Human employes vs Robot employes Research Paper

Human employes vs Robot employes - Research Paper Example The paper tells that using human employees versus robot employees is a controversial subject. As there are several advantages and disadvantages to using both types of employees in the workforce. it is sometimes hard to choose which is actually better for the economy, the society and individuals themselves. The history of robot use for roles that human employees once carried out exists for a period of at least the last two centuries. Humanity has arrived at a whole new level of existence because of the use of robots and their employable functionalities. Even though robot employees have not affected the human employee force to the degree that there are severe job shortages occurring, some experts fear that there may be an upper limit as to how many robot employees the economy can sustainably employ before human labour losses are experienced and people are negatively affected. For more than two centuries the effect that using robotic employees has had on the work force has created a pos itive overall economic benefits to society. Although in theory, jobs that were once performed by humans are now being performed by robots, does not fully reflect the true circumstances of the labour market. What has happened is that jobs that have been transferred to robot employees have now freed the previous labourers from simpler tasks so they can do other jobs, and put a greater focus on the development of new aspects of technology and business. This effect has actually created more jobs due to an increase in the production of new industries, technologies and businesses. The standard of living has risen in many areas in the world. Jobs that were lost in one particular sector or niche were in number replaced by jobs that were able to have been created in other areas. The use of robots as employees has led to an increase in gained employee time for companies to use their workers; to focus on other tasks that have allowed for the development of new aspirations. Since the labour for ce has not been devastated by the use of robots over such a long period of the last two centuries, it is more than likely it will not happen in the near future. The use of robotic employees was first evident in the textile industry around the year 1811. A group of textile workers called the Luddites first proposed the idea to economists that their jobs would be taken over by robotic employees or more simply put, by automated processes. The traditional weaving jobs that they were doing were being taken over by the automated weaving machine. In the 1930’s it was predicted that in a time frame of about one thousand years, the new work week would be approximately 15 hours long. There was expected to be a problem that people would have too much leisure time on their hands rather than having to work long hours. This was proposed by John Maynard Kennedy, however in the future years that have already come and past, this theory has obviously been inaccurate. The world wars did see a d isruption in employment, however post world wars actually proved to be economically expanding. Between the years of 1950 to 1990, again fears arose which were similar to those of the Luddites that again human labour forces would be taken over by robot employees (Rifkin 1995). Companies experienced a large degree of resistance from their employees to preserve their jobs and create contracts that were protective in the event that a job was lost to an automated machine. Smaller companies that were not subject to unions did not have to

Blade Runner And Fifth Element Cityscapes Film Studies Essay

Blade Runner And Fifth Element Cityscapes Film Studies Essay Blade runner greets the viewer with a fascinating opening scene where the camera hovers over a vast industrial mega polis called Hades. The year is 2020 and overpopulated Hades is trying to reinforce itself. The place is filled with corroded skyscrapers which shoot flame and gases into the environment creating a sense of hazy and polluted atmosphere. Also, in this shot and in subsequent shots flying cars, called spinners, are seen moving around the cityscape. The entire Hades cityscape was a forced perspective miniature set with larger miniature elements in the foreground which get smaller and smaller as we approach the horizon. Special photographic effects supervisor Douglas Trumbull and his crew constructed the whole set on a plywood table which was about 20 feet wide at the back and 5 feet wide in the front. The actual horizon on the screen is just 15 feet away from the camera. They designed the table according the focal length of the camera, which provided them the base in accordance to field of view of the camera. This sort of careful planning enabled them to build the miniatures just inside the field of view without wasting valuable production time and money. Chief model maker Mark Stetson relied primarily on etched brass cutouts as elements to create buildings in the shot. But because these cutouts were two-dimensional, they had to stack a number of them together and stagger them across randomly to create depth in the whole shot. states that by using this technique Trumbull was soon posed with a problem: But as we got into putting the thing together, we realized quickly that the etched metal stuff would have given away the trick if wed use it too close to the foreground. They overcame this by building foam cast models and put them in the foreground. Those models were highly detailed and separately mounted using C-Stands. They were positioned carefully so that the camera could fly right in between creating depth. Another hurdle was creating the atmospherics in the cityscape. Director Ridley Scott wanted smoke and haze in the distant background to add to the drama of the whole scene. Douglas Trumbull created this effect using studio fans and smoke detectors. He first contained the set using black cloth all around it and set up the smoke detectors to trigger the fans. So when they fed smoke into the contained set, fans powered up and pushed the smoke around creating a natural progression of smoke in the environment. Describing his perception of the Hades cityscape, Mark Stetson states: I just had this scheme, I just wanted to do it as a series of silhouette and smoke. I wanted the smoke to really be the light and the light to light it up. Everything about that miniature had to be lights. The way light was used in this shot to create volumetric effects and reflections played a major role making it look real and credible. About 20,000 fiber optic cables (about 7 miles long) were used to light the Hades cityscape. The light cables were threaded up from beneath the plexi glass, on which the brass etched cutouts were mounted. They also mixed and experimented with a lot of interactive lights like axial, blinking, etc which created variety and helped improve the overall aesthetics of the shot. The flying cars (spinners) were a central impression throughout Blade Runner. Model maker Gene Winfield made four scale versions of the spinners, ranging from an inch to a gigantic forty-four inch long model, for different shots. Each model had its own light rig which could be tweaked to match the lighting of the shot. In order to integrate the cars into the shot, they had to shoot them as separate elements in four different passes and later on put them in using optical methods. Flying car model moves were created by Baker and McHugh using a Universal Hartland motion control unit. It is a hybrid method where they program simple motions like track and tilt and later on manually chart other controls such as pan, pitch, roll, etc. This enabled them to have a greater control over the placement and path of the move. For every spinner movement a corresponding matte was created to help composite it onto the environment. They created the mattes using front lit technique where the spinners were photographed as white shapes on a black background instead of vice versa. They shifted to the alternate in order to avoid the streaks caused by the motion control rig while shooting the mattes. discusses about the insertion of the spinners against the Hades cityscape: One of the most challenging aspects of the optical involvement was the insertion of spinners and other miniature elements into appropriately smoke-laden background plates-without having them come out looking like cutouts After great deal of testing and experimentation special photographic effects supervisor David Dryer got around this issue by generating a balance between the holdout and cover mattes. They are then lined up separately using the EEG system and fit onto the spinners onto the backplanes. In an establishing shot of New York cityscape in Fifth Element, female lead Milla Jovovich who was reconstructed from an alien DNA escapes from the lab and exits onto a narrow window ledge hundreds of floors above the ground. In consecutive shot, New York City in the year 2259 is portrayed as a towering urbanscape with huge buildings and heavy flying traffic. The lanes are parallel as if they were on a grid with old mid-fifties architecture all along and they extended until the horizon. states that Director Luc Besson vision was to show the 23rd century New York City in full detail and broad daylight unlike Blade Runner which is more dark. To produce this effect Special visual effects supervisor Mark Stetson used model photographs in conjunction with 2-D Matte paintings. Explaining about why they opted to not use computer generated imagery for the cityscape states that Mark Stetson states : We could have done it entirely in the computer but as large as Digital Domain is, with its several terabytes of disk space and hundreds of CPUs, there was still a practical limit. A totally CG New York would have been prohibitive in terms of time, storage space and processing power. For that reason, we chose to construct a big set of models. Stetson now made use of the advancement in technology which was missing back then when he was working on Blade Runner. He used computer pre-visualization and prepared models in different levels of details based on the camera lens, motion path, proximity of the miniature to the camera, etc. For the cityscape shot, about twenty-five buildings 25 feet high and above were built. Several CAD and town planning artists were invited to make plans for the layout of the city and the miniatures were placed accordingly. This helped them make the illusion of the vast mega polis more real and believable. To create a more natural look of sunlight hitting the vast cityscape, Supervising director of photography , Bill Neil developed a new technique called Fractured Sunlight which is a hybrid of direct and indirect illumination. They used a strong light source from one direction to mimic the sunlight which caused a lot of shadows on the other side. To minimize the effect, they had to use reflectors and spotlights to create an illusion of light bouncing back on the darker areas on the buildings. In order to add depth in the shot, they separated the cityscape into different parts with their respective mattes and then added atmospheric effects and made changes to the overall lighting. Also, they relied heavily on 2-D matte paintings to mix and create the effect of endless row of buildings which ultimately imposed depth in the shot. Flying cars were the crucial element in cityscape shot which left viewers in awe. Stetson initially planned to use miniatures for the effect. But due to development of technology, an effective CG pipeline was generated which allowed them to move to computer generated imagery. They first created primitive models of cars and rough patterns of the traffic flow to pre-visualize the shot. In order to distinguish between the traffic at various levels of the city, Digital effects supervisor Karen E. Goulekas created a weave pattern where traffic would travel in different directions at different levels. In order to create variation among the pattern of traffic flow, they keyed the cars to move at different speeds and stop at random points. Also variation of color and nature of the cars was accomplished by using special Renderman shaders. These programmed shaders allowed the artists to quickly tweak and create new variations of models easily. Once the traffic flow and detailing of the vehicles is completed, they would then run a script which replaced all the dummy models with fully detailed ones which they would then send for final rendering. Compositing supervisors Jonathan Egstad and Bryan Grill then carefully planned the allocation of resources which finally enabled them to generate the effects work in time. They used compositing packages (mainly Nuke, Flame, etc) to put together all the elements. Finally, color corrections and grading was done to complete generating the final imagery for the shot.

