Assessment of Vital SIgns Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Assessment of Vital SIgns - Essay Example After a brief interview, the patient reveals the cause of her short breath and explains she deliberately avoided the escalator on her way to the examination room and took a walk up the stairs (following the doctors’ advice to exercise some more). I allow her approximately 15 minutes to calm down then provide her with a gown and leave the room for her to change after instructing her to remove all her dressing except the briefs and put on the gown so that the opening is on the rear. The examination room is quiet, warm and well lit. All the measurements are taken with the patient seated down (McPhee & Papadakis, 2011). Since the patient has been allowed over 10 minutes to calm down and has not eaten or drank anything hot or cold, smoked, chewed gum in the last 10 minutes, I proceed to assess her temperature. I place a digital thermometer under her tongue to take an oral temperature and wait for it to beep before withdrawing it. I then note the patient’s temperature as indicated by the thermometer, part of the body from where it is taken and the time it was taken (McPhee, Papadakis, & Rabow, 2012). To find the patient’s pulse, I use my fingers (without the thumb) to press against the bony part of the patient’s wrist. Pressing the artery between the fingers and the wrist bone assists me to feel the pulse. Care is taken not to press too hard. Upon finding a pulse, I use a timer to count the number of beats that occur in a minute (since the pulse appears irregular). I then write down the heart rate, the irregularities observed and the time the pulse is taken (Crouch & Meurier, 2011). I then go on to assess the respiration without informing my patient since her knowledge of an on-going respiration assessment may inevitably cause her to alter her respiration and hence lead to erroneous conclusions. I count the

Demographic Transition Models Essay Example for Free

Demographic Transition Models Essay The Demographic Transition is a model that describes population change over time. As with all models, the demographic transition model has its applications and limitations. Applications The model describes population change over time and can be applied to many countries (based on the change in crude birth rate (CBR) and crude death rate (CDR) over time) Can be used for comparison and also prediction from stages 1 to 4 Outline the population characteristics of societies at various stages of the development Population structures can be related to the model The model is often applied to lesser developed countries to allay concerns regarding overpopulation, without proof that the underlying dynamics will allow these countries to trace similar evolution paths as the European and other Western countries. Limitations Birth rates in several MEDCs have fallen below death rates (Germany, Sweden). This has caused, for the first time, a population decline which suggests that perhaps the model should have a fifth stage added to it. However the model does not go beyond Stage 4. The model assumes that in time all countries pass through the same four stages. It now seems unlikely, however, that many LEDCs, especially in Africa, will become industrialized External influences are not considered. The model assumes that the fall in the death rate in Stage 2 was the consequence of industrialisation.  Initially, the death rate in many British cities rose, due to the unsanitary conditions which resulted from rapid urban growth, and it only began to fall after advances were made in medicine. The delayed fall in the death rate in many developing countries has been due mainly to their inability to afford medical facilities. In many countries, the fall in the birth rate in Stage 3 has been less rapid than the model suggests due to religious and/or political opposition to birth control (Brazil), whereas the fall was much more rapid, and came earlier, in China where the government introduced the one child policy. The timescale of the model, especially in several south-east Asian countries such as Hong Kong and Malaysia, is being squashed as they develop at a much faster rate than did the early industrialised countries. The model assumes that all countries will go through the stages 1 to 4 in that exact order. There are variables and exceptions such as war and turmoil that may lead to different results. Some countries may even skip stages Eg. Countries that grew as a consequence of emigration from Europe (USA, Canada, Australia) did not pass through the early stages of the model. The model only reflects natural increase. Eg. There was a major migration overseas during a time period in the UK, where millions were unemployed had an effect on the population on its age structure and as a whole. The model does not forecast changes or provide explanations as to why one stage might lead to the next. The DTM is also limited in the sense that it gives a generalized picture of population change over time based on European studies, assuming that all countries would follow suit.

