Hitting a Baseball

It has been a proven fact that hitting a baseball is one of the toughest things to accomplish in sports. In the major leagues if you fail 7 out of 10 times you are still considered to be an incredibly good hitter. That statistic shows how challenging it is even for Athletes at the professional level to produce a perfect swing. In order to achieve this perfect swing there is a series of adjustments that must be made. In this essay I will show how hitting a baseball develops through 3 different stages of learning. When someone is first starting off usually around the ages of 7 to 9 , they do not understand that the way a bat is held effects the outcome of the swing. In the beginning process many tend to place the bat in their palm and grip it extremely tight, without aligning their knuckles. They do not realize that holding the bat this way will reduce the range of motion in the swing, causing slower bat speed. Another key component to hitting a baseball is the hitter’s stance. In the beginning stage many crowd the plate, with their toes pretty much touching the corner of the tip of the plate. The legs are extremely bent and the toes are pointing in two different directions. The hands are then placed right next to the ear with both elbows facing up. The hitters back is usually arched at the top, with their shoulders kinds of pushing in to the neck. As the ball is pitched the hitter does not take a step towards the pitch, instead they keep their feet planted on their heels. When the ball is getting closer they begin their swing by dropping the back elbow and lifting the front one up. As the bat begins to cross the plate the head begins to turn away from the ball, because they are using no hip action. The bat is stopped in front of their body, creating no follow through. There may be little or no contact at this point. As a hitter progresses around the middle school stage, one thing they begin to change is the way they grip the bat. Now that they are a little more informed they begin to align the knuckles and place the bat on the fingers instead of on the palm. The hitter now has more flexion in the wrist along them to better their chances of hitting the ball. The stance of the batter is now gradually changing as well. The batter is now able to get in a position to where they can feel a little more comfortable. The knees are just are just slightly bent still allowing them to have some mobility. The toes are both facing in the same direction but are still planted on their heels. The elbows are now facing down instead of up, and the hands are up just above the shoulders and away from the ears. The back is no longer arched and the hitter is now at a stance where they are not as stiff as they once were. As the pitch comes the hitter now takes a step forward to generate some force, and prepare for his swing to begin. As the pitch is coming the hitter now keeps his eyes on the ball as it is coming in and extends hit arms out toward the baseball but slightly drops the barrel of the bat because of this, the hitter might have a tendency to pop the ball up instead of hitting a solid line drive. At this point the swing has now gotten better but still it has not generated bat speed to its full potential. Once the collegiate level is reached the batter now understands all the key fundamentals to hitting a baseball. With many years of practice and execution the hitter’s swing is now at its perfect state making it much easier to create contact and power. At this point the hitter no longer has any difficulty with the grip of the bat, or stance. Their feet are at shoulder width length allowing them to be at their most powerful position. The hitter is on the balls of his or her feet and is no longer on the heels. As the pitch is coming the hitter shifts his weight from the front leg to the back leg. The hitter is creating negative force by taking a step back, then going forward once again. At this point, weight should be about 70 percent on the back leg, 30 percent on the front leg. This allows the hitter to stay on the back leg to generate the most amount of power possible as they are swinging. While this is happening the hitter must also shift his hand back to generate more power in the upper body as well. The next step is the key essential where many beginners go wrong when trying to hit a baseball. Many believe that the hands trigger the swing, but this is untrue. It is the explosion of the hip that creates the swing. The hips start to open and allow the hands to explode through the hitting zone at a much higher rate of speed than if the hands triggered first and were still inhibited by the body. This has been proven by some of the most respected hitting authorities in the world by using high speed motion detection software to analyze a hitter's swing. Once the hips have started to open, the hands shoot through the zone. The hitter drives the nob of the bat to the ball, and keeps the bat through the zone as long as possible. This makes it easier to hit the pitch no matter where it is thrown. Once the bat has made contact the hips naturally finish their rotation as the hands leave the hitting zone and follow through. The weight shifts forward into contact, and all of the steps come together into a fluid, quick swing. Now the batter can produce hard linedrives or homeruns instead of soft grounders or pop ups.

Don Quixote Essay

Fiction and Metafiction in Borge’s Ficciones and Cervantes’ Don Quixote dela Mancha Unbelievable and amazing may perhaps best describe the literature that the world has as of the moment. It is unbelievable because who would have thought that the wide spectrum of literary works would be so great in number? At the same time, it is amazing as the progress and history which literature has gone through are truly marvelous. The literary works which are within humanity’s reach are incomparable to what people back then had. The literary works of the moment which are within humanity’s reach is a compilation of history, art, language, the sciences, and politics of every generation, culture, and nation. Truly, literature has such a monumental scope within its pages that sometimes, a person may be lost with so many things literature has to offer. Literature is both fact and fiction and is inspired both by history and creative imagination. The elements within literature are all reflections of the realities of society, but these things can still be considered as fictional—after all, fact is fact and pure truth—nothing more. But what if something fictional seems so real that it seems to be factual and true? What if a person or a character which is just imagined seems to be a real person of this world? What if the line between reality and imagined is confusing and seems to be separated by nothing at all? Two authors by the name of Jorge Luis Borges and Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra are the answers to such questions. Saavedra who wrote (or â€Å"supposedly re-wrote) the famous adventure of Don Quixote dela Mancha and Jorge Luis Borges who wrote the seventeen literary pieces contained within Ficciones are fictional writers. When a person talks about fiction, it usually pertains to one thing—created by the imagination. Thus, it means that any work of fiction is merely invented by any person and that any fictional work is not true, is false, and can never be a fact. Yet, Saavedra and Borges have created literary works which are fictional but they seem so real and true that a person is left to believe that they are indeed the truth—metafiction. Metafiction, according to Patricia Waugh, is â€Å"a term given to fictional writing which self-consciously and systematically draws attention to its status as an artifact in order to pose questions about the relationship between fiction and reality† (qtd. in Liu). Thus, metafiction is indeed fictional and from the imagination, and it aims to confuse readers about what is real and what is merely created by a person. How does a person achieve this? Again, according to Patricia Waugh, â€Å"such writings not only examine the fundamental structures of narrative fiction, they also explore the possible fictionality of the world outside the literary fictional text† (qtd. in Liu). Thus, an author creates a fictional world and creates another fictional world within the already imagined world—creating a metafictional world. In Borges’ Ficciones and Saavedra’s Don Quixote dela Mancha—this metafictional world is truly what they have conjured up. Ficciones is a book which contains seventeen fictional literary pieces that seem to be real. Each piece has its own world, own elements of characters, settings, and even at some point, its own mind and language. There are pieces such as the Library of Babel that appears to be real and true that a reader also wants to believe that such place is true. In that particular piece (from Part One of the book), Borges describes a library in length and in awe. The whole thing seems to be an introduction to a novel of some sort, and yet at the same time, it also seems to come from a real book full of factual evidences that such a library exists. In the following excerpt, Borges describes the library and the people who are fascinated with it: â€Å"When it was proclaimed that the Library comprised all books, the first impression was one of extravagant joy. All men felt themselves of a secret, intact treasure. The universe was justified, the universe suddenly expanded to the limitless dimensions of hope† (83). However, further in the Library of Babel, Borges even talks of mystical books such as the Vindications which are â€Å"books of apology and prophesy which vindicated for all time the actions of every man in the world and established a store of prodigious arcana for the future† (83). What Borges has created is a fictional world, but a reader may find that world to be so palpable and genuine that it appears to be impossible that it is just imagined. The same conclusion can be given to Saavedra and his work on Don Quixote dela Mancha. In Saavedra’s work, the book is divided into two parts—one is the tale or adventure itself of Don Quixote and the second part is the metafictional work wherein the author talks directly to the readers and even to the characters that they all seem to be real people when clearly, they are all imagined. The ridiculous adventure of Don Quixote and his â€Å"squire† Sancho Panza is so preposterous (as with the example of the enchanted peasant girl or the basin turned into a knight’s helmet), far-fetched, and humorous that a person will not for a second think that the entire tale is true. However, when Saavedra writes the second part of the book, doubts and hesitations replace the earlier convictions. For example, in the first part, Saavedra writes about a Dulcinea who was believed by Don Quixote to be a princess in disguise of a peasant girl when in fact, she really is a peasant girl. Later on though, Saavedra explains this turn of events in Don Quixote’s life: â€Å"I have reason to think that Sancho’s artifice to deceive his mater, and make him believe the peasant girl to be Dulcinea enchanted, was in fact, all a contrivance of some one of the magicians who persecute Don Quixote†¦ † (369). Therefore, Saavedra has created two worlds—one that is entirely fictional wherein the character of Don Quixote resides, and the other is metaficitonal wherein the character of Don Quixote does reside still but which it is explained why he has such ridiculous notions of chivalry and enchantments. In conclusion, though metafiction may seem to be such a complex and wondrous thing, it cannot exist without a person knowing first what is fictional. Metafiction exists in the world of fiction—a person cannot write or create a metafictional world without going into a fictional one. That is like a person wanting to break the rules without knowing what were the rules in the first place. Literature is truly complex but at the same time unbelievable and amazing—Saavedra and Borges can attest to that. Works Cited Borges, Jorge Luis. Ficciones. New York: Grove Press, 1962. Saavedra, Miguel de Cervantes. Don Quixote dela Mancha. New York: Penguin Group Incorporated, 1957. Lui, Kate. â€Å"Theories of Metafiction. † Postmodern Theories and Texts. 1998. Department of English Language and Literature, Fu Jen University. 4 Aug. 2009.

