Internet Use Essay

Introduction Learning is a process of acquiring modifications in existing knowledge, skills, habits, or tendencies through experience, practice, or exercise. (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 2012) Clinical education is a vital component in the curricula of pre-registration nursing courses and provides student nurses with the opportunity to combine cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains. Various studies have suggested that not all practice settings are able to provide nursing students with a positive learning environment. In order to maximize nursing students’ clinical learning outcomes, there is a need to examine the clinical learning environment. (Chan, 2004) Clinical experience has been the vital part of nursing education. According to Dunn and Burnette (1995), it is the avenue for the students to utilize the theories that they’ve learned in their discussion. It prepares student nurses to be able of â€Å"doing† as well as â€Å"knowing† the clinical principles in practice. The clinical practice stimulates students to use their critical thinking skills for problem solving. It is where the student nurses enhance their knowledge in nursing concepts and principles as well as to develop and improve their skills and attitude towards rendering quality of nursing services. Internet is a worldwide network that connects millions of computer and rapidly transforming the character of life and work. Internet gives tremendous impact on the conduct of every aspect in life especially in education. Nowadays, most of the students rely in the new trends brought by technology. When it comes to education, internet is the number one sour ce of the students in making school requirements. However, there are negative aspects too with regards in using internet, but if we use it enough in the right way, it will be a big help and easier for us to learn something new in just a click away. The internet, or sometimes called â€Å"The Net† is a worldwide system of computer network at any computer can get information from any other computers. (Gaylah, 2010) Regular use of computers can have an effect on student performance on standardized tests, according to a new study by researchers at Boston College and the University of Massachusetts at Lowell. Analyzing test performance and computers uses of 1986 fourth grade students from 55 classrooms in nine Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment Systems (MCAS) English Language Arts Exam. According to federal communication commission, 97% of schools across the country had internet connectivity as of 2010 (FCC, 2010). Far fewer, were able to successfully meet the need from higher speed access, the FCC said, citing that demand as one reason it unveiled its National Broadband Plan in March 2010. A study of I. Kabakci, et al., about â€Å"Parents Views about Internet use of their Children† was revealed that parents consi der Internet as an important source that children can especially use to do research for their lessons and to do their homework. It was concluded that Internet influences the personal development of children negatively because children are exposed to physiological effects since they spend a lot of time on internet. The study of Kabacki et. Al., was all about Internet Use and Its Effect to Academic Performance but there was only limited study conducted about Internet and Clinical Performance of Nursing Students, thus, the Researchers would like to conduct a study about the Internet Use in Clinical Performance of Nursing Students to identify how student’s performance on clinical area would be affected with the use of internet and to fill the gap of the researcher’s curiosity about the said study. Statement of the Problem This study was intended to determine the effects of internet use of student nurses in relation to their clinical performance. Specifically, the study sought answers to the following: 1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of: 1.1 sex; 1.2 age; 1.3 year level; and 1.4 weekly allowance? 2. How often do student nurses use the Internet? 3. Is there a significant relationship between student nurses’ use of the Internet and their profile variates? 4. What is the clinical performance of the student nurse-respondents? 5. Is there a significant relationship between student-respondents’ clinical performance and profile variates? 6. Is there a significant relationship between Internet usage of student nurses and their clinical performance? 7. What are the implications can be drawn from the study? Hypotheses Based on the specific questions presented above, the following hypotheses were tested: 1. There is no significant relationship between student nurses’ use of the Internet and their profile variates. 2. There is no significant relationship between students-respondents clinical performance and profile variates. 3. There is no significant relationship between Internet use of student nurses and their clinical performance. Theoretical Framework Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning by Mayer where in the principle known as the multimedia principle states that â€Å"people learn more deeply from words and pictures than from words alone†(Mayer,1996 p.47). However, simply adding words to pictures is not an effective way to achieve multimedia learning. The goal is to instructional media in the light of how human mind works. This is the bases of Mayer’s cognitive theory of multimedia learning. This theory proposes three main assumptions when it comes to learning with multimedia: There are two separate channels, auditory and visual for processing information sometimes referred to as Dual-coding Theory; Each channel has a limited (finite) capacity similar to Sweller’s notion of cognitive; Learning is an active process of filtering, selecting, organizing and integrating information based upon prior knowledge. Humans can only process a finite amount of information in a channel at a time and they make of sense o f incoming information by acting creating mental representations. Mayer also discusses the role of three memory stores sensory (which receives stimuli and restores if for a very short time), working (where we actively process information to create mental constructs (or schema) and long-term (the repository of all things learned). Mayer’s Cognitive Theory of Multimedia presents the idea that the brain does not interpret a multimedia presentation of words, pictures and auditory information in a mutually exclusive fashion; rather these elements are selected organized dynamically to produce logical mental constructs. Furthermore, Mayer underscores the importance of learning (based upon the testing of content and demonstrating the successful transfer of knowledge) when new information is integrated with prior knowledge. Design principles include providing coherent verbal, pictorial information, guiding the learners to select relevant words and images and reducing the load for a sing processing channel etc. can be entailed from this theory. Experi mental Learning Theory by David A. Kolb emphasizes that the true play in the learning process. He states that â€Å"learning is a process is whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience† (1984, p.38). The theory presents a cyclical model of learning, consisting of four stages. One may begin at any stage, but must follow each other in the sequence: concrete experience (or â€Å"DO†), reflective observation (or â€Å"OBSERVE†), abstract conceptualization (or â€Å"THINK†), active experimentation (or â€Å"PLAN†). Kolb’s four-stage learning cycle shows how experience is translated through reflection into concepts, which in turn are used as guides for active experimentation and the choice of new experiences. The first stage, concrete experience (CE), is where the learner actively experiences an activity such as a lab session or field work. The second stage, reflective observation (RO), is when the learner consciously reflects back on that experience. The third stage, abstract conceptualization (AC), is where the le arner attempts to conceptualize a theory or model of what is observed. The fourth stage, active experimentation (AE), is where the learner is trying to plan how to test a model or theory or plan for a forthcoming experience. Kolb identified four learning styles which correspond to these stages. The styles highlight conditions under which learners learn better. These styles are: assimilators, who learn better when presented with sound logical theories to consider, convergers, who learn better when provided with practical applications of concepts and theories, accommodators, who learn better when provided with â€Å"hands-on† experiences, divergers, who learn better when allowed to observe and collect a wide range of information. Conceptual Framework Presented in the Figure 1 is the Conceptual Framework of the research study, a frame at the base of the diagram shows the study group or the research environment, 78 Student Nurses of Samar State University S.Y. 2012-2013. The said frame is connected to a bigger frame by a single arrow where it consist the research process. The aim of the study is to determine the relationship between the internet use of students and their profile variates, the internet use of students and clinical performance, and the relationship between the profile variates and clinical performance of the students. The frame for the research process is connected to the finding and analysis of the researcher and the implication which serves as a room of opportunity in the improvement of learning skills of student nurses.

Challenges and Best Practices in Corporate Governance

Former Finance Secretary Jesus Estanislao once compared good corporate governance as keeping one’s house in order. Most people want well-run households, one that keeps a lid on expenses while keeping things neat and clean and takes care of the various needs of family members. In the business setting, a clean house is more attractive to prospective investors. Good corporate governance promotes transparency, accountability and responsibility. Corporate governance is not just about ethical conduct or being transparent and fair to stakeholders, it is also a means to improve a company’s performance, competitiveness and sustainability. In the Philippines, compliance with corporate governance codes is still relatively low. It is probably an offshoot of the way most Asian economies do business, which is largely personal and based on connections—whether by family, affinity or friends. In addition, the adoption of good corporate governance practices is a function of a firm’s financial performance. In Singapore for example, a relatively developed economy, a recent report showed a widening gap between companies with strong and weak corporate governance policies. But it is when crisis occurs when the defects in corporate governance are seen. Learning curves for the adoption of scorecards and best practices for corporate governance are a tad high, and maybe difficult for several companies to implement. Dr. Estanislao once said that his advocacy for companies in the Philippines to adopt good corporate governance standards is a slow burn. But someone has to do it, and progress must start as soon as possible so it can also blossom faster.

