Thursday, October 31, 2019

Marxist Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Marxist Analysis - Essay Example he Destructors â€Å"by Graham Greene tells of the exploits of a group of adolescent boys who call themselves the Wormsley common gang and the scene to bring an old and elegant house down. They meet daily in a parking lot near the area where they lived that was bombed during World War II. More or less, everything got destroyed in this area except for one house which stood proudly among the rubbles of the other edifices surrounding it. This belonged to Mr. Thomas whom the boys call ‘Old Misery,’ an old man who lives alone. A new recruit of the gang opened up to his plan of destroying this house from the inside upon learning that Mr. Thomas would be away long enough to enforce the plan.In the story, Trevor’s plot to destroy Old Misery’s house explains its very title â€Å"The Destructors.† We can relate this in a sense that it gives the post-war tone where the house reflects the prevailing capitalist system that survived the effects of war but became shoddy and hollowed from the inside. It reflects the growing uncertainty of the nation and economic depression and the so-called casualties of war. Trevor represented a new idea, radical from the rest and simultaneously exciting which aroused everyone’s curiosity into helping him carry out his plan. In the short story, the young gang of youth expresses their idealism in contrast to the established norms of the grown-up world which were destroyed in the onslaught of the War and its devastation. They felt that new order must be in store because the old one is no longer working and that despite all the luxuries and the aesthetic beauty it represents, it served no true value. This was what the house was all about and this became the central idea which triggered a single idea to spark a group of young boys into action. Since the story takes place after the German bombing of World War II in London, the new generation reciprocated the adults’ actions by taking reprisal on the many things for which the world has made

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Personality Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Personality Theory - Essay Example Nevertheless, as adults, the parents were responsible for their son’s death. Parental Abuse Resulting in Child Suicide: The Personality of Both the Parents and Child which Results in Suicide The case of the child being abused by violent parents is not uncommon. It can happen anytime as long as there are children with suicidal tendencies and parents who are predisposed to behave in a way that they would hurt their children. Based on the details of the case, the child committed suicide because he must have been a typical case of Borderline Personality Disorder and his parents as well, and this must have unconsciously made them cause their own child’s death. Definition of the Case and Important Things to Consider The case study involving the child who killed himself and the parents who abused him must be investigated in such a way that the roles of the child and the parents in bringing about the act of suicide are defined. Moreover, one needs to consider the reasons why th e child could have decided to kill himself and why the parents themselves were abusive. Understanding the underlying cause of their actions and decisions would shed more light into why the suicide took place. The Possibility of Borderline Personality Disorder The child who killed himself may have been suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder, or BPD, because he displayed a similar set of symptoms as a typical case, and it was the parents’ fault that the degree of their abuse towards him made him decide to kill himself. BPD is a psychological problem which is most commonly associated with â€Å"self destructive† behavior, which in turn is the most likely cause of the suicide (Paris, 2011). Moreover, someone with BPD is also most likely to be â€Å"highly unstable emotionally† and thus develops several mood swings especially as a rather automatic response to highly stressful events (Paris, 2011). These highly unstable emotions and unpredictable mood swings m ay have reached their peak at the time of suicide and thus may have triggered the act itself. Coupled with a preexisting self destructive behavior, the sudden surge of depressive or angry emotions in the child may have been directed towards himself. Parental abuse may have triggered the depression and anger in the child, but since the child may have felt powerless, he did not choose to retaliate and instead decided to kill himself in order to end the extremely uncomfortable feeling of abuse, loss of personal value and loss of self-esteem. Moreover, since BPD is characterized by â€Å"repetitive suicide attempts,† then it is obvious that the child was suffering from this or a similar disorder at the moment of suicide (Paris, 2011). The child may have therefore attempted suicide a number of times but perhaps during that time that he killed himself, there must have been too much anger in him that could not be contained anymore. There could also have been a lot of anger that had piled up and perhaps the last cruel thing his parents did to him somehow served as the last straw that eventually made him decide to end his life. Furthermore, there might not have been anyone else in the house who could have at least stopped the child from committing suicide, or perhaps there was but this person might have also been powerless and helpless against the child’

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Security Threats to Banking

Security Threats to Banking INTRODUCTION The research project was undertaken to discover security threats and vulnerabilities experienced in First National Bank Botswana organization and how they mitigate them, this was carried out with the intention of making better and appropriate recommendations to combat them in the future and strengthen their information system and innovate some of their services for better competitive advantage and customer satisfaction. FIRST NATIONAL BANK BOTSWANA BACKGROUND First National Bank Botswana was registered in 1991, as a wholly owned subsidiary of First National Bank Holdings (Botswana). Various acquisitions led to the bank becoming a listed entity on the Botswana Stock Exchange in 1993. Today, they have shifted from being a bank with a predominantly retail focus to one that also successfully services the commercial and corporate market. Today products and services of First National Bank Botswana cover the requirements of everyone, from large corporate companies to small businesses and the individual. As at January 2008, we operate with a network of 17 branches and a total of 89 ATMs around the country. A strong customer focused culture ensures that our products are correctly packaged and accessible to all. https://www.fnbbotswana.co.bw/aboutus/index.html accessed on the 30 March 2010. MISSION To be recognised by all as the most well respected and most profitable leading financial services institution of first choice, building enduring and rewarding relationships with all our customers and amongst all stakeholders through the provision of exceptional customer service well skilled professionalism, reliable and efficient innovative products and solutions by our high achieving, motivated, proud and committed team, enabling us to get and keep customers. VISION We collaborate, support and empower each other through the consistent application of our aligned strategies and shared values, delivering maximum value to our customers and sharing the customer so as to add further value to them. Through this, we get and keep customers. CURRENT MARKET SITUATION ANALYSIS Currently the world was going through recession each and every organization across the globe felt the impact of the economic meltdown. Despite global recession and tough competition from competitors like Barclays bank, Standard chartered, Stabic bank and Bank Gaborone etc, First National Bank Botswana proved to be the most innovative bank in Botswana and it made profit unlike Barclays bank sales which had gone down, this shows that FNBB had increase in sales and market share. According to Imara report, September 2009, FNBB had a growth in turnover; the bank posted a strong set of results despite operating in a challenging business environment. Net interest income grew by 30.6% to P522.90 million (FY08: P400.25 million) mainly driven by a 17.0% increase in loans and advances. Profit before tax and profit after tax increased by 19.5% to P536.90 million and 8.7% to P406.72 million respectively. SIGNIFICANT MARKET SHARE According to Analyst Setlhabi P, 2009 FNBB is one of the leading banks in Botswana with the largest market share in terms of deposits (29.7%) and 2nd largest in terms of loans and advances (27.3%) after Barclays Bank Botswana. The pie chart above shows that FNBB has more market share in Botswana compared to other banks in Botswana. In terms of technology advancement and Information system FNBB is the most innovative bank, it was the first bank to provide internet and cell phone banking in Botswana to customers and it is currently the only listed bank providing cell phone banking services. In a bid to reach the unbanked market, First National Bank of Botswana has launched its new cell phone banking service, enabling banking activities such as balance enquiries, statement requests and the ability to make payments to third parties. Due to advancement in technology and Information system its market share has grown tremendously. FNBB SWOT ANALYSIS Below is a table showing the swot analysis of the First National Bank Botswana, from the table it shows that the bank has more strength, good opportunities than weakness and threats which is really good. PREVIOUS SYSTEM The previous system was manual based before introducing this advanced system, though they had computers nothing was automated customers had to go to the physical bank to deposit money, pay the bills and some of the important information was recorded on papers which can get lost or stolen easily. The system was costly to the bank because they had to use a lot of materials e.g. papers to record information and print the bank statement for customers and you would find that there will be long queues at the bank during the week. Customers could not dream buying items online, they manual system was time consuming and somehow hindered the growth of the FNBB market share. Customers who wanted to open accounts with the bank had to fill the application form, submit and wait for seven working days for their application to be processed and account to be opened. There was nothing like transferring the fund to third party account or interbank transfer the customer had to do it manual at the bank teller or cashier counter. CURRENT SYSTEM (S) The bank has several current information systems in place which has enhanced its performance and productivity resulting in customer satisfaction and convenience hence customer loyalty to FNBB. According to Mr. Edwin M FNBB have the following information systems in use. Online Banking Customers can access the bank account anywhere, anytime as long they have internet access where there are, and they can do any transaction; paying bills, buy online, view balance, bank statement and transfer funds to third party. Cell Phone Banking Now with cell phone banking in place customer do not need to be behind a computer doing transaction, they can access their funds/ bank account by using their mobile phones which is more convenient, fast and user friendly. Its new cell phone banking service, enabling banking activities such as balance enquiries, statement requests and the ability to make payments to third parties. The service is accessible through any handset in Botswana and uses SMS or a menu-based technology for customers to complete their banking transactions, increasing mass market reach and adding functionality to First National Bank of Botswanas (FNBB) offerings. The new FNB Cell phone banking offering is a natural extension from the pioneering beginnings of the in Contact service, said Yolisa Lejowa, FNBB head of electronic banking. Initially the service will only be available on the Mascom network but we envisage activating FNB Cell phone banking on the Orange network as well, shortly. By introducing these systems the bank has saved a lot of money which would be used for stationery in the manual system and the bank saw a great positive impact on their daily activities, long queues is the thing of the past, productivity, efficiency and market share has increased. New customers can even apply for bank accounts online without going to the bank as long as they provide valid details; everything will be processed within a short period of time. Now customers have the bank virtual bank with them wherever they go. Some of the Information systems are; Transaction Processing system Human resource Management system Executive management system INFORMATION RESOURCE AND CONTROL According www.datamonitor.com head of electronic banking (chief information officer) at FNBB has a critical role and responsible for the entire security of the organization, plan and implement technology advancement and innovations to ensure that FNBB stays atop of the market in the banking industry in Botswana. The Electronic bank head critical evaluate the security systems ability to protect bank and customer data. According to Eddie M in interviews response stated that chief information officer overlook the entire organization information system, to ensure that all resources are utilized within the budget and enforce higher security in the system to ensure business continuity. This is achieved by defining, updating, implementing IT strategy and align IT objectives and programs to enterprise objectives and strategies. By applying the above critical roles result in data privacy and confidentially, data integrity, authentication, non-repudiation. The head of electronic banking of FNBB set security privileges in the organization to ensure that certain areas and information is only accessed by authorized personnel or user. He carries out and enforces comprehensive security policy in the organization. According to www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/1999/FIL9968b.doc A comprehensive information security policy should outline a proactive and ongoing program incorporating three components; Prevention Detection Response E-banking services must be delivered on a consistent and timely basis in accordance with high customer expectations for a constant and rapid availability and potential high transaction demand. The bank must be able to deliver online banking services to all end-users and be able to maintain such availability in all circumstances. ORGANISATION SECURITY SYSTEM RISK System risk is a potential problem, situation that if it materializes, may adversely affect the business operation or system operation. http://www.pathways.cu.edu.eg/ . According to Eddie M 26 March 2010 Interviews. The use of information system which is online banking and cell phone banking has brought some risks and threats which are as follows; information theft, hacking of the system, System Failure due to hardware problem or power failure even software crushing, backup gets corrupted sometimes. The above table summarizes the system risks that exist with the use of information system; some of the risks are intentional were the user or unauthorized person get to do some modification in the system database/ some system components which will compromise availability or integrity of the data produced, processed. Some of the threats are accidental where by the user discloses his/her online banking details leading to account hacking and money theft. Network malfunction/ interruption is one of the major threats, sometimes network hardware components fails leading to break of data transfer between computers and servers leading to online system been unable to function normal (down). Electricity blackout its a major concern in Botswana because it happens more often resulting in online banking and cell phone banking being inaccessible during the period, as cell phone network goes down during electricity blackout and some electronics components tends to fails as well leading to system failure as information systems are comprised of different electronics components. All the above mentioned system risks and threats are the main faced by First National Bank Botswana. SYSTEM RISK MITIGATION To mitigate risks and threats board of directors and the head of electronic banking must ensure that appropriate security control processes are in place for online banking. (FNBB Report, 2009). To deal with this risks authorization privileges and authentication measures, logical and physical access control, adequate infrastructure security to maintain appropriate boundaries and restriction on both external user activities and data integrity of transactions, record and information should be implemented in the bank. http://www.bis.org/publ/bcbs98.htm. SECURITY CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION (CCTV) CCTV is used to capture and monitor all customer and employee activities inside and outside the bank building for security reasons. Youll find CCTVcameras sweeping the perimeter and parking areas, lobbies, drive-up windows and ATMS. Almost everyone who has worked in the banking industry and many customers has used CCTV to prevent and/or identify illegal activity at banking facilities. Video tapes and digital recordings capture the faces and activities of everyone using bank properties. (Pirraglia W). The captured recordings are archived bydate, so prior recordings can be located and used to solve problems and help apprehend perpetrators of illegal bank activity. Most of the banks around the world have cctv installed in their buildings and around ATM terminals, so FNBB use CCTV for the same purpose as explained above, all of their building are monitored by CCTV.

