Business-Virgin Atlantic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business-Virgin Atlantic - Essay Example Virgin Atlantic customers mainly vary dependent on the operational routes. However, statistics have showed that the bulk of their customers come from the UK. The distribution of the UK customers is approximated to be 60% and the rest is constituted by worldwide customers. The business has categorized its customers dependent on the class they fly. It has the smallest group of customers under Upper Class passengers who are mainly business persons aged 35-45. The second group of customers flies under Premium Economy; customers flying here are fairly split between business and leisure flyers. The last grouping is the Economy passengers who constitutes the largest grouping of the Virgin customers and encompasses flyers from most socio economic groups (Tillmann 235). The leisure and business travelers remain the target customers for the airline business. Virgin Atlantic has, since inception, aimed to run a profitable airline that people love to fly as well as being a competitive employer. It has cultured its objective to include the three main stakeholders who are the business shareholders/owners, its customers and its employees. Therefore, given this primary objective, it is safe to argue that the company’s desired position is ensuring profitability, creating the right environment and impression so that customers look at it as an airline of choice in providing the right employment environment. Business Audit-Value Chain Value chain was first utilized and detailed by Michael Porter in his book Competitive Advantage. It is a summary of a business activities and their link to the competitiveness of the business. In brief, value chain looks at every single of the major activities a business undertakes. It then looks at the value each of these activities adds to the competiveness of the business/organization. In using value chain to audit a business, it is vital that one distinguishes between primary activities and support activities. Porter termed primary activit ies as those which are directly linked to the creation or delivery of a service. These are categorized as inbound logistics, operations, outbound logistics, marketing and sales, and service. Support activities are those that provide the drive to ensure effectiveness of the primary activities which include human resource management, procurement, technology development, and infrastructure. In auditing Virgin Atlantic, it is vital that one first identifies the particular activities falling under each of the five primary activities. These are identified as inbound logistics which are data on customers, trend analysis, and supplier relations. Virgin Atlantic has since inception maintained clear records on their customers and their schedules. This has ensured that the airline understands fully the customer cycles as well as their preferences a factor which helps in meeting their expectations. The airline has also streamlined relations with its suppliers, mainly, Airbus and Boeing who prov ide the aircrafts. This has ensured that their aircraft demand is met either through direct purchase or lease. This is a factor which boosts its service delivery. Operations include all the ensuing activities in enabling services. These services include proper reception in airports, proper service

To what extent might the gender, disability, sexual orientation, Essay

To what extent might the gender, disability, sexual orientation, ethnic identity, class, age or politics of a critic determine o - Essay Example These are modern system of art forms that began emerging in the eighteenth century, also called the fine arts. Back in the middle ages, art was merely the correct way of making or doing whatever one happened to be making or doing. Then, art was much more concentrated on cobbling, navigation, medicine as well as the martial arts as these were simply skills or knowledge based crafts or practises whose participants were those who had mastered the techniques of achieving the point of the practice at hand. Criticism is associated with something negative in the ordinary language, nevertheless it should be recognised that criticism is more than fault finding as it may also commend and even recommend. However, one of the primary functions of criticism is not to eviscerate artwork but to rather look into assisting in discovering to be heard from the works under review as well as offer guidance concerning what is worthy in art work while at the same time playing an important role in contempora ry culture. Literateconsumers of the art depend upon criticism to help them negotiate the avalanche of artworks on offer across an array of different media as more art is already available now than in any time of history. Critics are looked at to recommend and guide the selection of what needs to be attended to and assist in comprehending and appreciating the vast amount of work that had been put into art as well as play an important role in introducing new ideas and presumably a debate with critical pronouncements. Consumers of the work of art need a philosophy of criticism, a sense of what it is and a conception of its nature and function as well as test the hypothesis on the work of art but on the other hand the same criticisms need to meet a certain criteria for it to be effective in its role. Criticism assists readers in discovering what is of value in the art work under examination in connection with what the artist has achieved in the work. One of the leading components of cr iticisms is the operation of evaluation in terms of description, contextualisation, classification, elucidation, interpretation and analysis. Although appraisal of artwork in virtue of its membership in a kind of class may not be the most common form of appraisal, sometimes the consumers of art work do issue cross categorical evaluation of art works. This evaluation should be grounded in reason and evidence otherwise art criticism is not rally distinguishable from comparable forms of discourse about art. According to (Eagleton, 1984, p. 9) modern European criticism was born of a struggle against the absolutist state, within a repressive regime in the seventeenth and eighteen centuries and during this time, criticism opens itself to debate as it attempts to convince as well as invite contradiction. Adrian Searle being a trained painter as well as a teacher of art plays a critical role in being a critic of the Guardian as elsewhere in the west; people have been saying extravagant thin gs about the arts for two and a half centuries. Some claimed art is sacred in that they unite us with the supreme being and they are the visible appearance of God’s kingdom on earth, they breath spiritual dispositions into us, they inspire love in the highest part of thesoul, they have a higher reality and more veritable existence thanordinary life, they express

