Exam 1 Study Guide

Midterm 1 Practice Questions (Acct 201 Fall 2012) 1. Retained earnings at the end of the period is equal to a. retained earnings at the beginning of the period plus net income minus liabilities. b. retained earnings at the beginning of the period plus net income minus dividends. c. net income. d. assets plus liabilities. 2. Pinson Company began the year with retained earnings of $550,000. During the year, the company recorded revenues of $600,000, expenses of $380,000, and paid dividends of $140,000. What was Pinson’s retained earnings at the end of the year? a. 910,000 b. $630,000 c. $1,010,000 d. $480,000 3. Patent would appear in which balance sheet section? a. Intangible assets b. Investments c. Property, plant, and equipment d. Current assets 4. A balance sheet shows a. revenues, liabilities, and stockholders’ equity. b. expenses, dividends, and stockholders’ equity. c. revenues, expenses, and dividends. d. assets, liabilities, and stockholders’ equit y. 5. For 2012 Fielder Corporation reported net income of $30,000; net sales $400,000; and average share outstanding 12,000. There were no preferred stock dividends.What was the 2012 earnings per share? a. $2. 33 b. $0. 40 c. $33. 33 d. $2. 50 6. Use the following data to determine the total dollar amount of assets to be classified as current assets. Koonce Office Supplies Balance Sheet December 31, 2012 Cash$ 130,000Accounts Payable$ 140,000 Prepaid Insurance60,000Salaries Payable20,000 Accounts Receivable100,000Mortgage Payable 160,000 Inventory 140,000 Total Liabilities$320,000 Land held for Investment150,000 Land180,000 Buildings$200,000Common Stock$240,000 Less AccumulatedRetained Earnings 500,000Depreciation(40,000)160,000 Total Stockholders’ Equity$740,000 Trademarks 140,000 Total Liabilities and Total Assets$1,060,000 Stockholders’ Equity$1,060,000 a. $580,000. b. $430,000. c. $360,000. d. $290,000. 7. Using the following balance sheet and income statement data , what is the total amount of working capital? Current assets$ 14,000Net income$ 24,000 Current liabilities8,000Stockholders’ equity42,000 Average assets 80,000Total liabilities18,000 Total assets 60,000 Average common shares outstanding was 10,000 a. $ 2,000 b. $14,000 . $ 4,000 d. $ 6,000 8. Stockholders’ equity is increased by a. dividends. b. revenues. c. expenses. d. liabilities. 9. McKinney Corporation had beginning retained earnings of $2,292,000 and ending retained earnings of $2,499,000. During the year they issued common stock totaling $141,000. What was their net income for the year? a. $207,000 b. $ 66,000 c. $348,000 d. $273,000 10. The purchase of an asset by paying cash a. increases assets and stockholders’ equity. b. increases assets and liabilities. c. decreases assets and increases liabilities. d. eaves total assets unchanged. 11. Which of the following accounts has a normal debit balance? a. Accounts Payable b. Prepaid Rent c. Retained Earning s d. Common Stock 12. When a company has performed a service but has not yet received payment, it a. debits accounts receivable and credits revenue from services. b. debits revenue from services and credits accounts receivable. c. debits revenue from services and credits accounts payable. d. makes no entry until the cash is received. 13. When a company receives a utility bill but will not pay it right away, it should . debit Utilities Expense and credit Accounts Receivable. b. debit Utilities Expense and credit Accounts Payable. c. debit Accounts Payable and credit Utilities Expense. d. make no entry until the bill is paid. 14. In a service-type business, revenue is considered earned: a. at the end of the month. b. at the end of the year. c. when the service is performed. d. when cash is received. 15. The following is selected information from L Corporation for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2011. Cash received from customers| $300,000| Revenue earned | 370,000|Cash paid for exp enses| 170,000| Cash paid for computers on November 1, 2010 that will be used for 3 years| 48,000| Expenses incurred including any depreciation| 216,000| Proceeds from a bank loan, part of which was used to pay for the computers| 100,000| Based on the accrual basis of accounting, what is L Corporation’s net income for the year ending October 31, 2011? a. $184,000 b. $154,000 c. $152,000 d. $170,000 16. Boyce Company purchased office supplies costing $5,000 and debited Office Supplies for the full amount.At the end of the accounting period, a physical count of office supplies revealed $1,400 still on hand. The appropriate adjusting journal entry to be made at the end of the period would be: a. debit Office Supplies Expense, $3,600; credit Office Supplies, $3,600. b. debit Office Supplies, $1,400; credit Office Supplies Expense, $1,400. c. debit Office Supplies Expense, $1,400; credit Office Supplies, $1,400. d. debit Office Supplies, $3,600; credit Office Supplies Expense, $3, 600. 17. On January 1, 2010, Leardon Inc. urchased equipment for $45,000. The company is depreciating the equipment at the rate of $600 per month. At January 31, 2010, the adjusting entry would be: in Accumulated Depreciation is: a. debit Accumulated Depreciation $600 b. credit Accumulated Depreciation $600 c. cebit Equipment $600 d. credit Depreciation Expense $600 18. The closing entry process consists of closing: a. all asset and liability accounts. b. out the Retained Earnings account. c. all permanent accounts. d. all temporary accounts.

Analysis of Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” Speech

Nhat Nguyen Patrick Clayton Cantrell English 1010-051 23 October, 2012 Analysis of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ’s â€Å"I Have a Dream† Speech Amidst the bigotry and racial violence of the Civil Rights Movement, there stood a shining example of brotherhood, unity, and an undying thirst for equality. In what was known as the March of Washington, an estimated total of 200,000 people of all races—observers estimated that 75–80% of the marchers were black and the rest were  white  and non-black minorities—took to the streets of Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963 in an effort to raise awareness of the ongoing racial injustice in the work field and in everyday life. It was on this momentous day that the great Martin Luther King Jr. , one of the most powerful and influential voices of the Civil Rights Movement, gave one of history’s most memorable speeches. His speech, later came to be known as the â€Å"I Have a Dream† speech, served to b ring into light the injustice experienced daily by the African American population of the United States.In his famous speech, King outlined the racial discrimination and social inequalities that inhabit the great country whose creed explicitly states â€Å"all men are created equal. † This constituted the main purpose of his speech: to encourage and empower the attendees and those at home to challenge the widespread discrimination and the status quo of the time. Bigotry had a stranglehold on all aspects of life during the Civil Rights era. From childhood, racial themes and motifs were embedded into the very being of the child. A plethora of consequences arose from this.Whites usually aged into adulthood with the belief that racial superiority belonged to them because of the color of their skin. Most African Americans, on the other hand, grew up with beliefs very much contradictory to those of their white counterparts. Many aged with the preconceived notion that racial inferio rity accompanied being black. Martin Luther King, in his speech, endeavored to end this narrow-minded approach to race by encouraging his audience to rise above what they once accepted as a social norm and be the light that would lead that generation out of blind hatred for their fellow an. He preached brotherhood and equality and electrified the crowd when he demanded the immediate realization of the â€Å"promises of democracy† (King). He galvanized the crowd to rebel from the dark, secluded â€Å"valley of segregation† and enter into the â€Å"sunlit path of racial justice† (King). He closed this portion of his speech by once again reiterating the importance of immediate action. He called for justice for all of mankind, be they black, white, or any other race.Besides the obvious fact that he was speaking to the audience present, King’s speech was meant for a much broader audience. Specifically, his speech was targeted at those who desired to continue t he economic and social oppression of African Americans. This could clearly be seen when King states, â€Å"And those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual† (King). In this sentence, King concentrated his words against â€Å"those. â€Å"Those† are the people who continued to disregard African Americans as equals. King wanted to make it known that he and millions alike would not quit until justice was dealt and democracy rang through the land. In another explicit example, King talks directly to â€Å"those† again. â€Å"There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, ‘When will you be satisfied? ’† (King). He goes on to answer this question by saying that he and other civil rights activists will never be satisfied so long as injustice and discrimination remain a synonymous part of the United States’ culture.He ensured t he people whose intentions were to physically, mentally, and economically deter African Americans that America will not experience rest or tranquility until all black men, women, and children are granted their rights as citizens. The speech was as much a message to those oppressed as it was to the oppressors. Martin Luther King’s speech was well formatted with respect to harmony, with each prior point flowing harmoniously into the next. It was organized into two halves.The first half portrayed American society as a cesspool of intolerance, racism, and close-mindedness, and it also revealed the incongruence between the themes of the American Dream and the suffering of African Americans. In the first half of the speech, King called for action to alleviate these overriding themes in American society. In his â€Å"now is the time† paragraph, King emphasized to the audience that the time for action is now and rejected gradualism. In his â€Å"we can never be satisfied† paragraph, he set the conditions that must be met before he and others like him can rest.The second half of the speech depicted the dream of a fairer, more perfect union, free from the shackles of segregation and racial discord. In the most memorable part of the speech, Martin Luther King famously stopped reading from his written speech and began to speak earnestly of his â€Å"dream† concerning the future of America. In the part of the speech that became its namesake, King repeatedly bellows the phrase, â€Å"I have a dream† (King). In a brief 3-minute period, King gave one of history’s most beautiful pieces of rhetoric, summoning boisterous cheers from the masses of people.King concluded his masterpiece by articulating to the crowd his vision of a democratic America, emancipated from the chains of prejudice. His dream was that individuals from all corners of society—different in color, culture, and beliefs—could one day gather together in unit y with respect for one another. His comprehensive use of metaphors, imagery, and repetition served to persuade the audience to remain optimistic and faithful in the face of prejudice and despair. He appealed greatly to the crowd’s sense emotion and logic.He also masterfully used anaphora and allusions on several occasions in his moving speech. From under the shadow of the Lincoln Memorial, King fittingly began his speech alluding to Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address. He started by saying â€Å"five score years ago† (King). This assisted in setting the mood for the rest of the speech and was particularly poignant since King was speaking from the steps on the Lincoln Memorial. King also alluded to the Declaration of Independence when speaking of â€Å"the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This allusion powerfully reiterated America’s promise to all her people. There are several allusions to Biblical passages in the speech . Perhaps one of the most notable was when King warned the oppressors of civil rights that he and everyone who challenged discrimination will never surrender until â€Å"justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream† (King). This was reference to Amos 5:24. It appealed impressively to the audience’s emotions, stirring up shouts of â€Å"hallelujah† within the crowd. Metaphors were used throughout the speech to help emphasize and sometimes exaggerate the ppression experienced by the African American population during that era. King frequently compared discrimination to a desolate valley and the path to racial justice as a â€Å"sunlit† one. He would often describe oppression as a searing heat to intensify the pain that it caused. He described African Americans’ poor economic position as a â€Å"lonely island of prosperity  in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity† (King). This helped accentuate the situat ion that African Americans were in. King incorporated anaphora and repetition in his speech in order to stress the importance of key themes.One of the lesser known anaphora used was King’s repetition of â€Å"one hundred years later† (King). Here, King referred to the fact that 100 years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, his people are still hampered by the weight of inequality. He repeated the phrase â€Å"now is the time† (King) in an attempt to inspire the audience to act immediately and to demand change that instance. The most famous and most often cited anaphora used was the repetition of the phrase â€Å"I have a dream† (King) In that passage King revealed his vision of a better tomorrow for America.He stated that even though he faces difficulties, he still maintained that dream. This helped to strengthen this portion of his speech tremendously. On August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave one of history’s most beauti fully executed pieces of rhetoric. The language incorporated in the speech helped convey King’s message to America: challenge discrimination and the status quo and strive for an equal society. This will live on as one of King’s greatest contributions to the advancement of civil rights. Today, it remains a significant part of King’s legacy.

