Bloodlines Chapter Two

A COUPLE OF PEOPLE GASPED, no doubt over Keith's use of the term â€Å"vamp lover.† Neither word was that terrible in and of itself, but together†¦ well, they represented an idea that was pretty much anathema to all that the Alchemists stood for. We fought to protect humans from vampires. Being in league with those creatures was about the vilest thing any of us could be accused of. Even while questioning me earlier, the other Alchemists had been very careful with their choice of language. Keith's usage was almost obscene. Horowitz looked angry on my behalf and opened his mouth as though he might make an equally biting retort. After a quick glance at Zoe and me, he seemed to reconsider, and stayed silent. Michaelson, however, couldn't help himself from muttering, â€Å"Protect us all.† He made the sign against evil. Yet it wasn't Keith's name-calling that really set me off (though that did certainly send a chill through me). It was Stanton's earlier offhand comment. We know you requested Zoe. Keith had requested Zoe for this assignment? My resolve to keep her out of it grew by leaps and bounds. The thought of her going off with him made me clench my fists. Everyone here might think Keith Darnell was some kind of poster child, but I knew better. No girl – let alone my sister – should be left alone with him. â€Å"Keith,† said Stanton, a gentle warning in her voice. â€Å"I can respect your feelings, but you aren't in a position to make that call.† He flushed. â€Å"Palm Springs is my post! I have every right to dictate what goes on in my territory.† â€Å"I can understand why you'd feel that way,† said my father. Unbelievable. If Zoe or I had questioned authority like Keith had, our father wouldn't have hesitated to tell us our â€Å"rights† – or rather, he'd tell us that we had none. Keith had stayed with my family one summer – young Alchemists sometimes did that while training – and my father had grown to regard him like the son he'd never had. Even then, there'd been a double standard between Keith and us. Time and distance apparently hadn't diminished that. â€Å"Palm Springs may be your post,† said Stanton, â€Å"but this assignment is coming from places in the organization that are far above your reach. You're essential for coordination, yes, but you are by no means the ultimate authority here.† Unlike me, I suspected Stanton had smacked a few people in her day, and I think she wanted to do that to Keith now. It was funny that she would become my defender, since I'd been pretty sure she didn't buy my story about using Rose to advance my career. Keith visibly calmed himself, wisely realizing a childish outburst wasn't going to get him anywhere. â€Å"I understand. But I'm simply worried about the success of this mission. I know both of the Sage girls. Even before Sydney's ‘incident,' I had serious concerns about her. I figured she'd grow out of them, though, so I didn't bother saying anything at the time. I see now I was wrong. Back then, I actually thought Zoe would have been a far better choice for the family position. No offense, Jared.† He gave my father what was probably supposed to be a charming smile. Meanwhile, it was getting harder and harder to hide my incredulity. â€Å"Zoe was eleven when you stayed with us,† I said. â€Å"How in the world could you have drawn those conclusions?† I didn't buy for an instant that he'd had â€Å"concerns† about me back then. No – scratch that. He'd probably had concerns the last day he stayed with us, when I confronted him about a dirty secret he'd been hiding. That, I was almost certain, was what all of this was about. He wanted me silenced. My adventures with Rose were simply an excuse to get me out of the way. â€Å"Zoe was always advanced for her age,† Keith said. â€Å"Sometimes you can just tell.† â€Å"Zoe's never seen a Strigoi, let alone a Moroi! She'd probably freeze up if she did. That's true of most Alchemists,† I pointed out. â€Å"Whoever you send is going to have to be able to stand being around them, and no matter what you think of my reasons, I'm used to them. I don't like them, but I know how to tolerate them. Zoe hasn't had anything but the most basic of instruction – and that's all been in our home. Everyone keeps saying this is a serious assignment. Do you really want to risk its outcome because of inexperience and unsubstantiated fears?† I finished, proud of myself for staying calm and making such a reasoned argument. Barnes shifted uneasily. â€Å"But if Keith had doubts years ago†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Zoe's training is still probably enough to get by,† said my father. Five minutes ago, my father had endorsed me going instead of her! Was anyone here even listening to me? It was like I was invisible now that Keith was here. Horowitz had been busily cleaning and putting away his tattooing tools but looked up to scoff at Barnes's remark. â€Å"You said the magic words: ‘years ago.' Keith couldn't have been much older than these girls are now.† Horowitz shut his tool case and leaned casually against the wall, arms crossed. â€Å"I don't doubt you, Keith. Not exactly. But I'm not really sure you can base your opinion of her off memories from when you were all children.† By Horowitz's logic, he was saying I was still a child, but I didn't care. He'd delivered his comments in an effortless, easy way that nonetheless left Keith looking like an idiot. Keith knew it, too, and turned bright red. â€Å"I concur,† said Stanton, who was clearly getting impatient. â€Å"Sydney wants this badly, and few would, considering it means she'll actually have to live with a vampire.† Want it badly? Not exactly. But I did want to protect Zoe at all costs and restore my credibility. If it meant thwarting Keith Darnell along the way, then so much the – â€Å"Wait,† I said, replaying Stanton's words. â€Å"Did you say live with a vampire?† â€Å"Yes,† said Stanton. â€Å"Even if she's in hiding, the Moroi girl still has to have some semblance of a normal life. We figured we'd kill two birds with one stone and enroll her in a private boarding school. Take care of her education and lodging. We would make arrangements for you to be her roommate.† â€Å"Wouldn't that mean†¦ wouldn't that mean I'd have to go to school?† I asked, feeling a little puzzled now. â€Å"I already graduated.† High school, at least. I'd made it clear a number of times to my father that I'd love to go to college. He'd made it equally clear that he didn't feel there was a need. â€Å"You see?† said Keith, jumping on the opportunity. â€Å"She's too old. Zoe's a better age match.† â€Å"Sydney can pass for a senior. She's the right age.† Stanton gave me a once-over. â€Å"Besides, you were homeschooled, right? This'll be a new experience for you. You can see what you were missing.† â€Å"It would probably be easy for you,† said my father grudgingly. â€Å"Your education was superior to anything they can offer.† Nice backhanded compliment, Dad. I was afraid to show how uneasy this deal was making me. My resolve to look out for Zoe and myself hadn't changed, but the complications just kept growing. Repeat high school. Live with a vampire. Keep her in witness protection. And even though I'd talked up how comfortable I was around vampires, the thought of sharing a room with one – even a seemingly benign one like Jill – was unnerving. Another woe occurred to me. â€Å"Would you be an undercover student too?† I asked Keith. The idea of lending him class notes made me nauseous again. â€Å"Of course not,† he said, sounding insulted. â€Å"I'm too old. I'll be the Local Area Mission Liaison.† I was willing to bet he'd just made that title up on the spot. â€Å"My job is to help coordinate the assignment and report back to our superiors. And I'm not going to do it if she's the one there.† He looked from face to face as he spoke that last line, but there was no question who she was. Me. â€Å"Then don't,† said Stanton bluntly. â€Å"Sydney is going. That's my decision, and I'll argue it to any higher authority you want to take it to. If you are so against her placement, Mr. Darnell, I will personally see that you are transferred out of Palm Springs and don't have to deal with her at all.† All eyes swiveled to Keith, and he hesitated. She'd caught him in a trap, I realized. I had to imagine that with its climate, Palm Springs didn't see a lot of vampire action. Keith's job there was probably pretty easy, whereas when I'd worked in St. Petersburg, I'd been constantly having to do damage control. That place was a vampire haven, as were some of the other places in Europe and Asia my father had taken me to visit. Don't even get me started about Prague. If Keith were transferred, he took the risk of not only getting a bigger workload but also of being in a much worse location. Because although Palm Springs wasn't desirable for vampires, it sounded kind of awesome for humans. Keith's face confirmed as much. He didn't want to leave Palm Springs. â€Å"What if she goes there, and I have reason to suspect her of treason again?† â€Å"Then report her,† said Horowitz, shifting restlessly. He obviously wasn't impressed with Keith. â€Å"The same as you would anyone.† â€Å"I can increase some of Zoe's training in the meantime,† said my father, almost as an apology to Keith. It was clear whose side my father was on. It wasn't mine. It wasn't even Zoe's, really. â€Å"Then, if you find fault with Sydney, we can replace her.† I bristled at the thought of Keith being the one to decide if I had faults, but that didn't bother me nearly as much as the thought of Zoe still being tied to this. If my father was keeping her on standby, then she wasn't out of danger yet. The Alchemists could still have their hooks in her – as could Keith. I vowed then that no matter what it took, even if I had to handfeed him grapes, I would make sure Keith had no reason to doubt my loyalties. â€Å"Fine,† he said, the word seeming to cause him a lot of pain. â€Å"Sydney can go†¦ for now. But I'll be watching you.† He fixed his gaze on me. â€Å"And I'm not going to cover for you. You'll be responsible for keeping that vampire girl in line and getting her to her feedings.† â€Å"Feedings?† I asked blankly. Of course. Jill would need blood. For a moment, all my confidence wavered. It was easy to talk about hanging out with vampires when none were around. Easier still when you didn't think about what it was that made vampires who they were. Blood. That terrible, unnatural need that fueled their existence. An awful thought sprang into my mind, vanishing as quickly as it came. Am I supposed to give her my blood? No. That was ridiculous. That was a line the Alchemists would never cross. Swallowing, I tried to conceal my brief moment of panic. â€Å"How do you plan on feeding her?† Stanton nodded to Keith. â€Å"Would you explain?† I think she was giving him a chance to feel important, as a way of making up for his earlier defeat. He ran with it. â€Å"There's only one Moroi we know of living in Palm Springs,† said Keith. As he spoke, I noticed that his tousled blond hair was practically coated in gel. It gave his hair a slimy shine that I didn't think was attractive in the least. Also, I didn't trust any guy who used more styling products than I did. â€Å"And if you ask me, he's crazy. But he's harmless crazy – inasmuch as any of them are harmless. He's this old recluse who lives outside the city. He's got this hang-up about the Moroi government and doesn't associate with any of them, so he isn't going to tell anyone you guys are there. Most importantly, he's got a feeder he's willing to share.† I frowned. â€Å"Do we really want Jill hanging out with some anti-government Moroi? The whole purpose is to keep them stable. If we introduce her to some rebel, how do we know he won't try to use her?† â€Å"That's an excellent point,† said Michaelson, seeming surprised to admit as much. I hadn't meant to undermine Keith. My mind had just jumped ahead in this way it had, spotting a potential problem and pointing it out. From the look he gave me, though, it was like I was purposely trying to discredit his statement and make him look bad. â€Å"We won't tell him who she is, obviously,† he said, a glint of anger in his good eye. â€Å"That would be stupid. And he's not part of any faction. He's not part of anything. He's convinced the Moroi and their guardians let him down, so he wants nothing to do with any of them. I've passed a story to him about how Jill's family has the same antisocial feelings, so he's sympathetic.