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101 Intro to Rhetoric Professor Ramos Blog

101 Intro to Rhetoric Reflection Think back on the process of writing the report. Write a short note about what you learned from the process. What do you like about the essay? What are the strengths and weaknesses? Where did you struggle? Four Defining Traits of a Game Goal. The outcome that the players will work to achieve. It focuses attention and gives you a sense of purpose. Rules. Limitations on how to achieve the goal. It will unleash creativity and foster strategic thinking. Feedback System. Tells players how close they are to achieving their goal. Provides motivation to keep playing. Voluntary Participation. Requires that you knowingly accept the goal, rules, and the feedback. You have the freedom to enter and leave the game at will. With these four ideas in mind, how can we apply this to college? Intro to Arguments Language is an art form. Here is the  Wikipedia definition of Rhetoric. Rhetoric  is the art of discourse, wherein a writer or speaker strives to inform, persuade or motivate particular audiences in specific situations. Aristotle’s  definition  of rhetoric â€Å"The faculty of observing, in any given case, the  available means of persuasionâ€Å" Ethos: Appeals to Ethics, Credibility or Character. Ethics, ethical, trustworthiness or reputation, style/tone. The credibility of the speaker persuades. Pathos: Appeals to Emotion. Emotional or imaginative impact, stories, values. Uses emotional response to persuade an audience. Logos: Appeals to logic. Persuade by reason and evidence. Solution Argument A solution argument is a research argument that is arguing for a solution to a problem. For example, instead of arguing that abortion is bad, we would argue for solutions to abortion. How can we help people have less abortions? This does some good in the world. Solution Argument Prompt 101 Intro to Rhetoric Reflection Due Today The Report essays are due. Reflection Think back on the process of writing the report essay. Write a short note about what you learned from the process. What do you like about the essay? What are the strengths and weaknesses? Where did you struggle? What is an Argument? Contradiction? Claims, reasons, and evidence. Intro to Arguments/Rhetoric Language is an art form. Here is the  Wikipedia definition of Rhetoric. Rhetoric  is the art of discourse, wherein a writer or speaker strives to inform, persuade or motivate particular audiences in specific situations. Aristotle’s  definition  of rhetoric â€Å"The faculty of observing, in any given case, the  available means of persuasionâ€Å" Ethos: Appeals to Ethics, Credibility or Character. Ethics, ethical, trustworthiness or reputation, style/tone. The credibility of the speaker persuades. Pathos: Appeals to Emotion. Emotional or imaginative impact, stories, values. Uses emotional response to persuade an audience. Logos: Appeals to logic. Persuade by reason and evidence. Michelle Obama Speech What argument is she making? How does she build Ethos? How does she use pathos? How does she use logos?

LSD Psychotherapy essays

LSD Psychotherapy essays The United States Drug Enforcement Agency, the DEA, classifies LSD as Schedule I controlled substance. Schedule I controlled substances are considered the most dangerous drugs in the known pharmacopeia. LSD shares its Schedule I classification with harmful substances like heroin and MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy. Drugs classified as Schedule I substances have no known or no established medical uses but have a high potential for abuse and harm. Therefore, in the interests of public safety the Drug Enforcement Agency strictly prohibits the manufacture and distribution of LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide-25). The drug was first synthesized in 1938 and was classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the late 1960s. In 1938 a Swiss chemist named Albert Hoffman synthesized over two dozen compounds from ergot, a fungus that grows on rye grass. Hoffman developed ergot-derived alkaloid molecules for therapeutic purposes working for the Sandoz Corporation pharmaceutical laboratory. Grof notes that the ergot alkaloids were studies as drugs that can induce uterine contractions, stop gynecological bleeding, and relieve migraine headache. The 25th in a string of ergot alkaloids was what is commonly known now as LSD. Hoffman accidentally came into contact with the substance. The chemist experienced a profound transformation to his perceptual, cognitive, and emotional states and recorded his experiences in a journal. Grof cites Hoffman, who was seized by a peculiar restlessness, like a a kind of drunkenness... which was characterized by extreme activity of the imagination. The following day Hoffman deliberately ingested 250 micrograms of the same substance in an experimental fashion and experienced a far more intense hallucinatory experience (Grof). Hoffmans phantasmagoric experiences with LSD have been echoed by countless of recreational drug users who have viewed the hallucinogen as anything fro...

Simple Rules for Rounding Numbers Correctly

Simple Rules for Rounding Numbers Correctly Rounding numbers is important to preserve significant figures in calculations and to record long numbers. In everyday life, rounding is useful in calculating a tip at a restaurant and dividing the bill among diners. or in estimating the amount of cash required for a trip to the grocery store. When rounding whole numbers there are two rules to remember: First, you must understand the term rounding digit. When asked to round to the closest 10, your ​rounding digit is the second number from the right, or 10s place, when working with whole numbers. When asked to round to the nearest hundred, the third place from the right is the rounding digit or 100s place. Rules for Rounding Whole Numbers Determine what your rounding digit is and look to the right side of it. If the digit is 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4, do not change the rounding digit. All digits that are on the right-hand side of the requested rounding digit will become 0.If the digit is 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9, your rounding digit rounds up by one number. All digits that are on the right-hand side of the requested rounding digit will become 0. Rounding Rules for Decimal Numbers Determine what your rounding digit is and look to the right side of it. If that digit is 4, 3, 2, or 1, simply drop all digits to the right of it.If that digit is 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 add one to the rounding digit and drop all digits to the right of it. Some teachers prefer another method, which provides more accuracy and is sometimes referred to as the Bankers Rule. When the first digit dropped is 5 and there are no digits following or the digits following are zeros, make the preceding digit even (i.e., round off to the nearest even digit). Following this rule, 2.315 and 2.325 both round to 2.32- instead of 2.325 rounding up to 2.33- when rounded off to the nearest 100th. The rationale for the third rule is that approximately half of the time the number will be rounded up and the other half of the time it will be rounded down. Examples of How to Round Numbers 765.3682 becomes: 1,000 when asked to round to the nearest 1,000800 when asked to round to the nearest 100770 when asked to round to the nearest 10765 when asked to round to the nearest one (1)765.4 when asked to round to the nearest 10th765.37 when asked to round to the nearest 100th765.368 when asked to round to the nearest (1,000th) Rounding comes in handy when you are about to leave a tip at a restaurant. Lets say your bill is $48.95. One rule of thumb is to round to $50 and leave a 15 percent tip. To quickly figure out the tip, say that $5 is 10 percent, and to reach 15 percent you need to add half of that, which is $2.50, bringing the tip to $7.50. If you want to round up again, leave $8- if the service was good, that is.

Robert Flaherty & American Documentary (1920's) Essay

Robert Flaherty & American Documentary (1920's) - Essay Example The book written in 1922 has been produced as a video but its production faces various controversies that are worth noting (Barnouw). According to the Inuit, spears were used in hunting during those times before the influence of the European that led to hunting using guns (Stern). The controversy is that the use of the gun is a European influence. Another controversy is the staging of the players in the film especially the two females which include Nyla and Cunayou his wife and daughter respectively. The actors are not his real wife and child respectively. Flaherty as a filmmaker enjoyed both good and rough moments in his life. he was forced to travel all over the US and Europe and other countries while trying to make his films. He also suffered in terms of proper skill in film production that has led to great critics on his Nanook film. He was ones fired for production of long films. However, his struggle has met several success and to date he is regarded as one of the best filmmakers in the history of US. Amongst some of his works that caught the attention of the Us government is his documentary on US agriculture. Flaherty highlighted the rural life of American, the process of soil erosion, competition between natives and immigrants such as Philippines in terms of agriculture, and rural urban migration not forgetting unemployment and great competition in the agricultural sector in the US. The film industry respects the works of Flaherty and regards him as the pioneer of documentary filming. Flaherty engaged mostly in fiction and non-fiction filming basing most of his stories from books. Some of his works contained poetry and they include Flaherty Island, Belcher Island, and Hudson Bay. After his death, Flaherty is remembered in an international annual event usually held in New York. However, this legacy is argued to be having no effect on recent generations due to the

Recent increase in suicide among young men in United Kingdom Research Paper

Recent increase in suicide among young men in United Kingdom - Research Paper Example A research work is made up of various processes that are based on of different systemic questions, on the chosen theme, which ultimately leads the researcher to arrive to an in-depth knowledge on that particular issue. In my essay, the problem is related to the topic of suicide committed by the young male population seen in England during the modern times. This issue is seen as an important part relevant to the modern society, where despite the availability of almost all luxuries to assuage one’s physical needs, young people of the age group of 15-35 years are ending their lives. Many researches in this line have shown that various psychological and socioeconomic factors are responsible for these young people to cut short their lives. In regards to fully comprehending the exact nature of this problem and understanding the reasons behind it, I have based my research work on the study of various data and a range of information obtained from various scholarly books, academic arti cles and journals, and the Internet. My article will conduct an in-depth study of various published articles from the newspapers, organizations associated with suicide preventing organisations based in UK, government archive files and statistical data from The UK Statute Law Database, Office for National Statistics, and WHO, and will also study the various psychological and socio-economic factors pertinent to this issue of youth suicide in UK; so as to fully comprehend the nature and scope of this public health problem.