The Benefits Of Study Hall Essay -- Argumentative Persuasive Education

The Benefits Of Study Hall   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Mark, you won’t get anywhere without studying†, His mother use to tell him when he use to waist all his time playing rather that studying. Mark wasn’t such a good student because he wouldn’t spend any time studying, until one day his parents decided to send him to Cushing Academy, a boarding school in the USA, which they knew it was going to improve his study habits and help him being more responsible. But what really amazed his parents was this period of time used to study called â€Å"Study Hall†. Because of its amazing results, preparation for college, and providing responsibility, Study Hall remains as one of the vital qualities Cushing Academy possess and give students an opportunity to lead in higher education.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Study Hall was Mark’s first negative impression of Cushing Academy. He thought this was done in order to keep the students in silence and restrain them from having freedom. After he experienced Study Hall at Cushing for over two months, he could really see the changes and results it produced on him. He realized that he didn’t have to worry about having enough time for his studies. Also, he could see his grades improve every week. One day Mark received a phone call from his mother. Before picking up the phone, the only thought he had in his mind was that he was going to get grounded for his grades or performance at school. He answered the phone and there was his proud mother congratulating him for his wonderful grades he ...

Automobile Industry Pest Analysis Essay

1. Political Factors A) Environment Concerns: Leading to the quest for eco-friendly cars, people would prone to buy hybrid or even pure electric cars in the future. B) Government Regulations: Limitation on high emission car purchase, and the restrictive passage of autos in downtown area, as well as the limitation on license plate (number plate) in huge cosmopolitans. C) Some pioneering states in the US have started to set the rules to govern robotized motoring (autonomous driving). 2. Economic Factors. A) Economic growth has shifted from traditional strong western countries (US, West Europe, specifically) to other parts of the world, especially, East and Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America. B) Auto Markets in developed countries are saturated: High rate of auto owning, stable population and household quantity. The auto market there is typically of substitution of old car with new ones. C) Public Transportation Infrastructure including high speed rail network, intercity light-rail network, etc, will be perfected in developing countries. D) Fuel cost is on the wing, driving demand for mini-car, A-Class, Compact car. 3. Social Factors. A) In developing countries, owning a car is not only means of transportation but also a need of social status. B) People’s awareness of environment protection is growing. 4. Technological Factors. A) Technology for Electric Engine is maturing, and battery capacity is increasing. Some countries have started to establish infrastructure for electric charging stations. B) The aim to eliminate casualty caused by transportation accident will be met by the adoption and perfection of automatic pilot (unmanned driving). Google has started the trial operation of a fleet of autonomous driving cars. California and Nevada have set rules to govern robotized monitoring. Trend & Segment of Profitable Market for Automobile: 1. Smaller cars such as Mini-cars, A-Class passenger cars, and compact cars will have larger shares of market. 