Warrington Environmental Pollution and Soil Health Risks

Warrington Environmental Pollution and Soil Health Risks Report on the environmental pollution and human health risks of soils in the former industrial area of Woolston, Warrington. 2.Introduction: As a result of rapid population growth followed by intense industrial activity and petrochemical development soils have suffered from contamination with substances of various origins (E.M.Garcia et al,2015).As a result of rapid industrialisation of cities such as Manchester, newly constructed canals were built all over the UK in order to increase trade as well as the exportation of goods. In the 1820s, a new canal was established along the river Mersey with the purpose of shortening the route of navigation through the meandering Mersey. 3.Study site. According to Warrington borough council, the New Cut Canal was opened in 1821. This 2km long canal was built in order to improve the Mersey and Irwell navigation by creating a shortcut for barges carrying goods between Liverpool and Manchester. Historical ordnance survey maps from 1907 show an adjacent chemical works, a large tannery, a slaughter house, a metal works and a gunpowder mill. Sustained industrial activity meant that the canal sediment was undoubtedly polluted by spillages from ships and industrial effluents (Hartley and Dickinson,2010). Following the establishment of the Manchester shipping canal the New Cut Canal began to decline until it was left derelict (Warrington borough council) and eventually the Canal was disconnected from the river and abandoned in 1978 (Hartley and Dickinson,2010). In that year, it was decided that the site was to be used for tipping under emergency procedures to deposit road construction rubble (Hartley and Dickinson ,2010). Following this history, it has been estimated that the site contains 9800 tonnes of polluted anoxic sediment. It is known that this polluted sediment contains elevated levels of TPHs (Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons), PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) followed by highly elevated concentrations of metals (Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr and Ni) and Arsenic (As) (Hartley and Dickinson,2010). 4.Methods: 4.1. Methods out in the field. 4.1.1 Soil samples To determine the degree of soil contamination at the site, soil samples were taken at various points along the New Cut Canal site. It was decided that a systematic sampling method would be used in order to record an adequate amount of data for the investigation. This sampling method had been chosen as it allowed one to determine the spatial pattern of contamination whilst limiting human errors (O1). Whilst at the site, transects had been established along the New Cut Canal site. Transects were established along a 700-metre stretch of the canal and each transect had been separated by 70 meters. In total there was 10 transects and along each transect,6 soil samples were taken approximately every 10 meters from the Northernmost point of the canal to the southernmost point closest to the river Mersey. Soil samples from each sampling point were taken just below the surface but in order to prevent large organic materials from interfering with the soil investigations later it was decided that each sample should be taken and the large organic matter (Roots etc.) should be removed. This was done using a measuring tape and a spade. The soil samples had been gathered in plastic bags. 4.2. Conductivity and resistivity values within the soil surrounding New Cut Canal. 4.2.1. Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI) using ERT (Electrical Resistivity Tomography) The ERI was used to show the potential mobility of trace and toxic metals within the soil by analysing conductivity data from the ERT and the EM-31. Conductivity measurements were taken using an ERT along a single transect measuring 35 metres between the New Cut Canal site and the river Mersey. The ERT takes conductivity measurements through a series of electrodes which are placed into the ground. Once these electrodes had been implanted and connected to each other via multi core cables a current was then injected into the ground through these electrodes and as the current passed through the soil resistivity measurements were taken. Changes in conductivity reflect variations in subsurface materials and higher conductivity readings are associated with higher metal concentrations in soil pore waters. Figure 1: Below is an image that shows the standard setup of ERT. In this investigation the electrodes were inserted into the ground at distances of 2 meters apart. The transect of electrodes covered an area between the New Cut Canal and the river Mersey and was carried out at an angle of 0 ° (North to South). Image from Terra Dat:   http://terradat.co.uk/survey-methods/resistivity-tomography/ 4.2.2. Geonics EM-31 Ground Conductivity meter ERT maps out the geological variations associated with changes in conductivity (Exploration instruments) as well as the EM-31. Unlike the ERT, the EM-31 gathers its readings by creating an electromagnetic field in the air using a coil wire which is separated from a receiver coil by 3.66 meters. The transmitted energy propagates into the subsurface where a second electromagnetic field is created due to the effect of soil moisture, conductive earth materials and other buried objects (Reynolds international,2011). The EM-31 is useful to this investigation as it can take conductivity measurements below 2 meters of the Earths surface. The data collected by both the EM-31 and the ERT could then be combined to determine changes in conductivity up to a depth of 3-4 meters. 4.3. Soil sample experiments in the lab 4.3.1. Determining total metal concentrations Following the onsite extraction of soils samples, they were then taken to the lab for further processing. Before any more investigations were conducted the soil samples were dried in an oven at 40 °C for 48 hours in order to remove all of the moisture.   Oven drying the sediment is crucial in this type of investigation as one can only compare the dry weight to the Soil Guideline Values (SGVs) (DEFRA, 2002). Once they had been dried, the soil samples were then processed further in order to analyse the total metal concentrations (Pb,Zn,Cr and As), bioavailability of those metals, organic matter content and soil pH. Soil samples were then sieved so that larger particles greater than 2mm in diameter were removed.   After the samples had been sieved, analysis of the bioavailability of metals was conducted. 10g of sieved sediment was then added to a conical where 50mL of 0.5mol acetic acid was added using a measuring cylinder. Once the acid was added the flask was sealed with Parafil m and placed onto an orbital shaker for 30 minutes. Whilst the samples were shaken, 2 30mL universal sample tubes were prepped (2 for every sample) and a Whatman no 1 filter paper was added to each of the tubes. After the cylinder samples had been shaken, they were left to stand for 10 minutes in order for the contents to settle (Beneficial to the investigation as it sped up the filtering process). Following 10 minutes, the supernatant liquid in the cylinder was then added into the universal sample tubes through the filter paper. Once one of the tubes was full the second one was then introduced to the filtering process. Eventually both universal tubes were sealed and then analysis of the metal concentrations was conducted by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). 4.3.2. Determining organic matter (OM) content Secondly, organic matter content needed to be measured, this was done using the loss on ignition method. This process began with the weighing of an empty porcelain crucible (W1). Soil was then added until it filled the crucible and was then weighed (W2). The air-dry weight was then determined by using the following calculation W2-W1. The minute that this was done the crucibles for each of the samples was then oven-dried at a temperature of 105 °C overnight and then placed in a desiccator the following morning. Afterwards, the samples were then measured again (W3). The crucibles were then placed into a muffle furnace and ignited at 450 °C for 8 hours and left to cool on a sand tray. After this, the crucibles were weighed again (W4). This was done to burn off any of the Organic Matter (OM) content. Muffled weight was then determined by using this calculation, W4-W1. The final method involved a simple calculation, shown below: OM content (% of dry sediment) = [oven dry weight (g) muffled weight (g) / oven dry weight (g)] x 100 4.3.3. Determining soil pH To begin with 10g of soil was added to a beaker using a spatula where it would then be mixed with 25mL of deionised water using a measuring cylinder. The beaker was then stirred well until all of the material had been suspended (To allow the contents to mix) shortly followed by a 15-minute period whereby the beaker was left to stand. Following the 15-minute period a pH strip was dipped into each of the samples. Using a pH reference card, the colours recorded on each of the pH papers was noted. 4.3.4. Determining Total (T) metal concentrations using XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy) Finally, 10g of each sample was added into a small plastic bag and then shaken until all of the soil reached the bottom. The bag was then placed onto the test bed and then the XRF machine determined the % values of Pb, Zn, Cr and As. 5. Results 5.1. Figure 2: The table below shows all of the data collected from the field as well as metal concentrations in mg/kg-1 for each of the soils samples. OM or organic matter was measured in grams. Total Chromium concentrations when analysed however the concentrations were too low when measured using X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF). SiteID x y OM pH PbT ZnT CrT PbB ZnB CrB A1 363081 389035 4.66 5.50 29.00 199.00 nd 0.01 12.71 0.21 A2 363081 388969 14.81 5.80 15.00 80.00 nd 0.09 1.90 0.20 A3 363087 388919 15.28 6.00 20.00 130.00 nd 0.01 11.95 0.26 A4 363064 388867 6.26 4.70 645.00 417.00 nd 2.44 35.99 0.45 A5 363070 388823 10.67 4.50 40.00 205.00 nd 0.18 5.87 0.17 A6 363079 388737 8.76 4.50 58.00 299.00 nd 1.05 19.16 0.04 B1 363137 389021 23.24 5.00 178.00 32.00 nd 0.41 26.42 0.18 B2 363139 388973 6.83 5.00 79.00 16.00 nd 0.01 0.01 0.18 B3 363140 388941 7.02 5.00 126.00 24.00 nd 0.01 5.37 0.16 B4 363145 388882 13.11 4.70 128.00 27.00 nd 0.01 9.92 0.11 B5 363160 388808 10.16 4.70 96.00 26.00 nd 0.30 10.23 0.15 B6 363186 388731 13.57 4.70 184.00 32.00 nd 0.00 9.57 0.18 C1 363196 388941 9.10 4.70 73.00 21.00 nd 1.55 8.20 0.22 C2 363194 388975 10.60 5.00 107.00 19.00 nd 0.01 11.02 0.31 C3 363185 389022 11.20 5.00 79.00 24.00 nd 0.15 10.72 0.24 C4 363205 388828 13.10 4.70 75.00 20.00 nd 0.01 9.09 0.12 C5 363201 388854 8.90 4.70 93.00 20.00 nd 0.26 11.13 0.12 C6 363187 388888 9.60 4.40 95.00 24.00 nd 0.01 8.71 0.16 D1 363251 388969 7.51 6.10 126.00 298.00 nd 0.69 61.88 0.41 D2 363250 388965 10.55 5.80 111.00 278.00 nd 0.01 17.75 0.20 D3 363256 388999 11.45 5.50 109.00 312.00 nd 0.16 18.38 0.16 D4 363247 388907 12.92 6.10 32.00 45.00 nd 4.75 36.60 0.37 D5 363250 388898 9.32 5.00 34.00 56.00 nd 4.50 25.35 0.30 D6 363252 388887 3.86 4.40 23.00 32.00 nd 4.59 27.91 0.34 E1 363398 388984 7.70 5.50 38.00 298.00 nd 0.52 21.28 0.17 E2 363389 388997 8.90 5.90 55.00 433.00 nd 0.21 25.96 0.22 E3 363380 389003 5.60 5.10 38.00 532.00 nd 0.01 3.60 0.15 E4 363445 388929 11.20 4.50 21.00 56.00 nd 0.11 0.01 0.09 E5 363444 388919 11.90 5.10 19.00 48.00 nd 0.58 0.42 0.09 E6 363447 388907 12.10 5.20 33.00 63.00 nd 1.22 5.42 0.14 F1 363519 388982 9.77 5.80 33.00 225.00 nd 2.01 11.29 0.63 F2 363510 389010 11.16 5.50 22.00 134.00 nd 0.37 16.08 0.35 F3 363512 389029 5.70 6.50 55.00 489.00 nd 0.07 23.22 0.17 F4 363519 388973 6.89 5.00 37.00 220.00 nd 1.75 16.22 0.58 F5 363525 388946 6.18 4.70 21.00 80.00 nd 0.01 0.01 0.14 F6 363533 388923 6.75 4.40 20.00 52.00 nd 0.01 2.59 0.12 G1 363573 389056 21.17 5.80 43.00 287.00 nd 0.00 13.66 0.41 G2 363564 389032 12.76 5.50 45.00 289.00 nd 0.01 10.49 0.44 G3 363561 389022 8.53 7.00 32.00 212.00 nd 0.09 9.90 0.34 G4 363564 389001 8.32 5.00 23.00 176.00 nd 0.07 2.10 0.15 G5 363559 389022 6.67 4.70 21.00 76.00 nd 0.05 2.30 0.17 G6 363569 388965 8.35 4.70 19.00 34.00 nd 0.03 2.10 0.18 H1 363685 389056 6.26 6.50 1047.00 1639.00 nd 16.57 49.79 0.67 H2 363674 389036 2.22 5.50 49.00 1156.00 nd 0.17 38.15 0.22 H3 363669 389016 3.01 5.30 46.00 153.00 nd 8.73 23.47 0.44 H4 363632 388981 4.96 5.00 23.00 77.00 nd 0.24 2.97 0.06 H5 363631 388971 7.34 5.00 31.00 143.00 nd 0.46 6.01 0.11 H6 363632 388959 4.84 5.00 48.00 78.00 nd 2.44 0.64 0.13 I1 363697 389018 21.17 5.80 32.00 819.00 nd 0.74 40.06 0.39 I2 363703 389044 12.76 5.50 51.00 483.00 nd 1.65 32.53 0.60 I3 363694 389078 8.53 7.00 32.00 202.00 nd 2.10 25.27 0.81 I4 363718 388982 8.32 5.00 23.00 91.00 nd 0.48 9.23 0.12 I5 363720 388981 6.67 4.70 19.00 68.00 nd 0.01 0.01 0.05 I6 363723 388978 8.35 4.70 31.00 126.00 nd 0.01 7.46 0.09 J1 363775 389003 6.26 6.50 33.00 224.00 nd 2.22 26.49 0.80 J2 363770 389053 2.22 5.50 24.00 104.00 nd 0.01 0.37 0.13 J3 363767 389104 3.01 5.30 36.00 401.00 nd 0.40 25.69 0.33 J4 363771 388972 4.96 5.00 24.00 176.00 nd 0.01 10.96 0.18 J5 363771 388973 7.34 5.00 23.00 128.00 nd 0.01 11.93 0.19 J6 363772 388970 4.84 5.00 17.00 79.00 nd 0.01 4.30 0.09 Figure 3: The image below shows the spatial pattern of Lead (Pb) contamination across the New Cut Canal site. The image was created using Arc Map software. It is clear that the highest levels of Pb were found around sample site A3-5 and H1-2. Figure 4: The image below shows the spatial pattern of Zinc (Zn) contamination across the New Cut Canal site. The image was created using Arc Map software. Based on the spatial image, it is clear that the highest levels of Zn were found around sampling sites H1 and H2. Figure 5: The image below shows the spatial pattern of pH levels across the New Cut Canal site. The image was created using Arc Map. The most acidic pH readings were located towards the Southwest of the site whereas pH readings in the Eastern part of the sampling site increased to a pH of 5.3 and above. Figure 6: The graph below represents the changes in the Total (T) metal concentrations of various metals as well as indicating how bio available these metals are in the area. Figure 7: The stacked column below allows one to determine the bioavailability of Zinc as a percentage when compared to its total (T) metal concentrations for each of the sample sites. Upon observing the data, it is clear that (in terms of percentage) Zn bioav

