Japan - Country Analysis Paper - 3869 Words

An Analysis on the Country of Japan Introduction: Japan, a relatively small nation in size, located in Eastern Asia between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan boasts a population of about 127,368,088 people; 10th most populated nation. It is quite hard to imagine how a country about the size of the state of California could have been positioned and was predicted to become the largest, most powerful economy in the world. Japan’s economy, in the years following World War II can be described as nothing short of a miracle. For three decades, the real GDP of the country grew at an unperceived rate: a 10% average in the 1960’s, a 5% average in the 1970’s, and a 4% average in the 1980’s (CIA World fact book,†¦show more content†¦However, the economy contracted again in 2011 as the massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake in March disrupted many business operations including manufacturing. Electricity supplies remain tight because Japan has temporarily shut down almost all of its nuclear power plants after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear reactors were crippled by the earthquake and resulting tsunami. Estimates of the direct costs of the damage - rebuilding homes, factories, and infrastructure - range from $235 billion to $310 billion, and GDP declined almost 0.5% in 2011. Furthermore, there is doubt to whether government stimulus will have a lasting effect in helping the economy recover in the long run. First of all, there is uncertainty in the outlook for exports of Japanese products which is due largely in part to the strong yen against other currencies; encouraging imports of products to grow more quickly than exports. In addition, heavy reliance of the Japanese market on exports leaves them in a risky position as they have neglected the downward pressures created with domestic demand being extremely low. This situation is only worsened with unemployment in Japan continuing to rise and decreasing salaries. As a Canadian investor, I would be extremely concerned wi th Japan’s current economy situation and would be cautious in investment. First of all, one would be aware of the strong yen which translates to a decreased profit for Canadian producers. Secondly, there is the factShow MoreRelatedThe Great East Japan Earthquakes Impact on the Japanese Financial System1576 Words   |  7 PagesGreat East Japan Earthquakes impact on the Japanese financial system Introduction Japan is located in an area where several tectonic plates meet. Earthquakes frequently strike the Japanese archipelago - minor tremors occur almost on a daily basis, while severe disasters - infrequently, yet they have had harsh consequences in terms of both direct and indirect impact on the economy, thus, on the financial system. Earthquakes are usually associated with devastation and losses, and Japan is no exceptionRead MoreEastern Clasico : Japan Korea Rivalry And The 2002 Fifa World Cup1177 Words   |  5 PagesEastern Clasico: Japan-Korea rivalry and the 2002 FIFA World Cup Joshua S. Manalo It is not new for East Asia to host a major international sporting event. Tokyo hosted the Game of the XVII Olympiad, more commonly known as the first Olympics in the continent of Asia in 1964 — and will be hosting it again in the year 2020 (Olympic Movement, n.d.). Japan then could have hosted the sporting event more than two decades earlier but it was cancelled due to its imperialist expansion and subsequently, theRead MoreJap Japan Country Analysis Essay898 Words   |  4 PagesRunning head: JAPAN COUNTRY ANALYSIS 1 JAPAN COUNTRY ANALYSIS 5 Japan Country Analysis Hieu Le Columbia Southern University Japan Country Analysis As an illustration, maintaining domestic equity status and raising global capital are the core aspects for MNEs to retain sufficient cash flows, merger and acquisitions, forming strategicRead MoreThe Population Of Japan And Japan758 Words   |  4 Pagespopulation of Japan has aged at a rate that is not what is generally seen, even in other countries which have large numbers of the population approaching retirement age. It is marked by two age group â€Å"crests†; the first of which can be seen between the ages of 60 to 69, and the second crest can be seen peaking between ages 40 to 44. The Statistics Bureau of Japan estimates that the population of people over the age of 65 comprises 25.8 per cent of the total population of the country currently, andRead MoreGlobal Business Cultural Analysis Of Japan Essay1627 Words   |  7 Pages Global Business Cultural Analysis: Japan James Hendricks Liberty University  Global Business Cultural Analysis: Japan Technological advancement has made globalization an inevitable factor that businesses of the future will need to consider in order to be successful. Increasingly, companies that have been solely domestic are branching out internationally for a wide variety of reasons, but in the end, it’s all about making profits from previously inaccessible market segments. Read MoreEssay about Japanese Business Market1297 Words   |  6 Pagestoday is evidenced by more countries developing the capacity and will to compete aggressively in world markets. The external influences that affects a business venture in the global market varies from country to country. Establishing a new business venture in an area such as Japan would require an analysis of its cultural and economic environment. The Japanese market is considered to be the world’s most lucrative market. The biggest problem is how to get into it. Japan is known throughout the worldRead MoreLa Jolla Software1278 Words   |   6 PagesCase Study Analysis: Case 10-2 La Jolla Software, Inc. Kenneth Schiff BUS 600: Management Communication with Technology Tools Professor Sherrie Lewis 12/ 12/2011 Case Study Analysis: Case 10-2 La Jolla Software, Inc LaJolla Software recently received a fax from Masahiro Fudaba, a senior Vice President of Ichi Ban Heavy Industries in Japan. For several months LaJolla Software Inc. executives were targeting several Japanese firms for a joint ventureRead MorePest Analysis of Japan835 Words   |  4 PagesPEST Analysis of Japan Political Environment - Political Stability and Absence of Violence/Terrorism ranked Japan in 44th with +0.94 score(less violent and more stable). Japan also was ranked in 31st with +1.25 scores in complete absence of corruption [1] - Restrictions access harmful published materials and allow regulate excessive disruption of social order but no restrictions on access to the internet [2] - Industrial policies influenced specific industries to gain international competitiveRead MoreHuman Resource Management At China And Japan1289 Words   |  6 PagesHRM has become a core and an integral part of any organization and is vital to success. In this paper we will be looking at practices in China and Japan and comparing their different approaches to Human Resource Management, comparing the different policies on remuneration, training and development, performance appraisals, work culture, etc. Also, China still being ruled by the communist party and Japan being a democracy, we will try to find if the different political situations affect Human ResourceRead MoreUniversal Health Care: Do Time and Place Matter? Essay878 Words   |  4 Pages Universal health care models are currently adopted by many countries worldwide. Although a superficial look at these systems may show many similarities, a detailed analysis shows differences in their philosophies, standards of care, delivery models, and recipients’ expectations. This paper takes a closer look at the universal health care models in Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, and Japan in comparison to the American system. Gold standards of health care services Gold standards of

Should College Promote A Rape Culture - 1594 Words

College. It is labeled as the best four years of anyone who is granted the opportunity to attend any university. It is a time where an individual can decide who they are and what they want to become. While this is an accurate piece of information, it also raises the question, does college promote a rape culture that is seen in society today? Often with sites, such as I’m Shmacked and others, who posts videos of college drinking, presumably of underage students. These sites promote the damaging act of binge drinking, which can lead to negative choices. In addition, the banners many fraternities display at major universities welcoming students back, promoting the indecency and undermining the well-being of women on campus. In recent light of the Brock Turner case of sexual assault and others, does the darker side of this promotion come to light. Statistics show 28% of women who attend college will sadly be a victim to these malleolus acts (Diamond, vi). Are sexual assaul ts becoming an addition to the college experience? Whereas schools with high fraternity populations are becoming notorious for their welcoming signs to incoming freshman. Just recently Old Dominion University punished fraternities for hanging signs with vulgar messages towards freshman daughters and mothers of incoming students. Other schools such as West Virginia University, were sighted with signs that read, â€Å"She called you daddy for 18 years, now it’s our turn† (WVU Freshman Welcome Sign).Show MoreRelatedThe Importance Of Sexual Assault1075 Words   |  5 PagesOn September 22nd, 2017, the U.S. Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos announced that the formal rescinding of Obama-era guidelines regarding sexual assault on federally funded college campuses. These guidelines, commonly known as the â€Å"dear colleague letter,† worked under Title IX federal law to require a minimum standard of action that must be taken when allegations are made by or against a student. The most notable characteristic of the guidelines was the lowered the standard of proof necessaryRead MoreEssay about Rape Culture: Are Women Asking for It?1698 Words   |  7 PagesSmith’s Encycolpedia of Rape defines the term â€Å"rape culture† as â€Å"one in which rape and other sexual violence against women . . . [is] both prevalent and considered the norm† (174). Rape is not a new subject in today’s society, its origins reaching far back into history. What causes rape, though? Is it the primal drive of men to exhibit dominance over all women, or do the women share the blame because of the way they dress, act, or do their makeup? Modern American culture would place the blame onRead MoreA Brief Note On The Common Violent Crime On American College Campuses Today1451 Words   |  6 PagesVictoria Harding October 12, 2014 WRT 205: Unit 2 Essay Clery Act at Work Rape is the most common violent crime on American college campuses today. (Sampson, 2003.) Statistics from the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network show that â€Å"every two minutes in the United States, someone is raped, and the chances of being that victim are four times greater for a female college student than for any other age group† (Burnett, 2009). In September of 2013, I was drugged and sexually assaulted at a fraternityRead MoreSexual Assault, Rape, And Rape1644 Words   |  7 PagesAssault Sexual coercion, sexual assault, and rape are acts of violence with numerous physical and mental health consequences (Helgeson, 430). It is important for future generations to be informed about these topics so that we can it prevent it from continuing. Sexual assaults are a rising problem for female teens on college campuses because of the discrepancies with the no means no policy, reoccurring problems with college fraternities, and today’s â€Å"rape† culture enabling sexual assault. It all startedRead MoreFeminism : The Conservative Gender Norms That Perpetuates Rape Culture, And The Construction Of The Family874 Words   |  4 Pagesbeing sexually active, like men, without shade being thrown at them. Jill Filipovic touches on these issues in her article, Offensive Feminism: The Conservative Gender Norms that Perpetuates Rape Culture, and How Feminists Fight Back. Ms. Filipovic gives insight into how these perceptions helps the rape culture in America stay alive. In this reflection paper, I plan on evaluating how there is a â€Å"war over the most basic of values: the humans rights to bodily autonomy and self-determination, the roleRead MoreRape Essay995 Words   |  4 Pages Rape affects the mind, body, and soul of a person deeper than one can imagine, and must be taken more seriously. Many victims feel afraid to report rape because they are terrified of being judged by people, labeled by society, or even harmed by their rapists. Also, the media distorts the idea of rape. Many of the jokes people make and the slang society uses across social media reflect rape and rape culture. Although, not only do the people disregard rape, the justice system does not take it seriouslyRead MoreShould School Dress Code Be Enforced? Public Schools?1285 Words   |  6 Pagesincredible. The fact of the matter is, the rigid enforcement of student dress code has gone too far in today s society and dehumanizes us as citizens. Although school dress code attempts to promote modesty and protection, it also reinforces gender inequality, smothers individualism, is unconstitutional, and should not be enforced in public schools. I agree with few school dress code standards such as â€Å"less competition, pressure or other distractions from academics† and uniformity, though many publicRead MoreRape Culture And Rape Myths1634 Words   |  7 Pagesfrom getting raped. In this paper, I will discuss how living in a rape culture affects women and men, how does rape myths affect society and how we can change the negative effects of living in a rape culture and rape myths. In order to understand this, we must first define what rape is. Rape is unwanted sexual attentions or actions that are directed to a person. Rape can happen to anyone but it is most common to happen women. Rape happens to women around the ages of 16-24 and it is â€Å"considered toRead MoreThe Song Released By R B Singer1747 Words   |  7 Pagesthat subordinate women to men while reinforcing rape culture, the objectification of women, and the social status of men versus women. The first aspect of the music video that is extremely sexist is the acceptance of rape myths. Rape myth is defined as holding beliefs that shifts the blame of sexual violence onto the victim while thus allowing sexual violence to be easily continued by the perpetrators (Aosved Long, 2006). Examples of these rape myths can include blaming the victim for what theyRead MoreSexual Assault And Rape Among College Campuses Essay1363 Words   |  6 PagesSexual assault and rape among college campuses has been an ongoing issue across the nation for decades. In the state of Utah, this complex issue will not have a simple solution, but measures can be taken to prevent sexual assault and rape occurring on campuses. Utah Valley University is a campus that is taking considerably impressive measures to combat sexual assault, which will be a basis of this paper. Through university sex education, stricter laws and enforcement, and providing on-campus services

