Food Insecurities Essay

Have you ever seen a person yell at his colleague or his partner, overreacting on a particular matter that has caused not only the person who got yelled at to feel annoyed, but also third parties who know about it or have witnessed the scene? For the many who do not wish to get into the mess, or has enough logic sense to not judge immediately, they will most likely give out a fair statement and try to reason out that person’s overreaction by saying he probably had a bad day or he probably has dilemma at home. However, if we take a bit closer and look closely, all of us will eventually realise that it all goes down to one matter; insecurity. Insecurities are not something new and unfamiliar to the human kind. Everyone has insecurities, regardless of whether they realise it or not. The Oxford Dictionary defines insecurity as the uncertainty or anxiety about oneself or lack of confidence. Insecurities exist in every living soul on this planet. Till today, it is still seen as a negative matter as not many have addressed this issue in proper ways using proper mediums. Most parents don’t even talk about it and shove it away when their children decide to speak up about it. Little do people know that the slightest things in life are the ones that add up to our insecurities. The amount of insecurity in a person differs from one to the other. The types of insecurities that one possesses also vary. The most common type of insecurity is physical insecurity. Let’s face it; human beings are never satisfied. Even when you have all the parts of the body needed to sustain and go through your daily routine with ease, you still beg for more. Some want healthier and shiner hair, some want to be taller, but most importantly, everyone wants something. It is not just human beings as an individual who face insecurities, but also countries and states. Currently, the world is looking at the issue of food insecurity, which is also classified as a type of insecurity. Food security may be said as the availability of food and one’s access to it. Hence, the United Nations have defined food security as all people at all times having both physical and economic access to the basic food they need. For more than 2 billion of people on this planet, they are lucky to not worry about this form of insecurity. However, we might not realise this but this matter is more complicated than it seems. Food securities may result from many different causes. It is imperative that we focus on why are the food insecure, and why are the people are food insecure. Among the most common causes of food insecurities are drought and extreme weather changes. This setback, which is very commonly faced by third world countries, usually ranges from overnight floods to droughts. In short, the climate changes faced by these countries are extreme. In most African countries, like Nigeria, droughts are not new to them. It has been a setback since the time of their ancestors; nonetheless, they are helpless at it and have no comeback on solving this matter. In many comparisons throughout time, some of the most severe food crises were all preceded by drought or by other similarly extreme weather events. These extremities result in poor and failed harvests which in turn results food scarcity and high prices of the available food. As mentioned in the Climate and Development Knowledge Network report entitled ‘Managing Climate Extremes and Disasters in the Agriculture Sectors: Lessons from the IPCC SREX Report’, such force of nature causes impacts which will include not only food insecurity, but changing productivity and livelihood patterns, economic losses, and impacts on the infrastructure. Besides that, the natural resource base for the poor and food-insecure is invariably narrow and, in many areas, fragile. With the exception of Uganda only 4 to 10 percent of the land area is classed as arable, and just a small area of land suitable for rainfed cultivation. The greatest numbers of poor people are concentrated in the arid and semi-arid ecosystems and on marginal land in the higher rainfall parts of the region. It has become axiomatic to say that poverty is one of the main causes of environmental degradation. This can be seen all too clearly in the farming of steep slopes, which takes place as an increasing population is forced to cultivate marginal land. The falling crop yields that characterize the marginal areas are a result of the loss of massive quantities of topsoil throughout the region, declining soil fertility as fallow systems are replaced by continuous cultivation, reductions in soil organic matter as manure is burnt for fuel, and shrinking holding sizes. However, the poor are also the most vulnerable to environmental degradation because they depend on he exploitation of common property resources for a greater share of their incomes than richer households do. In the rangelands, the evidence for long-term secular environmental degradation is ambiguous. The successive cyclical growth and decline of herds reflects cycles of rainfall and rangeland productivity, and is perfectly normal. As animals die in large numbers, the rangelands recover remarkably quickly. However, when there i s a major drop in the number of animals, the people who depend on them for their livelihoods also suffer. Development programmes that have sought to increase animal production on rangelands through water development and animal disease prevention have all too often failed to find, at the same time, sustainable ways of increasing animal nutrition, so the resulting increased numbers of animals may wreak havoc on the range itself. Many of the available freshwater resources are in river basins and lakes that extend beyond the boundaries of individual nations. Shared water resources include lakes Victoria, Albert, Edward, Kivu and Turkana and major rivers such as the Blue Nile, White Nile, Atbara, Awash and Shebele. The potential for developing irrigation from these sources is constrained by the problem of achieving agreement on sharing the resources and avoiding conflict. Although natural climatic factors have played their part in the process of desertification, in general, it is increased population and the related development of unsustainable production systems that have had most negative impact on the fragile natural resource base. Wood and manure have remained the main sources of domestic energy, even in urban centres. This situation has contributed to depleting the forest and range resources, resulting in an overall decrease in biomass and biodiversity, reduced water infiltration and increased runoff and soil erosion. These factors, which contribute to the impoverishment of ecosystems, have led to a vicious circle of environmental degradation, lower system resilience to erratic rainfall, decreased agricultural productivity and increased poverty and food insecurity. Not only that, the cause of food insecurity in these third world countries are also caused by the poor state of development and maintenance of roads and transport, energy sources and telecommunications in the marginal areas of countries in the Horn of Africa makes it difficult for these areas to become integrated into the national and regional economy. As with all other indicators of development, the countries of the region have some of the worst figures worldwide with respect to access to roads and water supply. A recent report suggests that, in terms of access to infrastructure, the gap between Africa and the rest of the world has widened over the past 15 years. The sparse road and communications network hampers emergency relief operations as well as the commercialization of the rural economy. The density of the road network in the countries of the region gives an idea of both how difficult it is to reach people in rural areas with services and the problems such people face in participating in the market economy. For example, in Ethiopia, every kilometre of road serves 72 km 2 and 3 000 people, compared with only 8 km 2 and 850 people in North Africa. Even after strenuous efforts by development agencies and NGOs, access to a clean water supply is still an unobtainable luxury for most rural inhabitants in the Horn. Piped systems are uncommon in rural areas and protected wells and hand pumps are the best that rural communities can expect. The burden of collecting water, as with so many other menial tasks, falls almost exclusively on women in the communities, who must spend many hours each day collecting water from unsafe sources. The statistics on access to water and sanitation reveal wide differences within the region. In three countries, namely Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia, only one-quarter of the population has access to safe water, and in two others (the Sudan and Uganda) the figure is less than 50 percent. Access to sanitation is as low as 13 percent and, except for Kenya, barely exceeds 50 percent anywhere. In addition to that, the indicators of access to social services in the countries that face the setback of food insecurity are also among the lowest in the world. While the average figures are bad enough, they mask fundamental inequalities in access to services within the region. Again, rural areas, especially remote, low-potential areas are the least well served. Nomadic and semi-nomadic pastoralists are the most difficult populations to provide services to and, consequently, they are invariably the ones with the poorest health services and least education. All these indicators, combined with malnutrition and poor access to safe water, have adverse consequences for productivity and for the long-term physical and cognitive development of people in the region. Also, let us not forget the fact that crop and plants as well face diseases. Diseases affecting livestock or crops can have devastating effects on food availability especially if there are no emergency back-up plans in place. For example, an epidemic of stem rust on wheat which was spreading across Africa and into Asia in 2007 caused major concern. A virulent wheat disease could destroy most of the world’s main wheat crops, leaving millions to starve. The fungus had spread from Africa to Iran and may already be in Pakistan. A different threat, on the other hand, has attacked the African continent’s second biggest crop; wheat. In 1999, 50 years since the last outbreak, a contemporary and virulent strain of stem rust attacked the Ugandan crops. Its spores then travelled to Ethiopia and Kenya, before appearing in Iran last year. The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nation (FAO) has given warning to six other countries in the Central and South Asia to be prepared and keep an eye for symptoms of this new strain while scientists in the United States of America are working diligently in searching for a resistant that combats this problem. It is important that the remedy for this will be obtained quickly as in India alone; more than 50 million small-scale farmers are at risk because they depend on wheat for their food and earnings. Most importantly, we must not overlook that politics and dictatorship also play a role in food insecurity. Many do not realise that politics play a part in something as serious as this. As mentioned by Nobel Prize-winning economist Amarya Sen, â€Å"There is no such thing as an apolitical food problem. It is more often than not that the administration of the country that determines its severity, or even whether the famine will occur. If truth be told, the 20th century is full of examples of governments undermining the food security of their own nations. Let us take a look at Nigeria, Africa’s most densely inhabited state, where a legacy of corrupted governance and an economy based primarily on oil exports has left the agriculture sector significantly undermined, leaving millions of N igerians in deep hunger. True, the neighbouring countries export food to Nigeria in exchange for money, but remember; the people in these neighbouring countries need food too. And they are much poorer than those living in Nigeria. It was reported by the United Nations that thousands of children in countries neighbouring Nigeria died because of malnutrition. These kids paid the price not because of food shortage in their country, but because of food shortage in Nigeria. The distribution of food is often a political issue in most countries. The government will always give priority to urban areas and cities, since most influential and powerful families and enterprises are located there. The ruling government over and over again for generations overlooks the subsistence farmers and rural areas in general. In other words, the more rural an area, the less likely the government will pay attention to solving its needs. What’s more is that the governments of these countries would normally keep the price of basic grain at extremely low levels that subsistence farmers cannot accumulate sufficient capital to make investments to improve their production. Hence, they are prevented from getting out of their precarious situation. In addition, food has always been a political arsenal by the dictators and warlords, where they reward their supporters and deny food supplies to those areas that are against them. Under this condition, food has become more like a currency instead of a basic need that cannot be denied rights of. Food has become the money to buy support and used against the opposition. Even in Guatemala, income inequality is amongst the worst in the world, with indigenous communities at a disadvantage. In some areas, an estimated 75 percent of the children, ranging from infants to children ages six and seven years old, are severely malnourished. And this is a shocking statistic relating food scarcity coming from a country that is merely a four-hour flight away from the USA. Furthermore, it was pointed out in William Bernstein’s 2004 publication entitled ‘The Birth of Plenty’ that individuals without property will lead to starvation and it is much easier to bend the fearful and the hungry to the will of the state. If a farmer’s property can be arbitrarily threatened by the state, that power will inevitably be used to intimidate those with different political and religious opinions. It is fundamental and crucial that we understand and be aware of the consequences of this global food scarcity. The effects might be similar to the effects of malnutrition and hunger, where, at the outset, the human population will be affected greatly in the sense where stunted growth may occur. The stunting starts in when the baby is still in the mother’s womb and happens till the age of three. Once stunting happens, giving proper nutrition to these helpless children will not help in reversing the damage or improving the child’s condition. Pregnant mothers who do not receive the correct amount of nutrition needed may risk of having a higher chance of infant and child mortality later on, which is, of course, a very heartbreaking circumstance. Apart from that, severe malnutrition during one’s early childhood also leads to defects in cognitive development. Stunted individuals also have a higher chance of getting diseases and illnesses as compared to those who have not experienced stunting. It must also come to the attention that food insecurity is also associated with various developmental consequences for children in the United States. A research was conducted by Diana F. Jyoti, Edward A. Frongillo, and Sonya J. Jones to prove that food insecurity is linked to specific developmental consequences for children, and whether these consequences may be both nutritional and nonnutritional.

