Mac Vs. PC Essay

â€Å"The biggest ongoing discussion has to be the one that’s dominated the technological world for well over two decades: the Mac vs Pc debate† (Intel.com). Many have debated that Pc is better than Mac while others have debated Mac is better than Pc. Only a few have said that it depends on what it’s used for. If only we had more insight to both sides of Mac and Pc. Many people pick a computer based on what they are used for to and don’t find the computer that’s right for them. Others don’t find out the facts about each computer and just go with the cheapest because it’s cheap, even though they would be getting a cheap computer it can still be the wrong kind of computer for them, plus it wouldn’t work to their advantage. Before reading this you have to dismiss the ideas you had about Mac’s and Pc’s. If you put aside what you think you know about Pc, and Mac you will understand what computer is best for you. â€Å" Mac is a line of personal (PCs) designed, developed, and marketed by Inc. It was initially targeted mainly at the home, education, and creative professional markets. Since the introduction of the Macintosh, the computer has seen significant evolution now making it one of, if not the most powerful general-purpose computers on the market. It now targets the business, science, and law markets as well.† â€Å"Microsoft Windows is a series of graphical interface operating systems developed, marketed, and sold by Microsoft. Microsoft introduced an operating named Windows on November 20, 1985 as a graphical operating system shell for MS-DOS in response to the growing interest in graphical user interfaces (GUI).[4] Microsoft Windows came to dominate the world’s computer market with over 90% market share, overtaking Mac OS, which had been introduced in 1984.† The most important part of both computer systems is the cold hard facts between each other. The statistics of Mac and Pc vary depending on the website or article one finds. For example, on Computer Hope, they say that Mac wins at security, operating system, quality, boot time, and drivers while Pc wins at price, software, options for customizing, upgrades, gaming and repair. However some of the main differences are that Pc’s are not all the same, while some Apple Macs can now run windows, and if you’re looking at Windows XP it is not the same as Windows 7, or 8. Some other websites give more examples and reason in explaining with no bias opinion or clear winner and leave it to the user.  With the information of cost, popular applications, development and distribution, compatibility, gaming, supported architectures, user, virus attacks, system software, performance, repairs, programs and apps, privacy, customizability, messaging, and interface. According to Hongkiat.com the computer that is more successful can not be decided but, â€Å"To put it in easier te rms; Microsoft sold it’s operating systems to various computer companies, allowing a broad distribution for its operating systems. As a result, Microsoft is more popular than other operating systems in the market. Meanwhile, Apple has strictly designed their operating system to fit perfectly in their own hardware.† Mac is the new laptop/computer that has changed the minds of many into leaving the ways of the Pc. Is Mac really better than Pc? This debate has been on the minds of many, but the real question is, is the Mac better than Pc? According to the Ultimate Lab test article on Popular Mechanics.com, Mac is the winner of both desktops and laptops. After the test between both the website came to the conclusion that â€Å"In both the laptop and desktop showdowns, Apple’s computers were the winners. Oddly, the big difference didn’t come in our user ratings, where we expected the famously friendly Mac interface to shine. Our respondents liked the look and feel of both operating systems but had a slight preference toward OS X. In our speed trials, however, Leopard OS trounced Vista in all-important tasks such as boot-up, shutdown and program-launch times. We even tested Vista on the Macs using Apple’s platform-switching Boot Camp software—and found that both Apple computers ran Vista faster than our PCs did.† Techrater.com states that â€Å"Apple has had a head start when it comes to designing slim, sexy and powerful laptops but it is nice to see that Windows-based notebooks are finally catching up. If money (and platform) is no object, the MBP is probably the better choice given that it can be upgraded to an even more powerful beast.† Some people can’t do a lot of research before buying a Mac, there are five reasons why Mac is better than Pc. On KSL.com there are five reasons why Mac is better than Pc. The first reason is that Macs are easier to use, for instance the Mac in a way hides a lot of things that don’t usually need to be seen, so finding apps is easier. Second is that Macs just work, and this goes side by side with Macs are easier to use. Third is that the app store is on the Mac,  almost everyone one in the world is associated with the app store in one way or another, so one does don’t have to search the internet for a program, people can just go to the app store. The fourth reason is iPhone integration, in the world we live in today 43.5 percent of people use iPhones. The fifth reason is image even Microsoft admits that Macs are â€Å"sexy† computers. The bonus reasons for Macs are great battery life, fewer viruses, page is better than word, it keeps people from wasting time playing video games, high quality parts, doesn’t come with â€Å"bloatware,† or pre-installed stuff you’ll never use, and built-in backup software that’s easy to use. For those people who will argue that Pc is better than Mac, it’s time to show them what Pc does better than Mac. Pc is the laptop/computer that people know and love and could never separate from them. Intel informs us about Pc vs. Mac in compatibility, reliability, cost, memory, hard drive, stability, availability and software. However in the end Intel say’s PCs tend to be the winner, while Macs remain the choice for the more elite or anti-Microsoft computer users. Popular mechanics say that Pc is cheap, and the Pc comes with a bundle of free software immediately installed. KSL.com gives us five reasons why Pc is better than Mac. One of the five reasons that Pc is better than Mac is that they are cheaper, whether it’s buying the computer itself, or equipment for the computer. The second reason is that it has Microsoft office it’s a program that everyone knows and loves. Third, is the ability to play more games on the Pc than the Mac. Fourth of all is the flexibility of hardware with the Pc, such as opening up the Pc and adding a SSD, or more RAM. The final reason is that it ’s what you know how to use. Some bonus reasons are uninstalling programs is easier, you have more control of everything, their look is more â€Å"hard core†, and that Macs are dull and colorless. With all this information how does anyone know how to choose the right computer? How do people choose the right computer for themselves? What most people do is choose a computer they’re used to or the most expensive because they think that’s what they need, the latest and greatest technology. What they should do instead is learn about what they want in a computer to figure out which is better for them. According to howstuffworks.com there are ten  differences you should look for in your new laptop or computer. Design, price, technical specifications, choice, availability, operating system, users, software, security, and customer satisfaction. Theses are the differences between Mac and PC one should consider to look for when buying either computer. The debate between Mac and Pc has been going on for so long even Fox News did a story on Mac Vs. Pc. Harry McCracken say’s â€Å"Me, I’m cheerfully agnostic: I recommend both Windows PCs and Macs all the time, and use them both, too. The last computer I purchased was a thin-and-light Asus laptop running Windows 7; the one before that was a 15-inch MacBook Pro. When it comes time to buy a new machine, I’ll consider both options. And if your budget permits, I recommend you do the same.† In order to do this people have to look at several statistics to decide what computer they like for themselves. Cost is the most important statistic to look for. People say that Pc is a lot cheaper than Mac; while the truth is that it depends on the type of computer it is whether it be Mac or Pc. After cost people have to look at the selection of both computers. It is true that Pc has many different varieties that you can customize, while Mac has basically nine variants. Operating systems is one of the most important things to look for in a computer. Security is important but all computers have great security so no one should have to think about it. Last but not least is the service, because if Mac has better service th an Pc, then people should want a mac, but if Pc has better service, you want a PC. According to Harry McCracken â€Å"The best thing of all about the PC-or-Mac decision? Despite what impassioned partisans may contend, it’s not a big, existential question. Whether you buy a Windows system or a Mac, you’ll find that the Web is the Web, that good software (much of it free) is plentiful, and that printers, cameras and nearly all other hardware work fine. Hey, they’re just computers, folks and the only thing that really matters is choosing one to fits your needs, taste and budget. Between each computer there are some common misconceptions. For instance, Macs are more expensive than Pc’s, but the truth is â€Å"First Apple only sells top-of-the-line processors and equipment in their current computers, while you can buy a brand new Pc with pretty wimpy hardware. Second there are many comparison charts (see the website) that show how in order to get equivalent hardware and software to anew Mac you have to pay the same price for a Pc (even if you build it  yourself).†Another misconception is that â€Å"Pc’s don’t work for recording music, but the truth is PCs are used to make music all over the world, especially in home studios. It is true that in professional recording facilities, less than 10% use PCs for recording, but they are using them and they are working.† A third Common misconception is that â€Å"Macs are not as upgradable as Pc’s, but that is a lie because this is true only in the mind of computer nerds, but for the average person Macs and PCs are equally easy to upgrade. The major hardware components that average people upgrade on their computers such as RAM, hard drives, optical drives, and video cards are identical to upgrade on Mac and PCs.† The last common misconception that is mentioned on Safari books online is that â€Å"freeware and shareware is only available on Pc, There is an ever increasing amount of freeware and shareware programs available for Mac, but there are still more programs available for pc†. Information like this can help anyone to pick the right computer. The long debate between Mac and Pc will go on between for many more years because no computer will ever be the same, and each computer will always hate its flaws. However we need to go beyond what we think to find the right computer. It does not matter whether that you like Mac, or Pc, all that matters is the statistics between both computers. If you like Mac and don’t want to change then you don’t have to change, it’s just that you might want to think about what you want in a computer. The Pc is what people are used to and when people are used to something they don’t want to change, and that’s fine but if you want to do something along the lines of photography or design you might want to switch to Mac. The statistics between both can persuade anyone to like either or both Mac or Pc. The sole purpose of this paper is to show you all the facts about both companies, and let you decide. After all, the only person who knows you best is YOU!

To what extent was the USA a Divided Union in the years 1941-1980?