My Watch :: Descriptive Watch Essays, Observation

My Watch My article of clothing is with me at all times. It consists of a 3cm circular base and two separate straps, each 6cm long connected by a metal clasp. These two straps and a clasp are then connected to the top and bottom of the base. The straps are outlined in hard rigid silver, looking as my uncle's smoothly brushed gray hair. Through the center of the 2cm wide straps is a 1cm in width gold strip. The gold looks as bright as a gold chalice from my local church. The clasp is a hard silvery gray such as that which borders the straps. The letters 'SEIKO' are clearly placed on the clasp in raised lettering. The clasp looks 3cm long when in the closed position, but when opened it extends to 11cm as two more 4cm metal pieces open outward. The face of the object is encircled with a gold color, gold as the trim on my father's Cadillac. Inside the gold trim, the background is a black color. The black is like the black rubber on my car's Cooper tires. Towards the top of this face, there is a number 12, the bottom has a number 6, and the leftmost number has a number 9. Each of these numbers are raised in lettering in a gold color. On the rightmost side, there is a 1/2cm x 1/5cm sized box. This box is then further separated in two parts. 2/3s of the box is devoted towards showing the current day's first 3 letters, now showing a THU for Thursday. The remaining space of the box is set aside for the date of the month. In this box the number 14 is shown. Both, the day and the date, are in white colors. This white is like a white hospital gown, starched and cleaned. The face of the object has 56 small lines all facing from the outside of the circle towards the middle. These gold lines are equally separated all aro the face of the object.

Psychology and Health Problems

Jennifer Graves The multifunctional model uses different factors from different types of influences, traits and behaviors to determine health conditions according to different influences, as well as susceptibility to illness. Each factor belongs to a group such as, biological and environmental factors, as well as personality, behavior, and stress. (Envied & Rather, 2010) Each group shows the factors and the behavior that can be harmful under that group. The multifunctional model shows the relation between psychology and medicine and how behavior and environment can influence health.The multifunctional model can be used in aiding diagnosis as the factors correlate to illness and health. The multifunctional model cannot diagnose illness or specify the diversity in people's overall health as it can only aid in helping diagnose illness. When a person contracts the cold or flu, which can be reflected in the model showing which influences were involved such as environment or biological. (E nvied ; Rather, 2010) Each factor plays an important role in relating to illness such as the biological group which consists of many different factors such as a family history of illness and individual medical history.Age and gender are important factors to consider when ruling out contracting illness biologically. Environmental factors include a wide range of factors from vehicular safety, to radiation exposure which can help to diagnose cancer and ailments from radiation poisoning. Coloratura factors are an important group of factors which include; socioeconomic status, family statistics as well as prejudice and discrimination. Socioeconomic statuses as well as family status are both psychological factors that can lead to illness.Under the personality group, there are several factors that can lead to stress. Anger, depression and anxiety are all behaviors that can lead to stress which are another group of factors entirely. Stress are daily hassles and life changes that although al one, may not lead directly to illness but when combined with other factors can help in diagnosing illnesses that are caused by multiple factors. The multifunctional model is used to analyze the correlation of the interaction of different factors to aid in diagnosis.In 2012, a study was done to test ethnic disparities in children's acute asthma through parental visits. (309 White, Puerco Rican, and African American families conducted) The test was to show the ethnic disparities in asthma cases through the parent's. (Isadora-Oracles, Fieldsman, Exercises , ; Spray, 2012)The methods of the study were a multi-factorial model which utilized structural equation modeling to investigate the association of children's acute asthma illness through parental representations, socioeconomic and demographic characteristics as well as health care providers.The results provided evidence of a 45 % variance in illness representations and 30 % of the illness representations was explained for whites, 23% for African Americans, and 26% for Puerco Ricans. The model accounted for % of the variances in acute visits for African Americans and Puerco Ricans but only 19 % for whites. In conclusion, the model provided support that ethnic heterogeneity in asthma illness representations affects the outcomes of children's health. Isadora-Oracles, Fieldsman, Exercises , ; Spray, 2012) The model helped prove the theory that many influences or factors including heredity and location, contributed in the outcomes of children's health. The combination and interaction of the factors in any model can be the contributing aspect of a diagnosis before any initial medical testing has been done. Psychology has played a large role in defining stress as a major factor in migraine headaches that affects 1 in 10 Americans. Migraines are intense headaches that usually occur on one side of the head that can last several days.Migraines are not well understood and it is believed that migraines are caused by a sero tonin imbalance which causes neurotransmitters to misfire. (Envied & Rather, 2010) Other studies have shown that migraines are also linked to brain lesions and incomplete artery structure. Researchers at the Gila institute in SAA Paolo, Brazil found that children with grains are much more likely to have behavior problems such as attention issues, anxiety, and depression. Other researchers, including Emily Bates, PhD have identified a gene mutation that also increases a person's susceptibility to migraines. What Causes Migraines? , 2013) Without understanding the psychological factors that cause migraines such as stress, and hereditary behavior, it would be much more difficult to diagnose the ailment as the psychological factors are Just as much of an influence, if not more. On of the main causes of migraines, which is also a warning sign is stress and anxiety. Psychology has also helped in the treatment of headaches as well. Recognizing that stress is one of the triggers of a migrai ne, behavioral methods such as relaxation training and biofeedback training are also helpful treatments. Envied ; Rather, 2010) Understanding the role psychological factors play in illness can help diagnose and treat the illness. Coronary heart disease is another illness mentioned in the text that can also be treated by understanding the underlying psychological factors that cause or trigger the illness. The list of factors for CHAD include, age and family, psychological conditions, lifestyle factors and type a behaviors as well as negative emotions. The majorities of the factors is psychological, or have psychological implications such as lifestyle factors.

