Keys to Success in Cross

Table of Contents Background of the Project Research Questions Importance of the Project Academic Literatures How to Answer Research Questions Project Plan List of References Background of the Project The emerging technologies have turned the world into a global village, and many firms are struggling to find ways of expanding their global operations. International marketing strategies have become integral parts of strategic management as firms try to understand the nature of the environment in the international markets. The luxury industry is one of the oldest industries in the world.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Keys to Success in Cross-Border Marketing specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Many companies offering luxurious products have been struggling to expand their operations to the international markets as a way of expanding their market share. Donia Allegue is one of the emerging luxury products t hat have been rapidly expanding over the recent past. This is one of the first Parisian turban designers that target high-end consumers in Europe. Started in February 2012, this fashion designer has experienced massive success in the recent past in France. However, the management must understand that the international market has some characteristics that are different from the home market in France. According to Ricca and Robins (2012, p. 67), â€Å"Cultural differences affect the nature and pattern of status-directed consumption.† Sometimes a product that is valuable to one group may be abhorred because of the cultural backgrounds. This is specifically so when it comes to the apparel industry. When planning to move to the international market, the marketing unit of Donia Allegue must realize that the international market may require different approaches in order to ensure that the operations of the firm are in line with the cultural needs of the local customers. Research Que stions When conducting a research project, it is always important to set specific research questions that would define the path to be taken when collecting data. Research questions always offer a guideline of the type of data to be collected. This helps in avoiding time wastage by collecting irrelevant information. The following are some of the research questions that will guide the process of collecting data. What is the impact of cultural and religious factors in defining the consumption of luxurious products? Is it necessary for a firm like Donia Allegue to modify its products based on the cultural and religious factors? When is it necessary for a firm in the luxurious industry to consider that it has the capacity to enter a market that has different cultural practices from that of the home country? The above three questions will form the basis of this project. Responding to the above questions will help determine the impact of cultural and religious practices on the luxurious industry. It will define when it is necessary for a firm to make an entry into a foreign market. Importance of the Project According to Wiedmann (2013, p. 112), there has been a consistent rise in the number of people into the upper and middle class in various countries across the world. In the United States and Europe, the number of people falling in the upper class has been on the rise. On the other hand, China, Brazil, India, and Africa have had a consistent rise in the number of people falling in the middle class.Advertising Looking for dissertation on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This means that the target market for luxurious products is rapidly on the rise. There are more people who can afford expensive products in the world market today, than it was in the past. Firms offering luxurious products have, therefore, been under pressure to expand their market operations beyond the national borders as a way of tapping into the expanding market. This research seeks to identify the best approach that these firms can use in order to expand their market share. The researcher appreciates the fact that cultural and religious factors may affect the internalization process of luxury companies. This research is very important because it sheds light on the approach that a firm should take when moving to the international markets. It explains the cultural trends in the market, and how firms such as Donia Allegue should define their products in a way that would enable them operate in the international market. The project seeks to inform these firms that what may be appealing to the French consumers may not be very successful in the market in Saudi Arabia (Okonkwo 2010, p. 76). This is so because of the difference in the cultural and religious practices in the two countries. From this research, these firms operating in luxurious products will be in a better position to formulate strategies t hat can enable them to operate in markets with varying socio-cultural dimensions. Academic Literatures Research is a continuous process that involves gathering new information in order to expand the existing knowledge in a given field. According to Samli (2013, p. 40), it is wrong for one to claim that he or she is conducting research from a scratch. There are always some existing literatures that are related to the topic in one way or the other. A research can on only be important if it brings new knowledge on a given topic. Duplication of the existing knowledge in a new piece of research may not be of any use. It is, therefore, important for the researcher to appreciate the body of the existing literatures in order to identify what other scholars have found out from their research. With this information, the researcher will need to identify the research gaps in the existing literatures. The researcher will determine the areas that other scholars ignored, areas that they recommende d further research, or those that have a contradiction despite being widely published. This way, the new research will be exploring new information in order to expand the knowledge that already exists in the literatures.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Keys to Success in Cross-Border Marketing specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Many scholars have conducted massive research on the impact of cultural and religious practices on the international trade. According to Belk (2010, p. 61), many firms have failed in their internationalization processes because of misunderstanding the cultural practices of a new market. This scholar gives an example of Victoria’s Secret that specializes on the lingerie. This firm had experienced massive success in Europe and American markets. It saw a big opportunity in the Middle East Market and made the decision to make its first entry in the region by establishing a store i n Bahrain. However, the decision to use models who were only wearing the lingerie was a disastrous move in a society that holds strict principles about the dress code of women. The product was met by an immediate rejection as it was considered a direct attack on the cultural and religious practices of the locals. The scholar says that the firm was almost forced out of the Kuwaiti market. The management had to restructure itself, eliminate the brands that had earned negative publicity and replace them with new products. The firm had to reinvent its brand in this market in order to manage the hostility in the market. This is an ordeal that a firm such as Donia Allengue should not be subjected to in its internationalization process. The impact of socio-cultural factors on the purchasing pattern of luxurious products is an area that scholars have given massive focus in the recent past. However, there are some contradictions on the existing literatures. While some scholars argue that som e luxurious products are beyond the influence of culture and religion, other scholars hold that every cultural practices is a strong force that cannot be ignored by any industry. For instance, Okonkwo (2007, p. 89) says that some of the top-of-the-range cars such as Mercedes Benz and BMW are always advertised using models who are casually dressed. This has never affected their sales in Middle East where strict principles about dress code are always observed. However, the case of Victoria’s Secret is completely different from this. In this project, the researcher will try to identify the truth as to whether some luxurious products are beyond cultural influence. It is from the first reading of these existing literatures that the researcher was able to define the research questions discussed above.Advertising Looking for dissertation on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More How to Answer Research Questions In every research, there must be the logical methods that are used to collect and analyze data in response to the set research questions. The methodology chosen for a research must be sensitive of the resources available for the research, including time and finance. It must also take into consideration the nature of the research (Kapferer Bastien 2012, p. 53). In this project, the data in response to the research questions will be collected from the primary and secondary sources. The primary sources of data will be collected from a firm that offers luxurious products through e-mail and phone interviews. This process is considered appropriate because it eliminates the geographic barrier. The secondary data will be gathered from books, journals, and other reliable online sources of information. Analysis of the data will be conducted quantitatively to come up with the empirical facts about the issue under investigation. Data collected must respond dire ctly to the questions set in this proposal. The responses will be presented in graphs, tables and charts for clarity. Project Plan Project planning is an important stage because it describes specific activities that should be carried out, the time allocations, and how the financial resources will be spent. The Gantt chart below shows some of the important activities in this project, and their timeline. Timeline of the Activities in Project As shown in the above Gantt chart, this process is expected to take eight weeks to be completed. Each of the activities has a set timeline, but some of them can be completed within a shorter period. Collection of primary and secondary data and their analysis will be the main objectives in this project. The final document should be an informative report that incorporates the views of many scholars, and the sentiments of the individuals interviewed when collecting primary data. List of References Belk, R 2010, Research in consumer behavior, Emerald , Bingley. Kapferer, J Bastien, V 2012, The luxury strategy: Break the rules of marketing to build luxury brands, Kogan Page, London. Okonkwo, U 2007, Luxury fashion branding: Trends, tactics, techniques, Palgrave Macmillan, Basingstoke. Okonkwo, U 2010, Luxury online: Styles, strategies, systems, Palgrave Macmillan, Basingstoke. Ricca, M Robins, R 2012, Meta-luxury: Brands and the culture of excellence, Palgrave Macmillan, New York. Samli, A 2013, International consumer behavior in the 21st century: Impact on marketing strategy development, Springer, New York. Wiedmann, K 2013, Luxury marketing: A challenge for theory and practice, Gabler, Wiesbaden. This dissertation on Keys to Success in Cross-Border Marketing was written and submitted by user Lillie Quinn 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.