Politically the USA has always been a democracy, with an allowance for all political parties to express their opinions. But there have been times in the aforementioned decades from 1941-1980 where political beliefs, like socialism and communism have been feared in the government to such an extent that McCarthyism was allowed to become mainstream in the 1950's. This fear was so great that people were tried and prosecuted on false allegations, and that based on these lies most were sentenced to jail, and some were even killed, like the Rosenbergs. The Rosenbergs were nuclear scientists who during the Second World War, while the USA was allied with the USSR, gave some non-classified information to the Soviets. They were tried and executed in 1953. True, some of the accused were indeed communists, or had communist beliefs, but none of them had ever done anything to jeopardise the security of the USA, nor had the power to. Also in the American political system there did not exist anyone to represent the minority blacks, as they did not have the power to vote until the 1965 Voting Rights Act, and even then there never was a black president voted into power as there is still a certain amount of non active racial discrimination in the American governmental system till the 1980's. Socially, Racism has always existed between the minority WASPs who hold the power in America and other racial groups, mainly the black American population who were originally brought to the USA as slaves. This discrimination on basis of skin colour was against the American constitution, and should have been illegal, but it was legalised with the inception of the ‘Jim Crow' laws. These sets of corrupt racist laws had many preposterous clauses such as the ‘grandfather law' and others, which basically denied black Americans of their inalienable civil rights. This started the Civil Rights movement, but one case of racial discrimination was the trigger. This was the Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955 in which the black American majority bus users boycotted the bus service on command of Martin Luther King, later to be the leader in black civil rights. His movements gained many successes, such as the pre-mentioned 1965 Voting rights Act, which outlawed the discrimination of voting on basis of race, and most importantly the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which gave black people the equal rights to do whatever they pleased, and gave them equal employment opportunities. Other more radical black American movements also came into being, such as Black Power, with the Black Panthers being the main case. This movement charaded in the guise of militants, wearing a uniform and carrying unloaded guns, to show that they would use violence if needed, but they were indeed a charity organisation, providing shelters and soup kitchens for the poor. They were feared because of their leftist beliefs and were hunted down by the FBI. Protest movements later became much more common in the 60s and 70s, following the lead of the Civil Rights movement. The Women's Movement fought for equal rights based on sex and won their legal battle. The student movement generally rebelled against the norm, but they mainly protested against the Vietnam War as they felt there was no need for it. The Native Americans were the most disadvantaged minority, but their formation of AIM was a success in itself, and they still to this day fight to try and regained their lost balance of life. Economically the USA has prospered, but not all parties in the USA have taken their share of prosperity. There is an increasing underclass, stuck in a vicious circle, with no education, therefore no employment, and no employment, therefore no money. This still mainly made up of black Americans living in the slums and ghettoes of modern day America. Also up to the 1970's black Americans and women were discriminated against in the workplace, and their chances of getting jobs were minimal. Many different cultures exist in the USA, mainly because of the largely immigrant population. This brings a lot of different cultures into the mainstream, creating such phenomenon as hippies. These people follow strange religions and practises, completely ignoring the age-old idea of civilisation and ‘pop' culture. The government liked to think of things the ‘American way', a father coming home from work to his wife who has baked him and his children an apple pie, but in most cases this almost ceased to exist, swamped by the counter-culture of drugs and outlandish clothes. Overall I think that the USA was a greatly divided union in the decades from 1941-1980, and that this was destined to be in a new land full of immigrants from different societies, races and creeds.

How Is the Child’s Exploration and Orientation in His Physical Environment Complimented by the Montessori Materials and Presentation

How is the child’s exploration and orientation in his physical environment complimented by the Montessori materials and presentation? Dr. Maria Montessori’s goal of education is to develop a global vision within the children. Montessori calls the path to this perspective â€Å"Cosmic Education†, which develops in children a sense of gratitude for the universe and their lives within it. The concept of cosmic education presents a comprehensive whole picture of the world- a world in which the child sees himself as being a part. Montessori had much to say about world peace. She always says about the importance of developing an understanding of the human problem and restricting human society. She firmly believed that the way to do this was through the child, and that the work of education was to establish a lasting peace. Throughout history, humans have relied on their ingenuity and adaptability for survival. Regardless of race, country ,or culture, people follow similar patterns. After years of careful observation in children, Maria Montessori was able to identify 14 important tendencies that compel human beings to construct and refine the world around them, which she considered these as â€Å"Tendencies of man†, they are exploration, order, gregariousness, communication, abstraction, curiosity, calculation, repetition, concentration, self-control, perfection, creativity, independence and work. The Montessori prepared environment with its carefully chosen and beautifully arranged materials is build around these tendencies. Because of this, Montessori teachers do not need to force their students to; children are naturally drawn to the materials because they appeal to their instinctive drives. Today’s child unconsciously displays the same traits that early human did, and without realizing it,we often stand in the way of their exploration and manipulation because it is an inconvenience to us. When we are able to remove any hinderences to a child’s natural tendencies, the child will flourish and likely surprise us with their pursuit of knowledge, their innovative thinking, and their limitless curiosity. Children are naturally attracted to the nature. So a Montessori environment bust well prepared with natural things such as choice of plants and flowers with a small garden in the outdoor and with some pats such as rabbits, gold fish. These simple things attract the child to study about the plants and animals, to care for them and also to explore specimens found in our living world. The Montessori cultural materials were designed to allow the child to explore an abstract concept in the concrete form. Like the other areas of Montessori curriculum, the sequence of presentation begins with simple to complex and concrete to abstract. The next activity is identifying animals (more specially grouped). This activity also presented in the same way as loosely group, but each group is specifically grouped, for e. g. Birds that can fly and Bird that can’t fly. This activity leads the child further into classification by encouraging groups and also make the child aware of similarities and differences between spices. The next activity in zoology is Jigsaw puzzle of an animal. The materials for this activity are Animal puzzle and identical picture card as control card. The child is given a particular animal puzzle and she will be discussed about that animal. For e. g. Fish, at first the child will be asked â€Å"What is this animal? , What does it eat? , Where does it live? Then the teacher will point each part and asks the child, â€Å"Do you know what part is this? If the child doesn’t know she will teach the names of the parts. Then the teacher will show the child how to place the head in the picture card and she asks the child to place the rest. Then again putting back she reinforces the child by, â€Å"Would you like to put the fin first? In this manner the directress will present the activity. So while working with this material the child will get a sensorial awareness of the different parts of animals and also provide information and increase the child’s vocabulary as well. The next activity in zoology is Terminology cards (Identifying parts of the animals). The materials for this activities are a set of control cards which the parts of the body of a particular animal is highlighted in red and the names of the parts are written on them. The next setof cards are picture cards same as control cards but unnamed and the name tags. There are two cards non-highlighted pictures of a particular animal. This activity also has two presentation one for non-reading child and the other one for reading child. For the non-reading child the teacher will place the non-highlighted pictures of an animal, for e. g. Elephant the control card near the child and she will discuss about elephant. Then she will give any of the highlighted picture of an elephant say for e. g. the head and she will ask , â€Å"Do you know what part is this? If the child knows he will tell, if the child doesn’t know teacher will tell the name of the part, â€Å"Head†. Like wise the child will be discuss each part of an elephant. Then the teacher will gives the picture cards to match with the control cards. For reading child she does the same way as non-reading child, she gives the name tags and have the child read and place it under the correct card. When the child finishes she gives the control cards and ask the child to checks her work. After working with this materials the child will knows the parts of the animals, his vocabulary increase, it develop awareness of similarities and differences in animals, develop child observational and classification skills. The next activity will be Terminology cards; identifying plant parts. This activity presented in the same manner as Terminology cards; identifying animals’ body, but the pictures should be a plant picture and each part of plant is highlighted in red. This activity teach the names of the parts of the plants, it provide information about the plants, develop awareness of similarity and differences in the plants and also it develop the child’s observation and classification skills. The next activity is flower pressing. Children love flowers, so this activity provides them to work with flowers. They are encouraged to find different types of flowers and leaves and they are showed how to press them and make lovely greeting card, or a design for them to hang in their room wall. This activity prepares the child for art and also it appreciates the design in nature. The next activity in botany is first introduction to the leaf cabinet. This cabinet is same as geometrical cabinet in sensorial area, having three leaf shape drawers and the removable insets which are in green. In this activity children are encouraged to trace the shape of the leaves, there fore it create awareness of the variety of leaf shapes in the environment through visual and muscular knowledge of leaf shapes. So this activity increase the children observation skill, it help foster the child’s respect for the wide diversity of plant forms in the world and also it prepare the child for future works in botany and create interest in designs. The next activity which is an important activity which is presented to the children is the importance of the sun. Teacher talks about the children why sun is important? She tells the children it gives us heat, otherwise it will be cold, it would be difficult for us human , animals and plants to survive. She explains some other important facts about sun. Teacher shows the children how sun is important using chart, the food chain how the sun helps the plants to grow, when the plants grow only animal can eat plant and they can grow, if the animals grow only we can get food from animals, so all are dependent in the single element that is sun. The teacher must be creative and innovative to present this activity. So the children will understand how the sun is important for all living creatures. This activity prepares the child for future work in photosynthesis. The next activity which is presented to the children is growing plants. The children are shown how to grow a plant. They were asked to water the plant daily and also not to expose the pot to the sun too much which cause the plant to dry or die and also they were asked to observe the development daily. This activity teach the children to plant seeds and how to care for plants, it develop a sense of responsibility and ownership in the child and also children will have the concrete experience as to what a plant needs to grow. The last activity presented to the children is plants life stories. The pictures of life cycle of a plant are made as frieze. The picture shows the seed, sun, water and finally a plant. This will be present in the same manner as life stories of animals. By showing each picture the teacher will describe each stage, how water and sun important for the seed to grow and finally how the plant grown fully. This activity help the children to understand the life cycle of plants, to identify the sequence of growth, and also this leads the child to take care of the plants. The next subject which is presented to the children is Geography. Maria Montessori adds this subject in cultural subjects to launch the child’s exploration of the world’s physical environment. Montessori approach always introducing new ideas with concrete objects or pictures for the child to see, touch and manipulate. The first activity which is presented in Geography is Sandpaper globe. The globe which has the continents covered with sandpaper and the sea is painted in blue. The teacher brings the sandpaper globe to the table and shows the child how to feel it with her both hands and she ask the child to feel the same. Then she gives the name of land and water using three period lessons by feeling with her two fingers. So while working with the sandpaper globe initially the child learn things the shape of the world is sphere and that is made up of land and water. The next activity which is presented to the child is the coloured globe. In the coloured globe the continents painted in different colours- Europe is red, Asia is yellow, Africa is green, Australasia is brown, north America is orange, South America is pink and the Antartica is white. Teacher brings the colored globe and sandpaper lobe to the table and shows the child, the coloured globe is same as sandpaper globe. Then using the coloured globe she tells the child that the land on the colored globe is divided by colors and each colour represents masses of land and they are call as continents. While working with the colored globe, the child will become aware of the relative sizes, shapes and positions of the land masses and oceans. The next activity which is presented to the child is Jigsaw map of the world. The Montessori Jigsaw map of the world made up with 2 hemispheres, each with the continents removable as whole puzzle pieces. The colours are the same as the colored globe. It is easier for a young child to see how the world is represented on a flat map. There is a control map for the child to place the pieces on that. Directress will shows the child how to place the pieces on the control map and she invites the child to do the same. The child learns the names of the continents with the Jigsaw map of the world with the three period lessons. The next activity is continent cards. The child will further reinforce to learn the names of the continents with this activity. After learning the names of the continent the child learn about animals which live in each continent. This activity given to the child to relate animals to the continents on which they live. After learning about each continent the child will learn how they are divided into different countries which are areas of land with a name, flag and national anthem. Then the child learns various countries with the pictures from various continents. The child also has a great natural interest in others who are different from him self. The teacher will shows the child any picture of a country flag, the important places, their foods, their festivals and etc. he learns much more about the lives of others through this presentation. The next activity which is presented to the children is introduction of the three elements. The child will be discussed about the three elements and she tells the child theses three elements are very important and without any one of them, earth will not exist† so the child will be aware how important these three elements how to save them from pollution. So children have freedom to choose to their own inner needs. Repetition is necessary for them to master and perfect his skills and build his competency and knowledge. Through free choice and repletion children acquire their knowledge step by step depending on their own needs. So the teacher needs to understand that children will reveal him self through work. She can help them to remove their obstacles and guide them to next step according to their own needs and desires. If the teacher helps him in this manner, it cultivate the child’s character, it help children to live in peace and harmony with all people and establish an innate awareness that they are citizens of the world and stewards of their own communities. Dr. Montessori said, â€Å"To serve the children is to feel one is serving the spirit of man, a spirit which has to free itself (Absorbent Mind, Chapter 27, p. g. 283) Bibliography Maria Montessori, To educate the human potential, A KALAKSHETRA PRESS, 84, kalakshetra road, madrass- 600 041. PAULA POLK LILLARD, MONTESSRI TODAY, Schocken Books inc, New York. LESLEY BRITTON, MONTESSORI PLAY & LEARN, Vermilion, re print by Random House, 20 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London, SW*1* V *2* SA. *Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind, Henry Hold and company, LLC, 115, West 18th* street, Ney York, New York, 10011, 1995. DMT 108, Modern Montessori International LTD, 107 Bow Road, Bow London E3 2AN. Maria Montessori, the Discovery of the Child, The Random House Publishing group, New York, 1967.