Haefren Baum Essay

Haefren Baum is an independent home furnishings retailer associated with Wiegandt that sells high quality furniture. The company began as a partnership in 1965. Haefren Baum became a retailer for Wiegandt in 1968. Two years later, it became a corporate entity. Haefren Baum is located in Cologne, which is one of the most populated and rich cities in Germany. Haefren retails home furnishing from a location downtown Cologne, and three recently constructed stores in Rhineland. Marketing Analysis Located in downtown Cologne Haefren Baum is a high quality retailer, which recently expanded its operations by opening three retail outlet stores in nearby Rhineland suburban areas. The company carries Wiegandt’s high quality furniture whose furniture is heavily advertised. Since the economic condition has not been steady and new competitors are entering the market Haefren Baum had to decrease its prices in order to maintain sales volume, these challenges (competition, economy) caused a decrease in sales by (-21%) between 93,94, a decrease of( -1.24% )between 94,95. Haefren Baum’s products reflect cyclical demand because others seasons did not cause a decline in sales, but instead the economy and competition. The German recession has slowly been improving, but it has not helped the furniture market, and the future does not look very promising for Haefren since they will need to adapt to the growing competition also. Overall, Haefren market position seems to be improving , sales growth will get better but I cannot say that the company will be successful in the future. Operations Analysis Wiegandt provided its retails distributors’ credit on 2% 10 net 30 terms, which is consistent with competitors in the industry. Haefren Baum upper limit on outstanding balances were established on historical furniture order, and they had a limits of DM 60,000. Although the sales of the company have declined significantly their cost of goods sold has remained really high, between 94, 95. There was decline in sales and an increase in cost of  goods sold from $8,189 to $8,237. This is evidence the company is having problems making profit. Haefren needs to address is the delinquency of their customers’ accounts, from 93 to 95, days sales outstanding have increased to 77 days, which is a lot higher than the 30-day monthly installment terms. The company is not stringent in collection efforts but this can be because of the economic condition in Germany. The company does not manage its assets very well. Its decrease in fix asset turnover from 6.98 in 1993 to 5.39 in 1995 can be because of their decrease in sales, but the low total asset turnover which is also decreasing from 2.1 to 1.5 prove that their assets are not being used very efficiently. Since sales are decreasing and competition increases their inventory days has also increased from 103 to 129 which again could cause low price. The company is already experiencing a loss of revenue due to the fact they lowered price because of economic condition. Financial Analysis The company have generated very low operating cash flows, which is caused by a negative net income(16, 55) in 94,95, again with sales going down and cost of goods sold increasing. The company current ratio (2.3, 2.1, 2.5) in 93, 94, 95 are indicating satisfactory but when analyze quick ratio (1.1, 1.1, 1.3), and we also know that sales are down which mean more inventories. Now the account payable days has been increasing (49, 62, and 66). They have been delaying there payment which mean more cash on hand but cost of goods sold is also increasing from $8,189 to $8,237 meaning the cost of increasing APD may be less than the cost of paying that cash earlier and having to borrow the shortfall to continue operations. The gross profit margin is decreasing (36% to 34, 33) and we also know sales been dropping significantly from 93 to 95 this shows that the company cannot control cost inventories and to pass along price increase through sales to customers. The operating profit margin is also dropping significantly from (5.1%, 1.8, and 1.5) we can definitely see that the firm is not efficient. The company has not improved its operating margin; apparently the company was not able to control the growth of operating expenses while sale is decreasing. Net profit margin is decreasing and negative this is because of decreasing sales, poor customer experience, inadequate expense management and also  because of the hardship in German economy. If we analyses cash flow margin it is (-0.01, 0.02), the company is not able to translate sales into cash. The company’s ROE is declining (-1.4 ), it signals that customers are no longer willing to pay for its products as they were in the past. It could be because new competition or economic condition. ROA is also declining (1.6, -1.5 ) again this mean profitability is deteriorating, with cash flow from operating activities declining and total asset increasing, the company is not showing any sign of cash generating abilities. With total liabilities going up for years 93 to 95 (6914, 7786, and 7887) and equity with negative retained earnings, the company is financing with debt, specifically with account payable, note payable. The company takes longer to pay their creditor, paying high interest rates. Since operating earnings are not more than sufficient to cover the fixed charges associated with debt, the company relies on financial leverage. The company is showing a riskier capital structure since debt equity ratio is (5.8, 9, and 8). Both the profit margin and the asset turnover are lower in (93, 94, and 95). The combination of increased debt (financial leverage) and the improvement in profitability did not occur and asset utilization has not produced an improved overall return in 94 relative to the previous years. Specifically, the firm has added debt to finance capital asset. Debt carries more risk and added cost in the form of interest expense, it also has the positive benefit of financial leverage when employed successfully, which is could be the case for Haefren. There was no improvement in inventory management and has impacted the firm negatively and showing no improvement to total asset turnover ratio. The company’s ability to control operating costs while sales decrease during economic condition has not improved the net profit margin. The overall return on investment is not improving as a result of these combined factors. Summary The findings from the analysis of Haefren financial statements can be summarized from an industry outlook; company’s well-positioned geographically but economy hardship make it difficult to benefit from expected economic and industry growth. The company has aggressive marketing and expansion strategies. There was no recent improvement in management of accounts receivable and inventory. The company did not successfully use of  financial leverage and solid coverage of debt service requirements. Substantially sales dropped significantly, partially resulting from market competition and economic condition. The company did not increased profitability in 1994 or positive generation of cash flow from operations. In general, the outlook for the company could be promising. Haefren appears to be in credit risk with attractive investment potential. The management of inventories, cost controls, and receivable will play an important to the company future success.

Market mechanism and public service delivery Essay

Market mechanism and public service delivery - Essay Example In the last few decades,public administration has witnessed a deep process of reform in order to "make publicly-owned services and enterprises more business - like".For, public administration has increasingly translated into public governance and huge behemoths in the public sector are expected to be run more efficiently at reduced costs. In other words, it is expected that the public administration become competitive in delivering goods and services. Governments are expected to strategise a country's developmental priorities by providing an efficient, responsive and transparent public administration. Countries have now moved to a mix of market-based or competitive governance and civic-based or partnership governance. This has been brought about by the changing role of the state and the growing businesslike and managerial approach to the operations of Public Administration. A new fragmented and complex world of markets and networks has pushed governments to move from a direct deliver y of services to a more general coordination and control of government functions. While, there is substantial scope for increase in delivery of public services through the market mechanism, there are several limitations and impediments too.In a globalised era, public administration, or the delivery of public services considered as universal needs and much needed socio-economic infrastructure to civil society are proving to be a tough and complex task. Since Public Administration includes within its ambit political, economic and social governance, governments across the world are having to function in an environment marked by increased public scrutiny. This has arisen out of increasing democratization and the diffusion of ideas arising from the implosion of information and communication technologies. Text of the article Since the time of Plato, Aristotle and Kautilya, good public managers have been recognized as those with sound judgement, a sense of justice and courage to take action on behalf of the good of society. Traditionally, public administration entities ie government institutions responsible for providing vital services have been state-centric, huge, self sufficient monoliths, hierarchical in their relations and also inclined towards a controlling order. Since early Public service mechanism 2 times, the public administration in countries has been providing services essential to society, some of them considered as fundamental rights of the citizens, like the right to water. In addition, law and order, health, education and building infrastructure viz. roads, transportation including railways and aviation, telecommunication, sewage, energy and a host of other services have come within the ambit of public administration. Publicly owned services and industries are controlled by the central governments. These state-owned enterprises or services do not generate any profit and provide essential services for the entire population. The cost of providing these services is met from taxation money. Local bodies are entrusted with certain civic functions including waste management, maintenance of parks etc. The main advantage in public owned enterprises or services is that jobs for workers in these institutions are secure and unemployment does not

On a specific documentary called Two Towns of Jasper - Image Ethics Essay

On a specific documentary called Two Towns of Jasper - Image Ethics - Essay Example The film has however tried to bridge the gap by displaying images to illustrate the widening difference and discrimination between blacks and whites. This paper therefore seeks to explore the image ethics that emerge in Two Towns of Jasper. The paper will also illustrate how the film makers approach and understand their various obligations and responsibilities to their viewers, to those who are featured in the film, to their profession as well as to themselves. Reference is made to the Moral Rights of Subjects in Photographs, Film, and Television by Katz, Gross and Ruby via analyzing Two Towns of Jasper, a documentary film. There are significant ethical issues and concerns that are provoked by the William and Whitney in the film â€Å"Two Towns of Jasper.† These issues arose where the white and black subjects used in the film were affected by the nature of the images displayed to the viewers. Therefore the two filmmakers made ethical considerations that took care of the rights of the subjects as well as those of the viewers of the film or television. The film, â€Å"Two Towns of Jasper,† observes the moral rights of those appearing in it as the subjects. However, the film has been criticized that it presents fake images of the subjects that are somehow embarrassing and intrusive to both the viewers and the film subjects. Some of the image ethics that raise concerns in the â€Å"Two Towns of Jasper† and the documentary include the situation in which the subjects were portrayed in a false light. It appears to the viewers that the subjects may have failed to secure a consent that is completely informed and therefore their images were appropriated. In this film, â€Å"Two Towns of Jasper,† the groups of minority and individuals were represented accurately and fairly. Williams and Whitney observed the peculiar moral obligations of the subjects in the film. This is a clear indication that the filmmakers understand their obligations and res ponsibilities to the subjects as well as to their viewers. By respecting the moral rights and observing image ethics when making the film, it shows that the filmmakers clearly understand well the role of their profession. From my review of the film, â€Å"Two Towns of Jasper,† the concerns and issues of image ethics that are exhibited is the journalistic integrity threat that is probably posed by the software visual editing used by the filmmakers. The type of images displayed in the film also raises concern as they appear so uncertain to the viewers. The minority group is also not presented in an appealing manner which may raise ethical questions among the viewers. It also appears in the film that there has been an erosion of civility and privacy of the minority group, the blacks, in the film. However, the book, â€Å"Moral Rights of Subjects in Photographs, Film, and Television† by Katz, Gross and Ruby, has elaborated these ethical concerns as a breach to the privacy and rights of the subjects. The mentioned authors have also amplified the qualms of image ethics as mistakes committed in darkroom of electronics. The issues of image ethics in the film add to the continuous visual development studies. The anthology in the film, â€Å"Two Towns of Jasper,† has reached into perspectives and discipline beyond any criticism and considers the dilemmas in the visual presentations. Additionally, the filmmakers, Williams and Whitney, have taken into consideration the challenge of observing, to

