See topic below Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

See topic below - Essay Example State-funded Medicaid costs appear to be an ever-present for state government in all of the fifty states of the United States, but some states seem to have a more difficult time dealing with the escalating costs and the lower revenue. These states have been forced to seek other methods of revenue in order to fund the Medicaid program. Given the scenario that I was the governor of such a state and I was had to find of forms of funding, other than allotting money from other state funded programs, I would seek certain choices. As in the example of what the state of Kansas is doing. "The State of Kansas is currently engaged in wide-ranging privatization efforts for services such as child support collection, foster care and adoption, and mental health services. These efforts, which have garnered substantial media attention in the state, have resulted in part from the governor's explicit agenda to reduce the size of the Kansas government and to shift service production to more efficient private contractors.(3) The terms "privatized" and "down-sized" are common in the vocabulary of current state leaders" (Johnston, and Romzek 383) Kansas has had a successful venture with this privatization and

Compare differences of history and performance styles between Italian Essay

Compare differences of history and performance styles between Italian opera and Chinese opera - Essay Example People sing the music while acting out the parts without talking much. Some popular types include Italian and Chinese Opera. The essay compares the differences in history and performance styles between Italian Opera and Chinese Opera. Even though opera did not originate in Venice, its development in Italy was stimulated by the nurturing environment that existed in a serene republic. A good percentage of Europe’s music was dominated by the Italian opera during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries (Kimbell, 2004, p.238). The bourgeoisies would regularly commission huge and interesting pieces of work that combined drama, music, and dance. The combination of fine arts marked the birth of opera and several cities in Italy, Rome, Florence, Venice, and Naples contributed to the development and perfection of this new genre (Levey, 2004, p.388). But, the entire opera movement was started in Florence, Italy by the Florentine Camerata and the Bardi, who regularly met in an attempt to recreate the Greek drama. As the 17th century drew to an end, Italian opera was undergoing many challenges and alterations that were later expected to affect its standing in various ways. These changes had produced two visible and different forms of Italian opera. One type was the serious and tragedy-like type referred to as opera seria, while the second type is a lighter and more comic and earthly style that was referred to as opera buffa (Dahlhaus, 2004, p.63). The two forms of Italian opera arose out of common ancestor but were exposed to different influences that shaped and cultured them into the forms we are acquainted with today. Opera seria first arose in the cities of Venice and Naples and toke an inflexible and practical form by 1720. It was the product of a philosophical movement that started in the late 1600’s (Dahlhaus, 2004, p.45). The famous movement was referred to as Enlightenment and worked effortlessly to seize the entire Europe while affecting

Pantoprazole Compound Discovery and Development

Pantoprazole Compound Discovery and Development Abstract Pantoprazole is an proton pump inhibitor, which inhibits the gastric acid secretion by blocking the proton pump or the H+K+ATPase in the gastric parietal cells of stomach. Pantoprazole was synthesized in the year 1987 and was launched in the year 1994 after development and clinical trials. Development of the lead compound timoprazole and the discovery of H+K+ATPase as an target, were the two most important discoveries which led to the generation of a new class of compounds, the proton pump inhibitors. In this review, the discovery and the stages of development of pantoprazole will be discussed. Introduction The gastric acid is secreted in the stomach by the parietal cells. The gastric parietal cells are known to have three stimulators viz. gastrin, acetycholine and histamine. Acetylcholine and Histamine exert their effect through the M3-Muscarinic and H2-Histamnic receptors respectively. Whereas, gastrin exerts its action via release of histamine. Antagonists of the cholinergic and histaminic receptors were the first agents used for the inhibition of gastric acid secretion. The side effects and low efficacy limited the use of cholinergic receptor antagonists[1] and the histaminic receptor antagonists were the first class of drugs to be clinically used for the treatment of acid related disorders. These classes of drugs were widely developed in the 1970s and 1980s.[1] But, variability in response and phenomenas like acid rebound and tolerance were observed in these class of drugs[2]. Thus there was a need of more effective targets and drugs for the optimal inhibition of gastric acid. This search led to the discovery of a new target, the gastric acid pump- H+K+ATPase and a new class of anti-secretory drugs were born that is the Proton pump inhibitors[2]. Omeprazole was then synthesized in 1979 and was the first clinically used proton pump inhibitor launched in 1988 and then gradually pantoprazole was synthesized in 1986 and launched in 1994. Today pantoprazole is one of the first line drug used in the treatment of acid related disorder. Initiation of research for new compounds: In 1967 at Astra HÃ ¤ssle researcher Ivan -stholm initiated an innovative research project in gastrointestinal field in order to develop anti-secretory agents which could be used in the peptic ulcer diseases[4]. Their first idea was to inhibit the gastric stimulating hormone gastrin[4]. It was known from the various animal experiments that local anesthetic agents of the antrum blocks the release of gastrin. Therefore the researchers at Astra HÃ ¤ssle aimed at synthesizing a local anesthetic compound which could be administered orally and is orally active. But all the available local anesthetic agents were however, protonated in an acidic environment and therefore were inactive, thus the goal was to change the chemical structure of lidocaine which was an established local anesthetic agent of the Astra HÃ ¤ssle itself into a non-basic compound[4]. The shay rat or the gastric fistula rat was used as a screening model. A large number of compounds were synthesized by the researchers, b ut it was found that the anesthetic property of the compound induced toxic effects. The chemical development finally ended with compounds including carbamates which were devoid of local anesthetic properties. Carbamates were found to be very effective inhibitors of gastric acid secretion in rat models but were rather ineffective in dog.[6-7] The most effective carbamate compound was H81/75 but however in 1971-72, when it was tested in humans it was found to be completely ineffective. Instead of reviving this local anesthetic lead, the researchers undertook a literature search to look for new approaches. In 1972, the researchers found an abstract from an Hungarian pharmacological meeting in which a new anti-secretory agent called CMN-131 was described.CMN-131 was synthesized by French company Servier.[4,5] In this abstract it was reported that CMN-131 induced inhibition of stimulated gastric acid secretion in rats as well as anesthetized dogs. But due to severe toxicological problems the research on this drug never continued.[4] By this time in 1973, Smith-Kline and French announced the development of Cimetidine, worlds first H2 receptor antagonist which inhibited the gastric acid secretion by blocking histaminic receptors[1]. Based on the structure of cimetidine, a benzimidazole ring was added to the structure of CMN-131and was tested on animal models this new compound was named as H124/26 .[4]This sulphide compound was then modified for stabilization into its su lfoxide analogue and thus a new compound called as Timoprazole was born which was found to be a potent inhibitor of gastric acid secretion. But, however timoprazole was found to show toxicities in the thyroid gland. It causes enlargement of thyroid gland, the possible reason for this toxicity was that the timoprazole inhibits the iodine uptake. Thus timoprazole was not further developed and it served as a lead compound for the development of new anti-secretory agents. Uptill now the target of timoprazole was unknown. Discovery of H+K+ ATPase: In 1977, George Sachs and John Forte discovered H+K+ ATPase pump commonly known as the proton pump or the gastric acid pump[3.4]. From the experiments carried out on hog gastric mucosa, they showed that the exchange of H+ and K+ were responsible for the regulation of the gastric acid secretion and they also suggested that this was the terminal step in the acid secretory process of the parietal cell wall[4]. When acid secretory membranes are isolated from the parietal cells, they round up and form closed vesicles containing H+K+ ATPase. On the basis of imunohistological data from various organs with the help of antibodies against a crude preparation from the secretory membranes of the parietal cells, Sachs showed that the proto pump was localized in the gastric parietal cells.[4] This immunohistological data not only revealed strong immunoreactivity in the parietal cell region of the stomach, but also revealed some acitivity in the thyroid gland.[5] Target identification: On the basis of various pharmacological methods, like the isolated guinea pig atrium, it was found that timoprazole was neither an H2-histaminic receptor antagonist nor an anti-cholinergic drug. Furthermore there were no evidences supporting any anti-gastrin activity of the compound.[4,5] Therefore, though timoprazole inhibited the gastric acid secretion in various animal based models but its exact mechanism and site of action due to which it can account for its anti-secretory activity was yet to be identified. During this time, the proton pump was discovered and there were evidences that the activation of this newly discovered proton pump, present in the secretory membranes of the stomach parietal cells, was the final step of the gastric acid secretion. Also, the imunohistological data obtained using antibodies reveled strong immunoreactivity in the parietal cell region of the stomach and also some activity in the thyroid gland. On the basis of these facts coupled with the knowledge of the side effects of timoprazole on the thyroid gland, discussed earlier, raised an intriguing question in the minds of the scientists that could H+K+ ATPase, be the target of site of action of timoprazole. Research was initiated in this area in parallel to the further development of the benzimidazole compounds. With the help of the various pharmacological techniques such as the isolated gastric vesicles, it was indeed shown that the substituted benzimidazoles inhibited the gastric acid secretion by the inhib ition of the H+K+ ATPase pump. Studies showed that the pre-incubation of isolated vesicles with substituted imidazoles resulted in inhibition of gastric acid secretion only when the conditions were acidic[4,5]. This was really a breakthrough finding. This finding was further verified in experiments where the compound solvent was acidified[4]. All these facts and findings were the first indication that the substituted benzimidazoles had to be probably be transformed in other forms in order to bring about the active inhibition of the proton pump. Protonation of the compound was the first step in the transformation of compounds. These findings were followed by a series of experiments using various different types of test systems, in order to study the interactions of substituted benzimidazoles with the H+K+ ATPase pump. Several binding studies were carried out with substituted benzimidazoles which showed specific binding to the H+K+ ATPase.[3,4] All the studies and findings showed that the substituted benzimidazoles inhibited the gastric acid secretion by binding to the H+K+ ATPase pump and thus inhibiting its action. Optimization of timoprazole: Due to the various toxicological effects of timoprazole on the thyroid gland due to the inhibition of the iodine uptake, timoprazole was not suitable for further development. Therefore the researchers were in search of a new compound and a new possible approach. In order to optimize the lead compound timoprazole various studies were carried out, so that an compound devoid of toxicities could be developed. A literature search of the chemistry of thiourea compounds showed few substituted mercapto-benzimidazoles having no effect on the iodine uptake by the thyroid[4,5]. Thse substituted mercapto-benzimidazoles analogues were introduced into the structure of timoprazole. Various tests and experiments showed that the above analogue of timoprazole had a considerable anti-secretory actitvity and also was devoid of any inhibitory action on the uptake of iodine. This potent anti-secretory compound obtained after the introduction of mercapto-benzimidazole substituents in the structure of timoprazole was named as picoprazole.[5,4] The first toxicological studies of picoprazole showed necrotizing vasculitis in the small intestine of dogs[4]. However it was later found out that the toxic effect of picoprazole was an non-drug related phenomenon. The second toxicological studies carried out with picoprazole was rather successful. Picoprazole was then tested in human volunteers, where it showed very potent anti-secretory activity with a long duration of action.[4,5] Development of pantoprazole: As discussed earlier, these compounds were only effective in inhibition of gastric acid secretion, if an only if the ATPase was making acid. As this compound was a weak base the steps that were thought then to result in inhibition of ATPase activity and acid secretion involved accumulation of the compound in the acid space of the isolated or intact gastric vesicles or in the parietal cell canalicullis during H+ transport, followed by a conversion of compound to its active form to account for acid dependence.[1] The conversion of compound to its active form is acid dependent. It was then postulated that these compounds acted as pro-drugs which can only react with the H+/K+ ATPase,if they are converted into their active form in an acid dependent manner. The active form of this compounds are the sulfenic acid or sulfenamide form. Further studies showed that the final structure of the compound generated in the acidic solution was a result of tetracyclic planar rearrangement of the compou nd, which leads to compounds containing a highly -SH reactive sulfenamide group.[1] However it is not clear whether the sulfenamide or the sulfenic acid or its dehydro form is responsible for binding to the H+/K+ ATPase covalently. In order optimize the acid stability of the lead compound and to generate selectivity for maximal accumulation at the site of action and for proper activation in the acidic space of the parietal cells, chemists changed and introduced new substituents on the heterocyclic ring of the lead compound which lead to the development and synthesis of Omeprazole in the year 1979[5]. It was found to be the most powerful inhibitor of stimulated gastric acid release[5]. Omeprazole was devoid of toxicities. Omeprazole was launched in 1988 and it was the first clinically used proton pump inhibitor. In order to develop more acid stable and effective compounds various modifications were done and in 1986 Byk Guilden synthesized Pantoprazole.[3] It was tested in both in vivo and in vitro and was found to be a potent anti secretory agent. studies on human volunteers was successful and it also suggested that pantoprazole had greater acid stability and target selectivity than omeprazole[2]. In addition its pharmacokinetic and metabolic profile was also different[2]. In 1987 sodium salt of pantoprazole was synthesized as the salt was more stable, more soluble and was more compatible with other excipients used in the formulation finally after seven years of clinical development pantoprazole was launched in 1994 for the first time in Germany.

