Martha Stewart Omnimedia Report

Summary The conviction of Martha Stewart on allegations of insider trading dented her public image as well as the image of the MSO Company. The allegations also led to loss of public trust that significantly affected employee morale and performance, company communication channels, and leadership credibility within the company.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Martha Stewart Omnimedia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More My recommendations, to enable the company turn around and achieve profitability, revolve around enhancing employee morale, rebranding, implementing CRM, and adopting a horizontal organizational structure where, power and authority is spread among many people. Previously, the company brands had a close association with Martha’s name, who wielded a lot of influence within the company. The new management model should focus on selling the company’s image and separating the MSO identity from Martha. Analysis of the MSO Case Prior to the legal crisis in the late 2001, Martha Stewart had a prosperous career. However, the stock sale scandal led to legal suits that resulted to her conviction in 2004, which turned her career and her life upside down. It all began in 1999, when Martha bought shares of a biotech company, ImClone, which dealt with the manufacture of drugs. During this period, ImClone shares were doing well in the stock market hence, Martha’s decision to invest in the company. However, subsequent events in the same year dented the financial prospects of the biotech company. ImClone’s owner, Sam Waksal, aiming at improving the profitability and revenue of the company, approved the release of a new cancer drug, Erbitux, by the company. Before the FDA announcement date, Sam received prior information that the FDA was not going to approve the drug on the due date. Acting on advice from Sam, Martha sold her ImClone stocks. As a result, Martha faced alle gations of insider trading, which led to her conviction in 2004. Consequently, the conviction tarnished Martha’s reputation and the MSO shares’ value declined significantly. Most importantly, the morale of the employees and credibility of the management were affected by these events. Implications of Martha’s Conviction Martha Stewart allegations involved insider trading and other business malpractices. Her conviction in 2004 had profound implications on her career and the image of her organization, MSO. Prior to her conviction, Martha enjoyed a prosperous career as the founder of MSO, a large corporation with branches in many areas including publishing, merchandising, and broadcasting. The product offerings of the company reflected the tastes and preferences of Martha. In addition, the brand name of most of the products, that earned the respect of many in the United States, bore her name. Martha also was a writer; she published many books and magazines through M SO.Advertising Looking for report on communications media? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, her conviction resulted to a crisis in her personal life, as well as to the MSO Company. The performance of MSO stocks declined tremendously in the course of her conviction. The employee morale also declined while anxiety and stress levels increased. As a result, the public lost trust in the company. Therefore, the management should adopt a different strategy once Martha returns to the company. In my opinion, stress management training should be integrated into employee development programs. Additionally, a new organizational structure that delegates responsibility and powers on many senior executives, not only on Martha, is appropriate. Strategies to improve Communication The conviction of Martha caused a crisis that created extensive negative consequences in three main organizational areas at MSO management viz. communication , employee relations, and morale and leadership credibility. With regard to communication, the top management at MSO should consider a communication model that emphasizes on teamwork. In particular, the internal communication should focus on improving consumer attitudes and influencing organizational behavior patterns within Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (MSO). Presently, the brand name of MSO is associated with its chief executive officer. Thus, the external communication strategies should aim at making a clear separation between personalities and the company’s identity. In this way, individual business malpractices by the management will not affect the reputation of the company. In essence, the company values override the interests of the founder(s). In addition, the communication model should strengthen the employee performance by informing them of the current trends within MSO and align employee goals with organizational goals. Essentially, employees in any organization possess diverse skills and different cultural backgrounds. Hence, internal communication in MSO should be open and allow participation from all employees. MSO should adopt a communication strategy, whether oral or written, that allows clear expression of expectations, concerns, or suggestions and regular feedback, both internally and externally.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Martha Stewart Omnimedia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As a way of enhancing external communication and company image, the MSO management should implement a customer relationship management (CRM) strategy alongside rebranding of its products. CRM employs the Internet and social media to manage customer relationships and enhance customer loyalty and product or price differentiation. MSO management should build a database regarding its customers so that the employees, management and other service providers can easily access customer inf ormation and align their product offerings with customer needs. Additionally, the CRM database can be used to notify customers and investors of any rebranding of the customer products or services (Payne et al., 2001, p. 197). Improvement in telesales or profits will indicate the success of this CRM strategy. Addressing the Employee Morale and Leadership Credibility Issues Evidently, the ImClone scandal that implicated Martha, the MSO’s Chief Executive Officer, led to loss of public trust in the company. Consequently, the employee morale and motivation, as well as performance, were adversely affected (Stajkovic, Luthans, 2003, p. 155). To improve on employee motivation and morale and boost performance, many organizational changes have to be implemented to address the internal problems. Firstly, the MSO management should adopt an organizational structure. With the resignation of Martha as the company’s CEO, much restructuring at the management is necessary. Since the fo under and mentor of the company has left the company, the new top management should endeavor to motivate and raise the morale of the employees, enhance proper communication channels, and align the employee goals with that of the company. According to Maslow’s theory, this will create job security and enhance employee performance. Secondly, the company should adopt a new organizational culture that emphasizes on teamwork. In this way, employee concerns and needs can be addressed adequately. Additionally, a strong organizational culture will promote desirable morals and values that are essential in the future growth of the company. Rebranding is another way the company can project a strong image to the public and enhance employee morale. Mason and Meyer argue that, rebranding influences company image positively especially by the external environment (2006, p. 801). In line with Maslow’s theory, good image will satisfy the self-esteem needs of the employees and enhance th eir performance (Stajkovic, Luthans, 2003, p. 171).Advertising Looking for report on communications media? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In other words, the MSO management should identify the different levels of employee needs and take the necessary steps to satisfy them. Additionally, increased employee benefits or rewards for top performers can boost employee morale and performance. However, the management should make careful deliberations with regard to the rebranding process as this may lead to loss of public trust and employee morale. The rebranding should aim at retaining the appealing public image projected by Martha and establishing a different identity for the company. Reference List Mason, A., Meyer, M. (2006).Living With Martha Stewart Media: Chosen Domesticity in the Experience of Fan. Journal of communication, 63(51), 801-804 Payne, A., Christopher, M., Clark, M., Peck, H. (2001). Relationship marketing for  Competitive advantage. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann. Stajkovic, D., Luthans, F. (2003). Behavioral management and task performance In organizations: conceptual background, meta-analysis, and te st of alternative Models. Personnel Psychology, 56(18), 155-194 This report on Martha Stewart Omnimedia was written and submitted by user Crimson Dynamo to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Math