Participant Observation in Prague Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Participant Observation in Prague - Essay Example Though some of them do not believe on the issue of Virgin mother Mary they consider it with lots of regard. The Chinese tourists are marvel within the church which is rare within their country. Moreover, the camera flares that they utilize appear to augment brightness on the sculpture. They request to take photo of Virgin mother Mary to show back when they go back to China. The guide man gives the history of the hand at the statue to the Chinese tourists. There more sites in regard to the dark tourism within Prague which makes it to be the best tourist destination in the universe thus the Chinese are supposed to visit all of them. Most of the Chinese tourists vehemently fault the early believers found in Prague for inhuman act of fastening the robbers hand on the underlying statue. An Italian man standing behind them does not seem to noticeably comprehend and corrects them by saying the thief deserved it. The man mentions that they should tour identical sites in future trips. The Chinese ponders on the subsequent move, and they choose to excursion Theresienstadt concentration camp. The camp is renowned in the world for offering standard outline and practices in regard to scouting and camping. Chinese tourists seem to possess high quality that pertains to camp. The Chinese tourist are ushered into the renowned Theresienstadt concentration camp by the guide and then directed to small fortress in the camp and the guide seems to be friendly to Chinese tourist as due to their curiosity in the history of the scene. The guide explains to the Chinese tourists the history and significance of Theresienstadt concentration camp. They are directed to small fortress in the camp and the guide seems to be very happy to work with Chinese tourist as they are much acquainted camps. The tourists later return and enter a room where the guide explains the history and significance of Theresienstadt concentration camp. Tourists with assistance of

Current applications of nanotechnology in medicine and its future Essay

Current applications of nanotechnology in medicine and its future potential - Essay Example This implies that nanotechnologies are increasingly finding real world utilization. Stephen conceives nanotechnology as having the potential to greatly influence many fields including the pharmaceutical industry; this is also true according to AAAS, which argues that the science in the area of nanotechnologies ‘is exploding’. In that respect, this implies that there is massive advancements being witnessed in the field of nanotechnologies in general and there even greater potential for innovative applications of nanotechnologies both in the near and distant futures. Bhushan predicts that nanotechnology promises to impact the economy and society in general, more than even information and semiconductor technologies, or cellular and molecular biology ever did. The same position is taken by AAAS, which narrows further to particular applications and argues that â€Å"the science of extremely small materials’ is going to yield great benefits especially in cancer diagnos tics, imaging, as well as treatment that would finally bring about the era of personalized medicine. Similarly, Bhushan highlights the specific areas that are set to benefit intensively from the applications of nanotechnology including materials and manufacturing, Nano-electronics, medicine, healthcare, energy, biotechnology as well as information technology and national security.

Assess the extent that the UN has been successful since its creation Essay

Assess the extent that the UN has been successful since its creation - Essay Example The Role of the United Nations). What is role is the UN playing today? Has the UN really been able to achieve the target of maintaining peace throughout the world? Has it really become the instrument of the super powers to fulfill their selfish motives? Since its creation a number of questions have been raised on the credibility of the UN. Big nations are bypassing the charter of the UN so how far is it relevant? Is it really going the League of Nations way? The most recent case has been the case of Kosova, where the UN controls the administration. Is that the role UN is supposed to play? Or is that UN was compelled to take on the Kosova due to the hegemony of the super power. Was really the war on Kosova by NATO essential? These are the questions, which are bound to come up while discussing the role of the UN in the world stage. If the UN has really made mistakes in Kosova, has it really understood its mistakes or is it still repeating them? The study indeed shows that the mistakes are still being committed. Is only preventing the war sufficient for the world peace? Can the world be peaceful without the welfare measures? And how relevant is UN really today, when we have seen the recent Afghan war and the Iraq war. These are the questions, which we shall try to answer in our discussions. These are the never ending and controversial questions. The Preamble of the UN clearly states that United Nations was founded to prevent and resolve international conflicts and help build a culture of peace in the world. These intentions are clearly reflected in the departments and the programs of the UN. The UN is taking care of everything that can be the source of the conflicts. The conflict can occur amongst the States or within the States and their causes can also be different. The former can be due to the land dispute, water dispute or other natural resources dispute. The conflicts within the State can be due to religious tensions, due to illiteracy, due caste system

8 Nov 1942 Northwest Africa Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

8 Nov 1942 Northwest Africa - Assignment Example The Allies were the first immigrants from the United States to settle in North Africa. The Axis was a combination of forces, which were against the allies for instance Italy and Germany. It began as early as July 1942 when the Allies agreed on a proposal that it was very illogical for small-scale operations to take over the Northern France region. However, in the agreement, it was clear that landings must secure Vichy territories in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia to enable them spread their influence over the Western Desert. In this sense, the Mediterranean would be free to all Allies to ship goods through Cape of Good Hope. On November 8, 1942, the Allies, due to fear made a quick attempt to take over Tunisia. They were certain the Axis would be rivals if they heard of the Torch landings. The Operation Torch landing and the frequent battles, which were against the Vichy forces made it easy for the Allies to get hold of the Axis forces and forcing them to surrender. This kind of battle happened in Tunisia the same period when North African Campaign took place. it was a battle dominated by the German and Italian forces which made use of weapons like the German Tiger which was among the 501 heavy tanks to be used in this battles. However, its success drew most of the support from the Allies who had a large soldier force and advanced weaponry. Alternatively, it referred to as the Desert war. It was the first campaign to occur and thus gave birth to the North Africa Campaign. This campaign drew its strength from the massive supply of both weaponry, soldiers and food. The Allies used this as a chance to capture the Axis thus making the Germans desperate. For instance, Erwin Rommel, a German commander had a rough time since all the fuel and other support links were disconnected. By the beginning of 1942, the U.S. Air Force Army had began building bombers and fighters just to support the campaign which it later referred to

Discussion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 145

Discussion - Essay Example The best null hypothesis in this case is; The quality of products manufactured in overseas plants is not better than the quality of products manufactured in U.S. plants. This hypothesis will be essential in helping to compare the quality of products produced in the overseas and local plants. Since it is a comparison that is being made, it is crucial to use words that portray a disparity between the local and abroad products. While conducting the research to ascertain the hypothesis, the appropriate tests to be carried out include an evaluation of the costs and benefits of both local and overseas plants. The research should assess which of the two options is the cheapest. In addition, the purpose of the study should be to portray why local manufacturing will produce quality products compared to overseas production. Since the local manufacturing plants are already established compared to foreign plants that are to be introduced, they will yield better results. When conducting the statistical test, I would chose a significant level to determine whether there is statistical significance in the results. The best approach to use is by checking the test that will give a lower probability of an error. The possible outcomes of my statistical tests is that they will yield positive results based on the hypothesis being tested. However, there are limitations since the variables being compared have significant diffe rences (Downing & Clark,

Party Press Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Party Press - Essay Example Mass media refers to the transfer of knowledge and information to an unlimited mass audience. Phones or cell phones may not usually be considered as a mass medium; this is because telephones are the device meant for only two way communication between two or more than two people. Previously there have been only six categories of mass media; that is, Print, Recordings, Cinemas, Radio, Television and the Internet. Now a new category has been introduced in the mass media, which are cell phones. Cell phones are now being considered as the seventh mass media channel; also called as digital media. Cell phones are the only mass media that are always carried by the user. They also provide nearly 100% accuracy regarding the audience and that every content that has ever passed through the device could be traced back; whether it is calls, messages, or any other media content such as movies, videos, or music. In ancient times the Church was the sole source of information for the people. The Churc h had the complete power over the minds of the citizens and was very powerful. They were the ones responsible to disintegrate the information in whatever form and style that suits them. After the Gutenberg’s invention of metal movable type, books became widely available. They were then the source of knowledge and information. ... The 1960s saw the first innovation in the form of open reel audio tapes; then came the C-cassettes and music cartridges in the 1970s and later in 1990s the MP3 files were the new digital storage medium for music. The records were not only limited to music storage but also provided storage for videos and movies. In the 1970s, movies started appearing in video cassettes. Later recording also expanded to include categories such as computer programs, video games and TV shows. Due to these advancements the music industry also evolved to include the pop music, besides the orchestra. Cinemas were introduced in the 1910s as the third mass media channel. Watching a movie in cinemas is an exhilarating experience for many. Movies were the first mass media that involved moving images and pictures. The visual effect they created was unmatched by any other mass media. At first movies were thought as means that could diminish the value of books. But this was not the case. Some of the best sellers w ere converted into movies, while in other cases the best of the Hollywood movies were written in print. Not only books and novels, but comics were also made into super-hit films, such as Superman, Batman, and Spiderman etc. The radio became the next mass media. With the invention of radio, came a concept of broadcast schedule and audience were required to listen to the shows when they were aired, and not just as they wished; as was the case in all the previous mass medias. It became the channel for commercial communication and brought its audience a wide range consisting of news, information, dramas, music, debate etc. Radio first brought the concept of breaking news; disseminating news and information as it is happening. Radios were sustained by