Salmonella :: essays research papers fc

Description Salmonella is an intestinal infection caused by Salmonella enterica bacteria. You can become infected by eating foods contaminated with Salmonella or by touching infected pets. In rarer cases, Salmonella infection can also be carried in medical products that were derived from contaminated animals. Before a Salmonella infection can begin, somewhere between 100,000 and 100,000,000 Salmonella enterica bacteria must actually be swallowed. Salmonella bacteria invade the intestinal wall, where they trigger inflammation. They also produce irritating intestinal poisons. In some rare cases, Salmonella bacteria may enter the bloodstream and settle in tissues and organs far away from the intestines. This spread of Salmonella infection is most common in infants, in the elderly, and in patients whose immune defenses are weakened. Symptoms After someone has eaten food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria, it usually takes 8 to 48 hours for symptoms to begin. Symptoms of Salmonella include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and muscle aches. Prevention You can prevent Salmonella by thoroughly cooking all meats, ground beef, poultry and eggs, and by promptly refrigerating all leftovers. Whenever silverware has touched raw meat, wash these items thoroughly with soap and water. Also, avoid eating eggs that are raw or partially cooked. Frequent hand washing is particularly important, especially after using the rest room. Treatment Doctors do not usually prescribe antibiotics, since patients typically recover on their own in a few days. Since many strains of Salmonella are resistant to one or more antibiotics, a patient may be treated initially with one antibiotic, then switched to a second antibiotic if it doesn’t work. Prognosis Most patients with Salmonella recover within 5 to 10 days; however, they may continue to pass Salmonella bacteria in their stool for up to 2 months. Salmonella :: essays research papers fc Description Salmonella is an intestinal infection caused by Salmonella enterica bacteria. You can become infected by eating foods contaminated with Salmonella or by touching infected pets. In rarer cases, Salmonella infection can also be carried in medical products that were derived from contaminated animals. Before a Salmonella infection can begin, somewhere between 100,000 and 100,000,000 Salmonella enterica bacteria must actually be swallowed. Salmonella bacteria invade the intestinal wall, where they trigger inflammation. They also produce irritating intestinal poisons. In some rare cases, Salmonella bacteria may enter the bloodstream and settle in tissues and organs far away from the intestines. This spread of Salmonella infection is most common in infants, in the elderly, and in patients whose immune defenses are weakened. Symptoms After someone has eaten food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria, it usually takes 8 to 48 hours for symptoms to begin. Symptoms of Salmonella include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and muscle aches. Prevention You can prevent Salmonella by thoroughly cooking all meats, ground beef, poultry and eggs, and by promptly refrigerating all leftovers. Whenever silverware has touched raw meat, wash these items thoroughly with soap and water. Also, avoid eating eggs that are raw or partially cooked. Frequent hand washing is particularly important, especially after using the rest room. Treatment Doctors do not usually prescribe antibiotics, since patients typically recover on their own in a few days. Since many strains of Salmonella are resistant to one or more antibiotics, a patient may be treated initially with one antibiotic, then switched to a second antibiotic if it doesn’t work. Prognosis Most patients with Salmonella recover within 5 to 10 days; however, they may continue to pass Salmonella bacteria in their stool for up to 2 months.

Position of Prefect

The King John School Prefect Application Form ————————————————- Surname: Hay First Names: Harry Charles Title: Mr Tutor group: 10-10 Personal Statement You should consider me to be a prefect, as I am a very hardworking, enthusiastic, organised and punctual student who is honest and mature and would love the position of representing the school. I think that all of my achievements which I have received throughout my time at King John, outlines what sort of student I am.I believe that my academic achievements and extra-curricular awards will give me great success if I was to become a prefect. I have received various awards such as prize-giving awards for academic success, sporting achievements, The Jack Petchey award, for my mannerism, politeness, personality and my helpful and courteous attitude towards staff. Last year I gave up my time after school, to help organise a year 10 parents evening. I have also collected achievements such as the 100% attendance award during school, and the student of the term award. My most recent award, is the Duke of Edinburgh award at Bronze level.I am currently working towards my Silver award, which is a two year course. All of my awards I have received academically, and outside of school, I am very proud of. I am always working hard, reaching my potential in everything I do. One example of this is me taking advantage of my lunch and breaktimes, by completing homework, learning with the resources available, and revising for subject examinations, so that after school, during weekends and during school holidays, I can take time to socialise, relax, do extra revision, and fit in any plans I may have, such as training sessions for my Triathlon club.I believe that my positive approach and attitude to learning will help me take up the role of being a prefect. Qualifications Subject| Target Grade| Maths| B| English| C| Science| B| Media| pass| French| C| History| C| ICT| pass| P. E| N/A| Relevant experience The responsibilities I’ve had and have include: * Helping out at a local church club called Anchor Boy’s, by being a leader. I encourage, supervise and help young children to learn every week on a Friday, in various activities including art and craft, games and reading and listening skills. During my role as club captain for my triathlon club, I’ve again given support to people above and below my age. I have presented awards, and made sure the club is running smoothly by organising club sessions, being a marshal for club races, and taking charge of stretches at the beginning and at the end of training sessions. By being part of my triathlon club, I have learnt how to work in a team, and individually. * I have been selected to be a prefect at my previous school, and have been part of the play leading scheme at my junior school.By being both a prefect and a play leader, I’ve h ad to monitor other pupil’s behaviour, and I made sure the students were meeting the requirements of the school rules. This is something I will definitely take into account if I was to become a prefect. Hobbies and Interests 1. Triathlon – I believe that this will support my application, as it promotes my self-esteem. It has made me develop time management skills, learn about adversity and determination. I also learn about goal setting for not only sport, but it also allows me to apply goals circularly. 2.Boy’s Brigade- In this weekly club, I advance habits of obedience, reverence, discipline and self-respect. I think that this will support my application, as it shows my commitment, and personal qualities. 3. Canoeing/kayaking-Whilst learning skills for this sport, I also develop individuality and the ability to work in a team. The role of being a prefect * I see the role of being a prefect as responding to unacceptable behaviour made by students, and reporting it to a teacher if necessary. Prefects respond to incidents which occur, and deal with the matter sensibly.If students; * Intimidate anyone, * Are abusive to anyone, * Damage the property of anyone including School property, * Persistently break School rules, * And are personally disrespectful, Then it should be dealt with, as it is unacceptable behaviour. Prefects are pupils who have more authority than other pupils. They are usually responsible and well-behaved. They are to help the teachers out by spotting trouble and helping students and others around the school that have issues, for example they may direct students, new members of staff or visitors where to go.Prefects will over-look bullying, and refer the pupils to a member of staff. On parents evenings, open days and award nights, and other school related events, prefects should be there, ready to assist anyone. For example; giving out and pouring drinks, directing parents/visitors/students in the right direction, and if nee d be, stay with them. Prefects should be well behaved and good role models towards the school, by being punctual, having a good attitude and wearing the correct uniform smartly. How could the prefect application process be improved?Personally, I think that the layout of the application should be improved, to a more formal standard. I thought the questions listed on the form, are very good, as you can receive a lot of detail from students. I think that the boxes should be expanded to a larger size, as I do not think that there is enough room to fit in lots of content, in some cases. Tutor statement Signed: | Declaration: I confirm to the best of my knowledge that the information given on this form is accurate and that I have not omitted any facts, which may have a bearing on my application. Signed:| Date:|

