Technology and economic growth in the pre-civil war period Essay

Technology and economic growth in the pre-civil war period - Essay Example New irrigation techniques also provided more arable land. An additional technological change that had a big impact was the rise of railroads (Boyer, et al, 240). Rail coverage expanded nearly ten times over a twenty year period. Americans of all classes were able to travel freely and comfortably. Perhaps more than anything this helped to open up the West during this period. Culture was rapidly increasing during this period too, as American writers looked inward to their soul and outward to their growing country. Writers like Dickinson, Thoreau and Emerson published works that began the process of defining what it meant to be American. A definition that would be sorely tested during the Civil War. The twenty year period before the American Civil War was a period of great development and change. Agriculture improved and railways became more prominent. American artists and writers won new respect. It is deeply unfortunate much of this growth was lost in the slaughter of the Civil

Nurse Leader Interviews Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Nurse Leader Interviews - Essay Example Again the Director of Surgical Services reflected a participative leadership approach while dealing with the subordinates in the organization. Finally as for the Director of Employee Assistance the leadership style reflected a transformational approach. Thus it is found that the different nursing leaders reflect different types of leadership styles in their conducts within the organization. It is found that the Chief Nursing Officer acting on the Servant Leadership approach aims to build trust and confidence in the minds of the subordinates so that they easily communicate with the upper hierarchy and share their feelings and problems. Again acting on such leadership approach helps the Chief Nursing Officer in understanding the areas where the people fall short in their professional pursuits. Thereby such leaders help enabling both resources and opportunities to help them develop their professional traits and conducts in serving the concern (Ebener, 2010, p.11-12). This leader was chosen on account that the leader takes care in hearing to the problems and queries of the nurses working in the organization and renders commitment to help the nurses develop their potential to render quality healthcare through rendering institutional help. The Director of Surgical Services reflects a participative leadership style while going about in the organizational conducts. Such participative style reflected by the director is done by involving and empowering the employees and sub-ordinate groups working in the concern in decision making activities. This leadership style helped the leader to gain the views of the subordinates in the decision making ventures and thus helped to avoid conflicts. Hence such leadership trait reflected by the director is held to bring success in managing the employees by the leader (Walsh, 2009, p.75). Finally the Director of Employee Assistance is found