Discussing the loss of the role of main exporter by USA Essay

Discussing the loss of the role of main exporter by USA - Essay Example This is the reason why, at present, companies usually segment their products to target the various consumers and fit what their wants and needs are. Consumer characteristics have a direct bearing on the choice and management of a marketing channel. Determining which channel is most appropriate is based on answers to fundamental questions such as: Who are potential customers Where do they buy When do they buy How do they buy What do they buy These answers also indicate the type of intermediary best suited to reaching target buyers. This is why knowledge of consumer characteristics plays an extremely important role in many marketing applications, such as defining the market for a product or deciding on the appropriate techniques in marketing. In contrast to consumer purchasing, business purchasing is generally based more on economic reasons than on emotional ones. Among the many factors business purchasers consider when choosing a supplier are the quality-price ratio, delivery reliability, reputation of the supplier, information and market services provided by the supplier, and previous experience with the supplier. The Internet has revolutionized the purchasing behaviours of consumers because built deeper, more personalized relationships with customers because they can purchase anything anytime inside the convenience of their own homes. Although much is still needed to be learned about online consumer purchase behavior, research has documented the most frequently purchased products and services bought online have been mostly reservations for plane tickets, cars and hotels. These products fall in the category of items for which product information is an important part of the purchase decision, but prepurchase trial is not necessarily critical. Also, items such as computers, computer accessories, and consumer electronics sold by Dell.com fall into this category. So do books, which accounts for the sales growth of Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble (www.barnesandnoble.com ) (Kerin, 2003). Internet consumers differ from traditional offline consumers in their approaches to buying and in their responses to marketing. The exchange process via the Internet has become more customer initiated and customer controlled. People who use the Internet place greater value on information and tend to respond negatively to messages aimed only at selling. Traditional marketing targets a somewhat passive audience. For example, buyers would prefer to buy paints offline because they want to see the actual product and test it themselves. However, more and more companies are now creating a marketing website, instead of a purchasing site. These sites engage consumers in an interaction that will move them closer to a direct purchase or other marketing outcome. Such sites might include a catalog, shopping tips, and promotional features such as coupons, sales events, or contests. For example, visitors to Nokia.com can search through dozens of categories of Nokia products, review detailed features and specifications lists for specific items, read expert product reviews, and check out the latest hot deals. They can place an order for the desired products

Emergent Technologies in Commercial Construction Essay

Emergent Technologies in Commercial Construction - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that the need has arisen for solving urgent environmental problems that have been caused partially by an anthropogenic factor. The consequences of the greenhouse effects (such as gas emissions), the forthcoming and unavoidable insufficient fuel supply, and other related topics are causing intensifying energy concerns among the global community. The increasing use of renewable fuels has become an inevitable practice when facing the global energy crisis. Oil depletion makes oil extraction more difficult and expensive, which has forced many countries to search for alternative fuel sources and energy conservation strategies. Due to these threats, sustainability planning has become the primary agenda for the states who are facing an energy crisis and environmental problems caused by destructive human activity. Since sustainability increases the chances to survive in the context of a complex and changing environment, timely planning of activities to enhance alternative energy usage seems the most reasonable. This paper will present a framework to help organizations design sustainability plans, aided by discussion and analysis of innovative technologies and construction in real-life settings. The revelation of commercial construction and building technology innovations of the near future will also be discussed. There is a pronounced need to expand knowledge on commercial construction and energy, and on their influences on sourcing, building material use, construction processes, and interior/exterior design. In addition, the positive changes in the global construction patterns that can create a reliable and sustainable living environment will be predicted. The need for energy conservation and analysis of biomimicry advantages will be considered herein. The discussion of future energy delivery models will provide a solid basis for the analysis of innovative construction technologies. The essence of smart interface technologies will be revealed as this phenomenon promises future benefits for the sustainable construction and engineering fields. Information about future construction techniques and material implications will also be covered. Energy Conservation and the Benefits of Biomimicry Throughout the centuries, people have been producing energy from natural resources like fossil fuels, such as coal, natural gas, and oil, which are nonrenewable. Unfortunately, these natural resources take millions of years to form and humanity has not yet discovered any methods to accelerate this process. Moreover, energy production is a costly process that causes enormous time and financial losses for individuals and organizations (Ollhoff, 2010). In this context, the necessity for energy conservation is growing at an alarming rate. The current energy crisis is accompanied by increasing prices for energy supplies, shortages of fossil fuels and other natural resources, and a reduction of the number of power stations in some countries. It is obvious that in facing the current energy crisis, people are searching for effective sustainable practices to solve these new problems; however, finding them implies initial clarity about the intricacies of the energy crisis, its causes, manifestations, and possible consequences. To respond to the energy crisis, research and development programs, along with the corresponding agencies, are focusing on biomimicry as the method to solve specific problems by following the examples of certain processes in nature. Biomimicry is welcomed in numerous energy conservation programs (Brebbia & Carpi, 2010). However, one needs to deepen into the essence of all essential aspects of energy conservation in order to understand why biomimicry occupies a significant place in contemporary innovative construction technologies. Ollhoff (2010) noted that the problem of energy conserv

Case analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Case analysis - Assignment Example Hence a negative effect could be witnessed. "Where there is a will, there is a way". Macy's can definitely recover from this downward trend. It is the effective management practices that play a vital role. A firm's performance solely depends on the strategies followed by the management. Nothing is permanent in the world except the word itself. Failures are the stepping stones for success. They are cyclic process. If a firm is not moving well today then it does not mean that till the end the same trend will continue. Innovations and initiatives will make a difference. So, planned first order and second order changes should be made. Hence the downward spiral for the departmental stores will not continue. 5. STEPS TO INCREASE SALES AND CUSTOMER TRAFFIC Higher the customer satisfaction, greater is the profit. Some of the steps include: Perform market research through the firm's market intelligence team to know about the customer's attitude, tastes and preferences. Find out the prospects and set the store there. Get frequent feedback from the customers. Develop a good rapport with the employees and keep them motivated and satisfied. Deliver good quality products, services and offers to customers. Today the people are quality conscious and not cost conscious. Provide training to the employees. Develop a standard mission and vision for the organization. Plan the strategies perfectly and convey it clearly to the employees. Make changes only if is really needed and seek the aid of the change agent. Make planned changes and not unplanned changes. Make both first and second order changes carefully. Make it only if there is a real need for it. Adopt strong marketing techniques. If the customers are satisfied then word of mouth would be effective. Maintain a good reserves and surplus level. Adopt either focus or differentiation strategy. Develop a strong competitive advantage. References http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/07/business/07macys.htmlscp=1&sq=macy%27s&st=nyt http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2004168802_macys07.html http://www.politicalgateway.com/news/read/129108 http://www.upi.com/NewsTrack/Business/2008/02/06/macys_may_consolidate_office_staff/5199/

The Century’s Most Groundbreaking Advertising And How It Changed Us All James B. Twitchell Essay Example for Free

The Century’s Most Groundbreaking Advertising And How It Changed Us All James B. Twitchell Essay Just like all the ads around us, it seems as if we are beat over the head with the idea that success comes from distinction. Time and time again, we all hear this notion that if you want to â€Å"break though† the clutter, you have to be different. It’s easier said than done with billions of ads around us. So, where did this all start? We have learned about the days when people would paint their street signs in hopes to be the best barber shop in town. Well of course, with little competition meant great business. Unfortunately, we have grown to live in a world full of competition, for jobs, more money, better education, etc. Now take a step back, the people behind selling you all these things are competing for your attention too. Who is the going to sell you the best education, the best food, where is the best place to get a great job? It’s an all around circle of who can get whose attention. In light of all this information we deal with day in and day out, James B. Twitchell has taken us back to the roots of where our advertising comes from. There were groundbreaking advertisements that opened the door to evolution and change. In his book, â€Å"20 Ads that Shook the World†, we are taken through this history and story of our past. Everyone thinks advertising is just the cousin to the creepy used car’s salesman, but there is a rich culture behind what we do that no one knows about! It’s not just people sitting in conference room thinking about how to get your money, ok, well maybe it is, but it’s not what society makes it out to be. Their ignorance comes from a lack of education. Twitchell’s 20 ads are a plethora of information and as he retells the deep history rooted back to the â€Å"good old days†, he tells this story in hopes of enlightening those with a preconceived notion. Twitchell lays the groundwork for his book through a very interesting introduction chapter. From topics of commercial speech to commercialism, he discusses the cultural phenomenon that makes up ads. He makes it clear from this point on that advertising is not something that leads individuals to buying things. Advertisings its society’s way oh â€Å"blaming† the adman for their incessant purchasing habits. â€Å"Once we are fed and sheltered, our needs are and have always been cultural, not natural†, Twithcell claims, and this basis for writing the book is ingenious. Advertising professions might pick this book up in their spare time for a fun read, but I think he has targeted this novel for those who don’t know. Rightfully so, it is a great book for the avid advertiser in college. Education is key; he makes a point to discuss how you can ask any doctor or lawyer about their history. â€Å"Why do they have institutional memories while admen don’t? Twitchell’s twenty ads address the problem of an incomplete education, so the book serves a great audience. To us (advertisers) ads are an art form, but to the rest of the world it’s all something they glance over for thirty seconds or so and forget down the road. He makes the point to say that we don’t have a story that is unforgettable. We too can be doctors and English professors who can say we have a story to study not â€Å"trash†. To every story there is another story the beginning. If we can appreciate the history behind what we do, society too can learn what is about ads that makes them what they are today. Not all of them of course, but the ones worthy of being considered â€Å"the greatest art form of the twentieth century† (Marshall McLuhan) With this idea that Twitchell is telling a story he has laid the book out into 20 chapters, suitably each chapter recounts the background of each advertisement. The book is a composition of shorts stories that in the end retell the whole idea of what the groundwork for today’s ideas are based off of. His method of developing the story is not really a narration but more of an exposition because he dives into the meaning of each advertisement. His analysis not only recounts the historical background for which the ad was written. However, because the book is also tailored to an â€Å"uneducated audience†, one might consider his thoughts to be more of an argument in some cases. If he wrote the book with the intention of changing the idea of what advertising really is to someone, it might help to say that his method of development can be classified to specific target audiences (both and argument, but more of an exposition). Without a doubt in an advertiser’s mind, Twitchell’s basis and thesis can’t stand to be argued with. Advertiser’s can all agree with the fact that we â€Å"clutter† the world with information, and we all know what it is to put together a great ad. It takes a lot of hard work and you can’t really say there is a formula to it, but we can surely agree on the fact that someone back in the day came up with something that sparked the way we create things today. The greatest example of the book is chapter 13, The Hathaway Man: David Ogilvy and the Branding of Branding. Back in the 1950’s Ogivly came up with this man that everyone wanted to be and every woman wanted to be with. These ads for the Hathaway Shirt Company ran from 1951 to 1990, and for 39 years one man was successful at branding a plain white dress shirt. People wanted this shirt because the loved the man who wore it. Think about today, we want things because of the stigma behind who makes it or who wears it. â€Å"The modern customer of prestige brands wants the mark for all to see†, Hathaway Shirts opened the door for the brand clustered society of today’s logo driven enterprise. Twitchell’s examples, from Marlboro and Listerine mouth wash, to the story of Coke and Christmas, all 20 ads are dissected, bit by bit, to really explain to the reader what is about each ad that started the revolution. Now, who can argue with that?