The Crucible by Arthur Miller Essay Example for Free

The Crucible by Arthur Miller Essay In the opening scene of The Crucible, the playwright reveals insight into John and Elizabeths troubled marriage through Elizabeths subtle passive-aggressive gestures, Johns incoherent ramblings, and his emotional explosion at the end showing his frustration. Tension between the two immediately increases when John Proctor comes home late. Apparently, Elizabeth knows about Johns extramarital affair with Abigail. Elizabeths annoyance is seen when Proctor states, Oh, is it [a rabbit]! In Jonathans trap? Elizabeth replies sarcastically, No, she walked into the house this afternoon; I found her sittin in the corner like she come to visit. When John gets up and kisses Elizabeth, she rejects him further by sampling receiving his gesture. Disappointed and somewhat aware of his wifes unspoken displeasure, he sits down. The mood has become awkward. John makes small talk, stating, Its winter in here yet. On Sunday let you come with me, and well walk the farm together; I never see such a load of flowers on the earth. Lilacs have a purple smell. Lilac is the smell of nightfall, I think. Massachusetts is a beauty in the spring! The winter remark refers to the cold atmosphere of the two spouses; they are talking together but are not communicating anything worthwhile. His unfocused rambling does not successfully establish common ground between the two. He turns to her and watches her. A sense of their separation rises, states the stage directions. Proctor asks, I think youre sad again. Are you? Elizabeth, reluctant to cause an argument, replies, You come so late I thought youd gone to Salem this afternoon. However, her attempts are futile because Proctor is set off by Elizabeths blunt remark, Mary Warrens there [at Salem] today. He screams, Whyd you let her? Your heard me forbid her to go to Salem any more!Insight into their troubled marriage continues when Elizabeth loses all faith in him when Proctor replies For a moment alone [I was alone with her], aye and Elizabeth replies, Why, then, it is not as you told me. Proctor becomes violent again, warning Elizabeth not to judge him anymore. Work Cited Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. New York: Penguin, 1952.

The Chemistry of Swimming Pools

The Chemistry of Swimming Pools Pool chemistry is the application of chemistry to maintain safe and clean water (Hann, 1997). This is achieved by regulating numerous factors which include: the pH, the quantity of disinfectant and the buffers used to resist pH changes. The normal pH range of a swimming pool needs to be between 7.2 and 8.0, although a range between 7.2 and 7.8 is more practical as some disinfectants such as chlorine are most effective for this range (Hann, 1997). The Importance of pH The pH scale (see figure 1) is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution and is a logarithmic scale based on 10 (Zumdahl, 2007). Furthermore, it is represented by the equation: pH = -log[H+] (Zumdahl, 2007), and since the scale is logarithmic, this means that a pH increase of one value represents a H + concentration increase of tenfold. The pH scale ranges from one, which is very acidic, to fourteen which is very alkaline. A value of seven is neutral, meaning that a solution is neither acidic nor basic (Hann, 1997). The pH scale (Environment Canada, 1992) A strong acid dissociates completely in water to produce H+ ions in the form of H3O+ (hydronium ion), whereas a weak acid does not dissociate completely, causing a lower H+ concentration to form (Zumdahl, 2007). Since an acid dissociates in water to produce H+ ions it is known as an H+ donor and a good example of this is the strong hydrochloric acid (HCl). This acid easily dissociates in water to form H+ and the following equation represents this dissociation. HCl(aq) + H2O(l)  ® H3O+(aq) + Cl-(aq) Because HCl is easily dissociated, it means that equilibrium lies far to the right, favouring the products. On the contrary, a weak acid does not easily dissociate in water, meaning that a reaction involving a weak acid would not favour products or reactants. In contrast to an acid, a base dissociates in water to form OH- and is known as an H+ acceptor. The role of acids and bases for the maintenance of the pH of pool water is important for a number of reasons. A pH that is too high or low (above 8 or below 7.2) will cause irritation to the skin (Gothard, 2006). As well as this, disinfectants such as bromine and chlorine require an optimum pH between 7.2 and 7.6 in order to function most efficiently (Hann, 1997). Thus, an increase or decrease in pH will cause these disinfectants to work less efficiently. Another reason for the regulation of the pH balance is to prevent the formation of scale or water hardness deposits. These deposits are usually composed of magnesium and calcium which can become damaging to the functioning of a pool as it affects the filter system, heater and the piping (Hann, 1997). Maintenance of the pH levels Factors such as, the removal or addition of pool water; waste from swimmers such as urine; and the addition of chemicals, affect the pH of the water. In order to have a pH level that is desirable, specific chemicals need to be added to the water, although it is also possible to reach a desired pH balance by adding extra water to the pool (Hann, 1997). By adding additional water this will cause the pH concentration to lower, which helps to balance the pH. However, it is not always possible to do this as different factors affect the pH, and so pool chemicals are needed. Two main chemicals are used to lower the pH of pool water: sodium bisulfate and muriatic acid (hydrochloric acid). These chemicals both have a low pH which means that they act as a pH reducer. A decrease in pH occurs because the chemicals react in the water to produce more hydrogen ions, hence increasing the acidity. The choice of which chemical to use depends on the size of a pool. Sodium bisulfate is usually used for small pools (about 190 000 litres) as it is less acidic than muriatic acid, thus a safer alternative (Hann, 1997). On the other hand, muriatic acid is used for larger pools to reduce the pH because it is a more acidic. Furthermore, to raise the pH of pool water, sodium carbonate is most commonly used (Perkins, 2000). It is known as a pH increaser because it produces hydroxyl ions (OH-) which increases the pH of the pool water. Chlorine also has an effect on the pH of water; however, it is used more commonly for disinfection purposes. Chlorine for Disinfection of Pool Water A safe and clean pool requires the use of a disinfectant to stop the spread of transmittable diseases (Hann, 1997). The most common disinfectants used are chlorine-based products as chlorine is relatively inexpensive and is very effective in killing bacteria and other harmful organisms (Perkins, 2000).Chlorine gas (Cl2) is never used on its own for disinfecting pool water because it is very toxic, and so would pose many risks. Therefore, compounds containing chlorine are used instead and there are three main types: Calcium hypochlorite [Ca(OCl)2 ­], sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and chlorinated isocyanurate. When these compounds are added to the water a reaction occurs, forming a chemical called hypochlorous acid (HOCl) which is an oxidising agent and hydrochloric acid (HCl). Since hydrochloric acid is formed, this will mean that the pH of the pool water decreases slightly. Cl2 + H2O  ® HOCl + HCl The hypochlorous acid kills the bacteria in the water by oxidation and the HOCl can easily become dissociated to from hydrogen ions (H+) and hypochlorate ions (ClO)-. HOCl à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬  H+ + ClO- Both the hypochlorous acid and the hypochlorite ions are considered as free chlorine, which is the chemical species responsible for killing bacteria in the water; however, the hypochlorous acid is far more efficient (Daniels, 1973). The dissociation of the hydrochlorous acid is an equilibrium reaction, meaning that the reaction can occur in either direction. Furthermore, the pH of the water affects the direction in which the reaction proceeds, thus influencing the effectiveness of the disinfectant. An increase in pH would mean that there are more H+ ions which would cause the reaction to proceed to the right, meaning that less hypochlorous acid is present in the water. Moreover, a decrease in pH will cause the reaction to proceed to the left, meaning that more hypochlorous acid is produced which increases the effectiveness of the chlorine as a disinfectant. To be able to determine the pH of a solution, the use of acid/ base indicators are needed. The role of acid/base indicators In order to keep the pH of pool water in the correct range it is necessary to use an acid/base indicator to test the pH. An acid/base indicator is a substance that gives an accurate indication of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution (Dice, 2008). Also, an indicator is a weak acid represented by HIn (Zumdahl, 2007) and it can be written as an equilibrium expression: HIn (colourless) à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬  H+ + In- (pink) where the In- is the basic form of the indicator. The HIn and the In- both show a different colour which corresponds to the pH of the solution. As an example, the indicator phenolphthalein is colourless in an acidic solution and pink in a basic solution. This means that the HIn represents the colourless molecules, whereas the In- represents the pinkmolecules. Since an indicator is in equilibrium, an acidic solution would cause an increase in H+ concentration, hence shifting equilibrium to the left. Likewise, in a basic solution the OH- ions cause a decrease in H+, which shifts equilibrium to the right. The equation for an indicator can be written as an equilibrium constant expression. Ka = [H+] [In-] / [HIn] This expression can be rearranged to form an equation which is very useful in finding the end point of an indicator, which is the point at which colour change occurs. Ka / [H+] = [In-] / [HIn] The ratio between the In- and the HIn will show the colour of the indicator; for example if there is one In- pink molecules for every one hundred colourless it means that the solution will appear colourless. However, for the human eye to detect the colour change, the colour change occurs at a pH where the ratio of In- to HIn is 1:10 for an acidic solution, whereas for a basic solution the change will occur at a ratio of 10:1 (Zumdahl, 2007). There are a variety of indicators all of which are useful for specific pH ranges, and so it is important to use an appropriate indicator for measuring pool water pH. The following table (figure 2) displays four different acid/base indicators that could be possibly used to assist with pool management. Four Possible Indicators for Testing pH of a pool (figure 2) Indicator pH range Colour shown for Acidic Solution Colour shown for Basic Solution Ka pKa (-log10Ka) Bromthymol Blue 6.0-7.6 Yellow Blue 1.0 x 10-7 7.0 Cresol Red (alkaline) 7.2-8.8 Yellow Reddish-purple 1.0 x 10-8.32 8.32 Phenol Red 6.8-8.4 Yellow Red 1.0 x 10-7.9 7.9 Phenolphthalein 8.3-10 Colourless Pink 1.0 x 10-9.3 9.3 From the table it can be seen that phenol red, cresol red and bromthymol blue would all be useful indicators as their pH range is quite close to the pH range of a pool which is 7.2-7.8. Since phenolphthaleins range is 8.-10, this indicator would be the least effective as is not very close to the pool range, whereas the other indicators each have similar ranges that are within the range. To verify the pH at which an indicator changes colour, the equation from above can be used: Ka = [H+] [In-] / [HIn] Sample calculation for the indicator phenol red: x 10-7.9 = [H+] [In-] / [HIn] First, the pH at which the indicator will change for an acidic solution will be found. For an acidic solution the colour change will be visible when [In-] / [HIn] = 1/10 : x 10-7.9 = [H+] (1) / (10) [H+] = (1.0 x 10-7.9) x 10 = 1.26 x 10-7 pH = -log(1.26 x 107à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ) = 6.9 pH = 6.9, which is close to the actual value of 6.8. This means that at this point, the colour change will be yellow. The pH at which the colour change occurs in a basic solution can also be calculated, however, the ratio of In- to HIn will be 10:1 as there must be more In- molecules for a colour change to occur. x 10-7.9 = [H+] (10) / (1) [H+] = (1.0 x 10-7.9 )/ 10 = 1.26 x 10-9 pH = -log(1.26 x 10-9) = 8.90 pH = 8.9, which is the point at which the colour change will be red. However, the value is not exactly the same as the actual value because it is an approximation and is not exact. Phenol reds pH range is the closest to the pools range when compared to the other three indicators, which means that it is the most appropriate for testing pool water. Acid/base indicators are not only important for determining the pH of a solution, but are also significant for finding a pools buffering capacity, as the pH of a solution must be known. Buffer solutions To assist in the maintenance of pool pH, it is necessary to use a buffer solution. A buffer solution is any solution which resists fluctuating changes in pH, making it easier to keep pool water in the appropriate pH range (Hann, 1997). The buffering ability of a pool is dependent on the total alkalinity, which is the measure of the quantity of alkaline substances present in the water (Hann, 1997). Calcium carbonate is the main compound which makes up the total alkalinity and when it is dissolved in water it produces carbonate ions which act as a buffer. CaCO3 (s) à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬  Ca2+ + CO32- The carbonate ions work as a buffer because they neutralise the H+ ions formed when an acid is added. To determine the buffering ability of a solution, the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation can be used. This equation is derived from the equilibrium constant for the dissociation of a weak acid which is given by the equation: Ka = ([H+] [A-]) / [HA] where A- is the conjugate base, and HA is a simple acid. By taking the logarithm of both sides and rearranging it will give the following equation: -log [H+] = -logKa + log ([A-]/[HA]) Since, -log [H+] = pH and -logKa = pKa, the equation can be written as: pH = pKa + log ([A-]/[HA]) This equation is known as the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation and can be used in regards to pool chemistry to be able to calculate the buffering capacity, which is the quantity of hydroxide ions (OH-) that can be absorbed by the solution before a significant pH change occurs. Additionally, the magnitude of [HA] and [A-] determine the buffering capacity of a solution. The most effective buffer is one that has a ratio of one, as this will cause no change in pH (Zumdahl, 2007). The following calculation will show a possible application of buffer chemistry for the pool. pH = pKa + log ([A-]/[HA]) A concentration of 0.002M Hydrochloric acid is added to a solution with a pH of 7.6 and a calcium carbonate concentration of 2.11 x 10-8M. Hypochlorous acid is also present in the water and its pKa is 3.5 x 10-8. 7.6 = 3.5 x 10-8 + log ([2.11 x 10-8]/[0.002]) = 7.46 Therefore, the pH of the solution has decreased, which means that the solution does not have the best buffering capacity. The best buffer solution would need to have a ratio of 1:1 which would cause the pH to stay about the same. Conclusion The chemistry involved in the management of backyard swimming pools is an important aspect and needs to be understood in order to maintain a safe swimming pool environment. A pH range between 7.2 and 7.8 is recommended and so an understanding of how to lower and raise the pH is essential. Chlorine can be used as a disinfectant of pool water; however, it needs to be known that the reaction forms hydrochloric acid which lowers the pH. Thus, an addition of a pH increaser such as sodium carbonate is needed as this increases the number of OH- molecules in the water, which increases the pH. Furthermore, the use of pH indicators is necessary in controlling the pH, as they give an accurate reading of the pools pH. However, each indicator has a different pH range and so it is important to choose the appropriate indicator for the pool. Also, a pools buffering ability is significant in keeping the pools pH in balance. Poor buffering capacity means that an addition of an acid or a base will caus e the pH to dramatically fluctuate, making it difficult to manage a pool. Total alkalinity is the measure of a pools buffering ability and calcium carbonate is often used to increase the buffering ability.