Cancelación de visa por quedarse en EE.UU. más tiempo

Cancelacià ³n de visa por quedarse en EE.UU. ms tiempo Una de las formas ms frecuentes de  revocacià ³n o  cancelacià ³n una visa americana ocurre cuando un extranjero ingresa a Estados Unidos con una visa no inmigrante y prolonga su estancia ms all del tiempo de lo permitido. Asimismo, los turistas de paà ­ses incluidos en el Programa de Exencià ³n de Visados,–entre ellos Chile y Espaà ±a– y bajo el cual sus ciudadanos pueden ingresar a EE.UU. sin visa por un tiempo mximo de 90 dà ­as, pierden este privilegio si exceden su estadà ­a ms all de esos tres meses. Revocacià ³n visa por estancia ilegal en EE.UU. La presencia en EE.UU. ms all del tiempo permitido provoca cancelacià ³n/revocacià ³n visa. Adems, los turistas que ingresaron sin visa pierden ese derecho.Otras consecuencias:posible expulsià ³n o deportacià ³nimposibilidad de solicitar cambio visa o extensià ³nse limitan los caminos para regular la situacià ³ncastigo de 3 o 10 aà ±os, una vez que se est fuera de EE.UU.dificultad para volver a obtener una visa americanaSegà ºn datos del Departamento de Seguridad Interna, segà ºn datos de 2017, à ºltimo aà ±o fiscal disponible, se quedaron en EE.UU. ms all del tiempo autorizado:el 0,51% de turistas que ingresaron sin visa por el Programa de Exencià ³n de Visadosel 1,91% de extranjeros que ingresaron sin visael 4,15% de extranjeros que ingresaron con visa de estudiante F-1 Consecuencias por  permanecer ilegalmente en Estados Unidos   El tiempo que un extranjero no inmigrante puede permanecer legalmente en Estados Unidos y su periodo de gracia, cuando lo hay, est determinado por el tipo de visa que utiliza para ingresar. En el caso de los turistas con una B1/B2 el tiempo mximo de estancia est determinado en el I-94, registro de ingreso y de salida. En estos casos no hay periodo de gracia pero podrà ­a calificarse para solicitar una extensià ³n o, incluso, un cambio de visa. Pero si no se sale a tiempo la visa es cancelada. Por otra parte, en el caso de un turista internacional que ingresa a EE.UU. sin visa por ser de un paà ­s en el Programa de Exencià ³n de Visas el plazo mximo de estancia es de 90 dà ­as. No es posible ni pedir extensià ³n, ni cambio a otra visa. Tampoco aplica ningà ºn periodo de gracia. Una vez transcurrido el plazo que corresponde a cada persona segà ºn su tipo de visa, el extranjero se convierte en indocumentado si permanece en Estados Unidos. Es lo que se conoce en inglà ©s como visa overstay. Consecuentemente, podrà ­a ser expulsado o deportado, dependiendo de las circunstancias de cada caso. Sin embargo, existen excepciones como, por ejemplo, iniciar un trmite para ajuste de estatus o haber solicitado a tiempo una extensià ³n o un cambio de visa.   Adems de la consecuencia de la posible deportacià ³n, hay otras que deben ser tenidos en cuenta. En primer lugar, una vez que la visa se convierte en no vlida por haber abusado del tiempo permitido para permanecer en Estados Unidos ya no es posible pedir con à ©xito una extensià ³n de la misma o el cambio a otra   Adems, es muy importante que si se est en situacià ³n de indocumentado se cierran en la prctica muchas puertas a la posibilidad de obtener la tarjeta de residencia. La razà ³n es que no siempre es posible realizar lo que se conoce como un ajuste de estatus.   Por ejemplo, Antonio Alonso ingresà ³ a Estados Unidos con una visa de turista y se quedà ³ 15 meses ms all de la fecha autorizada. Despuà ©s se casa con Pili Pà ©rez, una residente permanente que lo pide como esposo. Al principio las cosas van bien porque el Servicio de Inmigracià ³n y Ciudadanà ­a aprueba la peticià ³n de familiar realizada con el formulario I-130. Pero despuà ©s la dura realidad se impone. Antonio no puede ajustar su estatus y tiene que salir de los Estados Unidos para completar el proceso en un consulado. Y allà ­ se encuentra con la negacià ³n de la peticià ³n de la green card y que tiene un castigo de 10 aà ±os por haber estado ilegalmente en los Estados Unidos. La situacià ³n serà ­a diferente si Pili Pà ©rez fuera una ciudadana estadounidense en vez de una residente permanente. Cabe destacar que la situacià ³n de indocumentado limita las posibilidades para regularizarse al impedir en muchos casos el ajuste de estatus. Por eso, si se tiene ese estatus es muy importante informarse muy bien sobre si para el caso particular que le afecta a uno es posible arreglar los papeles sin salir de Estados Unidos o no.  ¿Quà © sucede cuando se sale de EE.UU. pero se ha estado ilegalmente en el paà ­s? En este caso hay que distinguir dos situaciones: En primer lugar, cuando se ha estado en situacià ³n irregular en Estados Unidos por un total de menos de 180 dà ­as. En este caso es posible pedir inmediatamente una nueva visa. Pero hay que tener en cuenta que el consulado puede negarla muy fcilmente por considerar al solicitante como inelegible. Y eso es porque una de las razones por las que se puede decir no cuando se pide una visa es que el oficial consular crea que el solicitante tiene intencià ³n de quedarse en Estados Unidos.  Si ya lo hizo una vez,  ¿por quà © no va a volver a hacerlo? Por eso que no es tan fcil volver a sacar la visa. Pero desde luego que no es imposible ya que la estancia alargada fuera de plazo pudo deberse a una situacià ³n razonable que se puede probar, como por ejemplo, haber estado hospitalizado.   Tambià ©n puede ser que hayan transcurrido ya muchos aà ±os y la situacià ³n actual del solicitante, muy asentado en su lugar de residencia, permita suponer que de esta vez no se va a quedar en los Estados Unidos ni un sà ³lo dà ­a ms del autorizado. Subrayar que de acuerdo a la ley, cualquier oficial consular puede denegar una visa basndose en sospecha. No necesita probar nada. Es el solicitante el que debe probar ms all de toda duda que va a cumplir las leyes migratorias. En segundo lugar, si se ha estado sin autorizacià ³n en Estados Unidos por ms de 180 dà ­as aplica el castigo de los 3 o de los 10 aà ±os, si bien hay algunas excepciones. Este castigo implica que mientas se est cumpliendo una persona se convierte en inadmisible para ingresar a Estados Unidos. En otras palabras, mientras no cumpla su tiempo de castigo no puede pedir una visa y, si lo hace, ser negada. Sin embargo, en algunos casos extraordinarios es posible solicitar un permiso, que tambià ©n se conoce como waiver or perdà ³n y asà ­ se podrà ­a solicitar la visa antes de que transcurra todo el tiempo de castigo. Las condiciones para solicitarlo son diferentes segà ºn se quiera obtener una visa no inmigrante, por ejemplo la de turista, o una de inmigrante para obtener la green card, por ejemplo, en el caso de peticià ³n por parte de un familiar. En todos estos casos lo recomendable es consultar con un abogado migratorio reputado. No es fcil obtener un waiver y, ni siquiera es posible sacarlo segà ºn como sea el caso.   Finalmente, si se ha cumplido el castigo de los 3 o de los 10 aà ±os, es posible ya solicitar una visa no inmigrante o de inmigrante porque ha desaparecido la causa que convertà ­a al extranjero en inadmisible.   Sin embargo, tener en cuenta que para el caso de visa no inmigrante todavà ­a es posible que el cà ³nsul la niegue, precisamente alegando que se es inelegible. Es muy importe en estos casos poder demostrar que no se tiene ninguna intencià ³n de quedarse en los Estados Unidos ms tiempo del permitido y de que se tienen lazos econà ³micos y familiares fuertes en el lugar de residencia.  ¿Cà ³mo se notifica la cancelacià ³n de la visa? La cancelacià ³n de la visa se produce automticamente. Las autoridades estadounidenses no tienen obligacià ³n de comunicarlo. Lo mismo sucede con los nacionales de los paà ­ses del Programa de Exencià ³n de Visas. Pierden automticamente el derecho a ingresar a EE.UU. sin un visado, no siendo necesaria la comunicacià ³n a la persona interesada. Consejos para evitar tener problemas con las visas americanas La visa que mayores problemas causa es la de turista. Para evitarlos es conveniente tomar este test sobre cà ³mo obtenerla y conservarla. Adems, no conviene abusar de las frecuencias de los ingresos. Este es un artà ­culo informativo. No es asesorà ­a legal para ningà ºn caso concreto.