Assessment Frameworks of Multiple Stressors

Assessment Frameworks of Multiple Stressors A review of environmental and human health risk assessment frameworks of multiple stressors: the case of endocrine disruptors Abstract This review is a compilation of the recommended approaches and methods for the development of a risk assessment framework of multiple stressors. Some of the driving forces contributing to address this subject are the current demands of stakeholders like the drinking water industry, the society and regulators of evaluating the risks of mixtures of contaminants that may harm human beings and the environment. Therefore, our work aims at exploring the possibility of integrating within the risk assessment, environmental, human and societal aspects, acknowledging new international regulations and policies for the safe use of chemicals which enforce the integrative study of the hazards of multiple chemicals on humans and the environment throughout their life-cycle. We chose the group of compounds called endocrine disruptors as an example of multiple stressors because of their emerging relevance and the fact that they usually integrate complex mixtures, originate from multiple sources and ex ist in several environmental compartments, generating adverse effects on receptors through different routes and pathways. Their actions may be severe chronic and long-term modifications of the normal development and reproduction patterns of the individual and/or its progeny, eventually representing systemic risks at the population level which may affect sustainability and biodiversity. Due to the ubiquity of these chemicals, it is necessary to address the inclusion of human beings as potential receptors and deal with risk assessment in an integrated manner. As endocrine disruptors may provoke differentiated responses relative to the developmental stage, acting through varied mechanisms and at very low concentrations, with the particularity that their toxicokinetics may present sometimes unusual dose-response curves, might challenge long-term predictions and hazard characterization, adding to risk assessment uncertainties. References to the current methodologies including the applica ble bioassays, chemical analysis, modeling, statistics tools and equations to calculate joint effects considering the interactions of toxicants within a mixture are also discussed in this review. KEY WORDS: risk assessment, endocrine disruptors, multiple stressors 1. Introduction The aim of this review is to analyze the risk assessment frameworks and current practices, the integration of environmental and human health methodologies, the effects evaluation and how to assess the risk of complex mixtures of chemicals. Assessing the risks of multiple stressors for human health and the environment arises from the realization that biological and physical stressors usually coexist in complex mixtures in the natural and constructed environment, sometimes generating impacts on living creatures. Historically, since the publication in 1962 of the book â€Å"Silent Spring†, by Rachel Carson, a warning on the deleterious actions on wildlife of persistent toxicants, such as DDT, which caused a decrease of birds in Pennsylvania, became presentwas recognised among the scientific world, the media and the society. More recently, the research by Dr. Theo Colborn on the reproductive disorders of predators in the Great Lakes of North America and her book, published in 1996 â€Å"Our Stolen Future† co-authored by herself with Dianne Dumanoski and John Peterson Myers, was able to generate public awareness on the threats that EDCs might pose to human beings and the environment. Some of the driving forces for writing this review are the demands of stakeholders represented by the community, the NGOs, the health and environmental regulators, the manufacture industrial sector and the drinking water companies. For instance, the European Environment and Health Strategy emphatically stresses the gaps in knowledge related to risk assessment methodologies that include foetuses, infants and children and calls for the precautionary principle within the strategy for environmental contaminants, for which there is a sufficient level of scientific evidence at the effect level (e.g. molecular, cellular, or tissue-related) to show the likelihood of health impacts. Not enough information exists on the link between emissions of dioxins and PCBs and other substances and their accumulation in ecosystems and foodstuffs. The need for research on the understanding of the links between environmental factors and certain diseases is recognized, but, due to the complexity of the issue , the immediate action is to gather evidence in order to concrete measures to protect human health and the environment. Many reports are able to demonstrate through laboratory experiments and field surveys that exposure of animals to chemicals released into the environment exert reproductive or developmental effects on the individual and its off-spring, affecting the viability of the species at a population level (Colborn and Smolen 1997). As a matter of fact, these kind of adverse effects have been observed in wildlife and many of them can be attributed to the exposure to man-made chemicals. The cause-effect relationship is still controversial in human beings, but still a matter of concern due to the severity of probable harm that could affect individuals and populations. Thus, regulatory decisions must be informed by risk assessment on this important topic (Fenner-Crisp 2000). Endocrine-mediated effects may be more relevant in populations rather than in individuals. As there is still not consensus about a cause-effect relationship, it is recommended a science-based precautionary approach to protect public health. Further research is needed to demonstrate effects and carry out birth defect registries and epidemiology studies designed to track delayed effects of environmental exposures (Solomon and Schettler 2000). The classical paradigm of human health risk assessment authored by the National Research Council (NRC, 1983) is composed of four steps: hazard identification, dose-response assessment, exposure assessment and risk characterization. This paradigm was modified in 1994 to include characterization of each component. One of the approaches considered by some authors as best suited for developing a risk assessment of multiple stressors is a cumulative risk assessment framework, which may include societal aspects with participatory involvement of stakeholders (Gentile and Harwell 2001; Callahan and Sexton 2007; USEPA 2003). The global trend towards a policy-driven integration applied to risk assessment, demanded by regulations on safety of chemicals and industrial operations should ideally include a multiplicity of stressors, compartments, geographical scales, and end-points (Assmuth and Hildà ©n 2008). For example, the new European Union Regulation on chemicals and its safe use (REACH, EC 1907/2006) enforces linking risks to human health and the environment for chemicals throughout their life cycle. In United States, the Environmental Protection Agency, still discusses both topics separately because of practical reasons, but acknowledging the need to integrate them. An overview of the most suitable risk assessment frameworks is described in this literature review, focusing on the case of mixtures of reproductive endocrine disruptors. Matters that differentiate this topic are also presented, regarding particularities in mechanistic and toxicokinetics aspects and some of the sources of uncertainties and confounding factors. Developing a novel approach to the classical risk assessment scheme is also a goal, with the intention of contributing to design a risk assessment framework comprising a choice of tests, models, computational and statistical tools. 2. Hazard identification In this stage the nature of the hazard is described taking into account toxicity data. The hazard can then be characterized deriving numerical values of acceptability of the risk, based on mechanisms of action, biological extrapolation, dose-response and dose-effect relationships, and related uncertainties (Fenner-Crisp, 2003). 2.1. Nature of the hazard Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) are substances that interfere with the endocrine system by changing homeostasis and producing developmental effects and/or diminishing the fertility of the organisms. EDCs include a broad range of substances which can be classified according to their effect. The best known are the environmental estrogens, alkylphenol and its ethoxylates, the monomer in polycarbonate manufacture bisphenol A, some pesticides and chlorinated organics. 2.2. Sources of EDCs Possible sources of watercourses pollution with EDCs are wastewater sewage discharge, industrial effluents, or point and non-point source contamination of watercourses with agrochemicals such as herbicides or pesticides. Sewage discharge from cities contains residues of domestic products such as personal care products, pharmaceuticals and detergents and excreta with natural and artificial steroidal hormones from contraceptive pill usage. Nonylphenol (NP) is a highly hydrophobic bioccumulating biodegradation by-product of nonylphenol ethoxylate non-ionic surfactants which persists in sewage sludge and river sediments. Its use and production have been banned in EU countries and strictly monitored in many other countries such as Canada and Japan (Soares et al. 2008). Pulp mills are some of the industries associated to studies on endocrine disruption. Bleached Kraft pulp mill effluents have been linked to both estrogenic and androgenic effects on biota, depending on the process characteristics and wastewater treatment. Several studies have associated the chlorination of organic matter to the estrogenicity of the effluent. Nowadays, the application of elemental-chlorine-free processes has diminished the risk of dioxins and furans formation, but not eliminated it, as other halogenated organics are formed by use of chlorine dioxide as bleaching agent. Various wood-extractive compounds produced in the pulping process, such as rosin acids and phytosterols and found in pulp mills effluents have also been considered potentially responsible of endocrine disruption (Hewitt et al. 2008). The main identified resin acids in pulp mill effluents are: pimaric, isopimaric, sandaracopimaric, palustric, dehydroabietic, abietic and neoabietic acid (Merilà ¤inen and Oikari, 2008). Other compounds found in this type of effluent are phenolic guaiacyl-based lignin degradation products, diterpenoids, and dimethoxy stilbene (Belknap et al, 2006). Modern analytical methods, like full-scan GC-MS have been used to identify wood related extractives in final effluent from a chlorine dioxide bleached pulp mill effluent, including monoterpenes, phenolics, fatty acids, resin acids, resin acid neutrals and sterols (Wartman et al. 2009). Receptor binding bioassays for androgens and estrogens indicated that androgens were most abundant in this effluent and the range of androgens for the various extraction protocols used was 189-283 ng/L as testosterone equivalent concentration. Some examples of common sources of EDCs and typical environmental concentrations are summarized on Table 1. Table 1.Sources of EDCs and typical environmental concentrations Origin, use and occurrence Source of environmental exposure EDC group Example molecule Typical concentrations Reference Industrial (pulp and paper mills) Contaminated fish Resin acids pimaric acid 4-140  µg g-1 Owens et al, 1994 Industrial (pulp and paper mills) Industrial wastewater treatment plant Chlorinated organics 2,4,6-trichlorophenol 1.5  µg l-1 Owens et al, 1994 Industrial (pulp and paper mills) Final stage secondary treatment Phytosterols ÃŽ ²-sitosterol 58.42  µg l-1 Landman et al, 2008 Domestic, (contraceptive pills) Sewage effluent Pharmaceuticals 17ÃŽ ±-ethynylestradiol 14-17 ng l-1 Liu et al, 2004 Human and animal excreta Sewage effluent Natural steroid hormones 17ÃŽ ²-estradiol 5.0 ng l-1 Koh YKK et al, 2007 Domestic and industrial (laundry detergents, wool scouring processes) Sewage sludge Non ionic surfactants 4-nonylphenol 829.3 mg/kg Gonzà ¡lez et al, 2010 Domestic and industrial (polycarbonate bottles) Leaching from solid waste, sewage effluent Polycarbonate bisphenol A 0.62  µg l-1 Sà ¡nchez-Avila et al, 2009 Agricultural (soil fertilization) Livestock waste Male steroid hormones testosterone 10-1830 ng l−1 Lange et al, 2002 Agricultural (dairy farming) Streams contaminated by dairy cow excreta Female steroid hormones 17ÃŽ ²-oestradiol 0.04-3.6 ng l−1 Matthiessen et al, 2006 Agricultural (weed and grass control in soybean crops) Run-off Herbicide glyphosate 0.1-0.7 mg l-1 Peruzzo et al, 2008 2.2. Dose-response assessment There are several methods to demonstrate dose-response relationships, either by in vivo or in vitro tests. Fish reproduction tests, like the ones using the model fish fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) have shown a decrease in fecundity associated with depressed steroid and vitellogenin (Vtg) production in female specimens (Ankley et al. 2008). Many of the tests rely on the measurement of an increase of Vtg as biomarker of estrogenicity as seen in several publications (Schwaiger et al. 2002; An et al. 2008; Holbech et al. 2006 Panter et al, 1998; Sohoni et al. 2001; Kunz and Fent, 2009). Tests results on resin acids show different responses in the first generation of fish than in the second (Christianson-Heiska et al. 2007). In some cases there are not many examples of in vivo tests, like for glyphosate. A fish exposure tests with this compound showed Vtg induction in female fish, indicative of estrogenic activity (An et al, 2008). An investigation working the commercial formulation of the herbicide glyphosate and human placental cells demonstrated its toxicity at concentrations lower than the usual in agricultural practices. The aromatase activity disruption seems to be due not only to glyphosate but also to co-adjuvants (the surfactant nonylphenol or others), which enhance its bioavailability and/or bioaccumulation (Richard et al. 2005; Gasnier et al. 2009). Table 2 shows some examples of dose-response experiments working with fish, crustacea, molluscs and amphibia. Varied protocols exist to develop ecotoxicity tests, in flow-through, static or partly renewal conditions, and with different duration and end-points. Only chronic effects and particularly developmental and reproductive effects were conside red. Table 2. Dose-response for endocrine disruption effects in freshwater organisms exposed to single EDCs EDC chemical name Taxonomic group Species Dose to produce effect Effect Test conditions Reference 4-nonylphenol Fish Rivulus marmoratus 300  µg l-1 Testicular agenesis and oogenesis inhibition in 100 % fish Static system, daily renewal Tanaka and Grizzle, 2002 4-nonylphenol Fish Oncorhynchus mykiss, rainbow trout 1 -10  µg l-1 10  µg l-1 High Vtg in adult male fish plasma Low hatching rate Intermittent exposure of adult fish for 4 months until spawning Schwaiger et al, 2002 4-nonylphenol Crustacean Ceriodaphnia dubia NOEC for reproduction: 1  µg l-1 Low hatching rate 7 days chronic exposure, static Isidori et al, 2005 Glyphosate Fish Carassius carassius, crucian carp 100% effluent Vtg induction in female fish (38.6 +/- 9.8  µg l-1) 3 weeks, continuous exposure An et al, 2008 Glyphosate Mollusk Pseudosuccinea columella, aquatic snail 1 mg l-1 10 mg l-1 Faster development of F3 embryos Hatching inhibition 3 generation continuous Tate et al, 1997 Estrone Fish Danio rerio LOEC: 14 ng l-1 50 ng l-1 Significant Vtg increase Higher female ratio 40 days fish sexual development test Holbech et al, 2006 17ÃŽ ²-Estradiol Fish Danio rerio LOEC: 54 ng l-1 Significant Vtg increase Higher female ratio 40 days fish sexual development test Holbech et al, 2006 17ÃŽ ²-Estradiol Fish Pimephales promelas, fathead minnow 100 ng l-1 Significant Vtg increase Testicular growth inhibition 21 days male fish exposure Panter et al, 1998 Estriol Fish Danio rerio LOEC: 0.6  µg l-1 21.7  µg l-1 Significant Vtg increase Higher female ratio 40 days fish sexual development test Holbech et al, 2006 Dehydroabietic acid (DHAA), resin acid Fish Danio rerio, zebra fish 50  µg l-1 Low plasma Vtg in female in F0; high Vtg and affected spermatogenesis in F1 males 2 generations, continuous Christianson-Heiska et al 2008 ÃŽ ²-sitosterol Fish Danio rerio 10-20  µg l-1 F1: higher ratio of male fish; F2: higher ratio of female fish 2 generation fish exposure test Nakari and Erkomaa, 2003 Quercetin, phytoestrogen Amphibian Xenopus laevis, frog 200  µg l-1 Higher female ratio > 10% abnormal testes (some with ovotestes) Exposure up to 1 month post-metamorphosis Cong et al, 2006 Phenanthrene, PAH Fish Oryzias latipes, Medaka NOEL: 100  µg l-1 Developmental, hatching 18 days, renewal Rhodes et al, 2005 Bisphenol A Mollusk Marisa cornuaretis, aquatic snail NOEC: 640  µg l-1 Developmental 12 weeks, juvenile snails Forbes et al, 2007 Bisphenol A Fish Pimephales promellas 16  µg l-1 640 and 1280  µg l-1 640  µg l-1 1280  µg l-1 Altered spermatogenesis Growth inhibition and Vtg induction in male fish Reduced hatchability in F1 generation Egg production inhibition 3 generation reproduction exposure test Sohoni et al, 2001 Bisphenol A Fish Brachydanio rerio, zebrafish EC50: 2.90  µg l-1 Embryo malformation and low hatchability 72 h exposure Liu et al, 2007 Benzo-ÃŽ ±-pirene (BaP) (PAH) Fish Fundulus heteroclitus , common mummichog 10  µg l-1 CYP19A1 expression decreased by about 50% in immature stage I oocytes Exposure for 10 or 15 days by in situ hybridization, several developmental stages Dong et al, 2008 Polychlorinated biphenyl 126 Fish Danio rerio, zebrafish LC50: 3.270 mg l-1 Developmental effects through aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation Dilutions of PCB 126 for 12 weeks SiÃ…Å ¸man et al, 2007 Polychlorinated biphenyl 126 Fish Salvelinus namaycush, lake trout 3 ÃŽ ¼g kg−1body weight Retinol depletion Oral exposure for 12 weeks; confirmation with radiolabelled retinol Palacea et al, 1997 Benzophenone-1 Fish Pimephales promelas 4919  µg l-1 Vtg induction 14 days exposure, semi-static, renewal Kunz and Fent, 2009 3. Exposure assessment 3.1. Ecosystems and human sub-populations potentially at risk of endocrine disruption effects Increasing evidence generated by scientists turn endocrine disruption into a recognized risk to the environment. Due to the ubiquity of EDCs and the widespread routes of exposure, most ecosystems and human populations are potentially at risk of endocrine disruption. Notwithstanding this fact, under the scope of a risk assessment of EDCs the potentially most vulnerable risk subgroups are identified corresponding to maternal, fetal and early developmental stages. The concern that prenatal or childhood exposure to EDCs may be responsible for abnormalities in human sexual and reproductive health are still in the hypothetical ground. However, many reports on exposure to high concentrations of recognized EDCs such as DES, certain PCBs, and DDT demonstrate this fact. At low-doses the question remains unanswered whether there could be a critical window where they could harm the fetal development (Hood 2005). Several reports on human developmental anomalies and reproductive ailments have been raising international concern, such as a seven fold increase risk of testicular cancer since 1969 to 2002 in men from several countries of Europe, United States and New Zealand. Also, the sperm density halved, as rates of cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) and hypospadias (shortened urinary tracts) simultaneously rose. It is thought that human congenital malformation of sex organs, low sperm quality, endometriosis, reduced fertility and some types of cancers of breast and testis could be linked to exposure to EDCs. More than 80000 synthetic chemicals are produced in the world and have still not been fully evaluating with regards to endocrine disruption. In 1996, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency initiated an Endocrine Disruption Screening Program to evaluate more than 15,000 chemicals calling for a policy based on the â€Å"precautionary approach† to be overcautious and protect huma n health and the environment. A historical example of policies which demanded the banning of a drug due to these after-effects is the case of diethylstilbestrol (DEADES), which used to be prescribed to pregnant women to prevent spontaneous abortions because it produced higher risk of genital deformities and cancer in the offspring, among other effects (Stair 2008). Internationally there is consensus that the most vulnerable group for EDCs exposure are children. For example, in European countries, the Strategy for Environment and Health known as â€Å"SCALE† for Science, Children, Awareness, Legislation and Evaluation, has set as a priority agenda for the evaluation diseases caused by endocrine disruptors in children. The exposure to insecticides and herbicides used in agricultural practices has been linked to developmental or reproductive effects in wild animals and also in human beings. The occupational exposure to pesticide has received much attention, as for example prolonged time-to-pregnancy was observed in male greenhouse workers exposed to pesticides before conception of their first pregnancy (Bretveld et al 2008). The domestic exposure of children to residues of pesticides in low-level long-term exposures are associated to chronic effects and include routes of exposure such as fruit or breast milk (Goodman and Laverda 2002). 3.2. Evidence of endocrine disruption effects in wildlife around the world There are reports on impacts on wildlife reproduction and development observed in invertebrates, fish, reptiles, birds and mammals, sometimes confirmed by laboratory tests. In laboratory experiments the impacts to fish populations by EDCs affect reproductive health and persistence of various fish species (Mills and Chichester 2005). Many examples of impacts due to exposure to endocrine disruptors exist in wildlife, such as the seals population decline in the Baltic and North Sea, the high levels of female egg yolk in male fish or snail imposex and intersex around the world. Intersexuality of fish has been demonstrated in several investigations carried out in rivers around the world. The findings of abnormal reproductive female-like ducts and oocytes in male fish were related to the treated sewage discharge from the cities in laboratory experiments measuring induction of plasma vitellogenin in exposed male fish (Jobling et al. 2002). Field studies were carried out using wild roach as a model fish to confirm the incidence and the severity of intersex which correlated with the predicted concentrations of the natural estrogens (E1 and E2) and the synthetic contraceptive pill estrogen (EE2) present (Jobling et al. 2006). Some case-studies have made clear that the estrogenic activity of municipal wastewater correlates to demographics. The number of inhabitants was found to correlate with changes in estrogenic activities in a research conducted at a university city in US, with seasonal fluctuations in population. The concentrations of synthetic and natural estrogens and other EDCs were measured and effects demonstrated through the application of in vivo and in vitro tests (fish exposure with Vtg induction measurement and the yeast estrogen screen) (Brooks et al. 2003). The demonstration of effects of pulp mill effluents has also been supported by fish surveys with a sampling design that includes upstream and downstream sites from the discharge pipe of the pulp mill. For instance, Munkittrick et al. (1994) have demonstrated that the absence of chlorine bleaching or the presence of secondary treatment does not eliminate estrogenic responses evidenced by decreased circulating levels of sex steroids, decreased gonadal size, which implies that there may be multiple causative agents. In other cases, androgenic effects have been noticed, such as a biased male to female ratio in fish in Sweden downstream from pulp mills (Larsson and Fà ¶rlin 2002). As seen on Table 3, several adverse endocrine effects are evidenced in various animals, from mollusks to amphibian but they also appear in higher animal species. Table 3. Effects of EDCs in wildlife evidenced through field studies Animal Effect EDCs Postulated mechanism or causative agent Reference Frog High incidence of deformed frogs in Minnesota, United States Multiple EDCs Retinoid signaling pathways activation Gardiner et al. 2003 Marine Gastropods Masculinization of female snails (imposex) occurs worldwide. Females grow accessory sex organs including sperm ducts, seminal vesicles, external sperm grooves, and penises. Exposure to low levels of tributyltin (TBT) (1ng/l) Aromatase inhibition, testosterone inhibition, or neuroendocrine disorder or interaction with retinoid receptors Novà ¡k et al. 2008 Wild roach (Rutilius rutilus) Intersex, and high plasma Vtg concentration Multiple EDCs Sewage effluent from wastewater treatment plant discharging into rivers Joblin et al. 2006 Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) Masculinization (90% affected in number of segments in the longest anal fin ray). Androgen-dependent gene expression by luciferase test Kraft pulp mill effluent Affinity for human androgen receptor (hAR) Parks et al. 2001 Eastern Mosquitofish, (Gambusia holbrooki) Androgenic activity measured by androgen receptor transcription assay with human receptor in sediment. Fish masculinization. Paper mill effluent, river Pine pulp-derived phytosteroids accumulate in river sediment where they are converted by microbes into progesterone and this into androstenedione and other bioactive steroids Jenkins et al. 2003 3.3. Conceptual model Deriving a conceptual model requires knowing the pathways and toxicokinetics of the EDCs identified in the hazard identification step. An effects-based assessment start by identifying the effects and the relevant stressors and geographically located (for example through the use of GIS software). On the other hand, the model used in stressor-based assessments, depicts how stressors affect receptors and it is commonly applied when evaluating risks of environmental pollution. If a river basin is evaluated, the sources of contamination are studied, identifying the pathways, receptors and effects. To develop the human health risk assessment component, the fish consumption of the population and the drinking water intake are two of the main factors to consider especially for the most vulnerable population, which are newborn and lactating infants. The food chain is the main source of exposure, and in particular, fish consumption and drinking water are possible sources for the nursing mother and the pathway of distribution through the milk to the baby, but the direct intake of drinking water is important in the case of formula preparation. The environmental risk assessment should consider fish, crustacean and sediment dwelling organisms within the framework. During pregnancy maternal fat is moved, releasing to the blood the bioaccumulated compounds, due to their liposolubility and persistence, through all the different exposure routes (foodstuffs, environmental, occupational) throughout her life. Acute exposure should also be considered if it happened previously to gestation or during this period. There are substances that traspass the placental barrier and chemicals reach the offspring. Also, through the breastmilk, explaining the extrangely high levels of some xenobiotics (Fernà ¡ndez et al. 2007). 3.4. Methodologies to determine dose-response in exposure assessment The analysis of exposure and effect determines the concentration of the EDC on the environment matrixes matrices (water courses, ground water, drinking water, soil, sediment, air, biota), and assesses the potential or actual effects. In order to do so, many tools are recommended and in general a tiered approach is the most suited for this task as it helps to work in a logical order and increasing the specificity of the tests. One of the main sources of exposure to most chemicals is through the food chain. The bioconcentration of organics in beef, cow milk and vegetation correlates to the octanol-water partition coefficient (Kow) to predict the bioaccumulation in the aquatic and terrestrial food chains (Travis and Arms 1988). There are many models based on the characteristics of the chemicals, such as the fugacity model, which allows to predict the expected concentrations in six environmental compartments (water, air, soil, bottom and suspended sediment and fish) (MacKay et al. 1985). 3.4.1. The use of a tiered methodology to demonstrate endocrine disruptive effects This type of approach is carried out including different tests, such as bioassays, in vitro tests and field studies as part of the experimental design. The methodologies generally employed are in vivo fish reproduction exposure tests and in vitro receptor binding bioassays, for androgens and estrogens (Wartman et al., 2009). Even though there is an international trend towards diminishing the use of live organisms for experimentation for safety testing, in vivo tests are still of key importance for the confirmation of the findings of in vitro screens. Some of the most utilized tests relay on the use of fish as model experimental organism in various life-stages, as for example the 21 days reproduction fish test with fathead minnow (EPA/600/R-01/067). 3.4.2. In vitro screens and tests Some of the in vitro assays that can be used as screening tools of estrogenic activity are the following: yeast based assays, cell proliferation assays, bindin