Common Computer Based Information Systems Information Technology Essay

Common Computer Based Information Systems Information Technology Essay Human resources- finds and hires people, handles such matters as sick leave, retirement benefits, evaluation, compensation, and professional development. Research- conducts product research and development, monitors and troubleshoots new products. Discuss the roles of the three kinds of management in a corporation. Top level- concerned with long-range planning and forecasting. Middle-level- deals with control, planning, decision making, and implementing long term goals. Supervisors- control operational matters, monitor day- to -day events, and supervise works. What are the four most common computer-based information systems? Transaction processing system(TPS) Management information system(SIM) Decision support systems(DSS) Executive support systems(ESS) Describe the different reports and their roles in managerial decision making. Transaction processing system(TPS)- record day-to-day transactions. For example in accounting, which handles in six activities: sales order processing, accounts receivable, inventory and purchasing, accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger. Management information system(SIM)-produce predetermined periodic, exception, and demand reports. Management information system use database management systems to integrate the databases of different departments. Decision support systems(DSS)-enable managers to get answers for unanticipated questions. Teams formed to address large problems use group decision support systems(GDDS). A DSS consist of user, system software, data-internal and external, and decision models. Three types of decision models are strategic, tactcal, and operational. Executive support systems(ESS)-assist top-level executives. An executive support system is similar to MIS or DSS but easier to use. ESSs are design specifically for top-level decision makers. What is the difference between an office automation system and a knowledge work system? Office automation systems(OAS) support data workers who are involved with distribution and communication of information. Project managers and videoconferencing systems are OAS. Knowledge work systems(KWS) support knowledege workers, who creates information. Many engineers use computer aided design/ computer aided manufacturing(CAD/CAM) systems. CHAPTER 12 : DATABASES Describe the five logical data groups or categories. Character-the most basic logical data element. It is a single letter, number or special character such as a punctuation mark or symbol like $. Field-field or group of related character. A data field represents an attribute (description/characteristic) of some entity (person, place, thing or object). Record-collection of related fields. A record represents a collection of attributes that describe an entity. Table-collection of related records. Database-an integrated collection of logically related tables. What is the difference between batch processing and real-time processing? Batch processing-data is collected over a period of time and the processing happens later all at one time. Real-time processing-happens immediately when the transaction occurs. Identify and define the five part of DBMS programs. DBMS engine-a bridge between the logical view of the data and the physical view of the data. When users request data(logical perspective), DBMS engine handles the details of actually locating data(physical perspective). Data definition subsystem-the logical structure of data-base by using a data dictionary or schema. This dictionary contains a description of the structure of data in database. Data manipulation subsystem-provides tools for maintaining and analyzing data. Maintaining data known as data maintenance involves adding new data, deleting data and editing existing data. Analysis tools support viewing all or selected parts of data, querying database and generating reports. Application generation subsystem-provides tool to create data entry forms and specialized programming languages that interface or work with common and widely used programming languages such as C or Visual Basic. Data administration subsystem manages the database; database administrators (DBAs) are computer professionals who help define processing rights. What are the five types of databases? Why does more than one kind of database exist? -Individual -Company -Distributed -Commercial Databases available for general and specific business purposes include business directories, demographic data, business statistical information, text databases, and Web databases. What are some of the benefits and limitations of databases? Why is security a concern? Two important security concers are illegal use of data and unauthorized access. Most organizations use firewalls to protect their internal networks. Some benefits are in business such as financial and marketing. Limitation is for security of the organizations.

The Death Penalty and the Extradition of Terrorists :: Essays Papers

The Death Penalty and the Extradition of Terrorists Should terrorists be extradited to face capital punishment in the country a crime was perpetrated in? This question has been frequently repeated, especially after the events of September eleventh. Everyone seems to have a different opinion as to whether or not the death penalty is a viable punishment. There are also exhaustive discussions regarding who should judge the proceedings. I believe that if an offender commits a crime in a foreign land, and is apprehended, then they should be charged in and be subject to the laws of that country. If it is expected that we respect the customs of a particular country, why should abiding by the laws be any different? The events of September eleventh 2001 became an excellent example of the conflicted opinions that the countries from which the offenders came from had. The hijackers who commandeered the planes were from a different country with very different rules and mores. When these hijackers decided to fly into the World Trade Centers and The Pentagon and potentially kill thousands of people, it would be understood that had they survived, they would be tried on American soil under American laws. Logically, the co-conspirators of the attacks as well as the heads of the organizations which supported them should be subjected to the same responses. In the article titled â€Å"Ashcroft soothes Europe’s Death Penalty Objections,† Lofti Raissi and Zacarias Moussaoui discuss other countries concerns as to whether or not their citizens will face the death penalty. Reporters asked Ashcroft whether he was willing to give a guarantee that terrorist suspects who were extradited to the U.S. would not face capital punishment, but he concluded that it is a case-by-case decision. The article further states that European countries have abolished the death penalty and will not extradite suspects who face the death penalty in another country (Johnson 1). I believe it is every country’s right to vote and draft a law deciding whether of not it should allow the death penalty, but if one decides that they are going to commit a crime in a country which allows the death penalty, they should recognize that they must face the consequences. Two foreigners who are going through similar proceedings are described in the article. They are Zacarias Moussaoui and Lotfi Raissi. Zacarias is a French citizen who was arrested in the United States and was the first person charged for involvement in the nine-eleven attacks (Johnson 1).

