Thursday, August 27, 2020

Economics The Russian Experience Essay

The economy of the Soviet Union depended on an arrangement of state possession and managerial arranging which implied that the state was the single choice organ in monetary issues. The monetary development was guided by what was then called Five Year Plans made by the national leaders selected by the state. This methodology made it simple for the assets to be saddled to accomplish set goals. The financial set up amassed more in building capital merchandise, machine produce and the substance business. The monetary arrangement was top down model that offered little choice for criticism to move to the leaders. This settled on it hard for the chiefs to evaluate the impacts of their choices so as to kill ruinous ones. It thusly settled on it hard for the chiefs to forsake prior choices that neglected to work or that delivered negative outcomes. (http://www. answers. com/toic/history-d-the-soviet-association 1985-1991). The financial arrangement, in any case called socialism, frequently came about into the issue of over or under creation of merchandise. The framework gave little consideration to the creation of purchaser products and this prompted illegal businesses flourishing. This bootleg market counterly affected the financial plan of the organizers. The framework was additionally bureaucratic deferring issues that necessary earnest choices. This situation prompted an accumulating of choices, which overpowered the leaders with time. Center level administrators started to foment for opportunity to manage clients and providers straightforwardly for them to all the more successfully react to the monetary laws of interest and flexibly. This unsettling developed to in the end break the Soviet Union in light of the fact that the chiefs and the political pioneers of the time neglected to react to these requests capably. (http://www. answers. com/toic/history-d-the-soviet-association 1985-1991). The financial arrangement of the Soviet Union had made some large gains, which empowered them to get industrialized quicker than other monetary fronts. Inability to react to emerging issues was what added to its ruin. Solid establishments had just been arrangement, for example, the horticultural area, remote exchange just as the monetary segment. Every single capital great were on the whole possessed with little exemptions. Singular property proprietorship was negligible. The possession debate additionally added to the Soviet Union separation. From that point forward Russia has needed to experience serious change program to empower them to react to the to a great extent free enterprise world economy (Moszczynska, undated) A key part that is the focal point of the change procedure is the money related area. The Russian economy is dependent on oil and the variances of costs influence the economy antagonistically. To lighten such unfriendly impacts, the budgetary area needs changes since it offers smoother progress into the imagined financial arrangement. A test confronting Russia and different nations as they travel from order economy to the free market economy is irregularity made by remote exchange. These nations have started to import products that were hard to come by however then again sends out have started to decay. This hinders the recuperation procedure since sends out prodded development already. At the point when the fares are more than the imports, a nation is performing great financially and this is opposite for these previous Soviets. Utilization development had for a period prompted an addition is genuine wages yet efficiency development has deteriorated those increases. This again is because of the substantial dependence on the oil business for financial development (Barnard, 2000). Moreover, there is little venture outside the oil and metal businesses. This implies as much as the thought process is to make riches for the citizenly, there can't be a lot of accomplishment if no impressive venture is made. Indeed interests in different regions has been declining after some time. The venture atmosphere in Russia is as yet unfriendly which hinders the capacity of the change procedure to spike development. The financial framework just kindness huge business foundations leaving little and medium measured endeavors battling. The government’s approval necessities are rigid while debasement has been overflowing. This has prompted more assets being designated to huge firms. With the medium measured ventures grounded, no much development can be accomplished. The financial framework is likewise wasteful since it just loans to the huge foundations. The change of the financial segment has to a great extent relied on political atmosphere however a legitimate structure is expected to successfully change this part. A superior system to manage the financial business must be set up (Kahan, 2001). The change procedure of the Russian and other previous Soviet nations are in good shape. There are sufficient difficulties in the execution procedure of the proposition however they are making progress. Failing to meet expectations regions have demonstrated signs of development. The recuperation procedure, however, calls for political will among the pioneers to drive the procedure. No much advancement would be acknowledged whether political will is inadequate. The impacts of the Cold War should be dispensed with from the front. The Russian economy has extraordinary potential and if the systems react suitably to up and coming issues, the Russian economy would perform better. The Russian economy execution had put Russia in front of different nations. It was not element dependent on wrong standards. The serious issue was the bureaucratic framework that had been set that made it hard to react to rising issues. On the off chance that the economy is to gain the imagined status it once had, it needs to react to emerging issues.

Saturday, August 22, 2020

The Advantages of Using XAT Essay Writing

The Advantages of Using XAT Essay WritingThe XAT essay writing program can be considered the official online writing program, because it is an Online college course that incorporates the elements of education along with online research to help you prepare for a high-quality online degree. You can expect a polished and well-organized document by using the XAT essay writing program.It's one thing to study for a diploma but it's another thing to actually get one; this is where XAT essay writing can come in handy. This is because if you intend to get an academic degree but cannot afford a full-time teacher to coach you in your studies then this XAT writing program can come in handy.The XAT online writing program is designed for both the average working person as well as for the professional. It is easy to use and it can be used on its own or alongside the other writing programs.The XAT offers quick articles with step-by-step instructions that can be easily completed in a matter of minute s. You can get the documents completed within a week, and this will certainly get your grades up.There are a number of very high quality documents that you can use and most of them are tailor-made to suit the needs of the student. The author of the papers is usually experienced, and it can be presumed that they have already written lots of documents that will help to get you a better grade.The quick strategy is one of the main attractions of the XAT, because it helps students who are only looking for essays. It is an essay-writing strategy that does not require you to know a lot about grammar and also does not require you to know anything about specific topics.All you need to do is to write your essay and post it for editing; after which it will be provided with a summary and also sent to a team of editors who will evaluate your essay and select the most impressive of them. In this way, you will be given the opportunity to show off your writing skills in the best possible manner.The editors will provide you with useful feedback so that you will know how to improve your essay before submitting it to the exam. However, since this is an XAT program, it will be seen as an online degree so it is mandatory that you submit your work to the concerned college at least a month before the examination.