The marketing mix is a marketing tool. It is a checklist, which focuses

The marketing mix is a marketing tool. It is a checklist, which focuses attention on the main marketing activities in which a firm needs to carry out UNIT 9 – MARKETING MIX The marketing mix is a marketing tool. It is a checklist, which focuses attention on the main marketing activities in which a firm needs to carry out its marketing strategy. It consists of the four Ps (product, price, promotion and place). Â · Product (including range of pack sizes, flavours and colours) Â · Price (pricing strategy and pricing method) Â · Promotion (branding, advertising, packaging and sales promotion) Â · Place (distribution channels and seeking shop distribution) Managers look at these areas and decide what marketing actions need to taken. For effective marketing each area needs to be considered. The actions taken must work with each other. A successful mix will achieve marketing objectives and customer satisfaction. The most important element of the mix is the product. Good marketing means developing products that fit the market. It needs to be designed to meet requirements of the target market, which is probably achieved by extensive market research. The design must keep pace with market changes. Once the product has been chosen, the other elements of the mix become clear: The price must be suited to the target market and to the image of the product The promotion must be through the media that the target market watch or read The place should be the ...

Analysis of Secure Real Time Transport Protocol on Voip over

Mohd Nazri Ismail / (IJCSE) International Journal on Computer Science and Engineering Vol. 02, No. 03, 2010, 898-902 Analysis of Secure Real Time Transport Protocol on VoIP over Wireless LAN in Campus Environment Mohd Nazri Ismail Department of MIIT, University of Kuala Lumpur (UniKL), MALAYSIA [email  protected] unikl. edu. my Abstract- In this research, we propose to implement Secure Real Time Transport Protocol (SRTP) on VoIP services in campus environment. Today, the deployment of VoIP in campus environment over wireless local area network (WLAN) is not considered on security during communication between two parties.Therefore, this study is to analyzed SRTP performance on different VoIP codec selection over wired. We have implemented a real VoIP network in University of Kuala Lumpur (UniKL), Malaysia. We use softphone as our medium communication between two parties in campus environment. The results show that implementation of SRTP is able to improve the VoIP quality between on e-to-one conversation and multi conference call (many-to-many). In our experiment, it shows that iLBC, SPEEX and GSM codec are able to improve significantly the multi conference (many-to-many) VoIP quality during conversation.In additional, implementation of SRTP on G. 711 and G. 726 codec will decrease the multi conference (many-to-many) VoIP quality. Keywords- Codecs, Softphone, SRTP, WLAN I. INTRODUCTION AND RELATED WORKS University of Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) has implemented a real VoIP over wireless LAN in campus environment. This implementation is not covered any security features. Therefore, the objective of this study is to enable the security function using Secure Real Time Transport Protocol (SRTP).We will study the performance of SRTP on different codec such as G. 711, G. 726, GSM, iLBC and SPEEX. iLBC is a speech codec developed for robust voice communication over IP, it uses 13. 33 Kbps. It provides low delay and high packet loss robustness for low-bit rate codec’s. SPEEX codec is open source patent-free audio compression format designed for speech. Codec is an algorithm used to encode and decode the voice conversation. Secure Real Time Transport Protocol (SRTP) defines a profile of Real Time Transport Protocol (RTP), intended to provide ncryption, message authentication and integrity and replay protection to the RTP data in both unicast and multicast applications. Previous work is to evaluate the trade-off existing between quality of service and security when SRTP [6] is employed to protect RTP (Real Time Protocol) sessions on VoIP calls [5]. There is no such study has been conducted on comparison of VoIP one-to-one call and multi conference call (many-to-many) performance using SRTP functionality. With its promise of inclusion, innovation, and growth, VoIP also brings challenges. VoIP is not easy to secure.It suffers all of the problems associated with any Internet application, and VoIP security is complicated by its interconnection to the PS TN. A host of trust, implementation, and operational complexities make securing VoIP particularly complex. In fact, the same aspects that make the VoIP software model so powerful—its flexible, open, distributed design—are what make it potentially problematic [7][8]. Various security requirements have to be met to secure VoIP transmission: Authentication, Privacy and Confidentiality, Integrity, Non repudiation, Non replay and Resource availability [9].The threats faced by a VoIP are similar to other applications including: unwanted communication (spam), privacy violations (unlawful intercept), impersonation (masquerading), theft-of service, and denial-of-service [10]. II. METHODOLOGY We have setup a real wireless network environment to analyze and measure implementation of VoIP service using security function (SRTP) at University of Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) in Malaysia. This study posits several research questions: i) what is the STRP performance level of the VoIP over WLAN based on one-to-one call and multi conference call? nd ii) which codecs are able to provide better improvement of VoIP conversation? Figure 2. 1 and Figure 2. 2 show the flow of VoIP conversation call between one-to-one and multi conference. We measure our voice quality using human perception. Mean Opinion Score (MOS) technique is the best approach to measure and ISSN : 0975-3397 898 Mohd Nazri Ismail / (IJCSE) International Journal on Computer Science and Engineering Vol. 02, No. 03, 2010, 898-902 validate voice quality between one-to-one call and multi conference call. Figure 2. 3 shows the measurement of VoIP performance over WLAN using SRTP implementation.We also test on different codecs selection such G. 711, G. 726, GSM, iLBC and SPEEX. III. ANALYSIS AND RESULTS Figure 2. 1: VoIP over One-to-One Conversation This section measures and compares VoIP performance over WLAN using SRTP function. In voice and video communication, quality usually dictates whether the experience is a good or bad one. Besides the qualitative description we hear, like ‘quite good' or ‘very bad', there is a numerical method of expressing voice and video quality. It is called Mean Opinion Score (MOS). MOS can be tested using: i) human perception; ii) simulation model; and iii) automated system [1] [2].MOS gives a numerical indication of the perceived quality of the media received after being transmitted and eventually compressed using codecs. MOS is expressed in one number, from 1 to 5, 1 being the worst and 5 the best. MOS is quite subjective; as it is based figures that result from what is perceived by people during tests (refer to Table 3. 1). We will select five different users to evaluate and rate the VoIP performance using SRTP and without SRTP functionality. When users cannot get a dial tone or there are excessive delays in ringing the other party’s phone, VoIP performance is unacceptable.Call quality is a function of packet loss rate, delay, and jitter is typically represented as a MOS [3], [4]. Table 3. 1: Mean Opinion Score (MOS) Ratings Mean Opinion Score (MOS) Ratings Excellent 5 (Perfect. Like face-to-face conversation Figure 2. 2: VoIP over Many-to-Many (Multi Conference) Conversation Good Fair Poor Bad or radio reception) 4 (Fair. Imperfections can be perceived, but sound still clear. This is (supposedly) the range for cell phones) 3 (Annoying) 2 (Very annoying. Nearly impossible to communicate) 1 (Impossible to communicate) Figure 3. shows the configuration of codec protocol such as G. 711, G. 726, GSM, iLBC and SPEEX. This 3CX softphone is able to active ‘Echo Cancellation’ and ‘SRTP’. The VoIP experiments will receive two types of modes: i) one-to-one call conversation; ii) multi conference call (many-to-many). Figure 3. 2 shows the result of VoIP one-to-one conversation. Figure 3. 3 shows the result of VoIP multi conference (many-to-many) call. Figure 2. 3: Measurement and Evaluation of VoIP over WLAN using SRTP Approach ISSN : 0975-3397 899 Mohd Nazri Ismail / (IJCSE) International Journal on Computer Science and Engineering Vol. 2, No. 03, 2010, 898-902 improvement on VoIP quality performance and at the same time able to provide element of security (refer to Table 3. 3 and Figure 3. 5). The significant improvement is GSM and SPEEX codecs after implemented SRTP. Table 3. 2: Multi Conference without SRTP User Codec Figure 3. 1: 3CX Softphone Codec and SRTP Configuration G. 711 G. 726 GSM iLBC SPEEX User 1 3 4 1 2 5 User 2 3 3 1 2 4 User 3 2 3 1 3 4 User 4 3 4 1 2 4 User 5 2 4 1 2 5 Figure 3. 2: One-to-One Call Conversation Result Figure 3. 4: Users Rate VoIP for Multi Conference Call Without SRTP Table 3. : Multi Conference with SRTP User Codec G. 711 G. 726 GSM iLBC SPEEX Figure 3. 3: Multi Conference Call (many-tomany) Conversation Result Most of the users agreed and rates this VoIP without SRTP will provide a good quality for G. 711 and G. 726 codecs. Other users agreed a nd rates 4 to 5 ratings for SPEEX codec without using SRTP during multi conference conversation (refer to Table 3. 2 and Figure 3. 4). After implemented SRTP on VoIP during multi conference session occurs, it shows some User 1 2 3 4 5 5 User 2 1 3 4 5 5 User 3 1 2 3 4 5 User 4 2 2 3 4 5 User 5 1 2 3 4 5 ISSN : 0975-3397 900Mohd Nazri Ismail / (IJCSE) International Journal on Computer Science and Engineering Vol. 02, No. 03, 2010, 898-902 Table 3. 5: One-to-One Call with SRTP User Codec G. 711 G. 726 GSM iLBC SPEEX User 1 2 3 2 4 5 User 2 1 3 2 4 4 User 3 1 2 2 4 5 User 4 2 2 2 4 4 User 5 2 3 2 4 5 Figure 3. 5: Users Rate VoIP for Multi Conference Call With SRTP Most of the users agreed and rates this VoIP oneto-one call without SRTP will also provide low quality for G. 711, G. 726 and GSM codecs. Other users agreed and rates 3 and 5 ratings for iLBC and SPEEX codecs without using SRTP during one-to-one call (refer to Table 3. and Figure 3. 6). After implemented SRTP on VoIP during o ne-to-one session occurs, it shows significant improvement on VoIP quality performance for G. 711, G. 726, GSM, iLBC and SPEEX over WLAN (refer to Table 3. 5 and Figure 3. 7). Table 3. 4: One-to-One Call Without SRTP User Codec G. 711 G. 726 GSM iLBC SPEEX User 1 2 1 2 3 5 User 2 2 2 2 3 4 User 3 2 1 2 4 4 User 4 1 1 1 3 4 User 5 1 2 2 4 4 Figure 3. 7: Users Rate VoIP for One-to-One Call with SRTP Figure 3. 8 and Figure 3. 9 show the average MOS score for VoIP conversation over one-to-one call and multi conference call (many-to-many), respectively.VoIP Conversation over Multi Conference Call: Before implemented SRTP, the average MOS score for G. 711 is 2. 5, 3. 5 for G. 726, 1 for GSM, 2. 1 for iLBC and 4. 5 for SPEEX. After implemented SRTP, the average MOS score for G. 711 and G. 726 are decreased the ratings approximately 1 to 2. 5. GSM, iLBC and SPEEX codecs show the average MOS score are 3. 5, 4. 5 and 5. GSM, iLBC and SPEEX codec show the increasing of VoIP performance after i mplemented SRTP (refer to Figure 3. 8). VoIP Conversation over One-to-One Call: Before implemented SRTP, the average MOS score for G. 711 is 1. , 1. 4 for G. 726, 1. 8 for GSM, 3. 5 for iLBC and 4. 2 for SPEEX. After implemented SRTP, the average MOS score shows the significant improvement for G. 711, G. 726, GSM, iLBC and SPEEX codecs. Therefore, implementation of SRTP can improve the VoIP quality performance for one-to-one call over WLAN (refer to Figure 3. 9). Figure 3. 6: Users Rate VoIP for One-to-One Call without SRTP ISSN : 0975-3397 901 Mohd Nazri Ismail / (IJCSE) International Journal on Computer Science and Engineering Vol. 02, No. 03, 2010, 898-902 dependency conditions that could influence voice quality.Future work, we will extend our experiment on VoIP over VPN implementation in Campus environment. References [1]. Moura N. T. ; Vianna B. A. ; Albuquergue C. V. N; Rebello V. E. F & Boeres C. â€Å"MOS-Based Rate Adaption for VoIP Sources†. IEEE International Confe rence on Communication, pp. 628-633, 2007. [2]. Masuda M. & Ori K. â€Å"Delay Variation Metrics for Speech Quality Estimation of VoIP†. Institute of Electronics, Information and Communication Engineers (IEIC) Technical Report, Vol. 101(11), pp. 101-106, 2001. [3]. R. G. Cole & J. H. Rosenbluth. â€Å"Voice over IP Performance Monitoring†. SIGCOMM Computer Communication Rev.Vol. 31(2), pp. 9-24, 2001. [4]. L. Ding & R. Goubran. â€Å"Speech Quality Prediction in VoIP Using the Extended e-Model. Global Telecommunication Conference, GLOBECOM ’03. IEEE, Vol. 7, pp. 3974-3978, 2003. [5]. Alexandre P. ; Edjair M. ; & Edjard M. â€Å"Analysis of the Secure RTP Protocol on Voice over Wireless Networks using Extended MedQoS†. Proceedings of the 2009 ACM symposium on Applied Computing, pp. 86 – 87, 2009. [6]. M. Baugher, D. McGrew, M. Naslund, E. Carrara, & K. Norrman. â€Å"The Secure Real- Time Transport Protocol (SRTP)†. RFC 3711 (Proposed Standa rd), March 2004. [7] Douglas C. Sicker & Tom L. VoIP Security: Not an Afterthought†, FEATURE: Q focus: Voice Over IP, Vol. 2(6), pp. 56-64, 2004. [8] Vesselin I. , Theodor T. , & Amdt T. â€Å"Experiences in VoIP telephone network security policy at the University of Applied Sciences (FHTW) Berlin†, Proceedings of the 2007 international conference on Computer systems and technologies, Bulgaria, Vol. 285(3), 2007. [9] Wafaa B. D. , Samir T. , & Carole B. â€Å"Critical vpn security analysis and new approach for securing voip communications over vpn networks†, Proceedings of the 3rd ACM workshop on Wireless multimedia networking and performance modelling,Chania, Crete Island, Greece, pp. 2-96, 2007. [10] Nekita A. C. , & Chhabria S. A. â€Å"Multiple design patterns for voice over IP security†, Proceedings of the International Conference on Advances in Computing, Communication and Control, Mumbai, India, pp. 530 – 534, 2009. Figure 3. 8: VoIP Conversa tion over Multi Conference Call over WLAN Figure 3. 9: VoIP Conversation over One-to-One Call over WLAN IV. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK Based on the results, implementation of SRTP using GSM, iLBC and SPEEX codecs are able to generate high quality of VoIP conversation WLAN for one-to-one conversation and multi conference call (many-to-many).After implemented SRTP for multi conference call (many-to-many), the MOS result indicates that G. 711 and G. 726 codec will decrease the performance of VoIP conversation over WLAN. Overall of our finding, it confirms that enable SRTP will improve and increase the quality of one-to-one VoIP conversation and VoIP over multi conference call (only for iLBC, GSM and SPEEX codecs). Since the manual/human MOS tests are quite subjective and less than productive in many ways, there are nowadays a number of software tools that carry out automated MOS testing in a VoIP deployment.Although they lack the human touch, the good thing with these tests is that the y take into account all the network ISSN : 0975-3397 902 Copyright of International Journal on Computer Science & Engineering is the property of Engg Journals Publications and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use.