Word Count: 729 Math is an essential asset in the business world. Without mathematics businesses wouldn’t be able to operate effectively. In order to run a restaurant math plays an important role in a lot of different areas. For instance the items on the menu may change due to the way it sells. Bookkeeping and math allow you to both figures out what items are profitable and what items are selling. The business world revolves around math, from profit and loss statements, to graphs, to taxes. Everything in business requires mathematics. Owning a restaurant is no different then any other field of business when it comes to math. The simplest things in a restaurant could not happen without math such as paying for your meal. Math is used to add up the total cost of a person’s bill as well as adding in the sales tax. More advanced math is used in the restaurant business as well. Using equations to determine what your business can afford to buy as well as the difference in the cost of the product and the profit it turns over is all determined by math. Jobs you might not even think require math do, such as portioning products or prepping food. When you are preparing food you need to measure amounts of ingredients and measurements are a form of mathematics. Wheatley-2 Keeping your books up to date requires math as well. When keeping records of your restaurant’s sales you can keep track of your busy periods to know when you are required to order more food or alcohol. Equations are used then to determine what and how much you need of a product. Using math to determine a product markup is an important process to a successful business as well. Determining the overall cost of a dinner special and factoring in each amount of the ingredients used all goes towards the final cost of a dinner special. The main objective in ow... Free Essays on Math Free Essays on Math Word Count: 729 Math is an essential asset in the business world. Without mathematics businesses wouldn’t be able to operate effectively. In order to run a restaurant math plays an important role in a lot of different areas. For instance the items on the menu may change due to the way it sells. Bookkeeping and math allow you to both figures out what items are profitable and what items are selling. The business world revolves around math, from profit and loss statements, to graphs, to taxes. Everything in business requires mathematics. Owning a restaurant is no different then any other field of business when it comes to math. The simplest things in a restaurant could not happen without math such as paying for your meal. Math is used to add up the total cost of a person’s bill as well as adding in the sales tax. More advanced math is used in the restaurant business as well. Using equations to determine what your business can afford to buy as well as the difference in the cost of the product and the profit it turns over is all determined by math. Jobs you might not even think require math do, such as portioning products or prepping food. When you are preparing food you need to measure amounts of ingredients and measurements are a form of mathematics. Wheatley-2 Keeping your books up to date requires math as well. When keeping records of your restaurant’s sales you can keep track of your busy periods to know when you are required to order more food or alcohol. Equations are used then to determine what and how much you need of a product. Using math to determine a product markup is an important process to a successful business as well. Determining the overall cost of a dinner special and factoring in each amount of the ingredients used all goes towards the final cost of a dinner special. The main objective in ow...