A View on Japanese Customs As Depicted In Films and Figurines

A View on Japanese Customs As Depicted In Films and Figurines Gojira, Hello Kitty, and other forms of Japanese culture have been integrated through popular culture in such things as movies and toys. The aspects that can make these mediums fun and interesting can make them popular which gives a lot of credit to the culture that it is behind. These two forms although representing popular culture, are still able to draw towards representations of everyday life, and Japanese culture. Christine R Yano explains how the consumerism of Hello Kitty has shaped Hello Kitty, and it has become an obsession of a sort. â€Å"Hello Kitty expresses herself through disarming, benign mouthlessness, while Godzilla is dark, and oversized (Yano,153).† The characteristics which Gojira, and Hello Kitty have are important because Hello Kitty’s characteristics of being cute appeal to many people’s senses, and can be the reason why Hello Kitty Goods earned a hundred million from products and an additional four hundred million in licensing fees. Maybe it has to do with the fact that Hello Kitty is described as being â€Å"Irresistable† (Yano, 154). Japan threw elements like these has been able to show other areas of the world their culture, which has prompted integration, but their culture can still be closely derived from the elements represented in these movies, as well as a representation. From looking at elements of media, such as Hello Kitty, and Gojira we are able to see Japanese culture embedded. Though Hello Kitty may be looked at by most people as just simply Japanese cute, it has aspects that help define culture as well. The kitty is small, does not have a mouth, and seems to be staring into a distance. This can be tied into the fact that females in the Japanese culture, are regarded as being passive. We were able to see this aspect while viewing Gojira, in the character of Emiko. In the movie she seems to display a passive role, by crying, and seeming to have a frail personality. Emiko’s role was important in this movie because rather than just making a storyline only it was important to integrate culture so that as the movie is exchanged between different people they can get a feel of Japanese culture. By looking at the overview in Gojira we can also see this well. After the postwar period which Gojira was filmed around, it was a very destructive time, and the whole city was ruined. The movie represents Japan during the postwar period showing some of the suffering which they went through. It helps to show Japanese people’s fear of nuclear attacks, which makes the movie a symbol. Japan does a good job of doing this, but we are also able to see aspects of American culture from some of the media we have looked at. Them! shows the same relationship between popular culture, and culture as do Hello Kitty, and Gojira. The movie which came out in 1954 takes you on a path of monstrous ants, who are trying to take over the world. Them has also been regarded as an important medium in American popular culture as it was integrated in video games, and television shows such as Zombies ate my neighbors, and Invader Zim respectively (Them!) Through the ants conquest which resolves the city is taken over, and many aspects of American culture ensue, and are described. For instance towards the end of the movie the firefighters want to burn the cave because they feel that everyone who is in it must be dead, and it is not worth risking the whole city for. The police officers tell them not to do so because they said they believe two young little boys are in there, and it is not worth risking their lives. This is an important part of the movie because it demonstrates a part of American culture. This illustrates t hat in American culture children are deemed as being very important. The cops made sure that they saved their lives because even two people’s lives were important to them, and they wanted to make sure that everything was ok. The police force was also shown as being very important in the movie which is an aspect that can be true as well in real life. Them did a good job of displaying cultural elements of Godzilla it was able to do the same thing. Them also does a good job of mentioning the atomic bomb which America happened to be testing at that time, and referencing this to the Cold War. This helps a vivid picture of the time period that this movie was made because factual events are being used. Godzilla was derived from Gojira as we have been told many times, but at the same time it has many special elements of its own that illustrate American culture, and popular culture. Through the many versions that Godzilla has been changed it has been able to have many interpretations especially through the different roles that Gojira has taken. In some movies we see Gojira destroying the nation of Japan, but in other instances we see the American version showing how Godzilla is a hero. This has a significant importance because this was probably done to help display a positive image form American culture rather than being the enemies. For this reason Gojira was really important for this reason because it helped bridge the gap, and this was just one of the lasting impacts the cultures had on each other. Through the Pacific Century series we are able to identify different parts of Japanese culture, and see just how exactly Japanese culture evolved. Although at first not everyone was happy about the fact of the U.S. occupying Japan, it had some certain positive characteristics. During the time of their occupation they gave credit to America for the fact that they were able to help them unify Japan, and give them a strong sense of government. America had many intentions of creating positive standards for Japan’s culture whether it was dress, music, or cartoons, but through the two cultures you are able to spot many differences. Coming from an American point of view there were initially many differences between Japanese culture, and American culture. Americans believed that Japan’s technology was different, and a lot more inferior. On Commodore Perry’s conquest to America he brought to them many different types of tools, and toys which fascinated the Japanese. Along with the tools they also introduced Japanese people to western culture by showing them new clothes, education, and music forms. The Americans also did not approve of the governmental system that Japan was run by, and made them change this as well. The Japanese on the other hand saw American people as barbaric, and did not approve of some of their practices. The Americans were surprised to find out that the Japanese regularly took baths (The Pacific Century). Through the close contact that ensued between both cultures we see how each was able to modernize, and use each other’s ideas. By starting off from modernizing during th e time of Perry we see that Japan, and America would have a lot of similarities which would continue for a long time. This would include Japan exchanging anime with America, as well as seemingly all of America’s electronics. Looking at the two cultures we see so many of the aspects that Japan and America share, but if you look more closely you can see some of the differences they possess as well. Through Gojira, Godzilla, and Them, we are able to see differences between Japanese, and American culture. We see how in Gojira the women such as Emiko are given the scared submissive role, but this is very different from Them, when Joan Weldon is one of the main scientists on the team, and conducts the experiments which may be needed to ultimately save mankind. When you look at Hello Kitty as well you see it as being referred to mainly a cute, furry, fuzzy creature that is irresistible. The emphasis of children is taken into great consideration when it comes to looking at American culture, but this differs when you look at Japan. The hydrogen bomb which was used to kill Gojira was thought to be dangerous, but at the same time the larger picture was what many people were considering, rather than the life of just two people. As the cultures of America, and Japan differed drastically this can explain the paths that they took to become more alike, and exchange cultures. It could explai n the paths that they took in order to be modernized as well as aware of other cultures. Modernity is the idea of discontinuing with the past through a process of social, and cultural change, and most importantly it helps to redefine tradition (Crisis of Modernity). Japan and America were both able to be modernized, by adapting new forms of culture, and seeing ways of life. This can highlight the fact that the Meiji Reform had such significant importance because it was a way for Japan to see how the outside and western world was rather than being close minded, and not seeing all it had to offer. The reason why modernization was so important to these two nations is because it was able to help them fend for themselves, as well as learning new ideas. For instance as Japan entered conflicts with America, they needed to modernize to overcome modernity, an idea which we have been presented with in this class. If they did not modernize then they would be subject to attacks, and other consequences that could have ensued. Modernization was popular to them in this way, and it was also important to the Americans as they tried to have contact with other parts of the world. Looking back at the information I have now I would be able to make revisions on how I look at modernization. Modernization is able to be integrated into pop culture, but it cannot entirely define one culture, just by itself. The reason that this hit me is because a couple weeks ago, I would have thought that the insights that Japan gained from the Meiji Restoration entirely defined their culture, and that is false. Modernizing your culture serves to add layers to the foundation that has already been established. Gojira was a movie produced by the Japanese, for the Japanese, and it helped to convey meaning, and display Japanese culture. This was the same way how Them gave a picture of American culture. This is very important to know because when a country is modernized, such as Japan was and tends to adopt jazz, watch movies, and watch certain movies, their core ideals are still the same as they always are. The way people think does not change just because of new things that they have experienced it just means that they have experienced closer contact with other groups, and people. Gojira w as founded in Japan, which had a thriving movie industry before America came into contact with them, and this movie was essential to Japan. When certain culture has elements that make it popular it becomes popular on a world scale leaving room for the discussion of globalization. Globalization can be in ways tied to modernization, and ultimately affects the relationship on how Japan and America, are similar or different. Globalization is human societies having close contact, and being shaped through global integration, whether it be politics, culture, or anything (Global Policy). Popular culture is important in making cultures such as Japan, and America have close contact because so much can be exchanged. From an American point of view you are able to see just how much we have comes from Japan. Whether it is the anime, Hello Kitty, and most importantly Gojira many things are taken from Japan to America in the great cultural exchange. Some of America’s popular culture has gone to Japan as well in the acculturation process by Japanese being enthralled by some American socialites, and movies as well. Globalization plays a big factor in all of this because without popular culture mediums such as Gojira, and Them there would be no standard that would be tr ying to be met. Culture, and pop culture are so important for so many reasons. They effect globalization as well as, modernization, and everything in between. Without clearly defining one, another one may not be defined. The reason that this comes to be is because culture is the underlying precepts which people have been tought to live by, but at the same time this can mingle with culture. The reason that this crosses in with pop culture is because pop culture is a way that you can at times directly relate to other nations. If you are able to relate to them by the mediums you watch, listen to, or however then they can exchange ideas, and other influences with you allowing them to assimilate them to your culture. At times through assimilating your culture through popular culture this allows you to modernize to keep to the standard which the world is embracing. After you are kept to this standard you are ultimately globalized because everyone is sharing ideas from this point, and afterwards it just b ecomes a natural process.

The Legacy of a Nation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Legacy of a Nation - Essay Example Freedom, more than any other concept, defines what it means to be an American. Self-rule is closely associated with freedom, but also has the notion of the power residing in the hands of the people. Colonists, forced to turn to community government in the face of British absenteeism, established a legacy that persists today. Our free elections are the vehicle that we use to continue to celebrate this legacy. No public official is any more powerful than the public they serve. The legacies of freedom and self rule have demanded a responsibility that we find in the Puritan inspired legacy of hard work, honesty, and family. The commitment to these ideals has lasted for centuries. Americans continue to believe in these basic values taught by the Puritans and embraced by such American icons as Ben Franklin. Even in the face of technology and MTV, our legacy is the conservative value of deliberate effort to exact an honest output. While these legacies bring us great pride, there are some darker sides to America's legacy for the present. Slavery that began in the colonies continued well into the 19th century. The remnants and impact continues to show in institutional prejudice and individual bias. This is a legacy that we have struggled with through the civil rights movement and personal introspection. Most Americans meet our challenging legacies by reaching for another of our nation's indelible character traits. The legacy of exploration and conquering adds personal strength to anyone who has knowledge of our nation's past. Though we may not explore the open and unsettled territories as in the past, America has a unique perspective that allows it to take action on social and international issues that confront us. America can face the unknown and the untraveled road of the future. Justice, fairness, and the rule of law are where these legacies are held fast and allowed to endure. America may seem to move at a slow and almost plodding pace. That is the speed of contemplation and examination. It is our courts and our legislatures that have exemplified a legacy brought from many European countries that says America has a legacy to live up to, and it can not be hurried. America's greatest strengths are drawn from the legacies of history. The wisdom and morality of men and women of the past continue to pull us into the future. They give us the courage to face our darker legacies without defense and without fear. Our legacies are the role model for people around the world to look to for hope and inspiration. They define us and make our citizens uniquely America. D James Kennedy: A Christian and Protestant Nation In his sermon "God and Country" preacher D. James Kennedy asserted that, "The proposition that the U.S. are a Christian and Protestant nation, is not so much the assertion of a principle as the statement of fact.". Kennedy has struck the chord that has united this nation since colonial days. The country was founded not only on freedom of religion, but also with a strong diversity and tolerance of faith. In August 1748, John Kurtz was examined and ordained as a minister at the founding of the Lutheran presence in America. Kurtz practiced his ministry under the discipline of "Pietism" founded by Pastor Philip Jacob Spener. When he founded the movement some 80

Business environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 1

Business environment - Essay Example There are many reasons for this change in the external environment as organizations are fighting their way to reclaim their original position in the market. Large banks such as Northern Rock failed to sustain itself despite support from Bank of England and such the carryover effects are even felt by the organizations working in other sectors of the economy. Subprime mortgages may be just tip of the iceberg as there are other very serious causes of the failure of the financial system. Due to inter-linking of different macroeconomic variables, governments of UK and US even went on to pump in funds into failing organizations in a bid to stabilize the economy. It has also been observed that the different economic policies adopted by the UK and US Government specially after 1970s were largely in favor of free market economy which allowed different organizations to go beyond their capabilities and as such caused the current financial crises within the both these countries. Due to this reason, British Government specially has been planning to reorganize and restructure the mortgage market in a bid to lessen the impacts of the current financial crises. This research paper will provide an analysis of some of the PEST or LEPEST factors which British Government may consider for successful implementation of its plans. Further, this research paper will also discuss how a bank would respond to such influences. As discussed above that the current crises are the crises of confidence and as such not British Government is taking efforts to revive the failing institutions in particular and economy in general. As a part of these efforts, British Government is also undertaking to restructure the existing mortgage market in the country in a bid to rationalize it so that in future no such episodes happen. PEST Analysis in such circumstances can serve as an excellent tool to provide great insight into some of the critical factors required