† â€Å"You're right to be wary, Sydney,† said Stanton. There was a look of approval in her eyes, like she was pleased at having defended me. That approval meant a lot to me, considering how fierce she often seemed. â€Å"We can't assume anything about any of them. Although we also checked out this Moroi with Abe Mazur, who concurs he's harmless enough.† â€Å"Abe Mazur?† scoffed Michaelson. He scratched at his graying beard. â€Å"Yes. I'm sure he'd be an expert on who's harmless or not.† My heart lurched at the name, but I tried not to show it. Do not react, do not react, I ordered my face. After a deep breath, I asked very, very carefully, â€Å"Is Abe Mazur the Moroi who's going with Jill? I've met him before†¦ but I thought you said it was an Ivashkov who was going.† If Abe Mazur was in residence in Palm Springs, that would alter things significantly. Michaelson scoffed. â€Å"No, we'd never send you off with Abe Mazur. He's simply been helping with the organization of this plan.† â€Å"What's so bad about Abe Mazur?† asked Keith. â€Å"I don't know who he is.† I studied Keith very closely as he spoke, looking for some trace of deception. But, no. His face was all innocence, openly curious. His blue eyes – or eye, rather – held a rare look of confusion, contrasting with the usual know-it-all arrogance. Abe's name meant nothing to him. I exhaled a breath I hadn't realized I'd been holding. â€Å"A scoundrel,† said Stanton flatly. â€Å"He knows far too much about things he shouldn't. He's useful, but I don't trust him.† A scoundrel? That was an understatement. Abe Mazur was a Moroi whose nickname in Russia – zmey, the serpent – said it all. Abe had done a number of favors for me, ones I'd had to pay back at considerable risk to myself. Part of that payback had been helping Rose escape. Well, he'd called it payback; I called it blackmail. I had no desire to cross paths with him again, mostly because I was afraid of what he'd ask for next. The frustrating part was that there was no one I could go to for help. My superiors wouldn't react well to learning that, in addition to all my other solo activities with vampires, I was making side deals with them. â€Å"None of them are to be trusted,† my father pointed out. He made the Alchemist sign against evil, drawing a cross on his left shoulder with his right hand. â€Å"Yes, well, Mazur's worse than most,† said Michaelson. He stifled a yawn, reminding all of us that it was the middle of the night. â€Å"Are we all set, then?† There were murmurs of assent. Keith's stormy expression displayed how unhappy he was at not getting his way, but he made no more attempts to stop me from going. â€Å"I guess we can leave anytime now,† he said. It took me a second to realize that the â€Å"we† meant him and me. â€Å"Right now?† I asked in disbelief. He shrugged. â€Å"The vampires are going to be on their way soon. We need to make sure everything's set up for them. If we switch off driving, we can be there by tomorrow afternoon.† â€Å"Great,† I said stiffly. A road trip with Keith. Ugh. But what else could I say? I had no choice in this, and even if I did, I was in no position to turn down anything the Alchemists asked of me now. I'd played every card I had tonight, and I had to believe being with Keith was better than a re-education center. Besides, I'd just fought a hard battle to prove myself and spare Zoe. I had to continue showing I was up for anything. My father sent me off to pack with the same briskness he'd ordered me to make myself presentable earlier. I left the others talking and scurried quietly up to my room, still conscious of my sleeping mother. I was an expert in packing quickly and efficiently, thanks to surprise trips my father had sprung on me throughout my childhood. In fact, I always had a bag of toiletries packed and ready to go. The problem wasn't so much in speed as it was in wondering how much to pack. The length of time for this assignment hadn't been specified, and I had the uneasy feeling that no one actually knew. Were we talking about a few weeks? An entire school year? I'd heard someone mention the Moroi wanting to repeal the law that endangered Jill, but that seemed like the kind of legal process that could take a while. To make things worse, I didn't even know what to wear to high school. The only thing I was certain of was that the weather would be hot. I ended up packing ten of my lightest outfits and hoped I'd be able to do laundry. â€Å"Sydney?† I was putting my laptop in a messenger bag when Zoe appeared in my doorway. She'd redone her braids so that they were neater, and I wondered if it had been an attempt to impress our father. â€Å"Hey,† I said, smiling at her. She slipped into the room and shut the door behind her. I was glad she'd come to say goodbye. I would miss her and wanted her to know that – â€Å"Why did you do that to me?† she demanded before I could get a word out. â€Å"Do you know how humiliated I am?† I was taken aback, speechless for a few moments. â€Å"I†¦ what are you talking about? I was trying to – â€Å" â€Å"You made me sound incompetent!† she said. I was astonished to see the glint of tears in her eyes. â€Å"You went on and on about how I didn't have any experience and couldn't handle doing what you and Dad do! I looked like an idiot in front of all those Alchemists. And Keith.† â€Å"Keith Darnell is no one you need to worry about impressing,† I said quickly, trying to control my temper. Seeing her stormy face, I sighed and replayed the conversation in the study. I hadn't been trying to make Zoe look bad so much as do whatever I could to make sure I was the one sent away. I'd had no clue she would take it like this. â€Å"Look, I wasn't trying to embarrass you. I was trying to protect you.† She gave a harsh laugh, and the anger sounded weird coming from someone as gentle as Zoe. â€Å"Is that what you call it? You even said yourself that you were trying to get a promotion!† I grimaced. Yes, I had said that. But I could hardly tell her the truth. No human knew the truth about why I'd helped Rose. Lying to my own kind – especially my sister – pained me, but there was nothing I could do. As usual, I felt trapped in the middle. So, I dodged the comment. â€Å"You were never intended to be an Alchemist,† I said. â€Å"There are better things for you out there.† â€Å"Because I'm not as smart as you?† she asked. â€Å"Because I don't speak five languages?† â€Å"That has nothing to do with it,† I snapped. â€Å"Zoe, you're wonderful, and you'd probably make a great Alchemist! But believe me, the Alchemist life†¦ you don't want any part of it.† I wanted to tell her that she'd hate it. I wanted to tell her that she'd never be responsible for her own future or get to make her own decisions again. But my sense of duty prevented me, and I stayed silent. â€Å"I'd do it,† she said. â€Å"I'd help protect us from vampires†¦ if Dad wanted me to.† Her voice wavered a little, and I suddenly wondered what was really fueling her desire to be an Alchemist. â€Å"If you want to get close to Dad, find another way. The Alchemist cause might be a good one, but once you're in it, they own you.† I wished I could explain to her how it felt. â€Å"You don't want this life.† â€Å"Because you want it all for yourself?† she demanded. She was a few inches shorter than me but filled with so much fury and fierceness right now that she seemed to take up the room. â€Å"No! I don't – you don't understand,† I finally said. I wanted to throw my hands up in exasperation but held back, as always. The look she gave me nearly turned me to ice. â€Å"Oh, I think I understand perfectly.† She turned around abruptly and hurried out the door, still managing to move quietly. Her fear of our father overpowered her anger at me. I stared at where she'd been standing and felt terrible. How could she have thought I was really trying to steal all the glory and make her look bad? Because that's exactly what you said, a voice inside me pointed out. I supposed it was true, but I'd never expected her to be offended. I'd never known she had any interest in being one of the Alchemists. Even now, I wondered if her desire was more about being a part of something and proving herself to our father than it was about really wishing she'd been chosen for this task. Whatever her reasons, there was nothing to be done for it now. I might not like the heavy-handed way the Alchemists had dealt with me, but I still fiercely believed in what they were doing to protect humans from vampires. And I definitely believed in keeping Jill safe from her own people if it meant avoiding a massive civil war. I could do this job and do it well. And Zoe – she would be free to pursue whatever she wanted in life. â€Å"What took you so long?† my father asked when I returned to the study. My conversation with Zoe had delayed me a couple minutes, which was two minutes too long for him. I didn't attempt to answer. â€Å"I'm ready to go whenever you are,† Keith told me. His mood had shifted while I was upstairs. Friendliness oozed from him now, so strongly that it was a wonder everyone didn't recognize it as fake. He'd apparently decided to try a more pleasant attitude around me, either in the hopes of impressing the others or sucking up to me so that I wouldn't reveal what I knew about him. Yet even as he wore that plastic smile, there was a stiffness in his posture and the way he crossed his arms that told me – if no else – that he was no happier about being thrown together than I was. â€Å"I can even do most of the driving.† â€Å"I don't mind doing my share,† I said, trying to avoid glancing at his glass eye. I also wasn't comfortable being driven by someone with faulty depth perception. â€Å"I'd like to speak to Sydney in private before she goes, if that's all right,† my father said. No one had a problem with that, and he led me into the kitchen, shutting the door behind us. We stood quietly for a few moments, simply facing each other with arms crossed. I suddenly dared to hope that maybe he'd come to tell me he was sorry for how things had been between us this last month, that he forgave me and loved me. Honestly, I would've been happy if he'd simply wanted a private, fatherly goodbye. He peered down at me intently, his brown eyes so identical to mine. I hoped mine never had such a cold look in them. â€Å"I don't have to tell you how important this is for you, for all of us.† So much for fatherly affection. â€Å"No, sir,† I said. â€Å"You don't.† â€Å"I don't know if you can undo the disgrace you brought down on us by running off with them, but this is a step in the right direction. Do not mess this up. You're being tested. Follow your orders. Keep the Moroi girl out of trouble.† He sighed and ran a hand through his dark blond hair, which I'd also inherited. Strange, I thought, that we had so many things in common†¦ yet were so completely different. â€Å"Thank God Keith is with you. Follow his lead. He knows what he's doing.† I stiffened. There was that note of pride in his voice again, like Keith was the greatest thing walking the earth. My father had seen to it that my training was thorough, but when Keith had stayed with us, my father had taken him on trips and lessons I'd never been part of. My sisters and I had been furious. We'd always suspected that our father regretted having only daughters, and that had been proof. But it wasn't jealousy that made my blood boil and teeth clench now. For a moment, I thought, What if I tell him what I know? What will he think of his golden boy then? But staring into my father's hard eyes, I answered my own question: No one would believe me. That was immediately followed by the memory of another voice and a girl's frightened, pleading face staring at me with big brown eyes. Don't tell, Sydney. Whatever you do, don't tell what Keith did. Don't tell anyone. I couldn't betray her like that. My father was still waiting for an answer. I swallowed and nodded. â€Å"Yes, sir.† He raised his eyebrows, clearly pleased, and gave me a rough pat on the shoulder. It was the closest he'd come to real affection in a while. I flinched, both from surprise and because of how rigid I was with frustration. â€Å"Good.† He moved toward the kitchen door and then paused to glance back at me. â€Å"Maybe there's hope for you yet.†