Expresso Espresso Essay

The specialty coffee industry had seen steady growth for years and the trend was expected to continue until at least 2015. Of the various segments within the specialty coffee industry, most of the growth was attributable to beverage retailers â€Å"Coffee and kiosks†. In 1979 there were approximately 250 specialty coffee retailers. The number quadrupled by 1989 to approx 1000 outlets, and it exploded to roughly 15000 by 2002. Nationally, specialty coffee sales totaled over $ 10 billion in 2005. For specialty coffee beverage services, including coffee, espresso, tea, chai and granite the leading drinks in 2004 were espresso-based beverages with average with an average of $50395/store. The second best selling drinks were drip-brewed coffee beverages at $ 333336 / Store, and the third were cold and iced coffee beverages with an average of $22061 / Store. b- The Industry According to the national coffee association, 54 % of adults in America consumed coffee daily, with over 18 % buying specialty coffee beverages. Specialty coffee buyers were generally more affluent, well educated, and worked in urban areas. Research indicates that individuals with college degrees purchased almost 50 % more specialty coffee more than those without college degrees. The link to education was even greater for people with some postgraduate education. In addition to education, households with two working parents and kids were more likely to purchase specialty coffee. Accordingly the market was an educated urban resident with disposable income to spend on fine coffee. 1- Rival of competitors Starbucks cooperation was the premier coffee retailer in the USA. Industry analysis generally credited it for popularizing specialty coffee and legitimizing higher drink prices. Starbucks expect revenues to grow 20 % / year and to increase its dominating 40 % market share. Starbucks has strong profits and cash flow that it planned to use to open company owned and licensed stores domestically and abroad. Diedrich coffee roasted and sold various brands of coffee through company retail stores and through  distributors, restaurants, mail order, and specialty stores. It is a company with revenue of 52.5 M in 2005 with growth 3 % more than 2004. Caribou coffee went public in 2005 reporting sales of $ 191 M in 2005. The firm expects to add 40 new outlets in 2005 and another 130 in 2006. Coffee Beanery was a franchise; with over 200 branches in 2005 expect 40 new stores in 2006. Peet coffee & Tea was another competitor with 111 retail stores. Also there were large restaurants trying to fin d ways to capitalize on the specialty coffee industry i.e.: Macdonalds, Krisspy, Dunkin, Donuts †¦.. 2- Threat of substitute product As mentioned above, the specialty coffee industry had seen steady growth for years and the trend was expected to continue. 3- Bargaining power of Suppliers There is no mention of suppliers in the case 4- Threat of new entrants Entering the market requires heavy investment in establishing a name and make lots of outlets. It is a growing market with lots of pioneers that can make branches anywhere and threat the other chain in there selling areas. 5- Bargaining power of buyers There is a threat of bargaining power of buyers as there is a lot of competitors, which give the choice to convert from one chain to another. Moreover, chains are working strongly in the promotion, price, opening branches everywhere, developing the product, and cares regarding quality. It is a hard competition. c- The Organization The specialty coffee industry had seen steady growth for years and the trend was expected to continue until at least 2015. Of the various segments within the specialty coffee industry, most of the growth was attributable to beverage retailers â€Å"Coffee and kiosks†. In 1979 there were approximately 250 specialty coffee retailers. The number quadrupled by 1989 to approx 1000 outlets, and it exploded to roughly 15000 by 2002. Nationally, specialty coffee sales totaled over $ 10 billion in 2005. For specialty coffee beverage services, including coffee, espresso, tea, chai and granite the leading drinks in 2004 were espresso-based beverages with average with an  average of $50395/store. The second best selling drinks were drip-brewed coffee beverages at $ 333336 / Store, and the third were cold and iced coffee beverages with an average of $22061 / Store. d- The marketing strategy 1- Product Todd tried to remain the purist in developing his product. He preferred to make fresh drinks from Espresso instead of drip-brewed coffee although it is less cost. Expresso menu offered traditional European style which is half caramel and half chocolate. Todd was following starbucks new product developments since people use to come and ask him for the same. i.e.; green tea cappuccino, iced tea, spiced cappuccino, pumpkin cappuccino and eggnog cappuccino. In addition to traditional coffee drinks, the shop also sold teas, smoothies and muffins, lemon bars, cookies and brownies. Todd did not present sandwiches or soups. Also he presented retail items such as T-shirts and coffee mugs with humorous coffee related sayings on them. 2- Prices Todd went looking at everyone else’s prices. He made sure that his prices were 10 % lower than any competitor. He believed that having a low price was important in attracting new customers. 3- Promotion Todd offered product with prices 10 % less than competitors as he thinks it is more direct than using a â€Å"buyer cards† used by competitors. He says to customers â€Å"Our prices are already 10 % lower than everybody so I am giving you a discount now† Other promotion, Expresso Espresso advertised on the local radio station that Todd believed it had a strong student’s audience. In addition the company placed ads in the campus. Flyers typically showed the menu and contained a 10 % off coupons. Another promotion idea , Todd was having live music. Band play was on Fridays and Saturdays nights during summer. 4- Publicity Todd created a policy whereby he would give away all tips. A huge coffee cup sat on the front counter with a sign indicating the charity of the week. Todd would collect whatever people chose to give and pass it on to good cause. The local paper considered this approach so novel that it ran an article on the practice. Customers had the opportunity to help others as they treated themselves. This had a considerable Feel good value for those participating. e- Primary Problem The specialty coffee industry had seen steady growth for years and the trend was expected to continue until at least 2015. Of the various segments within the specialty coffee industry, most of the growth was attributable to beverage retailers â€Å"Coffee and kiosks†. f- Secondary Problem There is a huge competition, and competitors such as Starbucks and other big companies are getting outlets everywhere expanding to get a higher market share. Expresso Espresso got another competitor â€Å"Satori Coffee House† half a mile away, also Carpe Diem is another competitor near to it, third one is Daily Gring which is very near to the University of South Alabama, Beaners is a franchise operation competing with Expresso Espresso. Perhaps the competitor that worried Todd the most was Starbucks. It is located in the busiest road in Mobil, which announced plans to build a drive through store on old shell road about 400 feet east of Expresso Espresso. Todd was concerned that Starbucks would take customers from Expresso’s drive through window. g- Alternative Solutions The importance of complete the order within 45 sec. for the drive through. The consistent of serving high quality drinks, although the expensive ingredients they put but better taste. The kitchen should support making items like breakfast foods and sandwiches; expected spending on kitchen development can increase by 30% of fixed asset. The expected increase in sales would be from 15 to 20% as of the increase in the current market. Todd must start work in financials to understand what sales he need to reach profitability. Keep invest in advertising and PR.

Bali essays

Bali essays Bali is located in an archipelago country of Indonesia. It is an island in the Southern part of Indonesia, in the Indian Ocean. There is no other island more beautiful than Bali. The island is nicknamed "Island of the Gods" for its natural beauty and friendly Balinese. Bali is one big sculpture. Every status is manicured and polished with such delicate details, every niche and field is carved by men. The surface of the island is marked by deep ravines, fast flowing river, and a stretch of volcanic chain. On the plains of Bali, rice fields are exquisitely carved out of hills and valleys, and the water is just sparkling with green. Besides rice, crops such as tea, cacao, groundnuts and tropical fruits flourish in the island. Balinese are skilled artists. They do extremely well in woodcarving. The women of Bali are noted for their traditional dancing and for their skills in weaving clothes from thread as well as embroidering silk and cotton. The majority of Balinese believe in the teaching of Hinduism. Unlike Hinduism in India, in Bali Hinduism has developed on its own line of faith. The Balinese are scared witless of ghosts, goblins, and the like, which could disguise themselves as black cats, naked women, and the crows. Spirits dominate everything the Balinese do, and they are constantly offering fruit and flowers to calm down angry deities. According to the Balinese faith, there are sun gods, deer gods, deities, and many other gods. Clay figures of some of the gods are put in the house. Offerings are then offered to these figures. Usually the offerings consist of banana leaves holding a few grains of rice, fruits and flowers. In Bali, there are temples everywhere. There are temples in houses, in courtyards, marketplaces, cemeteries, and rice paddies, on beaches, even within the roots of really old trees. At most intersections and other dangerous places, temples are erected to prevent mishaps. Even in the middle of jungl...

Blossoming Flowers & Frog Rain essays

Blossoming Flowers & Frog Rain essays Before the opening credits role we are shown three different scenes, all of which involve what some would see as coincidence, but what others would see as fate. A pharmacist is murdered one night in a town called Greenberry Hill by three men who were attempting to rob him, their names being Green, Berry, and Hill. A scuba-diver is lifted by an airplane carrying water to extinguish a forest fire and dies second after falling from the plane, which is being flown by a man who interacted with the scuba-diver just days before at a casino. Finally, a boy tries to commit suicide by jumping off of his buildings roof top, but is then killed by a bullet being shot threw a window three stories down by his mother, who is arguing with his father and who is threatening him with a gun that the boy has loaded several days earlier. The boy then falls on a net that had been installed for window washers which would have saved his life were it not for this incredible sequence of events. Magnolia, as keenly noted by James Berardinelli, a reviewer for the New York Times, deals with the effects of physical and spiritual cancer on individuals and their families. It is the story of Earl Partridge the producer of a television show called What Do Kids Know? who lies in his bed dying of cancer. His second wife Linda turns to prescription anti-depressants in order to cope with her guilt and impending loss. His estranged son Frank Mackey, an infomercial crusader whos followers are taught to obey the cock and tame the cunt. Earls dying wish of being reunited with Frank is being fulfilled by Earls nurse, Phil Parma. Meanwhile, the host of Earls game show, Jimmy Gator, is also stricken with cancer and is literally falling apart on television. Jimmys relationship with his drug addicted daughter cannot be reconciled, though his daughter, Claudia, embarks on a relationship with a loving...