Mastectomy for Ductal Carcinoma insitu, impact on patient Essay

Mastectomy for Ductal Carcinoma insitu, impact on patient - Essay Example In fact, DCIS accounts for approximately 20% of all new breast cancer and precancerous condition diagnoses (Clause Stowe & Carter 2001). With or without treatment, DCIS patients have a very high survival rate; and, for most women diagnosed with DCIS, it is not considered to be a life-threatening condition. Mastectomy is the preferred, and most effective, treatment option for DCIS patients (Katz et al. 2010). However, there is currently very little research regarding how patients are actually affected by choosing mastectomy to treat DCIS; and, since the number of new DCIS diagnoses is continuing to increase, much more research is needed. DCIS, also called intraductal carcinoma, is a condition whereby the cancer cells develop in the milk ducts of the breast and have not moved out of the duct into any of the surrounding tissue (National Institute of Health 2009). As mentioned above, there is disagreement as to whether or not DCIS should be called cancer; and, some experts often refer to it as "stage zero breast cancer" ( Harris & Morrow 2009). Even though DCIS itself is not considered to be harmful, it is a known risk factor for invasive breast cancer (Zuckerman 2009). While most DCIS patients do not develop invasive breast cancer, approximately two percent (2%) of DCIS cases show evidence of metastases and an even smaller percentage of cases do actually develop into invasive breast cancer (Cornfield et al. 2004). Certain biomarkers may help to identify whether DCIS patients are at high or low risk of developing invasive breast cancer; however, more research is necessary to make more accurate risk predictions (Welch et al. 2008). Currently, however, there is no way to determine or predict which DCIS cases will in fact develop into invasive breast cancer. This paper will try to determine the available information on the rationale for selecting this modality; explore literature regarding the physiological/biological basis of the treatment or how the treatment manage s the disease, critic the impact this treatment had on the individual and the nurses’ role in addressing this, and consider how the patients’ experience could have been improved. Discussion Overview: Even without treatment, most women diagnosed with DCIS do not go on to develop invasive breast cancer. DCIS patients that do opt for treatment have surgical options, the most common being lumpectomy (with or without radiation therapy) and mastectomy. Lumpectomy followed by radiation therapy and mastectomy have the same high survival rate of 96% and above; however, mastectomy does have a slightly lower recurrence rate than lumpectomy with radiation which has a lower recurrence rate than lumpectomy alone (Holmberg et al. 2008; Hughes et al. 2009). Other factors have been found to affect DCIS recurrence rates

Journal Article Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Journal Article Critique - Essay Example The test materials comprised of dried meat soluble product (DMS) and yeast fermentation product (YFP). In all the three experiments, soybean meal (SBM) of 48% CP content served as the control ingredient. Various batches of every by-product were investigated in all the three tests making use of an apparent ME assay for poultry and digestibility assay for the barrows. In experiment 1, the nitrogen-corrected AME (AMEn) for YFP, DMS, and SBM were 3.292, 2.801, and 2.909 kcal, correspondingly. In experiment 2, the AMEn was 3.565, 3.207, and 2.809 kcal, in that order. In experiment 3, the AMEn was 3.552, 2.208, and 3.844 kcal, for SBM, DMS, and YFP, respectively. However, in this third test the diets were formulated such that the test ingredients gave the only source of amino acids in every experimental diet. According to the experimental results, for the ME assay for poultry, the DMS product is comparable to the SBM and appears fit for consumption by non-ruminant species according to thei r poor ability to support nitrogen retention in both species. The article flows logically and succinctly explaining its major talking points. The authors clearly state an explicit thesis and have a specific point of view; to evaluate the nutritional value of two non-traditional by-products for ducks and pigs. The article analyzed the DMS by-product and found out that it was associated with high crude protein as well as gross energy contents. In the same way, the SBM was clearly superior to the DMS. This was evidenced by marked differences in retained energy, digestible and apparent ME, nitrogen retention, biological value, and net protein utilization (Ragland, et al., 1998). The researchers cited the work of Lyons and Vandepopuliere that found the potential use of DMS for animal feeding because they used a similar by product to DMS. This makes the argument compelling

Fingerprints history Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Fingerprints history - Coursework Example Factors that are contributing to the fingerprint occurrence are skin pliability, pressure, slippage, texture of the surface of materials, and the likes. Types of fingerprints are exemplar that is use in instances like enrollment, latent that is being used in forensic investigation, patent that is the mark made by flour and the likes, plastic by holding the very material, and electronic recording that is assisted with technology to identify the fingerprints purposely (Manchester Evening News 2010). Three historical people have contributed to the science of fingerprints. They are Marcello Malpighi (1628 – 1694), Edward Henry (1850 – 1931), and Henry Faulds (1843 – 1930). Although there were also numerous historical people who have contributed to the science of fingerprints, the selection of the three are due to their distinctive contribution to one another as the rest tend to overlap with their works. It is also a selection based on chronological discoveries. Marce llo Malpighi. Marcello Malpighi was an Italian physicist whose famous contribution was the â€Å"Malpighian Tubule System.† Marcello had studied anatomical studies and published books on anatomy. In one of his books, he illustrated the detailed ridge structure of the fingers.

