Thursday, October 31, 2019

Aerosol-Cloud InteractionsA Piece of the Climate Puzzle Essay

Aerosol-Cloud InteractionsA Piece of the Climate Puzzle - Essay Example There have been a number of potential effects about the aerosols that have been implied though there should be much more investigation and study in order for the size of these effects in a worldwide view. Therefore, for a much more improved model outcrop of future climate, there is much importance in the quantitative comprehension of these effects. There are findings that have been put into writing as well as pictures in regard to the aerosol and cloud properties during the previous years. Nonetheless, these types of seen connection are not essentially as a result of microphysical end products. They may relatively be as a result of retrieval errors, cloud flagging errors, seasonal factors, spatial climatological factors, humidity conditions or even synoptic effects. This report herein shows a discussion of the contribution of spatial climatological factors and synoptic effects to aerosol-cloud associations. Therefore, this paper is going to handle the needed aspects that deal with th e aerosol and cloud interactions, a piece of the climate puzzle. In addition, that will entail all the necessary details required. Aerosols in as much as is known always have an effect in the cloud formation in general. There are, therefore, specific aerosols that can be found in the clouds, whether they are organic or inorganic. The specific organic or inorganic aerosol found in the clouds is a sea salt, which is the most common CCN over the ocean. It is mostly how they aerosols affect or get involved in the cloud formation. To add to that, there is the question of what happens when these major oceanic clouds move over land and whether the aerosol interactions change (Bowler 76). The answer that comes to that question is that, once droplets of clouds have been formed, aerosols or CCN are separated by water of ice and would not be directly interacting with anything else. As a result, when cloud droplets or raindrops evaporate, aerosols are free and can be able to

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Preparation for Writing an Essay Essay Example for Free

Preparation for Writing an Essay Essay Before you start writing an essay, you need to decide three things. What are you writing about? Who do you imagine will be reading your essay? What do you want to tell them? A popular kind of essay is to offer your reader an opinion or argument. You can write a successful essay by starting off with a plan. The key to doing a successful essay is to break the writing down into short, simple steps. Pre-writing for your essay Begin by brainstorming. Brainstorming doesnt involve writing complete sentences or paragraphs. Brainstorming involves coming up with ideas in words or short phrases. Main idea for your essay Write down the main idea of your essay. To express your main idea, write only a few words. Brainstorming â€Å"for† your main idea Write a word or a phrase that relates to your main idea. This should be something about your main idea that you agree with. Next, write another word or phrase relating to your main idea. This should also be something about your main idea that you agree with. Now, write a third word or phrase relating to your main idea that you agree with. Brainstorming â€Å"against† your main idea Write a word or a phrase that relates to your main idea. This should be something about your main idea that you disagree Try writing a second or phrase relating to your main idea. This too should something about your main idea that you disagree with. Now, write down a third word or phrase relating to your main idea that you disagree with.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Wireless Sensor Chip to Protect Wildlife

Wireless Sensor Chip to Protect Wildlife Name : Boyu Yao Summary The basic motivation of implanting the wireless sensor on different animals is that they are illegally being poached killed and smuggled or traded for the medicinal purposes while the authorities have not been completely able to stop this issues. The wireless sensor networks would be developed to cater this issue in which sensors would be implanted in animal that would give the information to the administrators about the animal being attacked. The information would be collected through camera for visual, micro phone for audio, GPs for location and heart rate sensor for getting an idea about the medical or biological symptoms of the animals whose heart rate increases as it senses danger. The information would be sent to the mobile phones connected to the sensor. This can be a really effective and faster way to overcome the issue and also the find out the real culprit behind this illegal poaching of the animals. Points for Extension Information must be given about the total battery life of the sensor and complete device that would be implanted along with the type of battery being used to make sure it is safe and sound as animals go into water. Detailed ways and mechanism of implanting the sensors into the bodies of the animals must be provided as the picture showed the sensor just placed on the head of the animal. Discussion about placing sensor at right place must be provided The network protocols that would be sued for the wireless communication should be illustrated in more detail. Interesting points The idea of getting the information about the health of the animals through measuring the heart was a great idea of getting the physical information The idea for future development of using the solar energy for battery charging along with size reduction is a good way for making device efficient. The connection and information sent to the monitors mobile is the fastest and most interesting way of communication. Student 2 Name : Shashank Student number: N9537112 Topic: Proximity sensors Summary: This presentation gave a comprehensive overview of the proximity sensors starting with the determination of difference between the capacitive and inductive sensors. The sensors function by measuring the changes in the capacity whenever an object comes near to the sensor while the size and the distance of the object hugely determines the changes in the capacitive. The advantage of the sensor is that it does not need to be in physical contact while the low cost and applications over the wide range of the appliances and electronic devices is another fact. The sensor the sensor works by emitting the electromagnetic fields and then measuring the strength of the signals getting back. The changes in capacitance is measured as sensor acts as the one plate of it and the object acts as the other plate of the capacitance.   The capacity of the sensor as just mentioned is closely related to the size and distances. Point needing Extension There must be more information delivered about the mechanism of installing these sensor in different devices More information should be given about the capacitive sensing abilities of these sensors with respect to a specific location. The working of these proximity sensors is not described in detail as well as the actual or real form or picture of the device was not included. Interesting points The fact that the power consumption of these sensors is very low makes them suitable for application in mobile devices having no direct power contact. The sensors work perfectly without the human intervention in the form of physical contact which makes its convenient and safer for use. It can be applied in a variety of device with the various functions like in car parking to avoid collisions and mobile phones to avoid wrong calls and detect touch.

Friday, October 25, 2019

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Essay -- IMF Economics Economy

International Monetary Fund (IMF) The international monetary fund or IMF, basically promotes international monetary harmony to simplify the expansion of international trade. In a more detailed view, it advocates global monetary understanding, monitors the exchange rate and financial policies of member nations, and provides credit for member countries that are experiencing a temporary unbalance of payments. Contrary to popular belief, It is not a world central bank which exists to help the economic development of poor, undeveloped countries, nor does it have any authority over its member’s domestic policies and regulations. It is a mutual establishment with voluntarily membership that enables its members to benefit from consultations with each other. This provides a stable environment for exchanging payments smoothly and quickly. Thus, the IMF greatly increases international trade, which, in effect, expands the world economy. How does this system work? Established by the United Nations at a conference held in 1944 at Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, the IMF seeks monetary stability. At that time, because of all the recessions and the Great depression, people all over the world were demanding gold, instead of the national currency, beyond what national treasuries could supply. Therefore, many nations were coerced into abandoning the gold standard, which had given money a known and stable value. Now that countries could not depend on the steady value of gold, exchanging money became very difficult between the nations using gold and those that did not. These complications caused many of these nations to sell their products at a cheaper rate (way below its realistic value) just to undermine the trade of other nations selling the same products. There wasn’t a high demand for foreign currencies that weren’t backed by gold; governments weren’t willing to take the chance on foreign currency and its current rates. This global turmoil caused the UN to create the IMF to help regulate the International trade. From the headquarters in Washington D.C., membership is open to all independent countries with a current membership of 181 nations. On joining the fund, members are assigned a quota (a sort of membership fee) in special drawing rights or SDR, the fund’s unit of account whose value is based on the average value of five major currencies. Each member’s ... ...roversial debate in Congress raises the question of whether taxpayer money should go to the increasing contributions to the IMF. However, without this much needed assistance from the IMF, the Asian crisis will worsen with eventual negative consequences for the U.S. economy because these Asian countries will not be able to buy American goods or must cut prices so that American firms would find it hard to compete in international markets. Also, this financial affliction of Asian countries can harm U.S. security interests in Asia, claims Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright. Therefore, this policy of helping out member countries, especially by the United States, is greatly appreciated and needed by many unstable countries. By overseeing the international monetary system, the International Monetary Fund creates a more sturdy and prosperous world economy. The IMF assists countries with economic problems and consults its members on improving economic policies. By improving the exchange rates between nations, the IMF promotes a sturdy and healthy universal trade. Therefore, The International Monetary Fund is the necessary tool that helps the global economy continue into the future.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Chicken

Although online and offline experiences are quite different In practice, the goal remains the same. The mall purpose of the boutique and the website Is to create a unique and unforgettable experience for the customer. Smart brand marketers are the ones who realism luxury always was and always will be about the relationships. Luxury Interactive helps you advance the integration of traditional and interactive marketing strategies to create exceptional customer experiences, keeping your brand top of mind with your customers. Location Central London Hotel AttendeesLuxury executives in the following areas: Sales & Marketing, marketing, commerce, Interactive, Strategic Planning, Branding & Brand Management, PR & Advertising, Business Development, Corporate Communications, Strategic Partnerships, Customer Relationship Management & Loyalty Marketing, Interactive Campaign Management. History of Event Landmark 3/10 – 3/13 2008 El Meridian Piccadilly 03/16 – 03/18 2009 Decision Da te 9/30/09 What to include in Proposal Dates, Meeting Space outline with Room Names, Floor Plans, Menus, Meeting Space Rental, Distance to Metro Date Options 05/11 -05/13 2010Space Needs Days are flexible as long as no meetings are on Friday Monday 2 Offices Setup for Conference needs to be 110 Pl in crescent rounds with Stage, Riser and room for podium and panel table. (these people really like to spread out there papers and Interact in a table format) Setup to start at pm – 24 hour hold Exalt Setup to take place for 10 xx booths that need to be next to General Session this would need a setup of pm with 24 hold till breakdown on Wednesday at pm. Tuesday Conference Starts at am – pm needs to be set In crescent rounds for 110 Pl with

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Jeep Grand Cherokee Essay

Jeep Grand Cherokee is an American car. This kind of cars is survivor’s favorite things in VALS types. Survivors live narrowly focused lives. They are accustomed to use their familiar things, can’t accept new things quickly. Therefore Jeep brand which has more than 70 years history and born for war can satisfy the sense of survivors’ security. At the same time, survivors are cautious customers. Just in time, the design philosophy of Jeep-safety, comfortable, power, meet their requirements. Jeep brand is their best choice. The price of brand new Jeep Grand Cherokee starts from 39,895 dollars, this price level is medium-high. It’s expensive, but the price is not higher than Mercedes-Benz SUVs and BMW X5. For this reason Jeep Grand Cherokee is not a rich status symbol. However Jeep Grand Cherokee absolutely present a kind of personal character, it’s a symbol of recalcitrant man. SUVs are trendy because of better vision, more capacious space. On this basis, Jeep Grand Cherokee obtain better fuel economy by using new V6 engine. Increased back space make it more suitable for family, through the change of interior atmosphere let Jeep Grand Cherokee has become home up. Still powerful cross-country performance and improve highway playability let it drive up full of fun. Grand Cherokee try to attract more people to choose as family car. Hence, if you want to have fun with family in weekend, you can’t miss this car.Jeep Grand Cherokee is not offbeat no matter on speed or safety, but it can find balance in both. Jeep Grand Cherokee is a domestic car. It’s more appropriate survivors who like familiar brand and proud of owning American car even products. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee use headline for: You’ll need to find a different excuse for being late to work. This headline really attract office worker. This press Jeep Grand Cherokee is comfortable and has fun to drive. Comfortable is the other most important reason for choose American car. Grand Cherokee shows this characteristics of the incisively and vividly. The seat not only soft and comfortable, and let any shape people drive this big car can find the most suitable for their own driving posture. Jeep own a pure cross-country blood, this SUV retains its essence and enhance the characteristics of adapting road. This advertising didn’t use celebrity charm and use model. It’s just a  picture about Grand Cherokee run in snow. This picture foil masculine, at the same time correspond subtitle: When you enhance the legendary Jeep brand capability with a Selec-Terrain system, snow doesn’t stand a chance. This advertising posted on Reader magazines whose readers have own-opinion. Overall this advertising conveys adventure emotional approach and express it’s comfortable and has fun with driving. It’s impressive and attractive advertising.

Commercial Drivers License Guide Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma

Commercial Drivers License Guide Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma If you live in Texas, Kansas or Oklahoma, learn the guideline for getting your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) below. For all other states, refer to this guide on every state of the country. TexasTo apply for a Texas CDL, you  must:Apply in-person at any  driver license office and complete the appropriate application.Present documents to verify  identity and  Texas residency.Present evidence of a  Social Security Number.Meet the  nonresident commercial requirements  (in some states this is also referred to as â€Å"non-domicile commercial resident†) if you are from a foreign jurisdiction other than Canada or Mexico.Present proof of Texas vehicle registration and liability insurance on all vehicles registered in your name.Complete the Supplement Application Texas Commercial Driver License Certifications and Record of CDL Examination (CDL-1).Consent to be photographed, fingerprinted and provide your signature.Pass the vision test.Pass the knowledge and ski lls tests for the appropriate driver license including endorsements.Pay the  required fee.Provide a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for the driving test, which must be representative of the type of license you seek.At the driver license office, specify if you  are applying for interstate or intrastate commerce.OklahomaRequirementsYou must be at least 21 years old for interstate (Oklahoma and other states) transport and 18 years old for intrastate (State of Oklahoma only).You will also be asked to provide proper identification when you apply for your CDL (original or certified documents), which can be a Birth Certificate, U.S. Passport, other state’s driver license, or Active Duty Military ID cards.The Application ProcessThe application will ask you questions about your age, training, medical history, current state of health, metal health, vision, hearing acuity, and drug use/alcoholism. You may be denied a CDL if you fail to qualify on any of these requirements.You’ ll also need to pay the appropriate fee, based on what class of license you seek.TestingYou also must  pass knowledge and skills tests in order to be issued a CDL.  Once you have passed the vision screening, written test, and driving test in the vehicle that represents the class you are applying for, you will visit a  Tag Agent, who will photograph you, collect your fees, and give  you your CDL.KansasRoad TestingIn the driving section of the testing, a KS DOR examiner checks your skills including:Pre-trip inspectionA basic operating skills testA basic driving skills testYou must pass each section of testing in order to move on to the next one.In the  pre-trip inspection, you must  walk  the examiner through every part of your inspection of:Fluids, belts, and other items under the hoodThe truck cab, including emergency equipments, dials, gauges, steering, brakes and clutchConnections including hitches, air lines, hydraulics, trailer axel placement or fifth wheel couplin gTires, wheels, brakes, fuel tankTie-downs, tarps, trailer sides, rigging, trailer frame, and trailer doorsCab mirrors, seat, steering, clutch, brakes, emergency equipment, cab doors, communications equipment, and gaugesIn the basic skills  portion, you will be asked to:Drive forward and stopBack upAlley dockParallel parkMake a right turnBackward serpentineThe examiner will then  check your driving skills. The areas covered in this test:TurningIntersectionsUrban and rural straight drivingUrban and rural lane changingExpressway drivingStopping and startingDriving on curves, upgrades and downgradesRailroad crossingsBridges and overpassesTest LogisticsYou won’t need an appointment for your testing, but call in advance to see if the office you want to use has a CDL examiner.Fees vary depending on several factors, including the addition of different endorsements. A chart is available with all  applicable fees on the Kansas DMV website.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Bach essays

