Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Philosophy - Essay Example Sources of Knowledge Rationalism as a source of knowledge includes non-experimental sources such as logic, beliefs and mathematics. A person cannot experience any of these sources of knowledge, but can derive a sense of reality and purpose from them. Empiricism source of knowledge in the world today include acquiring information through experience such as seeing, feeling and hearing (Lemos, 2007). Non-experimental knowledge about the modern world comes from reasoning and beliefs. The knowledge in mathematics of adding two numbers such as 1+1 equals 2 is true because of the rational insight of the world around us. Non-experimental knowledge such as mathematics enables people to add money, fruits, clothes and numbers among others. Logic is using reasoning and mental capacity to find the truth about information. An example where logic applies in the modern world is trying to explain to people that men and women are mortal beings. This statement is true because everyone will die. However , the person saying or hearing this statement has not experienced the death to know that men and women are mortal beings. The last non-experimental knowledge of the world today is religious and cultural beliefs. This is the knowledge about God, the devil and ancestors spirits. People have not experienced the presence of God, the devil, heaven and hell because these are beliefs that are considered true from the Holy texts in religious books. Knowledge from experience includes experimental, introspection, memory and testimony (Lemos, 2007). Experimental knowledge thrives on perception such as seeing, feeling, tasting and touching and smelling. Scientific research and other common experiences of acquiring and assessing knowledge in the modern world involve the use of the five common... This paper approves that the major religions in the modern world include Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism and Buddhism, among others. Religion teaches that there is a powerful Supreme Being who is omnipresent and located in the heavens. The Supreme Being created man in his own likeness, the world and values to be followed and obeyed. In the contemporary society, religion is still popular because people are shopping for values, beliefs and guarantees that meet their individual needs. The most commons reasons why religious beliefs are still popular in the 21st century include marriage, diseases, life challenges and uncertainties among others. Memory is an important source of knowledge in the modern world because the mind records events and experiences that are used in future. People remember their childhood memories with their friends and project these memories to their children’s future happiness. Patients remember previous appointments to the doctor and the description of their ailments. This essay makes a conclusion that assessing knowledge in the modern society is through rationalism and empiricism, which deal with experiences and faith, respectively. Religious and scientific theories differ in their definition of reality, but they have similarities in dealing with invisible things, end of the world and seeking wisdom through extensive studies. Religion in the modern society is still popular because of the promise of heaven, virtues, cohesion, globalization and perseverance.

Sweeney and subsequent death Essay Example for Free

Sweeney and subsequent death Essay This makes the surprise at the end, that she is actually Todd’s wife, less astounding. We have seen so little of her that it really isn’t that important where as in the musical this surprise can elicit gasps. This woman is so changed that Sweeney Todd has interacted with her and not recognized his own wife! The two characters whose stories are closely presented as the musical are Senior Pirelli and Tobias. Pirelli’s barber competition with Sweeney and subsequent death by Sweeney is told in both the musical and movie. He is an important character as his past and killing set up the crucial plot point. Sweeney has killed one of his enemies for the first time and how to get ride of the body? Mrs. Lovett’s pie shop success and yearning for more success, which influences her concealment of Lucy, push forward the story. Tobias is present in both the musical and movie as an assistant to Pirelli and then Mrs. Lovett. Though his importance is not until the very end of the show. It is he who kills Sweeney Todd and ultimately he is blamed for the deaths of Lucy, Mrs. Lovett and Sweeney Todd. While he is present in almost all of the same scenes in the musical and movie is love for Mrs. Lovett is not as developed in the movie as it is in the musical. The musical present Toby as caring deeply for Mrs. Lovett and having a distrust of Sweeney Todd. Toby is seen in the movie but his presence is of little importance. He is there to eventually kill Todd and the majority of his time spent in the bake house was cut completely. These are the characters in the musical and movie of Sweeney Todd. The movie main plot line of both the film and musical is on Sweeney Todd’s story, with Mrs. Lovett being a significant contributor to his story. The musical displays the secondary characters with more story, songs and background. This exposure results in characters that truly influence Sweeny Todd and we care that Anthony and Joanna are the only ones to survive. The audience is reviled at the Judge and his desire to wed Joanna. The audience is not shocked at the beggar woman’s death until we realize she is Todd’s wife because she very insane. The movie is a convenient and less expense way to experience Sweeny Todd but the musical present all of the characters and a wonderful round story that ties up all the loose ends and stresses the importance of each character. References: BBC- Press Office, December 8, 2005, Man or Myth, the Making of Sweeney Todd, BBC. co. uk, accessed April 18, 2008,

Antigone :: essays research papers

Antigone Antigone and Ismene are sisters.   They have two brothers who just killed each other and both died.   Creon, whos very powerful, honored one and dishonored the other.   The dishonored brother being left outside, unburied, and prohibited anyone to cry or sympathetic on the dead body.   Antigone who came from a loyal family could not stand to see her brother died unburied, so she asked her sister to go with her to steal and bury   the brother-body. Unwillingly, Ismene affrighted of the law and did not agree with her sister.   So Antigone steal and bury the body by herself.   When Creon know this, he was very upset and order the army to get the one stole the body.   They catch Antigone and take her to Creon.   Antigone has not affraid of the execution which Creon would give.   Ismene, her sister came and said that she had a share in this matter. But Antigon claims to her own motivation.   Haemon is the only son of Creon.   He has not agree with what his father commands.   They argue about who is right to give commands.   Because Haemon had fallen in love with Antigone so he ran a way when his father gave order to kill Antigone.   But then, Creon orders to take Anigone to a locked-tomb.   A blind prophet named Teiresias go with a boy visit Creon and told him what he did was wrong.   At first Creon did not agree, but then after Teiresias gone.   He realized what he did was wrong so he called his servants to release Antigone.   But it was too late, a messenger came with the bad news that Creons son had killed himself.   The story did not stop there, another terrible news came to Creon that the queen is dead.   When Creons wife heard the news of her own son killed himself, she put violence upon herself and died.   Now Creon opens his eyes and see who is right to judge. He had learn a lesson of wisdom in a hard way. The Antigone has many arguments and it is hard to fingure out which one is the main one.   In the beginning   is the argument between Antigone and her sister. And then the argument between Creon and Sentry.   When Antigone was catch, she argue with Creon.   After that Creon argue with his only son.   After Antigone gone, the phopphet came and argue with Creon. In my own opinion, the main argument was about who has the right to judge people.   Creon said he is the highest and he has the right to tell people what

The Life of Nelle Harper Lee Essay -- Biography Biographies Essays

The Life of Nelle Harper Lee On April 28, 1926 in Monroeville, Alabama, Nelle Harper Lee was born to Amasa Coleman Lee and Frances Finch Lee. Along with her siblings, Alice, Louise, and Edwin, Harper was educated in Monroeville Public Schools before going on to attend Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama. After a year at Huntingdon, Lee decided to follow in the footsteps of her father and began studying law at the University of Alabama in 1945 [2]. She left there to study abroad at Oxford University, Wellington Court in England [4]. After returning to the United States, she continued her education at the University of Alabama. However, in 1950, six months prior to completing her law degree, Lee moved to New York hoping to begin a career as a writer. During this time, she worked as a reservation clerk with Eastern Airlines and British Overseas Airways. She also worked in Holcombe, Kansas, as a research assistant for Truman Capote's novel In Cold Blood [6]. In 1957, Lee submitted a manuscript to JB Lippincott Company, which consisted of two essays and three short stories. She was advised to re-write her work perhaps by expanding one of the short stories into a novel. For the next two and a half years, Lee revised the work under the supervision of her editor, Tay Hohoff [6]. Finally, in 1960, Harper Lee's first and only book, To Kill a Mockingbird, was published. The story, which is set in a small Alabama town during the 1930's, is narrated by Scout, a six year old girl. She tells the events surrounding a court case in which her father, Atticus Finch, defends a black man, Tom Robinson, who has been wrongly accused of raping Mayella Ewell, a white woman [4]. The novel was extremely successful, selling over fifteen millio... ....ca/Culture/HarperLee/bio.html>. 3. "Harper Lee: A Biography." Elysium. 24 Sept. 2000. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . 4. Liukkonen, Petri. "Calendar of Authors." Pegasos. 1999. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . 5. Montgomery, Leigh. "Harper Lee Still Prizes Privacy Over Publicity." The Christian Science Monitor. 11 Sept. 1997. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . 6. Sigelman, Katherine. "ClassicNotes on Harper Lee." Classicnotes by GradeSaver. 6 Feb. 2000. (Accessed 1 Oct. 2000) . Note: Picture of Harper Lee courtesy of the Chebucto Community Net. .