Fatal Attraction Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Fatal Attraction - Essay Example This movie has gained importance for the psychological disorder reflected by Glenn close, where in she forces herself to get attached to the man involved with her. The abnormal mental disorder with Glenn Close is very clear in the movie as it was a psychological illness called Border line personality disorder. In this movie, this female character depicted symptoms like, impulsiveness, extreme anger ness, suicidal tendencies, instability with interpersonal relationship and fear of rejection. Borderline personality disorder is a mental illness in which the victim shows continue disturbance of personality instability, mood swings, identity crisis and self – image issues and prolonged thinking patterns. The person can remain disassociated from people and can bring about negative impact on oneself and to others to a great extend. This can bring over a disaster effect on the patient and can even turn fatal to people around them. The patient can have a distorted self image and can have uncontrollable mood swings and impulsive attitude which their loving ones can find strange and horrifying. The most of the symptoms of this disease appear in a person during adolescence or in the late adulthood. Clinical Features Reflected by Glenn Close The first symptom shown by Glenn close is her attempt to suicide, where in she tries to slit her wrist .This is a major clinical symptom of Border line personality disorder where the patient feel dejected and abandoned and tries to accomplish their goals by putting their lives on risk. The character is showing a sign of self harming which means that she is an advanced stage of border personality disorder. She is also getting obsessed with the man she had affair with, and is trying relentlessly to stalk him and his family. She is trying to harm his family members in order to take of her jealousy on them .This is a kind of mood swing which can get extreme in patients of border personality disorder. She is following the man she got involved everywhere, and this is a case of compulsion because of extreme mood swings. Moreover Glenn Close is sending a tape with abusive words to his family as part of her mental illness. She is also showing the splitting aspect where she idealizes Michael Douglas and demonizes his family. She attempts to kill his wife and kid which is indeed an atrocious act. â€Å" The phenomenon of â€Å"splitting† signifies an inability to reconcile alternative or opposing perceptions or feelings within the self or others, which is characteristic of borderline personality†(American Psychiatric,2001,pg.47). She has also identity crisis where she thinks she is being dejected and is forcefully tries to cling on to the Michael Douglas fro love and support. The female character also has extreme mood swings wherein she abuses the man and also tries to be nice at the same time. The Character and the Personality Disorder The character in the movie Glenn Close very clearly depicted the symptoms of Border personality disorder. She is not showing a normal behavior as she threatens the man she is involved with and is intimidating him to love her. She is also performing suicidal attempts which are a chronic symptom of border personality disorder. This could be mainly due to the aloneness experienced by the character in the movie. â€Å"Aloneness is experienced as a terrifying loss of self that the patient of BPD may defend against by action or by distorting reality†(Gunderson,2008pg.11). Glenn close her is showing fear of abandonment where the victim make desperate attempts to hold on to the failed relationship. She also loses control on her feelings and become impulsive very easily and attempts on self destruction and

External and Internal Environmental Analysis - Apple Research Paper

External and Internal Environmental Analysis - Apple - Research Paper Example The current business environment is volatile and changing. In order to survive and thrive in this competitive environment, firms will have to monitor and analyze the internal and external environment conditions before taking any business decision. In the present research paper, an external and internal environment analysis of Apple has been done. EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT External environment can be described as the factors, entities, conditions and events surrounding a firm, which influence its choices and activities. In a multinational organization, external environment analysis is essential. Apple is a global organization operating worldwide. Thus, external factors surrounding the parent company and the subsidiaries and branches will have an effect on the overall decision making process. An external environment is also known as an operating environment. Apple Corporation falls in the consumer electronics sector and is involved in designing and manufacturing of computer hardware, softwa re and other computer related operations. The major external factors which influence the decision making process and the computer industry are: 1. Rising price competition 2. Rapid changes in technology 3. Changing consumer preference Slow market growth and growing competition from local brands are the major reason for the rise in price wars (Knox, 2004). The majority of emerging countries have witnessed a host of local brands, selling brands and variants akin to iPhones and smart phones. They are sold at low prices, and there is an increasing pressure among bigger brands to decrease their price. In case of developed countries, price competition arises because of availability of a large number of variants from the same brand. Thus, competitors such as Samsung, IBM, HP, etc. launch more versions in developed counties, thereby intensifying competition. Rapid changes in technology have decreased the shelf life of electronic goods. More and more companies are now able to replicate the a vailable technologies. By adding a few features in those technologies, these brands gain a competitive advantage. Apple faces major competition in personal computers and mobile laptops. Apart from that, a slow market and product similarities among most of its product categories have also resulted in an increased competition. Changing consumer preferences is another external operating condition, which impacts the decision making process of Apple. Consumers have become more conscious as a result of the recent economic downturn. As a result, the sale of high-end smart phones and laptops has decreased, especially in emerging nations. Considering that emerging nations are the highest growth contributors for companies such as Apple, monitoring and establishing proper strategies will be crucial for a sustainable future growth. INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT Innovation and creativity have always been the internal strengths for Apple (Rufat-Latre, Muller, & Jones, 2010). Designing and developing most distinctive products and capturing a market share on the basis of innovation has made Apple one of the most renowned computer software companies of the world. However, with the advancement of technology and modern capabilities, it is not taking much time for other brands to imitate Apple’s design and launch in the market with added features. Apart from that, it is very difficult to patent each and every design which Apple produces. Technology and human resource can be described as the most important and crucial

Introduction to Political Science Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Introduction to Political Science - Assignment Example This system of check and balance is effectual via the Congressional Oversight as far as the Congress is concerned. The functions of Congress Oversight dictate its benefits. These include the following; increase in government accountability and increase in the degree of toughness in the queries taken from officers of the public. In this way, constructive decisions are reached. Undoubtedly, the Congress Oversight is a tremendous help in guaranteeing that all the governing bodies do not violate the legislative principles. The Congress is accountable for preserving the well being and safety of the people. Its fundamental role lies in serving as a representative party for the people of America, as supported by the Oversight of the Congress. An example is negotiating with agencies according to their constituents’ welfare. This means the rights of the people of America are safeguarded. The Watergate scandal inquiry serves as an example (Liebovich 333). This power can be exercised in a biased manner because if a particular party directs Congress, it might not use its oversight power to monitor and supervise events that benefit the party. This may affect the interests of the people of America and generate detrimental responses. ... Congress has impeachment powers. Impeachment permits the governing body to hold the civil officers responsible for committing transgressions. However, the legislature is not authorized to carry on trials or terminate the civil officers for malfeasance. The upper house has the obligation to conduct the entire trial section of the impeachment and the lower house has the responsibility to conduct the accusation. The congress can exercise the power of impeachment over the executive branch. Andrew Johnson, the 17th President, is an example. He was held accountable by 35 senators and was prosecuted in his office. The United States President, Richard Nixon was held responsible for the Watergate Scandal that took place during 1974. He decided to resign from his presidency instead of experiencing impeachment at the hand of the congress. During 1998, the President of the United States, Bill Clinton became the next president after Nixon to be impeached by the United States Senate. Later on, the Senate found him innocent. President of the United States has the power to represent the state, he is the one who is supposed to meet the heads of other countries and visit other countries and represent United States in other countries. The President is even entitled to executive powers, this allows him to run the nation and control the operations of the federal government. President has the power to accept and reject the bill forwarded to him by the congress; this power is recognized as legislative power. He has the power to appoint different officers for different public positions, his duties even include managing foreign affairs such as dealing with presidents of other nations and he even has the power to take emergency measures if necessarily

Helen and Hosea Client Profile Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Helen and Hosea Client Profile - Assignment Example Hosea parents were missionaries in Africa, which was where he was born.   Hosea spent the better part of his childhood and teenage years. He studied in different international schools where he developed a love for sports. He graduated from Africa University in 2001 and went on to work for three years with a Sports organization called â€Å"Cheza† which means â€Å"Play† in the African Swahili dialect where he was paid $ 30,000. He later went to Regent University for his Master's degree, which was fully sponsored by the religious organization that employed his parents. He managed to save $ 10,000 by keeping all his expenses to a bare minimum while at college. He started working as an assistant college coach the month after his graduation earning $70,000 for three years then got promoted and started earning $80,000. He plans to continue working with this club for as long as he can. Hosea has written some books on sporting in Africa, which has brought him quite good reve nue returns. He got 475,000 as net income, which he got after the book sales. He plans to write more books before he retires. Helen originally trained to be a social worker. She worked for the inner city program in Ontario for five years after graduating earning $35,000. The pay was not so good but she liked what she was doing and felt fulfilled. It was while working there that she got involved with her current school that was doing a better job in the inner cities. They offered her a job, which paid better; $55,000 and provided free housing within the school’s grounds. It was during a sports tournament when she met Hosea, and later got married. She decided to further her education by pursuing an online Masters degree in education at Regent University, which confirmed her credentials as a teacher. Helen now earns $73,000 and plans to continue working with the school until retirement. She also just opened up old peoples home in a house she inherited from her maternal grandmother, which has been bringing in $150,000 per year. She had taken out a loan of 300,000 to renovate the property and to hire new staff but she believes she will be able to repay the loan in about three to five years. The house is worth $ 2.5 million, as it is located in the more expensive side of town. Her grandmother had come from old money. Helen though believed in living a modest life.  Ã‚  Ã‚  