charhf The Complex Character of Huckleberry Finn :: Adventures Huckleberry Huck Finn Essays

Huckleberry Finn – Complex Character Huckleberry Finn is a complex character. As this book progresses, so does Huck. Huck is about thirteen years old, from the low end of the white middle class. His father is a ruffian who disappears for months on end. This book starts off with Huck being `reformed' by the widow Douglas and therefore remains a marginalized member of society. He has not been brought up with the same social values as an average middle-class boy might be, but this helps to create Huck's unique personality. The way he has been brought up affects his traits, values, and relationships throughout the book. Although Huck's character progresses in this story his traits that he portrays at the end are very similar to those at the beginning. His ingenuity, morality, and intelligence are consistent throughout the story. Huck's ingenuity is shown throughout his clever actions. His decision to make his escape on the canoe look like a murder to hide his tracks is just one example, "And they'll follow that meal track to the lake and go browsing down the creek that leads out of it to find the robbers that killed me and took the things. They won't ever hunt the river for anything but my dead carcass. They'll soon get tired of that, and won't bother no more about me." This idea continues as he decides to dress up as a girl to gain information. Although this idea doesn't fully succeed because he is found out, it is an excellent plan, which also reviles his ingenuity. Another time we see this unique cleverness is when he pretends to be `George Jackson' to live with the Wilkes family. Also throughout this story, Huck develops his own morality, however it has a different turn from the accepted norm for that society at that time. An example of his morality coming through is how he didn't tell on Jim when he ran away. Although the society would see this as wrong, Huck took Jim's point of view and concluded to help him. Huck also showed his morality when he tried to return the stolen money to the girls and escape from the Duke and King after the burial.