Friday, October 25, 2019

The Inflammatory N Word :: Media Racism Essays

The Inflammatory N Word   Ã‚  Ã‚   The evening of February 25, 2002 started innocuously enough. My daughter Elena is an avid fan of the television show, Boston Public (Fox), and she was looking forward to watching the newest episode. Because Boston Public can contain controversial subjects, I monitor the show while my kids are watching it. The issues addressed in a kid-friendly show turn into a good starting point for discussions with my two teenage children. The new episode not only turned out to be the epitome of controversy; it was the beginning of new type of dialogue with my children.   Ã‚  Ã‚   I had not intended to watch the television show "Boston Public" (Fox), but when I saw the topic of the show, I set aside my homework and soon became engrossed. The February 25th episode centered on the inflammatory N word (Randall Kennedy) when two boys, one white and the other black, affectionately call each other n----r. Another boy, also black, objects to white person calling a black person this word and a fight ensues. When the teacher discovers the reason for the altercation, he assigns the class to read n----r – The Strange Career of a Troublesome Word, by Randall Kennedy. The class discussion that follows causes controversy with the administration of the school because the teacher leading the discussion is not an African-American. The show ends with the principal, who is black, teaching the class instead. After the show concluded, my daughter and I had a fiery discussion about the issues raised in the show. Elena felt it was entirely appropriate that only a n African-American can teach a class on the N word. I was unhappy with the ending and felt that it would have more impact if the principal and the teacher conducted the class together. One thing both of us agreed on – we had many questions and wanted more information than what a television show could give us so we decided to purchase Mr. Kennedy’s book and learn more on the issue.   Ã‚  Ã‚   What are the origins of racial slurs and why are they used? While it was impossible to find the exact origins of racial slurs, it seems that through out history, there is always a history of an oppressed race or religion. Part of this oppression has been the use of words to help the "powerful" remain in control. Alarmingly, some of these racial slurs have even slipped into every day language.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Why Did Global Food Prices Rise

Why Did Global Food Prices Rise? Why Did Global Food Prices Rise? There are many economic factors that lead to the increase in food prices globally. The case explains exactly â€Å"Why Did Global Food Prices Rise? † and how the economic factors have impacted countries and world’s lack of food. The tariffs and subsidies give rise to the increasing global food prices. This case also talks abut    how the government policies may be an advantage for some domestic producers and the disadvantage to others.The ones who benefit from the government policies to promote production of ethanol are obviously the ones producing    ethanol because they are looking for more options to be able to make ethanol. The different types of raw materials that can be produced into a substitute for gas, can affect the price of all goods. The ones who benefit to place tariff barriers on imports of sugar cane are the countries that have a higher production of    raw material because they will benefit from all of the production.For example: corn and soybeans are mainly used as tangible means for biofuel. The more demand for ethanol and biofuels, the more it will increase our prices for foods. Sugar cane can also be used for biofuels, however due to the tariff barriers the price of sugar cane has increased and it can no longer compete with the subsidized corn and soy beans. The Poor are suffering worldwide as a result of these policies. Unfortunately some of them are unable to afford food.Developed countries are usually giving the subsidies, so with the production of corn increasing rapidly for farmers to plant more of it the policies are beneficial to the developed countries. Consumers will suffer by paying more for corn as the demand for ethanol continues to increase. As well as Brazil, the sugar cane production suffers from the policies to promote the production of ethanol and the tariff barriers placed on sugar cane imports. If we accept that global warming is a seriou s problem, should we not be encouraging governments to†¦ View Full Essay

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Becoming a Healthy Team: Five Traits of Vital Leadership

Stephen A. Macchia, who is the writer of this book, is the founder head of Leadership Transformations group. This has been a ministry which mainly focuses spiritual needs which leaders together with their roles is supposed to have in day operation of fellowship or in ministry activity in churches both local and international.Creation of team has proved to be difficult as described by Stephen A. Macchia. He goes further to say that; it’s hard to motivate and lead most teams, since they can tend to inspire greatness into a leader and sometimes discourage someone to lead.Teams can be assembled together in a short while and at the same time they can disintegrate apart faster. Thus, this is why he saw a need to write more about building and managing a team. For a healthy and well organized team, it should possess characteristics of understanding, friendship, efficiency and effectiveness of team work which could lead to vitality of the team. Discussion Stephen A. Macchia, summarized his five traits of a team as TEAMS meaning; Trust, Empowerment, Assimilation, Management, and Service.He discussed all this with guidance from bible plus reflection questions at the end of each chapter. In this book, he formed a valuable team building resources for both pastors and leaders of the ministries, and also for other individuals who are most of the time involved in leadership process or role. From the back page, he explains how healthy and essential its for building a formidable team. The writer of this book has helped many churches to develop effectiveness in church service. Currently, he has concentrated on provision of practical leadership practices which leadership team does the same.He illustrates ways of trusting, empowering, assimilating, managing and serving. Lacking efficiency in our church leadership teams may lead to a failure in ministering. This book is outline with guidelines, which shows one to a good member of a team together with questions aligned with th eir answers of actual leadership to control and maintain team’s leadership track. As they face challenges. In most cases this challenges will rarely be handled spiritually or with clear approach like Stephen Macchia.In case someone is part of the ministerial team, one is advised to miss this book- Larry Crabb, the originator of New Way Ministry. It has been described that for one to be a great leader or team member, then greatness is the least expected. Stephen's approach to building a great team has played an important role the literature. † Compelling and appealing, this is a must-read for leaders who desire to build a biblical Spirit-led team. â€Å"-other authors like Luis Palau, a healthy Church, Becoming a Healthy Church Workbook, and Becoming a Healthy Disciple.To have a healthy church, Stephen illustrated ways of being lifted ahead and developing healthy church. It has been emphasized further that a healthy church will require assuming risks and their managemen t together with prompt evaluation. Stephen’s book is a real and practical publication which has been essential in transforming churches and leadership in ministries. Majority of churches and leaders have tried to implement the main traits and their effect have been applied in many churches worldwide regardless of their denomination, race and size.He suggested that the tool he could suggest to churches is being guided by the purpose. The nurturing of the most remarkable qualities will be guided by God, so that churches can obtain a good revival. Conclusion Stephen’s book has greatly made a good support in renewal of churches and leadership development universally. His alertness and spiritual guidance has strengthened the pillars of local churches. By reading this book one will find a spiritual guidance in undertaking leadership activities in churches. He has focused on spiritual development of leaders in local churches.He has also written exemplary books like Becoming a healthy disciple and church. He has helped many churches in the develop revival of healthy ministries. Nowadays he offer practical leadership training of church leaders, as he show them how to be trusted, empowered, assimilated, managed and served, which provides the TEAMS spelling. He has emphasized on the needs of teams which when not considered will lead to their failure. Reference Macchia, Stephen A. (2005). Becoming a Healthy Team: Five Traits of Vital Leadership, New York: Baker Books