Breach of Contract Case Study

Breach of Contract Case Study MOHANA DIGHE ISSUE- Washington (January 6, 2016, 4:14 PM EST) – A driver for Uber hit the ride-offering organization to a claim a breach of contract in California government court, affirming in a proposed class activity that Uber neglected to pay drivers the winter advancement as per its reported tenets in the advertisement. Kimberly Berger claims that Uber did not pay California drivers the full rates they were guaranteed under the organization’s â€Å"Winter Warmup† advancement, which ensured least rates to taking an interest drivers who met an arrangement of conditions. As indicated by the grumbling, the advancement ensured drivers least hourly rates for specific periods on the off chance that they acknowledged no less than 90 percent of excursions, arrived at the midpoint of no less than one trek a hour and were online for no less than 50 minutes of consistently worked. The base hour rates extended from $16 every hour to $26 every hour, in view o f the day and age, as indicated by the grievance. The most astounding hour rates secured Friday and Saturday evenings. The suit claims Berger, and different drivers in the proposed class, met the states of the Winter Warmup advancement however were not paid the guaranteed rates. In particular, the suit claims, Uber paid the expenses as a normal gross hourly rate rather than a base rate for every hour. The organization likewise subtracted expenses from the promoted rates, the suit claims. â€Å"Therefore, the genuine hourly rates for pinnacle, normal, and nonpeak hours, were $20, $12, and $10 every hour, and not the $26, $20, and $16 every hour promoted,† the suit affirms. Berger claims the instalment hones broke Uber’s agreement with its drivers and furthermore constituted unjustifiable business hones under California state law. Berger is looking for unspecified harms for the benefit of herself and the proposed class, lawyers charges and an assertion that U ber’s instalment rehearses for the advancement abuse California state law. She requested that the judge confirm a class of Uber drivers in California that took part in the advancement. The suit did not determine how vast Berger expects the class will be. The organization asserts its drivers are self employed entities, not workers, which a class of drivers have debated in a different claim. Uber approached a month ago for a stay in that claim while the organization requests the court’s current deciding that its 2014 and 2015 discretion understandings are unenforceable. Uber did not instantly react to a demand for input (Uber Driver Says Co. Breached Promotion Contract – Law360). Use of Agreement Law- (a) APPLICABLE BREACH OR VIOLATION – This segment applies if there should be an occurrence of break or infringement of a portrayal or stipulation incorporated into an agreement under area 6502 of this title. (b) LIQUIDATED DAMAGES – no twithstanding harms for some other break of the agreement, the gathering in charge of a rupture or infringement depicted in subsection (an) is obligated to the National Government for the accompanying sold harms: (1) A sum equivalent to the total of $10 every day for every person under 16 years old and each imprisoned individual intentionally utilized in the execution of the agreement. (2) A sum equivalent to the entirety of every underpayment of wages due a representative occupied with the execution of the agreement, including any underpayments emerging from derivations, discounts, or discounts. (c)CANCELLATION AND ALTERNATIVE COMPLETION – Notwithstanding the Central Government being qualified for harms depicted in subsection (b), the office of the Unified States that made the agreement may scratch off the agreement and make open-showcase buys or make different contracts for the culmination of the first contract, charging any extra cost to the first temporary worke r. (d) RECOVERY OF AMOUNTS DUE.- A sum due the Central Government on account of a break or infringement depicted in subsection (a) might be withheld from any sums owed the contractual worker under any agreement under area 6502 of this title or might be recuperated in a suit brought by the Lawyer General. (e) EMPLOYEE REMBURISMENT FOR UNDERPAYMENT OF WAGES.- A sum withheld or recuperated under subsection (d) that depends on an underpayment of wages as depicted in subsection (b)(2) should be held in an uncommon store account. On request of the Secretary, the sum might be paid straightforwardly to the come up short on worker on whose record the sum was withheld or recuperated. Be that as it may, a representative’s claim for installment under this subsection might be engaged just if made inside one year from the date of genuine notice to the temporary worker of the withholding or recuperation. REMEDIES FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT- Equitable Remedies   Equitable Reme dies are those that are forced when cash harms would not enough cure the non-breaking party. The accompanying sorts of fair cures might be accessible in the given case:    Particular Execution Particular execution is a request by the court that requires the breaking gathering to do the agreement as it was initially composed. This kind of cure is uncommon. In any case, it might be requested in specific conditions. For instance, particular execution might be forced when the topic is one of a kind, for example, an acclaimed painting or a particular bit of property. Courts are reluctant to request particular execution since it requires the progressing observing by the court of the agreement. Rescission Rescission of the agreement is a cure that permits the non-breaking gathering to wipe out his or her duties under the agreement. This cure may be accessible when the agreement depended on misrepresentation or an error by either of the gatherings. It is additionally accessible if both sides like to scratch off the agreement and give back any cash that had been progressed as a feature of the agreement. Reorganization Reorganization permits two gatherings to change an agreement so that it all the more precisely reflects what the gatherings plan. This cure requires that the agreement be substantial. It might be accessible when one of the gatherings had a mixed up comprehension about a material term of the agreement.    Legitimate Cures Legitimate cures regularly appear as money related harms that are granted to help make the blameless party entirety. A few cases of legitimate cures are examined underneath. Compensatory Harms Compensatory harms are those that are intended to remunerate the non-breaking party for the rupture. These incorporate desire harms and considerable harms. Desire harms are those that give the non-rupturing party the money related assets that he or she would have gotten had the agreement been performed. These harms are n ormally in view of the agreement itself or the honest estimation of the topic of the agreement. For instance, compensatory harms might be the sum vital for the non-breaking gathering to buy a substitute item that is proportional to the one contracted for. In the event that the agreement was for an offer of merchandise, compensatory harms are generally the contrast between the agreement cost and the market estimation of the products. These harms likewise comprise of the costs important to make the non-rupturing party entire after the break, for example, promoting costs to publicize the items that the breaking party neglected to pay for. Be that as it may, the non-rupturing party by and large has an obligation to relieve his or her misfortunes. Significant harms are those harms that repay the guiltless party for backhanded costs that came about because of the break. They regularly result from uncommon conditions that are included in the agreement that may not be normally unsurpr ising. For instance, a honest gathering may approach to be repaid for the loss of business benefits that got from not having admittance to the fundamental materials to create an item for an outsider. All together for the honest party to get these harms, he or she should demonstrate that this misfortune was sensibly predictable to both sides when they composed the agreement and the misfortune was an immediate consequence of the break. Liquidation Harms In a few contracts, particular harms are pre-decided. These harms are called exchanged harms. They are normally some portion of agreements where it is hard to decide the real sum that a gathering was harmed because of a break, for example, a rupture of an agreement not to contend. Reformatory Harms Reformatory harms are intended to rebuff a blameworthy gathering keeping in mind the end goal to keep that gathering or others from taking part in comparative direct later on. Be that as it may, corrective harms more often than n ot require a more grounded goal than is essential in standard rupture of agreement cases. For instance, to be granted reformatory harms, an offended party may host to demonstrate that the rupturing gathering acted in a noxious or fake matter. A few states particularly restrict offended parties from recuperating correctional harms on break of agreement cases. Lawyer Expenses and Expenses The common party in a break of agreement case might have the capacity to gather lawyer charges and costs that he or she caused keeping in mind the end goal to realize lawful activity. A few states just permit these harms on the off chance that they are particularly accommodated in the agreement (hg.org).

Biography of Kurt Vonnegut Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Biography of Kurt Vonnegut - Essay Example After the war, Vonnegut attended the University of Chicago as a graduate student in anthropology and also worked at the City News Bureau of Chicago. He described his work there in the late 1940s in terms that could have been used by almost any other City Press reporter of any era: "Well, the Chicago City News Bureau was a tripwire for all the newspapers in town when I was there, and there were five papers, I think. We were out all the time around the clock and every time we came across a really juicy murder or scandal or whatever, they’d send the big time reporters and photographers, otherwise, they’d run our stories. So that’s what I was doing, and I was going to university at the same time." Vonnegut admitted that he was a poor anthropology student, with one professor remarking that some of the students were going to be professional anthropologists and he was not one of them. According to Vonnegut in Bagombo Snuff Box, the university rejected his first thesis o n the necessity of accounting for the similarities between Cubist painters and the leaders of late 19th Century Native American uprisings, saying it was unprofessional. He left Chicago to work in Schenectady, New York, in public relations for General Electric, where his brother Bernard worked in the research department. Vonnegut was a technical writer but was also known for writing well past his typical hours while working. While in Schenectady, Vonnegut lived in the tiny hamlet of Alplaus, just across the Mohawk River from the city of Schenectady.

The Role of Accounting on Business and Our Society Essay - 1

The Role of Accounting on Business and Our Society - Essay Example It entails the earnings from provision of goods and services less the cost incurred in providing those goods and services. Thirdly, the statement of owner’s equity reports on the activities of shareholders during a given period of time. It shows how much the business received from shareholders and how much went back to them in terms of dividends. It shows the portion of a business entity’s earnings that goes to shareholders, thus the reference to it as a statement of retained earnings by some companies. Finally, the cash flow statement shows sources of cash during a given period of time and its uses. To me, the income statement is the most important. This statement shows how much a business entity earns within a given period of time (Gibson, 2012). Of course, businesses are established with the purpose of making profits and creating wealth for its shareholders according to Mittal and Singal (2007). Therefore, if a business posts losses on this statement, it does not serve the purpose for its existence and should be wound up. However, if it records profits, then the venture is sustainable and meets the intended objective. 2. An accountant would be that person with a bachelor’s degree specialised in accounting or any specialisation in finance. At times, an accountant would be that person who has gained experience dealing with financial matters over time. The roles of search persons have historically been bookkeeping. They prepare financial records and maintain them. With additional professional certification, then such an accountant would qualify as a certified public accountant, CPA (Walker, 2012). This comes with greater roles as CPAs conduct financial audits thus fostering transparency and accountability. Such a person holds public trust and should be fact-based, non-ideological and nonpartisan. The arguments for accounting include its role in giving objective and unbiased information on the

Mrs Dalloway-Imbalance between the Inner and Outer Worlds Essay - 1

Mrs Dalloway-Imbalance between the Inner and Outer Worlds - Essay Example The paper will assess the ways in which Woolf has reflected modernism as the quality of thought and expression present in each character differently; and how these characters have different psychologies in the way they look at life around them, how they are alienated, and how they are stuck between nostalgia and modernism. Clarissa Dalloway is the main character in this novel. She is a woman who is seen constantly struggling with her internal life and thoughts with that of the outer world. She belongs to the high society where she hosts parties, wears classy dresses, and talk to people belonging to the high class. However, at the same time, she is seen walking to Bond Street in the first chapter to the flower shop to make preparations for her party the same night. As she is walking and looking at the world around, she imagines about life and is continuously searching for a deeper meaning of life. Woolf writes â€Å"For Heaven only knows why one loves it so, how one sees it so, making it up, building it round one, tumbling it, creating it every moment afresh; but the veriest frumps, the most dejected of miseries sitting on doorsteps do the same; can’t be dealt with, she felt positive, by Acts of Parliament for that very reason: they love life† (Woolf 8). This quote shows that Clarissa does not believe that happiness is anything related to high class. Woolf shows her strong positivity and attachment towards life believing that humans make their lives beautiful themselves. Clarissa is seen as the only character who can express her emotions and led herself free to the world around her unlike other characters but she doesn’t share her feelings with anyone else. However, at another place Woolf states â€Å"She had a perpetual sense, as she watched the taxi cabs, of being out, out, far out to sea and alone; she always had the feeling that it was very, very  dangerous to live even one day† (Woolf 11). This quote suddenly changes the direction of Clarissa’s thinking as she looks around at the crowd and starts feeling alienated. She feels that the public life is rather busy and noisy while her private life is silent and lonely.