Bach essays Bachs Concerto for Harpsichord exhibits many features that are common in the first movements of Classical concerto forms. The movement begins with an orchestral exposition, all in tonic, in which a soft opening theme leads to a transitional tutti in measure 12. A light cadential theme is then heard from the orchestra, followed by a closing tutti in measure 24-43. The soloist then restates this in embellished form, being joined occasionally by the orchestra in measures 44-58, embroidering the transitional tutti with runs and turns as seen in measures 59-71, and then introducing a secondary theme on the dominant in measure 71. The light cadential theme of the orchestral exposition (measure 25) fuels an imaginatively elaborated closing section, in measures 85-105, to which the earlier closing tutti adds a final mark of punctuation in measure 106-114. Here, instead of developing these ideas as in a normal classical concerto, Bach plays on different tonal levels with a new idea intr oduced by the keyboard. In measure 146, the recapitulation is dominated by the solo instrument, omitting the keyboards second theme, and going directly from the now familiar transitional tutti to the graceful closing theme in measure 171. This is done nicely to extend to reach the six-four chord that announces the cadenza seen in measure 191, after which the closing tutti energetically ends the movement. This was a blend of the ritornello-solo structure of the Baroque concerto and the formal exposition, elaboration or excursion, and recapitulation of the symphonic allegro. The tutti now has discrete functions within a deliberate scheme of thematic and tonal contrast, and the solos, though still free and fanciful, are anchored in the principal thematic substance. (NAWM pg. 92) ...

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Methods of Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Methods of Analysis - Essay Example The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze these three financial analysis techniques. Vertical analysis is utilized to analyze financial statements. Vertical analysis is a method that involves comparing each entry for each of the three major categories of account (assets, liabilities, and equity) in a balance sheet represented as a proportion of the total account (Answers, 2011). One of the advantages of this method is that is simple to implement and it can be applied to corporation of all sizes. The method helps financial analyst easily visualize relative annual changes within one business (Investopedia, 2011). Horizontal or trend analysis compares two or more years of financial data. Horizontal analysis shows the changes between years in both dollar and percentage form. Showing the trend in dollar form can help an analyst focus on the key factors that have affected profitability or financial position (Garrison & Noreen, 2003). The use of percentage form can help provide p erspective in regards to the significance of the changes that occurred. For example a change of 30% in sales between one year and another is significant, while a change of 0.25% in sales is insignificant. When dealing with companies that move millions of dollars in revenues the use of percentage form can better measure the relative change that occurred. A financial technique that can be very useful to evaluate the financial performance of a company is ratio analysis. The reason ratio analysis is such an effective tool is because ratio analysis can measure different aspects of a firm’s performance. There are different categories of ratios. The five major ratio analysis categories are liquidity, leverage, efficiency, and profitability, and market value ratios. Liquidity ratios measure the cash position of a firm. When a company is liquid the firm has enough money to pay off its short term and long term obligation. The current ratio measures the ability of a firm to pay its shor t term debts, while the debt ratio measures the ability of a company to pay off its long term obligations. The current ratio is calculated dividing current assets by current liabilities. The debt ratio is calculated dividing total assets by total liabilities. Three profitability ratios are net margin, return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). Net margin is the ratio that best measures the profitability of a company. It is calculated dividing net income by total sales. Another important profitability ratio is gross margin percentage. This ratio is calculated dividing gross margin by sales. The return on assets ratio measures how well a company is using its assets to generate revenues. Return on assets is calculated dividing net income by total assets. The return on equity metric measures how much revenues were generated in relation to its equity. The metric is calculated dividing net income by total equity. Two efficiency ratios are account receivable turnover and inventory turnover. The inventory turnover ratio measures how many times a company’s inventory has been sold and replaced during a year. The metric is calculated dividing cost of goods sold by average inventory balance. The account receivable turnover is a measure of how many times a company’s account receivable

Friday, October 18, 2019

You are required to conduct a research assignment showing the Essay

You are required to conduct a research assignment showing the strategic role of technology in the designated company Instagram - Essay Example In the end, the study outlines a conclusive summary and few recommendations for further development of the company’s business strategy by taking into consideration of the crucial role of ICT and information system in its future business operations. In the modern era, social media websites and applications have been one of the most easiest and convenient modes of networking. Facebook, twitter and Viber have been one of the most successful and well known of all those applications. An addition to those successful applications is Instagram. Instagram has proved to be an easy and very useful application for sharing photos and engaging with each other. Instagram is a social media application and its features include online photo and video sharing service which enables users to take different pictures and videos and in applying various digital to those applications and in sharing them various social networking services (McNely, 2012). One of the distinctive features of Instagram can be stated that its photos are confined to a square shape and can be used in various devices. The application was initially crafted by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger and was launched in 2010. Since its inception, Instagram has gained huge popularity and ha s become one of the most widely acclaimed applications in the world specifically for its video and photo sharing features. The tool which has been presented by Instagram can be utilized as a successful customer service resource which can help to directly address customers and resolve their problems and it can go through Instagram or even through an offline channel. A massive advantage which Instagram has offered its customers is that the conversation on each photo is discrete. Strategic management has certainly benefitted Instagram to a huge extent. The management of Instagram has tried its level best to implement the concept of diversification to its business portfolio and innovative business management along with shrewd

Bauhaus School Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Bauhaus School - Essay Example After an introduction into color theory, students commenced specialized workshops that included metal work, cabinet making, pottery, weaving, typography and wall painting. Bauhaus faced financial challenges that made some aspects of unifying art through craft impractical. To counter these challenges, Gropius repositioned Bauhaus goals in 1923 in order to operate on mass production of art designs. Following the repositioning, the company acquired a new slogan, ‘Art into industry’, to stress the benefits of ass production. In 1925, Bauhaus relocated from Weimar to Dessau where he designed a new structure to accommodate the school. The building had state of art facilities and features, making it a hallmark of modern art and architecture. Modern architecture included steel-frame structures, glass curtain walls, and asymmetrical pinwheel plan. Through these structures, Gropius distributed classrooms, studios, and administrative spaces in order to maximally utilize the availab le space. The cabinet making workshop was a main creation at the Bauhaus. Under the management of Marcel Breuer, the studio designed and produced furniture by dematerializing conventional forms such as chairs in order to develop creative furniture. Breuer used the theory that eventually, all chairs would become obsolete, replaced.. He was inspired by his bicycle’s steel tubes to experiment with metal chairs, leading to creation of light-weight metallic chairs. Some of the metallic chairs were used in the theatre.

Breach as a Motif in China Mieville's The City and The City Essay

Breach as a Motif in China Mieville's The City and The City - Essay Example Mieville invokes that breach at various points in the novel as a motif that represents the all-pervasive state of the East European states of the Soviet era. These breaches are investigated by a body that itself seems to be a motif that combines in itself the effects of all the motifs of breaches that govern the lives of the people in the novel’s fictional cities of Beszel and Ul Qoma. The journey of Tayodu Borlu, the protagonist of the novel and the detective who seeks to solve the mystery of a murder that serves to frame the story and provide it its thrust, is one that reveals many aspects of modern day life. These range from the lack of freedom that is experienced by people in nation states to the place of man in a universe that may or may not offer explanations. This universe, however, continues to punish its inhabitants for offences the causes of which they may not even know. The lack of knowledge that is shared by the people of Beszel and Ul Qoma is what unites them and gives them a common destiny. The notion of breach refers to an understanding of this unity in ignorance. In this sense, it seems as though the novel points to ignorance as the greatest weapon that is employed by the modern state to express its power and exercise its control over its people. To place them in a state of complete ignorance as to their own condition, accompanied by a fear of the breach makes Mieville’s work closer to a work like V for Vendetta rather than something like The Matrix. Like both these works, the people in the two cities suffer from the fact that their existence is a complex web of lies that is spun by an overarching network of authority. This authority is embodied by the Breach that is able to make a person vanish from the sight of other people. In the context of people who choose to overlook several aspects of life, the notion of a vanished person may refer to somebody who is merely overlooked, much in the same way that Ralph Ellison’s protag onist is, in the book, The Invisible Man. The reasons for the marginality of both are equally absurd and difficult to understand. This is one of the greatest strengths of Mieville’s novel- the fact that it is able to draw allusions to many other major works of fiction that talk of oppressive regimes. His ability to connect his subaltern perspective to other versions of it makes The City and the City a very complex work of fiction. The breach represents a lack of unity. While critiquing the authoritarian regimes that were a part of East European nation states during the Cold War Era, Mieville strikes at the very heart of the philosophy of these nations- the unity of their people in a classless society. He points to the disunity that states sought to perpetrate during this era and the effects that it had on people who had hitherto lived in communities that exchanged ideas and beliefs in a freer society. The lack of freedom that Borlu has in investigating the case owes itself to the lack of unity between the people of the two cities. This can be seen in the attitudes that are expressed initially by his counterpart in Ul Qom, who is cold and condescending towards him. There are, thus, many structures that the state creates for the purpose of perpetuating its own

Thursday, October 17, 2019

CASE STUDY of the ESA Habitat Conservation Planning (HCP) process Essay

CASE STUDY of the ESA Habitat Conservation Planning (HCP) process - Essay Example The duration of HCPs can range from one year up to one hundred years. The United States Fish and Wildlife Services have the discretion to negotiate with landowners when there are no other stakeholders used. Found on the north of San Francisco Peninsula stands the San Bruno Mountain Habitat Conservation Plan. In this essay, this HCP will be analyzed in details from all dimensions. A development project in the San Bruno Mountains necessitated the development of the San Bruno Mountains HCP. There arose a conflict on the development of the mountainous region by the Visitacion Associates with the San Mateo County authorities. To discourage the development of the area, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) came in and recommended that the habitat would be conserved for butterfly conservation. The complexity arose from the interconnectedness of the Visitation Associates with the Republican government of Ronald Reagan. Despite their support from the Federal government, the local environmentalists were firm in supporting USFWS propositions. As a result of the confrontations, there was developed an agreement between the developer and the San Mateo County authorities to have the HCP established. The HCP provides a habitat for the mission blue butterfly (Plebejus icarioides missionensis) and the San Bruno elfin butterfly (Callophyrs mossi bayensis). These two have be en found to be endangered. In addition, the HCP provides for the protection of the Callippe silverspot butterfly (Spayeria callippe callippe). Despite the heightened disagreements at the start of the negotiations in the 1980s, the HCP was successfully established (Thomas Reid Associates, 1993). The establishment of the San Bruno HCP was surrounded by several controversies especially based on the involvement of many parties. The San Mateo County supervisor Bacciocco spearheaded the negotiation process by bringing the

The value of using the writing process Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The value of using the writing process - Essay Example The value placed on writing and reading arises out of the individual’s shared need to become literate which is an important function in the culture and the society. It is crucial for the writers to generate quality works (Kamehameha Schools, 2007). The value of the writing process is that it requires us to think critically, reflect on our experiences, and examine what is important to us as individuals. Through the natural process of examination and self-reflection, we begin to see ourselves more clearly. The writing process has proved to be valuable for both personal and professional growth. Effective writing process starts with the pre-writing process.When conducting research to form ideas, it is important for the individual to obtain credible academic sources, evaluate opinions, beliefs and biases as relevant to the sources, consider his or her audience, and brainstorm the information gathered. Capella University (2007) states that it is important for the individual to keep track of all the sources and bibliographic information that will be applied in the writing. It is important that the audience be analyzed appropriately in order to meet their expectations. The writer should think hard about the person who will read his piece and what they expect to accomplish from it (Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). To brainstorm the ideas gathered, the individuals should write those ideas in phrases and resist the desire to make any changes or corrections (Capella University, 2007; Bovee and Thill, 2007). Developing a draft is crucial for research and organizing ideas. Most people have issues with their drafts because they either overvalue it or undervalue it. After organizing the points, one can go ahead and begin the draft (Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). Paraphrase the information gathered by presenting it comprehensively, but make sure that the information is rewritten in own words. Paragraphs with similar ideas should be structured together. Each first sentence of the paragraph should be taken as the topic sentence or a mini-main idea (Capella University, 2007). It is important to share the drafts with others and to determine clarity of the points given. An important component of the writing process is revising and editing. The step entails big changes only. In the revising process, delete or move segments that are in the wrong place or unnecessary, and mark the sections where you have omitted something crucial or where you need to support or expand a point (Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). It is also crucial to consider effective synonyms and ensure that thoughts and sentences are complete. This ensures that the phrases or words flow in a logical manner. During editing, one should work on things like word choice, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and sentence structure. In this process, it is important to find someone worthy to read and comment on the piece of writing. One can create a good mutual-aid group who can assist in proofreading the work and making suggestions(Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). The writing process is applicable in all writing to grow and self-respect. Writing skills will assist individuals to succeed in any setting whether academic, professional or personal. In the professional setting, the writing process enhances basic and detailed written communication skills (Bovee and Thill, 2007). Confidence is increased by good writing pieces. Confidence leads to greater success and the pride in own writing initiates the process of self-reflection. Writing is an important learning process because writing skills involve creativity, and informed writing improves knowledge. The knowledge gained is applied to daily interactions. Fitzgerald, Graham, and MacArthur (2008) state that the writing proce