Research design and methodology Essay

Despite the fact that the complete genome of the organism was already sequenced, the specific genes coding for the needed enzymes to form pores in the host cell were still unidentified. With this lack of information, this study is formulated and designed. Culturing of B. bacteriovorus HD100 on prey dependent and prey independent set-ups: Predatory (HD) cultures of B. bacteriovorus HD100 will be grown on E. coli in Ca2_-HEPES buffer at 30Â °C, with shaking at 200 rpm (8). Escherichia coli ML35 and E. coli W7-M5 (10) will be used as the prey throughout the experiments. Escherichia coli ML35 will be cultured in nutrient broth (Difco Laboratories), and E. coli W7-M5, a lysine and DAP auxotroph, will be cultured in nutrient broth supplemented with 0. 2 mM lysine and 0. 1 mM DAP at 37Â °C with shaking at 200 rpm. Prey-independent HI strains will be plated on rich peptone-yeast extract (PY) medium (8). Synchronous cultures: Synchronous cultures will be used for performing various experiments as described below. Briefly, fresh bdellovibrios will be added to prey cells in HM buffer (3 mM N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N’-2-ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES)-1 mM CaCl. LQ. One mM of MgCl2 will be adjusted to pH 7. 6 using NaOH (10). The organisms will be grown until a final concentration of 1010 bdellovibrios per ml and 5 x 109 E. coli per ml is reached. For proper aeration, volumes will be kept to ? 20% of the flask’s volume and incubated at 30Â °C with shaking at 400 rpm. Synchronous cultures will be examined at intervals for attachment and penetration with a Nikon model L-Ke microscope (Nippon Kogaku Inc. ) equipped with phase-contrast optics and a Nikon model AF camera. Time course Microarray analysis. Time course Microarray analysis will be performed to identify the genes to be expressed during the entry phase, specifically during pore formation on the host cell membrane of B. bacterovorus H100. Microarray slides of B. bacteriovorus H100 will be ordered from Advanced Throughput, Inc Services. Total cellular RNA will be extracted from B. bacteriovorus H100 cells at entry phase using the RNeasy mid kit (Qiagen). The RNA of the organism will also be extracted during the other stages of infection. This will serve as a reference for comparison of the genes expressed and not expressed at the desired stage. Complementary DNA synthesis, fragmentation, labeling, hybridization, staining and washing will be performed according to the Affymetrix B. bacteriovorus H100 GeneChip array expression analysis protocol (Affymetrix). Briefly, cDNA will be synthesized from RNA using Superscript II (Invitrogen) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. RNA will be removed by alkaline treatment and subsequent neutralization. Complementary DNA will be purified with QIAquick PCR purification columns (Qiagen). Purified cDNA will be fragmented by DNase I (Amersham) at 37Â °C for 10 min followed by end labeling with biotinddUTP, using an Enzo BioArray terminal labeling kit (Affymetrix), at 37Â °C for 60 min. Hybridization will be performed in an Affymetrix GeneChip hybridization Oven 640. Washing and staining will be performed using an Affymetrix Fluidics Station 400. Arrays will be scanned with an Agilent GeneArray Scanner G2500A. GeneChip scans will be initially analyzed using the Affymetrix Microarray Suite 5. 1 software, from which PivotData tables will be exported. Raw data from the PivotData Tables will be analyzed in GeneSpring software version 6 (Silicon Genetics), using the parameters suggested by Silicon Genetics for analysis of Affymetrix Microarrays. Real-time PCR: Real-time PCR using the Applied Biosystems 7500 Real-time PCR system will be performed to confirm microarray results. RNA will be extracted from B. bacteriovorus H100 at initial phases of predatory life cycle up to entry phase as described above. RNA will be reverse transcribed into cDNA and simultaneously labelled using the iScript One-step RT-PCR kit with SYBR Green (Biorad). RT-PCR reactions will also be performed to amplify cDNA of housekeeping genes (identified from micro array studies) for normalization of fluorescence values. Identifying the specific hydrolytic enzymes of B. bacteriovorus which are involved in pore formation on host cell membrane. Many experiments showed that B. bacteriovorus H100 releases hydrolytic enzymes during predatory life cycle. According to Thomashow and Ritterberg, glycanases and lipopolysaccharideases are required for pore formation in the prey’s peptidoglycan and LPS layers respectively. The glycanase and/or peptidase could be responsible for weakening the peptidoglycan layer of the prey and thereby responsible for permitting conversion of the substrate cell to a spherical shape (10). Tudor et al. proposed another model for penetration. According to them peptidase is responsible for pore formation but not glycanase (11). Specific enzymes involved in pore formation are not known. The genes identified from the time course micro array technique will be mutated as described previously using suicide vector pSSK10. Resulting mutants will be complemented by using vector pMMB206 (8). Mutants will be analysed for the specific enzymes (using 2D-gel electrophoresis) and their actions on host cell i. e, as a glycanase, LPSase or peptidase will be observed by radio labelling experiments (10). Wild-type B. bacteriovorus H100 and complemented strains will be used as controls. Radio labeling experiments: Escherichia. coli W7-M5, auxotroph for lysine and DAP and cannot metabolize glucosamine, will be radiolabelled as described previously (9,10). Peptide portion of E.coli W7-M5 peptidoglycan will be labelled with [3H] DAP and the lipopolysaccharides and glycan portions of the peptidoglycan will be labeled with [3H]glucosamine. Various mutants and wild-type strains will be tested for predation using this radiolabelled strain. Solubilisation of glucosamine and DAP from labelled prey peptidoglycan will be measured as described previously (11). Briefly, samples taken at intervals will be precipitated with an equal volume of cold 10% trichloroacetic acid for 30 min followed by centrifugation. Resulting supernatants will be assayed for soluble radioactivity in a scintillation counter (Rackbeta II). Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis: The hydrolytic enzymes released by B. bacteriovorus H100 during its predatory life cycle will be analyzed by performing two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Sample preparation for 2D-gel electrophoresis: Escherichia coli ML35 cells will be challenged with B. bacteriovorus H100 wild-type as well as the mutant strain. Culture fluid will be drawn from synchronous cultures during attachment and entry phases of B. bacteriovorus H100. Culture fluid will be centrifuged to discard any cell debris. Proteins in the supernatant will be precipitated using cold acetone. The precipitated proteins will be separated by centrifugation. The precipitated pellet will be air dried and will be dissolved in rehydration solution (8M urea, 2% CHAPS {3-[3-cholamidopropyl)-dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate}, 18 mM DTT, 0. 5% IPG buffer pH range 4-7; Amersham Biosciences), plus a trace of bromophenol blue. Sample protein concentrations will be determined using the BCA protein assay (Pierce). Resulting protein pellet will be subjected to 2D-gel electrophoresis.

