofibres, and graphene. †¢Carbon nanotubes in particular have been shown to give excellent advantages when used as fillers in various polymers, due to their exceptional stiffness, toughness, and unique electrical properties. †¢Nanocomposites typically have superb weight-to-strength ratios, and enhanced resilience to vibration and fire, making them ideal for use in the aviation industry. The properties of the nanofillers, like the conductivity of nanotubes, for example, can create interesting opportunities for multifunctional materials. †¢The properties of polymers enhanced by nanomaterial fillers are so well-tuned to the requirements of aircraft manufacturers, that they are actually being used to replace some of the metals used in the airframes. This obviously brings along huge weight savings, and often cost savings as well. †¢Tribological and Anti-Corrosion Coatings †¢Another major trend in the materials used in aircraft is towards nanocoatings to enhance the durability of metals. In particular, magnesium alloys, which are far lighter than steel or aluminium, are prone to corrosion, due to the high chemical reactivity of magnesium. Coatings can help prevent corrosion, but the type typically used contain chromium complexes which are a highly toxic pollutant. †¢Materials used for these novel anti-corrosion nanocoatings include silicon and boron oxides, and cobalt-phosphorous nanocrystals. †¢Nanocoatings are also now being used on turbine blades and other mechanical components which have to withstand high temperatures and friction wear. Tribological coatings can drastically lower the friction coefficient and improve resistance to wear – this greatly improves the efficiency of the engines. †¢Many nanostructured and nanoscale  coating materials have been suggested as possible friction modifying agents, such as carbides, nitrides, metals, and various ceramics. †¢ †¢Figure 3. The defense sector drives a lot of the innovation in many industries, and aerospace is no exception. High-performance military aircraft require exceptional materials, which will eventually find their way into commercial vehicles. Image credit: Penn State University. †¢Conclusion †¢This is just a brief overview of some of the nanomaterials being used in aerospace. The drive for lighter and more efficient air vehicles has led to the rapid adoption of nanotechnology in aerospace manufacturing. †¢The main roadblock, as with many industries looking to adopt nanotechnology, is caused by uncertainty over the environmental and health and safety implications of these materials. Whilst nanomaterials can often be less toxic than the current materials used, the effects of long-term exposure to these novel materials are still uncertain. †¢The potential of nanotechnology in the aerospace industry cannot be denied, however. Outside of airframe and component materials, nanotechnology applications have been found in lubricants, fuel, adhesives and many other areas. †¢Nanotechnology is also helping engineers to create vehicles with the necessary properties to endure the harsh conditions of space.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Native American Culture Essay

Estrangement is the state of being withdrawn or isolated from the objective world, as through indifference or disaffection. Ill-advisedly, the protagonist from â€Å"The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven† is forever bound in this state of mind. His internal conflicts enthrall between fighting for his Native American ethnicity, and, finding his purpose to this world. This link between the two becomes a challenge due to his pessimistic, and protective attitude for his race. The narrator’s volatile actions imply his frustration towards the discrimination against his native Spokane reservation heritage. The protagonists’ Native American upbringing intertwined with White culture challenges his Red and White thinking. The protagonists’ family style upbringing has distilled values that are outlived in his Native American identity. Unfortunately, the protagonist is quite protective of his Native American descent. In fact, his view of people is quite pessimistic towards the Native American race. This rigidness to his ethnicity is foretold in two parts. As humans, we are first born with an identity that is kept close to us, such as Native American, African American, or Grecian. Although we are born with uniqueness; the values we instill to our race are brought about through parent’s effort in raising their children. For Sherman Alexie, he’d developed a cynical character who bares strong connections to his Native American race. The protagonist’s existence and demeanor is uncanny because he’d been destined for a life of prosperity through public schooling and a college education. Found here, â€Å"But I was special, a former college student, a smart kid. I was one of those Indians who was supposed to make it. I was a new kind of warrior. † This quote reveals his sense of insecurity concerning his life thus far and how he has not lived up to his expectations. â€Å"The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven† exposes a few scenes where the main character is fighting for ethical freedom outside of Spokane. The protagonist’s discriminative experiences begin at a convenience store in Seattle where he feels like a predator lurking amongst his preys. As stated, â€Å"He looked me over so he could describe me to the police later. † The protagonist was familiar with this wicked look; as he’d lost a close relationship to its devilish hands once before. His loss began like this, â€Å"When one person starts to look at another like a criminal, then the love is over. † As Native American, these adverse impressions occur randomly as seen through the Police incident. In this scene, the protagonist had been pulled over in a wealthy neighborhood by the police officer, â€Å"You’re making people nervous. You don’t fit the profile of the neighborhood. † This was a friendly way of saying; you are not wanted in this area, please leave. These occurrences are upsetting to the narrator as they have affected his view of Whites. As the protagonist becomes disgusted with life, he packs his belongings and heads home to Spokane in Washington State. While home, he realizes that connecting to his family and finding peace is not easy. His weak-minded thinking is foreseen here,† They’d been expecting me back the day I left for Seattle. There’s an old Indian poet who said that Indians can reside in the city, but they can never live there. † In fact, while living in Seattle, his dreams became nightmares of a vivid war scene between the Red’s and Whites. The Indians became slaughtered by the Whites and at one point, â€Å"Three mounted soldiers played polo with a dead Indian woman’s head. † This graphic image stays with him as he found accounts of this madness occurred in the old west and in parts of the world today. The protagonist’s dreams and Native American ethnicity have instilled protective beliefs to his ethnicity and real life demeanor towards others. Although he’s strong-willed concerning his background, insecurity remains present. One instance occurs where he starts a job in Spokane at the local high school exchange program. He answers phone calls and asks himself, â€Å"Sometimes I wonder if the people on the other end of the line know that I’m Indian and if their voices would change if they did know. † His insecurity exponentially evolves to every facet in his life and only exacerbates his pessimistic attitude. The cynical behavior by the protagonist has incurred due to several discriminatory experiences. One being, the protagonist’s cup is full; which allows him to believe this Red vs. White rivalry will never change. Because of his ignorance, he leaves no trust to anyone and is forced to run when he encounters discrimination. One situation that symbolizes the protagonist’s doubtful thoughts is encountered at his hometown basketball court. He comes home to find the new BIA chief’s White kid named Jimmy Seyler who can play ball. â€Å"And he could play. He played Indian ball, fast and loose, better than all the Indians there. † That night, Jimmy whooped on every Indian who played Basketball. I recognize this as a change of tone and direction in the protagonist’s life. At this point in time, he realizes that he must submit to his Red vs. White rivalry in order to move forward in his life. Just as Jimmy will advance and become an NBA star, the gap between the two races, White and Indian will only become larger. Indian’s will control the small reservation plains out West while the White culture advances to become a powerhouse figure in the United States of America. Hereafter this epiphany, the protagonist’s life begins to move forward as he starts a new job and connects with his ex-girlfriend once again. .

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Business law Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business law - Research Paper Example There are tones of organizations turning to the arbitration processes whereby majority are avoiding courts and preferring to solve disputes through an arbitrator. Preference of this method of solving legal disputes has left numerous concerns as to whether all these parties are all for it. This is the basis for the choice for the articles below on arbitration, in order to evaluate the process keenly to eliminate any uncertainties pertaining to it as well as provide a scrutiny of what the legal system requires to do so as to enforce arbitration processes and close loop holes that are manifesting in the mechanism and utilize it properly since despite many encumbrances facing it, it is a cost effective procedure that can be very popular among contracting parties. â€Å"Forced Arbitration: Corporations Opting Out of Justice and Fairness† and â€Å"Delaware Rapid Arbitration Act to Take Effect in May 2015† are two articles of my choice that will help me scrutinize the process of arbitration and the reasons why organizations are preferring this method of dispute resolution. The scrutiny of these articles will enable me understand arbitration especially that which touches on business organizations and its ability to provide justice to the aggrieved parties. This study will also help identify strengths and areas of improvement in the process in the legal system concerning Arbitration. â€Å"Forced Arbitration: Corporations Opting Out of Justice and Fairness† article contends that the contractual agreements giving permission to allow arbitration as a means of resolving conflicts. This contractual agreement is present in many businesses and individuals sign without the knowledge that they have embedded their signature to permit such a process. This is the reason why the article calls the process as a forced arbitration because majority of participant are unaware of