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Breach as a Motif in China Mieville's The City and The City Essay

Breach as a Motif in China Mieville's The City and The City - Essay Example Mieville invokes that breach at various points in the novel as a motif that represents the all-pervasive state of the East European states of the Soviet era. These breaches are investigated by a body that itself seems to be a motif that combines in itself the effects of all the motifs of breaches that govern the lives of the people in the novel’s fictional cities of Beszel and Ul Qoma. The journey of Tayodu Borlu, the protagonist of the novel and the detective who seeks to solve the mystery of a murder that serves to frame the story and provide it its thrust, is one that reveals many aspects of modern day life. These range from the lack of freedom that is experienced by people in nation states to the place of man in a universe that may or may not offer explanations. This universe, however, continues to punish its inhabitants for offences the causes of which they may not even know. The lack of knowledge that is shared by the people of Beszel and Ul Qoma is what unites them and gives them a common destiny. The notion of breach refers to an understanding of this unity in ignorance. In this sense, it seems as though the novel points to ignorance as the greatest weapon that is employed by the modern state to express its power and exercise its control over its people. To place them in a state of complete ignorance as to their own condition, accompanied by a fear of the breach makes Mieville’s work closer to a work like V for Vendetta rather than something like The Matrix. Like both these works, the people in the two cities suffer from the fact that their existence is a complex web of lies that is spun by an overarching network of authority. This authority is embodied by the Breach that is able to make a person vanish from the sight of other people. In the context of people who choose to overlook several aspects of life, the notion of a vanished person may refer to somebody who is merely overlooked, much in the same way that Ralph Ellison’s protag onist is, in the book, The Invisible Man. The reasons for the marginality of both are equally absurd and difficult to understand. This is one of the greatest strengths of Mieville’s novel- the fact that it is able to draw allusions to many other major works of fiction that talk of oppressive regimes. His ability to connect his subaltern perspective to other versions of it makes The City and the City a very complex work of fiction. The breach represents a lack of unity. While critiquing the authoritarian regimes that were a part of East European nation states during the Cold War Era, Mieville strikes at the very heart of the philosophy of these nations- the unity of their people in a classless society. He points to the disunity that states sought to perpetrate during this era and the effects that it had on people who had hitherto lived in communities that exchanged ideas and beliefs in a freer society. The lack of freedom that Borlu has in investigating the case owes itself to the lack of unity between the people of the two cities. This can be seen in the attitudes that are expressed initially by his counterpart in Ul Qom, who is cold and condescending towards him. There are, thus, many structures that the state creates for the purpose of perpetuating its own

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

The value of using the writing process Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The value of using the writing process - Essay Example The value placed on writing and reading arises out of the individual’s shared need to become literate which is an important function in the culture and the society. It is crucial for the writers to generate quality works (Kamehameha Schools, 2007). The value of the writing process is that it requires us to think critically, reflect on our experiences, and examine what is important to us as individuals. Through the natural process of examination and self-reflection, we begin to see ourselves more clearly. The writing process has proved to be valuable for both personal and professional growth. Effective writing process starts with the pre-writing process.When conducting research to form ideas, it is important for the individual to obtain credible academic sources, evaluate opinions, beliefs and biases as relevant to the sources, consider his or her audience, and brainstorm the information gathered. Capella University (2007) states that it is important for the individual to keep track of all the sources and bibliographic information that will be applied in the writing. It is important that the audience be analyzed appropriately in order to meet their expectations. The writer should think hard about the person who will read his piece and what they expect to accomplish from it (Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). To brainstorm the ideas gathered, the individuals should write those ideas in phrases and resist the desire to make any changes or corrections (Capella University, 2007; Bovee and Thill, 2007). Developing a draft is crucial for research and organizing ideas. Most people have issues with their drafts because they either overvalue it or undervalue it. After organizing the points, one can go ahead and begin the draft (Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). Paraphrase the information gathered by presenting it comprehensively, but make sure that the information is rewritten in own words. Paragraphs with similar ideas should be structured together. Each first sentence of the paragraph should be taken as the topic sentence or a mini-main idea (Capella University, 2007). It is important to share the drafts with others and to determine clarity of the points given. An important component of the writing process is revising and editing. The step entails big changes only. In the revising process, delete or move segments that are in the wrong place or unnecessary, and mark the sections where you have omitted something crucial or where you need to support or expand a point (Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). It is also crucial to consider effective synonyms and ensure that thoughts and sentences are complete. This ensures that the phrases or words flow in a logical manner. During editing, one should work on things like word choice, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and sentence structure. In this process, it is important to find someone worthy to read and comment on the piece of writing. One can create a good mutual-aid group who can assist in proofreading the work and making suggestions(Goddard and Hatcher, 2005). The writing process is applicable in all writing to grow and self-respect. Writing skills will assist individuals to succeed in any setting whether academic, professional or personal. In the professional setting, the writing process enhances basic and detailed written communication skills (Bovee and Thill, 2007). Confidence is increased by good writing pieces. Confidence leads to greater success and the pride in own writing initiates the process of self-reflection. Writing is an important learning process because writing skills involve creativity, and informed writing improves knowledge. The knowledge gained is applied to daily interactions. Fitzgerald, Graham, and MacArthur (2008) state that the writing proce

An Analysis of Freuds Critique of Religion Essay Example for Free

An Analysis of Freuds Critique of Religion Essay In his book Future of an Illusion, Sigmund Freud critique uses his method of psychoanalysis on religion. By comparing the relationship between human and religion to that of a child and his parents Freud effectively demonstrates that religion is a product of the human mind. After exposing religion as a an illusion Freud concludes that humanity will be better off when it has forgone religion. This paper will argue that Freuds assertion that religion is an illusion is correct because of its blatantly traceable evolution through the history of the human civilization and psyche. The first argument that Freud makes in his assault on religion regards civilization. Freud argues that human civilization arose as a result of mankinds needs to protect itself from nature. It was precisely because of these dangers with which nature threatens us that we came together and created civilization. (Freud 19) As a result of the need for organization and manpower to prepare defenses against nature, the instincts of men had to be controlled. He furthers this argument by saying that two human traits, laziness and the unwilling nature of the masses to listen to reason are responsible for the necessity of the rule of law. Freud then describes the various methods of coercion that can be employed by civilization to halt instinctual privation. The most important of which he points out as being religion. The main reasons that Freud ranks religion as being/having been the most important tool in civilization are its ability to explain the various inequities and inexplicable phenomena that afflict human civilization. Freud points out how ancient civilizations used religion to humanize nature. By making these natural terrors beings that could be dealt with just like men it allowed people the chance to react to and have the illusion of influence on nature. He also illuminates with slight sarcasm how convenient religion is in its ability to rectify all the trials and tribulations of life for us. Everything that happens in this world is an expression of the intentions of an intelligence superior to us, which in the end, though its ways and byways are difficult to follow, orders everything for the best. (Freud 23) The existence of this divine creature who creates justice for us ensures that the masses will not stray from the laws and tenets of religion  and society for fear of being judged by this entity. Religion is also valuable to civilization for its ability to explain death. Thanks to religion, death became something other than simply the termination of a life. Death stopped being the end and was recasted into the role of a doorway to another existence. As though knowing that the continuation of life were not enough, religion furthers its own appeal by promising that the afterlife will be better than life on Earth. The afterlife itself also serves a function as well. A desire to gain entry into this afterlife will cause many of the masses to renounce their instincts. Another argument Freud makes is how religion is an attempt to fill in the gaps where civilization and the pursuit of life cannot make individuals happy. He says that, The urge to rectify the shortcomings of civilization which made themselves painfully felt is fulfilled by religion. (Freud 27) This can be seen throughout modern society in many different forms. It is telling that quite often individuals who are extremely ill, paralyzed, poor, or otherwise frowned upon by civilization and culture tend to be more religious. Later Freud turns his argument to the legal historical proof surrounding religions. Using an analogy of a child learning geography and simply accepting on faith that the places he sees on a map exist rather than going on a journey around the world, Freud attacks religious doctrines. He does this by pointing out that though the child takes on faith what he sees on the map, he could take a journey around the world and see for himself that these places indeed exist. He then applies this same manner of thinking to religious doctrines when he asks what these kind of claims these doctrines are founded on and why we should believe them? The answers he says are that they were believed by our ancestors and that it is forbidden to question them. Freud points out that it is the latter point which highlights societys own awareness of the insecurity of the claim it makes on behalf of its religious doctrines. (Freud 33) The own paranoia that religions have of even questioned shows how much they realize that their beliefs do not follow reason. As Freud shows us the early church recognized this all too well when it instituted a doctrine that maintained that religious doctrines  do fall under the microscope of reason. The most common religious document of all time, The Bible, holds a particular Proverb that further illustrates the paranoia or religion against reason. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. (Proverbs 3:5) Another important concept that Freud uses to critique religion can be found in his broad background in psychology. He alludes greatly the Oedipus complex in his dealings with God and the individual. According to Freud, humankind is similar to a child who needs to be protected and supported in his/her everyday life, thus he/she sees God as supportive, protective father. Freud gives his own theories far too much justice in this regard. One does not need to regard God as a father-figure to believe in him. There are many people who believe in God but do not accept God as a beneficent omnipotent being. However, we cannot say that Freud in his genius could not apply psychoanalysis to these other divinations of God and rectify them to individual situations. Freuds best argument in favor of religions existence as an illusion is when he describes the convenient nature of religion to particular times of civilization. Freud says that we know approximately at what periods and by what kind of men religious doctrines were created. He also argues that it is very telling how religion tells us almost exactly what we want to hear. We shall tell ourselves that it would be very nice if there were a God who created the world and was a benevolent providence, and if there were a moral order in the universe and an afterlife; but it is a very striking fact that all this is exactly as we are bound to wish it to be. (Freud 42) Freuds assertion that religions are in fact illusions created to deceive men into reunouncing their instincts for the advancement of civilization is based entirely on generalizations about all religions. These generalizations, however, can be well supported when one looks back throughout history. Religion could easily be compared to a chameleon that changes its color to fit whatever the needs of civilization are to survive. It is ironic that religion can be traced throughout history as being so adaptable given the intransigent foundations of religion. Whether or not religions really are illusions as Freuds ultimate conclusion states, there is undoubtedly a clear link between religion and the evolution of civilization. A fantastic example of religion changing its color in order to better fit the evolution of civilization can be seen in the ancient Order of the Knights of the Temple Mount or Knights Templar. The Knights Templar in the middle ages were created to be the shock troops for Europes holy war against the infidels. When this war was lost and the military arm of the knights were no longer needed, the organization was systematically eliminated. Its leaders were charged with heresy and killed and its wealth was confiscated, simply because the organizations purpose no longer coincide with church doctrine. Another great example of religious adaptability can be seen in the evolution of Christianity in Rome. As the old religions in Rome were in decline and material decadence had taken over, Christianity appeared over the horizon as one of the saving graces of the Roman empire. As the threat from barbarians grew in on the empires borders grew, so did Christianity place in Rome. It was eventually elevated to being the state religion under the empire Diocletian. Even Christianity would not be able to save Rome from the barbarian hordes. In their hour of defeat Romans were undoubtedly able to pray and ask for salvation from Christ. It is interesting that such a doctrine would arise shortly before a time of annihilation. Finally, it is important to note the role of religion in capitalism. Capitalism, as pointed out by Marx, is a vastly unfavorable system of economy for many people. While some would argue that it allows people the freedom make their own destinies, others would say that capitalism traps some in a cycle of poverty. Either way, those who are born poor are in a highly disadvantaged situation to those who are rich. That is, in this world. With religion and the afterlife, all are on an equal playing field. In fact, the poor even have quite an advantage. It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24). This type of thinking has been fundamental for the stability of capitalism throughout history. No amount of earthly wealth  could ever compare to the golden paved streets of heaven and eternal bliss. Freuds critique of religion demonstrates the disturbing correlations between religion and civilization and shows us the true motives behind religions existence. Freud proves that religion was a product of the human necessity to protect itself from nature and the need that arose from there to stop our own instincts from destroying our creations. In conclusion, Freud disproved the claims of religious doctrines as being divinely originated, but he did not disprove God. His belief that it was time for civilization to grow up from religion may be correct but it will never happen. Religion is far too embedded in civilization to ever be removed by simply showing the educated its true purpose. Like life on this planet, religion has adapted to whatever environment our 8000 year old civilization has placed it. Even if everyone knew religion to be nothing but an illusion, that knowledge alone would not be enough to make that illusion disappear from the psyche of humanity. People would have to have a conscious desire to not believe in religion for it to be eliminated. This desire to discover the truth would be outweighed by the desire of a majority of humanity to rectify the inexplicable world of death and injustice to their own lives.