Should Cell Phones Be Banned in the Classroom?

Should high school students work part-time? Why or Why not? In my opinion high school students should work a part-time job because it gives the student an opportunity to contribute to the community. A part-time job will teach students the value of money and give them the skills that they can use in their future. Firstly, a part-time job for students is a good idea because students are greatly needed to participate in today’s society. Getting a job in the community is a great way to participate and get them involved. A part-time job would give the student a sense of ownership and belonging within their community. Also, when the student gets a pay check he or she has to know that they need to budget their money and also create a savings account for future purchases. Having a job will also teach students the value of the dollar. When a student is about to spend his or her money they can stop and question themselves, do I really need this? Finally a part-time job gives students important skills useful for their future. For example, if a student would get a job at the local department store, he or she would learn how to handle money, how to stock shelves, order supplies that are needed and customer service skills. Having a job builds a student’s character and trust worthy values. As we all know, in society word of mouth about one’s character and how responsible they are excels fast within any community. In conclusion, part- time work for a student is a key element in future success. It allows the student to grow and learn as an individual and create strong work ethic. There is nothing more valuable to an employer than an employee that has these skills. In life there is nothing more desirable to an individual, than to have a strong sense of worth, character and the ability to handle and manage money to its fullest potential.

Elder Abuse Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

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Building Customer Connection with Old Spice Essay

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Aristotle Quote Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Aristotle Quote - Essay Example Aristotle implies that every person should carefully analyze the circumstances of each situation and apply this advice, seek for an even solution. What is important is finding a mean of solving a situation, not necessarily by following blindly the general moral principles, but by carefully equilibrating one's hopes and desires in relation with the social demands. Aristotle suggests that circumstances dictate and sometimes even stand as an excuse for our behavior, but passion should not influence the core values of courage or boldness, depending on the case. Emotions and passions cannot be silenced and they do shape our life as humans, but the deliberation over a situation in a reasonable manner grants, if not always a clear solution, at least a better and, certainly ethical, aim in life; that aim is to make the best of our 'practical reason' that we can only acquire by learning how to act far from anxiety and pure instinct, under the influence of ethical values.

Fashion and style in United States Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

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Toyota Motor Corporation Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Toyota Motor Corporation - Research Paper Example Apart from that, TMC remains ahead on contemporary concerns dealing with additional corporate conscientiousness of the earth, as well as environmental issues. Apart from launching the production of modern vehicles, TMC engages itself in the manufacture of the IMV Project in India, Argentina and South Africa, for the creation, as well as identification, of more efficient and productive supply systems on the global scale. TMC is much more than only a car company, residing in a number of geographical sites, working to promoting vehicle production while, at the same time, promoting continuing advancement in the mobility’s experience, striving to improve a society (Young, 2007). TMC gets credit for being the leading company in market shares in Australia while, at the same time, commanding an impressive part of the United States’ market by accounting for 1.61B shares out, regarding a market cap of not less than 207.44 Billion. This is in supplement of momentous market shares in Europe, Africa, together with the fast-developing market presence in Southeast Asia. Therefore, TMC is on its way to turning into the largest, while, at the same time, the most successful auto manufacturer globally, thereby quickly proceeding in outdoing its extensively challenging competitors (Rittenberg, 2011). The primary executives in TMC appear to be making it a lifetime investment compared to the turnover rate, as well as attrition of various corporations. Undoubtedly, this is partly an attribute of the family-leaning, team-driven and at the same time ethically-motivated environment emulated by TMC; apart from that, there is a notable and impressive level of participation exhibited by executives at the level of management. Fostering authentically reciprocal, dynamic, highest officials, tend to be profoundly engaged in all the facets of the company, in most cases presiding over a number of aspects, while always endorsing the underlying ethical principles of the business phil osophy. An instance of this esteemed individual commitment is portrayed by Mr. Suzuki who is the Chief Financial Officer, while performing several other duties like Chief Business Development Officer, as well as Chief Accounting Officer; the same situation is with other relevant Toyota personnel. This degree of commitment, along with the participation appears to slot in the trickle effect, pushing itself to the highest degrees, as well as working its way down. Conversely, the managers, together with personnel beneath the Board of Directors get encouragement while they are expected to be involved in inputting and creating improvements, rather than simply being the rubber stamps to the decisions delegated to them. As a result, the appropriate executives embraces such critique, utilizing this constructive criticism in the creation of a better product, advanced work environment, as well as improved production approaches (Plunkett, 2006). Unlike the majority of American companies, TMC ac knowledges the value found in valuing employees considering that, eventually, it is their performance along with the motivation that is capable of making or breaking the production together with the financial success of any organization. However, there are crises, such as

Merge of Southwet and Air Tran Airways Case Study

Merge of Southwet and Air Tran Airways - Case Study Example By January 26, 2013 codesharing has already begun and this allowed the two airlines to share itineraries. It is expected that by 2015, the more dominant brand in the merger which is Southwest Airlines will be adopted as the common brand thus removing the Air Tran brand from the merger with its operation being absorbed by Southwest. II. Introduce the companies involve Southwest Airlines Southwest Airlines is the world’s largest carrier that caters to the lower end segment of the aviation industry and services to 79 destinations in 39 states in the United States. It is also the biggest operator of Boeing 737 worldwide with over 550 planes in service. It employs more than 46,000 employees and manages more than 3,400 flights a day. Air Tran Airways Airtran Airways was founded by Airtran Corporation which operated as Northwest Airlink carrier in Minneapolis and Detroit which later purchase Conquest Sun. The company grew and acquired 11 Boeing 737’s and served 24 cities in th e East and Midwest region catering to the lower segment of the market. It was later spun off by Mesaba and formed its holding company Airways Corporation which was later acquired by ValuJet Inc. and was later renamed to its AirTran Holdings. The name AirTran Airways was retained after the merger with ValuJet Inc. Before the merger with Southwest Airlines, AirTranAirways served more than 70 cities coast to coast. It also cater to the Carribean and Mexico market and flew 700 flights per day with over 8,500 crew catering to almost 25 passengers per year (AirTran Airways). III. Identify the period the company went through the merge  and reasons for the merge. give figures if possible.   The merger between Air Tran Airways and Southwestern airline is more of a takeover of Southwestern to Air Tran to expand the coverage of Southwester Airlines. By acquiring Air Tran, Southwest Airline would be able to cover flights that were not previously available to Southwestern Airline such as Atl anta - Hartsfield route that is also the world’s largest airport. Having Air Trans Airways would enable Southwest Airlines to have an access to Air Tran’s Atlanta hub and therefore a beachhead in the market that it covers (CBS News). Services previously unique to Air Tran will now be available to Soutwest Airline among those are flights in Dayton, Akron-Canton, and Washington National. In effect, the acquisition would give Southwest Airlines â€Å"a leg up in the market† by having an access to major city airports from alternate airports. As Bob Jordan, Chief Commercial Officer at Southwest Airlines and President of AirTran, said in a statement issued to The Democrat and Chronicle. "With a connected network, we can offer customers more itineraries, more destinations, more low fares, and a taste of what's to come once the integration is complete† (Trejos). IV. Brief description of the changes made   By having an access to airports and services unique only to Air Tran Airways, Southwest Airline is now able to add service to cities and airports it did not previously cover such as Dayton, Akron-Canton, and Washington National. Consequently, the merger also enabled Southwest Airlines, being the dominant entity in the merger, to remove service areas that were previously exclusive to Air Tran. The cities that were removed from their route were Allentown, Pa.; Asheville, N.C.; Atlantic City; Bloomington/Normal, Ill.; Charleston, W. Va.; Dallas/Fort Worth; Harrisburg, Pa.; Huntsville, Ala.; Knoxville, Tenn; Lexington, Ky.;