Ethical duties as an Entrepreneur (Is your good harm to others) PowerPoint Presentation

Ethical duties as an Entrepreneur (Is your good harm to others) - PowerPoint Presentation Example Entrepreneurship is not an exception. This paper will analyze the ethical duties of entrepreneur, arguing that one’s good does not necessarily harm others. To begin with, one might suggest that one of the most important duties of an entrepreneur which involved Ethics focuses on the necessity to think about the affect that one’s activity has on the stakeholders. Indeed, it would not be an exaggeration to suggest that one can hardly find an activity where the number of stakeholders is reduced to a minimum and entrepreneurship is surely not one of them (McFarlane, 2013, 51). In other words, it is an imperative for a person who runs a business to think about the impact that it can have on all the parties which are involved directly and indirectly. A helpful way to do so would be to create a map of all the people affected and determine the relationship between them and the business activities (Weiss, 2014, 13). One should point out that considering the impact on the stakeholders might be regarded as a characteristic feature of the modern kind of business. Indeed, in the previous times economic world in general as well as entrepreneur s in particular was primarily concerned with the profitability of the enterprise, the security of the source of income and possible ways to maximize the return of investment. However, contrary to that, at the modern times people acknowledge that they might have a negative impact on the stakeholders and are encouraged to refrain for it. In other words, a good entrepreneur will be able to set up one’s business in such a way that would not harm anyone. The next important duty which should be analyzed in great detail is connected with the necessity to implement ethical decision making process. One of the most significant aspects that are crucial for understanding of this duty is the difference between morals and ethics. Thus, the former is largely considered to be a set of personal

Community vs. Cheers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Community vs. Cheers - Essay Example It featured a cast of mostly blue-collar characters who spent all their time hanging out together in a bar called Cheers. A more recent addition to the Thursday lineup is Community. It also features an ensemble cast of friends: A group of students at Greendale Community College. On the surface, these shows seem very similar. However, the styles of the two shows are actually quite different. Cheers was a traditional sitcom that followed the old rules for TV comedies, while Community is perhaps one of the most ground-breaking shows ever to air. The two shows do have some striking similarities. The apparent lead characters seem very similar at first glance. Cheers has Sam Malone, the former baseball player who owns Cheers. Sam is a little sleazy and an unrepentant womanizer, but he is a good man at heart. Community has Jeff Winger, the even sleazier former lawyer who has to attend a community college after he is exposed as having a fake degree. Like Sam, Jeff becomes the leader everyone depends on. Cheers has Diane Chambers, the prissy, self-righteous blonde whom Sam hires on the first episode as a waitress because he wants to sleep with her. Community has Britta, another self-righteous blonde who is nearly as prissy as Diane. Like Cheers, Community begins with the â€Å"alpha male† character trying to sleep with the blonde. Each of the two shows has a naà ¯ve, â€Å"dumb† character: Community’s Troy corresponds to Cheers’s Coach and his replacement, Woody.... Both use a mixture of long-running plotlines and episodic plots. Yet these shows have more differences than similarities. Cheers is filmed like a play in front of an audience with the three-camera format that has long been standard for sitcoms. Community is filmed in the modern style like a movie, in a single-camera format without an audience or laugh track. Filming style is not what makes the shows so different from one another, however. Community is best known for the clever way it â€Å"breaks the fourth wall,† the invisible wall through which the audience views the characters as their stories unfold. Traditionally, sitcom characters are supposed to go about their lives as if they are real people, unaware that they are fictional and being watched by the audience. This is the way that Cheers works, and this is the way things have always been done on television up until recent years. On Community, the characters verge on being self-aware, communicating to the audience with a wink and a nod that they know it’s not real, yet they still come across as loveable and believable characters. Despite the apparent standard â€Å"handsome white man as leader† and â€Å"beautiful blonde as love interest† cliche, over time the viewer begins to see that the key characters on Community are not Jeff and Britta. The most important character is Abed Nadir, a young Arab-American with Asperger’s syndrome, a type of autism. Abed is fixated on movies and television, and he sees his life as fictional plot. Each episode parodies a particular movie or genre of movies, but in a much more clever and subtle way than other TV shows have done before. Abed interprets everything that happens around

Mrs Dalloway-Imbalance between the Inner and Outer Worlds Essay - 1

Mrs Dalloway-Imbalance between the Inner and Outer Worlds - Essay Example The paper will assess the ways in which Woolf has reflected modernism as the quality of thought and expression present in each character differently; and how these characters have different psychologies in the way they look at life around them, how they are alienated, and how they are stuck between nostalgia and modernism. Clarissa Dalloway is the main character in this novel. She is a woman who is seen constantly struggling with her internal life and thoughts with that of the outer world. She belongs to the high society where she hosts parties, wears classy dresses, and talk to people belonging to the high class. However, at the same time, she is seen walking to Bond Street in the first chapter to the flower shop to make preparations for her party the same night. As she is walking and looking at the world around, she imagines about life and is continuously searching for a deeper meaning of life. Woolf writes â€Å"For Heaven only knows why one loves it so, how one sees it so, making it up, building it round one, tumbling it, creating it every moment afresh; but the veriest frumps, the most dejected of miseries sitting on doorsteps do the same; can’t be dealt with, she felt positive, by Acts of Parliament for that very reason: they love life† (Woolf 8). This quote shows that Clarissa does not believe that happiness is anything related to high class. Woolf shows her strong positivity and attachment towards life believing that humans make their lives beautiful themselves. Clarissa is seen as the only character who can express her emotions and led herself free to the world around her unlike other characters but she doesn’t share her feelings with anyone else. However, at another place Woolf states â€Å"She had a perpetual sense, as she watched the taxi cabs, of being out, out, far out to sea and alone; she always had the feeling that it was very, very  dangerous to live even one day† (Woolf 11). This quote suddenly changes the direction of Clarissa’s thinking as she looks around at the crowd and starts feeling alienated. She feels that the public life is rather busy and noisy while her private life is silent and lonely.

Community vs. Cheers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Community vs. Cheers - Essay Example It featured a cast of mostly blue-collar characters who spent all their time hanging out together in a bar called Cheers. A more recent addition to the Thursday lineup is Community. It also features an ensemble cast of friends: A group of students at Greendale Community College. On the surface, these shows seem very similar. However, the styles of the two shows are actually quite different. Cheers was a traditional sitcom that followed the old rules for TV comedies, while Community is perhaps one of the most ground-breaking shows ever to air. The two shows do have some striking similarities. The apparent lead characters seem very similar at first glance. Cheers has Sam Malone, the former baseball player who owns Cheers. Sam is a little sleazy and an unrepentant womanizer, but he is a good man at heart. Community has Jeff Winger, the even sleazier former lawyer who has to attend a community college after he is exposed as having a fake degree. Like Sam, Jeff becomes the leader everyone depends on. Cheers has Diane Chambers, the prissy, self-righteous blonde whom Sam hires on the first episode as a waitress because he wants to sleep with her. Community has Britta, another self-righteous blonde who is nearly as prissy as Diane. Like Cheers, Community begins with the â€Å"alpha male† character trying to sleep with the blonde. Each of the two shows has a naà ¯ve, â€Å"dumb† character: Community’s Troy corresponds to Cheers’s Coach and his replacement, Woody.... Both use a mixture of long-running plotlines and episodic plots. Yet these shows have more differences than similarities. Cheers is filmed like a play in front of an audience with the three-camera format that has long been standard for sitcoms. Community is filmed in the modern style like a movie, in a single-camera format without an audience or laugh track. Filming style is not what makes the shows so different from one another, however. Community is best known for the clever way it â€Å"breaks the fourth wall,† the invisible wall through which the audience views the characters as their stories unfold. Traditionally, sitcom characters are supposed to go about their lives as if they are real people, unaware that they are fictional and being watched by the audience. This is the way that Cheers works, and this is the way things have always been done on television up until recent years. On Community, the characters verge on being self-aware, communicating to the audience with a wink and a nod that they know it’s not real, yet they still come across as loveable and believable characters. Despite the apparent standard â€Å"handsome white man as leader† and â€Å"beautiful blonde as love interest† cliche, over time the viewer begins to see that the key characters on Community are not Jeff and Britta. The most important character is Abed Nadir, a young Arab-American with Asperger’s syndrome, a type of autism. Abed is fixated on movies and television, and he sees his life as fictional plot. Each episode parodies a particular movie or genre of movies, but in a much more clever and subtle way than other TV shows have done before. Abed interprets everything that happens around

Imortance of libraries Essay Example for Free

Imortance of libraries Essay A library is a treasure-house of knowledge. A well-stocked library is an asset to the school, college, university or the neighborhood. A library has a librarian to guide and attend to the readers. A library is a treasure-house of knowledge. A well-stocked library is an asset to the school, college, university or the neighborhood. A library has a librarian to guide and attend to the readers. Books are kept and arranged properly which makes the reader look for a particular book easily. A member of a library can borrow a few books for a particular period and take them home. It is the responsibility of the reader that no pages are torn. If he loses a book, he has to pay for the loss. Each academy has a library of its own. There are also neighborhood libraries and district libraries. It is a boon for poor students. Information technology has helped in improving the library facilities. However, the popularity of internet will not adversely affect the importance of a library. Books are mans best friends. They give him company equally in times of happiness as well as in times of distress. They are one of the main sources of knowledge. The best place for easy access to books is a library. A library is a place where not only books but also magazines, journals and newspapers are well-stocked for the benefit of the readers. Beside this one can also get the entire atlas, Encyclopedia, etc. to know even the minute detail of a thing. It is a treasure-house of knowledge. It helps the spread of education. A reader can either read the in the library or borrow the book of his choice and take it home. The library is a popular place in the academic curriculum. A well-stocked library is an asset to a school, a college or a university. There are also neighborhood libraries and district libraries which benefit the readers of the area. A student or a reader can increase his knowledge of various subjects by reading in the library during his spare time. One can update ones knowledge by reading regularly in a library. A library needs a good librarian who should be well-qualified in library science. Such a person can maintain the books properly. He can guide the students to select suitable books. He should be cheerful and co-operative; one who can interact well with the readers. The reader easily gets the books he wants, if he consults the librarian. Thus, the guidance of the librarian saves a lot of time of the readers. A good librarian welcomes suggestions from readers for the improvement of the library. He purchases new books after taking into consideration the needs of the readers. Normally, a library is housed in a very spacious hall but small libraries are also present in small towns and villages. The furniture inside the library should be comfortable, neat and clean. Students/readers should maintain strict discipline, so that others are not disturbed. The atmosphere in a library should be peaceful and scholarly. A library has thousands of books in stock. It has books on various topics, subjects and events. New books are added from time to time. All the books are kept systematically. They are classified and indexed according to their subjects. The labeling of books helps the reader to get a particular book without any difficulty. To find out the library number of a particular book, one can take the help of the subject and author index. Most libraries keep a book display rack where new arrivals are kept. A library also keeps magazines, periodicals, newspapers and journals. These are kept on the reading table of the library. The readers can keep themselves equipped with current events and the latest developments in various fields. A reader should handle the books carefully so that no pages are torn or that no books are misplaced. He should keep the book at the proper place after reading. The librarian should see than pin-drop silence is maintained in the library. Readers should abide by the library rules. A library issues membership cards to its readers. A reader or a student can borrow a book for home if he has that card. The books are issued for a limited period. If the reader does not return the book on the due date, he has to pay a fine as per the library rules. If a reader loses a book, he has to replace the lost book with a new one or pay the price of the book. The readers are supposed to keep the books in good condition. The library is a boon for poor students who cannot afford to buy text books or other books of their interest. They can borrow these books and read or study them at ease at home. A library is thus a help to the society. Most libraries have notice-boards. They are used for writing important news of the day. A Thought for the day is also written here. Titles of new books added to the library are also displayed on the notice-board to inform the students. Most libraries are open for a limited number of hours.