Obsession with Celebrities

From Charlie Sheen to the Queen; we follow them, we love them. But has our obsession with celebrities gone too far? So ask yourself: why are we â€Å"infected† with this viral disease? Does celebrity worship syndrome affect us? What type of celebrity do we classify as a one we would follow? Why has the Twitter revolution changed our views of celebrities? And most importantly, who do we blame for our addictive behaviour? We must turn away from our celebrity driven life and be our own mind controllers. So why are we â€Å"infected† with this viral disease? Let us be honest with ourselves, we have all imagined what it would be like to be a celebrity; living someone else’s life. We were built and programmed to like what we think is â€Å"cool† or â€Å"attractive† which are also words we use to describe celebrities. We see them all the time in films, on television and in advertisements all around the world. We acknowledge them as if they were â€Å"perfect†. But this is not true, yes of course they look and act differently when they are in the public eye but they are not like that in private. We see this when the world’s best golfer; Tiger Woods cheats on his wife with 12 different women. This shows that they are not perfect as we imagined, but flawed like us. Celebrity worship syndrome or CWS is a scientifically proven obsessive-addictive disorder. It can affect anyone who is over-exposed to the media surrounding the lives of celebrities. Psychologists have indicated that there are three types of CWS. The first is â€Å"Entertainment-social†. This occurs when a group of people watch or speak about celebrities. The second CWS disorder is â€Å"Intense-personal†. This is shown when people share compulsive feelings about celebrities. The last CWS disorder is â€Å"Borderline-pathology†. How does all of this happen? It is more common for women to â€Å"copy† the image of celebrities. For example, regular women can see what the stars are wearing and often find tips on how to buy cheap knockoffs of their outfits. This concerns people who have little control of their behaviours and fantasies they have on the topic of celebrities. According to research conducted in the United Kingdom, there is a relation between celebrity worship syndrome and other mental disorder. This is a mildly-serious condition that can be reversed if professional help and advice is taken. Who do we find attractive and consider worth following? It's not surprising that gorgeous people wind up famous. What's less obvious is that famous people often wind up gorgeous: The more we see a certain face, the more our brain likes it, whether or not it's actually beautiful. Thanks to what is known as â€Å"the exposure effect,† says James Bailey, a psychologist at George Washington University, the pleasurable sensation that is set off when we see a certain celebrity â€Å"begins to create a neurochemical groove,† making her image easier for our brains to process. This begins to explain why Jennifer Aniston, not exactly a classic cover girl was again named one of People magazine's 50 â€Å"most beautiful† in the world this year. Twitter, a world wide phenomenon. But why and how has the revolution of Twitter changed our views of celebrities? Before Twitter existed, all we had to connect with celebrities were magazines and television. But now celebrities have found a new way to communicate with us. Through Twitter, they can tell us what it is that they are currently doing and share their personal thoughts on anything. For example, Justin Bieber tweeted ‘Come home to me is such a great song. I thought I would do a little something with it. ’ But there have been studies which suggest that celebrities who do not use Twitter have a higher chance of prolonging their careers. In my opinion, this would be a fair statement because celebrities who do not use Twitter will live a more private life under less stress and so find it easier to keep their career going for as long as possible. Celebrities like Katy Perry who does not use Twitter has more privacy and less stress unlike those who constantly use Twitter like Justin Bieber are likely to experience an invasion of privacy. If we all were asked: who do we blame for being so attached to celebrities? We would all blame the media for publicizing the lives of the famous. But what we are not realizing is that we only have ourselves to blame for this behaviour. We push the media for more information which we then indulge ourselves in. We see this all the time when people contact news agencies and press aggressively for as much information as they could possible get. It has also been suggested by many that celebrities that are getting rich and famous forfeit their right to privacy. This could potentially be a disastrous decision that the celebrities make as they most certainly will lose their privacy and spend the rest of their lives under constant pressure from the media and the general public. Can we change our lives and turn away from the distractions of celebrities? A short answer would be yes. It is definitely unnecessary to follow the lives of the rich and famous so closely. If we get too addicted to celebrities, we need to seek help and refrain from this. Celebrity worship syndrome is a serious mental condition that we can treat as long as we are ready to reduce the amount of information about the celebrities we get. What we do not realize is that there is no one else more attractive than us on the inside. We need to realize that using Twitter will only aggravate us to ask for more about celebrities. Most importantly, we must stop blaming the media and blame ourselves instead for our addiction to celebrities. We will find that living without the influence of celebrities hard at first whenever we choose to stop following them but the end result will be rewarding.

Gun Ownership by Country -- Americans Lead

Gun Ownership by Country Americans Lead The United States has the highest level of gun ownership per person of any country. This fact is startling but true. According to data compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and analyzed by  The Guardian, Americans own 42 percent of all civilian guns in the world. This figure is especially startling when you consider that the U.S. makes up just 4.4 percent of the worlds population. Just How Many Guns Do Americans Own? The estimated tally in 2012, according to the UN, was 270 million civilian-owned guns in the U.S., or 88 guns per every 100 hundred people.  Unsurprisingly, given these figures, the U.S.  has the highest number of guns per capita (per person) and the highest rate of gun-related homicides of all developed countries: 29.7 per 1 million people. By comparison, no other developed countries come even close to those rates. Among the thirteen developed countries studied, the average rate of gun-related homicide is 4 per 1 million people. The developed nation with the rate closest to the U.S., Switzerland, has just 7.7 gun-related homicides per 1 million people. (There are other countries with higher rates of gun-related homicide per capita, but not among developed nations.) Gun rights advocates often suggest that the U.S. has high annual numbers of gun-related crime because of the size of our population, but these statistics which examine rates rather than totals prove otherwise. About a Third of American Households Own All Those Guns In terms of ownership, however, the rate of 88 guns per 100 people is rather misleading. In reality, the majority of civilian-owned guns in the U.S. are owned by a minority of gun owners. Just over a third of U.S. households own guns, but according to the 2004 National Firearms Survey, 20 percent of those households own a full 65 percent of the total civilian gun stock. American Gun Ownership Is a Social Problem In a society as saturated in guns as the U.S., its important to recognize that gun violence is a  social, rather than an individual or psychological problem. A 2010 study by professors Paul Appelbaum and Jeffrey Swanson published in  Psychiatric Services  found that just 3–5 percent of violence can be attributed to mental illness, and in most of these cases guns were not used. While those with certain types of serious mental illness are more likely than the general public to commit an act of violence, these individuals only make up a small percentage of people with mental illness: most people with a mental illness don’t engage in violent behavior. Moreover, individuals with mental illness are also at a higher risk of being victims of violence. According to data from the National Institute of Mental Health, alcohol is a much more significant contributing factor to the likelihood of whether someone will commit a violent act. Sociologists believe that gun violence is a social problem because it is socially created by support for laws and policies that enable gun ownership on a mass scale. It is justified and perpetuated by social phenomena too, like the widespread ideology that guns represent freedom  and the troubling discursive trope that guns make society safer, though overwhelming evidence points to the contrary. This social problem is also fueled by sensationalist news coverage and dangerous politicking focused on violent crime, leading the American public to believe that gun  crime is more common today than it was two decades ago, despite the fact that it has been on the decline for decades. According to a 2013 Pew Research Center survey, just 12 percent of U.S. adults know the truth. The connection between the presence of guns in a household and gun-related deaths is undeniable. Countless studies have shown that living in a home where guns are present increases ones risk of dying by homicide, suicide, or by gun-related accident. Studies also show that it is women who are at greater risk than men in this situation, and that guns in the home also increase the risk that a woman suffering domestic abuse will ultimately be killed by her abuser (see the extensive list of publications by Dr. Jacquelyn C. Campbell of Johns Hopkins University). So, the question then is, why do we as a society insist on denying the very clear connection between the presence of guns and gun-related violence? This is a pressing area of sociological inquiry if ever there was one.

Definitions and Examples of Orthography

Definitions and Examples of Orthography Orthography is the practice or study of correct spelling according to established usage. In a broader sense,  orthography can refer to the study of letters and how they are used to express sounds and form words.  Prosody  and  orthography are not parts of  grammar,  Ben Johnson  wrote in the early 1600s, but diffused like the blood and spirits through the whole. Adjective: orthographic or orthographical.Etymology:  From the Greek, correct writingPronunciation:  or-THOG-rah-fee Examples and Observations Mark TwainSome people have an idea that correct spelling can be taught, and taught to anybody. That is a mistake. The spelling faculty is born in man, like poetry, music and art. It is a gift; a talent. People who have this talent in a high degree need only to see a word once in print and it is forever photographed upon their memory. They cannot forget it. People who havent it must be content to spell more or less like thunder, and expect to splinter the dictionary wherever their orthographic lightning happens to strike. Graphology Tom McArthurIn linguistics... the name for the study of the writing system is graphology, a level of language parallel to phonology. The earlier, prescriptive sense of the term [orthography] continues to be used, but the later, more neutral sense is common among scholars of language. Spelling Variations David CrystalEven in orthography, the area that is often said to have become completely standardized by 1800, we find a remarkable amount of variation, as Sidney Greenbaum established in 1986. He carried out a survey to estimate how much spelling variation there was in Modern English... He found an average of three variant forms per page [of a dictionary]296 entries... As a percentage of all the entries in the dictionary, this was a remarkable 5.6 per cent. Ben Franklins Warning David Wolman[Benjamin] Franklin felt that the ever-widening gap between spelling and pronunciation was leading the language down a denigrating path toward a logographic orthography, in which symbols represent whole words, not a system for producing sound units, as in c-a-t. He considered languages like Mandarin ghastly for their memorization requirements, an old manner of Writing that was less sophisticated than a phonological alphabet. If we go on as we have done a few Centuries longer, Franklin warned, our words will gradually cease to express sounds, they will only stand for things. Spelling Reform Joseph BergerLike such ideological forefathers as George Bernard Shaw, Theodore Roosevelt and Andrew Carnegie, [Edward Rondthaler] wants to clear up the whims of spelling by adopting a more phonetic version of English, one where words are written as they sound and pronounced as they are written...The kee to ending English iliterasy is to adopt a speling thats riten as it sounds, he writes in his fashion. The Lighter Side of Orthography If youve grown weary of hearing that you need to improve your spelling skills, consider these options: Boost your self-esteem and baffle your acquaintances by insisting that youre a specialist in cacography. You dont need to tell them that cacography is nothing more than a fancy term for bad spelling.Blame the English language. Compared to German, for instance, English spelling is unquestionably haphazard, eccentric, and sometimes downright perverse. Need an example? In English, cough, plough, rough, and through dont rhyme. (Of course, despite all the vagaries of English spelling, millions of people have figured out the system.)Work on improving your spelling skills. Seriouslyspelling matters. According to a report from BBC News, three-quarters of employers say that they would be put off by a job candidate who had poor spelling or grammar.Remind your teachers and friends that not all great writers have been great spellers, and then as evidence point them to Shakespeares Sonnet 138 in its original form: When my love sweares that she is made of truth,I do beleeve her, though I know she lyes,That she might thinke me some untuterd youth,Unlearned in the worlds false subtilties. But be careful: some wiseacre might remind you that Shakespeare wrote in an era before English spelling had been standardized. In fact, Will died 40 years before the publication of the first comprehensive English dictionary.

nazi ideology essays

nazi ideology essays 1. How important was the concept of race in Nazi ideology and policy to 1939, as opposed to attitudes toward religion, culture, nationality, and politics? Every now and then I will try to organize my files. I will start ambitiously by organizing them into logical groups. English papers will go in this specific slot; math papers will go in that slot. The system works great for about a week, but over time, it all breaks down. The slots get full and I accidentally mix a few items into the wrong slots. Before long, the whole situation begins to frustrate me and eventually I crack. I then sit down in a fit of anger. I sort through all of the papers and throw most of them away. I tend to keep the files pertaining to my major because I anticipate needing them at a future date, but the all of the other assignments usually end up in the trash. My office space simply is not large enough to keep everything. This remotely parallels with how Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party viewed the world and the human population. In their warped and twisted perception, the world was like one giant office with documents and files competing for their existence. The Nazis believed it was their job to sort the good from the bad and make room for future expansion. The criterion for sorting was race, but not race in the traditional sense. Fundamental to the Nazi ideology was a new definition of race based on nothing more than centuries of stereotypes and prejudices. The relationship between racial, religious, cultural, national, and political discrimination in the context of Nazism is an intricate one. They can be thought of as a set of layers organized chronologically starting with religious discrimination at the bottom. For thousands of years, mankind has labeled and judged based on religious beliefs. The most relevant example is the feud between Judaism and Christianity. Since the time of the alleged death of Jesus Christ, Christians have bi...

