Human Security and National Security - 2199 Words

HUMAN AND NATIONAL SECURITY: ENMESHING CONCEPTUALIZATION OF SECURITY PARADIGM IN EMERGING SECURITY DYNAMICS Introduction and Background In the realm of international relations and political science, there has been the recurring debate on the human versus national security. Theorists and scholars, like Goucha and Crowley (2008, 57) enrolled into the ethos of realism take the state-oriented view of the security and places the dominance of national security over human security; whereas, those who take the idealistic view of the entire episode take the human security as the primary level of security to be protected by the state (Mathew, 2010, 78). The idea of human security gained eminence in security studies with developments taken place in†¦show more content†¦However, this new kind of perspective on security is greatly incapacitated by those who are responsible to provide the human security to all the citizens of the world. in this globalized world, where states are still at the helm of the affairs and they tend to define the idea of security and its related issues on local, national and international forums, those who propounds the idea of human security are often labeled as anti-statist agent or agents of neo-liberal agenda. Moreover, this supposed bias towards the advocates of human security is mainly due to the dual role of the state which it adopted in 20th century as a threat to its own people in the form of obnoxious ideologies like Nazism and Fascism in Germany and Italy respectively. Those who regard the concept of human security as vital for the security of the existence of the state are regarded as anachronistic in the face of new level of threats like nuclear warfare and international terrorism. Global Security Paradigm: Linking National Security with Human Security From these contrasting positions a new framework for global security emerges through which states are responsible to protect the rights of its people. But again herein comes a new idealistic problem: strong states can better protect its citizens from all kinds of imminent threats. The real reason for this problem can be attributed to the fact that majority of states in the world have developed strong militaryShow MoreRelatedNational Security Is More Important Than Human Rights2142 Words   |  9 PagesNational Security is More Important than Human Rights The conception of human rights and freedoms is the cornerstone of American traditions, law and the indicator of democracy. The approach of prevailing interest in personal privacy, property privacy and non-interference of state authorities in private affairs is the basic ground for modern organization of American society. For centuries the courts have been standing safeguards of protection of persons against unreasonable intrusion of the StateRead MoreHuman Trafficking: Modern Day Slavery that Poses a National and International Security Risk1981 Words   |  8 PagesHuman trafficking has been entwined into the structure of governments, arms trade, drug trade, and even spreads as far as terrorism. For many years it has been a fact that the money that has been made by selling other humans to the highest bidder. It is also known that the organized crime operations generate one of the most profitable resources to the organization. These organizations use this money for theirs or other ’s crime and end up in the hands of drug lords. Drug lords, in order to promoteRead MoreThe Concept Of Human Security1454 Words   |  6 PagesTraditionally, security is understood as national security. However, this notion proves to lack of a comprehensive understanding because the nature of conflicts is changing, and the state is no longer the sole object to be protected. Therefore, many scholars have suggested a new concept in terms of security, which is security for human. The concept of human security has been regarded as controversial since its introduction in the world politics. However, it is undeniable that the concept has beenRead MoreTechnology Has Become An Important Part Of Modern Society Essay1159 Words   |  5 Pageswhen he stated, â€Å"Privacy is not something that I’m merely entitled to, it’s an absolute prerequisite.†(Timeoutla) Privacy is something that should be seen as a guaranteed right for americans, and should not be overtaken by the government. The National Security Agency was first founded in 2001. (â€Å"NSA Spying†) Mainly, all they did was spy on normal people’s lives to see if there was any information that could lead to terrorists or any acts of terrorism. The press and media did not present this informationRead MoreNational And International Security Threats896 Words   |  4 PagesNational and international security threats are typically perceived as conflict between nations or populations of people and are addressed with military strategies. However, as security is defined as †¦ (Define security) not all threats emanate from nations in conflict. The environment, for example, can threaten the safety of people, and therefore becomes and national security issue. Brown (1977) states â€Å"†¦threats to security may now arise less from the relationship of nation to nation and moreRead MoreTraditional And Non Traditional Threats Of State Security1650 Words   |  7 PagesTraditionally, threa ts to state security were seen as little more than the armies of other states.   Security was understood simply in terms of threats to state sovereignty and territory, which generally involved the use of military forces and diplomacy to deter and oppose the threats.   While a case can be made that the military threats in this Century are as apparent as ever, it is now generally recognised that they are not the only threats that face states and the people in them. Since the endRead MoreThe Differences Between State Security and Human Security Essay949 Words   |  4 PagesState security basically entails the tendency of a nation adhering to its own set of demands in regard to the issue of security policies (Baylis, J.2010, p.233).Traditional security also involves a host of other aspects that are defined by virtue of subordination. Describing the matter further reveals that state security is primarily the protection of available institutions, ethics or values within a nation, and above all human beings living inside its boundaries (Brauch, 2003, 204). State securityRead MoreTraditional Security vs Human Security1349 Words   |  6 PagesTRADITIONAL SECURITY VS HUMAN SECURITY INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS INSTRUCTOR: SURAT HORACHAIKUL 12/13/2012 TRADITIONAL SECURITY VS HUMAN SECURITY 2012 Table of Contents 1. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................... 2 2. TRADITIONAL SECURITY VS HUMAN SECURITY .................................................................................... 3 2.1. TRADITIONAL SECURITY ........Read MoreA Brief Note On The Private Sector Security1074 Words   |  5 PagesCybersecurity is a persistent challenge toward the private sector enterprises that are encountering existing and potential dangers influencing our national security. The number of digital assaults occurring in the United States continues to escalate every year. The private sector businesses must comply with government IT security regulations to ensure our national security. Cybersecurity is a key component in the public and private industries as both commercial ventures push to secure the web without decreasingRead MoreThe Characteristics Of The Liberal Theory949 Words   |  4 PagesLuisana Zambrano National Profile 2 Based on the characteristics of the liberal theory, which highlights the ideas of democracy, free trade, multilateral cooperation and a rule-based international society that respects sovereignty and human rights (Introduction to Global Politics), to establish an state of freedom and justice, we can clearly identify Japan as a liberal state. I would also divide the liberal theory in four different approaches: first, into the multilateral cooperation and acceptance

Essay Slavery in the South - 631 Words

Slavery in the South The introduction of slavery in the Southern colonies helped the development of their economy. The plantation owners had no choice but to turn to slaves because of the lack of colonial workers and indentured servants. Slaves increased the productivity and profits generated by the huge plantations in the South because they had advantages over indentured servants. It also caused the South grow and develop different from the North, which would later lead to conflict between the two. There were many factors that caused the Southern colonies to adopt slavery into their society. Probably the biggest factor was that there weren?t very many colonial workers for the plantation owners to hire to work the†¦show more content†¦This shows that the South lacked in the white working force, forcing them to find another source of labor, African slaves. Another source of labor that was quickly dwindling for the plantation owners were indentured servants. In the first couple of waves of settlers that came over to the New World, many came over as indentured servants because it was the only way for them to pay for a trip over to escape the English economy and poverty. But the English economy began to improve and people didn?t need to come over anymore causing even more trouble for the plantation owners to find people to work the fields. Without slaves, it would have been very hard for the South to become productive. Huge plantations that required hundred?s of workers never would have made it during the 1600 and 1700s. The introduction of slaves greatly increased productivity and profits for the South. Using slaves had advantages over indentured servants. First, children that were born from an enslaved woman were property of the person who owned the slave that had the child. This meant that slave owners wouldn?t have to buy new slaves if old slaves died. Since the slaves were a different color than the colonists, run-a-ways could be found easier and therefore plantations didn?t loose as many slaves as they would have if they were using indentured servants. Slave owners also found out that even though slaves were more expensive than indentured servants, they proved to beShow MoreRelatedThe Slavery Of The South1561 Words   |  7 PagesThe South, on the other hand, was highly dependent upon the institution of s lavery. It was still primarily an agricultural society that needed as many laborers as possible in order for the plantation owners to make ends meet. According to historian Douglas Harper, â€Å"In 1793 came the cotton gin, which brought a 50-fold increase in the average daily output of short-staple cotton, promoted the rapid expansion of a ‘cotton kingdom’ across the Deep South, and made large-scale slavery profitable.† BecauseRead MoreThe Slavery Of The South Essay810 Words   |  4 Pages The South was Agricultural, while the North had become industrial. Dutch traders brought African slaves to Virginia in 1619. These slaves were often traded for casks of rum. Samuel Slater started one of the first factories in the North. Slater built a cloth factory at Pawtucket, Rhode Island. In 1839, Charles Goodyear discovered the process for vulcanizing rubber. Elias Howe, a Cambridge mechanic, invented the sewing machine in 1845. In 1973, Eli Whitney had invented the cotton ginRead MoreSlavery in the South Essay680 Words   |  3 PagesSlavery in the South A large majority of whites in the South supported slavery even though fewer of a quarter of them owned slaves because they felt that it was a necessary evil and that it was an important Southern institution. In 1800 the population of the United States included 893,602 slaves, of which only 36,505 were in the northern states. Vermont, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey provided for the emancipation of their slaves beforeRead MoreEssay on Slavery Is The South682 Words   |  3 Pages Slavery is the South Essay #3 Slavery played a dominating and critical role in much of Southern life. In the struggle for control in America, slavery was the South’s stronghold and the hidden motive behind many political actions and economic statistics. By dominating Southern life, slavery also dominated the economic and political aspects of life in the South from 1840 to 1860. By the 1840’s and 50’s the Southern economy had almost completely become slave and cash crop agriculture based. WithoutRead MoreNorth and South on Slavery1040 Words   |  4 PagesThe North and South have very different views on slavery. This has lead to lots of tension and fighting. When people were first settling here they had slaves. It has been going on for almost 100 years. Starting around the Revolutionary war the North became opposed to slavery. They had less use for them as time went on. The South, on the other hand, felt they needed slavery. They had to harvest tobacco and cotton as fast as possible. They knew they couldn’t do it themselves so they bought lots ofRead MoreSlavery And The South America896 Words   |  4 PagesSlavery and The South The three ads about the slave runaway are seen most of them happing in the 18 and 19th in the Antebellum south and most of the ads are discussed in my paper basically coming from North Carolina. The slave runaway was considered a big issue back in that time especially for the slave owners who are relied on them to make their income and enhance their life economy. As seen on three ads and in reading different sources are pertained to slaves found that The North Carolina are reliedRead MoreThe South after Slavery1659 Words   |  7 PagesThe South After Slavery It is no secret that slavery was a huge part of the southern part of the United States for a very long time. Life below the Mason-Dixon Line was forever changed because of slavery and the effects it had on Americans. It is hard for this generation to imagine the discrimination because America is such a melting pot today. There are still some people who discriminate today, however, it is nothing compared to what it was several years ago. Although slavery was a negative thingRead MoreSlavery in the South Essay868 Words   |  4 PagesSlavery in the South Slavery of the Black man in America was the cruelest ever known to man. Europeans transported slaves from Africa as early as 1505. The African Slaves were first exploited on an island named Hispaniola, in the Caribbean by the Europeans to do labor work, before they were sent to the Americas. The women usually worked the interior cooking and cleaning while the men were sent out into the plantation fields to farm. These Africans were stripped of their homes, cultures, andRead MoreThe Slavery Of The North And South949 Words   |  4 Pagesas the dominate issue that produced The Civil War. The war was caused by many disputes such as sectionalism, expansion of slavery, and abolitionist. Although there were many issues some were consider to be much more influential than the others. These include sectionalism and the expansion of slavery. The North and South could not seem to stop arguing over the expansion of slavery to the west as well as their many differences in other areas. The southern economy being primarily agricultural did notRead MoreThe Slavery Of South Carolina895 Words   |  4 Pagescontrast to the other three colonies discussed, the institution of slavery in South Carolina was initiated, legalized, and maintained for distinct reasons; the founders of the colony felt that slavery was absolutely necessary for economic prosperity and their unwavering urge to protect the institution at all costs contributed towards the severity of the slave-enforcement acts and codes. By looking at the legislation passed in South Carolina, one can grasp the extent to which slaves were legally stripped