Jamcracker

What are the critical challenges for the business model to be sustainable? Before the business model of Jamcracker could be established, it had to tackle a series of critical challenges. Foremost amongst them was the issue of timing, the risk Jamcracker might be delivering a new model of service before the world was ready for it. The model proposed was entirely a new market mechanism for distributing ITServices and In order to succeed, the emerging markets warranted sufficient Infrastructure, economically viable Industry relationships and strong growth prospects which were all the more strained and complicated after the dot. com crash. Apart from timing issues the model faced severe technical roadblocks as well such as lack of established standards in the relatively young in ASP industry which led to integration issues with Jamcracker platform.Apart from the above mention entry level problems, issues such as need for rofessional services and customer service were the dominant concern s which called for attention before the business model could be sustained. As the industry developed more and more people were getting involved. This called for services such as initial system configuration and integration which would be followed up by customer concerns regarding service level quality, privacy and security. Thus these were the critical challenges faced by the business model before It could be sustained 2. How does Jamcracker fit in the ASP (SaaS) space?Jamcracker analogous to Its name, tried to avoid IT log jams using web-based technology, for its clients and empower them to smoothly move towards their business objectives. Its business model was based on the widely anticipated growth of Application Service Providers, more popularly known as ASPS. ASPs provide various benefits to an organization such as speedy implementation of IT infrastructure, cost reduction, IT skilled workforce, 24Ãâ€"7 support etc. But given that these ASPs solved small IT problems for clients , Chandra along with Chen and Terbeek envisioned a nique space for Jamcracker In the ASP space.Although, Its model was based on ASP but Jamcracker was not an ASP Itself. It cooperated with ASP partners to combine application services through its enterprise I platTorm, JamcracKer Enterprlse, Into comprenenslve oTTerlngs. 3. How would you explain the business model of Jamcracker? As said above Jamcracker assumed the role of an ASP cafeteria wherein it partnered various specialized ASPs and using its enterprise IT platform, Jamcracker Enterprise rovided comprehensive solutions to the IT problems of its clients.In simple terms, it aggregated the benefits of various ASPs and provided as one solution to the client. Since, Jamcracker presented these solutions to firms as â€Å"IT Department in a box†, the client had to Just maintain a single contractual relationship with Jamcracker rather than numerous relationships with specialized ASPS. So, a single interface with Jamcracker platf orm would suffice. Jamcracker's clients paid a per-user per-month fee for accessing Jamcracker's service nfrastructure and an additional per-user per-month fee for each application service that they chose to use.Also, a modest set up fee would be charged initially. Jamcracker did not have to make large capital investments in developing and operating applications as it used the application services of its ASP partners. Although costs involved in engineering, service, sales and delivery were higher but economies were favorable. Also, adequate volumes allowed for generous margins as the incremental cost in serving a client was way less than doing the same for a new client..

Poverty in India Essay

With 44 percent (44%) of the global outsourcing market in the off shore sector for software and other business process currently being hosted by India, it has fast gained global recognition as the premier global destination for business process outsourcing.   With generated revenues totaling over US$ 17.2 billion and employment related to outsourcing at 1.05 million as of March 2005, India has greatly increased its economic output and per capita GDP.   This economic growth of India has been heralded as one of the most amazing success stories of the 20th century.   The growth rates that India has been posting over the past five years have made it one of the reasons why investments have risen in the area. The problem is that even with the robust economic growth of India the schism between the rich and the poor continues to grow.   Outsourcing, while creating a boon for the Indian economy, has also intensified that gap by creating new social classes and spawning new cultural changes.   Therefore, because of the weak economic fundamentals of the Indian Economy, instead of narrowing the gap between the rich and the poor, it is instead widened and fewer jobs are created thus leading to more widespread poverty. The greatest problem that these poor fundamentals present to society however is the widening of social divisions that are already existent in society.   In the Indian model the social rifts that are created deal with the differences from within the family unit in relation to the outside society.   The creation and birth of a new type of middle class society which is predominantly comprised of members of the youth sector is creating a class that is being socially and culturally alienated from the rest of society, particularly in the traditionally conservative Indian society. New work habits and consumer patterns have created a new class that enjoys the more expensive and extravagant lifestyle that is supported by the relatively high wages that receive as compared with the rest of Indian society.   There is very little time to spend in the household where more solid and fundamental values are instilled and nurtured and instead the constant exposure to western society has resulted in a degradation of whatever morals were created or instilled in the first place.   For others, the pressure of keeping the job and maintaining the accustomed lifestyle isolates them from other members of society in their efforts to generate more income. In India where the economic disparity was historically at lower levels, the introduction of higher paying jobs as a result of business process outsourcing has increased the rift between social and economic classes as well.   The newly emancipated and empowered women as well as the new rich employees of outsourcing firms are now experiencing things that their parents could never have enjoyed in their lifetimes such as televisions, ipods, cars and cellular phones.   The rift would not be so great however were the opportunity available equally to all sectors of society.    As it is however, only those with certain qualifications and training are allowed those opportunities and this has created a new resentment for those who have gained so much in so little time. While this has certainly generated more income for the Indian government to utilize in other social welfare projects, the income from taxes is not spent on decreasing the economic divide that exists but has actually been spent on infrastructure projects in IT designed to drum up more business and thus increasing the social gap even more.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another reason for the widespread poverty in India lies in the failure of the government to enact programs to ensure that the economic developments that benefit certain sectors of society also trickle down to the masses.   The Indian Planning Commission has estimated that as of the year 2004 and 2005 nearly 27.5% of the Indian population was living below the poverty lines. Nearly 75% of all those living below the poverty line are located in the rural areas of India.   This shows that while most of the developed cities in India are beginning to grow, the rural areas of India are not able to benefit from this economic development.   With over 836 million citizens living on less than US$ 0.50 cents, it seems that the poverty problems of India are more rooted on the poor economic structure than anything else. Another reason for this is because of the different social, religious and economic groups that are in India.     The fact that the caste system was encouraged until the early 20th century has also added to the poverty rate in India because of the special rights and privileges that were given to others.   Coupled with the lack of property rights, since the right to property is not constitutionally declared in India, these barriers effectively prevent those from the lower economic classes of India from entering the middle class. There are a number of other reasons that can be cited as the cause for poverty in India.   Most of these theories are based on the poor economic fundamentals that were established during the British Regime and during the resulting political turmoil that resulted immediately after the transfer of power in 1947.   Be that as it may, such poor fundamentals have also given birth to other economic problems such as the growing divide between the different economic classes in India. The recent economic growth of India due to its growing role as a major player in the outsourcing industry has indeed granted a number of benefits to Indians but at the same time it has served to increase poverty in certain areas because of the failure of the government to ensure a more equitable distribution of income among the masses.   Lack of government infrastructure projects and rampant corruption remain to be the deterrents for India’s true economic growth.   Until India is able to address these problems, poverty will remain to be synonymous with the Indian Economic system for years to come.    References: Agrawal, A. N.: Indian Economy. Problems of Development and Planning. 18th edition, New Delhi: Wiley Eastern Limited 2002 Ahluwalia, Isher Judge: New Economic Policies. Reform of Public Sector Enterprises and Privatisation in India. mimeo, February 2004, paper presented for the Conference on Economic Liberalisation in South Asia at the Australia Singh, Ajit Kumar: Social Consequences of New Economic Policies. With Particular Reference to Levels of Living of Working Class Population. In: EPW, February 13, 1993, p. 279 – 285 Sridhan, E.: Economic Liberalisation and India’s Political Economy: Towards a Paradigm Synthesis. In: The JCCP, vol. XXXI, no. 3, November 1993, pp. 1 – 31 A overview and critical discussion on theoretical explanations of the Indian political economy Varadarajan, P.; Bharadwaj, S.; Thirunarayana, P.: Executives attitudes toward consumerism and marketing – an exploration of theoretical and empirical linkages in an industrializing country. In: Journal of Business Research, 1994, vol. 29, no 2, pp 83-100

Materials Handling Policy Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Materials Handling Policy Development - Essay Example Methods used to protect employees should be based on the proper safety measure. This is by the use of protective clothing as discussed below: It is vital to wear suitable protective gloves, aprons and boots when handling sulphuric acid as it is a corrosive material. If sulphuric acid gets into contact with the skin immediately, the first step that should be done is that the affected area should be thoroughly washed with plenty of water. It may also be essential to seek medical care (Greenberg & Cramer, 2011). Moreover, when handling this material, any employee should avoid generating vapors. All employes ought to immediately report leaks or failures of the safety equipment such as ventilation system. Also, all employees ought to avert accidental interaction with irreconcilable chemicals. Never add water to a corrosive sulphuric acid being an example. If product is moved to another vessel, ensure new vessel is appropriate for the product. Never reuse empty vessels, even if they appear right to use (Louie, 2008). In case a spill or leak of sulphuric acid occurs, one should follow instructions given by emergency service responders and local authorities. Keep products and the place out of reach of children (Louie, 2008). Gallons of this chemical should be stored safely to reduce the risk they pose to and employees handling them. Store this corrosive chemical in an area that is: cool, dry, away from direct sunlight and away from ignition sources and heat, separate from irreconcilable materials. Regularly review for physical signs of crystallization or damage (Seufert, 2014). All hazardous chemical containers like sulphuric acid are required to be branded with the chemical name, danger warnings and how to handle incidences such as spilling of the acid. The manufacturers label should be kept unbroken until the bottle, or the container has been emptied. When the chemical