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Club to catwalk

Club to catwalk Club to Catwalk, page 10Club to Catwalk: critical analysisDuring the whole period of human existence, not a single thing was changed as much as fashion. One might even say it was too pretentious and for its sake people first created and then wore the most unbelievable and incredible costumes, rose above all on high platforms and adorned everything with amazing hairstyles ... only for fashion's sake! As the saying goes "Always dress to impress, so that others would think you're also in the trend. The main peculiarities of the '80s fashion were the unique ideas of the designers. The words "NO", NOT RIGHT" simply did not exist, as everything made people gasp and take after the new trends that alighted the life of the British capitol.Some people think that during the last few years, fashion did not introduce anything brand new. Everything was well known and even predicted from year to year.Vivienne Westwood in LondonPeople are now wondering whether this is the end of fashion as we know i t, and will the pacemakers of fashion turn their attention to the long past trends of the former decades in order to get more ideas and inspiration.London Fashion of the '80s is the topic that has come to the mind of Claire Wilcox, VA's curator of the most vibrant and vivid exhibition in the past years - "Club to Catwalk. London Fashion of the '80s". One of the co-curators describes this exhibition as a showplace of the 'timely creative period that by many was unappraised and misunderstood' ('Club to Catwalk: About the Exhibition', 2013).Looking upon the subject at first glance a question arises as to why this exhibition is held now. However, Claire Wilcox answers herself, as she did in an interview to the Grazia Daily...

Monday, October 21, 2019

Particle Definition and Examples in English Grammar

Particle Definition and Examples in English Grammar The English word particle comes from the Latin, a share, part. In English grammar, a  particle is a word that does not change its form through inflection and does not easily fit into the established system of parts of speech. Many particles are closely linked to verbs to form multi-word verbs, such as go away. Other particles include to used with an infinitive and not a negative particle. In tagmemics, the term particle refers to a linguistic unit seen as a discrete entity, definable in terms of its features. (Dictionary of Linguistics and Phonetics, 2008). Examples and Observations Particles are short words...that with just one or two exceptions are all prepositions unaccompanied by any complement of their own. Some of the most common prepositions belonging to the particle category: along, away, back, by, down, forward, in, off, on, out, over, round, under, up.(Huddleston, Rodney and Geoffrey Pullum. A Students Introduction to English Grammar. Cambridge University Press, 2006.) The storm ate up September’s cry of despair, delighted at its mischief, as all storms are.(Valente, Catherynne M. The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making, 2011.) Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesnt go away.(Dick, Philip K. How to Build a Universe That Doesnt Fall Apart Two Days Later, 1978.) I was determined to know beans.(Thoreau, Henry David. Walden, 1854.) I was determined not to give up. [T]he idea (as all pilots understood) was that a man should have the ability to go up in a hurtling piece of machinery and put his hide on the line...(Wolfe, Tom. The Right Stuff, 1979) The Escape Category Particle is...something of an escape (or cop-out) category for grammarians. If its small and you dont know what to call it, call it a particle seems to be the practice; and a very useful practice it is, too, as it avoids pushing words into categories in which they do not properly belong... Do not confuse particle with the similar-looking participle; the latter has a much more well-defined application. (Hurford, James R. Grammar: A Students Guide. Cambridge University Press, 1994.) Discourse Particles ​Well and now in English... have been referred to as discourse particles, for example by Hansen (1998). Discourse particles are placed with great precision at different places in the discourse and give important clues to how discourse is segmented and processed... Discourse particles are different from ordinary words in the language because of the large number of pragmatic values that they can be associated with. Nevertheless, speakers are not troubled by this multifunctionality but they seem to know what a particle means and be able to use it in different contexts.(Aijmer, Karin. English Discourse Particles: Evidence From a Corpus. John Benjamins, 2002.) Particles in Tagmemics The tagmemics system works on the assumption that any subject can be treated as a particle, as a wave, or as a field. A particle is a simple definition of a static, unchanging, object (e.g., a word, a phrase, or a text as a whole)... A wave is a description of an evolving object... A field is a description of a generic object in a large plane of meaning.(Hain Bonnie A. and Richard Louth, Read, Write, and Learn: Improving Literacy Instruction Across the Disciplines, Teaching in the 21st Century: Adapting Writing Pedagogies to the College Curriculum, ed. by Alice Robertson and Barbara Smith. Falmer Press, 1999.)

Sunday, October 20, 2019

How to Study for a Social Science Test

How to Study for a Social Science Test When you study for a test in one of the social sciences, like history, government, anthropology, economics, and sociology, you must keep in mind that three things are important. You must understand the vocabulary of your discipline.You must understand the concepts you encounter in each segment of your study.You must understand the significance of each concept. Students are sometimes frustrated after an exam in the social sciences because they feel they prepared adequately but discovered during the exam that their efforts didnt seem to make a difference at all. The reason this happens is because students prepare for one or two of the items above, but they dont prepare for all three. Common Mistakes When Studying Social Science Vocabulary   The most common mistake students make is studying the vocabulary alone - or mixing concepts in with vocabulary. There is a big difference! To understand this, you can think of your material as a batch of cookies that you need to prepare. The vocabulary words are the ingredients, like sugar, flour, and eggs.Each individual concept is a cookie. Each looks a little different from the others, but each one stands alone as important.Altogether, the cookies make up a batch. You must create an entire batch of comprehension when you study for an exam in social science; you cant stop with a collection of ingredients! Here is why this is so important: Vocabulary words show up as short answer or fill-in-the-blank questions. Concepts often show up as multiple choice questions and essay questions. Treat your vocabulary as a set of ingredients for understanding the concepts. Use flashcards to memorize your vocabulary, but remember that to fully understand your vocabulary definitions, you must also understand how they fit into the larger concepts. Example: Imagine that you are preparing for a political science test. A few vocabulary words are a candidate, vote, and nominate. You must understand these individually before you can understand the concept of an election cycle. Studying in Stages The bottom line for preparing for a test in any social science is that you must study in stages. Practice vocabulary, but also study concepts and understand how different vocabulary words fit into each concept. Your concepts will also fit into a greater collection of knowledge (batch), like a specific historical period (Progressive Era) or a certain government type (dictatorship). The concepts you study are as individual as your vocabulary words, but it will take time and practice to recognize concepts as entities because the lines can be somewhat blurred. Why? The idea of a single vote (vocabulary word) is pretty clear cut. The idea of a dictatorship? That can be defined as many things. It can be a country with a dictator or a country with a very strong leader who demonstrates unchallenged authority, or it can even be an office that holds control over an entire government. Actually, the term is used to define an entity (like a company) that is controlled by one person or one office. See how blurred the concept can become? To summarize, any time you study for a social science test, you must go back and forth studying vocabulary, studying concepts, and studying how those concepts fit into the overall theme or time period. To study effectively for a social science exam, you must give yourself at least three days of study. You can use your time wisely and gain a full understanding of both terminology and concepts by using a method called  3 Way 3 Day study technique.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Review of Coca-Cola Company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Review of Coca-Cola Company - Essay Example This paper looks at these aspects and how they have helped the company in its overall growth strategy. Growth and Performance over the last decade. According to most of its financial reports, the company has continued to post admirable growth percentages in an increasing scale. In January 2000 the company underwent a major organizational realignment aimed at reducing the workforce around the world. This move was aimed at reducing or transferring responsibilities from various headquarters to smaller and ostensibly more revenue-generating operating units. This move was also expected to streamline corporate resources. As a result, about 6000 thousand employees worldwide would be eliminated where 3,300 of these were in the United States. This process was to take place in the calendar year of 2000. In 2001 financial report, the company reported. that the net profit had been transformed from loss of 122 million in 1999 to record a profit of 1.6 million in 2001. This turnaround was attribut ed to management actions that were seen to bring about profitable volume growth and improving of economic conditions in emerging markets. One conspicuous development of the company is the introduction of 450 products in 2007 alone. These products gave the company an enlarge its portfolio hence giving the consumers a wide range to choose from .The Coca-Cola  Zero brand is one of the additional that is making a great difference for the company. Key Factors Enhancing Development Innovation is one of the most important aspects that have seen the company improve in its growth exponentially. The company has greatly utilized the social media to its advantage especially for marketing purposes. This has been specifically demonstrated through aggressive market presence through advertising. In 2010 the company was actively involved in the sponsorship of the world cup. This saw the company collaborate with renowned artistes such as the Somalian hip hop artiste K’NAAN who recorded an up lifting African-inspire track. This track was greatly used in commercials ran during the matches and was largely viewed online. The company further collaborated with You –Tube in what is was seen as one of the greatest collaborations of the social media in a partnership that saw the Long Celebration, a campaign in which fans could view videos submitted by users from over 100 countries. Organizations continue to take advantage of globalization to influence the way they undertake their business. This has greatly favoured the Coca Cola company which has been able to expand into all various regions through various partnership programs. In 2004 Coca-Cola had a 25% world wide case volume in Latin America, 29% in North America, 22% in Europe, Eurasia and Middle East,6% in Africa and 18% in Asia. The company’s has been strengthened by the strategy to operate in local environments by catering for its requirements as they occur in individual countries. This company does this by working with merchandisers from the specific countries. For instance, the company sources bottlers in specific nations to work with. Report on Opportunities for Market Entry In recent times, Coca-Cola has seen great potential in the Indian market. This has been aggravated by an analysis which indicated that on average the Indian people consume only 12 eight-ounce bottles of Coke