Making a killing Free Essays

In an unfortunate event Blackwater guards killed three civilians of Baghdad who were mistaken as terrorists. What is in the scenario is the strong reaction of the new Iraqi government. The next 24 hours saw the process of deportment of the troop. We will write a custom essay sample on Making a killing or any similar topic only for you Order Now It was reported that there was indiscriminate shooting and this is completely an unfathomable error. According to Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki this was a complete criminal act. However there are many allegations against Blackwater and it is believed that they smuggle arms into Iraq. There is enough trouble in the region and it can well be stated that further problems can be avoided to restore peace in the region. (Scahill, 1) It can be remembered that each of the wars included major and minor battles.   They had varying and distinct reasons behind them.   Allies and foes were distinctly different in each case. Each of the wars had a level of analysis.   These levels were individual state, and system.   The levels of war analysis form a hierarchy.   The responsibilities of the hierarchy rely on the scale and nature of the operation. The individual level of analysis in war includes a basic idea of how human traits cause many of the social outcomes in historical instances, including war and peace. From the perspective of sociology it can be stated that there are variations of this idea as listed in a paper written by Wade L. Huntley, Ph.D. titled Causes of War and Paths to Peace written in May of 2004. Those variations include: basic human nature, varying features of human nature and both perception and misperception. His considerations behind this would include that in factoring basic human nature, people are basically aggressive, loving, greedy and fearful and so forth. People would be of all sorts of types, some aggressive, others peaceful, greedy or generous. Perception and misperception can result as bad decisions are made, especially in times of stress, which continually exemplifies the limits of human understanding of more than just human nature. The incident in Iraq, as depicted by Scahill is basically a view that was conducted from the US point of view the views or the sociological parameters of the residents of Iraq are fundamentally overlooked in the article. (King, 145-7) It can well be stated that some analysts argue that democracy in the Middle East will elevate Islamists, including radicals, who will use democratic institutions to gain power but then implement their autocratic agenda. Democracy can also lead to instability. In short, things may get worse before they get better, which may be bad news for the US. Many however believe that in the long run increased democratic governance or the break up of static autocracies will lead to a better outcome than the status quo even if the emerging governments initially oppose U.S. policies. Some furthermore argue that any type of somewhat democratic government would find more common ground with the U.S. than the existing ones even if rapprochement was gradual and difficult. But from the point of view of an Iraqi it can be stated that independence is all that is relevant and it can be mentioned that Scahill was unable to relate himself to this consequence. Traditional security policy emphasizes military means for reducing the risks of war and for prevailing if deterrence fails. Human security’s proponents, while not eschewing the use of force, have focused to a much greater degree on non-coercive approaches. These range from preventive diplomacy, conflict management and post–conflict peace building, to addressing the root causes of conflict by building state capacity and promoting equitable economic development.   The new dimensions of human security are well outlined by the United Nations Development Program in their Human Development Report of 1994. (Lamb, 288-9) Human Security has always been at issue in some format or another. You see it in the methods employed during peacetime and during war time. The methodology utilized might in fact be different from generation to generation, but the concept itself has hardly managed to evolve into something other than what its basics stem from. The pursuits of life and liberty, happiness and peace have been a part of the psyche of humanity since the beginnings of human existence and it would have been much better if the article had developed on these principals. Keeping in mind the developments in Iraq the only solution the USA is left with is one that most people connected to the White House consider absolute anathema. But the truth remains that a military ‘solution’ to the issue is no solution at all but rather a spiralling tunnel leading to a thousand other issues, all of which are far too dangerous to be contemplated. So what can USA do? Well, for starters it can seriously rethink some of its recent policies and shift its focus from military attack to some old fashioned diplomacy instead. But while that sounds simple enough for Washington it is a job unparalleled in its difficulty and, if present indications are anything to go by then, something that is hardly likely to happen and Scahill as a journalist must keep his position as humane and compassionate as possible in this context. Works Cited: Scahill, Jeremy; Making a Killing; The Nation; October 15, 2007 issue; September 27, 2007; retrieved on 24.11.2007 King, Herbert. Middle East Today Vol. IV Plymouth: HBT Brooks Ltd. 2005 Lamb, Davis. Cult to Culture: The Development of Civilization on the Strategic Strata. Wellington How to cite Making a killing, Essay examples

Business Plan for Engineering Business Management - myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theBusiness Plan for Engineering Business Management. Answer: Introduction This business plan illustrates the startup idea of Gorgeous Fashions Company in Australia. Its aims at providing the newest fashion designs to women and young girls in the fashion market with various ways of achieving the desired objectives. Melbourne district will serve as the market place with marketing strategies being direct and specific. The total startup capital is one million dollars coming from the developers savings and payable loans. Business description Gorgeous Fashions will open soon to manufacture and offer wholesale services of newest fashion and designs in the fashion market. Gorgeous which means beautiful and unique stands for the kind of products aimed to be provided to women and young girls in the fashion market. Clothing selection of the newest designs in the market exclusively made of high quality fabric will be available for personal desired style. Gorgeous developer has a five year experience in the fashion and design market important to developing this service[1]. Other management personnels include leaders of the various departments within the company. Mission To provide both women and young girls with manufacturing and wholesale services of the newest cloth fashion designs in an appropriate environment. Vision Be the best manufacturer and wholesaler of newest fashion designs in the fashion market. Objectives To manufacture the best fabrics for fashion in the market To provide the newest fashions and designs to all women and young girls Key to success Having a reliable manufacturing system Ensuring an outstanding and reliable customer service platform Target market Gorgeous Fashions will be the ultimate stop wholesale store for newest fashions and designs for both women and young girls in Australia. With the finest touch of designs and fashion fittings all women and young girls in Australia and those visiting will feel free to have a look as they purchase in accordance to their desired will. Gorgeous Fashions developer has a desire to give women their desired look by providing the newest designs. Marketing Place Melbourne as a growing business district in Australia will suit the best marketing place of the new company[2]. With most stylish women and young girls, the district is the most favorable and strategic place for Gorgeous fashion company as a first time business. Marketing Strategy Gorgeous Fashions developer will enhance online marketing to create awareness of the companys existence and use of PR tactics to reaching personnel stylists to ensure a good relationship with referred customers[3]. One on one with the existing retailers in the fashion industry creates a healthy marketing link as the retailers understands the texture of the design from the manufacturer. Competition As a first time business in the fashion market in Australia, Gorgeous will face stiff competition from other companies like, Dogstar which is a women clothing with Japanese fashions made in Australia, Farage that is a womens fashion label in Australia and Cooper street Clothing providing feminine fashions design that are inspired by international trends among many others. To save itself from this level of competition, the company has a great role to play in ensuring they give the best to their customers[4]. Financial information The business requires approximately one million dollars (1 million) to start. Capital to buy the manufacturing gadgets, rent to pay the startup store if its rental, capital to buy fabrics, capital to pay the few startup employees including the sale and marketing activities. Source of capital will be from developers savings and loan. Product price Manufacturing machine 0.6million dollars Fabrics 0.3million dollars Employees salaries 0.1million dollars Reference List Battista, Claudia, and Massimiliano M. Schiraldi. "The logistic maturity model: Application to a fashion company." International Journal of Engineering Business Management 5 (2013): 29. Matthiesen, Insa-Mascha, and Ian Phau. "Brand image inconsistencies of luxury fashion brands: A buyer-seller exchange situation model of Hugo Boss Australia." Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management: An International Journal 14, no. 2 (2010): 202-218. Ogawa, Susumu, and Frank T. Piller. "Reducing the risks of new product development." MIT Sloan management review 47, no. 2 (2006): 65. Weller, Sally. "Consuming the city: Public fashion festivals and the participatory economies of urban spaces in Melbourne, Australia." Urban Studies 50, no. 14 (2013): 2853-2868.