Automotive Technology

My life has always been filled with dreams and aspirations. As a young child, I have always been interested in things that required thinking. I remember as a young child, I was fascinated with the way cars work. The work of mechanics would always leave me with a lot of questions in my mind. So when I grew older, I decided to fulfill my long time dream, and took Automotive Technology. I believe that The South Seattle Community College would be the answer to all my queries, with regards to Automotive Technology. I will be given the chance to experience a technologically advance training that would help me learn more about the processes involved in the automotive industry. In the long run, I may be able to share my talents and knowledges to those who are in need of my service. With the Automotive Technology degree, I may be hired as a Service Manager, or as a Service Advisor, and earn as much as $34. 00 an hour. This would be enough to suffice for my other needs at home. As of now, I guess my biggest barrier in acquiring my degree is my financial status. I am currently unemployed, with no means of sufficing for my education. I am only armed with my will, dedication, and passion to learn new ideas so that I can be the best person that I can be. I know that financial problems can never hinder me from striving hard and learning. I believe that the best way to overcome my obstacles is to just keep my drive in accomplishing my hopes and dreams of acquiring a degree from your university. In addition to this, I would also like to inspire people to do the same thing I did – to study hard and overcome barriers in education.

Compare between Plato and Karl marx on the topic of human nature Essay

Compare between Plato and Karl marx on the topic of human nature - Essay Example Similarly, it will be somewhat more difficult with respect to Karl Marx, not due to the fact that Marx had no opinion on the issue (quite the opposite in fact), but rather due to the fact that Marx himself never specifically sought to engage on the topic. Rather, Marx would periodically discuss tangential manifestations of human nature with respect to â€Å"essence† and â€Å"biological definitions of man† within his works. To this end, I will seek to synthesize these tangential manifestations as a way of understanding what this author believes to be Karl Marx’s approach to the issue of human nature within his writings. Firstly, when one considers Plato, they necessarily consider his inspiration and teacher – Socrates. Socrates himself was highly interested in the notion of human nature as he so often came at odds with prevailing notions of his time while attempting to break through such staunchly, albeit blindly, held beliefs that the men of his time clun g to with such fervor. Accordingly, due to the fact that Socrates had such a profound impact on Plato, it is not beyond logic to assume that many of Plato’s own views of human nature were themselves borrowed or at the very least inspired from Socrates. One such view of humanity is of course distinctly related through Plato’s allegory of the cave (Plato 44). Although a host of Plato’s writings deal with the topic of human nature, for purposes of this brief analysis, the author will only consider the allegory of the cave due to the length limitations that a more full and complete analysis might entail. It seems to me that such an approach is useful due to the fact that Plato can provide a well reasoned and differentiated view of reality and its relation to the constructs of human nature. Within this work, Plato introduces the reader to a situation in which allegorical prisoners are chained to a cave wall for their entire lives – never seeing anyone or the l ight of day. Rather, all the prisoners are able to discern is the flicker and the shadows of figures that the moving individuals and torches behind them portend. The allegory goes on to explain that if one of these creatures was taken out into the light of day to see the sun, to view the skies, and to feel the warmth of the air, they would likely run frantically back into the bowels of the cave to escape from such perceptions that they might deem as unsavory and wildly foreign. In this way, Plato exhibits an example to the reader in which the reality/nature of the individual is uniquely born out of the perceptions/environment in which they have grown accustomed (Fromm 24). As such, Plato illustrates that encouraging such an individual to action outside of their comfort zone or to think outside of the means by which they have grown accustomed very rarely yields a positive result. In this way, Plato exhibits a very traditional view of human nature as something that is ingrained from t he early experiences and years of an individual’s life and seeks to define and corral the ambitions, thoughts, dreams, and goals, of the individual for the remainder of the life. As this can be understood as a traditional approach to human nature, it must also be understood as

Harmful ingredients within protein shakes Essay

Harmful ingredients within protein shakes - Essay Example Protein shake is a mixture of a powdered form of protein with water, juice, or milk. Bodybuilders consume this mixture after or before practice to supplement their diets increase the protein levels in the body. Bodybuilders usually require high levels of protein to achieve maximum muscle growth. The exact amount of protein, that an athlete is uncertain, and usually left for the user to decide the desired amount. The protein powder is, in variety flavors, to suit the different users. Protein shakes are a popular source of protein since it is directly absorbed into the body. However, the levels of nutrients found in it may not be in the amount exactly required. Different people require different levels of nourishment needs. For example in the human structure, women require more iron as compared to men. In studies conducted and reported by independent laboratories in United States, popular brands of protein shakes prove to contain higher than the recommended levels of heavy metals. The law recommends a minimum of fifteen, five, ten, and fifteen micrograms per day of arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury levels respectively. This shows that a majority of the brands of powder shakes are a threat to the health of their users (Coleman, 2008). Cadmium is one of the extremely poisonous metals. Thus, even very small traces of cadmium present in the body can cause severe damage in the body. Usually this metal is majorly in industrial work places. Just a small exposure to it may result to symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle ache. With an increase in cadmium exposure, it causes respiratory damages such as pneumonitis, trachea-bronchitis, and pulmonary edema. Cadmium poisoning too affects other internal organs such as kidney and bones (Avedon, 2007). Another heavy metal present in a majority of the protein shakes is lead. Lead accumulates in the body leading to severe emergency symptoms. Medical experts show that even low levels of lead if present in a child may hinder a child’s mental and body development. In addition, lead is more dangerous to children as compared to adults. Some of the complications because of lead poisoning include; kidney damage, hearing problems, hindering body growth, reduced levels of IQ, and behavior problems. Its symptoms include headaches, anemia, irritability, low appetite, abdominal pain, and cramping (Shamy, 2013). As mentioned above, mostly children are vulnerable to the effects of lead poisoning. Administering protein shakes to children can lead to disaster in children development. In 2005, a study published in pediatrics’ journal found that protein shakes is common to individuals between the ages of twelve and eighteen. This shows a majority of children gain higher protein levels by use of protein shakes (Massie, 2012). High levels of arsenic in the body lead to arsenic poisoning. At early stages of the condition, the victims suffer headaches, drowsiness, confusion, and severe diarrhea. Lungs, skin, l iver, and kidneys are the major internal organs that suffer the wrath of arsenic poisoning. Very high levels usually lead to night blindness. In some cases, the victim slips into a coma and finally dies. High arsenic levels are not good for the body making protein shakes a threat to its user (Sewell, 2013). Mercury is a heavy metal, whose exposure results to hydrargyriasis. Having different symptoms from

International organisations. United Nations in Human Rights, ICJ & ICC Essay

International organisations. United Nations in Human Rights, ICJ & ICC - Essay Example International Court of Justice, on the other hand, is under affiliation with the United Nations. It settles disputes, which are put forward by individual states. In addition, it gives legal advice to states (Smith, pp. 55-60, 2007). A legal procedure has to be followed for international court of justice once a case is filed in the court. Hence, it is obvious that International Criminal Court tries individuals whereas International Court of Justice deals with the issues of a state and hence deals with larger bodies. These are mostly states that are members of the UN. In addition, since advisory services on legal matters are also provided in International Court of Justice, the cases dealt here have to undergo an entire formal procedure. There has been debate about the empowerment of these institutions, and non-governmental bodies have been emphasizing the empowerment of ICC as well. They emphasize on handling the cases regarding the exercise of power to International Criminal Court (Smith, pp. 55-60, 2007). On the other hand, others believe that ICJ should be given the matters to decide. Hence, it remains matter of debate but a trend that is established that individuals and non-governmental bodies preferring ICC to IJC. ... The mandate of UN was to respect human rights and make justice available to everyone, regardless of their creed, color, or race. However, it has been an argument that this may not be the case as Saudi Arabia is also a member of the UN. Since Saudi Arabia is a place where a woman is not allowed to leave the house without a man and where gays are not well represented at all, it is a contradiction to its mandate (Advancing Human Rights, 2011). International efforts to establish peace and govern human rights emerged especially after World War II when the harm extended to the human race was observed (Halderman, page 275, 1979). This was the time after which United Nations emerged as a peace making body, and its task was to make sure that wars were avoided as much as possible and matters of dispute were tried based on talks and discussions rather than wars, which cause immense loss to human life and infrastructure alike. Recently, the aims of United Nations include the security and well-be ing of people and larger bodies, including states that are its members. Its work is extended on the micro scale to humanitarian assistance, to ensure equality and well-being to humans living across the world. It also undergoes economic and social developments of states. This is done by providing infrastructure to the poorer nations that are its members. In addition, it can bring this about by abolishing some unfair practices that exists in certain areas, a very popular example of which is child labor. United Nations funds its projects through some of the member states. The function of United Nations is debatable due to differences of interests of different groups of individuals. Hence, their different actions can be debated on basis of

CONCLUSION - A Short Summary in Terms of the Foundations of the Essay

CONCLUSION - A Short Summary in Terms of the Foundations of the Ordained Ministry Based on the Overview I Have Written - Essay Example In addition, he solemnly affirms that preaching Christ at any cost is the duty of the minister and the servant. When one reads the initial chapters of the epistle to Philippians we find the apostle rejoicing that Christ is being preached even though out of jealousy and competition. That the ministerial ordination does not stop with just Paul himself is evident in the passages where the Apostle asks Timothy to rekindle the Holy Spirit, which has been received through the laying of hands by the Apostle himself, in his epistle to the ardent disciple. (2 Tim: 1/6) This laying of hands is a charism through which God communicates. This charism is found ‘in’ them whom the hands were laid. So in the epistles, the laying of hands brings about the induction into the office of the ministry. We find a close link between the transmission of the right doctrine and the laying of hands. We find the first seven deacons being inducted by the twelve into the ministry by laying of hands. Thus we find the transmission of ordained ministry as well as its institution (Part 3). Now we come to the ultimate question of the aim of this ministry according to Paul, which has also been dealt with in his letters. Paul says that as an Apostle he has been selected by the Lord with the â€Å"ministry of the uncircumcised† as Peter had been entrusted with the â€Å"ministry of the circumcised†. Even at the council of the apostles, Paul argues that the message of Christ is universal, for the righteousness of the faith imparted by Christ (Gal: 2/1-10). He did not desist until John, Cephas and James extended him that â€Å"right hand of fellowship† (Part4). The minister is always doing the work of reconciliation. (2 Cor: 5/18). Therefore, every minister is called to this ministry. The â€Å"steward of the mysteries of Christ† (1 Cor: 4/1), Paul knows that he is invested with the authority of God (2 Cor: 13/10) to build up the Church. How faith is handed down and

How a firm can make an entry into EU economic zone Essay

How a firm can make an entry into EU economic zone - Essay Example According to the research, European Economic Area was established in 1994 in order to facilitate trade between different member countries and to outline a uniform framework for member countries to actually trade with each other without any significant barriers to entry. In order to make a successful entry into any new market, it is important that the international firms must take into consideration particular factors related to that economic zone. Each zone has its own unique characteristics in terms of its demographics, culture, economics, legal framework, political environment as well as other issues which can directly have an impact on the organization and the way it is going to operate in that region. EU shares a larger cultural heritage which is relatively similar across all countries with most of the countries speaking either German or French with English being dominating language in the UK only. The cultural similarity coupled with integrated economic zone has actually made it easier for international firms to actually make an entry into this region. However, due to the uniqueness of the culture, economic integration, geo-demographics as well as legal and social factors, new businesses can easily tap into the great potential offered by EU economic zone comprised of many countries of the region. Increasing economic burden on the countries like UK and Germany to actually pay off for the sovereign debt of countries like Ireland, Greece, Spain, and Italy making it difficult for these countries to actually normalize political pressure in their own home countries.

Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl - Essay Example â€Å"Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl† shows a clear example of the inhumane abuses placed upon slaves. It was written by the slave girl herself so that the information is firsthand. The author tells about her experiences and observations about slavery. As a girl, Harriet Jacobs was blessed to have a master who treated her well. She was not sent to the farm as would any male servant would have been treated. Instead, she was taught to do household chores and even sew. Perhaps these are instances that gave her also the privilege of having been taught by her mistress to read and write. She experienced better days compared to other slaves who would be out in the field under the heat of the sun, whipped by overseers when unable to perform well and constantly exposed to the harsh treatments of slave owners. She was even given time to play whenever her mistress perceived she was tired from sewing. This made Jacobs’ situation quite odd for a slave. She was made to enjoy l ittle joys as a child. As a result, she perceived life better than his brother did. Initially, Jacobs fancied that someday, she could gain her freedom in a manner that is praise-worthy. Unlike her brother who told her that gaining freedom is easier said than done, Jacobs held positive outlook in her life about her situation. Later in her life though, Jacobs proved his brother to be right when she experienced many bitter circumstances. First, she witnessed how her grandmother was cheated on about her mistress’ debt form her as well as her long-promised freedom. Luckily, her former master’s relative knew her well and therefore bought her when she had the chance to do so. When Jacobs served her new master, she became the object of her male master’s sexual abuses. Consequently, the master’s wife despised and hated her. Being a woman and a slave, Jacobs was vulnerable to such circumstances. The situation was true in so many circumstances as revealed by the nar rations of the author but she never dreamed of becoming a victim herself one day. She claims that she vowed to never degrade herself and the people that she loved in such a manner however her circumstances pressed her to use her womanhood. Perhaps because Jacobs thought when opportunity presented itself that her womanhood has been violated by her master anyway, that she would rather benefit from it. The author met an unnamed white man to whom she willingly gave herself to and was soon to sire her son. Whatever pressures the woman might have been is of course not for people to judge or question but this shows how a woman can use whatever she has for her own benefit. Of course this is not to praise and encourage such manner of solving problems but it shows how a woman can always be armed with the benefits of being a woman. On the contrary, it is also important to mention that the author’s being a woman has been a disadvantage because she was vulnerable to sexual abuse. It is co nsidered in this condition that male slaves are at an advantage over their female counterparts. There have been no reported sexual abuses toward them and this makes their situation better than women and if there would have been cases, they are not at a disadvantage at all because they do not become pregnant. For the women slaves though, their affairs with the opposite sex, whether consensual or not, is difficult to hide because there was a great probability of

Reflective Learning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Reflective Learning - Essay Example This involved a lot of wavering around several topics. This itself involved a deep process of thinking looking for what constitutes knowledge or theory of knowledge. As Syke(1984) states that epistemology is the theory of methods or grounds of knowledge. I had several options to apply to get to this knowledge. I could gather it as a rationalist( knowledge through reasoning),as an empiricist( knowledge through experiences and observation),as a realist( knowledge through direct view),as a critical realist(knowledge by combining views with existing theories) and as a subjective realist (knowledge through perception and models). This posed another step in intellectual advancement as it lay clear the logical process to knowledge given the nature of topic to be taken up. Finally looking at the topic I decided to apply a critical realist approach combining it with empiricism. Understanding existing theory implied that I have a clear definition of what constitutes theory.As Kerlinger(1979) s tates, "A theory is asset of interrelated constructs(variables),definitions and propositions that present a systematic view of phenomena by specifying relationships among variables with the purpose of explaining natural phenomena". This set me up for the search of these variables and relationships. I also relied on simple definition of theory by Black(1993) who states that a theory is an ' explanation of how things function or why events occur'. Then the outcomes of the research consumed my attention at the next level of concretising the intellectual thought process. It was apparent that the given topic would be amenable to research through deductive intent staring with existing theories and testing such theory with empirical secondary data. Most of the theories focused on were content specific and substantive as the topic involved a specific region which had characteristics quite unique for grand or middle level theories to work to any effect. The entire process of intellectual dev elopment in relation to choice of topic and research methods to adopt, as detailed above involved a huge amount of critical and reflective thinking. In fact the concept of critical thinking had to be understood in full before such a process of intellectual up gradation was taken up. It formed the foundation. Literature on critical and reflective thinking helped he process along.Starting as early as the1909, Dewy, the American philosopher, psychologist and educator we have a structured definition of the phrase critical thinking. He equated critical thinking to 'reflective thinking' and defined it as "Active, persistent, and careful consideration of a belief or supposed form of knowledge in the light of the grounds which support it and the further conclusions to which it tends" (Dewy, 1909, p.9). Building further on Dewey's ideas, Glaser defined critical thinking as: "An attitude of being disposed to consider in a thoughtful way the problems

Tourism and Its Impact on a Country's Image Research Paper

Tourism and Its Impact on a Country's Image - Research Paper Example 903). The power of image to significantly influence the outlook of individuals has been known from long. Thus, social psychologists had identified image as an affirmative and potent phenomenon, while the present day marketing research has extensively explored the capacity of brand and other images to guide consumer behavior (Elliot, Papadopoulos, & Kim, 2011, p. 521). The power of image is clearly discernible in tourism; and several important writings in the 1970s served to highlight the importance of image in anticipating travel behavior. As a consequence, tourism destination image (TDI) has emerged as an important perspective of research (Elliot, Papadopoulos, & Kim, 2011, p. 521). Several studies have been conducted with respect to the effect of image on traveler choice. However, the diversity in conceptualizations of place image denotes the absence of a theoretical basis and the fact that the research has been disjointed (Elliot, Papadopoulos, & Kim, 2011, p. 521). Among the sign ificant sectors of the economy that are experiencing rapid growth, tourism occupies a very important place. This sector has to countenance the possibilities and challenges that are posed by globalization. Tourism markets have traditionally been isolated from one another (Navickas & Malakauskaite, 2009, p. 37). An important development during the past few decades has been the diffusion of the boundaries between national businesses. The income of individuals and families has experienced a gradual increase, which in turn has made it attractive for them to travel longer distances, as tourists (Navickas & Malakauskaite, 2009, p. 37). Moreover, global tourism has benefitted enormously on account of the enhancement in the quality of tourist products and services, ingenious tourism marketing strategies, developments in communications and transport, and other related factors (Navickas & Malakauskaite, 2009, p. 37). The ever burgeoning tourism market is being avidly scrutinized by countries t hat are keen to control the major share of the profits of this industry. This especially holds good for countries that are dependent on tourism, and which depend almost exclusively on the travel industry and tourism to generate the much needed revenues (Navickas & Malakauskaite, 2009, p. 37). Contemporary existence is within a regime of super brands. This makes it out of the ordinary to consider a city, state, region or nation as a brand. The benefit of having brands is that the consumer finds it much less intricate to make a selection and that the consumer enjoys a particular brand (Gruescu, Pirvu, & Nanu, 2008, p. 253). If a place is to be rendered a center for the promotion and acceleration of economic development, then it seems logical to manage it as a brand. Such branding will procure an improved value and identity in what is essentially an ever increasingly competitive market (Gruescu, Pirvu, & Nanu, 2008, p. 253). It is essential for a branded approach to bring in focus, con sistency and to provide leadership that brings together community partners. In addition, such approach should ensure that it emerges as the fulcrum for adding value to customers; and this should be promoted by the combined marketing initiatives of the city (Gruescu, Pirvu, & Nanu, 2008, p. 253). In the context of the advanced economies of Central Europe, the chief driving forces of foreign policy have been accession to the European Union and integration into the global economy. In several instances, there has been

Fun, Family and Flashbacks Essay Example for Free

Fun, Family and Flashbacks Essay The beauty of photographs is that they can frame one single split-second moment of your life to help you remember good times. The rest of the story on how you got to the picture or what happened after becomes history and remains a flitting memory that may or may not be triggered to resurface once the photograph is again seen. One such precious instant happened when I was eight years old†¦ an age where I used to find so much delight in simple things such as a photography session with my brothers. My eyes in the picture are sparkling with laughter at all the trouble my mom had to go through for this snapshot. It was nearly father’s day and my mom thought a great secret gift would be a professionally shot picture of all three of us children. As soon as lunch was over, she quickly packed all of us up and we went to this posh photo studio. While waiting for our turn, she excitedly dressed us all up in such fine and neatly pressed clothes (as if the wrinkles would be noticeable on film). My hair was combed probably more than one hundred times over just to make sure no single strand would go astray out of her plan. As we were passing the time till our photo opportunity, mom would keep our energy up by making us practice different kinds of poses and smiles. A few more minutes passed and my mom was already getting impatient with all the excitement. Alas! The photographer came up to my mom just to tell her that there seemed to be something wrong with the camera and that he could not take our pictures at that moment. Horrified and panicky due to the unexpected long time of having to wait for a useless chance to get some shots professionally done, my mom swiftly packed all of us up at once and went home. We wanted to laugh at mom’s dismay over the problems of this great idea of hers but we knew better than to irk her even more. As soon as we got home, she quickly brushed us up and with quick thinking, got our own camera to make her own snapshots instead. It was not hard for us to smile as we knew the pains she was going through just to keep her hand still on the camera button. We all knew that our father was about to arrive in just a few minutes and her panic was with cause. After some quick clicks, she quickly made us dress up into our play clothes again and had us do some wrestling matches just to erase the more than 100 times brushed up look she gave our hair. This was one of the most enjoyable memories of my life yet the camera was only able to show three children with smiles on their faces†¦everything else precious was left for us to relive in our own imaginations.