2. Eco-friendly cars and high-tech cars with auto-pilot function will lead the market. 3. Markets with high growth potential will be in developing countries or the so-called emerging economies. Supporting Data: GDP Growth Rate Index: (Source: World Bank) Country Name| 2008| 2009| 2010| 2011| Macao SAR, China| 3.3 | 1.7 | 27.0 | 20.7 | Qatar| 17.7 | 12.0 | 16.6 | 18.8 | Mongolia| 8.9 | -1.3 | 6.4 | 17.5 | Turkmenistan| 14.7 | 6.1 | 9.2 | 14.7 | Ghana| 8.4 | 4.0 | 8.0 | 14.4 | Panama| 10.1 | 3.9 | 7.6 | 10.6 | Timor-Leste| 14.6 | 12.8 | 9.5 | 10.6 | Iraq| 9.5 | 4.2 | 0.8 | 9.9 | Liberia| 10.5 | 13.8 | 10.9 | 9.4 | Zimbabwe| -17.7 | 6.0 | 9.6 | 9.4 | China| 9.6 | 9.2 | 10.4 | 9.3 | Solomon Islands| 7.3 | -1.2 | 7.0 | 9.0 | Papua New Guinea| 6.7 | 5.5 | 8.0 | 9.0 | Argentina| 6.8 | 0.9 | 9.2 | 8.9 | Eritrea| -9.8 | 3.9 | 2.2 | 8.7 | Turkey| 0.7 | -4.8 | 9.2 | 8.5 | East Asia & Pacific (developing only)| 8.5 | 7.5 | 9.7 | 8.3 | Uzbekistan| 9.0 | 8.1 | 8.5 | 8.3 | Estonia| -4.2 | -14.1 | 3.3 | 8.3 | Rwanda| 11.2 | 6.2 | 7.2 | 8.3 | Sri Lanka| 6.0 | 3.5 | 8.0 | 8.3 | Kuwait| 5.0 | -5.2 | 3.4 | 8.2 | Lao PDR| 7.8 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 8.0 | Equatorial Guinea| 10.7 | 4.6 | -0.5 | 7.8 | Ecuador| 7.2 | 0.4 | 3.6 | 7.8 | Kazakhstan| 3.3 | 1.2 | 7.3 | 7.5 | Maldives| 12.2 | -4.7 | 5.7 | 7.5 | Tajikistan| 21.2 | 3.9 | 6.5 | 7.4 | Nigeria| 6.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 7.4 | Ethiopia| 10.8 | 8.8 | 9.9 | 7.3 | Mozambique| 6.8 | 6.3 | 6.8 | 7.1 | Cambodia| 6.7 | 0.1 | 6.0 | 7.1 | Georgia| 2.3 | -3.8 | 6.3 | 7.0 | Congo, Dem. Rep.| 6.2 | 2.8 | 7.2 | 6.9 | India| 3.9 | 8.2 | 9.6 | 6.9 | Paraguay| 4.2 | -3.5 | 14.2 | 6.9 | Peru| 9.8 | 0.8 | 8.8 | 6.8 | Saudi Arabia| 4.2 | 0.1 | 4.6 | 6.8 | Bangladesh| 6.2 | 5.7 | 6.1 | 6.7 | Uganda| 8.7 | 7.2 | 5.9 | 6.7 | Upper middle income| 6.1 | 2.0 | 7.8 | 6.6 | South Asia| 3.9 | 7.4 | 8.6 | 6.5 | Zambia| 5.7 | 6.4 | 7.6 | 6.5 | Indonesia| 6.0 | 4.6 | 6.2 | 6.5 | Tanzania| 7.4 | 6.0 | 7.0 | 6.4 | Moldova| 7.8 | -6.0 | 7.1 | 6.4 | Middle income| 5.7 | 2.7 | 7.7 | 6.4 | Low & middle income| 5.7 | 2.7 | 7.7 | 6.4 | Sierra Leone| 5.5 | 3.2 | 4.9 | 6.0 | Chile| 3.7 | -1.0 | 6.1 | 6.0 | Low income| 5.7 | 4.7 | 6.1 | 6.0 | Colombia| 3.5 | 1.7 | 4.0 | 5.9 | Vietnam| 6.3 | 5.3 | 6.8 | 5.9 | Lithuania| 2.9 | -14.7 | 1.3 | 5.9 | Palau| -6.1 | -4.6 | 0.3 | 5.8 | Lesotho| 5.4 | 2.9 | 5.6 | 5.8 | Europe & Central Asia (developing only)| 3.9 | -6.0 | 5.8 | 5.8 | Afghanistan| 3.6 | 21.0 | 8.4 | 5.7 | Botswana| 2.9 | -4.8 | 7.0 | 5.7 | Uruguay| 7.2 | 2.4 | 8.9 | 5.7 | Lower middle income| 4.6 | 5.2 | 7.3 | 5.7 | Kyrgyz Republic| 8.4 | 2.9 | -0.5 | 5.7 | Haiti| 0.8 | 2.9 | -5.4 | 5.6 | Bhutan| 4.7 | 6.7 | 11.8 | 5.6 | High income: nonOECD| 2.7 | -1.3 | 7.3 | 5.6 | Oman| 12.8 | 1.1 | 4.0 | 5.5 | Latvia| -4.2 | -18.0 | -0.3 | 5.5 | Among the countries with a REAL GDP growth rate on or above 5.5%, most of the countries are in South America, Africa, and Eastern Europe. GDP Growth Rate Map: (Source: World Bank). The darker the color, the higher the GDP growth rate of the country. We can see that major economic growth are all out of the traditional western countries. Recently, countries buying most cars are: (Source: http://visual.ly/2012-global-car-sales-statistics).