Friday, August 21, 2020

Free Essays on Islam And The Koran

Islam is an Arabic word which signifies accommodation to the desire of God. This word originates from a similar root as the Arabic word salam, which signifies harmony (Berger, 11). All things considered, the religion of Islam instructs that so as to accomplish genuine significant serenity and guarantee of heart, one must submit to God and live as indicated by His Divinely uncovered Law. The most significant truth that God uncovered to humankind is that there is not all that much or deserving of being revered with the exception of Almighty God, consequently all people ought to submit to Him. Muslim signifies one who submits to the desire of God, paying little heed to their race, nationality or ethnic foundation. Being a Muslim involves resolute accommodation and dynamic acquiescence to God, and living as per His message (Moore et al). A few people erroneously accept that Islam is only a religion for Arabs, yet nothing could be further from reality. Not exclusively are there changes over to Islam in each side of the world, particularly in England and America, yet by investigating the Muslim World from Bosnia to Nigeria, and from Indonesia to Morocco, one can plainly observe that Muslims originate from numerous different races, ethnic gatherings and nationalities. It is likewise fascinating to take note of that in reality, over 80% of all Muslims are not Arabs - there are a greater number of Muslims in Indonesia than in the entire Arab World (72). So despite the fact that the facts confirm that most Arabs are Muslims, the vast lion's share of Muslims are not Arabs. Nonetheless, any individual who submits totally to God and adores only him is a Muslim. Coherence of the Islam message is anything but another religion since accommodation to the desire of God, for example Islam, has consistently been the main satisfactory religion in seeing God. Consequently, Islam is the genuine normal religion, and it is the equivalent interminable message uncovered through the ages to the entirety of God's prophets and couriers. Muslims accept that the entirety of God's prophets, who incorporate Abraham, Noah, Moses, Jesus and Muh... Free Essays on Islam And The Koran Free Essays on Islam And The Koran Islam is an Arabic word which signifies accommodation to the desire of God. This word originates from a similar root as the Arabic word salam, which signifies harmony (Berger, 11). All things considered, the religion of Islam instructs that so as to accomplish genuine true serenity and guarantee of heart, one must submit to God and live as indicated by His Divinely uncovered Law. The most significant truth that God uncovered to humankind is that there is not all that much or deserving of being loved aside from Almighty God, in this manner every person ought to submit to Him. Muslim signifies one who submits to the desire of God, paying little heed to their race, nationality or ethnic foundation. Being a Muslim involves adamant accommodation and dynamic submission to God, and living as per His message (Moore et al). A few people erroneously accept that Islam is only a religion for Arabs, yet nothing could be further from reality. Not exclusively are there changes over to Islam in each edge of the world, particularly in England and America, yet by investigating the Muslim World from Bosnia to Nigeria, and from Indonesia to Morocco, one can unmistakably observe that Muslims originate from numerous different races, ethnic gatherings and nationalities. It is likewise intriguing to take note of that in reality, over 80% of all Muslims are not Arabs - there are a larger number of Muslims in Indonesia than in the entire Arab World (72). So despite the fact that the facts confirm that most Arabs are Muslims, the vast greater part of Muslims are not Arabs. Be that as it may, any individual who submits totally to God and reveres only him is a Muslim. Congruity of the Islam message is certifiably not another religion since accommodation to the desire of God, for example Islam, has consistently been the main satisfactory religion in seeing God. Consequently, Islam is the genuine normal religion, and it is the equivalent everlasting message uncovered through the ages to the entirety of God's prophets and delivery people. Muslims accept that the entirety of God's prophets, who incorporate Abraham, Noah, Moses, Jesus and Muh...

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

How to Say to Teach in French

The French verbs apprendre, enseigner, instruire, and à ©duquer all mean to teach but have different uses and nuances. Learn how to recognize and use these four verbs correctly with this lesson. Teach a Technique or Something Apprendre means to teach a technique. It can only be used in the following constructions: apprendre quelque chose à   quelquun  - to teach someone somethingapprendre à   quelquun à   faire quelque chose - to teach someone (how) to do something Chantal apprend la guitare à   mon fils. -  Chantal is teaching my son (to play the) guitar. Il apprend aux enfants à   skier. -  He teaches children to ski. Pouvez-vous mapprendre à   lire? -  Can you teach me to read? Apprendre also means to learn and can be used in two constructions: apprendre noun and  apprendre à   infinitive Mon fils apprend la guitare. -  My son is learning (to play the) guitar. Les enfants apprennent à   skier. -  The children are learning to ski. Je veux apprendre à   lire. -  I want to learn to read. Teaching a Subject Enseigner means to teach in general or to teach a subject. It is used in the following construction: enseigner [quelque chose] [à   quelquun] The items in [brackets] are optional. Jenseigne le franà §ais aux adultes. -  I teach French to adults. Mon mari enseigne la chimie en France. -  My husband teaches chemistry in France. Nous enseignons depuis 5 ans. -  Weve been teaching for five years. Teach Someone Instruire  means to  teach someone. It cannot be used to specify what is being taught and is used only in the construction  instruire quelquun: Elle instruit les à ©tudiants à ©trangers. -  She teaches foreign students. Il faut instruire les enfants par exemple. -  You have to teach children by example. Teaching Éduquer  is used just like instruire, except that it is very  general: it can refer to vague  concepts, particularly morals and manners. Là ©glise doit à ©duquer son peuple. -  The church must educate its people. Ces enfants sont bien à ©duquà ©s. -  These children are well educated (well-mannered).