Friday, October 18, 2019

The Soda Pop Board of America Advertisement Essay

The Soda Pop Board of America Advertisement - Essay Example This "The Soda Pop Board of America Advertisement" essay outlines the peculiarities of the food ad. This particular advertisement selected also understands that individuals who are attracted to notions of family experience a variety of sociological rituals inside the home. The rituals are â€Å"the cultural values of a community that offer predictability, and provide important avenues for expression of identity and culture† (Leeds-Hurwitz 2002:34). This advertisement depicts a mother that is abundantly satisfied with her child, who is pictured to her right with a glowing smile. By using the bottle of soda within the ad along with the notion that cola helps lead to a better life, the advertisers recognize the ritual of dining together with family-oriented buyers and play on these lifestyle elements. Serving food and family time together, as only two examples, are rituals that hailed from this particular time period, such as timing family dinner for service the moment the breadw inner father figure returns. By utilizing the mother in this advertisement, it clearly illustrates the role of the woman as caretaker and links baby health and well-being with cola consumption. Determining what type of beverage or foodstuff to serve the child is a ritualistic aspect of life and duty in this particular time period where the advertisement was launched. This advertisement also appeals to elements of this culture in which uncertainty is not tolerated when it relates to family roles and the familial structures that guide lifestyle principles.... ining what type of beverage or foodstuff to serve the child is a ritualistic aspect of life and duty in this particular time period where the advertisement was launched. Culturally, this advertisement also appeals to elements of this culture in which uncertainty is not tolerated when it relates to family roles, gender roles, and the familial structures that guide lifestyle principles. Uncertainty avoidance occurs when individuals will not accept high uncertainty, ambiguity or lack of structure at home or in the professional environment. People in â€Å"uncertainty accepting cultures† are more tolerant of conflicting opinion and have fewer rules† (Donnison 2008:17). During this period, the household roles were clearly identified and social backlash occurred when a mother stepped out of the caretaker role to explore personal desires or a career. The advertisers understand the cultural need for structure and use cola as a psychological motivator to ensure that the primary c oncern of a mother, her child’s needs and happiness, receive considerable attention and certainty. At this period, as already identified, there was much social inequality that still exists today. â€Å"Social inequality is a fundamental predictor of virtually all social processes and a person’s position in this system is the most consistent predictor of his or her behaviour, attitudes, and life choices† (sociologyindex.com 2011: 1). In this advertisement, the child is depicted as healthy and attractive in measurement to other children. By illustrating an individual that clearly hails from a very modest home environment and impressing the notion of a more affluent child, the cola manufacturer also maintains the ability to somewhat deceive the reader who is looking for someone to give her life

Stakeholder Comparative Study Case Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Stakeholder Comparative - Case Study Example The companies of interest in this analysis do belong to industries which are very different in nature and which therefore carry different potential and impacts on the regarded interest of the stakeholder they represent. The environment in which they operate in, their industry, the state of their local economy, the overall sizes of their respective industries, their global impacts, their related risks, their economic values are all aspects that are determined in part by the composition of their respective stakeholders and the type of value they are able to offer those from a social, political, and economic perspective. British Land Company plc is the largest property investment company in Britain, with a current portfolio of  £14.6 billion. The Company’s portfolio focuses on areas where the principles of supply and demand have shown to remain strong in the long term. About 41% is invested in large town retail properties, such as Meadowhall Shopping Centre in Sheffield, 88 sup ermarkets and 66 retail warehouses (BL 2007). Another main area of focus of the company is on office properties in central London, with a comparable rate attaining 33% of the company’s overall property portfolio, with notable offices such as the Broadgate Estate, Liverpool Street Station, and Regent’s Place. The Group employs 186 staff members at its headquarters in the London office. Their activities are focused on the integrated core disciplines of strategic property investment, management, development, and financing.  ... The Group outsources the day-to-day operational management of its portfolio, and other non-core disciplines to third party members. The British Land Company's primary objective is to produce superior, sustained and secured long-term shareholder returns via the development, management and financing of chosen real estate activities. The company recognizes that environmental and social considerations should be integrated with everyday working practices and they are embedded into its corporate values. The structure of British Land's corporate responsibility (CR) committee ensures that CR is integrated at every level. The committee consists of the head of each department. Each member has responsibility for a different aspect of CR ( for example, employee volunteering) and reports back to the COO on that area. Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) (SPDC) of Nigeria is a subsidiary of the Royal Dutch/Shell group of companies. SPDC is 100% Shell owned, but it operates a joint venture on behalf of the Nigerian government, to explore and produce crude oil and natural gas. In this joint venture, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), a state-owned company, has a 55% stake and SPDC has a 30% stake (10% belongs to France's Total and 5% to Italy's Agip). The joint venture is the largest producer of crude oil in Nigeria, with around 1 million barrels of oil per day, accounting for about 40% of the country's oil production (SPDC 2007). SPDC employees almost 5000 staff directly (95% Nigerians). However, another 20.000 people are employed indirectly, because there are many day-to-day activities carried out by sub-contractors (e.g. exploration surveys, drilling for oil, construction of facilities etc.). The mission of SPDC is

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Marco Polo's Travel Account Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Marco Polo's Travel Account - Essay Example After having analyzed Marco Polo`s travelogue in detail along with the second hand accounts on his writings written afterwards, a few patterns can be identified conveniently. These accounts suggest that the Mongolian Empire which belonged to the Kublai Khan (1214-1294) was a highly glorified one, in the sense that the architecture of the farfetched land, especially Kublai`s palace was beyond imagination, also the Mongolian culture unlike that perceived by the Westerners is a highly enriched one which escalates the senses of anyone experiencing it. Moreover, though Marco Polo had also mentioned the hardships and distance which he had to face in detail, which implies that the journey was a highly difficult one, even after they possessed the VIP pass, however on experiencing their cultures and having the experience of staying close to Kublai Khan for so long, he finally concludes that the hardships were worth it. However, those who have reflected on the works of Marco Polo have further doubted the credibility of Marco Polo on the account that neither had he learnt the Chinese language during all those years, and adding insult to injury, some of the accounts which he had presented are way too amazing to be true. "When a man is riding through this desert by night and for some reason -falling asleep or anything else -he gets separated from his companions and wants to rejoin them, he hears spirit voices talking to him as if they were his companions, sometimes even calling him by name. Often these voices lure him away from the path and he never finds it again, and many travelers have got lost and died because of this. Sometimes in the night travelers hear a noise like the clatter of a great company of riders away from the road; if they believe that these are some of their own company and head for the noise, they find themselves in deep trouble when daylight comes and they realize their mistake.† ---- Marco Polo  Travels Quoted above is an account from the Marco Polo travels, an excerpt which indicates the hardships which he and even his companions had to face on their way to Cathay. Analyzing the excerpt, like the one quoted above, one may literally experience the intensity of hardships on the way, also the feelings of helplessness and extreme hunger and isolation while there is no way back. One might even start imagining that he is rather accompanying Marco Polo on his journey, given the quality of writings produced by Marco Polo where he has poured his heart out. Since Marco Polo`s father was a great merchant who had visited Cathay early on for trade, he had the honor of having met Kublai Khan, the emperor of Cathay, and thus the emperor had bestowed the merchant with a VIP passport, which allowed them to access horsebacks and other necessities and luxuries when the Polo brothers were to accompany their father. Relying on these where he experienced an adrenaline rush all that time while he was away, having gathered both good and bad tim es with him driving on either extreme like a pendulum. However, his stay in Cathay being close to Kublai Khan was rather more of a compensation for all he had experienced during his journey, and once Kublai Khan died, the miseries of Marco Polo still continued however these miseries contributed towards the writings