Political science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Political science - Essay Example As Hoffman and William say. A further reason why the Middle East is becoming more important is high oil prices. Although oil prices are far below their 2008 peak of US$147/bbl, they are expected to remain high due to rising demand from China, India, and other emerging markets. Despite efforts by international oil companies to tap into new sources, such as the Caspian Sea, West Africa, and Brazil’s offshore deposits, and despite moves to develop alternative energy sources, oil is likely to remain paramount. Meanwhile, the windfall of high oil prices should continue to boost investment in the Middle East, making it an important economic region. Apart from Israel, Lebanon and Turkey, no Middle Eastern state has an entirely democratic political system. Iran has competitive elections, but ultimate power rests with the ruling clerics. The other countries are all absolute monarchies or led by authoritarian presidents, although there are varying degrees of parliamentary representation. As a result, most leaders have questionable legitimacy. Opposition groups tend to be suppressed, and governments maintain powerful security services to keep their populations in line. This system of government has fostered patronage and corruption, in turn adding to public dissatisfaction. Arguably, the biggest question for the Middle East is whether it can continue to be an exception to the spread of democracy worldwide or whether democracy will eventually take hold. As per Wunderle openion. Over the coming decade, we expect several Middle Eastern states – notably Egypt and Saudi Arabia – to face succession issues, as incumbent heads of state pass from the scene. In Egypt, the outlook is highly uncertain, amid signs that President Hosni Mubarak is grooming his son Gamal to succeed him and opposition to this. In Saudi Arabia, the succession procedure is clearer cut, but a power

Nationalism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 6

Nationalism - Essay Example One of the significant roles it played in this era was leading of unity between nations. As a result, people were able to talk with one voice and establish a nation based on their ideas, values, languages, and customs. For example, in this period, Italy was controlled by various nations. Nationalist beliefs led to upset of Italians due to control by various foreign rulers. Hence, there was formation of nationalist group such as Young Italy. The group and others organized revolt in various parts of country under different rulers. The foreign rulers were toppled and driven out of the country. As a result, Italians were able to be united. Moreover, the idea of nationalism in this period led to establishment of independent states. Nationalism led to resentment against foreign rule. At this period, there was dynastic authority in various parts of Europe. The call for nationalism led to war such as eight-year war against Ottoman rule. The consequence of the war was independence of various states such as Greek. On the other hand, nationalist ideas led to rise of revolutions. Most of the revolutions in this era called for political changes especially with hardship experienced by people. One of such war was the Franco-Prussian war that lasted for half a year. The war led to defeat of France and the formation of German

Porfirian Diaz and his role in the Mexican Revolution Research Paper

Porfirian Diaz and his role in the Mexican Revolution - Research Paper Example Foreign turmoil could not be seized by Diaz and in 1877 there was a military conflict with U. At the ends of his first –term ruling, Porfirio did not appeal for the second term . During Diaz reign there were no civil wars in Mexico. Nevertheless, this benefit cost much to the country. The introduction of agrarian reform, which enabled the privileged class to own all lands, was a negative feature of Diaz regime. Farmers had to pay their debts in order to survive. A high increase of price led to starving in the country. There were no homes for more than 16% of population . Foreign investors were attracted to the country by the options of land owning and poor people were forced off from their lands even those, who owned vast landholding. The high inflation rates of US led to depression of 1907 and prices were life were huge for Mexicans. Porfiriato introduced the laissez-faire policies, but these policies could not facilitate the process of inflation. When the economy was on the edge of crisis, middle and upper class did not support Porfiriato policies anymore. Foreign banks introduced stricter regulations for credit and the government raised taxes. The wages for workers remained low and Porfiriato could not manage to bridge the gap of inflation growth and required money for daily living of people. In spite of political and social turmoil in the country, there was a need to reelect the President and Francisco Madero claimed that there was a need for Mexico to return to the Constitution of 1857 . 4. Dictatorship of Diaz was undermined and was strictly criticized by the people. Madero underlined the necessity to introduce political and not social reforms. He criticized Diaz dependence on the foreign capital and the growing number of American businessmen. Diaz was reelected and the anger intensified in the society. Villages

Crime Scene Photography Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Crime Scene Photography - Research Paper Example Photography is one of the four major tasks of crime scene documentation, the other three of which include note taking, sketching and videography. All four of these tasks are necessary and cannot be used as substitutes for one another. As Miller (2003) asserts, the purpose of documentation using still photography is to "provide a true and accurate pictorial record of the crime scene and physical evidence present" (p. 122). Still photography is used to document the initial condition of a crime scene. Photographs not only serve as a permanent record but also help investigators in analyzing and examining the crime scene away from the actual location of the crime. The number of photographs taken cannot be predetermined. All photographs taken should be preserved in a photo log, along with an accurate documentation of the time, date, roll number, camera settings such as shutter speed, exposure number, and distance from the object. The basic equipment required for crime scene photography inc ludes a 35-millimeter camera, wide-angle lens (28-35 mm), normal lens (50-60 mm), tripod, electronic flash, close-up lens, flashlight, batteries and photo log sheets. In case of close-up photographs, document placards should be used and the flash must be detached from the camera. The side lighting effects used must be proper and the photos should be taken both with and without scales. The exteriors and interiors of the crime scene must also be thoroughly photographed and documented. 2. Photography – mai.mercyhurst.edu (2011) There have been innumerable instances where cases have been successfully solved through the use of "accurate and complete" photographs (mai.mercyhurst.edu, 2011, p. 61). For an investigator, analyst, jurist, and anyone else not present at a crime scene, photographs serve as the only means of accurately observing the crime scene by examining the remains and the environmental factors that affect the state of the victim. A still image of the original positio n of the remains of a crime can prove invaluable to forensic experts and anthropologists. There have been great technological advancements in digital photography and it is possible to take detailed and clear pictures affordably and conveniently. It is thus "inexcusable for investigators to leave a crime scene without a good photographic record (mai.mercyhurst.edu, 2011, p. 61). Good photography combined with appropriate mapping/diagramming and note taking is essential for the accurate reconstruction of a crime scene. These three activities not only supplement one another but also overcome each other's shortcomings. Crime scenes are temporary with regards to both space and time, and the concerted utility of these three tasks is essential for crime scene investigation. The utility of photographs is limited by the fact that they record only a certain perspective and are affected by parallax errors. On the other hand, diagrams and maps are merely schematic and notes are limited by their lack of "visual depiction" (mai.mercyhurst.edu, 2011, p. 61). Thus, the shortcomings of each of the three methods are overcome as they supplement one another. 3. Crime Scene Investigation: The Foundation Stone of Crime Detection, Investigation and Prosecution – Dr. B.P. Maithil and Rajesh Mishra (2007) A crime-scene investigation unit must always include a photographer and a videographer. Photographs taken at a crime

Principle of consideration Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Principle of consideration - Article Example But why it is too simplistic to assume if there is consideration present a promise is enforceable by examining different facets of consideration within the above context. Sir Frederick Pollock defined consideration as 'An act or forbearance of one party, or the promise thereof, is the price for which the promise of the other is bought, and the promise thus given for value is enforceable."1 This definition was rightly adopted by Lord Dunedin in Dunlop v Selfridge Ltd (1915) 2 Dunlop had sold tyres to Dew Ltd on condition that their (latter's) agents should not sell below the listed price of Dunlop. But Selfridge Ltd who had purchased tyres from Dew Ltd sold below the listed price. In this case of suing of Selfridge by Dunlop decided by House Lords in appeal, it was held that privity of contract was essential. And what determined privity in this case was consideration. As there was no consideration moved between the said parties, there was no contract between them and therefore Selfridge was not liable to Dunlop Even earlier to Dunlop case, principle of consideration was established in Currie v Misa (1875)3 wherein Misa issued cheque to Lizardi or bearer. As the cheque was dishonoured, the bearer Currie brought action on Lisa. It was held the bearer Currie even as a holder for value is not entitled to sue Misa as there was no consideration between them. The following are the rules of consideration. a) Consideration must be present in a promise and must have moved from the the promisee. In Tweedle v Atkinson (1861)4, it was held that the person entitled to sue is he who gives consideration. It follows also that gift is not a contract. b) Consideration must have some value. Hence natural love and affection or performance of a moral duty will not be used to enforce a promise. This was decided in White v Bluett(1853)5 wherein it was held that a son's promise not to complain to his father as to how his properties are distributed among his children in return for the father's promise not sue his son for the debts owed to him, can not be good consideration. "Judge Pollock held that the son had not provided good consideration as he had no legal right to complain. Thus, in promising not to complain, the son did not forbear or give up anything of value in exchange for his father's promise." (Barbara Lisa)6 c) Consideration need not be adequate. In Chappel and Co v Nestle7, it was decided that consideration of 1s 6 d with three wrappers of chocolates Nestle had offered was a sufficient consideration for the gramophone records offered in return. d) Consideration may be executory or executed but past consideration can not enforce a promise. A consideration already provided before promise was made is past consideration