Effect of Stem Cell Treatment on Blood Cancer Patients

Effect of Stem Cell Treatment on Blood Cancer Patients Stephen T. Smith II Abstract Stem cell transplantation, which most of the time is alluded to as peripheral blood, bone marrow, and umbilical cord transplant, is a system that replaces undesirable blood-shaping cells with solid normal cells. Stem cell transplantation permits specialists to give high substantial measurements of chemotherapy or radiation treatment to build the possibility of disposing of blood cancer growth in the marrow and after that reestablishing ordinary cell generation.   As researchers continue to improve with stem cell transplantation, the possibility for more patients to receive this treatment for Leukemia lymphoma, myeloma and Hodgkins disease could increases. In spite of the fact that stem cell transplants can help many patients, notwithstanding giving a few people a possibility for a cure, the choice to have a transplant isnt simple. Noteworthy worthy foundational concerns about stem cell treatment are that by introducing stem cells into an infected body may cause more harm, uncontrolled development, worsen the disease or damage injuries as opposed to treating them.   The transplants have been utilized to cure a large number of individuals with generally savage diseases. Still, the conceivable dangers and confusions can debilitate life, as well. The normal dangers and advantages must be weighed painstakingly before considering a transplant.   The possible risks and complications can be life threatening. Introduction Blood or bone marrow cancer in known as leukemia. There are diverse sorts of leukemia, however, they all begin when something turns out badly with blood-developing cells in bone marrow, the springy tissue inside bones. In leukemia, a portion of the cells are made when these blood-developing cells partition are irregular and they continue isolating wildly, swarming out typical blood and invulnerable cells we have to survive.   Leukemia is normally found in youngsters; more often than it is in grown-ups. Without treatment, leukemia can be deadly. The uplifting news is that doctors have found ways to treat leukemia through stem cells transplants. There are three fundamental types of blood cells, white, red, and platelets, which are created by stem cells. Our bodies require a combination of all three blood cells to keep us alive, for the cells to carry out their employments, every living individual needs a proper balance of each cell in their blood. There are three different types of stem cell transplants, the most well-known type of stem cell transplant is peripheral blood, which is the blood that streams through every living individuals arteries and veins. Bone marrow typically discharges a small amount of peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) into the circulation system. To get enough peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) for a transplant, the contributor takes a white cell development, for example, granulocyte-state fortifying variable (G-CSF) medication, which builds the number of stem cells by coaxing them out of the marrow and into the blood system. At the point when a patients own particular foundational stems cells are utilized, both granulocyte-state fortifying (G-CSF) and the chemotherapy, which are used to treat cancer usually increase peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs). In patients who have myeloma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the medication plerixafor (Mozobil) can be utilized to assemble their own foundational stem cells. Studies and Treatment Findings Studies have shown that patients with leukemia who have gone through a stem cell transplants using the umbilical cord blood infants are typically helpless against life-threating diseases for no less than a month as their immune system recovers. Umbilical cord blood transplants have been performed in many patients with leukemia and other blood tumors to help the body make fresh recruit cells after its own particular cells, in the body, which have been wrecked by cancer treatment and disease.   The reason why stem cell cord blood transplant are having so much success is because they do not have to be a perfect matched with a patient, unlike bone marrow transplants.   Even though the stem cell cord blood is very versatile and doesnt always need a perfect match only one of three patient and 95% of non-whites who could possibly benefit from a transplant never locate an appropriate match.   Scientists are searching for an approach to expand and speed up the production of white blood cells from the stem cell cord blood with an end goal to fight infections. In any case, stem cell cord blood of newborns contains just around one-tenth of the undeveloped cells found in bone marrow, and this is the reason cord blood transplants, takes such a great amount of time longer to engraft. The reason why stem cell cord blood transplant are having so much success is because they do not have to be a perfect matched with a patient, unlike bone marrow transplants.   Even though the stem cell cord blood is very versatile and doesnt always need a perfect match only one of three patient and 95% of non-whites who could possibly benefit from a transplant never locate an appropriate match. A European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation conducted a study of 513 patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML), and treated them with allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) the two are usually reported together.   The results were complete remission of the disease in 122 patients, 344 did not have any remission, and 47 the results were unknown. The study results determined that allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) should continue to be a curative treatment option for patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia CMML and should be performed preferably early after diagnosis or after establishing the best possible remission status. An individual case study about a 52-yearà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Ëœold woman with erythematous skin nodules on her trunk, arms, face, also with bilateral pleural effusion and hepatosplenomegaly who was treated at a Turkish hospital was reported in October 2012. Doctors found Tà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Ëœcell acute lymphoblastic leukemia were consistent with precursors in her skin and bone marrow from the biopsy. The woman was started on induction chemotherapy, and remission was achieved. However, in December of 2013 the womans bone marrow examination was clean, but skin lesions started to reappeared.   In January of 2014 the disease reappeared, so doctors started radiation treatment.   The radiation treatment caused the skin lesions progress, but relapse was evident in the bone marrow. In March of 2014 a chemotherapy regimen was started in response to the continued progression of the nodular skin lesions. The chemo treatment was unsuccessful, so May of 2014 the patient was treated with a highà ¢Ã¢ ‚ ¬Ã¢â‚¬Ëœdose of cytosine arabinoside.   The doctors finally decided to try allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, but a donor match could not be identified.  Ã‚   The woman was sent to Istanbul were she underwent un-manipulated peripheral blood stem cell transplant.   The transplant was preform without any extreme difficulties.   The womans body reacted positively to the stem cell treatment the leukemia stay in remission and the nodular skin lesions start to relapse. Conclusion Stem cell research has proven to have success for treatment in leukemia patients, but researcher still have their challenges with stem cells and controlling them, so that they will form the desired type of tissue without causing cancer.  Ã‚   Cancer patients should beware of con artist and pseudoscientific claims, there is a physician in China who runs a clinic where he injects stem cells derived from olfactory sheath cells taken from aborted fetuses into the spines of those suffering from spinal cord injury or motor nerve cell disease.   He claims that this treatment has amazing results curing his patients for their injuries.   His clinic has persuaded many desperate people from around the world, to pay a fee of $20,000 plus all related expenses.   His clinic has all the red flags of not applying basics of the scientific method.   This physician failed to conduct even the most basic observational controls in assessing his treatments. There is no hypothesis to explain his o bservations, no objective tests of function, no imaging or other anatomical or physiological testing to see what has happened to the patients during the experiment and no analyzed data of patients. Most patients accomplish a reduction (a nonappearance of signs and side effects) after starting treatment for intense myeloid leukemia (AML). Notwithstanding, a few patients have lingering leukemic cells in their marrow even after concentrated treatment. This is alluded to as unmanageable leukemia.   The treatment alternatives may incorporate medications not officially utilized amid the primary course of treatment. Foundational stem cell transplantation might be utilized when a reduction is accomplished, which may bring about a more durable remission. A few patients achieve reduction and afterward have an arrival of leukemia cells in the marrow and a lessening in typical platelets. This is called backslid leukemia. In patients who backslide, the length of the abatement, the patients age and the cytogenetic discoveries in the leukemia cells impact the way to deal with treatment. Drugs like those controlled at first, extraordinary medications or undifferentiated organism transplantation might be utilized to treat the leukemia.

The History of Apartheid in South Africa :: essays research papers

The History of Apartheid in South Africa South Africa is a country blessed with an abundance of natural resources including fertile farmlands and unique mineral resources. South African mines are world leaders in the production of diamonds and gold as well as strategic metals such as platinum. The climate is mild, reportedly resembling the San Francisco bay area weather more than anywhere in the world. South Africa was colonized by the English and Dutch in the seventeenth century. English domination of the Dutch descendents (known as Boers or Afrikaners) resulted in the Dutch establishing the new colonies of Orange Free State and Transvaal. The discovery of diamonds in these lands around 1900 resulted in an English invasion which sparked the Boer War. Following independence from England, an uneasy power-sharing between the two groups held sway until the 1940's, when the Afrikaner National Party was able to gain a strong majority. Strategists in the National Party invented apartheid as a means to cement their control over the economic and social system. Initially, aim of the apartheid was to maintain white domination while extending racial separation. Starting in the 60's, a plan of ``Grand Apartheid'' was executed, emphasizing territorial separation and police repression. With the enactment of apartheid laws in 1948, racial discrimination was institutionalized. Race laws touched every aspect of social life, including a prohibition of marriage between non-whites and whites, and the sanctioning of ``white-only'' jobs. In 1950, the Population Registration Act required that all South Africans be racially classified into one of three categories: white, black (African), or colored (of mixed decent). The coloured category included major subgroups of Indians and Asians. Classification into these categories was based on appearance, social acceptance, and descent. For example, a white person was defined as ``in appearance obviously a white person or generally accepted as a white person.'' A person could not be considered white if one of his or her parents were non-white. The determination that a person was ``obviously white'' would take into account ``his habits, education, and speech and deportment and demeanor.'' A black person would be of or accepted as a me mber of an African tribe or race, and a colored person is one that is not black or white. The Department of Home Affairs (a government bureau) was responsible for the classification of the citizenry. Non-compliance with the race laws were dealt with harshly. All blacks were required to carry ``pass books'' containing fingerprints, photo and information on access to non-black areas.