Coffee Shop Essay Example for Free

Coffee Shop Essay I. Introduction The proposed study revolves around the creation of The Coffee House, a proposed small scale business that will be situated in the fast changing environment which is constantly changing due to constructions of buildings and other facilities in the Global City in Taguig City. The study will tackle from the history of the business up to the technical and financial aspects of the study, the said study will also develop the keen observation skills of the students in terms of the marketable value of a specific brand of their liking and will also hone their analysis skills in the business side of the proposed study whether technical or financial. II. Business History The Coffee House is a new small scale business that targets the coffee industry with an expected opening date of July of 2011 in 38th Dr. N. University Parkway, Bonifacio North Triangle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. The business is a coffee shop, located near prestigious schools and business districts in the area. The business specializes in coffee, tea, and homemade pastries. There are other shops that only serve coffee in the vicinity, the nearest being over one kilometer away which is stationed at Market Market Mall in the vicinity. The target audience of the business is individuals which are both in the workforce and in the academe, students and professionals alike. Currently, there are no places in the surrounding area that cater to the said target audience. III. Vision and Mission Statement The vision of â€Å"The Coffee House† is to become the leading coffee shop in the area of Bonifacio Global City that is under the governance of Taguig city that also practices the â€Å"green† operation of its store and eventually provides a common area for business meetings, hang-out with friends and even a place for studying while enjoying the products of the business. The mission of â€Å"The Coffee House† is to bring back the appreciation of the masses to the local coffee, to break social norms through the business, to create an environment that can cater to different types of people all in the same time, to contribute to the development of one’s self being, to take part in the solution of environmental problems and to be able to encourage others in doing the same thing and lastly to help deflate the rise of unemployment in the country. Objectives The proposed studies primary goals over the next year are as follows: 1. Secure financing for start-up of at least P1, 380,000 for space and equipment. 2. Renovate our space in Global City. 3. Acquire equipment necessary for business, i. e. coffee pots, cappuccino machines, blenders, etc. 4. Make agreement with coffee distributors, and bakery vendors. 5. Create a cozy, clean environment (i. e. choice of colors, choice of music, decor) 6. Open for another branches and become the foremost coffeehouse in the area. Ownership The Coffee House is a corporation that was formed in the early stages of the study. Each individual are equally involved in the operation and management of the said proposed business. Since the ownership type of the business is a corporation type, in terms of profit, responsibility and liability each individual has equal share, therefore each decision that the business will take before it will be implemented into the business the owners will first assess the proposed implementation before implementing it on a first hand basis and if the decision fails, each one of them will also share the consequences of it. Location and Facilities The Coffee House is located at the 38th Dr. N. University Parkway, Bonifacio North Triangle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. The proponents currently own the building that the proposed business will occupy. Thus, expenses for the renovation of the area will be taken from the funds of the business. Since building a business from the ground up, the proponents took a risk in renovating the proposed location to save the business for monthly increase in cost if the business will rent a commercial location. In terms of facilities, the proponents will avail the basic facilities to jump start the business and will acquire more equipment when the business has received its return of investment, which in the estimation of the proponents would be on the succeeding months from its launch date. Products and Services Description of Products and Services The Coffee House will offer high quality coffee our primary product at a very reasonable price. We will also sell homemade cookies, brownies, and doughnuts, also reasonably priced. Key Features of the Products and Services All drinks will be made with filtered water and the highest quality ingredients we can get. Frozen drinks will have caramel or chocolate syrup drizzled in the glass and over the drink. Cappuccino and hot coca will have whipped cream toppings as well as the option for candy sprinkles. Cookies will have the option of a chocolate or caramel dip and sprinkles. We will offer designer flavored cream and five kinds of sweetener, i. e. sugar, honey, Equal, and Sweet-n-Low. Cream and sweetener is at no extra charge. Production of Products and Services We will use only filtered water and will brew our coffee in commercial coffeepots that will be thoroughly cleaned between uses. We will bake cookies, brownies and pizza pandesal in our own on-site oven from proven recipes, daily. Future Products and Services Within the next three to five years we expect to branch out into catering and offer homemade pies, whole or by the slice. Comparative Advantages in Production Our low overhead and cheaper pricing will be the key to our success. Industry Overview Market Research There are other businesses that serve only coffee in the area. Size of the Industry Nationally, the coffee shop industry is quite large, but in Global City, there are only three. The nearest one is in Market Market which is less than one (1) kilometer away. Industry Outlook The coffee business does not show signs of slowing down. With new innovations such as flavorings and additives, it should continue for some time. Marketing Strategy. Target Markets Our target market is artists and writers who need a nice quite cozy place to think and do their work. Description of Key Competitors Of the three coffee shops in the area, one is a large chain with a very expensive product, one is really a home style restaurant, the last one, and our biggest is a Famous Coffee Shop with an Elegant Style Setting. Analysis of Competitive Position Our pricing strategy, comfortable atmosphere and offering free wifi access will be the key to our success. None of the other shops in the area can offer this. Pricing Strategy The business will offer three sizes of drinks, small, medium and large. Which ranges from 50 pesos to 100 pesos, our cookies and brownies will sell for P50. 00 each/Pizza Pandesal P46 each Promotion Strategy We intend to advertise in the local newspapers and offer a frequent drinkers club discount to our best customers. We will also send out ads via direct mail, which will include cents off coupons. Management and Staffing Organizational Structure Our organizational structure will be a simple pyramid style with the owners putting in as much work as the employees. Management Team Rachelle Ann Heyres and Marilou Deondo will share management and supervisory responsibilities equally. Rachelle for the morning shift. Marilou for the afternoon shift. Staffing We will hire two busboys, two waitresses, cooks, cashier, janitors, and also security guard these will be recruited from the STI. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Busboys- Security guard- A security guards duty is to perform the duties allotted to him either to secure a place from external infiltration of people or danger that may disrupt the functioning assets of the organization. His responsibilities include performance of the duty allotted to him, to report to his superiors and be accountable for any lapse of duty. Janitors or cleaners- Labor Market Issues In this area there are College students looking for work, part time or full time, we want to fill that need. Regulatory Issues Global City and the state of Taguig City both have regulations regarding food service establishments. We have already obtained the appropriate business permits. Risks Market Risks The main risk is monetary. The area may not be ready for a place like ours and we may not do a great business but it can be prevented we will offer( free wi-fi )access to all customers as long as they want as long as they are drinking our coffee. Implementation Plan Implementation Activities and Dates 1. Begin building renovation 7/11 2. Complete renovation 7/5/11 3. Begin preliminary advertising 7/6/11 4. Purchase and setup equipment 7/10/11 5. Open for business 7/15/11 Financial Plan Beginning Balance Sheet This will be a listing of all of your assets and liabilities, before you open for business. You may want to use a spreadsheet program to make this go easier. Balance Sheet Current Assets: Building P6, 900,000 Computer P69, 000 Sound System P92, 000 Furnishings P200, 000 Equipment P138, 000 Cash Rachelle P230, 000 Marilou P207, 000 Accounts Receivable None Inventory Coffee P46, 000 Tea P23, 000 Other Assets Cups P138, 000 Total Current Assets P8, 043,000 Liabilities: Accounts Payable (monthly) Water P9, 200 Phone P6, 900 Electric P23, 000 Donut Vendor P46, 000 Warehouse Club P46, 000 Coffee Distributor P46, 000 Wages P230, 000 Advertising P46, 000 Taxes Payable Property Taxes P23, 000 Employee Taxes P92, 000 Operating Loans Payable Startup Loan P23, 000 Total Liabilities P545100 ongoing per month Projected Income This will be a listing by month of your projected income. List the projected income each month for each product, this way you can compare actual sales to projected sales at the end of the year to determine what products to concentrate on. (Below is a sample month) July 05 Coffee P276, 000 Tea P92, 000 Cookies P69, 000 Donuts P115, 000 Misc. P184, 000 Total Income for March P736, 000 Total Projected Net Profit (Cost/Benefit) P144, 900 for July This would assume 20 pots of coffee sold a day, plus an assortment of other items. This also assumes the market will not increase or decrease due to weather or economics. This would be an average month. This of course would be adjusted monthly once you start business. Then based on the adjustments and actual sales, you can build a new balance sheet at the beginning of next year. Conclusions After you have created the business plan and examined the cash flow estimation you may find that your net profits are not what you would like them to be. In this case you may have to revise your pricing strategy to fit with your expectations or change your expectations. A coffee shop is not a get rich quick idea; it takes lots of hard work and long hours to realize your dream. But, in the long run, careful planning will make it all worth it. S. W. O. T analysis Strength * The Coffeehouse will offer foods compatible to the coffee that customer’s orders. * The environment of the business is always clean and well ventilated for customers to feel relaxed. * The beverages that the business offers are locally and naturally produced that ensures the quality of the products and lowers additional costs. * Ingredients for other products that will be offered by the business like pastries, salads and the likes is organically produce in the businesses green house. * The business is located near establishments for business, academic, rising condominiums and the occasional joggers of the area. Weakness * Unlike other coffee shops the location of our store is not inside the mall. * Lot of expenses. * Slow regaining for profit. * We need to advertise our coffee shop to the public to be known unlike the others. * Low competitiveness when it comes to name or brand. Opportunities * The coffee that we offer is new to the every individuals so the opportunity in it is that the coffee drinkers may want to try our products to compare it to their usual coffee. * Threats * The other coffee brands is popularly known by every individuals that drinks coffee. *