State System Planning Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

State System Planning - Research Paper Example The concept of alternatives has been echoed by Amekudzi and Meyer who say that â€Å"an important step in planning and thus a component of conceptual framework is analyzing alternatives† (3). State system planning can take the form of many projects for example the roads and the air transport system. The planning system is considered as smart growth because of the way it helps in strengthening the government. The concept of planning has various factors driving it; according to the OECD, â€Å"the movement is being driven by growing public concern† (133). This was in reference to the spatial system planning; the book further describes other leading reasons for the development of the planning system as highway congestion, land consumption, need for infrastructure, and other costs of sprawl. This is the sector of high interest and is considered most by the state because of the many benefits that it offers the citizens. Washington state department of transport has this as one of its priorities; the Washington state policy has broadened its interest in many modes of transport. According to a report by the Washington State Department of Transport, this body has the role of advocating for the safeguarding of aviation facilities, safety in air transport, ensuring that air transport meets the required capacity, as well as getting rid of environmental impacts (wa.gov). For this to be achieved, the authority has to ensure that there is advocacy and partnership. Another similar project is the one in Minnesota which was named â€Å"State Aviation System Plan† as reported by the department, â€Å"the primary objective of the Minnesota state aviation system plan is to provide the state with excellent planning tools to assist in making informed decisions guiding the developm ent of Minnesota’s system of airports and expending funds in a cost-effective manner† (Washington State

Philosophy on Dreaming Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Philosophy on Dreaming - Essay Example The central nervous system, which is active even in sleep, can pay full attention to a dreamer's intrapsychic processes only when it is not distracted by environmental stimuli. If these stimuli exceed a certain intensity, they interrupt dreams, just as acute anxiety associated with fears of a dreamed conflict stops the process of dreaming. Mild, subliminally perceived environmental distractions are usually incorporated into dream events without misrepresentation of the main dream message. Analysts also look for any allusions to the manner in which dreamers guide, control, or curb their overt social behavior. When dreamers' behaviors and personalities change, dreams change also. Personality means the function a character plays, intentionally or unconsciously, in psychosocial relationships; role encompasses the intrapsychic processes and the conscious or unconscious overt behavior of the individual. One's mental states like values, desires, intentions are functions determined by the brain states. Brain states depends upon the state of affairs and events one is through with or going through at the same instant.

Consumer Behaviour- Redbull Case Study questions

Consumer Behaviour- Redbull questions - Case Study Example Through the marketing strategy of employing thrill into the advertisements, the company targets the young generation to consume the drink as a supplement to the adrenaline inducing sports. Such market segmentation has allowed the company to merge its natural consumer base with its targeted market. In the future, Red Bull’s most beneficial marketing strategy would be to segment the market based on consumers and innovation specifically rather than brute sponsorship based advertisement. Targeting a behavioural segment that is divided in to the groups of those who regularly, for example, go to gym or those that work in tough environments in the same age limits; it would be wiser, as per Walker’s (2006) research, to spend more marketing funds on those who are behaving in a more favourable way to consume the product. For example a 20 year old who goes to gym is more open to Red Bull’s advertisements than a 20 year old who works in a print shop. By specifically targetin g behaviour based market segments, Red Bull’s future marketing can further be optimized in line with the company’s current policy without interfering with other policies like those of thrill based advertisement. ... Starting from distributing free cases of the energy drink at gyms, schools and different buildings where they could find their consumer base, the Red Bull started with a viral advertising policy. The success of the viral advertisement resulted in rapid growth in sales. The motivations of consumers were based on their own needs, or their own needs as shown by the company. The need to re energize at work, gym, construction sites and other advertised areas has shown to be a consumer need by the Red Bull and often the Red Bull consumers are compared with non consumers in advertisements. The comparison often either implies the lack of energy in the individual and the inability to perform properly without re energizing or shows extra abilities in the individual consuming the product. The moto â€Å"No Red Bull, No Wings† clearly backs up this concept. Furthermore, by sponsoring highly thrilling race competitions, both on air and ground, the motivation to use the product is further a roused in the consumer base, both psychologically and as a way to try the product for the new consumers by creating a ‘buzz’. Describe the Brand Personality of Red Bull. Why do you think the concept of brand personality is so important to Red Bull? Being an energy drink aimed at the youth, Red Bull has developed a bold brand personality of a strong bull as depicted by its logo. The brand personality of the energy drink implies the traits of the type of boost it claims to give the consumers; strength, energy, physical resistance, quicker reaction time and improved mood. Giving an emotional character and association to the brand’s image, the company has devised a strategy

Educated Citizenry Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Educated Citizenry - Personal Statement Example Educated masses are an important asset to any country, more so for one that follows the democratic form of government. By education, we do not simply mean the literacy rate and its level in the democracy, but the level of awareness that exists amidst them. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, "Democracy is a form of government by the people, of the people and for the people". Therefore, those people need to be aware of the way the government functions, why a certain policy is being adopted and what are the rights he or she can avail in the system. An educated citizenry, that is well-informed about the current affairs of the State, the rights and the duties it needs to perform and the process of give of take, can be of crucial help to the government and the democracy, as a whole. Therefore, this is one of the reasons why a Democracy can benefit from an educated citizenry. The second reason stated deals with the fact that the citizenry should be well informed and educated, since it needs to identify and recognise where the democracy is headed.

Capital Structure Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Capital Structure - Essay Example I strongly believe in this context that the use of debt and equity in a proportionate manner aids in raising capital. Thus, based on my understanding, businesses are identified to consider two important elements that include â€Å"cost of capital† and â€Å"Weighted Average Cost of Capital† (WACC) for the purpose of accomplishing their respective business targets in long term. Subsequently, by mixing debt and equity, the aforesaid two elements can be reduced as per my knowledge. I think that obtaining debt in an adequate manner as a source of capital ensures in generating low and real risks of financial distress (Grundy, n.d.). In this regard, I support the fact that the use of only debt financing or equity financing is accountable for making financial distress in long run. As per my understanding, market values play an imperative role for companies at the time of raising capital. These are important as investors invest based on firms’ value and risks associated with businesses. Subsequently, I consider that there exists a complex relationship prevailing between WACC and debt, as increased amount of debt has positive as well as negative influences on the capital structure of a company. Consequently, I conjure that WACC values increase for more returns and on the other hand, these decreases for low cost of debt as compared to equity. In this regard, from the viewpoints of Modigliani & Miller, I understood that the market value of companies is not based on their respective capital structure totally but is also dependent on other factors (Grundy, n.d.). I strongly believed that gearing is a procedure of ascertaining capital structure of a company based on the relationship persisting between equity and debt. Thus, movements of WACC and share price impose significant impact on shareholders’ wealth. In this regard, the best example of understanding different aspects of debt and equity

History musicMichael Jackson Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

History musicMichael Jackson - Essay Example He was won more than a dozen Grammys, had multiple albums go platinum, and made millions of dollars in sales and merchandising. However, there was more to the story than just a tale of success and wealth. Michael Jackson used his celebrity to draw attention to important issues that needed addressing, as well as, humanitarian and charitable causes worthwhile of being noticed. In this, Michael Jackson’s career transcended musical genres, he evolved himself and his music to the needs and causes that were relevant to the times. Michael Jackson was born in August of 1958. He was the 7th of 9 children. Raised in a large and musical family he became the headliner of the family’s musical group, â€Å"The Jackson Five.† Unfortunately, the experiences in the earliest years of his career were some of the most difficult. The group’s father was rather strict and difficult to please. Regardless the â€Å"Jackson Five† went on to great fame and the Jackson boys became a household name to fans all over (Rolling Stone 1). However, Michael’s greatest success would come when he began his solo career in the late 1970s. In the early 1980s the music produced by Wham and The Bangles were phasing the last of the Disco dance hits out. It was here that Michael Jackson fit in to the upbeat pop of the era. He released Thriller in 1982, which changed the way people perceived the potentials of music videos for generations to come (CNN 1).These songs reflected the more fun loving, almost decadent, times that defined the early 80s decade. The lyrics reflect the fun of dance and creativity. However, while life was good in the United States, other nations around the world were struggling just to survive. Michael Jackson co-wrote â€Å"We Are the World† in order to draw attention to the famine, disease, and suffering occurring in Africa (CNN 1). It was here that much of Jackson’s work began to reflect a message of universal unity and peace, ,making changes in one ’s self, and

Contact Information Essay Example for Free

Contact Information Essay Charlotte, NC (January 1, 2013) Johnson C. Smith University is having a Whitney Houston tribute on February 20, 2013. The school choir along with President Carter is organizing a beautiful tribute on campus. The tribute will be held in Biddle auditorium on that Wednesday. President Carter emailed students to find out who wanted to volunteer for the event and receive community service hours. Johnson C. Smith University will be selling tickets as well. The prices are 2$ for JCSU students, and 5$ for everyone else. Special guests will be Mariah Carey, Brand, and Chris Brown. The event has been posted in local charlotte area newspapers and it will also be discussed on the local news. President Carter said â€Å"This event is a must see, I think myself and everyone who helped did an awesome job. I suggest everyone come out and see this tribute†. After the event Johnson C. Smith University will have food sponsored by FDY food services. The food is free after admission and drinks are free as well. There will also be an autograph signing from the special guests after the event. Special guest Mariah Carey says â€Å"It’s always a pleasure doing events like this. Anytime I can help, and give back, I’m always willing to†.