Friday, May 15, 2020

The Military History Of The American Red Cross - 1158 Words

The Military History of the American Red Cross Following the Battle of Cedar Mountain in 1862, a surgeon was feeling the pressures of disaster, when a woman named Clara Barton, came in to his office. He referred to her as an Angel sent from heaven. At this time, she volunteered her services to help out in any way she could (â€Å"Founder Clara Barton†). Clara and a group of her friends founded the American Red Cross in 1881. They were known as the â€Å"angels of the battle field† (â€Å"Mclean†). At times of war when soldiers fight for our freedom, it is often that they wounded, lonely, and in need. Through the efforts of Clara, our soldiers have an organization to rely on. Clara prodded the government until they gave her a pass to enter the battlefields (â€Å"Founder Clara Barton†). One woman who was motivated and wanted to make a difference to our soldiers fighting for our country. She did just that and formed an organization that would eventually help millions of people every year. Today, we know it as the American Red Cross. The Red Cross has a big history of supporting our troops and became a huge organization that would ultimately help millions. Clara Barton was working as a recording clerk in Washington DC when the first troops came into town during the Civil War (â€Å"Founder Clara Barton†). The entire town were frightened and confused. Clara noticed that the men were hungry, wounded, only had the clothes on their backs, and were in need of somewhere to sleep. Clara felt an immediateShow MoreRelatedWomen in World War 2888 Words   |  3 Pages â€Å"We can do it!† is what the famous Rosie the Riveter poster exclaimed. Most Americans know the iconic picture of Rosie the Riveter, depicted as a strong and independent young women working to help the war effort. It was 1941 and the United States finally entered World War II. Most propaganda of the United States encouraged the average women to join the workforce and help with the war effort. With men fighting abroad, it was only necessary for women to start working and leave their normal lives ofRead MoreOrganizational Behavior1259 Words   |  6 PagesAmerican Red Cross Organizational Behavior and Communication American Red Cross Organizational Behavior and Communication â€Å"Inspired by the International Red Cross movement established to provide assistance to wounded soldiers, the American Red Cross was established in 1881 by Clara Barton and a number of her acquaintances† (Peerbolte, 2011, p. 17). The mission of the American Red Cross remains largely focused on military serviceRead MoreAmerican Red Cross Is a Non-Profit Organization1362 Words   |  6 PagesAmerican Red Cross University of Phoenix Healthcare Delivery in the United States 11/19/2008 American Red Cross The American Red Cross is a non-profit organization. The American Red Cross was founded by Clara Barton in 1881—127 years ago. Clara Barton established the American Red Cross in Washington DC on May 21, 1881. She was the chief of this organization for twenty three years. The idea came to her after visiting Europe and witnessing how the interactions were with the Swiss-InternationalRead MoreRed Cross Company : A Non Profit And Non Governmental Organization848 Words   |  4 Pages Red Cross Company Student’s Name Institutional Affiliation â€Æ' Background of Organization The American Red Cross Company is a non-profit and non-governmental organization. It is led by volunteers and is an organization of humanitarian nature that is providing the individuals with the emergency assistance, relief from the disaster and emergency relief education within the United States. It is affiliated with that of the International Red Cross Societies and International Red Cross Federations.Read MoreThe American Red Cross Disaster Services Team975 Words   |  4 Pagesvolunteer for the American Red Cross Disaster Services Team. This has been one of the most beneficial volunteer opportunities that I have ever accomplished. As an American Red Cross of Georgia Major Gift Officer, this volunteer experience allowed me to gain knowledge in a department that serves as the backbone of the American Red Cross. As a nonprofit fundraiser, it is difficult to truly see the mission that your team raises money for every single day. Fundraisers at the American Red Cross are trainedRead MoreSpanish American War1254 Words   |  5 PagesSpanish American War Essay Clara Barton: Her Opinion on the Spanish American War Clara Barton October 1st, 1901 Glen Elcho, Maryland Dear Teddy Roosevelt, I would like to congratulate and acknowledge you for you becoming President of the United States of America. You proved your worthiness and dedication when you made life-risking decisions on the battlefield for the Spanish American War. You volunteered as part of the cavalry and broughtRead MoreAmerican Red Cross1157 Words   |  5 PagesThe American Red Cross is a non-profit organization that was created to assist people in time of need regardless nationality, race religious beliefs, class or political opinions. This national society has a long rich history and is one of the most identifiable humanitarian organizations in the nation. The mission of the American Red Cross is to alleviate and prevent human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. It promotes mutualRead MoreAmerican Red Cross - 11692 Words   |  7 PagesAbstract As part of a worldwide movement the American Red Cross offers care and hope to victims of war, poverty and natural disasters, and, as such it is with great anticipation that I will undertake the task of researching from various sources, and presenting its history, philosophy, mission, vision and value statement. Among this, I will briefly describe the culture of the organization, noting whether the organization’s espoused values align with its enacted values. I will also address theRead MoreBlood Shortage And Fda Policy Limitations Essay1448 Words   |  6 Pages 2009). The American Red Cross and Americans Blood Center currently encompass almost all of the nation’s blood supply. Blood supply decreases more during the summer because schools and certain businesses close and are not open to hold a blood drive. The American Red Cross predicts that â€Å"a person in a single car accident can need up to 100 pints of blood† (ARC, 2016). However, during a routine blood drive a person can only donate 1 pint of their blood supply. The American Red Cross also reports thatRead MoreThe American Red Cross Organization1118 Words   |  5 PagesThe American Red Cross was founded on May 21, 1881 by Clara Barton and her close colleagues. Barton’s inspiration came from The Swiss Global Red Cross organization. When she returned for Europe she partitioned for what would be the beginning of The American Red Cross. The first domestic and overseas disaster efforts began with The Spanish American War, and shortly after their first congressional charter in 1905. Since then they have had two renewals of the charter in 1905, and the most current in

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Childhood Obesity A Known Problem For Decades - 1313 Words

Childhood obesity is a known problem for decades. It occurs when a child is over the recommended weight for their age and height. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2011-2012 there were 12.7 million children and adolescents that had obesity (Skinner Skelton, 2014). The numbers over the years steadily increased and caused concern all across the world. Many children are being diagnosed with health issues such as diabetes, hypertension and other obesity related conditions. Childhood obesity has become a known health threat for the United States. We have an epidemic that is unfolding in front of our nation. We ask ourselves why this is becoming such a problem? Parents are good role models for children showing them healthy eating habits and how to be physically active. The school system, parents and physical activity can have an impact on reducing childhood obesity. Where do we begin to find interventions? In the article Prevalence and Trends in Obesity a nd Severe Obesity Among Children in the United States, 1999-2012 they took randomized United States citizens and offered them to participate in a wide range of surveys and questionaries’ for measuring childhood obesity research. There were 690 children that participated in the study. The ages ranged from 2-19 years of age. Race was defined as whites, black, Mexican American, Hispanics or other race. The participants were asked to complete an in home questionnaire about their demographics andShow MoreRelatedPrevalence Of Overweight And Obesity Essay1249 Words   |  5 PagesThe aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of overweight/obesity among parents of children entering childhood obesity treatment and to evaluate changes in the parents’ weight during their child’s treatment (Trier, 2016). The study included the parents of 1,125 children and adolescents (aged 3-22) who were enrolled in a children obesity treatment program. They began by taking t he heights and weights of the children and the BMI scores were calculated. After 2.5 years of treatment, theRead MoreChildhood Obesity : An Epidemic1036 Words   |  5 PagesRainsu Kumbhani All About Childhood Obesity Childhood obesity is an epidemic in U.S. In the year of 2012, about â€Å"one third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese.† Also, percentages of childhood obesity have increased by over ten percent in the last thirty years in children and adolescents (Childhood Obesity Facts 2015). These statistics are shocking, and many people are concerned for the health of their children. This medical condition, as defined by Mayo Clinic, leads to seriousRead MoreChildhood Obesity Is A Tremendous Problem Among Our Youth Today1707 Words   |  7 PagesChildhood obesity is a tremendous problem among our youth today. Over the past couple of decades, the prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically. Studies show that in the last 30 years the percent of 6-to 11- year-olds as well as the percent of 12- to 19- year -olds who fall under the obese or overweight category has tripled (Finkelstein). Nearly two out of every three Americans are overweight or obese, and one out of eve ry eight deaths in the United States is caused by an obesity-related illnessRead MoreObesity Is A Problem That Is Faced Amongst Many Individuals Across The World Essay1288 Words   |  6 Pages Obesity is a problem that is faced amongst many individuals across the world. Obesity is a serious health and societal issue that is rising at extreme rates, some may call it an epidemic in both developed and developing countries. Obesity is a global problem, with almost 30 percent of people globally are now either obese or overweight which is affecting an estimate of 2.1 billion people worldwide and it’s prevalence in the recent decade had a rapid increase. It’s a well-known fact that the oddsRead MoreObesity Is A Problem That Is Faced Amongst Many People Across The World Essay1363 Words   |  6 PagesObesity is a problem that is faced amongst many people across the world. Obesity is a serious health and societal issue that is rising at extreme rates, some may call it an ep idemic in both developed and developing countries. Obesity is a global problem, with almost thirty percent of people globally are now either obese or overweight which is affecting an estimate of 2.1 billion people worldwide and it’s prevalence in the past decade has had a rapid increase. It’s a well-known fact that the oddsRead MoreThe Epidemic Of Childhood Obesity1216 Words   |  5 Pagesintervening in order to combat the epidemic of childhood obesity claim that, â€Å"parents who strive to keep their kids healthy may not have all the tools they need to do so† (â€Å"Childhood Obesity.† Issues Controversies). Therefore supporters agree that the government â€Å"should step in and enable parents to do the best job they can† (â€Å"Childhood Obesity.† Issues Controversies). Joe Thompson, â€Å"director of the Rober Wood Foundation Center to prevent Childhood Obesity† claims that not all parents are able toRead MoreChildhood Obesit y Essay1712 Words   |  7 Pages Childhood obesity is an important issue because of the staggering proportions that this disease has reached in the past few years. Certain genetic factors paired with changing lifestyles and culture has produced kids (and adults) who are generally not as healthy as people were just a few decades ago. Widespread obesity has been the extreme result of these changes. I chose this topic because I have worked with children all of my life. I plan to continue my work with children in theRead MoreObesity : The Growing Pain1566 Words   |  7 Pages102 April 10, 2015 Obesity: The Growing Pain in America Nowadays, people eat out a lot and not from a healthier perspective and food choice but from fast food restaurants like McDonalds, Burger King and among many others. Initially this was not so as parents found any time necessary to make meals at home rather than purchase any food at all which they considered to be the â€Å"last resort†. What has caused the increasing rate of childhood obesity in the past few decades? Obesity in children has becomeRead MoreThe Ecological Model Of Health1154 Words   |  5 Pagesprevention strategies. Figure 1. Overlapping rings’ representation show how factors from one level influence factors at other level. One grate use of The Ecological Model is observed in the problematic question of Obesity in modern societies. Despite the growing awareness of obesity and its potential risks to health, allied to a massive body of literature proving and providing real evidences of the health benefits of a diet low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables, records still show high ratesRead MoreChildhood Obesity And Its Effects On The United States Today1479 Words   |  6 Pagespediatric obesity now represents one of the most pressing nutritional problems facing children in the United States today. International population studies report comparable rates of increase, so that if current trends remain unchecked, childhood obesity is likely to challenge worldwide public health. Substantial consequences to physical and mental health, both short and long term, must be anticipated. Unfortunately, there is no uniform definition of childhood obesity. Childhood obesity has been