Family dysfunction and youth homelessness

Family dysfunction and youth homelessness Introduction Youth homelessness is a major concern of society due to how vulnerable this population is. There has been a large amount of research pertaining to the topic of youth homelessness and different factors affecting their rehabilitation. The literature shows similar findings of family influence being a factor in a homeless (Tyler et Al., 2013; Stein et al., 2002). Additionally literature shows that a drug use and unstable housing conditions are found among homeless youth’s families (Ringwalt et al., 1998; Bucker et al. 1997; Hagen McCarthy, 1997). Although there is many studies addressing that there are multiple family moves, none of them address the specific reasons of why they moved. This family dysfunction has found to harbor cases of emotional, psychical, and sexual abuse (Colette Stephen, 2002; Bucker et al., 1997; Maclean et al., 1999; Ryan et al., 2000; Tyler et al., 2000). Youth may make attempts to leave the family home only to be returned home by authorities (Ferguson, 2009). This creates a cycle of running away and a distrust for authorities and services that can hinder the homeless youth’s rehabilitation into society. Family dysfunction and unstable housing can introduce traumatic events onto a youth giving way to mental disorders which are further developed while on the street (Kidd, 2004; Tyler et al., 2013; Dubas et al., 1996; Davidson Mansion, 1996). High victimization rates among homeless youth is a major factor creating traumatic events in their lives. The needs for a successful transition into adulthood will be addressed as well as a comparison of housed and homeless youth as they transition into adulthood. Both the housed and their unhoused counterparts share the same needs but the availability to access those needs differs ((Dubas et al., 1996; Fingerman et al., 2012; Tyler et al., 2013), showing the need for social services to fulfill those needs. Literature has also found that once a youth is on the streets they search for relationships usually with peers with similar backgrounds. (Ferguson, 2009). Furthermore literature states that being in a stable relationship helps with the rehabilitation out of homelessness (Toro et al., 2007 ; Chamberlain Johnson, 2008). However an unstable relationship may hinder a youth’s transition out of homelessness (Chris et al. 2008). Some relationships may also be two sided (Colette et al. 2002). This literature will be examined further on in the paper. The daily activities of homeless youth pose numerous threats and can coincide with the homeless youth population’s high rate of victimization (Hagen McCarthy, 1997; Tyler et al., 2010). Victimization can happen directly or indirectly to the homeless youth and both types share similar consequences (Tyler et al., 2010; Hoyt et al., 1999; Hagen McCarthy, 1997; Ferguson, 2009; Stewart et al., 2004; Kipke et al., 1997). Lastly the purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the factors surrounding youth homelessness so that measurements as well as policy recommendations may be made to further develop intervention methods. Furthermore this paper aims to produce the following things; a measure of family moves among homeless youth, recommendations for early intervention on perspectives of social services, as well as a measurement of relationship strength. Literature Review Parental influence One of the most important factors in rehabilitation from youth homelessness is the stable relationships that the youth have. Family relationships for these youth are often clouded with neglect as well as abuse (Claudine, 2006; Toro et al., 2007; Tyler et al., 2013). Criminality, as well as drug use is common in the parents of homeless youth, and research has found found that most families of homeless youth were relying on social assistance (Ringwalt et al., 1998; Bucker et al. 1997). Stein et al. (2002), state that parental substance abuse can be linked to a youth’s own use of substances. Greene Ennett, and Ringwalt (1997) gathered and analyzed data from national representative survey and found that 75% of homeless youth used marijuana; 25% of them having used crack, cocaine, or inhalants; and 17% having engaged in injection drug use. Other family members such as siblings may influence a youth by exposing them to drug us as well. One youth who used marijuana stated that she di dn’t have any friends and her older sisters were the ones who introduced her to drugs (Tyler et Al., 2013). Housing Transitions It is also common that homeless youth experienced multiple house and school transitions prior to becoming homeless (Buckner et al., 1997). Moving multiple times creates an instability in the youth’s lives because they need to find new friends and do not have a stable household. Research has also found that homeless youth often report that they have not lived with both of their biological parents (Hagen McCarthy, 1997) However there is no measurements on the type of move as there may be different reasons for moving, with some circumstances causing more instability than others. This is an important gap to research because it can provide information on how certain types of house transitions affect the youth into becoming homeless. Also the distance moved should be accounted for because a move down the street may affect a youth differently than moving over larger distances Past Abuse Also Youth interviewed by Colette and Stephen(2002) generally shared a common dysfunctional family dynamic prior to becoming homeless which shows the similarities in the individuals. Previous literature backs this up as it was found that contributing to the familial dysfunction, domestic violence is a common experience in these homeless youth’s homes (Buckner et al. 1997). Emotional as well as physical abuse in the family home are consistently high in the homeless youth population (Maclean et al., 1999). Histories of family abuse and neglect can be seen in a study done by Ryan et al. (2000), which found that 33% of the participants did not experience either sexual or physical abuse in their family home which shows how high the rate of abuse is in this population. Findings of high emotional, sexual, and physical abuse has also been discovered by Tyler et al. (2000), who states that at least thirty percent of homeless youth have experienced sexual abuse in the home. Abused and neglected youth may try to escape their household only to be returned home by the police and social services. Repeated running away and being returned home by authorizes creates a cycle of running away, as youth view the streets as freedom from the neglect and abuses at home (Ferguson, 2009). There is a flaw in the way these youth are dealt with by the authorities and it can be related to the homeless youth’s reluctance to access services later on. There is no research highlighting a homeless youths early experiences with social services and how those experiences may affect their decision to access services later on. The problems associated with family dysfunction and abuse include poor school performance, conflict with peers and teachers, as well as conduct problems (Hagan et at., 1997; Bassuk et al., 1996). Previous literature backs up this claim that children and youth who experience neglect and abuse feel isolated, ostracized, seeing others as a threat, with a fear of rejection (Wagner et al., 2007; Bassuk et al., 1996). These early experiences can lead to a distrust of other people including social service workers, which hinders their ability for rehabilitation into contemporary society. The homeless youth’s family history leading to their perception on social services should be taken into account to further develop intervention strategies to encourage participation. Trauma Mental illness is an important factor when it comes to the rehabilitation of homeless youth and their transition into contemporary society. Kidd (2004), states that homeless youth and children are a high risk population who suffer from multiple problems including mental health. Family dysfunction is a major contributor to the poor mental health of homeless youth (Tyler et al., 2013). Many factors of family dysfunction can hinder a youth’s ability to develop mentally at the same rate as peers from non-dysfunctional families (Dubas et al., 1996). In addition to a hindered mental development, homeless youth have a higher risk of experiencing traumatic events in dysfunctional families (Dubas et al., 1996). It has been found that youth deal with their mental illnesses through peer guidance rather than through professionals (Davidson Manion, 1996). Without strong bonds youth who experience traumatic events often use drugs to mask those events with substance dependence (Greene et al ., 1996). Because the youth use their peers for advice more than professionals, strategies must be implemented in order show youth that professional help is the rational choice for advice. Transition to adulthood The departure from home is an expectation in North American society, and is also a major step into adulthood (Dubas et al., 1996). This stage of life is important because it shapes the way a youth live their life’s (Tyler et al., 2013), showing the need for stability in this stage of a youth’s life. Youth from stable family homes are still not prepared to make the transition into adulthood, often relying of family for both emotional as well as financial support to become self-sufficient (Fingerman et al., 2012). With youths in stable homes relying on their family bonds both emotionally and financially the dilemma with homeless youth transitioning into adulthood is apparent because of their lack of bonds and financial support. Seeing as homeless youth often come from poverty, their families may not have the means to support them financially as they gain skills to become self-sufficient. Also due to a families drug use, absence due to incarceration, and physical abuse, an d emotional abuse, the emotional support that is needed to make the transition into adulthood may not be available. These findings back up the need to implement early intervention strategies to show youth that the services are there to help them. Seeking Relationships After leaving the home, youth seek out relationships usually with peers with similar past experiences (Ferguson, 2009). In a study done on homeless youth between the ages of 14 and 26, it was found that being in a stable relationship positively influences the transition out of homelessness (Toro et al., 2007). These findings are corroborated through multiple qualitative interviews done by Chamberlain and Johnson (2008), which found that while the homeless youths had unstable or non-existent relationships at home, they had a network of peers with similar backgrounds in the streets. When homeless youth socialize with each other they gain a sense of belonging that they desire which seems like the reasonable decision to them (Chris et al., 2008). Toro and Johnston (2008) also state that once people become homeless they develop peer relationships with others that share their life experiences, and create a sense of belonging. Newly homeless youth who are seeking a sense of belonging should be able to find it through social services, although it has been found that participants in these services are un-cohesive (Fingerman et al., 2012). It is important to decide whether these relationships are actually positive or just perceived as positive by the youth. These street experienced peers influence the homeless youth into the subculture of homelessness, leading them to multiple risk factors which further entangles the homeless youth in the lifestyle and greatens the need for social services. An example of a relationship that could be either positive or negative would be what Colette and Stephen (2002) describe as street mentorship. These mentors can see the weakness in a newly homeless youth and will use them in exchange for street knowledge (Colette et al. 2002; Wilks et al., 2008). There needs to be a measurement created to more accurately measure relationship strengths taking into account that some relationships may be double edged. Street Victimization Once a youth is on the streets they face further stressors as well as well as a high rate of victimization (Tyler et al., 2010). Different activities these homeless youth may participate in include attempts to find work, asking for money from their family and peers, panhandling, prostitution, survival sex, dealing drugs, and theft (Hagen McCarthy, 1997; Tyler et al., 2010). The types of victimization experienced include verbal, physical, as well as sexual (Ferguson, 2009). A study done by Stewart et al., (2004) estimated the number of direct violent experiences of victimization to be 83% among homeless youth. This victimization can further develop existing mental health issues as well as develop new ones (Tyler et al., 2010). The consequences of victimization relating to mental health include post-traumatic stress disorder, depressive cycles, self-harm, drug use, and suicidal thoughts (Tyler et al., 2010; Hoyt et al., 1999). Indirect victimization is found to be almost as harmful as directly being victimized (Ferguson, 2009). Indirect victimization can include losing a loved one, experiencing threats, and the victimization of others (Ferguson, 2009; Kipke et al., 1997). Homeless youth often lose loved ones due to high rates of mortality among the population with suicide being the leading cause (Kidd Davidson, 2006). The mortality rate among homeless youth in Canada is eleven times higher than their peers (Shaw Dorling, 1998), showing that homeless youth are likely to experience the loss of one of their peers. Kipke et al. (1997) interviewed homeless youth and found that 16% have witnessed someone being sexually assaulted, 20% have seen someone get killed, and 72% have witnessed a violent attack. Developed measures/ Policy Recommendations Measures of Family Moves among Homeless Youth After reviewing the literature gaps relating to measurement as well as areas important to study have become apparent. First of all there are no comparative studies done on different circumstances in which families of homeless youth move homes and its relationship to a youth becoming homeless. This area is important to study so that a better understanding on the effect of multiple moves and their circumstances as they relate to a youth becoming homeless. This may help inform social workers on at risk children and youth at becoming homeless. First of all in order to measure the type of move a scale from zero to three will be devised. Youth who report having a more negative experience with a move will answer closer to three and a youth who has a more positive experience will choose closer to zero. All the scores of a youth will be added together depending on how many moves they have experienced. The higher the score the more at risk the youth is to becoming homeless. Each individual mov e can be examined to see what circumstances of moves creates a more negative experience for the youth. Also there is no data showing the relationship between distance that the youth’s family moves and the youth’s likelihood at becoming homeless. In order for this area to be researched a youth must be able to remember general addresses in order for the distanced moved to be measured. Multiple move distances can be added together in order to gain an insight on the total distance of moves the youth experiences. Also two groups need to be surveyed including a control group compromising of housed youth, and a study group who are currently homeless. I hypothesize that the study group will have significantly higher distances moved when compared to the control group. Youth whose families move over longer distances may have to break off relationships they have made as they enter a new area with no bonds to rely on. The youth who is in a new area may make they feel isolated due to the unfamiliarity. On the other hand I hypothesize that youth who are housed will have a lower distan ce of family moves. Shorter family moves allows the youth to stay in contact with friends and teachers and they give them emotional support. Early experiences with Social services and Current Perception of Social Services The early experiences that youth have with social services likely will have an impact on the way they perceive and use social services. In order to gain an insight on the way a youth perceives social services a qualitative interview should be used in order to gather thoughts and emotions felt by the homeless youth. A study should consist of homeless youth and should take into account the early experiences that a youth has with social services. These early experiences could include removal of siblings by a children’s aid worker, returning the homeless youth home due to police picking them up, interactions with teachers, as well as interactions with councilors. The early experiences can then be compared to the youth’s current perception on social services. This research will provide social workers with an insight on the reasons why social services are not used to their potential so that they can employ practices that can accompany these homeless youth’s needs. Relationship Strength Street relationships are hard to measure due to their negative and positive attributes. In order to find the strengths and weaknesses in street relationships a survey can be implemented accessing each relationship a homeless youth may have with another homeless youth. The following questions can be asked to represent different aspects of a relationship and can be evaluated to see whether street relationships are positive or negative. 0 will be looked at as negative and 5 will be looked at as positive. Overall these questions can determine the strengths and flaws of street relationships: How much comfort do you feel knowing that this person is there for you Could you rely on this person in an emergency Are drugs used when hanging around each other Are crimes committed when hanging around each other Has this person given advice that has allowed you to survive on the street? Has this person taken advantage of you(Selling drugs for them, or committed a crime for them) Discussion/ Conclusion Each individual homeless youth has a variety of factors that lead them to the streets and hinders their ability to leave. The previous literature done on homeless youth have done a good job finding the factors behind a youth becoming homeless but fail to go into detail on each individual factor. Using the scales developed above, further interviews can extract valuable information that can influence early intervention strategies. Also there is a sufficient amount of research done on the reasons why homeless youth avoid using social services. Little research is done the early experiences with social services but it remains important to research because it is unknown how these experiences have an effect of a homeless youth’s decision to use social services. There is also a large amount of literature showing that the type of relationship significantly affects whether or not a youth can escape homelessness. This survey can measure relationship strength and therefore evaluate whether or not that relationship is positive or negative. Finally future research can use these developed measures and policy recommendations to further research in the field. It is important that youth are exposed to positive experiences with social services early, so social service workers should educate youth early on about their programs and services available. Overall this paper examines the details that have been overlooked by the previous literature. Shaw, mortality among street youth in the UK Davidson and mansion facing the challenge: mental health and illness in Canadian youth 1996