Codes of Conduct in the Workplace

Codes of Conduct in the Workplace TOPIC: CODE OF CONDUCT GROUP MEMBERS NAMES: PATRICIA MELANET KONAYE NDUNAT JASE NAUDET CUMANI NAKOT ABONGILE MKEFAT THEOPHILLUS MGWADLEKAT DEVON MARTINT A code of conduct is a set of guidelines clarifying the responsibilities of an individual, a group of people or organization. Other concepts that are similar to code of conduct are religious laws, moral codes and ethical. Code of conduct is also known as ethics, values, standards or rules of behavior that monitor the decisions or measures of an organization. It contributes to the welfare of an organization and it makes sure that it compliments each and every individual of that organization. A code of conduct has to be build or formulated under different departments and legislations (laws) depending on the goal or which circumstance the code conduct has to be drawn under. It has to be approved by all members of the group. It must be signed by the board and be fair to all the group members. It serves as an oath on every state of legislation. Code of conduct must have certain procedures that the members need to follow. It includes principles that are designed to help professionals to conduct business with honesty and integrity. A code of conduct document may have a summary of a mission and values of a business or organization, and how the members should approach unethical incidents in the working environment. The code of conduct assists the individual to perform professionally. It acts as a barrier to make it point that members don’t cross certain points in an organization. It helps individual to contribute effectively to the tasks given. Code of conduct have an advantage in it especial when it comes to conflict. This means having a set of rules that individuals work according fewer conflicts involve. Those who violate or fail to comply with the code of conduct will be subject to disciplinary measures that might include dismissal if it is agreed upon. A code is also a tool to encourage discussions of ethics and to improve how employees/members deal with the ethical dilemmas, prejudices and gray areas that are encountered in everyday work. A code is meant to complement relevant standards, policies and rules, not to substitute for them. Codes of conduct offer an invaluable opportunity for responsible organizations to create a positive public identity for themselves which can lead to a more supportive political and regulatory environment and an increased level of public confidence andtrust among important constituencies and stakeholders. (Principles of Stakeholder Management, The Clarkson Centre for Business Ethics, 1999, p. 12.) Codes of conduct have been around for quite some time. The purpose of the code of conduct is to make a point that the rules and standards of a business or organisation are met. They serve as a base to carry common obligations. Even, though people confused them with law rules. They capture vision for excellence for individuals and organizations. Codes are not meant for professional environment only; you can find them at church, political parties, schools, communities, organizations and businesses. There are there to emphasis dedication to employees and individuals to make them responsible not to create trouble or blame one another about certain things in a group or team. Codes of conduct are designed different their can have a negative and positive influence towards the employees or members. A former US Supreme Court Justice, Earl Warren wrote â€Å"law float on a sea of ethics†. In my own understanding this quote means everything that concerns the law is dealt with a according to the rules or ethics. A good social and cultural consideration helps with implementing code of conduct. Code of conduct determines economic growth and development of a certain business or organization. The code of conduct is approved by Island Council that it provides guidance to members on what standards they must or expected to conduct them according. Therefore members are required to comply with the code of conduct. According to the Pitcairn Island code of conduct it’s a priority for members to attend the meetings. If they don’t attend justification of being absent is required. Members must come prepared to the meeting and arrive in time. Nolan principle emphasis that the members must comply according to the following aspects: selflessness, integrity, objectives, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. If conflict arises as a result of clashes in one of the mentioned principles public is more favoured (when experiencing conflict between personal and public integrity, after a decision is made public integrity is more favoured). (Prime Minister John Mayor.20 October 2011.Committee on Standards in Public Life).[Online].Available:www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/com mittee_on_Standards_in_Public .[20 Mach 2014]). Some people don’t agree with the code of conduct so that means it has disadvantages as well. Opponents conserve that codes of conduct are often only pleasant, predictable and worthless words without any obligation. However, if the code of conduct has been established jointly by every person in the business or organization, and it is constantly reviewed due to changes and new experiences it will have a great value. Opponents often see code of conduct simply as a resourceful marketing and public relation tool. Thought, an existed code of conduct demonstrates its value in crisis circumstances rather than in trouble free times. Employees or members will be the ones who will face painfully experience as the result of an unnoticed written code of conduct. Critics doubt that management really expects employees or members to obey to the ethical values of its code of conduct, if it would mean losing business or reducing profits. Upholding high ethical standards is important to stay in a business and maintaining long term profitability. Therefore management and the owners of the business expect employees to always act according to ethical principles. It has been recommended that a code of conduct is not in the interest