Power in of Mice and Men Essay

The theme of power is prevalent throughout the novel Of Mice and Men. Steinbeck uses various methods and techniques to establish the dynamics of power on the ranch. In the first extract, George and Lennie are in the brush and we get a strong sense of George’s parental control over Lennie, but it also shows how Lennie’s physical stature gives him a degree of power over George. In extract two we meet Curley for the first time, and his authority over the ranch workers is clearly asserted through the various ways in which Steinbeck describes him. And finally, in extract three, we see the first fight of the novel. The fight is very diverse in how it portrays power. At different stages in the fight some people have more authority over others and we see how the workers feel more powerful together as opposed to individually. In this extract the ‘hierarchy’ of power on the ranch is very shaken up. Extract one focuses on George and Lennie’s relationship. Even from the onset words such as ‘’timidly’’, ‘’softly’’, and ‘’gently’’ help to establish the dynamics of their relationship. These words portray Lennie as a weak, almost fragile character in contrast to words such as ‘’jerked’’, ‘’scowled’’, and ‘’bastard’’ which portray George as impatient and annoyed, almost like an exasperated parent. Steinbeck uses a multitude of exclamation marks to emphasise George’s frustration. Ellipses are also used throughout the extract to show how Lennie hesitates and stutters though his sentences. This clearly shows that he is unable to recall information and is, at times, very nervous. This reiterates the fact that George holds the reins of power in the relationship. It is significant, maybe, that Steinbeck describes George as a ‘’little man’’. It points out that physical stature does not equate power in this relationship. If this was not true the tables would be turned as Lennie towers over George, which is why it is strange that he is so reliant on George. This really shows how Lennie is less powerful. Lennie’s metal disability makes him vulnerable because he is unable to retain information. This is shown through Lennie’s very simple language. â€Å"..But it didn’t do no good† Steinbeck also uses many question marks to show how Lennie is constantly asking questions and therefore constantly seeking guidance from George, and again, that’s what gives George the edge over Lennie. When discussion moves to the bus tickets and work cards Lennie realises that he doesn’t have his. â€Å"He looked down at the ground in despair† which shows that he is ashamed and perhaps a little frightened of George’s reaction, but Steinbeck then goes on to say that George took responsibility for both of the work cards, knowing that Lennie could not be trusted. This, again, demonstrates the balance of power and shows that both George and Lennie are aware of how much power the other possesses. After looking for his work card in his pocket, Lennie take out a mouse to which George replies sharply. â€Å"What’d you take outta that pocket?† George’s tone is accusatory which shows that he is astute. He then continues to bombard Lennie with questions, which gives Lennie the chance to demonstrate another type of power – his cunning. He attempts to deceive George. â€Å"Ain’t a thing in my pocket† Although childlike, this sentence shows that Lennie’s mind is able to think of plans. How would he keep the mouse? By attempting to deceive George. Eventually, George’s patience wears thin and he exclaims â€Å"Give it here!† shouting at Lennie like a parent. Throughout the extract George issues a multitude of orders to Lennie. â€Å"You ain’t gonna say a word†, â€Å"We’re gonna work†, â€Å"You jus’ stand there†. These commands show just how pliable Lennie is and how George uses his power to make Lennie comply. George also uses idle threats to manipulate Lennie. â€Å"†¦if I didn’t have you on my tail†. This, again, shows George’s parental control over Lennie and goes hand in hand with his use of the dream to make Lennie work. Just as a child would get no presents at Christmas, Lennie would not be allowed to tend the rabbits if he steps out of line. But, as much as George chastises Lennie, he does give him appropriate encouragement. â€Å"Good boy. That’s swell.† Extract two focuses on Curley. When he enters the bunkhouse his authority over the ranch workers becomes very apparent. Steinbeck says that â€Å"he wore a work glove† and â€Å"he wore high-heeled boots†. The simple fact that Curley has to wear certain items of clothing suggests that his authority is somewhat artificial as opposed to Slim, whose power comes naturally. It is important to note how Curley’s body language changes when he notices the new men. He â€Å"glanced coldly†, â€Å"his hands closed into fists† and â€Å"his glance was at once calculating and pugnacious†. This kind of body language is very aggressive and he uses it to dominate the men. â€Å"Lennie squirmed under the look and shifted nervously on his feet† which shows that Curley’s power is very obvious and he continues to assert his power by invading Lennie’s personal space and speaking to him with a very brusque tone. Curley is quick to confront Len nie, as he feels like Lennie will be a threat dure to his size. â€Å"Let the big guy talk.† Lennie is unsure of how to respond to this and â€Å"twisted with embarrassment† which shows just how debilitated he is. As usual, George stands up for him and challenges Curley’s power. George has a very monosyllabic tone of voice when speaking to Curley which shows that he does not feel the need to elaborate and is perhaps being defiant. â€Å"Yeah, it’s that way.† Lennie looks helplessly to George for instruction when given the chance to talk which again demonstrates George’s power over him. Eventually, when Lennie does speak, he speaks â€Å"softly† which suggests a lack of power and perhaps a degree of uncertainty. Curley starts to get aggressive with Lennie, but the anger is totally unprovoked. Even Candy is wary of Curley’s power and â€Å"looked cautiously at the door to make sure no one was listening† before telling George that Curley is the boss’s son and that he is â€Å"pretty handy†. In this role, authority is implicit and Curley evidently has a lot of physical power if he is being described as â€Å"handy† by the other ranch workers. This is important to note in extract three when Lennie and Curley have a fight. At the beginning of extract three, Curley feels his power is being threatened by Carlson. He uses very authorial body language to regain this power but it is in vein as the ra nch workers feel comfortable standing up for themselves when they are together. Carlson lectures Curley on how he isn’t as powerful as he likes to think. Candy â€Å"joined [Carlson’s attack] with joy† and this is far from how Candy was acting at the end of extract two. Again, the ranch workers feel safer in large groups. Perhaps Curley decides to fight Lennie because he wants to demonstrate his strength and feels that Lennie is the weakest of the workers, therefore, the easiest to fight. Curley â€Å"stepped over to Lennie like a terrier†. Here Steinbeck, yet again, uses a simile to describe the invasion of Lennie’s personal space. â€Å"Then Curley’s rage exploded† and he uses a lot of expletives to provoke Lennie. This can be compared to George’s language and how he curses at Lennie calling him a â€Å"big bastard†. Perhaps Curley’s reaction is so vicious because he is afraid of being humiliated in front of the workers. â€Å"Lennie looked helplessly at George† which shows that he is weak, but more so vulnerable. Yet again, he looks to George for direction. At first, Lennie doesn’t fight back because he knows that if he gets himself into trouble he won’t be allowed to tend the rabbits, although when Curley starts getting very violent George encourages Lennie to fight back. â€Å"Get him, Lennie. Don’t let him do it.† The fact that Lennie has to be told by George to protect himself shows just how much leadership George has when it comes to Lennie. The line â€Å"I said get him† also emphasises George’s control. Lennie, however, redeems himself and crushes Curley’s hand. Lennie is so adamant to do what George has told him to do that he stills holds on to Curley’s fist even though George is slapping him and telling him to stop. â€Å"George slapped him in the face again and again, and still Lennie held on to the closed fist.† In conclusion, I think it is difficult to define the most powerful man on the ranch as Steinbeck presents so many different types of power; innate, physical, implicit, parental etc. Throughout all three of the extracts the balance of power shifts frequently, but authority is always evident. Steinbeck shows it very cleverly and subtly, almost manipulating the reader to anticipate certain reactions from certain characters which is why I find these extracts so engaging to read.

Doomsday essays

Doomsday essays The Divine Comedy is a tale of the Pilgrim (Dantes ego) beginning his travel through Hell (Inferno) and learning about sins pervasiveness. The torments of the sinners, who exist forever without hope of redemption or of an end to their suffering, graphically illustrate sins consequences. As the reader and Pilgrim move through the underworld, the shades they see and speak with provide physical examples of and exemplary lessons on the seven deadly sins. At the end of Inferno, the Pilgrim and reader are better able to recognize sin in its various forms and to avoid committing it. Salvation and further spiritual education are impossible without such knowledge. In the second section, Purgatorio, the Pilgrim and the pilgrim reader move up the Mountain of Purgatorio to the Garden of Eden at its peak. Along the way they learn the value of contrition and repentance, of having to suffer for causing suffering and for disobeying God. They learn this again by seeing and interacting with shades who represent the Seven Deadly Sins but who here exemplify the desire for contrition and repentance. The learning process concludes in the third section, Paradiso, where a plethora of saved souls appear to the Pilgrim and explain the workings of grace and Gods love to him. In this celestial region, the Pilgrim takes a series of what we might call oral exams which test his growing knowledge. Schooled by his experiences in the three regions, having gained a firm understanding of sin and grace, the Pilgrim passes his exams and graduates to the vision of God. He, then, becomes a teacher, because he returns to earth with instructions to write about his experiences for the benefit of others. ...

Science Research Paper

Science Research Paper Science Research Paper Science Research Paper: Making a Discovery! As a rule, students who study sciences often write science research papers. What should you do if you get such an assignment? The purpose of writing of a science research paper in a certain scientific discipline is to express some new ideas in the sphere of research in this discipline. So, you should make some suggestions, put forward some theory or hypothesis, make some discovery or present some innovations. Besides, your ideas should be proved by some experiments, observations or calculations. Thus, your science research paper should have some practical application and, hence, make some contribution in the development of science. Science Research Paper Should Be Informative So, if you have something to say to the scientific community, get down to writing of a science research paper. But pay attention: such a paper should be written properly. So, if you have some questions, the following tips will be helpful for you. Become a real re searcher! You may reach success in paper scientific write only in such a way. What does it mean? You should have a look inside the studied issue; make the deep analysis of it. So, research your paper topic. In this situation the key element of your success is interest. You should be interested in the issue you are going to investigate. It goes without saying that your ideas (hypotheses, innovations and others) cannot appear from nowhere! They should be based on the previous investigations. So, you should provide the strong basis for your ideas. For that purpose you should study different scientific works on the topic. That will help you make your ideas sound convincing. All your ideas should be put in the logical order. So, make an outline before writing your science research paper. State the main points that will be highlighted in your paper. Point out the parts your science research paper will contain. Do not forget that each of them should be focused on a certai n point but all of them should be interrelated. Your science research paper should be written in a certain format. You should discuss all the requirements with your tutor. Of course, there should be no mistakes in your paper. Any of them will spoil the general impression that your research will make on your audience. So, you should re-read your paper for several times before submitting.So, this is the main information you should keep in mind if you need to write a science research paper. If you face any difficulty, you are welcome to contact us for help!

Capital Account Convertibility Essay Example for Free

Capital Account Convertibility Essay Capital Account Convertibility. Should India adopt full convertibility? Capital Account Convertibility-or a floating exchange rate-is a feature of a nation’s financial regime that centers around the ability to conduct transactions of local financial assets into foreign financial assets freely and at market determined exchange rates. It is sometimes referred to as Capital Asset Liberation or CAC. CAC is mostly a guideline to changes of ownership in foreign or domestic financial assets and liabilities. Tangentially, it covers and extends the framework of the creation and liquidation of laims on, or by the rest of the world, on local asset and currency markets. Current account convertibility allows free inflows and outflows for all purposes other than for capital purposes such as investments and loans. In other words, it allows residents to make and receive trade-related payments receive dollars (or any other foreign currency) for export of goods and services and pay dollars for import of goods and services, make sundry remittances, access foreign currency for travel, studies abroad, medical treatment and gifts, etc. Capital account convertibility is considered to be one of the major features of a developed economy. It helps attract foreign investment. It offers foreign investors a lot of comfort as they can re-convert local currency into foreign currency anytime they want to and take their money away. At the same time, capital account convertibility makes it easier for domestic companies to tap foreign markets. At the moment, India has current account convertibility. This means one can import and export goods or receive or make payments for services rendered. However, investments and borrowings are restricted. But economists say that Jumping into capital account convertibility game without considering the downside of the step could harm the economy. The East Asian economic crisis is cited as an example by those opposed to capital account convertibility. Even the World Bank has said that embracing capital account convertibility without adequate preparation could be catastrophic. But India is now on firm ground given its strong financial sector reform and fiscal consolidation, and can now slowly but steadily move towards fuller capital account convertibility. CAC has 5 basic statements designed as points of All types of liquid capital assets must be able to be exchanged freely, between any two nations, with standardized exchange rates. The amounts must be a significant mount (in excess of $500,000). Capital inflows should be invested in semi-liquid assets, to prevent churning and excessive outflow. Institutional investors should not use CAC to manipulate fiscal policy or exchange rates. Excessive inflows and outflows should be buffered by national banks to provide collateral. Prior to its implementation, foreign investment was hindered by uneven exchange rates due to transactions, and national banks were disassociated from fiscal exchange policy and incurred high costs in supplying hard-currency loans for those few local companies that wished to do business abroad. Due to the low exchange rates and lower costs associated with Third World nations, this was expected to spur domestic capital, which would lead to welfare gains, and in turn lead to higher GDP growth. The tradeoff for such growth was seen as a lack of sustainable internal GNP growth and a decrease in domestic capital investments. When CAC is used with the proper restraints, this is exactly what happens. The entire outsourcing movement with Jobs and factories going oversees is a direct result of the foreign investment aspect of CAC. The Tarapore Committee’s recommendation of tying liquid assets to static assets (i. e. investing in long term government bonds, etc) was seen by many economists as directly responsible for stabilizing the idea of capital account liberalization. The Reserve Bank of India has appointed a committee to set out the framework for fuller Capital Account Convertibility. The Committee, chaired by former RBI governor S S Tarapore, was set up by the Reserve Bank of India in consultation with the Government of India to revisit the subject of fuller capital account convertibility in the context of the progress in economic reforms, the stability of the external and financial sectors, accelerated growth and global integration. Economists Surjit S Bhalla, M G Bhide, R H Patil, A V RaJwade and Alit Ranade were the members of the Committee. The Reserve Bank of India has also constituted an internal task force to re-examine the extant regulations and make recommendations to remove the operational impediments in the path of liberalisation already in place. The task force will make its recommendations on an ongoing basis and the processes are expected to be completed by December 4, 2006. The Task Force has been set up following a recommendation of the Committee. The Task Force will be convened by Salim Gangadharan, chief general manager, in- harge, foreign exchange department, Reserve Bank of India, and will have the following terms of reference: Undertake a review of the extant regulations that straddle current and capital accounts, especially items in one account that have implication for the other account, and iron out inconsistencies in such regulations. Examine existing repatriation/ surrender requirements in the context of current account convertibility and management of capital account. Identify areas where streamlining and simplification of procedure is possible and remove the operational impediments, especially in espect of the ease with which transactions at the level of authorized entities are regulations are consistent with regulatory intent. Review the delegation of powers on foreign exchange regulations between Central Office and Regional offices of the RBI and examine, selectively, the efficacy in the functioning of the delegation of powers by RBI to Authorised Dealers (banks). Consider any other matter of relevance to the above. The Task Force is empowered to devise its work procedure, constitute working groups in various areas, co-opt permanent/special invitees and meet various trade ssociations, representative bodies or individuals to facilitate its work. Capital Account Convertibility. (2018, Oct 17).