Brazilian Real Currency Report Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Brazilian Real Currency Report - Research Paper Example The objective of this paper is to shed some light on the key factors affecting the behavior (in terms of appreciation) of the real, and specifically to evaluate the extent to which the expanding size of Brazil’s oil sector in the economy has influenced the explanation of these events. Oil production in Brazil has been growing strongly since the turn of the millennium. A variety of energy policies which brought competition in the oil market and abolished subsidies to price controls and imports has supported these developments. This is despite the fact that the industry is still dominated by Petrobas, the state-owned corporation (Kumar 25). Going forward, Brazil’s economy is likely to become increasingly dependent on oil production, particularly of offshore oil, for both local use and export (Guimara?es 19). Petrobas discovered huge oil reserves that have been estimated to have the capability to double the country’s current reserves, propelling the country to among the top 10 countries with respect to oil reserves alone. Oil developments have had a significant impact in explaining the movements of exchange rates, in addition to traditional factors. In a majority of equations, the productivity differential and net foreign assets have been found to be crucial determinants of the true effective exchange rate in the long-term (Kumar 47). Net foreign assets have also been found to be the factor affecting the most exchange-rate fluctuations in the short term. Oil production appears to be significant for movements in the real effective exchange rate in the long term. The case is similar in the oil export and the two standards of the terms of trade. In the short term, however, these variables appear to have an insignificant, if not fairly limited impact (World Trade Press 44). Exchange Rate Regime Brazil has implemented a governed floating exchange rate regime. This means that the exchange rate is free-floating and can shift daily in line with the su pply and demand in the market. If necessary, the Brazilian Central Bank can intervene in exchange rate. Interventions occur in 3 conditions: to manage extreme volatility that may affect the market’s normal functioning; to rectify monetary and localized instability in liquidity; and to grow foreign exchange rate reserves (Frieden & Stein 37). Balance of Payments (BOP) Position The Central Bank of Brazil (CBB), via the Balance of Payments Division of its Economic Department, is tasked with responsible for compiling, monitoring, and analyzing Brazil's balance of payments data (Frieden & Stein 74). In addition to this, it publishes and disseminates this data. The primary sources of information for compiling the entries of balance of payments goods are reports from the Secretariat of Federal Revenue of the Ministry of Finance, the Foreign Trade Secretariat of the Ministry of Development, Foreign Trade, and Industry. For other BOP transactions, the primary source is the exchange re cord a comprehensive statement of the exchange operations compiled by the Central Bank of Brazil’s Foreign Capital and Exchange Department and reported by the country’s banks. Brazil’s current BOP, in US dollars, is -52, 480,127,065 (Kumar 84). Purchasing Power Parity Brazil’s current purchasing power parity is $2.362 trillion (2012 estimates) (Guimara?es 59). Interest

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Optimal Educational Environment Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Optimal Educational Environment - Assignment Example Under these constitutional rights, any student facing expulsion or removal from school would be entitled to a written notice. Where a student is facing long-term suspension, they would have right of hearing in which student may present their defense based on evidences. Although ABC School does not follow corporal punishment however any observation of such punishment violates Eighth Amendment protection against cruel and unusual punishment. For general search purposes, The Fourth Amendment right shall be followed by the administration on reporting of teacher. b) Optimal Learning Environment in Classroom 1. Guidelines for Teachers & Students The primary responsibility of acting as a role model for students in terms of civilized and disciplined conduct rests on teachers. Therefore, teachers of ABC School are expected to refrain from any action that can be categorized as malicious and uncivilized. These actions can further be divided under the categories of harassment including physical and mental abuse, intimidation, bullying, expression of hatred and sexual misconduct. Upon discovery of such actions by teachers, the matter will be dealt in accordance with policies of Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI, 2013). It is important to note that there are some researches that have criticized the regime of zero tolerance towards offenses committed by students (American Psychological Association, 2008). Therefore, punishments designed in this policy are provided to support positive enforcement and prevention from actions that can be considered as disciplinary breach. 2. Types of Violence ABC School’s administration strictly refrains from corporal punishment or any kind of physical abuse. In addition to that, any verbal instructions and reprimand is performed in isolation and not in front of other students. The purpose of doing so is to refrain from causing students to lose interest in attending school and causing damage to their self-esteem. Usual offenses may be divided into physical, sexual and emotional ones. Where physical violence can be dealt directly by teacher, any sexual violence will be addressed by the Office of Principal only. Where corporal punishment is not used in ABC School, in order to address issues of violence and breach of code of conduct by students, teachers may use demerits policy as a punishment. The actions that can be categorized as offensive are: a) Failure to follow teacher’s clear instructions’ b) Failure to follow guidelines provided in school orientation i.e. food and drinks in classroom, attire that can be labeled as sexually and racially offensive, actions that can cause damage to school property and endangers other students’ wellbeing including theft, c) Falsification of statement or cheating in exams d) Insubordination 3. Addressing Disciplinary Violations Depending on the severity of act, different demerits can be assigned by teachers including suspension of varying dur ations, loss of driving privileges, notifications/ warning letters issued and required to be signed by parents, community service or extra classes. In order to ensure that students are guided to operate in a disciplinary manner, a holistic approach will be followed which also includes involvement of parents (Osher, Bear, Sprague & Doyle, 2010).  

Brazilian Real Currency Report Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Brazilian Real Currency Report - Research Paper Example The objective of this paper is to shed some light on the key factors affecting the behavior (in terms of appreciation) of the real, and specifically to evaluate the extent to which the expanding size of Brazil’s oil sector in the economy has influenced the explanation of these events. Oil production in Brazil has been growing strongly since the turn of the millennium. A variety of energy policies which brought competition in the oil market and abolished subsidies to price controls and imports has supported these developments. This is despite the fact that the industry is still dominated by Petrobas, the state-owned corporation (Kumar 25). Going forward, Brazil’s economy is likely to become increasingly dependent on oil production, particularly of offshore oil, for both local use and export (Guimara?es 19). Petrobas discovered huge oil reserves that have been estimated to have the capability to double the country’s current reserves, propelling the country to among the top 10 countries with respect to oil reserves alone. Oil developments have had a significant impact in explaining the movements of exchange rates, in addition to traditional factors. In a majority of equations, the productivity differential and net foreign assets have been found to be crucial determinants of the true effective exchange rate in the long-term (Kumar 47). Net foreign assets have also been found to be the factor affecting the most exchange-rate fluctuations in the short term. Oil production appears to be significant for movements in the real effective exchange rate in the long term. The case is similar in the oil export and the two standards of the terms of trade. In the short term, however, these variables appear to have an insignificant, if not fairly limited impact (World Trade Press 44). Exchange Rate Regime Brazil has implemented a governed floating exchange rate regime. This means that the exchange rate is free-floating and can shift daily in line with the su pply and demand in the market. If necessary, the Brazilian Central Bank can intervene in exchange rate. Interventions occur in 3 conditions: to manage extreme volatility that may affect the market’s normal functioning; to rectify monetary and localized instability in liquidity; and to grow foreign exchange rate reserves (Frieden & Stein 37). Balance of Payments (BOP) Position The Central Bank of Brazil (CBB), via the Balance of Payments Division of its Economic Department, is tasked with responsible for compiling, monitoring, and analyzing Brazil's balance of payments data (Frieden & Stein 74). In addition to this, it publishes and disseminates this data. The primary sources of information for compiling the entries of balance of payments goods are reports from the Secretariat of Federal Revenue of the Ministry of Finance, the Foreign Trade Secretariat of the Ministry of Development, Foreign Trade, and Industry. For other BOP transactions, the primary source is the exchange re cord a comprehensive statement of the exchange operations compiled by the Central Bank of Brazil’s Foreign Capital and Exchange Department and reported by the country’s banks. Brazil’s current BOP, in US dollars, is -52, 480,127,065 (Kumar 84). Purchasing Power Parity Brazil’s current purchasing power parity is $2.362 trillion (2012 estimates) (Guimara?es 59). Interest

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

The two stories Essay Example for Free

The two stories Essay In Of Mice and Men lennie is a fully developed character compared to Isaac, this is why you dont really know Isaac as well but with lennie you can relate to lennie and what he goes through. The ostler is a short story so Isaacss character isnt well developed. Lennie and Isaac are both treated like outsiders by various people, I think that lennie is more accepted in society than Isaac due to people feeling sorry for lennie, they dont believe he could cause any trouble and they believe he is just like a child. Lennie relies on people to tell him whats wrong and whats right. Leninie is just a child in a grown- ups body. Isaac I think is seen more as an outsider he doesnt go out, he spends most of the time with his mother so he doesnt really have time to go out and make friends. The only real friend he has got is his mother Mrs scratchard. Rebecca is just false and wants to kill Isaac just like in his dream. In mice of men, towards the end of the story, lennies s little puppy dies because lennie was playing to rough with it why did you have to go and get killed, you aint so small as mice, I didnt bounce you hard Lennie doesnt realise what hes done he only thinks that now hes done something bad George wont let him tend the rabbits. While lennie is sitting there crying, Curleys wife comes in she said, What you got their sunny boy lennie denies he has got anything, but Curleys wife discovers the puppy. Lennie wont talk to Curleys wife, George has told him to keep away because all she will cause is trouble and shes dangerous. In the end lennie ends up talking to curleys wife and lennie starts saying that he likes stroking soft things and curleys wife lets him stroke her hair, but lennie starts to get rougher and wont stop and curleys wife starts to panic, Let Go. You let go But when lennie ignores he curleys wife begins to scream and as she does this lennie gets angry so he started shaking her and then Her body flopped like a fish lennie runs away and tries to find the place where George told him to hide if he was ever to get into trouble again. Curley and everyone find Curleys wife and go after lennie to kill him. George goes after him as well. George finds lennie first, lennie wants to hear about the rabbits, so George tells lennie to turn around and look at the fields and image what it would be like, as George tells the story lennie brings out a gun and shoots lennie in the head. George does this himself because he doesnt want anyone else killing lennie, he would rather kill him himself, and also after someone else shooting candys dog, candy wishes he shoot him himself. In the ostler Isaac doesnt believe his mum, Mrs scratchard, about the dream. But after she died she warned Isaac not to go back. Isaac does go back through and after arguing with Rebecca he hits her Rebecca replies No man has ever struck me twice and then she left saying they will see each other no more. But on the seventh night before his birthday she come back, to rein act the dream, but as Isaac new what would happen he knew where she hide the knife, he took the knife and left her there and went away. Now Isaac lives in fear of Rebecca, he sleeps most nights well, through the year, but every time around his birthday he is worried in case she comes back and tries to rein act the dream again. Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE John Steinbeck section.