Creative Writing (ADD) free essay sample

For most 14-year-olds, summertime is akin to being in paradise. No homework, no exams, no demanding teachers – just lots of time to relax with friends at the beach and even earn extra money from a part-time job. Indeed, if Christmas is for children, then summer is definitely for the teenagers. It is the season when a teen experiences many things for the first time – first job, first kiss, first beer, etc. Or so they say. If summer really is for the teen, then why am I in a stuffy classroom instead of in the beach? I am taking summer classes – for failing three subjects in the previous school year. And this is not the first time that this happened to me. Fluking subjects and attending summer classes as a result is already a yearly ritual for me. I sometimes think that I am like the rich people who have summer houses, except that mine is furnished with a blackboard, desks, chairs and lockers. We will write a custom essay sample on Creative Writing (ADD) or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page But there are instances when not even humor can soften the hurt. Almost all my life, people have been telling me to â€Å"shut up† and calling me names such as â€Å"lazy,† â€Å"stupid† and â€Å"weird.† When I was a kid, my mom used to yell at me because she though that I was not listening to what she was saying to me. But I really was listening to her; it was just that I cannot make sense of what she was saying to me. Everyone at home now knows better than to ask me to do a chore. The only time they ask me to do one is when there really is nobody else who will do it. Perhaps it is because I cannot follow instructions. No matter how many times mom or dad tell me how to do something, I always end up bungling it. There were also instances when I just suddenly lose interest in a certain errand and leave it undone. A couple of months ago, mom asked me to prepare dinner because she was not feeling well. Despite myself, I really love to cook. Salads, one of my favorite foods, are my specialty. And so I chose to make vegetable salad and microwave some frozen fish fingers for dinner. I was already arranging sliced tomatoes in beds of lettuce when I decided to fix peanut butter and jelly sandwiches instead. But while preparing the sandwiches, I suddenly changed my mind again – I went to the living room and watched television. About half an hour later, mom went down to check if dinner was already done. What she saw really upset her – a large bowl of half-prepared salad, along with vegetable peelings and peanut butter and jelly spread on the kitchen counter. She called me from the living room and shouted that I was â€Å"no good† and that I was intentionally making things difficult for her. Although she was not feeling well, she had no choice but to make dinner herself. I ended up going to bed with an empty stomach – the episode robbed me of my appetite. School was much worse. I was nearly expelled from kindergarten because of my â€Å"disruptive behavior.† While the rest of the class was listening to the teacher read a story, I was staring out into the window. Things got worse as I got older. It was extremely difficult for me to focus on exams, homework and projects. I got low grades as a result – the most common complaint written on my report card was I needed to â€Å"focus on getting work done.† I likewise had difficulty making friends. Almost all of my classmates were annoyed at me for just intruding into their conversations. Some of them already told me to â€Å"shut up† right in front of my face. I know butting in is rude, but I cannot help but do it repeatedly. It is like I have a million ideas going inside my mind and I feel like I will explode if I do not open my mouth and share them with others, regardless of whether or not it is appropriate for me to do so. I want to do a lot of things for myself. I want to travel, meet new people and learn how to cook. I see myself becoming a chef in the future – a really good chef that specializes in Mexican food. I would also love to have pets, as I believe that they would make better friends than people. So many dreams, so many goals†¦ Now if only I could stop attending summer classes for good.

The Color of Magic Review Essay Example

The Color of Magic Review Paper Essay on The Color of Magic Imagine our real world. What happens when you turn it inside out? To turn everything upside down? The Earth is flat. Location technology will replace the magic. The physical laws of the universe will begin to obey the whims of the gods of idleness cerned somewhere in the top and playing dice. Death ceases to be terrible ephemeral essence, from which there is no salvation anywhere Discworld this is the reverse side of the world. The place where all the way around, inside and out. This is where the logic is not brought to the point of absurdity, and an absurdity built into the laws of logic. Just look at the characters in The Color of Magic The Librarian. It would seem, well, it would be possible here to distort? In all the worlds the librarians if they are there it poluuchenye ladies and gentlemen, in which other actors can provide valuable, often long and overarching information. Whom do we see in Ankh-Morpork the library, the main town Discworld? Orangutan! Sweet, red, sometimes sad orangutan, of which a maximum of what can be achieved this is the phrase Ooh-to. And that gives the book is not for a library card, and for bananas. For librarians, too, need something to eat. The tourist Twoflower. The first in the history of the Discworld tourist. Yes, and part-time insurance agent. Let us recall what are the tourists in other fantasy worlds. Most often, these are people from other worlds, faraway countries. Often possess remarkable sharpness and different skills that help them to get out of difficult situations in which they will tighten the authors. Twoflower not. Absolutely. He does not understand that walking around with a huge amount of money through the dark alleys of the city is dangerous, do not realize that the ancient gods terrible not shoot at the camera and do not try to have maliciously configured to ask the Dryads in protected forest how to get to your destination. And Twoflower sincerely do not understand. He Tourist and all in his journey is perceived through the prism of confidence that the very word tourism gives him automatic immunity to any trouble We will write a custom essay sample on The Color of Magic Review specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Color of Magic Review specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Color of Magic Review specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The gods.. Oh, every fantasy world of their gods, but they live on a clearly defined, delimited to the laws given to them by the Creator, or the universe itself. Gods in the fantasy worlds is the very essence of logic, even perverse, sometimes missing, but somehow subordinate to the basic laws of the universe. Gods of the Discworld live outside the law. Not because they had not been established, no. Just because they are not interested. Boring. Gods Discworld recognize only one law, or rather the rules of the game: throw of the dice and the value in it fell. Their intervention in the lives of people who worship them are regulated by the dice. Lucky evil of a hero dragon ate. Lucky good Dragon broke his teeth on the armor of the hero. The whole life of the gods the essence of the game, and nothing more The death of.. The unique character of Discworld. Only here Death (by the way, is He) has a physical embodiment. Skeleton, wrapped in a black cloak with a hood and a large, ostroottochennoy oblique. Only in this world, death can apologize to the city dweller, who accidentally stepped on the foot. Only then death can learn to play cards instead of having to pick up his soul came to him in the hands of tourists. Only in this world, death is the house and has a daughter. Let the reception, but still. Only then death can dream about vacation The Color of Magic can not be taken as an ordinary book in the style of humorous fantasy. In that sense, this book is in the style of humorous fantasy about a humorous fantasy. Here, everything that happens to the heroes of the book, one way or another will be familiar to you. And the heroes of the second plan, found here, have clear, though grotesque features characters from other fantasy books. That, apparently, was the idea of ​​Pratchett -. Turn inside out the real world, and in addition to laugh at themselves and their fellows in the shop The book deserves to be read. And not because its famous Pratchett; not because it is the first book of the Discworld. And because it is a book about a completely different, ironic, good fantasy, unlike more than anything else. Even on himself.