Reflection of Class International Marketing Essay

Reflection of Class International Marketing - Essay Example that this is one of the best courses I have ever taken as it opened my eyes on how culture plays an important factor in business operation, choose between standardized or localized approaches in marketing, conduct country and market analysis, and understand entry strategies. The most interesting lesson presented in the class has been how culture contributes to and hinders the success of a business organization opting to expand in other countries. This course opened my eyes why there is no â€Å"one size fits all† strategy for different markets. It stressed the importance of business organizations’ adaptation to the economies where they operate. I believe that these points are very much important to the growing me-economy where customers demand highly unique products in order to address their individual needs. After the course, I believe that a company’s success hinges on its ability to evolve and recreate itself in order to suit the needs and preferences of the market. After all, this is what marketing is all about. I also have to mention that I enjoyed all the aspects of world culture presented in the class. It is exciting to note the differing consumer perceptions around the globe. I highly appreciate the professor’s strong encouragement for us students to participate in the class activities. I should also say that I have not been as active as my classmates because of my quiet personality. However, even for a silent and shy person like me, I have to admit that my colleague’s participation really made the class a fun experience. Participation makes learning more engaging and easier. Honestly, I have built friendships in the class which is very uncommon as I always find it very hard to open up myself and ideas to other individuals. Our class has truly provided a fertile ground for academic and social development. I know I have a lot to thank my professor

The Lady with the Pet Dog by Anton Chekhov Essay

The Lady with the Pet Dog by Anton Chekhov - Essay Example The story attempts to bring about the argument that love and morality can be separated as one is not necessarily a virtue of the other. The story is based on two individuals who have different and separate lives but have not had the experience of true love until they meet one another while on vacation in Yalta. This puts them in a state where they are obligated to choose between continuing their lives as it was before they met once they separate or find a means of exploring their love further which leads to the development of an affair as both characters are married. The story thus brings out the aspect that true love cannot be ignored by those who are involved. The story brings to light the characteristic that true love is unexpected and cannot be planned ahead of time. This is seen in various parts of the story whereby neither Gurov nor Anna expect to fall so deeply for one another seen in statements such as â€Å"In another month, he fancied, the image of Anna Sergeyevna would be shrouded in a mist in his memory, and only from time to time would visit him in his dreams with a touching smile as others did.† (Chekhov) Gurov assumed that he would be able to easily forget the woman he met while on vacation once he got back to his normal routine but soon found out that this was not possible and to his surprise as time passed on he found he was still not able to stop thinking about Anna. This is seen in the statement, â€Å"But more than a month passed, real winter had come, and everything was still clear in his memory as though he had parted with Anna Sergeyevna only the day before.† (Chekhov) Both characters had gone to Yalta on vacation with no expectations of finding love but as a result of circumstantial meeting ended up finding an individual that they could see themselves spending their entire lives with. The correlation between love and morality also played a part in the story as well. Both Anna and Gustov married young and have been in a rela tionship for a number of years before they met but this fact does not stop them from falling in love. It is also seen that they are in fact not in love with their spouses when Chekhov states that Gustov â€Å"considered her unintelligent, narrow, inelegant, was afraid of her, and did not like to be at home† while Anna refers to her husband as a â€Å"flukery† (Chekhov). The story brings about the question whether one is able to find love in immorality as the two characters are involved in an affair, which is considered a moral taboo but at the same time, are in love with one another. The issue of the use of ambiguity is another topic brought to light through the author’s stylistic methods. This is seen in the fact that Gustov’s wife is not mentioned by name as Chekhov simply refers to her as â€Å"his wife†. The town which Anna lives in is also not mentioned and the letter S is used in its place giving the hint that this is the letter that the name starts with. The end of the story is ambiguous as well as no solution is reached by the two lovers on how they can stop living in secret and bring their love out to the light. The use of ambiguity can be said to be used by the author to keep the reader interested by instilling a sense of curiosity which leaves them guessing at the unanswered questions. It can also said to be used to allow the author to concentrate on the main aspects of the story such as the story of the two characters instead of focusing on peripheral matters. The realist style used by the

The Benefits of Using The Robotics System In Industrial Area Research Paper

The Benefits of Using The Robotics System In Industrial Area - Research Paper Example This is because findings have shown that robotics is capable of reducing the cost of production, improve production efficiency, product quality, and reduce accidents and injuries in manufacturing industries. This paper will discuss the benefits of using robotics in the industrial area. The history of robotics dates back to 1954 when George Charles Devol invented the first industrial robot called the Unimate. This was later followed by the formation of the first robot company called the Unimate by Devol, and Joseph F. Engelberger. General Motors is the first automobile company to install the Unimate robot for dying casting, spot welding and handling in 1956. Since then, many manufacturing companies have implemented robots to replace human labour. International Federation of Robotics reveals that many companies today are increasingly adopting robotics in their workforce (42). This has particularly been witnessed in industrial and manufacturing spheres in different countries of the enti re world. However, findings show that only developed countries in the world have embraced the use of robotics to do various tasks in industrial such as machine operations and welding among others. For instance, the European Robotics Technology Platform (EUROP) reported that about 6.5 million robots were already in use, in different companies and institutions all over the world by 2007 (2). The same report also estimated that the number could rise to about 18 million by the year 2011. Japan is currently the leading country in terms of robotic adoption. International Federation of Robotics indicated that more than half of the world’s robots are made and used in Japan (46). However, several other European countries are also increasingly adopting the technology. A study has shown that the technology is increasingly adopted by countries that have an aging population such as Japan and Germany. For instance, a study conducted by Mckinsey in Germany predicted that Germany could face a shortage of about six million skilled laborious in the next seven years (Jeschke, Liu, and Schilberg 85). The same applies to Japan whose population is aging very first, according to Europ (5). However, the common denominator for the adoption of robotics in industries is based on the benefits that the technology offers the industries where they are installed for doing work. As earlier stated, robotics have been found to be beneficial in industries mainly because its installation helps in reducing costs in a company. This is seen from the factor that robots do not require to be paid hourly rates, as is the case with workers (Jeschke, Liu, and Schilberg 86). This implies that the salary that could have otherwise been used to pay workers will be used for other purposes such as maintain ace (International Federation of Robotics 51). It is reported that, apart from the maintenance cost, a robotic manufacturing is only paid for once, which is very cheap compared to having to employee a worker who will be demanding salaries each and every month. Furthermore, unlike workers, robots do not demand salary increments that might increase the manufacturing cost. It is also a matter of fact that the initial cost of installing a robot in an industry may be daunting. However, its return on investment can be realized very fast once it has been implemented. Research indicates that a robot has the capacity to generate a return on investm

Financial Management of Healthcare Organizations Coursework

Financial Management of Healthcare Organizations - Coursework Example The auditing criteria which we applied in the analysis were in accordance with the U.S generally acceptable auditing standards. According to the regulations, we are required to undertake the audit process so that assurance is provided to the company that no sign of material misstatement was exhibited in their financial statements. The audit considered assessment of accounting principles, the presentation of statements and the supporting evidences for the amount and disclosures as provided by the financial statements of the organization. Being a respected institution in the field, our opinion would be an asset for future financial management plan. Under this section the analysis would show an evaluation of the general financial profile of the organization. The interpretation of the HCF data would be captured which will summarize the figures as extracted from the combined financial statements of cash flow, balance sheet, equity statement and income statement as was prior prepared by the organization. According to figures as was posted in the balance sheet, total asset for the year 2003 was $238,365. This increased to $265,784 in 2004; $276,975 in 2005; $287,983 in 2006 and $311,140 thousand in the year 2007. Basically, the combined total resource between 2003 and 2007 experienced an increment of $72,775 thousand dollars which is an equivalent of 30.53 percent. Referring to the combined liability values, the company reported $39,458 thousands dollar of total liabilities in 2003; $51313 thousands in 2004; 44960 thousands in 2005; $41,277 in 2006 and $45,432 thousands in 2007. There was a general increase in the combined liabilities with the financial year 2003 and year 2004 reporting the highest percentage increment of 30.04 percent. The overall change in total liabilities within the period of analysis however, was slightly lower because the value declined in 2007 to ($5974 thousands) which is an