Discuss some of the treats that Cyberterrorism pose. How can Essay

Discuss some of the treats that Cyberterrorism pose. How can cyberattacks be prevented - Essay Example This new class of threats has been termed as cyber – threats, and in the present scenario, there is no section of society that can afford it. The modus operandi of cyber – threats entails the employment of computer technology to perpetrate fraud, heinous crimes and other harmful acts against society. These threats are principally aimed at destroying the internal order of society. Thus, cybercrime can be understood as crimes that are committed through computer networks or by using the Internet (Brenner 381 - 383). Terrorists harvest money and indulge in other criminal objectives via computer technology. Their requirements for conducting such nefarious activities are a personal computer with an internet connection. With this arsenal, even smalltime cyber terrorists can communicate with other members in their group and their opponents. They utilize the internet to share novel methods to employ in their future attacks and other important information. Terrorists have created their own intelligence networks through the internet; and the expenditure incurred by them, in gathering intelligence is negligible, in comparison to the amount spent by most nations for collecting intelligence. Furthermore, terrorists can easily plan and execute their operations through computer networks. These terrorist groups assist each other, in order to enhance their cyber capabilities; and they interact with each other, for the purposes of planning and commissioning their projects. They have the capability to attack th e Global Information Grid and the systems connected to it. Their ultimate aim is to destroy critical infrastructure. The general perception is that terrorists are associated with physical violence and death. However, in marked variance to this general view about terrorists and their operations, several terrorists are highly educated and capable of handling the highly sophisticated computer technologies. These

A tale of two lives Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A tale of two lives - Essay Example As a result, the two teenage boys are now serving a sentence in juvenile jails (Pioppi 3). Frank court sentence is more rigid unlike Carlos. Frank is more violent and his criminal activities have landed him in jail thrice for alleged offences including drug peddling and murder. He is serving a sentence at the Long Lane School in Middletown. The juvenile prison is regarded as the home to some of the toughest teen criminals such as Frank. At this prison, the freedom of juveniles is curtailed and when they are allowed to go out, it must be under a guard watch (Pioppi 4). Unlike Frank, Carlos detention school is friendlier than Long Lane and it is managed by a private agency. Detainees at this prison are also privileged to have several amenities unlike in Long Lane. There are tennis courts and a swimming pool where the teens can unwind. According to the author, the Connecticut Junior Republic in Litchfield is more of a boarding school rather than a juvenile center for young criminals. In my view, Carlos prison enjoys more freedom than in Long Lane School, where juveniles are always handcuffed and their movements monitored. Carlos is never handcuffed and can move around the school without being guarded (Pioppi 5). Even though Frank is in a more secure facility, he manages to escape and still commit other serious crimes. His first crime was selling drugs at the city of New Haven. He was later released and was sentenced against for murder charges. He escaped again several time and was involved in a shooting incident. This shows his determination to commit more crimes without getting worried about spending his entire life in prison. His tone is rough and unapologetic and it shows that prison life has not rehabilitated him. As the author notes, the prison authorities are contemplating sending him to prison for good (Pioppi 4). Carlos is friendlier and polite as compared to Frank. The author describes him as a changed person who does not correspond to

Age of Extremes Essay Example for Free

Age of Extremes Essay The twentieth century was rich in events and outstanding personalities. In his book Age of Extremes, Eric Hobsbawm provides an extensive review of what happened during the Twentieth Century and the impact of those events on human development. According to Hobsbawm, the Twentieth Century was both the Age of Catastrophe and the time of the extraordinary economic growth – a complex sandwich of events and developments that changed the human society â€Å"more profoundly than any other period of comparable brevity† (Hobsbawm, 1995). In the first two chapters of Age of Extremes, Eric Hobsbawm (1995) tries to evaluate the social and historic legacy of the Twentieth Century and creates a brief picture of the events and accomplishments that took place between 1914 and 1991. The author is confident that human society cannot distance itself from the events of the past, because everyone on the globe, irrespective of their life history and personal background, went through more or less similar central experiences that affected them all (Hobsbawm, 1995). Hobsbawm (1995) traces the evolution of the Twentieth Century from the First World War, which marked â€Å"the breakdown of the western civilization of the nineteenth century† (p. 6). The western civilization was characterized by capitalist economy, liberal constitutional structure, bourgeois image of the hegemonic class, and the glory of scientific, educational, technological, knowledge, and moral advance (Hobsbawm, 1995). The decades following the beginning of the First World War were the Age of Catastrophe: until the end of WWII, the society stumbled from one calamity to another and lived at the edge of survival (Hobsbawm, 1995). The failure of the major colonial empires and the economic crisis of unprecedented depth added their share of complexity to the state of world affairs (Hobsbawm, 1995). Hobsbawm (1995) believes that the victory of the Soviet Union over Hitler was one of the most important events of the Twentieth Century. Without it, the whole Western world could have turned into set of variations on fascist themes (Hobsbawm, 1995). The rise of the socialist movements was the direct result of the weaknesses in the nineteenth-century bourgeois society (Hobsbawm, 1995). How and why the world threw itself into the Golden Age of capitalism between 1947 and 1973 remains one of basic historical puzzles; but the Golden Age could not be endless and the global crisis that followed affected all, irrespective of their political, social, and economic configurations (Hobsbawm, 1995). The economic crisis gradually extended to cover political issues – the collapse of the Soviet Union produced an enormous zone of political uncertainty and destroyed the stable system of international relations (Hobsbawm, 1995). The economic and political uncertainties were followed by the moral and social crisis – the crisis of beliefs, which humans had used over the course of the Twentieth Century to win their battle over the nineteenth century’s ideology (Hobsbawm, 1995). The century that had begun with unbelievable optimism and faith in the future ended with a bang and a whimper, leaving the society in the midst of the moral, social, economic, and mental collapse (Hobsbawm, 1995). In Hobsbawm’s (1995) view, the Twentieth Century was the time of unprecedented achievements and dramatic failures. The cyclical nature of evolution resulted in continuous instability and profound economic, social, and political shifts. For many countries, the Twentieth Century became the time of remarkable changes and the beginning of the new era of uncertainty and chaos. Whether countries succeed in resolving the existing controversies depends on how well they can learn the lessons of the past and use wisely the historical, political, and moral legacy of the stormy Twentieth Century. Conclusion The Twentieth Century was the time of unprecedented achievements and failures. The capitalization of the word combination â€Å"Twentieth Century† by Hobsbawm (1995) is not accidental. The author feels that the Twentieth Century reflected a unique paradox: the triumph of the material values and their absolute rejection at the end of the era. The century that had begun with unbelievable optimism and faith in the future ended with the deep crisis of the moral and mental ideologies, leaving humanity in the midst of the social, economic, cultural, and moral collapse. Whether countries succeed in resolving the existing controversies depends on how well people can learn from the past and use wisely the historical, political, and moral legacy of the stormy Twentieth Century.