Speech Analysis Paper Essay Example for Free

Speech Analysis Paper Essay The first speech I watched was â€Å"Falling Slowly† winning Best Original Song Oscar. From the beginning you could tell that Glen Hansard was very pleased and very sincere about the award and you could tell that it meant a lot to him throughout his speech. The speech was very brief and he was very thankful. I liked how he expressed how they put the movie together and how he never thought they would be standing there receiving an Oscar because it just shows that it doesn’t take a lot to achieve your dreams. The only thing I wish he would have done was name the people he wanted to thank instead of generalizing it because then it doesn’t seem personal. The next speech I watched was â€Å"Tom Hanks winning an Oscar for â€Å"Forrest Gump†Ã¢â‚¬ . I loved how Tom Hanks acknowledged the other nominees and said that the others deserved the award as much as he did. I thought that was sincere and respectful of the others who were nominated for the Oscar. I liked the way he acknowledged those who were a part of making the film and what he said was very meaningful and you could tell it meant a lot to him because of the emotional appeal he gave off. It just showed how much he enjoyed working with the other actors in making the film and how it impacted his life and his ability as an actor. When he thanked his wife he did it in a very sincere and loving way and I thought that was very nice. I thought the metaphor he used to describe how he felt in the moment was a good way to stray away from his emotions a little bit because you could tell that he was trying to fight his emotions throughout the speech. What he said at the end made his entire speech so grasping because he was so grateful and thankful to have received that award. I couldn’t tell if his speech was manuscript or impromptu, but either way I think his speech was great. It was brief and I think he expressed his emotions in a way where it was evident that it was truly a blessing to have received that award. See more: how to write an analysis paper The next speech I watched was â€Å"Adele-54 Grammy’s on CBS: Album of the Year†. When she started to thank everyone who was a part of making that award possible for her I liked how she acknowledged them and then explained specific ways they have helped her to improve and become the artist she is. In my opinion it seemed like she was rambling a little bit when she was talking about the inspiration for her album only because she switched  subjects from thank yous to her album and then thank yous again so I think she just got lost in what she was saying at that point. However, I think it was appropriate to share what the inspiration of her album was because of the award she received. The interruption of the snot was funny and that kind of gave off her personality so it made her personable. Her speech was brief, relatable, and sincere. Next I watched was â€Å"Anne Hathaway winning Best Supporting Actress†. For starters, Christopher Plummer did an excellent job in presenting this award. I like how he acknowledged the fact that all of the women who were nominated had been acting since they were little and they have persevered throughout the years to be where they are today. Anne Hathaway seemed nervous when she did her speech, but maybe it was excitement. I liked the fact that she thanked everyone individually because it made it very personal to each individual she thanked, but as her speech progressed she acknowledged every single person in every group she recognized and I think it became too much although it was a nice thing to do. The reference to the movie at the end of her speech I felt was a good way to close her speech. It gave credit to the movie she played in and gave a sense of her character in the movie which is what she received the award for. Overall her speech was brief, sincere, and she accepted the award graciously. The final speech I watched was â€Å"Meryl Streep winning Best Actress†. In the beginning of the speech she seemed a little cocky because of what she said. I feel like acknowledging or implying the fact that you have won many times is inappropriate and disrespectful to others who were nominated and that just showed the kind of person she comes off as and it wasn’t a good impression. When she started thanking people I was annoyed of how much information she gave about their relationships. It was like she was telling her life stories with them and it was too much information. Aside from that the rest of her speech was very sincere and loving because of the emotion she had when she began to talk about the friendships she made and the experiences she’s had with making movies with different people.

Heavy metal pollutant

Heavy metal pollutant An ongoing debate regarding the exact definition for heavy metal pollutant, there are many different definitions have been proposed. For example, some based on density, some on atomic number or atomic weight, and some on chemical properties or toxicity. The commonly definition of heavy metal is the element with a high (>5.0) relative density and atomic weight. Kyung Ah Moon(2007) said thatheavy metals as metal or metallic materials and described them as metals which are toxic and accumulated in the human body Heavy metals normally occurring in nature are not harmful to our environment, because they are only present in very small amounts. The heavy metals only become pollution when they show up in huge amounts due to industrialization. The word of pollution is an emotive term, meaning different things to differentpeople: a reasonable general definition might be ‘too much of something in the wrong place (Harrison, 1990). To many people, heavy metal pollution is a problem associat ed with areas of intensive industry. However, roadways and automobiles now are considered to be one of the largest sources of heavy metals. The heavy metals causing pollution are mercury, arsenic, copper, barium, cadmium, chromium, lead, and zinc .Toxic heavy metals in air, soil, and water are global problems that are a growing threat to the environment. The sources of heavy metal pollutants are metal mining, metal smelting, metallurgical industries, and other metal-using industries, waste disposal, corrosions of metals in use, agriculture and forestry, forestry, fossil fuel combustion, and sports and leisure activities. Heavy metal contamination affects large areas worldwide. Hot spots of heavy metal pollution are located close to industrial sites, around large cities and in the vicinity of mining and smelting plants. Agriculture in these areas faces major problems due to heavy metal transfer into crops and subsequently into the food chain.About half of the zinc and copper contribu tion to the environment from urbanization is from automobiles. For example, Brakes release copper, while tire wear releases zinc. Motor oil also tends to accumulate metals as it comes into contact with surrounding parts as the engine runs, so oil leaks become another pathway by which metals enter the environment. we know what is heavy metal pollution and the sources of it ,but what is the effect of it for our body. Generally, humans are exposed to these metals byingestion (drinking or eating) or inhalation (breathing).Working in or living near an industrial site which utilizesthese metals and their compounds increases ones riskof exposure, as does living near a site where these metalshave been improperly disposed.Heavy metals are dangerous because they tend to bioaccumulate in food chain. Là ¡szlà ³ (2008)said that Bioaccumulation means an increase in the concentration of a chemical in a biological organism over time, compared to the chemicals concentration in the environment. Compounds accumulate in living things any time they are taken up and stored faster than they are broken down (metabolized) or excreted. Now we are going to describe the kinds of heavy metals, their dangerous levels and the effects of these heavy metals to human health and environment. The heavy metals such asLead, Cadmium, Copper, Chromium, Selenium and Mercuryare very pollutants. Lead in humans, Long term exposure can occur acute or chronic damage to the nervous system on humans. Cadmium in humans, long-term exposure is associated with renal disfunction. High exposure can lead to obstructive lung disease and has been linked to lung cancer, and damage to humans respiratory systems. Copper is an essential substance to human life, but in high doses it can cause anemia, liver and kidney damage, and stomach and intestinal irritation. Effect of the Mercury is to cause damage to the brain and the central nervous system. Chromium (VI) compounds are toxins and known human carcinogens, whereas Chromium (III) is an essential nutrient. Breathing high levels can cause irritation to the lining of the nose; nose ulcers; runny nose; and breathing problems, such as asthma, cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing. Skin contact can cause skin ulcers. Allergic reactions consisting of severe redness and swelling of the skin have been noted. Long term exposure can cause damage to liver, kidney circulatory and nerve ti ssues (Martin,2009), so heavy metal cause extremely effect for human, but what about environment. Heavy metals may be used to extract gold and other raw materials from the earth, but its left behind an extremely destruction. Bilal (2006) writs that Soil and water are considered a last resort for most of the chemicals produced by the rights.heavy In natural pollution of environments, this pollution created through the dissolution of heavy metals with water during the natural cycle of water through the rocks or through the soil containing quantities of these metals such as mercury, lead, zinc, nickel, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron and others. This phenomenon exists in many countries, contamination may occur naturally in the ground because of the interactions of metals with sulfur oxidizing substances can activate such interactions the presence of nitrates that can come from many sources(Omadar,2009).Artificial pollution may occur pollution in streams that come from the mines of these tables contain heavy metals and high concentrations of these metals in turn can be grouped in th e structure of exposed rock due to direct contact with oxygen in such a phenomenon found in the eastern provinces of Germany, where in the work of extracting minerals , and types of industrial pollution, mineral processing and manufacture of the final, produces large quantities of industrial wastes that contain many types of harmful metals such as chromium, mercury, lead, nickel, cadmium .. Etc.. These wastes discharged into the open water or drainage systems without careful elimination and therefore the move waste into rivers and lakes are the primary sources of drinking water, and in many cases heavy metal penetrate the soil to the water basins due to the illegal discharge of contaminated water into the ground. Sources of pollution, heavy elements are multiple and vary depending on the type of heavy metal and raw materials but most of these sources are industrial waste or transfer of these elements of air into the water by dissolution in rainwater. The risk of contamination of hea vy metal elements: For the risks related to animals living in the aquatic environment, these heavy metals accumulate in their bodies and may lead to death in the event of a high concentration of heavy pollutants. While the health risks related to people up to him through the transition metals to fish and plants and then to humans through food, accumulate in the human body, causing serious illnesses by type of metal. There are risks associated with aquatic plants and soil planted with these plants that are irrigated with polluted water

Superman vs. Christ Essay -- essays research papers

â€Å"Faster than a speeding bullet, stronger than a locomotive, jumps tall buildings in a single bound.† Superman is known throughout the world for being the savior of a city called Metropolis. In every comic book, movie, or action figure ever presented to the public, Superman is a handsome, strong man who can defeat all odds at all times. The movie Superman was a success, showing how the superhero saved lives and yet lived a humble life. As one watches the movie, though, he might notice the many similarities between the plot of the movie and the story of Christ’s coming. Superman, savior of the city Metropolis, mirrors the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. Throughout the movie Superman, the names and the actions of the characters were similar to those of the Holy Bible. Two of the major name references to the biblical version deal with Superman (Kah-lel) and his father, Jor-el. In the Greek language, the name Jor-el means â€Å"God,† while the name Kah-lel means â€Å"Little God.† Another instance where the name game is played is in the case of Superman’s parents, Martha and John. It does not seem as if there is any other way to make these names be closer to Mary and Joseph, who are the parents of Christ. Zod and Ursula are two other characters present in the movie whose names may not be similar to those in the Bible, but represent the devil and all that is considered evil. These are some of the examples of how the use of names plays an important role in linking Superman the movie to th...