Friday, September 27, 2019

Acute pain for postoperative patients in Kuwait Assignment

Acute pain for postoperative patients in Kuwait - Assignment Example According to Strauss and Corbin, research itself is only one of four possible sources of the research problem. Research problem can come from literature or researcher personal and professional experience. Therefore, I can add that from my clinical experience in Kuwait, I believe that pain assessment is very weak and not clear. Nursing in Kuwait is under development and there are only one or two persons with a PHD in Nursing in Kuwait. This is very disturbing because it shows that the nurses in Kuwait are not as competent as the nurses in other countries. In this light, the aim of my research is to gather evidence based to develop the best practice in Kuwait. Last, there is no good practice or an international assessment which is perfect or universal. 3. Project objectives To explore nurse’s knowledge of pain assessment; To analyze the perceptions of nurses and patients of pain assessment in a Kuwait surgical setting; To identify potential factors that could affect how the pati ents respond to post-operative pain. 4. Research strategy (For example, outline of research methodology, what information/data collection strategies will you use, where will you recruit participants and what approach you intend to take to the analysis of information / data generated) Due to the subjectivity of pain experience a qualitative method will be used for this study, which seeks to provide a perception of how or why things are as they are. Data will be collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews with nurses and separately with patients. This is only fitting considering that Hancock (1998) relates that data collection in a qualitative research involves direct encounters with individuals through one to one interviews. In-depth interview allows intensive exploration of a topic with someone who has had related experiences. Open-ended questions will be used during the interview. The questions to be asked during the interview are not prepared prior to the interview. The researcher in charge of this exercise formulates the questions during the interview. He/ she ask what they think is in line with the interview and recorded the responses given by the patient. This is in contrast with close-ended questions which may limit further exploration of the participants’ experiences. Purposive sampling will be used in this study. Typically the recommended sample for grounded theory is about 20 to 30 participants (Helfand, M., & Freeman, 2008). Determining the sample size depends on the quality and richness of the data. This research will aim to involve as many interviewees as possible to the point that the responses being gathered from the new interviews being conducted are the same as the responses gathered from your prior interviews. Recruitment Once College ethical approval is gained, the researcher will send a formal letter to the hospital administration in Kuwait and to the surgical unit supervisor or manager requesting permission to recruit p atients and staff from the hospital. Once the approval is gained the researcher will then proceed to place a notice/poster in the surgical ward which will invite volunteers from among surgical nurses and patients who are willing to take part in the research or those who are readily available to become participants of the research.There is no ethical committee in the Kuwait hospital; therefore organizational approval will be gained from the Manager. Phase one: interviewing the nurses The research will involve registered nurses who work in surgical units. The nurses to be included in the interview should at least possess a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution of higher learning in nursing and a minimum of three years working experience. Those are the

Thursday, September 26, 2019

AI Week 13 Eye moving DB 153 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

AI Week 13 Eye moving DB 153 - Essay Example Various governments have limited fiscal budgets and pressure (Feldstein, 2011). This is because it has to take care for the health of the aging population. Shifting the cost to the public only increases the level of taxes and affects the finances of various households. Such costs could be unsustainable for the lower and average income earners. There are disparities in the level of income for different household individuals. The public consists of a majority of average income earners. If the cost of health care for high-risk employees shifts to the public, then high-income earners should make the biggest contribution. Genetic factors cause most affected employees to inherit some chronic diseases. Such health care plans make the employees feel some form of discrimination from their employers. Employers should treat all the employees with equality regardless of their health background. The employers should instead make health care policies affordable for all the employees. Relevant authorities need to regulate insurance companies in the creation of their health care policies (Feldstein, 2011). The regulations should require the companies to provide insurance covers at normal charges. The employees should seek routine checkups from their healthcare providers to put their condition under control. The employers should avoid any form of discrimination in the determination of the health benefits. Shifting the public health care cost to the public could be unfair for both low and average income

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Discuss NEEDS & RIGHTS pilicy themes in relation to apractice Essay

Discuss NEEDS & RIGHTS pilicy themes in relation to apractice setting(FAMILIES AND CHILDREN CONTACT CENTRE) - Essay Example A social policy should thus provide a child centred model to enable the social workers working with families and children provide services without any difficult. This would also empower children to navigate through the family change using a holistic systematic approach Alcock et al.2007). The changing nature of family life and children demands that policies should be flexible to adapt to these changing circumstances. Needs and rights themes in policies are very important in relation to working with families and children. There is need for collective social response to address these issues. Needs and rights policy themes if well formulated can regulate how families and children in need of the social care can be assisted (Spicker 2008). In working with families I have realized that children are in dire need of achieving their rights and meeting their needs. This can only be done with a policy that focuses on the rights and needs of children in question (Barnett & Hustedt, 2005). In my engagement with the families and children, I found out that many children suffer from sexual abuse, physical abuse, serious willful neglect that affects them mentally. This includes failure to provide for them the necessities of life or where a child witnesses violence resulting in or having the potential to result to serious injury to a family member or even death. The child protection protocol states that such instances should be reported to the policy for investigation but have found out that in many instances these cases are not investigated and if investigated the government do not take any action (Dickens, 2010). There should be a policy to address these issues affecting children and families. The policy available does not address fully the issues that we experience at the contact centre. Many of the issues are tricky and hence demand a harmonious consideration of the issues and provide the necessary support but this can only be possible the social policy will be in place to a ddresses the needs and rights of the families and children involved. Most children need social support from other people to survive and this support with a well established framework will enable them to avoid stress. Social support should be the major theoretical framework of the policies that are formulated. For children at risk, accessible and positive social support can play a vital role in addressing their needs and rights (Barnett & Hustedt, 2005). Children and families we work with have needs and rights that are fundamental and if timely interventions are not taken, these rights and needs would not be realized. Working with families and children one realizes that in spite of the challenges that most of them go through, they have survived and are capable of leading a successful live. Therefore one of the needs and rights of the families and children undergoing difficulties should be entrenched in policies because their rights have to be protected despite the challenges. While w orking with children and families at the contact centre I realized that children in separated families have a higher chance of encountering many problems in life. For instance, most perform poorly in school, they are usually in need of medical attention and need help in most of other areas to ensure they attain their full potential. We work with parents to support them through the changes that

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Strategic Management Process Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Strategic Management Process - Essay Example Origin Energy Limited is a company that sees her self-be more than an energy retailer. Rather, the company claims to â€Å"find and produce gas, generate electricity and invest in renewable energy opportunities including wind, hydro, solar and geothermal†. As a fast-growing company in the energy industry (Australian Security Exchange, 2011), Origin Energy is endowed with a number of distinctive competencies that have been the reason behind the company’s performance and growth on the Australian Stock Exchange over the past years. Quoting Bianco from Kenneth R. Andrews’ 1971 definition of distinctive competencies, it can be said that distinctive competencies refer to â€Å"the set of activities that an organization could perform especially well in relation to its competitors.† This definition was given as an elaboration of the original theory of distinctive competencies developed by Philip Selznick in 1957 after he studied â€Å"vastly differing organizatio ns, from the Communist Party to the Tennessee Valley Authority†. Judging from the definition, it can be pointed out that Origin Energy’s foremost distinctive competencies are in the areas of diversity of business orientation.Origin Energy operates in several sectors of the energy industry. Among these sectors are oil and gas exploration and production, of which the company has several oil and gas reserves across Australia. This is, of course, a competitive advantage for crisis moments when oil and gas may be in adverse shortage. The fact that the reserves are spread across Australia in regions such as the Cooper Basin of South Australia, the Bass Strait, Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania means the company is assured of nationwide constant supply. This is because there is reduced need for transporting oil over long distances to get various parts of their oil stations with oil and gas supply. Still on oil and gas, the company has a gas field in Australia (Sustainability R eport, 2009). This makes Origin an International company that enjoys the benefits of foreign exchange. Apart from oil and gas exploration and production, Origin Energy is into wholesale and retail of gas and electricity (Silo Breaker, 2011). Silva (2011) observes that retail marketing especially â€Å"helps increase the revenues of stores and aims to improve the experience consumers get when they visit their favorite shops.† This is of course a benefit that Origin Energy is not exempted from. By wholesale and ret

Monday, September 23, 2019

Caribbean Guesthouse Business Plan Research Paper - 1

Caribbean Guesthouse Business Plan - Research Paper Example While there are a number of such homes offering such services our home stands out with difference of being located along the river banks. â€Å"Its marketing strategy will seek to find out ways in which quality of services can be improved within the home in order to attract more tourists.† (Davidson, 2005) It will seek to market the services one is likely to enjoy while at the home and how available the services are to the individuals. The intention is to also convince the consumers that the moment they step in the home they will leave the place satisfied and happy. The staff will be responsible for managing the affairs of the home with the support from the subordinate staff. As a start we will have a staff of 30 people. The size of the market area will be determined by amount of profit made from the investments. Advertisement for the home will be made through the newspapers, television and radio. Based on the demands by the tourism for accommodation, we expect that as a home we will be able to meet the sales projections of up to $400,000 and that the salary of the workers will be determined depending on the amount of profit that will be incurred. Currently, we have completed a six bed room home that is self financed and we expect to get more finances from those who obtain accommodation from the home. From the market research carried out we discovered that most of the profits were made during the festive seasons when families visited the Caribbean and we found that to be an opportunity for us to expand on our services and better them. The Industry The players in the industry are expected to be the tourists who come in from other countries. More and more people are considering leisure activities as one way of trying to avoid straining an idea that makes them want to visit and learn more about other countries. With the increase for the demand in accommodation and good food our home has to cooperate with other industries like those involved in food producti on. Through such cooperation the industry has been able to receive an increase in number of tourism. The director of marketing has noted that currently, people are interested in homes that make them comfortable and at the same time are able to provide a home feeling for them. â€Å"The home industry is very competitive, a challenge that leaves workers to be hardworking in ensuring that they deliver the best to clients and this includes not only services from the home but workers† (Davidson, 2005). To ensure this the staff will be expected to specialize more in their area of expertise in order to offer the best services. With time areas of expertise will become more narrow and interdependent to the extent that they will be able to come up with innovations that foresee advancement in their services. It should be clear that there is likely to be the non local competitors who might be dealing inn the same services. Strategies on how to overcome the barriers of competition is a ke y factor here. The home will seek to strengthen its mode of advertisement such that it is able to reach a wide range of people. The advertisement will take place after a clear investigation on the mechanisms undertaken by the other homes that makes them to remain at the top despite the competition. Marketing Plan This will range from the prices for the commodities to the rates charged for the accommodation. â€Å"