business or organization. The more the business or organization focuses to a code of conduct the greater the advantage of members or employees to cheat. An industry that believes in ethical behavior doesn’t take time in punishing the person who broke the rule. Occasionally it is felt that a code of conduct is reassuring unrealistic expectations, that it is self-righteous talk and spiritual beliefs about what is possible in a hard, realistic business world. One main crisis with a code of conduct is that it needs to take subjective standards and make them objective. Indeed this is their main point to take subjective standards and make them a common sequence of standards. A disadvantage of a code of conduct it needs to be forced (consequences) in order for people to obey it. Code of conduct is vague, what it says is not what it means because top managers interpret it according to managers needs. A code of conduct is a company’s professional belief of ethics morals, values and appropriate behavior for its operation, imposed by the leaders. In order for a code of conduct to work in an organization or business it must be flexible to employees. Managers must allow employees to participate in formulating a code of conduct. Code of conduct it doesn’t consist of positive ethical rules and it doesn’t give employees freedom of choice. I think it’s a good idea to revisit the code of conduct now and then to see if it’s still on point with what’s going on in the business or organization. Bibliography http://www.djargoproject.com/conduct/2013 -04-08 [17 March 2014] Ethics codes codes of conduct as tools for Promoting an Ethical Profession Public Service: Comparative Success Lesson. 2005. Prem, World Bank, Washington DC.1 – 76. Driscoll, Dawn-Marie and W. Michael Hoffman, Ethics Matters: How to Implement Values-Driven Management, 2000, p. 77. Principles of Stakeholder Management, The Clarkson Centre for Business Ethics, 1999, p. 12. http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/employee-development-employee-ethics/913929-1.html Louise Balle [20 March 2014] https://www22.verizon.com/about/careers/pdfs/CodeOfConduct.pdf [19 March 2014] http://www.allbusiness.com/professional-scientific/accounting-tax-preparation/4500132-1.html [18 March 2014] Www.pwc.co.za. (2008) Code of conduct the way we do business. [Online] Available from http: //www.pwc.co.za/en_ZA/za/assets/pdf/pwc-code-of-conduct-june-08.pdf. [Accessed: 18 March 2014]. Island Council. 9 November 2011. Code of Conduct. 1 – 6. Article On Moodle: CRITICISMS OF A CODE OF CONDUCT/ETHICS (UNKNOWN) CODE OF CONDUCT In our group we understand a code of conduct as a set of conventional principles and expectations that are considered binding on any person who is a member of a particular group. Code of conduct is rules and regulations that guide the group to a common goal and delegating the responsibilities to individuals for proper and effective running of the task given. It’s an agreement on rules of behavior by the group. In our group we expect all the group members to obey, follow and comply to the code of conduct, if not there will be consequences faced. Statement of Core Values Build trust and Credibility – the success of the group depends on the trust that we earn from each other as a group members. Commitment is important when working in groups, showing integrity, honesty and trustworthy. Respect for the individual – respect is very important when working with people. Every individual in a group deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. If we treat each other with respect there will be fewer conflicts. Intercultural Communication – everyone should be treated equally, so that they can feel comfortable to express their feelings and views. Understanding other people’s culture makes communication easy between one another. Conflicts of Interest – when conflict arise the group leader mustn’t take sides because the conflict involves his/her friend. The conflict must be resolved in a fair manner to both parties. Participation – all group members are required to participate in a group task and take responsibility by doing their work in time. Sub-Groups – during group discussion there must be no sub-groups within the groups. This can cause conflict and it’s so disrespectful to do that. Communication – professional way of communicating is very important it gives others a chance to voices their thoughts. When talking all at the same time nothing will be resolved or conflict will arise. Time Management – everyone is expected to arrive in time during meetings. Members should inform the group in advance if they are going to be absent with a valid reason. Plagiarism – copying of other peoples work is not encourage as we all know that plagiarism is a big offence to commit. Every research you do must be reference so that you can be safe. Team Work – working together save time. Makes the tasks very easy and you have an advantage of finishing n time. Cell phones – playing with a cell phone while we are in a meeting is not allowed. This means that you don’t want to be part of the meeting. When receiving a call you can go out quietly and answer your call. Language – since we diverse cultural group, English is an appropriate language to use so we can understanding each other Aggressive behavior – vulgar language, aggressive attitude and violence are not allowed. We need to be respectful to others and talk to each other in a respectful way. Confidentiality – no confidential information may be disclosed without permission of a group. CONSEQUENCES WHEN CODE OF CONDUCT IS BREACHED: Penalties of breaching a code of conduct depend on many factors such as: Who breached the code of conduct? How and when did they breached the code of conduct What were the effects of the breach? Whether the behavior has taken place repeatedly or is a once off thing? Penalties would be as follows: Request the person to change their behavior Issue an informal or formal warning (written or verbal) If the behavior continues in several occasions ask the person to leave the group immediately Last action is to ban the person from coming to the group