3COM FAST ETHERNET VS. GIGABIT ETHERNET COMPARISON :: essays research papers

ABSTRACT   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In this paper, we will conduct a comparison on Fast Ethernet Network Switches and Gigabit Ethernet Network Switches offered by 3COM. We will review a few specific components, as well as compare features, pricing and preferred usage. DEFINITION In order to have a greater understanding of the terminology and descriptions offered in this paper, we must first understand what a network switch is. A brief definition of a network switch is a computer networking device that connects network segments. It uses the logic of a Network bridge, but allows a physical and logical star topology. It is often used to replace network hubs. A switch is also often referred to as an intelligent hub. A switch can be used to make various connections. Ethernet, Token Ring, and various other types of packet switched network segments together to form a heterogeneous network operating at OSI Layer 2. Traditional Ethernets, in which all hosts compete for the same bandwidth, are called shared Ethernets. Switched Ethernets are becoming very popular because they are an effective and convenient way to extend the bandwidth of existing Ethernets. PRODUCTS   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  3COM offers a wide variety of networking solutions. From Switches to Hubs to Gateways, 3COM is one of the frontrunners in the networking industry. In this comparison of Fast Ethernet Networks and Gigabit Ethernet Networks, before discussing the similarities with the various components and their respective operations, we must discuss the differences between the two.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Fast Ethernet Network was developed as an upgrade to traditional Ethernet Networking. Fast Ethernet improved traditional Ethernet by increasing transfer rates 10 times, from 10 Megabit to 100 Megabit speed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Gigabit Ethernet Network is an upgrade on Fast Ethernet Network equivalent to Fast Ethernet Networks improvement over Fast Ethernet Network, offering speeds of 1000 Megabits (1 Gigabit). Gigabit Ethernet was first made to travel over optical and copper cabling, but the 1000Base-T standard successfully supports it as well. 1000Base-T uses Category 5 cabling similar to 100 Mbps Ethernet, although achieving gigabit speed requires the use of additional wire pairs.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Also, Gigabit Ethernet Networks can process Traditional, Fast, and Gigabit Ethernet transfer rates, as opposed to Traditional – Traditional and Fast – Traditional/Fast. The products will be reviewed by cost as well as functionality, comparing components most closely related to one another.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  COMPONENTS 3COM OfficeConnect Dual Speed 5 Port Switch This switch is a member of 3COM’s OfficeConnect family of products. It is used primarily for small business and small offices.

Agatha Christies By the Pricking of My Thumbs Essay -- essays researc

â€Å"By the Pricking of My Thumbs'; by Agatha Christie   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   â€Å"By the Pricking of My Thumbs'; by Agatha Christie is a wonderful story with kidnappings, a series of murders, a painting with a story to tell, and two sly detectives. The book is set in 1940-1960 England. The plot winds, twists, and turns throughout the book. Numerous characters, almost too many, are introduced every few pages and there is just too much information to take in. Agatha Christie tricks you into thinking that you know what is going on when you really don’t have a clue.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This book starts out by introducing the two main characters who are old detectives named Tommy and Tuppence Beresford. Their Aunt passes away at a ladies home recently. The Aunt owns a picture of a house that is near a canal that comes very im...

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens Essay

Human nature is the psychological and social qualities that characterize humankind. Human nature separates humans from the rest of the animal kingdom. The underlining theme of human nature is evident in Great Expectation by Charles Dickens use of his characters. A main characteristic that Dickens displays is friendship. The friendship between Pip and Herbert is strong. Herbert was significant to Pip’s growth in social class and eventual to his revelation. â€Å"Friendship was one of the human characteristics Dickens enjoyed†¦by associating fellowship with good characters and deeds, he made it known that he admires friendship.† (MacAndrew 168) Herbert aided Pip when he first came to London and made the transition an easy one. Herbert helped filled in the blanks for Pip when he was lost. Herbert saved Pip’s life when Orlick tried to kill him. When Pip needed someone to turn to Herbert was always there. In return of Herbert’s friendship Pip also helped him. Pip used the money he was getting from Magwitch to finance Herbert dream of becoming a business owner. This was a true friendship that did not falter throughout the novel. Friendship is one of the few good characteristics that Dickens indicates throughout the novel. Dickens goes beyond the bond of friendship to the bond of love. Herbert was not the only person that assisted Pip. Joe was another component to Pip’s success. Joe had deeper feelings then friendship towards Pip. Joe loved Pip like they were brothers. Joe was a simple, honest, hardworking man. Joe was a model of the man everyone should try to be. Joe was there in the beginning for Pip when he was getting picked on by Tickler or being â€Å"brought up by hand† by Mrs. Joe. Although Pip turned his back against Joe he was there in the shadows. Joe as simple as he was knew that Pip was leaving him behind. â€Å"Not wishing to intrude I have departed fur you are well again dear Pip and will do better without.† (Dickens 439) Joe knew that he would only be holding Pip back he felt like he was a burden to Pip. Joe was following the notion if you love something you should set it free. Even though Joe didn’t have much he paid Pip’s debts because of his unconditional love for Pip. Joe tried his best to protect Pip and not to bother him. This unconditional love that Joe employed over Pip became essential for Pips growth. Another good human characteristic that Dickens expresses is generosity. This came from the most unlikely person, Magwitch. Magwitch help Pip like a father type would. Magwitch is one of the characters that play a role of a parent. â€Å"Look’ee here, Pip. I’m your second father. You’re my son—more to me nor any son. I’ve put away money, only for you to spend.† (Dickens 329) Magwitch had the same love for Pip as Joe did. Magwitch did not care about his money, but instead he cared about Pip’s happiness and his dream. Magwitch was a convicted criminal that made Pip dreams come true. Although he was a convict he was morally good. He did everything he could to help Pip become the man he is at the end of the novel. â€Å"Lord strike me dead!’ I says each time—and I goes out in the open air to say it under the open heavens—‘but wot, if I gets liberty and money, I’ll make that boy a gentleman!’ And I done it.† (Dickens 351) Magwitch was the secret benefactor that was founding Pip’s journey. The generosity that Pip showed Magwitch left such impact he swore that he would repay Pips generosity. One act of random kindness change Pip’s life forever. Magwitch generosity towards Pip went far beyond the generosity that Pip showed him. Magwitch generosity did not go unnoticed by Pip though. Near the end of the novel Pip return the generosity by helping Magwitch. Dickens did not only show the positives of human nature, but also the negatives. One of the negative characteristics that Dickens looked at was cruelty. â€Å"Dickens believed the darkest facet of human nature was cruelty. He created many characters who displayed this moribund characteristic†¦by creating dark characters, Dickens made the reader disgusted with them.† (The Saturday Review 69) Dickens used a span of characters from the protagonist to minor characters to demonstrate cruelty. This was vital to Pip’s and Estella revelation because it show them there immature ways. Pip experience cruelty first hand from the very beginning. Pip’s childhood memories are frightening for him because of the torment he received from Tickler and Mrs. Joe. Joe could only protect Pip so much, but he could not save him from everything. Pip was not so kind towards Joe as Joe was to Pip. Estella was another cruel character because she did not have a heart towards men. She would use her beauty to make men fall in love with her, but would not return the love . She did not have any affection because it was driven from her at a very early age. Dickens displayed this tactic of cruelty not only in Estella, but also in Compeyson. Compeyson the man that was supposed to married Miss Havisham was a self-centered man. He tricked Miss Havisham to fall in love with him, but when he had access to her money he left on their wedding day. Compeyson also tricked Magwitch. Compeyson and Magwitch were arrested together, but Compeyson organize a plan that got him seven years in jail while Magwitch got fourteen years. The pain that Compeyson left to Miss Havisham and his manipulation of the sentence hearing gave birth to monsters seeking revenge. Dickens use of cruelty brings to life another bad human characteristic, revenge. The cruelty that Compeyson inflected lead Miss Havisham to seek revenge. Tainted from her one experience Miss Havisham distrusted all men. Miss Havisham played the other role of being a parent. She adopted Estella solo based on concept that all men were like Compeyson. Miss Havisham is the one who created Estella to be this heartless creature. Estella was one of Miss Havisham pawns in her plan of revenge. â€Å"Estella doesn’t play into her games anymore and makes her own living with Drummle†¦Miss Havisham tries to control Pip and seduced him into the thoughts of being with Estella forever.† (Chesterton 199) Pip was the other pawn that Miss Havisham was playing. â€Å"But when I fell into the mistake I have so long remained in, at least you lead me on?† said Pip â€Å"Yes, I let you on.† Miss Havisham replied. (Dickens 334) Miss Havisham convinced Pip to think that Estelle was his soul mate knowing Estella would never return the love. Miss Havisham spent the rest of her life on obtaining revenge on men. Like Miss Havisham, Magwitch sought revenge. Compeyson was also the reason behind Magwitch plan to seek revenge. Unlike Miss Havisham, Magwitch wanted direct revenge on Compeyson. Compeyson also used Magwitch for his own personal gain. This obsession leads to Magwitch unhappiness. When Magwitch achieves his goal of revenge he does not gain happiness, but rather despair. Dickens demonstrations of revenge go against any notion that revenge is good, but rather we should forgive those who trespass against us. Ungratefulness was a part of the collection of negative human characteristics that Dickens expressed. When Pip grows in social class he is ungrateful towards those below him. Pip tries to forget past and where he came from. Pip’s remarks in page 89 â€Å"Estella would consider Joe, a mere blacksmith: how think his boots, and how coarse his hands.† He treats Joe and Biddy like they are beneath him, but they are morally better people. â€Å" He rejects the love that like those Joe and Biddy offer, and he feels he will not see himself as worthy, unless he meets the approval of the cold and haughty Estella† (Whipple 381) All Pip cares for is himself and his goals. Instead of staying with Joe while he was in town he rented a room at the blue boar. Pip wanted no part of his old life and did not want it interrupt his new life. â€Å"Could have kept him away by paying money, certainly would have.† (Dickens 217) Even when Joe extended his hand to help Pip he was so superficial at the time he ignore him. Pip forgot all the things that Joe did for him. Pip became ungrateful during his transformation. Pip conflict was self-inflected with his dream of becoming a gentleman. Charles Dickens demonstrates the aspects of human nature throughout his novel Great Expectations through the use of his characters. Dickens also illustrates the positives and negatives of human nature. â€Å"Suffering has been stronger than all other teaching, and has taught me to understand what your heart used to be. I have been bent and broken, but – I hope – into a better shape.† (Dickens 453) Pip and Estella turmoil was self-inflected. They faced many hard ships, but only when they grasp the idea on what truly matters in life will they find their bliss. Bibliography Areview of â€Å"Great Expectations,† in the Saturday Review. London, Vol. 12. No. 299, July 20, 1861, pp. 69-70 Brattin, Joel J.. Dickens Quarterly, Sep2012, Vol. 29 Issue 3, p285-287, 3p. (Book Review) Brown, James M. Dickens: Novelist in The Market-Place. Totowa, NJ: Barnes and Noble, 1982. Chesterton, G.K. â€Å"Great Expectations,† in his Appreciations and Criticisms of the Works of Charles Dickens, E.P. Dutton & Co., 1911, pp. 197-206 Cohen, William A.. Critical Insights: Great Expectations, 2010, p215-268, 54p. (Literary Criticism) Gold, Joseph. Charles Dickens: Radical Moralist. Minneapolis: U of Minnesota P, 1972. Kirk, Neville. Labour and Society in Britain and the USA. London: Scholar P, 1994. Levine, Caroline. Critical Insights: Great Expectations, 2010, p128-146, 19p. MacAndrew, Elizabeth. Critical Insights: Great Expectations, 2010, p161-176, 16p. (Literary Criticism) Mittleman, Leslie B.. Masterplots, Fourth Edition, November 2010, p1-4. (Work Analysis) Author Name: Dickens, Charles Tobin, Mary Ann. Critical Insights: Great Expectations, 2010, p55-67, 13p. (Literary Criticism) Whipple, Edwin P. â€Å"Reviews and Literary Notices: Great Expectations,† in the Alantic Monthly, Vol. VIII, No. XLVII, September, 1861, pp. 380-382. Great Expectations by Charles Dickens Essay The relationship between Pip, Estella, and Jaggers is going through much growth throughout the story. Pip’s and Estella’s relationship is very similar to as when Pip was just a common boy, and there is not much hope for the relationship to become real. Jaggers also has and will have much influence on the lives of Pip and Estella. The relationship between Pip and Estella is not getting much better and there is not much hope in it, the main reason being that Estella still treats Pip the same as when he was just a common boy. Estella explains that she has no heart and cannot feel emotions, which is from the quote â€Å"You must know†, said Estella, †¦Ã¢â‚¬ that I have no heart -if that has anything to do with my memory† (223). Estella, because she says she has no heart, will not have any feelings for Pip even if she grows to be a gentleman. This show’s how there is not much hope in their relationship, because Estella will never have love for Pip. Estella also still calls Pip â€Å"boy† which is shown from the quote â€Å"You silly boy,† said Estella quote composedly, â€Å"how can you talk such nonsense† (248)? Estella still calls Pip â€Å"boy†, as if he was just a common boy, even though he has become more a gentleman. This shows how Estella’s attitude for Pip has not changed and probably will not change, which does not bring much hope to their relationship. Another example is when Estella allows Pip to kiss her, just like she did before; shown from the quote â€Å"Will you never take warning? Or do you kiss my hand in the same spirit in which I once let you kiss my cheek† (250)? Pip responds by kissing her, and this shows how Pip is only allowed to kiss her when she tells him he can, even though he has become a gentleman. Their relationship has not seemed to become better because of this, and almost seems as if they are puppets, only doing what Miss Havisham wants them to do. Pip’s and Estella’s relationship overtime has not improved because of Estella’s view that Pip will always just be a common boy to her, and another reason being that she says she does not have a heart. Jaggers has and will have much influence on the lives of Pip and Estella in different ways. One way he has influenced Pip’s life is by becoming his guardian and fulfilling many of his needs, such as in the quote â€Å"I’ll go round presently, and pay our friend off† (228). Pip said he does not like  Orlick working at Miss Havisham’s, so Jaggers pays him off. This has influenced his life by allowing him to think that he could get anything he wants, now that he is wealthier and has Jaggers, who is a powerful man in society. Another way Jaggers has influenced Pip is by giving him advice on which tutor to pick, shown in the quote â€Å"I don’t recommend him, observe; because I never recommend anybody. The gentleman I speak of is one Mr. Matthew Pocket† (130). Jaggers has influenced Pip’s life by suggesting a suitable tutor, who Pip becomes very good friends with. Estella’s life has been influenced by Jaggers, one way being that he did something so now they feel an awkward presence towards each other. This is shown at when they are at Miss Havisham’s estate having dinner, where they avoid making eye contact with each other. Jaggers is a very influential man to Pip and Estella, which impacts both of them in many ways. The relationship between Pip, Estella, and Jaggers is going through great changes and growth. Pip’s and Estella’s relationship throughout the story has mainly stayed the same, as Estella has no care for a serious relationship and treats Pip like he was still a commoner. Even though Estella discourages the relationship, Pip wants to be in one with her even more. Jaggers influence on Pip has grown as he has much influence on him by giving him advice as his guardian.