Making Singapore An Inclusive Society

Making Singapore An Inclusive Society Inclusion is an international agenda. It is practiced in both developed and developing countries in the world. In wealthy developed countries (eg United States, Australia) large body of research has highlighted the benefits of inclusion for all students. Inclusion in many developing countries has provided educational alternative for as many children as possible (Lim, L. Tan, J. 2007). The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child emphasizes educational opportunities for the worlds children. It provides that children have a right to education (Art. 28) and children with any kind of disability should have special care and support so that they can lead full and independent lives (Art. 23). The Convention was adopted by Singapore on 2 October 1995 (MCYS, 2003). Making Singapore an Inclusive Society Singapore Prime Minister Lee in his maiden 2004 National Day Rally speech clearly stated the intention of his government to build an inclusive society and envisioned Singapore as a place for its people who can contribute and care for one another as one people and one nation regardless of race, religion and background (Lee, 2004). The following month PM Lee called for more efforts to integrate people with disabilities into mainstream society beginning with the integration of students with disabilities into mainstream schools (Teo, 2004 cited by Lim, Thaver Slee, 2008). The Prime Minister continued his promise of building an inclusive society in his second National Day rally speech 2005 and called on everyone to play a part in remaking Singapore as a vibrant, global city that can be proudly called home (Lee, 2005). He also emphasised a first-class education for all (Lee, 2005). Since PM Lees announcements, other ministries supported his vision of a new government by making commitments to make Singapore an inclusive society. Listed below are ministerial speeches from the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and Ministry of Education (MOE) reiterating the ministrys support to make Singapore an inclusive society. 10 March 2005: Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and Senior Minister of State for Trade Industry (MITI) in his speech on No one left behind defined an inclusive society as one giving people with disabilities more opportunities for gainful employment so that they were not excluded and could live like everyone else (Balakrishnan, 2005 point 33). 10 November 2005: Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister of State for Education (MOE) in his speech on The School as a Caring Community at the International Conference on Inclusive Education affirmed the government support for children with special needs (Gan, 2005). 14 January 2006: Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister of State, Ministry of Education (MOE) and Ministry of Manpower (MOM) as Guest of Honour presenting bursary awards at the Society for the Physically Disabled (SPD) informed that children with disabilities have been accepted into mainstream schools and disclosed that schools are improving their infrastructure so that their facilities are made accessible to students with physical disabilities (Gan, 2006). 26 June 2006: Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and 2nd Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts (MICA) gave a speech about an inclusive transport system making Singapore an Accessible City and announced the launch of wheelchair-accessible public buses (Balakrishnan, 2006 and LTA, 2006). 2 November 2006: At Singapores 11th parliament opening, President S. R. Nathan reiterated its pledge to build a competitive economy and an inclusive society which leaves no one behind (Nathan, 2006). 26 January 2008: Rear Admiral (NS) Lui Tuck Yew, Minister of State, Ministry of Education (MOE) in his speech at the SPD Education Programme Awards Presentation spoke on support for an inclusive school system through many helping hands approach, thus making Singapore a more gracious, compassionate and inclusive society (Lui, 2008 point 9). 20 October 2011: In his address at the opening of Singapores 12th Parliament President Tony Tan stressed the importance of achieving inclusive growth where there are opportunities for everyone (Tan, 2011). 20 October 2011: In the same Parliament seating, PM Lee again spoke of an inclusive society as one where everybody benefits from the progress of the nation, has a say, a stake and a sense of belonging that leaves (sic) no one behind (Lee, 2011 point 3-4). With regard to early education, PM Lee said that the government is focused on supporting good quality, affordable pre-school education (Lee, 2011 point 11) and early diagnosis and intervention for preschool children with learning difficulties (Lee, 2011 point 12). 8 November 2011: Mdm Halimah Yacob, Minister of State for Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) said that investments in early years education is important for social mobility and achieving inclusive growth. In the speech she outlined three areas of focus in subsidy grant for childcare placement, teacher quality and MCYS training to support implementation of the regulatory early years framework (Yacob, 2011). Singapore adopts the many helping hands approach involving families, communities and the government all playing their part towards an inclusive society (Tan, 2009). In the beginning, special education in Singapore developed haphazardly and was driven by voluntary organisations. Over time the government took over to play a coordinating and monitoring role (Tan, 2009) History of Special Education in Singapore The provision of special education dated back in the 1940s in post-war Singapore by organisations providing charitable services for people with physical and sensory disabilities. One of the earliest centres recorded in 1947 was Trafalgar Home for children with leprosy. The British Red Cross Society set up a home for crippled children in 1949 and included education for the deaf two years later. In 1956 the Association for the Blind set up a school. In the following year the Spastic Childrens Association was formed to focus on children with cerebral palsy. The Singapore Association for Retarded Children, later renamed Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore (MINDS) was formed in 1962. Special education in Singapore has since moved beyond physical and sensory disabilities to include intellectual disability (Quah, 2004 and Poon, Khaw Tan, 2007). The 1950s were turbulent times in the political history of Singapore. Besides the Voluntary Welfare Organizations (VWOs) hospitals also supported children with disability. In 1958 the Singapore Council of Social Services (SCSS) was set up to bring together all organisations and individuals with interest in community service and social welfare. In 1992 SCSS was restructured to become the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) (Tan, 2009). Until 1988 special education was operated by the VWOs and funded by NCSS. The governments stand was that special schools are best run by VWOs as VWOs had a strong sense of mission and their autonomy allowed them greater flexibility to respond quickly to needs and demands (Quah, 2004 and Poon, Khaw Tan, 2007). 1988 was a turning point when the Ministry of Education (MOE) partnered with NCSS in special education. MOE would provide land for schools and financial support at double the cost of educating a primary school student. With NCSS matching the financial contribution, total education cost would be four times the amount for a primary school student (Tan, 2009). Local teacher training in special education started in 1984 at the Institute of Education, presently known as the National Institute of Education (NIE) with a 3-year Certificate course in Special Education. When it was re-organised as NIE in 1991, it launched a 2-year Diploma in Special Education and in 2003, Masters programme in Special Education (Tan, 2009). MOE Support for Special Needs 20 May 2005: Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the Minister for Education announced the selection of a pioneer batch of 10 primary schools and 4 secondary schools to receive support for students with special needs with the appointment of Special Needs Officer (SNO) in 2006. By 2010 all primary schools will have a trained SNO to support students with dyslexia. 20 primary schools will get support for autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) with one to three SNOs and 32 secondary schools will also get one to three SNOs for either ASD or dyslexia or both (Shanmugaratnam, 2005). 2. 24 May 2007: According to MOE, SNOs provide additional support in the class and complement the class teachers who are already supporting students with dyslexia or ASD. (MOE, 2007a) 3. 24 May 2007: MOE stipulates the prerequisite qualification of SNOs. Some SNOs may have relevant working experience in working with children with special needs. Applications are also required to have good interpersonal skills and the passion to work with children with special needs. SNOs will undergo full-time Diploma course in Special Education conducted by the National Institute of Education (NIE). After their one year training with NIE, they will then be deployed to schools (MOE, 2007a). 16 November 2007 saw the inaugural Ministry Of Education-National Council of Social Service Special Education Awards to teachers and Special Education (SPED) schools in recognition of their contribution towards the education of children with special needs (MOE, 2007b). Since then the MOE-NCSS Special Education awards are given every year in November (MOE, 2008, 2009b, 2010b, 2011). 10 February 2009: MOE announced recruitment of Allied Educators (AEDs) who will partner teachers in providing specialised support in counselling, teaching and learning in special education. All AEDs will receive training at the National Institute of Education (NIE) which is fully sponsored (MOE, 2009a). As at January 2010, VWOs are running 20 special education (SPED) schools funded by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the National Council of Social Service (NCSS). The SPED schools run different programmes to cater to specific disability groups of children (Tan, 2009). 10 March 2010: The MOE press release outlined its support to enhance quality of special education in terms of recognition, resources and curriculum (MOE, 2010a). MCYS Support for Special Needs The Ministry of Community, Youth and Sports (MCYS) has put in place support for children 6 years and below who have been diagnosed with developmental, intellectual, sensory or physical disabilities. The Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) provides therapy and educational support services to children with special needs. It enhances and maximises the developmental growth potential of these children and minimises the development of secondary disabilities. The programme equips them with fine/gross motor, cognitive, communication, social and self-help skills (MCYS, 2010). The Centre for Enabled Living (CEL) provides referrals by a medical doctor or psychologist to the government-aided EIPIC centres in Singapore for children up to 6 years with developmental, intellectual, sensory or physical disabilities (MCYS, 2010). Public awareness and media coverage Public awareness grew over the years and there have been extensive media coverage, reports, stories and the airing of public views about people with disabilities or special needs. Public awareness is important in changing mind-sets thus promoting an inclusive society. Listed below are titles carried in the local newspapers during 2008 and 2009. Farm gives work experience to special needs adults (26th January 2008, The Straits Times) Growing old gracefully (18th February 2008, Business Times) Four ways Govt can help the disabled (27th February 2008, The Straits Times) FedEx gives disabled an opportunity to sail (18th March 2008, Business Times) Govt helps open more doors to be disabled (12th April 2008, The Straits Times) Kids to get half of $52m ComChest aims to raise (24th April 2008, The Straits Times) Making a difference to disabled children (12th July 2008, The Straits Times) Disability just another hurdle (13th July 2008, The Straits Times) Special gadgets for their special needs (23rd September 2008, Today) Including students with disabilities (23rd October 2008, Today) Are we able to help the disabled? (3rd December 2008, Today) Handicapped students get sporting chance (1st February 2009, The Straits Times) More day care, activity centres for the elderly (6th February 2009, The Straits Times) Work together to help the disabled (15th February 2009, The Straits Times) Enabling the disabled is a moral duty (14th May 2009, The Straits Times) Spore gears up for SILVER TSUNAMI (21st May 2009, The Straits Times) Special needs kids pack NDP funpacks (3rd August 2009, The Straits Times) Help for disabled and elderly just a call away (28th August 2009, The Straits Times) Enabling the disabled (18th September 2009, Today) Govt-backed trust to help care for children with disabilities (30th October 2009, The Straits Times) Open Door for disabled workers (1st November 2009, The Straits Times) Students spread cheer to the terminally ill (14th November 2009, The Straits Times) Special touch making a big difference (15th November 2009, The Straits Times) Special education schools to offer skills certification (21st November 2009, The Straits Times) Special schools urged to engage public (24th November 2009, The Straits Times) More schemes to help the less fortunate (2nd December 2009, The Straits Times) Turning disability into capability (2nd December 2009, The Straits Times) Disabled issues to get airing at Speakers Corner (12th December 2009, The Straits Times) Policy to Practice and Challenges The difference between mainstreaming and inclusion is philosophical (Quah Jones, 2004). Those who advocate mainstreaming holds the view that a child with special needs belongs to a special school setting and earns his way into the regular school setting. In contrast, those who support inclusion believes that the child with special needs begins in the regular school setting and is moved to special school because the appropriate services are not available or provided for in the regular school. Advocates of full inclusion believe that children with disabilities should be integrated into the general school environment regardless of whether they are able to meet the curriculum standards. In Singapore, placement is dependent on the childs abilities and needs. Students with diverse needs are increasingly integrated into regular schools. The most common special education category learning disability could fit nearly anyone having some problems in school. Teachers in the general classroom who are managing childrens behaviours every day are in the best standing and most effective in identifying children who are at risk and in need of intervention (Mercer, Algozzine and Trifiletti, 1988). Teachers are able to identify general skills such as self-help skills, social interaction and communication skills. This is crucial in identifying children with intellectual disabilities (Kemp and Carter, 2005 as cited by Janus et al, 2007). It is not enough that teachers are effective in identifying children at risk. Teachers should be working in contact and collaboration with specialists in special needs education. In Singapore, there are no statutory requirements to provide special services for children with special needs. Voluntary welfare organisations (VWOs) have played significant roles in the introduction and development of such services since the 1950s, including early intervention programmes. Early intervention programmes are available and accessible in special schools and hospitals. According to MCYS, referral to EIPIC (Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children) centres is executed and coordinated by the Centre for Enabled Living (CEL) through a form submission by a medical social worker at a hospitals Child Development Unit. In general, the family doctor or general practitioner makes most of the referrals. Children who have mild disabilities that are not apparent until a later age may be missed out and their identification probably made possible only through the teachers at their preschool centres. Preschool teachers along with special school teachers are receiving training at the National Institute of Education (NIE) in special needs education. In fact modules in special needs education are available in teachers training at both pre-service and in-service levels. Teachers play an important role in setting the tone to create an inclusive environment within the classrooms. Janus et al (2007) cite findings of Early, Pianta, Taylor and Cox (2001) that teacher training influences their practices. This view is supported by Stephens Braun (1980) also cited by Janus et al (2007) teachers who take special education courses are more willing to accept children with special needs and are also more confident in their ability to teach special education. Teachers value, beliefs and attitudes regarding diversity and difference can influence their teaching and practices. This in turn can influence the quality of experiences of students. Although students with special needs spend most of their time in their classrooms, success in the support they receive is also influenced by factors outside the classroom but within the school. On important factor is the availability and extent of the support the school has with regard to professionals such as educational psychologists, counsellors and teacher aides. Schools may have support in terms of equipment, books and amenities; however, the extent to which these resources are coordinated within the school can affect outcome. Leadership support in the form of a principal is necessary. Above all, the collaboration between the school and the professionals involved is crucial. Others outside the school that can influence support for students with special needs include the medical professionals, psychiatrists or paediatricians, health professionals, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists and physiotherapists. Collaboration of the school with these professionals is important. Conclusion The vision of an inclusive society depends on how inclusive schools are. The move towards integration and inclusion of students with disabilities into mainstream schools is becoming a reality in Singapore. Support for special education increased considerably since PM Lees call for an inclusive society. The MOE has played a more active role in special education, collaborating with special schools to achieve desired learning outcomes and collaborating with VWOs to appoint school management staff (Tan, 2009). There was better integration and more opportunities for partnerships between special and mainstream education resulting in more opportunities of interaction among students with and without disabilities. Education and the future of an inclusive society means teachers play a crucial role. Teachers working with students with disabilities are likely to face issues that affect the social and academic inclusion of these students. They can take stock of the challenges facing them and examine existing practices to improve current school efforts by bringing in additional necessary resources. By raising these issues and asking for help, teachers can work earnestly and make inclusion possible within the mainstream educational system for children with special needs. Special education programmes and services are improving and special education teachers are better trained. Together with the support of government we can look forward to better quality of life for all individuals with special needs and living the reality of Singapore as an inclusive society. References Balakrishnan, V. (2005, March 10) No One Left Behind [Online] Available from: http://app1.mcys.gov.sg/PressRoom/CommitteeofSupplySitting2005Part1NoOn.aspx. [Accessed 1st July 2012]. Balakrishnan, V. (2006, June 26) The Launch of SBS Transit Ltd Wheelchair Accessible Buses [Online] Available from: http://app1.mcys.gov.sg/PressRoom/TheLaunchofSBSTransitLtdWheelchairAccessibl.aspx [Accessed 1st July 2012] Gan, K. Y. (2005, November 10) The School as a Caring Community. [Online] Available from: http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2005/sp20051110a.htm. [Accessed 1st July 2012]. Gan, K. Y. (2006, January 14) Speech [Online] Available from: http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2006/sp20060114.htm. [Accessed 1st July 2012] Janus, M., Lefort, J., Cameron, R. Kopechanski, L. (2007) Starting Kindergarten: Transition issues for children with special needs. Canadian Journal of Education. [Online] 30 (3), 628-648. Available from: http://www.jstor.org/stable/20466656 [Accessed 2nd July 2012]. Land Transport Authority (2006, June 26) Introduction Of First Wheelchair-Accessible Bus Service. [Online] Available from: http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=1600 [Accessed 5th July 2012]. Lim, L. Tan, J. (2004) Learning and Diversity. In: Lim, L. Quah, M. M. (Eds) Educating learners with diverse abilities. Singapore: McGraw-Hill. Lim, L., Thaver, T. Slee, R. (2008) Exploring disability in Singapore: A personal learning journey. Singapore: McGraw-Hill Lee, H. L. (2004, August 20) National Day Rally Speech [Online] Available from: http://www.scribd.com/doc/19374508/National-Day-Rally-Speech [Accessed 30th June 2012]. Lee, H. L. (2005, August 21) National Day Rally Speech [Online] Available from: http://www.singaporeupdate.com/previous2005/220805_primeministersnationaldayrallyspeech2005_more.htm [Accessed 1st July 2012]. Lee, H. L. (2011, October 20) Speech [Online]. Available from: http://www.pmo.gov.sg/content/pmosite/mediacentre/speechesninterviews/primeminister/2011/October/Speech_by_Prime_Minister_Lee_Hsien_Loong_at_the_Debate_on_The_President_Address.html [Accessed 30th June 2012]. Lui, T. Y. (2008, January 26) Speech [Online] Available from: http://www.moe.gov.sg/media/speeches/2008/01/26/speech-by-radm-ns-lui-tuck-yew-1.php. [Accessed 1st July 2012]. Mercer, C. D., Algozzine, B. Trifiletti, J. (1988) Early Identification: An analysis of the research. Learning Disability Quarterly, [Online] 11 (3 10th Anniversary Issue), 176-188 Available from: http://www.jstor.org/stable/1510762 [Accessed 2nd July 2012]. Ministry of Community, Youth Sports (MCYS) (2003, September 26) UN Convention On The Rights Of The Child [Online] Available from: http://app1.mcys.gov.sg/PressRoom/UNConventionOnTheRightsOfTheChild.aspx [Accessed 1st July 2012]. Ministry of Community, Youth Sports (2010) Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC) [Online] Available from: http://app1.mcys.gov.sg/Policies/DisabilitiesPeoplewithDisabilities/EducationforPeoplewithDisabilities.aspx. [Accessed 3rd July 2012]. 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Strategies to Avoid Car Congestion