Ockham Technologies Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Ockham Technologies - Research Paper Example It would be hectic to get each board member engaged at a single place for meeting and equal participation of board members in company’s interest would be overseen (Sargeant & Jay, 2009). On the contrary, by keeping a small board of directors there will be unity and a sense of ownership and serving common purpose would be developed within the board team. The work will be performed smoothly and efficiently and organizational goals will be accomplished speedily without any bureaucracy being involved (Council on Foundations, 2010). 2. Before making a fund-raising decision, Ockham will need to consider certain factors such as the size of the board and the role played by each board member. Size of the board of directors would depend on the potential investor’s approach towards the control of equity in the company. The size of the board will also clarify the level of involvement of each member of the board in Ockham’s affairs (Martinelli, 2013). Then comes the intangibl e attributes that Ockham will need to define before defining board of directors. ... rmance at their current organizations will also be assessed in order to project the financial value that each board member will be adding to Ockham Technologies (Altenburg, 2011). 3. At some point of time, tension between strategic business partners is destined to emerge due to a shift in approach towards business and bringing changes in the organizational structure or operational structure (Jamieson, Eklund, & Meekin, 2012). If I were to play the role of Jim Triandiflou and reduce tensions between me and Mike Meisenheimer, I would select different conflict management strategies to resolve the issue in Ockham’s greater interest. First of all, I would have started to consult Mike in important decisions regarding the future and present of Ockham as an accommodating strategy. Than adopting an avoiding strategy would allow me to ignore petty issues and integrate my ideas into functions after collaborating and reaching a compromised agreement with Mike. In this manner, it will be a win-win situation for both Mike and me as both of us will be giving up elements of our position to implement an acceptable solution. If all of that wouldn’t have worked in resolving tensions between me and Mike, I could adopt competing strategy of conflict management which would require me to remind Mike about his percentage of equity in the company and that I, being 50% equity holder in the company, have the upper hand in decision making (Dotingney, 2013). 4. The best option available to Ockham to develop systems for IBM in the given time period is to hire system developers and ask them to work in-house. This would be beneficial as it will lower the costs involved in the system development and enable Ockham to use the hired team for future projects. This would also reduce costs involved in

Critically examine the internationational expansion strategy for Essay

Critically examine the internationational expansion strategy for Starbucks.Discuss the motivations for the expansion and the app - Essay Example Through the expansion, the company has focused to create a strong network across the US, while expanding further to the new locations worldwide. This report would look into the strategic management of the company with a profound insight into its core competencies and international expansion strategies. The effectiveness of its leader has been discussed to show the contribution in the company’s success by implementing appropriate strategies. Strengths and Strategies which have emerged as the Core Competencies of the Company Starbucks has a number of strengths which has emerged as the core competencies of the company. Starbucks has a corporate culture which has encouraged the innovation and creativity within the organisation. The organisation does not have any formal organisation chart with a proper hierarchy structure. Starbucks has several departments, functional departments including marketing, finance, operations, supply chain and human resources. Apart from that, the compan y also has cross functional teams which encourages accumulated effort to achieve a common goal. The decision making process in this organisation is bottom up process where the employees are authorised to take the decisions without even referring back to the upper management. This has encouraged innovation and creativity at the employee level. The employees are treated as family members and as partners. The company relies on the employees to offer a differentiated experience to its customers. With this organisational structure, the company has excelled in introducing new products and ideas. The employees had stock options on the company shares. Moreover, employee training is another significant arena which can be seen as the core competence of the organisation. The marketing strategy is one of the significant strengths of the company. The organisation positions itself as a consumers’ place, which encourages the customers to visit the place again and again. The company customis es its stores depending on the specific locations, the stores are in. Another significant strength of Starbucks is that it positions itself as environment friendly. In the wake of environment awareness among the customers this positioning has helped the company to reach at its environment friendly customers. The company has a well known practice to make enough effort to comply with the environment. Starbucks try to be ethical in all its dealings. This has enables the company to gain from a good image among its customers. The large size of the company can also been seen as core competence of the company over its competitors. The sheer size of the company has allowed them to set the prices and has also helped the company to prevent the growth of other competing organisations. The world, specifically the people in the United States look at the Starbucks and its associates as the producer of high end coffees. Moreover, the consumers look at the company as the biggest and the best in the business, it is in. This can also been see

Breaking Out of Paris Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Breaking Out of Paris - Essay Example The stories I could tell you about one celebrity, where he liked to go, and what he liked to do once he got there: you’d be amazed. I was never going to marry any of them, I was just there for the money. I could tell as soon as I went into their house what was sellable, when the maid would be stuck upstairs all day, and how we were going to break in the back and take the lot. Jones was different. He put his hand past me, to lean on the bar, and started quoting me long lines from Surrealist pamphlets and telling me about the freedom of the individual, every few minutes ordering himself another drink, and insisting that I join him. . I don’t know where, or how, but somewhere along the line, I ended up in his room. Once he was asleep, dreams considerably assisted by the consumption of so many cocktails, I went through his things. I know, I know, and you can judge me all you want, but I don’t pretend to be anything more than what I am: a cheap tart with sticky fingers. I have some very pretty dresses though, and I like nice things. As I opened his case, I saw instantly that my first assumptions had been right, and he was not the wealthy young businessmen he pretended to be. There had to have been more than five passports in there, none of them in the name of Cadillac Jones, and each giving a different nationality. I remember staring at the pictures, watching them go fuzzy, and then I don’t remember anything until the next morning. I thought at first he had slipped me a mickey, and I reached out my hand certain that my purse would be gone. Instead, there was a note pinned to the inside: It wasn’t any trouble to get in to see him: I think he knew deep down that this would happen, and he had gone out to find the right women, the thieves and gangs, who could help him pick that lock and walk away. I had thought our meeting a coincidence. Now I know it was as carefully planned and plotted as everything else. He greeted me

Final Exam - Marketing Audit Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

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A Nation of Drunkards Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

A Nation of Drunkards - Assignment Example It is evidently clear from the discussion that the White Southerners feared that drinking would turn their Black neighbors into criminals. This drinking according to the temperance reformers created anger and sorrow, which eventually resulted in the destruction of many families and marriages. In other words, the drunkards out of anger and sorrow mistreated their wives and children. Burns and Novick imply that drinking was considered a symbol of masculinity and yet again it often ruined masculinity’s key obligation and expectations, which is an individual’s capability to provide support to their family. In addition, the National Prohibition depicted a coincidence resulting from a combination of certain aspects. These aspects included the Anti-Saloon League’s political skill, and the formulation and implementation of an amendment to the constitution of the federal government, which resulted to the formation of an income tax (ensuring that drink taxes were rendered inappropriate). It also included the entrance of the American nation into the world war one, a factor that led to the demonization of the German-American brewers. Generally, these explanations made by Burns and Novick are the factors that led to the assumptions that the National Prohibition had a high probability of being self-enforcing.