Monday, October 14, 2019

Conservation Of Forest Resources In North India Environmental Sciences Essay

Conservation Of Forest Resources In North India Environmental Sciences Essay Forests are natural umbrellas for ground surface because they protect the ground surface from erosion by falling raindrops and control radiation balance of the earth and the atmosphere by consuming increased amount of carbon dioxide released from ever increasing human volcanoes (chimneys of the factories) and thus prevent the earth from becoming too hot. Removal of forest cover exposes the ground surface to the atmospheric processes. Forest is a living resource. A large number of people of the hills and plains depend on forest resources especially in the North-Eastern Region of India. It is a renewable resource if properly managed. Deforestation can take place in no time but generation of forest takes a long time to develop into a self contained viable ecosystem.Today, there is a great awareness of the problems of forests in our country as well as in North East India. During the last one decade the forest cover of the region got depleted at an alarming rate, hence, preservation of forest is a heavy task for the region. Comprising of eight states, viz. ArunachalPradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura; Northeast India is a mega-biodiversity centre and a hotspot. The region contains more than one third of the countrys total bio-diversity and is one of the 18 recognised bio-diversity hotspots of the world. It occupies 7.7% of Indias total geographical area supporting50% of the flora of which 31.58% is endemic. It is a transitional zone between the Indian, Indo-Barman-Malaysian and Indo-Chinese regions. The region supports a rich biodiversity spanning from tropical rainforests to alpine scrubs. This rich biodiversity has a significant role in the maintenance of the ecosystem. The region is rich in orchids, ferns, oaks bamboos, rhododendrons; magnolias etc.With the shrinkage of green cover everywhere, the region is also experiencing an impact on its ecological system. The major threats to the rich biodiversity of the region are expansion of agricultural activities, over-exploitation of forests for firewood, shifting cultivation, extensive timbering, grazing, urbanization, man-made forest fires, introduction of exoticplants, ill-managed road construction, mining, etc. which lead to habitat loss and habitat fragmentation that ultimately results in biodiversity loss. Natural calamities such as landslides, floods and forest fires also result in biodiversity loss to some extent. The region is known for its age old institutional mechanisms on cultural and social values for biodiversity conservation, namely sacred groves or forests in Meghalaya, Manipur and Nagaland; sacred landscapes in Sikkim and sacred hilltops in Arunachal Pradesh.Conserved as the abode of lo cal dieties, these ecosystems represent remnants of ancient forests, but these practices are rapidly vanishing due to modern education and conversion of religion, which have led to the giving up of traditional and ethnic beliefs. India has strengthened its hold on biodiversity conservation by implementing the Indian Forest Act, 1927; the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; the Forest (Conservation)Act, 1980; the Environment(Protection) Act, 1986; the Biodiversity Act, 2002; the Biodiversity Rule, 2004,etc. The northeastern part of India, known for its diverse and most extensive lush forest cover, is sadly one of the major regions facing severe deforestation. Forests of this region are unique structurally and species composition. It is a meeting region of temperate east Himalayan flora, palaeo-arctic flora of Tibetan highland and wet evergreen flora of south-east Asia and Yunnan forming bowl of biodiversity. One of the states of this region viz., Arunachal Pradesh occupies a significant place as a crucible for the evolution of flora in north-east India and for speciation. The Brahmaputra valley sandwiched between Eastern Himalaya in the north, Garo/Khasi/Jaintia and Mikir/Cachar/Barail hills ranges in the south; is a meeting ground of the temperate east Himalayan flora and the wet evergreen and wet deciduous floristic elements. The Khasi-Jaintia hills function as a corridor of the south-east Asia floristic elements into the Indian subcontinent through the Arakan arc. The altitudinal var iation and rainfall patterns of southwest and northeast monsoon play a significant role in the development of ecological niches in this region of India.   The forest cover of north-east India has been assessed by the government at 1, 64,043 sq. km of the total geographical area of 2,55,083 sq.km. In the states of north-east India the heaviest demand on forest is for fuel wood and agricultural lands. The precise of deforestation cannot be accurately assessed due to the remoteness of many areas from which forest is removed and the lack of written records for deforestation. The forest area of the states like Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur and Mizoram has been reducing at an alarming rate. It is to be noted that the forest areas of the plains of the north-east India are considerably below national norm. In fact during the last few decades, there has become a rapid degeneration of forest resources in the region which threatened the economy and ecology of north-east India requiring the intervention of the supreme court of India. According to an official estimate based on satellite images (survey report of FSI), northeastern region has 1, 63,799 sq.km of forest, which is about 25% of the total forest cover in the country (Anon., 2000) The management of the forest has suffered in the recent past due to pressure on land, decreasing cycle of shifting cultivation, exploitation of forest for timber and lack of scientific management strategy. The age-old practice of shifting cultivation has been a single factor responsible for the forest and land degradation, thereby changing the landscape extensively. About 0.45 million families in northeastern region annually cultivate 10,000 sq.km forests whereas total area affected by jhumming is believed to be 44,000 sq.km (Singh, 1990). Degraded secondary forests, bamboo thickets and weeds or simply barren land dominate todays jhumscapes (Toky and Ramakrishnan, 1981; Roy and Joshi, 2002) Further, the problem has been getting worse through the indiscriminate felling of trees to satisfy the ever-growing hunger of industries surviving on forest products such as paper and pulp, plywood, match stick, etc. There is an urgent need of policy measures to undo the massive losses to the green cover of this region. Unlike other regions of the country administrative control regimes of forest cover in Northeast is different. A large part of the forests in this area fall under the category of open forests with a crown density of 10-40% and only few areas qualify as dense forests i.e. of crown density of 40% or higher. According to 1995 estimates, these states including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim accounted for a loss of 791 sq. km forest area in two years viz. from 1993 to 1995 (FSI, 1996). Administrative classification of the forest cover in Northeast India State Total Reserved Protected Unclassified Total Shifting Cultivation (1987-97) Tripura 0.63 0.36 0.05 0.22 0.63 0.06 Sikkim 0.26 0.22 0.03 0.01 0.26 * Nagaland 0.86 0.01 0.05 0.80 0.86 0.39 Mizoram 1.59 0.71 0.36 0.52 1.59 0.38 Meghalaya 0.95 0.10 0.01 0.85 0.96 0.18 Manipur 1.50 0.14 0.40 0.96 1.50 0.36 Assam 3.07 1.81 0.40 0.86 3.07 0.13 Arunachal Pradesh 5.15 1.53 3.61 0.01 5.15 0.23 Total 14.01 4.88 4.91 4.23 14.02 1.73 Land Use/Land Cover in Northeast India. (Source: Anon., 2002a) Land cover (Vegetation Type) States Area (km2) Area (%) Tropical Evergreen Forest Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram, Tripura 5246.202 2.001 Hollong Forest (Dipterocarpus) Arunachal Pradesh, Assam 980.87 0.374 Tropical Semi-Evergreen Forest Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram 15363.42 5.86 Moist Deciduous Forest Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura 19727.24 7.524 Riverain Arunachal Pradesh 209.36 0.08 Hollock (Terminalia sp.) Arunachal Pradesh 108.87 0.042 Sal (Shorea robusta) forest Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura 526.61 0.201 Teak (Tectona grandis) Plantation Assam 15.71 0.006 Dry Deciduous Forest Manipur 79.00 0.03 Subtropical Evergreen I Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya 20866.83 7.959 Subtropical Evergreen II Arunachal Pradesh 3559.08 1.358 Sub-Tropical Broad leaved Forest Mizoram 509.95 0.195 Broad-leaved Hill Forest Sikkim 1876.18 0.716 Mixed Pine Meghalaya 1020.07 0.389 Pine Forest Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya 1647.27 0.628 Temperate Broadleaved Arunachal Pradesh 20785.02 7.928 Mixed Temperate Forest Nagaland 509.95 0.195 Wet Temperate Forest Mizoram 448.16 0.171 Temperate Coniferous Forest Arunachal Pradesh 3190.60 1.217 Fir Forest Arunachal Pradesh 159.11 0.061 Sub-alpine and Rhododendron Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, 276.35 0.105 Total 97104.60 37.04 Land Cover States Area % Associated vegetation type Abandoned Jhum Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura. 20065.36 7.653 Open Bamboo Brakes Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura 9501.57 3.624 Degraded Forest Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura 15189.12 5.793 Subalpine and alpine Scrub Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim 2654.88 1.013 Alpine Pastures Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim 4697.66 1.792 Other Grasslands Assam, Meghalya 1971.18 0.752 Shrub/Scrub Assam 581.14 0.222 Total 151765.51 57.89 Orchards (including tea gardens) Arunachal Pradesh and Assam 6896.67 2.631 Non-forest/Current shifting cultivation/Fallow/Barren/ Alpine Barren/Agriculture/ Settlement/Others Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram, Tripura,Nagaland, Sikkim, Manipur, MeghalyaArunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur 83032.75 31.67 Cloud/Snow/Shadow 16164.00 6.165 Water Body Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram,Tripura,Nagaland, Sikkim, Manipur, Meghalya 4320.07 1.648 Total 262179.00 100 Statewise area under forest(sq. km.) in 2001:, Sl no State Geographical area Total forest Dense forest Open forest Percentage of forest area to geographical area 1 Arunachal Pradesh 83,743 68,045 53,932 14,113 81.25 2 Assam 78,438 27,714 15,830 11,884 35.33 3 Manipur 22,327 16,926 5,710 11,216 75.81 4 Meghalaya 22,429 15,584 5,681 9,903 69.48 5 Mizoram 21,081 17,494 8,936 8,558 82.98 6 Nagaland 16,579 13,345 5,393 7,952 80.49 7 Tripura 10,486 7,065 3,463 3,602 67.38 Source: state of forest report 2001. Quoted in statistical abstract, India, 2002, Forest cover in northeast India A review of the forest cover statistics of northeast India reveals some unexpected and contradictory trends. Data from the Forest Survey show an increase in forest cover of 3,398 square kilometers, an annual rate of 0.5 percent, for northeast India between 1987 and 1991, and a steady reduction in forest cover of 2,443 square kilometers, an annual rate of 0.15 percent, during the 1991-2001 periods. This increase between 1987 and 1991 seems to contradict the general perception of steady forest loss during the last decades (Barik and others 2005; Roy and Joshi 2002). North East India: Changes in Forest Cover 1987-2001 Annual rate of loss of forest cover due to shifting cultivation in north-east India: State Area affected by shifting cultivation in sq. km per year Population dependent on shifting cultivation(000) Arunachal Pradesh 703 270 Assam 700 403 Manipur 500 300 Meghalaya 760 350 Mizoram 600 260 Nagaland 730 400 Tripura 170 100 Source: report of the forest survey of India,2001 Percentage Annual Change in Forest Cover in North East India 1987-2001 :Ministry of Environment and Forest State-level data provide a clearer indication of the regional trends. The data reveal, for the period 1987-1989, a near 4 percent and over 5 percent increase in forest cover in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim respectively. This seems implausible since natural regeneration processes are typically considerably slower. Equally improbable is the annual growth rate for Tripura, which is recorded at almost 11 percent between 1999 and 2001.The reasons for this sudden expansion in forest cover are unclear, though it is suggested that the data reflect changes in methodology and scale. For instance the 2001 data include all lands with a tree canopy density of more than 10 percent, irrespective of land use. Thus tea plantations, agro- forestry plantations, and fruit orchards are all defined as forests. In addition, a number of districts previously ignored have been included in the assessments, which probably leads to some increases. Hence the Ministry of Environment and Forests cautions against temporal comparisons as technique and scale of interpretation were both different (Ministry of Environment and Forests 2001). Open and Dense Forest Developments in North East India 1997, 1999 and 2001 THE MAJOR CAUSES OF DEFORESTATION: Conversion of forest land in agricultural land: Due to the increasing population and subsequent food pressure over limited agricultural land, forest land is been brought under cultivation so that agricultural production may be substantially increased and food may be provided to hungry human population. Shifting or jhuming cultivation: Shifting cultivation is a major cause of forest lost in north-east India. The loss of forest cover due to shifting cultivation is increasing every year Overgrazing of forest of moderate cover by animals has resulted into large scale degradation of natural vegetation if not the complete destruction of forest. The deforested areas has been worst affected by grazing animals because no fresh regeneration of plant has been allowed by large herds of grazing animals. Forest fires: Forest fire whether natural or man made is effective destroyers of forest covers. Atmospheric lightning is the major source of natural forest fires besides man causes forest fire through his intentional/advertent and unintentional actions. Besides destroying vegetations, forest fires harden the ground surface which decreases the porosity of the soils and consequently there is a little infiltration of rain water. Lumbering: Lumbering for domestic and commercial purposes is the real cause of large scale destruction of forest cover. Ever increasing demand of timber for various purposes due to industrial expansion, urban growth and rapidly increasing human population has done great damage to natural forest covers. Multipurpose river projects: Multipurpose river projects require larger areas to be submerged for the storage of huge volume of water in the reservoirs constructed behind the dams. Thus, submergence of forested riverine areas completely destroys the natural forest. Steps taken by the government: The national forest policy of India, 1998, is now in force. Its formulation has been timely and certainly a marked improvement over the policy of 1952, which emphasized on increasing the area under forest cover to 33% or 1/3rd of the country total geographical area and 60% in the hills of north-east India. Forest development agency (FDA) is a central agency which provides financial help to the state government for the planting of trees and conservation of forest area. The government of Assam has of late formulated a forest policy, developing a common approach to manage both environment and biodiversity. The new policy, 2004, which is first of its kind, seems to be a comprehensive thoughtful one fuel, because the policy has considered almost all the major environment concern like flora and fauna, wildlife, soil fertility etc. the policy provides a comprehensive strategy for environmental conservation and improved support system for livelihood for the people living in the fringe areas of forests and thereby seeks to overcome the two major environmental problems- degradation of biodiversity and forest cover. CONSERVATION STRATEGY of FOREST RESOURCES IN NORTH EAST: Management of Biosphere Reserves, National Parks, Sanctuaries etc. in the region. Regulation of Sacred Groves. Introduction of more programs on Afforestation. Possible Replacement of areas under Shifting Cultivation by alternative economic activities. Ecosystem based forest management has to be adopted to maintain ecological balance. Reforestation in the deforested areas must be regulated to restore the ecological balance. Plantation of trees and vegetation should be made a compulsory feature in educational institutes, Youth clubs and in communities. Areas of water-shed should also be managed through afforestation programs. Alternative Livelihood must be provided for forest dwellers. Over-exploitation, habitat loss and fragmentation are the three major factors that threaten the biodiversity of this region. Forest is the vital components to sustain the life support system on the earth.Forests are playing an important role in the socio-economic development of a country or region. The role of forest in ecological balance, Last but not the least, serious efforts will have to be made to protect and conserve forest both at government as well as public level. Due attention should be given to forest management. Some of the useful steps for the conservation of forest are as follows: A proper ratio between forest cutting and plantation of trees should be maintained. Actual growth of trees is supervised. Strict prohibition of the cutting of trees for fuel is imposed. Protection from forest fire. Development of Natural Park and sanctuaries. Social forestry is developed. Forest survey, be conducted and classification be done accordingly. Plantation of trees according to local ecological condition. Long term master plan for forest conservation and development is prepared. CONCLUSION: Environmental stability, bio-diversity conservation, food security and sustainable development has been widely recognized at many aspects of conservation strategies. The key role of the forest has been recognized in their ecological, cultural, commercial and aesthetic aspects, yet rapid shrinkage of forest cover is threatening to tilt the ecological balance in the North Eastern Region. A sizeable disappearance of forest cover is causing serious damage to forest ecosystem of the region. The fast dwindling of forest cover is attributed to rampant encroachment and unchecked habitat expansion in the forest land. Encroachment is more aggressive in forest areas located along the inter-state boundary with Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya. For the Northeast the CDM funding potential can be maximized if the definition allows for high crown density and height. Appropriate areas can be readily identified through comparative assessments of forest cover changes using the widely av ailable aerial maps of the region. However, in the absence of an agreed definition it is impossible to quantify the financial opportunities that could emerge from the CDM. Further assessments must await government decisions Man has always had an integral association with nature, and thereby with forest. He has gradually changed the aspect of natural ecosystem into man-made ecosystem. Thus it can be said that man has the power too to control the further degradation of our natural environment if he desires to do the needful action and it would be possible only through the participation of man in respect of the preservation and conservation of various natural resources where, forest resource is one of the vital one. Hence it is worth mentioning that conservation of forest resources in North East India is need of the hour.