Strategies to Avoid Car Congestion BUSINESS CASE: AVOIDING CRIPPLING CAR COGESTION 1 Case 2, Business Case: Avoiding a Future of Crippling Car Congestion Page 109 Explain the concept of connected cars. Why does Bill Ford see a need for connected cars? What does Ford mean by â€Å"global gridlock†? Brainstorm a few other ways in which an IT network could help to reduce global gridlock. Do  not limit yourself to current mobile network capabilities. If no action is taken far in advance of the forecasted car congestion, what do you foresee will  happen? What is the â€Å"Connected Cars† concept? According to (Turban, Volonino, Wood, Sipior, 2013) pg 109/1). This connected car concept, are vehicles linked to various mobile networks and or intelligent systems and capable of M2M communication. This concept was outlined by Bill Ford chairman of Ford Motors at the 2012, Mobile World Congress (Turban, Volonino, Wood, Sipior, 2013) pg 109/1). The mobile infrastructure allows for incorporation of technologies, applications, support, security processes, as well as devices for management and distribution of wireless communications. Wi-Fi technology permits devices to connect and share a network or Internet connection without connecting to a commercial network. (Turban, Volonino, Wood, Sipior, 2013) pg 94/3). Theconnected caris a vehicle with internet connectivity which can be linked or connected to its navigation and information systems in addition to its passenger’s personal communication devices such as smartphones, computers, tablet or any other internet connected personal device. Also to include data connectionswithin the vehicle, such as GM’sglobal communication system â€Å"OnStar† (Howard, B. 2013). Permanent connections which allows the vehicle to communicate with your smartphone that would assist you in locating your car. Or the status of a charged battery pack by an app command or text message (Howard, B. 2013). Wide area networks (WANs), WiMAXs, and local area networks (LANs) and wireless wide area networks (WWANs) for mobile computing constitutes the various mobile network infrastructures. LANs and WiMAX are the components of the wireless infrastructures (Turban, Volonino, Wood, Sipior, 2013) pg 94/4). So simply speaking a connected car can be any vehicle that has Mobile to Mobile connectivity, internet access or connected to a remote location that offers a service for the vehicle or its occupants over Wi-Fi connectivity is a connected car. Bill Ford see’s the need for connected cars because he see the vehicles in the world climbing at an ever-accelerating rate, and this massive surplus of vehicles can be averted with vehicles that are capable of communicating to each other as well as the communication system or infrastructure. Bill Ford Jr., of Ford Motor Company, â€Å"cautioned of the danger of amplified automobile possession and no conforming increase in automotive connectivity†. Partnerships will be needed to be established between automotive as well as telecommunications industries and the need will be greater than ever as we prepare for and manage the future (Barry, K. 2012). Within impending days, linked vehicles would communicate with one another through centralized traffic-observation platforms which would communicate notices about congestion, construction and accidents to in-car monitoring systems. Ford said vehicles should be seen â€Å"as pieces of a much bigger, richer network.† Precisely, cars of the future could rely on 802.11p WLAN, a network infrastructure reserved for vehicle 2 vehicle network infrastructures. Connected automobiles can interconnect with one another as well as command and traffic control stations. These stations could warn could about traffic jams, construction and accidents by relying data to in-car navigation systems (Barry, K. 2012). â€Å"Mobile data traffic is expected to increase 18-fold in size and speed through 2016, according to Cisco Visual Networking Index (VN1) Mobile Data Traffic Forecast, 2011-2016†, according to (Turban, Volonino, Wood, Sipior, 2013). Ford’s vision of â€Å"global gridlock† can be explained as follows: â€Å"a never-ending traffic jam that wastes time, energy and resources which also impedes the movement of commerce and healthcare,† Ford said that, â€Å"Sixty percent of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2030, and there will be 2 billion automobiles on the highways. This progression is anticipated to come in China, the world’s largest automotive market† (Barry, K. 2012). The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration pronounces,† connecting our cars could address as many as 4.3 million crashes, or about 80 percent of accidents that don’t involve intoxicated drivers. Sixty percent of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2030, and there will be as many as 2billioncars on the road.† (Barry, K. 2012). How can future gridlock be reduce or controlled? , well here’s an example of future concepts of reducing global gridlock. Evacuated Tube Transport Technology Envision traveling from Manhattan to Beijing in one-hundred twenty minutes, that’s only 2 hours. A pair of pioneering minds have confidence in reducing travel time significantly, using high-speed capsules racing through tubes – considerably like driving through a drive through bank. Colorado inventor, Daryl Oster references this idea the â€Å"Evacuated Tube Transport Technology†, â€Å"it can propel a person or object 400 miles from Los Angeles to San Francisco in 30 minutes. This technology would necessitate a system for transporting a capsule through a vacuum tube with the air sucked out as if being in outer space, eradicating friction† (Petersen, B. 2013). Supercavitation -The occurrence identified as supercavitation is most familiar within the military realm. Cavitation an air or gas pocket developing around an object in motion underwater can be beneficial as this air or gas pockets fall away from a vehicle. The drag or resistance on a ship or underwater vehicle becomes greatly reduced. A defense tech company, â€Å"Juliet Marine Systems† developed a supercavitating watercraft called theâ€Å"Ghost marine platform†incorporating stealthiness and attack helicopter technologies for tracking airborne and subsurface objects. Gliding efficiently through the water still ends up being like moving through the air. (Danigelis, A. 2013). My Thoughts on Future Transportation I would consider using manual powered equipment as a means of travel providing exclusive attention would be given to this device. Such as bicycle that was designed for a comfortable long distance ride with exclusive roadways designed just for my device. How about a multiple person hover craft, where three or four person would mount a disc like object that hover only a few feet above ground. With the occupants securely strapped in and again allowed to operate exclusively within an air-space just for this mode of travel. What if no action is taken far in advance of the forecasted car congestion, what do you foresee will happen? I as well agree with Bill Ford, I see massive gridlock along with major congestion throughout the United States as well abroad. A never-ending traffic jam that wastes time, energy and resources and even compromises the flow of commerce and healthcare. Traffic on Interstates and Express routes will come to a mere crawl, vehicles will exhaust there fuel supply while stuck in traffic road blocks. Causalities will increase as a results of medical transportation and supply vehicles caught up in gridlock as well, making it nearly impossible for medical supplies or patients transport to reach there intended destinations. Food supply vehicles will have there cargo spoiled as a results of being caught up in traffic gridlock. I also envision a special highway express being created just for medical, food, fuel and any lifesaving product or supply. I also see this special highway being patrol by law enforcement and violators being severely punishment for traveling these special routes or interfering with the traffic on them. Unless the growing number of vehicles are not seriously addressed, to include major funding, rigorous IT research and advancements commuting and traffic as we know it will be a process of the past. References: Barry, K. (2012). Ford: Connected Cars Can Save Us From Gridlock.Ford: Connected Cars Can Save Us From Gridlock. Retrieved from http://www.wired.com/2012/02/ bill-ford-says-connected-cars-can-save-us-from-gridlock/ Danigelis, A. (2013). 10 Wild Ways To Travel In The Future.FUTURE OF TRANSPORTATION. Retrieved from http://news.discovery.com/autos/ future-of-transportation/10-wild-ways-travel-future-130812.htm Howard, B. (2013). Connected cars: When is the breakthrough coming?Extreme Tech. Retrieved from http://www.extremetech.com/extreme/ 147568-connected-cars-when-is-the-breakthrough-coming Petersen, B. (2013). Hyperloop, Vacuum Tubes Shaping Up As Travel of The Future? CBS New York. Retrieved from http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2013/08/12/ hyperloop-vacuum-tubes-travel-of-the-future/ Turban, E., Volonino, L., Wood, G. R., Sipior, J. C. (2013).Information technology for management: Advancing sustainable, profitable business growth, 9th edition(9th Ed.). Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s Letter From a Birmingham Jail Essay