infant mortality rate

infant mortality rate Chapter 4 Methodology 4.1 Infant Mortality Rate: Definition and Estimation Approaches Infant mortality rate (IMR) is the number of deaths occurring in the first year of life per 1,000 live births. It measures the probability of a child born in a specific year will die before reaching the age of one (World Bank, 2008). The IMR are estimated using two approaches including a direct and indirect method. Choice of methods used to estimate the IMR depends on availability and reliability of data source on infant deaths. Reliable data to estimate infant mortality rates mainly come from two data sources. The first is a vital registration system. It is a preferred source of data on infant mortality because it records all information about live births and deaths on prospective basis where a live birth or death is directly reported after it occurs. This makes vital registration system always inform statistical records of live births and deaths based on the actual condition of the population. As a result, it will provide more reliable and accurate data on infant mortality. However, an accurate vital registration system have not yet established for large part of the world, especially in developing countries. Then, it calls for an alternative source in order to estimate the IMR. The alternative source of data on infant mortality is household surveys. In the surveys, the women of fertility age are asked to answer some questions about births and deaths of children born to them. From this information, the fertility histories then can be constructed. There are two types of the fertility histories. They are a complete or truncated fertility history and incomplete or summary fertility history (World Bank, 2008). A complete fertility history uncovers the dates of births, survival status and date or age at death of all children born to the interviewed woman. On the other hand, an incomplete fertility history reveals only the number of children ever born and the number still alive or the number who have died. In order to estimate infant mortality rate, a direct method requires data for each childs date of birth, survival status, and date or age at death. This information can be found both in vital registration systems and in household surveys with complete fertility histories. In contrast, an indirect method requires less data that can be found in household surveys that do not collect detailed fertility histories. The only information required are: the number of children ever born, the number of children surviving (or dead), and the total number of women classified by five year age groups. The indirect approach uses the Brass method, after William Brass who developed a procedure to convert the proportion of death among children ever born reported by women in the age groups into estimates of the probability of dying before a certain age. Brasss method assumes that the age of the mother can function as a proxy for the age of her children and therefore for how long they have been exposed to the risk of dying (Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation, 2007). The procedures to calculate infant mortality rate using the indirect method can be explained as follows. Step 1. Calculation of average parity per woman Step 2. Calculation of the proportion dead among children ever born Step 3. Calculation of the multipliers, k(i) Step 4. Calculation of the probability of dying by age x, q(x) Step 5. Calculation of the reference dates for q(x), t (x) However, the indirect method has several limitations. First, it requires model life tables to adjust the data for the age pattern of mortality in the general population. Choosing an appropriate life table to a specific population is important to generating accurate estimates (Ahmad et al., 2000). The Coale-Demeny model life tables utilized to adjust the data are derived largely from European experience that may not fit population in sub-Sahara Africa for instance. Second, the Brass method assumes that fertility and child mortality have remained constant in the recent past. If, for example, fertility has been changing, the ratios of average parities and age pattern of childbearing will be affected. As a result, it will lead to over or under estimate of child mortality (United Nations, 1983). In this paper, data to estimate provinces infant mortality rates come from Indonesias socio-economic household survey (Susenas) data from 2001 to 2006. Susenas data provides information about: (i) the number of children ever born, (ii) the number of children surviving, and (iii) the total number of women classified by five-year age groups. Based on this data, infant mortality rates are calculated using the United Nations software, QFIVE. One should be noted that since the study period of this paper only six years, the fertility patterns across provinces are likely remain constant. This study period is too short for any meaningful changes in fertility to materialize. As a result, infant mortality rates are reliable to be used for the further analysis. 4.2 Data The empirical analysis in this paper uses a balanced panel of 25 Indonesian Provinces during the period 2001-2006, for which complete data can be found from three sources. The first is Indonesias socio-economic household survey (Susenas), which provides information on household characteristics and the presence of skilled birth attendant at delivery. The Susenas data also contains information that can be used to calculate infant mortality rates with the indirect method. The Susenas data for this paper are available from 2001 to 2006. The second source is the Ministry of Finance (MoF) data. It records district expenditure that can be broken down by sector, including health. It is then divided into two types of health expenditure, routine and development expenditure. Since the Indonesian government changed the financial report format for provincial and district level spending according to Government Regulation Number 24 year 2005 about Governmental Accounting Standard, time consistent data for public expenditure on health are available only for 2001 to 2004. The last source is Ministry of Health (MoH) data on the ratio of puskesmas per 100,000 inhabitants as proxy for health care supply provided by government. This data are available for every province from 2001 to 1006. This information is taken from various years of Indonesia Health Profile published by the MoH. This study combines these three data sources to construct a panel data set. In order to simplify the analysis, these data aggregated into province level. It also aims to make infant mortality rates feasible to be calculated. Four provinces are excluded from analysis since they do not have complete data namely Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, North Maluku, Maluku, Papua, and DKI Jakarta. A balance panel then consist of 25 Indonesia provinces during the period 2001-2006. Table 4.1 lists the variables with their definitions and sources. 4.3 Econometric Model This paper first estimates a regression model examining the effect of public health spending on infant mortality, and then it explores the relationship between the public health spending on skilled birth attendance. Finally, this study will investigate whether infant mortality is affected by skilled birth attendance. This paper introduces a fixed effect parameter in order to capture unobserved heterogeneity associated with the provinces and a time specific effects. Representing the provinces by the subscript i and the year of observations available by the subscript t, the relationship between IMR and public health spending is specified as Hit = ÃŽ ²0 + ÃŽ ²1 Sit + ÃŽ ²2 Xit + ÃŽ ±i + ÃŽ ´t + ÃŽ µit where H is log infant mortality and S is per capita total public health expenditure. X is a set of control variables, which include average house ownership in the province as proxy of average province welfare, the fraction of population living in rural area, the proportion of households with a closed sewage disposal system, and mothers level of education. This model also controls for the ratio of puskesmas per 100,000 inhabitants as proxy of health care supply provided by government. Time specific effects, represented in dt, are captured by a dummy variables for each year. This term incorporates average trends associated with economic development, for instance technological progress. The province fixed effect ai, captures all unobserved, time invariant factors that might affect infant mortality rates, for examples geographical features and wide variations on cultural perspectives on how to care for newborn children. The second model investigates the role of public health spending on skilled birth attendance. This model also examines role of the intermediate effect on utilization of skilled birth attendance as transmission channel through which public health spending may affect infant mortality rate. The model is Uit = ÃŽ ²0 + ÃŽ ²1 Sit + ÃŽ ²2 Xit + ÃŽ ±i + ÃŽ ´t + ÃŽ µit where U is utilization of skilled birth attendance, and X are control variables including average house ownership in the province, the fraction of population living in rural area, household size, mothers education and puskesmas coverage. Finally, in order to identify the effect of skilled birth attendance on infant mortality, this paper is examining the following model: Hit = ÃŽ ²0 + ÃŽ ²1 Uit + ÃŽ ²2 Xit + ÃŽ ±i + ÃŽ ´t + ÃŽ µit where the control variables X are the same as in first equation.

Fossil Fuels :: Coal Petroleum Natural Gas

Part One - Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Fossil Fuels are the most important energy sources in our world today. The overwhelming majority of the energy used in the world comes from the burning of three major fossil fuels: coal, petroleum, and natural gas. Fossil fuels are a non-renewable source of energy. They are formed over a very long period of time; the fossil fuels on earth today were formed from plants and animals that lived up to 300 million years ago. These fossil fuels are found in deposits deep beneath the earth. The fuels are burned to release the chemical energy that is stored within this resource. Energy is essential to modern society as we know it. Over 85% of our energy demands are met by the combustion of fossil fuels. Part Two – Formation   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Going back to the earlier days of Earth, the plants and animals that lived then eventually died and decomposed. The majority of these life forms were ocean dwelling forms of plankton. When these ancient ocean dwellers died, they accumulated on the bottom of a seabed; this is how a good portion of our fossil fuel reserves began. The actual transformation process of these prehistoric creatures is not known, but scientists do know that the pressure, heat, and a great deal of time go into the making of fossil fuels. Geologists are fairly certain that the beds of organic remains mixed with silt and mud to form layers. Over time, mineral sedimentation formed on top of the organisms, effectively entombing them in rock. As this occurred, pressure and temperature increased, these conditions, and possibly other unknown factors, caused organic material to break down into the simpler form of hydrocarbons, which are chains of carbon and hydrogen ranging from simple configuration to complex compounds. Another affect of extreme pressure is that the oil and gas which are various mixtures of hydrocarbons raise upwards to the surface. Exactly when in the conversion process and the nature of this migration is not known and is subject to conjecture. Oil and gas are found in the ground, not freely drifting up through the earth. This is because the hydrocarbons come across rock formations that they are unable to penetrate. Complex rock structures that effectively trap gas and oil are formed by tectonic plate activity, the same forces that shift continents. The most common formation that accomplishes this is called an anticline, a dome or arched layer of rock that is impermeable by oil and gas.

the aztecs Essay -- essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Aztecs were an American Indian people who ruled a mighty empire in Mexico from the 1400's to the 1500's. The Aztecs had one of the most advanced civilizations in the Americas and built cities as large as any in Europe at that time. They also practiced a remarkable religion that affected every part of their lives and featured human sacrifice. The Aztecs built towering temples, created huge sculptures, and held impressive ceremonies all for the purpose of worshipping their gods. The Spaniards destroyed their magnificent empire in the year 1521, but the Aztecs left a lasting mark on Mexican life and culture .   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The majority of the Aztecs lived in what is now called the Valley of Mexico. Located at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, the large valley has housed many great cities. From the massive pyramids of Tenochtitlan, to the inhabitants of the vast hub of modern Mexico City, the great valley has been the heartland of many empires . The mighty Aztecs were the last indigenous group of people to enter the Valley of Mexico. Like many other pre-Columbian cultures, the Aztecs developed their own political system, religion, social structure, agricultural techniques, lifestyle and worldview . The Aztecs were truly unique.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The early Aztecs were semi-nomadic hunters and farmers. According to legend, in about 1000 AD the Aztecs left their mythic, island homeland of Aztlan in the desert frontiers of northern Mexico to begin their 100-year migration south to the Valley of Mexico. Led by their powerful patron god, Huiziloposhtli, they continued their migration southward, stopping along the way to plant crops, to build temples for their gods, and to offer human sacrifices in their honor . From groups they encountered as they traveled, the Aztecs adopted new customs and traditions. The Aztecs were becoming a very religious people.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When the Aztecs reached the Valley of Mexico in about 1193, this fertile inland basin was already heavily populated and little land was left for them to colonize. The Aztecs appeared rude and uncivilized to the members of the older city-states that clustered around the basin . For about another 100 years they continued to look for a permanent home. As they continued their search they served as mercenary soldiers and servants... ...s have found the site of the Great Temple in downtown Mexico City where Tenochtitlan was once located. Archaeologists have uncovered all four sides of the building and recovered about 6,000 objects, including jewelry, pottery, statues, wall carving, and remains of human and animal sacrifices. They have also restored some other Aztec buildings. After the Spanish arrival, Aztec culture came to an abrupt end. Art, literature, customs, religious figures, and almost every trace of the Aztecs were destroyed. However, some Aztec heritage still survives in the midst of modern day Mexico. They are the largest aboriginal group in Mexico and retain their ancient Aztec language. Their religion is also a combination of Roman Catholicism and Aztec tribal religion. Thousands of people in Mexico have Aztec ancestors, and many of them speak a modern form of the language of ancient Tenochtitlan, Nahuatl. Many Mexican place names come from Nahuatl. Foods that come from the Aztec include chili, chocolate, and tacos. They have become popular in many countries. Descendants of the Aztec live many places including the United States. The Aztec civilization may be gone, but it will never be forgotten.

TRICARE: The Restructuring of Military Healthcare System in Response to

In the U.S and other nations of the world, the health expenditure and number of physicians increase as the economy expands. However, physician shortage is of a great concern globally, which the U.S and the Military Healthcare System (MHS) are no exceptions. According to Garber (2004) â€Å"a shortage exit when there is unsatisfied demand, which occurs when the quantity of a good or service is less than what people will be willing to buy at the current price†. For example a long wait time to get an elective surgery done, or a long wait for a patient to get an appointment to see the doctor are evidence of physician shortage. Another definition of shortage is â€Å"having a projected supply of physicians that meet less than 80% of the forecasted demand or need, calculated at the estimated means (Scheffler, Liu, Kinfu, & Dal Poz, 2007). The World Health Organization report (2006) estimated that, 57 countries had absolute shortage of 2.3 million physicians. This shortage acco rding to prior studies implied the lack of a sufficient number of health care professionals to deliver skilled health interventions such as child-birth. Schaffer et al. (2007) projected the global supply of the physician workforce to balance the demand using the demand base model and sufficient surplus in the year 2015. Despite this projection of surplus and balance of the physician workforce globally, the problem of shortage will still remain with some countries and nations as a result of distributional problems that continue to persist, and Africa for instance will need about 65% increases in supply of physicians by the year 2015 (Scheffler et al., 2007). According to Cooper (2004 & 2005) the shortage of physicians in the U.S was related to the economic capacit... ....S and overseas to supplement the care provided to the growing beneficiary population in the MTFs. The MTF is the primary health care facility for TRICARE. TRICARE PCP shortage is due to deployment to war zones, humanitarian missions and special combat skill training. Throughout the research, attempts will be made to respond to the primary question and then the other sub questions in relation to; TRICARE background history, epidemiology, physician types, administration, policies and law, finance, personnel, marketing, ethical issues, beneficiary complaints and satisfaction. Other areas include the role restructuring plays in resolving the beneficiary complaints and the impact the restructuring of TRICARE will have on health care delivery to beneficiaries. The summary, recommendations and conclusion will be addressed finally to complete this research paper.