Close Reading: Slaughterhouse Essay

â€Å"The Tralfamadorians tried to give Billy clues that would help him to imagine sex in the invisible dimension. They told him that there could be no Earthling babies without male homosexuals. There could be babies without female homosexuals. There couldn’t be babies without women over sixty-five years old. There could be babies without men over sixty-five. There couldn’t be babies without other babies who had lived an hour or less after birth. And so on.† The first time that I read this novel in high school, this passage interested and confused me. The thought of there being more than two genders present on the planet caught me off guard. While gender is not ever a subject that confuses me, this idea did not make sense to me. Gender, on Earth, is confined to male and female. It begs the question of what the Tralfamadorians consider to be a gender, in the third and fourth dimensions. Vonnegut leads us to assume that the genders must be those that he listed. We know that to make a human baby, you need a male and a female. Since he refers to homosexuality in this passage, it is safe to draw the connection that he considers homosexuals to be their own gender. That would lead readers to believe that the other sexes are a heterosexual male, heterosexual female, homosexual male and homosexual female. However, that only gives us four of the seven proposed genders. Based off of that theory, it would be safe to assume that the other genders would be a transgender male, a transgender female, and hermaphrodites. For someone who is an active member of the LGBTQIA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and ally) community, this was a plausible, and easy, connection for me. However, if we were to consider what Vonnegut says later on in the passage, it could be that he considers the other genders to be something entirely different. If readers focus on the exact wording in the passage, it implies that the other five genders that exist in the fourth dimension are the homosexual males, homosexual females, women over sixty five years old, men over sixty five years old, and babies that live an hour or less after their own birth. If these are what Vonnegut has named as the fourth dimensional genders, he said that each of these is required for the birth of any Earthling child. In a way, this is correct. The Tralfamadorians state that there will be no Earthling babies without homosexual males, but there could not be babies with homosexual females. This statement was illogical to me. I believe that it is Vonnegut’s allusion to the different backgrounds that everyone comes from. No one’s family structure is exactly the same, and the discord that the Tralfamadorians speak of are the constantly changing social dynamics of the family structure. When it passage says that there could be Earthling babies without women over the age of sixty five years old, but there could be babies without men over the age of sixty five years old, this is a completely true statement. In regards to lineage, no Earthling child would have been born without its ancestors, and there would be more than one over the age of sixty five. Since any Earthling child must come from some form of parents, it is safe to believe that the Tralfamadorians are alluding to the family unit as a whole. The last category mentioned are the babies who â€Å"had lived an hour or less after birth.† While this does not necessarily mean that the death of these other Earthling children make it possible for another to be brought into the world, I believe that it means that everything happens for a reason. I think this is Vonnegut’s way of saying that while the death of any child is tragic, that everything in life is predetermined fate. The Tralfamadorians tell Billy that while the human beings live and exist in the third dimension, there is more that they cannot see or even understand in the fourth dimension. This explains how the human mind and belief are limited. I believe that Billy, having met the Tralfamadorians, has surpassed the rest of the human race in terms of opening his mind to be able to fathom the fourth dimension. The aliens, while they represent free will throughout the novel, also represent a level of higher thinking that humans have yet to attain, and is quite possibly completely out of reach.