Minicase San Pico

San Pico is a rapidly growing Latin American developing country. The country is blessed with miles of scenic beaches that have attracted tourists by the thousands in recent years to new resort hotels financed by joint ventures of San Pico businessmen and moneymen from the Middle East, Japan, and the United States. Additionally, San Pico has good natural harbors that are conducive for receiving imported merchandise from abroad and exporting merchandise produced in San Pico and other surrounding countries that lack access to the sea.Because of these advantages, many new businesses are being started in San Pico. Presently, stock is traded in a cramped building in La Cobijio, the nation's capital. Admittedly, the San Pico Stock Exchange system is rather archaic. Twice a day an official of the exchange will call out the name of each of the 43 companies whose stock trades on the exchange. Brokers wanting to buy or sell shares for their clients then attempt to make a trade with one another. This crowd trading system has worked well for over one hundred years, but the government desires to replace it with a new modern system that will allow greater and more frequent opportunities for trading in each company, and will allow for trading the shares of the many new start-up companies that are expected to trade in the secondary market. Additionally, the government administration is rapidly privatizing many state-owned businesses in an attempt to foster their efficiency, obtain foreign exchange from the sale, and convert the country to a more capitalist economy.The government believes that it would conduct this privatization faster and perhaps at more attractive prices if it had a modern stock exchange facility where the shares of the newly privatized companies will eventually trade. You are an expert in the operation of secondary stock markets and have been retained as a consultant to the San Pico Stock Exchange to offer your expertise in modernizing the stock market. What w ould you advise? Explain. Most new and renovated stock exchanges are being established these days as either a partially or fully automated trading system.A fully automated system is especially beneficial for a small to medium size country in which there is only moderate trading in most issues. Such a system that deserves special note is the continuous National Integrated Market system of New Zealand. This system is fully computerized and does not require a physical structure. Essentially all buyers and sellers of a stock enter through their broker into the computer system the number of shares they desire to buy or sell and their required transaction price. The system is updated constantly as new purchase or sale orders are entered into system.The computer constantly searches for a match between buyer and seller, and when one is found a transaction takes place. This type of system would likely serve San Pico’s needs very well. There is existing technology to implement, the bug s have been worked out in other countries, and it would satisfy all the demands of the demands of the San Pico government and easily accommodate growth in market activity MINI CASE: SARA LEE CORP. ’S EUROBONDS The International Finance in Practice boxed reading in the chapter discussed a three-year $100 million Eurobond issue by Sara Lee Corporation.The article also mentions other bond issues recently placed by various foreign divisions of Sara Lee. What thoughts do you have about Sara Lee’s debt financing strategy? Suggested Solution to Sara Lee Corp. ’s Eurobonds Sara Lee is the ideal candidate to issue Eurobonds. The company has worldwide name recognition, and it has an excellent credit rating that allows it to place new bond issues easily. By issuing dollar denominated Eurobonds to Swiss investors, Sara Lee can bring new issues to market much more quickly than if it sold domestic dollar denominated bonds.Moreover, the Eurodollar bonds likely sell at a lower yield than comparable domestic bonds. Additionally, it appears as if Sara Lee is raising funds in a variety of foreign currencies. Sara Lee most likely has large cash inflows in these same currencies that can be used to meet the debt service obligations on these bond issues. Thus Sara Lee is finding a use for some of its foreign currency receipts and does not have to be concerned with the exchange rate uncertainty of these part of its foreign cash inflows.