Crime Scene Photography Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Crime Scene Photography - Research Paper Example Photography is one of the four major tasks of crime scene documentation, the other three of which include note taking, sketching and videography. All four of these tasks are necessary and cannot be used as substitutes for one another. As Miller (2003) asserts, the purpose of documentation using still photography is to "provide a true and accurate pictorial record of the crime scene and physical evidence present" (p. 122). Still photography is used to document the initial condition of a crime scene. Photographs not only serve as a permanent record but also help investigators in analyzing and examining the crime scene away from the actual location of the crime. The number of photographs taken cannot be predetermined. All photographs taken should be preserved in a photo log, along with an accurate documentation of the time, date, roll number, camera settings such as shutter speed, exposure number, and distance from the object. The basic equipment required for crime scene photography inc ludes a 35-millimeter camera, wide-angle lens (28-35 mm), normal lens (50-60 mm), tripod, electronic flash, close-up lens, flashlight, batteries and photo log sheets. In case of close-up photographs, document placards should be used and the flash must be detached from the camera. The side lighting effects used must be proper and the photos should be taken both with and without scales. The exteriors and interiors of the crime scene must also be thoroughly photographed and documented. 2. Photography – mai.mercyhurst.edu (2011) There have been innumerable instances where cases have been successfully solved through the use of "accurate and complete" photographs (mai.mercyhurst.edu, 2011, p. 61). For an investigator, analyst, jurist, and anyone else not present at a crime scene, photographs serve as the only means of accurately observing the crime scene by examining the remains and the environmental factors that affect the state of the victim. A still image of the original positio n of the remains of a crime can prove invaluable to forensic experts and anthropologists. There have been great technological advancements in digital photography and it is possible to take detailed and clear pictures affordably and conveniently. It is thus "inexcusable for investigators to leave a crime scene without a good photographic record (mai.mercyhurst.edu, 2011, p. 61). Good photography combined with appropriate mapping/diagramming and note taking is essential for the accurate reconstruction of a crime scene. These three activities not only supplement one another but also overcome each other's shortcomings. Crime scenes are temporary with regards to both space and time, and the concerted utility of these three tasks is essential for crime scene investigation. The utility of photographs is limited by the fact that they record only a certain perspective and are affected by parallax errors. On the other hand, diagrams and maps are merely schematic and notes are limited by their lack of "visual depiction" (mai.mercyhurst.edu, 2011, p. 61). Thus, the shortcomings of each of the three methods are overcome as they supplement one another. 3. Crime Scene Investigation: The Foundation Stone of Crime Detection, Investigation and Prosecution – Dr. B.P. Maithil and Rajesh Mishra (2007) A crime-scene investigation unit must always include a photographer and a videographer. Photographs taken at a crime

Problem Solving Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Problem Solving - Essay Example This is because there is no definite solution to a problem as all solutions lead to development of new problems and solutions. Problem solving techniques are on-going processes needed for the survival of an organisation. Halpern (2002) explains that problem solving techniques should be able to find and formulate the problem that affects the progress of an organisation, implement a decision, audit the results obtained from the decision made and review the obtained results to determine if they are appropriate. More effort, energy, time and money should be spent on the prior stages of problem solving techniques rather than on the later stages. However, most executives ignore this fact as they aim at acting quickly and decisively thereby creating a type III error (working on the wrong problem) (Paradies & Unger, 2002). Therefore, this report will discuss problems that curb the development of organisations and appropriate problem solving techniques that are used to eliminate this paradigm. This report will also analyse features of these problem solving techniques and the issues faced while applying them to the problems. Most organisations especially new business enterprises are faced with strategic planning problems. Such organisations are unable to appropriately define the strategy and direction of their firms. They are unable to formulate efficient decisions in distribution of the organisational resources such as capital and labour, a fact that affects their capability to strive in the stiff market competition (Bradford & Duncan, 2000). Most researches, studies and surveys that have been conducted show that most successful organisations implement the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis into the culture of the organisation to strategically plan for the operations, decision making and resource distribution tactics. According to Lorenzen (2006), SWOT analysis comprises of the identification of organisation's objectives to determine internal and external factors which may enable or prevent the achievement of these objectives. The SWOT analysis was formulated by Albert Humphrey with the aim of helping business ventures to effectively identify areas for development by matching the strengths of the organisations to available opportunities and the weaknesses to potential threats that the organisation may face. This enabled organisations to attain competitive advantages over their counterpart business enterprises. In other words the SWOT analysis enables organisations to detect the threats and weaknesses of the organisation and convert them to strengths and opportunities that the organisation can utilise to increase its performance. Also organisations are able to effectively overcome these threats and weaknesses thereby attaining appropriate market control due to implementation of strategic plans into the culture of the organisation (Tracy, 2000). The internal factors comprise of the strengths and weaknesses that determine the accomplishment of objectives of an organisation for example the 4Ps, manufacturing capabilities and personnel among others. On the other hand the external factors comprise of opportunities and threats that an organisation faces such as technological changes, socio-cultural changes and the competitive position of the

Descartes vs Locke Essay Example for Free

Descartes vs Locke Essay Socrates once said, â€Å"As for me, all I know is that I know nothing. † Several philosophers contradicted Socrates’ outlook and believed that true knowledge was in fact attainable. This epistemological view however had several stances to it, as philosophers held different beliefs in regards to the derivation of true knowledge. Rationalists believed that the mind was the source of true knowledge, while in Empiricism, true knowledge derived from the senses. Rene Descartes, a rationalist, and John Locke, an empiricist, were prime examples of epistemologists who were seen to differentiate greatly within each of their philosophies. However, although Descartes and Locke’s ideas did contrast in that sense, they both shared common concepts that helped mould the basis of their ideas. Descartes and Locke both agreed that there were things in life that exist that we can be certain of. For Descartes, human experiences did not provide sufficient proof of existence. He indicated that through his Dream Conjecture and his Evil-Demon Theory (Paquette 205). Descartes stated that we cannot be certain if reality is a dream or not, thus questioning our existence (Paquette 205). In his Evil-Demon Theory, Descartes claimed that for all he knew, an evil demon could be putting thoughts into his head, making him think that reality was true when it was in fact false (Paquette 205). Ultimately, all this thinking resulted in Descartes coming to the conclusion that the one thing we could be sure of existing is the mind (Newman 2010). This can be seen through his most famous quote, â€Å"I think therefore I am (Kaplan 2008). † Descartes claimed that since he was able to doubt and think using his mind, his mind must exist (Paquette 205). Similarly, Locke was also sure of existence. He believed that every object was made up of primary qualities as well as secondary qualities (Paquette 212). Secondary qualities rely on how a person senses the object subjectively, and is experienced differently depending on the individual (Paquette 212). Examples of secondary qualities include colour, taste, and sound (Paquette 212). Primary qualities, however, are objective and include aspects such as an object’s height and weight (Paquette 212). Through this, Locke claimed that the existence of objects can be made certain due to the primary qualities it possesses (Paquette 212). Similar to Descartes, Locke believed in a sense of existence. However, in his view, the facts from the primary qualities proved the object exists because the object exists within itself (Paquette 212). Descartes and Locke also believed in some sense of the external world. Descartes claimed that there is in fact an external world, however it does not exist outside people’s minds (Paquette 206). Since Descartes was a rationalist, he believed that the only method to acquire true knowledge was solely through the mind (Moore 2002). Through the process of doubting existence, Descartes realized that the mind exists (Paquette 205). He went further into thought and concluded that since he, an imperfect person, has knowledge of perfection, something perfect has to exist to have put that knowledge in his mind. From there he claimed the existence of God (Newman 2010). Descartes then stated that a perfect god would not deceive his people, indicating that the material world exists (Newman 2010). Therefore through this thinking process, Descartes came to the conclusion that the real world is of the mind, and the external world is everything else that falls into the material world made by god (Newman 2010). Like Descartes, Locke also believed in an external world. As an empiricist, Locke relied heavily on the senses to provide true knowledge (Moore 2002). He shared Aristotle’s belief that the mind is a blank slate, also known as tabula rasa, at birth (Paquette 211). Our sense experiences thereafter provide us with knowledge to fill in those slates (Paquette 211). In Locke’s â€Å"Representative Theory of Perception,† also known as Epistemological Dualism, he stated that material objects exist and are separate entities from human beings (Paquette 227). However, he also believed that objects exist in the mind as psychological entities (Paquette 227). Locke concluded that people can taste, smell, touch, and see the external world which, in turn, becomes impressions in our minds (Paquette 227). Descartes and Locke are thus seen to be similar in the sense that they both believed in an external world. Descartes and Locke both had a process for understanding knowledge as well. As a rationalist, Descartes believed in innate ideas; that all humans were born with some knowledge (Paquette 206). This differentiates from the empirical view that the mind is a blank slate at birth (Paquette 211). Descartes also used intuition and deduction to establish truth (Kaplan 2008). He believed that intuition is direct knowledge which can be known without ever sensing or experiencing it (Paquette 206). Deduction however, is where you start with a premise, or a statement you believe to be true, and then determine more truths based on that origin (Paquette 206). As shown, Descartes focused on the thinker and the thinking process when determining true knowledge (Paquette 206). Rather than a thinking process, Locke believed that understanding knowledge came from a process based on our senses (Paquette 211). He believed that when the external world triggers any of our five senses, those experiences turn into sensations (Paquette 211). Those sensations then turn into impressions in our mind, thus adding knowledge onto the slate in our mind which was once blank (Paquette 211). He claimed that our mind reflects on the impressions we received from our sensations (Paquette 211). Locke then stated that those reflections turn into an idea which can be either simple, or made up of a bundle of simple ideas called complex ideas (Paquette 211). Like Descartes, Locke is seen to use a process for finding knowledge as well. There are many aspects to Rene Descartes and John Locke’s philosophies that are clearly distinct from one another. However, it is essentially incorrect to claim that rationalist Descartes and empiricist Locke bear no similarities. The two epistemologists are seen to share a similar base within each of their philosophical ideas. Through the many differences between Descartes and Locke, their basic concepts of existence, the external world, and the process for obtaining knowledge are quite similar to each other. This connexion illustrates that although the ideologies people possess on life vary to a great extent, there can always be some sense of a common ground that brings us all together. Works Cited Kaplan, R. Philosophy In our time. BBC Homepage. BBC News. , 2008. Web. 12 Nov. 2011. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦http://www. bbc. co. uk/radio4/history/ Moore, B. Philosophy | Glossary. Online Learning Centre. McGraw-Hill Higher Education, †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦2002. Web. 12 Nov. 2011. http://highered. mcgraw-†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦hill. com/sites/076742011x/student_view0/chapter6/glossary. html. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. Newman, L. Descartes epistemology.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: Causes and Treatments