Japan †United Arab Emirates Economic system Essay

The economy of a country is hugely pegged on Energy and Agriculture among other facets that characterize the growth of an economy. Energy is the dynamic indicator of the developmental level of countries. Eastern Asian countries are currently at acceleration in economic growth. Energy has been a key factor especially on the issue of renewable energy versus the crude oil use in fueling these economies. The UAE is currently contemplating the development of peaceful nuclear power energy that will be safe and secure. In fact, the US supports the UEA nuclear energy use. Japan imports 99% of its crude oil. Japan’s dependence on imported Fossil oil illustratively shows that in 2001, 50. 1% of all energy sources came from oil, 16. 8% from coal and 13. 6% from natural gas while nuclear energy contributed 14. 4% of all of Japan’s energy needs (ENS, 2006). Thus, due to the above shortcomings, Japan had to seek a new energy source and this led to adoption of renewable energy. The country is a leader in wind energy, solar energy and hydro energy. In fact, the country hopes that by 2020, about 20% of its internal energy use ought to be sourced from renewable energy sources. In the event of oil depletion, UAE should be ready to choose between nuclear or renewable energy and at the same avoid Japan’s previous mistakes. Agriculture in UAE and its uniqueness This sector in UAE includes the populous fishing which was a non-critical part of the economy contributing less than 2% of the GDP in 1990s but now is a big part of the economy. For many years now, the demand for agricultural produce in UAE has been rising steadily (Al-Abed et al, 2006). In this manner, the availability of capital and the above stated demand have fueled the agricultural sector in the UAE. The major farming areas include Diqdaqah in Ras al Khaymah, Al Awir in Dubayy, the coastal areas of Fujayrah and Falaj al Umm al Qaywayn among other widely recognized areas. In UAE, most of the farming land is pro-occupied by date palms (Al-Abed et al, 2006). These crops are cultivated in the arc of small oasis that constitutes the Al Liwa Oasis. The federal and the emirate governments are a fundamental force on the high proliferation of agriculture in UAE. This is because the government is widely known to offer about 50% subsidy on fertilizer and seeds among other farm inputs. Moreover, loans are granted are offered by the same government to interested farmers for the purchase of machinery. a) Institutions that run Agriculture in UAE Agriculture in the once a desert UAE is more organized more than possibly other places that do not experience the advanced desert weather like conditions of UAE. This is due to the efficient and effective agricultural administrative units that run this now very recognized sector among government quarters. The UAE has over 40 agricultural extension units which are practicable (Al-Abed et al, 2006). In addition, the UAE has numerous experimental farms and agricultural research stations. Illustratively, the number of farmers in the earlier years of 1970s increased from a mere 4000 to almost 20,000 in the late 1980s. In the late 1970s to mid 1980s, agricultural production increased in the UAE. The number has been increasing and could be at 200,000 currently. However, the UAE sometimes is forced to import most of its food requirements. For instance, in early 1990s, UAE practically imported 70% of its food requirements. ) Challenges of farming in the UAE Despite the above lucrative figures on the kind of farming in the UEA, the region faces a daunting number of challenges than other traditional agricultural areas like Brazil and the US. The lack of arable land, high temperatures, regular locust swarms and quite unpredictable water sources are major set backs for agriculture in the UAE (Al-Abed et al, 2006). For instance, the contraction of the arable farm land is linked to the drying of underground aquifers, a reason why water tables are continuously lowering. The decreasing water tables have an astounding impact on the increasing the salinity of soils and water making farming an unprofitable economic activity (Hurreiz, 2002). The increased creation of more farming areas is also credited with increased clearing of land to farm, a contributor to increased loss of surface water. This has unfortunately forced some farms to close down. In the 1980s, a federal authority was created to control the exploration of underground water through boreholes though many farms have continuously opted for the same to supplement any aquifer waters. c) Variety of agricultural products in the UAE The agricultural sector possibly supplies the country with significant amount of main vegetable crops. The main vegetables that the agricultural arable farming produces include Tomatoes, Cabbages, Cauliflower, Squash and eggplant. It is at Ras al Khaymah that most of the vegetables that support the country’s vegetable supply come from. As mentioned, date palms are grown in the UAE. Other fruits include citrus fruits and Mangoes. Illustratively, a canning plant in Al Ayn has a capacity of processing 120 tons a day (Hurreiz, 2002). For instance, in 1989, poultry farms provided about 70% of local requirements for eggs and 45% of poultry meat. In 1991, over 73,000 tons of milk was processed, meeting 92% of the country demands. d) Government efforts in Promoting Agriculture in UAE The