Framework Advocating CSOs Analysis

Framework Advocating CSOs Analysis Take a case of actually existing civil society and critically discuss the extent to which your case has managed to achieve any democratic or developmental progress. Championed as the panacea for development ills under the neoliberal New Policy Agenda (McIllwaine;1998), civil society has become the sweetheart of development donors (Barr, Fafchamps Owens, 2005;659), famed for its ability to incubate participatory development[ma1][ma2]. Civil society is conceptualised as an independent third pillar between state and market, comprising of horizontal networks of associational groups with cross cut ties of kinship and patronage (Putnam, 1993). Within this network, citizens organize to pursue shared interests and influence policy in the public domain (UNDP, 2014). Civil society organisations (CSOs) can embody autonomous or NGO supported community based organisations, or can comprise of NGOs as primary agents of civil society themselves (Mohan, 2002[ma3]). Despite doubt surrounding the classification of NGOs as CSOs (Carmody, 2007), this essay will define NGOs as a variant of CSOs, as their primary purpose is influencing public policy (Edwards Hulme, 1997;24), and are independent from direct government control (UNDP, 2014[ma4][ma5]). Thus, for the reasons outlined, this essay will focus on the Voice2People programme of Christian Aid, an NGO based CSO. Ultimately, this essay will examine the extent to which the normative framework advocating CSOs as the missing middle between citizen and state (World Bank, 1996;114), represents the reality of actually existing civil society (Mamdani, 1996;19). It is in this sense that actually existing civil society is defined as the reality of CSOs in practise as largely dissonant from the normative promised agenda for change (Ibid). By analysing Christian Aids Voice2People programme, this essay will posit that the realities of actually existing civil society are divergent from the normative ideals placed upon it, and thus can achieve little democratic or developmental success. This essay will begin by demonstrating the normative and programmatic qualities perceived as inherent within CSOs, in particular their ability to facilitate participatory development, upon which donor funding is predicated (Igoe Kelsall, 2005). It will then outline the Voice2People programme rolled out by Christian Aid, in relation to the normative characteristics it is perceived to retain. Once the theoretical framework is outlined, this paper will then assess the extent to which these normative ideals diverge from reality of actually existing civil society. By outlining the flaws of the theoretical framework underlying the programme, and the problematic constraints it faced, this essay will conclude by arguing that contrary to normative perceptions, actually existing civil society in the case of the Voice2People programme, can achieve very little democratic or developmental progress. The normative characteristics of civil society organisations However, it is first essential to outline the perceived normative characteristics of CSOs in order to analyse their divergence from the empirical reality of actually existing civil society. These characteristics are normative in the sense they are expected rather than empirically validated. It[ma6][ma7] is also essential to underscore the ideological nature of these characteristics, which dovetail the neoliberal new policy agenda (Robinson, 2003;2) which embraces the democratic development paradigm (Banks, Edwards and Hulme; 2015, 710) in supporting inclusive participation to facilitate development (Mertz, 2012;54). Firstly, neoliberal theory posits CSOs as vehicles through which to build better citizens (Archer, 1994). Civil society is thus perceived as an arena for the cultivation of liberal norms, including participation and market rationality (Williams Young, 2012). CSOs become schools of liberal democracy (Banks, Edwards Hulme, 2015;4) educating citizens to take participate in formulating their own development agenda. Secondly, CSOs are also regarded as key actors in encouraging increased state accountability, as an active civil society enables choice, scrutinises errant governments, and leads to pluralised democracy (Mohan, 2002). CSOs thus demand state accountability to local demands (Suileman, 2013;245) an issue outlined by the Voice2People baseline report (Christian Aid, 2013). In addition, CSOs are also perceived by donors as vital facilitators of democratisation. This is because CSOs are seen to exhibit a pluralising function as they disperse the distribution of political power in s ociety through increasing channels of access (Hadenius Uggla, 1996) what Ndegwa (1996;3) terms the civil society political liberalisation thesis. Additionally, as Przewoski (1992) notes, CSOs also play a constitutive role in defining the rules of state/CSO interaction along democratic lines. Finally, the last perceived function of CSOs is facilitating localised empowerment, so communities can pursue their own development activities either through CSOs or as autonomous politically conscious citizens. This view posits the poor not as beneficiaries, but as controllers of the development process with the means to radically alter their own situation (Clark, 1991;201). However, for the sake of this essay, the above functions will be amalgamated into one role of facilitating participatory development the process through which stakeholders can influence and share control over development initiatives, decisions and resources that affect themselves (Worldbank, 1996b;4). This requires the participation of empowered groups in the design and implementation of development projects, and is dependent on a state open to pluralising the political arena to organisations such as CSOs who can demand accountability on behalf of their members. The[ma8] next section of this essay will outline the Voice2People programme rolled out by Christian Aid, which attempts to facilitate participatory development in Nigeria. A case of actually existing civil society Christian Aids Voice2People programme is a DFID funded programme worth  £2million (DFID, 2016), aiming to facilitate citizen-driven development and increased government accountability in Anambra State, Nigeria (Christian Aid, 2016;2). It is through this programme which aims to influence public development policy, that Christian Aid can be regarded as a CSO in its own right. Prior to the programme, the baseline report suggested that 54% of 1, 535 respondents in the area felt they were not able participate in making demands to state representatives, and that there was no accountability mechanism to ensure state compliance with local needs (Christian Aid, 2013;6-8). Consequently, the Voice2People community based programme utilised two strategies (outlined by Brown and Tandon;1994) in an attempt to rectify this democratic deficit (Warleigh, 2001;1). Firstly, Voice2People employed state reform strategies to secure agreements which guaranteed quarterly community engagement meetings, with the aim to precipitate democratic norms such as state accountability. Secondly, societal programmes such as the use of participatory rural appraisals (PRAs) intended to create community charters of needs, aiming to immerse all levels of community participation in development consultations (Christian Aid, 2016a;8). However, this next section will analyse the theoretical and practical barriers which constrain the Voice2People programme; an example of actually existing civil society (Mamdani, 1996:19); in achieving participatory development. Can Voice2People achieve participatory development? In the donor community, the perceived functions of CSOs are taken as normative and unproblematic. This is concerning as this next section will show, there are various theoretical and practical barriers which constrains actually existing civil society (in this case, the Voice2People programme) to achieving participatory development[ma9]. Theoretical barriers One[ma10] of the first theoretical constraints which limit the Voice2People programme and other CSO work in achieving participatory development, is the problematic dichotomy in which state and CSOs are theorised (Lewis, 2000). CSOs are perceived as autonomous agent able to impose community-formulated demands onto a democratic state. However, it is unwise to conceive civil society as unconstrained by the power of the state, as Hadenius and Uggla (1996) note, CSO inclusion is dependent on regime type, with autocratic regimes opposing CSO engagement due to desire to monopolise the political space (Clark, 1991[ma11]). Therefore, as Stewart (1997) suggests, the presence of CSOs does not instantly facilitate democratic engagement with states. In some cases, inclusion of CSOs into policy consultation is little more than PR to meet the criteria of debt relief. In the case of Voice2Protect, government legislation passed in July 2016 which requires a state-led regulatory body to oversee the wo rk of CSOs (Civicus, 2016), demonstrates the power of the Nigerian state in constraining the work of Voice2People. It is therefore too simplistic to theorise the state and CSOs as independent actors with equal agency in influencing public policy[ma12]. Moreover, it would also be unwise to suggest that even democratic states can adequately address the demands of CSOs, as due to the streamlining and weakening of state under structural adjustment, gridlock can occur, whereby the sheer volume of CSO interests and demands can lead to political impasse (Blair, 1997 in Lewis, 2002). This suggests that Voice2People is unable to achieve participatory development success either due to the constraining power of the state, or through lack of state capacity, notions largely ignored by the theoretical framework. This has led to the critique by some post-colonial scholars, who suggest that civil society as a concept has very little explanatory value for the complexities of African associational life (maia) which can include an autocratic state characterised by big men rule (cite). Therefore, although Voice2People established a working relationship with the House that was formalised with an agreement to hold quarterly meetings with members (Christian Aid, 2016;4), there are no constitutional mechanisms to guarantee the continuation of this interaction, and no clear capacity of the state to meet the demands forwarded by Voice2People. This is further evidenced by the Voice2People progress report which cites that citizens found it difficult to engage government officials si nce the governments lacked the financial power to undertaken any projects (Christian Aid, 2014;6). As well as the problematic dichotomy between state and CSOs, the theoretical underpinnings behind CSO led service provision also limits the extent to which Voice2People can achieve participatory development. Due to their closeness to intended beneficiaries, CSOs are regarded as ideal for replacing waning state services that have been decimated by structural adjustment (Carmody;2007). Empowerment therefore is economic in the liberal sense, as through the participation of contributing funds towards a community service project, one gets to become the controller of their own development. Voice2People utilises this approach to pacify the 46% of respondents who were not happy at allwith the level of state service provision (Christian Aid, 2013;6). Although seemingly locally appropriate, this approach is highly problematic as it reduces the concept of public welfare to mere private provision to the extent that citizens forego their sense of state entitlement (Kamat, 2003;156). CSO service p rovision, no matter how well intentioned, therefore reduces the state to a franchise state (Wood, 1997;1) ultimately unaccountable for the services provided to its citizens through other actors. Community based service provision as utilised by Voice2People therefore achieves very little democratic output, as any state accountability based on service provision is nullified, and replaced by self-dependency. Additionally, this project does little to increase development, as the limited financial accessibility of community funded services, means that the chronic poor seldom partake in this form of neoliberal participation and are thus excluded from accessing vital services. conclude [ma13][ma14] Practical constraints When aiming to facilitate participatory development, one of the practical constraints faced by Voice2Protect is the extent to which it can achieve full participation. In an attempt to facilitate inclusive participationVoice2People liaisons with established community structures (Christian Aid), to create charters of demands which prioritise community development needs (ibid). However, by working through established community structures such as chieftaincies, existing power relations are entrenched and reproduced (white). This new localism which essentialises established structures as microcosms of a homogenous community (mohan) is problematic, as it excludes traditionally ostracised groups from access to civil society participation. Additionally, community participation can also be co-opted by middle class hegemonic groups in a bid to access influences and resources (Mercer and green), often leading to disillusionment amongst the primordial public of traditionalist groups who interven tions aimed to target (Suiliman[ma15]). These issues occurred in the Voice2Project programme, whereby community mobilisation was misconstrued to have political bearings by stakeholders wanting to gain access (cite) and thus exclusive meetings were still utilised to buy-in community leadership for the middle classes(Cite). Conclude On a similar note, for Voice2Protect to achieve full democratic participation, there needs to be greater emphasis on the gendered implications of PRAs and other participatory tools, as some V2P communities are yet to adopt balanced representation in decision making platforms (cite). The time necessary to participate in decision making is problematic, as it reduces the time women dedicate to caregiving roles, therefore impeding female participation (Howell and Milligan[ma16]). This then leads to talking to men about women which is hardly democratic nor will ever understand the gendered development issues facing women as a group (Ardner). Concludeand addmore Additionally, one of the clearest practical factors constraining Voice2Protect in facilitating participatory development, is that contrary to building better citizens (archer), CSOs can often pluralise the political arena for the worst, incorporating the voice of extremist or violent community organisations (Lewis and Kanjii). A pluralised political arena thus legitimises vice as well as virtue (Robinson White, 1998;229), as well as ethnic chauvinism (diamond) as an exercise in liberal democracy. Although this does increase pluralised democratic output (for the better or for worse), such instances could indeed hinder inclusive community development, as can often become a platform for legitimising prejudices or community based structural violence[ma17][ma18][ma19]. more Finally, an additional practical limitation faced by Voice2People, is the problematic mode through which democratic participation is facilitated within its programmes. Ultimately, the Voice2People programme is externally facilitated by an NGO based CSO, unlike programmes led by traditionalist CSOs which arise out of indigenous community structures. This stems from a contradictive paradox of self-help, whereby external NGO based CSOs are deployed to facilitate empowerment in traditionalist settings (Page, 2014). The concern here is, that due to the nature of Voice2People as an external NGO directed programme, true participatory development is constrained as it foregoes the political conscientization necessary for true and sustainable empowerment. Evidently, by using NGO based CSOs as proxies for indigenous organisations[ma20], only artificial low intensity democracy can be achieved (Carmody). This artificial empowerment runs the risk of disintegrating once the NGO based CSO has withdr awn, and is therefore unsustainable and unable to exert continuous pressure for longstanding change. Since the timescale of the Voice2People programme had an end date of March 2016 (Christian Aid, 2016), one can suggest that due to the lack of endogenous indigenous programmes to guarantee democratic output, participatory development progress began to disintegrate after the withdrawal of Christian Aid. This suggests that the dichotomy theorised by Mamdani (1996;19), which bifurcates the normative perceptions of civil society and its actually existing form, is too simplistic to encapsulate the different issues faced by varying CSOs. Through homogenising the realities of all actually existing civil society, the dichotomy ignores the vastly different realities faced by NGO based CSOs in relation to indigenous organisations[ma21]. Conclusion Normative ideals as unattainable clear divergence to the reality fo actually existing civil society [ma1]democratic development paradigm (Banks, Edwards and Hulme; 2015, 710 [ma2]Since democracy is regarded as the requisite political system conducive to growth (Chan, 2002), [ma3]Make all this link a bit more [ma4]Something about beneficiary membership or something about closeness to them [ma5]This will become important later on [ma6]Link these two sections together better [ma7] [ma8]Make sure you notePD as requiring liberally moulded empowered citizen participation and a democratic and accountable state. [ma9]Describe theoretical as motivations beind and practical barriers and issues facing actual formation/methodology [ma10]Maybe link western concept here: universalism of normative ideal does not take into account the authoritarian big man state this suggests it is applicable to western experience only. Miaia Why are we pushing the concept it if has failed in the US (Carmoroff and Carmoroff) [ma11]Mandani state power is in the ability to incorporate [ma12]Conclude: how does this link to participatory development? How does this constrain V2P? [ma13] Moreover, it can also be argued that the envisioned concept of civil society is applicable only to the western experience and thus in reality, can achieve very little democratic or developmental progress elsewhere (Lewis, 2003). In this sense, donor support for CSOs is misguided, as the theoretical framework used to mould civil society in Eastern Europe after the fall of communism, has very little explanatory value for the complexities of African associational life such as the constraining power of tribe and caste (Maina). It also ignores the need of a democratic tradition to perpetuate democratic norms within civil society, as an earlier point states, the presence of CSOs such as Voice2People, does not necessarily equate to democracy. Additionally, the limited western definition of CSOs may lead to duplication of efforts to build civil society where an indigenous form already exists (Uggla). This dissonance of the legitimacy to alternatives to western defined CSOs limits true democr acy due to the monopolisation of the political sphere by one homogenous form of CSO (hearn, 2001). When the wrong kinds of CSO are excluded, how can participatory development occur? (Banks Edwards and Hulme). Actually existing civil society cannot therefore lead to full participatory development, as the attributes of civil society itself, are western and ungeneralizable to the Nigerian case. Link to V2P. conclude [ma14] [ma15]say this too much reword this so it isnt repetitive [ma16]needs to link more [ma17]need an example of V2P and how this is not participatory can prejudices lead to the deliberate exclusion of others in participation the need for monitors has reflected this [ma18]it is in this sense that White cites the possibility of CS impeding democracy by gives rise to a multiplicity of distinct structures of dominance and subordinacy [ma19]find example of this in CA policy doccs [ma20]I can only stress that throughà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ [ma21]add example of this from CA policy docc