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Facebook Case Analysis free essay sample

Management Policy and Strategy unit 3 Case Study 3 Facebook is a social utility that connects people with friends and others who work, study and live around them. People use Facebook to keep up with friends, upload an unlimited number of photos, share links and videos, and learn more about the people they meet (venturebeatprofiles. com). That is what it is now. The original thought was that Facebook was Just to be for college students and recent graduates. It was suppose to be a way for them to be social and to network. In my opinion, Facebook has some strengths. It is a quick easy way for a person to connect with another person. They can use the computer or they now can download an application to their phone and message or chat that way. That is the convenient part that everyone likes about it. Another strength that I see is that almost everyone these days has a Facebook account so you can use it to find almost anyone. We will write a custom essay sample on Facebook Case Analysis or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page That may be helpful when trying to find a old college buddy or someone that you went to high school with any, many years ago. The last major strength that I have noticed is that there are many companies that are advertising on it now that werent when it first came out. That way you can find some new products that might be useful to you that you didnt know was out. Those are the strengths that I see. Now on to the weaknesses. I see more weaknesses these days then I see strengths. The main weakness that I see is that anyone and everyone can get an account with Facebook. I think that is ridiculous. I dont think that anyone that is in high school should need a Facebook account being that they can go to school and see their friends on a daily basis, they dont need to post a million pictures, and so on. They are not using Facebook for what it was meant for. I also think having all the games on Facebook is a waste of time. I know from my own experience, they are addictive and take away from what one should actually be doing, like homework. Now on to the opportunities that I see. They can take Facebook ack, change it back to what it was meant for: college age and recent graduates or even use it for eighteen and above. I dont think that they need to have some many minors on it Just to play games and post pictures. Use it specifically what it was made for. The threats that I for see is that the Facebookers are going to get tired of the games and frequent shut downs and will find other networks that are similar to Facebook. There are many other websites that are actually made Just for networking such as collegeORT. com. I feel that they should get back to the old Facebook. They need to get rid of all the game-like applications and use it specifically for social networking. They need to make it an eighteen and above network. How would I do this? Easy, put out a mass email saying that Facebook will be closing down for repairs and anyone that isnt eighteen will not be allowed back in. They can go and make a Facebook for eighteen and under so that they dont lose anyone and when they hit the age of eighteen they can Join the regular Facebook. This way, the adults dont

Monday, April 13, 2020

Dealing With Anti-Semitism Essays - Chaim Potok,

Dealing With Anti-Semitism Dealing with Anti-Semitism Mr. Potok has written scholarly and popular articles and reviews during his publishing career. Mr. Chaim Potok is a novelist, philosopher, historian, theologian, playwright, artist, and editor. All of Mr. Potok's novels explore the tensions between Judaism and the modern society (Kaupunginkirasto). Chaim Potok was born in the Bronx, New York, on 17 February 1929, to Polish Jewish immigrants, and was educated in Jewish parochial schools. Mr. Potok undertook a serious religious and secular education, first at the Orthodox Yeshiva University, New York, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in English (summa cum laude) in 1950. Mr. Potok received his rabbinical ordination in 1954 at Conservative Jewish Theological Seminary, New York, and finally at the University of Pennsylvania, he obtained a Ph.D. in 1965(Buning). Potok transforms Judaic scholarship to drama. Potok explores the tension inside the religious community. He fuses his interests in Jewish education and twentieth century history, a history that had violently touched his family. This novel serves as Potok's primary vehicle for the examination of the modern Jewish experience. The genesis and substance of every Potok novel is the Jewish religious, historic, and cultural experience in a non-Judaic world. The philosophic and ethical views are derived from the Judaic sources. Potok's affirmative vision, veneration of life, positive assessment of human nature, and pervasive striving for meaning in the midst of chaos, for good in the face of evil will be derived from Judaism (Walden 233). It is about growing up in an anti-Semitic environment. David, a young Jewish boy, is growing up in the Bronx of New York City. David experiences the strains that modern, assimilationist America can put upon a deeply religious, orthodox, sensibility. David grew up on the streets of New York and encountered the anti-Semitism that prevailed there at a certain period of time. David appears to be exploring the nature of evil in human affairs. David learns of scripture or history, what he hears about his parent's past, what he endures himself in the way of accident or cruelly all become aspects of a single experience-a Jewish experience. In the fourth year of David Lurie's life, we enter his life and mind, to see how, through a crucible of childhood pain and love, a man's spirit was forged. How a gentle, frail little boy became a young man with the terrible courage to pursue his vision of the truth at the risk of all that was most dear to him: family love, friendship and his passionate identity with the centuries of Jewish tradition. David Lurie lives on sunlit apartments on the tree-lined boulevards of the Bronx. On the city sidewalks, Davey (David Lurie) is playing marbles in perfect communion with Tony Savanola until the six-year-old Eddie Kulanski, raised to hate Kikes, initiates Davey into the anguishing knowledge that to be a Jew is to be in peril. David Lurie learns that all beginnings are hard. He must fight for his place against the bullies in his depression-shadowed Bronx neighborhood and his own frail health. As a young man, he must start anew and define his own path of personal belief that diverges sharply with his devout father and everything he has been taught (Amazon). In the Beginning as the title suggests is a recapitulation of the Book of Genesis from the Creation to the flood of Noah. Many of the dramatic tensions in the novel develop through David's father Max. Max Lurie is active in leadership in a society to help other emigrants to America. The primary tensions in the novel develop from young David's situation in an environment that cherishes the old ways of life and Yeshiva study. David become more and more conscious of a need to move out that environment into the larger world of non-orthodox, even non-Jewish intellectual life move out of it, moreover, with out relinquishing it utterly (Halio 373). In almost all of Potok's novels, father-son relationships are central to our understanding of the various conflicts that occur. It is the task of the fathers to pass on the Jewish heritage to their obedient sons. Critics have pointed out that the stress put on the authority of the father parallels a similar stress in traditional, patriarchal Judaism