Management Case free essay sample

The drivers of the photography equipment industry are the following: Changes in an industry long- term growth rate Product innovation Technological change and manufacturing process innovation Changes in cost and efficiency and Reductions in uncertainty and business risk The economic characteristics differ between film-based and digital segments on the ace of technological change, scope of competitive rivalry, number of buyers, and market size and growth rate. Film-base cameras is slowly becoming obsolete, while digital cameras are becoming a great demand among consumers due to their fast image visibility, enabling people to access, analyze and print images faster than ever before. As stated by Morocco and Morris, Digital cameras have a higher intrinsic value to consumers than film cameras. The numbers of existing and new rivals in the area of digital photography are emerging, placing the film-base traditional cameras competitive sector behind. Growth in digital photography market is expanding in a quick pace while film-based are decreasing in the market share. We will write a custom essay sample on Management Case or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Continuing upgrades in the quality of image produced by digital cameras and the lower cost to obtaining one is becoming possible tort every individual regardless to geographical location to obtain one. Film-base cameras were generally bought from emerging economies such as China, while digital cameras are distributed among developing countries such as the United States and Japan. The digital photography industry is changing at a fast growing pace, continually changing, due to new product innovations and short product life cycles. Compared to the decrease use of traditional film cameras, digital segments seem to be on the rise. . Prepare a Five Force Competitive Analysis for the photography industry. What is competition like in that industry? What competitive forces seem to have the greatest effect on industry attractiveness? In my analysis, competition is very attractive in the photography industry; the industry overall profit prospects are above average. In the market shares in digi tal imaging shown in exhibit 9, the market shares for others are at high 24. %, attractively more than Kodak and Canon. The industry growth potential is positively forward looking with new technological advances created regularly. Product innovation creates opportunities for new entrants to enter the market. With the uncertainty in the industry future we can only say digital is where we are headed. Competing sellers with suppliers of materials, parts, and other components to the bibliographic industry are the strongest competitive forces on the industry. Attracting new rivals with more sophisticated technology devices is also another throng competitive force in the industry. Competition appears destined to grow stronger every year. 3. What key factors determine the success in the digital segment of the industry? The key factors which determine the success in the digital segment of the industry are technology, manufacturing, skills and capability, and marketing-related success factors. Expertise in digital cameras and scientific research are very crucial in the development on new and improved design products. With technology advancing manufacturers become more efficient and lower the costs of production as time goes n. Product innovation capabilities, the design expertise, and new product introductions have a major impact of how well a product sells and how successful it becomes. The breadth of product line and product selection is also a key factor to determine the success in the digital segment of the industry. 4. Prepare a SOOT analysis. What are Sodas key resource strengths and weaknesses? What new market opportunities does the company have? What threats do you see to the companys future well being? In conclusion, what does this entire analysis reveal? Strengths Strong brand image. Competency in photography. Core competency in traditional film and photography industry, I. E. Film for the mm camera and motion picture film used by the entertainment industry. Acquisitions of smaller companies that have been successful in the digital photography section. Weaknesses Poor track record of maintaining effectively strong strategy. Loss of market share due to anchored involvement of older technologies. Slow to change business model with the changing market. Higher costs to print than competition. Behind rivals in product line expansion. Opportunities Profound gro wth in Sodas coined term, info-imaging. Photography market. Rising demand for digital cameras. Expansion opportunities in home photo printing. Growing opportunity for online sales. Need for service to emerging markets around the world. Recession making investors more cautious. Expanding digital Threats Economic Increased competition from rivals in digital photography online services. Lower profits from traditional printing processes Entry of a host of new competitors. Growing bargaining power of consumers who have many more choices. In conclusion, this analysis signals an unfavorable weakness in the company overall. By far, the most obvious point within Sodas weaknesses is the companys inability to change their business model and strategy with the changing times. This case on Kodak has made it abundantly clear that- albeit a company that still carries a reputable and long lasting name- they have been slow to effectively strategies and engage opportunities in the market; thus, they have succumb to serious pressure from competition, who have surpassed them and taken market share by innovating within the technological curve. Kodak needs to implement a solid strategy that will propel them forward, toward the opportunities for growth in newer technologies and wider product lines. Their company may be able to turn their dwindling market share around by engaging a low-cost or niche marketing strategy that employs their closest and strongest core competencies. 5. What is Sodas strategy to compete in the digital photography industry? Has the strategy been effective? Sodas direction appears to be mostly involved in a broad differentiation strategy. CEO, Daniel Carp, put forth a Power Point Presentation in 003 that entailed segmented strategy on how the company was going to better take advantage of the digital commercial markets. Although some of the strategy involved cutting cost, the main strategy was given to expand within I) commercial imaging, I) health imaging, and iii) consumer imaging. Expansion within these three areas covered a broad range of ideas, such as implementing more distribution outputs, offering more imaging products and services, developing more sophistication in the digital capture business, and continuing to grow market share in their old standby in the traditional till business. At the end to 2 shareholder owning Hay to the company stock got together to refute Carps strategy. They wanted to cut costs and head in a new direction. Maybe they were right about the change in direction. In analyzing Eastman Kodak Companys current data from The Financial Times, it is obvious that this strategy did not work given their financial and market performance- not to mention the fact that new CEO Antonio M. Perez replaced Daniel Carp shortly after the publication of this case in 2003. Included here is the market performance of the company over the past five years:

Changing Trends Of Hospitality Industry In India Tourism Essays

Changing Trends Of Hospitality Industry In India Tourism Essays Changing Trends Of Hospitality Industry In India Tourism Essay Changing Trends Of Hospitality Industry In India Tourism Essay Vol. 18 No. 6, 2006 ) . In add-on, there has been an addition in the use of engineering as a manner of doing on-line reserves through several distribution channels. These channels can be interpreted as an organized and serviced system that is paid for, out of the selling budget and is used to supply an entree to the clients, who are off from the location of production and ingestion ( Middleton and Clark, Selling in Travel and Tourism, 2001 ) . Normally in India, clients would do a reserve by either straight nearing the hotel or by booking through a travel agent. However, now the electronic distribution channels like the Global Distribution System ( GDS ) and the cyberspace have been steadily deriving popularity. ( Dabas and Manakt. , Vol. 19 No. 5, 2007 ) . Because of the perishable nature of the stock lists, its really important for the hotel to hold an economical distribution. ( OConnor, Vol. 4. pg 1-15, 2002 ) . RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Every research methodological analysis includes a research design which may be defined as the set of conditions organized hypothetically for the aggregation and analysis of informations that aims to incorporate relevancy to the research procedure with economic system in process Research Problem: Understanding the development in cordial reception industry along with the current tendencies and, how the companies have been affected the demand for their consumers every bit good as their perceptual experience. Research Question: The altering tendencies of the Hospitality Industry in India Research Aims: 1. The public presentation of Hospitality industry in India. 2. How has the tendency transformed in the past few old ages. 3. Analyzing the demand and supply of adjustment and turning monetary values in different Indian cordial reception industry? 4. How has the perceptual experience about the restaurants/hotels and bars changed in the heads of consumers? 5. Who are the main participants in the Indian market every bit good as the 1s that have branched outside India? Approach: Since there is no relationship between the Hospitality Industry and the decision, the research would be to the full prelusive so that the decision, which is being analysed utilizing different methods of study and survey, would back up the research. Scheme: The scheme that will be followed for the research work will be Surveys. Surveys will be taken from either the Hotels or Resto-Bars in India and besides from the clients of different cordial reception sections. DATA COLLECTION My informations aggregation processes for this research would dwell of series of processs, which would be farther branched into primary and secondary informations aggregation. PRIMARY DATA COLLECTION The chief procedures that I would be trusting on while utilizing my primary informations aggregation would be through questionnaire based on the information, that will be done by personally run intoing the clients and by directing them stations and by run intoing the staff of the hotel in individual. The questionnaire I would be working on, would be divided in a manner that would be most efficient in managing them and by maintaining the clip factor into consideration, the most applicable system would be applied to the best suited group. While using a incorrect procedure in garnering information would ensue in detaining the whole operation. The research subject requires a Qualitative method to measure the findings aimed for. A well framed questionnaire will be given in individual. The appropriate tool for my research proposal would be a type of a study, because the best manner to obtain the needed informations, in order to happen replies for my research inquiries, would be inquiring a set of inquiries. Every methods of informations aggregation have its ain advantages every bit good as disadvantages. For illustration: Internet study: Survey done through electronic mails and file sharing. The advantages of Internet as a manner of study are: 1. Survey can be set up faster. 2. Survey consequences are faster. 3. Response can be administered by leting pre and station inquiries. 4. The skip-pattern inquiries can be used to extinguish interviewer mistake. 5. Respondent can reply at their ain convenience. 6. Cost of interview in minimum. Although, Internet study has many advantages, it might non be the most appropriate method of appraising for this thesis. The ground behind this is the namelessness of the web, which makes any type of avowal hard, if non impossible. Postal Questionnaire is yet another type of study which has the undermentioned advantages and disadvantages: Advantages Their costs are comparatively low. Datas can be obtained from big sample countries. Can avoid interview prejudice. Privacy scenes can be enhanced for the respondents. Rating graduated tables can be flexible. Disadvantages Poor response rates. Respondents may misinterpret inquiries. The intended individual may non be the 1 who completed questionnaire. The comparative nature of the inquiries to be posted is supposed to hold confidential information, has made me to make up ones mind that postal questionnaire might be the most appropriate signifier for roll uping information. The methods for informations aggregation scope from the simple usage of postal questionnaire to face-to-face interviews, where an interviewer uses tape recording equipment and note taking as their tools for roll uping information. Few of the methods are expensive but they certainly guarantee a good response rate, while others being inexpensive to administrate but are most likely to bring forth a hapless response ( Les Oakshott, 2001 ) SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION: The secondary informations are the type of informations that are made by others for their ain intents. The secondary information for my research proposal would be gathered from the companies own informations archives and from their one-year fiscal studies. In add-on, the findings of former research surveies on outsourcing an accounting procedure would give an ample sum of historical informations or decision-making forms. I would besides be utilizing Internet to acquire some more information about the industry and usage diaries for acquiring direction from the past researches on this subject. TOOLS FOR DATA ANALYSIS The informations collected from the questionnaire would be analyzed through the SPSS text analysis. Different manner of SPSS analysis will be used in analysing the information from the questionnaire. Research: NEW AND RELEVANT? Recently this subject has been quiet popular, with a roar in the cordial reception industry at that place have been a batch of research worker working on this subject in order to understand the demands and behavior of the people, so that they could propose stairss to better and assist turn the industry. The subject for this research is besides a hot topic as the touristry industry is besides connected with the cordial reception industry and the touristry industry has progressed alot.