Nursing Philosophy Essay Example for Free

Nursing Philosophy Essay Introduction Philosophy originates with the Greek word philosophia, which translates as the love of wisdom. Philosophers are engaged in inquiry concerning the search for truth, the nature of universe and the meaning of human experience. Welch Polifroni(1999). The aim of this paper is to compare and contrast the philosophical paradigms of Realism, Antirealism, Phenomenology , Postmodernism. To relate the Empiricism, Positivism, Historicism, and Relativism to the nature of scientific truth. Moreover, to discuss the significance of truth for nursing as a profession and as a science. The various paradigms are characterized by ontological, epistemological and methodological differences in their approaches to conceptualizing and conducting research, and in their contribution towards disciplinary knowledge construction. Weaver, and Olson. (2006). Table 1 illustrate theses differences between these philosophical paradigms. Realism and Antirealism Realism has an ontology which states that the structures creating the world cannot be directly observed. Its epistemology is that appearances do not necessarily reveal the mechanisms which cause these appearances, and its methodology therefore  involves the construction of theories which can account for these appearances. Wainwright,S. ( 1997). Realism, in the Aristotelian, holds that things and individuals have existence independent of human thought and that this extra-mental world is intelligible and forms a basis for evaluating propositions about the world. Whelton,B. (2002) 2 Philosophy course –First Assignment Positivism collapses the world into a single plane of events. In contrast, realism recovers the ontological depth between the three stratified domains and thereby establishes relations of natural necessity rather than the relations of logical necessity  (universality). Wainwright,S. ( 1997). Relevance of Realism to Nursing Realism proposes a common ontology and epistemology for the natural and social sciences. Realism enables the traditional natural and social science division in subjects like geography, psychology, medicine and nursing to be bridged. Realism can therefore provide ontological and epistemological basis for nursing. Wainwrigh( 1997). On the other hand, the interest her in the causal and epistemological ingredients of scientific realism because they support the claim that explanations are important in nursing science  and practice and that the aim of scientist is to discover better and better explanations. Gortner, and Schumacher,(1992). Relevance of Antirealism to Nursing It the positivist antirealism that make their views inappropriate for nursing science. It is not possible in positivism to deal with subjective aspects of person, nor with perceived relational processes, nor with explanations without translating them into physiological states or behaviors. One of the most serious consequences of an antilrealist construction of theories is that theories cannot explain. One of the major distinction  between scientific realism and antirealism is the way in which theoretical entities are understood. In the language of scientific realism the term theoretical entities usually means unobservable entities, states, or processes. The antirealists deny the existence of 3 Philosophy course –First Assignment unobservable entities or process. Antirealist assert that the notion of truth or falsity is relevant to observation even though it is not relevant to theory. Gortner, and Schumacher,(1992). Phenomenology For Edmund Husserl, phenomenology is the reflective study of the essence of  consciousness as experienced from the first-person point of view Phenomenology, founded by Edmund Husserl, promotes the idea that the natural world is largely shaped by the human mind. Wikipedia, (2007). Phenomenology is philosophical movement whose primary objective is the direct investigation and description of phenomena as consciously experienced. It remains different from and in opposition to positivism because it is a theoretical, non causal, and attempts to be free of supposition. Welch(1999) P243). Postmodernism The essence of truth lies within the individual and the individual may change or  later alter that view dependent on the context and the circumstances. Thus, the postmodern worldview is that truth neither singular nor multiple; it is personal and highly individualized and contextually driven. Welch Polifoni (1999)p-58) The Significance of Truth for Nursing as a Profession and as a Science. Science, philosophy and philosophy of science are all topics of great significance to nursing†¦the need to examine issues of what it means to know, what truth is, how we know and what can be learned from science and philosophy is central to growth in the 4 Philosophy course –First Assignment  discipline. Simultaneously, it is imperative that nurse scholars gain understanding of the divers scientific and philosophic traditions that have influenced the development of nursing knowledge in order to develop and enhance our science, our discipline and our profession. †. Welch and Polifroni (1999(p-1)) Philosophy of science in nursing seeks to understand truth, to examine prediction, causality and law, to critically relate theories, models and scientific systems. Theses goals are accomplished through the methods of philosophic inquiry of reflection and dialogue. Welch Polifroni(1999(p-5)). In order to understand what truth is, Welch Polifroni(1999) discussed the sources of truth ( Intuition, Authority, Tradition, Common Sense and Science)as well as the theories of truth such as correspondence theory; coherence theory; pragmatic theory; semantic and performative theory. These theories gave different interpretations for truth, for instance, correspondence theory suggests that truth is related to and correspond with reality, the truth is achieved through perceptions of the world, on the other hand for coherence theory, the truth is true if it is coherent while for the pragmatic theory the  truth is relative and related to the practicality and workableness of a solution. According to Newman, Sime and Corcoran-Perry(1991):’’ Nursing is the study of caring in the human health experience†¦nursing body of knowledge includes caring and human health experience. A body of knowledge that does not include caring and human health experience is not nursing knowledge. †. Truth can be achieved through knowing principles and causes of the natural kind behind phenomena. It is proposed that humans are the natural kind behind nursing phenomena. Thus, human nature provides proper principles (the truth) of nursing 5  Philosophy course –First Assignment practice†¦. It is proposed that it is knowledge of human nature that provides principles of human action, and thus human nature is a source of practical truth in nursing. Whelton . (2002). The realist ontological position assumes that an objective world exists independently of our knowledge, beliefs , theories or descriptions about it. This reality exists whether or not we can experience it or have conceptions of its nature. In contrast, several nonrealist positions have also been advanced, incorporating a wide variety of philosophical views pertaining to truth. These positions reject ontological and/or  epistemological realism, and therefore truth cannot be related to an external reality . Lomborg and Kirkevold (2003). However, Gortner and Schumacher (1992 )stated that ‘’ Nursing scholars can explore scientific realism for the insights it may provide for nursing science â€Å". Moreover, Gortner and Schumacher (1992) proposed that â€Å" Scientific realism is relevant to nursing science in the following ways: (1) It supports the full range of nursing theory; (2) It affirms the importance of including subjective client states in nursing theory and refutes the claim of the positivists that if it is not observable, it does not exist. ;(3) It adds the idea of the substantive content of explanations to discussion about forms of explanation;(4) It includes the notion of truth as a regulative ideal in science and claims that better theories are theories that are closer to the truth†. 6 Philosophy course –First Assignment Relate the Empiricism, Positivism, Historicism, and Relativism to the nature of scientific truth Positivism Positivist approaches are founded on an ontology that the things we experience are things that exist. Its epistemology requires that this experience is verified through the  deductive methodology of the `scientific method Wainwright,S. ( 1997). The positivistic philosophy of science will for example argue that scientific knowledge is objective and should be verified accordingly. Nyatanga(2005). The Relevance of Positivism to Nursing : It the positivist antirealism that make their views inappropriate for nursing science. It is not possible in positivism to deal with subjective aspects of person, nor with perceived relational processes, nor with explanations without translating them into physiological states or behaviors. One of the most serious consequences of an antilrealist  construction of theories is that theories cannot explain. Gortner, and Schumacher, (1992). EMPIRICISM Empiricism in its classical sense was a philosophical doctrine that considered observation to be the foundation of knowledge. Gortner and Schumacher(1992). Contemporary empiricism is a paradigm that has the ability to facilitate the application of the scientific facts learned from empirical methods within the appropriate context by taking interpretative knowledge into account†¦ It thus seems apparent that a broader view of scientific knowledge is required, and this is where contemporary views of 7  Philosophy course –First Assignment empiricism are more applicable to the practice of nursing. However, before reviewing the basic tenets of contemporary empiricism, there is a need to provide an overview of interpretive methods and their ability to provide a context or structure for the use of empirical knowledge. Pluralism supports the assumption of contemporary empiricism that human responses can be identified, measured and understood even considering their complex nature. Therefore, an important part of nursing knowledge acquisition includes a synthesis of the data in order to better understand the  synergistic effects of the whole, which cannot be learned simply by studying its parts. Traditional empiricism provides a basis for the study of certain types of knowledge that have made important contributions to the science of nursing. Giuliano,K. ( 2003) The strength of contemporary empiricism is that it values traditional empirical knowledge but takes interpretive knowledge into account in order to provide a context for the appropriate application of that knowledge. The pluralistic nature of contemporary empiricism gives it the ability to bridge the gap between the facts of scientific  knowledge and the use of scientific knowledge in order to facilitate the application of all types of nursing knowledge. Giuliano,K. ( 2003). HISTORICISM The main protagonist of historicism is Kuhn. He was dismayed to find that traditional accounts of the philosophy of science bore no comparison with historical 8 Philosophy course –First Assignment evidence. He then set out to establish a theory of the philosophy of science in keeping with historical evidence as he saw it (hence the term historicism). Nyatanga (2005). Relativism Epistemological relativism view of truth and falsity in general are relative. An epistemological relativist denies that anything at all can be known with certainty. According to hard core epistemological relativism, everything is a matter of opinion, including science. In this view of truth, nursing science has much knowledge that is derived from opinion and personal experience and consequently it is relative knowledge. Summary The importance and significance of the philosophical world views of realism, antirealism, phenomenology , postmodernism, positivism, empiricism, relativism and historicism for nursing science and profession were explored in this paper. However, this  area need more detailed exploration through our philosophy course in order to understand the similarities and differences between these philosophical worldviews and how we can integrate this knowledge in our practice and education. 9 Philosophy course –First Assignment References Giuliano,K. (2003). Expanding the use of empiricism in nursing: can we bridge the gap between knowledge and clinical practice? Nursing Philosophy. 2003,4, pp. 44–52. Gortner,S. and Schumacher,K. (1992). (Mis)conception and Reconceptions about Traditional Science. Advances in Nursing Science, 1992, 14(4):1-11 Lomborg,K. and Kirkevold,M.(2003). Truth and validity in grounded theory – a reconsidered realist interpretation of the criteria: fit, work, relevance and modifiability. Nursing Philosophy, 2003,4, pp. 189–200. Newman,M. , Sime, A. , and Cororan-Perry. .(1991)The Focus of the Discipline of Nursing. Advances in Nursing Science,(1991),14(1)1-6. Nyatanga, L. (2005). Nursing and the philosophy of science. Nurse Education Today (2005) 25, 670–674 Wainwright, S. ( 1997). A new paradigm for nursing: the potential of realism. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 1997, 26, 1262-1271 Weaver, K. and Olson, J. (2006). Understanding paradigms used for nursing  research. Journal of Advanced Nursing 2006 Vol. 53 Issue 4 pages 459–469 10 Philosophy course –First Assignment Welch,M. and Polifoni,E. (1999) . Perspectives on Philosophy of Science in Nursing. An Historical and Contemporary Anthology. Copyright 1999. Lippincott Williams Wilkins . Whelton,B. (2002) Human nature as a source of practical truth: Aristotelian–Thomistic realism and the practical science of nursing. Nursing Philosophy,2002, 3, pp. 35–46 Wikipedia, (2007). Phenomenology. Wikipedia the free encyclopedia. Retrieved October 15, 2007, from http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Phenomenology.