Definition of a physical geology term Sedimentary Rock

Definition of a physical geology term Sedimentary Rock Introduction Rocks are divided into three major types, viz. sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. The geologic reactions occurring on the Earth only cause minute alterations to the landscape in a given lifetime. The changes become evident after millions of years. Though gradual, the geologic processes can reduce a mountain to a plain.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Definition of a physical geology term: Sedimentary Rock specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The geologic processes lead to the erosion of debris, which is then transferred to form deposits of sedimentary rock. In essence, sedimentary rocks exist at the cost of other rocks that break down through weathering and they are carried by various agents such as wind and deposited to form the rock. Sedimentary Rocks: overview Sedimentary rocks can form a string of layers, which can total up to thousands of meters in breadth. By examining these rock layers, g eologists can retrieve information about the background of the Earth. The magnitude of information about the Earth’s background is tremendous. Every rock layer marks an age of geological process. Moreover, the information retrieved in line with its texture, formation, and remnants is crucial for global modification, thus revealing the nature in which the earth changes from the past, present, and future. For a geologist to study the sedimentary data properly, s/he should comprehend the contemporary sedimentary structures, their sources, mode of transit, and areas or regions where the sediments are currently settling (Stille 56). A research on the ongoing sediment formation and depositing will help one to have a clear view. The nature of the fossil recorded in the sedimentary rocks gives a glimpse on surrounding where the sediments settled and the process and timeline of how the Earth developed and transformed over time. Other than the scientific importance, sedimentary rocks a lso play a great role in industrial and social development. Sedimentary can be used to make various tools that are useful in accomplishing a variety of tasks. This aspect was recorded as early as in the Neolithic Age when early man made tools such as axes and arrowheads using sedimentary rocks.Advertising Looking for research paper on geology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Some of the statues include those designed during the Renaissance and art in ancient Greek. Notably, about 90% of the known minerals are found within sedimentary rock layers. Oil, coal, cement (sand, limestone, and gravel) and fertilizer is all but a product of sedimentary rocks. Moreover, sedimentary rocks store a lot of water that people depend on for survival. Indeed, the significance of sedimentary rocks cannot be ignored. Nature of Sedimentary Rocks The constitution of sedimentary rocks is derived from mechanical and chemical breakdown of ot her rocks. The deposit is compressed to solid rock layers made up of organic substances, chemical remains, and pieces of minerals. One can have a good observation of sedimentary rocks by visiting the Grand Canyon in Arizona. One of the common characteristics is that they have distinct layers known as strata measuring about 100m thick with each layer having disparate and unique texture coupled with internal and external construction. Fig 1: a sedimentary rock.  Source: (â€Å"Civil† par. 6) The texture is often composed of minerals and pieces of rocks implying that abrasion must occur during its formation. The bedding planes (which separate the different layers) often have ripple marks as well as other facts that show that there were water deposition stored along the bedding plane. Sedimentary rocks are present throughout the world and they form about 75% of the entire world (Tucker 56). The ocean floor is often covered with sedimentary rock layer.Advertising We wil l write a custom research paper sample on Definition of a physical geology term: Sedimentary Rock specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Types of Sedimentary Rocks There are two types of sedimentary rocks with a distinction on their texture and composition. These two groups include clastic rocks and chemical rocks. Clastic sedimentary rocks refer to rocks that were formed out of fragmental materials that were transferred and subsequently deposited in the environment of deposition. Essentially, clastic is derived from a Greek word klastos, which means broken. The clastic rocks are further classified by considering the nature of grains. They are of three types, viz. conglomerate, sandstone, and mudrock with grain size descending respectively. The size of grain in clastic is always determined by the size of the preexisting rock as well as the capability of the transport agent (wind and water). Deposition occurs when the velocity of the transporting r educes. If the transporting agent were moving fast, then it is anticipated that particles deposited will be coarser than those being moved slowly. Fig. 2: the formation of a sedimentary rock. Source: (â€Å"Rock Hounds† par. 1) Conglomerate is made up of large grains with sand particles and mud occupying the spaces created by the grains. Naturally, they are smooth and coarsely stratified. They are currently found in the bases of most mountains as well as stream paths. Sandstones are popularly known by most because they are easily observable and are anti-weathering.Advertising Looking for research paper on geology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More They made up of almost anything and they appear in a range of colors (Sohn and Wright 49). Mudrocks are composed of very small grain particles and they are the most dominant in the family of clastic rocks. Due to their smoothness of the grains, they break down easily and create slopes and they are commonly deposited along deltas as well as river floodplains. Chemical Sedimentary Rocks Chemical sedimentary rocks develop when chemical reactions lead to the removal of ions from water to form solid substances. Unlike clastic rocks, chemical rocks are grouped according to the composition. Some of the popular chemical sedimentary rocks include limestone, dolostone, and chert. Limestone is the most common and dominant chemical sedimentary rock. Its constituents include calcium carbonate and it is formed via both chemical and biochemical procedures. The disparate textures of limestone have led to its further categorization to include skeletal, oolitic, and microcrystalline limestone. Skelet al limestone includes chalk, which is made of plants, and animals remain (Tucker 105). Dolostone closely resembles limestone. It has a light gray color and it can be formed through precipitation and chemical reaction between water having magnesium components and calcium carbonate present in limestone. A third type of chemical and biochemical sedimentary rock is chert ,which is made up of microcrystalline quartz. It has a granular texture and it breaks like a glass. It has an array of colors and the different colors are often given specific names. For instance, a red chert is referred to as jasper. Its characteristic nature to break and form sharp edges inspired many traditional artists to use it to design arrowheads, spears and other tools (Sohn and Wright 78). Conclusion Geological processes are incessantly taking place in various places. Inasmuch as one cannot notice the effects ongoing processes, millions years later, another generation will be living in a new world with differen t sedimentary structures. As noted in the discussion, sedimentary rocks are formed from weathering of rocks both chemically and mechanically. The nature of this formation leads to a further classification to clastic and chemical sedimentary rocks. Most of the essential minerals such as diamonds and limestone that people rely on for survival and luxury are found within these rocks. The significance of sedimentary rocks shows how vital people should be imparted with geological knowledge and in particular that of rocks. Civil: Sedimentary rocks 2011. Web. http://royalcivilgirlz.blogspot.com/ Rock Hounds: How sedimentary rock is formed 2013. Web. Sohn, Emily, and Pam Wright. Earth Materials: The Mystery Rocks. Chicago: Norwood House Press, 2011. Print. Stille, Darlene. Sedimentary Rocks: A Record of Earths History. Chicago: Capstone, 2008. Print. Tucker, Maurice. Sedimentary Rocks in the Field: A Practical Guide. London: John Wiley Sons, 2011. Print.

6 Neuroscience Hacks to Beat Writers Block - Freewrite Store

6 Neuroscience Hacks to Beat Writers Block - Freewrite Store The page is blank and the cursor is blinking at you accusingly. You’ve been sitting at your computer for an hour and you’ve written a sum total of nothing. It’s not that you don’t want to write – it’s that you can’t. The words that yesterday flowed so easily have disappeared into the ether – and you’re wondering despairingly if they’re ever going to return. Most (if not all) writers are familiar with this scenario. The dreaded writer’s block – that, for me at least, usually turns up when there’s an important deadline looming. Recently, however, I got into an argument with a friend – another writer – who insisted that writer’s block doesn’t exist. Writer’s block, he said, was all in my mind. He’s not the first to suggest that idea. I headed straight to Google to find out what others have to say about it (hoping to be able to present my friend with proof that I was right and he was wrong). Instead, I stumbled across some fascinating research from the world of neuropsychology and neuroscience. It turns out that writer’s block is just in my head – but not in the way that my friend was suggesting. The Neuropsychology of Writer’s Block Neuropsychology is a complex field that combines psychological understandings of the mind with a more physiological investigation of the way that the brain works. For example, neuropsychology might look at what neurons are firing when we experience certain feelings, or what the parts of the brain that are active during specific experiences or actions. So, what does neuropsychology have to say about writer’s block? Neurologists, psychologists, neuropsychologists and neuroscientists have been studying and debating for decades why things like writer’s block occur. While some psychologists will conclude that writer’s block is more of an excuse than a phenomenon, there have been studies that have set out to demonstrate that there’s neuropsychological evidence for the reality of writer’s block. Executive Dysfunction Neuropsychologists Elkhonon Goldberg and Russell Barkley have both investigated a set of complex mental functions that happen in (or are controlled by) the pre-frontal cortex known as ‘executive functions’. It is these executive functions that allow us to do things like plan, organize, prioritize, self-monitor, initiate and sustain certain behaviors as we pursue goals. When there’s disruption to executive functions, we enter a state Russell Barkley has called ‘executive dysfunction’. A sign of executive dysfunction is an inability to stop ourselves from doing something that’s preventing us from achieving a goal-focused activity. A prime example of this is when you’ve set yourself a goal of writing a blog post but spend the time set aside for writing watching videos of dogs on YouTube. When writers are experiencing writer’s block, then, it’s a form of executive dysfunction. Certainly, there are problems with executive functions when you feel that your creativity is blocked. These problems can include: Difficulties with getting started (initiation) Distraction Trouble prioritizing Struggling to pace ourselves Emotional Roots Another key neuropsychological view of writer’s block came from Gene Parret. His theory is that not only is writer’s block a genuine malady, but it is also rooted in underlying fears. Neuroscience backs up this idea. Everything that we do is the result of neurons firing in our brains – and strong emotions, such as fear, can have a profound effect on neuron functions. Parret’s view is that the way that we perceive our writing abilities plays a huge role in our experience of writer’s block. For example, if you have a negative mindset (such as thinking that no one will want to read what you’re writing) and sit down to write, the negativity will impact on your neuron pathways and cause difficulties with the writing process. The Psychology of Writing Ronald Kellogg is the author of ‘The Psychology of Writing’ and he has highlighted the way that certain environments, schedules and rituals can either increase or inhibit writing processes. There’s a neuropsychological link with this, as it’s been shown that neural pathways can be activated by associations with places, times of day, and so on. Circadian Rhythm Rules There are links, too, with the circadian rhythms (otherwise known as the sleep-wake cycle). For example, many writers find that their creative juices flow better at certain times of day. This is another area that has been backed up by neuroscience – albeit in studies done with mice. Neuroscientific studies have revealed that circadian rhythms aren’t just about when we’re awake and when we’re asleep. There are also times of the day that are better suited to different types of tasks. To make this more complicated, everyone’s circadian rhythm for specific tasks is different, so there are no rules when it comes to the specific times when you should be doing something. What the circadian rhythm studies have shown, though, is that if you don’t understand your own circadian rhythms, you could find yourself trying to write when your brain is better optimized for research (knowledge-processing). There are different neural processes involved in creativity (such as writing) compared with more structured tasks (such as research), so when you experience writer’s block, it could actually be that you’re trying to be creative when your brain wants to be learning. Interestingly, we’re notoriously bad at correctly understanding our own circadian rhythm, too. Some research has proved that self-proclaimed ‘morning-people’ are actually more productive in the evening, and those who call themselves ‘night-owls’ are more productive during the morning. Could beating writer’s block be as simple as better understanding your circadian rhythm? Using Neuropsychology to Combat Writer’s Block Now that we’ve taken a quick tour through some of the complexities of neuropsychology, it’s time to get practical. How can you use neuropsychology to combat writer’s block? There are actually a number of techniques you can use that have their roots in neuropsychological thinking. 1.  Cognitive Cueing Cognitive cueing is based on Kellogg’s understanding of how certain places can impact on the efficiency of certain processes. It’s not an immediate fix, as it takes time to establish cognitive cues, but it’s a technique that’s been shown to help break the cycle of writer’s block. With cognitive cueing, you need to create a specific space that is only used for writing. It will only be effective if that space is exclusively for writing – if you use it for anything else, the cognitive cues won’t work. Your brain will come to associate the space with the act of writing, and the neural pathways that are formed will kick-start the writing process when you return to the space to write. 2.  Circadian Self-Reflection Since our circadian rhythms have such a big impact on our ability to perform specific tasks, it makes sense that another means of beating writer’s block lies in understanding the times of day that are most suited to writing. It’s different for everyone, so the only way to figure out the times of day that are suited to research and those that are better suited for creativity is through self-reflection. Keep a journal or notes about your daily activities and reflect on how easy (or difficult) the different types of tasks seemed. Vary the times of day that you complete tasks so that you can begin to see patterns. When you understand your circadian rhythm, you can focus your writing activities at the most creative times of day, and reduce your risk of writer’s block. 3.  Incubate Your Creativity Incubation of ideas is a neuropsychological principle that’s been tested on mice. It’s based on the idea that when you work on a task (or learn a skill) and then take a break or begin a different task, the neural pathways involved in the original task or skill remain active. RELATED: Writing Habits to Jumpstart Your Creativity Applying this to writer’s block, if you find that you’re struggling to get the words onto the page (or screen), then taking a break and doing something else – going for a walk, reading a book, and so on – can allow ideas to incubate, since the neural pathways that related to your writing task will stay active. Writers regularly report that their best ideas come when they’re doing something completely unrelated, so it’s worth trying incubation to beat writer’s block. 4.  Motivational Methods In neuropsychology, there are different types of motivation that have been identified, and people tend to have one or the other. These are known as ‘approach motivation’ and ‘avoidance motivation’. ‘Approach motivated’ people are optimistic about what they can achieve, and positively motivated to complete tasks. ‘Avoidance motivated’ people, by contrast, are negative and motivated by a fear of failure. Neuroscience shows that changes in neuronal activity can be affected by perceived outcomes – so what we think will be the result impacts on our performance. If we start writing worried that no one will want to read what we’re writing, this perceived outcome will negatively impact our neurons, and the writing task will become more difficult. RELATED:  55 Motivational Writing Quotes from Famous Authors The solution to this problem is to change our motivational type and use approach motivation. To do this, we focus on positive outcomes and set easily attainable goals that will reinforce the positivity. The more we attain these ‘easy’ goals, the better the impact on our neurons, and the less likely we are to experience writer’s block. 5.  Background Noise I was skeptical about this technique – until I tried it myself. Apparently, studies have shown that writers are often more productive in coffee shops or other similar environments where others are being productive. This has something to do with background noise – and there are now apps that will actually replicate the ambient noise of a coffee shop for writers who aren’t able to physically go out and sit in a coffee shop to write when they’re feeling blocked. Different types of background noise can either positively or negatively affect our creativity and productivity, so it’s important to note that you need to find the kind of background noise that works for you. Some people, for example, are more sensitive to noise, so a very busy coffee shop could have a negative impact on their ability to write, but a quieter shop could help to combat writer’s block. 6.  Unplug and Reset In the modern world, it sometimes feels like we’re slaves to our technological devices. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops keep us constantly connected to emails, social media, online videos and other distractions – which can be bad news if you’re already prone to experiencing writer’s block. There are a range of psychological benefits to unplugging from technology for a while. Unplugging can help when you’re feeling depressed and anxious or overwhelmed in any way. It can also help with writer’s block, by removing distractions and allowing you the opportunity to reset and get back in touch with your creativity. If you’re used to writing on a laptop or desktop computer, switching off all your technology can help unblock you when you feel like your creativity has dried up. The abundance of distractions on the internet can make it impossible to focus on anything and get into a rhythm.   It’s a simple technique that increases your ability to focus and helps get those creative juices flowing again. While you could abandon technology completely and go back to the basics with pen/paper, most of us can type much faster than we write.   Plus, re-transcribing handwritten notes to the computer is extremely tedious. Luckily, there is a way to unplug but still reap the benefits of technology: Freewrite’s distraction-free writing devices. With a typewriter-like feel and automatic syncing to the cloud, you can get writing again quickly. Find out more about the range of available devices here. A Treatment Plan for Writer’s Block Neuropsychology shows us that there’s scientific evidence for the existence of writer’s block – and it isn’t just excuses and/or laziness. Treating writer’s block with neuropsychology offers a range of techniques that can be used individually or combined into your own personal treatment plan. Experiment with the different techniques and find the ones that work best for you, so that you can combat the dreaded blank-page syndrome that writers fear.