Monday, October 14, 2019

Development Of An Automatic Class Scheduler

Development Of An Automatic Class Scheduler Regarding the rapid growth of the number of students and the increasing number of courses offered in school, colleges and institution, the task of scheduling classes to fit into timetables and into existing facilities is becoming much more complicated. At the present time, class scheduling not only needs to fit the courses offered but also has to be performed based on many factors, such as availability and capacity of the room, cost occurred when the rooms are engaged by any courses, losses occurred when the rooms are left out, etc. Class Scheduler is an easy to use single or multi-user application for scheduling students classes. The software is ideal for schools, colleges and other institutions that must create class schedules. Class Scheduler can be used by a single teacher or by a group of students to schedule classes. The idea behind Class Scheduler is to increase the productivity of classroom administrators by automating the class scheduling process by automatically setting up course times and assigning rooms and instructors. We can view course schedule, student schedule, instructor schedule and classroom schedule online. We can also resolve clashes without effort, and preferences of staff and students action with ease and serves a clash-free and error-free timetable. It also saves time and labour. 2. OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY Timetable creation for has always been an error-prone task, normally resulting in multiple iterations of creation and proof-reading. Changes desired by teaching staff, changes of course locations etc. also require an adaptation of the previously created timetables. Traditional approach to generation of timetable had great difficulties due to large search space which were created as a result of number of variables that need to be considered in such problems. Hence the objective of this project is to automatically generate time tables for the betterment of the teaching staff students. PROBLEM STATEMENT The manual system of preparing Time Table in colleges with large number of students is very time consuming and usually ends up with various class clashes either at same time or with same teacher, having more than one class at a time. These are just due to common human error which are very difficult to prevent in processes as these. To overcome these problem people usually end up making injudicious use of classrooms and labs. To overcome all these problems we propose to make an automated system. INTRODUCTION CLASS SCHEDULER is the online timetable generator for schools, colleges and any other institutions that must create class schedules. CLASS SCHEDULER offers functionality for generating timetables (for students or teachers) as well as overview timetables, i.e. all courses in a certain semester for any given degree. This study is expected to solve those problems and improve the qualitative aspects of generating schedules as follows: Shortening the time in establishing the timetables with computer assistance and better information. Easing the procedure of establishing the timetables Establishing the timetables according to maximize facilities utilization and instructors preferences. Developing an interactive computer link to facilitate data output and the interpretation of the results. DESCRIPTION OF THE SYSTEM The project aims at developing an automated Time Table generator. The system will take various inputs like details of student, subjects, classrooms and teachers available. Depending upon these inputs it will generate a possible Time Table. Making optimal utilization of all the resources such as rooms and labs and distributing classes in a way that will best suit any of constraints or college rules. List of subjects may include elective as well as core subjects. Features: Simple Data Entry: It is quick and easy to enter information of all subjects, years (FE, SE, TE, BE), courses ( computer science, extc, bio-medical), Rooms and teachers. Automatic generation: In few minutes, the program generates a complete timetable that fulfills all your requirements. The program follows all organizational requirements such as selection for number of working days of the week, zero (attendance) period insertion. Subjects could be entered considering subject in which classroom, single or double duration consecutively, periods per week per subject. Periods could be entered with considerations of maximum number of consecutive periods per teacher. Teachers could be placed with considerations such as class should not be assigned when teacher is not free i.e ABC teacher should not be given any class on Monday. XYZ teacher should not get 1st and 2 period on all days etc. Also considering teachers getting x number of maximum periods, minimum/maximum periods per day, limit number of consecutive periods. Automatic Reports for Printing, Website: Reports for website could be generated for the following: Summary timetable for classes Summary timetable for teachers Summary timetable for rooms year wise time table Teacher wise time table All classes assigned to a teacher ( no. of periods per week bifurcations) Total number of periods subject wise Checking of total Working Hours per week details for the teachers PROCESS FLOWS ER-DIAGRAM DATA FLOW DIAGRAM Context Level Diagram Level 1 DFD CLASS SCHEDULER is a system in which automatic timetable is generated by considering various constraints in the system. It also provides the login facility. System takes the required data provided by class coordinator and performs function to generate time table. A professor logs in and can view the required time table. Professor can request for modification which is forwarded to system by coordinator system generates the alternate timetable, coordinator views the generated timetable and accepts or rejects the modification. If modification is accepted then the received timetable is stored in database. If the request is rejected then it is informed to requestor that request cannot be processed. This all activities are shown in the data flow diagram (Level 0) also called as context free diagram. Level 2 DFD INPUTS: It takes various input required by system that are professor information and various data required about that professor. It also takes input of subjects and the relevant information required. The classroom and lab information are also provided. This all data are provided by coordinator. GENERATION OF TIMETABLE: It takes the information provided by the coordinator and consider the various constraints provided. It generate professor schedule and the respective schedule is entered in the class schedule, while generating the schedule it also checks that no timeslot redundancy occur i.e; no single slot is allotted to a two or more professor. Two type of timetable is generated: class wise and professor wise, this both timetable are stored in database by this process. This stored timetable is used as and when required by the users. DISPLAY TIMETABLE Whenever user login the system it provides various option of displaying timetable. User select the required options , the request is then analyzed by the system and in accordance to the request made the required timetable is displayed. The system provides the online view of timetable. MODIFICATION After the time table is generated the provision is made to view them in various options , timetable is displayed as per the user requirement. The professor views the timetable and if required he/she request for modification. This modification request is forwarded manually to the coordinator which in turn is forwarded to the system. The system then generates the alternate timetable .this alternate timetable is then viewed by the coordinator. He then decides whether the change is propagated or the request cannot be considered. If request is not considered then it informs the requestor about it. STRUCTURE CHART DIAGRAM USE CASE DIAGRAM Display timetable Login Generate timetable Modify timetable Professor student coordinator Use cases involved in the system are: LOGIN: User logs in the system by entering user name and password. If user name or password is invalid, the system display error message. GENERATE TIMETABLE: The system generates the timetable according to the input data provided to it by considering different constraints. MODIFY TIMETABLE: The system takes the request from user and generates new timetable. DISPLAY TIMETABLE: The system displays the timetable in a format requested by the user. Actors involved in the system are: PROFESSOR: Professor views the timetable online which is generated by the system and if it is inconvenient for professor then he/she requests for modification in timetable. STUDENT: Students view and follow the timetable generated by the system. CO-ORDINATOR: It is an actor who is responsible for managing the system. 1 UC1 Login Brief Description UC1.1 This use case helps user to login to the system. Flow of Events Basic Flow UC1.2 To login in to the system: system asks the user to enter his/her login id password The user enters his/her login id password The system validates the id the password System displays the Homepage of the college Alternative Flows UC1.3 If id is wrong System displays message wrong Id UC1.4 If password is wrong System displays message wrong password Special Requirements UC1.5 At least one character must be an alphabet Preconditions UC1.6 User must be registered Post Conditions System displays the Homepage of the college 1Generate Timetable Generate Timetable UC1 Brief Description UC1.1 This use case helps coordinator to generate timetable Flow of Events Basic Flow 11111111111111111111111111111111kkkkk1. Coordinator logs in 2. System asks for input data 3. Coordinator enters data 4. System generates timetable Alternative Flows UC1.3 Incorrect data entry System cannot generate timetable, displays error message UC1.4 Insufficient availability of rooms and labs. System generates incomplete timetable, displays warning statement Special Requirements UC1.5 Professor should be available for all time slots Preconditions UC1.6 At least one professor should be assigned to a subject Post Conditions Provide various option of displaying the timetable 1Modify Timetable Modify Timetable UC1 Brief Description UC1.1 This use case helps System to modify the timetable according to feedback provided by the professor Flow of Events Basic Flow 11111111111111111111111111111111kkkkk1. Professor request for change of timings for his lectures 2. Coordinator feeds the request 3. System generates new timetable and requests Coordinator for updating 4. Coordinator approves the modified timetable 5. System revises the timetable Alternative Flows UC1.3 Coordinator rejects the modified timetable Original timetable is retained Preconditions UC1.6 Professors request should be within college time slots Post Conditions Revised timetable should be displayed 1Display Timetable Display Timetable UC1 Brief Description UC1.1 This use case helps System to display the revised timetable in various formats Flow of Events Basic Flow 11111111111111111111111111111111kkkkk1. User logs in 2. System provides option for selecting different formats of timetable 3. User selects the required option 4. System displays the timetable in requested format Alternative Flows UC1.3 Login is incorrect If login is incorrect, system displays invalid login UU Preconditions UC1.6 Timetable should exist 7. CONCLUSION This study has examined the possibility of implementing the concept of assignment of lectures for the class scheduling process. The advantage of this system is that it would be able to applied not only to similar scheduling problems and be extended to various types of problem sharing the same concept. The model has to be able to reduce the number of activities in the scheduling process.