Legalizing Marijuana Essay -- social issues

Legalizing Marijuana The purpose of this paper is to discuss marijuana and compare both sides of the issue of legalizing marijuana. We have two factions fighting each other; one those who are pro marijuana and those who are anti marijuana. These two factions have been fighting on this issue on the halls of justice for years. Pro marijuana legalization groups such as the Physician's Association for AIDS Care, National Lymphoma Foundation argue that marijuana should be legalized in order to treat terminally ill patients. Among them are AIDS victims who find that marijuana stimulates their appetites so they can fight off dangerous emaciation; glaucoma sufferers who have used marijuana said it has prevented them from going blind, and cancer patients for whom it alleviates the severe nausea that is often accompanies chemotherapy and sometimes makes lifesaving treatment impossible. Due to all these lobbying groups which show substantial evidence that marijuana can be used as a prescribed drug. Also many advocates who are pro marijuana complain that morphine and cocaine are legal and are very dangerous drugs, that brings up the question why not legalize marijuana as medical drug which is proven to be less dangerous than cocaine and morphine. Lobbying groups in a San Diego, California , council committee unanimously voted to urge president Bill Clinton and congress to end federal restrictions against the use of marijuana for " legitiment medical use." City council women Ch...

Literature Review Performance Management and the Balanced Scorecard

Chapter 2 Literature Review Since the Balanced Scorecard was developed in the 1990’s by Robert Kaplan and David Norton (1992), it has gained in popularity amongst academics and practitioners. In 1990, Kaplan and Norton led a research study of a lot of companies with the purpose of exploring the new methods of performance management. The importance of the study was an increasing belief that the financial measures of performance management were not as effective as before with the development of modern business enterprise.Representatives involved in the study companies, including the researchers Kaplan and Norton, were persuaded that the reliance on financial measures of performance had an effect on their ability to create value. After deep discussions the group brainstormed on several alternatives but finally settled on the balanced scorecard, which featured performance measures, customer issues, internal business processes, employee activities, and shareholder concerns.Kaplan a nd Norton introduced the new tool as the Balanced Scorecard and summarized the concepts of the study in the first of three Harvard Business Review articles, â€Å"The Balanced Scorecard-Measures That Drive Performance†. Many organizations in both the private and public sectors have embraced the concept of the balanced scorecard. Most have implemented it in an attempt to improve performance (Chan & Ho 2000; Hoque & Jamesl Ittner & Larcker 2003). However, it appears that the term balanced scorecard is subject to different interpretations.For example, a document published by CMA Canada (1999) suggests that the term â€Å"Balanced Scorecard† maybe understood differently by different individuals/organizations. They state that many organizations believe that if a performance measurement system includes both financial and nonfinancial measures, it is a balanced scorecard, whereas Kaplan & Norton claim that a BALANCED SCORECARD is much more than just a collection of performanc e measures. Different interpretations of a BALANCED SCORECARD are evident in academic studies as well.Hoque & James (2000) determined BALANCED SCORECARD usage using a 20-item scale noting that their BALANCED SCORECARD measure might not pick up the strategic linkages of a real BALANCED SCORECARD. As a result, companies in their study may possibly have had varying levels of BALANCED SCORECARD implementation which could have affected their results, especially considering the fact that BALANCED SCORECARD usage was the dependent variable in their regression model.Chan & Ho (2000) stated in their limitations section that â€Å"†¦ the respondents may have mistaken their organization’s performance measurement system to that of a true BALANCED SCORECARD (p. 167). † It is also possible that a company’s performance measurement system has all of the attributes of a balanced scorecard but they do not consider it to be one. Clearly defining a BALANCED SCORECARD would be a 4 contribution to future research by providing a basis to determine the extent of BALANCED SCORECARD adoption by an organization. This study will attempt to do this.Although there are numerous studies on the balanced scorecard (Chan & Ho 2000; Hoque & James 2000; Lipe & Salterio 2000; Malina & Selto 2001; Lipe & Salterio 2002; Ittner & Larcker 2003; Speckbacher et al. 2003), only one study has attempted to develop a conceptual model of the scorecard and used it to examine the extent of its adoption. This was in Austrian, German and Swiss organizations (Speckbacher et al. 2003). This suggests a need for more research to examine what attributes of a Kaplan and Norton (1992, 2001, 2006) Balanced Scorecard other organizations use in their performance measurement system.This study will not attempt to explain the reasons for any differences between organizations with different levels of Balanced Scorecard adoption, it will only report them. In summary, while other studies have looked at specific aspects of the balanced scorecard, only one has looked at its structure as a whole (Speckbacher et al. 2003). Similar to Speckbacher et al. (2003), this study examines the structure of the BALANCED SCORECARD as a whole. This study is however, unique in that it addresses both the structure and use of the BALANCED SCORECARD. Kaplan & Norton (1992; 1996; 2001), the originators of the balanced corecard, emphasize that the inclusion of non-financial measures is just one aspect of the balanced scorecard, noting that there are several structural attributes that make it unique from other frameworks, such as KPI (key performance indicator) cards and stakeholder cards. Kaplan & Norton (1996, 2001) also suggest that its unique structure allows it to be used as a strategic tool to steer organizations towards sustained long-term profitability. They argue that simply including non-financial metrics in their performance measurement system is not enough for organizations to learn, improve , and grow.If Kaplan and Norton’s argument is correct, then companies with different levels of BALANCED SCORECARD adoption should see different results. This suggests a need to compare organizations that have different levels or numbers of balanced scorecard attributes to see if there are any differences. As well, academic studies may be more comparable if a clearly defined Balanced Scorecard was used. A clearly defined BALANCED SCORECARD would enable organizations and researchers to assess the level of BALANCED SCORECARD adoption which may help to explain some of the differences in results between studies.Understanding Performance Management Processes 2. 1 Defining Performance Maila (2006) stated that performance implies the action of doing things that is using things, attending to conditions, processing, communicating and achieving results. Performance is the actual work that is done to ensure that an organisation achieves its mission. In summary, performance encompasses in puts, conditions, processes elements, outputs, consequences and feedback. According to Maila (2006), the end product of performance should be measured against four elements that are: quantity, quality, cost or risk factors and time.The idea of measuring the end product is fully supported as it can be argued that a product can be in any form that is good or bad, hence the need to have it measured. Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS, 2002) states, performance shall mean the standard of performance required by BURS related to an employee's output measured in terms of quality and quantity. In addition, it shall mean the behavioural standards and competencies adopted by BURS. The OPM (2005) defined performance as actions, behaviour and/or inputs by a staff member contributing to the achievement of results.While the researcher acknowledges the above definitions, she argues that application of the definitions should be treated with a provision that the output of that action is positive to the organisation. In the researcher’s own definition, performance means an action by an employee that has produced an output relevant to an employee or organisation’s goals. 2. 2 Defining Management Management means to give direction, lead, control, govern, rule over, whilst a manager is an official who manages or controls- a person who has in his hands the general leadership of an enterprise or of a division (Bryman, 1984:78 as cited in Brynard, et al 1997).Vaughan-Jones (2009), defined management as a process of achieving organisational goals through engaging in the four major functions (planning, organising, leading and controlling). Cleland (1994:39-40) described management through the major management functions that are planning, organising, motivation, directing and controlling. Mayor (2005: 246) identified planning, organising, directing, controlling and motivating as roles of individual project manager, an improvement on the definition by Vaughan-Jones as i t has added motivation as a manager function.The description of the major activities/functions of the manager as planning, organisation, command, coordination and control put for the first time the management process into the context of major activities or functions (Fayol, 1949, pp. 3-6). These management functions have been condensed to four, namely: planning, organising, leading and controlling, (Robbins 2003). What comes out clearly from the literature is that planning, organising and controlling are common in the description of the management process or the functions of management.The researcher has made use of these concepts while cognisant of the fact that the usage of majority-based viewpoint can only be made if the viewpoint is proven by means of scientific investigation (Brynard, 1997: 54), however this research will not be able to prove that due to time constraint. In comparing management to leadership activities, the researcher noted that leadership activities has to do with: dealing with change; developing a vision and setting a direction for an organisation; formulating a strategy; aligning stakeholders with the organisation? s vision, motivating and inspiring employees; and recognising and reward success.Management activities include planning and budgeting, implementing strategy, organising and staffing to achieve strategy; and controlling behaviour and problem solving to ensure strategy is implemented, Henry (2008: 143). The research supports the contemporary definition of management provided by Mayor especially that he has added motivation to the definition, a factor that contributes to effective performance management. 2. 3 Defining Performance Management OPM (2005) defines performance management as: â€Å"ongoing communication process between staff and supervisor/managers for getting better organisational results.It involves: (a) establishing clear expectations and understanding about performance and the results to be achieved; (b) identify ing essential areas of performance as relating to the mission and objectives of the O/M/A; (c) developing realistic and appropriate performance criteria; (d) giving and receiving feedback about performance; (e) conducting constructive performance assessments; and (f) planning continuous development of staff to sustain and improve performance so that individual, unit and organisational human capital is optimised†.Performance management is a system for integrating the management of organisational and employee performance (Williams, 2002 as cited by Maila, 2006:13). Performance management is defined as â€Å"the systematic process by which an agency involves its employees, as individuals and members of a group, in improving organisational effectiveness in the accomplishment of agency mission and goals†, this was obtained through (U. S.Office Personnel Management, (Undated) Botswana Unified Revenue Services (BURS, 2002) states that performance management is a joint responsi bility between managers who carry out the assessments and the staff whose performance they are assessing. It is essential that this process is carried out objectively,openly and honestly. The researcher has found some common words to arrive at this definition: performance management is a continuous process between staff and supervisors agreeing on the activity to be performed, how it should be measured and within what period, with an aim to accomplish a goal at employee and organisational level. . 