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s â€Å"Letter From a Birmingham Jail† In King’s essay, â€Å"Letter From Birmingham Jail†, King brilliantly employs the use of several rhetorical strategies that are pivotal in successfully influencing critics of his philosophical views on civil disobedience. King’s eloquent appeal to the logical, emotional, and most notably, moral and spiritual side of his audience, serves to make â€Å"Letter From Birmingham Jail† one of the most moving and persuasive literary pieces of the 20th century. In Birmingham, Ala., in the spring of 1963, King's campaign to end segregation at lunch counters and segregated hiring practices drew nationwide attention when police turned attacks dogs and fire hoses on peaceful demonstrators. King was jailed along with a large number of his supporters, including hundreds of schoolchildren. When white clergy, strongly opposed to Kings position on nonviolent passive resistance, issued a statement urging the blacks not to support the demonstrations, King penned a letter of remarkable eloquence which spelled out his philosophy of nonviolence disobedience. In â€Å"Letter From Birmingham Jail†, King expresses his extreme disappointment over the criticism of his leadership by Alabama clergymen, his understanding of why oppressed people must resist their oppression, and his deep faith in the fundamental decency of all Americans. In â€Å"Letter From Birmingham Jail† King demonstrates exceptional literary prowess through his mastery of several rhetorical strategies to persuade. King’s strategy to influence his audience in â€Å"Letter From Birmingham Jail† is that of a three-pronged approach. In an attempt to sway his fellow clergymen King argues his position with passion and conviction as he respectfully appeals to the logical, emotional and spiritual psyche of his critics. Kings first attempt to reach his reader is through his appeal to their logic or reasoning. He does this by presenting a direct relationship between the reasoning for his position against segregation and argument for it’s resulting actions of civil disobedience by those oppressed by it. This approach is most evident when King gives the reasoning for his statement, "I have almost reached the regrettable conclusion that the Negro's great stumbling block in his stride toward freedom is not the White Citizen's Councilor or the Klu Klux Klanner, but the white moderate... ...l, I must constantly respond to the Macedonian call for aid" (160). Petitioning to the readers moral conscience King beliefs that righteous minded individuals are more apt to intervene against oppression if asked to question their own ethics. Through his references to history, his elegant prose, and his thoughtful analysis of the condition of Blacks, his essay reveals a writer of extraordinary skill and intellect. His rhetorical approach in detailing the disparity of the oppressed, courageous, non-violent people of his era proves that â€Å"Letter from Birmingham Jail† is without question, one of most important documents of the civil rights movement. King’s ability to communicate the plight of the disenfranchised of American society helped galvanize a generation and change the social fabric of an entire nation. Works Cited King Jr., Martin L. â€Å"Letter From Birmingham Jail†. A World of Ideas. Ed. Lee A. Jacobus. Boston/New York: Bedford/St. Martins, 1998. 153-69 Zepp, Ira G., Jr. The Social Vision of Martin Luther King Jr. New York: Carlson Publishing Inc., 1989. 123-47 Walton, Hanes Jr. The Political Philosophy of Martin Luther King Jr. New York: Greenwood Press, 1971