What makes a difference in bereavement and grief Research Paper

What makes a difference in bereavement and grief - Research Paper Example C. A. Corr and D. A. Corr (2012, p. 244) identify five critical variables that influence experiences of bereavement and grief, namely: nature of the prior attachment or the perceived value, the way in which the loss occurred, coping strategies, developmental situation of the bereaved person, and the nature of the support that is available to the bereaved person after the loss. Of the five principles stated, the author believed that the nature of the prior attachment or the perceived value, the way in which the loss occurred, and the coping strategies appear to make a difference in the ways in which bereavement and grief are experienced. First, prior attachments refer to the relationship one has built with the person who has died. The depth of that relationship cannot be appreciated unless that person has gone or died. Another way to look at this is the perceived value of the relationship; that is, the more important a person to the bereaving individual, the greater is the expression of grief. For instance, if someone who died belongs to a member of our family, it will represent a loss that will need to be mourned as I have attachment to the person involved and he/she is also important or of value to me. In addition, relationships are multidimensional and may also affect difficultly grieving and bereavement if it is associated with the loss of the person w ho inflicted abuse or violence. The second principle which appeared to make a difference in the ways in which bereavement and grief are experienced is the way in which the loss takes place and the circumstances of the bereaved person. From my perspective, grieving becomes difficult and loss is hard to accept if the person died in a tragic and traumatic way (e.g., suicide, violence, and natural disasters). Time also matters in the grieving and bereavement process. It would be harder to accept a sudden and an unexpected death than a foreseen one like in the case of terminal cancer patients. Similarly,

Search Engine Optimization Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Search Engine Optimization - Research Paper Example This is to mean that, white hats use terms appropriately to ensure that their websites are visible. On the other hand, black fill their websites with content or words that get plenty of hits from search engines. White hats, when compared to black hats have distinct characteristics that put them apart in favor or against one another as one of the uses unscrupulous means and makes attractive promises (Creative Momentum 1). In relation to white hat search engine optimization, it follows regulations and guidelines to the letter, as provided by search engines to ensure that websites are visible to all that require information from them. This includes careful use of words that get numerous hits from search engines such that the words used are not meant to bloat documents or articles in the website. Instead, the words used are of a unique nature in that they are informative and, at times, act as support words for the whole article and not for exploiting the abilities of search engines. As s uch, websites are designed with certain aspects in mind; these include rules and norms, as well as a code of ethics to ensure that all internet activities are conducted with transparency. Based on this, following the guidelines of search engines for optimizing visibility, ensures that the ever-changing algorithms applied by search engines (Revenuewire 2) achieve transparency. This shields legal or appropriate sites from relegation, and thus gets high ratings by following meeting the terms of use on multiple levels. The white hat optimizers or designers, therefore, apply to the intelligence and needs of internet users to deliver quality content that does not fool search engines by giving false information, including in the titles of the websites. In relation to domain naming, white hat optimizers allow the actual intent of the website to appear rather than mislead the search engine user into logging into it for irrelevant content. These are the distinct characteristics of â€Å"whit e hat† search engine optimization due to their compliant nature, which offers protection from removal and relegation. On the other hand, black hat search engine optimizers have their own code of ethics, or lack of it thereof that sees them dump the rulebook and carry the day, but only for limited moment (Smith 5). Black hat optimization in search engines involves the application of hidden content, where there are numerous links and articles, as well as documents that are spammed with keywords, which serve as crucial gateway points for search engines. This is in relation to search engines accessing the site due to its heavy saturation with such words that are mainly used by internet users to query information from the internet. Information is usually hidden in scripts and non-script parts of code in a website, where search engines only expose it as its algorithms crawl the internet. In addition black hat optimizations tends to have meta-keyword stuffing, where in the descriptio n of the website, or even in its headers, it has numerous keywords (Wilding). These words raise the flags, both red and white for search engines thus improving the ranking of a website, especially in marketing and sites that market content to generate revenue. Through this, it is evident that black hat optimizers are only

High School Drop out Rate Essay Example for Free

High School Drop out Rate Essay Analysts agree that the rate of high school dropout in the United States has reached catastrophic levels. Credible estimates claim that more than a third of all students that join high school are likely to abandon school before completion. A look at the past decades indicates that this has been a growing trend and is yet to be arrested appropriately. This is a problem that has not been captured in the public glare due to scarcity if data. This paper will provide the available statistics on the rate of high school dropouts; provide an analysis of the possible causes and remedies. Different publications contain valid rates of dropouts; this is because of the existing differences in the definition of a dropout. There are those that graduate after completing the high school syllabus, others that graduate after completing an equivalency test of the same and those that graduate after passing other states based tests. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) compiles its data using either the event rates, status rates or the cohert rates. Events rates refer to the number of students that drop out of school annually while the status rate takes into account the total number of students that have cumulatively dropped out of school as a proportion of the total population. (National Institute on the Education of At Risks Students, 2006) Indicative reports have it that the rate of school dropout from the 1970s to the 1990s recorded a steady decline; however the rates have stabilized from the 90s to date recording an insignificant improvement. A look at the 1999 and the 2000 reports indicate that 5% of all students that had joined high school in the respective years dropped out within a year. This is in according to the available education department’s event dropout rates. The status dropout rates for 2000 indicate that â€Å"some 3. 8 million young adults were not enrolled in a high school program and had not completed high school. † (National Center for Education Statistics). Other available statistics on the dropout rates focus on the differences between gender and the racial groups. They have indicated that 5. 8% of male students are more likely to dropout compared to whose dropout rate is 4. 3%. The gender disparities in the dropout rate are witnessed across all the ethnic and racial groups with male students being the most affected. The dropout rate for the minority groups has remained higher than that of white Americans. The Latinos lead the group of the minorities with a rate of 27. 5%; African Americans have 13. 6% while the whites have a dropout rate of 7. 9%. This is according to the 1993 survey although these rates have remained fairly constant since then. (National Institute on the Education of At Risk Students, 1996) Having looked at the existing statistics, it is important to look at the reasons behind these statistics. There exists immense research on the causes of high school dropouts but it is important to point out that they focus on a variety of issues depending on the discipline. The ethnographic studies for example may focus on the issues of minorities and the social causes of their dropout. Attempts therefore to establish the specific factors are impeded by the existence of â€Å"a large variety of factors that predict or influence dropout behaviors, ranging from family background to school characteristics. † (Richard, 2002, 120) Scholars however have observed that students drop out of schools either after being ‘pushed out’ by the school environment or after being ‘pulled away’ by factors beyond the school curriculum. (Jay W. , 1999). A survey conducted on the various reasons behind the high school drop out rates revolve around vague reasons such boring classes and hard exams. These though are the pointer towards the major factors that contribute towards high school dropout rates. The causes range from academic challenges, economic, social and personal reasons One of the major ‘push out’ cause of dropout of high school can be traced to the various schools’ requirements to undertake an exit exam as the precondition for graduation. A look at the United States reveals that most states have put forth a requirement for a standardized test to mark the graduation of students from high school. Exit exams were adopted to enable states to standardize their tests and upgrade their diplomas. Where the merits of these exams have been widely noted, criticism has been leveled against them alleging that they exert too much pressure on the high school students. The basic purpose of exit exams is to ensure that the quality of the diploma is maintained, today however it is being seen as pushing students out of school, â€Å"these critics rely upon the push-out-myth- the idea that requiring students to pass exit exams forces students to drop out of high school. † (Jay P. , 2006, 127). The conclusion that stringent exam requirement may push students out of school has been reached after examining performance records and transcripts belonging to those that have dropped out. Studies have pointed out a streak of dismal performance by most of them indicating a sense of hopelessness on the drop outs. Some students have blamed the dismal performance on the lack of motivation by their teachers. Another possible cause of school dropout is peer influence. Peers are an important component to the development of an individual and also as socialization agents. It has been established that the influence of the family to the life of adolescents is fast waning and its place taken over by peers. The issue of how peers influence school drop out rate is broad and has been found to be an important factor. School dropouts have claimed to have been influenced by their peers to quit schools especially for those that had non schooling friends. This is so as peer influence has been found to either be a source of motivation or discouragement. This has been problematic as most of these have plunged into the crime world led by their peers. Working students also find it hard to cope with both tasks and most have even been found to give up education in the belief that they will resume later. Unsupportive parents have also been known to lead their children out of schools due to lack of moral support. Just like there is no single cause behind the high rates of school dropouts, there is no single remedy for the problem. It requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates both students and the teachers. It has been found that most students drop out of schools to escape the taxing nature of academics and exams. While it is not prudent to change the existing exams, it would be appropriate to put measures to ensure that the tests would not be an excuse to drive students out of school. As Marvin (2003, 215) has pointed out, â€Å"states should look for more ways to identify students at risk and consider instituting or adapting existing programs to support students before they drop out. † The best approach hence would be to incorporate a support program to help students cope with the rising challenges. This should include providing extra school tutoring and retake programs for students that perform dismally in the first attempts. This should also include introducing changes to the academic programs to ensure that they are more responsive and relevant to the student lives. The government also should roll out programs that aim towards sensitizing students on the need to stay in school. A number of factors that contribute to high rates of school dropout are social-psychological meaning that they can be eradicated through creation of awareness and general counseling. It is also important to involve students in the process of policy making to ensure that their expectations and views are incorporated and hence make them feel that they have a bigger stake in the school programs. Indeed there much has to be done to reduce the number of students that fail to complete their high school. The dropout rates indicated above are worrisome. More also needs to be done to bridge the dropout disparities across the racial groups. Students should be sensitized on the dangers of dropping out of schools especially as they are exposing themselves to the risks of unemployment as well as crime.