Sunday, October 13, 2019

Gibbons v Ogden Decision Fair or Unfair :: essays papers

Gibbons v Ogden Decision Fair or Unfair The decision in the Gibbons v. Ogden case is, in my opinion, a very just and fair one. Many believe it to be the first anti- trust decision in U.S. history. The economic results cannot be over-estimated, a different decision could have resulted in completely different circumstances than with which we are accustomed to today. The free flow of commerce, which we seem to almost take for granted in modern economics and business, may have never been a possibility without decisions such as this. Monopolies did not allow for equal division of business and therefore was unjust. If all men are created equal they should be given equal opportunities. The New York Livingston-Fulton monopoly clearly subjected any potential competition to harsh conditions that would make it impossible for them to keep up in their business. Travel by steamboat was much faster than any other means in the time of this case and to give complete control to only one partnership was unfair. Under the constitution Congress has the right to regulate commerce. Although the monopoly was a form of internal state trade regulation it directly impacted on inter-state trade after a number of states passed laws to come back at the New York monopoly. Therefore, Congress had the right to intervene and end the monopoly. To completely understand the impact of the Gibbons-Ogden decision it is necessary to understand the situation surrounding it. In 1798 Robert R. Livingston secured an exclusive twenty year grant from the New York legislature. By the terms of this grant he could exclusively navigate by steam the rivers and other waters of the state, provided that within two years he should build a boat which would make four miles an hour against the current of the Hudson River. The legislature had no faith whatsoever in the project but the decision was still made against the many jeers. The terms of the grant were not met and it was renewed in 1803, this time to Livingston and his new partner, Robert Fulton. It was renewed once more in 1807 and finally that August Fulton’s steamboat made its first successful trip from New York to Albany. The following year the Legislature, fully aware of the practical significance of Fulton’s achievement, passed a law stating that for each new boat navigated on New York waters by Fulton and Livingston that they should be provided with a five year extension to their monopoly, which may not exceed thirty years.

Saturday, October 12, 2019

Importance of Nothing in Shakespeares King Lear Essay examples -- Kin

Importance of Nothing in William Shakespeare's King Lear    The Tragedy of King Lear has many important themes. One major theme concerns "nothing." The main focus around the discussion of "nothing" is that "nothing" is a many things. Nothing is what binds everything. The first mention of "nothing" is when King Lear asks his daughters to profess how much they love him. The eldest daughters shower compliments upon him tickling his ears. Yet the Lear's favorite daughter Cordelia will only speak the truth. When asked what she can say to gain her a portion of land better than her sisters, she replies, "Nothing, my Lord" (1.1. ) He exclaims, "Nothing!" (1.1. ) and she responds, "Nothing" (1.1. ). Lear's answers, "Nothing will come of nothing" (1.1. ) As he voices this, he has made something of nothing. Lear takes offense in a true and honest answer. Cordelia's "nothing" will blossom into something tremendous. This is the cause of Kent's banishment and her hasty marriage to the Prince of France. In 1.4, the Fool rattles off a teaching to Lear. Kent (in disguise) says his spee...

Friday, October 11, 2019

Comparing Values Essay

1. What values underlie your desire to help others? The value which underlies my desire to help others is too simply to put myself in other shoes that are going through difficult situations. I would step in and try to give them as much support as they would need. I prefer to do good thing for other without looking for some sort of recognition coming from it. I just want to be able to help those in need. Good things come to those who are kind to others. This why I can see myself as being a good human service worker I am a caring person and I love helping others. 2. What social issues do you feel strongly about? The social issues I feel very strongly about are abuse. I think no matter what type of abuse it is this should not be happening. Although this occurs every day to someone it is hard to grasp why people do these thing to themselves as well as to others. 3. Which client behaviors would you have trouble accepting? I would have trouble accepting client’s behaviors that are abuse to themselves and others. Especially, if it is dealing with a person who is abusive to a child. This will touch home because I am a parent and I cannot see anyone harm a child. 4. Which of your values would you like to change? The values which I would like to change would be I guess money. Sometime I put too much into trying to make more money. I just should accept the pay I am getting. You have to sometimes crawl before you can walk to get what you want in life. 5. What would you like to accomplish in human services? The things I would like to accomplish in human services are to give all my clients the best services I can give them. I want to be able to be my client support system. I will find my client all the necessary resource he or she needs to help their situation. 6. How do you go about solving personal problems? Solving personal problems can be difficult. If you are dealing with someone who has wrong you. I feel the best way to try resolve the situation is tried to talk to the other person. I would try to let they know how I am feeling and try to listen to the side and just try to resolve the problem as best as we both can and just move forward. 7. Do you readily seek help from others when you need it? Sometimes I do seek others help when I need help. I am human I have problems to. I general seek help or knowledge from those who are older and have experience many things in life. Rather, this is my manager are family member we all can learn something are get help from other sometimes in lives.

Thursday, October 10, 2019

Human Embryonic Stem (hES)

Human embryonic stem (hES) cell has a unique ability of differentiating into all cell types, which leads to the development of the whole organism. As the integrity of ES cells is crucial for the developing embryo, these cells have likely evolved a mechanism that will detect and respond to adverse stimuli. Indeed, hES cell has been shown to be highly sensitive to DNA damage, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this rapid death remain unclear. Caspases are critical mediators of apoptosis in the cells of mammals, and is considered a key protein that is responsible for controlling their activation is Bax, a Bcl-2 family proapoptotic member. While the main components of the apoptotic pathway have been known and identified, exactly how this pathway is functioning and regulated in various primary cells is still unclear. The study examined the apoptotic pathway in the hES cells and also reported a unique mechanism of hES cells that can help them to undergo apoptosis in response to the genotoxic damage. To visualize GFP-tagged Bax, the 3-day colonies of hES cells were transfected with 2 mg of hBaxC3-EGFP from Addgene with FuGENE HD transfection reagent from Roche. Transfection is the process of by which nucleic acids is introduce to the eukaryotic cells by methods that are nonviral. With the help of some various methods such as chemical, physical, lipid methods, this technology of gene transfer technology is a very powerful tool to investigate the gene function and the expression of protein of a cell. Assay-based reporter technology, and with the availability of transfection reagents will actually give and provides the foundation necessary to study sequences of mammalian promoter and enhancer, the trans-acting proteins such as transcription factors, processing of mRNA, the interactions of different proteins, recombination, and translation events. In general, transfection is a method or protocol used to neutralize or obviate the issue of introducing the negatively charged molecules such as phosphate backbone of DNA and RNA into the negatively charged membrane of the cells. In addition, chemicals such as calcium phosphate and cationic lipid-based reagents that coat the DNA, neutralize or even creates an overall positive charge to the molecule is also used. This makes it easier for the DNA to transfection reagent complex to cross the said membrane, especially for lipids which has a fusogenic component that further enhances the fusion with the different lipid bilayer. Other methods such as physical methods like microinjection or electroporation have also been used that is simply punch through the membrane and will introduce DNA directly into the cytoplasm. In this study, they describe the striking feature of the healthy undifferentiated hES cells, which maintain Bax in its preactivated state at the Golgi that is in contrast to other cell types. The results also highlight the fact that the apoptotic machinery undergoes a dynamic change even if its an early stages of differentiation.

Wednesday, October 9, 2019

A Piece of Literature–“Lost Love”