Normal Occlusion And Its Characteristics

Normal Occlusion And Its Characteristics The development of human dentition from adolescence to adulthood has been the subject of extensive study by numerous dentists, orthodontists and other experts in the past. While prevention and cure of dental diseases, surgical reconstitution to address teeth anomalies and research studies on teeth and development of the dental arch during the growing up years has been the main concerns across the past decades, in recent years, substantial effort has been evident in the field of mathematical analysis of the dental arch curve, particularly of children from varied age groups and diverse ethnic and national origins. The proper care and development of the primary dentition into permanent dentition is of major importance and the dental arch curvature, whose study has been related intimately by a growing number of dentists and orthodontists to the prospective achievement of ideal occlusion and normal permanent dentition, has eluded a proper definition of form and shape. Many eminent authors have put forth mathematical models to describe the teeth arch curve in humans. Some have imagined it as a parabola, ellipse or conic while others have viewed the same as a cubic spline. Still others have viewed the beta function as best describing the actual shape of the dental arch curve. Both finite mathematical functions as also polynomials ranging from 2nd order to 6th order have been cited as appropriate definitions of the arch in various studies by eminent authors. Each such model had advantages and disadvantages, but none could exactly define the shape of the human dental arch curvature and factor in its features like shape, spacing and symmetry/asymmetry. Recent advances in imaging techniques and computer-aided simulation have added to the attempts to determine dental arch form in children in normal occlusion. This paper presents key mathematical models compares them through some secondary research study. Keywords: Dental Arch,Normal Occlussion,Mixed Dentition INTRODUCTION Primary dentition in children needs to be as close as possible to the ideal in order that during future adulthood, the children may exhibit normal dental features like normal mastication and appearance, space and occlusion for proper and healthy functioning of permanent dentition. Physical appearance does directly impact on the self-esteem and inter-personal behaviour of the human individual, while dental health challenges like malocclusions, dental caries, gum disease and tooth loss do require preventive and curative interventions right from childhood so that permanent dentition may be normal in later years. Prabhakaran, S., et al, (2006) maintain that the various parts of the dental arch during childhood, viz., canine, incisor and molar play a vital role in shaping space and occlusion characteristics during permanent dentition and also stress the importance of the arch dimensions in properly aligning teeth, stabilizing the form, alleviating arch crowding, and providing for a normal overbite and over jet, stable occlusion and a balanced facial profile. Both research aims and clinical diagnosis and treatment have long required the study of dental arch forms, shape, size and other parameters like over jet and overbite, as also the spacing in deciduous dentition. In fact, arch size has been seen to be more important than even teeth size (Facal-Garcia et al., 2001). While various efforts have been made to formulate a mathematical model for the dental arch in humans, the earliest description of the arch was via terms like elliptic, parabolic, etc and, also, in terms of measurement, the arch circumference, width and depth were some of the previous methods for measuring the dental arch curve. Various experts have defined the dental arch curvature through use of biometry by measurement of angles, linear distances ratios (Brader, 1972; Ferrario et al., 1997, 1999, 2001; Harris, 1997; Braun et al., 1998; Burris and Harris, 2000; Noroozi et al., 2001). Such analysis, ho wever, has some limitations in describing a three-dimensional (3D) structure like the dental arch (Poggio et al., 2000). Whereas, there are numerous mathematical models and geometrical forms that have been put forth by various experts, no two models appear to be clearly defined by means of a single parameter (Noroozi, H., et al, 2001). DEFINING THE DENTAL ARCH Models for describing the dental arch curvature include conic sections (Biggerstaff, 1972; Sampson, 1981), parabolas (Jones Richmond, 1989), cubic spline curves (BeGole, E.A., 1980), catenary curves (Battagel, J.M., 1996), and polynomials of second to eight degree (Pepe, S.H., 1975), mixed models and the beta function (Braun, et al, 1998). The definitions differ as because of differences in objectives, dissimilarity of samples studied and diverse methodologies adopted and uniform results in defining and arriving at a generalized model factoring in all symmetries and asymmetries of curvature elude experts even today. Some model may be suitable in one case while others may be more so in another situation. In this respect, conic sections which are 2nd order curves, can only be applied to specific shapes like hyperbolas, eclipse, etc and their efficiency as ideal fit to any shape of the dental arch is thus limited (AlHarbi, S, et al, 2006). The beta function, although superior, consider s only the parameters of molar width and arch depth and does not factor in other dental landmarks. Nor does it consider asymmetrical forms. In contrast, the 4th order polynomial functions are better effective in defining the dental arch than either cubic spline or the beta function (AlHarbi, et al, 2006). AlHadi and others (2006) also maintain that important considerations in defining the human dental arch through mathematical modelling like symmetry or asymmetry, objective, landmarks used and required level of accuracy do influence the actual choice of model made. OCCLUSION AND ITS TYPES Occlusion is the manner in which the lower and upper teeth intercuspate between each other in all mandibular positions or movements. Ash Ramfjord (1982) state that it is a result of neuromuscular control of the components of the mastication systems viz., teeth, maxilla mandibular, periodontal structures, temporomandibular joints and their related muscles and ligaments. Ross (1970) also differentiated between physiological and pathological occlusion, in which the various components function smoothly and without any pain, and also remain in good health. Furthermore, occlusion is a phenomenon that has been generally classified by experts into three types, namely, normal occlusion, ideal occlusion and malocclusion. Ideal Occlusion Ideal occlusion is a hypothetical state, an ideal situation. McDonald Ireland (1998) defined ideal occlusions as a condition when maxilla and mandible have their skeletal bases of correct size relative to one another, and the teeth are in correct relationship in the three spatial planes at rest. Houston et al (1992) has also given various other concepts relating to ideal occlusion in permanent dentition and these concern ideal mesiodistal buccolingual inclinations, correct approximal relationships of teeth, exact overlapping of upper and lower arch both laterally and anteriorly, existence of mandible in position of centric relation, and also presence of correct functional relationship during mandibular excursions. Normal Occlusion and its Characteristics Normal occlusion was first clearly defined by Angle (1899) which was the occlusion when upper and lower molars were in relationship such that the mesiobuccal cusp of upper molar occluded in buccal cavity of lower molar and teeth were all arranged in a smoothly curving line. Houston et al, (1992) defined normal occlusion as an occlusion within accepted definition of the ideal and which caused no functional or aesthetic problems. Andrews (1972) had previously also mentioned of six distinct characteristics observed consistently in orthodontic patients having normal occlusion, viz., molar relationship, correct crown angulation inclination, absence of undesirable teeth rotations, tightness of proximal points, and flat occlusal plane (the curve of Spee having no more than a slight arch and deepest curve being 1.5 mm). To this, Roth (1981) added some more characteristics as being features of normal occlusion, viz., coincidence of centric occlusion and relationship, exclusion of posterior t eeth during protrusion, inclusion of canine teeth solely during lateral excursions of the mandible and prevalence of even bilateral contacts in buccal segments during centric excursion of teeth. Oltramari, PVP et al (2007) maintain that success of orthodontic treatments can be achieved when all static functional objectives of occlusion exist and achieving stable centric relation with all teeth in Maxim intercuspal position is the main criteria for a functional occlusion MATHEMATICAL MODELS FOR MEASURING THE DENTAL ARCH CURVE Whether for detecting future orthodontic problems, or for ensuring normal occlusion, a study of the dental arch characteristics becomes essential. Additionally, intra-arch spacing also needs to be studied so as to help the dentist forecast and prevent ectopic or premature teeth eruption. While studies in the past on dentition in children and young adults have shown significant variations among diverse populations (Prabhakaran et al, 2006), dentists are continuously seized of the need to generalize their research findings and arrive at a uniform mathematical model for defining the human dental arch and assessing the generalizations, if any, in the dental shape, size, spacing and other characteristics. Prabhakaran et al (2006) also maintain that such mathematical modelling and analysis during primary dentition is very important in assessing the arch dimensions and spacing as also for helping ensure a proper alignment in permanent dentition during the crucial period which follows the co mplete eruption of primary dentition in children. They are also of the view that proper prediction of arch variations and state of occlusion during this period can be crucial for establishing ideal desired esthetic and functional occlusion in later years. While all dentists and orthodontists seem to be more or less unanimous in perceiving as important the mathematical analysis of the dental arch in children in normal occlusion, no two experts seem agreeable in defining the dental arch by means of a single generalized model. A single model eludes the foremost dental practitioners owing to the differences in samples studied with regard to their origins, size, features, ages, etc. Thus while one author may have studied and derived his results from studying some Brazilian children under some previously defined test conditions, another author may have studied Afro-American children of another age group, sample size or geographical origins. Also, within the same set of samples studied, there are also marked variations in dental arch shapes, sizes and spacing as found out by leading experts in the field. Shapes are also unpredictable as to the symmetry or asymmetry and this is another obstacle to the theoretical generalization that could evo lve a single uniform mathematical model. However, some notable studies in the past decades do stand out and may be singled out as the most relevant and significant developments in the field till date. The earliest models were necessarily qualitative, rather than quantitative. Dentists talked of ellipse, parabola, conic section, etc when describing the human dental arch. Earlier authors like Hayashi (1962) and Lu (1966) did attempt to explain mathematically the human dental arch in terms of polynomial equations of different orders. However, their theory could not explain asymmetrical features or predict fully all forms of the arch. Later on, authors like Pepe (1975), Biggerstaff (1972), Jones Richmond (1989), Hayashi (1976), BeGole (1980) made their valuable contributions to the literature in the dental field through their pioneering studies on teeth of various sample populations of children in general, and a mathematical analysis of the dental arch in particular. While authors like Pepe and Biggerstaff relied on symmetrical features of dental curvature, BeGole was a pioneer in the field in that he utilized the asymmetrical cubic splines to describe the dental arch. His model assu med that the arch could not be symmetrical and he tried to evolve a mathematical best fit for defining and assessing the arch curve by using the cubic splines. BeGole developed a FORTRAN program on the computer that he used for interpolating different cubic splines for each subject studied and essentially tried to substantiate a radical view of many experts that the arch curve defied geometrical definition and such perfect geometrical shapes like the parabola or ellipse could not satisfactorily define the same. He was of the view that the cubic spline appropriately represented the general maxillary arch form of persons in normal occlusion. His work directly contrasted efforts by Biggerstaff (1972) who defined the dental arch form through a set of quadratic equations and Pepe who used polynomial equations of degree less than eight to fit on the dental arch curve (1975). In Pepes view, there could be supposed to exist, at least in theory, a unique polynomial equation having degree (n + 1) or less (n was number of data points) that would ensure exact data fit of points on the dental arch curve. An example would be the polynomial equation based on Le-Granges interpolation formula viz., Y = n Ã¢â‚¬Å"i=1yi Ã‚ [j ¹i](x-xj)/xi-xj), where xi, yi were data points. In 1989, Jones Richmond used the parabolic curve to explain the form of the dental arch quite effectively. Their effort did contribute to both pre and post treatment benefits based on research on the dental arch. However, Battagel (1996) used the catenary curves as a fit for the arch curvature and published the findings in the popular British Journal of Orthodontics, proving that the British researchers were not far behind their American counterparts. Then, Harris (1997) made a longitudinal study on the arch form while the next year (1998), Braun and others put forth their famous beta function model for defining the dental arch. Braun expressed the beta function by means of a mathematical equation thus: In the Braun equation, W was molar width in mm and denoted the measured distance between right and left 2nd molar distobuccal cusp points and D the depth of the arch. A notable thing was that the beta function was a symmetrical function and did not explain observed variations in form and shape in actual human samples studied by others. Although it was observed by Pepe (1975) that 4th order polynomials were actually a better fit than the splines, in later analyses in the 1990s, it appeared that these were even better than the beta (AlHarbi et al, 2006). In the latter part of the 1990s, Ferrario et al (1999) expressed the dental curve as a 3-D structure. These experts conducted some diverse studies on the dental arch in getting to know the 3-D inclinations of the dental axes, assessing arch curves of both adolescents and adults and statistically analysing the Monsons sphere in healthy human permanent dentition. Other key authors like Burris et al (2000), who studied the maxillary arch sizes and shapes in American whites and blacks, Poggio et al (2000) who pointed out the deficiencies in using biometrical methods in describing the dental arch curvature, and Noroozi et al (2001) who showed that the beta function was solely insufficient to describe an expanded square dental arch form, perhaps, constitute some of the most relevant mathematical analyses of recent years. Most recently, one of the most relevant analyses seems to have been carried out by AlHarbi ad others (2006) who essentially studied the dental arch curvature of individuals in normal occlusion. They studied 40 sets of plaster dental casts both upper and lower of male and female subjects from ages 18 to 25 years. Although their samples were from adults, they considered four most relevant functions, namely, the beta function, the polynomial functions, the natural cubic splines, and the Hermite cubic splines. They found that, whereas the polynomials of 4th order best fit the dental arch exhibiting symmetrical form, the Hermite cubic splines best described those dental arch curves which were irregular in shape, and particularly useful in tracking treatment variations. They formed the opinion at the end of their study of subjects all sourced, incidentally, from nationals of Saudi Arabia that the 4th order polynomials could be effectively used to define a smooth dental arch curve which could further be applied into fabricating custom arch wires or a fixed orthodontic apparatus, which could substantially aid in dental arch reconstruction or even in enhancement of esthetic beauty in patients. COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT MODELS FOR ANALYSING THE DENTAL ARCH The dental arch has emerged as an important part of modern dentistry for a variety reasons. The need for an early detection and prevention of malocclusion is one important reason whereby dentists hope to ensure a normal and ideal permanent dentition. Dentists also increasingly wish to facilitate normal facial appearance in case of teeth and space abnormalities in children and adults. What constitutes the ideal occlusion, ideal intra-arch and adjacent space and correct arch curvature is a matter of comparison among leading dentists and orthodontists. Previous studies done in analyzing dental arch shape have used conventional anatomical points on incisal edges and on molar cusp tips so as to classify forms of the dental arch through various mathematical forms like ellipse, parabola, cubical spline, etc, as has been mentioned in the foregoing paragraphs. Other geometric shapes used to describe and measure the dental arch include the catenary curves. Hayashi (1962) used mathematical equations of the form: y = axn + e Ã‚ ¡(x- Ã‚ ¢) and applied them to anatomic landmarks on buccal cusps and incisal edges of numerous dental casts. However, the method was complex and required estimation of the parameters like Ã‚ ¡, Ã‚ ¢, etc. Also, Hayashi did not consider the asymmetrical curvature of the arch. In contrast, Lu (1966) introduced the concept of fourth degree polynomial for defining the dental arch curve. Later, Biggerstaff (1973) introduced a generalized quadratic equation for studying the close fit of shapes like the parabol a, hyperbola and ellipse for describing the form of the dental arch. However, sixth degree polynomials ensured a better curve fit as mentioned in studies by Pepe, SH (1975). Many authors like Biggerstaff (1972) have used a parabola of the form x2 = -2py for describing the shape of the dental arch while others like Pepe (1975) have stressed on the catenary curve form defined by the equation y = (ex + e-x)/2. Biggerstaff (1973) has also mentioned of the equation (x2/b2) + (y2/a2) = 1 that defines an ellipse. BeGole (1980) then developed a computer program in FORTRAN which was used to interpolate a cubic spline for individual subjects who were studied to effectively find out the perfect mathematical model to define the dental arch. The method due to BeGole essentially utilized the cubic equations and the splines used in analysis were either symmetrical or asymmetrical. Another method, finite element analysis used in comparing dental-arch forms was affected by homology function and the drawbacks of element design. Another, multivariate principal component analyses, as performed by Buschang et al (1994) so as to determine size and shape factors from numerous linear measurements could not satisfactorily explain major variations in dental arch forms and the method failed to provide for a larger generalization in explaining the arch forms. ANALYSING DENTAL ARCH CURVE IN CHILDREN IN NORMAL OCCLUSION Various studies have been conducted by different experts for defining human dental arch curves by a mathematical model and whose curvature has assumed importance, particularly in prediction, correction and alignment of dental arch in children in normal occlusion. The study of children in primary dentition have led to some notable advances in dental care and treatment of various dental diseases and conditions, although, an exact mathematical model for the dental arch curve is yet to be arrived at. Some characteristic features that have emerged during the course of various studies over time indicate that no single arch form could be found to relate to all types of samples studied since the basic objectives, origin and heredity of the children under study, the drawbacks of the various mathematical tools, etc, do inhibit a satisfactory and perfect fit of any one model in describing the dental arch form to any degree of correction. However, it has been evident through the years of continu ous study by dentists and clinical orthodontists that children exhibit certain common features during their childhood, when their dentition is yet to develop into permanent dental form. For example, a common feature is the eruption of primary dentition in children that generally follows a fixed pattern. The time of eruption of various teeth like incisors, molars, canines, etc follow this definite pattern over the growing up years of the child. The differences of teeth forms, shape, size, arch spacing and curvature, etc, that characterize a given sample under study for mathematical analysis, also essentially vary with the nationality and ethnic origin of a child. In one longitudinal study by Henrikson et al (2001) that studied 30 children of Scandinavian origin with normal occlusion, it was found that when children pass from adolescence into adulthood, a significant lack of stability in arch form was discernible. In another study, experts have also indicated that dental arches in som e children were symmetrical, while in others this was not so, indicating that symmetrical form of a dental arch was not a prerequisite for normal occlusion. All these studies based on mathematical analysis of one kind or another have thrown up more data rather than been correlated to deliver a generalized theory that can satisfactorily associate a single mathematical model for all dental arch forms in children with normal occlusion. CONCLUSION Factors that determine satisfactory diagnosis in orthodontic treatment include teeth spacing and size, the dental arch form and size. Commonly used plaster model analysis is cumbersome, whereas many scanning tools, like laser, destructive and computer tomography scans, structured light, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound techniques, do exist now for accurate 3-D reconstruction of the human anatomy. The plaster orthodontic methods can verily be replaced successfully by 3-D models using computer images for arriving at better accurate results of study. The teeth measurement using computer imaging are accurate, efficient and easy to do and would prove to be very useful in measuring tooth and dental arch sizes and also the phenomenon of dental crowding. Mathematical analysis, though now quite old, can be applied satisfactorily in various issues relating to dentistry and the advances in computer imaging, digitalization and computer analysis through state-of-the-art software program s, do herald a new age in mathematical modelling of the human dental arch which could yet bring in substantial advancement in the field of Orthodontics and Pedodontics. This could in turn usher in an ideal dental care and treatment environment so necessary for countering lack of dental awareness and prevalence of dental diseases and inconsistencies in children across the world.