Discuss the portrayal of the child in the Erl King and the Werewolf Essays

Discuss the portrayal of the child in the Erl King and the Werewolf Essays Discuss the portrayal of the child in the Erl King and the Werewolf Essay Discuss the portrayal of the child in the Erl King and the Werewolf Essay Carter Explores young girls sexual hunger and the lure of the wilda in both the Erl King and the Werewolf. Young girls are both seduce and seduced; both prey and predator, as illustrated through the medium of subverted fairy tales that Carter adopts. Fitting patriarchal norms, the folkloric genre often portrays young passive women as protagonists. This is not so in Carters retelling where the females we meet are empowered by their femininity and desire. If we look at the social context of these stories this becomes significant. The text was written in the 1970s a time when women were challenging their roles, and as well known feminist writer this heavily influences Carter. This is further emphasized in Carters work by taking characters that a reader is already familiar with and changing both the aspects of their personality and accordingly their role in the story. This shocks the reader into paying attention and allows them to appreciate the childish heroines, and the female psyche they represent, in a different light. Carter is concerned with the male desire for sexual innocence and this is portrayed in the stories through the young protagonists. Youth is often seen to equate to purity and this assumption is made by the reader in the opening of both stories, particularly through the allusions to Red Riding Hood, the atypical good, young girl. Carter delights in shattering these presumptions later in the stories by having her characters behave unlike the youth we are used to seeing portrayed in this genre. Fairy stories have been used to repress women into passive, silent, subservient roles since males such as Grim or Anderson started to focus on folklore in the eighteenth century. Carter reclaims fairy stories for the feminists and this is seen in the sexually desired adolescents; instead of portraying what patriarchal society would expect and want of its youth, Carter shows the true feelings and sexual predilection of women. In the the Erl King the child, after sleeping with the beast, strangles him with his hair. The child is worried that she will be taken into the Erl kings power after sleeping with him and will be caged, for the Erl king would do me grievous harm. This can be seen from two perspectives. Carter could be suggesting that women after sleeping with and being under the power of men are killed, or incarcerated spiritually through the caged bird metaphor seen here. However, on a more symbolic level the Erl King could in fact be allegorical of the repression of sexual desire; the child in the story both loves him but fears for the consequence of her affections, and desires mock my loss of liberty. The act of strangling him with his hair, often seen to denote purity and innocence, is in fact symbolic of mens oppression of female sexual desire; their need for purity has caused women to lose their flesh in the corrosive pool of his regard. In a similar manner, the young girls actions in the Werewolf also be demonstrate female repression. A Jungian reading of the text is very revealing. Carl Jung said that animus represents the masculine aspects of the psyche in women, and the anima the female psyche in malesbi. In the Werewolf, the young girl has both the animas and the female psyche and if a Jungian view is upheld then the story is really concerned with the girls battle between which of these forces is to be more dominant. The traditional phallic symbol of the knife relates to the animas and the basket of food has connotations with female genitalia. The girl on the sight of the wolf, drops her basket and seizes her knife, her animus becomes dominant in order to deal with the dangers of real life. The girl later prospers, and it is suggested that this is through the loss of femininity of the youth. Carter suggests that in order to succeed in this world you must make you self-effeminate because masculinity is dominant. The symbolic meaning behind the werewolf in the unconscious seems important in this story where a girl is both attacked and attacks one of these creatures: To dream that you are a werewolf, suggests that some aspects of your personality are hurtful and even dangerous to your own well-being. You are headed down an undesirable path. Alternatively, it refers to your repressed instincts. c Through this means Carter suggests that womens repression of their femininity goes against their self and cause them to go down an undesirable path in their psychological forest. In Carters work she portrays the child very differently to what we expect of a fairytale character, as her tales are not designed to be read to the young, but rather to fit their original purpose of teaching female adolescents of their sexual desires and the pitfalls of the world around them. She focuses on the psychological aspect of her stories keeping them in keeping with a genre traditionally full of the subliminal. It has been suggested that Carters work could viewed by Freuds personal unconsciousness theory, where we are forced to dream in order to deal with the issues around us that are socially repressed in the world we live in. Carter portrays her young children, as the fixings of a womans mind where by their exploits are in fact a coping mechanism in a world where youth, innocence and the animus are preferred.

Goku’s Portrayal in Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Evolution Essays

Goku’s Portrayal in Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Evolution Essays Goku’s Portrayal in Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Evolution Essay Goku’s Portrayal in Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Evolution Essay Dragon Ball was a manga series released in Japan on November 10th, 1985, written and illustrated by Akira Toriyama. It followed the adventures of Son Goku and his super powered, martial arts fighting friends, travelling the world searching for the Dragon Balls; seven magical balls that if gathered, grant the user any wish. The manga series became extremely popular, not only in Japan, but around the world. Looking to capitalize off the popularity of Dragon Ball, 20th Century Fox announced that in 2009 they would release a live action Dragon Ball movie called â€Å"Dragon Ball: Evolution†. The movie, released on March 13th, 2009, was met with a largely negative reaction and bombed at the box office. Many fans felt that Dragon Ball Evolution deviated from its source material so much that it barely resembled the manga. Perhaps one of the largest differences in Dragon Ball Evolution was the portrayal of the main character, Son Goku. Among the main differences were his age, his upbringing, and the attitude of the character. In the original Dragon Ball manga, Goku is defined by his age and his upbringing. At the start of the series Goku is ten years old. He is raised in the woods by his Granpa Gohan and is taught martial arts and how to survive, but is completely unaware of the world around him. This simple view of the world defines Goku as, even though he holds the power of a god, he often times becomes a â€Å"fish out of water† where ever he goes. Being young and naive gives the audience a person to relate to in the fictional Dragon Ball universe and makes the character flawed. In Dragon Ball Evolution, Goku is a teenager who lives on the outskirts of the city, and goes to high school. : This completely eliminates the childlike aspect of Goku that defines him in the manga. Goku goes to high school in the city, has to deal with bullies, while also concealing his great powers, becoming a â€Å"teenaged geek with powers† type character that is portrayed in many superhero films. Age and environment aside, the most important aspect of Goku’s character is his attitude. In the original manga Goku is naive, curious, and always courageous. These are his greatest strengths, but also his greatest weaknesses. His naive, curious, and simple nature allow him to be good to a fault, and to see the good in other people. However, villains often take advantage of his naivety. While his courageous attitude is a source of strength, it also causes Goku to become vulnerable. In Dragon Ball Evolution, Goku is awkward, unassuming, and unsure of himself. He functions much more as an unlikely hero than his manga counterpart. His weakness comes from a lack of self confidence, as opposed to overconfidence in the manga. In the main fight against the main villain, Piccolo Jr. , in Dragon Ball Evolution, Goku is very unsure of himself and has to garner confidence throughout the movie in order to face his foe. In the manga, Goku initially loses the battle due to being headstrong and learns to grow in powers and as a person before facing and defeating his foe. Although the Dragon Ball manga and Dragon Ball Evolution both feature the main character â€Å"Son Goku† the Goku in both mediums are polar opposites. They differ in age, surroundings, and personality. Although Hollywood adaption’s need to take liberties with the source material in order to condense the stories, they also need to maintain similarities. Fans that go to see films about characters that they love wish to see them portrayed closely to what they are in the source material. With all of the changes made to Goku, among others, the fans lost interest in the movie and it ultimately failed. Dragon Ball Evolution stands as a testament that in order to make a successful adaptation of literature, film makers must try to maintain elements of the series that they are adapting from.

Free sample - Determinism. translation missing

Determinism. DeterminismFree will is the supposed ability of people to make choices freely from any kind of constraints. Will is usually paired with reason as one of two complementary activities of the human mind. The human will is considered the faculty of making choices and decisions, whereas reason is that of deliberation and argument. Determinism on the other hand is the concept that events within a given standard are bound by relations in such a way that any state of an object or event is, to some large extent, determined by prior states. Hence determinism is the name of a broader philosophical view that hypothesizes that every event, including decision, human behavior, and action is causally determined by previous events. In philosophical arguments, the concept of determinism in the domain of human action is often contrasted with free will. Determinists believe that the universe is entirely governed by causal laws resulting in only one possible state at any point in time. They normally assume that every event has a preceding cause in an endless causal sequence dating from the beginning of the universe. This therefore leads to the position that free will and determinism are logically incompatible, and thus the belief that people do not have free will. The principle of alternate possibilities states that, a person is morally responsible for what he has done only if he had an alternate choice. So for someone to be justly praised for keeping his promise to another, he must have been capable of breaking that promise, even if not at all inclined or likely to do so. Conversely, if breaking the promise is genuinely impossible, perhaps due to strong hypnosis, then he warrants no moral praise for keeping it. The principle of Alternate Possibilities thus identifies the availability of alternative actions to the agent as a necessary condition of that agent bearing moral responsibility for his actual actions. Frankfurt’s counterexample infers that a person is not morally responsible for what he has done if he could not have done otherwise a point with which he takes issue. Our theoretical ability to do otherwise, therefore, does not necessarily make it possible for us to do otherwise. These counterexamples are significant because they suggest an alternative way to defend determinism and this it does by using examples of agents who are intuitively responsible for their behavior even though they lack the freedom to act otherwise. To understand Frankfurt’s arguments, it is important to know his conception of free will is based on a major distinction between first order and second order desires. First order desires also known as Highers include the desire to own a new car, to meet the president, or to smoke a cigarette. A second order desire is in essence a desire for a desire. So, for instance, you might have a first order desire to drink alcohol; and a second order desire that you desire not to drink alcohol. A second order desire might be or might not be a desire that its corresponding first order desire be effective. Frankfurt therefore bases freedom on two aspects. Firstly, there is the aspect that a person’s actions are free in so far as they stem from their desires; that is, if they had desired differently, they would have acted differently. According to Frankfurt this is just freedom of action. Also a person has freedom of will. This is the ability by a person to control their desires and bring their first order desires into line with the second order desires. This is in essence means that we do not have free will because our desires are cause by other happenings. Hence the truth of determinism is validated.

Organizational Structures Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Organizational Structures - Essay Example Organizations use matrix structure when they need expertise that a functional structure offers along with the ability for coping with rapid changes occurring in a specific product line. The structure is superior to both the divisional and functional structures because it allows the functional and divisional aspects of organizational structures to simultaneously operate. The matrix structure is supported by rigorous planning between the functional divisions. For instance, the employees respond to both their line managers as well as their product managers. The matrix structure works well when there is pressure for sharing scarce resources across different product lines. It is also highly beneficial when the environment is rapidly changing and extreme predictive coordination is required across departments. Theoretically speaking, the balance of power between the products a functional leader is almost equal and a high degree of cooperation occurs between managers. It has the following st rengths: Strengths: It offers adjustable sharing of human resources across the organization. It has more flexibility to deal with complex decisions and offers a wider range of input. The matrix structure has the ability to cope with larger product range. Functional specialization can avail more opportunities compared to a divisionalized structure in the organization when the matrix form of structure is implemented. Weaknesses Sometimes the shared authority can create confusion and frustration.

Summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 129

Summary - Essay Example f a student’s integration into social communities of the college and also the greater the level of subsequent of the initial commitment to the institution, the greater the likelihood of the student persistence in college. The second factor is the role played by the college classrooms. Pinto (1997) contends that if social integration is to occur, then it must take place in the classrooms. This is due to the fact that the classrooms function as the gateway for the student involvement in the academic, and social communities in college. Thirdly, more often active learning is confused with academic integration. Academic integration reflects a student’s experience with academic systems and academic communities. Such experiences finds expression in a student’s sense of normative congruence and affiliation. Lastly is the art of active learning. According to American College Personnel Association (1994), active learning enhances a student’s knowledge and understanding of course content. Students who frequently encounter active learning in their course perceive themselves gaining knowledge and understanding from their course work, thus resulting to such students viewing their collegiate experience as personally rewarding which further triggers their investment of psychological energy needed to establish membership in the social communities of their college or

Educational Leadership Scenario Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Educational Leadership Scenario - Essay Example (2001). Management pertains to the effort of utilizing resources towards the fulfillment of the organizational mission in an efficient, effective, and ethical manner. In contrast, school leadership is focused on the mission and the vision of the organization rather than its goal. The emphasis of management is on the management and accountability of school resources. In a sense, Effective leaders identify and understand their preferred and natural leadership style. These leaders have command of a variety of leadership styles and aptly match the correct style to the needs of a particular situation. In addition, effective leaders know that a high level of input and participation is sometimes necessary for decision-making and understand the skills, talents and styles of those who work for them. There are four main leadership models: Peters and Waterman's In Search of Excellence; Covey's-The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People; Wheatley's Leadership and the New Science and Deming's, Out of the Crisis. Peters and Waterman stated that leaders must focus on people and on the tasks of an organization. Peters and Waterman also feature the attributes of effective leaders: bias for action, staying close to the customer or the clientele, autonomy and entrepreneurship, productivity through people and hands-on and value driven. (Peters and Waterman, 1982). Covey (1989) posits that the success of an organization depends on the development of and commitment to a shared vision of the organization at its best. He stated seven principles of effective living: responsibility, integrity, respect, mutual understanding, patience and purpose. Proactivity, the first habit, refers to the ability to take charge of situations. The second habit is to begin with the end in mind. This means that one fulfills the goal. The third is putting "first things first". The fourth is that leaders think, "win-win." The fifth is that leaders seek first to understand. The sixth is that leaders create new alternatives to old and to static ways of knowing. The seventh is that leaders seek self-improvement consistently. (Covey, 1989) Wheatley (1989) believed that leaders should focus on order rather than control in organizations. He stated that leaders should recognize the ebb and flow or to the order and chaos in an organization. According to him, chaos in an organization is useful in that it stimulates growth and evolution. Leaders then should allow disequilibrium and discomfort in an organization to stimulate growth and evolution rather than exerting control to bring the organization back into equilibrium. Wheatley posits that order and chaos are both natural states of an organization, each with its own purpose. It is natural for organizations to have periods of chaos and periods of order.Deming (1984) had emphasized collaboration and teamwork among workers and managers. Each worker is focused on their appropriate role in the organization with productivity in mind. All the members of the organization have quality improvement as a goal. The Total Quality Management organization (TQM) improves quality, serves a nd satisfies the customer, encourages innovation, communicates information freely, addresses problems in the system, not the employees, takes pride in quality work, promotes

Engineering management Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Engineering management - Coursework Example That is, desktops computers have been used for long periods of time for various purposes which range from personal to corporate (Charles 2002). Even though the use of desktops has been on decline as media of communication since the advent of laptops, iPhones, tables and mobile phones, they are still being employed in various communications as media through which communication is conveyed (Charles 2002). Normally, communication involves exchange of ideas between individuals. At times, the individuals communicate amongst themselves through live chats and through video links. The use video links in communication is only possible if the computer being used in communication is either installed with either external or internal web cameras (Shortened as webcams). Regardless of the fact the desktop computers have played important roles in conveying communication, their monitors are normally not installed with internal web cameras (Charles 2002). This has forced the users of desktop computers acquire external webcams or dispose their desktops for laptops. The costs incurred in acquiring external webcams or laptops may be high depending on a user’s economic and social status. It is therefore important that an extension is done to the desktop monitors such that they are pre-installed with internal webcams. ... Aspects to be considered while carrying market analysis for the modified computer monitors It is important to carry out extensive analysis of the market before the final modified product (computer monitors installed with internal web cameras) is released into the market. If the products are modified, manufactured and released into the market without carrying market analysis on the perception of the customers, customers may reject the modified product (Chryssides & Kaler 1996). The cost of rejecting this modified product may severe to the organization due to the fact that products have already found their way into the market (Cole & Kelly 2011). The factors that should be considered while analyzing market for proposed modified computer desktop are as stated below. i. Size of the current computer monitor market. ii. Market trends associated with computer monitors. iii. Customers’ likely perceptions of the customers with regard to the proposed extension on the computer monitors. iv. The performance of products being offered by the competitors, and likely actions to be taken by the competitors with regard to the proposed modification of the computer monitors. (Chryssides & Kaler 1996) The size of the current computer monitors market One of the most important factors that should always be considered while carrying out market analysis is the market size of the current products being produced by an organization. Market size can be defined as the volume or quantities of product consumers have both ability and willingness to buy (Chryssides & Kaler 1996). Typically, market size depends on both consumer’s ordinary demand as well as quantity of a good the consumers (customers) are willing to buy. It

Describe Major Depressive Disorder, highlighting the neurochemical and Essay

Describe Major Depressive Disorder, highlighting the neurochemical and physical changes that are associated with this disease. Based on the known neurochemical - Essay Example The importance of MDD lies in the fact that it causes considerable impairment in social functioning, role functioning, employment and physical health of the afflicted person (Wells et al, 1989). Experts are of the opinion that depression is actually a heterogeneous syndrome comprised of numerous diseases of distinct causes and pathophysiologies (Nestler et al, 2002). MDD is also known as clinical depression or unipolar depression. According to the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R),  which studied the epidemiology of MDD across the United States, the prevalence of MDD for lifetime was estimated as 16.2% and that for 12-month was estimated as 6.6% (Kessler et al, 2003). There are very few studies which relate the prevalence of MDD to race or ethnicity (table-2). Infact, severe forms of depression affect 2-5% of the US population (Nestler et al, 2002). As far as age is considered, the risk is fairly low in the younger age groups (Figure-1). While major depressive disorder can develop at any age, the median age at onset is 32 (Kessler et al, 2005). It is more prevalent in women than in men (Kessler et al, 2003). MDD is comorbid with anxiety and substance use disorders (Kessler et al, 2003). Studies have shown that MDD with anger attacks are significantly associated with increased cholesterol levels and years of smoking (Fraquas et al, 2007). MDD is a debilitating and complex psychiatric disorder that involves multiple neural circuits and genetic and non-genetic risk factors (Sahay et al, 2007). Whether environmental factors or genetic factors play a major role in the pathogenesis of MDD is still debated. Exaggerated early error-detection processes have been incriminated in the etiology and maintenance of major depressive disorder and thus such processes may then recruit excessive neural and cognitive resources that manifest as symptoms of depression (Chiu and Deldin,

Economics term papaer Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Economics papaer - Term Paper Example It would help in tightening the liquidity of the economy. It can be depicted that when such reserves are made by the commercial banks with the Central Bank then it has an impact upon the balance sheet of both the banks i.e. the Central Bank and the commercial bank. At the outset, there will be rise in the Central Bank’s liabilities since the quantity of deposits that the commercial bank is supposed to keep with the Central Bank is rising by 0.5%. Conversely, the assets side of the commercial bank will be impacted. There will be rise in the assets side of the commercial banks. It can be treated as deposits at other banks, so in the balance sheet there will be rise in the deposits at other banks too. Question Two It can be stated that there are four basic components of the GDP. They are consumption, investment, government spending and value of exports and imports. The GDP of an economy is calculated by adding up the value of expenditures on the consumption, value of the expendit ures in investments, rate of the government procurement of goods and/or services, value of exports of the goods and the services minus the value of the imports of the goods and the services. ... All the three components of the GDP will be impacted. The reason behind this is that when the inflation is controlled then the rate of consumption will increase and thus the economy will be able to invest more. Thus, there will be rise in the consumption, along with rise in the investment and government spending. There will be rise in the exports as well. Effects on the Equilibrium and Aggregate Expenses It can be demonstrated that since the consumption will rise, it is quite obvious that there will be rise in the production as well. Therefore, the equilibrium real GDP will increase. Question Three The term ‘money multiplier’ can be figured out as the volume of money supply in relation to the volume of the base money. It is worthwhile mentioning that when the reserve deposit ratio or the cash deposit ratio is lower then, the money multiplier tends to be higher. The case of China is just the opposite. It can be demonstrated that when the economy plans to raise the reserve ratio requirement for the banks the money multiplier tends to shrink. Investment Multiplier It has been noticed that Central Bank planned to augment the rate of interest. If the rate of interest augments then more and more investors get attracted towards the bank. Although paying up of augmented interest rate is an increased cost for the Central Bank, but on the flip side, it can be viewed that the rise in the interest rate may tend to make it quite attractive for the international investors to purchase Renminbi and thus invest those Renminbi in China. With the rise in the interest rates, the income tends to rise thus forcing the consumers to invest in other sectors of the economy as well leading to growth in the overall economy (Bradsher, â€Å"China Move Could