Banquos Purpose in Shakespeares Macbeth Essay -- essays research pap

Banquo's purpose in the play is the quintessential foil of Macbeth, both in acting, as well as in meaning. Shakespeare utilizes Banquo in order to create opposite moods to what is the drive of the play, which is Macbeth and his wife plotting, scheming, and murdering, by offering great solid blocks of integrity, passion, and goodness, that slightly descend into questioning. In contrast to Macbeth's ambitious state, his transformation into an immoral form of such a state, and his acting on such, Shakespeare creates Banquo in order to give the reader a feeling for contrasting points in order to augment, and practically create, the play. When confronted by the Weà ¯rd Sisters for the first time, both Macbeth and Banquo are given prophesies, however, the wiser Banquo is able to qualm his curiosity. Banquo attempts to share his knowledge with Macbeth by explaining ?to win us to our harm, the instruments of darkness tell us truths to betray?s in deepest consequence (I.iii). Banquo immediately questions the prophecies and their potential, wisely tempering his ambition without further ...

Data Warehouse: Understanding Rei

John Smith Dr. Daniels 2/14/13 Chapter 5 Video Case 1. Data warehouses store current as well as historical data and are used for creating trending reports for senior management reporting such as annual and quarterly comparisons. REI is building a data warehouse because they want to better serve their customers with their products. The data ware house allows REI to make the customers experience with their company a much more fulfilling one ensuring their return. 2.Consumer cooperatives have some disadvantages in comparison to traditional firms. Consumer cooperatives require a high level of organization. Because the consumers are helping to make many decisions there are more legal responsibilities for the company. The company must listen to the consumers and also provide rules that the consumer cooperative must follow as a whole. While it is great for the consumers to be so involved, traditional firms have less of a hassle and don’t need to take so many extra steps when making d ecisions. . REI’s data warehouse will allow them to create more marketing strategies, specifically on their online shopping Website. With the use of the data warehouse, REI’s website will be able to recognize customers when they log on to the Website. By doing this, REI can tailor products or information to the customer each time they log on. 4. Some risks of creating a data warehouse would be organization.Without proper organization the company will not be able to achieve the strategic objectives set out by top management. This will make the company seem unprepared and ultimately give their customers an unpleasant experience. 5. REI chose to work with IBM data technology because IBM has very effective and organized systems that make managing the data warehouses simple and easy. This allows REI to make effective strategic objectives and marketing strategies for the company to follow and accomplish.

Magnolia Therapeutic Solutions Case Study

Magnolia Therapeutic Solutions is a well known nonprofit that provides psychotherapy for clients with Post Traumatic Syndrome Disorder (PSTD). Magnolia contributed several hours of intensive help to the victims of 911. In return NYC gave the organization a large grant to help it meet the demands of PSTD services. Mary Stewart, the founder of the organization believed that the grant given in 2001 would be renewed in 2002 as well. Much to her surprise the grant was not renewed. The grant was already factored into her budget for 2002 and she had to go back and revise the budget. Mary was $500,000 short and in turn had to lay off one third of the employees. My Decision Versus the Boards The board of directors chose to approve the budget, based on Mary’s 2001 budget and financials. My decision would have been the complete opposite. The decision I would have made was to ask Mary for documents backing up the proposed budget. Mary made the budget based on her grants and fundraising from 2001. She did not take into consideration that the grant may not have been renewed. If she had made a lower budget, or even a back up budget, she would have had an alternative plan if NYC did not renew the grant. I made the decision I did because Mary’s 2002 budget was made up on monies she was not even sure that she would have. Mary even based the development department raising more money on a grant she was not even sure would be offered to the organization. Organizational infrastructure had a large affect on my decision to reject the budget. The policies and procedures that are put into place by an organization are done so to build accountability and adjust to internal and external requirements. According to Business Development Group, Inc (1999-2009), â€Å"Properly implemented policies and procedures prove to be very critical for achieving growth and profitability through the more efficient allocation and utilization of a company's limited resources† (para. 3). Causes Behind the Ultimate Problem There were several causes behind the ultimate problems Magnolia suffered. This seems to have stemmed from the lack of accountability and responsibility with the financial management. First, Mary had written a budget based on funds that were not guaranteed. She even based raising money for the organization on higher grants for 2002. Since the 2002 budget was written on false grants, this caused a huge problem and several staff members got laid off. This caused the organization to come to a stand still. This problem could have been solved a few different ways. Either by writing a budget with the grants and funds Mary knew 100% would be available. Or she could have written the budget with the NYC grant and had a back up budget incase it was not renewed. This way the board of directors could have seen either way Mary had a budget that could actually be carried out. Secondly, in 2001 the organization used the remainder of the grant to â€Å"increase other administrative services. † The surplus from the grants in 2001 should have been budgeted into the growing organization and the services provided, not administrative services. â€Å"The identification of a human service agency’s programs, the creation of a program structure, the assignment of program managers, and the designation of responsibility centers are the basic building blocks of financial management† (Martin, 2001, p. 16). Main Differences There are several differences in a non-profits inability to thrive and a for-profits inability to thrive. First, a non-profit can fail in acquiring â€Å"revenue† by not getting enough grants and not having enough staff. For-profits fail to get revenue by not making enough profit. Secondly, non-profits accrue expenses through program supplies, staffing, bills, and rental space. A for-profit accrues expenses through production, staffing, bills, paying out shareholders and owners, and getting the necessary supplies to keep up with newer products/technology. Lastly, non-profits do not have the resources to pay employees/volunteers for training or higher education. This could result in a nonprofit’s inability to thrive. Training key employees is usually part of most for-profit organizations. Money is typically not an issue and organizations that make a profit know if they put money into an employees training, the end results will come back to them. Risk Management â€Å"Risk management can be defined as the identification, planned control, and reduction of risks to a human service agency† (Martin, 2001, p. 187). Magnolia’s deficit happened because Mary and the organization did not have any risk management set in place. Had the organization had a risk management plan, Mary would have known better than planning a budget with unknown funds. â€Å"A formalized risk management program is one of the few ways a human service agency can reduce service delivery costs without cutting either staff positions or operating budgets† (Martin, 2001, p. 187). If Magnolia had used the essential tasks of risk management it may have been able to find a way to keep employees or get funding elsewhere. The five tasks are risk identification, risk evaluation, risk control, risk funding, and administration. These tasks are a key component in helping nonprofits thrive. Had Magnolia identified problems or issues that could potentially happen with the budget and shortfalls it could have minimized the outcome. Conclusion Because of Mary Stewart Magnolia had become a nonprofit organization that was helping in such a needed area, PSTD. Magnolia continued to thrive and receive many awards for the services performed. The organization received a large 1-year grant from NYC to help 911 PSTD victims. When it came time for Mary to write the budget for 2002 she included the 2001 1-year grant from NYC. In the end Mary’s budget caused a deficit in the organization and one third of the employees had to be laid off. If there had been a better risk management plan in order this could have been prevented. Also, if Mary had created a budget that was based on grants she knew they would be receiving the organization could have continued providing the excellent services at the same rate.

NASA and Project Juno Essay Example

NASA and Project Juno Essay Example NASA and Project Juno Essay NASA and Project Juno Essay Introduction Jupiter is the fifth planet from the sun and is the largest planet in all of our solar system. Jupiter is more than twice as massive as all of the other planets combined and is made from about 90% hydrogen and 10% helium. Despite having sent different spaceships and orbiters to observe Jupiter there is a lot more to learn about the planet. That is why from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on August 5, 2011, NASA New Frontiers mission launched a spacecraft named â€Å"Juno† to study and find out more about Jupiter. More specifically, Juno will map Jupiter’s gravity field, magnetic field and its atmospheric structure from a polar orbit. The whole purpose of this mission is to have a better understanding of the formation of our solar system and planetary systems discovered around the stars. Why Jupiter? The primary scientific goal of the NASA space mission Juno is to drastically improve our understanding of the planet Jupiter. Jupiter, which is considered, as the â€Å"Gas Giant Planet† and scientists believe that Jupiter can show the secrets to the fundamental processes of the formation of our solar system. Scientists at NASA have developed different theories as to how Jupiter was formed. Some believed that it began as a solid chunk of heavy material, like rock or ice. As gravity gathered debris, its gravitational pull increased and eventually it became big enough to attract light gases. Another theory is that Jupiter was formed when a small region of the gas disk around the sun collapsed on its own. Whatever the case is, they are all theories. They are all ideas of how Jupiter was formed, and no one really knows how Jupiter was made for sure. Which is why the Juno mission was launched. If we can find out what makes Jupiter’s core and exactly how much water the planet contains we can narrow down the number of theories that were developed by the scientists. Jupiter has long intrigued scientists since Galileo’s time.