Letter Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Letter - Essay Example Moreover, this is to inform you that my application for US citizenship is in progress, and I will be living in the United States as a permanent resident, until I receive my citizenship after the immigration procedure. I am expecting an appointment date in the near future for your kind information. Lastly, I have endeavored extensively to attend this course in your reputable educational institution, in order to pursue my career as a dentist and serve my community, as well as, the globe as a whole. I once again express my gratitude for considering my application, and appreciate your cooperation in this regard. My passion for learning and enthusiasm for enrichment of emotional maturity has resulted in application at your reputable educational institution. In specific, I am interested to attend XXX School of Dentistry, as I have carried out extensive research related to your organization, and have been able to attain tremendous respect for your organization. One of the significant characteristics of your institution is that it offers a combination of pedagogical and professional perspective of learning by the provision of teacher-focused education with amalgamation of a broader perception of learning through practices of the learnt knowledge. In this regard, XXX School of Dentistry will provide me an effective platform to attend my long dreamed course, in order to serve my community, the country, and deserved people around the globe. Every individual is different and unique in terms of social and cultural perspective. I will be bringing cultural values, different from the United States, which will enhance cultural diversity in your institution and will contribute in the enrichment of learning experience of my classmates, as well as, the

The Benefits of Using The Robotics System In Industrial Area Research Paper

The Benefits of Using The Robotics System In Industrial Area - Research Paper Example This is because findings have shown that robotics is capable of reducing the cost of production, improve production efficiency, product quality, and reduce accidents and injuries in manufacturing industries. This paper will discuss the benefits of using robotics in the industrial area. The history of robotics dates back to 1954 when George Charles Devol invented the first industrial robot called the Unimate. This was later followed by the formation of the first robot company called the Unimate by Devol, and Joseph F. Engelberger. General Motors is the first automobile company to install the Unimate robot for dying casting, spot welding and handling in 1956. Since then, many manufacturing companies have implemented robots to replace human labour. International Federation of Robotics reveals that many companies today are increasingly adopting robotics in their workforce (42). This has particularly been witnessed in industrial and manufacturing spheres in different countries of the enti re world. However, findings show that only developed countries in the world have embraced the use of robotics to do various tasks in industrial such as machine operations and welding among others. For instance, the European Robotics Technology Platform (EUROP) reported that about 6.5 million robots were already in use, in different companies and institutions all over the world by 2007 (2). The same report also estimated that the number could rise to about 18 million by the year 2011. Japan is currently the leading country in terms of robotic adoption. International Federation of Robotics indicated that more than half of the world’s robots are made and used in Japan (46). However, several other European countries are also increasingly adopting the technology. A study has shown that the technology is increasingly adopted by countries that have an aging population such as Japan and Germany. For instance, a study conducted by Mckinsey in Germany predicted that Germany could face a shortage of about six million skilled laborious in the next seven years (Jeschke, Liu, and Schilberg 85). The same applies to Japan whose population is aging very first, according to Europ (5). However, the common denominator for the adoption of robotics in industries is based on the benefits that the technology offers the industries where they are installed for doing work. As earlier stated, robotics have been found to be beneficial in industries mainly because its installation helps in reducing costs in a company. This is seen from the factor that robots do not require to be paid hourly rates, as is the case with workers (Jeschke, Liu, and Schilberg 86). This implies that the salary that could have otherwise been used to pay workers will be used for other purposes such as maintain ace (International Federation of Robotics 51). It is reported that, apart from the maintenance cost, a robotic manufacturing is only paid for once, which is very cheap compared to having to employee a worker who will be demanding salaries each and every month. Furthermore, unlike workers, robots do not demand salary increments that might increase the manufacturing cost. It is also a matter of fact that the initial cost of installing a robot in an industry may be daunting. However, its return on investment can be realized very fast once it has been implemented. Research indicates that a robot has the capacity to generate a return on investm

Letter Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Letter - Essay Example Moreover, this is to inform you that my application for US citizenship is in progress, and I will be living in the United States as a permanent resident, until I receive my citizenship after the immigration procedure. I am expecting an appointment date in the near future for your kind information. Lastly, I have endeavored extensively to attend this course in your reputable educational institution, in order to pursue my career as a dentist and serve my community, as well as, the globe as a whole. I once again express my gratitude for considering my application, and appreciate your cooperation in this regard. My passion for learning and enthusiasm for enrichment of emotional maturity has resulted in application at your reputable educational institution. In specific, I am interested to attend XXX School of Dentistry, as I have carried out extensive research related to your organization, and have been able to attain tremendous respect for your organization. One of the significant characteristics of your institution is that it offers a combination of pedagogical and professional perspective of learning by the provision of teacher-focused education with amalgamation of a broader perception of learning through practices of the learnt knowledge. In this regard, XXX School of Dentistry will provide me an effective platform to attend my long dreamed course, in order to serve my community, the country, and deserved people around the globe. Every individual is different and unique in terms of social and cultural perspective. I will be bringing cultural values, different from the United States, which will enhance cultural diversity in your institution and will contribute in the enrichment of learning experience of my classmates, as well as, the