The Environmental impact of tourism is always harmful – Discuss

As demands for tourism and recreation increases for example due to an aging but active population , new interest in nations heritage and people seeking quiet environments so too will their impact on other socio economic structures in society, tourist environments and wildlife habitats. In Bali, Kenya and the lake District much of the early development was uncontrolled and badly planned. Development was driven by the momentum for growth and the developers desires for fast profits, without any thought being given to the future. These areas which are shaped by the forces of nature are now under threat, if not in the process of being physically damaged and destroyed. In Kenya tourism is mainly Safari and Beach orientated. The wildlife related tourism brought an increased amount of visitors into Kenya through the 1990s, boosting the LEDCs economy. However many of the areas that are most valuable to the tourist trade are the wildlife filled parks that have been inhabited by people like the Masai for hundreds of years. Tourism has been environmentally harmful here where the sheer number of visitors and amount of Safari traffic is seriously damaging the vegetation cover and the vehicles are causing soil erosion. Also the increase in tourism has meant an increase in the long haul travel which is now seriously contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. Problems created are going to be more severe in the ELDW than in the EMDW . Many of the tourist souvenirs are made by the locals are made of ebony and the trees are cut down faster than replaced. However tourism has not always been harmful to the environment and can benefit an area where the marine life has been re appraised and is beginning to be viewed as valuable. Like the marine park at Watamu off the coast of Milindi which was set up to preserve the coral reefs and to provide an additional visitor attraction. Not only has tourism brought environmental impacts that are harmful to Kenya, it has brought economic impacts that are harmful. At least 40% of tourist revenue is leaked outside to airlines and travel companies. You can read also Waves The result of beach tourism has caused a rapid increase of land prices along the coast, well beyond the purchasing power of local African farmers. The improvements in infrastructure has also contributed to land price inflation and encouraged further speculative hotel buildings on what was good agricultural land. I don't agree though that the impact is always harmful as the locals have benefited from these improvements in infrastructure. Furthermore tourism had overtaken coffee on Kenya's major export earner: it equalled 43% of export earning in 1990. Additionally tourism was an employer in both the formal and informal sector. In Bali the environmental impact of tourism has nearly always been harmful. The number of tourists visiting Bali was fairly low until the late sixties when the numbers dramatically increased. This was due to the governments five year plan to encourage tourism to the area. The growth in tourism caused harmful environmental impacts . Raw sewage was dumped into the sea as the infrastructure cannot cope with tourists. This damages the reefs. The wake from motor boats also destroys the coral as does the actions of those trying to collect it to sell to tourists. Once damaged there is nothing stop the waves hitting the beach directly, resulting in beach erosion that threatens coconut plantations, farmland and land on which hotels are built. Tourism in Bali has led to threat of extinction of numerous breeds of turtle whose eggs are now collected as a delicacy from tourists and the bodies of which as stuffed or made into trinkets. On the other hand this led to the environmental benefit of the convention on international trade in endangered species forcing the Indonesian government to tighten their controls on the treatment of animals. As the number of tourists increases so does infrastructure of roads , electricity mains, water, airports and car parks being created. Though its association with pollution has been a problem. The main beach in Bali Kuta has been spoiled. There is severe beach erosion of up to 2cm a year and the combat the litter problem people are employed to bury the rubbish each morning. Tourism also brought violent crime which was unknown to Bali before 1979, drug dealing , prostitution and theft increased. However in Bali a marine park of Bunaken off N Sula west was set up because of tourism. As the potential impact of tourism on the natural environment was recognised, suitable conservation projects were set up. Even though the environmental impact of tourism was harmful, I brought many economic benefits. Many new jobs were created especially in hotels, travel agencies and the craft and entertainment industries e. g. 7000 applicants for 400 jobs at the new Bali-Hyat hotel. There is a revival of some traditional arts and crafts aimed at the tourist market wood carvers, jewellery making, weaving, Batik. Also Balinese dancers now come to the larger hotels to perform for guests when originally the tourists would have had to go into the villages to see them. Again there have been economic costs where many of the economic benefits have not been evenly spread. Resorts in the South have benefited whilst those in the North east have not. This has lead to conflict between the two areas over the distribution of tourist receipts. At village level much of the money from tourism in being spent on schools, cultural improvements, temple maintenance. However increasingly the money is being spent on imported goods, which don't benefit the island economy. Land prices have increased between 1969 and 1970 by 40% in tourist areas this was 120%. In resort areas previously agricultural land use was for growing food for the islanders was sold off to resorts offering to pay hundreds of times the price it would fetch on agricultural land. To prevent the impact of tourism from being harmful again measures were taken by locals. Boards were put up on gates and walls warning tourists that certain ceremonies were private. Trees were planted and flowers. A restaurant association was established and elected its own leader. This was followed by the art shop, guest houses and bus drivers and dancer troupes. A map of the village was published by the organisation with full explanation of how to behave in the village an example of greater control by indigenous population. In the Lake District which is an MEDW, I don't agree the environmental impact is almost always harmful. The lake district is one of the UKs national parks which has two purposes to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the lake district, was well to promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment of special qualities of the national park and a duty to foster the economic and social well being of local communities within the park. These aims inevitably create conflicts of interest either between local people and visitors because users and uses cannot easily be easily restricted to certain areas of zoning. Footpath erosion is a widespread environmental impact and clear sign of visitor pressure. It is caused by people not sticking to the footpath because they don't want to or it is flooded or poor management. The other causes of footpath erosion climate due to heavy rain, strong winds and frost. The type of vegetation as mat grass, bents and fesules resist trampling best, the aspect, erosion is more likely to happen on slopes less than 18 and the pressure of use. However it is not always harmful as management strategies have been introduced which direct visitors along alternative routes: repair and maintain through drainage by placing small drainage channels along the path side so that rainwater is channelled away more quickly. They can construct the path using techniques such as pitching which is sinking stones into the path so that only the tops show to give a hard surface. Also matting can be used stabilizing the path over boggy ground. Furthermore the path can be repaired using methods such as levelling off the scar and the banks on its sides. Re seeding the grass with mat grass and fescues which better resist the effects of trampling. In the lake district the environmental impact is not always harmful as LDNPA ensures tourism is sustained and managed. To prevent congestion on the roads and air pollution. Roads are closed to traffic in tourist season and weekends. Tourists encouraged to ‘walk in and walk out' i. e. not using cars. Also to preserve the environment and to make the environmental impact less harmful they have a concentration of high visitor densities with a small number of honey pots with high carrying capacity such as Windermere. At the other extreme there are natural lakes on which no use of the water surface is allowed e. g. wast water. These are managed at low carrying capacities to give low density, quiet, leisure experiences. In such areas negative planning controls are used to restrict accessibility and hence control numbers of visitors. E. g. not upgrading the narrow winding roads over the passes from honey pots and not providing more parking spacing. The make the environmental impact less harmful. On top of this again to make the impact of tourism less harmful the LSNPA is the Development control or planning authority for the whole lake district. It must approve all new buildings/ changes to buildings or land use. Tries to protects the area from development out of character with the landscape . It does not stop all developments and must allow change to develop in response to peoples needs as long as the doesn't damage the qualities and character of the national park. Overall it would seem that in that tourism in the LEDW has had an adverse impact on the environment, degrading the resources on which it depends. The damage was from the overuse and misuse of resources together with poor management and planning. However in the MEDW in the lake district they have been able to sustain the environment and tourism by balancing the economic growth with conservation of the environment.

Deception Point Page 81

â€Å"As you know,† the CIA director went on, his tone sharpening, â€Å"all U.S. government entities who deal with sensitive intelligence information are governed by strict rules of secrecy-military, CIA, NSA, NRO-all of them must abide by stringent laws regarding the concealment of the data they glean and the technologies they develop. I ask you all, yet again, why NASA-the agency currently producing the largest portion of cutting-edge aerospace, imaging, flight, software, reconnaissance, and telecom technologies used by the military and intelligence community-exists outside this umbrella of secrecy.† The President heaved a weighty sigh. The proposal was clear. Restructure NASA to become part of the U.S. military intelligence community. Although similar restructurings had happened with other agencies in the past, Herney refused to entertain the idea of placing NASA under the auspices of the Pentagon, the CIA, the NRO, or any other military directive. The National Security Council was starting to splinter on the issue, many siding with the intelligence community. Lawrence Ekstrom never looked pleased at these meetings, and this was no exception. He shot an acrimonious glare toward the CIA director. â€Å"At the risk of repeating myself, sir, the technologies NASA develops are for nonmilitary, academic applications. If your intelligence community wants to turn one of our space telescopes around and look at China, that's your choice.† The CIA director looked like he was about to boil over. Pickering caught his eye and stepped in. â€Å"Larry,† he said, careful to keep an even tone, â€Å"every year NASA kneels before Congress and begs for money. You're running operations with too little funding, and you're paying the price in failed missions. If we incorporate NASA into the intelligence community, NASA will no longer need to ask Congress for help. You would be funded by the black budget at significantly higher levels. It's a win-win. NASA will have the money it needs to run itself properly, and the intelligence community will have peace of mind that NASA technologies are protected.† Ekstrom shook his head. â€Å"On principle, I cannot endorse painting NASA with that brush. NASA is about space science; we have nothing to do with national security.† The CIA director stood up, something never done when the President was seated. Nobody stopped him. He glared down at the administrator of NASA. â€Å"Are you telling me you think science has nothing to do with national security? Larry, they are synonymous, for God's sake! It is only this country's scientific and technological edge that keeps us secure, and whether we like it or not, NASA is playing a bigger and bigger part in developing those technologies. Unfortunately, your agency leaks like a sieve and has proven time and again that its security is a liability!† The room fell silent. Now the administrator of NASA stood up and locked eyes with his attacker. â€Å"So you suggest locking twenty thousand NASA scientists in airtight military labs and making them work for you? Do you really think NASA's newest space telescopes would have been conceived had it not been for our scientists' personal desire to see deeper into space? NASA makes astonishing breakthroughs for one reason only-our employees want to understand the cosmos more deeply. They are a community of dreamers who grew up staring at starry skies and asking themselves what was up there. Passion and curiosity are what drive NASA's innovation, not the promise of military superiority.† Pickering cleared his throat, speaking softly, trying to lower the temperatures around the table. â€Å"Larry, I'm certain the director is not talking about recruiting NASA scientists to build military satellites. Your NASA mission statement would not change. NASA would carry on business as usual, except you would have increased funding and increased security.† Pickering turned now to the President. â€Å"Security is expensive. Everyone in this room certainly realizes that NASA's security leaks are a result of underfunding. NASA has to toot its own horn, cut corners on security measures, run joint projects with other countries so they can share the price tag. I am proposing that NASA remain the superb, scientific, nonmilitary entity it currently is, but with a bigger budget, and some discretion.† Several members of the security council nodded in quiet agreement. President Herney stood slowly, staring directly at William Pickering, clearly not at all amused with the way Pickering had just taken over. â€Å"Bill, let me ask you this: NASA is hoping to go to Mars in the next decade. How will the intelligence community feel about spending a hefty portion of the black budget running a mission to Mars-a mission that has no immediate national security benefits?† â€Å"NASA will be able to do as they please.† â€Å"Bullshit,† Herney replied flatly. Everyone's eyes shot up. President Herney seldom used profanity. â€Å"If there is one thing I've learned as president,† Herney declared, â€Å"it's that those who control the dollars control the direction. I refuse to put NASA's purse strings in the hands of those who do not share the objectives for which the agency was founded. I can only imagine how much pure science would get done with the military deciding which NASA missions are viable.† Herney's eyes scanned the room. Slowly, purposefully, he returned his rigid gaze to William Pickering. â€Å"Bill,† Herney sighed, â€Å"your displeasure that NASA is engaged in joint projects with foreign space agencies is painfully shortsighted. At least someone is working constructively with the Chinese and Russians. Peace on this planet will not be forged by military strength. It will be forged by those who come together despite their governments' differences. If you ask me, NASA's joint missions do more to promote national security than any billion-dollar spy satellite, and with a hell of a lot better hope for the future.† Pickering felt an anger welling deep within him. How dare a politician talk down to me this way! Herney's idealism played fine in a boardroom, but in the real world, it got people killed. â€Å"Bill,† Marjorie Tench interrupted, as if sensing Pickering was about to explode, â€Å"we know you lost a child. We know this is a personal issue for you.† Pickering heard nothing but condescension in her tone. â€Å"But please remember,† Tench said, â€Å"that the White House is currently holding back a floodgate of investors who want us to open space to the private sector. If you ask me, for all its mistakes, NASA has been one hell of a friend to the intel community. You all might just want to count your blessings.† A rumble strip on the shoulder of the highway jolted Pickering's mind back to the present. His exit was coming up. As he approached the exit for D.C., he passed a bloody deer lying dead by the side of the road. He felt an odd hesitation†¦ but he kept driving. He had a rendezvous to keep. 96 The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is one of the largest memorials in the nation. With a park, waterfalls, statuary, alcoves, and basin, the memorial is divided into four outdoor galleries, one for each of FDR's terms in office. A mile from the memorial, a lone Kiowa Warrior coasted in, high over the city, its running lights dimmed. In a town boasting as many VIPs and media crews as D.C., helicopters in the skies were as common as birds flying south. Delta-One knew that as long as he stayed well outside what was known as â€Å"the dome†-a bubble of protected airspace around the White House-he should draw little attention. They would not be here long. The Kiowa was at twenty-one hundred feet when it slowed adjacent to, but not directly over, the darkened FDR Memorial. Delta-One hovered, checking his position. He looked to his left, where Delta-Two was manning the night vision telescopic viewing system. The video feed showed a greenish image of the entry drive of the memorial. The area was deserted.