Ramayana and Diwali Essay Example for Free

Ramayana and Diwali Essay Festivals are the lifeblood of all nations. They add charm and thrill to our humdrum life. India being a melting-pot of religious race an d cultures, it has a plethora of festivals and feasts. Among these, Diwali perhaps is the most pan-Indian festival celebrated with great pomp and mirth throughout the length and breadth of the country, largely in Northern and Central India. Diwali, better known as Deepawali among the Indian masses, is a festival of lights. There are many reasons why Diwali is celebrated. It’s not just the festive mood in the air that makes us happy, or just that it’s a great time to enjoy before the advent of winter. The Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi incarnated on the new moon day of the Kartik month, hence Diwali is associated with Lakshmi. It is also believed that Diwali is connected with the triumph of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasur However, the most prevalent belief is that the festival marks the victory of Lord Ram over Ravana. On this day, it is believed that Rama came back to Ayodhya after his victory over the evil king of Lanka, Ravana who had taken away his wife Sita. People greatly rejoiced the return of their beloved prince. They lighted up whole Ayodhya with earthen lamps, decorated their houses and welcomed them with pomp and ceremony. The present day celebration of Diwali is held in remembrance of this event. Diwali is generally celebrated in late October or early November, soon after the rainy season is over. A lot of preparation goes in before the actual festival. Houses are cleansed, white washed and painted. Every nook and corner of the house is swept clean. Thereafter, in the evening earthen lamps and decorative lights are put in and around the house giving an atmosphere of joy and happiness. As the night approaches, children and people light up the sky with their firecrackers. The streets and markets bear a dazzling look. Illumination of every hue and color light up shops and buildings. Thus, there is gaiety, cheerfulness, merrymaking and fun everywhere. There is joy on every face. On this day every one puts on their best dress which has been purchased well in advance. Special meals and sweets are prepared. People exchange greetings and share sweets and meals as a mark of friendship and brotherhood. The festival of Diwali teaches us many values of life. More than anything else this festival symbolizes the ultimate victory of good over evil. It teaches us that one day or other the evil existing in this world would be subdued by goodness and righteousness. Rama’s obedience to parents, Sita’s faithfulness,  Lakshman’s unflinching love for his brother, etc. teach us many noble lessons of life. The festival is a national festival celebrated by everyone irrespective of caste, creed and race. It therefore, promotes unity, common brotherhood, and communal harmony. Hence, in a world like ours, broken by narrow domestic walls of religious fanaticism and social disharmony, a festival like Diwali can bring people together, heal wounds, and can help in fostering national integration. Diwali is thus, my favorite festival.

Causes of Prion Diseases

Causes of Prion Diseases Prion diseases or transmissible spongiform encephalopathys can be inheritable or transmissible, a common feature of the prion disease involves the change of the prion protein (PrPc) to the isoform PrPsc (Hu et al, 2007). Prion propagation involves a mechanism that changes PrPc to PrPsc in an autocatalytic way (Harris and True, 2006). PrPc is said to be the normal prion protein and PrPsc the scrapie isoform which is the mutagenic Prion protein said to be the un-normal form. Prion diseases can occur in both humans and animals, an though in humans they are particularly rare (Hur et al, 2002). They are known to be fatal neurodegenerative diseases (Hur et al, 2002). Hur et al (2002) said that the reason that there has become an increased interest in Prion diseases in science and health is because they are biologically different in their features compared with other known neurodegenerative diseases and that there are many gaps in the knowledge of prion diseases, for example the pathogenesi s, what causes the mutagenic prion protein and where prion diseases first arose from . The PrPsc isoform which is known to be the most common feature of the prion disease is dominated by a beta sheet containing strong hydrogen bonds and this structure is twisted, many researchers have found that the strong hydrogen bonds make this isoform resistant to digestion protein kinase k meaning that this protein can build up particularly in the brain tissue causing neuronal damage and therefore possibly leading to prion diseases. (Harris and true, 2006). Hu et al (2007) said that because the PrPsc isoform is protein kinase k resistant it isnt broken down and therefore increasingly accumulates in the brain tissue of patients with prion diseases and causes further neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative diseases commence from the build up and the wrong conformational folding of a protein, the biological activity of a protein depends on its correct folding in the native conformation (Soto et al, 2002). Strong evidence has been shown that protein misfolding plays a major role in transmissible spongiform encephalopathy pathogenesis (Soto et al, 2002). There are many different types of prion diseases that have been found in both humans and animals one example includes Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and another example is Kuru (Hu et al, 2007). Examples of prion diseases concerned with animals include scrapie. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy is also an animal prion disease which is also referred to as mad cow disease (Hu et al, 2002). Different forms of prion diseases both human and animal forms are associated with different forms of PrPsc (Soto et al, 2002). Many mutations in the PrPsc protein in prion disease have been found and linked to the different forms of Prion disease. The polymorphism at codon 129 has been found to play a major role in the phenotypic expression of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease which is the most frequent type of Prion disease (Mikol, 1999). Mutations and insertions have been found to be involved in another from of human prion disease known as familial Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (Mikol 1999). A common mutation at cod on 178 had been found in the first case. Kuru is an acquired from of the prion disease, this can be characterised by kuru plaques which have been found in seventy percent of cases (Mikol, 1999). There has become recent interest in the kuru disease because of an increased resistance to this diseases. Kuru has the characteristic of quickly degenerating the central nervous system and it is fatal (Goldfarb, 2002). There was an outbreak of kuru which killed many people in new guinea most of these people were from a small area populated by a culture known as fore people (Goldfarb, 2002). It is not widely known how Prion diseases first developed in humans and animals but it is thought that kuru became transmitted to humans via cannibalism (Goldfarb, 2002). It was pursued in this culture to eat relatives who had died , therefore resulting in human to human transmission (Mead et al, 2009). By the late 1950s there was a stop to cannibalism and correlating with this the umber of people dying w ith kuru decreased also no person after the `1950,s had developed Kuru (Goldfarb, 2002). However how kuru first appeared in the fore people is still unclear, but a conclusion has been made that the kuru epidemic must have started with a single person who died from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and then was eaten by traditional cannibalism . Many studies have aimed to find the mutations involved in Kuru. The methionine/valine variation encoded by the 129 codon in the PRNP gene has been recorded in many Kuru patients, a recent study has shown that the 129 genotype is associated with an increased vunerability to Kuru (Goldfarb, 2002). Goldfarb 2002 found that in the fore culture the 129 genotype methionine/methionine was the most common in patients suffering from Kuru at an early age and that a change to methionine/valine showed that Kuru developed at a later age. Methionine/valine, valine/valine carriers survived the Kuru epidemic, codon 129 heterogeneity is thought to therefore be a resi stance factor for Kuru disease (Mead et al, 2009). Mead et al also studied another polymorphism which was thought to be linked to kuru, the G127V polymorphism. They concluded that this G127V gene is an agent gained that provides resistance to Kuru in a heterogeneous state and isnt a mutation which could have caused the Kuru epidemic (Mead et al, 2009). Many hypothesise have been developed in order to try and explain prion diseases, however none have been fully accepted. The most common hypothesis is the Prion hypothesis which suggests that the agent causing neurodegeneration is the prion protein but the mutagenic form which escapes protein kinas k digestion and remains in brain tissue causing neuronal damage (Yull et al, 2008).The Prion hypothesis states that the infectious agent of prion diseases is an abnormally folded isoform of the prion protein (PrPsc) that replicates its abnormal conformation (Baskakov and Breydo, 2006). Strong evidence has been shown that protein misfolding has a major role in transmissible spongiform encephalopathy pathogenesis (Soto et al, 2002). A number of hypotheses have been made in order to try and explain the pathogenesis of prion diseases, they all correlate to the prion protein hypothesis indicating that the mutated prion protein PrPsc is involved in the pathogenesis. One hypothesis links the pathogenesis to oxidative stress and suggests that PrPc is involved in making sure that cells dont become damaged by oxidative stress (Westergard, 2007). The change in the function of PrPc for example by a mutation/ misfolding may therefore be linked to the role in disease (Westergard, 2007). Oxidants are produced as the result of another action in respiration usually via abnormal anaerobic respiration in many people with neurodegenerative diseases (Hur et al, 2002). Levels of MDA can indicate oxidative stress, this is a reactive aldehyde which causes toxic stress in cells and as a result generates the production of free radicals, levels, levels of MDA have been found a higher levels in scrapie infected mice showing an involvement of oxidative stress (Hur et al, 2002).. It has therefore been suggested that the normal prion protein PrPc protects cells from oxidative stress and therefore an abnormal form of this protein will allow oxidative stress and therefore cause damage to neurones and therefore leading to prion diseases (Westergard, 2007). Evidence has also been found that the PrPc protein has SOD (Superoxide dimutase) activity and that the PrPc uses detoxification to remove any reactive oxygen species that could cause oxidative damage in cells, however other studies have found evidence against this therefore further work needs to be done to confirm this. One way that the PrPc protein has been found to stop oxidative damage is indirectly by increasing the cell components such as proteins, for example a combination of copper-zinc SOD that can remove and damage and circulating reactive oxidative species, therefore a mutated from of the prion protein would ail to do this meaning that oxidative species remain in brain tissue causing neuronal damage (Westergard et al, 2007). However Westergard et al (2007) said that these results had failed to become repetitive in other scientific research. Copper may also be involved in the pathogenesis of prion diseases. Copper is a substance necessary to the function of many enzymes (Westergard et al, 2007). Abnormal metabolisms in the body have been linked with many neurodegenerative diseases, it is thought that copper ions can change the properties of the normal prion protein (Westergard, 2007). Hur et al (2002) have reported that iron is involved in neurodegenerative diseases, scientists have shown that the amount of fe3+ is much higher in the brains of scrapie infected people, fe3+ is needed for free radical formation , concluding that there is a link to oxidative stress and neuronal damage therefore contributing to prion diseases (Hur et al, 2002). A role of the immune system in the propagation of prion diseases ahs been studied and suggests that inflammatory processors for example cytokines play a part in causing neuronal damage in prion diseases (Hur et al, 2002). The role of PrPc and the immune system still remains unknown(Hur et al, 2002). Although many hypotheses have been suggested many are still unclear. Other models for example the cells death model which links necrosis and apoptosis to the formation of a prion disease are still unclear further research needs to be done to support this model. To conclude many scientists have found that the PrPsc protein is the main cause of neuronal damage in patients. Mutations have been researched to find out the mutations linked to the disease. It is unclear of the pathogenesis of prion diseases as many hypotheses have been suggested. How prion diseases first arose is still unclear and how they are transmitted is still undergoing scientific research. References Baskakov I.V, Breydo L, 2007, Converting the prion protein: what makes the protein infectious. Cohen.F.E, 1999, Protein Misfolding and prion disease, Academic press. Goldfarb.L.G, 2002, Kuru; the old epidemic in a new mirror, Elsevier. Harris.D.A, True.H.L, 2006, New insights into prion structure and toxicity, Elsevier inc. Hur.K, Kim.J, Choir.S, Choir.E.K, Carp.R, Kim.Y.S, 2002, The pathogenic mechanisms of prion disease, Elsevier science. Hu.W, Kieseir.B, Frohman.E, Eagar.T.N, Rodger.N.R, Hartung.H.P, Stuve, 2007, Prion proteins: Physiological functions and role in neurological disorders, journal of neurological sciences. Mead.S, Whitfield.M.A, Poulter.M, Shah.P, Uphill J, Campbell, Al-Dujaily, Hummerich.H, Beck.J, Mein.C.A, Verzilli.C, Whittaker.J, Alpers.M.P, Collinge.J, 2009, A Novel Protective Prion Protein Variant that Colocalizes with Kuru Exposure, Massachusetts Medical Society. Mikol.J., 1999, Neuropathology of prion diseases, Elsevier science. Soto.C, Sabotio.G.P, Anderes.L, 2002, Cyclic amplification of protein misfolding: application to prion related disorders and beyond, Elsevier science. Westergard.L, Christensen H.M, Harris D.A, 2007, The cellular prion protein (PrPc):Its physiological function in disease, Elsevier. Yull.H.M, Ironside J.W, Head.M.W, 2009, Further characterisation of the prion protein molecular types detectable in the NIBSC Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease brain reference materials, Elsevier science.