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: Causes and Treatments Postoperative nausea and vomiting is the nausea and vomiting symptoms which occurred after a surgery, medicines intake or anaesthesia usage. Around 18 to 30 of surgical patients have PONV and the nausea and vomiting symptoms are usually self-limiting in most cases.1 Uncomplicated PONV usually resolve within 24 hours after an operation whereas intractable PONV involve various triggering factors and resist to medical treatment, making it harder to treat. Studies revealed that most patients dislike chronic PONV more than postoperative pain as it is a more distressing illness and it may lead to several serious clinical consequences if left untreated. In the case of repeated vomiting, PONV patients might suffer from dehydration and have a higher chance of developing hiatal hernia, a condition where the upper part of stomach protrudes into the thorax through the opening of diaphragm. Other than that, patients might also experience anorexia, gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, weakness, dizziness and nausea while not vomiting. Chronic vomiting can also cause complications like dental damage and sore throats due to exposure of oesophageal lining and mouth cavity to the low pH gastric acid. Moreover, PONV may induce serious problems like pulmonary aspiration, electrolyte abnormalities, wound dehiscence, increased pain and oesophageal rupture.4,5 Despite causing patients discomfort, patients also have to pay more for the delayed hospital discharge. Each incidence of vomiting has increased postanaesthetic care unit (PACU) stay duration by 20mins. Therefore, to reduce the unanticipated hospital admission and the financial burden broug ht by PONV, there is a need to understand the disease pathophysiology so that precise and mechanism-based treatment strategies can be developed to tackle the emesis problem. The vomiting centre and the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) are the two main parts of the brain controlling the vomiting action. The vomiting centre is located within the medulla oblongata and the emesis action is initiated via the stimulation of five primary afferent pathways. They are the chemoreceptor trigger zone, vagal mucosal pathway of the gastrointestinal system, neuronal pathways from the vestibular apparatus system, inputs from the periphery glossopharyngeal nerve and reflex afferent pathways from  cerebral cortex C2,3 and midbrain afferents. Next, efferent nerve impulses are sent to various place of the body such as the pharynx, larynx, diaphragm, intercostals muscles and gut to initiate the vomiting reflex. During the ejection phase of the vomiting reflex, the diaphragm and abdominal muscles  simultaneously contract and the elevated intra-abdominal pressure leads to the throw up and expulsion of gastric contents. A variety of receptors are participated in the emesis action. They are the histaminergic(H1), dopaminergic(D2), serotonergic(5-HT3), muscarinic and neurokinin-1 receptors. Consequently, pharmacological agents which target on these receptors can be utilized to treat PONV. However, the British National Formulary (BNF) had advised that antiemetic agents should only be used once the causative factor for nausea and vomiting was identified. This is because the use of antiemetic is sometimes dangerous and inappropriate in clinical cases like diabetic ketoacidosis, digoxin or antiepileptic overdose.6 Hence, the aetiology and possible causative factors of PONV should be investigated to guide the planning of the pharmaceutical management steps and the antiemetic selection for treating PONV. There are patient-specific factors, surgical factors and anaesthetic risk factors which contribute to PONV prevalence. Patients who aged 6 to 16 year old, female, non-smoker, obese or have a history of motion sickness or PONV are proven to be the high-risk patient group. Moreover, patients who have chemotherapy, migraine and gastroparesis problems are also susceptible to PONV. Other causative factors include elevated intracranial pressure, metabolic abnormalities, gastroduodenal ulcers, dehydration and infections of the gastroesophageal lining. As for the surgical factors, PONV is related to the premedication side-effect, prolong fasting, conditions of gastric inflation during mask ventilation, use of long-acting opioids, nitrous oxide, volatile anaesthetics and high dose neostigmine in surgery. In addition, frequent head movement of patient and early intake of food after surgery can also potentiate the nausea problem.1 Some types of operations have higher chance of developing PONV, they are the gynaecological surgery, ear, nose and throat operation, intra-abdominal and squint correction surgery. Furthermore, the surgical duration is also an important contributor which predisposes patients to a higher risk of PONV. Every 30 minutes extension in surgical time can increase risk of PONV by 60% as patient is taking in more anaesthetics into the body. Hence, healthcare team should control and minimize the surgery duration such that risk of getting PONV is reduced. Although it is not relevant to discuss anaesthetic techniques in this case scenario, it is important to note that regional anaesthesia should be preferred over general anaesthesia during surgical process. According to SOGC guideline, there is an 11-fold increase in the PONV risk when using general anaesthesia rather than regional anaesthesia. Apart from that, volatile anaesthesia, long-acting opioid and neostigmine should also avoid in surgery as these agents predispose patient to PONV. If the use of general anaesthesia is unavoidable in a surgery, propofol can be a suitable induction agent because it induces less PONV incidence. A thorough assessment should be carried out to serve as a rationale for the management plan of PONV. The past medical history, frequency and nature of the vomiting episode, blood electrolyte test and physical examination can be evaluated to identify the severity of disease condition and the aetiology of PONV. Subsequently, the appropriate pharmacological agents which target on the responsible pathway of emesis can be given. Many antiemetic preparations are available in the market and patients can choose between formulations of solution, buccal tablets, rectal suppository and subcutaneous (SC), intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injections when oral route is not feasible.6 As no single agent provides complete control in emesis, most hospital has adopted a multimodal approach and a combination strategy where different antiemetics which target on different receptors are utilized in the treatment of PONV.1 Combination therapy becomes the preferable way to treat PONV and the generally used combination is 5-HT3 receptor antagonists with droperidol or dexamethasone. Granisetron and ondansetron are examples of 5-HT3 or serotonin receptor antagonists. They exert their effects in the chemoreceptor trigger zone and at vagal afferents of the gastrointestinal tract. Previous studies showed that no single agent performed exceptionally well than the others of same class as all 5-HT3 antagonists illustrated similar safety and efficacy profile. Yet, a recent meta-analysis which includes 85 randomized controlled, double-blind studies with 15,269 patients involvement had established that the antiemetic effect of granisetron is significantly superior to ondansetron and dolasetron. Ondansetron was also found to be more cost effective than granisetron. 1-2mg of granisetron or 4-8mg of ondansetron can be delivered in intravascular route at the end of surgery for PONV treatment. Long-acting serotonin antagonist with higher binding affinity to 5-HT3 receptors, palonosetron, is also available in the market with a long half-life of about 40 hours. Patients receivin g these agents might experience headache, constipation and dizziness problems. Droperidol is a butyrophenone which acts competitively on central dopaminergic receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ). It is applied in 0.625-1.25mg IV route at the end of surgery. A systematic review of 24 randomized studies was carried out by Schaub and team, they concluded that droperidol decreases PONV incidence regardless of the dose given to patients. However, this drug is only used as a third-line antiemetic for intractable PONV when other alternative treatments failed because droperidol can lead to adverse effects associated with QT prolongation and torsades de points, sedation, anxiety, hypotension and extrapyramidal symptoms. Due to its possibility in causing fatal arrhythmia, electrocardiographic monitoring is compulsory each time upon its usage. Nonetheless, a double-blinded randomized clinical study which included 120 patients stated that there was insufficient evidence to prove the QTc prolongation effect induced by droperidol after surgery. Dexamethasone is classified under corticosteroids and often delivered in a 4 to 5mg one-off dose via IV or IM route.19 The exact mechanism of action is unknown but it is related to the peripheral inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and its ability to reduce 5-HT turnover in the CNS. Although dexamethasone is not licensed for the indication of PONV, this drug is as effective as other conventional antiemetic drugs like droperidol and serotonin antagonists. A single blinded, randomized-controlled interventional study had illustrated that the administration of dexamethasone is useful for the reduction of PONV episodes (30% in contrast to 70% of the placebo group).20 Moreover, Ormel et al. illustrated that the addition of dexamethasone to droperidol and ondansetron showed a profound amplification in the efficacy profile of these triple agents combination. It stands as a good alternative for PONV treatment due to the advantage of cost-effectiveness issue and its characteristic of long ac tion duration. As dexamethasone can increase plasma glucose level, it is not recommended for diabetic patient. Furthermore, unfavorable side-effect like postoperative euphoria, impaired wound healing, irritability and adrenal suppression can happen in patient taking long-term corticosteroids. Metoclopramide is a gastroprokinetic agent which acts on the D2 receptors of the gastrointestinal tract. It can accelerate the gastric emptying rate of gastroparesis and GI obstruction patients.2,6 Despite blocking the D2 receptors, it also has antagonist action on 5-HT3 receptors in the CTZ and vomiting centre when delivered in high doses. 5 to 20mg dose of metoclopramide in subcutaneous, oral or IV route is commonly taken by patient before meal and before bed.6 This medicine is commonly administered as combination therapy because there is conflicting evidence stating that metoclopramide alone is ineffective for PONV and it should not be use unless the causative factor for PONV is gastric stasis. Yet, a recent meta-analysis has proved that 10mg IV metoclopramide does well in preventing nausea and vomiting problems after the general anaesthesia surgery. As with the phenothiazines discussed below, both drugs have limited use in practice due to the adverse reactions like extrapyramidal effects and dystonia disorder particularly in pediatric and young adults population. Phenothiazines is an example of strong dopamine antagonist which also act on medullary CTZ. Promethazine, prochlorperazine and perphenazine belong to this group and take part in the prophylaxis and treatment of PONV.24 Prochlorperazine is often administered as a 12.5mg deep intramuscular injection or in a 3 to 6mg dose buccal preparation 12 hourly after the surgery. These agents show superior efficacy in treating opioid-induced PONV. However, high-dose metoclopramide and phenothiazines are now less likely used in clinical practice because of their significant side effects like acute dystonic reactions, sedation, dizziness and extrapyramidal symptoms.9,25 A systematic analysis consisting of 19 non-randomized and randomized clinical trials had demonstrated that most studies supported the effectiveness of promethazine in reducing PONV occurrence when compared to placebo and that combination therapy is always preferable and more effective than promethazine alone. Cyclizine is an antihistamine drugs which block the H1 sympathetic pathway in the vomiting centre. The antimuscarinic and antihistamine properties of cyclizine render it to become an antiemetic drug in PONV treatment. A randomised double-blinded study which involved the participations of 960 women had shown that patients who received cyclizine monotherapy showed a slightly greater antiemetic effect than granisetron alone (PONV incidence of 24% with cyclizine compare to 23% in granisetron group).26 Cyclizine can be given orally, intramuscularly or intravenously, with common antimuscarinic side-effects like sedation and dry mouth. Severe heart failure patient should avoid taking this medicine because it leads to detrimental haemodynamic effect.6 The acidic pH of cyclizine at 3.2 also causes pain and irritancy to body upon injection.10 As a result, patients usually have 50mg of cyclizine IV injection every 8 hours after proper dilution. A lower dose of 25mg in oral, IM or IV preparation s can also be applied in elderly patient. Scopolamine has anticholinergic property which inhibits the muscarinic as well as the histaminergic receptors in the vestibular apparatus and the nucleus of the tractus solitarus.3,9 Patients who undergo middle ear surgery or use opioids as postoperative anaesthetics are recommended to take scopolamine for their profound efficacy in reducing PONV.3 Scopolamine requires 2 to 4 hours for onset of duration. Hence, a fast-acting antiemetic or a loading bolus dose is needed in urgent case. It is available in transdermal form as a 1.5mg patch which can be placed behind the ear. This slow-release formulation can have sustained effect up to 72 hours. Apfel C et al. had reported that transdermal scopolamine had significantly reduced the risk of PONV when compared to the placebo group although it has the main side-effects of dry mouth, sedation and visual disturbances.28 Furthermore, a comparative study between the combination use of ondansetron plus scopolamine patch and ondansetron alone als o proved that the earlier group significantly decrease the nausea and vomiting incidence after surgery. Other than a mechanism-based approach, less conventional therapeutic agents can also be used to treat intractable PONV cases. An antidepressant with a novel indication, mirtazapine, is able to ease the nausea and vomiting symptoms because it can antagonize 5-HT3 receptors. A small scale randomized trial which compared the therapeutic outcome of mirtazapine and ondansetron had showed that patients using mirtazapine were less anxious and had fewer PONV episodes than the ondansetron group. Next, olanzapine which is recognized as an atypical antipsychotic drug also proved to have potential in treating PONV. It can inhibit several receptors such as the dopamine, acetylcholine, histamine and 5-HT3 receptors. Ibrahim M et al. had conducted a randomized controlled study which involved 82 surgical patients. The result proved the efficacy and safety profile of olanzapine against PONV especially during the late postoperative stage. Other than medications approach, non-pharmacological interventi ons also show potential therapeutic efficacy in PONV management. Acupuncture, acustimulation or acupressure serves as a good alternative or adjuvant therapy for PONV patients as it shows good tolerability and safety profile. The P6 point (Neiguan) which located at 5cm near to the ventral wrist is the target site of these alternative approaches. Transcutaneous electrical stimulation delivered to the P6 point of the pericardium meridian has been proved to be an efficient way in preventing emesis. Patients only complain of light side-effects like needle fainting, allergy, needle site pain, anxiety or lethargy problems when using this method. In order to solve the labour intensive and time-consuming issues of traditional Chinese acupuncture, the acupressure and acustimulation wristband are introduced in the market (Sea-Band and ReliefBand). Sea-Band applies steady, continuous pressure on the P6 point whereas ReliefBand is a watch-like device which conducts low current to P6 point via electrodes in contact with the skin. Based on the well-established efficacy profile and good evidence-base literature support, healthcare professionals can involve more acupuncture interventions in treatment practice as part of the multimodal approach. In this case, the intractable emesis symptoms experienced by the old woman might indicate the failure of prophylaxis treatment or the need to start a primary antiemetic treatment. Before the initiation of a rescue treatment, a bedside examination and a patient interview should be done to find out whether the PONV symptom is associated to issues such as morphine analgesia, surgical pain management, infection, intestinal obstruction, hypotension, hypoxia, blood in the pharynx, anxiety or removal and insertion of nasogastric tube. 5-HT3 antagonist is the recommended drug for patients who previously do not receive a prophylaxis treatment. Patient can start with a low dose regimen such as ondansetron 1 mg, dolasetron 12.5 mg and granisetron 0.1 mg. If drugs for prophylaxis had been given but fail, patients can then try other class of antiemetics to tackle more diverse receptor pathways. For instance, Habib et al. had found that the failure of prophylactic ondansetron or droperidol can be replaced with rescue agents like promethazine (12.5-25 mg IV), prochloperazine (12.5mg IM) or cyclizine (25-50mg IV or IM) to achieve a better outcome. This is because consensus guideline support that the repeat use of 5-HT3 antagonist within the initial 6 hours postoperative period provides no extra recovery response. If patient use dexamethasone as prevention agent, small dose 5-HT3 antagonist (25% of prophylactic dose) can then be given as a rescue approach. A study also concluded that the cost-effectiven ess of ondansetron in low dose treatment group was higher than that in the high dose prophylatic group. Moreover, in the case of the aggressive treatment failure, such as those who had taken 5-HT3 antagonist, droperidol and dexamethasone altogether but failed, repeat dosing of same prophylactic regimen except dexamethasone can only be considered 6 hours after the surgery though the optimal dosage and timing for readministration still remain unknown. Transdermal scopolamine can also be prescribed for outpatients as it is a more convenient preparation than the parenteral drugs. Prolong use of opioids for pain control after surgery should also be minimized as side-effects like nausea and vomiting are correlated to the prescribed dose. Alternative analgesics like NSAIDS can be used to substitute the causative opioids. In persisting case, pharmacist can review the prescription and anaesthetic charts to ensure adequate maintenance of analgesia, antiemetic and oxygen supply. Dose escalation under safety and therapeutic dosage range can also be worked on. However, pharmacist should be cautious on polypharmacy problem as it may aggravate nausea and vomiting in susceptible patient. Non-oral drug preparations can be considered over oral route to avoid burdening of patient with excessive pills at one time. If necessary, the acupuncture treatment can also be applied to attempt a multimodal approach. Pharmacist should also concern about the possible dehydration risk that might be encountered by chronic PONV patients. For this reason, the blood pressure, hydration and perfusion level of patients have to be checked on a regular basis. Patients should be told to report of symptoms like dry or sticky mouth, sunken eyes, reduced urination or dark yellow urine. If constipation or diarrhea happens, intravenous fluid replacement therapy, osmotic or stimulant laxative can be given to solve the issues. For the dietary measures, patients should avoid oily or spicy food which might aggravate the nausea. Small, frequent meal is preferable over big heavy meal as light meal reduce the possibility of gastric discomfort. Patients should be advised to not move around too often to avoid triggering the vomiting centre. Furthermore, in post-discharged nausea and vomiting (PDNV) case, the antiemetic efficacy profiles are different from PONVs as they have dissimilar underlying cause. Droperidol should be avoided as it is ineffective in treating PDNV.2 If the patient still not responsive to all these approaches, specialist intervention should be initiated to treat intractable nausea and vomiting symptoms. Serious causative factors like surgical complication might be suspected and further investigations are required to treat this disease. In a nutshell, the optimization management of PONV disease requires the participation of the multimodal approach. Patients should be treated accordingly after the accurate disease assessment and further modifications of treatment approaches like (dose-adjustment, introduction of new agents or alternative approaches) can be done to control patients nausea and vomiting symptoms. Lifestyle modification and non-pharmacological interventions also play an important part in treating PONV. Proper patient education about symptoms management should be delivered and follow-up session can be arranged to assess patients rehabilitation progress. Apart from that, reassurance and full supportive care from healthcare teams also play an important role in reducing patient distress and anxiety level.