Acid Rain :: essays research papers

Acid Rain If you have ever wondered why precious monuments are fading away, or the reason your car starts to look old, or if you can't understand why the bricks on the side of your house are breaking, look up the term Acid rain in your encyclopedia. Acid rain is the cause of all of this and much more. Acid rain is a widespread term used to describe all forms of acid precipitation (rain, snow, hail, fog, etc.)( ). Precipitation is naturally acidic because of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Acid rain begins with the production of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides from the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, natural gas, oil, and from certain kinds of manufacturing. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides react with water and other chemicals in the air to from sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and other pollutants ( ). What was once a local problem for towns and cities is now an international problem. The spread of this problem originated from tall chimneys dispersing pollutants high into the atmosphere, which then traveled with the wind for thousands of kilometers until once again reaching the ground in an invisible state. The effect of acid rain when it reaches the ground reacts chemically with any object it comes in contact with. Acids are corrosive chemicals that react with other chemicals by giving up hydrogen atoms ( ). The acidity of a substance comes from the abundance of free hydrogen atoms when the substance is dissolved in water ( ). Acidity can be measured using a "pH" scale with units from 0 to 14. Rain (snow, fog, etc.) measured at a pH below 5.6 is considered acid rain. Acid rain is responsible for a widespread of environmental damage. Such examples of this include soil and plant degradation, depleted life in lakes and streams, and erosion of man-made structures( ). When acid rain enters the soil it dissolves and washes away the nutrients needed by plants. It can also dissolve toxic substances, such as aluminum and mercury, which are naturally present in some soils, freeing these toxins to pollute water or to poison plants that absorb them ( ). After events like this take place animals and humans are soon effected. If one plant or animal is adversely affected by acid rain, animals that feed on that organism may suffer and animals that feed on that animal may suffer also (usually humans).