Essay --

In Homer’s epic The Odyssey a powerful symbol is the dual role of food. Throughout the novel, food was apart of their culture but it also represents situations in which feasting was a form of temptation. There were many feast and celebrations because hospitality was very important in their culture. It ranged from feasting of wine, meat, and bread, and even cheese. Food becomes a test for the weak, and sick men who accompanies Odysseus along the journey. The temptation began when Odysseus men did not return home after the war. It was first shown by the Lotus Eaters. The Lotus Eaters are people who do nothing at all during the day and sit and fulfill their appetites on this appealing plant. In result of them eating the plant they tend to become very lazy and forget their intended task, which was to get back home to Ithaca. Due to them falling into temptation Odysseus had to pull them himself back to the ship. His men fall prey to this food, and you can conclude that Odysseus’ men lack self-control. Along the journey Odysseus’ men are constantly tempted by food but the gluttony come...

Obstacles Toward Development :: essays research papers fc

Obstacles Toward Development In this every day changing world, many of us are living in a comfortable home, have enough food to eat, well clothed, healthy, and financially independent. All these are provided to us because we are living in a well-developed country. Others in the third world nation are not so lucky. They may have no shelter, limited food supply, and unemployed. This is because their country is not well developed like ours. Problems that stop these countries from developing are 1. Low levels of living, comprising low incomes, high inequality, poor health and inadequate education. 2.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Low levels of productivity. 3  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  High rates of population growth and Dependency Burdens. 4.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  High levels of Unemployment and Underemployment. 5.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Significant dependence on agricultural production and primary product exports. 6.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dominance, dependence, and vulnerability in international relations.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Low levels of living is one of the major obstacles toward development. Low levels of living is comprised of low incomes, high inequality, poor health and inadequate education. The gross national product (GNP) is the most commonly used measure of the overall level of economic activity. The gross domestic product (GDP) measures the total value for final use of output produced by an economy, by both residents and nonresidents. Thus GNP comprises GDP plus the differences between the income residents receive from abroad for factor services (labor and capital) fewer payments made to nonresidents who contribute to the domestic economy. Many Third World countries have a low level of per capital income, in addition there is a slower GNP growth compare to the developed nations. Secondly, many people in third world countries are unhealthy and constantly battle with disease while trying to stay alive. The infant mortality rate is very high compared to the developed countries. One reason that leads to this is that they do not have the access to safe drinking water and health service. Clean drinking water is one of the major factors necessary to avoid illness. Water-borne diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, and a wide array of serious or fatal diarrheal diseases are responsible for more than 35% of the deaths of young children Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Most of these diseases and resulting deaths can be eliminated with safe water supplies. In addition, health service is very limited in the least developed countries. It is limited in the number of doctors and beds provided for the patients. Also, all the hospitals and medical facilities are located in the urban areas. People who are not living in the urban areas will have trouble getting to hospital and use the medical facilities provide. Thirdly, many people who live in the third

Perception and/or Reception of the Naked Child and Teenage Body in Art and the Media