On The Road- A Success? :: essays research papers

"On the Road"- a success? So much open space- mile after mile of cities, towns, Waffle Houses, and a whole lot of whatnot. There's such a feeling of freedom on a road trip, just sticking your head out the window to let the breeze of every place that passes, cover your face. So much is taken in, yet so little, you find it's hard to stop to sleep or feed yourself. You're driving to get somewhere, but that somewhere doesn't matter, all that matters is driving and letting the wind take you. Friends, yell at attractive people as you pass, Or fighting with family, arguing about who's going to eat the last piece of string cheese. It's all about the moment and what you choose to do with it. "On the Road", a novel written by Jack Kerouac, contains many such road trips during a time in life called: the beat generation. It's an extraordinary tale of two young men searching for things they don't even realize until they get to their destinations; and when they reach those destinations all they want to do is driv e†¦. In first reading "On the Road", one might find it a touch absurd and slightly confusing. The writing goes in all directions and who is this Dean guy anyway? Upon reading the novel a second time there's this fascination with all the characters and their actions. The tale unfolds with Salvatore Paradise, called simply: Sal. Sal is a writer, in his thirties, living in New Jersey (his whole life). He becomes obsessed (it seems) with a guy named Dean Moriarty. Dean is an interesting character- a con and a womanizer; he still becomes a guy that readers would want to be pals with. Dean and Sal have an interesting relationship, but for the most part they seem like good friends. After Dean moves out of Sals apartment (after conning his way into it), he moves around, getting married and not really settling down. So this leads to Sal, out of sheer boredom, to pack some things and head out on a road trip, with no car and fifty bucks in his pocket. Off he goes on a wild adventure, comin g to many stops along his way to California. From there the story gets kind of repetitive, with Sal going back and forth across the country and Dean still up to all his craziness.

The Influence of Noam Chomsky in Child Language Acquisition

The influence of Noam Chomsky in child language acquisition Noam Chomsky dominated the world of linguistics like a colossus for decades after the late fifties. My main aim of this essay is to discuss his influence in the area of child language acquisition and inspect to see if his influence is waxing or waning. After that I will examine the reasons behind the increase or decrease of his influence. I will be relating back every so often to nativism and the great ‘nature vs. nurture’ debate since Chomsky’s reputation significantly depends on it. Avram Noam Chomsky was born in 1928 and is, as reported by the online Encyclopaedia , â€Å"an Institute Professor Emeritus of linguistics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and also is the creator of the Chomsky hierarchy, a classification of formal languages. † Apart from his linguistic work, Chomsky is also famous for his political views. Although, the field of children's language development includes a whole range of perspectives , the issue that has outweighed the rest is that of whether language ability is ‘innate’ or not. This matter which has been long debated concentrates on finding out whether children were born ‘preprogrammed’ to acquire language or is it merely a matter of cultural product . One of the most influential figures around this debate was Noam Chomsky, who believed in the innate capacity of children for learning language. As Harris (1990:76) explains, â€Å"Chomsky suggested that infants are born with innate knowledge of the properties of language. Further elaborating on Chomskys’s belief, Sampson (1997:23) says â€Å"Chomsky claims that this process of first language acquisition must be determined in most respects by a genetic programme, so that the development of language in an individuals mind is akin to the growth of a bodily organ rather than being a matter of responding to environmental stimulation. † Noam Chomsky suggested that children are born with a genetic mechanism for the acquisition of language, which he called a â€Å"Language Acquisition Dev ice† (LAD). He claimed that they are born with the major principles of language in place, but with many parameters to set. Further supporting this claim Chomsky (1972:113) said â€Å"Having some knowledge of the characteristics of the acquired grammars and the limitations on the available data, we can formulate quite reasonable and fairly strong empirical hypotheses regarding the internal structure of the LAD that constructs the postulated grammars from the given data. † Nevertheless, this theory of an innate Language Acquisition Device has not been generally accepted but in fact has been opposed on two grounds. Firstly, in the famous ongoing debate between nature and nurture many people have criticised Chomsky for disregarding environmental aspects. Secondly, there is a difference of opinion as to whether language acquisition is part of the child’s wider cognitive development or as Chomsky believes, is an independent inborn ability. Disagreements such as these display the immense impact Chomsky’s theory has had on the field of linguistics. One of the central concepts which Chomsky introduced was the idea of Universal Grammar. Chomsky greatly influenced Linguistic thinking by his theory that a universal grammar inspires all languages and that all languages have the same basic underlying structure. Collis et al (1994:11) further clarify â€Å"Chomsky argued that universals of linguistic form are innate: the child had inborn knowledge of the general form of a transformational grammar. † He believed in Universal Grammar because children remarkably seem to be able to learn rapidly whatever language they are exposed to despite certain rules of grammar being beyond their learning capacity and in a couple of years they seem to master the system they are immersed in . Harris (1990:76) supporting this view says: â€Å"After a period of some four to five years’ exposure to the language of those around them, children seem to have mastered the underlying rule system which enables them to produce an infinite variety of relatively well-formed, complex sentences. † Also children progress so rapidly in acquiring their native language as though they know in advance the general form of the system to be acquired as Fromkin & Rodman (1998:339) state, â€Å"The similarity of the language acquisition stages across diverse peoples and languages shows that children are equipped with special abilities to acquire. Wilkipedia explaining this theory says: â€Å"it does not claim that all human languages have the same grammar, or that all humans are â€Å"programmed† with a structure that underlies all surface expressions of human language; but rather, universal grammar proposes a set of rules that would explain how children acquire their langua ge(s), or how they construct valid sentences of their language. † Although, Sampson (1997:108) gives the arguments in support of language universals some credit saying â€Å"the arguments from universals is the only one hat has some serious prima facie force† But, by and large, Sampson (1997:136) disagrees as he concludes: â€Å"there are some universal features in human languages, but what they mainly show is that human beings have to learn their mother tongues rather than having knowledge of language innate in their minds. † Another argument, involving Chomsky, which is referred to as Poverty of data, is that children would be unable to learn language in a human environment where the input is of poor quality. Chomsky (1980) argued that the child’s acquisition of grammar is ‘hopelessly underdetermined by the fragmentary evidence available. He recognized this deficiency due to two major reasons. The first is the poor nature of the input. According to Chomsky, the sentences heard by the child are so full of errors and incompletions that they provide no clear indication of the possible sentences of the language. As well as this problem there is an unavailability of negative evidence and children have a hard time knowing which forms of their language are acceptable and which are unacceptable. As a result of all this, he believes language learning must rely on other constraints from universal grammar. Macwhinney (2004) says: â€Å"To solve this logical problem, theorists have proposed a series of constraints and parameterizations on the form of universal grammar. Plausible alternatives to these constraints include: conservatism, item-based learning, indirect negative evidence, competition, cue construction, and monitoring. † According to Macwhinney (2004) Chomsky’s views about the poor quality of the input have not stood up well to the test of time. Many studies of child directed speech have shown that speech to young children is slow, clear, grammatical, and very repetitious. Newport, Gleitman & Gleitman (1977) reported, ‘the speech of mothers to children is unswervingly well-formed. ’ More recently, Sagae et al (2004) examined several of the corpora in the CHILDES database and found that adult input to children can be parsed with an accuracy level parallel to that for corpora. Although, this failure of Chomsky’s claim has not so far led to the collapse of the ‘argument from poverty of stimulus’, however, as Macwhinney (2004) says, â€Å"It has placed increased weight on the remaining claims regarding the absence of relevant evidence. The overall claim as Macwhinney (2004) points out is that, â€Å"given the absence of appropriate positive and negative evidence, no child can acquire