Bavarian Dialect

Bavarian Dialect Who hasnt  heard of Bavaria? It is such a popular travel destination, offering everything from the fairy tale Neuschwannstein castle to the not-to-miss yearly Oktoberfest. As a tourist, Bavaria is fairly easy to explore and travel in, but as a German learner, not so if you want to really immerse in their culture. The barrier for any German learner or even Germans from other parts of Germany is  das baierische  Dialekt. True, Bavarians do speak Hochdeutsch as well since  it is taught in schools, but as the bavarian dialect  Ã‚  is the daily language  of choice among Bavarians,  you need to know some Bavarian in order to get by. But of course to complicate things further for the German language learner,  there are several bavarian dialects!  There are three main ones: northern bavarian (mainly spoken in upper Palatinate), central bavarian (spoken mostly along the main rivers  Isar  and  Danube, and  in upper Bavaria  including  Munich) and southern bavarian (mostly in Tyrol region). The Baierisch  that you hear on the bavarian tv channel is mostly the central bavarian dialect coming from Munich. There is hardly any bavarian literature out there.  Bavarian is considered to be a spoken language rather than a written one,  even though the bible was translated into Bavarian as well.   So how different is Bavarian from standard German? See if you can understand the following Bavarian tongue twister: Oa Zwetschgn im Batz dadatscht und oa im Batz dadatschte Zwetschgn gaabatn zwoa batzige dadatschte Zwetschgn und an batzign Zwetschgndatschi! Exactly! Now for something easier. Heres a silly  Bavarian poem: Da Jackl und sei Fackl Da Jackl, der Lackl,backts Fackl am Krogn,duads Fackl in a Sackl,mechts mim Hackl daschlogn. Aba as Fackl, so a Prackl,is koa Dackl im Frack,beißt an Jackl, den Lackl,durchs Sackl ins Gnack!                                                                           -  Barbara Lexa Better, nicht wahr? In standard German, the  poem would read as follows: Jakob, dieser Flegel,packt das Ferkel am Kragen,steckt das Ferkel in ein Sckchen,mà ¶chte es mit der Axt erschlagen. Aber das Ferkel, so ein Ungetà ¼m,ist kein Dachshund mit Frack,beißt den Jakob, diesen Flegel,durch’s Sckchen hindurch ins Genick.   And finally heres the English translation: Jakob, dieser Flegel,packt das Ferkel am Kragen,steckt das Ferkel in ein Sckchen,mà ¶chte es mit der Axt erschlagen. Aber das Ferkel, so ein Ungetà ¼m,ist kein Dachshund mit Frack,beißt den Jakob, diesen Flegel,durch’s Sckchen hindurch ins Genick. Hopefully, I havent discouraged you from visiting the Bavarian state, but please do not go there without learning   at least some common Bavarian phrases and words. Bavarians will be flattered that you have made the effort to learn a bit  of their language and you wont feel completely lost either when somebody addresses you   or uses some of the following phrases: To greet someone: Gruss GottWhen leaving: Pfiat eich! Until next time!Also very popular: Servus   This word can be used informally   either as hi or as goodbye with somebody with whom you are on familiar terms with. Sapperlot  »It is used to express surprise or enthusiasm in the same sort of way as more modern terms such as Alle Achtung! and Respekt! but it is also used in the same way as swear words to express frustration or outrage. These are just a few words and phrases. For more  Bavarian vocabulary and expressions, read here. There is one final point  about the bavarian dialect that I want that will gladden the heart of any German language learner:  The bavarian grammar is a little simpler from the standard German one:  Ã‚  only articles are declined,  PLUS, the simple past is hardly ever used! Thats one more reason to learn some Bavarian. Now go and visit Bavaria! Pfiat eich!

Personal statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Personal Statement Example That is why I have always advocated charity clinics and free consultations for those in need whenever I have the time to spare. The volunteer service and hospital based training I did in India allowed me to treat medical cases that helped enhance my patient diagnosing skills. These were on the job experiences that came in handy when I came over to the US for further training. Although only a student under the supervision of internal/family medicine physicians, I am currently being allowed to develop my skills by working alongside them in clinical trials while I continue to pursue the requirements to complete my medical residency in the U.S. This type of interaction with both patients and fellow physicians has certainly come a long way in honing what I hope to be world class physician skills in the future. I know very well that I need to keep myself physically and emotionally well-rounded as well if I am to continue serving my patients to the best of my abilities. That is why I always take the time during my very busy work week to stay fit with various sports activities like tennis. I also make sure to set aside my weekends to reconnect with my family. These activities will help me deal with the high pressure job of being a doctor and has translated into continuously improving and evolving medical skills for my patients. I have been taught b

Compare and contrast the use of dramatic irony in Oedipus Rex and Essay

Compare and contrast the use of dramatic irony in Oedipus Rex and Doll's House - Essay Example th plays use dramatic irony to develop conflict in situations that would otherwise not appear to have any, but they differ greatly in how that irony is developed and who is aware of what; in â€Å"Oedipus Rex† the irony develops as a slow but inevitable march towards disaster, making the tone of the play about sweeping concepts like fate, whereas in â€Å"A Doll House† the irony develops through constant attempts by each character to hide their actions from each other, making the play a universal parable about the life of the typical 19th century family. Both â€Å"Oedipus Rex† and â€Å"A Doll House† are similar in using dramatic irony in a plot that would otherwise be bereft of conflict. For instance, in Oedipus, there is no particular antagonist as exists in a traditional narrative – Oedipus is essentially a hero and an anti-hero. The plot revolves around a â€Å"murder† that happened before the play even begins (Sophocles 18), and centers on a quest in which the hero eventually finds himself guilty of that same murder. Likewise, in â€Å"A Doll House,† one of the central themes is the inability of this family to openly communicate with each other, until the relationships in the family erode to the point that Nora, the protagonist â€Å"does not love† her husband Helmer anymore (Ibsen 1333), leaving her house â€Å"empty† when she goes (1333). Obviously this lack of communication would not function to advance the plot if the audience could not see it develop; thus â€Å"A Doll Hou se† uses dramatic irony to advance the plot While both â€Å"Oedipus† and â€Å"A Doll House† use irony to advance the plot, the effects of that irony on the viewer are very different, because the mechanism of developing the irony is very different between the two works. In â€Å"Oedipus,† the narrative relies almost entirely on outside knowledge of events to drive the irony. The audience never sees the events that set Oedipus up to kill his father or sleep with his mother, so when he

Amenorrhea Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Amenorrhea - Case Study Example This paper will discuss a case study that involves a 30-year-old female whose has secondary amenorrhea for six months. Prior to being diagnosed with the disorder, she presented with periods of irregular cycles and dysmenorrhea. Thus, the paper will discuss the pathophysiology of the disorder and it possible causes in relation to irregular cycles and dysmenorrhea. Amenorrhea is a menstrual disorder that refers to the absence of menstruation in a woman who had been previously having their normal menstrual cycle. Secondary is used to refer to menstruation that had previously occurred at least for some period but stopped for a period of six months or longer due to some reasons. In order for the woman to be diagnosed with secondary amenorrhea, they must miss their menstrual period for a period of at least three to six months without being pregnant (Heiman, 2009). The most significant contributing factors include the use of birth control pills, certain medications and stress that also have been associated to cause dysmenorrhea (painful cramping) and irregular cycles. The most common reason as to why a woman will miss their period is as a result of pregnancy. However, it should be noted that pregnancy, menopause and breastfeeding are not classified as causes of the disorder. Secondary amenorrhea is not harmful to the patients’ health as it c an be treated effectively in the majority of the cases according to the pathophysiology. Thus, it is important for the health care practitioner to address the underlying condition causing the menstrual disorder to ensure that optimal health of the woman is regained (Klein & Poth, 2013). The hypothalamus is involved in generating the gonadotropin-releasing hormones that are responsible for stimulating the pituitary gland to produce the gonadotropins i.e. the Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle- stimulating hormone into the blood stream. These gonadotropins are important in