government supports traditional fishing in the rich waters off the UAE. This is a major effort in raising livelihoods. Moreover, the government provides a 50% subsidy on fishing boats and equipment and has further built marine workshops that provide free repair and maintenance of boats. Cooperatives assist fishermen in marketing the fish. Agriculture in Japan and its uniqueness In Japan, agriculture and arable farming is less highly developed in comparison to Brazil or the US. In fact, about only 15% of the country’s land is cultivatable. In Japan, the sector is highly subsidized and protected by the government. Agriculture, fishing and forestry historically have tended to dominate the country’s economy until the 1940s. For instance, in 1945, the industry provided employment for about 50% of the work force (King, 2004). The number has been contracting greatly to about 7. 2% in 1988. Food control policy in the 1950s that assured farmers get high prices from selling to the government increased farmer’s involvement in farming. Livestock farming is minimal in Japan. The desire to get involved in beef farming was as a result of the comparatively higher returns compared to the dairy sector. The dairy sector is more developed in Hokkaido, Iwate, Tohoku and Kyusu. a) Fishing in Japan Historically, Japan is known as a world leader in the industry. For instance, in 1989, the country was second to China in fish production with 11. 9M. The tonnage for the production has been steady over the years (King, 2004). Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo is the hub for Japan’s fishing industry and is among the world’s leading markets for fresh, frozen and processed seafood. In Japan, fish farming technology is highly advanced and involves aquaculture and sea farming. The country has above 2000 fishing ports which include among others Nagasaki, Kushiro, Otaru and Abashiri (King, 2004). Comparable features in Agriculture in Japan and UAE First, the two countries have intense reliance on fish farming. Though the Japanese have extensive inland and overseas fishing projects, UEA has mostly artificial internal fishing projects. Secondly, the governments of Japan and UAE have played a key role in accelerating Agriculture in their respective countries (King, 2004). For instance, while UAE provides up to 50% in capital, Japan’s government has a protective and subsidized sector. Another common feature is that in the two counties, agriculture is not recognized as a huge contributor to the GDP. The two countries further have a number of agricultural products. Overview of Nuclear energy Nuclear power plays a vital role in the food and agriculture sectors, medicine and power generation. Nuclear power has the same structure like other power plants but differ in that they utilize energy from nuclear fission to produce electricity. The energy is very clean if well designed, well built, operated and managed. On vital aspect of this type of energy is that it lacks atmospheric emissions or pollution, it is compact and produces less wastes which is confined and self degradable. History of Nuclear energy use in UAE Since independence in 1971, the UAE took great interest in achieving a high economic growth and urbanization. This has made the traditional sources of energy including oil and natural gas to quadruple in the last 20 years making UAE’s energy consumption per capita income the highest in the world. This ideally meant that carbon emission increased double fold and escalated 10 times that emitted by developed countries and the global annual emissions respectively (Kazim, 2007). In order to avoid over reliance on oil as was the case with Japan, UAE has sought international cooperation and assistance in developing renewable energy as well as nuclear energy. In January 2009, Japan and UAE signed a bi-lateral cooperation with US in developing non-proliferation, secure and safe use of nuclear energy (Khaleej, 2009). Additionally, the UAE signed a similar agreement with UK and Japan. The Japan Nuclear bi-lateral nuclear agreement is a three year contract starting 2008. The Middle-Eastern country is emerging as a leader in the use of nuclear energy. UAE is planning to establish nuclear plants that will see it meet a power demand of up to 40,000 MWe by 2020 (Burgermeister, 2009). This move is a major shift in avoiding polarizing as economy dependent on oil Energy which is sensitive to fluctuations in Oil prices. The Japan-UAE nuclear cooperation entails Japan assisting the UAE in facilitating the use of nuclear power. Secondly, the training on nuclear skills, infrastructure and human resource development and assistance in nuclear safety are other areas of Japan’s aid to UAE (Khaleej, 2009). In addition, aid will be provided in protection and radioactive waste management as well the protection of nuclear sites. Free Energy use in UAE The UAE is a key pillar in the renewable energy sector. The country has been bidding to host the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). IRENA which is comprised of 78 countries was formed in January 2009. The body has on its charter plans to lead its member states in uniting in distributing knowledge, initiating and implementing development frameworks and leading the world to adoption of renewable energy (Khaleej, 2009). For UAE to become the headquarters, it has to demonstrate leadership in free energy use in the world. This is a seat that