Monster Mash Essay

Everyone loves a good scare. The rush we feel when our worst nightmares are realized, and yet that small inkling in our minds reminds us, this isn’t real. It’s fun. First we clench and scream and our hearts pop out of our chests. Then, we smile, laugh, and say â€Å"wow, that scared me† escape our lips, and we again move on with the rest of our average everyday lives. It’s exciting, and to some, arousing. But the concept of horror raises an all too common inquiry. What if you could become one of those famous monsters of the silver screen? Would you choose to be the seductive vampire, the gnarly werewolf, the ghastly ghost, or the ravenous Frankenstien? Now I know what you’re thinking. What about Jason Vorhees, or Freddy Kruger? What about Leatherface, or the Pinhead? Those are all excellent horror film identities. They are however, latter day principals that have all been crafted from the inspiration of the age old favorites. We couldn’t possibly begin to appreciate Jason Vorhees or Leatherface without first acknowledging the colossal juggernaut that was Frankenstien. So for this paper, I’ll only be focusing on the primary figures of horror. Let’s kick this off with an all-time classic. This horror figure amassed not only one of the largest fan bases in film, but directly influenced its own underground culture. Bela Lugosi donned the crimson cape in 1927 as Count Dracula in a Broadway adaptation of Bram Stoker’s novel, where he was talent-spotted as a character actor for the new Hollywood talkies, appearing in the first Dracula film with sound. It would be four years later, with the movie adaptation of that play that vampires would become a public icon. Here we are almost ninety years later, vampire lore has erupted into many renditions, many new ideals. There has been games, and music inspired by their sultry image. These being thrive on the lust and temptation of man, the sexiness of evil. They indulge in blood, and ritual. Only ever able to enjoy their immortality at night, as sunlight invariably reduces them to dust and ash. They are dexterous, equally cunning, using sleight of hand and a quick tongue t o gain your every allegiance. They are connected into every faà §ade of regular, and have either allies, or brethren in powerful social circles. The older the vampire, the more attuned to the gift. On the darker side of this coin lies the cold hard fact that you are completely vulnerable to fire, sunlight, and according to EVERY SINGLE vampire movie, the inevitable betrayal of those closest to you. Which for me begs the ultimate question, â€Å"what good is immortality, if you have no one to share it with†. One a cold dark night, when the moon is full, can you hear the howling of their kind. They are excellent hunters, and even better combatants. They are supernaturally strong, fast, and almost impossible to fend off. All it takes is a simple scratch and your fate is sealed. The werewolf is a tragic Monster. There is nothing sexy or fun about this curse. Every four weeks, when the moon is full, your body reconstructs itself. Breaking bones, and rearranging them. Stretching muscle mass, and skin. I don’t recommend watching someone turn if you are squeamish or faint of heart. The mind goes into an instinctive mode, where you can only process hunger, and anger. You’re compelled not by your humanity, but by the beast within. No matter how you shake it, or which rendition of this monster you look at, werewolves are awesome and sad. Immense power, and raw animal agility, but without a single ounce of control. The concept of man becoming beast has been around for a long time. Ancient Celtics used to believe the spirit of the earth created them to protect her forests from all dangers. It wasn’t until 1941 that the â€Å"wolf man† would see the silver screen, and forever change the way we looked at secluded romantic ventures in the wood. Speaking of silver, nothing but, can truly bring this monster to peace. Ghosts are a funny ideal. They scare the daylights out of us, yet never even threaten us with imminent danger. Most of the time, they are the remnants of someone looking to warn us or tell us something they didn’t get a chance to while they were alive. Yet, like the others, they manage to drive us crazy, and inspire multimedia frenzies. Personally, I hate all these darned ghost hunting shows on TV nowadays. They never seem to really grasp the concept. Its like I’m watching the ghost of Seinfeld, trying one last time to do a horrible stand up monologue. Still the imagery of being there, but not there, and subsequently affecting your surroundings with how you feel, sounds like horror gold. For as much literature is out there on these monsters, very little is actually known. There are a lot of myths about spirits, so it’s hard to decipher what is truth from what is fiction. Some sources say they cannot cross running water, others say that salt naturally repels them. Most say that wrought iron, or cold iron will disperse them quickly. Last but not least, the awesome Frankenstein monster. The twisted dream of an eccentric medical school dropout. A being brought to life with the grotesque remain of the dead. The feeble attempts of a mad man to play god. This monster is as powerful as he is awe-inspiring. Unnaturally super strong, and equally impatient, he towers over the other monsters. He is remarkably resilient, and can repair himself but using new parts. A horrific machine of flesh and bone. Having to accept the weight of being the only of his kind, is the only solace he will ever hope to achieve. At least not until bride of Frankenstein, and we all know how that ends. Mary Shelly gave birth to this horrific story in 1818, originally adapted to be a drama that focused on Dr. Frankenstein as tortured soul, looking for repentance from his monolithic creation. This would fade in 1931, when Boris Karloff donned the neck bolts and platform boots. Becoming an instant classic on the silver screen, Frankenstein would later be seen taking care of Dracula’s coffin in the daytime and feeding the wolf man on the full moon. Never saying much, as to forego the myth that reanimated brain tissue results in a zombie state of mind, Frankenstein does most of his communication in gestures. I would like to believe that the incredible HULK is somehow inspired by him. Choosing an archetype of horror can be taxing. But knowing not only what you stand to gain, but what you stand to lose is paramount. Everyone focuses so on the merit of being a monster. As much as they are powerful, they are weak. To truly choose means to condemn yourself to a live of horror. Would you sacrifice the sun for immortality? Or are you more privy toward the animalistic freedom in exchange for your sanity. Or maybe you’d remain human, and use this hypothetical as tactical advantage. Knowing is half the battle, right? References: IMDB.com Copyright  © 1990-2013 IMDb.com, Inc. Bela Lugosi – http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000509/bio The Wolf Man – http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0034398/?ref_=sr_3 Frankenstein- http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0021884/?ref_=sr_6 Monsters An Investigator’s Guide to Magical Beings Creators: John Michael Greer Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide, LTD. Sept. 2001

Absolutism in Europe – Summary

During the 17th century two future rulers, Peter the Great of Russia and Louis XIV of France, were born who would push absolutism to new heights. Absolutism is a form of government where all the power is in the hands of one individual. Absolute monarchies are the most common form of absolutism. Peter the Great and Louis XIV had similar traumatic experiences involving people with traditional power during their childhoods. Louis’ was the Fronde, a rebellion by nobles. The Fronde began in 1650 when Louis was a young boy.Many times during the uprising his life was put in danger as his mother and himself were occasionally treated as prisoners. They also had to retreat from Paris. Peter the Great’s traumatic childhood experience was the Streltsy uprising of 1682. The Streltsy, the traditional guards of the nobles in Russia, mobbed the Kremlin after rumors were circulated that Peter’s half brother, Ivan, had been killed. They lynched many nobles including two of Peterâ €™s uncles. The killings were quite brutal, including some being thrown off of balconies unto the Streltsy’s bayonets.The young Peter witnessed this and it began his deep mistrust and hatred of traditional ways in Russia. Another similarity of Peter and Louis was their handling of their nobles. They both took power from them in different ways. Louis built the luxurious palace of Versailles. The grand building project of Versailles employed many artisans and common builder for a lifetime. Thus it was supported by the population of France. Many of the most prominent nobles were forced to live there for about half a year in apartments. Their actual power was essentially traded for social pomp and court life.They filled their days with various social acts like watching the rising of the King in the morning and the pursuits of the frivolous fashions of the day. Another purpose of Versailles was to show the sheer might of Louis XIV. Peter the Great pushed very hard for moderniz ation of Russia. His need to imitate the west led him to have his own massive building project, St. Petersburg. Conscripted laborers primarily built this new city. The conditions were harsh and over 60,000 died. This contrasted sharply with Louis XIV’s building of Versailles.Another push way forced modern ways upon his constituents was to have dress codes for the royals. He had them dress in western clothing. This was disliked by many, especially the women, for their impracticality for the harsh landscapes of Russia. He also had the men shaved their beards. If they refused he’d cut them off himself. War campaigns Louis XIV and Peter the Great contrasted drastically. Peter was the first ruler of Russia to turn its army from amateur to professional. He abandoned the Streltsy that he had formed a hate from in childhood and began to train his soldiers using modern techniques.His love of the military started in childhood when he would play war with real men. Western general s were brought in to teach the young Peter different formation which they would practice often. Eventually this play army became the beginnings of his real army. In addition to an army he created a navy. Most of Peter’s wars had a purpose and were led by the king directly from the battlefield. His first war against the Tartars, who were backed by the Ottomans, and mostly in the southeast area of the empire.This war was used to secure the border which often fell victim to horrific raids by the Tartars. His second major war was against Sweden. While the Great Northern War was long, 21 years, it gave Peter the land he needed for the port city of St. Petersburg. Also, it marked the last time Sweden was ever a military power. To Louis XIV war was usually just a way to show the glory of France, thus the glory of its ruler Louis. Some of the wars included, the war of devolution, the war against Holland, the war of the league of Augsburg, and the war of Spanish Succession.Most of the se wars resulted in little actual benefits for the victor. That is because they had been mostly for glory. One last notable similarity is how both Louis XIV and Peter the Great dismissed their main advisors at a young age. Louis dismissed his advisors at the age of 23 when he began to truly become the absolute rule her was. Peter the Great did the same at the younger age of 17. Overall Peter and Louis both had major affects on the entire continent of Europe from their reigns onwards. They are both the best examples of absolutism that the world will probably see.

Case Study of Managing patient suffering Opoid constipation

Case Study of Managing patient suffering Opoid constipation This case study outlines the clinical management of a client with a problem with Opioid induced constipation. Opioid analgesics (narcotics) cause constipation in most people. Opioids slow down the stool as it passes along the intestinal tract. This causes the stool to become hard. If you have hard stools, have difficulty passing bowel movements and the movements become infrequent, then you have constipation. Constipation can be very bothersome and last as long as you are taking narcotics on a regular basis. Therefore, it is important that we learn to manage our bowels effectively. Throughout the analysis the anonymity and confidentiality of this patient will be protected as outlined by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (2008) and therefore the patient will be referred to as Mark Scott. Additionally consent was gained by Mark to allow the author to use his case for my assessment. History of present illness Mark Scott is a 64 year old gentleman who is 2 days post op following a Right Total Hip Replacement (RTHR). Total hip replacement involves removal of a diseased hip joint and replacement with a prosthetic joint. Whilst doing the medications Mark confided in the nurse that he may have a problem with his bowels and that he may be constipated. To enable the nurse to assess Mark she would have to understand constipation, it helps to know how the colon, or large intestine, works. As food moves through the colon, the colon absorbs water from the food while it forms waste products, or stool. Muscle contractions in the colon then push the stool toward the rectum. By the time stool reaches the rectum it is solid, because most of the water has been absorbed. Constipation occurs when the colon absorbs too much water or if the colon’s muscle contractions are slow or sluggish, causing the stool to move through the colon too slowly. As a result, stools can become hard and dry. Mark asked the nurse if there was anything she could give him to ease the discomfort he wa s experiencing, However as Mark has presented with a new problem with the possibility of him needing medication, the nurse would first need to undertake a holistic assessment of Mark. The purpose of assessment is to allow the nurse to examine all relevant factors of the problem and allow her to make the decision of whether prescribing a patient group directive (PGD) is an appropriate intervention (Humphries, 2002). Consider the patient When Mark stated he thought he was constipated, it was important to ascertain his own interpretation of what this meant. For example, Wondergerm (2005) states that for some, constipation may mean opening their bowels less than three times a day. On the other hand, constipation may mean opening of the bowels less than three times a week. There appears to be a general consensus that the range for normal bowel activity lies somewhere between three bowel motions daily to one bowel motion every three days. However, it is important to remember that a change from three bowel motions a day to one every three days may represent a significant change for the patient, despite remaining within the normal limits (Peate, 2003).