Sustainable Architecture and Design

Sustainable Architecture and Design Sustainable, eco-friendly architecture can often be seen as the radical hippy of neo-liberal architectural discourse, with its practical application in the 21st century limited and problematic. Is there space for the synergy of idea in this regard, producing usable and practical or whimsical and gracious buildings that also adhere to the classical ideas of beauty and proportion? Sustainable[1] and eco-friendly architectures[2] were the subject of much left of centre discourse throughout the 1960’s and 1970’s against the backdrop of late Modernism and the initiation of constructed, clean post–Modernity. They were in opposition to the shock of the ‘new’ the marvels of concrete and structural steel and the innovations that supported closed environments such as elevators and air-conditioning. The seemingly ‘hippy’ applications of buildings that suited the environment, responded to them, and trod lightly in their space appeared irreconcilable in the context of the masculine, rational and spare elements of Modernity. The fear that beauty[3] could not exist in a mixed relationship, that a building could be both environmentally friendly and be visually appealing was not always an option in the hegemony of late modernism. However, this paper discusses the synergies that arose from these apparently oppositional ideas. The modernist era of tower blocks and buildings that fitted in with the ‘form follows function’ premise, ignored the possibilities of working with the environment and also being informed by it. The post-War building boom was expeditious, masculine and prolific, with the modular systems of the International Style informing all of the above. The shock of the new, invention and innovation left little space for the architectures engaging with the environment or the vernacular textures. Issues of sustainability were very much part of a neo-liberal brief, and disregarded by the world order of the time who had not yet woken up to the issues regarding the depleted ozone layer and greenhouse gas emissions. However, occasionally, there was minor dissent, particularly in the British colonies, where the imposed architecture of the colonist had been, to some extent environmentally adapted by the settlers using vernacular materials and adapting some elements of the indigenous building systems that they found there. Throughout this, though, the prevailing post-War building idiom of the mother country was largely retained, adaptability being one of the successes of Modernism. Those careful and socially conscious architects that contested the climatically and culturally inappropriate imposition of modernism strove to combine old and new materials and old and new technologies to create regionally appropriate buildings that were a vernacular in their own right and yet a new architecture that combined all the radical notions popular in the hippy culture of the late 1960’s. Norman Eaton, a South African, was cognizant of environment and reduction of the air-conditioning loads when he designed his Netherlands Bank Building (1965) in Durban, South Africa, a five level building where the building stands on a white marble podium and forms a pavilion in the centre of the high-rise urban fabric. The external curtain wall is replaced by a brise-soliel of green ceramic hollow clay blocks forming a massive sunscreen and significantly reducing the air conditioning loads in a hot, humid climate. ‘The unbroken expanses of ceramic screening were the result of Eaton’s approach to the challenge of Durban’s heat and were not employed for aesthetic effect alone. The open and yet cool aspect of the interior and the considerably reduced load on the building’s air conditioning system testify to the screens functional success. Behind the screen and invisible from the outside a second curtain wall, this time of glass, also covers the building, so that all internal levels are well lit but at the same time well protected against the glare and heat of direct sunlight.’ (Haropp-Allin; 1975: 107) Visually, although the building is a regionalist adaptation of what was a prevailing modernist format, the building and its incorporated garden spaces provides cool relief and a refuge in a hard edged landscape.[4] Almost two decades later, the Australian John Andrews in his Eugowra Farmhouse, New South Wales, (1979) maximized the orientation of the building such that he combined the use of prevailing winds for cooling in the Australian outback together with a central fireplace for heating. A prominent rainwater tower in the centre of the roof is both a strong vertical element, creating ‘architecture’ and at the same time harvesting water which is a critical necessity in the arid environment. This element is also able to spray water onto the roof for cooling in extreme weather. This was all combined using modern materials in a vernacular idiom combined with a classical symmetry, producing a gracious neo-outback veranda house. With these examples quoted above, a strong sense of regionalism is implicit in the sustainability and the environmental generators that form the ‘natural’ brief. For a building to be modern, beautiful and environmentally sustainable, it follows that the structure should be in a regionalist ‘idiom’ using modern materials housing modern facilities, with the incorporation of some of the vernacular, as the meaning of the site and the climate is by definition a regionalist issue. It was not only in the antipodean regions that this critical discourse was occurring. From the beginning of the 1960s, a number of papers and publications supporting the architecture of the vernacular and its many manifestations, connecting this to environment, culture and landscape, spawned the radical publications such as ‘Shelter’ (1973) which explored the notions of building using traditional materials, textures and forms, and adding to this sustainable methods of drainage, rainwater capture, foundation formation and environmentally friendly methods of heating and cooling. This treatise however was aimed at people pursuing more of an alternative lifestyle, using the landscape and other culture’s building methods to house them in an ecologically sustainable fashion. More conventional publications such as the work of Fitch in 1960, and the works of Rudofsky (1965) and Rapaport (1969) explored the connections between climate, landscape and culture. They investiga ted the traditional means by which building were constructed to address all the social and climatic constraints that produce sustainable buildings that tread lightly on the landscape and do not need large amounts of extra resources such as heating, cooling, and electricity consumption. These publications were still way left of the conservative centre, and not embraced by the rapidly mechanized northern countries. Few architects in the formal sector were prepared to stick their necks out in this regard, leaving the alternative housing solutions to those that pursued alternative lifestyles. A marked example does, however, stand out- Paolo Solieri, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright conceived of his Arcosanti Project in 1970, where some 70 miles north of Phoenix, Arizona, a compact complex hoping to eventually house some 5000 people is designed in a way such that the outside arable land is maximized, the living areas are condensed providing ready access to open desert for all dwellers, an d a number of large greenhouses provide food for the inhabitants. These structures also act as solar collectors for winter heat. Solieri’s aim was to design an urban environment that would function in a manner providing the maximum social, economic and health benefits, as well as treading lightly on the landscape on which it sits minimizing the effects on the earth. His principle of ‘arcology which married the ideas of ecology and architecture is described below. In nature, as an organism evolves it increases in complexity and it also becomes a more compact or miniaturized system. Similarly a city should function as a living system. It must follow the same process of process of complexification and miniaturisation to become a more lively container for the social, cultural and spiritual evolution of humankind. The central concept around which these developments revolve is that of arcology- architecture and ecology as one integral process. Arcology is capable, at least theoretically, of demonstrating positive response to the many problems of urban civilization, population, pollution, energy and natural resource depletion, food scarcity and quality of life. Arcology is the methodology that recognizes the necessity of the radical reorganization of the sprawling urban landscape into dense, integrated, three- dimensional cities in order to support the complex activities that sustain human culture. The city is the necessary instrument for the evolut ion of humankind. Paolo Soleri (Arcosanti Workshops 2000 pamphlet) The Cosanti-Arcosanti pamphlet notes that Newsweek commented that ‘As urban architecture, Arcosanti is probably the most important urban experiment undertaken in our lifetime’ (Cosanti-Arcosanti pamphlet; 2000) However, despite this accolade by the popular, ‘thinking’ press, the project, nearly four decades later, struggles along still in the construction process, and is more of a site for those people that pursue the alternative than people living mainstream, corporate lifestyles. As a site it is a museum, a school, a point of pilgrimage. For very few people, it is a lifestyle. Bringing these combined issues of ecological, social and economic sustainability, to the forefront, making them trendy and implicit, has been the largest challenge to the production of sustainable architectures. The realisation that the construction industry and the operation of the buildings that it makes, as Hyatt quotes (himself and) Edwards (Hyett in Abley Heartfield;2001:30) ma kes it ‘responsible for 50% of ‘all energy resources consumed across the planet, making the construction industry ‘the least sustainable industry in the world’. This fact has taken a while to entrench itself in ‘first world’ industry. Issues of sustainability and appropriate technology are not new- as mentioned earlier they formed the basis of developmental jargon in the ‘Third’ World. Sustainability in architecture as a technical approach in the management of particular resources has been the subject of discussions in the last three decades, with the 1975 ‘Alternatives to Growth’ conference which expanded the definition realizing the limits of a static- state economy: this time sustainability fell within the realms of the economists and not the built environment practitioners. Then, the issue of the control of technology by the Northern Hemisphere was dealt with by Willy Brandt who, in 1980, led the Independent Commission on International Development Issues, producing a report headed ‘North- South- A Programme for Survival’. (Heartfield in Abley Heartfield; 2001:97) Here, the connections between sustainable development and appropriate technology were made, entrenching the i dea of appropriate technology in a developing country context. This was almost fatal, as Heartfield notes ‘What appropriate technology meant for the less developed world was the lowering of expectations; less capital input, less expenditure, less technology.’ (Ibid;97) Perhaps this perceived ‘lower’ level of existence is one of the reasons why the plea for incorporation of these ideas of sustainability in the northern hemisphere fell largely on deaf ears. ‘It could be said that sustainability is a fudge. It raises all the same presuppositions of the limits to growth thesis, that absolute resource limits are upon us, but avoids their implied conclusion, a moratorium on growth. What the concept of sustainability preserves of the ideology of limits is the sentiment of constraint and parsimony.’ (Ibid;97) Finally, the Bruntland Report [5] submitted in 1987 is seen by Heartfield as being credited with the ‘popularizing of the concept of sustai nable development.’ (Ibid:96). However, although this may have made the concept more digestible, it did little for popularizing its practice, for, as the Bruntland Report, quoted in Heartfield states- ‘Sustainable development requires that those who are more affluent adopt lifestyles within the planet’s ecological means’.(Ibid:97) Despite this so called acceptance, a much later technical work in a somewhat a pleading tone, by Crowther notes that ‘The ecologic responsibility is to ourselves and the global legacy of human habitation. Every choice made from concept, to design, to realization is a demand that results in ecologic and biologic consequence.’ (Crowther;1992:vii) However, the throwing of these twentieth century gauntlets such as that by Crowther has received results in latter years. Prototypical examples as that presented by Pearson in his Gaia House (Pearson;1989:40-41) may have influenced some of the challenges to be presented; the principles in his charter declare ‘Design for harmony with the planet, Design for peace for the spirit, and Design for the health of the body. The first instruction involves the use of ‘green materials’ that have as embedded qualities ‘low environmental and social costs’, which are ultimately bio-degradable and can be or are recycled. Together with this the importance of correct orientation, the use of all the elements for energy including wind, recycling grey water and collecting rain water all add to the minimized impact on the soil. Pearson also mentions the need to maximize the efficiency of the natural spaces by planting indigenous trees and flowers. (Pearson;1989:40) It was only recently, with the building explosion on the Pacific Rim, and the attacks on the World Trade Centre, that the northern hemisphere began to seriously address these issues of sustainable construction, particularly in the densely populated cities of Europe. In October 2001, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), hosted a conference that was to address the issues of creating environments that addressed issues of sustainability. This conference, ‘Sustainability at the cutting edge’, ‘was to provide an overview of the science and technology behind sources of renewable energy which would assume prominence in the next decade. This review was placed in the context of increasing concern about the impact of climate change and the fact that the built environment in countries like the UK is the worst culprit in terms of carbon dioxide emissions.’ (Smith,2003;xi) This quotation, from Smith’s technical work, emerged from this gathering. More of a handbook, it examines environmentally sensitive options for heating and cooling, and offering the option for drastically reducing emissions in urban buildings in an environment that (now) tacitly accepts the need for ecological architecture. A number of approaches which demonstrate the sensitive manipulation of all elements of the brief to create an ecologically sound, a culturally sensitive, a socially appropriate and an economically viable building have come to light, many of which employ much of Pearson’s First Principle as mentioned above.