UWS property taxation and finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

UWS property taxation and finance - Essay Example UWS property taxation and finance The Mirvac Property Trust has two development funding; Meadow Springs and Seascapes. The Meadow Springs Estate is a residential estate located around and within a championship golf course in Mandurah (Compton, 2000). The estate is located approximately seventy five kilometers south of the Perth Central Business District. Meadow Springs is serviced by the Mandurah railway and Perth, allowing an easy commute for the Perth workers. The area has various shops, stores, and supermarkets located within the area. Mandurah area features various recreational facilities like restaurants, cinema complex, walkways, and parks. Meadow Springs is therefore a residential development site valued at $15.8M. The Mirvac Development Fund for Seascapes is closed end, unlisted, single project fund. The investment strategy for the fund is maximizing the value of investors by offering returns the development and investment of subdivision project and quality land (Harriss, 2008). Seascapes are a residential co mmunity located in Mandurah located seventy five kilometers Perth South. The project is comprised of the development of forty eight hectare land with subunits approval for five hundred and fifty five residential Lots in addition to a Grouped Housing Site. Seascapes are extended to view the foreshore of the Indian Ocean and are celebrated by tourists and residents alike for its relaxed atmosphere, waterways, and beaches. The property type for Seascapes is a residential development site valued at $23.6M... WACC is important for the Mirvac Property Trust because it enables the company to maintain their relationship with investors and grow their revenues. Weighted Average Cost of Capital for Mirvac Property Trust is composed of both equity financing and debt according to Mirvac Property Trust optimal mix of financing equity and debt. Weighted Average Cost of Capital has enabled the Mirvac Property Trust to make decisions about the proposed projects (Harriss, 2003). The Mirvac Property Trust came up with the above figures by computing Weighted Average Cost of Capital using the formula Weighted Average Cost of Capital = wt*rt+wp*rp +ws*rr. Where wt is long-term debt, wp is preferred stock,ws is the common stock, rt is the long term debt cost, rp is the preferred stock cost, and rr is retained earnings stock. Therefore, the projects below the anticipated Weighted Average Cost of Capital are rejected, while those above Weighted Average Cost of Capital were chosen. The weights for Mirvac Prop erty Trust used both the historical and target proportions. The target proportions were the capital mix that the Mirvac Property Trust achieved. Internal Rate of Return The Mirvac Property Trust has a target unlevered ten years IRR Internal Rate of Return of more than 11 percent. This is because the Mirvac Property Trust maximizes the property security and income growth and maintains a portfolio that is diversified (Lindholm, 2004). Mirvac trust has also continued to raise the portfolio quality through the disposal of non-aligned asset above or at valuation. The trust has utilized the development division to come up with commercial assets that are of high

Assisting Palestine Refugees Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Assisting Palestine Refugees - Essay Example Thus the Palestinian refugees were scattered through the different locations where their presence is still seen today. In June 2002, US President George W. Bush formally committed US support to the creation of an independent Palestinian state that would be established on the West Bank and Gaza Strip. This was further bolstered by the pronouncement by Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, in the 2004 Likud convention, that â€Å"If a new Palestinian Authority is established, free of terror, if the incitement stops, the Israeli government led by the Likud will be prepared to carry out its part to make possible the establishment of an independent Palestinian state† 2 In January 2009, Israel ended a three-week military operation in the Gaza Strip that killed 1,200 Gaza residents and 5,000 wounded. During the military assault, civilian housing, public infrastructure, and most importantly medical facilities suffered serious damage, with thousands left homeless. A subsequent UN fact-finding mission recommended that international legal action be taken against Israel and Hamas for alleged war crimes and what may be crimes against humanity; however, as of the end of 2009, the UN Security Council has not yet acted on the recommendation.3 Meanwhile, Israeli pursued a policy of restricting movement of people and goods through the borders of the Gaza Strip, which has stifled economic activity and impeded territorial reconstruction. Restrictions were slightly relaxed in the West Bank; however, economic progress, settlement building, and reconstruction were all the same impeded, while incidences of settler violence against Palestinians still broke out. 4 It is against this backdrop that the case of Palestinian refugees is to be analyzed. The refugee situation shall be described by assessing the rights and obligations of the host state vis-à  -vis the refugee, the capability and nature of short-term and long-term responses, the role of international civic organizations in refugee response, and the prospects for successful repatriation and reconstruction.

Homework Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 27

Homework - Essay Example Although the advancement of technology is so rapid that some programs or hardwares become easily outdated, there are still some activities that cannot be done using the Internet. In the future, I hope that there will be available programs where we can watch the stars or the galaxy through the telescopes used by astronomers in different parts of the world. It is like telescopes linked to each other through a computer and people all over the world can see through them through the internet real time. Location based services [LBS] is the capability to identify the location of a particular person or mobile device and connect with a different device or individual (Burgess, 2010). Currently, almost everyone uses LBS when they use different social media sites like blogs or when they check-in their locations using Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. LBS is also used to be able to navigate in areas that an individual may not be familiar with, and reduces the amount of time spent trying to locate establishments. Real time updates through Global Positioning System [GPS] also gives real time updates of traffic and accidents on the road so it will be really helpful so commuters can plan ahead and the time needed to travel will be more readily estimated. Even location of road constructions are provided, so a commuter can easily avoid these areas without having to run into traffic. To a certain extent, LBS is a good tool, because for certain applications it makes transportation more efficient and helps individuals plan properly, and this saves a lot of time, in a broader perspective. However, if the technology gets infiltrated by people with bad intentions, or terrorists, for that matter, LBS will no longer be beneficial at all. This may lead to threats, even security and safety issues because locations and activities of individuals may be monitored and mapped without the person being fully aware of it.

Bespoke Form of Contracts: A Scourge or Necessity?