4 Defining Performance Management Processes Performance management process was defined as â€Å"a continuous process where supervisors and employees work together to establish objectives (goals), monitor progress toward these objectives and assess results†. With this process, employees receive regular feedback and coaching which is a vital development process for all employees (KSU, 2009). According Cornell University (2010), the first element of performance management process that must be effectively executed is specifying the required levels of performance and identifying goals to be achieved.The researcher understands from the above definitions that performance management processes is a continuous (non-stop) process that underscores the need for supervisors and employees to work together in determining the organisation and employee? s goals and determining performance standards required to achieve those goals. The researcher views performance management processes as a continuous negotiation process that calls for effective communication (Acuff, 2008:6).It is a process that requires that calls for identification and prioritisation of goals, defining what constitutes progress towards goals, setting standards for measuring results and tracking progress towards goals. It further calls for exchanging feedback among the components, reinforcing goal oriented activities and intervening to create improvement when needed. the performance management process places gre ater importance on the methods used to achieve results.This study recognises that there is a thin line between the definitions of management processes and the description of management functions which then points to the conclusion that these two concepts could be used interchangeably. 2. 5 Defining Performance Measurement Balanced scorecard originally developed as tool for performance measurement at the organisational level and has been expanded to include critical success factors (Kaplan and Norton, 1993 as cited in MoF, 2009).It is recognised by the researcher that the definition of performance measurement underscores the need for output/ product to be measured, (Maila (2006). Emphasis on measuring output is fully supported by this study as it could assist managers to determine whether or not the employee’s output contribute to the attainment of the set goals. The researcher’s contribution to the definition of measurement is that this process is aimed at determining strategies necessary to the realisation of the organisation’s objectives, as they appraise how far one is from attaining the set goal.The process calls for assessment of results and provision of honest feedback to either strengthen progress or remedy non progress. 2. 6 Importance of Performance Management Processes Flanagan and Finger (1998:154) stated that most performance improvement processes consist of agreeing on the standards or expectations by managers and staff: monitoring progress; recognising; achievement and reviewing the performance displayed with recognition and review featuring in the maintenance plan. It is imperative that supervisor and employee agree upon and understand each other's expectations of the job.This is the foundation upon which the entire performance management process will be built. The challenge is that both supervisor and employee have to posses negotiating skills as they are required to agree on each other’s expectation of the job. Acco rding to Cornell University (2010), the main purpose of performance management process is to develop people and improve performance by clarifying goals and coaching regularly. A secondary purpose is to provide honest and accurate formal evaluations to support rewards for performance practices.Performance management processes is important as it entails planning employee performance, facilitating the achievement of work related goals and reviewing performance as a way of motivating employees to achieve their full potential in line with the organisation’s objectives, (Swanepoel et al, 1998 as cited Maila, 2006:8). The researcher deducing from the literature above concluded that performance management process was important as it entails planning employee performance, agreeing on standards, monitor and evaluate performance with a view to facilitating the achievement of work related goals.The process is further important as it allows for a two way feedback aimed at supporting rewar ds or punishment for performance practices. According to Maila (2006, p. 4), criteria for measuring success should be clarified and obstacles timorously identified so as to seek solutions and that public service delivery is not halted, performance management system is one of the instruments that can provide that solution.According to Hogue (2010), performance measurement system highlights whether the organisation is on track to achieve its desired goals. Performance measurement system develops key performance indicators (KPIs), or metrics, depending on the nature and activities of the organization. KPIs can serve as the cornerstone of an organization’s employee incentive schemes. The researcher’s contention is that it is much more difficult to develop KPIs for each area of performance within the organisation which can be measured effectively.According to the MoF (2009), the BALANCED SCORECARD of Robert Kaplan and David Norton of 1996 provide a framework that not only p rovides performance measurements, but helps planners identify what should be done and measured. BALANCED SCORECARD is an important approach for measuring and managing the most critical processes in organization. To be meaningful, company performance should be judged against a specific objective is achieved. Without an objective, a company would have no criterion for choosing among alternative strategies and projects (Armstrong 2000; Chang 1999).For example, if the objective of the company is to maximize its return on investment, the company would try to achieve that objective by adopting investments with return on investment ratios greater than the company’s current average return on investment ratio. However, if the objective of the company were to maximize its accounting profits, the company would adopt any investment, which would provide a positive accounting profit, even though the company might lower its current average return on investment ratio (Birch, 1998; Atkinson, Warehouse, & Well, 1997).Performance measurement is important for keeping a company on track in achieving its objectives (Armstrong, 2000; Atkinson & Epstein, 2000; Frigo, Pustortio, George, & Krull, 2000). The selection of the most appropriate indicators is however, an area with no defining boundaries as there are a number of purposes to which performance measurements can be put, although not all performance measurement can be used for purposes (Fitzergerald, Johnston, Brignall, Silveston, & Voss, 1993).Even though individual firms tend to utilize firm-specific performance indicators appropriate to their needs, for many firms the main performance indicators would typically include some combination of financial; market/customer; competitor; human resource; internal business process; and environmental indicators (D’Souza &Williams, 2000; Barsky & Flick, 1999). More often than not usually however, performance measurements has relied on financial or accounting-based measures, de spite the drawbacks associated with such an approach.Specifically, the use of financial measures alone has serious limitations because of inherently backwards-looking nature, their limited ability to measure operational performance and their tendency to focus on the short-term (Kaplan et al. , 2001a; Ittner, Larcker, & Rajan 1997). The reliance on financial measures alone, therefore, to present the true picture of organizational performance, is in itself backward looking, especially from a variety of stakeholders.As a result, an organization requires more from its performance management system than ever before (Becker & Gerhart, 1996l Kaplan et al. , 2001a; Lambert, 1998). Several researchers have identified that the selection of performance measurement indicators should be: 1. Driven from strategies and provide a linkage between unit actions and strategic plans; 2. Hierarchical and integrated across business functions; 3.Supportive of the company’s multidimensional environme nt (internal or external and cost-based or non cost-based); and 4. Based on a thorough understanding of cost relationships and cost behaviour (Brown & Mitchell, 1993; Euske, Lebas, & McNair, 1993; Kaplan & Atkinson, 1989; McKensize & Shilling, 2000; McMann & Nanni, 1994). Additionally, the method of monitoring performance should be dynamic in order to adapt to internal and external changes.In response to these recommendations, a number of frameworks that adopt a multidimensional view of performance measurement have been developed, most notable of which has been the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) developed by Kaplan and Norton (1992, 1996). The Balanced Scorecard addresses the need for multiple measures of performance and provides a strategic framework, which specifically encourages the use of both financial and non-financial measures along four perspectives – financial, customers, internal business processes, and learning and growth – to measure firm performance (Kaplan & No rton, 1996b).In both research and practice, the BSC has received much attention, particularly as a tool for driving unit level strategy within many industries, including hospitality, health, manufacturing and banking (Ashton, 1998; Beechey & Garlick, 1999; Birch, 1998; Chow, Ganulin, Haddad, & Williamson, 1998; Kaplan et al. , 2001a). According to Kaplan and Norton (1996, p. ) â€Å"the balanced scorecard translates an organization's mission and strategy into a comprehensive set of performance measures and provides the framework for strategic measurement and management†. On the outset therefore, the BSC appears to have all the answers for choosing the most appropriate measures of company performance, which are governed by the organisation’s strategic orientation and external competitive environment.The success of the BSC relies on a transparent and well-defined strategy as the basis for the development of specific and relevant performance measures. Although the BSC, al ong with many other perspectives, acknowledges that firms respond to the environment they face in developing their strategy and ultimately performance measurement system, institutional theory specifically asserts that the social network in which firms operate exerts an equally strong hold on the decision- making practices of the firm (DiMaggio, 1983).For instance, it is likely that for firms operating in highly uncertain environments, for example, the choice of performance measures may be influenced by choices made by industry leaders as a means of reducing uncertainty and enhancing legitimacy (mimetic isomorphism) (DiMaggio & Powell, 1991a; Greve, 2000; Haverman, 1993). For firms operating within institutional environments, such as banking, accounting, insurance and the like, shared norms and behaviours may dictate the types of performance measures used (normative isomorphism) (DiMaggio & Powell, 1983; DiMaggio et al. 1991a; Gupta, Dirsmith, & Fogarty, 1994; Heverman, 1993; Hussain & Gunasekaran, 2002a). For firms operating in environments where there is a pressure to conform to rules and practices, performance measurement may be influenced by the dictates of supervisory bodies (coercive isomorphism) (DiMaggio et al. , 1991a; Greve, 2000; Haverman, 1993).Therefore, it appears that if organisations are seeking to utilise the BSC or similar frameworks to develop the most appropriate measures of performance, coercive, mimetic and normative forces, along with strategic orientation, need to be factored into any analysis in order to gain a true picture of what factors influence performance measurement and management. Hence, it is the purpose of this dissertation to examine the role that institutional forces play in the choice of performance measurement systems, via the application of the BSC framework in an industry where the institutional forces mentioned above are at play.Information about performance management is critical to the effective functioning of any bus iness (Chandler, 1962a; Kaplan et al. , 1992; McWilliams, 1996). However, what constitutes good performance and what constitutes good measures of performance are continuously being debated (Corrigan, 1998; Kaplan & Norton, 1998; Kimball, 1997; Landy & Farr, 1983; Maisel, 1992). For instance, do financial performance indicators provide the necessary information for operating within environments that are classified as turbulent, given that they are backward looking? Armstrong, 2000; Barker, 1995; Kaplan, 1983). Is it important to utilise non-financial information for organisations that are facing changes in demand? (Chang, 1999; Kaplan, 1983). In order to answer these questions and more, this chapter reviews literature on performance management and describes the factors that influence performance measures. In addition, why there is a need for organisations to focus on both traditional financial and non-financial indicators of performance in order to meet organisational objectives, irr espective of competitive environment, is reviewed.Specific frameworks, which can be utilised by organisations to measure performance in this way, are also reviewed, with a particular focus on the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) as a measurement tool which meets the demands of contemporary organisations (Duursema, 1999; Ittner & Larcker, 1998a; Kaplan et al. , 1992). 2. 