Describe Major Depressive Disorder, highlighting the neurochemical and Essay

Describe Major Depressive Disorder, highlighting the neurochemical and physical changes that are associated with this disease. Based on the known neurochemical - Essay Example The importance of MDD lies in the fact that it causes considerable impairment in social functioning, role functioning, employment and physical health of the afflicted person (Wells et al, 1989). Experts are of the opinion that depression is actually a heterogeneous syndrome comprised of numerous diseases of distinct causes and pathophysiologies (Nestler et al, 2002). MDD is also known as clinical depression or unipolar depression. According to the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R),  which studied the epidemiology of MDD across the United States, the prevalence of MDD for lifetime was estimated as 16.2% and that for 12-month was estimated as 6.6% (Kessler et al, 2003). There are very few studies which relate the prevalence of MDD to race or ethnicity (table-2). Infact, severe forms of depression affect 2-5% of the US population (Nestler et al, 2002). As far as age is considered, the risk is fairly low in the younger age groups (Figure-1). While major depressive disorder can develop at any age, the median age at onset is 32 (Kessler et al, 2005). It is more prevalent in women than in men (Kessler et al, 2003). MDD is comorbid with anxiety and substance use disorders (Kessler et al, 2003). Studies have shown that MDD with anger attacks are significantly associated with increased cholesterol levels and years of smoking (Fraquas et al, 2007). MDD is a debilitating and complex psychiatric disorder that involves multiple neural circuits and genetic and non-genetic risk factors (Sahay et al, 2007). Whether environmental factors or genetic factors play a major role in the pathogenesis of MDD is still debated. Exaggerated early error-detection processes have been incriminated in the etiology and maintenance of major depressive disorder and thus such processes may then recruit excessive neural and cognitive resources that manifest as symptoms of depression (Chiu and Deldin,

Estimation of peak oxygen uptake from submaximal tests Lab Report

Estimation of peak oxygen uptake from submaximal tests - Lab Report Example Generally, V02PEAK values were significantly greater among men than among women, despite correcting for differences in body mass (i.e., values expressed as mL/kg/min). The study sought to estimate peak oxygen uptake from submaximal tests using treadmill and cycle tests. Peak oxygen uptake (V02PEAK), defines the maximum volume of oxygen that is consumed within a unit time, normally a minute (Sagiv, 2012). It is an indicator of oxygen utility in the body and therefore shows effectiveness of the body’s functionality. Oxygen uptake and utility defines capacity to undertake physical and mental tasks and in extremely low cases, is necessary for cellular and organ activities. It is therefore significant to performance and health. Peak oxygen uptake depends on many factors. Gender is one of the factors and biological differences explain this. Males have higher peak oxygen consumption and according to Sagiv (2012), difference in size of the human heart between males and females explain this. Males have a larger size of the organ and this suggest greater capacity to circulate oxygen that in females. Since circulation is one of the factors to diffusion of oxygen in the lungs and therefore transfers to body parts for utility, it explains that men have higher oxygen consumption capacity and higher peak oxygen uptake that have women. Angiotensin-Converting enzyme and temperature have also been associated with higher peak oxygen uptake. Age is another facto to peak oxygen uptake. Increase in age increase the uptake level and this is more significant in males that in females, especially during younger ages. Body mass that increases in boys, as they grow, together with increase in hemoglobin content also explains the increase peak oxygen uptake (Coelho-E-Silva, Cupido-dos-Santos, Figueredo, Armstrong, & Ferreira, 2013). Brown, Miller, & Eason (2006) also explain that weight, age, and sex are significant factors

The book of Ruth

The book of Ruth In the book of Ruth, the name Ruth itself means mercy. In the context of the book this mercy is to show that Gods grace and mercy is for all the people in Israel. Ruth was a poor woman and on top of all she was as well a foreigner which made her life more difficult. However, during her difficult time she was helped by another woman and helped her overcome her difficulties. This woman was older and through her experience in life was able to listen and give advice to Ruth. In return Ruth offered to her extreme loyalty. Ruth story is a historical novel which is based on real people and it signifies and points out a story of courage in difficult situations. It is set in the period of the Judges before the birth of King David however there is evidence that it was in reality written much later so much so about the time when the two tribes of Judah were set free and were allowed to go to Jerusalem. The story is divided in four episodes each exploring Ruths life. The first episode was about Ruth and Naomi that go to Bethlehem. This first act which can be regarded as a prologue discusses how Naomi and her family went to Moab. Naomi was Israelite and lived with her family, however an unfortunate event occurred. A storm destroyed their grain and there was famine among most of the people including Naomis family. This famine led such a family to go to leave their home, Naomi with her family had to go and live in another country, specifically that of Moab. Naomi with her husband had two sons and later they got married. Due to circumstances Naomis husband and sons die. Heavy hearted she sees fit that she returns to Bethlehem. Naomi had two daughters in law who were Ruth and Orpah. The three women ended up being widows and in ancient Israel there were not allowed to remarry because their dead husbands were still considered to be families. However one must keep in mind that the daughters in law were not Israelites, unlike Naomi they were Moabites which were considered bitter enemies. So much so, there a few battles between them. This is so because the Israelites regarded the Moabites as inferior because according to hem they originated from an act of incest between Lot and his oldest daughter. This led to the believe, that the Moab nation was tainted. Naomi, regarding all this hatred among the two groups believed that her daughters in law Ruth and Orpah would not go to Bethlehem with her. However Naomis hope was not completely lost. Orpah decided to be in Moab among her people, but Ruth saw things in a different light. Ruth shared the same grief and loneliness that Naomi was facing and this led her to accompany Naomi and return with her to Bethlehem. The second episode of the book of Ruth takes a different shape. Naomi was a widow but still she had family connections. On top of that both Naomi and Ruth were women of initiative; they did not believe that things were going to happen by themselves. Case in point, at that times women mostly took action in food management and production and Ruth took part in gleaning the barley so that she and Naomi survive. Naomi had a relative on her husbands side, who he was rich and went by the name of Boaz. As Ruth usually did, she had to do gleaning in order to survive and she ended up gleaning in a field belonging to Boaz. She came and gleaned in the field behind the reapers. As it happened, she came to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech. Just then Boaz came from Bethlehem. (Ruth Episode 2:1-7) One must notice that in such an event, Ruth uses the phrase as it happened; this signifies the meaning that God indented this scene to happen. This phrase is often used in the bible to bestow the greatness of God to establish such scenes. Also, Naomi and the people of Bethlehem saw that Boaz was a good match for Ruth and encouraged her to him. Naomi believed that Ruth was good enough for Boaz as she was a good woman and respected, all her problems would cease if she just could have a rich husband. She saw through Boaz that he was perfect for Ruth, for he had a good nature, respected as well, rich and obligated to help them as he was a relative of Naomi. Boaz was a go-el who had a duty to aid the respective family if the husband died. Like Naomi believed, Boaz helped Ruth so much so, he went through many ordeals to gain extra grain for her, protected her and saw that she was properly fed. Through his help and care, God was opening a branch for destiny to occur. The third episode takes place at the threshing floor which is a perfect time of the year as the harvest would have been brought in and weather would still be warm. Naomi thought that this was the last chance that Ruth had to marry Boaz so it was here that she devised a plan for Boaz to propose to Ruth. Ruth thought that the idea of her marrying Boaz was mere fantasy because she was a poor Moab woman while he had high status and rich however she still listened to Naomi and she heeded her words. When Boaz had eaten and drunk, and he was in a contented mood, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then she came stealthily and uncovered his feet, and lay down. Ruth dressed well, perfumed herself and waited until Boaz had eaten a good meal. Afterwards, Boaz went to sleep and Naomi went near his place and lied down next to him. cover her with his blanket This phrase suggests that since Boaz is the go-el, a kinsman, Ruth has the right to demand marriage so this phrase suggests marriage. Boaz agreed however he had some dire news that his cousin was a much closer kinsman than he is. Boaz had to deal with his cousin before he could marry her and he had to do everything in order so there would be no questioning about the legality of the marriage. Ruth slept and stayed next to Boaz till the morning and returned to Naomi. Naomi was eager to know whether she would marry him, but she was not alone as so was Ruth eager to know whether they will marry or not. This leads to the fourth and final episode of Ruths book. As what happens in every place, the villages come to know what is happening as Boaz, the next morning, was already met by the nearest kinsman of Naomis family. However due to some negotiations concerning land finally Ruth and Boaz got married and they had their son Obed being the father of Jesse who was the father of David, who he united Israel to its greatness. Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without next of kin. May his name be renowned in Israel! He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourishment for your old age. For your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has borne him. Then Naomi took the child and laid him in her bosom, and became his nurse. (Ruth Episode 4:1-22) As one can see, the book of Ruth deals with how family continues throughout generations amplifying their greatness as the former Ruth was a woman who had no children but events folded in such a way that she became the great grandmother of David. It also puts forth a message about dealing with problems. In the beginning Ruth had nothing left, only Naomi however she embraced the little she had and did not lose hope. Even a poor Moab woman as Ruth through Gods aid was able to fulfil her destiny. The religious aspects of the Book of Ruth deal also with practicality. All the themes conveyed such as love, generosity and most importantly to trust in each other brings out the meaning that no matters how badly events occur, goodness exists and it is achieved through effort and hard work. Given this fact, one can understand why the book of Ruth was written. Gods purpose may be fulfilled in many ways, some of them even unexpected. Gods love is for everyone and not only to the people of Israel. The story reveals Gods character in His faithfulness in regards to chosen people. Ruth is Gods instrument to bless the nations. Old Testament narratives reveal the character of God and he is revealed as the provider of the helpless. In the book of Ruth, God provides Boaz, the nearest kinsmen to ultimately meet Ruth. Boaz becomes Ruths husband and also reclaims the rightful home for Naomi. Boaz is one who redeems; he redeemed Ruth as she was a victim of poverty, she was unprotected and no one provided for her. The story provides a lesson on love and kindness. As we see from the very beginning, in the first episode, Ruth gave everything she had for Naomi her mother-in-law. This shows Ruths sacrificial character, so much so, Boaz noticed Ruth ability to give more than to receive back. Case in point, in the book of Ruth; it is stated that; Against the dark moral and ethical backdrop of the Judges period, the foreigner Ruth emerges as a paradigm of loyal love and of the kind of person the Lord is looking for to populate his covenant community. The tragedy of the beginning sets the story in motion as then there is the will to search for a special something that will restore balance. Naomi and Ruth are stricken by tragedy and this leads them to no hope of provision as they were childless. Naomi considers herself cursed by God, she sees no hope of security but then everything changes by Gods will through Ruth. A hero is someone who sacrifices his own needs to help others; Ruth is a heroine and saves Naomi. She sacrifices her security and the likelihood of marriage to remain loyal to Naomi however Naomis rule changes and adapts throughout the story. In the beginning she tries her best to dissuade Ruth to come with her to Bethlehem. However later on, when she accepts the fact that Ruth will accompany her, she wants her to marry Boaz. She even provides a plan on how to do so; this makes Naomi a complicated character throughout the story. When this change of attitude occurs, Naomi regards herself as vessel to bring about Gods voi ce. She actively prepares Ruth and Boaz for marriage and does her best in doing so. Even though the book is entitles Ruth, the story revolves around Naomi and her perspective. However, one cannot pass unnoticed the fact that is about God and His loving kindness to act as a provider for Ruth and Naomi. References: Books: Hubbard RL., JR., The Book of Ruth, Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Websites: http://www.wcg.org/lit/bible/hist/ruth1.htm http://www.womeninthebible.net/1.13.Ruth.htm http://www.americanbible.org/absport/news/item.php?id=151