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Grendel part I essays

Grendel part I essays In part I of Grendel, the first contact Grendel has with humans shows his fragility and the humans misconception of creatures different from them. Grendels getting his foot caught in a tree sets up for what takes place during this encounter. The Anglo-Saxons who find him mistake him first for a fungus attached to a tree, then for an oak-tree spirit. The Anglo-Saxons appear to be irrational for being so quick to identify Grendel as these things that he is not, especially as a lower being of fungus. Throughout this encounter with them, Grendel is scared half to death not only because he was outnumbered and had never seen humans before, but because their forcefully self-assured ideas and belittling, however unintentional, intimidated the innocent Grendel. Even when Grendel is finally able to bring himself to speak, the Anglo-Saxons misinterpret this as a threat and attack him. Pig! I tried to yell. It scared them. They all began shouting at each other. One of the horses neighed a nd reared up, and for some crazy reason they took it for a sign. (27) When he is attacked, Grendel fully realizes the strength human beings have. The Anglo-Saxons are in a way ignorant for attacking Grendel for moving and making noise; they are afraid of a creature that they have not taken the time to understand. Grendel is the victim of this situation, a defenseless subject to the ignorance and mercilessness of human beings. As Grendel watches the Anglo-Saxons, he learns of their customs, which seem to be the complete opposite of his concepts of life. One custom shows values Grendel learns of through the songs of the kings harper and the Shaper. The Anglo-Saxons most greatly value heroism and religion. The custom of storytelling through a scop involves flattery, which is more pleasant than the truth according to Grendel, yet he is a little moved by the songs. I knew very well that all he sa...

Monday, February 24, 2020

Environmental Risk of Genetically Modified Food Essay

Environmental Risk of Genetically Modified Food - Essay Example GM foods have been hailed for being the sure approach to meeting the global demand for food especially within the developing world. Scientists affirm that it remains the only viable option for the attainment of the second green revolution to ensure adequate food supplies within the global domain. Critics however affirm that GM foods poses significant environmental risk to the natural society hence they note that the planet has the capacity to produce adequate food for everyone with the lack of food resulting from respective political systems’ inability to properly plan and distribute food, (Schneider & Schneider, 2002:4). Analyzing the economic, environmental and health concerns of the issue, activists argue that environmental impacts of the GM food types should be of more concern comparative to the other related issues. On health, studies indicate that the consumption of genetically modified foods may have unforeseen long-term adverse effects on not only human but the natural ecosystem as well, (Huebner, Studer, & Luethy, 1999: 1137). A 1998 research by the Rowett Research Institute affirmed that genetically modified potatoes contained Lancet, a substance that showed adverse effects on rats. Gene transfer and allergies are two key health risks that have been quoted as resulting from GM foods, (WHO. 2001:1). Based on several studies ingestion of GM foods may result into significant gene transfer from the respective GM foods to bacteria within their gut, (Hallman, Aquino, Cuite, Lang, 2006:12). There are also concerns that GM foods results into allergies which impose significant environmental risk to humans and other living organisms on the planet. The genetic modification of plants may results into unwanted crops or weeds that are genetically resistant to herbicides and other chemicals, an aspect that may result into a wild outgrow of destructive plants.

Saturday, February 8, 2020

Following a Dream of Business Analyst Career Path Essay - 18

Following a Dream of Business Analyst Career Path - Essay Example Data from different sources within and outside the firm can be integrated thereby keeping the business up-to-date with regards to its performance as well as opportunities and threats prevailing in the operating environment. Information systems also assist in decision making as they are used in the development of strategic plans. Information systems are used in analyzing data from different sources such as market trends thereby strengthening the evaluation of competency and eminence of a firm’s strategic decisions. They also support business processes such as the elimination of unnecessary repetitive activities to enhance accuracy as well as assigning rights to particular individuals with the requisite competencies by use of passwords. Information systems are also applied in project planning, execution and monitoring to ensure that they are accomplished within the accepted criteria. Computer communication is one of the important concepts that are significant in the job of a business analyst. I am a good communicator with excellent facilitation and analytical skills as well as a good team player, which are requisite in the business analyst career. Systems engineering concepts are useful in developing the desired resourcefulness for different business functions including technology, business processes, and finance among others, which is important in bridging the gap between organizational systems from the client to practical execution of technical solutions. Business case development is an important concept that equipped me with the skills that are necessary to identify opportunities where information systems can be applied to enhance firm operations and processes. Modeling techniques and methods are necessary as the job involves designing or modifying business information systems to improve performance. I

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Therapist Perspective Paper Essay Example for Free