Dissolved Gas Analysis Method

FINAL YEAR PROJECT 1 PROGRESS REPORT 1 AUTHOR’S NAME:Ruban s/o Paramasivam STUDENT ID:EP083765 REPORTING PERIOD:18TH JUNE 2012 – 15TH JULY 2012 SUPERVISOR’S:Mr. John Steven NAME PROJECT TITLE:Dissolved Gas Analysis in determining Transformer Faults SUBMISSION DATE:16TH JULY 2012 1. 0 Background of Studies Oil sampling analysis is a useful, predictive, maintenance tool for determining transformer health. DGA is identified as one of the sufficient method of oil sampling in evaluating transformer health. The breakdown of electrical insulating material inside the transformer generates gases within the transformer.The identity of gases being generated is useful in any preventive method maintenance program. DGA method involves oil sampling method and testing the sample to measure the concentration of the dissolved gases. The two typical principal cause of gas formation within an operating transformer are electrical disturbance and thermal decomposition. All transformer s generate gasses to some extent at normal operating temperature. Insulating mineral oils for transformer are mixtures of many different hydrocarbons and the decomposition process for these hydrocarbons are complex.During this process, active hydrogen atoms and hydrocarbons fragments are formed. These fragments can combine with each other to form gasses such as Hydrogen (H2), Methane (CH4), Acetylene (C2H2), Ethylene (C2H4), Ethane (C2H6) and many more. The gasses listed are considered combustible. The rate at which each gas are produced depends on the temperature. Therefore, the concentration of the individual dissolved gasses found in transformer insulating oil may be used directly to evaluate the transformer and suggest any faults within the transformer.After samples have been taken and analysed, the first step in evaluating DGA result is to consider the concentration level of each gasses. Basically, any sharp increase of the key gasses stated above indicates potential problem wi thin the transformer. The type of faults which the key gasses can produce will be further discussed in the study. Literature Review 2. 0 Dissolved Gas Analysis Power Transformers are filled with oil which acts as a dielectric medium and also as a heat transfer agent besides being an insulator to the transformer. The insulated oil is made up of saturated hydrocarbons.These molecules are connected together to form a chain liked manner by carbon and hydrogen. [1] Table 1: Chemical structure of insulating oil and fault gases During normal use, there is a slow degradation of mineral oil which produces gases that dissolve in the oil, but when there is a electrical fault, the oil starts to degrade and temperature rises. Different patterns of gases are generated due to different intensities of energy dissipated according to the type of faults. This happens because of the broken chain of the chemical structure of the insulating oil.Therefore, the broken chain will form its own chemical struc ture which is known as hydrocarbon gases or also known as fault gases. It can be divided into 3 categories which is Thermal heating, Corona and Arching, The most severe intensity of energy dissipation occurs with arching, followed by thermal heating and the least severe is Corona. Figure 1 illustrates the process of breaking chain within the insulating oil chemical structure of the fault arcing, thermal heating, and corona. Figure 1: Breaking chain process of fault arcing, corona, thermal heating and pyrolysis of celluloseGases which are produced by the degradation of oil because of the increase of temperature may be caused by several factors: [2] * severe overloading * lighting * switching transients * mechanical flaws * chemical decomposition of oil or insulation * overheated areas of the windings * bad connections which have a high contact resistance The type of gases present in an oil sample makes it possible to find the type of fault that occurs in the transformer. This is done by evaluating the concentration of gases present in the oil during maintenance.The type of fault and its characteristics are as below [3]: * Arcing Arcing is the most severe of all fault processes. Large amount of hydrogen and acetylene are produced, with minor quantities of methane and ethylene. Arcing occurs in high current and high temperature conditions. Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide may also be formed if the fault involved cellulose. In some instances, the oil may become carbonized. * Thermal heating Decomposition products include ethylene and methane, together with smaller quantities of hydrogen and ethane.Traces of acetylene may be formed if the fault is severe or involves electrical contacts. * Corona Corona is a low-energy electrical fault. Low-energy electrical discharges produce hydrogen and methane, with small quantities of ethane and ethylene. Comparable amounts of carbon monoxide and dioxide may result from discharge in cellulose. 2. 1 How DGA Works DGA method in cludes sampling of oil inside the transformer at different locations. Chromatographic analysis will be done on the oil sample to find the concentration of dissolved gas.The gases are then separated, identified and quantitatively determined such that the DGA method can then be applied in order to obtain reliable diagnosis [6]. The extracted gases meant for analysis purpose are Hydrogen (H2), Methane (CH4), Ethane (CH6), Ethylene (C2H4), Acetylene (C2H2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Nitrogen (N2) and Oxygen (O2). These fault gases can be classified into 3 groups which are shown in Table 2. Group| Hydrocarbons & Hydrogen| Carbon Oxides| Non-fault gases| Gases| CH4,H2,CH6, C2H4,C2H2| CO, CO2| N2, O2| Table 2 :Fault Gases GroupDepending on the concentration of the dissolved gases, condition of the transformer can be evaluated. This is achievable because each type of fault burns the oil in a different way where it generates different type of gases. Therefore, it is easy to examine the fault base on the gas released and its concentration level. Table 3 : Relation between Fault type and Fault gases 2. 2 DGA Diagnostic Methods Insulating oil breakdowns to small quantity of gases due to over electrical or thermal stress. Thus, the composition of these gases plays a role in determining type of fault.Through DGA diagnostic methods, it is possible to find faults as discussed earlier. There are many methods in DGA and 5 methods will be studied in this literature review part. 2. 2. 1 Rogers Ratio Method The Roger’s method utilizes four gases ratios: CH4/H2, C2H6/CH4, C2H4/C2H6 and C2H2/C2H6. Diagnosis if faults are accomplished via a simple coding scheme based on ranges of the ratio as shown in tables below [4]. Table 4: Gas Ratio Codes [4] Table 5: Roger’s Ratio Code [4] The combination of the coding gives 12 different types of transformer faults. The type of faults based on the code is shown in table 6 below: [4]Table 6 : Classification based on Roger’s Ratio Codes 2. 2. 2 IEC Ratio Method This method originated from the Roger’s Ratio method, except that the ratio C2H6 /CH4 was dropped since it only indicated a limited temperature range of decomposition [3]. Here, the remaining three gas ratios have different ranges of code as compared to the Roger’s ratio method and they are shown in table 7. The faults are divided into nine different types as listed in table 8. [4] Table 7: IEC Ratio Codes [4] Table 8: Classification based on IEC Ratio Codes 2. 2. 3 Doenenbury Ratio MethodThis method utilizes the gas concentration from ratio of CH4/H2, C2H2/CH4, C2H4/C2H6 and C2H2/ C2H4. The value of the gases at first must exceed the concentration L1 to as certain whether there is really a problem with the unit and then whether there is sufficient generation of each gas for the ratio analysis to be applicable [5]. Table 9 shows the key gases and their concentration L1 [5], and table 10 shows fault type of specific ratios. Table 9: Concentration of L1 for Doernenburg Ratio Table 10: Fault diagnosis for Doernenburg Ratio Method 2. 2. 4 Duval Triangle Method M.Duval developed this method in the 1960s. To determine whether a problem exists at least one of the hydrocarbon gases or hydrogen must be at L1 level or above and the gas generation rate is at least at G2. [6] The L1 level and the gas generation rate for this method are shown in table 11. Table 11: L1 limits and gas generation rate for Duval Triangle Methode Once a problem has been determined to exist, to obtain diagnosis, calculate the total accumulated amount of the three Duval Triangle gases (CH4, C2H2, C2H4) and divide each gas by the total to find the percentage of each gas of the total.Plot the percentages of the total on the triangle (Figure2) to arrive at the diagnosis [6] Figure 2: Duval Triangle Transformer Fault Diagnosis 2. 2. 5 Key Gas Method Figure 3 : Key Gases Diagnosis The principle of the Key Gas method is based on the q uantity of fault gases released from the insulating oil when a fault occurs which in turn increase the temperature in the power transformer. The presence of the fault gases depends on the temperature or energy that will break the link or relation of the insulating oil chemical structure.This method uses the individual gas rather than the calculation of gas ratios for detecting fault. The significant and proportion of the gases are called â€Å"key gases†. Figure 3 indicate these â€Å"key gases† and relative proportions for the four general fault types [5]. 3. 0 Scheduled Work Task| Start Date| Duration (days)| Remarks| Progress| Project Title Selection| 28. 05. 2012| 12| Proposed own project title and submitted it on 4th June 2012| Completed| Research for Project Proposal| 08. 06. 2012| 10| Journals and articles were browsed through in IEEE, Science Direct, Scopus| Completed| Project Proposal| 14. 6. 2012| 3| Project Proposal was done based on the journals and article s found. | Completed | Research for Literature Review| 19. 06. 2012| unknown| Journals and articles were searched for the literature review| Ongoing| Progress Report 1| 01. 07. 2012| 15| Each progress towards the completion of Final Year Project 1| Completed| Research / Oral Presentation Preparation| 17. 07. 2012| 24| Complete the literature review and getting prepared for the oral presentation while doing research for the project| Incomplete| Oral Presentation| 10. 08. 2012 / 29. 08. 012| -| Presentation of all the findings and research and logbook to be submitted| Incomplete| Progress Report 2| 10. 08. 2012| 3| Each progress towards the completion of Final Year Project 1| Incomplete| 4. 0 Conclusion In the end of this study, I’ll be able to determine the pros and cons of all the different types of DGA diagnostics methods and be able to determine transformer faults out of the diagnostic methods which are very essential to prevent transformer damage. Suggestions and recommend ations will be given to further improve the efficiency of those available diagnostic methods . 0 Reference 1. Church, J. O. , Haupert, T. J. and Jakob, Fredi (1987). â€Å"Analyze Incipient Faults with Dissolved-gas Nomograph. † Elecrical World. Oct. Pgs. 40-44. 2. DiGiorgio, Joseph B. (1997). â€Å"Dissolved Gas Analysis of Mineral Oil Insulating Fluids. † California: Northern Technology & Testing 3. Domun, M. K. (1996). â€Å"Condition Monitoring of Power Transformers by Oil Analysis Techniques. † Proc. of the 11th Conference on Electric Power Supply Industry (CEPSI). Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 4. Siva Sarma, D. V. S. S. and G. N. S.Kalyani, ANN Approach for Condition Monitoring of Power Transformers using DGA. 2004 IEEE Region 10 Conference, TENCON 2004. , 2004. C: p. 444-447. 5. C57. 104. 1991, I. , IEEE Guide for Interpretation of Gases Generated in Oil-Immersed Transformer, I. The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Editor. 1992, The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Inc p. 27 6. FIST3-31, Facilities Instructions, Standards and Techniques Volume 3-31 Transformer Diagnostics. 2003, Bureu of Reclamation Hydroelectric Research and Technical Services Group Denver. p. 5-13.