Digital Fortress Chapter 20

La Clinica de Salud Publica was actually a converted elementary school and didn't much resemble a hospital at all. It was a long, one-story brick building with huge windows and a rusted swing set out back. Becker headed up the crumbling steps. Inside, it was dark and noisy. The waiting room was a line of folding metal chairs that ran the entire length of a long narrow corridor. A cardboard sign on a sawhorse read oficina with an arrow pointing down the hall. Becker walked the dimly lit corridor. It was like some sort of eerie set conjured up for a Hollywood horror flick. The air smelled of urine. The lights at the far end were blown out, and the last forty or fifty feet revealed nothing but muted silhouettes. A bleeding woman†¦ a young couple crying†¦ a little girl praying†¦ Becker reached the end of the darkened hall. The door to his left was slightly ajar, and he pushed it open. It was entirely empty except for an old, withered woman naked on a cot struggling with her bedpan. Lovely. Becker groaned. He closed the door. Where the hell is the office? Around a small dog-leg in the hall, Becker heard voices. He followed the sound and arrived at a translucent glass door that sounded as if a brawl were going on behind it. Reluctantly, Becker pushed the door open. The office. Mayhem. Just as he'd feared. The line was about ten people deep, everyone pushing and shouting. Spain was not known for its efficiency, and Becker knew he could be there all night waiting for discharge info on the Canadian. There was only one secretary behind the desk, and she was fending off disgruntled patients. Becker stood in the doorway a moment and pondered his options. There was a better way. â€Å"Con permiso!† an orderly shouted. A fast-rolling gurney sailed by. Becker spun out of the way and called after the orderly. â€Å"?Donde esta el telefono?† Without breaking stride, the man pointed to a set of double doors and disappeared around the corner. Becker walked over to the doors and pushed his way through. The room before him was enormous-an old gymnasium. The floor was a pale green and seemed to swim in and out of focus under the hum of the fluorescent lights. On the wall, a basketball hoop hung limply from its backboard. Scattered across the floor were a few dozen patients on low cots. In the far corner, just beneath a burned-out scoreboard, was an old pay phone. Becker hoped it worked. As he strode across the floor, he fumbled in his pocket for a coin. He found 75 pesetas in cinco-duros coins, change from the taxi-just enough for two local calls. He smiled politely to an exiting nurse and made his way to the phone. Scooping up the receiver, Becker dialed Directory Assistance. Thirty seconds later he had the number for the clinic's main office. Regardless of the country, it seemed there was one universal truth when it came to offices: Nobody could stand the sound of an unanswered phone. It didn't matter how many customers were waiting to be helped, the secretary would always drop what she was doing to pick up the phone. Becker punched the six-digit exchange. In a moment he'd have the clinic's office. There would undoubtedly be only one Canadian admitted today with a broken wrist and a concussion; his file would be easy to find. Becker knew the office would be hesitant to give out the man's name and discharge address to a total stranger, but he had a plan. The phone began to ring. Becker guessed five rings was all it would take. It took nineteen. â€Å"Clinica de Salud Publica,† barked the frantic secretary. Becker spoke in Spanish with a thick Franco-American accent. â€Å"This is David Becker. I'm with the Canadian Embassy. One of our citizens was treated by you today. I'd like his information such that the embassy can arrange to pay his fees.† â€Å"Fine,† the woman said. â€Å"I'll send it to the embassy on Monday.† â€Å"Actually,† Becker pressed, â€Å"it's important I get it immediately.† â€Å"Impossible,† the woman snapped. â€Å"We're very busy.† Becker sounded as official as possible. â€Å"It is an urgent matter. The man had a broken wrist and a head injury. He was treated sometime this morning. His file should be right on top.† Becker thickened the accent in his Spanish-just clear enough to convey his needs, just confusing enough to be exasperating. People had a way of bending the rules when they were exasperated. Instead of bending the rules, however, the woman cursed self-important North Americans and slammed down the phone. Becker frowned and hung up. Strikeout. The thought of waiting hours in line didn't thrill him; the clock was ticking-the old Canadian could be anywhere by now. Maybe he had decided to go back to Canada. Maybe he would sell the ring. Becker didn't have hours to wait in line. With renewed determination, Becker snatched up the receiver and redialed. He pressed the phone to his ear and leaned back against the wall. It began to ring. Becker gazed out into the room. One ring†¦ two rings†¦ three – A sudden surge of adrenaline coursed through his body. Becker wheeled and slammed the receiver back down into its cradle. Then he turned and stared back into the room in stunned silence. There on a cot, directly in front of him, propped up on a pile of old pillows, lay an elderly man with a clean white cast on his right wrist. Chapter 21 The American on Tokugen Numataka's private line sounded anxious. â€Å"Mr. Numataka-I only have a moment.† â€Å"Fine. I trust you have both pass-keys.† â€Å"There will be a small delay,† the American answered. â€Å"Unacceptable,† Numataka hissed. â€Å"You said I would have them by the end of today!† â€Å"There is one loose end.† â€Å"Is Tankado dead?† â€Å"Yes,† the voice said. â€Å"My man killed Mr. Tankado, but he failed to get the pass-key. Tankado gave it away before he died. To a tourist.† â€Å"Outrageous!† Numataka bellowed. â€Å"Then how can you promise me exclusive-â€Å" â€Å"Relax,† the American soothed. â€Å"You will have exclusive rights. That is my guarantee. As soon as the missing pass-key is found, Digital Fortress will be yours.† â€Å"But the pass-key could be copied!† â€Å"Anyone who has seen the key will be eliminated.† There was a long silence. Finally Numataka spoke. â€Å"Where is the key now?† â€Å"All you need to know is that it will be found.† â€Å"How can you be so certain?† â€Å"Because I am not the only one looking for it. American Intelligence has caught wind of the missing key. For obvious reasons they would like to prevent the release of Digital Fortress. They have sent a man to locate the key. His name is David Becker.† â€Å"How do you know this?† â€Å"That is irrelevant.† Numataka paused. â€Å"And if Mr. Becker locates the key?† â€Å"My man will take it from him.† â€Å"And after that?† â€Å"You needn't be concerned,† the American said coldly. â€Å"When Mr. Becker finds the key, he will be properly rewarded.†