Building the American Dream :: Personal Narrative Writing

Building the American Dream Well for my parents, the American Dream was to come to America and make a new life for themselves. Back in China things weren't so easy. Earning a living was difficult. My parents heard of America and its great opportunities and high standards of living and so they prepared to come to the United States. As children, my parents lived in a old area of Fukein, China. Their lives were not easy. They woke up early in the morning to go to school then came back home to do their chores like cleaning, washing, cooking, watching over their brothers and sisters and working on their small farm. It was quite difficult and backbreaking but they needed to do all that to provide for the family in any way they could. For my mother is was even more difficult after the death of her father, my grandfather. She had to work extra hard to keep her household in order. As my parents became more independent, they knew that they wanted more for their children. When my parents got married, they planned immediately to start to save up money to go to America. They wanted a better life for themselves and their children. My father worked hard for the opportunity to come here and the hard work paid off. He spent some years in Hong Kong working in his family's herbal shop trying to save up enough money to come to America. The first to arrive in America was my mother. She was the one that was to start our lives here. When she arrived to America. She was pregnant and so working to make a living was kind of hard but had the support of my father and uncle. In 1979, my father took his first glimpse of his baby son and then went out to look for a job. It was difficult but it was a lot easier here then back at home. He soon established himself as a well known chef but his first job was as a busboy. After which he set up 3 restaurants for himself and became an entr eprenuer, a dream like that many people had when they came to America. He was quite successful in his business and enjoyed his life here. However he faced much cruelty such as racism and inequality but he ignored that because those were only obstacles that he could like many other obstacles he had overcome.

Comparing the Characters in Laurents West Side Story and Shakespeare

Meshing Together of Characters in Arthur Laurents' West Side Story and Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet The meshing of characters between Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and Bernstein’s West Side Story formulate significant similarities between the two. In Romeo and Juliet the story of â€Å"Two households both alike in dignity,† (Montagues and Capulets) who have been feuding is parallel to the two gangs in West Side Story (Jets and Sharks). This grouping of loyalties keeps the segregation of the two groups at a dead lock, thus producing the tension that keeps the two lovers in each play (Romeo and Juliet, Tony and Maria) in the unattainable, intangible realm of their idealistic love. It is these two groupings that cause the star-crossed lovers to forfeit their lives in Romeo and Juliet’s instance and costs Tony his life in his and Maria’s love. Why do these groups feud and keep love bound by hatred? How are these groups alike in their intent? What are the similarities between the leaders of the groups or gangs in both Romeo and Juliet and West S ide Story? The hatred of diversity is what created these groupings, binding them to love their hate. In Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet the conflict between the Montagues and the Capulets is kept heated by the servants. Montague: Who set this ancient quarrel new abroach? Speak, nephew: were you by when it began? Benvolio: Here were the servants of your adversary And yours, close fighting ere I did approach. I drew to part them. In the instant came The fiery Tybalt with his sword prepared (Shakespeare 875). The servants uphold the ancient grudge that has plagued the houses of Montague and Capulet. The older men of the two househol... ... segregation limits on different cultures and households keeps us away from death. West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet cover up this message of segregation by bleeding the characters together and putting the idea of idealistic love in the forbears of the main characters. This cover up causes us to analyze their love and relationship and separate relationships with the other characters rather than see the picture for what it is. Never was there a story of more woe than that of Racism and what we Know! Works Cited Laurents, Arthur. West Side Story. (A musical, based on a conception of Jerome Robbins; music by Leonard Bernstein; lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.) NY: Random House, 1966. Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare, Volume I. Ed. W. G. Clark and W. Aldis Wright. NY: Nelson Doubleday, Inc., 247-277.

Discuss Biological Explanations of Schizophrenia Essay

re are several different explanations for the disorder schizophrenia. One of these explanations is the biological model. This model explains schizophrenia through biological faults, for example viral infections and brain abnormalities. Genetic Factors Some psychologists say that schizophrenia can be passed down generations, meaning that some people inherit the disorder from their parents. Twin research has consistently shown that identical twins have a greater risk of developing schizophrenia, if their twin has the disorder, than non-identical twins. Gottesman found monozygotic twins have a concordance rate of 48%, whilst dizygotic twins have a concordance rate of 17%. Evaluation of Genetic Factors This research shows that there is a definite correlation between genetics and the risk of developing schizophrenia. However, no twin research has found a 100% concordance rate; therefore it is impossible the say that genes definitely cause schizophrenia, as other factors clearly have an influence. Also, some psychologists argue that the high concordance rates found could be caused by being brought up in a family with a schizophrenic, so the child mimics the schizophrenic behaviour, rather than by genetics. The Dopamine Hypothesis The dopamine hypothesis says that schizophrenia is caused by an increased reaction to dopamine in the brain. This could be because there is too much of the hormone dopamine in the brain, or conversely because there is an abnormally high number of dopamine receptors in the brain. This model says the excess sensitivity to dopamine results in the brain causes the symptoms of schizophrenia. Evaluation of the Dopamine Hypothesis Autopsies have found an unusually high number of dopamine receptors in the brain of schizophrenics (Owen et al, 1987), however, this evidence is varied and inconclusive. Grilly (2002) found that patients who suffered from Parkinson’s and took the drug L-dopa, which increases dopamine levels, showed signs of schizophrenic symptoms. This suggests the increase in dopamine could result in schizophrenia. Problems with this explanation There are problems of the dopamine hypothesis. One is that antipsychotic drugs, which block dopamine receptor don’t always help patients. This suggests something else must cause schizophrenia as well; otherwise the drugs would help all the patients. Brain dysfunction Using brain imaging techniques, such as P.E.T scans, researchers have found many schizophrenics have enlarged ventricles, on average 15% larger than normal. Some psychologists believe that the increase in the size of these ventricles is what leads to the schizophrenic symptoms. Evaluation The brain imaging scans support this explanation in itself, it’s clear that a lot of schizophrenics have different brain structures to normal people, so there must be some correlation between the two. Research by Meyer-Lindenberg (2002) found that reduced activity of the prefrontal cortex is linked to dopamine abnormalities. This could provide an explanation of why brain dysfunction could cause schizophrenia, not show a correlation. Viral Infection Some researchers suggest that brain abnormalities that lead to schizophrenia could be caused by viral infection. For example, contracting diseases such as Flu or Syphilis in the womb may relate to developing schizophrenia in later life Evaluation of Viral Theory Torrey (2000) found that more schizophrenics are born in the winter, when it is cold and exposure to viruses is higher, than in other months. Although this link is only correlational it suggests viruses do affect the chance of developing schizophrenia