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Breast Feeding Versus Bottle Feeding Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Breast Feeding Versus Bottle Feeding - Essay Example Theories about Breast Feeding Often linked inextricably with the phrase ‘the most natural thing in the world’, breast feeding remains the most recommended and professionally supported method of feeding your newborn. Medical professionals recommend feeding your baby breast milk exclusively for the first 6 months (LICH Pediatrics, 2011). Other foods or formula should only be introduced gradually after this. The NHS website (2012) outlines the numerous advantages of breastfeeding for both you and your baby. The main benefits are; it is a source of optimal and natural nutrition which cannot be replicated, it builds babies immune system, it promotes a bond between mother and baby and it lowers the risk of infections, other common baby ailments and developing certain chronic diseases. Breast milk is also more easily absorbed and digested by babies compared to formula. Of course the practicality of breastfeeding is also a plus; it’s available anytime, it’s always a suitable temperature and it’s free. It also has health benefits for mum as it speeds up metabolism and helps in losing excess weight after childbirth. Studies have also shown that breast feeding yields a protective effect in mums against developing premenopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis (Kumar, 2012). Theories about Bottle Feeding Bottle feeding is an option many mothers choose. Very often, mothers simply are not comfortable breast feeding and turn to bottle feeding as an alternative. Nowadays, commercially prepared infant formulas are of a very high nutritional quality and are designed to mimic breast milk as much as possible (LICH Paediatrics, 2011). Though most feeding theories recommend the breast over the bottle, they do still acknowledge the many advantages bottle feeding offers. It is convenient and flexible, and makes public feeding an easier and less worrisome event for some mothers compared to breast feeding. It can also be pre-prepared when needed and the fact that anyone can bottle feed the baby means that mum does not need to be present at all feeding sessions, which is especially relevant to busy or working mothers.. However, it is important to remember that is has been proven that formula cannot match the nutritional composition of breast milk. Studies have even found an association between artificial formula feeding and an increased risk of childhood cancer (Kumar, 2012). Other studies have suggested that artificial feeding increases the risk of some medical conditions such as celiac disease, compared to breast fed babies. More practical disadvantages are that it is also the more expensive feeding method, costing new mums anywhere up to ?80 per week. What Do Most Mothers Go For And Why? It seems that the majority of new mothers in the UK choose to breast feed. The NHS (2011) reported that initial breastfeeding rates in 2010 were 83% in England, 74% in Scotland, 71% in Wales, and 64% in Northern Ireland. It also re ported a significant increase in breastfeeding since 2005. The fact that more and more research supports breast feeding over formula, and society is slowly becoming more comfortable with the naturalness of breast feeding, means that an increasing number of women see breast feeding as the best choice for them and for their baby. It is also interesting to note that the Milupa Aptamil

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Close Adoption vs Open Adoption Essay Example for Free

Close Adoption vs Open Adoption Essay The concept of adoption was not legally recognized in the United States until the 1850’s, with the inception of the first adoption laws. While transfers of children to substitute parents or now known as â€Å"adoptive parents† had occurred informally since American colonial times, adoption laws legitimized the informal adoptive arrangements which previously existed. There are now two different forms of adopting a child: open or closed adoptions. Although there are two options for adoption, all adoptions should be considered closed until an adoptee is 21. The adoption process for closed adoptions differs from the open adoption process and has more benefits. The open adoption process, is in which the adoptive parents actually meet and usually stay in touch with the birthparents. Birthparents voice in choosing their childs adoptive parents. Both open adoption and closed adoption use agencies or a lawyer, but in open adoption the agency gives the birthparents biographies of prospective adoptive parents, and the birthparents pick the family they are most comfortable with or â€Å"click† (Winerip 1). Compared to closed adoption, the prospective adoptive family would put their name on a list, and wait for the social worker to make a match. This doesn’t involve the need of personalities between families to match, just the potential factor of a good child support system which is the most important aspect. â€Å"Conversely, if they want a closed adoption, they shouldn’t be pressured into an open adoption because adopters may find it harder to fulfill their side of the agreement such as: sending the birthmother photos or visiting† (â€Å"Family Education† 2). Also, in open adoption the birthparents and adoptive parents meet, and might be in touch frequently during the pregnancy while closed adoption the adoptive parents didnt know where the child came from, or who his or her birthparents were which gives them more of sense that the child belongs to them and deserves all their love as if it was given birth by the adoptive mother. Many times the adoptive parents in an open adoption are able to witness their childs birth and some of these families stay in touch through their adoption agency, especially on birthdays and holidays. Others become friends or create somewhat of an â€Å"extended family†. During closed adoption however, there is no contact between birth and adoptive families. This gives both families a sense of closure. Through the closed adoption process no identifying information is provided, giving a type of curiosity back to the adoptive parents on what their child may look like instead of seeing the birth mother and assuming that that child will look like her. They are only given non-identifying information (e. g. , height in the birth family, potential hair color, medical history, ect. is provided through the third party such as the agency or attorney. When adoptions are closed, the files are usually physically sealed until the age of 21 to the adoptee and the adoptive parents giving everyone a sense of closure (Thompson 1). Closed adoption and open adoption have a key difference including the involvement of the birthparents from their point of view that is more beneficial when the adoption is closed. Open adoption birth parents experience a sense of less guilt as a benefit (Gray 27) of the adoption but what benefit does the child rear? Adoption should be more for the child and less for the birth parents emotional ground. But closed adoption does give the birth parents privacy because â€Å"placing a child for adoption is an extremely sensitive and vulnerable choice. Having a closed adoption creates an opportunity for a stronger sense of privacy,† (â€Å"N. A. I. C. H. † 1) and it can also reduce fear because â€Å"some birth mothers are concerned about explaining their choice, and a closed adoption serves as a way to prevent them from a confrontation with a child placed for adoption† (â€Å"N. A. I. C. H. † 1). Closed adoption rids the birth parents of the responsibility they were not ready for in the first place and gives the child a chance at a better life with more responsible individuals. In some cases, closed adoption kills two birds with one stone by riding a birth parent of the embarrassment of not being prepared or financially stable for a child while giving the adoptive child a chance for a better life with an adoptive family that is looking for a child to give love and a good life too. Closed adoption is more beneficial from the Adoptive parents’ viewpoint rather than open adoption. Open adoption gives the birth parents the option to demand wants of the adoptive parents and those demands may cross boundaries. In a sense, an adoptive family may get the feeling of â€Å"affirmation- As an adoptive family, you may experience a sense of empowerment or encouragement knowing that you were chosen as the adoptive family† (â€Å"N. A. I. C. H. † 2) but birth parents may still want to be in the adoptee’s life as extended family but two mom’s and two dad’s? Would that not confuse a small child? With closed adoption, the adoptive parents have full responsibility and there is no answering to birth parents or any fuzzy oundaries of rules and expectations for a child such as â€Å"birth parent interference or co-parenting concerns† (â€Å"N. A. I. C. H. † 1). The adoptive family is given the full privilege of raising their adoptive child how they would like to and â€Å"family freedom- if the birth families are not involved, the adoptive family is free to have their family time without restraints of visitations and on-going communication† (â€Å"N. A. I. C. H. † 1). It is even up to the adoptive family to decide to tell child that he/she is adopted. Closed adoption is safer for the adoptive child rather than open adoption and has more benefits. Open adoptions give the child his/her identity and suppose that by chance the birth parents are properly functioning human beings, which would give the adopted child an extended family that was healthy (â€Å"American Pregnancy Association† 1). On the other hand though, what if the child doesn’t wish to know their birth parents because he/she was adopted or their birth parents have issues or mental problems that are not healthy for the child to be around or interact with? Closed adoption eliminates these possibilities. Unless the adoptive child specifically asks who they really are, the child could be completely fine without knowing they’re adopted and have a normal family with one mom and one dad. More often than none, the adoptee’s birth parents give them up for adoption for a reason. This includes the possibilities of an unplanned pregnancy, lacking financially, or just simply aren’t ready for the responsibility. The purpose of adoption is to give the adoptee a better life than it would’ve originally had. In the end, the child still has the option of finding their birth parents records when they are of the age to legally obtain that information.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Comparative Study Of Tesco Marketing Strategies And Activities Marketing Essay