7 Role of Performance Measures in an Organisation To function successfully in a business environment, an organisation depends upon the decision-making ability of its managers, who in turn, depend upon the availability of useable information (Banker, Devraj, Sinha, &Schroeder, 1997). Information about performance is important in different ways to the various stakeholders within a business. For example, owners and investors are interested in company performance to ensure that their investment decisions are correct, and, if not, to look for alternative investments. Managers look at the performance of a company's subunits as a w ay of prioritising the allocation of resources (Duursema, 1999; Euske et al. , 1993; Fama, 1890; Lockamy & Cox, 1994; Tricker & Dockery, 1995).In a more strategic sense, performance measurement is seen as an important way of keeping a company on track in achieving the company's objectives and as a monitoring mechanism employed by the owners of a company where ownership and management are separated (Baker & Wruck, 1989; Bushman, Indjejikian, & Smith, 1995; Delaney & Husekid, 1996; Huselid, 1995; Ittner & Larcker, 1998b; Kaplan, 1984; Lawler, Mohrman, & Ledford, 1992; Mayo & Brown, 1999).If measures of performance are to be effective, the measures need to be performance- driven and linked with company strategy. This view is supported by a number of researchers who note that measures of performance need to be based on a company’s strategic objectives in order for employees to understand and be committed to the achievement of those objectives (Becker et al. , 1996; Hronec, 1993; Huber, 1990; John, Jacqueline, & Robert, 2002; Johnson, 1998; Kaplan, 1983; Kaplan et al. , 2001a). Specifically, D'Souza and Williams (2000), Euske et al. 1993), Kimball (1997) and Mayo and Brown (1999) argue that within the contemporary work environment, a good performance measurement system should be: †¢Supportive and consistent with an organisation’s goals, actions, people/culture, and key success factors; †¢Driven by the customer; †¢Appropriate to the internal and external environment; †¢Developed by a combined top-down and bottom-up effort; †¢Communicated and integrated throughout the organisation; †¢Focused more on managing resources and inputs, not just simply costs; †¢Committed to providing action-oriented feedback; and Supportive of individual and organizational learning. Although there is agreement that these types of characteristics will make for better performance measures (Devenport, 2000), how performance is actually measured is still a ‘black box’ for many organisations (Cross & Lynch, 1992; Eccles, 1991; ECSI, 1998; Frigo et al. , 2000; Gering & Mhtambo, 2000a; Henerson, Morris, & Fitz- Gibbon, 1987), particularly as performance measures used in one company may not be appropriate for another company facing a different situation or different set of circumstances (Otley, 1980).Defining performance for an individual company is highly dependent upon the company’s business objective and strategy and is therefore quite unique (Fitzergerald et al. , 1993; Hoffectker et al. , 1994; Kaplan et al. , 1992; Kaplan et al. , 1996b; Keegan, Eiler, & Jones, 1989). For many firms however, the main performance indicators would typically include some combination of indicators across two broad categories: financial indicators and non-financial indicators (Barsky et al. , 1999; Brown et al. , 1993; D'Souza et al. , 2000; Eccles, 1991; Fitzergerald et al. , 1993; Hoffectker et al. 1994; Johnson et al. , 1987; Kaplan, 1983, 1984; Kaplan et al. , 1996b, 2001a). References Adam, E. E; Corbett, L. M. ; Flores, B. E. ; & Harrison, N. J. ; et al. 1997. An international study of quality improvement approach and firm performance. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 17(9): 842. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ahmed, N. M. & Scapens, R. W.. 1994. The history of cost allocation practices in Britain: Some illustrations of institutional influences, working paper.University of Manchester, Manchester. Emerald Group Publishing. 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Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > DiMaggio, P. J. & Powell, W. W. 1991b. The new institutionalism in organisational analysis. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Dinesh, D. & Palmer, E. 1998. Management by objectives and the Balanced Scorecard: will Rome fall again? Management Decision, 36(6): 363. Emerald Group Publishi ng. Accessed: 11November2012 Donald, L. and Humpries, J. H, (2008). Performance Appraisal: Essential characteristics for Strategic Control. Measuring Business Excellence, 12(3), pp. 24-34. USA: Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:11November2012 D'Souza, D. E. & Williams, F. P. 2000. Appropriateness of the stakeholder approach to measuring manufacturing performance. Journal of Managerial Issues, 7(2): 227- 246. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Fitzergerald, L. Johnston, R. , Brignall, S. , Silveston, R. , & Voss, C. 1993. Performance measurement in service business: The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12November2012 Flanagan, N. and Finger,J. (1998). Just About Everything a Manager Needs to Know inSouthAfrica. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:9November2012 Frigo, M. L. & Krumwiede, K. 1999. 10 ways to improve performance measurement systems. Cost Management Update , 96(Apr): 1-4.Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Frigo, M. L. , Pustorio, P. G. , George, W. , & Krull, J. 2000. The balanced scorecard for community banks: Translating strategy into action Bank. Accounting & Finance, 13(3):17-23. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12November2012 Frigo, M. L. 2001. 2001 CMG survey on performance measurement: Trends and challenges in performance measurement, Cost Management Update: 1. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. meraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Frigo, M. L. 2003. Performance measures that drive the first Tenet of business strategy. Strategic Finance, 85(3): 8. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Gupta, A. K. & Govindarajan, V. 1984. Business unit strategy, managerial characteristics, and business unit effectiveness strategy implementation. Academy of Management Journal, 27: 25-41. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Hasan, H. & Tibbits, H.R. 2000. Strategic management of electronic commerce: an adatation of the balanced scorecard. Internet Research, 10(5): 439-450. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ittner, C. , Larcker, D. , & Rajan, M. 1997a. The choice of performance measures in annual bonus contracts. The Accounting Review, April: 231-255. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ittner, C. D. & Larcker, D. F. 1995. Total Quality Management and the choice of information and reward systems.Journal of Accounting Research, 33(Supplement): 1- 34. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ittner, C. D. & Larcker, D. F. 1996. Measuring the impact of quality initiatives on firm financial performan ce. In S. Ghosh & D. Fedor (Eds. ), Advances in the management of organisational quality, Vol. 1: 1-37. New York: JAI Press. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ittner, C. D. , Larcker, D. F. , & Rajan, M. V. 1997b. The choice of Performance Measures in Annual Bonus Contracts.The Accounting Review, 72(2): 231-255. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ittner, C. D. & Larcker, D. F. 1998a. Are non-financial measure leading indicators of financial performance? An analysis of customer satisfaction. Journal of Accounting Research, 36(Supplement): 1-35. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ittner, C. D. & Larcker, D. F. 1998b. Innovations in performance measurement: Trends and research implications. Journal of Management Accounting Research, 10: 205-225.Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12November2012 Ittner, C. D. & Larcker, D. F. 1998c. Innovations in performance measurement: Trends and research implications. Journal of Management Accounting Research, 10: 205. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Ittner, C. D. & Larcker, D. F. 2003. Coming up short: On non-financial performance measurement. Harvard Business Review, November: 88-95. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? gt; Jones, C. 1991a. Qualitative interviewing. In G. Allen & C. Skinner (Eds. ), Handbook for research students in the social science: 203-214. London: Farner Press. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Jones, C. P. 2002. Investments : analysis and management (8th ed. ). New York: Wiley & Sons. Accessed:12November2012< http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. 1986. The role for empirical research in management accounting. Accounting, Organi zation and Society, 11: 429-452. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. meraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. 1983. Measuring manufacturing performance: A new challenge for managerial accounting research. The Accounting Review(October): 686-705. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 Kaplan, R. S. 1984a. The evolution of management accounting. The Accounting Review(July):390-418. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12November2012 Kaplan, R. S. 1984b. Yesterday's accounting undermines production. Harvard Business Review, July/August: 95-101.Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. & Atkinson, A. A. 1989. Advanced Management Accounting: Prentice Hall. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. & Norton, D. P. 1992. The Balanced Scorecard Measure That Drive Performance. Harvard Busin ess Review, 70(Jan/Feb): 71-79. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12November2012 Kaplan, R. S. & Klein, N. 1996. Chemical bank: Implementing he Balanced Scorecard, Case Studies from Harvard Business School: Implementing the Balanced Scorecard: Harvard Business School Publishing. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. & Norton, D. P. 1996a. The Balanced Scorecard: Translating Strategy into Action. Massachusetts: Harvard Business School Press. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 Kaplan, R. S. & Norton, D. P. 1996b. Using the Balanced Scorecard as a Strategic Management System.Harvard Business Review, 74(Jan/Feb): 75-79. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12November2012 Kaplan, R. S. & Norton. , D. P. 1996. Linking the Balanced Scorecard to strategy. California Management Review, 39(1): 53-80. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. 1997a. Mobil USM&R (A): Linking the Balanced Scorecard. Harvard Business Review(May 7). Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 Kaplan, R.S. 1997b. Mobil USM&R (C): Lubricants Business Unit. Harvard Business Review(May 5). Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. 1998a. Mobil USM&R (B): New England Sales and Distribution. Harvard Business Review(April 30). Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. 1998b. Mobil USM&R (D): Gasoline Marketing. Harvard Business Review(April 30). Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. om/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. 1998c. Innovation action research: Creating new management theory and practice. Journal of Management Accounting Research, 10: 89-118. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 Kaplan, R. S. & Atkins on, A. A. 1998. Advanced Management Accounting (Third ed. ). New Jersey: Prentice Hall. Inc. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. & Norton, D. P. 1998. Putting the Balanced Scorecard to work. In A. H. B. R.Paperback (Ed. ), Harvard Business Review on Measuring Corporate Performance. Boston: Harvard Business School Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. & Kaplan, E. L. 1999. United Way of South-eastern New England (UWSENE). Harvard Business Review(April 1). Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. & Norton, D. P. 2001a. The strategy focused organization: How the Balanced Scorecard companies thrive in the new business environment.Boston, Massachusetts: Harvard Business School Press. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan , R. S. & Norton, D. P. 2001b. Transforming the balanced scorecard from performance measurement to strategic management: Part 1. Accounting Horizons, 15(1): 87-104. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Kaplan, R. S. & Norton, D. P. 2001c. Transforming the Balanced Scorecard from Performance Measurement to Strategic Management: Part 2. Accounting Horizons, June: 147-160. Emerald Group Publishing.Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > KSU, (2009). Policies and Procedures Mannual: Performance Management Process. Available: http://www. ksu. edu/policies/ppm/4080. html. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed on 10 November 2012. Lauter, G. P. (1970). Advanced management Process in Developing Countries: Planning in Turkey. California Management Review, 12 (3), pp 7-12. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed:12November2012 Maila, H. M. (2006), Performance Management and Service Delivery in the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.A Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Magister Technologie: University of South Africa. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? > Maylor, H. (2005). Project Management. Third Edition, FT Prentice Hall. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/books. htm? > Mintzberg, H. (1994). The Fall and Rise of Strategic Planning. Harvard Business Review, January-February, 1994, p. 108. Emerald Group Publishing. Accessed: 12 November 2012 < http://www. emeraldinsight. com/journals. htm? >