Internal combustion engine Essay Example for Free

Internal combustion engine Essay ?1. The seven suspects who may have contributed to the failure of GM’s EV1 program are: a. Customers (guilty) a. i. Consumers wanted a three hundred mile range and eighty-five mile per hour speed on their electric cars but this was not plausible when running off of a battery. a. ii. When customers compare cars they don’t care much about the environmental risks they only care about the price, the miles per gallon, and the mileage range. Customers had a difficult time seeing the difference between regular cars and electric cars so there was not enough demand. b. Battery Technology (not guilty). b. i. Batteries were too weak to make the car go as far as consumers were hoping so they bought the less expensive gasoline vehicles that could go the desired distance. c. Oil Companies (guilty) c. i. Oil companies got very involved with electric cars because if everyone were to switch to battery operated vehicles, there would no longer being a large demand for gasoline. d. Car Companies (guilty) d. i. The GM car didn’t seem to be catching on and there did not seem to see a profit in electric or hybrid cars so they didn’t see it as effective to keep manufacturing the car. e. Government (guilty) e. i. Government officials did not approve of the electric car so they did nothing to assist General Motors in selling it. e. ii. President Carter supported clean energy but President Nixon cared so little about clean energy he had the solar panels taken off the roof of the White House. f. C. A. R. B. California Air Resources Board (guilty). f. i. Lloyd was elected chairman of the board four months before they got rid of the electric car and he persisted to demolish it. g. Hydrogen Fuel Cells (guilty) g. i. Hydrogen Fuel Cells seemed more appealing to consumers because Shell stations could provide hydrogen. g. ii. Hydrogen Fuel Cells had General Motors beat because their cars could travel 100-125 miles per fill up while the EV could only travel about 75 miles. Also, hydrogen cars have about three to four times more energy than a car running on batteries. 2. The suspect I feel is most responsible is the consumers because they only look at the simple facts; they couldn’t care less whether or not their car is destroying the environment. Consumers only care about the price, mileage, and miles per gallon of a vehicle which all lacked on the EV because car companies saw it fair to lose a bit of the â€Å"basic car features† in order to improve the environment. 3. The nickel metal hydride battery enabled the GM EV1 to have a real world range of 250 km and the Chevrolet S10 achieved a range of 110 to 130 km with full charge and can usually last for years on end depending on how many times you have to recharge the full battery. Today, nickel metal hydride batteries are commonly used for cameras, camcorders, cell phones, pagers, medical instruments, etc. An interview published last year in the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists said that there was going to be a new approach to photovoltaic thin-film production that would allow factories to make enough solar panels in a year to produce at least one gigawatt of electricity annually—roughly the scale of a nuclear power plant—at the price of coal. The argument for thin-film solar panels is that thin-film solar can actually be cheaper than one dollar a watt, low price solar panels are opening up new markets (which could lead to a surge in demand), and the fastest, cheapest way to meet that demand could be building thin-film solar factories, since you can build those factories for a third as much as silicon solar panel factories. Although this seems beneficial, the main arguments against thin-film solar panels are the cost of everything else that goes into the final cost of solar power (including installation costs, which are now higher than the cost of panels themselves), you can save much more money if higher efficiency solar panels are put in because the company would have to buy less panels, and thin-film solar panels are actually less efficient than silicon ones. Because of the strong points of the argument, I do not think that putting in thin-film solar panels is worth the trouble when time and money could be saved with more efficient panels. 4. The goal of Plug in America is to get Americans to switch to a car that uses clean, affordable, domestic electricity for some or all of its energy. The best way to reduce carbon emissions is to utilize the ever cleaner, greener, more renewable grid to power transportation. Only grid-rechargeable cars can attain the end goal of zero-emissions and ensure fuel price stability. Plug in America works with General Motors, Nissan, and Mitsubishi all of which sell electric vehicles. The main Plug in America is based out of San Francisco, California. Around 2005, all of the major automakers planned to call back their leased electric vehicles (which were only available in California) and crush them. A group of drivers formed to stop them and wanted to buy the cars they had been driving. They were unsuccessful with the GM EV-1; this was the subject of the movie Who Killed The Electric Car. But GM did not crush the S-10 pickups, and the protestors saved half of the Toyota RAV4-EVs. Plug In America then kept up a continuous campaign to convince automakers that there is demand for electric vehicles, and that they should build them instead of crushing them. There are now several electric vehicles in the marketplace, and by the end of 2012 there will be dozens of models. Plug In America no longer needs to protest; instead they now consult with the automakers and offer training to auto dealers. 5. The newest electric cars are: a. The 2013 Smart fortwo electric car couple/convertible a. i. This car is available in select dealers across the country. a. ii. This car gets 122 miles per gallon equivalent (1 gallon of gasoline=33. 7 kW-hr) in cities and 93 miles per gallon equivalent on highways.a. iii. Over a five-year span, someone with a Smart fortwo electric car would save about $8,750 because the annual fuel cost is only $600. a. iv. The driving range of this car in is 68 miles. b. The 2013 Scion iQ EV b. i. There will be approximately 90 iQ EVs available for fleet and car-sharing applications at select dealers across the country. b. ii. This car gets 138 miles per gallon equivalent (1 gallon of gasoline=33. 7 kW-hr) in cities and 105 miles per gallon equivalent on highways. b. iii. Over a five-year span, someone with a Scion iQ EV would save about $9,250 because the annual fuel cost is only $500. b. iv. The driving range of this car in is 38 miles. c. The 2013 Honda Fit EV c. i. This car is available in California and parts of Oregon c. ii. This car gets 132 miles per gallon equivalent (1 gallon of gasoline=33. 7 kW-hr) in cities and 105 miles per gallon equivalent on highways. c. iii. Over a five-year span, someone with a Honda Fit EV would save about $9,250 because the annual fuel cost is only $500. c. iv. The driving range of this car in is 82 miles. d. The 2013 Fiat 500e d. i. At this time, this car is only available in California. d. ii. This car gets 122 miles per gallon equivalent (1 gallon of gasoline=33. 7 kW-hr) in cities and 108 miles per gallon equivalent on highways. d. iii. Over a five-year span, someone with a Fiat 500e would save about $9,250 because the annual fuel cost is only $500. d. iv. The driving range of this car in is 87 miles. Since the ranges of these electric cars are actually quite good, I would be able to drive an electric car in my daily life. On average, I don’t drive very far but for days I do I think I would need to have a gasoline powered car that can be refilled quickly and easily at a gas station. At night, I would just have to plug my car in so that it could be fully charged in the morning and it would be sufficient enough to get to school and work. 6. The arguments for and against electric cars are: a. One criticism of electric cars is that they often just replace one source of carbon pollution with another. Instead of a combustion engine that burns gasoline, you get a plug-in vehicle that depends on electricity from burning coal. All in all, electric cars still look pretty good in comparison, especially since they’re not burning any gasoline and putting additional carbon in the air, but it looks like it’s not, strictly speaking, true that â€Å"It takes more electricity to drive the average gasoline car 100 miles, than it does to drive an electric car 100 miles. † This probably explains why Nissan abandoned its sticker. The energy comparison still looks positive for electric cars, but the talking point isn’t nearly as neat and clean. b. In order to support large numbers of electric cars there will have to be an infrastructure built where these cars can be recharged. Although, even with charging stations, an electric car can take up to eight hours to fully charge and this is quite the inconvenience for people traveling. The idea of a â€Å"swop† has been presented where the driver gives in their used battery for a battery that is fully charged but doing this could cost the government a lot of money. c. Yes, the batteries that power electric cars (and hybrids, for that matter) can be recycled. For decades, lead-acid batteries powered the few electric vehicles that were on the road. The latest models, with their lighter weight and longer range, use lithium-ion batteries, just like laptops and cell phones. In either case, the batteries that power electric cars can be recycled. When the battery packs in a lithium-ion-powered vehicle are deemed too worn out for driving, they still have up to 80 percent of their charge left. So before they ever get to a recycling center, these batteries are used to prop up the grid, especially alongside energy sources that may not be quite as steady, like wind or solar power. The batteries can store power to help the flow of electricity stay on an even keel rather than ebb and flow with the weather. An electric car battery is costly, but can last as much as 100,000 miles. They usually come with a 10 year or mileage limit warranty. Sources: http://www. greenbatteries. com/nibafa. html#How%20many%20times http://www. pluginamerica. org/ http://www. fueleconomy. gov/feg/evnews. shtml http://www. wlv. ac. uk/default. aspx? page=31209 http://www. howstuffworks. com/can-electric-car-batteries-be-recycled. htm http://www. technologyreview. com/view/512746/dont-count-out-thin-film-solar/