Kerrang Magazine Blink182 Article Analysis :: Papers

Kerrang Magazine Blink182 Article Analysis * Blink182 - when they were younger * This Blink182 interview was published in alternative music magazine 'Kerrang' - issue 979 in November and was written by Tom Bryant. It's purposes are mainly to discuss their past, their success and above all their new album ! They tell us how it was almost never made as two years ago they were ready to split. This article is informative and at times quite humorous, 'There are many ways you'd imagine how a conversation with Tom DeLonge might start. Most of them involve a certain level of immaturity, a teenage crack about blow jobs, poop or possibly your mother. A reasoned debate on Californian politics is roughly last on the list '. But it also feels sad as the band recall feeling as though they were drifting apart. I think fans of the band would find this piece interesting. The implied readers would include Blink's fans (usually teenagers), people considering buying their latest album, fans of punk-rock music and people who may just be curious about them. So in general - most readers of 'Kerrang' i.e- people interested in alternative music such as punk, metal and rock. Having read the article through a few times now i have noticed that it differs to previous Blink interviews i have read. As a group they have been out of the public eye for the past two years producing their self titled album. Although Blink are a hugely successful, international band and every young person knows a little about them i dont think there is any evidence of implied reader knowledge. After reading the title page 'But seriously folks...' we know right away Blink have grown up as it describes their old stuff is out and new mature material is the way forward. This feeling of change continues throughout the piece. It feels new, exciting and deep. I dont think this interview was planned, as the guys seem to be relaxed and speak their mind. Which i think helps put their

Refugee Women During the 21st Century Essay -- Immigration Feminism Im

Refugee Women During the 21st Century Refugees face governmental turmoil, political prosecution and natural disasters; however, women are further burdened by their female status, biological functions and lack of attention to the needs of women in refugee camps. Refugee women sustain emotional and often physical scars attempting to escape from oppressive situations. They are forced to leave, face death or perhaps something worse. They may find these horrors anyway, but they will risk that unknown for a chance at a different life. The first stop on this arduous journey is often a refugee camp. Here, if they are lucky, they are provided with basic needs such as food and shelter. During a presentation by the International Rescue Committee, a group that helps refugees, my fear was confirmed, that the needs of women are not being met. The I.R.C. spokesman said, "Women are sometimes given information on birth control, AIDS prevention and family planning, but it depends on the country." I find it difficult to imagine that something as obvious as birth control is hardly considered or ...

Keeler released Symphony Q Series

Symphony Q enables checks to adjust the camera's exposure and slit-lamp lighting, irking with the lever of your trigger button to freeze and retailer pictures, including automatic continuous shooting to have the wonderful photos you need. Background lighting control Is Independent in the primary lighting system, make sure the very best contrast on the photos obtained. Http://www. Kananga. Com/handheld-portable- slit-lamp-23. HTML Keller Capture is often a specialized image management application for the storage of patient facts. Its information database enables video inputs and outputs, and may add comment to patient details and storage, Capture computer software features a rarity of feature solutions module, prospects can pick in line with need to be versatile, from generic versions to upgrade to a later version, such as video capture, or by means of a network connection towards the workstation or for the server info retailer functions.Symphony of Q-Series digital slit lamps Complet e Dealt Capture application and cameras; Symphony Q Digital-Ready with no software and cameras, but soon after acquiring Keller with Capture application from the camera module, in a position to easily upgrade the entire system. Who would prefer to get more facts about Symphony Q-Series digital slit lamps, please send an e mail to Maggie. [email  protected] CNN. United Kingdom-eye music company (wry. Keller. Com. UK) is a major manufacturer of ophthalmic and optometric gear, technical innovation considering the fact that its inception in 1917, expanding solution lines.Keller in 1953, produced the world's first indirect ophthalmologic, revolutionize the funds examination, Vantage plus series of goods has develop into the sector benchmark, digital indirect ophthalmologic is additional clinical and teaching delivers excellent convenience. Nowadays, Keller non make contact with handheld and desktop odometer, surgical magnifying glasses, direct ophthalmologic, hand slit-lamp, surgical m erchandise such as freezers for delivering us with additional and much more screening and remedy programmers.All goods are of Uk origin, high quality assurance. Http://www. Kananga. Com/digital-slit-lamp-microscope-29. HTML Steve Johnson may be the United kingdom proud (HALF PAL ? C wry. Half. CNN) subsidiary. Founded in 1894, generosity could be the world's top overall health, safety ND environmental technologies group, listed enterprise around the London Stock Exchange, has greater than five,OHO staff around the planet, more than 40 subsidiaries.Bold will be the only listed corporation around the London Stock Exchange in the past more than 30 years of dividend growth 5% development in the enterprise. Bold in Shanghai, Beijing, Guanos, Changed and Shenanigan, with regional representation, and Bidding, Sheehan, Shanghai, Beijing, as well as other places to setup factories and production base. Http://www. Kananga. Com/ ophthalmic-slit-lamp-27. HTML