Sunday, October 13, 2019

Genus: Intelligent Design Essay -- Evolution Science Biology Essays

Genus: Intelligent Design The Intelligent Design Movement has gained monumental strength within the last half-decade. It promotes a purely scientific criticism to Darwin’s theories of natural selection and evolution with absolutely no religious bias—or so it claims. Unlike previous movements for the advancement of religious ideas, the Intelligent Design community is comprised of Ph.D.s in natural and physical sciences and is gaining its most popular following in large universities. There are an increasing number of scientific organizations advocating Intelligent Design as a contrasting theory to evolutionary naturalism. Evolution itself is not being challenged, however, only its basis in â€Å"chance and necessity.† But can the Intelligent Design Movement be given actual scientific credit, or is it just the latest mutation of religious doctrine? The idea of an intelligent Designer side-by-side with evolution is not a new one. Dating back to 1889, educated people like Asa Gray were endorsing natural selection with the aid of an almighty creator. His theory revolved around the separation of necessity and design.[1] He defines necessity as the factors in our environment that cause humans to evolve—hunting for food, reproducing, competing against other species. He wrote that if â€Å"you take away struggle, then take away necessity you therefore only have forms in their design phase.† At time equal to zero, God intelligently designed the world to fit a certain pattern. At this instant, the human form (and all others) is in its design state as God made it. Natural selection only takes place after that initial creation, but does not take away from the fact that intelligent design occurred. The new... ...liam. Natural Theology. London: J. Faulder, 1809. (full online text) http://www.hti.umich.edu/cgi/p/pd-modeng/pd-modeng-idx?type=HTML&rgn=TEI.2&byte=53049319 Polkinghorne, John. Belief in God in an Age of Science. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1998. Runyan, John. â€Å"Intermediate Stages: A Problem for Evolutionary Gradualism.† Intelligent Design URC, 2002. http://www.idurc.org/jrunyan_intermediatestages.shtml [1] Darwiniana, 1889. [2] Access Research Network. [3] Belief in God in an Age of Science, 1998. [4] Darwin’s Black Box, 1996. [5] The Evolution of Complexity, 1988. [6] â€Å"Intermediate Stages: A Problem for Evolutionary Gradualism,† 2002. [7] Finding Darwin’s God, 1999. [8] Climbing Mount Improbable, 1996. [9] â€Å"Molecular Machines—Experimental Support for the Design Inference,† 1994. [10] Finding Darwin’s God, 1999.

Saturday, October 12, 2019

Israel and Irans Incompatibility Essay -- Bushehr, Iran, Israel

The incompatibility for the game between Israel and Iran is because Iran would not play by the same set of rules that were set between the United States and Russia during the Cold War. This assumption is based on Iran’s own unique scenario in a regional game in the Middle East, as well as Iran’s history to avoid inside the box thinking when it comes to strategic warfare. Tira concludes that the unreliability accompanying the area’s instability and Iran’s known use of creating black swans to continuously push and wear down an opponent, shows that if a nuclear Iran were to develop it would be a major threat not to be taken lightly. The conclusion that Tira arrives at is very helpful in explaining why Israel is not fond of Russia assisting Iran develop its nuclear program further than where it already stands. IV. Findings and Analysis To understand why Israel is concerned with Iran, it is first imperative to understand the Iranian nuclear program’s history and the extent of Iran’s current program. The goal to obtain a sufficient nuclear energy program has been a long standing goal for Iran. Iran’s first reactor, the Tehran Research Reactor, was established in 1967 and since then has seen nuclear energy and the possible gains of a nuclear arsenal as an insurance policy in the survivability to the current regime (Collina and others 2013, 3). To increase its capacity for production Iran has also worked with Russia to build the Bushehr reactor, which was completed in 2011 (Katz 2012, 58). On top of these two sites, Iran has many more facilities that help in the production of nuclear energy, as well as nuclear enrichment facilities. These enrichment facilities, which were publicly recognized by Iran in 2003 had been kept hidden... ....1080/10736700.2013.769375. (Accessed November 9, 2013). Katz, Mark N. 2012. "Russia and Iran." Middle East Policy 19, no. 3: 54-64. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy2.apus.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=aab26c60-18b8-40e7-8764-bddcc193eee9%40sessionmgr115&vid=5&hid=103 (Accessed November 20, 2013). Shenna, J. C. (2010). â€Å"The Case Against the Case Against Iran: Regionalism as the West's Last Frontier†. The Middle East Journal, 64(3), 341-363. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/744027301?accountid=8289. (Accessed November 9, 2013). Tira, Ron. 2011. "Can Iran be Deterred?." Policy Review no. 169: 39-48. Retrieved from EBSCOhost http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy2.apus.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=aab26c60-18b8-40e7-8764-bddcc193eee9%40sessionmgr115&vid=7&hid=103 (Accessed November 20, 2013). Israel and Iran's Incompatibility Essay -- Bushehr, Iran, Israel The incompatibility for the game between Israel and Iran is because Iran would not play by the same set of rules that were set between the United States and Russia during the Cold War. This assumption is based on Iran’s own unique scenario in a regional game in the Middle East, as well as Iran’s history to avoid inside the box thinking when it comes to strategic warfare. Tira concludes that the unreliability accompanying the area’s instability and Iran’s known use of creating black swans to continuously push and wear down an opponent, shows that if a nuclear Iran were to develop it would be a major threat not to be taken lightly. The conclusion that Tira arrives at is very helpful in explaining why Israel is not fond of Russia assisting Iran develop its nuclear program further than where it already stands. IV. Findings and Analysis To understand why Israel is concerned with Iran, it is first imperative to understand the Iranian nuclear program’s history and the extent of Iran’s current program. The goal to obtain a sufficient nuclear energy program has been a long standing goal for Iran. Iran’s first reactor, the Tehran Research Reactor, was established in 1967 and since then has seen nuclear energy and the possible gains of a nuclear arsenal as an insurance policy in the survivability to the current regime (Collina and others 2013, 3). To increase its capacity for production Iran has also worked with Russia to build the Bushehr reactor, which was completed in 2011 (Katz 2012, 58). On top of these two sites, Iran has many more facilities that help in the production of nuclear energy, as well as nuclear enrichment facilities. These enrichment facilities, which were publicly recognized by Iran in 2003 had been kept hidden... ....1080/10736700.2013.769375. (Accessed November 9, 2013). Katz, Mark N. 2012. "Russia and Iran." Middle East Policy 19, no. 3: 54-64. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy2.apus.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=aab26c60-18b8-40e7-8764-bddcc193eee9%40sessionmgr115&vid=5&hid=103 (Accessed November 20, 2013). Shenna, J. C. (2010). â€Å"The Case Against the Case Against Iran: Regionalism as the West's Last Frontier†. The Middle East Journal, 64(3), 341-363. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/744027301?accountid=8289. (Accessed November 9, 2013). Tira, Ron. 2011. "Can Iran be Deterred?." Policy Review no. 169: 39-48. Retrieved from EBSCOhost http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy2.apus.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=aab26c60-18b8-40e7-8764-bddcc193eee9%40sessionmgr115&vid=7&hid=103 (Accessed November 20, 2013).