Context Of Business Strategy

Context Of Business Strategy Business strategy is defined as a long term approach of implementing a firms business plans to achieve its business objectives. Above all business strategy provides core competencies, differentiation and superior values for an organization. Context of business strategy: Objectives: Are the specific outcomes which an organization wishes to achieve by carrying out several activities. Objectives should always be stated precisely so it can easily be measured whether the objectives are been achieved or not. For example, there should be step by step ways so it than becomes easy to judge to how much is done and how much remains and whether the work is in time and good or not. Mission: It describes an organizations basic function in a society. It is done specifically to spread the knowledge and belief among the people. For example, it to become a top cellular brand, so society would know its reason for existence. Vision: The vision statement is concerned with how the future will look like if the mission is achieved. Some often say a vision statement imagines what success would look like. For example, as I mentioned above to become a top cellular brand globally, this is a vision. Goals: In every organization goals differ, but generally your goals can be regarding improvement in technology, or improving market share, or to improve the quality of the product or the expansion of the business or it can be these all at once. For example, to set an amount of market share in an particular time period can be regarded as a goal. Core competencies: A core competency is a specific factor that a business sees as being central to the way it or its employees works. For example, they can see their technological factor as their core competency. Strategic control: The practice of assessing the direction of the organization as evidenced by its implicit or explicit goals, objectives, strategies, and capacity to perform in the context of changing environmental and competitive actions. For example, to be able to have a strategy in place so that every department or different work runs smoothly all together. P2: The students will be expected to discuss the concept of stakeholders and their types. Stakeholder analysis is an approach that is frequently used to identify and investigate the force field formed by any group or individual who can affect or is affected by the achievement of the objectives of an organization. Different types of stakeholder: Owners, investors, directors. Shareholders. Banks and creditors. Suppliers. Customers and buyers. Management. Employees. Competitors. Government. Interest groups and companies. Stakeholder Map: P3: The student should conduct the PESTEL and SWOT analysis of the organization/business. PESTEL analysis of Ericsson: Political: Political entities played a vital role in the success of Ericsson switches business, Once a relation was built with a PPT in a country, it lead to follow-up contracts again. The U.S market for switches business was closed while the British PPT only used to buy switches from European companies. On the other hand there were no barriers to entry for the mobile telephony business since the product was new and unique. Economical : In order to start the mobile telephony business Ericsson needed a high market share, which they achieved by selling switches and other radio equipments in U.S.A and various European countries including Netherland .This increased the number of customers, thus increasing market share. After the company got substantially popular, major businesses started to co-ordinate with Ericsson, these included major rivals namely Magnetic, GSM and Radio system .By the end of century the market share for Ericsson mobiles and Radio equipments reached 70 percent. Socio-cultural: Consumer demanded for new functions and designs while Ericsson was not successful in providing that, a banker expressed they are just a bunch of engineers who couldnt care less what the phone looks like. Also on the other hand consumer complained about the low battery life. Technological: The Company had inferior technology in start due to financial problems, the SRA was only engaged in selling radio equipments to the military, these included radiators, gramophones and radars. AXE was their main technology; AXE chips were powerful but big in size, while on the other hand competitors were making smaller switches. Environmental/ecological: Legal: INTERNAL Strengths First company to provide mobile phone technology. High capacity switches (AXE) Ericsson Information (EIS) Strong management policies Providing a wide range of products around the globe .i.e. radio equipments, mobile and telephone business. New product and technology Weaknesses Lack of Unity between various departments. They consider each other as lacking from knowledge, stupid and inexperienced. Poor quality equipments causing dis-interest of customers Installation in armored cars was a problem. Low finance Switches were Large and expensive EXTERNAL Opportunities High competitive environment, this leads to more customers Mass market High Sales since the product is new and unique Expand business Threats Major competitors, namely NEC, Motorola, Fijitsu, Northern Telecom, EF Johnson. Competitors offering financing solutions Small switches of competitors and cheap in price Intense competitionSWOT analysis of Ericsson: (Figure 2: SWOT analysis) P4: Students should apply Ansoff Matrix on the studied business. STRETEGIC POSITIONING TECHNIQUES Ansoff matrix: The Ansoff Growth matrix is a tool that helps businesses decide their product and market growth strategy. Figure 3: Ansoff Matrix (source: tutors.com, data accessed July 2009) Ansoff Matrix of Ericsson: Ansoff matrix can help Ericsson identify their future direction and strategic development. It may help Ericsson find out the choices available in the market in order to use their strategic capabilities. Currently in terms of the case, Ericsson is engaged in production of many existing products and one new product which is mobile telephone. This may sort out Ericsson into three sections of an Ansoff Matrix. These are explained as follows: Existing product and existing market; Market penetration: For the current production of various radio and telephone equipments, including AXE chip. Existing product and new market; Market development: For entering new markets including USA, Netherland and Middle East. Existing market and New Market; Product development: By launching Mobile telephone system in their existing market . Ansoff Matrix: This is a useful strategic positioning technique advised to Ericsson due to the fact that it helps in suggesting the business attempts to expand on a new or existing market or whether on the markets new and existing products. For the market development Ansoff can help Ericsson identify new geographical areas, for example where to sell the existing switches and radio equipments. They can seek out different pricing policies to attract customers. Similarly in the product development stage they can develop new competencies and modify their products on the basis of consumer appeal. On the basis of these qualities it was advised to use Ansoff matrix as a strategic positioning technique to identify their future direction. M1: Here the students will be expected to identify at least three of the concepts (discussed in P1) in the organization/business selected. The students should give a brief analysis of how the concepts have been applied in the organization. Here are the brief analysis of the three concepts that take place in the organization Ericsson. Objectives: You always start with small objectives and move onto the larger ones once the initial ones have been taken care off. It is the same with the organization that I am representing. Their prime objective at the start was that they wanted to become one of the leading mobile brand sellers in the world. Not many would argue that they hadnt reached their goal. To make this objective succeed they started off by having small steps of objectives which are key. They wanted to bring something new (they brought Walkman phones), they wanted to increase their market share and increase their profits. Recent performances show a decline in profits and market share and now they are looking forward to go one better than the last time and then to be able to maintain their market position. Vision: When you start an organization you always have a vision for it, as where you want it to be in the future, as in for example 15 years later. Do you want it to be self-sustaining and be somewhere in the middle rather than the top or do you want it to have profits and want it to be at the utmost top. Sony Ericsson vision was one for the future. It wanted to be profit motive as any other organization would want to be, however they wanted to be a leading global mobile seller, to be on the utmost top. And from the time of initial start till now they are heading towards the right direction. Core Competencies: Ericsson wants to be technologically advanced and give its handsets something new which its competitors lack or do not come up with. It spends heavily on its research and development as its motive is to be the best globally. After merging with Sony, Sony Ericssons Walkman phones are an example of its technological advancement over its competitors and its willingness to bring something new. Mission: Many people often mistake vision for mission or mission for vision. However, both these things differ as vision is how the future would look like and mission is the way of getting there. Ericsson, after merging with Sony, one of its priorities is that it specifically targets the younger generations, as they are mostly mobile fanatics and love entertainment. It wants to be known for specifically entertainment phones providing the best of sounds the technologically up to date cell phones. M2: The students should identify the stakeholders of the organization under consideration and develop the stakeholder map for the organization. Students are expected to give their rationale for placing the stakeholders in the map. List of stakeholders associated with Ericsson: Not all of the stakeholders are mentioned in the current case but their key stakeholder groups include: Board of directors: Board of directors includes all the major owners of the business who changed with the passage of time. These personal included GE-Marconi, Ake Lundqvist and Lars Magnus Ericsson. The key focus of all the directors was to direct the strategy and major decision making of the business. They wanted an increase in their power and status and wanted to retain control. Managers : Managers engaged with Ericsson particularly included the sales manager, marketing manager and the production manager, among these included John Meurling and Lars Ramqvist. Competitors: Throughout time Ericsson expanded their business globally increasing their number of competitors in each of their business sector. Their main competitors included Nokia, Mitsubishi, NEC, Fijitsu, Siemens, Hitachi, CIT Alcatel, EF Johnson, Motorola, Northern telecom. Customers: The customers of Ericsson want good and valuable products for the money they pay, since they have a buying objective and if Ericsson fails to satisfy their customers then they will go elsewhere. Shareholders: The shareholders are the main investors in Ericsson, they are not as such mentioned in the given case but mentioning them is important as without their support the company wont have any suitable finance. Investors in Ericsson clearly want to be rewarded for their stake in the business. Their profit depends on the size of after tax profit and plans of director to invest for business expansion and the economy causing fluctuation in share price. Community: The role of community is also not mentioned in the case but it was certainly necessary to mention their role. Community wants to benefit from the employment which Ericsson creates and indeed Ericsson was successful in doing that by making Stockholm worlds most dense telephone city. Stakeholder Map of Ericsson: Small Shareholders Customers Competitors Low Employees Power Managers Board of Director High Main Shareholders Low Interest High (Fig 1: Stakeholder Map) As the map suggests and shows itself, that the powerful ones come first. As the main shareholders are the one with the most power. Then come the board of directors, as they have power and are as well very interested in their work. They are followed by managers, employees and competitors with their power and interest accordingly. Last are the small shareholders and the customers with the least power but some interest. D1: The students should continue their discussion about the application of strategic concepts in the organization, and recommend improvements possible in the application of these concepts. Following are the strategic concepts and the recommendations for improvements: Objectives: Ericsson before and after merging with Sony, was and is one of the leading global brands in the present world. It can be said that mostly the objectives they set for themselves are taken care of appropriately taken care of with time. They set smaller objectives and then the larger ones and they attend to them in order, which is the right way. Being one of the leading brands in the world there is very less room for error, so the way they are presently handling their objectives they should continue handling them in this appropriate order. Vision: As you may already know the meaning of vision and have an understanding of it, it is something you think of your organization being when on a later date when you start. One should not have so many big goals as when it is not taken care of the owner would feel disappoint. So here, their vision (goal) should be their but not a very big one instead something that is realistic and while you are trying to achieve it you can try to overcome it and do better by performing as good as you can in the time period allotted. Core Competencies: Here is something that plays a pivotal role in enhancing the image and use of your product, as being technologically up to date or even advance when compared with you competitors gives you a push ahead of the rest of the pack. The company should invest big in research and development from time to time and should try coming up with new ideas rather than bringing something old back in some new shape, trying something different always pays of in the end. Mission: I would surely suggest a few of my ideas which I think may or can help improve their sales and image in some way. Firstly, they mostly target todays generation which is a hit but now that they have mostly captured them they should try to bring in something simple but luxurious as to try to capture the market of elderly people. Secondly, they should try to give themselves on overall image, as to have a variety rather than just be known for their explosive but sounds.

How are the Female Characters Presented in the stories Country Lovers

How are the Female Characters Presented in the stories Country Lovers and Veronica The black girl Thebedi is one of the main characters in the story "Country Lovers† She lives in South Africa under the apartheid which was a system of government which involved a segregation act between whites and blacks, so she hasn't as much rights as whites do, because of this she is restricted and hampered by her culture. The Educational system started with both white and black children in primary education where they spoke local dialect and then after that the white children went to secondary education where they learnt Standard English and the blacks went to work and learnt the language of authority. There was also at the time an Immorality act which was where it was illegal for a white person to have a relationship with a black person. This made Paulus Eysendyck and Thebedi keep the love with each other secretly â€Å"She had to get away before the house servants who knew her, came in at dawn† This shows they have compassion and determination to keep the relationship going. Paulus is in charge of the relationship for example â€Å"He told her each time, where to meet again†. Paulus and Thebedi have known each other since they were children. Paulus is son of the owner of the farm where Thebedi comes to work later in the story. Paulus is a white boy, and Thebedi is a black girl. They used to play on the farm as children and had primary education together. When he comes home for the holidays, he brought her presents, and Thebedi also give him a homemade bracelet. The bracelet is admired very much by his friends at school. Meanwhile, a black young man, Njabulo, falls in love with Thebedi, and wishes that he could be the ... ...ronica the most essential issue of the story and what it all amounts to is Tradition. The life Veronica led was steeped in tradition. Every aspect of the story is based around tradition. It was traditional for men to go off to work and women to stay in the home to cook, clean and look after the children. This would explain her lack off education and why the opportunity of going to a school as a child was not open to her. There was not as many opportunities open to women because it was unusual for women to go out to work or get a job. By tradition, men have the more dominant role. Veronica was a weak female so this would explain why she took unnecessary punishment of her father when she was younger. This also would explain why women as a whole where expected to stay at home. These are the reasons why I believe Veronica did not leave for the city with Okekà ©.

The Potential of Africas Global Economic Integration Essay -- Interna

Africa has long been thought of as a place where trade could not happen, especially on an international level. In recent times however, there has been a push to create more integration among African nations. These nations have realized the benefits which occur when firms are freely able to engage in investment from country to country moving away from the old protectionist policies of earlier years. As the textbook Global Business explains, these policies have, on numerous occasions before, triggered â€Å"retaliation that further restricted trade† (Peng, 2009). Governments there have also tried their hardest to change the image in the media of the continent and send signals to the public saying that they are indeed open to trade. To do so, they have used a series of tactics to push towards a more business-friendly continent. Many have shifted to being democratically elected governments focusing on the country and not just the ruling family. In addition, new laws have been impl emented to combat corruption in an attempt to gain more integration. Many of their efforts have been successful and these efforts have made it attractive to do business there. With countries like Ghana experiencing economic expansion of a record 13.6% in 2011 and an overall growth rate of 6% for countries in the continent in 2012 (The Economist, 2011), well above that of any rivaling Asian country, it is paramount that regional and global integration occur and other regions and international nations take advantage of opportunities available. Some companies and countries have recognized the huge potential for trade and investment in Africa and are starting to get involved; for example China, who are choosing to accept the risk in exchange for profits, are becoming ... ...ne, 08 Aug. 2012. Web. 24 Feb. 2014. Peng, Mike W. Global Business. Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning, 2009. 221. Print. Rothmyer, Karen. "They Wanted Journalists to Say ‘Wow’." President and fellows of Harvard College (2011): Discussion Paper Series D-61. Web. 27 Feb. 2014. Shen, Li. "What Makes China's Investment Successful In Africa: The Entrepreneurial Spirit And Behavior Of Chinese Enterprises In Transitional Times." Journal Of Developmental Entrepreneurship 17.4 (2012): -1. Business Source Complete. Web. 24 Feb. 2014. Yeh, Stuart S. "Ending Corruption In Africa Through United Nations Inspections." International Affairs 87.3 (2011): 629-650. Business Source Complete. Web. 24 Feb. 2014. Vogt, Heidi. "Ethiopian Airlines Pilot Acted Strangely Before Hijacking, Family Says." The Wall Street Journal. Dow Jones & Company, 19 Feb. 2014. Web. 24 Feb. 2014.