Aldous Huxley :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When Aldous Huxley wrote Brave New World in 1931, nobody imagined that his fairytale story would someday be a reality. It is almost scary to see how accurate Huxley’s far-fetched fantasies came to be. When Huxley wrote about the conformity, drug use and sex and technology of the society, he was almost pinpoint exact to predicting today’s societies. Unfortunately, all of these things haven’t exactly changed our society today for the better.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is amazing to see how accurately Aldous Huxley was in his predictions to human conformity today. The novel’s classes of Alphas, Betas, Gammas, Deltas and Epsilons each have assigned roles. In the novel, each caste is brainwashed into believing that it is crucial and important for the well being of the society as a whole. Since everyone is brainwashed at such an early age, nobody really questions the order or rules. However, there are always those few who refuse to conform. The novel’s John, Helmholtz Watson, and Bernard Marx were all exiled from their society by the World Controller Mustapha Mond. Their actions involving the soma in the hospital were considered far too disruptive to society and they were no longer allowed to co-exist in the preset world of Ford. Our own world is very similar to the world of Ford as we ‘exile’ all who are different. One example of a group whom our society’s majority refuses to accept is the gay population. They could, of course, chose to go against their ways and date the opposite sex just so that they would be accepted, but because they do not, most people refuse to accept that and therefore exile them. The conformity struggle starts as young as elementary school. Popularity is based upon those who conform the best and follow everyone else and unfortunately, those who are different and stand out are usually harassed for their differences.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Drugs are one of the most copious problems that exist today, as we are beginning to see more and more of them in today’s society. Drugs have even become commonly used by today’s youth starting as low as elementary school. The need to feel that ‘high’ has become more and more common. Unfortunately, the drugs used in today’s society aren’t as safe as those used in Huxley’s world. â€Å"Soma† is the drug of choice in Huxley’s world which gave similar ‘highs’ as does ecstasy, but did not have the harmful side effects.

Educational Philosophy :: Philosophy of Education Teaching Essays

Educational Philosophy For some, it is an occupation – a means of earning a living. For others, it is a skill performed with great ability and proficiency. What is it? It is teaching. Teaching, as defined by Webster’s New World Dictionary, is to â€Å"show or help (a person) to learn (how) to do something; to provide with knowledge, insight, etc.†(Webster’s, p. 605). Since the beginning of civilization, teaching has encompassed people’s lives. Building on the knowledge learned from his beloved teacher, Socrates, Plato created his own school to encourage others in their pursuit of knowledge. Even though the styles and philosophies of teaching have changed greatly since 2000B.C., the concept of an ideal teacher remains the same. Excellent educators inspire their students to reach for the stars. Our public education system in West Virginia is due to the valiant efforts of our forefathers. Fighting for a training arrangement applicable to ALL students, these pioneers provided the groundwork from which we have expounded. Our ancestors appreciated the importance of an adequate education, and now, it is our responsibility as present and future educators to continue the tradition. Providing equal and superb instruction to all students should be the number one priority for us teachers. Public educators have the greatest opportunity – to touch a child’s life for the better. As a public school teacher, I would set the expectations for my students at ceiling level, but then provide them with the ladder and walk them through each wrung to ensure accomplishment. I want to instill in my students that each child has the capacity for success (keeping in mind that each person has his own definition for success) and a lifelong thirst for knowledge. Children are like clothing. Some are â€Å"ironed† and â€Å"clean† from a childhood of love and true nurturing. Some are â€Å"wrinkled† and â€Å"worn† from a childhood of abuse and neglect. Some appear â€Å"irregular† as a result of a handicap or disability. Sadly, many are â€Å"labeled†, whether positively or negatively, before they complete their years in school.