language without guidance from a rich set of species-specific innate hypotheses. † Chomsky also claimed that there was a critical period for language learning which was first proposed by Eric Lenneberg. He claimed, as Cook & Newson (199 6:301) explain, that there is a critical period during which the human mind is able to learn language; before or after this period language cannot be acquired in a natural fashion. Although the rare cases of feral children who had been deprived of first language in early childhood seems to support the idea of critical period but it is not known for definite if deprivation was the only reason for their language learning difficulties as Sampson (1997:37) points out, â€Å"it is not certain if children in cases of extreme deprivation have trouble learning language because they have missed their so-called â€Å"critical period† or if it is because of the extreme trauma they have experienced. Although Chomsky was a very influential and successful nativist, Sampson (1997:159) claims ‘his theories were given a helping hand by external circumstances. ’ At the time when he was putting forward these ideas about language and human nature, Chomsky was also the leading intellectual opponent of American involvement in the Vietnam War as Sampson (1997:11) states: â€Å"politics had given Chomsky much of his audience in the early days as he was the leadin g intellectual figure in the 1960’s movement against American involvement in the Vietnam War. His opposition to the Vietnam War made him a popular figure amongst the young Americans who also opposed the decision and were eager to cheer on anyone speaking against it. Sampson (1997:11) also points out importantly â€Å"Many people came to listen to Chomsky on foreign policy and stayed to listen to him on linguistics. Giving other reasons Sampson (1997:159) claims that â€Å"it was a period when the academic discipline of linguistics found a new market in providing professional training for teachers of foreign language and this nativist style of language analysis was relatively appealing to them as nativism focused on language universals rather than on the peculiar individual features of particular languages. Similarly he points out that â€Å"it was a period when knowledge of other languages among the English speaking world was diminishing. † Furthermore, the years aro und 1970 were also a period when the university system expanded massively in a very short eriod. Large numbers of people were taken on into the university teaching profession over a few years, and after entering they remained there as Sampson (1997:159) says, â€Å"they stayed; so an over-presentation of whatever intellectual trends happened to be ‘hot’ just then was locked into the system. † Stating another reason Sampson (1997:161) claims: â€Å"American linguists who were not established in their careers were afraid to voice disagreement with nativism publicly for fear of damaging their chances of academic employment. The most important point keeping the nativist domination is the greater job availability as Sampson (1997:161) points out, â€Å"there are more jobs in nativism than empiricism† During the 1980s, Chomsky’s nativist discourse moved out of the public limelight as his political interference became less agreeable to many and so Chomsky ’s influence started to diminish in significance to linguistic nativism as Sampson (1997:11) says â€Å"In the 1980’s Chomsky’s star waned† and then reasoning the 1980’s eclipse he says that ‘those were the Margaret Thatcher years, which meant that educated public opinion had other things to be interested in. But, beginning in the 1990s, a new wave of writing has revived basically the same idea about language and knowledge being innate in human beings and they rely on Chomsky’s ideas as Sampson (1997:14) says, â€Å"Many of the nativists work of the 1990’s depend on chomsky’s version of nativism. However, these books seem to better equipped to the test of time as Sampson (2003) points out â€Å"These books refer to a broader range of considerations, including issues high in human interest such as case studies of pidgin languages, young children’s speech, experiments in teaching language to apes whereas Chomskyâ⠂¬â„¢s arguments were rather dryly formal and mathematical. † Furthermore, the contemporary nativists claim to identify some additional evidence which was never mentioned by Chomsky. Several different writers have contributed to this â€Å"new wave† of present-day arguments for nativism. By far the most influential, however, as Sampson (2003) suggests, has been Steven Pinker’s 1994 book The Language Instinct. Regarding this new revival Sampson (1997:12) says: â€Å"The nativists of the 1990’s are quite different. Their books are full of fascinating information about languages and linguistic behaviour so that people enjoy reading for the data alone. He further states: â€Å"As a result, the new generation of linguistic nativists have succeeded very quickly in winning audiences and attracting praise from distinguished and sometimes influential onlookers. † Criticising the content of these books he says: â€Å"The reader is taken on a magical mystery tour of language and urged to agree that nativism makes a plausible account of it all- rather than herded through a bare corral in which every side exit is sealed off by barriers of logic a nd the only way out is the gate labelled ‘innate knowledge. In conclusion, it is very obvious to see the great impact Chomsky’s ideologies have had in the area of child language acquisition which subsequently enhanced his status. Describing his huge influence Sampson (1997:10) says, â€Å"It would be hard to exaggerate the impact that these ideas of Noam Chomsky’s achieved. † He further states â€Å"By many objective measures, he became the world’s most influential living thinker. Sampson (1997:11) further reports that, â€Å"in the comprehensive computerized registers of references that scholars make to one another’s writings in the academic literature; within the sphere covered by the Arts and Humanities Citation Index, Chomsky is the most- quoted living writer, and the eighth most quoted in history. † Although his ideas suffered a blow in the 1980’s, it has been strongly revived since the 1990’s as Sampson (1997:161) critically states â€Å"in the 1990’s the public mood has changed again. Society is showing signs of reverting to an almost medieval acceptance of intellectual authority, from which dissent is seen as morally objectionable† Further, reasoning the success of these new nativist writers he says â€Å"When Chomsky originally spelled out an argument, the reader would assess it and might detect its fallacies; but when recent writers refer to something as having been established back in the 1960s–70s, most readers are likely to take this on trust, for lack of time and energy to check the sources. Finally, on the subject of ‘nature vs. nurture’ debate, which so heavily involves Chomsky, it seems impossible to distinguish whether language is only acquired due to environmental exposure or simply due to innate faculties. From the evidence it seems that humans possess innate capabilities which enable linguistic development, but the correct environment, with exposure to adult language throughout the critical period, also seems to be necessar y in order for a child to develop and become a proficient speaker. In regards to this issue Collis (1994:10) makes a valid conclusion â€Å"current thinking about language acquisition treats nativist and empiricist explanations as forthrightly opposed, but as potentially varying in degree: language acquisition is mostly a realisation of innate principles, or mostly a consequence of learning. † Similarly, Sampson (2003) clarifies: â€Å"Clearly this issue is not an all-or-nothing question. It is about where truth lies on a spectrum of possibilities. Nature must have some role in human cognition; conversely, nurture must also play a role. † Bibliography Chomsky, N. (1972) Language and Mind New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Chomsky, N. (1980). Rules and representations. New York: Columbia University Press Chomsky, N. (1986) Knowledge of language: it's nature, origin and use. New York: Praeger Cook, V. J, & Newson, M. (1996) Chomsky’s Universal Grammar : An Introduction(2nd ed. ) UK:Blackwell Publishers Collis, G. , Perera, K, & Richards, B (1994) (Eds. ), Growing points in child language UK: CUP Fromkin, V. and Rodman, R. (1998) An Introduction to Language. 6th. ed. US: Harcourt Brace College Publishers Harris, J (1990) Early Language Development- implications for clinical and educational practice London:Routledge Macwhinney, B(2004) ‘A multiple process solution to the logical problem of language acquisition’ Journal of Child Language. Vol. 31 No. 4, pp. 883–914 UK:CUP Newport, E. , Gleitman, H. & Gleitman, L. (1977). Mother, I? d rather do it myself: some effects and non-effects of maternal speech style. In C. Ferguson (ed. ), Talking to children :language input and acquisition. Cambridge: CUP Sagae, K. , MacWhinney, B. & Lavie, A. (2004). Automatic parsing of parent–child interactions. Behavior Research Methods, Instruments, and Computers 36, 113–26. Sampson,G (2005) The ‘Language Instinct' Debate: Revised Edition of Educating Eve Continuum International Publishing Group Sampson, G (2003) Empiricism v. Nativism [http://www. grsampson. net/REmpNat. html](07/05/05) Sampson,G (1997) The ‘Language Instinct' Debate: Educating Eve London and New York: Cassell Wikipedia (2005) The Free Encyclopedia – Noam Chomsky [http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Noam_Chomsky] (07/05/05) Wikipedia (2005) The Free Encyclopedia- Universal grammar [http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Universal_Grammar] (07/05/05)