Therapist Perspective Paper Essay A sixteen year old teenager refuses to leave home and the therapist must review the situation from a MRI therapeutic approach. First, the MRI approach would not focus on the problem or how it developed but rather what efforts have the parent made to reach a resolution. MRI stems from the premise that families use practical attempts at resolving their situation but the attempts are ill-advised. MRIà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s main focus is aimed at dilemma driven solutions; there is no advantage in long term change or what capacity the problem serves within the family. Haley and Madanes derive from the same school of thought but with some differences. Haley interest lay in the power struggles that exist and believe the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“symptom such that the cost of keeping it up outweighed the gainsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ . (Niolon, 1999) Madanes was worried about out of place hierarchies, where an adolescent uses problems to alter the à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“behavior of parentsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ . (Niolon, 1999) Both agree that families function within a hierarchical order, thereby reconstructing the hierarchical and boundary issues that will prohibit à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“dysfunctional feedback loops from starting, a sort of plan ahead strategyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ . (Madanes, 1981) The belief is as families we have problematic stages to endure, in order to arrive at a resolution stage. A therapist using this approach would also focus on the parents, along with family interactions. Therefore, the reason Jose has the problem is the behavior he has been learned from his parents, he has developed a problem from his observation of how his parentà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s interact and solve problems. The Milanà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s school of thought is not solution driven but founded in the power struggles within the family dynamics that have occurred over a long period of time even through several generations enabling the familyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s problems to continue Techniques used for intervention in the strategic and systemic therapies are based in the belief that situations are keep up by à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“self-defeating patterns of behaviorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ . (Madanes, 1981) Therefore, in order to effectively make change within the family, there must be a modification in the structure/dynamic of the family. MRI therapist believe that families or individuals are entrenched in their problems and need assistance moving forward. Therapist will assist the family and Jose in setting achievable behavioral solutions. Additionally, MRI models the concept of help the family to reach resolution with a particular issue and ignore other issues unless the family or individual specifically ask for therapy on the other issues. Moreover, one must set obtainable and clear objectives, and once this objective has been attained therapy will concluded. MRI therapist would inquire of the parents what strategies have they imposed to get Josh to go outside. (Nichols, 2012) Haley and Madanes objective is often a realignment of the hierarchy within the family and across generations; focusing only on the realignment that relate to the current issue. Meaning, the therapist will work on enhancing the relationship with Jose and his antagonistic parents. To achieve this objective the parents will need to discuss the problem that exist within their relationship in order to help Jose. Theorist believe that establishing trust within the family, allows the family to pay attention to the present issue. The difference with Haley and Madanes from MRI is the belief that once the present issue has been sustained/managed and trust established the exploration of other family issues can be dealt with. Furthermore, therapy can continue beyond resolving the current problem but can terminate once effective change has occurred within the fundamental factors that created the issue. The Haley therapist would focus on a dysfunctional triangle and the conflict between the parents. Additionally, Madanes would also be interested in the triangulation but would also focus on the fact that Josh could be protecting his parents. Milan held the basic belief that therapy effects change, and that the therapist is charged with the duty of outsmarting the family at their own games; by creating strategic methods that expose the families à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“dirty gamesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  (Nichols, 2012) and then one can began to reshape the family purpose. Reshaping techniques help families understand or effect change by helping families view their situation through a different lens. Moreover, the therapist would locate the power alliances within the family and those alliances extending across generations which perpetuate or broker the families à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“dirty gamesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ . (Nichols, 2012) In conclusion the therapist must understand the strategic and systemic approaches in order to effect change in Josh and his family. Sometimes it is necessary to dig beneath the surface of a problem and get to the root even if family member are uncomfortable disclosing family secrets that have been guarded for generations. Additionally, breaking family bonds and upsetting the cohesive alliances that have banded together for generations is an effective measure to get family members to reshape their actions and thought process.

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

The Effects of Motivation on Performance Essay examples -- Andrew and

The Effects of Motivation on Performance Findings Task 2- Write a Report on the effects of Motivation on Performance Research people’s attitude to work and factors affecting their motivation by constructing a questionnaire and conducting a small survey. You should aim to distribute your questionnaire to at least 5 people within your organisation. Gather information on what motivates individual performance and identify attitudes to work by interviewing an employee in-depth and comparing their attitudes with your own. Relate you findings to motivation theories and provide a description of the motivators appropriate for different types of individual performance. Andrew and Robertson: An Introduction to the Business Objectives Andrew and Robertson have started put life as property mangers in 1887. Managing properties on behalf of owners. Southwark Council also contracted out housing management for a trial period in the 90’s in which Andrew and Robertson’s partly participated. In the 1960’s Andrew and Robertson expanded into auctioneering. The object of this section of the business aims to sell houses at auctions 4 times a year. However 1980 prior they only had two actions a year. The business aims to make a profit for the four senor partners. The business has no obvious intentions to float on the stock market. The partnership has currently invested in a new phone system and computer network for one of its three branches. This according to an associate partner is the partnership attempting to modernise the old fashion approach to the business currently used by managers. Serves Andrew and Robertson’s serve the clients who own the properties, which they manage. The management also serve their auctioneering arm that sells properties for the clients of the property-managing arm who wish to sell their properties. Motivational Procedures Andrew and Robertson’s have no written procedures however there are a number of unwritten procedures, which are used. These procedures include: Staff/Management association (This is not like by a small minority of staff  ¼) Close quarters arrangements (Putting desks in close proximity for communication means) Appraisal Meetings (Token) Staff Management association This is the system in which higher level management work along side their employers. In the hope that the bond between the low... ...people work so hard and Physiological needs Basic needs such as food water and shelter are all met because the pay is reasonable at the firm of Andrew and Robertson’s. Food and drink is also supplied in small quantities at break times. The management sees these as incentives because in the afternoons the employees generally work harder. So therefore the reason for higher efficiently in the afternoons is the cakes and tea, which are available at lunch times and corresponds to the Physiological needs on Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs William Bridges IT Evolution William Bridges wrote that there have been many changes in the modern working environment. Including the number of jobs in an organisation deceasing or increasing during fluctuating periods of demand. He argument being the advancement of IT had increased competition and therefore the nature of management philosophy. This is truer at Andrew and Robertson’s since the number of employees aged over 40 years has dropped tremendously over the last 3 years due to the need for IT compliant staff. Since it is the partners who dictate policy their behaviour and types of behaviour towards their management policy.