could go to a developing country like UAE. By hosting IRENA headquarters, it shows the world that UAE in sharing knowledge and expertise in renewable energy. UAE is posed to become the next leader in solar energy. Fossils fuels are depleting at a faster rate than new ones can be created. UAE is aware of this and in a move likely to prevent it from making the mistake Japan did, it is leading in investing heavily in free energy sectors of electricity, wind energy, Nuclear energy and solar energy (Middle East Electricity, 2009). UAE is widely expectant that demand in future can out strip supply (Dahl, 1999). Therefore currently, the authorities in the Middle East are getting forced to review their energy policy in a move is directed at founding more assurance in renewable energy sources. The move to invest in renewable energy sources is in line with assurance of energy sources in case fossil fuel deplete is coupled with the need to invest in fuels that either emit less green house gases (Burgermeister, 2009). Nuclear energy for instance is environment friendly provided that it is well operated, managed and secured. In fact, the UAE has a great potential to exploit wind, water and photovoltaic power. Ideally, given the unrivalled expertise in hydrocarbons, the UAE is the possible world leader in renewable energy and environment caring. In deed, Abu Dhabi’s Masdar city plans to spend $ 2 billion on solar technology. Moreover, Abu Dhabi is investing $15bn in a hydrogen plant (Middle East Electricity, 2009). For Saudi Arabia, it is planning to become a leading research center in solar energy and possibly an exporter of solar related technology. UAE holds almost 8. 5% and 3. 3% the world’s oil and natural gas reserves but plans to invest about $10 bn to advancing renewable energy incase of depletion of fossil (Burgermeister, 2009The History of Nuclear power use in Japan Since 1956, Japan has been on a pathway to reducing its reliance on overseas energy sources through progress in Nuclear power use to provide energy for its production units (Pikket, 2002). The country’s commitment is seen in the various treaties that it has signed with other countries. Ideally, there are social issues that challenge Japan’s pursuit of nuclear power. The future of Japan’s Nuclear power is further complicated by domestic and international pressures to enhance safety and security (Kazim, 2007). However, the pursuit was generally fueled by the 1970s oil crisis. In Japan, the environmental problems resulting from energy production, conversion and utilization have increased the awareness in possibly all sectors ranging from public, industry and government (Dahl, 1999). The risk of climate change and the desire to move to a cleaner fuel was one reason towards a shift from reliance on crude oil. Japan discovered that large nuclear plants were both technologically and economically most reliable techniques of replacing fossil fuel over-reliance in production of electricity (Pikket, 2002). Similarity of Japan and UAE on Nuclear Energy Despite the above different historical development on the use and proliferation of Nuclear energy, the two countries faced intense domestic and international pressure to ensure that they comply with the set regulations on the use of the Nuclear energy (Kazim, 2007). For instance, Japan was required to assure that it’s over populated nation would be safe from the emissions of uranium. Secondly, the two nations use the technology to reduce over reliance on fossil fuels (Al-Abed et al, 2006). Crude oil prices have a fluctuating characteristic that puts many nations that basically depend on it at jeopardy should an increase in prices increase. The 1970s oil crisis serves to remind all nations how dependence on oil can really affect economies (Kazim, 2007).

Free Essays on Antitrust - Microsoft

The Anti-Trust Case Against Microsoft Since 1990, a battle has raged in United States courts between the United States government and the Microsoft Corporation out of Redmond, Washington, headed by Bill Gates. What basically the entire lawsuit boils down to is money. The federal government maintains that Microsoft's monopolistic practices are harmful to United States citizens, creating higher prices and potentially downgrading software quality, and should therefore be stopped. Microsoft and its supporters claim that they are not breaking any laws, and are just doing good business. Microsoft's antitrust problems began in the early months of 1990, when the Federal Trade Commission began investigating them for possible violations of the Sherman and Clayton Antitrust Acts, which are designed to stop the formation of monopolies The investigation continued on for the next three years without resolve, until Novell, maker of DR-DOS, a competitor of Microsoft's MS-DOS, filed a complaint with the Competition Directorate of the European Commission in June of 1993 (Maldoom 1). Doing this stalled the investigations even more, until finally in August of 1993, the Federal Trade Commission decided to hand the case over to the Department of Justice (Check 1). The Department of Justice moved quickly, with Anne K. Bingaman, head of the Antitrust Division of the DOJ, leading the way (Check 1). The case was finally ended on July 15, 1994, with Microsoft signing a consent settlement (Check 1). The settlement focused on Microsoft's selling practices with computer manufacturers. Up until now, Microsoft