Financial Statement Analysis of Dutch Lady

I. INTRODUCTION Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad (â€Å"Dutch Lady Malaysia†), a company established in 1963, is currently leading in the business of quality branded dairy in Malaysia. The company, whose holding company is Royal FrieslandCampina–a Dutch multinational corporation, one of the largest milk companies in the world- was the first milk company in Malaysia to be listed on Bursa Malaysia, the local Stock Exchange in 1968.Being the leading producer and seller of quality dairy products and fruit juices for home and export market (such as Infant formula, many types of milks, yoghurt and fruit juice drinks), Dutch Lady Malaysia has a strong consumer following and represented by strong brands (such as Dutch Lady, Frisolac, Completa, Omela, Friso, and Joy). In addition, it was the first company in the world to introduce a growing up milk powder specifically formulated for children from ages one to three (known in Malaysia as Dutch Lady 123 and Dutch Lady 456) and is the largest purchaser of local fresh milk from the Veterinary Services Department.The company receives strong support from its holding company. It also believes in product innovation and commitment to its consumers, which lead it to a constant efforts to improve its processes in order to serve its customers with high quality nutritious products. The company gives prime considerations to Quality Control and Quality Assurance. It has continually received accreditation of ISO 9001 since 1995. In terms of food safety, it applies HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) System to all its plants.Meanwhile, for its Environmental Management System it has in place ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 (Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series). The Company’s products are all halal-certified. With factory located in Petaling Jaya that employs 600 Malaysians, Dutch Lady Malaysia made an annual revenues of RM692 million in 2009. Currently, Dutch Lady Malaysia is leading in the market o f key milk categories such as UHT milk, Sterilised milk and Growing-Up milk. II. PERFORMANCE RATIOS II. 1. Liquidity Ratio Liquidity ratio refers to ability of company to meet its short term obligation. There are eight types of liquidity ratio: . | Working Capital Ratio = Current Assets – Current Liabilities| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 193,784 – 96,855= 96,929| = 234,244 – 106,261=127,983| = 324,466 – 135,309= 189,157| 2. | Current Ratio = Current AssetsCurrent Liabilities| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 193,78496,856=2 :1| = 234,244106,261 =2. 2 :1| = 324,466135,309 =2. 39 :1| 3. | Acid Test Ratio = Quick AssetsCurrent Liabilities| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 136,23296,855=1. 4 :1| =161,522106,261 =1. 52 :1| =230,978135,309 =1. 7 :1| 4. | Account Receivable Turnover = Sales on AccountAverage Accounts Receivable| | 2009| 2010| 2011| = 691,847(94,369+122,858)/2=6. 36 times| = 696,625(75,176 + 94,369)/2=8. 22 times| = 810,647(36,714 + 75,176)/2 =14. 56 times| 5. | Invent ory Turnover = Cost of Goods SoldAverage Inventory| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 462,510(57,552+74,902)/2= 6. 98 times| = 447,961(72,722+57,552)/2=6. 88 times| = 506,175(93,448+72,722)/2=6. 09 times| 6. | Days Sales Uncollected = Ending Accounts Receivable(Debtor Turnover Ratio) Net Sales| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =94,369691,847 x 365=49. 7=50 days| =75,176696,625 x 365=39. 3=39 days| =36,714810,647 x 365=16. 5=16 days| 7. Days’ Sales in Inventory = Ending InventoryCost of Goods Sold| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =57,552462,510 x 365=45 days| =72,722447,961 x 365=59 days| =93,448506,175 x 365=67 days| 8. | Total Assets Turnover = Net SalesAverage Total Assets| | =691,847(280,990+288,570)/2=2. 42 times| =696,625(307,490 +280,990)/2=2. 37 times| =810,647(398,514+307,490)/2=2. 30 times| The increasing amount of working capital shows that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad is able to continue their operations and it has sufficient cash flow to satisfy both short term debt and upcoming expenses.D utch Lady Milk Industries Berhad experiences an increasing self-support through its growing current assets compared to its current liabilities. The current ratio and quick ratio of Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad is more than ideal ratio. The increasing percentage of both ratios is indicating Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad has the ability to pay its current obligations in time. From account receivable turnover, in 2011 shows that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad converts 14. 56 times from account receivable into cash. In 2009 and 2010, the sales movement from account to cash is not quite good because above 12 times.However, as we can see from inventory turnover from 2009-2011, indicating that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad inventory management techniques in 2010 and 2011 are less efficient as compared to that in 2009 because productions selling is less frequently and make the number of inventory increase. The decline in the total of days’ sales uncollected from 2009 to 2011 shows that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad has an effective accounts payable procedures. It would benefit Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad because they would get cash faster from their customers.The days sales in inventory measures the liquidity of inventory, the operating cycle time for Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad in 2009 is shorter than 2010 and 2011, they only need 45 days, 22 days faster than in the 2011. Technically total asset turnover shows how many times company can generate revenue from every dollar asset that they have, it measures the efficiency of assets in producing sales. In 2009, Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad can use their assets efficiently compared to the year 2010 and 2011. II. 2. Solvency Ratio It measures the ability of firm to survive in the long run.There are 4 types of solvency ratio: 1. | Debt Ratio = Total Liabilities Total Assets| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =101,005280,990x 100=35. 9 %| =110,018307,490x 100= 35. 7 %| =139,360398,514x 100=34. 9 %| 2. | Equity Ratio = Total Equity Total Assets| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 179,985280,990=64% | =197,472307,490=64. 2% | =259,154398,514=65% | 3. | Debt to Equity Ratio = Total LiabilitiesTotal Equity| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =101,005179,985=56. 1%| =110,018197,472=55. 7%| =139,360259,154=53. 7%| 4. | Times Interest Earned = Net Income before Interest Expense and Income ExpenseInterest Expense | | 2009| 2010| 2011| = 82,031 1=82 times| = 89,2210=0 times| = 139,368 919=152 times| Based on the table above, Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad has favorable debt ratio. There is a decline of percentage from 35. 9% (2009) to 34. 9% (2011), indicating that they has a good strategy in reducing company’s assets that are contributed by creditors. Equity ratio shows that they have tendency to depend more on the owner for financing. Consequently, it is considered as a good result for the investors as long as the company earns good profits and maintains its performance.Debt to Equity Ratio has decreased from 56. 1% to 53. 7% in 2009 and 2011 respectively, which means that in 2011 for 1 RM of Dutch Company owned by the shareholders, they owe 53. 7 cent to creditors. This is a good indicator that the company is not facing a risky situation as its business does not rely the financing on debt. The investors, therefore, may find the company as a promising firm to invest. II. 3. Profitability Ratio It is used to assess a business’s ability to generate earnings as compared to its expenses and other relevant costs incurred during a specific period of time.There are 4 types of profitability ratios: 1. | Gross Profit Margin = Net Sales – Cost of Sales Net Sales| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =691,847-462,510691,847= 33%| =710,588-447,961710,588=36%| =810,647-506,175810,647=37%| 2. | Operating Profit Margin = Net Income Net Sales| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =82,031691,847=12%| =89,221710,588=12. 5%| =139,368810,647=17%| 3. | Return on Total Assets = Net IncomeAverage Total Asse ts| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =60,400(280,990+288,570)/2=21. 21 %| =63,887(307,490+280,990)/2=21. 71 %| =108,082(398,514+307,490)/2=31. 1%| 4. | Return on Common Stockholders’ Equity = Net Income – Preferred DividendsAverage Common Stockholders’ Equity| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | =60,400-0(179,985+161,585)/2=35. 37 %| =63,887-0(197,472+179,985)/2 =33. 85 %| =63,887-0(197,472+197,472)/2 =32. 35 %| Based on the graph above, we can see the percentage of gross profit margin has been increasing over the last three years. It is a good sign for a company, as it is considered as a sign of healthy and growing company. Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad is able maintain their inflow and outflow.It is able to make a reasonable profit on sales by keeping its overhead costs in control. Operating profit margin ratio increases from 12% (2009) to 17% (2011), showing that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad has a great management skill and operating efficiency. However, there is a decline i n the percentage of return on total assets from 21. 50% to 20. 78% in 2009 and 2010 respectively. This reveals that year 2010 is less profitable. Return on assets (RoA) declines from 21. 50% to 20. 78% in 2009 and 2010 respectively. This could be an indicator that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad has spent much assets to do business.If they have to pay a lot in order to maintain these assets, it will decrease the RoA even lower since the maintenance costs will decrease their earnings. In 2011, however, we can see in the table that there is an increase to 27. 12%. This indicates that they required less assets on that year. A high or low RoE needs to be interpreted in the context of a company's debt-equity relationship. The rise percentage of RoE (Return on Equity) above RoA shows that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad takes a financial leverage. In 2010, by taking on debt, Dutch Lady increased its asset than to the cash that came in.It may be sign that management is using leverage t o increase profits and profit margins. So, debt amplifies RoE in relation to ROA. II. 4. Market Prospect Ratio For Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad, the market prospects can be observed from Earnings per Share, Price-Earnings Ratio and Dividend Yield. 1. | Basic Earnings per Share (EPS) = Net Income – Preferred Dividends Weighted-Average Common Shares Outstanding| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 60,400,000-064,000,000= 99. 40 cent | = 63,887,000-064,000,000= 99. 80 cent | = 108,082,000-064,000,000= 168. 90 cent| 2. Diluted Earnings per Share| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | There were no diluted earnings per share for the company| There were no diluted earnings per share for the company| There were no diluted earnings per share for the company| 3. | Price-Earnings Ratio (PE) = Market Price per ShareEarnings per Share| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 1162 cent99. 40 cent= 11. 69 times| = 1754 cent99. 80 cent=17. 58 times| = 2340 cent168,90 cent=13. 85 times| 4. | Dividend Yield = Annual Dividends per ShareMarket Price per Share| | 2009| 2010| 2011| | = 65. 63 cent1162 cent=5. 65%| = 72. 50 cent1754 cent=4. 3%| = 72. 50 cent2340 cent=3. 1%| The improvement of basic EPS for Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad from 99. 40 cent in 2009 to 168. 90 cent in 2011 is an indication that the company can generate its share to gain better profit every year. Diluted earnings per share is illustrated the assumption of the worst case scenario, it means if the company announce any dilution it will decrease the equity position in every issuance of additional shares. Diluted earnings per share seen as a bad thing for the shareholders because it will reduce the amount of the basic EPS that belongs to their stock.Thus, no diluted EPS in Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad can be interpreted that there were no reduction of the basic earnings per share for every share issued. For Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad, the PE ratio from 2009 to 2010 is increasing because the market price per share in 2010 is h igher than that in 2009. Market price per share indicates how much the price that market stock is willing to pay or sell for the share. Therefore, when the market price is going up, it means that the stock is quite appreciated, more demand that is willing to buy rather than to sell. Whereas, PE ratio from 2010 to 2011 decreased from 17. 8 times to 13. 85 times because of the firm’s earnings per share rises. In this case, however, the investors who already had share in Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad are recommended to hold their stocks, because the market price tends to rise. For long-term outlook, keeping the shares is still better then selling them. However, PE ratio is not the only information to be considered in carrying out stocks investment. Thus, no diluted EPS in Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad can be interpreted that there were no reduction of the basic earnings per share for every share issued.The dividend yield by Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad is declining from 5. 65% in 2009 to 3. 1% in 2011, because the rise of its market stock price. If the dividend yield increases because the market stock price is fall, it will make investors unhappy. High yields can be a sign of an unsustainably high dividend. Some investors perceives that dividends are important and usually their interest is in receiving a steady return each year. The Dutch Lady stockholders seem to be less concerned with the dividends. For them, the important things are the stock price appreciation and capital gains.III. RECOMMENDATION 1. Improve a long operating cycle ratio. Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad should increase collection efforts on accounts receivable to ensure timely payment from customers, for example are frequent billing or increased collection calls and correspondence. They can decrease unused inventory by putting on sales or selling overstock products to resellers. Negotiate for more favorable payment terms with creditors to give the company more time to pay bills without incurring late payment penalties or additional interest. . Increase the liquidity of inventory Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad should evaluate their sales, because the operating cycle in inventory take longer time than the previous year. If the sales not improving and only in a steady condition, it will increase inventory, and occurs loss for the company, because their product will be expired. To solve this problem, they can expand to the new market/export, increase their sales with promotion and advertisement. Brand awareness is important to encourage customer buy the product.If they success improving the sales, the company not only will generate more profit but also have a less inventory. 3. Manage total asset turnover efficiently. The efficiency of total asset in producing sales decreased from 2009 to 2011. Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad should allocating their resource and update technology to maximize the utilization of asset. Furthermore, they also have the depreciation of current assets, before the book value of their current asset decreasing they can improve human resource/labor competencies to use the asset efficiently. 4. Improving the price earnings ratio.This ratio reflected confidence of the shareholders to buy and keep Dutch Lady stock, and will attract more big investors. If the company can maintain their supply towards the market demand in the stock market, and also maintain the earnings per share by increasing net income, it will increase the price earnings ratio. Because the higher price earnings ratio means the more opportunity for Dutch Lady to grow. This improvement can support point 2 of the recommendations, the more they can keep the big investors happy, the more opportunity Dutch Lady to expand the market. IV. CONCLUSIONSThe increasing amount of working capital shows that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad is able to continue their operations and it has sufficient cash flow to satisfy both short term debt and upcoming expenses. The company does not seem to face any risk of being unable to meet its current obligation. However, Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad has problem in the management of inventory system, the production capacity is exceed than the ability to sell their product. Solvency ratio shows that Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad prefers to finance their business from owner’s equity instead of debt.This is a favorable condition for investors as their investments are not put in risky situation. This is also a favorable for creditors, as the company provides them with a safety and security by its ability to quarantee that it is able to pay off all the loans. Market prospect ratio is used to evaluate market growth of the company because this ratio estimates company’s prospect and risk in earning reinvestment and distribution to the shareholders. Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad can be a good target for big investors as it is able to improve their market share every year.Th e improvement of basic EPS for Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad reveals the company’s ability to generate its shares to gain better profit every year. In terms of performance in profitability, Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad has demonstrated good performance in profitability. The company has been able to improve its gross margin over the last three years as shown in graph above. The RoE tells common shareholders how effectively their money is being employed. ——————————————– [ 2 ]. Loth, R. Profitability indicator ratios: return on equity.Retrieved November 16, 2012, from http://www. investopedia. com/university/ratios/profitability-indicator/ratio4. asp#ixzz2CMaaeQwt [ 3 ]. Data obtained from Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad Annual Report 2009, 2010, and 2011. [ 4 ]. Draker, P. P. Financial Ratio Analysis. Retrieved November 11, 2012, from http://educ. jmu. edu/~drakep p/principles/module2/fin_rat. pd [ 5 ]. eHow. What Does the Dividend Yield Tell the Investors. Retrieved November 14, 2012, from http://www. ehow. com/facts_5192566_dividend-yield-tell-investor_. html