The Accident That Changed My Life essays

The Accident That Changed My Life essays I used to read in the news about people getting in car accidents all the time. The trouble is, I never thought it could happen to me. I guess you could say that I saw myself as invincible. With the way Id been living my life, something was bound to happen eventually. I believe that everything in life happens for a reason. This is why my car accident changed my life. I was a second year senior at Independence High School. Most of my time was spent hanging out with my friends. My friends were the most important thing to me back then and I would bend over backwards for each and every one of them. Because of all the time I spent out with my friends, I barely spent any time at home with my family. I also had a hard time waking up to go to school in the morning. Things had gotten so bad that I would sometimes miss school for weeks at a time. Little did I know, that destiny had a big change in store for me! It was really late one night and I decided to go out. I went to pick up my friends and go to a party at some wharehouse. I remember having a lot of fun and laughing a lot with my friends. One of the people I was talking to had asked for a ride because his was leaving and I accepted. So now I was responsible for taking four people, including myself home. After I dropped off the first guy, I was making a left turn. When I saw I was in the clear, I went ahead and turned. All of a sudden, I saw a big car heading my way real fast. I sped up to get past the lane he was in and finish my turn, but it was too late. He smashed right into me on the drivers side. The impact bent the whole frame of my car, and I remember being able to touch the other drivers bumper from my window (which was now in a million pieces on the ground)! Luckily, my friends were okay and didnt have to stay the night at the hospital. I, on the other hand, was not so lucky! While my friends were able to leave, I was stuck th...

An Artist of the Floating World Essays

An Artist of the Floating World Essays An Artist of the Floating World Paper An Artist of the Floating World Paper An Artist of the Floating World Summary Summary and Personal Discussion BY derriere An Artist of the Floating World Summary and Personal Discussion Part 1: Summary Kazoo Sheriffs An Artist of the Floating World recounts the story of the aftermath of World War II for a Japanese propaganda artist, Masses Non. Non narrates his story from October 1948 to June 1950 In the rebuilding of Japan after the destruction caused by the bombings resulting from the war. As a child, Nos father discouraged him In telling him he would never amount to anything In striving to become an artist. Furthermore, his first teacher, Sell Morally, also discouraged Nos art, particularly In his differing style from his master. For these reasons, success was particularly rewarding for Non. However, although Non Is still fairly well respected for his artistic talents In this postwar time, his use of patriotic propaganda art coupled with the negative outcome of the war for Japan put an incurable blemish in the his life. His downfall peaks in denouncing his star student, Kurd, involving the police in resting him and having his paintings burned. Part 2: Discussion One of the larger ideas that took my attention throughout reading Guiros An Artist of the Floating World was the values of postwar Japan. I consider myself to be fairly sheltered in having never left the United States in order to experience how other people live their lives and their societal values. For this reason, I often find it particularly interesting to read (even fictional) stories that give insight into value systems largely different from Americas. Prevalent Japanese values in this story are loyalty, obedience, respect, honor, patriotism, and manners. Although these values are still evident in other cultures such as our own, the importance of adhering to these values are absolutely paramount in Japan. However, ironically, characters in the story disrespect each and every one of these values at different times in the story. Loyalty and obedience are tested by the continuing apprentice disrespect towards masters, and, at times, disrespect toward the apprentice by the master. In changing his artistic style differing from Memoriam to paint political works of art, Non shows a lack of loyalty and obedience. Additionally, Non shows a lack of loyalty In the opposite direction in ultimately denouncing his star student, Kurd. In the opening of the novel, Choir shows serious lack of manners, and his mother, Norfolk, has much difficulty controlling him. Regarding respect, Sestets and Norfolk, Nos daughters, seem to often show disrespect toward their father. This also shows a lack of honor, which Choir continually shows In the opening of the story, where he does not listen to or respect his elders telling him stop acting up. Choir triggers disrespect of Japanese patriotism when he Imagines he Is the lone ranger, showing his proclivity for American culture. Although Non shows that he Is uncomfortable with this behavior, the elders allow Choir to continue. In An Artist of the Floating World. Ginsburg snows ten Importance AT several values In ten Japanese culture. Ginsburg manages to portray the difference in the cultural emphasis of certain virtues in Japan ND America while the characters still constantly disrespected these values as Americans characteristically do. I found this to be a fairly skilled interpretation by the author in showing the importance of these values for the Japanese culture but not for the specific Japanese characters in the story. The extra utility of the main character as a narrator in the story (providing the story but also a point of view on the story) allows for these conflicting ideals to be portrayed clearly to the reader.

Ritz Carlton's Gold Standarts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 8

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Technology in Literacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

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