I love you I miss you. When I close my eyes I can still picture Your face Your smile Your voice I can still picture you I don’t know why I love you. The thought of you still brings a smile on my face. Though u r many miles away from me, but still I don’t know why I can’t help but think of you. All I wish for is your happiness. I pray for your well being. And I hope the smile that made me fall for you never leaves your face. I have no idea how I fell for you. You are so close to my heart. And I don’t even know why. My heart chose you. You are special.You are the one person in my life who I would choose above the rest. But you don’t know how important you are to me. What I would give to see you. How many tears my eyes have shed missing you. How many nights I have cried myself to sleep just thinking of you. How whenever you got hurt it was almost as if I could feel it a thousand times intensified. How whenever I see your picture my heart melts a little & all i wanna do is just look at it. How I am crying a little right now just thinking of you. Most of all you don’t know that I love you & probably you never will.Absence makes the heart go fonder. And I am, fond of you. I don’t live in a dream world. I don’t expect myself to have a fairy tale. I mean c’mon let’s be realistic. I have no chance with you. When you moved you took a part of my heart with you. And I want it back. I try so hard not to love you, not to worry about you, not to think of you, but somehow you crawl your way back into my heart. You are the one person in my life of whom my heart cannot let go of. And the funny thing is that I don’t even know how you became this important to me. I don’t know how.I never thought that a girl like me would ever fall for a guy like you. But somehow I did. I have never felt the way for anyone like I felt for you. I try to forget you. But it’s just too hard. Sometimes I miss him, I miss him so much. I find comfort in the thoughts of him with me comforting me, though I know it will only be possible in my dreams. When I am sad, I think of him. I don’t know why but he is very special for me. I don’t know what makes him special. He just has a power over my heart. I can’t stop thinking about him. He is beautiful. Though he is not perfect but in my eyes he is.He is the most beautiful thing in this world & deserves all the happiness in this world. I pray for him, I have always done that, I want him to be happy & healthy. I want him to get everything his heart desires. I gathered a lot of courage last night before sending him that simple â€Å"hi†. It was almost after 3 months. The 2 minute chat we had was not much, but it made my heart pound as hard as anything could. I was so happy that you remembered me & wanted to talk, But I was also kind of disappointed when you didn’t reply after a while.For weeks & weeks I always came onli ne in hopes that you would message me but you never did. And I was too scared myself to message you worried that I would be annoying you or that you would have much better things to do than chat with me. So I did nothing. I just used to open your profile & see your pictures. You still looked the same way you did before, you still were a little spoilt but a popular guy. You still had that element about you, but something was changed, your expressions, your smile, i found hidden sadness in it. It troubled me.The kind of statuses you shared made it seem that you were heartbroken. And I still remember the caption of 2 pics- It’s hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember. Distance doesn’t matter if two hearts are loyal to each other. It made me wonder who you were talking about. Oh. , how I wish it was me. But I guess it can’t be me coz its almost impossible that you have a crush on me. Nobody has made me feel this way, nobody. Nobody has made me cry th is way. It’s not just one time or two time, hell, not even three times; it’s endless times when my heart misses him.Each time i don’t know why i cry & each time I promise myself not to cry again. But then again I see his picture, his beautiful face & i can’t stop myself from missing him. Just reading his name causes my heart to flutter a little. I don’t even understand why I miss him so much. It’s not like we were friends or anything. He made friends pretty easily & I had hardly any friends. In fact, he was friends with people who used to make fun of me. But I never let myself In the last 4 months we might have had two short chats consisting of 13 messages in total.But still when I read the words you typed, that you actually wanted to talk to me I cannot stop but smile a little. The first chat took place in December last year when you sent me a request on fb. My heart actually stopped for a second there. And when you messaged me, my heart wa s so full of happiness that I am sure I would have screamed. I tried acting cool & to let you believe I was happy in my life I acted cheerfully. And when you messaged to ask if I remember you, oh the irony.! The only reason I joined fb was because of you. The way you typed your messages,,there was something different about it.But then after one message you did not reply back. You were still online, it made me feel like you had more important people to chat with, so I let it go. After that I came online each day as many hours as I could in hopes that you would message me, but you never did. And I was too much of a coward myself to message you, I thought that I would be annoying you. So I never did. Until last week when I finally gathered enough strength to send you that 2 letter word â€Å"hi†. I waited for almost 5 minutes but you didn’t reply,so I felt really stupid for messaging.Then I found out that my stupid internet connection did not load that page properly, so I opened a new tab, & see that you had replied in the next minute. I felt so happy, that you took time out of your life to reply to my message. You asked how my exams took plac, & I asked about yours, the you tell me you are back in the city. Then my stupid net setter disconnected & I couldn’t get a signal for 30 min. Damn..! it never does such a drama when I am doing noting. Anyways, I replied, that night you didn’t come online. That is all

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Critically evaluate the tests for certainty of objects in the law of Essay

Critically evaluate the tests for certainty of objects in the law of trusts and assess whether developments in the last half century have had a positive or negative impact on the law - Essay Example The assessment of certainty of objects is complex because the test varies between mere powers, fixed trusts and discretionary trusts. The reason for identifying the objects of trust is to ensure that there is a person who can enforce trust against the trustee. Additionally, there must be someone who can bring an action in court in case the responsibilities of the trustee are not achieved. The trust must also have the ability of being executed in that when there is no human persons to benefit from the trust then the concept of trust becomes pointless2. Therefore, when a beneficiary is explicitly named in the trust deed there is no confusion when it comes to the certainty of objects. In cases where a person is not explicitly named in the trust deed, but the trust document provides a description of an individual that should profit from the trust property. Additionally, in case the description is clear and precise that it is a particular person then this prerequisite is satisfied. In a certainty of objects where the trust is made for a set of people for example, ‘my children’ this clause will succeed where it has been established that there is adequate certainty to identify each member of the group/class of people3. When a group of people are not clearly described, defined, or stated in vague terms their meaning can be interpreted using the conceptual uncertainty. Two tests that have been created to establish whether all persons within the group can be clearly recognized. They include the class ascertainability test, which comes into play where trustees make a complete list of each individual that comes within the class of people to benefit from trust. Although the courts do not need to know the entire class in order to decide whether the trustees are selecting within the group, in case the trustees do not do so then it must be said that the trustees are not exercising their duties in case they have

Monday, October 7, 2019

Key Features of E-Business Environment Term Paper

Key Features of E-Business Environment - Term Paper Example This essay stresses that business-to-business is a kind of dealing in which the dealing of services or goods is carried out among companies. In case of our online DVD Shop business, we will use B2B that will describe e-communication between enterprise and business to detach it from business-to-commerce type dealings, however at present it is as well employed for marketing reasons. In this scenario, the online business deals with business model that we are going to implement are online selling in which a customer pays for its desired products. This paper makes a conclusion that after designing and developing the web site, it should be accessible to the people. A web hosting service provider provides hosting services by means of WWW. Additionally, there are different packages depending upon the requirements of the site owner. The companies that offer such hosting services are acknowledged as web hosts who, basically, rent out their domain at some specific charges. However, charges can be paid monthly or annually, depending on the customer’s requirements. Web hosts can also provide data center space and connectivity to the internet for servers. There are many free and paid web hosting providers offering these services. For our Online DVD Shop business we will evaluate the requirements to choose what kind of hosting should we use? The web design of our online DVD shop will completely follow the basic rules of HCI (human computer interaction) and usability.

Sunday, October 6, 2019

What is the effect of Tariff imposed by the US to Chinese solar panels Essay

What is the effect of Tariff imposed by the US to Chinese solar panels manufacture industries and on US producers - Essay Example Since the World Trade Organization provides for a free trade among its member states, such a move to impose tariffs on Chinese solar panels may not only infringe WTO trade agreement, but also bring disagreements that jeopardize the good trade relations that the country has had with China (Goldenberg, 2012). To better the situation for the American manufacturers, the commerce depart promised to enforce tariffs of 2.9 percent to 4.73 percent. This was after it was established that the Beijing government was offering unlawful grants to the Solar panel makers (Goldenberg, 2012). Some of the manufacturers acknowledged receiving government support and other cheap loans from the government. Though the imposition of the tariffs aims at leveling the unfair competition by Chinese manufacturers, some of the American based solar installation companies that rely on Chinese solar panels articulated their respite that the minimal tariffs imposed would not cause an increment in prices (Goldenberg, 2012). During his campaign trail, Obama indicated that renewable energy has for long been America’s innovation since solar power was first discovered at Bell Labs. Most of the countries have made efforts to promote clean energy sources to save the environment and reduce the effects of global warming (Goldenberg, 2012). The energy secretary noted that United States had overthrown China in clean energy investment by far. However, this growth in America’s clean energy was brought about by the low costs of Chinese solar panels. The increased demand for Chinese made solar panels has increased the United States solar panel imports from Chinese. This in turn resulted to the death of home grown solar manufacturing companies such as Solyndra and Evergreen Solar companies. This has resulted to embarrassment of Obama’s administration. Imposition of tariffs on the Chinese-made solar panels can assist the growth of the domestic solar panel manufacturers. Unfair competition, as noted

Saturday, October 5, 2019

Prescription Drug Monitoring and Drug Abuse Article

Prescription Drug Monitoring and Drug Abuse - Article Example With high rates of abuse of opiate analgesics among teenagers in the United States, a particularly urgent priority is the investigation of best practices for treating pain in adolescents as well as the development of prevention strategies to reduce diversion and abuse." This addresses the issue of the abuse and misuse of prescription drugs. Determining whether or not a person is abusing or is addicted to a prescription medication can be a daunting task for officials. This is particularly true for patients receiving chronic pain relievers such as opioids (Compton, Darakjian, and Miotto, 1998). Prescription drugs that are commonly prescribed for this purpose include fentanyl, hydromorphone, meperidine, morphine, and oxycodone. Opioid analgesics appear to be the prescription drugs most commonly abused (Weaver and Schnoll, 2002 and Zachny, et al, 2003). "In 2002, opioid analgesics accounted for 9.85% of all drug a... identifying the causes and sources of diversion, without interfering with legitimate medical practice and patient care" (Gilson, Ryan, Joranson, and Dahl, 2004, pg. 1). Search Strategies Since this manuscript is academic in nature, only academic journals were used as reference material. An Internet search was conducted utilizing a keyword search of 'prescription drug monitoring and drug abuse.' When the results were returned via the Google search engine, 'scholarly resources' for the keyword string was chosen and the resources were carefully picked from that subcategory according to content and relevance. Background/Significance According to Bedell (2000, pg. 2129), "Misuse of medications is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Few studies have examined the frequency of, and factors associated with, discrepancies between what doctors prescribe and what patients take in actual practice. Discrepancies among recorded and reported medications were common and involved all classes of medications, including cardiac and prescription drugs. Older age and polypharmacy were the most significant correlates of discrepancy. The pervasiveness of discrepancies can have significant health care implications, and action is urgently needed to address their causes. Such action would likely have a positive impact on patient care." Chronic, nonmalignant pain is often treated with opiate drugs. Due to the addictive nature of opiates, this practice is quite controversial. One study on the problem took place at Seattle's VA Medical Center. It was designed to "create opiate abuse criteria, test inter-rater reliability of the criteria, apply the criteria to a group of chronic pain patients, and correlate the risk of opiate abuse with the results of alcohol and drug testing" (Chabal,