Foreign Direct Investment Essay

Case Discussion Questions: 1. Why, historically, has the level of FDI in Japan been so low? The relatively low FDI stock in Japan is partly the result of a history of official inhibitions on FDI. In some industries, inward FDI penetration, as measured by the share of employment accounted for by foreign affiliates, in Japan in fact is on par with the United States. However, a large number of â€Å"sanctuaries† with almost no foreign involvement remain, so that FDI penetration overall is still very low. While to some extent, this can be explained by Japan’s relatively isolated geographic location, historical factors play an important role. Throughout the centuries and until quite recently, Japan’s rulers have viewed foreign involvement in the economy as a threat and consequently erected various barriers to FDI. 2. What are the potential benefits to the Japanese economy of greater FDI? The potential benefits to the Japanese economy of greater FDI are the ones listed below: †¢ Faster revenue growth than domestic firms; †¢ Significantly higher profitability and sales margins than domestic firms; †¢ Greater capital investment per employee than domestic firms; †¢ Higher total factor productivity than domestic firms; †¢ Higher spending on research and development per worker than domestic firms; and †¢ Higher average wages than domestic firms. 3. How did the entry of Wal-Mart into the Japanese retail sector benefit that sector? Who lost as a result of Wal-Mart’s entry? It helped restructure Japan’s retail sector- boosting productivity, gaining  market share, and profiting in the process. Wal-Mart implemented its cutting edge information systems, adopted tight inventory control, leveraging its global supply chain to bring low cost goods into Japan, restraining employees to improve customer service, and extending opening hours. It was more difficult than Wal-Mart had hoped. Wal-Mart’s entry prompted local rivals to change their strategies. 4. Why has it been so hard for Wal-Mart to make a profit in Japan? What might the company have done differently? The company’s global marketing strategy has many flaws. Wal-Mart failed to grasp the consumer and retail environment in Japan. With a population of 127 million, the highest per capita income and the second largest economy in the world, Japan is a very attractive market for retailers. Perhaps more research into their cultural values and patterns could have helped avoid some of these mishaps.

Knowing Your Audience Paper and Communication Release Essay

On August 5, 2010 thirty-three workers were trapped approximately 300 meters underground with limited food, water, and oxygen due to a Coppermine that collapsed in Chile. It was not known at first if there were any survivors. This story gathered audiences all over the world as media interest came to life when a rescue worker’s drill emerged at the surface with a note attached to it: â€Å"The 33 of us are OK in the refuge† (Volk, 2011). Approximately two months after the collapse sealed the mine, a rescue hole was finally completed for the miners. To everyone’s amazement all thirty-three miners were rescued (Yang, 2010). When this tragedy took place, the company had to take care in how the media relied on their findings. The immediate families of the workers need to be notified first, and then the other employees, and then a media publication should be done professionally with truthful and accurate information. No one is prepared for this type of situation. Communication must be handled carefully and thoughtfully especially to the families of the miners and the miners themselves. When a company is communicating with the families, the potential needs will require details about the accident that took place with their relatives while at work (Tennyson & Ray, 2008). They will need to know the exact time and place the incident took place, who is trapped in the mine, and what rescue measures are being taken. They will need to be regularly updated as to the developments of the rescue process. Above all, they will need to be assured that all possible procedures are being taken to ensure that their loved ones are recovered safe and sound. Communication with the employees is going to require concise information and should be done formally. They will need a quick update of the accident that should include what the company is doing to rescue their coworkers. They are going to need to be reassured that any other mines are not at risk of collapsing  when they resume working (Bajak, 2010). Identifying your audience is one action that is needed before any communication is done (Tennyson & Ray, 2005). Once you have identified your audience than you can build your communication plan around it. After you give your message, you should make sure your audience has an opportunity to ask questions and know who or where to go if they still need more information. DRAFT COMMUNICATIONS To the families through the media. A crisis has occurred at the San Jose Mine. The mine has suffered a cave in on August 5th, leaving 33 workers trapped approximately 300 meters below the surface. Rescue operations have started and will continue under the supervision of the Chilean government. Several drills began to bore holes toward locations where rescuers thought the miners might be found but at this time have not established where they are precisely (Fiscor, 2010). Families are encouraged to be patient as these rescue operations are expected to take some time. Updates will be given as new developments arise. Once the workers are located, plans are underway to make sure they receive food, water, and medicine while they wait to be rescued. All families are encouraged to take heart as we are taking all necessary precautions to makes sure all the miners are rescued safely. All families will be allowed to see their loved ones as soon as they receive medical treatment. Please contact the number below for more information. This line will be open 24 hours a day. To the employees at an employee meeting. You may already be aware of the crisis facing our company. The San Jose mine collapsed and trapped 33 employees approximately 300 meters below the surface. The rescue operations are underway to rescue all workers safely. I want to assure you that we are doing everything possible to find and make sure that food, water, and medicine are available to the workers and that we will be working day and night until they are safe from harm. I want to inform you all that we are having all mines thoroughly checked to ensure they are safe before you resume work. We will be updating you on all the developments of the rescue operation and ask that you, please stay calm and if you have any questions or concerns, please contact your managers. Different audiences will need to be communicated in the best possible manner. What is right for one audience may not be correct for another  audience. References Volk, S. S. (2011). Refusing to hear: Press coverage of the Chilean miners. NACLA Report on the Americas, 44(4), 54-56, 44. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/893765826?accountid=458 Yang, J. (2010, Oct 10). Hope surfaces in Chile. Toronto Star Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/757109034?accountid=458 Tennyson, P. A., & Ray, K. (2005). Reaching today’s utility audiences: Why there is no such thing as the general public. American Water Works Association. Journal, 97(1), 49-51. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/221571012?accountid=458 Bajak, F. (2010, Oct 14). As Chile celebrates mine’s future in question. Spartanburg Herald – Journal, pp. n/a. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/758202447?accountid=45049 Fiscor, S. (2010). Rescuers work to free Chilean miners. Engineering and Mining Journal, 211(8), 24-24, 26. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/763615366?accountid=458

Local Education Authority (LEA) The WritePass Journal

Local Education Authority (LEA) Recommendation of Report Local Education Authority (LEA) ]. Manis, F.R., Doi, L.M. and Bhadha, B. (2000) Naming speed, phonological awareness, and orthographic knowledge in second graders. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 33(4), pp. 325. Mayall, K., Humphreys, G.W., Mechelli, A., Olson, A. and Price, C.J. (2001) The effects of case mixing on word recognition: Evidence from a PET study. Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 13(6), pp. 844-853. Mr Thorne Productions (2013) Mr Thorne Does Phonics [online]. Available at: mrthorne.com [Accessed 23 February 2013]. Nation, K., Angell, P. and Castles, A. (2007) Orthographic learning via self-teaching in children learning to read English: Effects of exposure, durability, and context. Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, 96, pp. 71-84. Torgesen, J.K., Wagner, R.K. and Rashotte, C.A. (1994) Longitudinal studies and phonological processing and reading. Journal of Learning Disabilities. Treiman, R. and Kessler, B. (2006) Spelling as statistical learning: Using consonantal context to spell vowels. Journal of Educational Psychology, 98(3), pp. 141-170. Tumner, W. and Chapman, J. (1998) Language prediction skill, phonological recoding ability and beginning reading. In: C. Hulme and R. Joshi eds. Reading and Spelling: Development and Disorders. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates Inc., pp. 33-67. Snowling, M.J. (1981) Phonemic deficits in developmental dyslexia. Psychological Research, 43(2), pp. 219-234. Stuart, M. (1999) Getting ready for reading: Early phoneme awareness and phonics teaching improves reading and spelling in inner-city second language learners. British Journal of Educational Psychology, 69, pp. 587-605.