Monday, January 13, 2020

Going Green to save the Environment Essay

Environment preservation has been of high concern by many environmentalists’, governments and other non-governmental organization. Due to the current situation of the environmental degradation, many campaigns by different organization have thus been put forward as a remedy to the effects of this problem. To curb this problem, different global attempts have thus been instituted to ensure a high concern to prevention of further degradation and limit the then effects born of this problem. Broadly, environment is the ecosystem in which man, animals and the plants survive in. For the health of the live on the earth, importance is attached to the influence of a health state of the environment. A polluted environment is harmful to man, the other animals and to the plants kingdom. Such comes from the indirect consequences that arise as a result of the harmful environment or directly through the health effects that poor environment has to the living things. In the ecosystem, living organisms interact with the environment in their pursuit of life in which case, they uses the environment to source for their daily requirements. If the environment is degraded, its maximum capacity to offer sustaining output to the living things in the ecosystem is destabilized, which results in the fatal effects of harm to these living things. However, the problem with such environmental degradation is rooted to human beings influence where man in the sole contributor to this problem. Through his daily activities in exploitation of the resources in the environment for his survival, man has continued to degrade the environment. (Wade, 2003) However, with the inset of the problem arising from this problem, man has embarked on the philosophy of ‘going green to save the environment’. This aspect entails the application of various attempts that brings one to being friendly to the environment as well saving money income in his operations. This has a double remedy the ones life, where one saves the environment using certain tools which are also economical in terms of money expenditure. (Beretz, 1999) Environmentalists and human activists have argued that man can only undertake to save the environment in an economical way through the various daily interactions with the environment at various levels. Such levels leading to going green to save the environment, would be captured at the people homestead, workplaces, use of recycling campaigns economy and optimality in peoples daily automobile system and proper concern on material and equipment storage. In such, various areas have been developed by the seventh generation in the realization of the roles that individuals can play at their personal level to save the environment in the cheapest means hence saving their income. The seventh generation is a group of human activists who have joined together to fight for the value of a clean environment. Their campaign is safety geared towards initiating environmental protection at the personal level. (www. seventhgen. com/making_difference/newsletter_article. php? article=404&issue=46) However, in understanding the concept, movers of this philosophy have to capture the diversity in the understanding of the term environment. Broadly, environment captures various sets of variable which will include pollution, demographic control, protection of the ozone layer, use of recycling to prevent pollution, use of environmental conservation methods, and aspects of global warming and endangering of some animal and plants kingdom. Perhaps, the greatest contribution has been by the government, international environmental laws on environment and other big organization of both national and international scales on environmental conservations. However, the contribution of these groups has perhaps been minimal, too costly and not optimal to addressing the issue. Research has showed that, despite the high campaign on environmental protection the problem continues to be a threat to the plant and animal ecosystem. With this challenge, the developers of the seventh generation movement work to remedy this problem through personalizing saving of the environment. The concept will basically involve the application of various conservation measures by the individual person which would be less involving in terms of time resources, effect to the external population and above all saving money. To an individual person, he will interact with various environments in his day to day live depending on different variables such as age, religion, occupation, gender, political orientation and personal social-cultural believes with the environment. In the different environments that individuals interact with, the concept of going green and save environment captures on how an individual person should relate with the immediate environment for its preservation but which would otherwise be of the most minimal cost. To the seventh generation activists’, man is involved in the use of some resources at his personal level which can be re-used once again and who’s un-optimal use leads to environmental pollution. Since such resource products are used by the individual, saving the environment would be fostered through recycling of materials. This would involve the re-use of the products for even other purposes and periods. Environmentalists argue differently on the consequences of recycling in relation to the economy as a whole. (Clay, 2001). In the broader sense of environmental conservation, recycling a product depends on the economies that may be got from such an activity. Firstly, if the product got from this activity is cheaper that that of a new product of the same nature, then recycling is an important tool as it will imply income saving. However, if the product got from the recycling is expensive than the purchase of a new commodity of equally the some nature, then recycling would be uneconomical and thus no need of doing such. To the individual level, the relevance of economies from recycling a product should guide him of whether to recycle the product or not. In one level, such an activity will only involve the particular individual. On the other hand, the activity will save him on income for purchase of other products. Sufficiently, the going green and save environment philosophy is captured at this point. Recycling will involve various resources products such as energy wear materials, use of recyclable products, keeping the air clean upon other activities for collecting rain water for household use and recycling plastic components such as bags that are not easy biodegradable. (Wagner, 2005) Through use of various household product recycling activities, an individual can save his income above saving the environment. At the homestead, individuals should recycle plastic bags, through using them time and again. Either, the use of easily biodegradable plastic containers and products for packing household waste is a measure. For ones physical outwear, clothe recycling is still a measure in which a person can wash a piece of cloth material for many times and still keep some few of them for his use. Some articles like paper towels as well as napkins should be made of recyclable paper material. In the physical decoration of the homestead with paint, brands of paints manufactured from some organic compounds which would be volatile and cheap as well having a lesser effect on environmental degradation should be used. At the personal level, cleaning compounds such as soaps and detergents have been a chief source of environment. ( Sivils, 2003). However, remedy to this would be personal manufacturing of his household cleaning products which can be done from various simple components which are cheaper and a highly environmental friendly. Other economies would be safety to the kids, the old people or pets who would be chemical sensitive hence affected by chemical cleaning materials. After a research carried recently rain water offers a fabulous health conditions to the individual. Rain water is normally healthier with fewer chemicals and therefore better for use by an individual. The opportunity cost of rain water is other sources which contains chemical compounds harmful to man. Either, such sources are normally costly and therefore uneconomical. For one to save income and be environmental friendly therefore, he should strategize to possibly have a collection of rain water. Such a method is cheaper and also safeguards the person against any health problem that may arise from use of treated water or water with various chemicals. An environmental friendly and cheap method can be on the deposition of individual food and organic leftovers, rather than trashing them to the dumping areas. In most the cities, environmental pollution has been as a result of food leftovers substances that are dumped in the dumping site by individuals. (Domoto, 1999) Intensity of such leftovers is environmentally unfriendly whose long run cost is perhaps too high both to the individual, community and the government. By using compost pits for your leftovers, it can alternatively be used as a source of organic manure for your field. Indeed, this method is cheap and ensures a high saving to the environment. ( www. seventhgen. com/making_difference/newsletter_article. php? article=404&issue=46) By and large, an environmentally friendly homestead is a key factor in concern to going green to save environment. The homestead is the living area of the individual. Therefore, it forms an environment which the individual person should work towards its upkeep. Broadly, diversified methods can be used to improve and maintain a good homestead environment at a cheap cost which is highly cost saving. Diversity in such household’s environment concerning issues varies from energy saving techniques and use of proper methods to conserve waste for household use. In various, studies household activities have been voted as a big contributor towards environmental pollution. Above this problem, such household activities are normally highly costing. Various household activities have led to external environment pollution which is harmful to the immediate individual in the application as well as the neighborhood as a whole. Perhaps the greatest household environmental pollutant is the energy system and activities used in the households. Various energy inputs such as cooking energy, lighting, water heating and laundry appliances have been a chief source of pollution. To avoid this, individual should use environmental friendly energy conservation methods that are also cheap. Some electrical systems and appliances are normally cheap and have less environmental pollution. Example, persons should aim to use fluorescent bulbs that are energy efficient. Home selection of such should vary with shapes, color hue match and room lighting. (Wagner, 2005) Many of these choices have been voted to use a scaled down amount of energy than the other versions. Other varied energy appliances in the homestead can highly help to save the environment above reducing costs of their use. The use of energy star appliances, reducing the homestead utility bill, use of wall warts which are adoptions used for drawing energy from homesteads walls and the use of other dormant appliances which do not use energy when off can highly help to save energy. Active home appliances should be left to home machinery which could only loose its memory when switched off. Household should use energy audit system to control the saving attributes at the homestead which help to save the individual income and the environment as a whole. Contributors of the seventh generation usually argue on the impact of energy as a major source of environmental pollution. Improper use of energy at home can be a chief source of high income expenditures and an environmental pollutant. At all levels, the going green to save environment at the homestead level will call for water saving measures. This will involve on the general methods in use of water at home and the water heating methods which should be through the use of solar heaters rather that electricity. In all such activities the individual incomes is saved as well as the environment. (Wade, 2003) As a whole, personal use of automobiles has been a detriment to environmental pollution. In big cities of the world’s most developed urban areas, exhaustion of fumes, extravagance consumptions of fuels and vehicle jams have highly contributed to environmental pollution. To the individual person, the going green and save environments involves use of car and gas saving instruments that calls for less pollution and lower transport cost. To the individual going green on cars involves economical car application tools which may not imply direct use of transports. Such measures may include public transport use, operating work at home, probably renting of a car, economical driving and the use of environmental friendly fuels in your cars. Such aspects by an individual works toward achieving the going green in conservation of environment as well as saving income. A persons equipment purchases are taken for storage at the stores. To the individual, the storage system of his purchases may highly lead to environmental pollution. The store system should involve methods that help to reduce pollution. Stores packaging, volume of purchases, conditions at the stores should be environmental friendly at a cheap source. (Clay, 2001) The dimension of going green to save the environment tries to capture the possible ways in which an individual at his personal level can work towards minimizing environmental pollution with the cost aspect being minimal. It seeks to draw environmental protections activities and campaigns have been moved from the government or other big organization and bringing it close to the individual level. This has been done after a close realization on the importance of the role played by individual in protecting the environment on economical base rather than use of the broader institutions at higher expenses. Reference: Beretz, C. (1999) Saving the Farm: Forum for Applied Researched Public Policy Vol. 14 Clay, R. (2001) Saving the Earth from Space: Environmental Health Perspectives Vol. 109. Domoto, A. (1999) Saving the Environment Women at the Wheel: UN Chronicle Vol. 36. Seventh Generation (September 2007). The non-Toxic Times News letter. www. seventhgen. com/making_difference/newsletter_article. php? article=404&issue=46 Retrieved on September 29th 2003 Sivils, M. (2003) Rosendale Steven Ed. The Greening of Literary Scholarship: Literature, Theory an the Environment: Studies in American Fiction Vol. 31 Wade, M. (2003) Saving the Planet: Report Debunks Myth That African Americans Don’t Care about the Environment Black Enterprise Vol. 34 Wagner, C. (2005) Saving the Environment Saves Human Lives: Environmental protection Programs Could Reduce Impacts of Future Disasters: The Futurists, Vol. 39