Comparative Study Of Tesco Marketing Strategies And Activities Marketing Essay Abstract The study focuses the marketing strategies adopt by the TESCO and its comparison with other manufacturing, business and non-profit organizations. It also looks into linkages between the operations at these organizations and their marketing strategy. It shows that in current ever-changing and challenging market companies with different background have to adopt different marketing strategy to get the advantage over competitors. These companies and organizations have to link their operations with that marketing strategy so that they could meet with the maximum customer satisfaction. TESCO has a competitive advantage over its rivals in retail market as its adopting diverse strategies in operation as well as in marketing. TESCO is utilizing modern technology effectively. Introduction Marketing is a way to introduce your product to your targeted customers in any market. Todays business world demands every business to adopt a workable marketing strategy so that they could achieve competitive advantages over their rivals and could generate higher sales and profits successfully. There are different ways adopted by all the companies to maximize their reach in markets. This marketing strategy should be aggressive and effective. In this assignment we are going to study the approaches adopted by the TESCO which is one of leading retailer in United Kingdom. We will also study the difference of approaches adopted by TESCO comparing to the other manufacturing companies, service and non-profit organizations. The assignment will answer following four questions parted into three tasks, which are given below:- Task 1 (A) Understand and critically appraise the importance of marketing within the development of business plans and strategies at Tesco plc. Task 1 (B) In the report you must also evaluate and analyse the processes of market development in the dynamic retail business environment in which the company (TESCO) operates. Task 2 Critically evaluate, appraise and analyse the place of information systems and new technologies in developing business and marketing strategies and planning at Tesco plc. Task 3 Evaluate and analyse the linkages between marketing and operations in manufacturing, service and not-for-profit organisations to compare how these organisations undertake marketing. The focus of this study will be to understand the concept of marketing in general with focusing on the strategy and activities adopted by the TESCO. It will also help us in understanding the differences of marketing strategies adopted by different kinds of business and organizations like manufacturing, services and non-profits. 1.1 Background Founder of TESCO Jack Cohen, has started this business when he started to sell groceries in East London in 1919. The first days profit was 1 Pound. The business could lead him to sell his first product in his own brand name of Tesco in 1924. This name has come from the two first letters of TE Stockwell, and Co from surname of Jack. In those early days, Jack Cohen had a partner in firm of tea as a supplier, TE Stockwell. In 1929, Cohen could open his first store in Burnt Oak, Edgware in north of London. Tesco has become plc in 1932. A specified land has been bought in north of London at Angel Road, Edmonton for building a new headquarters and warehouse in 1934. (www.tescocorporate.com) Annual sales on Tesco touched landmark of one billion Pound in the year 1979. It exceeded to two billion Pound in the year of 1982. Same year for first time Tesco put some computerize checkouts in its stores. In the year 1985, Tesco became the first grocery retailer which started emphasizing on nutritional value of its brand products through an initiative named as Healthy Eating. In 1991 it became the biggest independent petrol retail seller in Britain. Next year it launched more new products and services which included Tesco Organic range, computers for schools and Every little Helps. Tesco has expanded its market on year, 1988 and 1999. Tesco improved customer service through lunching Customer Champions policy in stores; it became leader in organic retailer for the UK market. Tesco went to South Korea, Thailand and Taiwan. But later Tesco exited the Taiwanese market and it shifted to Czech Republic in 2005. Adopting the diversification strategy, a store under name of Tesco Homeplus was launched in 2005. In 2009 club cards re-lunched in the UK with a big investment of 150. Figure 1 shows Tesco around the world Website Tesco.com is the worlds most active online supermarket and in year 2009 the group had sales of more than  £577 million, with increase of 29% on year 2008. Tesco online widely operates with over 270 stores around the UK, covering 96% of the online retail market. Estimated more than one million households nationwide using the online service, the company has a strong platform to further develop this revenue stream. Anon (2004) 1.2 What is marketing? Marketing is the systematic approach of selling goods, adopted by any business and not for-profit organization with a specific message. It always attempts to raise the organization ability to generate profits, whether these are financial (profits and donations) or electoral. Tescos strategy is very clear, with the growth as target from four areas the core UK business of grocery, non-foods, international retailing services and expansion other services such as financial, the dotcom and telecommunication. 2 Task 1 (A) Understand and critically appraise the importance of marketing within the development of business plans and strategies at Tesco plc. 2.1 TESCOs Marketing Strategy The marketing strategy involves analyzing the market, and determining which product to offer and the exact what range of the customers to be suited, considerations relating to fashion, seasons ,sizing, as well as the appropriateness. Tesco decide that there will be a specific core European range of environmentally friendly products which are exported throughout the Europe, while there would be another range for local customers. However before any decisions are made about marketing strategy, a detailed market research is undertaken to test the concept of the new range, the pricing, attitudes towards Tesco, the new Alliance with partners, purchasing habits of the customers. TESCO adopts campaigns for marketing the business, such a campaign would consisting of TV and radio advertising at regular intervals. Advertisements in news papers and magazines. The alliance partner making press releases and sharing about their ventures on their national and regional media benefits Tesco. Company benefits in creating thousands of new jobs. The introduction of an environmentally friendly of products. Billboard campaigns. Internet advertisement. Direct marketing to known customers (Club cards) Tesco has a successful history since years of its start. Today, Tesco Plc is a successful retailer in the United Kingdom. Tesco has put some series of practical marketing strategies. According to Ansoff matrix strategy, Tesco could develop its markets and products in the UK market, and ultimately with diversification strategy has got in front of other rivals. Ansoff, I. (1989), by applying these different strategies, Tesco successfully got its competitive advantages over it other rivals. In the UK, the groceries market has been among the major businesses. Now Tesco is also securing the large market shares in this ever-changing global retailer market. Figure 2 shows that the strategies might be applied by Tesco regarding to Ansoff matrix and vertical integration has been successful. 2.2 Task 1 (B) In the report you must also evaluate and analyse the processes of market development in the dynamic retail business environment in which the company (TESCO) operates. TESCO has a very successful business history on its record, today it is most successful retailer in the United Kingdom. The position of Tesco among other rivals in UK shows that company successfully applied its designed marketing strategies. As a growing retailer, TESCO could easily take over from its other rivals and could be on a distinctive advantage over the top hundred profitable businesses in UK. Tesco has applied some series of experiential marketing ways. Market incursion, Product improvement, Market progress and Diversification are the strategies through Tesco have put influence and it is remaining on top in the market. By applying effective strategies, Tesco has successfully got its competitive advantage among other retailers. 2.2.1 Market Penetration strategy In order to achieve success, Tesco has a three way strategy. First, Tesco always takes customers from other competitors like ASDA, Sainsburys, Morison and Somerfield, etc. Second, by providing the quality product and higher level of services, Tesco could attract and keep more customers, where these Tescos customers feel that Tesco is the best service provider. This situation makes the distinction among Tesco and other competitors. Third, attracting to more non-users of products and services to some business, by using of advertising and promotion or other marketing strategies, these would be capable policies (Ansoff, 1989, Lynch, 2003). According to Lynch, Marketing Penetration strategy is very important for Tesco because retaining existing customers is cheaper than attracting new one. (Lynch, 2003). For example, Tescos international expansion strategy has responded to meet the maximum needs of customers. it is sensitive to local expectations in other countries, by entering into joint ventures with local partners, such as Samsung Group in South Korea (Samsung-Tesco Home plus), and Charoen Pokphand in Thailand (Tesco Lotus), appointing a very high proportion of local personnel to management positions. (Tesco Preliminary Results 2006) Tesco is accessing to the lowest cost materials for supply and efficient production to influence the retail market. By recognition of low cost supplier, it is a privilege for Tesco to offer goods and services to its customers benefitting at cheaper prices in the town. Tesco Having good experience of dealing with larger size and diversity of the customers and customers satisfaction that is necessary for Tesco as a retailer to retain it in the market. TESCO successfully has created its Brand loyalty. Tesco operates as Internet system provider (ISP), its now in mobile phone and home phone business, and Volp businesses. Tesco in joint venture with O2 could build up diversification in telecommunication and it could increase it businesses in voice over internet with Freshtel Australia. It developing a success slogan of The right message To the right audience At the right time 2.2.2 Marketing and Sales Loyalty programs for example Tesco Clubcard are available through information technology advances that discourage the customers from switching over to their rivals. Tesco also has introduced a Greener Living Scheme to give consumers guidance on environmental issues, like how to reduce food waste and food carbon marks when one is preparing meals. 2.2.3 Services Tesco has been adopting a dual policy of cost leadership and diversification, which led to importance placed over the customer service.   Drawing upon this dual strategy is exhibited through the development of self-service kiosks, financial services, focused direct marketing and promotions. The relative analysis of the value created by the big four supermarket chains, i.e., Tesco, Asda, Sainsburys and Morrisons has been provided. (Keynote (2010), 3 Task 2 Critically evaluate, appraise and analyse the place of information systems and new technologies in developing business and marketing strategies and planning at Tesco plc. 3.1 Place of Information system and Technologies Information system is modern day business tool which helps businesses to communicate internally and externally with effectiveness. It also includes the use of current advanced technologies. Any business which gets starts these days required to adopt proper and effective information systems that connects not only the all internal parts of business but connects business with its markets. The use of new technologies gives a company advantage over its rivals. The main question always remains for managers how they effectively utilize existing information systems and technologies. According to its website, Tesco maintains business relationships with approximately 2,000 own-brand primary suppliers from less than a hundred countries. (www.tescocorporate.com)The current achievement of Tesco could be supportive of their claim that Tesco logistics management strategy always helps to gain its competitive advantage. Tesco respects to the UK Governments statutory Supplier Code of Practice, and it holds strict execution on moral trading and commercial policies, and other conducts of ethical trading like training to all commercial staff. Superior effectiveness of the computer-controlled logistics schemes is seen in Tesco (Fernie and McKinnon 2003). its e-tailing is a key marketing and sales activity, placing grocery order over the website that operate in highly automated central warehouses and automated logistics is more competent as to judge against with other groceries in the market. Tesco looking for strengthen its relationship with suppliers and to increase market share based on the characteristics of services (e.g., intangibility, heterogeneity, simultaneity, and perish ability). (Thompson and Strickland 2003) Various Marketing and Communication Means Adopted by TESCO to build this relationship more effective and profit based. These means included following methods of communication:- Mail Television Radio/Digital Radio Website   Email Telephone On floors at stores TESCO effectively get benefits from modern technology from security purposes like alarm systems, mechanical doors, self scanning machines for customers (which saves their time from being into large lines for payments) towards other advanced like CCTV. There is swift transporting system within stores to supply from warehouse at store. In a swiftly shifting business environment with high pressure from its competitors Tesco have adopted new expansion strategies and diversified the present order to sustain its market position as leader in retailing market. In light of the above analysis, it can easily be concluded that Tesco is holding its leadership position successfully within the highly unstable retail market, where all companies are required to follow both cost leadership and diversification strategies. Tesco successfully has been able to realize both with the help of a lean and agile supply chain management, effective marketing strategy along with the better use of information technology and new developed systems. 4 Task 3 Evaluate and analyse the linkages between marketing and operations in manufacturing, service and not-for-profit organisations to compare how these organisations undertake marketing. 4.1 linkages between marketing and operations In organizations and businesses, when a new manager starts its business plan or operational plan for the first time he wonders about: What is the real aim? What am I going to achieve? What is my marketing strategy? He can answer all these questions according to the nature of company or organization. He focuses the aims and targets through a working plan and supports that plan with an effective workable marking strategy that makes the organization or company very prominent in the market.The main objective of marketing is to bring development in the business or services and to get the attention of beneficiaries or consumers. Various businesses and organizations adopt different marketing techniques according to their needs. For example if we see a tight linkage between marketing and manufacturing it tells that a manufacturing company always looks for the value-added opportunities. It ensures with the aim of the right manufacturing capabilities are existing to meet up the requirements of customers. It also focuses that near- and long-term demands has been put in to the formation of manufacturing plans, inventory strategies and material handlings. Essentially manufacturing strategy should be aligned with marketing strategy. It should be developed in manner that improves the viable capability of the organization. In addition simple inter-functional co-ordination, manufacturing and marketing strategy decisions must be united and linked to the company strategy. In their empirical study of new firms, conclude that the synergy between marketing and manufacturing strategy decisions is more closely related to business success than either marketing or manufacturing decisions alone. In businesses or non-profit organizations share holder progress is not the main purpose, return on investment is less of an adding resource in business planning, however a vital necessity. Here return on investment is not primary motive of the business. Instead the main motive of enterprise may be some other purpose. Thus, the main difference between marketing products or services is that there is much more personal contact required when marketing a service as compared with marketing products. Marketing services may require meeting the customer in a face-to-face basis, or it may mean contacting prospective customers over the telephone. For all those firms which always emphasize product qualities those are not taking serious about the significant correlations with the marketing strategy. While firms which emphasized cutback in costs, they always focus on improving the sales. Firms which put greater emphasis on the product design effort those emphasize three marketing strategy factors: a change in the product line improves sales effort, and helps in new market development. This relationship seems rational, as the focus on product design and its development will lead to opportunity in new markets or for new customers. All those activities which affect the flow of goods and services from producers or service deliverer to the users or consumers are part of marketing. While in advanced industrial economies like UK, marketing strategies play a main role in formatting corporate policy. Once concerned with rising sales through marketing and other promotional techniques, corporate or organization marketing departments these days focus on product development, credit policies, distribution, customer support, and internal communications. Different organizations or business adopt different methods for marketing and connect the marketing and operations to maximise their output. The aim is same to get maximum attention from customers or beneficiaries. 5 Conclusion There are more than six billion humans who are living in this global market which is always inviting business and organizations to sell their product, services or make them benefited from some social and developmental work. It is estimated that there are 900 million PCs worldwide. 44% of UK adults use SMS text messaging on a daily basis, compared with 36% who use the Internet. 63% of Americans are not willing to lend their phone and there are 1.3 billion Internet users, 1.5 billion TV households, 3.3 billion mobile subscribers, Average time to report a lost wallet 26 hours and average time to report a lost mobile, 68 minutes. That shows the competition and challenges for companies to adopt workable marketing strategy for companies and organizations. Tesco is quite able to recognize technological changes and infrastructure particularly on its e-tailing business. Aside from Tescos use of internet as major technological infrastructure, changes are to be anticipated or the management should be able to deal with the rapid changes in technologies. Tesco is required to improve technological infrastructures through innovations to increase efficiency as well as quality of the products and services. All in all, Tescos senior executives who think about how to establish and sustain competitive advantage using logistics strategy should consider how to tailor their own logistics. To do so, they will need a sound understanding of the fundamental principles of good logistics as well as exploring new logistics capabilities. A strategic model to enable Tesco to obtain its objectives and to sustain competitive advantages in the markets. In USA Tesco cannot enter to this market and compete with the strongest retailer such as Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart has completely covered all the United State markets and there are not any chances for other rivals to enter to the market.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Emporer Hadrian Of Rome :: essays research papers