Porters 5 Market Forces Essay

This model focuses on the study of the competitive influences or ‘forces’ on a business. When we discuss competitive factors on a firm, we usually consider other firms within the same industry selling similar products. [1] and although it is true that other firms in the same industry present competition, Porter challenged this over simplified view by considering other forces that will also affect the firms competitive ability . The diagram below highlights the 5 main forces. 2. Potential Entrants into the market This force is concerned with the new firms that may try to enter the same market thereby creating more competition. If a firm anticipates this happening, it may try to raise the barriers to entry, in other words, try make it difficult for new firms to enter their. What barriers may a firm use and why may governments try to stop the barriers to entry? 3. Technical Threat with Substitute goods This is a different threat from those firms selling similar goods as it’s a threat that comes for firms selling alternative/substitute goods. Technology for example has enabled us to use phones to take photographs and this has presented a huge threat to firms producing and selling cameras and camera related products. It is important for a firm to look substitutes and not just similar goods. What substitutes may exist for a restaurant that could impact its sales? 4. Bargaining power of suppliers The power of suppliers will be able to in turn influence the competitive ability of a firm as they will be able to influence the amount and reliability of suppliers as well as the cost if the suppliers. The fewer the number of suppliers the more power the suppliers would have. For example in the micro chip market there are 2 main suppliers, Intel and AMD. These 2 suppliers can make decisions that will in turn influence the competitiveness of the firm. If the suppliers impose penalties and costs when a firm changes over, this too will impact the competitive ability 5. The bargaining power of the buyers Buyers/customers have enormous control over an industry when there are lots of similar and/or alternative goods. Because they can move from one firm to another. If the industry makes it easy for customers to switch to other firms then this also gives the customer more power. The Government introduced a rule for the mobile phone industry that makes it easier for customers to change from one provider to another? What was this rule? What have mobile companies done to try reduce this movement between providers?

Сysti fibros and curcumin

Corcumin or corcuma is the scientific name of the ancient spice turmeric. It is a rhizome that is commonly available in the market as a bright yellow powder. It is a popular condiment and culinary dye in the East and the Mid-East. However, other than its utility in the kitchen, corcumin also has medical uses. It is a mild digestive and an antiseptic, and currently, it is regarded as a cure for cystic fibrosis (The Epicentre, 2003). What are the major symptoms of cystic fibrosis?Cystic Fibrosis is often diagnosed from symptoms characterized by thick, viscious mucus secreations in the lungs, color and amount change of sputum, chronic cough usually with blood streaks, wheezing, and bronchitis. Other symptoms of the disease include chronic sinusitis, asthma, nasal polyps, weight loss, dehydration, excessive salt in sweat, abdominal pain, flatulence, and fatigue (The Epicentre, 2003). Why does the sweat of patients with CF have excess salt? The sweat of CF patients have excessive salt bec ause the CF blocks the chloride that passes through the membranes.This leaves the chloride stranded in the sweat ducts, resulting in trapped sodium and positively charged chloride. This causes the salty seat that emerges from the body of a CF patient (Orenstein, 2003). What is CFTR and what is its normal function? Also known as cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, CFTR is responsible for making protein that serves as a channel for the membrane of cells that produce mucus, sweat, saliva, tears, and digestive enzymes.It helps in the transportation of positive chloride ions and negative sodium ions. It also regulates the movement of water in the tissues, which is necessary for the production of thin, free-flowing mucus. This mucus lubricates the linings of the different body systems (National Library of Medicine [NLM], 2009). What is the role of cAMP in CFTR function? The role of cyclic adenosine monophosphate in CFTR function is that it helps regulate the CFTR through protein kinase A (NLM, 2009).Why does delta F508 mutation in CFTR cause CF? How is the delta F508 protein different from normal proteins? How does this change affect the movement of the protein through the ER? Delta F508 protein mutation causes CF because it lacks phenylalanine residue at position 508. Due to this, it cannot function as normal proteins do. When this mutation is synthesized through the normal cellular machinery, it is rapidly recognized as misfolded and is shortly degraded even before reaching the actual site of action at the cell surface.There is only a low probability for this kind of protein mutation to reach the ER or the endoplasmic reticulum (Rowe, Miller, & Sorscher, 2005). References National Library of Medicine. (2009, May 29). â€Å"CFTR†. Genetics Home Reference. Retrived June 3, 2009, from http://ghr. nlm. nih. gov/gene=cftr Orenstein, D. (2003). Cystic Fibrosis. New York: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Rowe, S. M. , Miller, S. , & Sorscher, E. J. (2005). Cystic fibrosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 352 (19), 1992–2001. The Epicentre. (2003). Turmeric. The Epicentre Encyclopedia of Spices. R