Characteristics Of Major Agro Ecological Zones Environmental Sciences Essay

Africa is a really big continent with highly broad scope of dirts ( Bationo et al. , 2006 ) . The soils scope from shoal with meager vital capacities to deeply weather-beaten profiles that recycle and back up big biomass. In many parts of Africa, inappropriate land usage, hapless direction and deficiency of inputs have led to dirty eroding, salinization and loss of flora ensuing in a diminution of agricultural productiveness ( Bationo et al. , 2006 ) . In Africa and peculiarly Southern Africa, the most confining factor to agricultural productiveness is soil birthrate ( Ramaru et al. , 2000 ) . Soil birthrate is defined as a status of the dirt that enables it to supply foods in equal sums and in proper balance for the growing of specified workss when other growing factors, such as visible radiation, H2O, temperature, and physical, chemical and biological conditions of dirt, are favourable ( van der Watt and new wave Rooyen, 1995 ) . Large countries of sub-Saharan African ( SSA ) soils, in peculiar, are affected by assorted types of debasement, including birthrate diminution ( FAO, 2001 ) . Soil birthrate diminution is a impairment of chemical, physical and biological dirt belongingss. The chief contributing procedures, besides dirt eroding, are: diminution in organic affair and dirty biological activity ; debasement of dirt construction and loss of other dirt physical qualities ; decrease in handiness of major foods ( N, P, K ) and micro-nutrients ; and increase in toxicity, due to acidification or pollution ( FAO, 2001 ) . Soils in most of SSA have inherently low birthrate and do non have equal alimentary refilling ( FAO, 2001 ) . The SSA has the lowest mineral fertiliser ingestion, about 10 kilogram foods ( N, P2O5, K2O ) /ha per twelvemonth, compared to the universe norm of 90 kilograms, 60 kilogram in the Near East and 130 kg/ha per twelvemonth in Asia ( Stoorvogel and Smaling, 1990 ) . Agricultural growing in sub-Saharan African states somewhat increased over the past three decennaries, although non in line with the high population growing rate ( FAO, 2001 ) . Food production per capita in sub-Saharan Africa ( SSA ) has declined since the 1970s, in contrast with the addition in Asia and South America ( Figure 1.1 ) . Soil productiveness in SSA is besides constrained by fruitlessness ( low rainfall ) and sourness ( FAO, 2001 ) ( Table 1.1 ) . South Africa has to confront high population growing, poorness, accelerated dirt debasement and increasing force per unit area on land ( FAO, 1999b ) ( Table 1.1 ) . Depletion of dirt birthrate, along with the related jobs of weeds, plagues, and diseases, is a major biophysical cause of low per capita nutrient production in Africa. This is the consequence of the dislocation of traditional patterns and the low precedence given by authoritiess to the rural sector ( Sanchez, 1997 ) . The 1996 World Food Summit highlighted sub-Saharan Africa as the staying part in the universe with diminishing nutrient production per capita ( Figure 1.1 ) . The worst degrees of poorness and malnutrition in the universe exist in this part ( Sanchez et al. , 1997 ) . A squad of scientists has identified worsening dirt birthrate as the cardinal agronomic cause for worsening nutrient productiveness in Africa. A â€Å" Soil Fertility Initiative for Africa † has been created by a group of international organisations including the World Bank, Food and Agriculture Organization ( FAO ) , International Center for Research on Agroforestry ( ICRAF ) , International Fertil izer Development Center ( IFDC ) , International Fertilizer Association ( IFA ) , and International Food Policy Research Institute ( IFPRI ) . Table 1.1: Features of major agro-ecological zones in Africa ( FAO, 1986 ) Figure 1.1: Regional tendencies in nutrient production per capita ( FAO, Statistical Analysis Service, 2000 ) As the chief beginning of economic activity in SSA is agricultural production, worsening dirt productiveness means non merely that less nutrient can be grown but besides that production of hard currency harvests for export is endangered ( FAO, 1999a ) . It is hence indispensable that production and dirts be managed in a sustainable manner, so that the present coevals is fed and soil conditions are improved to back up future coevalss. The Republic of South Africa covers an country of 121, 9 million hour angle and has a entire population of about 46,6 million people ( NDA, 2007 ) . Approximately 83 % of agricultural land in South Africa is used for graze, while 17 % is cultivated for hard currency harvests. Forestry comprises less than 2 % of the land and about 12 % is reserved for preservation intents ( NDA, 2007, Land Type Survey Staff, 1972-2002 & A ; Land Type Survey Staff, 1972-2006 ) . Land used for agribusiness comprises 81 % of the state ‘s entire country, while natural countries account for approximately 9 % ( Abstract, 2005 ) . High-voltage cultivable land comprises merely 22 % of the entire cultivable land and merely approximately 13 % of South Africa ‘s surface country can be used for harvest production ( NDA, 2007 ) . Slightly more than 1,3 million hour angle of land is under irrigation. Rainfall is distributed unevenly across the state, with humid, semitropical conditions happening in the E and dry, desert conditions in the West ( NDA, 2007 ) . The most of import factor that limits agricultural production is the non-availability of H2O. About 50 % of South Africa ‘s H2O is used for agricultural intents. Areas of moderate to high cultivable possible occur chiefly in the eastern portion of the state, in Mpumalanga and Gauteng states ( Figure 1.2 ) . Scattered spots besides occur in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo states. Low to marginal possible countries occur in the eastern half of the state and in parts of the Western Cape. Map in Figure 1 shows big countries in the desiccant parts of South Africa ( e.g. south-western Free State ; western parts of the Eastern Cape and the North West Province ) that are being cultivated, but which are non classified as holding any possible for cultivable agribusiness. Repeated harvest failure and subsequent forsaking of these less than fringy lands can hold of import effects for dirt eroding and land debasement in general ( Hoffman, M.T. & A ; A. Ashwell, 2001 ) . Figure 1.2: The distribution of cultivable possible land in South Africa ( ARC – ISCW, 2002 ) . Soil birthrate challenges coupled with deficits of rainfall could ensue in a compounded job of nutrient deficit and dearth. For dirt birthrate to be sustained, extracted dirt foods must be replenished dirt foods, but in big countries of Africa and other parts of the universe, more dirt foods are extracted than replenished ( Ndala and Mabuza, 2006 ) . There is hence planetary concern of birthrate direction particularly with the recent additions in nutrient monetary values. Soil birthrate and its direction therefore have continued to play an of import function in farm productiveness. Farmers, their advisers, and any agriculturists need to be knowing of the dirt belongingss which have an influence on dirt birthrate, some of which include dirt texture, construction, organic affair, cation exchange capacity, base impregnation, bulk denseness and pH. These belongingss besides have an influence in finding land capableness for agribusiness as they are besides cardinal indexs for dirt quality . Although important advancement has been made in research in developing methodological analysiss and engineerings for battling dirt birthrate depletion, the low acceptance rate is a ground for the big difference between husbandmans ‘ outputs and possible outputs ( Bationo et al. , 2006 ) . This survey therefore aims to find the influence of dirt physico-chemistry and clay fraction mineralogy on the birthrate position of selected potency uncultivated cultivable dirts of University of Limpopo Experimental farm ( Syferkuil ) in Limpopo Province. This will promote enlargement of cultivable agribusiness in the country to better the supports in footings of relieving nutrient insecurity and poorness.PROBLEM STATEMENTWhen measuring land for agricultural capablenesss, properties such as incline, stoniness and thickness of the dirt stratum are taken into consideration. Soil physico-chemical and dirt clay mineralogical belongingss are frequently overlooked. Ekosse et Al. ( 2011 ) showed th at these dirt physico-chemical and clay mineralogical belongingss and their composings play a important function in suitableness of land for cultivable agribusiness. Information on the mineralogy and alimentary position of uncultivated dirts in Limpopo Province is missing, particularly of dirts found in the communal countries where smallholder agribusiness is practiced. Such information is important for any scheme that seeks to increase and better the productiveness of cropped or possible cultivable agricultural land. One of import requirement of nutrient security is entree to land, as more people need to bring forth their nutrient supplies and do a life from the land. Traditional land direction systems are dependent on the handiness of sufficient land to let long fallow periods to keep dirt birthrate. When there is no more entree to new land, the fallow land has to be used and soil birthrate falls. More intensive usage of the land besides implies that it becomes more prone to dirty eroding. To keep and raise its productiveness, new sustainable direction steps have to be introduced. As the chief beginning of economic activity in Limpopo Province besides excavation is the agricultural production, worsening dirt productiveness non merely means less harvests is grown but besides that, production of hard currency harvests and income are endangered. Huge bulk of South Africans, peculiarly Limpopo occupants, purchase their staple nutrient from commercial providers, instead than turning them themselves ( Statistics South Africa, 2009 ) . Rising nutrient monetary values, peculiarly of corn and wheat which are the staple diet of the hapless in South Africa, pose serious jobs for the urban and rural hapless as most are net purchasers instead than agriculturists of their basic nutrient. Recent information from the Food and Agricultural Organisation ( 2009 ) and Heady & A ; Fan ( 2008 ) suggest that nutrient monetary values will increase steadily over the following decennary even if there are some fluctuations and the occasional bead in monetary values ( Evans, 2009 ) . Thi s therefore poses the demand for more enlargement of cultivable land for agribusiness so as to better supports of the hapless families. Population force per unit area and urban enlargement seem to be doing the loss of high possible agricultural lands. Hence nutrient demand is lifting which leads to nutrient insecurity, therefore extension of cultivable agricultural lands would extremely be required. In a recent survey, Van Averbeke and Khosa ( 2007 ) reported that while income is the most of import determiner of family nutrient security in some countries around Limpopo Province, nutrient obtained from assorted types of dry-land agribusiness contributed significantly to household nutrition. They argue that without farming the nutrient security of these families would be reduced, particularly for the ultra-poor. The land is used beyond its capableness, the type of use would non be sustainable and the land debasement would ensue. Equally of import is the fact that if land is used below its true capableness so the full economic potency of the usage of the land would non be realized. Although small production addition has taken topographic point at the Experimental farm ( Syferkuil farm ) , which has been obtained by cultivation of hapless and fringy lands, the productiveness of most bing lands has been ignored. With population go oning to increase in the country and the state as a whole, the demand to take note of the fallow or abundant lands on the farm has become more of import. Bettering dirt birthrate could trip rural and national economic development, achieve long-run nutrient security and better husbandmans ‘ criterions of life, while extenuating environmental and rural migration. Therefore, rectifying land debasement and heightening productiveness through appropriate dirt directio n and preservation can play a major function in accomplishing farm family nutrient security and agricultural development in the country. This research will therefore contribute to the bing database on the physico-chemistry and mineralogy of agricultural dirts of Limpopo Province, peculiarly those at Syferkuil farm. It will besides help husbandmans and persons around the country with information and consciousness on the birthrate position and capableness of the dirts in their community, so they can originate agricultural activities on those lands which are left fallow or abundant.1.3. AIM OF THE STUDYThe purpose of this survey is to find the dirt physico-chemistry, clay mineralogy and birthrate position of selected uncultivated cultivable dirts within the University Of Limpopo Experimental Farm Of Capricorn District in Limpopo Province, with the position of placing extra potency cultivable lands for agribusiness in the part.1.4. Aim OF THE STUDYTo find physico-chemical belongingss of selected uncultivated and cultivated dirts on the farm and their influence on dirt birthrate. To find the clay mineralogical composing of the selected uncultivated and cultivated dirts on the farm and their influence on dirt birthrate. To find the chemical science of the selected uncultivated and cultivated dirts on the farm and their influence on dirt birthrate. To find the birthrate index of the selected uncultivated and cultivated dirts on farm and their influence on dirt birthrate. To bring out and understand the function of dirt physico-chemical and clay mineralogical belongingss act uponing the birthrate of the selected dirts on the farm.RESEARCH QUESTIONSThese inquiries will help in achieving the aims of the survey: What are the physico-chemical belongingss of the selected dirts? What is the clay mineralogical composing of the selected dirts? What is the chemical composing of the selected dirts? What is the birthrate index of the selected dirts? Make the dirt physico-chemical and clay mineralogical belongingss affect the birthrate position of the selected dirts on the farm for sustainable agribusiness?HypothesisThis research will be guided by the undermentioned hypotheses: Most possible uncultivated cultivable lands on the farm could be used to spread out and better agricultural outputs. Soil physico-chemical and clay mineralogical belongingss with their influence on dirt birthrate are cardinal indexs for sustainable agribusiness.1.7. Rationale OF THE STUDYSouth Africa has a broad scope of dirts of different physico-chemical and clay mineralogical