Z Score

MN 215 A & B October 02, 2012 Z Scores, Z Tests and t Tests Overview and Review At the beginning of the course we learned that there are two branches of statistics, namely, parametric and non-parametric. Further we learned that parametric statistical processes are broken down into two other categories, namely descriptive statistical processes and inferential. We learned also that descriptive statistics (mean, mode, median, standard deviation, and frequencies) are only to be used to describe the characteristics of the data rather than draw conclusions of make inferences from the measurement data collected.However, the importance of descriptive statistics cannot be undermined as they form the basis for the workings of inferential statistical processes – especially the mean. In data analysis one of the most important concepts to remember is that regardless of the topic or issue being investigated all is based on the mean of a data set. Although we cannot draw conclusion or make p redictions from descriptive statistics their usefulness in inferential statistics is significant.As stated inferential statistics is a branch of statistics that is used in making inferences about traits or characteristics of a greater population on the basis of sample measurement data. The primary goal of inferential statistics is to leap beyond the measurement data at hand and make inferences about a greater population. Take for example a psychologist who is interested in knowing whether a new behavior modification product will likely be a seller in a certain market area.Knowing that the entire consumer population cannot be queried as to market acceptance, the psychologist would select a representative sample for the area, administer whatever measurement instrument is necessary to garner the data and, on the basis, of the sample data results, determine whether or not the new product will be profitable. The statistic used to determine whether or not the sample is representative of t he entire market population would be an inferential statistics.When using inferential statistical processes to generate information in order to make predictions about a larger population the chosen sample must always be on the basis of random selection or random assignment. Without random sampling or random assignment the mathematical values received by way of the statistical analysis are in err. Or, another way of putting is to say that the results would be â€Å"Lies, damn lies† about the data analyzed. For convenience purposes throughout the remainder of this course the following symbols will be used most extensively.Statisticians, regardless of area, use English letters to denote sample statistics and Greek letters to symbolize population parameters. NameSample StatisticPopulation Parameter _ MeanX  µ (mu) VarianceSD? ? 2 (sigma squared) Standard DeviationSD ? (sigma) Correlationr ? (rho) Proportionp ? (pi) Regression Coefficient b ? ( beta)? ? When trying to arrive at conclusions that extend from the measurement data alone, inferential statistics are the data analysis tools of choice.For example, inferential statistics are used to infer from the sample data to the larger population data or when there is an need to make judgments of the probability that an â€Å"observed† difference between groups is an accurate and dependable one and not those that happened by chance alone. In order too accomplish that which inferential statistics were designed two models are available: estimation testing and hypothesis testing. In the estimation model the sample measurement data is used to estimate a parameter (population) and a confidence interval about the estimate is created.The confidence interval is basically the range of values that has a high likelihood of containing the parameter. The parameter is a numerical value that measures some part or the population measurement scores or values. The second use of inferential statistical processes is in hypo thesis testing. The most common manner in which a hypothesis is tested is by developing what is commonly called a â€Å"straw man† which is what a null hypothesis is call when looking at a situation where in the research investigator wants to determine if the data collected and analyzed is strong enough to reject the null or â€Å"straw man† hypothesis.Always remember that a null hypothesis is stated that no differences, effects or relationships will occur between and or amongst the events, occurrences, phenomenon, items, or situations being evaluated and measured as a result of some variable. A simple example of a business null hypothesis would be something like the following: There exists no statistically significant difference between widgets made of alloy A and those made of Alloy B in terms of tinsel strength acceptability. Data Requirements When Using Inferential Statistics.Thinking back to the first part of the course we learned that statistical processes must u se certain forms of numeric measurement data and this data is expressed as nominal, ordinal, interval and ratio. For descriptive statistics (frequencies and measures of central tendency) it is nominal data that is used. For inferential statistics the measurement data types to be used are either interval or ratio. However, in the social sciences and business arenas ordinal data is often times treated like interval. This is particularly true when studies attempt to assess situations by way of a Lickert scale.For convenience and review the scale presented below will help to clarify the differences between the four scales of measurement discussed earlier in the course. Indications Indicated Direction ofIndicates Amount of Absolute Difference Difference Difference Zero NominalX OrdinalX X IntervalX X X RatioX X X On the basis of the information contained in the table above the following two conditions apply when using inferential statistical processes: * Participants selected for partici pation in a study should be selected randomly. If sampling is not random, then biases occur and contaminate the accuracy of the findings. The most commonly used inferential statistics that behavioral research uses are those statistical processes that provide for the determination of relationships (correlations), differences and effects between and amongst that which is being measured or evaluated. The specific tests used are the Pearson Correlation Coefficient, Chi Square, Student â€Å"t† Test, ANOVA (Analysis of Variance), and regression. All of these techniques not only require the use of a null hypothesis but independent and dependent variables as well. Z ScoresCalculating the Z Score for Research Purposes. One of the most often used statistical processes in the behavioral sciences is the Z Score. What a Z Score accomplishes is in taking a raw measurement value or score and transforms it into a standard form which then provides a more meaningful description of the individ ual scores within the distribution. This transformation is based on knowledge about the population's mean and standard deviation. Take for example an educational psychologist who is interested in determining how individual students are comparing to the overall group of students with respect to grades.As we have learned before raw scores alone cannot provide insightful information to the psychologist how well an individual student is performing. However, what the psychologist can easily do is calculate a Z Score for each student and determine whether or not an individual student is functioning above or below the mean grade of all students together. When determining the placement of each individual, the Z Score permits the psychologist to calculate how many standard deviations, or the distance, each student is above or below the mean grade of all students together.If there is an academic standard the psychologist is using as a comparative base a different statistical formula is used c ompared to the formula needed when comparing individual performance to a local sample of student. The formulas for each are presented below. Comparing Individual to Population Standard Comparing Individual to Sample Standard The construction of the two formulas is the same with the exception that one uses the mean and standard deviation of a population and the other of a sample.What is very important to remember, especially for the psychologist, is that comparing an individual to a local academic setting may have entirely different results when the same student is compared to the industry standard. Although this might appear to be a dilemma, it is actually a possible â€Å"blessing in disguise†. Take for example the same psychologist compares all his students’ rate of academic success in a local facility and determines they are all functioning well above average, or above the mean, in their grades.What happens if the same students are compared to an academic standard a nd the results show their grade is well below the industry standard or population mean? The conclusion drawn is, therefore, that the students, although having grades are not in line with other educational facilities and corrective programming to increase the performance rate must ensue. For ease of understanding let us look at a business situation. Example. Suppose an employee is producing 3. 5 widgets per hour and the sample average number of widgets per hour is 2. 3 with a standard deviation of 0. 33. The Z Score would be calculated as follows: X = raw score X bar = mean s = standard deviation From this we can conclude that the employee’s widget production rate per hour of 3. 5 lays 1. 73 standard deviations above the mean. We can conclude further that this employee is function above the mean all others together on the production line in terms of widget production and that the employee is doing better than 95% of the other employees and only 5% of the total employees are pr oducing more widgets.NOTE: The percentages are easily found on the back of the very last page of your text book. As stated earlier caution must be exercised when drawing conclusions about a single business sample as the statistical information garnered might not be representative of industry standards. Looking at the same employee on an industry standard basis the information might possibly be different. Taking the same employee with an average widget production rate of 3. 5 widgets per hour with a hypothetical population or industry standard mean of 4. 9 and a population standard deviation of 1. 15 the results would be as follows using the formula stated above: X = Employee raw production score  µ = Population standard mean ? = Population standard deviation Z = (3. 5 – 4. 79) / 1. 15 = -1. 12 What can be readily seen by way of the negative value Z Score is that the employee falls below the standard industry mean with respect to the number of widgets produced in one hour. C oncluding further we can say that this employee standing is surpassed by 64% of the entire population workforce for he company. Needless to say, the manager needs to take a serious look at the quality of workers in his/her plant. Interpreting the Z Score for Research Purposes. When using Standard Z Scores one must always remember that comparisons are made between individual measurement values and sample or population mean values. At no time can a one use Z Score values to make predictions or drawn inferences about any given situation. To accomplish this, inferential statistical processes must be used.The value of the Z Score lies in the idea that individual tracking is necessary and trends can be plotted. Also, one must always keep in mind that X values do not have to be simple individual raw scores but can also reflect any investigative variable the researcher chooses to investigate. â€Å"Z† Test When to use the Z Test over the â€Å"t† Test in Research. Although bot h the Z test and the â€Å"t† test are used in research decision hypothesis testing each is used under a different set of circumstances than the other. The primary distinction between the two lies in the sample size requirement.Where â€Å"t† tests can be used for small samples the Z Test cannot and is, therefore, reserved for sample situations that are larger. Both, however, perform the same function, namely to determine whether or not there are differences between the samples being evaluated or comparisons between sample and population measurements. In addition both the Z and â€Å"t† tests make use of the mean scores for raw measurement data when calculating differences. Presented below are some examples of using both the Z test and â€Å"t† test in business today. Z Test: A product safety engineer wants to investigate the average number of possible defective products in worldwide production. A sample is drawn sample (in excess of 30) and mean of the s ample is compared to the population mean for evaluation. * Z Test: A psychologist wants to investigate whether or not a 10 hour shift will record more safety accidents in product production compared to the company wide population standard of eight hour shifts. * Z Test: A human resource manager wants to investigate whether or not a new employee training program will increase production numbers company wide. â€Å"t† Test: A psychologist wants to investigate whether or not the sample of 20 line employees of plant A are producing a significantly greater number of products than the sample of 20 employees of plant A. * â€Å"t† Test: A consumer product safety manager wants to investigate whether or not his small firm is producing an equal number of safe products compared to the industry standard. * â€Å"t† Test: A human resource manager is interested in knowing if customer service skills of employees in department A are the same as in department B.What is most impo rtant to remember is that both the t and Z tests are formulated to arrive at the same conclusion but under different sampling conditions. Keep in mind as well that the Z test is used when the population mean is known. In addition when using a â€Å"t† test with a small sample base it is assumed the distribution of the data is normal; however, in larger samples the distribution does not have to be normal and a Z test can be used for comparative purposes. Further, in both situations the samples drawn must be on a random basis.The unfortunate limitation of both tests is in the fact that neither permit any conclusions to be drawn if not differences are found between the sample means or sample and population mean. However, one must always keep in mind that Z and â€Å"t† tests are basically the same as they compare two means to determine whether or not both samples come from the same population. Calculating the Z Test. The example presented below not only provides you with a formula for both population mean testing but sample mean testing as well.What must be closely watched is the effect on sample size with respect to any resulting Z value: Remember that the Z test requires a large sample and should a small sample be used the resulting Z value is contaminated. Formula: Sample vs. PopulationSample vs. Sample __ __ __ Z = / Z = X1 – X2 N 2(1/N + 1/N) Example Sample vs. Population:Suppose a product manager is interested in knowing if the number of faulty washing machines being produced in his/her plant in August is indicative of the over-all number of washing machines produced in all plants during the month of August. The product manager draws two samples from his/her assembly line: a sample of 10 and a sample of 100. The example being created is to show how the size of the sample bears directly on the resulting Z Test value. Formula: __ _ Z = / N Data.Sample Test Mean = 30 Population Mean = 25 (Industry Requirement) Population = 15 N = 10 __ Z = / N = 30-25 / 15 / 3. 