Bespoke Form of Contracts: A Scourge or Necessity? Chapter 1 Introduction Research Rationale The use of standard forms of contract, FIDIC Red book (Red Book Engineer/ employer designed Contractor executed) was introduced in the UAE during the late 80s and early 90s, more specifically on Dubai Municipality infrastructure projects by the Dubai Municipality, later been transformed to RTA in 2006. Ever since FIDIC based bespoke forms introduced in the UAE, it has been used extensively in the construction industry, the Red book based FIDIC forms are extensively used in different types varying from lump sum to re-measurement contracts by many large organizations. Every project is associated with risk and is inevitable and the impact is spread across the project. Whilst the intention to introduce a standard form of contract was to achieve a balance in terms of risk sharing between the parties, conversely at a later stage clients started amending the standard form of contracts to safe guard their interests. Many such bespoke versions did not achieve the intended purpose as it became one sided due to the alterations. The one sided contracts, in other words i.e. by drafting partial contracts to safe guard the employers risks and financial positions will have a tendency to impact the construction cost. If the risk is high, the cost increases proportionally (Mohamed Hartman, 2000, p 15) UAE as a country has high potential and growth compared to the neighboring Gulf countries in the recent years (2003 2008), which led to many fast track infrastructure and building projects, most of those are innovative, having ambitious aspirations to become international land marks, having the common feature of shorter durations. One of the main reasons for adopting fast track projects was to reduce the financial burdens (loans and repayment period) and to minimize the risk for escalation due to the construction boom in the region. Also in a raising market, the cost of the construction was proportional to the duration of the project as the contractors were including the risk for escalation in their bids. A few examples for such land mark projects with shorter duration captured the attention are Burj Khalifa tower, Dubai Metro, Palm Island and Dubai Mall. The multinational construction interface between the parties and culture stipulated the importance of using standard forms of construction contracts in the UAE, one of the main reasons to use standard forms of contracts are the familiarity among the parties, which has been used across many developments worldwide, even practiced at courts, assumed to be understood by parties, the risks are apportioned in a balance way and understood by even the stake holders, reduced legal and construction cost. As mentioned above, one of such standard form of contract, FIDIC 1987 4th edition red book was introduced by Dubai Municipality in early 90s with amendments to the original form (bespoke version is called as Dubai Municipality general conditions of Contract), later been followed by many public and private sector clients in UAE. Many such amendments in the creation of bespoke versions of FIDIC forms have defeated the intended purpose of achieving a balanced version of contract By the mid of 2006, many clients started using bespoke versions of new FIDIC i.e. FIDIC 99 Contracts, however there is a significant difference between these two forms (FIDIC 1999 FIDIC 1987) of contracts in many areas. Like any other place in the world, the competitions in the construction industry among the contractors are very high in UAE also. Many clients in the region, whilst using open or selective tendering (as they invite tenders from their own tender pool), before and after the current economic crisis, do have the habit of awarding the works to the lowest bidder. In order to overcome the competition in the market, the contractors at times started under quoting the works, were trying to recover through variation and claims at a later stage. This situation resulted in arguments and disputes due to the wrong interpretation of the forms of contract used by different parties, in addition, the unbalanced and void bespoke versions contributed much to these kinds of disputes. Many such disputes were revolving around the poor interpretation and understanding of the variations clauses, leading to claims and disputes on fast track projects. The intended purpose of this dissertation is to identify The essential clauses needed to administer a contract The importance of making right interpretations while using contracts An overview of the bespoke versions of contracts Research Methodology A detailed analysis of Variation clause in Nakheel Conditions of Contract ( bespoke FIDIC 1987) and the possible interpretations by various parties to the contract, briefly stating the difference between 1999 1987 based forms clauses that relates to variation and varied work clauses. Identify the potential difference between the two bespoke versions i.e. FIDIC 1999 1987 4th edition Nakheel Conditions of Contract on major clauses. A case study on a dispute from ALDARs Conditions of Contract (bespoke of FIDIC 1999) on variations while using the bespoke versions of contract Proposed study chapters The intended study focus on the meaning of construction contracts, their existence and the different forms of contracts. The literature review is covered in the first four Chapters, Chapter 2 covers the use of different forms of FIDIC contracts, including a brief history of their start in the UAE, Chapter 3 focus on the essential clauses needed for the administration of any forms of Construction contracts, Chapter 4 an analysis of Nakheels conditions of contract (bespoke FIDIC 1987 4th edition) variation clause, the possible interpretations by different parties to the Contract, Chapter 5 a comparison between Two bespoke forms of Nakheels Conditions of contract (FIDIC 99 and FIDIC 87 4th edition) on major clauses, Chapter 6 a survey to identify whether the employers achieved the intended purpose by using bespoke versions, Chapter 7 analysis of the data collected ,chapter 8 recommendation. An overview of the construction Contracts Construction contracts are generally classified as Oral (when the act will not apply) or written (if the other criteria are met, the act applies). The form of written contracts are again classified into i. A simple exchange of correspondences; ii. A tailor made written agreement; iii. A standard form such as JCT,Fidic etc; iv. Standard terms and conditions of the business. Contract in broader term is defined or expressed as conformity between two or more person i.e individuals, businesses, organizations or government agencies to carryout, or to abstain from doing things in exchange for something of value. Contracts can be oral or written, using formal or informal terms. If one party to the contract fails to live up to its part of the bargain, there shall be a breach and certain remedies for solving this is available. The expressions of the contract who, what, where, when, and how of the contract describe the binding promises of each party to the contract. In other words the significance of the agreement becomes important only when a breach occurs by the counterpart and it becomes necessary to protect the right of the other party (http://law.freeadvice.com/general_practice/contract_law/contract_agreement.htm) and the breach of contract is recognized by the common law and the remedies are available as well. On the other hand, the strongest contract, in terms of enforceability, shall have an offer, acceptance with considerations for the exchange, the terms of such an agreement shall be without ambiguity, and is signed by the parties to the contract who has the proper capacity to enter into the contract. Weaker contracts can be classified as verbal agreements or contracts agreed by parties in direct violation of state or federal laws of the country. There are several aspects related to valid contracts; in fact, an entire course in law school is often devoted to contract law (http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-contract.htm). John Adriaanse (2007) quoting Lord Diplock who classified construction contract as â€Å" the sale of goods, work and labor for a lump sum price payable by installments as the goods are delivered and the work done. Decisions have to be made from time to time about such essential matters as the marking of variation orders, the expenditure of provisional and prime cost sums and the extension of time for carrying out the work under the contract†. He also stated that â€Å"a construction contract is best described as a complex web of competing interests†. At the same time Charles.S. Philip (1999) defining contracts as â€Å"binding agreement between two or more persons or parties construction contracts are defined as agreements, oral or written, executed between Clients and Contractors for construction / maintenance work done for compensation†. In another definition â€Å"we must understand that a construction contract is merely a set of criteria, or expectations, t hat bind the contracting parties† (Gilbreath, 1992) The basic elements of a contract are an offer, acceptance of the offer with considerations. This can even be described as concurrence of wills or ad idem or meeting of the minds of two or more parties (http://www.alway-associates.co.uk/legal-update/article.asp?id=165).Consideration, on the other hand, makes sure that e that something is exchanged. In certain situations, the law requires the consideration to be adequate, which is, a relatively reasonable price, or ostensible, where even a Dirham will do. Contracts may or may not be enforceable by law. The good example is; the agreement between the parent and child cannot be enforceable by law whereas the agreement for a loan probably enforceable by law. On the other hand whether a contract is enforceable by law or not depends on many factors, the primary and most important factor being whether the parties to contract anticipated / intended the contract to be legally enforceable or not. Most of the construction contracts are bilateral contracts, some cases the unilateral contracts becomes bilateral with considerations. Contracts can be bilateral or unilateral. In a bilateral contract, each part makes promise or promises to the other party. A good example is while selling a home, the buyer promises to pay the seller AED 1 Million in return the seller agree / promise to deliver the title of such property. Where as in a unilateral contract only one party to the contract make the promise. A good example is the reward contract. X promise to pay a reward to Y if Y find Xs stolen car. Here Y is not obliged to find Xs stolen car, but X is obliged to pay the reward to Y only if Y finds Xs car. The consideration for the agreement is Ys trust on Xs promise or Y giving up his legal right to anything he wanted at the time he was in the process of finding of the car. Here, conditions precedent to Xs obligation to pay is the finding of the car, although this is not a legal condition precedent as technically no binding contract has arisen until the time car is found (because Y hasnt agreed / accepted Xs offer until he find the car, referring back to the basis of contract as it requires offer, acceptance and considerations), the terminology â€Å"condition precedent† is used in contract law to establish a condition of promise in an agreement. For example, If Y has promised to X to find the car, and X has promised to pay Y when the car was found, Xs offer has been considered as a condition attached to it, and an offer and acceptance have been occurred. This is an incident in which a condition precedent attached to a bilateral contract. In the construction industry, the significance of having a balanced contract agreement has become essential to avoid disputes and to facilitate a smooth administration during the construction period. According to Lord Lathams report 1994, â€Å"constructing the team†, construction is a very unique process, the construction industry is different than the manufacturing and other industries, each project is unique with its nature and conditions, having heterogeneous conditions and situations, however definition of Latham for contracts not limited here, but include the design activities, advise and other legislations (Adriaanse 2007) which specify many details that a construction contract should take care of. Chapter 2 The Importance of using Standard forms of Contract 2.1 Introduction The adversarial nature ([Cheung et al., 2006] and [Cheung and Yiu, 2007]) and inborn risks (El-Sayegh, 2008) of the construction industry contributes to the speedy developments of construction disputes. Construction disputes are originated by many sources (Cheng et al., 2009). One of the main sources is the lack of understanding on the Contracts. Deprived interpretation and poor understanding of the construction contracts make the contracts clauses ([Broome and Hayes, 1997], [Cutts, 2004] and [Styllis, 2005]) and legalese ([Cutts, 2004] and [Candlin et al., 2002]), which results in differences between the parties to the contract on their legal rights and responsibilities. It is to be noted that this statement is justified in a study conducted by Mohamad and Zulkifli (2006), where majority of the contractors reported about the problems in understanding the contract documents. It is to be concluded that contractors need to be well versed in the interpretation and understanding of claus es stated in contracts. Dispute resolution methods at the early stages of disputes are the soft-skill resolution technique, i.e. avoidance (White, 2002), which offers a practical approach to prevent the predictability of conflicts that may occur in a project by understanding the form of contract used. The main objective of dispute avoidance technique is to promote teamwork and to create a harmonious atmosphere (Cheung, 1999). Thus, a proper appreciation of the construction contracts to the stakeholders will prevent a dispute from rotting, although a total elimination may be impossible. The importance of this chapter is to make a improved insight into the need for clarity of contract documents. Furthermore, it will assist contract drafters and experts review and clarify the clauses of the contract form in an understanding way to the parties. After the parties understand and consent to the clauses stated in the contract, the parties would recognize their obligations and contractual rights as required in the contract. 