Friday, October 11, 2019

Consumers Markets and Culture Essay

Compare and contrast the changing experiences of consumers from the year 1900 until present day. How do the theories of Marx, Durkheim and Weber help to explain the changing consumer experience and the emergence of contemporary consumer society? â€Å"Until the eighteenth century the word consumption meant waste†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Williams, 1976) As consumers our experience of consumption today is exponentially different from that at the turn of the twentieth century in the recently urbanised and industrialised modern nation. Consumer culture is traditionally described in terms of the arrival of mass consumption as a counterpart to mass production as a result of the Fordist system (Miles, S). Choice is one of the biggest factors of the changing experience for consumers, during the 1950’s after the austerity years the now aging baby boomers were part of large scale changes to consumption patterns. For example as women began to enter the work place leaving less time to run the home, products were being developed to ease the burden of housework, washing machines, fridges and vacuum cleaners were among these products; the ever-growing use of hire purchase to enable consumers to afford these luxury products, combined with Fordist methods of mass production reducing the manufacturing cost of the products allowed the economy to grow strong once again. As television grew in popularity advertising was increasingly utilised by businesses to sell their products creating a far more impersonal environment while shopping for products. From this time the standard of living has been increasing up until present day (The Economist, 2008) with the aspirations of society increasing further still. Marx presents his theories as a materialist understanding of society, explaining capitalism as an unequal system based on the exploitation of the lower class (Abercrombie N et al, 2006), a system based on surplus value being extracted, the capitalist’s entire aim is to maximise the gap between value produced and value paid for (Slater D, 1997). Which a hundred years  ago meant using Fordist methods of production to bring down costs and reducing the skill required of workers which in turn reduced the compensation needed for workers. The Fordist method of production first seen around 1911 (Cohen and Kennedy, 2007), Alienated workers from the act of production. In his theory of Alienation Marx describes human essence as being realised through labour (Abercrombie et al, 2006) and working as an alien activity that offers no intrinsic satisfaction as the worker has no control over what is produced; this loss of ownership and loss of control over the workers own life due to managem ent organising and enforcing the labour. Where during the early twentieth our working classes were exploited and Alienated, now capitalists in the quest towards decreasing wages and widening the gap between value produced and value paid for are increasing looking to less economically developed countries where costs of production, epically workers are much lower. The counties known as BRIC economic group (Brazil, Russia, India and China). By indiscriminately consuming as a society, this encourages the expansion of exploitation of foreign working classes. Bauman proposes post-industrial societies are governed by ‘aesthetics of consumption’ rather than ‘ethics of production’ (Cohen & Kennedy, 2007). Organisations such as Apple, Nike and similarly Primark are guilty of this system, the former two retailing premium priced products produced at the lowest cost possible cost, by attaching symbolic meaning to the products. Primark produces clothes at the lowest cost possible which are retailed for the lowest cost possible; consumers buy into this system with no feelings of guilt, as these products allow consumers to display possessions acting as social glue possibly due in part to the increasing Alienation of workers as society is increasingly detached from production with the service based economy we ‘enjoy’ today. Durkheim’s concept of Anomie is similar to Alienation, discussing Anomic suicide due to people no knowing how they fit in with society where possessions are used as social glue allowing consumers to display their beliefs and social groups. It is harder to relate Marx’s definitions of the class system as the proximity to production is becoming increasingly distant for most of society. â€Å"Every capitalist is trying to decrease the wages and consumption of their own workers and entice everyone else’s workers to consume to their limit and  beyond.† (Slater, D 1997) Marxism, as other modern economic theories believe, that the production and consumption of products is intrinsically connected, in the sense that incomes from production and consumer buying power are two sides of the same coin.’ (Slater, D 1997). This theory is particularly relevant now due to the current economic climate. As the recession began in 2008 many workers lost their jobs or suffered significant cuts in wages this resulted in a widespread reduction in consumer spending as a result society ended up a cycle of ever decreasing demand where the government had to intervene to stimulate spending. Of the stimulus the VAT reduction had an impact by reducing the cost of products, to reduce ever growing back up of cars as they still needed to be produced to keep the workers in employment the car scrapage scheme was introduced temporarily (Lloyds, 2009). In this scheme two thousand pounds was offered if a old car was scrapped in exchange for a new car. Capitalists driven to mass production, not by greed but conditions of capitalism (Edwards T, 2000), if not competing, competitors will capture markets through lower prices. This practice discussed by Marx leads to situations like the above were supply far exceeds demand. A good example of over production can be found by searching for any random product on a supplier listings website, Alibaba.com have over 64,979 different belt buckles available. Durkheim predicted that modern industrial societies would over-emphasise the importance of individuality which would erode social stability and solidarity (Schmidt, R 2010), consumers are sold their own individuality through advertising campaigns a few examples are: Dell’s ‘Yours is here’, My Yahoo. Products are increasingly customisable, mobile phone cases are a hugely popular consumer item. ‘Durkheim argues that people can only be happy when their wants are proportionate to their means. Left to themselves, human desires are boundless†¦ together with necessarily limited recourses, creates great unhappiness or ultimately suicide’ (Abercrombie et al 2006). Society controls the problem of unattainable goals by restricting desires through values aimed at permitting only goals which have some chance of attainment. The X-Factor is currently the most popular television program (Plunkett, J 2010) as dreams of mostly unattainable goals are being realised for a lucky number of consumers. This  is a stark contrast to the 1940’s where society was based around family values, working together to repair Britain where jobs were expected for life. Anomie describes the situation when this framework breaks down, goals again outrun means and suicide rate rises (Abercrombie et al 2006). Weber predicted that society would experience unprecedented inner loneliness of the single individual (Cohen & Kennedy, 2007), this is a very accurate description of the contemporary experience, more than ever consumers are looking to the symbolic meaning of products to identify with their desired social groups and status. Social media is an interesting way to examine the inner loneliness experienced, taking facebook where consumers might have several hundred ‘friends’ who are merely acquaintances, with few solid friendships, while there is pressure to appear to have acquired huge numbers of ‘friends’ on social networks. To explore further into the loneliness of individuals, one in three households now have just one member compared with one in five in the 1970’s (BBC, 2004) this is known as the ‘meal for one’ society, more than half the meals eaten in the UK are now eaten alone. Traditional family unit is also becoming less common, with predictions indicating that in 2011 more than sixty percent of marriages will end in divorce (BBC, 2004). Weber discuses formal rationalisation of society as it becomes more industrialised and that this rationality is inevitable, the greater calculability required for rationalisation has affected greatly the consumer experie nce (Cohen & Kennedy, 2007), consumers – save for the wealthy classes, have an impersonal consumption experience. Self service check outs are a perfect example of this, once a shop keeper in the local store, would ring through and bag up your products now in the national and often multinational store, consumers ring through and bag up their own shopping. The systematic measured approach to contemporary life has created a predictable almost emotionless society, the consumption of university is a relevant example to the author, students are recognised by their identification number only, few if any university staff will know student’s names, no individuality between the students leaving students to display their personality and attachments through the conspicuous consumption of goods with symbolic meaning. Whereas the baby boomers will remember university involving debates with friendly tutors, with little care about appearances. This system creates greater efficiency, economic growth and  control of nature, the ‘iron cage’ describes this situation. However it does lead society towards the theories of Anomie and Alienation by Durkheim and Marx respectively. Calculability becomes an organising principle in the overall personality where ever more of our behaviour is informed by consistent logical expectations of human beings and of the environment. Spontaneity and surprise are experienced less and less in society, with calculability everything becomes increasingly predictable, unexpected events are planned for and avoided through policies and rules. The commoditisation of adventure is a good example of the disenchantment of society, Disneyland and all it represents takes the excitement out of spontaneity due to the ‘iron cage’ of functionalism and rationality. Weber sees class defined by income, (Cohen & Kennedy, 2007) explaining that classes form around market positions, amongst people who share similar life chances which is relevant to the differences seen in society today from that at 1900, social mobility much more fluid with government actively perusing policies pulling people up the class system. The theories of Marx, Durkheim and Weber are relevant to society today; Weber the youngest of the theorists has accurate concepts relating to the bureaucracy experienced in the post-industrial age which explain well the changing experiences of consumers. Durkheim’s theories on Anomie in relation to individualism and the breakdown of society while religions stability isn’t the answer are partially interesting in explaining how society consumes conspicuously, using products as social glue to find a place in society. Marx’s idea on Alienation of workers, as Anomie explains aspects of the consumer mindset today. The globalisation of business taking the class struggle Marx discuses around the world. The current economic climate demonstrates that capitalism has failings even if the least of these is disconnecting individuals from a more intrinsic and meaningful existences within society. â€Å"Capitalism simultaneously produces more goods and less effective demand to pay for them.† (Slater, D 1997) References Abercrombie, N (2006) Penguin Reference: Dictionary of Sociology. 5th Ed Pengin, London. P 235| Abercrombie, N (2006) Penguin Reference: Dictionary of Sociology. 5th Ed Pengin, London. P 360| Abercrombie, N et al (2006) Penguin Reference: Dictionary of Sociology. 5th Ed Pengin, London. P 14| Abercrombie, N et al (2006) Penguin Reference: Dictionary of Sociology. 5th Ed Pengin, London. P 18| Alibaba.com (2010) Search for Belt Buckles [Accessed on 19/11/2010] Available at: http://www.alibaba.com/Belt-Buckles_pid3391301| BBC News (2004) Portrait of the ‘meal for one’ society [Accessed on: 25/11/10] Available at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/3445091.stm| Buttler, C (2007) The Industrial Revolution. Flow of History.com [Accessed on: 22/11/10] Available at: http://www.flowofhistory.com/units/eme/17/FC0121| Cohen, R and Kennedy, P (2007) Global Sociology 2nd Ed. Palgrave Macmillan, Hampshire. P 300| Cohen, R and Kennedy, P (2007) Global Sociology 2nd Ed. Palgrave Macmill an, Hampshire. P 81| Cohen, R and Kennedy, P (2007) Global Sociology 2nd Ed. Palgrave Macmillan, Hampshire. P 94| Desmond, J (2003) Consuming Behaviour. Palgrave, Hampshire| Edwards, T (2000) Contradictions of Consumption: Concepts, practices and politics in consumer society. Open University Press, Buckingham| Lloyds.com (2009) Unsold cars face storage exposures [Accessed on: s19/11/2010] Available at: http://www.lloyds.com/News-and-Insight/News-and-Features/Market-news/Specialist-2009/Unsold_cars_face_storage_exposures| Miles, S (1998) Consumerism – as a way of life. London, Sage.| Plunkett, J (2010) Gardian.co.uk: X Factor steals the show with 13.6m viewers. [Accessed on 29/11/2010] Available at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2010/nov/29/x-factor-tv-ratings| Schmidt, R (2010) Functionalism and Consumption Lecture Notes. I know sorry, I just really liked the sentence.| Sekora, J (1977) Luxuary: The concept in western though. Eden to Smollet, Balimore. As quoted by Slater, D (1997) Consumer Culture and Modernity. Cambridge, Polity Press. P 176| Slater, D (1997) Consumer Culture and Modernity. Cambridge, Polity Press. P 175| Slater, D (1997) Consumer Culture and Modernity. Cambridge, Polity Press. P 176| Slater, D (1997) Consumer Culture and Modernity. Cambridge, Polity Press. P 181| Slater, D (1997) Consumer Culture and Modernity. Cambridge,