The American Education System Essay -- Education Reform

To understand how to solve a problem, we must first understand what we are trying to fix. For example, can a carpenter without any medical experience repair a heart valve? Of course not, he or she must first obtain the proper education necessary to perform such a complex operation. The same can be said about the American education system. Throughout America’s history parents, educators, and government officials have been debating what changes must be implemented for American children to receive every opportunity possible to gain an education that will prepare them for the future. However, these cries for reform are so demanding that many times the reforms created to please the people are pushed through so fast that consequences are never completely considered. These latest cries for reform came after the annual report by Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) was released in December 2010 stating that 15-year-old American students ranked average in mathematics, reading, writing, and science (Duncan, 2010). â€Å"Average† might not be much of an alarm to many; however, when companies, such as Microsoft, have to hire software engineers from other countries to fill positions because American’s are unqualified, it brings everything to another level (Guggenheim & Chilcott, 2010). The use of standardized, multi-choice, fill in the bubble tests to hold schools accountable for what is taught within their walls has become detrimental to the education system. Standardized testing is designed for a system of equality for which the school system is not. Teachers and schools cannot be held to the same accountability as other schools when there exists no equality in them in regards to budgets, resources, qualifications of teachers, ... ...earning, to be educated by those of a greater understanding. If children are to have the ability to contribute to society, and be able to succeed in life, a proper education must be made available to them. Not an education of learning how to take tests, but one of knowledge - an education given to them that teaches them how to apply mathematics in their lives, to use the sciences to understand the world around them, and to be able to read and be enlightened by its message. The public school is a place that students should want to go, hunger to go. It should not be a place of stress or fear due to an upcoming test. It needs to be a place where all have the freedom and opportunity to learn. Standardized tests had their moment in time; now the focus needs to be turned to a more in-depth education of understanding how to apply their knowledge to their everyday lives.

Recidivism of Sex Offenders Essay -- Adult Sex Offender Recidivism

Sex offenders have been a serious problem for our legal system at all levels, not to mention those who have been their victims. There are 43,000 inmates in prison for sexual offenses while each year in this country over 510,000 children are sexually assaulted(Oakes 99). The latter statistic, in its context, does not convey the severity of the situation. Each year 510,000 children have their childhood's destroyed, possibly on more than one occasion, and are faced with dealing with the assault for the rest of their lives. Sadly, many of those assaults are perpetrated by people who have already been through the correctional system only to victimize again. Sex offenders, as a class of criminals, are nine times more likely to repeat their crimes(Oakes 99). This presents a problem for the public, as potential victims, and the legal system which is entrusted by the public for protection. It would be irresponsible for the legal system to ignore the criminal class of sex offenders, for they are subject to a recurring physiological urge that requires the use of effective restraints that would curb the habitual repetition of episodes producing the harmful consequences to the public(Schopf 95). In light of this realization, steps beyond treatment have been taken to reduce the recidivism rate of sex offenders. Notification laws, special supervising techniques by parole officers, and both surgical and chemical castration are techniques used in various forms in this country and abroad with success. However, notification laws and both forms of castrations have not come about without criticism on constitutional grounds. Any criticism should take into account the extraordinary recidivism rates found only in the criminal class of the s... ...Interpersonal Violence, Vol. 15. pp. 279-290 Martin, R. (1996). Pursuing Public Protection Through Mandatory Community Notification of Convicted Sex Offenders: The Trials and Tribulations of Megan's Law. The Boston Public Interest Law Journal, Vol. 6, Issue 29 Oakes, S. (1999). Megan's Law: Analysis on Whether it is Constitutional to Notify the Public of Sex Offenders Via the Internet. The John Marshal Journal of Computer and Information Law Sampson, E. (1999). Supervising Sex Offenders: Alternatives to Incarceration, Bethpage, Vol. 5, pp.6-7 Schopf, S. (1995). "Megan's Law": Community Notification and the Constitution. Columbia Universtiy School Journal of Law and Social Problems, 29 Seto, M. & Barbaree, H. (1999). Psychopathy, Treatment Behavior, and Sex Offender Recidivism. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Vol. 14, pp.1235-1248

Octopus :: essays research papers

Recently, researchers have discovered the existence of an extremely unique type of octopus. The species, known as the Indo-Malayan octopus, has the ability to alter its shape, form, and color pattern to mimic or imitate other sea creatures in order to avoid predation (2). The discovery of the mimic octopus is noteworthy because no other type of cephalopod is known to have impersonation abilities. The octopus is also not limited to one imitation. Researchers have observed up to eight different formations. The alternations occur depending upon the appetite, surrounding environment, and proximity of predators the octopus encounters (1). In analyzing the formations, behaviors, and predators of the mimic octopus, it is important to isolate the origins of this exclusive, and highly intelligent defense mechanism. Is this means of protection or evolutionary development, one that allows the cephalopod a better means of survival? Or is this the result of observed behaviors where the mimic oct opus becomes aware of the relations occurring in the environment, and successfully imitates a species based upon their ability to subsist when dealing with dangerous predators? The existence of mimic octopi is restricted to the islands of Indonesia, specifically off the coasts off Solawesi, and Bali (3). Surprisingly, the octopi have been viewed during the daylight hours, generally residing near sand tunnels, and holes (1). The octopi enjoy these mounds because they provide a significant source of food, including small worms, fish, and crustaceans. The octopus utilizes its arms to feel for prey, and then captures the food through the use of expanded webs. However, when the animal is attempting to hide itself from possible enemies, the Indo-Malayan octopus can transform itself into a variety of organisms, including fish, sea snakes, and anemones. If the octopus observes a cluster of damselfishes, it will change into a lionfish by swimming above the ocean floor, with arms extended beyond the body (2). The lionfish is known to possess poisonous spikes, which successfully deter the damselfish from preying upon the mimic octopus. Another possible transformation includes the sole fish. The octopus is able to propel itself in a similar manner by forming a leaf-shaped arm that moves it across the ocean floor effortlessly. The octopus's arms are also useful in impersonating the sea snake. Two arms are waved around to appear like a pair of snakes, while the other six are hidden from view. The octopus also changes its color and creates yellow and dark bands across the exposed arms.