By the time Hadrian's contributions to his country had succeeded, and death was near; he was the most hated man in Rome. However, throughout his reign, he was regarded as a noble leader. "The Roman emperor Hadrian exercised a profound organizational influence on the Greco-Roman world. He worked successfully toward the codification of Roman law and the strengthening of imperial border defenses (Eadie 8)." Emperor Hadrian made many important contributions to Roman culture, and he was also known as one of the greatest Roman emperors in history.Hadrian was born on January, 26 76 a.d. in Spain. In his youth, he developed a strong interest in Hellenic culture. This earned him his nickname "The Greekling." For example, "Hadrian was an admirer of Greek culture and under different circumstances, might well have devoted his full time to literature and philosophy rather than politics (Eadie 8 )." Hadrian was well-educated, and known throughout Rome as a military man. For instance, " He rose through the ranks as befitting of one of his position in life and became a well-respected general (Internet Hadrian 4)." Soon after, Hadrian was married to a thirteen year old girl named Sabina. Thirteen years of age was very young even in Roman terms of marriage. Hadrian became emperor in 117a.d. This occurred when Trajan, Hadrian's deceased father's cousin and guardian, made Hadrian his successor on his deathbed. "Certainly Hadrian's relationship with the Senate was not a good one(Coleman-Norton 674)." At the beginning of his reign, he put four former consuls to death for conspiracy. This created negative personal relations between Hadrian and the Senate; however, "Hadrian generally treated the Senate with the utmost respect(Coleman-Norton 674)." Throughout the years 120-133, he traveled eminsly. He visited Britain, Spain, eastern provinces, and even Africa. Towns and cities vastly benefited from his journeys. Harbor installations, roads, and bridges were built. The size of Athens almost doubled, and many new cities, including Adrinople were founded by the emperor(Coleman-Norton)." " Hadrian's travels, which during his reign covered a period of more than twelve years, were the most extensive of any peacetime emperors in history(Coleman-Norton 673)." Hadrian cared about the welfare of his country and people. For example, "Hadrian was an able and tireless ruler. He issued laws protecting women, children, and slaves from mistreatment (Beers 112)." He also revised and reorganized the entire system of Roman laws. Hadrian greatly improved the East by building new roads, temples, theatres, and circuses.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Walter Dean Myers’ Monster - Guilty Until Proven Innocent Essay

Walter Dean Myers’ Monster - Guilty Until Proven Innocent Monster is an example of what Patty Campbell would call a â€Å"landmark book.† Texts such as these â€Å"encourage readers to interact with the text and with one another by employing a variety of devices, among them ambiguity† (Campbell 1) Because it is told through the eyes of Steve himself, the plot can be difficult to decipher. It is ambiguous whether he is innocent or guilty of being involved with the crime. Steve learned to make things unpredictable from his film teacher Mr. Sawicki who teaches him, â€Å"If you make your film predictable, they’ll make up their minds about it long before it’s over† (19). Steve took his teacher’s advice and made this film script entirely unpredictable, even after it is over. His lawyer, O’Brien, says in her closing statement, â€Å"What can we trace as to the guilt or innocence of my client, Steve Harmon?† (245) This leaves the jury with an undoubtedly difficult decision, as well as the rea der, because there are clues to both guilt and innocence in Steve’s case. What we do know is that many people think Steve is guilty. One of the guards describes the case, â€Å"Six days – maybe seven. It’s a motion case. They go through the motions; then they lock them up† (14). The judicial system has many flaws, one of which being that they assume guilt before proof when it comes to people like Steve. The phrase â€Å"innocent until proven guilty† does not apply to cases like his. As prosecutor Petrocelli states in reference to people like Steve, â€Å"There are also monsters in our communities – people who are willing to steal and to kill, people who disregard the rights of others† (21). O’Brien succinctly sums this up for Steve, â€Å"You’re young, you’re Black, and you’re on ... ... to jail. He moved away, and the distance between us seemed to grow bigger and bigger† (280). The reader is left pondering the good character of Steve, the bad friends he spent time with, the doctoring of his testimony, and the information that Steve provided us hinting both at his guilt and at his innocence. We are comfortable with the fact that he has been let free, but has been warned. If he were involved in the crime, at least he may have learned his lesson through his time in prison and on trial. If he were not involved in the crime, at least he is free to start over and move on from the experience. Works Cited Campbell, Patty. â€Å"Radical Monster.† The Horn Book Magazine. Boston: Nov/Dec 1999. Vol. 75, Iss. 6; pg. 769. Dean Myers, Walter. Monster. New York: Harper Tempest, 1999. Kus, Jonathan. â€Å"Monster: A critical look from the outside.† April 13, 2004.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Essay --