Biography of President Taft †History Essay

Biography of President Taft – History Essay Free Online Research Papers Biography of President Taft History Essay William Howard Taft: distinguished jurist, effective administrator, but poor politician. Taft was an intelligent student as well as a good husband and father. When William Taft became president of the United States in 1909, great things were expected from him and his cabinet. A combination of his biographical achievements, political affiliation and political achievements make William Taft one of the most remarkable U.S. presidents. Taft was born on in Cincinnati, Ohio, on September 15, 1857. His parents were Louisa (Torrey) and Alphonso Taft. Both parents were descendants of old and important New England families of British origin (American Presidents, 98). William Taft was an intelligent person. He graduate from Yale university, 1878, second in his class. After Yale he went home to attend the Cincinnati Law School and graduated from there in 1880. In 1886, Taft married Helen W. Herron, with whom he had three children: Helen, Charles Phelps and Robert Alphonso who later became U.S. senator. Helen Taft played an important role in Tafts choice of career and in his progress because she urged him to become president of the U.S. Taft represented the Republican political party. Before he became president, Taft was appointed as a Judge on the Cincinnati Superior Court. Taft was designated commissioner of the Philippines, which the United States had just acquired in the Spanish-American War. Finally, the last step before he became the twenty-seventh president of the U.S. was to serve as Secretary of War in Roosevelt’s administration. It was in 1909 when Taft became president of the U.S. â€Å"His belief was that unlike his predecessor he considered that the president must justify his actions based on specified grants in the constitution† (New Standard Encyclopedia 53). Taft’s cabinet was formed by James S. Sherman as Vice-President; Philander Knox as Secretary of State; Jacob M. Dickinson as Secretary of War; Franklin MacVeagh as Secretary of Treasury and George W. Wickersham as Attorney General. These people were an important part of Taft’s success while in office. Taft was the type of president whose interests were in the progress of the country. While William Taft was in office, the military intervened in Nicaragua and Dominican Republic. New Mexico and Arizona were admitted to the Union during Taft’s period. During his term of office, two of the biggest monopolies were broken, Standard Oil Company and the American Tobacco Company (New Standard Encyclopedia, 54). In addition, Taft was the first president to designate a woman to a major federal post. Taft was the initiator of some traditions in the country such as the presidential car and the opening of the baseball season. Taft was responsible for the creation of the Postal Saving System. Taft, who weighed over 300 pounds got stuck in the White House tub the first time he used it. William Taft, the twenty-seventh president of the United States, brought progressiveness to the country. His family’s background and his wife compelled him to become president of the United States. Even though Taft served in many offices, he gave the public an satisfactory administration, but poor show. With the implementation of new reforms Taft set the basis for a new country. The mixture of Taft’s political affiliation and political achievements along with his biographical background make him an accomplished president of the United States of America. American Presidents. Chicago: n.d. â€Å"William H. Taft† New Standard Encyclopedia vol., 17. Chicago 2003 ed. Research Papers on Biography of President Taft - History EssayNever Been Kicked Out of a Place This NiceThe Effects of Illegal ImmigrationWhere Wild and West MeetHip-Hop is ArtAppeasement Policy Towards the Outbreak of World War 219 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug UseQuebec and CanadaBringing Democracy to AfricaAssess the importance of Nationalism 1815-1850 Europe

French Expressions With the Verb Rendre

French Expressions With the Verb Rendre The French verb rendre literally means to return and is also used in many idiomatic expressions. Learn how to give thanks, glorify, comply with orders, and more with this list of expressions with rendre. Possible meanings of rendre to give back, returnto administer (justice)to hand in (homework)to pay off (e.g., an experiment)to produce, make, yieldto repayto render (a thought, an expression)to surrenderto vomit Expressions with rendre rendre adjectiveto make (happy, scared, mad, etc.)rendre là ¢meto breathe ones lastrendre un culte to worshiprendre de la distance (running)to have a (distance) handicaprendre gloire to glorifyrendre gorgeto repay unfairly gotten gainsrendre grà ¢ces to give thanks torendre hommage to pay homage torendre honneur - rendre les derniers honneurs to pay tribute to - to pay the last tributes torendre du poids (horse-riding)to have a (weight) handicaprendre des pointsto give someone a head startrendre raison de quelque chose to give a reason for somethingrendre serviceto be a great help, to be handyrendre service quelquunto do someone a servicerendre le soupirto breathe ones last rendre visite quelquunto visit someonese rendre to go tose rendre lappel de quelquunto respond to someones appealse rendre lavis de quelquunto bow to someones advicese rendre compte deto realizese rendre levidenceto face factsse rendre aux ordresto comply with ordersse rendre aux prià ¨res de quelquun  Ã‚  to yield to someones pleasse rendre aux raisons de quelquunto bow to someones reasonsRendez-vous compte!Just imagine!Tu te rends compte?Can you imagine?

How to Grow Salt Crystals

How to Grow Salt Crystals Table salt, also known as sodium chloride, is a crystal (a symmetrical solid substance made entirely of the same material).  You can see the shape of a salt crystal under a microscope, and you can grow your own salt crystals for fun or for a science fair. Growing salt crystals is fun and easy; the ingredients are right in your kitchen, the crystals are non-toxic, and no special equipment is required.   How to Grow Salt Crystals It takes very little work to start the process of growing salt crystals, though you will need to wait a few hours or days to see the results, depending on the method you use. No matter which method you try, youll need to use a hot stove and boiling water, so adult supervision is advised.   Salt Crystal Materials table salt (sodium chloride)waterclean clear containera piece of cardboard (optional)string and pencil or butter knife (optional) Procedures Stir salt into boiling hot water until no more salt will dissolve (crystals start to appear at the bottom of the container). Be sure the water is as close to boiling as possible. Hot tap water is not sufficient for making the solution. Quick Crystals:  If you want crystals quickly, you can soak a piece of cardboard in this supersaturated salt solution. Once it is soggy, place it on a plate or pan and set it in a warm and sunny location to dry out. Numerous small salt crystals will form. Perfect Crystals:  If you are trying to form a larger, perfect cubic crystal, you will want to make a seed crystal.  To grow a big crystal from a seed crystal, carefully pour the supersaturated salt solution into a clean container (so no undissolved salt gets in), allow the solution to cool, then hang the seed crystal in the solution from a pencil or knife placed across the top of the container. You could cover the container with a coffee filter if you like. Set the container in a location where it can remain undisturbed. You are more likely to get a perfect crystal instead of a mass of crystals if you allow the crystal to grow slowly (cooler temperature, shaded location) in a place free of vibrations. Tips for Success Experiment with different types of table salt. Try iodized salt, un-iodized salt, sea salt, or even salt substitutes. Try using different types of water, such as tap water compared with distilled water. See if there is any difference in the appearance of the crystals.If you are trying for the perfect crystal use un-iodized salt and distilled water. Impurities in either the salt or water can aid dislocation, where new crystals dont stack perfectly on top of previous crystals.The solubility of table salt (or any kind of salt) increases greatly with temperature. Youll get the quickest results if you start with a saturated saline solution, which means you want to dissolve salt in the hottest water available. One trick to increase the amount of salt you can dissolve is to microwave the salt solution. Stir in more salt until it stops dissolving and starts to accumulate at the bottom of the container. Use the clear liquid to grow your crystals. You can filter out the solids using a coffee f ilter or paper towel.