A Rebuttal to E. R. Dodds On Misunderstanding the Oedipus Rex Essay

A Rebuttal to E. R. Dodds' On Misunderstanding the Oedipus Rex In "On Misunderstanding the Oedipus Rex," E. R. Dodds takes issue with three different opinions on Oedipus Rex. I consider the first two opinions, which Dodds gleaned from student papers, to be defensible from a close reading of the text. The first of these opinions is that Oedipus was a bad man, and was therefore punished by the gods; Dodds counters that Sophocles intended for us to regard him as good, noble, and selfless. But the play would seem to indicate that Oedipus, while a clever man, is not a good one -- this can be shown through Dodds' own source of argument, the attitude of the chorus, as well as through Oedipus' own actions onstage. Oedipus does not, as Dodds asserts, unselfishly seek out the truth even though he knows it will be painful for him; rather, he has no idea what the outcome of his search will be, denies the truth at every turn, and threatens those who speak it. The second conclusion drawn by students -- that Oedipus' actions are entirely determined by the gods , who control him completely -- Dodds pooh-poohs on the grounds that Oedipus is a free agent, acting on his own initiative. In fact, Dodds states, the idea of free will vs. determinism is a Hellenistic thought and would not have even occured to an audience of Sophocles' time. I believe that, as all of Oedipus' actions, including those over the course of the play, were determined before his birth, and he cannot avoid them although it is his will to do so, those actions cannot be construed as real choice. This play contains many post-Sophoclean ideas, such as denial, that (while not yet named by Greek society) still were understood by the audience. In his rebuttal of the first opi... ... look at it as Greeks would, isn't this the same as saying that the play is meaningless to today's readers? One of the wonders of classic texts is that every generation will find something new in them. This should not be looked upon as a sign of students' ignorance, but rather of their ingenuity. Works Cited and Consulted Dodds, E. R. "On Misunderstanding the Oedipus Rex." Twentieth Century Interpretations of Oedipus Rex: A Collection of Critical Essays. Ed. Michael J. O'Brien. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, 1968. 17-29. Hamilton, Edith. Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes. New York: Penguin Books, 1940. Knox, Bernard M. W. The Heroic Temper: Studies in Sophoclean Tragedy. Berkeley: U of California Press, 1964. Sophocles. "Oedipus Rex." An Introduction to Literature, 11th ed. Eds. Sylvan Barnet, et al. New York: Longman, 1997. 800-836.

Argument Against Reality Television Essay -- Persuasive Essays, Argum

What pleasure do you get from watching a group of people humiliate themselves in the name of television? Media both in the UK and around the world seem to have "discovered" that so-called "reality" shows are very profitable, resulting in a growing string of such shows in recent years. Although not all are successful, many do achieve significant popularity and cultural prominence. That does not mean, however, that they are good for society or that they should be aired. Can you honestly say, that after absorbing the reality rubbish, you have learned something? Educational, stimulating, witty, are all adjectives you would not associate with reality television. Reality T.V is a case of vegetating in front of the screen and glazing gormlessly at a group of half-hearted celebrities as they involve themselves inà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ a deep philosophical conversation. Not only does Reality Television reflect appallingly on our media culture, but it corrupts the mind of youngsters, giving them twisted views on society. What person are you becoming if you are sitting there daydreaming about who is going to be "evicted" from Big Brother? Well, you're the one the needs a snap back to realityà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ One of the attractions of reality television is the supposed "reality" of it - unscripted and unplanned situations and reactions. One of the ethical problems of reality television is the fact that it isn't nearly as "real" as it pretends to be. At least in dramatic shows one can expect the audience to understand that what they see on the screen doesn't necessarily reflect the reality of the actors' lives; the same, however, cannot be said for heavily edited and con... ...tem from the increasing separation we experience from others around us. The more distant we are from each other as individuals, the more readily we can objectify each other and fail to experience sympathy and empathy when others around us suffer. The fact that we are witnessing events not in front of us but rather on television, where everything is has an unreal and fictional air about it, probably aids in this process as well. I'm not saying that you should never watch reality TV programming, but the motivations behind being a viewer are ethically suspect. Instead of passively accepting whatever media companies try to feed you, it would be better to take some time to reflect on why such programming is made and why you feel attracted to it. Perhaps you will find that your motivations themselves are not so attractive.

Billy Bud Martial Law

Marshal Law in Billy Budd The story â€Å"Billy Budd† by Herman Melville takes place in 1797 on a British navel warship. A man named Billy Budd was recruited into the ranks as a naval sailor for the British ranks. Britain was at war with France during the time so on the warships marshal law was used. Billy Budd is a young sailor newly recruited into the ranks, he is liked by many of his crew. Munity on a lot of British warships has occurred and many officers are scared of their crew turning on them.John Claggart is the master at arms of the ship, his job is to keep an eye on the crew by making sure everyone is doing their job and not trying to start a mutiny. Claggart believes that Billy Budd is a dangerous man and thinks that Billy Budd is liable to mutiny. Claggart on his suspicions goes to speak to the captain and tells Captain Captain Edward Fairfax Vere about Billy Budd. Captain Vere does not believe this and asks Claggart and Billy Budd to come confront one another.Clagg art begins to accuse him and Billy Budd overcome with rage strikes Claggart and he collapses instantly to his death. After this the captain is forced to call for a trial for the death of Claggart. The Captain was the sole witness to the case, during the trial most judges as well as Captain Vere know that Billy Budd did not mean to but because of the Marshal Law set place Billy Bud must be put to death. Captain Vere tells the judges that they must vote to execute Billy Budd to show an example to the rest of the crew.Billy Budd is put to death by hanging. Marshal law plays a big role is the death of Billy Budd. Billy Budd is looked at as unintentionally killing Claggart he is still executed for his crime. The Navy’s Marshal law was enforce and stated that murder is murder regardless of intention. If Marshal law was not enforced Billy Budd would have most likely have been tried for killing Claggart and would have been found guilty but his sentencing would have been different.Bil ly Budd would have most likely been sent to jail for a number of years because of his actions but he would not have been sentenced to death. In Marshal law intention does not matter while in regular law intention is more important then the action that has accured. If someone by accidently killed someone driving they are not put to death but rather charged for manslaughter and could get a couple of years in jail. If the defendant shows that it was not his fault they could even and they did not mean their actions then they could be acquitted of manslaughter as well.But in Marshal law they could be trialed and put to death for simply killing the other. In the case of Billy Budd, Marshal law had a direct account for his execution. If there was no marshal law on the British warship he would have been spared his life. In conclusion Billy Budd’s death had to do solely with the type of law instilled in the British Naval ranks. If Billy Budd would have been charged in regular court he would have been found guilty and sent to jail for a couple of years. Instead Billy Budd was put to death by hanging.