2.2 The need for contract clarity The need for this research comes up out of many conflicts identified in the construction industry due to the usage of different versions of contracts with amendments. A good example is, the senior officials of a leading developer in Dubai alleged that false ceiling collapsed and burst the pipes above the false ceiling at the buildings were related to the supervision problem and lack of access to the project site by the engineers (Developer Eyes ‘supervision authority2007). The engineers were not allowed on site due to some health and safety construction complications at certain times. This resulted inadequate supervision for the works. The problem heated up although the standard contract form clearly points out that the engineer, as being responsible for the overall supervision and direction of the project. Additionally, the Engineers representatives had the right of access to the works and construction site of the contractor (Clause 23 of bespoke Form). An explanation for this dispute was, contractor misinterpreted the conditions of contract and also failed to understand the legal obligations outlined in the contract. Thus, the question of clarity of contract conditions in the contract must be resolved. In addition, the court usually try to find out the intentions of contracting parties using plain, ordinary and popular meanings of the words. Scott vs Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company brought out the clarity issue to the court attention (1994). The judge held that if the language of an insurance contract is ambiguous, the contra proferentem doctrine applies, that is the rule against the party who impose the inclusion of the ambiguous clause in the contract. On the other hand, if the wordings are unambiguous, the courts would not give any different meaning from what is expressed in its clear terms, unless the contract is highly unfair or hold an effect contrary to the intention of the parties (Duhaime, 2007 Duhaime, L., 2007. Part 7: interpretation of previous termcontracts.next term Duhaime Law, Victoria, Retrieved 22 May 2008, from .Duhaime, 2007). Thus, clarity of contract clauses is very important for the construction industry too. This shows the importance of understanding the c ontract by the contracting parties. Besides, the legalese takes place in the contract. The use of highly formal and technical language in legal documents disturbs interpretation (Feinman, 2003). Legal drafters made most damage by shrouding the mysteries of contracts with complex language and technical legal terms (Cutts, 2004). The deficiencies of legalese are mainly due to the unnecessary length and complexity. Sometimes, there are more serious errors that go unnoticed (Hill, 2001) because the interpretation of the contract clause was not actually written or interpreted in the contract (Thomas et al., 1994). Legalese would result the contracting parties fail to appreciate the contractual rights and obligations in a project (Semple et al., 1994). In the end, it shatters the working atmosphere of the project (Wang and Yang, 2005), resulting claims and delay to the project delivery. 2.3. Understanding the importance of standard form Construction contracts are well written agreements duly signed by the parties to the contract to define their contractual positions, relationships and obligations (Zaghloul and Hartman, 2003). The conditions of the contract are critical to ensure that the parties are put up by rules and regulations (Semple et al., 1994). The reduced understanding of the construction contract usually lead to construction disputes, as highlighted by many researches such as ([Thomas et al., 1994], [Semple et al., 1994], [Broome and Hayes, 1997] and [Mohamad and Zulkifli, 2006]). It is simply because of the reason that the parties could not achieve their contractual expectations (Harmon, 2003). Dubai Municipalitys be spoke forms of contract was followed and amended by various developers in the UAE industry. The origin of the contract can be traced to FIDIC Red Book 1987 standard form of contract. It had several amendments and revisions over the years by many developers and private sector clients in the UAE. The latest version of this form of contract was formulated in 2001 (Dr.Sam, 2004). The old-fashioned language used in it makes it difficult to understand and make the right interpretations. This is mainly due to lack of clarity and use of legalese in the contract clauses. Table 1 and Table 2 give a summary of clarity and legalese problems identified in the contract clauses of this Form. 2.4 History of FIDIC and other Standard forms of Contracts used in UAE Industry The most brilliant designs for any civil engineering or building project would remain in the documents and paper unless turned into reality by operations. This transaction process requires i.e. from the design to the reality requires the selection of the contract that reflects the aspirations of the parties as well as the demands of the successful project. The essential skills required for a Contract Administrator is the selection and management of proper form of contract and for each project, both the key criteria needed to be considered and risks should be identified and allocated, before the selection of the proper form of contract. This can be done from a range of standard forms of contract. In the UAE, the FIDIC form of contract (red book) was introduced in the early 90s for the infrastructure projects by Dubai Municipality, later been followed by many major clients such as Emmar, Nakheel and Damac. The standard form of contract identifies the roles and responsibilities of the parties, their agrents and provides rules to protect direct parties from doing wrong. The selection of the form of contracts depends on various criteria such as the responsibility and position of the parties involved in the contract. For example, factors such as , magnitude and nature of the works, procurement method (Lump sum, Measurement, Cost reimbursement), Design responsibility ( whether by the Employer, Part by the contractor or fully by the Contractor), roles and relationships (Client, Contractor, Design team and Specialists), the type of cost control document used (such as bill of quantities, schedule of rates, priced specification or contract sum analysis),Payment method (stage, time rela ted, turnkey) and Time (Open, fixed, acceleration and Damages). (Martin Brook, third edition, p 33-44) The various such forms of contracts available are JCT written by the Joint Contract Tribunal, NEC New engineering contract, a form recommended by Michal Lathams report (1994) for the use of both public and private sector clients because of its flexibility and written in simple English, ICE provided by the Institution of Civil Engineers, GC/Works/1 for Government Contracts, ACA Project Partnering Contract- PPC 2000, FIDIC..etc. A brief history of the FIDIC form of contract along with available forms are described below as the dissertation is focused on the FIDIC, the most commonly used for both building and Civil Engineering projects in the UAE. The Fà ©dà ©ration Internationale des Ingà ©nieurs-Conseils (â€Å"FIDIC†) organisation was founded in 1913 by France, Belgium and Switzerland. The UK joined only in 1949. The first edition of the Conditions of Contract (International) for Works of Civil Engineering Construction was published in August 1957 having been prepared on behalf of FIDIC and the Fà ©dà ©ration Internationale des Bà ¢timent et des Travaux Publics (FIBTP). The form of the early FIDIC contracts was prepared in line with the fourth edition of the ICE Conditions of contract. One difference with the initially published FIDIC contract was that they were based on the design being provided by the Employer or his Engineer to the Contractor. It therefore became best suited for various civil engineering as well as to various types of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, dams, tunnels and utility works such as water, sewerage etc. At the same time it was not so suited for contracts having major items of plant that were manufactured away from site. This led to thought of having the â€Å"Yellow Book† (the traditional one is known as the â€Å"Red Book† it was called as Red book because of the red color of the cover page) published in 1963 by FIDIC for mechanical and electrical works. This had the provisions for testing and commissioning which was more appropriate for the manufacture and installation of plant. The revised (second edition) was published in 1980. The revised editions of both Red book and yellow books FIDIC was published in 1987. A most important feature of the revised edition of Red Book (or â€Å"Old Red Book†)was provision for the Engineer to act impartially while giving a decision or in any action which affect the rights and obligations of the parties, whereas the previous versions assumed this implicitly. Although this talk concentrates on the new FIDIC forms, it should be remembered that the Old Red Book remains the contract of choice throughout much of the Middle East, particularly the UAE. A new form of contract was published (known as the â€Å"Orange Book†) in 1995 for the use on projects procured as design and build or turnkey, dispensing with the Engineer, providing for an â€Å"Employers Representative† who, while determining the value, costs or extensions of times need to: â€Å"determine the matter fairly, reasonably and in accordance with the Contract†. However, in 1999 FIDIC published new versions of the Red and Yellow books together with a Green and silver Books called as the short form of contract and turnkey contracts respectively. One of the significant differences between the 1999 edition and 1987 4th edition was the arguably diminishing role of the Engineer; a fair interpretation is making the Engineer as an assistant to the Employer. The other differences between these two versions will be discussed in the following chapters of this dissertation. Chapter 3 3.1 The important clauses and terminologies needed contract administration and a comparison with the bespoke version selected for the dissertation work During the process of making bespoke versions of contracts by amending the articles of the standard forms shall be done with extreme care as they run the risk of damaging the consistency as well as the integrity of the contract and the other contract related documents. Most of the standard conditions of contracts are developed over many years and been highly complex to deal with the unforeseen problems and legal decisions including statute law and an ever changing world. The contract must state clearly the documents that are having the status of the contractual documents, following are the documents that shall be considered as the contract documents. i. The signed agreement ii. Tender iii. General and particular conditions of contract iv. Drawings v. Bills of Quantities vi. Specification vii. Schedules viii. Program There are certain clauses required in the contract to facilitate the smooth administration of any contracts. The following are the commonly found and essential clauses required in construction contracts between the employer and the contractor irrespective of the forms and types of contracts. A detailed analysis with its importance is analyzed in this chapter for the dissertation purpose. Possession the date by which the employer shall provide possession to the contractor of the site to enable the work to begin, In FIDIC 1987, the commencement of work is described under the clause 41.1. The commencement shall be given with in the period agreed in the appendix to tender and failure to provide possession to the site within a reasonable time is interpretted as the breach from the employer.(CEM course material, Construction Law, chapter..). Under FIDIC 1987, the employer will, with the Engineers notice to commence the works, give to the Contractor the possession of the site (E.C Corbett, FIDIC 4th Legal Guide, p 238-239). Failure to give possession is dealt under clause 42.1, under such circumstances, the Engineer shall, after due consultation with Employer and Contractor determine Contractors entitlement for extension of time and also the associated cost, which shall be added to the Contract price, notify the Contractor with copy to the Employer (E.C Corbett, FIDIC 4th Legal Guide, p 238-239). Hence this clause is essential while drafting an agreement or contract for the administration. Completion The date, by which the contractor shall have the obligation to finish the work, this can be extended under various provisions if the employer or his contract administrator / engineer grant extension of time. Under FIDIC 1987, upon substantial completion of the work, the Contractor serve notice to the Engineer with copy to the Employer for the taking over certificate, and if the work in the view of the Engineer is substantially completed, issue a taking over certificate with in 21days. This is a very essential clause in any form of contract as in the absence of a completion date in the contract; the contractor shall be required to finish the work only within a reasonable time(ref: John Uff..). Non completion this clause shall deal with the situations when the contractor fails to complete the work by the agreed completion date or the extended completion date. If the work is not completed within the specified time, due to any reasons that the contractor is not liable or any concurrent delays, the contractor get the benefit of having an extension time with associated costs. However for Contractors own delay, the contractor shall not be entitled for the entitled for any extension of time, the remedy available in the contract is to make payment to the employer as liquidated damages or penalty as mentioned in the contract. Hence it is very essential to have a non-completion clause in agreements and contracts. Liquidated damages / Penalty Liquidated damages are usually amount is fixed and genuine pre-estimate of the loss in cases of breach, easy to calculate on building or commercial projects, however not easy on infrastructure projects. Whereas penalty is also a fixed amount, the contractor needs to pay this if a breach occurs. However in UAE, the term penalty is applicable as the same is followed in civil court. Whereas, under the English Law, Liquidated damages are applicable, if the sum mentioned in the appendix to tender is penalty and not the liquidated damages, the Contractor under the English law can challenge it, however under the UAE Law Civil code, Article,.. the penalty is applicable. Most of the Countries penalties are not acceptable. Refer, for example, a few leading cases on penalties, Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Company Ltd v New Garage and Motor Company Ltd [1915] AC 79, 86-87, where the House of Lords recognized the principles on how to decide a damage clause that is actually a penalty and thereby unenforceable. â€Å" This case was cited by the High Court of Australia in Ringrow Pty Ltd v BP Australia Pty Ltd [2005] HCA 71, section 12, and by the Supreme Court of Ireland in ODonnell v Truck and Machinery Sales Limited 1998 4 IR 191. The Supreme Court of Canada has adapted a similar approach in Elsley v. J.G. Collins Ins Agencies, [1978] 2 S.C.R. 916, 946, and does not allow for any recov ­ery of an amount exceeding the actual damage† (J.Frank McKenna (2008) Critical Path. Reed Smith, p1-6). Hence this clause is essential in a contract or agreement. Defects liability- The defects are to be rectified with the period mentioned in the contract. Failure to rectify the defects within a reasonable time will enable the employer to engage a third party to do the work and deduct the amount from the contract sum. Under FIDIC 4th edition, clause 62 deals with the defects liability period. The issuance of the defects liability certificates signals the completion of the Contract and under FIDIC form, such a certificate shall be issued within 28days from the completion of Defects liability period, in both forms of FIDIC 99 as well as in 87 including the bespoke versions, the defects liability period shall not be extended beyond 2 years from the taking over certificate (E.C Corbett, FIDIC 4th Legal Guide, p391-392). Variations any variations should be authorized by the employer before the contractor is entitled for the payment. Variations are common to traditional procurement path than the Design and Build system (Ashworth, 1998). In construction due to the complexity of construction works it is almost impossible to complete a project without changes to the plans or the construction process itself however good and the complete the design details are at the start of the project. Baxendale and Schofield (1996) define variation as any change to the basis on which the original contract was signed. Construction plans are formed form of designs, drawings, quantities and specifications earmarked for a specific construction site and Variations are imminent in any construction project due to various reasons from finance, design, aesthetic, geotechnical, geological, weather conditions to feasibility of construction. Hence it is essential to have a provision to instruct and ev