Thursday, October 10, 2019

Critical Care Sound Environments Health And Social Care Essay

ABSTRACT. Intensive attention units in infirmaries take attention of critically sick patients under really nerve-racking conditions. A turning literature is demoing that intensive attention units ( ICUs ) are frequently really noisy and frequently transcending World Health Organization ( WHO ) guidelines1,2. However few surveies have linked more elaborate analyses of the sound environment, such as mean sound force per unit area degrees, transient sound degrees, and spectral distribution, to nurse well-being and public presentation. This survey differs from old surveies in several ways. Namely, we have studied the possible impact of layout design applications on the features of ICU sound environments. This was accomplished by comparing the subjective and nonsubjective qualities of two ICU sound environments with different layout designs. Furthermore, the survey included: 1 ) detailed nonsubjective and subjective noise degree measurings at multiple locations in each of the two units st udied, and 2 ) analysis of the association between the aim and subjective noise degrees via different statistical trials, including analysis of the impact of the ICU sound environments on sensed nurse results.I. IntroductionThe sound environments of ICUs are aurally demanding while nurses endeavor to put to death complex undertakings. It hence becomes of import to understand the acceptable and unacceptable subjective and nonsubjective qualities of the ICU sound environments from the nurses` point of position. In this survey, we believe nurses ‘ perceptual experience of their workplace sound environment is critical for the rating of undertaking and nurse well-being supportive ICU sound environments. By matching the subjective perceptual experience measurings with nonsubjective sound degree measurings, we can derive a more thorough appreciation of how physical and perceptual acoustic parametric quantities interact in the ICU scene. In order to cast visible radiation on these con cerns, we focused on the undermentioned research inquiries in this comparative research survey: 1 ) Do nonsubjective noise degrees differ: ( a ) between assorted locations within an single critical attention unit? ( B ) when comparing similar locations in the two critical attention units to each other? ( degree Celsius ) when comparing overall ( mean ) degrees in the two critical attention units to each other? ; 2 ) Do nurses` noise-induced irritation and loudness perceptual experience differ: ( a ) between assorted locations within an single critical attention unit? ( B ) when comparing similar locations in the two critical attention units to each other? ; 3 ) Does the sensed impact of overall noise degrees in the workplace on subjective nurse wellbeing and work public presentation differ when comparing two units to each other? ; 4 ) Is there a relationship between aim and subjective noise degrees? ; 5 ) Is there a relationship between noise degrees and noise-induced nurse results? II. PREVIOUS RESEARCHA. Overview of Hospital Acousticss1. ResultsThe acoustic environment in infirmaries can impact all residents, including staff, patients, and visitants. The undermentioned treatment in relation to the focal point of this survey is largely limited to the effects of noise on staff members: emphasis and irritation ; work public presentation ; wellness results and work overload. Information about how hospital acoustics may impact patients and visitants can be found in beginnings such as Bush-Vishniac et Al. 2 and Ryherd et al.3. The staff ‘s well-being, efficiency and effectivity in presenting attention and executing critical undertakings is critical to maximise patient safety, satisfaction, and attention quality in ICUs. Stress-annoyance: Intensive care unit are nerve-racking attention scenes that can be exacerbated by the centripetal overload caused by environmental factors, including the acoustic environment. Stress is the person ‘s assessment of a mis match between perceived demand and perceived self-capabilities to get by 4. Depending on the badness and continuance, it may take to illness ( i.e. , elevated blood force per unit area, dyspepsia ) , behavioural alterations ( i.e, unhappiness, depression, negative attitudes ) . Anxiety is a psychological responses to environmental stimulations or activity bring forthing rousing 5. Excessive anxiousness degrees can take to upsets. Like anxiousness, irritation is one of the early psychological responses which reflects the unwantedness of the environment stimuli 6. Irritation relates to the invasion of a stimulation on a mental or physical activity. In one survey, higher mean sound force per unit area degrees predicted higher sensed emphasis, and perceived irritation degrees in a Pediatric-ICU 7. In another survey, less sensitiveness to resound and greater personality robustness ( such as committedness, control, and challenge ) were linked with less noise-induced emphasis 8. In the same survey, ICUs nurses working eight-hour eventide displacements reported that they were significantly distressed by noise. There is some grounds that high noise degrees in attention scenes contribute to staff emphasis and irritation. However, the figure of noise-induced nurse emphasis surveies conducted in the ICUs is really limited. Work public presentation: Hospital sound environments that are supportive of infirmary undertakings could potentially better staff effectivity in presenting attention. Improved nurse work public presentation in ICUs can forestall inauspicious events, better health care quality, and optimise resource use. The survey fou nd that noise in the workplace was perceived to hold a negative impact on staff work public presentation and concentration 3. A Neonatal-ICU survey showed that sound that exceeds 55dBA most of the clip can potentially interfere with work. This multidisciplinary literature reappraisal survey highlighted that undertakings necessitating rapid reaction clip and watchfulness are sensitive to resound. Noise-induced work public presentation research has been more normally conducted in the operating theatres 9-11. The impact of noise on staff public presentation ( particularly in ICUs ) has non been widely examined. Health results: The acoustic environment throughout the infirmary may lend to negative ague or chronic symptoms in staff. Critical attention nursing is a really demanding occupation and it requires uninterrupted watchfulness, watchfulness, and wellbeing to carry on critical undertakings efficaciously. The survey found that of the 47 ICU nurses surveyed in an ICU, reported annoya nce, weariness and concerns due to workplace noise 3. The earlier mentioned survey besides showed that addition in mean sound degrees was significantly related to an addition in bosom rate 7. Elevated bosom rate can tie in with cardiovascular harm particularly in hypertensive persons 12. Noise-induced hearing loss has been the concern for executing sawboness in the operating theatres 13,14. However, noise-induced wellness results ( including hearing loss ) of ICU nurses` have non yet been the focal point of hospital noise literature. Work overload: Work overload can be critically of import for overall wellbeing of staff. Poor acoustical conditions in workplaces can worsen staff attitude and perceived work overload. When noise degrees exceed a nurse ‘s get bying abilities it can take to centripetal overload 6. Centripetal overload can do emotional exhaustion, dissatisfaction, and decreased sense of personal achievement. This in bend can do feelings of ineffectualness, awkwardne ss, low satisfaction, and perceived deficiency of success 15. In one survey, it was found that medicine mistake and other inauspicious events necessary for patient safety were associated with emotional exhaustion and staff burnout 16. In another survey it was besides found that nurse emphasis due to ICU noise was positively related to nurse emotional exhaustion and burnout17. Hagerman et Al. showed that in a coronary bosom unit enhanced acoustical conditions such as decreased echo clip and improved address intelligibility improved staff attitude perceived by patients 18. The limited bing grounds points to a important job that should be investigated farther to find appropriate acoustic conditions that will minimise negative work overload effects.2. Acoustic prosodiesThere is a turning organic structure of literature on infirmary noise. Many of those surveies focus on qualifying overall noise degrees in a assortment of hospital infinites including ICU ‘s, but few of them focuses specifically on ICU staff response 3. A assortment of different methods have been used in qualifying the infirmary sound environment. The grounds of these methodological analysis differences are non good known 3 but may be related to motivations such as single penchants, practicality, common sense, convenience, the degree of proficient expertness, etc. ( 1 ) Overall noise degree steps: These steps have been preferred most normally. This may be based on their practicality and convenience, in add-on to their incorporation into assorted guidelines such as WHO. Leq, Lmin, Lmax and Lpeak sound degrees can supply a general overview of the sound environment, but they remain limited for the elaborate analysis of the sound environment. ( a ) Leq: It enables the speedy comparing of the noise degrees with recommended values and those in other types of infinites. Therefore, it might be widely accepted as to be the primary step to depict a sound environment. This might besides happen in relatio n to the degree of proficient expertness required to show some penetration about more elaborate features of the sound environment. However, this common belief can be misdirecting about the truth and adequateness of the usage of chiefly Leq degrees. ( B ) Lmax, Lpeak and Lmin: The highest and the lowest values measured over clip provide more information about the overall noise degree fluctuations. In most instances, these steps are conventionally used to depict infirmary sound environments. However, these values remain unidimensional and level to depict the general tendency in sound environment. ( 2 ) Detailed noise degree steps: To counterbalance the restrictions of the overall sound steps, the usage of extra acoustic prosodies is critical for the elaborate analysis of the sound environment. Compared to above mentioned sound steps, Ln percentile ( Ln ) , echo clip ( RT ) , speech intelligibility ( SI ) , and the spectral content such as frequence analysis and noise standards steps h ave been less normally used. Hospital acoustic research has been the involvement of different research groups such as medical groups and proficient groups. Based on the group ‘s proficient expertness on the subject, some acoustic prosodies might hold been preferred to the others. ( a ) Sound quality related steps: In the ICUs, there is diverseness of noise beginnings such as dismaies, HVAC systems, conversation and medical equipment. Those noise beginnings generate noises with different frequences and sound forms. Ln percentiles and spectral content analysis become of import for elaborate analysis of fluctuations, tonic content, spectral distribution, and other features in the noise degrees over clip. ( B ) Speech quality related steps: Some other specific features of the infirmary room acoustic environment have been described with the usage of extra acoustic prosodies such as SI and RT. To construe the intervention of the infirmary noise degrees and room conditions with criti cal medical communications, SI has been used. To stand for the degree of drawn-out being of noises that can perchance overlap and interfere or dissemble the other sounds, RT has been used.3. Measuring ICU sound environmentsMethods applied during the sound sample aggregations can hold important impact on the appraisal of the infirmary sound environments. There has non been a widely accepted understanding about how the sound samples should be collected to qualify the complex and dynamic ICU sound environments in close propinquity to occupant experience 3. However there has been some consensus on a few methodological considerations among different ICU-noise surveies such as locations where sound informations collected in the attention scenes. Noise degrees in the ICU patient suites have been normally documented. Sound recordings took topographic point either in a representative patient room 3,19,20 or in more than one patient room with different characteristics such as distance to the nurse station, occupied-empty, figure of patient beds 2,7,21-28. There was a good understanding on the location of the sound metre: every bit near as possible to patient caput – to capture what the patient hears- while avoiding any intervention with nurse work flow. Hanging the mike from the top of the medical tower in the patient room has been introduced as a practical solution 3. Different continuances were preferred for the aggregation of sound samples such as 168hr, 72hr, 24hr, and 8hr at patient locations. Among those, 24hr entering period was more widely accepted than others. A few ICU-noise surveies have conducted different continuance noise degree measurings at the nurse Stationss such as 24hr and 168hr 2,26,27. Busch-Vishniac et Al. described the sound environment of one more puting – hallways- in their survey and placed the metre at the room centre 2. Largely the merchandises of two companies have been preferred to mensurate sound degrees: Larson Davis and Br uel & A ; Kj?r. It was non a common attack to document the sound metre scenes used. Much of the noise degree measurings were conducted based on slow response clip ( 1sec ) as suggested by Occupational Safety and Health ( OSHA ) for typical occupational noise measurings 2,28,29. Some surveies used fast response clip ( 0.125sec ) as suggested by WHO 3,21. When recorded based on fast response clip, more fluctuations can be expected in the sound degrees. The penchants among averaging intervals varied and ranged between 5sec and 24hr ( i.e. 30sec, 1min, 5minaˆÂ ¦etc. ) . Among ICU-noise surveies the usage of 1min averaging interval was more common likely because it enables a more elaborate expression to the clip history informations. Sound recordings were normally analyzed as a map of clip. Day clip and dark clip mean sound degrees were normally reported. Among the reviewed ICU-noise surveies, non many of them were conducted during the weekends but during the weekdays. Morrison et A l. and Ryherd et Al. considered twenty-four hours and dark clip based on 12s hr nurse displacements ( twenty-four hours time:7am-7pm ; dark clip: 7pm-7am ) 3,7. MacKenzie and Galbrun considered the twenty-four hours and dark clip periods based on WHO guidelines ( 16hour twenty-four hours time:7am-11pm ; 8hr dark time:11pm-7am ) 21. In drumhead, consistence of the methodological penchants in infirmary acoustics research can be really helpful for the dependability of the comparings between the consequences of different surveies.III. METHODOLOGYPutingThe research was conducted in two intensive attention units ( ICU ) at Emory University Hospital. Neurological ICU ( Neuro-ICU ) is a late opened 20- bed unit ( Fig. 2 ) . This unit received the â€Å" ICU Design Citation † award in 2008 for its design purpose to heighten the critical attention environment for patients, households and clinicians. Some unit design features include big private patient suites with household studio, dis trusted nurse work countries and care support countries and a scope of noise cut downing applications. High public presentation absorbent acoustic ceiling tiles and bead ceiling applications reside chiefly along the two parallel sides of the corridors and at the nurse Stationss, painted dry wall, vinyl flooring and 6ft broad ( two-wing ) glass patient room doors are some of the surface applications in the unit. Patient attention nucleus of the Neuro-ICU sits about on 19,000sqft. This nursing floor has a bunch type layout. The layout is composed of a six- bed and fourteen- bed bunchs. Each bunch has a cardinal nurse station with its ain attention support countries ( e.g. medicine room, supply roomaˆÂ ¦etc ) and computerized patient monitoring system. In entire, the unit has two cardinal nurse Stationss and 17 distributed nurse work countries. Approximately one-third of the 390sqft patient room is segregated from the patient attention country by a semi-opaque glass wall and good equipped for household demands. Approximately one-third of the patient attention nucleus floor country is occupied by the corridors. The length of the corridors is 600ft. Entire Neuro-ICU includes extra infinites such as public household countries, CT scan lab, and a curative garden. With all these infinites, the entire Neuro-ICU sits about on 24,000sqft. The Medical Surgical ICU ( MedSurg-ICU ) is a 1980s epoch twenty-bed unit ( Fig. 1 ) . Compared to the other unit, MedSurg-ICU has a more traditional physical environment with ceiling tile, vinyl flooring, 5ft broad ( two-wing ) glass patient door and painted dry wall surface applications. Patient attention nucleus of this unit sits about on 8,800sqft. The nursing floor has a triangular form race path layout design – medical and support countries are located in the centre and patient suites are located on the margin and the corridor separates these two infinite types. Twenty private patient suites are organized around one big triangular form service hub. This hub contains two patient monitoring cores – each serves to ten patients- at the corners and a centralised attention support country. Patient suites in this unit are about 190sqft and equipped with a Television like the patient suites in the other unit. This peculiar layout type requires the usage of unintegrated co rridors for staff and household members. Approximately, one-quarter of the patient attention nucleus floor country is occupied by the staff corridor. The length of the staff corridor is 240ft. Entire MedSurg ICU including the household corridor environing the unit, sits about on 12,500sqft. In contrast to the physical environment differences, both units apply similar staffing theoretical accounts with intensivists and nurse practicians and suit critical attention patients with similar sharp-sightedness degrees. In both units, by and large ten to twelve registered nurses are working during each displacement. The Neuro-ICU nurses largely work 12-hr displacements ( 7am-7pm, 7pm-7am ) ; the MedSurg-ICU nurses besides work 8-hr displacements ( 7am-3pm, 3pm-11pm, and 11pm-7am ) . In both units, nurses can work either at the weekend or during the weekdays or both ; during the twenty-four hours clip or dark clip or both.Measures1. SoundObjective and subjective noise degree measurings in two units were conducted during two back-to-back months. In both units, same processs were applied. Objective noise degree measurings were conducted at four different locations in each unit: centralised nurse station, empty patient room, occupied patient suites with and without respiratory venti lator and multiple informations points in the corridors. A sum of 96-hr uninterrupted stationary noise degree measuring was conducted at the nurse station of each unit from Thursday to Monday. Saturday and Sunday was deliberately included as it has non been much addressed in the literature. In each unit, 24-hr uninterrupted stationary sound degree measurings were conducted in the occupied patient suites without respiratory ventilator during a weekday. In relation to limited entree, merely 45-min sound samples were collected from the occupied patient suites with respiratory ventilator. Similarly in each unit, 45-min uninterrupted stationary sound degree measuring was conducted an empty patient room while patient room doors were closed. At the corridors, multiple 15-min sound samples were collected at indiscriminately selected times during twenty-four hours and dark. In entire, about 246-hr sound informations was collected from both units. For the computation of overall noise degrees in each unit, all sound informations collected at different locations were taken into consideration. Medical equipment dismaies happening in the patient suites, patient proctor dismaies happening both in the patient suites and at the nurse Stationss, sound of the ice machine engine, phone ring, staff conversation, turn overing medical carts in the corridors were some of the common noises in two units. In MedSurg-ICU nurses are paged via overhead beepers. In Neuro-ICU 3G-phones or regular phones at the baies are used alternatively. At the corridors, the mike was located at a tallness of 4.5ft somewhat off the room centre and stabilized on a tripod. In the patient room, the mike was hanged from the ceiling at a tallness of 6ft. The distance between the patient ‘s caput and the mike was minimized every bit much as possible. Similarly, mike was hanged from the ceiling at the nurse station at a tallness of 6ft. In Neuro-ICU, the sound metre was set up at the nurse station of fourteen-bed side. In MedSurg-ICU, sound metre was located at somewhat off the centre of the cardinal nurse work zone in the centre of the unit. Sound information was collected utilizing a fast response clip for upper limit and lower limit degrees ( 0.125 s ) as recommended by World Health Organization ( Berglund and Lindvall 1999 ) . Three Larson Davis-type 824 sound degree metres were used and collected informations was downloaded via Larson Davis 824 Utility package. For unattended field measurings, two Lockable Larson Davis outdoor me asurement instances were used. . For safety intents, 50ft mike extension overseas telegram was run from each outdoor sound metre instance to the walls and eventually to the mark point on the ceiling. The out-of-door noise measuring instance was placed carefully at a topographic point out of the nurse manner. Before any installing effort, proposed locations for the arrangement of sound metre at different locations in the units were approved by the charge nurse. One-minute averaging interval was used. One-third octave set