16 = 15 / 4. 75 Z = 1. 58 Sample Test Mean = 30 Population Mean = 25 (Industry Requirement) Population = 15 N = 100 _ Z = / N = 30-25 / 15 / 10 = 5 / 1. 5 Z = 3. 33 Conclusion: The conclusion the production manager can draw from the above measurement example (N=10 and N=100) is relative to the size of the sample used to determine whether or not the sample is representative of the overall faulty washing machine production in August.Had the production manager set the level of confidence at 0. 01 (99%) the Z test score needed in order to reject the null hypothesis that no differences exist in washing machine production is +1. 96. A Z test value for the 10 sample situation of +1. 58 does not meet or exceed the required value of +1. 96. Therefore, the production manager concludes there is not statistically significant difference in the August faulty washing machine production rate for his/her plant and the overall faulty washing machine production rate of all plan ts.However, when the sample size is increased the resulting Z test value is extremely different. The 100 sample case, using the same values as in the 10 sample case, provides an entirely different scenario. By increasing the sample size tenfold the resulting Z test value is +3. 33. Obviously this numeric value far exceeds the required +1. 96 value and the production manager can safely conclude that statistically significant differences exist between the faulty washing machine productions in the production manager’s plant compared to the average faulty washing machine production rate of all plants.The reason for the difference in Z test values in knowing that as sample size increases so does the Z test value. Although not shown in this example, but also extremely important, is in knowing that when the variance of the sample differs from the population variance there will exist a lower Z test value. In the 100 sample test, should the resulting Z test value not met the required 1. 96 value the production manager could have concluded that the faulty washing machine production rate of his/her plant meets the production rate of all other plants together for the month of August.As scientific research and applied statistics application are not equipped to lend explanation as to why no differences are determined the only conclusion to be drawn is that the lack of differences is a direct result of sample size and variance. Example Sample vs. Sample vs. Sample Formula: __ __ Z = X1 – X2 2(1/N + 1/N) Example: Suppose the same product manager is interested in knowing if the number of faulty washing machines being produced in his/her plant in August is indicative of the number of faulty washing machines produced in a neighboring plant during the month of August.The product manager draws two samples: one from his/her assembly line and one from the neighboring plant: a sample of 100 is drawn from both plants. _ Data: : Sample 1: N=100 X=30 _ Sample 2: N=100 X=25 = 15 (known or assumed) _ _ Z = X1 – X2 2(1/N + 1/N) = 30 – 25 / (15)? (1/100 + 1/100) = 5 / v (225) (. 01 + . 01) = 5 / 4. 5 = 5 / 2. 12 = 2. 35 Conclusion: On the basis of the Z test value above the production manager would have to conclude that there exists a statistically significant difference in the production rate of the two plants at the . 1 confidence level (99%) as the required critical value of 1. 96 was matched and exceeded. As such it can be stated that the two washing machine samples are not representative of each other and differences occur. Should the product manager replicate the study and use only 10 washing machines per sample the resulting Z test value would be 1. 11 and the conclusion drawn would be that no statistically significant differences are present between the two groups and the population.Again this is an example of how sensitive the Z test is to sample size. One must always keep in mind that re-testing a product or service with artificia l conveyances (smaller sample size) in order to show that differences are not present is scientifically and professionally unacceptable. Research results must be allowed to fall wherein the statistical analysis places them. Doing otherwise is using the statistical process for reasons other than that which they were intended Drawing Conclusions from the Z Test.Business situations are not unlike any other professional situation, including the behavioral sciences, wherein the researcher or investigator is seeking information as to possible differences between samples or sample and the general population. When business managers or psychologists at any level are interested in making comparisons between products and or services the best-fit statistical tool for large sample situations is the Z test. However, the statistical value is only as good as the controls placed on it and at no time will the actual values give a reason as to why something has happened or why something has not.With r egard to the utilization of the Z test in business decision-making the following rules are always to be remembered: * Z Tests can be used to compare a sample to a population or sample to a sample for general population inference. * Z Tests are extremely susceptible to size of sample and variance and not useful when population variance is unknown. * Z Tests work best with very large samples but not with small samples as the correction factor cannot accommodate for the error associated with small samples. Z Tests are natural introductions to t Tests. * Z Tests work with only one (1) dependent variable. * Z Tests cannot work with correlated data. * Z Tests do not permit the making of strong inferences about differences or effects of the testing instrument or situation. * Z Tests have a non-parametric counterpart wherein small samples can be used. â€Å"t† Test 1a. Introduction to Difference Testing. Difference testing is used primarily to identify if there is a detectable differ ence between products, services, people, or situations.These tests are often conducted in business situations to: * Ensure a change in formulation or production introduces no significant change in the end product or service. * Substantiate a claim of a new or improved product or service * Confirm that a new ingredient/supplier does not affect the perceived attributes of the product or service. * Track changes during shelf-life of a product or the length of time of a service. Differences Between Two Independent Sample Means: Coke vs. Pepsi. Let us again look at a business example wherein the independent sample t-tests are sed to compare the means of two independently sampled groups. Example: do those drinking Coke differ on a performance variable (i. e. numbers of cans consumed in one week) compared to those drinking Pepsi. The individuals are randomly assigned to the Coke and Pepsi groups. With a confidence interval or ?. 05 (corresponding probability level of 95 %) the researcher c oncludes the two groups are significantly different in their means (average consumption rate of Coke and Pepsi over a one week period of time) if the t test value meets or exceeds the required value.If the t value does not meet the critical t value required then the research investigator simply concludes that no differences exist. Further explanation is not required. Presented below is a more useable situation. Example: As a manager of production let us suppose you are wanting to determine whether or not work performance is significantly (statistically) different in a noise related production line vs. a non-noise related production line. Individual Noise Production Non-Noise Production difference: 1-2 38 32 6 2 10 16 -6 3 84 57 27 4 36 28 8 5 50 55 -5 6 35 12 23 7 73 61 12 8 48 29 19 Mean 46. 8 36. 2 10. 5 Standard dev 23 19 12 Variance 529 361 N = 16 Using the raw data and formula above to calculate the t test value the actual t test value, when calculated properly, is 2. 43 . Always remember that S = Standard deviation and that the mean is often times shown by the capital letter M rather than a bar mark over a capital X.By going to the appropriate t tables in your text book find the critical value for t at the . 05 confidence interval. The value you should find is 1. 761 Differences Between Two Means of Correlated Samples: Red Bull vs. Power Drink. Again using a business example correlated t test statistical processes are used to determine whether or not there is a relationship of a particular measurement variable on a pre and post test basis. Often times when there exists a statistically significant relationship on a pre and post test basis the business manager can use the first measurement values to predict the second in future situations without having to present a post test situation.Example: Using the same data presented above let us assume that there are not two independent groups but the same group under two different conditions – noise p roduction environment and non-noise production environment. Individual Noise Production Non-Noise Production difference: 1-2 1 38 32 6 2 10 16 -6 3 84 57 27 4 36 28 8 5 50 55 -5 6 35 2 23 7 73 61 12 8 48 29 19 N = 8 The first step is to compute the mean of the differences: _ D = ? D N The second step is to square the differences: (6)? + (-6)? + (27)? + (8)? + (5)? + (23)? + (12)? + (19)? The third step is to calculate the standard error of the difference: SED = _ ?D – D? / n -1 n The last step is to compute the t test value: _ t = D / SED Using the raw data and formula above to calculate the t test value the actual t test value, when calculated properly, is 3. 087. By going to the appropriate t tables in your text book you can find the critical value to be, at the ? .05 confidence interval is 1. 895.The conclusion drawn is that the differences are statistically significantly different. When to Use Independent Mean or Correlated Sample Difference Testing. In research inv estigation situations the choice of using an independent sample t test of a correlated sample test is dependent upon whether or not the investigator is seeking to determine differences or relationships. In some situations the need to know whether or not a difference exists between two products or services is more important than knowing if there is a relationship between the two. For example: take the consulting psychologist wants to know if training program A has better success in training managers than training method B.The psychologist would select a sample of each training situations (generally ;30) and test the success of each sample and compare the success of program A with program B. The results would confirm if one training programs was better that the other. If, however, the psychologist was interested in determining how each program compared to the industry standard the programs would be compared, independently, to the population program mean. On the other hand should the c onsulting psychologist wants to determine whether or not a relationship exists, or predictability can be determine, from one program in two different situations or under two different situations a correlated t test is used.However, knowing the relationship in pre and post test situations are generally reserved for improvement situations. Drawing Conclusions for the t Test. Any conclusion drawn for the t test statistical is only as good as the research question asked and the null hypothesis formulated. â€Å"t† tests are only used for two sample groups, either on a pre post-test basis or between two samples (independent or dependent). The t test is optimized to deal with small sample numbers which is often the case with behavioral scientists in any venue. When samples are excessively large the t test becomes difficult to manage due to the mathematical calculations involved.