Personal Narrative - Renewed Love for My Sister :: Personal Narrative Writing

Personal Narrative- Renewed Love for My Sister "The essence of life is to be found in the frustrations of established order." -John Gardner "God, Kris, you are so disgusting!" I made a noise like a rhino in heat as I opened my mouth to reveal the large piece of orange gum that hung precariously from my tongue. "Thanks a lot, E. You're the one that called it an orange slug." We both let out an uproarious laugh and quickly quieted ourselves. The geriatrics nearby were looking at us again. Our stifled laughter was still loud enough to make passersby wonder about our sanity, and that was just the way we liked it. "Wait, wait! Do it again, but open your eyes wide; like you did the first time." I concentrated hard for a second, then with my eyes as wide as I could make them, I dropped my jaw and flicked my tongue wildly in her direction. I then snapped my mouth shut and blinked heartily. I licked my lips and tasted the sweet, artificial-peach flavor. The "slug" rolled around gleefully in my mouth as Erika and I chuckled at the various mallrats screaming and laughing in the opposite corners of the food court. "What a bunch of fucking losers!" Erika said as she flopped the middle part of her "tri-hawk" to the right side of her head and looped the barbell in her tongue through the two lip rings that protruded awkwardly from her mouth. A putrid scent was carried our way by crowds of people that were walking by us. I could taste the stench in the air. "Let’s get up and walk around. The Cookie Guy said it would take thirty minutes or so." We’d ordered a cookie for my mom who had just had knee surgery. The "Cookie Guy" in question was a good-looking, nice guy who had helped us. It was more than a little strange to tell him that I wanted a giant cookie that said, "We love you, Mommy!" I thought about telling him to write something like, "Welcome back from the state pen. Thirty-five years is a long time, Daddy" or "We love you, Elvis," but in the end, I decided against it. We followed my suggestion and walked up the mall to the Deb Shop. Even from thirty feet away it reeked of perfume and cheap, polyester fabric. As we closed the distance between ourselves and the store, the sheen of the predominantly sparkly clothing temporarily blinded us with a bright reflection of the healthy orange glow emitted by the fluorescent lights perched high above.

Promote Good Practice in Handing Information in Health and Social Care Settings

Promote Good Practice in Handing Information in Health and Social Care Settings Outcome 1 Understand requirements for handling information in health and social care settings 1. 1Identify legislation and codes of practice that relate to handling information in health and social care The Data Protection Act 1998 Health and Social Care Act 2001 Article 8 for The European Convention on Human Rights 1. 2Summarise the main points of legal requirements and codes of practice for handling information in health and social care The Data Protection Act 1998.The Act defines personal data as information which relates to a living individual who can be identified from the data or from the data and other information that the data controller is in possession of or is likely to become in possession of. This information may be in electronic or manual form (i. e. paper). The main principals of the act are: †¢The data must be fairly and lawfully processed and shall not be processed if certain conditi ons are not met. †¢The data must only be obtained for one or more lawful purposes. The data must be adequate, relevant and not excessive to the purpose for which the data are required. †¢The data must be accurate and where necessary, kept up to date. †¢The data must be kept no longer than necessary. †¢The data must be processed in accordance with the rights of the individual. †¢The data must be kept secure against unlawful or unauthorised processing, accidental loss or erasure. †¢The data must not be transferred to a country outside of the European Economic Area (EEA) unless that country ensures an adequate level of protection. Health and Social Care Act 2001.Section 60 of this Act gives the Secretary of State for Health the power to make regulations to authorise or require health service bodies to disclose patient information, including data which is patient-identifiable, which is needed to support essential NHS activity, in the interests of improving patient care or in the wider public interest. Proposed regulations have been drafted to authorise or require disclosure in order to monitor diseases, including communicable diseases, for occupational health purposes and for medical research. Article 8 for The European Convention on Human RightsThe European Convention was brought into UK law by the Human Rights Act 1998. Article 8 states: 1. Everyone has the right to respect for his private and family life, his home and his correspondence. 2. There shall be no interference by a public authority with the exercise of this right except such as is in accordance with the law and is necessary in a democratic society in the interests of national security, public safety or the economic well-being of the country, for the prevention of disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.This means that an individual's wish to protect his or her privacy must be balanced against t he needs of the relevant public authority to obtain or use specified information. Outcome 2 Be able to implement good practice in handling information 2. 1 Describe features of manual and electronic information storage systems that help ensure security. A manual information storage system must be made of strong materials and have a lock, e. g. , a safe with a keypad code or a metal filing cabinet with a lock.An electronic information storage system should have password protection, encrypted and antimalware software. 2. 2 Demonstrate practices that ensure security when storing and accessing information. I have demonstrated this by storing manual data in a metal filing cabinet which has a key lock. When accessing data I ensure that there is not anybody around who could obtain any information, e. g. , whilst filling out paperwork at work there is a customer who will read what you are writing over your shoulder so I ensure that they are not there.If they are I go elsewhere, if they appr oach me I cover the data and put it away if I have to leave the location for any reason. 2. 3 Maintain records that are up to date, complete, accurate and legible. On each shift I complete daily support notes for each customer for that day, One to one activity support notes, medication records (MARS) and update care plans and Person Centred Plans as required. I ensure they are complete by carrying out a handover at the end of each shift.I put in all information and keep it factual so that it is accurate. I ensure I have enough time to fill out paperwork so that it is written legibly and not rushed. Outcome 3 Be able to support others to handle information 3. 1 Support others to understand the need for secure handling of information I refer staff to The Oaklea Trust Policy and Procedure regarding confidentiality. I explain the importance of keeping data locked away and not left lying around the house.When the need arises for me to pass on information of a personal nature I ensure the individual has given me permission and that I only inform people that need to know, e. g. , a disclosure of abuse must be passed on to my line manager or on call as the policy states. I inform the individual that I will have to do this and why. OR if a family member requests information I explain that it cannot be disclosed as it is confidential and advise them to speak to the customer, supervisor or line manager.When visitors are in the house I ensure that anybody holding a conversation regarding personal data i. e. a social worker and a key worker holding a meeting with a customer cannot be overheard by any staff, customers, visitors, workmen, other professionals, etc 3. 2 Support others to understand and contribute to records When a new member of staff starts I explain how the records are completed and stored and actively encourage them to fill in the paperwork. I carry out a handover at the end of each shift to ensure this has been done.I also encourage the staff member that ha s worked with each customer to complete the relevant paperwork. Regular staff meetings. Keep up to date with training. Individuals assessing care or support, it is the supervisors responsibility to organise reviews, however, when updating paperwork I regularly check the dates on care plans and reviews for the next due date and I pass it on to my supervisor when the date is near. The new care plans and reviews are placed in the relevant customer file and a note in the communication book to ensure everybody is aware and can then read it