informations was obtained. The dynamic scope was 80dB un-weighted from floor-38dB to overload-118dB.2. Self-reportAn electronic study was administered to 90 and 60 five registered nurses working in Neuro-ICU and MedSurg-ICU severally. Nurses were contacted via electronic mail by the nurse pedagogue of each unit and they gave their consents online. The study consisted of four subdivisions: nurse profile and working conditions, perceived sound environment in the workpl ace, perceived impact of noise degrees on nurse results, general hearing wellness and noise sensitiveness. Survey response rate was 39 % and 35 % in Neuro-ICU and MedSurg-ICU severally. In Neuro-ICU, 85 % of the nurses participated in the survey was full clip and 15 % was portion clip nurses. In MedSurg-ICU, 70 % of the nurses participated in the survey was full clip ; 26 % was portion clip and the remainder was PRN. In two units more than 80 % of the nurse population was female. Similarly, in both units more than 80 % of the nurses were younger than fifty old ages old.IV. ResultA. Objective noise degrees1. Make nonsubjective noise degrees differ when comparing overall ( mean ) degrees in the two critical attention units to each other?Noise degrees measured at multiple different locations in each unit are averaged for the computation overall noise degrees including Leq ( assumed name ) , Lmax ( dubnium ) , Lpeak ( dBC ) and Lmin ( dubnium ) . Those locations are: nurse station empty patient room, corridors and occupied patient suites with and without the respiratory ventilator. To clear up, in order to spread out the sample size, measurings conducted in the occupied patient room with ventilator were besides considered in the computation of overall noise degrees for each unit. In MedSurg ICU and Neuro-ICU overall averaged Leq, LMax, LMin and LPeak noise degrees ranged between 57-58dBA, 105-97dB, 57.5-54dB, and 120-113dBC severally. Detailed consequences are shown in Fig. 2. For elucidation intents, in this paper the term â€Å" averaged † does non reflect the calculation methods used but refers to the consideration of multiple measurings in the computation of individual noise degree. More elaborate analysis consequences are shown in Fig. 3. This chart represents the per centum of clip that different degree unprompted sounds ( LFMax ) in the scenes exceeded peculiar noise degrees. This type analysis consequences are referred as â€Å" happening rate â₠¬  in this paper. In both units more than 98 % of the clip LMax noise degrees exceeded 70dB. It was more than 96 % of clip that LPeak noise degrees exceeded 80dBC in both units. Finally, it is possible to reason, the difference between overall averaged LAeq degrees in Neuro-ICU and MedSurg ICU are unperceivable. Information about perceptual experience of alteration in sound intensivity can be found in Mehta et al 30. However elaborate noise degree measurings indicated significant differences. The sound environments of two units are different based on the happening rate of the impulse sounds at high noise degrees.2. Make nonsubjective noise degrees differ when comparing similar locations in the two critical attention units to each other?A-weighted mean sound force per unit area degrees ranged between 52-60dB and 45-56 dubnium at four different locations in MedSurg-ICU and Neuro-ICU severally ( Fig. 4 ) . Those four locations were nurse station, occupied patient room without respirat ory ventilator, empty patient room and the corridor. In both units, patients with respiratory failure are connected to respiratory ventilator and most of those patients are under isolation which restricts the entries and activities in the patient suites. It was possible to carry on comprehensive measurings in the patient room without respiratory ventilator. Therefore, measurings conducted in the occupied patient room without respiratory ventilator was considered for location particular more elaborate noise degree analysis. At all four locations, LMax degrees exceeded 70dB about full clip in both units. Except empty patient room, at all other locations LMax noise degrees exceeded 80dB more than 36 % of the clip In MedSurg ICU and 11 % of the clip in Neuro-ICU. In general, noise degrees and happening rate of high degree impulse sounds was higher in MedSurg-ICU. Average sound force per unit area degree ( LAeq ) differences between nurse Stationss, occupied patient suites and the corrid ors of two units were either unperceivable or merely perceptible ( Fig. 4 ) . However LAeq noise degree difference between two units` empty patient suites was significant. LMax happening rates were dramatically different from each at other locations. Happening rates occurred at the nurse Stationss are shown in Fig. 5 as an illustration. However LMax happening rates did non differ dramatically in the empty patient suites ( Fig. 6 ) . LPeak happening rate analysis showed really similar consequences to LMax happening rate consequences.3. Make nonsubjective noise degrees differ between assorted locations within an single critical attention unit?In MedSurg-ICU and Neuro-ICU, overall noise degrees and happening rates of impulse sounds was much lower in the empty patient suites compared to other locations ( Table I ) . Occurrence rate of LPeak & gt ; 90dBC was systematically higher at the nurse station compared to other locations in both units. However, noise degree differences between nur se station and other locations were non ever perceptible based on differences between A-weighted Leq degrees.B. Subjective noise degrees1. Make nurses` noise-induced irritation and loudness perceptual experience differ between assorted locations within an single critical attention unit?In MedSurg-ICU, perceived loudness degrees at the nurse station were significantly higher ( p & lt ; 0.05 higher ) than other three locations harmonizing to nonparametric significance trial consequences. Average degrees of subjective irritation and volume are shown in Table II. Similarly, in Neuro-ICU perceived volume and irritation degrees in the empty patient room were significantly less ( P & lt ; .05 ) than other three locations.2. Make nurses` noise-induced irritation and loudness perceptual experience differ when comparing similar locations in the two critical attention units to each other?At all four locations – the nurse station, in the empty and occupied patient room and at the corrido rs perceived irritation and volume degrees of MedSurg-ICU nurses were systematically higher than the sensed degrees reported by Neuro-ICU nurses ( Table II ) . MedSurg ICU nurses perceptual experience of noise-induced irritation and volume at four locations ranged between 2.25 and 4.1.Same sensed degrees ranged between 1.6 and 3.2 among Neuro-ICU nurses. Additionally, nonparametric Mann-Whitney U trial consequences showed that noise-induced irritation and loudness perceptual experiences of nurses at the nurse Stationss and in the empty patient suites was significantly different in two units. Two unit nurses` sensitiveness to resound and tolerance to high noise degrees in the workplace did non differ significantly ( p & gt ; .05 ) . Overall, nurses were non really sensitive to resound and they could digest high noise degrees slightly.3. Does the sensed impact of overall noise degrees in the workplace on subjective nurse wellbeing and work public presentation differ when comparing two units to each other?A ­Perceived negative impact of workplace noise degree on five nurse result was reported higher by MedSurg-ICU nurses compared to Neuro-ICU nurses. MedSurg-ICU and Neuro-ICU nurses` responses ranged between 3-4.3 and 1.7-3 severally ( Table III ) . Overall, MedSurg-ICU sound environment was perceived systematically worse for nurse well-being and work public presentation compared to Neuro-ICU sound environment. Harmonizing to nonparametric significance trial consequences, all perceived five noise-induced nurse results differed significantly in two units.C. Correlations1. Is at that place a relationship between aim and subjective noise degrees?Spearman nonparametric correlativity trial was used to analyse the relationship between aim and subjective noise degrees. Overall and individually analyzed MedSurg-ICU and Neuro-ICU subjective and nonsubjective noise degrees systematically represent the being of a important relationship between subjective and nonsubjective noise degrees ( Table IV ) . Subjective noise-induced irritation and volume degrees are significantly and positively correlated with A-weighted mean sound force per unit area degrees and happening rate of impulse sounds happening at high degrees.2. Is at that place a relationship between noise degrees and noise-induced nurse results?Overall, subjective volume degrees are significantly and positively correlated with sensed noise-induced irritation, work public presentation, wellness and anxiousness ( p & lt ; .01 ) .D. Spectral content1. Frequency distribution of noise degreesOverall, sound force per unit area degrees were higher in MedSurg-ICU at low, mid and high frequence scopes ( 250Hz-8kHz ) ( Fig. 7 ) . At all locations but empty patient room, noise degree differences across frequences were largely either merely perceptible or unperceivable. At 8kHz clearly noticeable noise degree differences occurred between two unit nurse Stationss and occupied patient suites. At 250Hz and 5 00Hz, clearly noticeable and significant noise degree differences occurred between empty patient suites. Below 250Hz, sound force per unit area degrees were largely higher in Neuro-ICU ( Fig. 8 ) . In the empty and occupied patient room, noise degree differences at 16Hz were significant otherwise it was either merely perceptible or clearly noticeable. This happening might be related with the busyness noise generated by the HVAC engine located in the unfastened infinite in Neuro-ICU. This unfastened infinite about located in the centre of the unit and is non accessible by the residents but included in the design to supply natural visible radiation for some patient suites.2. Room Criteria ( RC ) analysisIn MedSurg-ICU, RC values were higher. However, RC evaluations were largely hissy and vibrational in Neuro-ICU while it was chiefly impersonal and non vibrational in MedSurg-ICU ( Table V ) .E. Fluctuation clipF. Speech Interference LevelIn general, speech intervention degrees in MedSu rg-ICU were higher at all four locations analyzed compared to Neuro-ICU. At the nurse Stationss, address intervention degrees ( SIL ) of the noise were highest and ranged between 50-53dB ( Table VI ) . Two female nurses will be able to ( hardly ) communicate with each other in normal voice up to a distance of about 3-4ft. Same distance ranged between 5.5-7.5ft if nurses raise their voices. Slightly lower SIL values occurred in the occupied patient room and in the corridors. Lower SIL degrees can enable safer communications from longer distances. Furthermore, compared to females, males in general are able to pass on better at longer distances.G. HVAC background noise degreesBackground noise degrees caused by HVAC systems were calculated based on steady 15-min sound samples collected in the empty patient suites. Sound force per unit area degrees across three frequences ( 500Hz, 1000Hz, 2000Hz ) were averaged every minute. In Neuro-ICU, HVAC noise degrees in the patient room were accep table harmonizing to American Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers ( ASHRAE ) recommended RC values, 25-35dB in the private suites 31. In Neuro-ICU, RC values ranged between 29-31dB. In MedSurg-ICU HVAC noise degrees in the patient room were higher than ASHRAE recommended values and ranged between 37-38dB in MedSurg-ICU.V. DISCUSSIONOne of the purposes of this survey is to lend to the on-going attempts to better health care sound environments. These attempts can enable more comprehensive analysis of helter-skelter health care sound environments. The survey findings discussed in this subdivision can supply some penetration for the appraisal of the bing and development of intelligence acoustic prosodies that might be necessary for more elaborate survey of the infirmary sound environments.1. Appraisal of overall ( mean ) vs. elaborate noise degree steps and their relation to subjective noise degreesOverall nonsubjective sound environment of two units were sig nificantly different based on elaborate noise degree measurings. Happening rate analysis is referred as elaborate noise degree measuring as it reflects the behaviour of impulse sounds during every minute. Statistically important differences between subjective noise-induced nurse results and loudness perceptual experience of MedSurg-ICU and Neuro-ICU nurses were consistent with the important differences between happening rates of impulse sounds ( LFMax, LCPeak ) that occurred at high degrees. Furthermore, nonparametric correlativity coefficient trial consequences indicated the being of a important and positive relationship between perceived irritation and volume degrees and happening rates of impulse sounds. However, overall noise degree measurings ( i.e LFMax, LCPeak, LFMin, LAeq ) particularly overall mean sound force per unit area degree did non bespeak perceptible differences between the sound environment of two units. Similarly, elaborate nonsubjective noise degree measurings be sides suggested important differences when comparing similar unprompted sound environments ( i.e. nurse station, occupied patient room and corridors ) in two units. Unlike detailed measurement consequences, overall mean sound force per unit area degree differences indicated either merely perceptible or unperceivable differences between similar locations in two units.2. Appraisal of stationary vs. unprompted sound environments and their relation to subjective noise degreesLocation specific subjective noise degree analysis ( i.e. perceived noise degrees at the nurse Stationss, in the empty and occupied patient suites and corridors ) indicated that MedSurg-ICU nurses` noise-induced irritation and loudness perceptual experiences were systematically higher than Neuro-ICU nurses` perceptual experiences. Particularly, subjective irritation and volume degrees differed significantly at the nurse Stationss and in the empty patient suites of two units. Nurse Stationss have unprompted sound env ironments where major sound beginnings are medical dismaies, telephone ring, staff laugh and talkaˆÂ ¦etc. Subjective noise degree differences between two unit nurse Stationss were consistent with important differences between happening rates of impulse sounds ( LFMax, LCPeak ) at the nurse Stationss. Unlike nurse Stationss, doors closed empty patient suites have stationary sound environments where chief noise beginning was the HVAC system. This clip, subjective differences between two unit empty patient suites were consistent with important differences between A-weighted mean sound force per unit area degrees measured in the empty patient suites. Furthermore, nonparametric correlativity coefficient trial consequences indicated the being of a important and positive relationship between perceived irritation and volume degrees and mean sound force per unit area degrees.3. Fluctuation clip and subjective noise degrees4. Features of infirmary sound environments and layout design ap plicationsAbove mentioned consequences confirms the earlier findings that suggest the being of a relationship between aim and subjective noise degrees. The theoretical account reviewed here suggests that different infirmary layout design applications can chair the relationship between aim and subjective noise degrees. Two unit nurses reported sensed effectivity of different layout design applications to cut down noise degrees based on their experiences and observations. Overall, three chief layout design applications were found effectual. Those were private patient suites, segregated corridor system and a unit with baies and centralised nurse station instead than a unit with merely centralised nurse station32. Private patient suites can diminish sensed complexness of the patient room sound environment as there are less noise beginnings in single-bed suites than multi-bed suites. In MedSurg-ICU, cardinal nurse station is a common-use workplace and at most times it is extremely popula ted by nurses for coaction, single work and telecommunication intents. Higher patient bend over rates ( new admittances and conveyances ) in MedSurg-ICU besides requires extra paper work to be done at the nurse station. In Neuro-ICU, nurses largely collaborate, work separately and telecommunicate at the de-central nurse Stationss. They visit the centralised nurse station for registering patient medical records, utilizing common resources such as copy-fax machine. Segregation of corridors used by household members and staff members can command riotous breaks by household members. On the other manus, household members can get down a insouciant conversation with staff members anytime while voyaging in the shared corridors. One of the chief noise beginnings in the health care scenes are conversations. Based on researchers` observation, the physical distance between the nurse Stationss or patient monitoring nucleuss can lend to the sensed frequence of the unprompted noise happenings. In this survey noise degree and happening rate of impulse sounds found to be critical for nurses` volume and irritation perceptual experience. In MedSurg-ICU, physical distance between two patient monitoring nucleuss ( from centre to centre ) was 48ft. In Neuro-ICU, same distance between two centralised nurse Stationss was 118ft. Distribution of noise beginnings based on layout constellation can escalate complexness of the perceived sound environment33. MedSurg-ICU race path layout design offers a more compact physical environment while Neuro-ICU bunch layout design provides more broad physical environment.5. Spectral content of the sound environment vs. subjective noise degreesStatistically important subjective noise degree differences between two unit nurse Stationss were non consistent with merely perceptible differences between RC values. However, more elaborate frequence analysis showed that clearly perceptible higher noise degrees occurred at 8kHz at MedSurg-ICU nurse station. Th is happening can be related with unprompted ( high noise degrees at high frequences ) nature of sound environment at the nurse Stationss. Statistically important subjective noise degree differences between two unit empty patient suites were consistent with clearly perceptible differences between RC values. This relationship can be explained by the steady nature of the sound environment in the empty patient suites. And this happening can besides foreground the dominancy of noise degrees at mid frequences in nurses` irritation and loudness perceptual experience in steady sound environments.VI. DecisionIn healthcare acoustics literature, it is widely accepted that noise degrees in critical attention scenes are really loud and raging. This survey agrees with this decision and reminds that features of different ICU sound environments can change drastically. Some of those differences are highlighted via elaborate comparative noise degree analysis between two units in this survey. Impulsiv eness ( high happening rate at high noise degrees ) degree of an ICU sound environment is suggested to be one of the chief indexs of sensed noise-induced nurse results and nurses` volume perceptual experience. At specific locations in the unit that have with steady sound environments, higher mean sound force per unit area degrees relates better to nurse irritation and volume degrees. Spectral content of the sound environment might besides be related with nurse irritation and loudness perceptual experience. Lower perceived noise-induced work public presentation can be expected in the units with higher address intervention degrees. Furthermore noise degrees at specific locations in the unit can be acoustically more debatable than the others where focussed intercessions can be necessary. For diagnosing of these possible conditions, conductivity of elaborate noise degree measurings at multiple different locations in the unit might be of import. During and after location specific noise d egree analysis, it might be good to oppugn whether peculiar acoustic metric used represents the general feature of the sound environment studied and observed. It might be critically of import for hospital decision makers to take enterprises for cut downing unprompted noise beginnings in ICUs such as reconsideration of dismay scenes that most times do n't match to exigency degree of the incidence, integrating of higher engineering for paging health professionals such as 3G-phones and avoiding overhead beepers. It might be critical for designers to see the recent technological progresss in HVAC systems to assist bettering occupant results. The sate-of-the-art HVAC system application in Neuro-ICU offers significantly less bothersome and quieter ( clearly perceptible ) sound environment in the patient suites compared to the HVAC noise generated by the older edifice system in MedSurg-ICU. In add-on to the application of technological progresss, strategic arrangement of the HVAC engine an d its insularity from the edifice construction can be critically of import to avoid possible feelable quivers and noises happening at really low frequences. Finally, in add-on to conventional acoustic intercessions ( i.e. absorbent surface stuff applications ) , some layout design considerations can besides be critical for the formation and consideration of the health care sound environments get downing from the early design stages.RecognitionsThis work has been partly supported by ASHRAE Graduate Student Grant-In-Aid. We appreciate GaTech Healthcare Acoustics squad members` partnership. We are thankful to Emory University and Dr. Owen Samuels for his advice. We are besides grateful to nurse pedagogues Ann Huntley and Mary Still, registered nurses Tim Rice and Anya Freeman and to all Neuro-ICU and MedSurg ICU nurses, patients and household members for their uninterrupted aid and forbearance during noise degree measurings in the units.