Semiotics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Semiotics - Essay Example It will lastly conclude on the ways in which the language of the advertisement serves to sell its product and whether or not this accomplishes its goal effectively. Keywords: semiological analysis; rhetoric of image; semiotics in advertising Semiological Analysis of an Advertisement The image under semiological analysis is an advertisement by DKNY for a perfume for women. This paper will analyse the way in which this advertisement uses symbols, visual cues and other coded ‘language’ to sell its product effectively. The theoretical basis for the analysis will be drawn largely from Roland Barthes’s essay ‘Rhetoric of the Image’, appearing in his 1977 book Image Music Text. Following a quick summary of the ideas from Barthes’s essay that are relevant to this paper, we will look closely at the advertisement itself for the different layers of meaning within it. The aim will be to try and identify elements and see whether they correlate to each other and ultimately join to promote the product as saleable or not. There will also be an attempt to locate this advertisement within the larger context of high-fashion advertising and the imagery deployed therein. In his foundational essay, ‘Rhetoric of the Image’ (1977) Barthes proposes that images have a language of their own that signify many layers of meaning to the viewer that may or may not be apparent right away. Barthes advances his idea of the three layers of meaning through which an advertising image, or any image, conveys its message. He calls the first layer of such meaning as the ‘linguistic’ part of the message (p. 33). By this, Barthes refers to the actual text or words present in the advertisement. In his example of the Panzani ad, this would be the French writing at the bottom of the advertisement. The second and third messages contained in an image, according to Barthes, are the ‘coded iconic message’ and a ‘non-coded iconi c message’ (p. 36). The distinction between these two is hard to make and does not happen at first glance. Basically, the first coded message is the ‘connoted’ message of the image while the non-coded message refers to the image as purely ‘denotative.’ The first meaning of the image is derived from the way in which it is presented, its context, the specific audience it targets and so on; while, the second kind of meaning derived from the image is only an act of identifying the object. Applying this style of analysis to the DKNY Advertisement, we find that this too yields itself to different layers of meaning. At the level of the linguistic message, the most prominent text in the ad says: ‘Be Delicious.’ These two words serve firstly, as an injunction, or almost as an order to be desirable that serves to subtly pressurize the audience into feeling inadequate and therefore desirous of buying the product that will make them attractive. They also promote a solution by saying essentially that this product is what one needs to be ‘delicious.’ The text therefore creates the need to be desirable in the audience and simultaneously provides the way in which to fulfil this need. This brings in the ideology and implied narrative of this ad which will be discussed in our conclusion. But the word ‘delicious’ itself also serves a two-fold purpose. On the one hand, it serves the purpose of ‘

Introduction to Organisations and Management Essay

Introduction to Organisations and Management - Essay Example Hence, in any good organization, there should be a clear road map that decides the specific roles of various people at different tiers so that good coordination would be possible facilitating maximum out put in unit time. In general, several principles of management play vital role in giving any organization a solid strength and proper direction and an element of sustainability. Effective management also facilitates good organizational design and structure, effective team work, ideal organizational culture and dynamic leadership. To understand this properly, practical studies of some organizations and comparison of their operation and management styles would be of immense help. Keeping this in consideration, a relative comparative analysis of two different firms i.e. Watson’s Engine Components vs. H&M Consulting has been made in terms of their style of operation and nature of management. The operation and management of both these firms is discussed with special emphasis to str ucture and design of organization, team work, leadership issues and organizational culture. ... Good organizational design would always facilitate better coherence and coordination among the employees and would also be instrumental in production of high quality end products. In the present case study, the organizational design of Watson’s Engine Components is hierarchial and it is not satisfactory as it lacks proper direction. In any organizational design, the founder or leader has to provide clear road map in which the organization has to concentrate for achieving its predetermined targets. Moreover, an effective organizational structure requires functional and divisional components (Hax and Majluf, 1981). In Watson’s Engine Components, Watson couldn’t give any futuristic model and it is completely family owned company with less diversification and specialization is also wanting as there is no proper division of works under different sections or departments. In this way, there is no proper communication and operation of authority of individual employees, s pan of control and accountability resulted in poor performance of Watson’s Engine Components. There is no coherence at among the employees and flexibility is also found to be lacking which makes Watson’s Engine Components less competitive in the present day market. For meeting the present needs of the market, the design has to be modified in any successful organization (Kikulis et al., 1995). But this has never happened in Watson’s Engine Components. The staff absenteeism and turn over rates of technical staff are quite quite high in Watson’s Engine Components resulting in poor organizational efficiency and this is to be addressed immediately. The Managing Director Gordon

Income Statements Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Income Statements Analysis - Essay Example The â€Å"profit margin† is a good indicator of how a company is able to manage costs in its operations, for example, selling stock. It does not mean that if the total earnings of a company are increasing, then, the profit margin improves. When the costs increase at a greater rate than the sales, then the profit margin reduces. The opposite of this statement is also true. Note that net income is a perfect indicator of the financial health of a company. Net income also indicates the performance of the of the core business operations. The net income is calculated by deducting the expenses from the sales revenue (Fridson, Alvarez and Finance Pro, 2011). As stated earlier, the net profit margin is computed from the net income and sales’ values indicated in the income statement and thus it is also important to discuss the income statement in this section. The income statement mainly includes the items directly or indirectly related to the companies’ activities. The activities can be primary or secondary. Examples of the items included in the income statement may include incomes, revenue, cost of goods sold, tax expenses and gross profit. With these items, we can therefore, compute the net profit margins, which are necessary in determining the profitability of a company from its operations. Before comparing the profit margins for each company, it is important to look at how each company has prepared its income statement. Emaar Properties PJSC and Arabtec Holding PJSC have indicated the particular items included in their income statements. The other companies have indicated the specific items included in their income statements. For example, Emaar Properties’ income statement includes the cost of goods sold, revenue, gross profit, administrative cost profit before tax and tax expense. The company has eliminated other, operating expenses, other operating income,

Financial Institutions & Markets - Financial Innovation Essay

Financial Institutions & Markets - Financial Innovation - Essay Example Individuals and business concerns now have a wider range of options with respect to different types of borrowing facilities available to them. However, the recent Global Financial Crisis (GFC) is argued to be the result of this financial innovation. As a result of that most of the monetary policy makers have tightened their regulatory policies and have imposed several restrictions on the financial institutions worldwide. Borrowers have become more sensitive towards interest rates fluctuations in the financial market and the world is experiencing a situation of credit crunch now. Hence it is required to have a reassessment of the monetary policies by different nations in the world with its primary task being financial stabilization. It should also ensure development of financial innovations with more benefits and lesser costs and risks associated with it. Table of Contents Table of Contents 3 1.Introduction 4 2.Role of Innovation in Financial System 4 2.1Technological Impact 4 2.2Glob alization 5 2.3Deregulation 5 2.4Europe and its Financial Integration 5 Nature of Financial Innovation 6 Benefits of Financial Innovation 7 Demerits of Financial Innovation 8 Conclusion 8 References 10 1. Introduction Financial innovations can be defined as the improvements in the financial system through the development of new financial techniques and instruments. ... same time the impact of Global financial Crisis (GFC) on employment of strict regulatory policies to curb the development of financial innovation techniques has been studied. 2. Role of Innovation in Financial System Financial markets and financial system as a whole have experienced significant changes over the years. Innovations in the financial system have led to the formulation of various financial techniques and instruments. It has paved way to older techniques and instruments used in the financial market. With globalization there has been an increased competition amongst financial intermediaries (Cavanna, 1992, p.1). 2.1 Technological Impact Improvements in technology have a significant effect on the development of innovations in the financial system. Rapid advancement of microelectronics has resulted in the reduction of computer costs and enhancement of computer capabilities. World has become a small place and information can be shared with anyone in no time at all. It has led to financial market integration in the whole world. Share trading has been made easy through improved information systems. Information Technology and financial systems of most of the companies today are integrated and operated globally and adoption of IFRS is getting easier for them (AICPA, 2010, p.2). With advanced technologies available financial institutions are now engaged in financial instruments which are more complex in nature. 2.2 Globalization With globalization companies operate in different parts of the world. It has led to the development of international market which is growing at a rapid pace. Banks and other financial institutions have developed innovative products that could be transacted globally. Globalization has made it possible for a country to attract foreign

Illegal Immigration - Effects on large cities Essay

Illegal Immigration - Effects on large cities - Essay Example The 1965 Elimination and nationality act was probably the first effort to control illegal immigration into the US from Mexico (Skinner, 2006). From that date till present, many acts have been introduced in the US regarding immigrants. Some of these acts however (for example the Alien registration act of 1940 and the Immigration amnesty act of 1986), while being explicit in fines and penalties for illegal immigrants and those who employ them were also lenient in a way that these acts legalized a great number of illegal immigrants at that time. Such acts have indirectly encouraged illegal immigration instead of limiting it. According to a study, cited in Huntington (2000), Mexicans constituted 62% of the total illegal immigrant population in the US in the year 1992. Other than Mexicans, illegal immigrants include Filipinos, Chinese, Hispanics and Spanish also. A research by Jordan, cited in Huntington (2000) concluded that without Mexican immigrants, the total immigration level in the US might have been almost equal to two thirds of what it has actually been. Ritter (2006) has estimated that almost 11 million illegal immigrants live in the USA, and this number increases almost by a million each year. According to one estimate, the foreign born immigrant population has exceeded more than ten percent of the total population in seven census years i.e., from 1860 to 1930 (Huntington, 2000). These rates are alarming and suggest that America’s more than half population is immigrant. Garibaldi (2006) has pointed out some issues raised due to illegal immigration. These include encouragement for others in illegal immigration, burden on the tax-paying population of America, injustice towards the legal immigrants, growth of the demand for cheap labor, fake documentations and paper fraud. Similarly, Wagner (2001) has identified the problems related to illegal immigration as follows: economic issues,