Jakob Wenman Lab 7: Yeast Metabolism BIOL 1220 Section: 001 3/11/14 TA: Paul Williamsâ€Æ' Introduction: Yeasts are able to convert carbon sources, like sugars, into ethanol, without air. Yeasts also change sugars into carbon dioxide and water, when air is present (Leady. 2014). When cellular respiration requires oxygen, it is known as aerobic cellular respiration (Leady. 2014). Carbon counts are important because they give the number of carbons in monosaccharide molecules. Glucose has a carbon count of six. Fructose has a carbon count of six. Sucrose has a carbon count of twelve (Leady. 2014). Question: Which form of yeast will produce the highest amount of gas? Hypothesis: Yeast metabolizes simple carbohydrates than it does complex carbohydrates. Prediction: I predict that Fructose, Glucose, and Sucrose will produce more gas than Starch. Methods: The methods used for this lab came from Leady, B. (2014) Fundamentals of Life Science Lab Manual. Toledo, Ohio: University of Toledo. No changes were made. Results: At the end of the 30 minute time period, the starch solution ...

Midterm Exam Essay

1. (TCO 1) Suppose your company sold $25,000 in merchandise to a customer for cash. How does this transaction impact the accounting equation? (Points : 12) 2. (TCO 2) Suppose your company sold $50,000 in merchandise to a customer for cash. How does this transaction impact the accounting equation? (Points : 12) 3. (TCO 3) Rationalization is one of the components of the fraud triangle. What types of rationalization could a person use to justify misconduct? How can a company protect itself from rationalization as a part of fraud? (Points : 12) 4. (TCO 4) What is horizontal analysis of financial statements? How does horizontal analysis differ from vertical analysis? (Points : 12) 5. (TCO 3) Separation of duties is a key feature in an internal control system. Why is separation of duties such an important internal control? Give an example of separation of duties as an internal control. (Points : 24) 6. (TCO 1) Describe the balance sheet. Why is this statement important to the company, creditors, and investors? (Points : 24) 7. (TCO 4) Name and describe one liquidity ratio. What does this ratio measure? What is the formula for this ratio? (Points : 24) ACCT 301 Midterm Exam 2 1. (TCO 1) The retained earnings statement shows all of the following except which one? 2. (TCO 1) Management’s views on the company’s short-term debt paying ability, expansion financing, and results of operations are found in which of the following? 3. (TCO 4) For 2010, Fielder Corporation reported net income of $30,000; net sales $400,000; and average share outstanding 6,000. There were no preferred stock dividends. What was the 2010 earnings per share? 4. (TCO 4) A useful measure of solvency is which of the following? 5. (TCO 2) Which pair of accounts follows the rules of debit and credit, in relation to increases and decreases, in the same manner? 6. (TCO 2) The principle purpose of posting is which of the following? 7. (TCO 3) Joe is a warehouse custodian, and also maintains the accounting record of the inventory held at the warehouse. An assessment of this situation  indicates 8. (TCO 3) The following information was taken from Hurlbert Company cash budget for the month of June: 9. (TCO 11) Managerial accounting information does which of the following? 10. (TCO 11) Which one of the following is not a direct material? 11. (TCO 11) Sales commissions are classified as which of the following? 12. (TCO 11) Manufacturing costs include which of the following? 13. (TCO 11) Neeley Manufacturing Company reported the following year-end information: 14. (TCO 5) What effect do changes in activity have on fixed costs per unit? 15. (TCO 5) Which one of the following is not an assumption of CVP analysis? ACCT 301 Midterm Exam 3 1. (TCO 5) A company has total fixed costs of $210,000 and a contribution margin ratio of 30%. How much sales are necessary to break even? 2. (TCO 5) How much sales are required to earn a target income of $70,000, if total fixed costs are $100,000 and the contribution margin ratio is 40%? 3. (TCO 6) For which one of the following budgeting aspects does the budget committee generally have the responsibility? 4. (TCO 6) Under what situation might a budget be most effective? 5. (TCO 6) How does long-range planning compare to a master budget? 6. (TCO 6) Which one of the following is a source of information used to prepare the budgeted income statement? 7. (TCO 7) When is a static budget most appropriate in evaluating a manager’s performance? 8. (TCO 7) Which type of center is the housekeeping department of a manufacturing company? 9. (TCO 7) For which of the following is an investment center manager responsible? 10. (TCO 7) Merck Pharmaceuticals is evaluating its Vioxx division, an investment center. The division has a $45,000 controllable margin and $300,000 of sales. How much will Merck’s average operating assets be when its return on investment is 10%? 11. (TCO 11) Financial and managerial accounting are both concerned with the economic events of an enterprise. Similarities between financial and managerial accounting do exist, but they have a different focus. Briefly distinguish between financial and managerial accounting as they relate to (1) the primary users, (2) the type and frequency of reports, (3) the purpose of reports, and (4) the content of reports. 12. (TCO 4) Are short-term creditors, long-term creditors, and stockholders primarily interested in the same characteristics of a company? Explain. 13. (TCO 5) In the month of  September, Nixon Company sold 800 units of product. The average sales price was $30. During the month, fixed costs were $7,200 and variable costs wer e 60% of sales.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Human Trafficking in Africa Essay