Forward the Foundation Chapter 23

5 â€Å"Dad,† said Raych with some concern, â€Å"you look tired.† â€Å"I dare say,† said Hari Seldon, â€Å"I feel tired. But how are you?† Raych was forty-four now and his hair was beginning to show a bit of gray, but his mustache remained thick and dark and very Dahlite in appearance. Seldon wondered if he touched it up with dye, but it would have been the wrong thing to ask. Seldon said, â€Å"Are you through with your lecturing for a while?† â€Å"For a while. Not for long. And I'm glad to be home and see the baby and Manella and Wanda-and you, Dad.† â€Å"Thank you. But I have news for you, Raych. No more lecturing. I'm going to need you here.† Raych frowned. â€Å"What for?† On two different occasions he had been sent to carry out delicate missions, but those were back during the days of the Joranumite menace. As far as he knew, things were quiet now, especially with the overthrow of the junta and the reestablishment of a pale Emperor. â€Å"It's Wanda,† said Seldon. â€Å"Wanda? What's wrong with Wanda?† â€Å"Nothing's wrong with her, but we're going to have to work out a complete genome for her-and for you and Manella as well-and eventually for the new baby.† â€Å"For Bellis, too? What's going on?† Seldon hesitated. â€Å"Raych, you know that your mother and I always thought there was something lovable about you, something that inspired affection and trust.† â€Å"I know you thought so. You said so often enough when you were trying to get me to do something difficult. But I'll be honest with you. I never felt it.† â€Å"No, you won over me and†¦ and Dors.† (He had such trouble saying the name, even though four years had passed since her destruction.) â€Å"You won over Rashelle of Wye. You won over Jo-Jo Joranum. You won over Manella. How do you account for all that?† â€Å"Intelligence and charm,† said Raych, grinning. â€Å"Have you thought you might have been in touch with their-our-minds?† â€Å"No, I've never thought that. And now that you mention it, I think it's ridiculous. With all due respect, Dad, of course.† â€Å"What if I told you that Wanda seems to have read Yugo's mind during a moment of crisis?† â€Å"Coincidence or imagination, I should say.† â€Å"Raych, I knew someone once who could handle people's minds as easily as you and I handle conversation.† â€Å"Who was that?† â€Å"I can't speak of him. Take my word for it, though.† â€Å"Well-† said Raych dubiously. â€Å"I've been at the Galactic Library, checking on such matters. There is a curious story, about twenty thousand years old and therefore back to the misty origins of hyperspatial travel. It's about a young woman, not much more than Wanda's age, who could communicate with an entire planet that circled a sun called Nemesis.† â€Å"Surely a fairytale.† â€Å"Surely. And incomplete, at that. But the similarity with Wanda is astonishing.† Raych said, â€Å"Dad, what are you planning?† â€Å"I'm not sure, Raych. I need to know the genome and I have to find others like Wanda. I have a notion that youngsters are born-not often but occasionally-with such mental abilities, but that, in general, it merely gets them in trouble and they learn to mask it. And as they grow tip, their ability, their talent, is buried deep within their minds- sort of an unconscious act of self-preservation. Surely in the Empire or even just among Trantor's forty billion, there must be more of that sort, like Wanda, and if I know the genome I want, I can test those I think may be so.† â€Å"And what would you do with them if you found them, Dad?† â€Å"I have the notion that they are what I need for the further development of psychohistory.† Raych said, â€Å"And Wanda is the first of the type you know about and you intend to make a psychohistorian out of her?† â€Å"Perhaps.† â€Å"Like Yugo. Dad, no!† â€Å"Why no?† â€Å"Because I want her to grow up like a normal girl and become a normal woman. I will not have you sitting her before the Prime Radiant and make her into a living monument to psychohistorical mathematics.† Seldon said, â€Å"It may not come to that, Raych, but we must have her genome. You know that for thousands of years there have been suggestions that every human being have his genome on file. It's only the expense that's kept it from becoming standard practice; no one doubts the usefulness of it. Surely you see the advantages. If nothing else, we will know Wanda's tendencies toward a variety of physiological disorders. If we had ever had Yugo's genome, I am certain he would not now be dying. Surely we can go that far.† â€Å"Well, maybe, Dad, but no further. I'm willing to bet that Manella is going to be a lot firmer on this than I am.† Seldon said, â€Å"Very well. But remember, no more lecture tours. I need you at home.† â€Å"We'll see,† Raych said and left. Seldon sat there in a quandary. Eto Demerzel, the one person he knew who could handle minds, would have known what to do. Dors, with her nonhuman knowledge, might have known what to do. For himself, he had a dim vision of a new psychohistory-but nothing more than that. 6 It was not an easy task to obtain a complete genome of Wanda. To begin with, the number of biophysicists equipped to handle the genome was small and those that existed were always busy. Nor was it possible for Seldon to discuss his needs openly, in order to interest the biophysicists. It was absolutely essential, Seldon felt, that the true reason for his interest in Wanda's mental powers be kept secret from all the Galaxy. And if another difficulty was needed, it was the fact that the process was infernally expensive. Seldon shook his head and said to Mian Endelecki, the biophysicist he was now consulting, â€Å"Why so expensive, Dr. Endelecki? I am not an expert in the field, but it is my distinct understanding that the process is completely computerized and that, once you have a scraping of skin cells, the genome can be completely built and analyzed in a matter of days.† â€Å"That's true. But having a deoxyribonucleic acid molecule stretching out for billions of nucleotides, with every purine and pyrimidine in its place, is the least of it; the very least of it, Professor Seldon. There is then the matter of studying each one and comparing it to some standard. â€Å"Now, consider, in the first place, that although we have records of complete genomes, they represent a vanishingly small fraction of the number of genomes that exist, so that we don't really know how standard they are.† Seldon asked, â€Å"Why so few?† â€Å"A number of reasons. The expense, for one thing. Few people are willing to spend the credits on it unless they have strong reason to think there is something wrong with their genome. And if they have no strong reason, they are reluctant to undergo analysis for fear they will find something wrong. Now, then, are you sure you want your granddaughter genomed?† â€Å"Yes, I do. It is terribly important.† â€Å"Why? Does she show signs of a metabolic anomaly?† â€Å"No, she doesn't. Rather the reverse-if I knew the antonym of ‘anomaly.' I consider her a most unusual person and I want to know just what it is that makes her unusual.† â€Å"Unusual in what way?† â€Å"Mentally, but it's impossible for me to go into details, since I don't entirely understand it. Maybe I will, once she is genomed.† â€Å"How old is she?† â€Å"Twelve. She'll soon be thirteen.† â€Å"In that case, I'll need permission from her parents.† Seldon cleared his throat. â€Å"That may be difficult to get. I'm her grandfather. Wouldn't my permission be enough?† â€Å"For me, certainly. But, you know, we're talking about the law. I don't wish to lose my license to practice.† It was necessary for Seldon to approach Raych again. This, too, was difficult, as he protested once more that he and his wife, Manella, wanted Wanda to live a normal life of a normal girl. What if her genome did turn out to be abnormal? Would she be whisked away to be prodded and probed like a laboratory specimen? Would Hari, in his fanatical devotion to his Psychohistory Project, press Wanda into a life of all work and no play, shutting her off from other young people her age? But Seldon was insistent. â€Å"Trust me, Raych. I would never do anything to harm Wanda. But this must be done. I need to know Wanda's genome. If it is as I suspect it is, we may be on the verge of altering the course of psychohistory, of the future of the Galaxy itself!† And so Raych was persuaded and somehow he obtained Manella's consent, as well. And together, the three adults took Wanda to Dr. Endelecki's office. Mian Endelecki greeted them at the door. Her hair was a shining white, but her face showed no sign of age. She looked at the girl, who walked in with a look of curiosity on her face but with no signs of apprehension or fear. She then turned her gaze to the three adults who had accompanied Wanda. Dr. Endelecki said with a smile, â€Å"Mother, father, and grandfather-am I right?† Seldon answered, â€Å"Absolutely right.† Raych looked hang-dog and Manella, her face a little swollen and her eyes a little red, looked tired. â€Å"Wanda,† began the doctor. â€Å"That is your name, isn't it?† â€Å"Yes, ma'am,† said Wanda in her clear voice. â€Å"I'm going to tell you exactly what I'm going to do with you. You're right-handed, I suppose.† â€Å"Yes, ma'am.† â€Å"Very well, then, I'll spray a little patch on your left forearm with an anesthetic. It will just feel like a cool wind. Nothing else. I'll then scrape a little skin from you just a tiny bit. There'll be no pain, no blood, no mark afterward. When I'm done, I'll spray a little disinfectant on it. The whole thing will take just a few minutes. Does that sound all right to you?† â€Å"Sure,† said Wanda, as she held out her arm. When it was over, Dr. Endelecki said, â€Å"I'll put the scraping under the microscope, choose a decent cell, and put my computerized gene analyzer to work. It will mark off every last nucleotide, but there are billions of them. It will probably take the better part of a day. It's all automatic, of course, so I won't be sitting here watching it and there's no point in your doing so, either. â€Å"Once the genome is prepared, it will take an even longer time to analyze it. If you want a complete job, it may take a couple of weeks. That is why it's so expensive a procedure. The work is hard and long. I'll call you in when I have it.† She turned away, as if she had dismissed the family, and busied herself with the gleaming apparatus on the table in front of her. Seldon said, â€Å"If you come across anything unusual, will you get in touch with me instantly? I mean, don't wait for a complete analysis if you find something in the first hour. Don't make me wait.† â€Å"The chances of finding anything in the first hour are very slim, but I promise you, Professor Seldon that I will be in touch with you at once if it seems necessary.† Manella snatched Wanda's arm and led her off triumphantly. Raych followed, feet dragging. Seldon lingered and said, â€Å"This is more important than you know, Dr. Endelecki.† Dr. Endelecki nodded as she said, â€Å"Whatever the reason, Professor, I'll do my best.† Seldon left, his lips pressed tightly together. Why he had thought that somehow the genome would be worked out in five minutes and that a glance at it in another five minutes would give him an answer, he did not know. Now he would have to wait for weeks, without knowing what would be found. He ground his teeth. Would his newest brainchild, the Second Foundation, ever be established or was it an illusion that would remain always just out of reach? 7 Hari Seldon walked into Dr. Endelecki's office, a nervous smile on his face. He said, â€Å"You said a couple of weeks, Doctor. It's been over a month mow.† Dr. Endelecki nodded. â€Å"I'm sorry, Professor Seldon but you wanted everything exact and that is what I have tried to do.† â€Å"Well?† The look of anxiety on Seldon's face did not disappear. What did you find?† â€Å"A hundred or so defective genes.† â€Å"What! Defective genes. Are you serious, Doctor?† â€Å"Quite serious. Why not? There are no genomes without at least a hundred defective genes; usually there are considerably more. It's not as bad as it sounds, you know.† â€Å"No, I don't know. You're the expert, Doctor, not I.† Dr. Endelecki sighed and stirred in her chair. â€Å"You don't know anything about genetics, do you, Professor?† â€Å"No, I don't. A man can't know everything.† â€Å"You're perfectly right. I know nothing about this-what do you call it?-this psychohistory of yours.† Dr. Endelecki shrugged, then continued. â€Å"If you wanted to explain anything about it, you would be forced to start from the beginning and I would probably not understand it even so. â€Å"Now, as to genetics-â€Å" â€Å"Well?† â€Å"An imperfect gene usually means nothing. There are imperfect genes-so imperfect and so crucial that they produce terrible disorders. These are very rare, though. Most imperfect genes simply don't work with absolute accuracy. They're like wheels that are slightly out of balance. A vehicle will move along, trembling a bit, but it will move along.† â€Å"Is that what Wanda has?† â€Å"Yes. More or less. After all, if all genes were perfect, we would all look precisely the same, we would all behave precisely the same. It's the difference in genes that makes for different people.† â€Å"But won't it get worse as we grow older?† â€Å"Yes. We all get worse as we grow older. I noticed you limping when you came in. Why is that?† â€Å"A touch of sciatica,† muttered Seldon. â€Å"Did you have it all your life?† â€Å"Of course not.† â€Å"Well, some of your genes have gotten worse with time and now you limp.† â€Å"And what will happen to Wanda with time?† â€Å"I don't know. I can't predict the future, Professor; I believe that is your province. However, if I were to hazard a guess, I would say that nothing unusual will happen to Wanda-at least, genetically-except the gathering of old age.† Seldon said, â€Å"Are you sure?† â€Å"You have to take my word for it. You wanted to find out about Wanda's genome and you ran the risk of discovering things perhaps it is better not to know. But I tell you that, in my opinion, I can see nothing terrible happening to her.† â€Å"The imperfect genes-should we fix them? Can we fix them?† â€Å"No. In the first place, it would be very expensive. Secondly, the chances are that they would not stay fixed. And finally, people are against it. â€Å"But why?† â€Å"Because they're against science in general. You should know this as well as anyone, Professor. I'm afraid the situation is such, especially since Cleon's death, that mysticism has been gaining ground. People don't believe in fixing genes scientifically. They would rather cure things by the laying on of hands or by mumbo-jumbo of some sort or other. Frankly it is extremely difficult for me to continue with my job. Very little funding is coming in.† Seldon nodded. â€Å"Actually I understand this situation all too well. Psychohistory explains it, but I honestly didn't think the situation was growing so bad so rapidly. I've been too involved in my own work to see the difficulties all around me.† He sighed. â€Å"I've been watching the Galactic Empire slowly fall apart for over thirty years now-and now that it's beginning to collapse much more rapidly, I don't see how we can stop it in time.† â€Å"Are you trying to?† Dr. Endelecki seemed amused. â€Å"Yes, I am.† â€Å"Lots of luck. About your sciatica. You know, fifty years ago it could have been cured. Not now, though.† â€Å"Why not?† â€Å"Well, the devices used for it are gone; the people who could have handled them are working on other things. Medicine is declining.† â€Å"Along with everything else,† mused Seldon. â€Å"But let's get back to Wanda. I feel she is a most unusual young woman with a brain that is different from most. What do her genes tell you about her brain?† Dr. Endelecki leaned back in her chair. â€Å"Professor Seldon do you know just how many genes are involved in brain function?† â€Å"No. â€Å"I'll remind you that, of all the aspects of the human body, the brain function is the most intricate. In fact, as far as we know, there is nothing in the Universe as intricate as the human brain. So you won't be surprised when I tell you that there are thousands of genes that each play a role in brain function.† â€Å"Thousands?† â€Å"Exactly. And it is impossible to go through those genes and see anything specifically unusual. I will take your word for it, as far as Wanda is concerned. She is an unusual girl with an unusual brain, but I see nothing in her genes that can tell me anything about that brain-except, of course, that it is normal.† â€Å"Could you find other people whose genes for mental functioning are like Wanda's, that have the same brain pattern?† â€Å"I doubt it very much. Even if another brain were much like hers, there would still be enormous differences in the genes. No use looking for similarities. Tell me, Professor, just what is it about Wanda that makes you think her brain is so unusual?† Seldon shook his head. â€Å"I'm sorry. It's not something I can discuss.† â€Å"In that case, I am certain that I can find out nothing for you. How did you discover that there was something unusual about her brain-this thing you can't discuss?† â€Å"Accident,† muttered Seldon. â€Å"Sheer accident.† â€Å"In that case, you're going to have to find other brains like hers-also by accident. Nothing else can be done.† Silence settled over both of them. Finally Seldon said, â€Å"Is there anything else you can tell me?† â€Å"I'm afraid not. Except that I'll send you my bill.† Seldon rose with an effort. His sciatica hurt him badly. â€Å"Well then, thank you, Doctor. Send the bill and I'll pay it.† Hari Seldon left the doctor's office, wondering just what he would do next.