Sunday, January 5, 2020

Overview of Ichthyosaurs The Fish Lizards

Theres an important concept in biology known as convergent evolution: animals that occupy similar evolutionary niches tend to adopt roughly similar forms. Ichthyosaurs (pronounced ICK-thee-oh-sores) are an excellent example: starting about 200 million years ago, these marine reptiles evolved body plans (and behavioral patterns) strikingly similar to those of the modern dolphins and bluefin tuna that populate the worlds oceans today. Ichthyosaurs (Greek for fish lizards) were similar to dolphins in another, perhaps even more telling way. Its believed that these undersea predators evolved from a population of archosaurs (the family of terrestrial reptiles that preceded the dinosaurs) that ventured back into the water during the early Triassic period. Analogously, dolphins and whales can trace their descent to ancient, four-legged prehistoric mammals (like Pakicetus) that gradually evolved in an aquatic direction. The First Ichthyosaurs Anatomically speaking, its relatively easy to distinguish the early ichthyosaurs of the Mesozoic Era from more advanced genera. The ichthyosaurs of the middle to late Triassic period, such as Grippia, Utatsusaurus, and Cymbospondylus, tended to lack dorsal (back) fins and the streamlined, hydrodynamic body shapes of later members of the breed. (Some paleontologists doubt that these reptiles were true ichthyosaurs at all, and hedge their bets by calling them proto-ichthyosaurs or ichthyopterygians.) Most early ichthyosaurs were fairly small, but there were exceptions: the gigantic Shonisaurus, the state fossil of Nevada, may have attained lengths of 60 or 70 feet! Although the exact evolutionary relationships are far from certain, theres some evidence that the appropriately named Mixosaurus may have been a transitional form between early and later ichthyosaurs. As reflected by its name (Greek for mixed lizard), this marine reptile combined some primitive features of early ichthyosaurs—a downward-pointing, relatively inflexible tail, and short flippers—with the sleeker shape and (presumably) faster swimming style of their later descendants. Also, unlike the case for most ichthyosaurs, fossils of Mixosaurus have been discovered all over the world, a clue that this marine reptile must have been especially well-adapted to its environment. Trends in Ichthyosaur Evolution The early to middle Jurassic period (about 200 to 175 million years ago) was the golden age of ichthyosaurs, witnessing important genera like Ichthyosaurus, which is represented today by hundreds of fossils, as well as the closely related Stenopterygius. Besides their streamlined shapes, these marine reptiles were distinguished by their solid ear bones (which conveyed subtle vibrations in the water created by the movement of prey) and large eyes (the eyeballs of one genus, Ophthalmosaurus, were four inches wide). By the end of the Jurassic period, most ichthyosaurs had gone extinct—though one genus, Platypterygius, survived into the early Cretaceous period, possibly because it had evolved the ability to feed omnivorously (one fossil specimen of this ichthyosaur harbors the remains of birds and baby turtles). Why did the ichthyosaurs vanish from the worlds oceans? The answer may lie in the evolution of speedier prehistoric fish (which were able to avoid being eaten), as well as better-adapted marine reptiles like plesiosaurs and mosasaurs. However, a recent discovery may throw a monkey wrench into accepted theories about ichthyosaur evolution. Malawania plied the oceans of central Asia during the early Cretaceous period, and it retained the primitive, dolphin-like body plan of genera that lived tens of millions of years before. Clearly, if Malawania could prosper with such a basal anatomy, not all ichthyosaurs were out-competed by other marine reptiles, and well have to adduce other reasons for their disappearance. Lifestyles and Behavior Despite the resemblance of some species to dolphins or bluefin tuna, its important to remember that ichthyosaurs were reptiles, and not mammals or fish. All of these animals did, however, share a similar set of adaptations to their marine environment. Like dolphins, most ichthyosaurs are believed to have given birth to live young, rather than laying eggs like contemporary land-bound reptiles. (How do we know this? The specimens of some ichthyosaurs, like Temnodontosaurus, were fossilized in the act of giving birth.) Finally, for all their fish-like characteristics, ichthyosaurs possessed lungs, not gills--and therefore had to surface on a regular basis for gulps of air. Its easy to imagine schools of, say, Excalibosaurus frolicking above the Jurassic waves, perhaps sparring with one another with their swordfish-like snouts (an adaptation evolved by some ichthyosaurs to spear any unfortunate fish in their path).