Gender of Nouns in Spanish

Gender of Nouns in Spanish Just as maleness or femaleness is an inherent characteristic of most animals, so is gender an inherent characteristic of nouns in Spanish. With only a few exceptions, mostly those of occupations such as dentista, the gender of nouns doesnt change with the context, and a nouns gender determines the form of many adjectives that describe it. Key Takeaways: Spanish Noun Gender Nouns in Spanish can be classified as masculine or feminine. Adjectives and articles referring to a particular noun must have the same gender as the noun.Most nouns keep their gender regardless of the context in which they are used, so there are some masculine nouns that are used for things we may think of as feminine and vice versa.Although there are exceptions, nearly all nouns ending in -o are masculine and most nouns ending in -a are feminine. Grammatical Gender Not Tied to Biological Gender Although Spanish nouns are classified as either feminine or masculine, remember that there can be feminine nouns that describe things we think of as masculine, and vice versa. For example, una jirafa, which is feminine in form, refers to a giraffe whether its male or female, and persona (a feminine noun meaning person) can refer to men as well as women. For some, it might be easier to think of masculine and feminine as simply two classifications rather than giving them a sexual identity. Unlike German and some other Indo-European languages, Spanish has no neuter nouns, although there are uses for the gender as explained below The basic rule is that masculine nouns go with masculine adjectives and articles, and feminine nouns go with feminine adjectives and articles. (In English, the articles are a, an and the. Also note that in Spanish many adjectives dont have separate masculine and feminine forms.) And if you use a pronoun to refer to a masculine noun, you use a masculine pronoun; feminine pronouns refer to feminine nouns. Nouns and adjectives that end in -o (or -os for plurals) generally are masculine, and nouns and adjectives that end in -a (or -as for plurals) generally are feminine, although there are exceptions. For example, cada dà ­a means each day. Dà ­a (day) is a masculine noun; cada (each) can be either feminine or masculine. Since you cant always tell by looking at a noun or knowing its meaning whether its masculine or feminine, most dictionaries use notations (f or m) to indicate the gender. And its common in vocabulary lists to precede words with an el for masculine words and a la for feminine words. (El and la both mean the.) Here are examples that show some of the ways a nouns gender affects the usage of other words. the man: el hombre (masculine article, masculine noun)the woman: la mujer (feminine article, feminine noun)a man: un hombre (masculine article, masculine noun)a woman: una mujer (feminine article, feminine noun)the men: los hombres (masculine article, masculine noun)the women: las mujeres (feminine article, feminine noun)the fat man: el hombre gordo (masculine adjective, masculine noun)the fat woman: la mujer gorda (feminine adjective, feminine noun)some men: unos hombres (masculine determiner, masculine noun)some women: unas mujeres (feminine determiner, feminine noun)He is fat: Él es gordo. (masculine pronoun, masculine adjective)She is fat: Ella es gorda. (feminine pronoun, feminine adjective) If you have two or more nouns that are being described by a single adjective, and they are of mixed genders, the masculine adjective is used. El carro es caro, the car is expensive (masculine noun and adjective).La bicicleta es cara, the bicycle is expensive (feminine noun and adjective).El carro y la bicicleta son caros, the car and the bicycle are expensive (masculine and feminine nouns described by a masculine adjective). Using the Neuter Gender Although Spanish has a neuter gender, it isnt used for words listed in the dictionary as nouns.The neuter is used in two circumstances: A handful of neuter pronouns such as ello are used under limited circumstances as the equivalent of it, this, or that. Such pronouns dont refer to things whose names have gender, however, but rather to concepts or ideas.The neuter definite article lo can be placed before an adjective to create a phrase that functions as a neuter abstract noun. For example, lo difà ­cil can mean the difficult thing or that which is difficult.

Free Essays on Computer Crime

Computer Crime Is Increasing A report discussing the proposition that computer crime has increased dramatically over the last 10 years. Introduction Computer crime is generally defined as any crime accomplished through special knowledge of computer technology. Increasing instances of white-collar crime involve computers as more businesses automate and the information held by the computers becomes an important asset. Computers can also become objects of crime when they or their contents are damaged, for example when vandals attack the computer itself, or when a "computer virus" (a program capable of altering or erasing computer memory) is introduced into a computer system. As subjects of crime, computers represent the electronic environment in which frauds are programmed and executed; an example is the transfer of money balances in accounts to perpetrators' accounts for withdrawal. Computers are instruments of crime when they are used to plan or control such criminal acts. Examples of these types of crimes are complex embezzlements that might occur over long periods of time, or when a computer operator uses a computer to steal or alter valuable information from an employer. Variety and Extent Since the first cases were reported in 1958, computers have been used for most kinds of crime, including fraud, theft, embezzlement, burglary, sabotage, espionage, murder, and forgery. One study of 1,500 computer crimes established that most of them were committed by trusted computer users within businesses i.e. persons with the requisite skills, knowledge, access, and resources. Much of known computer crime has consisted of entering false data into computers. This method of computer crime is simpler and safer than the complex process of writing a program to change data already in the computer. Now that personal computers with the ability to communicate by telephone are prevalent in our society, increas... Free Essays on Computer Crime Free Essays on Computer Crime Computer Crime Is Increasing A report discussing the proposition that computer crime has increased dramatically over the last 10 years. Introduction Computer crime is generally defined as any crime accomplished through special knowledge of computer technology. Increasing instances of white-collar crime involve computers as more businesses automate and the information held by the computers becomes an important asset. Computers can also become objects of crime when they or their contents are damaged, for example when vandals attack the computer itself, or when a "computer virus" (a program capable of altering or erasing computer memory) is introduced into a computer system. As subjects of crime, computers represent the electronic environment in which frauds are programmed and executed; an example is the transfer of money balances in accounts to perpetrators' accounts for withdrawal. Computers are instruments of crime when they are used to plan or control such criminal acts. Examples of these types of crimes are complex embezzlements that might occur over long periods of time, or when a computer operator uses a computer to steal or alter valuable information from an employer. Variety and Extent Since the first cases were reported in 1958, computers have been used for most kinds of crime, including fraud, theft, embezzlement, burglary, sabotage, espionage, murder, and forgery. One study of 1,500 computer crimes established that most of them were committed by trusted computer users within businesses i.e. persons with the requisite skills, knowledge, access, and resources. Much of known computer crime has consisted of entering false data into computers. This method of computer crime is simpler and safer than the complex process of writing a program to change data already in the computer. Now that personal computers with the ability to communicate by telephone are prevalent in our society, increas... Free Essays on Computer Crime A report discussing the proposition that computer crime has increased dramatically over the last 10 years. Introduction Computer crime is generally defined as any crime accomplished through special knowledge of computer technology. Increasing instances of white-collar crime involve computers as more businesses automate and the information held by the computers becomes an important asset. Computers can also become objects of crime when they or their contents are damaged, for example when vandals attack the computer itself, or when a "computer virus" (a program capable of altering or erasing computer memory) is introduced into a computer system. As subjects of crime, computers represent the electronic environment in which frauds are programmed and executed; an example is the transfer of money balances in accounts to perpetrators' accounts for withdrawal. Computers are instruments of crime when they are used to plan or control such criminal acts. Examples of these types of crimes are complex embezzlements that might occur over long periods of time, or when a computer operator uses a computer to steal or alter valuable information from an employer. Variety and Extent Since the first cases were reported in 1958, computers have been used for most kinds of crime, including fraud, theft, embezzlement, burglary, sabotage, espionage, murder, and forgery. One study of 1,500 computer crimes established that most of them were committed by trusted computer users within businesses i.e. persons with the requisite skills, knowledge, access, and resources. Much of known computer crime has consisted of entering false data into computers. This method of computer crime is simpler and safer than the complex process of writing a program to change data already in the computer. Now that personal computers with the ability to communicate by telephone are prevalent in our society, increasing numbers of crimes have been perpetrated by computer ... Free Essays on Computer Crime Over the last twenty years, a technological revolution has occurred as computers are now an essential element of today's society. Large computers are used to track reservations for the airline industry, process billions of dollars for banks, manufacture products for industry, and conduct major transactions for businesses because more and more people now have computers at home and at the office. People commit computer crimes because of society's declining ethical standards more than any economic need. According to experts, gender is the only bias. The profile of today's non-professional thieves crosses all races, age groups and economic strata. Computer criminals tend to be relatively honest and in a position of trust: few would do anything to harm another human, and most do not consider their crime to be truly dishonest. Most are males: women have tended to be accomplices, though of late they are becoming more aggressive. Computer Criminals tend to usually be "between the ages of 14- 30, they are usually bright, eager, highly motivated, adventuresome, and willing to accept technical challenges."(Shannon, 16:2) "It is tempting to liken computer criminals to other criminals, ascribing characteristics somehow different from 'normal' individuals, but that is not the case."(Sharp, 18:3) It is believed that the computer criminal "often marches to the same drum as the potential victim but follows and unanticipated path."(Blumenthal, 1:2) There is no actual profile of a computer criminal because they range from young teens to elders, from black to white, from short to tall. Definitions of computer crime has changed over the years as the users and misusers of computers have expanded into new areas. "When computers were first introduced into businesses, computer crime was defined simply as a form of white-collar crime committed inside a computer system."(2600:Summer 92,p.13) Some new terms have been added to the computer criminal vocabulary. "Troj...