Council of Trent Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Council of Trent - Essay Example This paper looks at four themes of the Council of Trent. The themes are, Reformation, Interpretation of Scripture, Condemnation of Corruption in the Church, and Faith and Works. Reformation The reformations that were executed by the Council of Trent were meant to ensure order and efficiency in the Catholic Church and also to curb rampant corruption in the church. The following are the reforms that were made by the Council of Trent. First, the council decreed that bishops must live within their diocese. The bishops also were prohibited from buying or selling religious offices. This measure was meant to curb the common practice of appropriating church properties by the rogue bishops. It was also decreed that each bishop had to establish a seminary within his diocese. This was meant to ensure that there were training facilities, within each diocese, for the candidates for priesthood. The council also decreed that candidate for priesthood had to be firmly grounded in Theology, the candid ates also were required to lead a virtuous life (The Council of Trent (1545-1563): Roman Catholic Church, Web.). ... By this decree the council fathers in the Council of Trent meant that it is the Magisterium only, the official teaching office of the church, has the authority to interpret the Holy Scriptures. The members of the Catholic Church are supposed to abide by the church interpretations of the Scriptures, and not any other interpretation. This directive was meant to cushion the catholic believers from the erroneous and heretical interpretations of the Holy Scriptures. This decree on the interpretation of the scripture reinforced the position of the Magisterium as the official teaching office of the church. Condemnation of Corruption The fathers in the Council of Trent condemned the selling and buying of religious offices. This corrupt practice was known as Simony. And to curb this crime, the fathers put in place a clear declaration against buying and selling of religious offices (The Council of Trent: Bull of Indiction, Web). The council fathers also condemned the abuse of indulgences by th e clergy, and to curb this vice, the fathers reaffirmed the efficacy of the indulgences and put in place cautionary measures to ensure that indulgences are not misused for selfish gains by the clergy. Faith and Works The fathers of the Council of Trent taught that both faith and works/action were instrumental for justification. The fathers decreed that justification depended on the sacrament of baptism, co-operation with infused grace, and good works. The fathers of the council supported their view with St. James teaching that faith without good works is dead, Jms. 1: 26.This position of the fathers of the Council of Trent was diametrically opposed to

Illegal Immigration - Effects on large cities Essay

Illegal Immigration - Effects on large cities - Essay Example The 1965 Elimination and nationality act was probably the first effort to control illegal immigration into the US from Mexico (Skinner, 2006). From that date till present, many acts have been introduced in the US regarding immigrants. Some of these acts however (for example the Alien registration act of 1940 and the Immigration amnesty act of 1986), while being explicit in fines and penalties for illegal immigrants and those who employ them were also lenient in a way that these acts legalized a great number of illegal immigrants at that time. Such acts have indirectly encouraged illegal immigration instead of limiting it. According to a study, cited in Huntington (2000), Mexicans constituted 62% of the total illegal immigrant population in the US in the year 1992. Other than Mexicans, illegal immigrants include Filipinos, Chinese, Hispanics and Spanish also. A research by Jordan, cited in Huntington (2000) concluded that without Mexican immigrants, the total immigration level in the US might have been almost equal to two thirds of what it has actually been. Ritter (2006) has estimated that almost 11 million illegal immigrants live in the USA, and this number increases almost by a million each year. According to one estimate, the foreign born immigrant population has exceeded more than ten percent of the total population in seven census years i.e., from 1860 to 1930 (Huntington, 2000). These rates are alarming and suggest that America’s more than half population is immigrant. Garibaldi (2006) has pointed out some issues raised due to illegal immigration. These include encouragement for others in illegal immigration, burden on the tax-paying population of America, injustice towards the legal immigrants, growth of the demand for cheap labor, fake documentations and paper fraud. Similarly, Wagner (2001) has identified the problems related to illegal immigration as follows: economic issues,

A Mothers Legacy In Mary Shelleys Mathilda Essay Example for Free

A Mothers Legacy In Mary Shelleys Mathilda Essay Abstract Mary Wollstonecraft and her daughter Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley are two writers whose ideas are likely to be similar. Shelley admits that she is influenced by her mother. Therefore, the purpose of this essay is to find out and to identify the ideas presented in Wollstonecrafts essay on womens rights A Vindication for the Rights of Woman (1792) and see if they are incorporated into Shelleys novella Mathilda (1819). My analysis of A Vindication for the Rights of Woman shows that Wollstonecrafts main ideas are that limited education, the subjugation of women by the family, female dependency on men and romantic thinking are the source for womens inferiority. This essay identifies and examines these ideas in the light of some secondary material and tries to suggest that they are visible as themes in Shelleys Mathilda. In Mathilda, these ideas are visible as themes throughout the novel. The tragedy that befalls the characters illustrates the immoral and self-destructive tendencies which women obtain when being subject to these conditions. On the other hand, Shelley does not emphasize a lack of education and offers an additional point of view where Wollstonecrafts views on motherhood are criticized. The conclusion drawn is that Wollstonecrafts ideas must have had an influence on Shelley as the fate of the characters is an illustration of the society that is criticized in A Vindication for the Rights of Woman and its destruction. However, Shelley does not agree on ideas with the subject of upbringing and goes against a few of her mothers main points, namely the role of mothers and the pre-eminence of education. They mostly have a consensus as most ideas that are present in one work are present in the other but Shelley has rebelled against some of her mothers notions.