would sell MS-DOS and Microsoft's other operating systems to original equipment manufacturers (OEM's) at a 60% discount if that OEM agreed to pay a royalty to Microsoft for every single computer that they sold, regardless if it had a Microsoft operating system installed on it or not (Check 2). After the settlement, Microsoft would be forced to sell their op... Free Essays on Antitrust - Microsoft Free Essays on Antitrust - Microsoft The Anti-Trust Case Against Microsoft Since 1990, a battle has raged in United States courts between the United States government and the Microsoft Corporation out of Redmond, Washington, headed by Bill Gates. What basically the entire lawsuit boils down to is money. The federal government maintains that Microsoft's monopolistic practices are harmful to United States citizens, creating higher prices and potentially downgrading software quality, and should therefore be stopped. Microsoft and its supporters claim that they are not breaking any laws, and are just doing good business. Microsoft's antitrust problems began in the early months of 1990, when the Federal Trade Commission began investigating them for possible violations of the Sherman and Clayton Antitrust Acts, which are designed to stop the formation of monopolies The investigation continued on for the next three years without resolve, until Novell, maker of DR-DOS, a competitor of Microsoft's MS-DOS, filed a complaint with the Competition Directorate of the European Commission in June of 1993 (Maldoom 1). Doing this stalled the investigations even more, until finally in August of 1993, the Federal Trade Commission decided to hand the case over to the Department of Justice (Check 1). The Department of Justice moved quickly, with Anne K. Bingaman, head of the Antitrust Division of the DOJ, leading the way (Check 1). The case was finally ended on July 15, 1994, with Microsoft signing a consent settlement (Check 1). The settlement focused on Microsoft's selling practices with computer manufacturers. Up until now, Microsoft would sell MS-DOS and Microsoft's other operating systems to original equipment manufacturers (OEM's) at a 60% discount if that OEM agreed to pay a royalty to Microsoft for every single computer that they sold, regardless if it had a Microsoft operating system installed on it or not (Check 2). After the settlement, Microsoft would be forced to sell their op...

Physical Aging Ectocranial Suture Closure

Physical Aging Ectocranial Suture Closure Introduction Forensic science revolutionized crime investigation strategies (White Folkens, 2005). There is no need to elaborate on its importance because it is a well-known fact that innocent people are convicted while guilty criminals are acquitted if forensic anthropologists fail to provide accurate analysis of the evidence collected by law enforcement agencies (Katzenberg Saunders, 2008).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Physical Aging: Ectocranial Suture Closure specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More One essential aspect of forensic science is the ability to determine the age of the skeletal remains at the time of death (Lieberman, 2011). The technique is called the ectocranial suture closure method. Traditional adult skeletal aging methods focused on four main regions of the human body: 1) the pubic symphysis; 2) auricular surface; 3) sternal rib ends; 4) cranial sutures (Cox Mays, 2000, p. 70). However, the focus of this presentation is on ectocranial suture closure. Cranial suture closure is a technique discovered in the 16th century. However, it was considered as an unreliable adult skeletal aging method. However, anthropologists Meindl and Lovejoy re-evaluated the whole process and came up with a revised method called the ectocranial suture closure method. Methodology This particular technique calls for the examination of the state of closure of the sutures of the skull at defined points on the cranium (Meindl Lovejoy, 1985). There are two major steps in the application of Meindl and Lovejoy’s revised endocranial suture closure method. In the first step, the anthropologist uses a complete skull and takes data measurements from a specific suture observation site called the Ectocranial Vault sutures. In the second step, the anthropologist takes data measurement from another suture observation site called the Ectocranial Lateral-Anterior sutures. These two steps comprise the ectocra nial suture closure method. After the establishment of the specific suture observation sites, the anthropologist will gather data using the revised method developed by Meindl and Lovejoy.Advertising Looking for report on aging? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The ten specific sites are listed as follows: 1) Mid-lambdoid; 2) Lambda; 3) Obelion; 4) Anterior sagittal;5) Bregma; 6) Mid-coronal; 7) Pterion; 8) Sphenofrontal; 9) Inferior Sphenofrontal; and 10) Superior Sphenofrontal (DiGangi Moore, 2012, p.78). These ten sites were divided into the â€Å"vault system† and the â€Å"lateral-anterior system† (Steele Bramblett, 1988, p.57). It is imperative that the anthropologist accurately identifies the specific location of the sutures in accordance to the framework developed by Meindl and Lovejoy. The following information can assist the anthropologist in determining the actual suture locations (see Table 1). Points of the Skull Definition of Terms Mid-lambdoid Midpoint of each half of the lamboid suture Lambda At lambda in pars lambdica of sagittal and pars lambdica of lamboid sutures Obelion At obelion in parts obelica of the sagittal suture Anterior sagittal Point on the sagittal suture at the juncture of the anterior one third and posterior two-thirds of its length (usually near the juncture of the pars bregmatica and pars verticis of the sagittal suture Bregma At bregma in pars bregmatica of the coronal and pars bregmatica of the sagittal sutures Mid-coronal Midpoint of each half of the coronal suture in parts complicate of the coronal suture Pterion At pterion, the region of the upper portion of the greater wing of the sphenoid, usually the point at which the parietosphenoid suture meets the frontal bone Sphenofrontal Midpoint of the sphenofrontal suture Inferior Sphenofrontal Point of the sphenotemporal suture lying at its intersection with a line connecti ng both articular tubercles of the temporomandibular joint Superior Sphenofrontal Point on the sphenotemporal suture lying 2 cm below its juncture with the parietal bone Table 1. Definitions of suture observation sites. After the specific locations were identified, the anthropologist uses a four-point scoring system. The scoring system uses the following criteria: 0 = no observable closure; 1 = minimal closure; 2 = significant closure; and 3 = complete obliteration (DiGangi Moore, 2012, p.78). After observing the ten specific sites, the anthropologist will use a table of composite scores and a mean age and standard deviation for each score (DiGangi Moore, 2012, p.79). The anthropologist compares the values generated and uses the table to determine the estimated age of the skeleton. Research Findings The ectocranial suture closure technique should become one of the major age determination techniques made available to anthropologists. The technique is based on a reliable framew ork. It is advantageous to use this particular technique especially when it comes to determining the age group. Moreover, this technique provides the capability to determine the age of the skeleton if other techniques are non-available. At the same time this technique can be used to validate age estimated generated by other techniques.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Physical Aging: Ectocranial Suture Closure specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The ectocranial suture closure can help provide an age estimate of the skeletal remains. But scientists are unable to provide a clear explanation when it comes to the correlation of suture closure and age. Another major disadvantage of this technique is the broad age intervals. The broad range intervals can be a problem when it comes to forensics. Forensic anthropologists are faced with the challenge to provide accurate estimates of age while taking into consideration human var iation in the aging process (Dirkmaat, 2012 p. 203). According to one commentary, â€Å"the narrower, or more precise the age estimate given, the more helpful it can be to law enforcement when eliminating possible identities† (Dirkmaat, 2012 p.203). Critics are quick to point out that this particular technique is an unreliable skeletal aging method (Meindl Lovejoy, 1985 p. 57). Detractors rejected cranial suture closure and remarked that it cannot be trusted (Meindl Lovejoy, 1985, p. 57). Nevertheless, after an in-depth study on different techniques, it was discovered that â€Å"no single skeletal indicator of age at death is ever likely to accurately reflect the many factors which accumulate with chronological age, each of which contribute valuable information to the age estimate† (Meindl Lovejoy, 1985, p. 65). It o therefore important to useIt is therefore imperative to reconsider the value of the ectocranial suture closure as an alternative tool in the determinat ion of the age of the skeleton at the time of death. Conclusion The ectocranial suture closure technique is not reliable when it comes to precise age estimates. Anthropologists said that there are broad age intervals. At the same time they cannot provide a clear explanation with regards to the correlation between suture closure and age of the skeleton. But this technique is useful when it comes to the determination of age groups, whether the skeleton belongs to a child or an adult. Furthermore, this technique is useful when it comes to the validation of age estimates provided by other skeletal age determination techniques.Advertising Looking for report on aging? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More References Cox, M Mays, S 2000, Human osteology: in archaeology and forensic science, Oxford University Press, UK. DiGangi, E Moore, M 2012, Research methods in human skeletal biology, Academic Press, UK. Dirkmaat, D 2012, A companion to forensic anthropology, Blackwell Publishing, UK. Katzenberg, M Saunders, S 2008, Biological anthropology of the human skeleton, John Wiley Sons, New Jersey. Lieberman, D 2011, The evolution of the human head, Harvard University Press, MA. Meindl, R Lovejoy, O1985, ‘Ectocranial suture closure: a revised method for the determination of skeletal age at death based on the lateral-anterior sutures’, The American Journal of Physical Anthropology, vol. 68 no.1, pp. 57-66. Steele, D C Bramblett, 1988, The anatomy and biology of the human skeleton, Texas A M University Press, TX. White, T Folkens, P, 2005, The human bone manual, Elsevier Academic Press, UK.