What was the Cartoonists View of the verdict passed on Nelson Mandela Essays

What was the Cartoonists View of the verdict passed on Nelson Mandela Essays What was the Cartoonists View of the verdict passed on Nelson Mandela Essay What was the Cartoonists View of the verdict passed on Nelson Mandela Essay In December 1963 Nelson Mandela was tried in the Rivonia Trial. The Trial lasted until June 1964 where he was imprisoned for life narrowly avoiding being sentenced to death with seven others including Walter Sisulu, the leader of the ANC. Mandela was tried for recruiting people for training and guerrilla warfare for the purpose of violent revolution, when the police raided the MKs headquarters and found links between Mandela and the recent sabotages on power stations. The prosecution demanded that they should all be hanged but the amount of international interest forced the judge to pass life imprisonment on them all. The arrests managed to break down the MK and the ANC inside South Africa. In Source G the cartoonist, a man named Illingworth, has depicted Nelson Mandela being tied down by one finger with a police man a court judge and Verwoerd the most powerful Nationalist party Leader standing next to him. Illingworth is trying to say that the system is not holding him down. This is because in the source Mandelas face is depicted as angry and as though the men tying him down are having no effect on him. It may also be that he is trying to say that the government think that they have felled a giant but really they are having no effect. This is because the characters standing next to Mandela are small compared to him and from their point of view it looks as though they have triumphed over Mandela. The Judge standing next to Mandela is holding a document that says Mandela Judgement. It is implied that the courts and government think that they are victorious over Mandela. At the time when this source was published Nelson Mandela and the ANC had organised many bomb attacks on power stations and oil refineries. They were trying to make South Africa ungovernable by disruption by these attacks. Illingworth is saying that the government have not stopped Mandela but only hindered him. I say this because the policeman in the source is tying down one of his fingers and this doesnt seem to concern Mandela in the source because it is only one finger. Another way in which this could be interpreted is that the figure of Mandela represents the whole of the Black Community against apartheid. If the finger is interpreted to represent Mandela it conveys the message that you can hold down one man but could never hold back the whole Black Community. Hendrik Verwoerd is in the cartoon because he is one of the leaders of the NP and by the time that the source was published he was one of the main influences behind the Nationalist Party, in the cartoon he is holding his head high and is smiling giving the impression that he is happy and proud that Nelson Mandela has been brought down. Mandela is also pictured as young and strong in the image and this is to give the message that the youth of the ANC is the future and that Mandela and the ANC are strong and will resist. Illingworth would have thought this because he was British and the events in South Africa did not only appeal to the South Africans but to people all over the World because events such as the Sharpeville Massacre and the way the ANC were fighting against apartheid was something that would be put all over the news in other countries. In 1976 there were many anti-apartheid demonstrations in London because people knew what was going on. There was also a growing population who were joining the ANC and many people who although did not join the ANC shared many of its ideas against apartheid so Illingworth was trying to say that the NP think that they have achieved more than they actually have. He probably also realised that he could stir up trouble in England since this is where the Source was printed and could get people to realise that the ANC was the right path to choose for the South Africans. He probably thought that if there was enough outside support then the NP would be forced to change it policies. In 1973 the OAU (Organisation of African Unity) was formed and provided a strong opposition to apartheid this was important because after so much suppression the black community was finally trying to retaliate and this is one of the points in the cartoon. That even though Mandela has been brought down the black community is still strong and there is still a strong opposition towards apartheid. Another reason why the cartoonist may have held this view is because he has seen what has happened in other countries such as those that have had their independence and were now doing well for themselves. The cartoonist may also be ridiculing the NP because South Africa had only recently left the Common Wealth which gave them international standing. He may be pointing out that under the NP South Africa is not doing well and if under the ANC then it will become better. In conclusion Illingworths view of the verdict is that even though Mandela has been put in prison the ANC and the Black Community can not be held down. He thinks this because he is a British supporter of apartheid and wants to see the end of racial discrimination in South Africa. Illingworths view is that Nelson Mandela should not be in prison but that it does not make much difference because the opposition is so strong against the government that even if Mandela is in prison they can still carry out the resistance without him. Through the Source he is trying to say that the government think that they have crushed their opposition by arresting and trying Mandela but Illingworth probably thought this was untrue and that the Black Community and the opposition to apartheid would still go on even though Mandela was not there to organise it.

Top 7 College Majors - Lauren Gartner

Top 7 College Majors Top 7 College Majors Which college majors are the best? How do you measure that? The most popular college majors can reflect many things. Obviously the popularity of the major is one of those things, but what about other factors. Surely, popularity alone does not mean that a major is a good choice. After all, you also have to consider the quality of the schools that offer the major, the likelihood of somebody majoring in a particular subject getting a job, the potential salary a graduate can earn, the level of job satisfaction, and the future employment outlook of somebody entering a specific career field. We are not going to attempt to tell somebody how to choose a college major. Instead, what we have done is compile a list of great college majors that fit into one of the following criteria: It is one of the most top paying college majors Students majoring in these fields are getting new jobs These majors give students the chance to work with great technology The future is bright for these majors Students who graduate with degrees in these majors report being exceptionally healthy and happy Top College Majors Biomedical Engineer Students majoring in this field learn to design, improve, and maintain medical equipment. This can be an especially exciting field for those who wish to work with artificial organs, medical analysis equipment, and devices that provide equal accessibility. Nursing High demand, tuition forgiveness, great salaries, and job placement opportunities are just a few of the reasons that this major makes the tops of these list in so many polls. Many students are drawn to this major because they simply want to help others to gain better health Engineering All disciplines of engineering are extremely popular. Career prospects for engineering students are great as are projected salaries. The future looks great for engineers, because there will  always be openings for engineers as long as new designs and technologies are being worked on. Business Administration or Business Management Business majors have always been popular among students who wish to begin careers in the corporate world, retail, or small to medium sized businesses. Many students pursuing business degrees have the desire to go to graduate school and complete their MBA. Computer Science Students who study Computer Science are qualified to enter many fields where job demand is high. They become security specialists, database administrators, software engineers, network technicians and help desk professionals. Social Worker The pay for a social worker is not the highest on this list. However, the work can be extraordinarily rewarding. Graduates work hard to make sure that people are healthy, safe, and that people have access to counseling and other sources of help. Education Students pursue majors in education or related fields in order to become teachers, school administrators, or guidance counselors. This can be extremely fulfilling work, and job prospects are excellent depending on area of specialty and geographical location.

Quantitative Summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Quantitative Summary - Essay Example Limited literature on the area provided scaffold for the conduct of a study investigating PTSD among children and adolescent victims of motor-vehicle related injuries. There were only three studies concerning PTSD in children who sustained motor-vehicle injuries, one on Swedish children aged 5-18 years, another on same-aged British youth, and one on American children 3-18 years old. A conceptual definition of PTSD was presented in the review of literature together with the psychological and physical symptoms and the length of persistence and recurrence. The literature also traced the origins of PTSD in combat-related experiences for both adults and children. Research evidence from the literature surveyed documented PTSD in children after being exposed to a variety of traumatic events such as witnessing a murder or destruction of property, or being a victim of kidnapping, gunshot, or natural disaster. As recounted by Zink and McCain, findings of researches undertaken from 1993 onwards revealed that traumatic injury in children from various causes resulted in melancholy, mood changes, attention deficits, decreased social activity, increased behavioral problems, lower scholastic achievement, increased hyperactivity, rage outbursts, intrusion, avoidance and hyper-arousal. The study was tailored based on a longitudinal descriptive design. Criteria specified for inclusion of subjects in the research were: English speaking child and parent/guardian, residence within a 60-mile radius of Cincinnati, and subjects with head injuries should have a Glasgow comma score greater than 8 to confirm their alertness and responsiveness. Children with mental retardation or hyperactivity disorder were not enrolled as subjects. Prior to the conduct of the study, approval was secured from the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center Institutional Review Board. A written consent from the parents of the subjects were also obtained,