Human trafficking is not a new phenomenon. It has historically taken different forms but always new dimensions. Human trafficking is a complex phenomenon that is multi-faceted and which involves several stakeholders both at the institutional as well as commercial level. Research reveals that up to 900 000 people are trafficked every year around the globe (Adepoju 2005). Human trafficking is rated as third in terms of the biggest profit earners (at about $7 billion) after drugs and armaments for international organised crime. It is described as a global business that is demand driven because of the huge market for commercial sex and cheap labour that are tackled by policy frameworks that are either insufficient or unexercised. The number of trained people to prevent this vice is also insufficient. Traffickers understand that while they can make profit only once on drugs, the same person can be sold overt and over again earning them infinite profit. Studies also show that the primary victims of human trafficking are women and children (Adepoju et al. , 2008). According to Hagen (2004), these victims are primarily sold into forced marriage, sexual slavery or various forms of debt bondage and forced labour. Adepoju (2005) explains that poverty is the key driving force for the supply of humans for trafficking. Other forces include poor education standards as well as lack of employment that make people vulnerable to traffickers (Adepoju 2005). The human trafficking industry which is responding to the escalating demands for cheap and malleable labour as well as an increasingly expanding sex industry that has been globalised assures a ready supply to meet that demand (Altman 2003). According to statistics, developing and third world countries such as those in Asia and Africa are more prone to human trafficking and in fact report highest incidences of this vice (Coday 2003). The rate of human trafficking is said to be escalating in Africa as years pass by. South, west and Central Africa report the highest incidences of human trafficking. War torn areas in other regions such as eastern Africa are also reported to experience higher rates of child trafficking (Sita 2003). Factors that Contribute to Human Trafficking in Africa Poverty has been cited as the primary cause of human trafficking in the world. In Africa, it is worse as most people live in poverty. Poverty as a result of unemployment, poor education and war increases the vulnerability of population to the deceptions of human traffickers. According to (Fitzgibbon (2003), human traffickers target poor people with promises of better job opportunities and employment in the places they bare going to. Destitute families who are not able to provide support to their children are in fact most vulnerable to traffickers’ persuasion to sell them or hire them out (Mooney, Knox & Schacht 2008). Girls, who are perceived to be the weaker gender in Africa are the most susceptible to commercial exploitation. Because of the desperation and desire to end their situations, poor people are easily convinced by traffickers either through deception of better jobs or convincing of families to sell out their children for a certain amount of money (Fitzgibbon 2003). Poverty contributes largest to multinational trafficking as vulnerable persons are promised of greater things in European and Asian (particularly the Middle East) countries. Gender discrimination is also widespread in Africa and is one of the factors contributing to the high rates of human trafficking in the region. It denies women of their rights making them defenceless against such vices (Truong 2006). Gender discrimination is also characterised by attitudes that perceive women and girls to be inferior and weak encouraging their objectification (Masika 2002). This objectification and tolerance of violence against women as a result of gender discrimination support the existence and continued trafficking practices that deliver women and girls into in atrocious working conditions (Truong 2006) Africa also happens to be one of the most affected regions by the effects of HIV AIDS and in particular orphanage. AIDS has been identified as one of the factors that contribute to the escalating human trafficking in Africa mainly because of family disintegration it causes through death (Kristof 2000). Millions of African children have been orphaned by AIDS and left to live in poverty, fending for themselves with no one to look after them. Such children are very vulnerable to traffickers who deceive them with promises of better lives. In their innocence and desperation, orphaned children end up being victims of human trafficking trade (Beeks & Amir 2006). Child prostitution and normal prostitution as a result of poverty and orphanage is also prevalent in Africa (O’Connell & Sanchez 1996) Such women are more prone to emotional intimidation which makes them vulnerable and easily moved into the hands of traffickers (Kristof 2000). Such individuals are often trafficked for sexual exploitation abroad. Armed conflicts are also very common in most African countries. In addition to destroying livelihoods, armed conflicts destroy national economies and bring about mass population movements. The heightened insecurity during wars makes women and children more vulnerable and promotes dramatic survival tactics including prostitution (Martens et al. , 2003). During these tomes, women and children are often abducted into armed factions where children are used as armed soldiers and the women are sexually exploited (usually raped) (DeStefano 2007). These conflicts increase the number of orphans and widows. One of the endemic characteristics of armed conflicts is intensified poverty for survivors, particularly orphans, widows and those families that are headed by females. This increases the vulnerability of these groups to traffickers. Migration of people as a response to insecurity and armed conflict results creation of large refugee populations which expose the most vulnerable groups (Hollenbach 2008). African countries have also remained indifferent and lack domestic commitment to protection of those vulnerable to trafficking through awareness, legislation, information and training of the responsible authorities to provide the protection (Sita 2003). Most laws on human trafficking are lenient. Penalties for those found guilty of trafficking humans are not severe. In some countries such as Kenya, the maximum sentence one gets if found guilty of child trafficking is 15 years and sometimes these offenders are set free because of corruption that manifests itself in the region. It should be noted that human trafficking is a very lucrative business with estimated annual profits of up to $ 10 billion (Adepoju 2005). Such individuals get away freely in countries with corrupt systems which most in Africa unfortunately are. Most African countries have weak state structures which are as a result of the turmoil of transitional economies (Hart, 2009). Such structures encourage an environment that favours predatory criminal groups/organisations. Such economies are usually dominated by parallel structures that thrive through intimidation and fear which replace state security (Ciment & Shanty 2008). The fact that these networks are widespread and the perception that they have the ability to get even with victims and their families strengthens their underground nature making investigation difficult because of lack of evidence. Purpose of Human Trafficking People are trafficking for various purposes. Sexual exploitation is one of the main reasons as to why women and female children are trafficked. Other purposes include underpaid and exploitative forced labour in the manufacturing, agricultural, construction and mining industries (Adepoju 2005). Exploitative domestic labour is another reason. It has also been established that children and particularly infants are trafficked for organ harvesting. Strategies used Though the profiles of victims and traffickers vary, the tactics used to deceive, recruit, transport and later exploit the trafficked persons are similar. Victims are more often than not tempted (promised) plausible promises of income, employment and educational opportunities, and sometimes shelter or care within adoptive families in the countries they are being transported to (Marta 2008). Traffickers exploit income and opportunity disparities, poverty and effects of armed conflicts within the region. Case Studies South Africa has been identified as one of the African countries where human trafficking particularly of women and children is most common (Sita 2003). The country is argued to have a large market for the services of trafficked people both from regional as well as extra-regional locations (Cross & Gelderblom 2006). Armed conflict and related dislocation, food insecurity, political and economic turmoil, poor education and lack of employment opportunities, as well as the plight of affliction of the AIDS pestilence make the country a magnet that attracts human migration from all over the continent. Organised crime groups, refugee populations and local traffickers exploit this vulnerable population for agricultural and industrial labour, organ harvesting and sex industry (UNEP 2007). South Africa acts as a transit as well as source country for international market in human trafficking. As a transit hub, South Africa happens to offer direct flights to Asia and Europe. The escalating growth of human trafficking from Africa to the Middle East and Europe implies that South Africa along with other several African countries are already feeding multinational business. It has also been established that internal trafficking also does exist within the continent and the country (Pommerin 2009). According to a study conducted by IOM report (2003), nine distinct patterns of human trafficking have been identified in South Africa. They include trafficking of; women from countries that produce refugees to South Africa (SA), children from Lesotho to Eastern Free State of SA, women and girls from Mozambique to brothels in Kwa Zulu Natal and Gauteng, women from Malawi to SA itself overland and through it to Northern Europe, children (both girls and boys) from Malawi through SA to Northern Europe, women from China, Thailand and Eastern Europe to SA. There are certain factors that contribute to human trafficking in South Africa. According to reports, about 245, 000 children are being exploited for labour including commercial sex (prostitution) making them exposed and vulnerable to exploitation and deception of human traffickers. It is approximated that South Africa has at least 30, 000 children working as prostitutes. Once involved in such an environment, children are easily emotionally intimidated and physically pushed and trapped into trafficking. South Africa also happens to be the regional powerhouse, with a GDP that is almost four times greater than most its neighbours and representing approximately 25% of the entire continent’s GDP. The country is aenjoying a relatively constant economic growth making it an attractive destination for those seeking greener pastures in the region. Traditional migration patterns of labour from the neighbouring countries, the habit of children being sent to their relatives who are better situated in the country by their relatives to be raised and unregulated cross border regulations due to casual border procedures enhance human trafficking (Richards 2004). The capacity of South Africa’s security forces is also challenged by the expensive sea state borders (Pommerin 2009). Unemployment has also increased in the country as a result of retrenchment of migrant labourers from South Africa’s farms and mines in the recent past. This has increased poverty and desperation making the populations vulnerable to traffickers’ deception. Despite the country’s overall economic growth, poverty still is high in both rural and urban areas particularly amongst women and children and is the primary cause of trafficking of these groups. Influx of refugees is one of the practical effects of armed conflict in South Africa’s neighbouring states and extra-regional states. According to studies, refugees are another group that is vulnerable to trafficking because of their desperate situations. In spite of South Africa having a progressive constitution assures gender equality and protection of human rights, gender discrimination has not stopped making women susceptible to traffickers. For South Africa, the apartheid regime legacy is playing a great part in encouraging human trafficking and has to be deconstructed for this trade to stop. Just like most countries, South Africa is yet put in place legislation and policy that will ensure a continued established of a system that will comply with international norms and standards and reinforce responses that are locally and culturally appropriate. The country is however making efforts to curb this internationally prohibited trade. South Africa continues to participate in congresses and campaigns against human and child trafficking such as the First World Congress against Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in Stockholm in 1996. The country has also participated in the Terres des Hommes International Campaign against Child Trafficking which was launched in the year 2001 under Graca Machel and Desmond Tutu’s patronage. Subsequent to these events, several programmes such as social reintegration, protection, rehabilitation and awareness-building have been established. In spite of the government’s participation and efforts, human trafficking still remains a crucial problem in the country. According to Skinner (2010), prevention of this vice requires an integrated and multi-sectoral strategy that deals with migration and trafficking from an overall national as well as development policy perspective (Morehouse 2009). This author suggests exploration of an integrated approach to fighting trafficking through rights-based and gender-sensitive approaches to give livelihoods for women needs. According to him, it is poverty that drives the manifestation of human trafficking and elimination of poverty will help combat the vice. Other countries also report their share of human trafficking. In Eastern Africa, armed conflict between the government and the rebels of the LRA (Lord’s Resistance Army) has resulted to abduction of thousands of women and children by the rebels. Uganda is argued to be the supplier of trafficked children in the children. These children end up being recruited into rebel ranks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan (other areas experiencing armed conflicts). In West and Central Africa, six forms of child trafficking have been identified. They include abduction, giving poor parents money with the promise that their children will be well taken care of, bonded placement of children as repayment for debt, payment for a token sum for a certain duration, or as gift items, enrolment of the child by the parents for a fee by an agent for some work, usually domestic and deception of parents that they are enrolling their children for school, training or trade (Coluccello & Massey 2007).. Ghana, Burkinafaso, Benin, Togo and Mauritania are the main sources of child labour in the region. These are taken to Gabon, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Congo and Equatorial Guinea as domestic workers. Togolese girls are often trafficked into domestic markets while the boys are trafficked into agricultural work. In this region, poverty and ignorance played the greatest role as parents are either deceived that they are enrolling their children to school or paid some amount to hire their children out (. A considerable amount of Ghanaian women and children are often trafficked in the neighbouring countries for prostitution (Anarfi 1998). Most women in this region are trafficked to Europe where they are forced into prostitution. Italy, Spain, France, Germany, The UK, Sweden, UAE and Saudi Arabia are particularly known as destinations for trafficking women for prostitution and pornography (Anarfi 1998). Senegal is reported to be both a source as well as transit country for trafficking of women to South Africa, the Gulf States and Europe for prostitution. It is also a reported to be a destination country for children trafficked from Guinea Conakry and Mali. Women from Liberia, a war-torn country are forced to work as prostitutes in Mali while others are trafficked to Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and France. Mali is also reported to be a transit country for trafficking women from African Anglophone countries to Europe. Most of these women end up working in brothels abroad.