Bill Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Bill - Research Paper Example Since the company’s application in May and the subsequent development within the House of Representatives, the bill have raised substantial arguments. Proponents of the bill argues that it would create employment while its opponents claim points at environmental impacts. According to Coral Davenport of The New York Times, November 18, 2014 passage of the bill may rely on veto powers of President Obama and Nebraska court approval for allowing passage of the pipeline through the district. As a concerned member of industrial revolution in the State, there exists need to remain a proponent of the bill. Conceivably, citizens should duly commit their votes to encourage the proposed Keystone pipeline project in a non-political but rather economic mind. Ideally, the proposed project presents unmeasurable economic benefits coupled with industrial revolution to United States. Society can envy the nay voters on the proposed project, it is logical. However, change always remains inevitable and not to have concerns and commitment based on the current industrial and economic issues raises responsibility questions. Before voting against the noble Keystone project, a reflection of its vitality to United States economy and superiority should remain a fundamental concern. The following ultimate benefits as aforementioned are domineering for question and reflection before opposing the proposed pipeline project. As concerned citizens of United State, there exist a contemporary urgency to reinstate manufacturing back to the country. Domestic manufacturing industry is imperative in provision of employment and production of locally standardized goods that directly sustains the health concerns that citizens cherish as a nation. TransCanada insists that local refining of crude oil would be imperious in sustainability of the economy especially on creation of employment opportunities. It is essential to understand that opposing the idea would