A Bergerian Reading and Chris “Ludacris” Bridges

The whole of our existence is shaped by our experiences – the various situations that we find ourselves in. Parts of our experiences are influenced by what we see, and what we see takes us to new levels of experiences that allow us to situate ourselves in thoughts or visions represented by what we virtually perceive.Interpretations of visual texts, such as works of art, therefore are based on our perceptions and points of view, consequently leading to subjectivity despite the conventional meanings embedded within these works of art by the artist.Under these pretexts, various works of art, borne out of the social events, situations, or landscapes in the past, become subjects of mystification. Such are the views or perspectives of John Berger on art, particularly on Franz Hals’ portraits, the â€Å"Regents of the Old Men’s Alms House† and the â€Å"Regentesses of the Old Men’s House† (1580-1666) – that the social construct from which the se works were created are mystified because of its incongruity to modern times.Berger, a seasoned art critique, presented a complex yet analytical perspective on the works of Hals, focusing on their being representative of history and how they are inevitably mystified not only by our perspectives as inhabitants of the modern day world but also Hals’, in his own words, oversimplification of what the portraits truly imply.Moreover, because of Berger’s analysis and personal critiques on the work of Hals, we as viewers of the visual text, begin to understand that the portraits are not merely images that represent superficial artistic and social elements such as unity and harmony, the ideas formed from observing facial expressions, gestures, and such.Furthermore, Hals’ works of art are snapshots of the social and economic situations that the artist, the regents and the regentesses found themselves in.The portraits seem to capture the kind of relationship that exists between the artist and the subjects of art, expressing something more – a drama that represents a historical landscape that is shared by Hals and his subjects within a social environment that was illuminated and solidified by large gaps among social groups or classes – brought to life by Hals’ artistry and ingà ©nue in translating emotions and perspectives to visual arts.The analytical perspectives of Berger as explored in his interpretations of Hals’ portraits shall be utilized to describe the messages or arguments evident in a portrait taken of the actor/rapper Chris â€Å"Ludacris† Bridges. In order to do so, it is highly significant to go over Berger’s perceptions or points of view on viewing art, particularly of Hals’ portraits, by creating a framework from which the visual analysis of the Ludacris’ portrait shall be based on.According to Berger, the act of viewing pieces of art may be done in various ways depending on: a ) one’s perspective, b) the artists’ perspective, c) other people’s perspectives, d) the social, economic, or political situations within which the piece of art was conceptualized, and e) the present social, economic, or political situations completing a shared link between the past and the present.Moreover, Berger stressed that it is equally important that in order to understand the genuine sense or value of pieces of art, that viewers look or interpret them beyond their personal perspectives and the pictorial nature of the portrait.Viewing art should not adhere to convention of perspectives that was existent during the Renaissance because it limits the span of pieces of art to convey deeper and comprehensive meanings. The convention of perspectives isolates what the viewer might all-inclusively learn cognitively, emotionally or psychologically, socially, spiritually and such.Therefore, reading or interpreting visual texts should be a combination of one’ s perspectives as they relate to the artists’ and other people’s perspectives, and the connections between the social, economic, and political situations from past to present. Human beings should also be aware that they are represented by and connected to art, as art is also able to view the viewer because of shared visual perspectives.The key to analyzing Ludacris’ portrait is to view it radically, if we are to align ourselves with Berger’s ideologies and perspectives. Ludacris’ portrait, being an image intended to represent remarkable style to signify celebrity-like success, borders on deception and absurdity.The explicit message that the artist photographer Robert Maxwell intended to express was associated with the vision of Moà «t & Chandon; and that is, how adapting elegant, stylish, and distinctive fashion may be translated to remarkableness and success in the limelight that are consequently significant causes for celebration This argument i s solidified by the nature of the camera – a narrow and limited perspective of things and situations – utilized by Maxwell in order to represent a specific idea or though restricted by the visualizations or representations of Moà «t & Chandon, an well-known international producer of champagne that embodies conceptions of â€Å"splendour, pleasure, and prestige.† (Moà «t & Chandon)

A comparative analysis of traditional software engineering and agile software development Essay

Various industries handled information and data manually until 1960 when the first software development methodology was hinted. Software development methodologies are key steps in development of information system. Different methodologies have different requirements in terms of cost, time frame, expert requirement, size of the business, maintenance cost, and flexibility in case of changes in the future among others. Therefore, organizations evaluate each methodology in order to come up with the most effect one for their information system development. Software methodology involves a structural framework to plan and manage the processes that are involved in development of information system.Prototyping and dynamic system methodology will be critically evaluated to understand the role of software methodologies in information system development. Dynamic system development methodology                The method ensures frequent delivery of information system in businesses. The methodology is can be reversed during development in case of errors, and the requirement is based on high level and integrated testing throughout lifecycle, which allows collaboration and cooperation between all stakeholders (Association of Modern Technologies, 2014 Software Development Methodologies) Critical evaluation                Since this methodology involves end users and teamwork decision, it forms the best choice for information system development. Future changes can be accommodated since changes are reversible. This methodology follows PRINCE concept since it start with initiation of a project and conclude with crossing of the project. Prototype methodology                In this methodology, incomplete software is created, which differs with the final product (software development and engineering, 2012 n.p.). The methodology makes it possible to evaluate the software during the development process and design before it gets to the final step. The software can also be tried before integration in an organization. This method allows involvement of the users and evaluation during designing phase and thus increasing the likely hood of easier implementation in any organization. Critical evaluation                In this methodology, users, builder and system interaction are mandatory. It requires expertise for both builders and end-users. With this model, time and cost are decreased compared to traditional method, which becomes a major consideration when developing information system. This methodology is applied mostly in situations there is risk uncertainty. This methodology is best applied in managerial systems, as its main objective is planning, direction, controlling and decision-making. This forms one of the choices for information system since users can be able to do a value analysis and investment can be made at relative increments. PRINCE plays an important role in information system development since it establishes the management, control, and application of the appropriate software for information system. It gives more insight about the software developed and provides authenticity of the software, which is important in making information system decisions. Question 2 According to (Bantra et al, (2010 p 383) agile methodology is based on various values such as Individual and interaction over processes and tools, Working software under comprehensive documentation, Customer or end user collaboration over a contract negotiation the and Responding to changes over following a plan                The agile methodology builds flexible information systems that can be upgraded or changes in future (Rao, Naidu, & Chakka, 2011 p. 42). For example, if an organization wants to expand its system, it can build its new information system on the existing system. Hence, the methodology is adopted where future changes in the information system are expected. Time aspect makes this approach cost effective. The methodology involves the end users at every stage making software development process effective and accurate (Aitken & Ilango 2013 4758). In addition, the process is fast and efficient thus ensuring that the information system development easy and economical. The traditional methodologies are fixed and do not allow future changes (Aitken & Ilango 2013 p. 4756). That means that once the information system is developed using the traditional methodology, it will be hard to build a new system using it. The expansions or future changes in the information system require engineers and software developers to start a new system. This is not cost effective for business since they are always in a constant growth and keep on improving their information systems. Thus, agile methodology best suits development of a flexible information system that can be upgraded easily. Question 3                The Structured systems analysis and design method, (SSADM) is one of the widely used methodologies in computer applications in private and public sectors since its inception in 1981. The methodology operates under three principle techniques known as logical data, flow data, and event modelling (Al-Humaidan, & Rossiter, 2011, p 3). Logical data modelling (LDM) technique involves identification and documentation of the necessary data for business or organization information system. The information that the business wants to record on the information systems is identified and documented for inclusion in software development. Consequently, the data flow modelling (DFM) techniques involves identification, modelling and documentation of how the identified data using LDM technique will flow in the information system. It gives details on how various data will be transformed in the system. Then, event modelling (EM) technique identifies and documents the sequence of events in DFM. The techniques help the engineers to develop information system that meets the end users need since it allows participation of all the stakeholders. However, inadequate research may result to development of poor information systems, which may be cost to the business. The SSADM uses various tools that are important in development of information system. Data flow diagram, (DFD) highlights all the data pathways, while other tools such as data dictionary, decision trees and tables give guidelines on data classifications. The tools make operation of the information easier for the end users. Unified modelling language, (UML) is a language used in software engineering. It helps the developers to create a system using a standardized language that can be understood easily by both the participants and the system. The main techniques and tools used are diagram and language structures such as class, interactions and activity diagrams (Al-Humaidan, & Rossiter, 2011, p 4). The main difference between SSADM and UML is that the former interfaces are composed of design dialogue while the latter utilises components and classes of modelled diagrams as interface (Al-Humaidan, & Rossiter, 2011 p. 24-29). In addition, SSADM uses requirement catalogue as the data resources while UML uses modelled stereotype features as data sources. Question 4                Software development approach entails identification the information system issues and making decision of how the issues should be solved and the solution remains viable. Critical evaluation                The approach helps to develop software in a top down development consisting of independent steps that are completed sequentially. The engineers are able to evaluate each step independent and develop consecutive phases based on completed ones. The methodology is fast and effective for development of small information systems. However, methodology is not suitable to develop large information system because it is slow and cumbersome. In addition, the approach is costly and a short term. According to Stoica et al, (2013, p. 68) this method requires product definition, clear understanding of requirements and technology, and expertise and the system is short lived. End users approach                In this approach, the end user is the developer of the software. He or she designs the software such that it is able to meet his or her needs. This is done through modification of commercial off-shelf software (COTs). Critical evaluation                The approach does not involve formal designing of the information system. The approach does not require documentation of the project. The end user is the main controller of the information system developed from this approach. However, it is not fit for large business and lack of documentation limits future changes of the information system would be very hard. Thus, the approach is not economical especially of growing enterprises. When the size of the project is large, the software development approach is based on the cost or budget limitations, timeframe taken by the approach, and the flexibility of the approach. This is because, the organizations designs information systems that are economical in that they does not affect their profitability and operations. Approaches that are cheap and are executed in a short span of time are preferred to others that are costly and take long time before completion References Aitken, A., & Ilango, V. 2013. A comparative analysis of traditional software engineering and agile software development. In  System Sciences (HICSS), 2013 46th Hawaii International Conference on  (pp. 4751-4760). IEEE. Al-Humaidan, F., & Rossiter, B. N. 2011. A Taxonomy and Evaluation for Systems Analysis Methodologies in a Workflow Context: Structured Systems Analysis Design Method (SSADM), Unified Modelling Language (UML), Unified Process, Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and Organisation Process Modelling (OPM).  Technical Report Series-University Of Newcastle Upon Tyne Computing Science. Baguio central University 2011.Dynamic System Development Methodology.[Online]. http://www.slideshare.net/mayjoyce89/dynamic-system-development-method. Batra, D., Weidong, X., VanderMeer, D., &Dutta, K. 2010.Balancing Agile and Structured Development Approaches to Successfully Manage Large Distributed Software Projects: A Case Study from the Cruise Line Industry. Communications Of The Association For Information Systems, 27 383. Habib M, 2013. Agile software development methodologies and how to apply them. [Online] Retrieved from http://www.codeproject.com/Articles/604417/Agile-software-development-methodologies-and-how-t.accessed Rao, K. N., Naidu, G. K., & Chakka, P. 2011. A study of the agile software development methods, applicability and implications in industry.  International Journal of Software Engineering and its applications,  5,2, 35-45. Stoica, M., Mircea, M., &Ghilic-Micu, B. 2013. Software Development: Agile vs. Traditional. InformaticaEconomica, 17,4, 64-76. Source document