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Nano Robots Essay

ABSTRACT: Nanorobotics is the technology of creating machines or robots at or close to the microscopic scale of a nanometer (10−9 meters). More specifically, nanorobotics refers to the still largely hypothetical nanotechnology engineering discipline of designing and building nanorobots, devices ranging in size from 0.1-10 micrometers and constructed of nanoscale or molecular components. As no artificial non-biological Nanorobots have yet been created, they remain a hypothetical concept. The names nanobots, nanoids, nanites or nanomites have also been used to describe these hypothetical devices. INTRODUCTION: There are pressing needs in biological research today: the cost of getting new drugs to market is estimated to be 1$ billion by 2015, time to market has increased and failure rates remain shockingly high. Illnesses such as cancer,neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular diseases continue to ravage people around the world. The broad field of nanomedicine seeks to address many of these needs in biology, creating the not so quite as broad discipline of nanobiotechnology. In the last decade, progress in developing nano sized hybrid therapeutics and drug delivery systems has been remarkable. These nanoscale and often multicomponent constructs can be seen as the first nanomedicines, already bringing clinical benefits. A good flow of related technologies is also in development. But are these ‘Nanomedicines’ really new? The educated answer is ‘not really’. The concepts of antibody-conjugates, liposomes and polymer-conjugates stem from the 1970s. At first, they were seen as competing technologies; only one would emerge as a ‘magic bullet’ for all drugtargeting applications. But each has advantages and disadvantages. Antibodies have exquisite potential for selective targeting but, even as humanized proteins, can be immunogenic. Liposomes have high drug-carrying capacity, but can either release drug too quickly or entrap it too strongly and are prone to capture by the reticuloendothelial system (RES), even when polymer coated. Similarly, it is  hard to steer nanoparticles away from the RES after intravenous injection. The ideal delivery system often merges benefits of two or more technologies. As we mark the birth of nanomedicine, it is worth reflecting on the revolution it could bring to healthcare. It is essential that benefits of genomics and proteomics research and advances in drug delivery, are quickly harnessed to realize improvements in diagnosis and therapy. Nanotechnology is already making a key contribution, but this is just the start. There are opportunities to design nanosized, bioresponsive systems able to diagnose and then deliver drugs (theranostics), and systems able to promote tissue regeneration and repair (in disease, trauma and ageing), circumventing chemotherapy. These ideas may seem like science fiction, but to dismiss them would be foolish. Risks and benefits must be addressed carefully to yield useful and safe technologies. An interdisciplinary approach will ensure that the exciting potential of nano medicine’s many facets will be a practical reality in the foreseeable future. The tightly-integrated interdisciplinary team of medical researchers, pharmaceutical scientists, physicists, chemists, and chemical engineers, has an extensive range of expertise to facilitate research on nanomedicine.The long term goal is the development of novel and revolutionary bio molecular machine components that can be assembled and form multi-degree-offreedom nanodevices that will apply forces and manipulate objects in the nanoworld, transfer information from the nano to the macro world, and travel in the nanoenvironment. These machines are expected to be highly efficient, controllable, economical in mass production, and fully operational with minimal supervision. These ultraminiature robotic systems and nano-mechanical devices will be the biomolecular electro-mechanical hardware of future biomedical applications(IGERT). NANOROBOTS: WHAT ARE THEY? Nanorobots are theoretical microscopic devices measured on the scale of nanometers (1nm equals one millionth of 1 millimeter). When fully realized from the hypothetical stage, they would work at the atomic, molecular and cellular level to perform tasks in both the medical and industrial fields that have heretofore been the stuff of science fiction. Nanomedicine’s nanorobots are so tiny that they can easily traverse the human body.  Scientists report the exterior of a nanorobot will likely be constructed of carbon atoms in a diamondoid structure because of its inert properties and strength. Super-smooth surfaces will lessen the likelihood of triggering the body’s immune system, allowing the nanorobots to go about their business unimpeded. Glucose or natural body sugars and oxygen might be a source for propulsion and the nanorobot will have other biochemical or molecular parts depending on its task. Nanomachines are largely in the researchand-development phase [1], but some primitive molecular machines have been tested. An example is a sensor having a switch approximately . DISADVANTAGES †¢ The initial design cost is very high. †¢ The design of the nanorobot is a very complicated one. †¢ Electrical systems can create stray fields which may activate bioelectric-based molecular recognition systems in biology. †¢ Electrical nanorobots are susceptible to electrical interference from external sources such as rf or electric fields, EMP pulses, and stray fields from other in vivo electrical devices. †¢ Hard to Interface, Customize and Design, Complex †¢ Nanorobots can cause a brutal risk in the field of terrorism. The terrorism and anti groups can make use of nanorobots as a new form of torturing the communities as nanotechnology also has the capability of destructing the human body at the molecular level. †¢ Privacy is the other potential risk involved with Nanorobots. As Nanorobots deals with the designing of compact and minute devices, there are chances for more eavesdropping than that already exists. Nanotechnology as a diagnostic and treatment tool for patients with cancer and diabetes showed how actual developments in new manufacturing technologies are enabling innovative works which may help in constructing and employing nanorobots most effectively for biomedical problems. Nanorobots applied to medicine hold a wealth of promise from eradicating disease to reversing the aging process (wrinkles, loss of bone mass and age-related conditions are all treatable at the cellular level); nanorobots are also candidates for industrial applications. They will provide personalised treatments with improved efficacy and reduced side  effects that are not available today. They will provide combined action– drugs marketed with diagnostics, imaging agents acting as drugs, surgery with instant diagnostic feedback. The advent of molecular nanotechnology will again expand enormously the effectiveness, comfort and speed of future medical treatments while at the same time significantly reducing their risk, cost, and invasiveness. This science might sound like a fiction now, but Nanorobotics has strong potential to revolutionize healthcare, to treat disease in future. It opens up new ways for vast, abundant research work. Nanotechnology will change health care and human life more profoundly than other developments.Consequently they will change the shape of the industry, broadening the product development and marketing interactions between Pharma, Biotech, Diagnostic and Healthcare industries. Future healthcare will make use of sensitive new diagnostics for an improved personal risk assessment. Highest impact can be expected if those major diseases are addressed first, which impose the highest burden on the aging population: cardiovascular diseases, cancer, musculoskeletal conditions, neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases, diabetes, and viral infections. International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences Nanomedicine holds the promise to lead to an earlier diagnosis, better therapy and improved follow up care, making the health care more effective and affordable. Nanomedicine will also allow a more personalised treatment for many diseases, exploiting the in-depth understanding of diseases on a molecular level. CONCLUSION: Nanotechnology as a diagnostic and treatment tool for patients with cancer and diabetes showed how actual developments in new manufacturing technologies are enabling innovative works which may help in constructing and employing nanorobots most effectively for biomedical problems. Nanorobots applied to medicine hold a wealth of promise from eradicating disease to reversing the aging process (wrinkles, loss of bone mass and age-related conditions are all treatable at the cellular level); nanorobots are also candidates for industrial applications. They will provide personalised treatments with improved efficacy and reduced side effects that  are not available today. They will provide combined action – drugs marketed with diagnostics, imaging agents acting as drugs, surgery with instant diagnostic feedback. The advent of molecular nanotechnology will again expand enormously the effectiveness, comfort and speed of future medical treatments while at the same time significantly reducing theirrisk, cost, and invasiveness. This science might sound like a fiction now, but Nanorobotics has strong potential to revolutionize healthcare, to treat disease in future. It opens up new ways for vast, abundant research work. Nanotechnology will change health care and human life more profoundly han other developments. Consequently they will change the shape of the industry, broadening the product development and marketing interactions between Pharma, Biotech, Diagnostic and Healthcare industries. Future healthcare will make use of sensitive new diagnostics for an improved personal risk assessment.

Saturday, September 14, 2019

“Inevitable vs. Amendable” Essay

The film â€Å"Inequality for All† tries to explain; what is the current status of the distribution of wealth and that of income equality? Why this is happening and if this is a problem. Yes, as stated in the film, social inequality is inevitable. But, there is without a doubt a problem with United States distribution of wealth. One of the facts that really opened my eyes was the fact that the 400 richest Americans, together hold more wealth than the poorest 150 million Americans have together. This said, it is scary to think about how obscure was the knowledge we had on the one percent with given how much economic influence they have. The minimum wages vs. growth of productivity graph is one that I found very interesting. Why is â€Å"just† in today’s society to be part a more productive workforce that gets paid less than the workforce we had a few decades ago? The line graph for productivity growth is rising every year, meaning that more work is being done. On the other hand, the minimum wages growth rates were rising but after a while they seem to have plateau and they have been like this for about 30 years. Advances in globalization and technology are also inevitable because it is simple economics that a product shall be produced in the cheapest way possible. Yes, technology does create jobs but as we see in the film companies like Amazon are also opting to operate with high tech machinery instead of the traditional assembly line. Women going to work, general workforce working for longer hours and borrowing money from the financial sectors are coping mechanisms that the middle class used to keep up with their good lifestyles, but in my opinion these are more like defense mechanisms in order to survive in the concrete jungle with the same wages they had 30 years ago. One other comparison that I liked was how the widening inequality leads to a deficiency cycle and when the wealth is equally distributed economic stability is transfused from sector to sector creating a domino effect leading to a virtuous cycle.