Portrayal Of Homosexuals In Bollywood Film Industry Sociology Essay

Portrayal Of Homosexuals In Bollywood Film Industry Sociology Essay This study on the perception on the portrayal of homosexuals in Bollywood film industry was majorly chosen as homosexuals have always been a topic the researcher wants to research on. Moreover there have been several research on homosexuals laws, their societal status, their recognition in the society, their rights, etc. but there have been less study in relation of homosexuals in media that to in the Indian film industry Bollywood. After the case and the controversies of the movie FIRE people in India have got an idea about homosexuals but they have still not come out and spoke about it or have accepted them as a part of their societies. Major protest, rallies have been taking place on recent schedules in India in different cities by these homosexual people but the society has still not stood up to answer them. India has about 2.5 million homosexuals which makes it 15-20 % of the population. Further few studies conducted in relation to this topic say that homosexuals have a bad ima ge in the society as they are the minorities and they are seen as negative people in the society. So the researcher carried with the research on the portrayal of the homosexuals in the Bollywood movies their perception in South India. If any well-educated man is asked to control is sexuality towards a women he would say NO they why does the society see homosexuals alone in a different way? Just because they are minority in the society? Doesnt every individual have their own rights in selection of their sexuality that to from a democratic country like us? The question that is yet to be answered is whether to start discussing these complex issues such a gays and lesbianism. Clearly the place of them in the culture is one of the central debates for decades and media representation will continue to be contested terrain for some time. Homosexuality, it is true that it was practiced in the ancient era and other parts of the world including few tribes of Africa where it is still practiced. But in todays world it is a known concept and practice in major parts of the countries and cities. In India on a continuous basis different rallys has been taking place in the major cities such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi to educate people about the group and also to seek their own rights in the society. From culture to sex everything is related to education it starts from there. Thus this topic homosexuality has been chosen by the researcher in an attempt to make the general public aware of the existing relationship between similar sexes and to help this minority to gain their basic rights. Among all the media in the mass communication field, cinema is the most powerful and a popular one. Films being the main source of entertainment in India, people of every section of the society like to watch and enjoy movies. The lack of alternative mode of entertainment in rural centers had resulted in the emerging cinema and it is also a cheap form of entertainment for the lower classes whos only other mode of entertainment is chit chatting and roaming in the streets. When cinema has the power to attract so many people in a society like us, one can imagine the influence it has on the audience life style, but at the same time one cannot also deny the fact that the reel is similar to the real. Especially in Indian movies, cinema in a way reflects our society. It is also a form of social phenomenon. Cinema makes use of all the socio-cultural beliefs and as and how situations changes the film makers also change the pattern of presenting it to the public. All these specialties of Bombay cinema makes it a powerful instrument of image and opinion building in the minds of our society. Films are a social document and representation of reality. In the case of homosexuality there has been a lot of information provided in the printed, television and the internet but when it comes to cinema there is a separate genre called the Queer Cinema. How effectively has this genre reflected its main concern that is the homosexuality is the reason behind the selection of this topic by the researcher. Films being a great artifact of the society at these times, they have a great and deep impact on their audiences. And keeping the Indian audience in mind film has been selected to be the most appropriate mediums it goes across the literacy level and encompasses all sections of the Indian population society, so the best medium to reach out to society and to examine the portrayal of homosexuality is through films especially Bollywood films. 3.2 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY The objective of the study is to examine the portrayal of homosexuals in the Bollywood films through both Quantitative as well as Qualitative research methods. To understand how Bollywood Films as a form of media has portrayed the homosexuality? To comprehend the Perception of the Homosexuals on the Portrayal of homosexuality in the Bollywood Films? To examine the perception of media professionals and the public on the portrayal of homosexuality in Bollywood Films? 3.3 OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS Homosexuals: they are people who get attracted to the same sex mentally, physically and sexually. Gay/Lesbians: Gay is when a man is attracted to another man mentally, physically and sexually. Lesbian is when a woman is attracted to another woman mentally, physically and sexually. LGBT: Expansion lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender. It is a community to help the minorities in the society. Queer culture: The pattern of life, behavior, attitude, relationships of the members of society who has an alternative sexual orientation. Queer Films: The movies whose central themes are based on same-sex relationships. Homophobia: Homophobia is a feeling of hatred or fear towards the homosexuals. Negative attitude towards non-heterosexual people and also hostility towards them. Sexual minority: People in the societies who are less in number and discriminated in accordance with their sexuality or orientation or gender identity. Perception: The  process  by which people translate sensory  impressions into a coherent and unified view of the world around them. Though necessarily based on incomplete and unverified (or unreliable)  information, perception is equated with reality for most  practical  purposes and guides  human behavior  in general. (Business Dictoinary) 3.4 RESEARCH DESIGN Research is a way thinking, analyzing examining critically the various aspects of day to day professional life understanding and formulating procedures that govern a particular procedure and testing it with theories for enhancement of the studies. In simple words it is one of the ways to find answer to a question. In this particular study the research is done to find out the perception of public, homosexuals and media professionals on the portrayal of homosexuals in the Bollywood films. Research is a process of collecting analyzing and interpreting information to answer questions (Berger, 2000) To do a research there are two methods: The Qualitative 2) The Quantitative. Qualitative research is generally conducted to know the standard the quality and the analysis of a particular topic. Whereas quantitative research is done on the validation of a number or numeric. The researcher did both Qualitative and Quantitative study. 3.4.1 Methods of data collection Methods of Data Collection Secondary Sources Primary Sources Documents Questionnaire Interviewing Observation Mail Questionnaire Participant Structured Collective Questionnaire Unstructured Non-Participant GOVT Publications Earlier Research Census Personal Records Client Histories Service records (Cited from Research Methodologies, Ranjit Kumar-2005, pg. 118) (Kumar, 2005) 3.4.2 Quantitative Research: Different researchers have Different definitions for quantitative research methods. According to Cohen and Manion (Cohen Manion, 1980), quantitative research is a social process that involves empirical methods and statements. He explains empirical statement as descriptive statement about what is the case and real world that what ought to be. Whereas, John Creswell (Creswell,1994) he defined quantitative research as a type of research that explains phenomena by collecting any numerical data that are analyzed using mathematics (in particular statics). In a quantitative project, the problem is best addressed by understanding what factors or variables influence an outcome. (Creswell, 1994) The word quantity comes from a Latin word meaning quantitas.This particular research method measures, counts, focuses and it is statistical , describes and predicts and finally leads to hypothesis and theory. There are different methods of conducting quantitative research but in this particular study the researcher adopted surveying method to collect data from the general public and to know their perception on the portrayal of homosexuality in Bollywood movies. Surveying: Surveying design provides a quantitative or numeric description of trends, attitudes, or opinions of a population by studying a sample of that population. (Cresw,1994) . A research method used to get information from particular or certain groups which represent a larger group of people who are to the interest to us. We concentrate things on what people know, what they think, they do, their attitudes, beliefs, behaviors etc. There are two kinds of surveys: Descriptive surveys and Analytical surveys. Surveys collect data in two methods: Interviews or the self-administrated questionnaires. Questionnaire is a list of questions which is passed over to a large number of people and they are asked to answer it and hand it over to the senders. Interviews can be group, individual, and personal through face to face or even telephone. This method is in-expensive and it is very common. In this method information can be attained at one time because it collects quantitative and numeric data. (Berger, 2000) Advantages and Disadvantages of Quantitative Research Methods: Advantages: Enables the description of the social structure that is not directly observable. Well suited for comparison between groups, areas, etc. None biased and Analysis is between social phenomenon Well suited for Quantitative description Description of change is applicable. Disadvantages: Applicable only for measureable phenomena Simplifies the complex reality Difficult to study process and dynamic phenomena Description of perspective, meaning and intentions are difficult. 3.4.3 Qualitative Research Method Qualitative research is focussed on deeper significance that the subject the researcher aspires to research one. Interpretive, naturalistic approaches to the subjects are a part of the qualitative research analysis. It gives more importance to the data collected or existing information. Qualitative researches rely on text and image data, have unique steps in data analysis and draw on diverse strategies of inquiry (Creswell, 1994). There are several characteristics for qualitative research methods: It takes place in natural setting. Uses multiple methods that are interactive and humanistic. It is emergent rather than tightly prefigured. It is fundamentally interpretive. It is via a social phenomenon. It totally depends on the participants and their biography and their information. Complex reasonings are used. Types of data collection in qualitative research methods are: Observations Completer participant Observer as participant Participant as observer Complete observer Interviews Face to face Telephone Group Mail Documents Public documents Private documents Email discussions Audiovisual materials Photographs Videotapes Art objects Computer software Film The word quality is from a Latin word qualitas meaning what kind? It involves matters such as text, degree of excellence and distinguishing characteristics. The common qualitative research methods are Field Studies Focus Group In-depth interviews Case studies Content Analysis In this particular study the researcher had chosen qualitative method in which he would conduct in-depth interviews to get the perception of the homosexuals and the media professionals. In-Depth Interview: In-depth Interview also called as Intensive interview are hybrid one to one conversation or communication. In-depth interviewing is qualitative research technique that involves conducting intensive individual interviews with a small number of respondents to explore their perspective on a particular idea, programme or situation. (Boyce Neale, May 2006) Qualities of intensive interviews are: Small samples Gives a detailed background and specific answers Lengthy observation of respondents. Customized to individual respondents The rapport between the interviewer and respondent matter Process of conducting in-depth interview : Plan Develop Instrument Train Data Collectors Collect data Analyze Data Disseminate Findings. Advantages and Disadvantages of in-depth interview (Boyce Neale, May 2006) Advantages: Wealth of details the method provides Data is more accurate responses on sensitive issues when compared to other methods such as survey The rapport between the interviewer and respondent is easy to develop Practical in nature Information obtained through this method is virtually impossible to be obtained from other method. Defectiveness is involved Dis-advantages: Generalization Takes place sometimes Sensitive to interviewer Bias Sometimes problems in Data analysis 3.4.4 TRIANGULATION It is selected a model when a researcher uses two different methods in an attempt to confirm, cross-validate or corroborate findings with a single study. (Greene Caracelli, 1997) Triangulation is a research method used in combination of several research methodologies in the study of the same phenomenon. In this particular research a combination of qualitative and quantitative is used for the study. This traditional method was originally used in social science research studies. It is an appropriate method in studying the credibility of the qualitative research analysis. It is one of the mixed method models in the research methods. This traditional model uses both quantitative as well as qualitative in balancing both the methods negatives and doing an in-depth research. The triangulation research process has different models such a convergence, Data Transformation Model, Validating Quantitative Data Model, Multilevel Model. In this particular research the researcher used triangulation model to collect datas from all the groups and to validate data. In this particular study the researcher had chosen the triangulation method for a comparative analysis of the perception of the homosexuals, media professionals and the public on the portrayal of homosexuality in the Bollywood movies. -Triangulation Convergence Model: (Creswell Clark, Mixed Method Research, 2007) QUAN-Results QUAN-Data Analysis QUAN-Data Collection Interpretation QUAL+ QUAN Compare And Contrast QUAL Data Collection QUAL- Results QUAL Data analysis -Advantages and Disadvantages of Triangulation research method: (Creswell Plano Clark, 2007) Advantages: Overall interpretation is from variety of different factors. Cross validation. Balance between methods. Well validated and sub-stantiated findings and well known for many researchers. Disadvantages: Increased amount of time needed in comparison of both the methods data collected. Difficulty of dealing with the vast amount of data. 2.5.5 SAMPLING Sampling is the tradition of metric research to develop claims that generalize across populations of people, media industries, media texts and the like. (Anderson, 2012) Therefore most of the research involves some method of sampling that enters a set of population in the research. There are basically two types of sampling: Probability and Non-probability sampling. Probability Sampling: It is when each one of the population has an equal or known chances of selection. The best of this sampling method is that every member of the population either in equal chances as in simple random sampling or known chances as in Stratified random sampling. This method gives each and every individual a chance of being selected. Non-Probability Sampling: This method of sampling requires more concentration and thought more than probability sampling. This method can still represent a population in the criterion basis. Every effort has to be made for the control of the sources and to avoid errors in the study. There are different types of non-probability sampling. They are: Convenience Samples: In this sample the analyst attempts to anticipate the arguments against its acceptance. Quota and Judgment Samples: This sampling method needs to ensure that the evidence for the quota values and the judgments made is strong enough to justify their use. Panel Studies: The research panel will draw out a random sample drawn according to best practices. Snowball Sampling : Snowball sampling another type of non-probability sampling and a method which will be used in this particular study. Snowball sampling is when one particular participants help is finding out other participants. In simple terms it can be called as the respondent -driven sample. This method is greatly affected by the initial point of access- the one who starts the snowball. This method requires advance knowledge on the set of population thats being sampled. This particular sampling method helps in understanding the entire group of sample to be studied but it is a complex method as it is difficult for analysis and errors might take place due to communication process. The researcher adopted this method in finding out samples for the qualitative research methods to examine the perception of the homosexuals about the portrayal of homosexuality in Bollywood movies. The researcher interviewed a samples size of 10 for the in-depth interview and one extended interview that is with a sample one for the media professionals perceptions about the portrayal of homosexuality in Bollywood movies. Purposive Sampling: The purposive sampling technique, also called judgment sampling, is the deliberate choice of an informant due to the qualities the informant possesses. ( Dolores C. Tongco, 2007) This sampling is a non-probability sampling method which does not need any of the underlying theories or set of informants. Simply put, the researcher decides what needs to be known and sets out to find people who can and are willing to provide the information by virtue of knowledge or experience (Bernard 2002, Lewis Sheppard 2006). For the quantitative method the researcher has adopted survey method with non-probability sampling i.e. purposive sampling and collected questionnaires from people in south India who has watched Bollywood movies. A sample size of 150 was collected from which the researcher got about 120 completed questionnaires. The age group concentrated was from the 18-30. The table below will explain the distribution of the survey method sample by age and gender. Sample will be equally distributed among the gender and age so that the analysis is not gender or age biased. Table 3.1: Distribution of respondents according sex Frequency Per cent Valid Per cent Cumulative Per cent Valid female 59 49.2 49.2 49.2 male 61 50.8 50.8 100.0 Total 120 100 100.0 Table 3.2: Distribution of Respondents by Age Frequency Per cent Valid Per cent Cumulative Per cent Valid 18-22 41 33.9 34.2 34.2 23-26 40 33.1 33.3 67.5 27-30 39 32.2 32.5 100.0 Total 120 100 100.0 s