composing. Limpopo Province entirely has a diverseness of dirts and climatic conditions allowing a assortment of different signifiers of agribusiness, ( White Paper on Agriculture, 1995 ) . In support of nutrient security and ego saving, it is now strategically of import for any country to hold available information on the comparative suitablenesss of their dirts for agribusiness, so that penchant may be given for the land more suited for agribusiness. In this procedure, it is of import to cognize the comparative quality of the land so that its usage can be regulated in conformity with the suitableness of the peculiar dirts. Local husbandmans have ever relied on the agricultural research end product and extension from Syferkuil experimental farm since their clime, and the dirts they farm on developed from the same parent stuff as the 1s at Syferkuil. The environing farm community and governments of the country, will therefore benefit from this survey by obtaining information on the physico-chemistry and clay mineralogy of their dirts every bit good as the dirts ‘ comparative suitableness for agribusiness. Economically, capableness categorization of the dirts in Mankweng country can help in promoting the governments toward induction of the assorted farming systems on the identified possible cultivable lands. In this manner single dirts could be best utilised for the types of agricultural production for which they are best and most economically suited.1.8. STUDY AREAThe location, topography, clime, flora, dirts, geology and hydrology of the country are briefly described below in the subsequent subdiv isions.1.8.1. Location of the survey countryLimpopo is South Africa ‘s northernmost state, lying within the great curve of the Limpopo River. The state borders the states of Botswana to the West, Zimbabwe to the North and Mozambique and Swaziland to the E as shown in Figure 1.3 ( DBSA, 1998 ) . Limpopo Province is divided into five Municipal territories ( Figure 1.3 ) : Capricorn, Mopani, Sekhukhune, Vhembe and Waterberg, which are further divided into 24 local Municipalities ( Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003 ) . The Province occupies a entire surface country of 125A 755 km2, approximately 10.3 % of South Africa ‘s land country ( Limpopo Province Natural Resource Map, 2003 ) .The population is about 5 355A 172 which is 11.3 % of South African population ( Statistics SA, 2003 ) . Syferkuil is the experimental farm of the University of Limpopo ( 23o49 ‘ S ; 29o41 ‘ Tocopherol ) situated in the Mankweng country, in Capricorn territory municipality, South Africa. The farm is 1 650 hour angle in size ( Moshia et al. , 2008 ) . Syferkuil experimental farm, for about 39 old ages now ( Moshia et al. , 2008 ) has served as the chief Centre of University of Limpopo ‘s horticultural, agronomic, and carnal production researches, on which both undergraduate and alumnus pupil researches along with hands-on preparations are conducted. The farm is bordered by five populated rural agriculture communities which are Mamotintane, Ga-Makanye, Ga-Thoka, Solomondale and Mankweng. On this farm, approximately 25 hour angles are presently allocated for rain fed harvests, 80 hour angle for irrigated harvests, and 40 hour angle are used for rotary motion of winter and summer harvests. The 80 hour angle irrigated harvests are served by an machine-controlled additive mo ve irrigation system ( Moshia, 2008 ) . Figure 1.3: Locality Map of the survey country Figure 1.4: A scale aerial exposure map ( scaly 1: 10 000 ) of University of Limpopo ( Syferkuil ) ‘s experimental farm ( Moshia et al. , 2008 )1.8.2. Land-Use of the survey countryLimpopo Province constitute a sum of 12.3 million hectares land, out of which about 9.24 million hour angle. is utilised as farming area ( LDA, 2002 ) . This 9.24 million hectares of farming area about 0.93 million hour angle. of it is utilised as cultivable land, 6.68 million hour angle. as natural graze, 1.7 million hour angle. For nature preservation, 0.1 million hour angle for forestry and for other intents. Seventy six per centum of the cultivable Land is allocated to dry land ( 0.7 million hour angle ) cultivation and merely 0.223 million hour angle for irrigation systems.1.8.3. Geology of the survey countryThe geology of Limpopo is complex and diverse ; it varies from Palaeo-Archaean mafic, ultramafic and felsic extrusives to Mesozoic sedimentary stones and inundation basalts ( RSA Geological Map series, 1984 ) . The stone formations in the State can be considered in four chief divisions based on clip and general homogeneousness viz. : the Archaean, by and large known as the ‘Basal ‘ or ‘Fundamental ‘ Complex ; the Pre-Cambrian, or Algonquian Systems ; the Palaeozoic, pre-Karoo Formations ; the Mesozoic and the Karoo System. The topography of the part varies from comparatively level countries to cragged terrain ( Barker et al. , 2006 ) . Limpopo is rich in minerals with economic value ( White Paper on Agriculture, 1995 ) . Prevailing minerals in the eastern portion of Limpopo include Pt and its group metals, chrome, Cu, phosphate and andalusite. The Western side is characterised by Pt, granite, and coal minerals, while diamonds, coal, magnesite, and hints of granite dominate the Northern portion of the Province. Mineral resources that are presently being mined in the state are Andalusite, Antinomy, calcite, chrome, clay, coal, Cu, diamonds, emeralds, felspar, fluorite, gold, granite, limestone, magnesite, manganese, cosmetic stone-Slate, phosphate, Pt, salt, sand & A ; rock, silicon oxide and Zn ( Dramstad et al. , 1996 ) .1.8.4. Climate of the survey countryLimpopo falls in the summer rainfall part with the western portion of the Province being semi-arid, and the eastern portion mostly sub-tropical, ( Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003 ) . The western and far northern parts of the Province experience frequ ent drouths. Winter throughout Limpopo is mild and largely frost-free. The mean one-year temperatures for the southern to cardinal plateau countries of the state is by and large below 20oC ; in the Lowveld and northern parts mean one-year temperatures are above 20oC. The state receives summer rainfall between October and March peaking in January. The average one-year precipitation ranges between 380mm in the North and merely over 700mm in parts of the Waterberg ( Koch, 2005 ) . The clime of the survey site is classified as semi-arid with the one-year precipitation of approximately A ±495 mm per annum. The average one-year temperature of 25A ±1oC ( soap ) and 10A ±1oC ( min ) was common during the old ages of survey. Annually, the farm averages 170 frost-free yearss widening from late October to mid April. Figure 1.5: Monthly norm rainfall as recorded in the Limpopo Province ( LDA, 2002 ) Rainfall informations ( figure 1.5 ) indicating that most rainfall occurs between November and March, runing between 80 millimeters and 130mm. It should, nevertheless, be noted that these figures indicate an mean rainfall and lower rainfall can be expected in most territories.1.8.5. Dirts of the survey countryThere are broad assortments of dirts that occur in the Province, be givening to be sandy in the West, but with more clay content toward the E, ( Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003 ) . The dirts are differentiated based on deepness, the nature of diagnostic skylines and parent stuffs, ( FAO, 1999 ) . Those dirts are chiefly developed on basalt, sandstone and biotite gneiss and are by and large of low built-in dirt birthrate ( FAO, 1999 ) . Limpopo Province has diverse dirts, nevertheless, five major dirt associations have been identified, ( FAO, 1999 ) : of which Dystrophic, ruddy and xanthous, good drained clayed dirts are extremely leached, clay-like, acidic dirts found in the high rainfall countries of Drakensberg and Soutpansberg scope. They are bouldery, found on steep inclines and are of low birthrate. As such, they by and large have limited value as cultivable land but are suited for afforestation. Red, yellow and Grey dirts in caternary association are flaxen and loamy dirts in the 300-600 millimeter rainfall belt in the western and northwesterly portion of the Province. They are suited for cultivable agriculture, but by and large occur in the low rainfall countries west and north of Thabazimbi, Vaalwater, Lephalale and Polokwane. Black and ruddy clay dirts have with changing sums of stone and lithosol, found in a narrow strip analogue to the eastern boundary line, the Springbok Flats ( Settlers and Roedtan ) a nd the southwesterly boundary near Dwaalpooort and Derdepoort. Although extremely erodible, they are utilised extensively for dryland harvests such as cotton and winter cereals. Duplex and paraduplex dirts are characterized by surface soil that is distinguishable from sub-soil with respect to texture, construction and consistence. Major happenings are in Sekhukhune, south to southwest of Lephalale in Waterberg territory, between Louis Trichardt and Tshipise, and subdivisions of Vhembe District near the eastern boundary line. They are by and large non utilised as cultivable land due to high erodibility. Poorly developed dirts on stone consist of surface soil overlying stone or weathered stone. They are found to the E of the Drakensberg, including a big subdivision of Mopani District, and E and West of Musina. They tend to be bouldery, with shallow dirts and hence by and large unsuitable for cultivable agriculture. Black and ruddy, fertile clay dirts occur on the Springbok Flats, with ruddy brown sandy loam to the Northern and Western portion of the state, ( FAO, 1999 ) . The mountains have deeper, extremely leached ruddy dirts in wetting agent countries, with more open stone where it is besides dry. Red brown, gravelly dirts, which have a low birthrate, predominate on the Lowveld, the best agricultural dirts being alluvial dirts next to the rivers. The Province has a few high possible countries for dryland harvest production and many chances for extended ranching and irrigated fruit and harvest production, ( Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003 ) .1.8.6. Vegetation of the survey countryThe geographical location, rainfall forms and varied physical and climatic conditions have given rise to diverse flora across the state. The flora found in the state have been classified into inland tropical wood ; tropical shrub and Savannah ; pure grassveld ; and false grassveld types ( Development Ban k of South Africa, 1998 ) . The inland tropical woods include the northeasterly mountain sourveld and Lowveld rancid Bushveld types. Tropical shrub and savannah comprise the Lowveld, waterless Lowveld, Springbok flats turf thornveld, other sod thornveld, waterless sweet bushveld, mopani veld, assorted bushveld, lemony assorted bushveld and rancid Bushveld types ( Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003 ) . Pure grassveld types include the northeasterly flaxen Highveld types. The false grassveld types include the Polokwane tableland false grassveld.1.8.7. Topography of the survey countryLimpopo Province has diverse topographic characteristics. In the E is the level to gently undulating Lowveld field, at an height of 300 to 600 m, bounded in the West by the Northern Drakensberg escarpment and Soutpansberg, with steep inclines and peaks up to the 2000m ( LDA, 2002 ) . The about degree Springbok flats in the South prevarication at an height of 900 m, while the Waterberg and Blouber g to the North, with rippling to really steep terrain, reach 2 000 m. The North- Western zone is a level to rippling field, which slopes down to the North and West at 800 to 1 000 m.1.8.8. Hydrology/Water Resources of the survey countryThe Department of Water Affairs and Forestry ( DWAF ) classifies South Africa as a water-stressed state, prone to fickle and unpredictable extremes such as inundations and drouths that cut down land to a dry and waterless barren ( Water Research Commission, 2002 ) . Water resources in South Africa are limited doing them critically of import for the sustainable economic and societal development of the state ( Dennis and Nell, 2002 ) . This is one of the grounds why it is of import to protect the scarce H2O resources of the state. Rivers are the chief beginning of H2O for the state. In the Limpopo Province, there are Four Management Areas viz. : Limpopo ; Luvubu & A ; Letaba ; Krokodil Wee & A ; Merico and Olifants ( NDA, 2000 ) . Applied research on irrigation and fertiliser methods are practiced on the research secret plans on the farm. There are two 10-ha secret plans fitted with separate irrigation systems used by research workers and pupils for research on field harvests.1.8.9. Agricultural activities of the survey countryThe agricultural sector in the state is divided into three wide sub-sectors viz. commercial farms, emerging commercial farms and subsistence farms, ( Development Bank of South Africa, 1998 ) . The commercial farms fall in the larger farm size class, emerging commercial farms in the medium size and subsistence farms in the smallest size ( LDA, 2002 ) . The emerging and subsistence farms are jointly called small-scale farms which are largely located in the former fatherlands. The varied climes of Limpopo Province allows it to bring forth a broad assortment of agricultural green goodss runing from tropical fruits such as banana, Mangifera indicas to cereals such as corn, wheat and veggies s uch as tomatoes, onion and murphies ( NDA, 2001 ) . Limpopo Province has big country of land suited for dry-land production ( LDA, 2002 ) . Maize is the staple nutrient of bulk of people in Limpopo Province and is mostly grown by the different classs of husbandmans both for family, industrial and carnal ingestion. On the footing of country and volume of production, it remains the most of import cereal grain produced in the Province despite the dry and drought prone agro-ecology of much of the part ( LDA, 2002 ) . Climatic fluctuation could take to fluctuations in maize outputs. As a basic nutrient in the Province, corn has a big and stable market and is the most of import agricultural merchandise in South Africa ( NDA, 2001 ) .1.9. Summary of chapterThe chapter has clearly provided the background of the survey sketching the general construct of clay mineral and their influence on dirt birthrate for harvest production. It has besides outlined the purposes, aims, research inquiries, job statement, principle and hypothesis of the researc h undertaking. The map of the survey site exemplifying the location of the site in Capricorn territory municipality and the suitableness map of the survey site has been provided. The geology, mineralogy, clime, dirts and agricultural activities of the survey site have besides been outlined. The dirt physico-chemical and clay mineralogical belongingss are reviewed in the subsequent chapter.