Introduction and Research Question: The topic, which, we will research, is the perception and/or reception of the naked child and teenage body in art and the media. The hypothesis that we have concluded is that ‘children and teenagers posing nude for art or in the media is seen as the cause for over-sexualization in children and teenagers’. The naked body has been a topic of art and seen in the media as an ongoing issue. Child and teenage nudity has been featured in art from the 14th and 15th century, as well as in renaissance art, controversially through Bill Henson’s photography and in modern fashion shoots featuring teenage celebrities such as Miley Cyrus. This research proposal will aim to find the viewpoint of University students when shown images of teenage nudity in art and the media. This issue is an important research topic as opinions have varied in society about the impact and appropriateness of teenagers featuring in these public platforms and whether this is a cause of over-sexualisation. The effect of this issue will rely on the individual opinions in society of the definition of art. The main people being affected by this issue are the teenage population who have access to any media forms and art. The artists, such as Bill Henson are also affected as they are accused of producing inappropriate art even though they are trying to portray youth. This topic interests a large percentage of the population including teenagers, parents, media viewers and media producers. To carry out this research a focus group will be held involving undergraduate Mass Communications and Media students from Murdoch University. The opinions, beliefs and attitudes will be gathered concerning the chosen topic to then be able to compile a research report based on the findings of the focus group. Literature Review: Child and adolescent nudity has taken commonplace in art throughout history, from Renaissance paintings and sculptures to religious masterpieces. As time has gone on and technology has advanced these depictions of child and teen nudity have changed, and are often frowned upon in today’s society; today photographs, artworks and media of teenagers and children naked are often challenged as being sexualized or pornographic and nudity has become a highly controversial area with regards to children. For centuries naked children have been depicted in religious painting and scenes in the forms of cherubs, which are usually naked, posed winged toddlers. In the 14th and 15th centuries these biblical children were not seen as ‘real’ children but as symbolic religious representations of children, and this distinction was very clear. In these depictions, presenting children nude was usually seen as presenting them in the form that God had made them and was done to highlight their purity. But with the development of realism and photography this line has now become blurred. Due to the realism of photography it has lead people to believe that it is ‘real’, and as a result there is confusion between iconic symbolic children, and the general child. Gittins 1998, 119) During the Italian Renaissance era nude boys were often featured in paintings, especially in those with biblical themes. However, centuries later many artists began to depict paintings of nude children that carried no religious reference or context. For instance, Henry Scott Tuke painted nude adolescent boys doing everyday activities and although these paintings were not overly erotic and showed no genitalia they were a step away from the traditional biblical naked children. Johnson 2005, 102-104) Just a century after Tuke started depicting nude children in everyday activities professional photographers presented photographic exhibitions and books of posed naked children and adolescents. When Bill Henson’s exhibition opened on the 22nd of May 2008 many articles were written expressing the controversy and public opinions of the featured child nudity. An article written by David L. Isaacs and Thomas G. Isaacs titled â€Å"Is child nudity in art ever pornographic† was published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. This article discusses the important debate on censorship, which followed Bill Henson’s exhibition. This debate between the two authors resulted in the view that censorship laws regarding the depiction of children in art are needed to stop the exploitation of children. Yet a strong belief was evident that censorship is not needed to protect the public from being corrupted by viewing pornographic material. The knowledge and opinions of a pediatrician enables a professional opinion, which reflects the concern for childrens wellbeing. The opinion of a Fine Arts Honours graduate provides the knowledge of what art is and what role it plays within society. The focus group planned will effectively explore University students views on censorship. This literature provides an interesting debate, which our focus group will aim to further with a sample of students to give a broader opinion than what is present in this journal article. The month following Bill Henson’s controversial exhibition, June 2008, an Australian Government Standing Committee on Environment, Communications and the Arts released a report titled Sexualisation of Children in the Contemporary Media. This Government document stated that the inappropriate sexualisation of children in Australia is an increasing concern. It acknowledged the complexity of defining clear boundaries and accepted that it is a significant cultural challenge. The research planned by our team will respond to the lack of research, which was acknowledge in the Government report, on the effect of child sexualisation in the Media by providing a current viewpoint of University students. University students will be able to express the viewpoints, which for ethical reasons cannot be acquired from minors. Since 2008 many photos of Miley Cyrus some intended and some not have surfaced on the Internet. Numerous articles of the Disney star who plays â€Å"Hanna Montanna† have appeared. In the June issue of Vanity Fair 2008 a photo of Miley topless, clutching a silk bed sheet to her chest, with only her bare back exposed featured. Factors of these photos lead to controversy, even though it was an artistic piece and she was predominately covered. The article titled â€Å"Miley Cyrus’ embarrassing photo shoot† written by Courtney Hazlett discusses how It didn’t take long for Miley Cyrus fans (and their parents) to become outraged over racy photos of the 15-year-old that appear in the June issue of Vanity Fair. â€Å" Miley has commented in the article produced by the MSN Entertainment that â€Å"I took part in a photo shoot that was supposed to be ‘artistic' and now, seeing the photographs and reading the story, I feel so embarrassed†¦ I never intended for any of this to happen and I apologize to my fans who I care so deeply about. â€Å" There has been an increase with teenagers taking part in these â€Å"artistic† photo shoots but is it really art? Many reviewers argue that this is not, and that the teenagers are being taken advantage of by their parents making these decisions for them. Also stating that later on in life these photos could have a bad effect them. Psychologists are saying that it may bring on the over sexualisation of teenagers, by not giving them the opportunity to go through their teenage years naturally and mature with age not acting older than they are with sexual expectations that they are not ready for. (American Psychological Association). With the availability of the internet other personal photos of Miley were released where she is showing her green bra and also her stomach is out as she is wearing a midriff laying on a boy does this have a link to the Vanity Fair shoot and is it a result of the medias pressure taking a toll on her personal life as her parents where not happy with the nude shot. In Disney’s release of its own statement about the Vanity Fair story, the Disney Channel, which broadcasts Cyrus's series Hannah Montana, said: â€Å"Unfortunately, as the article suggests, a situation was created to deliberately manipulate a 15-year-old in order to sell magazines. However in the Vanity Fair issue â€Å"Miley knows best† Miley comments that the pose was Annie Leibovitz’s idea. The topless but demure portrait accompanying this article could be seen as another baby step, toward a more mature profile. â€Å"I think it’s really artsy,† Cyrus says. â€Å"It wasn’t in a s kanky way. And you can’t say no to Annie. She’s so cute. She gets this puppy-dog look and you’re like, O. K. † Leibowitz has chimed in, too, saying that it was never her intent to portray Cyrus in any negative light. â€Å"I’m sorry that my portrait of Miley has been misinterpreted,† Leibovitz said in a statement released by Vanity Fair. The photograph is a simple, classic portrait, shot with very little makeup, and I think it is very beautiful. † (â€Å"Miley Cyrus’ embarrassing photo shoot† The Scoop 2008) Research Method: The research method of focus group interviewing has been assigned. This method entails qualitative research. The aim is to find out the opinions and attitudes of the interviewees, who are selected as a purposive sample of the target market. The focus group interviewees are lead with open-ended questions that will be asked through out the discussion. A focus group includes a role of a moderator and a researcher. The moderator conducts the focus group serving as discussion leader to the other members. The moderator is briefed by the researcher and provided with a moderators â€Å"discussion guide. † The role of the researcher involves many preparatory and other activities including, obtaining ethics and clearance of the project, finding suitable group members, they deal with all booking and hiring of the venues and moderator, they tape all audio/ visual recordings, analysis the data and prepare the summary report of findings. This process of interviewing and gathering research is a valuable way of collecting data, because it is a direct way of finding answers to specific questions, which may not be obtainable through other research methods. A structured interview is especially good when discussing controversial sensitive issues, such as the issue we are focusing on in our research question. From our group interview we are hoping to gain information and people’s views of teenage and child representation in art and the media today, and whether they think children are being sexualized or it is the natural and reasonable extension of art. Each person in our group focused on a specific area of our research question. Chelsea looked at the history of naked children and teens in art and the media. Millie focused on nudity and the sexualisation of children and teenagers in art today, using bill Henson as an example. Whilst Deanna looked at the sexualisation of teenagers in today’s media, focusing on the Miley Cyrus vogue photo shoot. Focus Group Draft Questions: Has society’s view on nudity drastically changed in the last century? Do you think one of the major reasons for these different views are the advances in technology eg mass communication, photography) Is society as a whole more sexualized than it was several centuries ago? Do you think Renaissance art was completely asexual as critics say it is, or do you think that perhaps even then there was a sexual element to the depiction of naked children? Is there any context in which you believe it is appropriate today to depict naked children? What do you define as being art? What do you define as being pornographic material? Showing a Bill Henson photograph of a young nude girl) In your personal reaction do you consider this photograph to be artistic or pornographic? And why? Do you believe parental consent should allow 12-13 year old to participate in nude photography? Do you believe that the children in these photographs will be affected by this experience in the future? Why or why not? Do you think that this photo of Miley is provocative or artistic? As Mi ley Cyrus is a child role model/ celebrity do you think it is a good idea for photos like this to be taking or do you think it sets a bad example for the younger children that admire her so much? When this photo shoot was taken Miley was 15 years of age do you think this photo is age appropriate for her? Do you think that the media has placed pressure on Miley to produce a photo like this at her age? When looking at this photo what age do you think Miley looks and what do you feel that the photo is portraying? References: American Psychological Association, Report of the APA Task Force. Sexualization of Girls, 2007 (accessed August 28, 2010) D, Isaacs, T, Isaacs. 2010. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. Is child nudity in art ever pornographic? Blackwell Publishing Inc. www. scopus. com. prospero. murdoch. edu. au (accessed August 28, 2010) Grittins, Diana. 1998. The Child in Question. London: Macmillan Press LTD Johnson, Geraldine A. 2005. Renaissance Art: A Very Short Introduction. New York: Oxford University Press Standing Committee on Environment, Communications and the Arts. Sexualisation of children in the contemporary media, Commonwealth of Australia 2008 published June 2008. (accessed August 28, 2010) Annotated Bibliography: American Psychological Association, Report of the APA Task Force. Sexualization of Girls, 2007 This report was written by a task force which was created in the response to journalists, child advocacy organisations, parents and psychologists who have argued that the sexualisation of girls is a broad issue in society and that it is an increasing problem which harms girls. This report gave an overview of psychological theory to assist in the understanding of the psychological harms of the over sexualisation of young girls and teenagers. It defines sexualisation and gives examples of it appearing in society. D, Isaacs, T, Isaacs. 2010. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. Is child nudity in art ever pornographic? Blackwell Publishing Inc. www. scopus. com. prospero. murdoch. edu. au This article written by David L. Isaacs and Thomas G. Isaacs titled â€Å"Is child nudity in art ever pornographic† was published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. This article discusses the important debate on censorship, which followed Bill Henson’s exhibition. This debate between the two authors resulted in the view that censorship laws regarding the depiction of children in art are needed to stop the exploitation of children. Yet a strong belief was evident that censorship is not needed to protect the public from being corrupted by viewing pornographic material. Grittins, Diana. 1998. The Child in Question. London: Macmillan Press LTD This Book Focuses on children and their place in the past and in today’s society. The book focuses on the innocence of children and how that innocence has changed over time. It also explores the rights that adults hold over children and other theories that society has of children. Johnson, Geraldine A. 2005. Renaissance Art: A Very Short Introduction. New York: Oxford University Press This Book focuses on Renaissance art and the part it played in European art. It does focus on particular areas of Renaissance art such as the techniques used and how stories were told through the art. The book draws on many famous Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Standing Committee on Environment, Communications and the Arts. Sexualisation of children in the contemporary media, Commonwealth of Australia 2008 published June 2008. The Australian Government Standing Committee on Environment, Communications and the Arts developed this report, titled Sexualisation of Children in the Contemporary Media. The report acknowledged the issue of the sexualisation of children in the media and the complexities of defining clear boundaries. This report has enabled us to acquire a Government perspective on the issue. The research carried out in this report outlined professional opinions of psychologists, pediatricians as well as the viewpoint of Australian parents.