The Effect of Hurricane Sandy on Jamaica

The Effects of Hurricane Sandy on Jamaica FOUNDATION SKILLS FOR GRADUATE MANAGEMENT EDUCATION The Three Main Effects of Hurricane Sandy that Affected Jamaica were Rainfall Induced Flooding, Storm Surges and Winds STEPHANIE SMITH Executive Summary On October 22, 2012, it was announced by The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM,)  that a tropical depression (Sandy) was headed towards the shores of Jamaica and that the arrival to our shores would be on October 24. On the 24th Sandy approached and the effects were devastating.The winds caused several trees to plummet, taking down power lines, utility poles and homes with them. The winds blew roof tops off and destroyed several produce causing a huge devastation to the agricultural sector. The rainfall caused several homes and roads impassible and even completely flooded a number of communities. The storm surges caused shores to be evacuated as the tides were too high and strong for shore home owners to weath er the storm. .† 70% of Jamaicans were without electricity after the passage of Sandy due to down power lines, fire and blown transformers.Many roads were impassible due to trees that had fallen. â€Å"Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Ian Hayles, says early estimates indicate that close to 11,000 farmers across the island have been affected by Hurricane Sandy, with some 1,500 hectares of crops â€Å"totally destroyed. † (Reynolds-Baker, 2012). † He goes on to highlight the breakdown of early estimates of damages that amounted to $700 million. . Understanding the effects such as wind damage, flooding and storm surges can better help us as Jamaicans and the Jamaican government to prepare for tropical depressions, storms and hurricanes.If the government takes short and long term steps along with its current hurricane initiative, it will reduce the amount of damages by a significant amount of dollars and the Jamaican society will b e able to bounce back from another episode of hurricane much faster. Thesis Statement: The Three Main Effects of Hurricane Sandy that Affected Jamaica were Rainfall Induced Flooding, Storm Surges and Winds On October 22, 2012, it was announced by The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM,)  that a tropical depression (Sandy) was headed towards the shores of Jamaica and that the arrival to our shores would be on October 24.Within a couple of hours Sandy had been upgraded to a tropical storm and Jamaica was put on tropical storm watch. This advisory was then upgraded on the 23rd to a tropical storm warning as a hurricane watch was issued. Jamaica was again upgraded from hurricane watch to warning sometime during the day on the 23rd, because as soon as Sandy touched landfall she will manifest into a hurricane. Wednesday approached and with it Sandy. The effects were devastating. The winds caused several trees to plummet, taking down power lines, utility pole s and homes with them.The winds blew roof tops off and destroyed several produce causing a huge devastation to the agricultural sector. The rainfall caused several homes and roads impassible and even completely flooded a number of communities. The storm surges caused shores to be evacuated as the tides were too high and strong for shore home owners to weather the storm. Classifications of Tropical Weather There are three main classifications of tropical weather activity: tropical depression, tropical storm and hurricane. The first official stage of a tropical classification is a tropical depression.AccuWeather explains that â€Å"a tropical depression forms when a low pressure area is accompanied by thunderstorms that produce a circular  flow with maximum sustained winds below 39 mph. Most tropical depressions have maximum sustained winds between 25 and 35 mph. † The second stage is the tropical storm which is an upgrade to the tropical depression where the cyclonic circula tions become more organized and has winds between 38 and 76 mph. â€Å"Tropical storm status is when the naming of the storm takes place.A tropical storm is then upgraded into Category 1 hurricane status as maximum sustained winds increase to between 74 mph and 95 mph (AccuWeather, 2010). † The main feature of a hurricane is wind. Tropical depressions and storms will have a lot of rainfall and calm winds, but once the winds pick up intensity it will quickly be classified into a hurricane. This is why the measure of hurricanes is done by its wind intensity. There are 5 ratings measured by The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale which is used to rate hurricane intensity in the Atlantic Basin.SAFFIR-SIMPSON SCALE| CATEGORY| WIND| DAMAGE POTENTIAL| 5| * 156| Catastrophic| 4| 131 – 155| Extreme| 3| 111 – 130| Extensive| 2| 96 – 110| Moderate| 1| 74 – 95| Minimal| Table 1: Saffir-Simpson Scale Within these 3 classifications, watches and warnings are issued. à ¢â‚¬Å"A watch lets you know that weather conditions are favorable for a hazard to occur while a warning requires immediate action (National Hurricane Center, n. d. ). † A tropical storm or hurricane watch occur when those conditions (mentioned above) are possible/likely to occur in that specified area.While, the tropical storm of hurricane warning take place when those conditions are expected to occur. Effects of Sandy â€Å"Wind is responsible for much of the structural damage caused by hurricanes. High winds, uproot trees and tear down power lines. The maximum winds from fast moving and powerful storms may remain high, even when the storm is well inland (The Weather Channel, n. d. ). † The aftermath of Sandy in Jamaica was the epitome of wind damage. â€Å"With storm force winds of up to 80miles per hour, Sandy left a trail of mainly wind damage in the central and eastern parishes (Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, 2012). 70% of Jamaicans were without e lectricity after the passage of Sandy due to down power lines, fire and blown transformers. Many roads were impassible due to trees that had fallen. A huge sector that was affected by winds was the agricultural sector. â€Å"Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Ian Hayles, says early estimates indicate that close to 11,000 farmers across the island have been affected by Hurricane Sandy, with some 1,500 hectares of crops â€Å"totally destroyed. † (Reynolds-Baker, 2012). The news article goes on to highlight the breakdown of early estimates of damages that amounted to $700 million. â€Å"Mr. Hayles explained that the total figure will be much more, when assessments for the parishes St. Thomas, Portland, St. Ann and Clarendon are completed (Reynolds-Baker, 2012). â€Å"The heavy rains associated with a tropical weather system are responsible not only for major flooding in areas where the storm initially strikes, but also can affect areas hundr eds of miles from where the storm originally made landfall (The Weather Channel, n. . ). † There was flooding in some communities following the passage of Sandy. Low lying areas in the St. Mary and Portland and St Ann’s suffered flooding. One community was totally marooned by floods. (Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, 2012). † The rainfall is a huge factor in damage done to roads. â€Å"The estimate of the damage done to roads and other infrastructure by those rains is just under $1. 1 billion. (OPM Communications Unit, 2012)†. This could be attributed to the poor construction and maintenance or roads and drainage systems.Homes that were built on gully banks were at high risk from flooding and wind. â€Å"Storm surge is a rapid rise in the level of water that moves onto land as the  eye  of the storm makes landfall. Once the edge of the storm reaches the shallow waters of the continental shelf, water piles up. Winds of hurricane strength force the water onto shore. (The Weather Channel, n. d. ). † The Jamaican government ordered the evacuation of coast as they knew that Sandy came with it storm surges that would be a devastating factor to home owners and fishermen on the coastlines.Conclusion and Recommendation Since Jamaica is in a tropical zone where we are prone to a numerous amount of Hurricanes, we need to understand the effects and risks. Understanding the effects such as wind damage, flooding and storm surges can better help us as Jamaicans and the Jamaican government to prepare for tropical depressions, storms and hurricanes. Understanding the type of weather system prepares us even further; whether depression or storm prepare for more flooding than wind damage and hurricane more wind damage than flooding.The government needs to put policies and proper processes in place on a long term basis to prepare for hurricanes. The government needs to review building codes such as living in flood prone areas and living on gully sides. They also need to urge persons pursuing construction as well as the National Works Agency (NWA) to properly fix and pave the Jamaican roads. It makes no sense for roads to be fixed one month in advance of a hurricane and during a hurricane the roads get a washed away. The government also needs to put and maintain proper drainage systems.The needs to place a sufficient amount drains to handle the water build up as well as when roads are paved over the relevant companies close the drains that were once in place. On a more short term basis, the government needs to trim trees or urge citizens to trim trees that are close and over hanging utility lines. This will lessen the number of fallen poles and lines rapidly. If the government takes these steps along with its current hurricane initiative, it will reduce the amount of damages by a significant amount of dollars and the Jamaican society will be able to bounce back from another episode of hurricane much faster.R eferences AccuWeather. (2010, July 22). What's the Difference Between a Tropical Depression, Tropical Storm and Hurricane. Retrieved November 6, 2012, from AccuWeather. com: http://www. accuweather. com/en/weather-news/whats-the-difference-between-a/34388 Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency. (2012, October 28). CDEMA Situation Report #3 – Hurricane Sandy. Retrieved November 6, 2012, from reliefweb: http://reliefweb. int/report/jamaica/cdema-situation-report-3-hurricane-sandy Irie FM. (2012, October 23).Education Ministry orders all schools closed tomorrow. Retrieved November 6, 2012, from IrieFM. net: http://www. iriefm. net/news/headline/education-ministry-orders-all-schools-closed-tomorrow Jamaica Observer. (2012, October 23). Early Closure of Tax Offices. Retrieved Novermber 6, 2012, from The Jamaica Observer: http://www. jamaicaobserver. com/news/Early-closure-for-Tax-Offices Live Jamaica. (2012, October 23). Education Ministry Orders Schools Closed Tomorrow. R etrieved November 6, 2012, from Live Jamaica Updates:

Education Systems Around the World Essay

The United States excels in the creative aspect of schooling whereas Chinese students are much better at receiving direct instruction. Japanese students have very high test scores and a very high university attendance, but in Australia more students go into vocational schools or the workforce after high school. (Noel 99,102,103)The differences of education systems in the United States, China, Japan and Australia have created testable strengths and weaknesses. No country has found a perfect balance but each system has evolved to create workers suited to its respective nation. The United States is predominantly influenced by creativity but not as strongly in math and science. Expansions upon creative thought have brought in new products introduced to the market. (Noel, 36) In U. S. President Barack Obama’s State of the Union Address, Obama emphasizes the importance of specialized creative schools and additional funding of the arts in K-12 public schools, which was spelled out in his the â€Å"Reinvestment of Arts Education† Plan. Obama states, â€Å"The first step in winning the future is encouraging American innovation. None of us can predict with certainty what the next big industry will be or where the new jobs will come from. Thirty years ago, we couldn’t know that something called the internet would lead to an economic revolution. What we can do –– what America does better than anyone else –– is spark the creativity and imagination of our people. But if we want to win the future then we also have to win the race to educate our kids†¦ And so the question is whether all of us –– as citizens, and as parents –– are willing to do what’s necessary to give every child a chance to succeed. † (Noel, 65) The U.S. President sees the specialization, the pronounced freedom of creativity that America has been able to maintain for many years and how they have benefitted from it. The promotion of this frame of mind will allow ideas to surge and new technologies continue to be made. Although America is pleased with all this innovation, the United States consistently test low in both math and science compared to other nations. Notable author, Douglas Noel reports that the average scores of American students in international comparisons have â€Å"†¦often been below the average of developed countries. It the OECD’s Program for International Student Assessment 2003, 15 year olds ranked 24th of 38 in mathematics, 19th of 38 in science, 12th of 38 in reading, and 26th of 38 in problem solving. † (Noel 80, 81, 82) With the majority of American students so far behind it is cause for concern as to whether the U. S. will continue to falter and what impact it will have on the future. Part of the problem with high schools is that with such a large country it is going to be that much more difficult to maintain a moderate academic curriculum. This problem was attempted to be solved with the â€Å"No Child Left Behind† Act but it is still inconclusive whether it is effective or not. (Noel, pp. 70) Dr. Schmidt, who oversees the research effort into the TIMSS results, says the actual cause for the failures appears to be weak math and science curricula in U. S. middle schools. He explains, â€Å"The public schools lack focus; instead of concentrating on education, they dabble in social re-engineering†. Not only are public schools the general blame but so are the curricula, the teacher and even the textbooks. But there is some good news; despite the â€Å"bad grades† in comparison to the world the United States makes up for their low-testing high schools with 19 of the top 25 universities in the world. People from around the world come to American Universities to become some of the most influential thinkers in the world. The immigration of intelligent people in the form of students from various other countries is, said by Bill Gates, to be â€Å"†¦our most powerful import. † (Noel 4, 5, 10, 77, 80) Although the United States lacks in math and science it is gung-ho in innovative fields, we see the complete opposite pros and cons experienced in China. The education foundation in China has been reformed since the rise of Deng Xiaoping (1978-89) and made significant progress; however, the large population of China produces great promise as well as great concern. (Chinese Education & Society) Since the end of the Cultural Revolution (1966–76), the education system in China has been geared toward economic modernization. The Great Leap Forward (1958–60) and the Socialist Education Movement (1962–65) sought to end deeply rooted academic elitism, to narrow social and cultural gaps between workers and peasants and between urban and rural populations, and to â€Å"rectify† the tendency of scholars and intellectuals to disdain manual labor. During the Cultural Revolution, universal fostering of social equality was an overriding priority. The post-Mao Zedong Chinese Communist Party leadership viewed education as the foundation of China. The reorientation of educational priorities paralleled Deng Xiaoping’s strategy for economic development. For this reason the Central Government has prioritized basic education as a key field of infrastructure construction and educational development. (Zhang) The Chinese government’s aim for the development of China’s basic education system was to approach or attain the level of moderately-developed countries by 2010, of which has been accomplished. Chinese higher education has continued to evolve. Since the late 1980s, tremendous economic development in China has stimulated reforms in higher education that have resulted in remarkable improvements. (Chinese Education and Society) The UNESCO world higher education report of June 2003 pointed out that the student population of China’s schools of higher learning had doubled in a very short period of time and had become the world’s largest. (Agelasto) In the beginning of the Enlightenment period, European science began to explode with new inventions and ideas. By this time, China had already invented the first compass, printing press and use of gunpowder (which were used for fireworks). (Chinese Education & Society) Today, there is not much to be said in terms of new technology in China. Much of the new tech now comes from the United States and Japan. (Noel, 3) Nonetheless, China does have the advantage (and disadvantage) of an enormous population. Innovative ideas and technology have not been prominent in China’s recent years. (Agelasto) With a population of over one billion people, China needs to find a way to bridge the productivity gap between emerging markets and the developed world; to truly transform themselves into innovative, energetic economies. Professor Xu Jialu, director of the College of Chinese. Language and Culture at Beijing University, told a meeting of university presidents in Hong Kong that China had achieved great success over the past 30 years. Jialu states, â€Å"Our overall economic output, which is fundamental to social advancement, is already ranked third in the world,† he said, â€Å"However, to sustain this extraordinary economic growth, China needs to nurture huge additional numbers of creative and talented people to maintain economic proficiency. † (Xue) China’s history and economy are what have shaped their education systems. China has transcended itself from a richly inventive, educated society to a Communist standard of economic modernization. Now that they have achieved an ideal economy, education will most likely be reformed again to the forefront; just as the tiny island to their East has done – Japan. Japan marvels its education prowess but has Japanese students stressing to meet high standards. Without including the devastating effects of the recent Earthquake-Tsunami incident that occurred in the spring of 2011, Japan has maintained extraordinarily high test results while enjoying a technologically advanced society. Japan continuously ranks the top 5 in international test scores. (Noel, 88) The test scores remain high because their primary and secondary schooling is decidedly efficient. As of 2005, more than 2. 8 million students were enrolled in 726 universities. (Gainey) The influx of students is explained through the emphasis on the importance of University level instruction. The Japanese workforce is now better equipped to manage career-related problems that require higher thought. As with all good things, the advancements have come at a great cost. In Japan, suicide is the leading cause of death among men aged 20-44 and women 15-34. Suicide in Japan is also somewhat romanticized as a traditional way of preserving one’s honor and avoiding shame. (Noel, 76) The National Police Agency informs that suicides in Japan topped 30,000 for the ninth consecutive year in 2006. In their suicide notes, 91 of them mentioned problems at school, an increase of 28. 2 percent from 2005 — the largest number since 1998 when the survey of this category began. (Gainey) With or without suicide notes, police attributed school-related problems to 242 suicides, nine more than in 2005. (Gainey) For many children, school has become a stressful environment to survive in. The social pressures to succeed help many students to succeed but the pressure is too much for others. Many countries strive for educational excellence whereas countries such as Australia are of a more relaxed nature. The educational system in Australia is a radical contrast to its Asian counterparts. Rather than attending a university, vocational training has become the beacon of education for students in Australia. Schooling beyond vocational training is difficult, costly and highly ostracized. (Horin) The training for vocational jobs requires less education than four year degree programs. They are also significantly less expensive – less than half of the cost of any of their Universities. Aussie student enrollment in a bachelor’s degree program spiked at 27% in 2010 while vocational enrollment maintains a continuous rise from 31% in 2000 to 35% in 2010. (Australia’s Guide to Education) This continuous incline of vocational training communicates the direction of progression of Australia’s youth, where the requirement of a bachelor’s degree appears to be unneeded in their society. Unfortunately, reports of low standards of education are on par with uneducated societies. 25% of Australian students do not complete grade 12 in Australia compared to 20 percent in the other 18 comparable countries such as Canada, Ireland, Austria, and Iceland. Scholastic apathy is hurting their workforce because considering the frequency in the number of high school drop outs every year they will see the rise of a serious problem emerging. The students that leave go to find jobs only to find more and more being taken by their fellow dropout colleagues. (Horin)Whether or not Australia is moving to make changes is unclear but once the dip shows itself evermore significant there will likely be public intervention which would be either expand the Australian job market or find a way to keep their students in the classrooms. We see that each country holds its own scholastic emphasis. The United States imports some of the best thinkers in the entire world. As China’s economy rises, its large population of workers stays busy generating revenue to invest more into education for the future. Japan has ranked the elite in scores by making education top priority. Australia currently enjoys significantly fewer educational burdens without much consequence in getting a job. Whether it is the progression of creative thought or early-on vocational training all these countries have their own specific sets of academic values specifically designed to best suit their current endeavors. Works Cited Agelasto, Michael. Higher Education in Post-Mao China. Hong Kong University Press, 1998. ISBN 9622094503. Print. 1 October, 2011. The quality of Chinese education and its advantages and disadvantages in economic prowess and student development. 2. â€Å"Educational Systems in Australia. † Australia’s Guide to Education. Nov. 2006. Web. 25 Sept. 2011. . Includes primary and secondary education in Australia and comparative statistics in contrast to other countries such as the United States. Also talks about vocational training programs. 3. Gainey, Peter. â€Å"The Japanese Education System: Globalisation and International Education. † Advanced Placement Source. EBSCO, Sept. 2002. Publication. 1 Oct. 2011. An overview of Japan’s education system and the impact on its students. Specifies the difficulties of secondary education and above. Horin, Adele. â€Å"Must try harder: Australia’s inequitable education system. † Sydney Morning Herald, The 02 Dec. 2006: 31. Newspaper Source Plus. EBSCO. Web. 17 Oct. 2011. An investigation of Australia’s education system which focuses on the lack of quality of education, including vocational school and international education/vocational training quality. 5. Noel, Douglas. Impact of Social Reform and Education on Sociological Development: a Comparison Of Education Systems Around the World. [S. l. ]: Xlibris, 2010. Print. 25 Sept. 2011. Compares education systems in every major country. Gives insight to literacy statistics, test scores and controversy. Asserts the notion of â€Å"better† or â€Å"needs improvement† comparisons against some countries, the United States, being one of low ratings. 6. â€Å"Various Documents Related to Chinese Education. † Chinese Education & Society 39, no. 6 (November 2006): 45-66. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost. Database. 25 Sept. 2011. The history of education in China. Over the years, China has had to reform its education system many times due to emperor dynasties, the Japanese invasion of Nanjing and the Communist Revolution. Even in the present many changes are being made. 7. Xue, Xing Hua Da. â€Å"Chinese Education & Society. † Education Research Complete. EBSCO, Nov. 2006. Article publication. 25 Sept. 2011. Chinese education and how it statistically compares to other countries such as the United States and Japan. It also relates to Chinese student frustrations in academic curriculum. Zhang, Yu. â€Å"Private Education in China: Issues and Prospects† Perspectives, Volume 4, No. 4, Dec. 31, 2003. Print. 25, Sept. 2011. The history of China and their education system from Communist China to present day and informs readers its current position in the world economy as a reliable result of Deng Xiopeng’s reformation.