[6] The examples fulfill a variety of scales of development, and different intensities in terms of sustainability with regards to site. On the one hand, it is sadly disasters that prompt new innovative methods of shelter, in a modular though aesthetic form. Out of the Hurricane Katrina catastrophe came the Modular Transitional Growth Housing (MTGH)[7] a conceptual system that consists of a number of elegant forms which can be bunched together in a variety of forms and combinations to shelter, recycle, light and cool. Architect Philippe Barriere introduces a BioClimatic design element with high ceilings and naturally stimulated ventilation which assists in the above. However, this highly conceptual modular structure is on the knife edge of socially practical and Marxist zeal- seen as an approach that can solve a multitude of housing problems from disaster relief to inner city complexes to fishing retreats, the reality of its implementation is as conceptually choppy as Arcosanti- mass appeal is visual but not implicit. A more practical and tangible solution to a mass housing challenge is the Greenwich Millennium Village (GMV) by Ralph Erskine, (a veteran of inner city housing in his seminal Byker Wall Project at Newcastle-upon-Tyne) together with EPR Architects Limited.[8] The concept is the total regeneration of the Greenwich Peninsula, particularly the site of the former gasworks, where the Millennium Dome[9] stands. Its proximity to central London and the City mean that its viability as a dormitory suburb on bus and train routes is practical. The discourse as to how to reuse ‘brownfield’ sites is to some extent resolved here, with the ultimate provision of some 900 residences by the end of 2007 with expansions continuing till 2015. The most important feature of this project is that a newly formed community is occupying the apartments that cater for a variety of different ‘social classes’, with a series of amenities such as an ‘eco-park’ green space, as well as office and retail developments. Using a prefabricated system, the buildings are hardy, but incorporate a generous use of colour. From the perspective of the environmental sustainability point of view, the rainwater is collected, grey water is recycled, insulation is good, which minimizes overheating by artificial means in winter, and the use of recycled materials such as timber, street furniture, and concrete has been a priority (GMV Fact Sheet 5[10]). Maximum efficiency is critical to the brief and in this regard, the website offers the following information- The need for artificial lighting is minimized by the provision of large windows meaning less running costs. These windows are made from environmentally sustainable material, and are also well insulated and draught proofed. Thermally, the buildings are constructed to standards 10% higher than the national standards, which assist in the reduction of emissions. Also, the highly coloured paint is specially chosen for its non-toxic values, and is a non-polluting paint. Water saving devices are used in all sanitary fittings, and plumbed appliances. The rooms in the apartments have sliding sections that maximizes flexibility and enables multiple uses of living space[11]. Power is supplied by a combined heat and power system (CHP) where the generated heat (as opposed to the generated power) is put to use. Excess power is sold off to the national grid (GMV Fact Sheet 4[12]) The energy constraints that were used as a benchmark in the design process ranged from the amount of energy required for manufacture, to the contribution their manufacturer makes to greenhouse gas emissions. The success of this project thus far has meant that the developers were the first large developers in the United Kingdom to be awarded the ‘Excellent Eco-Homes’ rating which is an incentive submitted by the Building Research Establishment to promote the construction of eco-friendly domestic buildings. This is certainly a far cry from the establishment’s attitude a few years ago! The multi-award winning BedZED (Beddington Zero Energy Development) completed in 2002 through the Peabody Trust with Bill Dunster Architects also puts these principles into practice. The mixed-use and mixed-tenure development of BedZED is the UK’s first and largest ‘carbon-neutral eco-community’, also built on a ‘brownfields’ site[13] in Sutton, near London. The concept behind the project was to produce as much energy from renewable sources as it consumes, creating a net zero-fossil energy development, and therefore a ‘carbon-neutral development’; it thus provides no net addition of CO2 to the atmosphere[14]. Smith describes the development as ‘a prescription for a social revolution; a prototype for how we should live in the twenty-first century if we are to enjoy a sustainable future. (Smith;2003:153) The BedZED design concept is itself a model of flexibility, with a variety of different forms of accommodation as well as different types of tenure. Altogether there are 82 homes of different sizes, some for sale and others rental units aimed at social housing income levels. Amenity is also important, cementing social sustainability, with facilities such as a kindergarten, health centre, commercial use node, exhibition centre and an organic shop! Environmental sustainability is ensured through the construction of massive walls that store heat for release in cooler periods. Also, a 300mm rock-wool insulation (Smith; 2003:54) provides for extra insulation on both the walls and the roof. The windows are triple glazed. Orientation plays a large part in the energy efficiency of the buildings, with north facing elevations of office and commercial space optimizing the softer light and minimizing the need for air-conditioning, whilst the homes, which benefit from the warmer orientation, face south. Low energy lighting is used where needed to assist in the reduction of electrical output. As with GMV, the choice of materials was dependant on their low embodied energy, and were sourced from suppliers as close as possible to minimize transport energy costs. The use of timber from sustainable sources, recycled materials, grey water recycling, solar power, and roof gardens serve to embed the environmental responsibility. Power is also supplied by a CHP plant. A critical point about BedZED is the minimizations of vehicle use- residents are encouraged through education and the ‘Green Transport Plan’ to promote alternative means of transport such as walking and cycling.[15] Also, the provision of efficient public transport means that the reliance on motor cars can be reduced. A larger infrastructural solution is that of the Vastra Hamnen waterfront development at Malmo in Southern Sweden. This used to be a ‘brownfields’ site that was part of the old dockyard. A number of architects including Erskine are involved with the project. The city was participant in the forming of the brief, dictating colour, ecological rigour, provision of park space, and minimal building performance. A wind turbine provides a large source of energy. Again, the complex is socially mixed, minimizing the potential for creating class-based residential neighbourhoods and there are shops on the street level, with the intention that the owners live above them. As in the previous example, the streets are car free and a pool of electric vehicles which are powered by wind energy is available to transport residents to town. Sewage enters the main system in the city, but other waste is dispensed of internally, where residents dispose of food in one tube and then dry waste in an other. The tubes lead to common disposal sites where the dry waste is incinerated and the food is composted providing biogas which returns to the occupants through the gas main. Smith considers this project as one that has ‘achieved reconciliation between market forces and environmental priorities.’ (Smith;2003:144) The single-building environmentally-efficient challenge was taken up by Sir Norman Foster and his partner Ken Shuttleworth in the Swiss Re Headquarters building, St Mary Axe. It remodeled a conceptual idea developed by Sir Buckminster Fuller and Foster in 1971 called the ‘Climatroffice’ which ‘suggested a new rapport between nature and workspace; its garden setting created a microclimate within and energy conscious enclosure, while its walls and roof were dissolved in a continuous triangulated skin. (Walker in Heartfield Abley;2001:207) Swiss Re was completed in 2004. It is notably the first building of its kind in England to manipulate environmental conditions to minimize air-conditioning, wind loads etc. The forty floors are designed as a series of rectangular plates that spiral up the building, assisting in daylight entering the building and reducing the amount of artificial lighting (Powell;2003:219) Revival of and recirculation of stale air is facilitated by roof gardens, also known as ‘bioclimatic terraces’ which re-oxygenate the building. These roof gardens are also used as social gathering spaces, which aids in increasing the quality of the work place. Most of the ventilation is natural, and unlike many buildings of its kind, the windows can all open. The base of the building has been formed to minimize wind load on the building and to minimize the creation of wind corridors so often found at street level in cities. (Powell;2001:219) The new age commitment to the environment and the lessening of emissions is often approached with zeal- Artist Freidensreich Hundertwasser was approached by the Mayor of Vienna to remodel the Spittelau Energy Plant. At first he turned it down, opposed to the assumed ecological failings embodied in the project. However, after assurances that the remodeling of the plant would be including the provisions for drastically reducing emissions, he took on the project for free. Working together with Architect Peter Pelikan, the industrial faà §ade was remodeled into a whimsical parody, where ‘The power plant†¦.. shows how to foreground the open creative spirit in harmony with nature and the anonymous city’ (Asensio;2003:31). Although this is not necessarily as direct an example as some of the new constructions mentioned above, I suggest that it is valid, given that the pressure to reuse buildings is a large part of architectural discourse, and is itself a tactic of sustaina bility and environmental recycling, the ‘greening’ of them in terms of minimizing emissions, changing technologies, and in this case mitigating the massive industrial-ness of the power station, makes it more socially environmentally friendly for the residents of Vienna. In the introduction to New Architecture in Britain, Powell states: ‘the future of architecture, in Britain and elsewhere is linked to such vital issues- the fate of our cities, the housing crisis and the protection of the earth’s fragile environment- that discussion of style seems almost irrelevant.’ (Powell;2003:20) This statement, in a glossy publication of contemporary architecture is a far cry from the plea made by Crowther less than a decade ago[16]. Whilst I agree with Powell that the language of architecture is changing, as it always does, the discussion of style is not irrelevant- low budget beauty and elegance is provided by the (highly theoretical) MGTH project, a mix of economic and social strata is contained in the Greenwich Millennium Village, a bold development more agreeable with the Vitruvian ‘Commodity and Firmness’, the BedZED and Vastra Hamnen developments that limit motor vehicles and provide the use of electric cars. Ironically, i t is perhaps the Swiss Re building, as Powell suggested in his 2001 volume ‘(that) reinforces the point that office towers can be distinctive, even beautiful, objects that complement, rather than deface, the skyline.’ (Powell;2001:219) which has managed to push the issue of sustainability and its connection with the very possibility of aesthetic beauty in the Vitruvian model into the forefront of populist architecture. However, we must not forget, in the clamour of the new, those early visionaries that promoted the values of engaging with the environment and treading with sensitivity. The investigations into the connection between culture, landscape, environment and architecture that informed the basis of the approach to the buildings built today, were seminal works of their time, situated in an alternative environment that was far too left of the modernist mainstream to find favour. But we can also feel thankful that finally, the discourse of environmentally friendly architecture has emerged in the mainstream- let us hope that it is not too late. References: Abley, I Heartfield, J (2001) Sustaining architecture in the anti-machine age Chichester, Wiley-Academy Andrews, J (1982) Architecture : a Performing art Lutterworth Press Asensio, P(2003) Freidensreich Hundertwasser Barcelona, LOFT Publications Cosanti Foundation(2000) Arcosanti Workshops 2000 (pamphlet) Phoenix, Cosanti Cosanti Foundation(2000) Cosanti-Arcosanti (pamphlet) Phoenix, Cosanti Crowther, R(1992) Ecologic architecture Massachusetts, Butterworth-Heinemann Curl, J (1999)Oxford Dictionary of Architecture Oxford, Oxford University Press Fitch, J(1960) Primitive Architecture and climate from Scientific American, December p134-144 Harrop-Allin, C(1975)Norman Eaton, Architect- a study of the work of the South African Architect Norman Eaton 1902-1966 Johannesburg, C Struik Publishers Marschall S (2000) Opportunities for Relevance Kearney, BPretoria, University of South African Press Pearson, D(1990) The Natural House book London, Conran Octopus Powell, K(2003) New architecture in Britain London, Merrel Powell, K(2001) New London architecture London, Merrel Rapaport, A(1969) House form and culture Prentice Hall Rudofsky, B (1965) Architecture without architects: a short introduction to non-pedigreed architecture New York, Museum of Modern Art Shelter Publications(1973) Shelter United States, Shelter Publications Smith, P (2003) Sustainability at the cutting edge : emerging technologies for low energy buildings Oxford, Architectural Press Vale, B(1991) Green architecture design for a sustainable future London, Thames and Hudson Websites: http://www.greenwich-village.co.uk/index_main.htm (17.06.07) http://www.arcosanti.org/ (17.06.07) http://www.peabody.org.uk/pages/GetPage.aspx?id=179 http://www.inhabitat.com/2007/0 6/15/prefab-friday-modular-transitional-growth/#more-4683 (17.06.07) 1 Footnotes [1] Sustainability as an idea was a large component of ‘development speak’ in the context of poverty and limited resources. This embraced notions of community participation as well as optimizing resources. [2] The Oxford Dictionary of Architecture notes that ‘ecological architecture- Aims to respond to declining energy resources, eg using energy conservation, efficient insulation, rainwater, solar radiation, and wind power, and recycling as much as possible. The term was coined in the 1970’s’ (Curl;1999;220). Similarly, ‘green architecture- Buildings designed according to energy-saving criteria and the reduction of pollution.’ (Ibid;288). [3] From the third chapter of Vitruvius De Architectura comes the definition of beauty in architecture as firmitas, utilitas, venustas or Commodity, Firmness and Delight. The practicality of the building, as well as its robustness is as important as its beauty. [4] The necessity to incorporate en