Nutrition and wellness research paper Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Nutrition and wellness paper - Research Proposal Example On this basis, the topic I propose for this research paper is the nutritive disorder, Anorexia nervosa. This does not appear to be a personal site. It is the official website of the Renfrew Center – a mental health facility, which has centers in various states throughout the United States and a nationwide professional network. This Center specializes in the treatment of eating disorders. The author of the website, i.e, the Renfrew Agency, itself appears to be the sponsoring agency that has put out the information on Anorexia Nervosa which is contained in this site. The credentials of this organization are also evident on the site, because it has acknowledged that it is the owner of copyright and therefore the producer of the material on this specific webpage. This does not appear to be an educational site, it is a commercial site. There is no contact email address provided, but there is a direct link titled â€Å"Contact†, where a user has the facility to enter personal contact information, so that a representative of the Renfrew Center can get in touch. In addition, there is a toll free number that has been provided on the site, for contacting the Renfrew Center. This site appears to have been created as a promotional tool to generate business for the Renfrew Center. There are no advertisements on this site. There are several links provided for different sections of the community, i.e, for schools, for family/friends and for professionals, and the major focus appears to be the promotion of the package of health care services offered by the Renfrew Center. This web page is useful because it contains information on the disease. It also describes anorexia nervosa as a life threatening condition which usually â€Å"stems from underlying emotional causes.† This supports my thesis that the causes of the disease may be psychological. Source No:

The Universal Declaration of the Rights of men and Citizen 1789 and Essay

The Universal Declaration of the Rights of men and Citizen 1789 and Modern Political Thought - Essay Example Reforms were put in place but this resulted in divisions because the Assembly adopted a position that was against the church and declared war on nations that supported the French king. Anarchy ensued and in 1792, the National Assembly declared itself as a National Convention. It abolished the monarchy, established a French Republic and executed King Louis XVI the following year (Wilde, 2009). The first part of the Revolution was characterized by moral and physical violence. The States-General met in 1789 in Versailles but were paralyzed by the refusal of the Third Estate (the Commons) to meet separately as a distinct, inferior body. On June 17, the Commons took the crucial revolutionary step of declaring their assembly to be the National Assembly, thereby destroying the States-General. This first assertion of the sovereign authority of the nation soon inspired a popular rising in Paris, marked by the storming of the Bastille on July 14. Concurrently, urban and rural revolts occurred throughout France. Suspicions generated by the political crisis had aggravated the discontent aroused by the failure of the 1788 harvest and an exceptionally severe winter. The peasants pillaged and burned the chateaus of the aristocracy destroying the records of their manorial dues (Sydenham, 1997). The revolutionary government declared war against Great Britain in January of 1793. In Cody’s treatise, it was mentioned that what followed was the Reign of Terror where all potential enemies of the ruling faction, regardless of their age, sex and physical condition, were executed. In October of 1795, a new system, the Directory replaced the revolutionary government and the first bicameral legislature in the history of France was instituted. The parliament was composed of 500 representatives and 250 senators while executive power was granted to five directors. After four years,

Overweight And Obesity Of Saudi Arabian Adolescents Physical Education Essay

Overweight And Obesity Of Saudi Arabian Adolescents Physical Education Essay Today, obesity is one of the main concerns among health professionals as a result of its recent and rapid increase in prevalence worldwide. The problems of obesity and overweight are seen in adults and children in both developed and developing countries (World Health Organization (WHO), 1999). Obesity in Saudi Arabia is a rampant disease which has continued to escalate in frequency and size over past decades. Madani (2000) maintains that throughout Saudi Arabia that 14% of children less than 6 years can be categorised as obese; while 83% of adults are simultaneously suffering from the same affliction. Unfortunately, the limited scope of empirical research throughout Saudi Arabia leaves limited attribution variables for analysis and will thereby require in-depth investigation. Furthermore, there is limited research to sustain the relationship between urban and rural lifestyles in this region and their influence on the incidence of obesity. Aims and Objectives of Study The scope of obesity research is extensive given the current affection within international communities. Unfortunately, there is limited empirical analysis of Saudi Arabia that can be used to establish a strategic offensive against this prevalent disease. Recognising such deficiency, the aims of this analysis revolve around conduct of a cross-sectional research study in an attempt to define the socio-economic relationship with obesity in Saudi Arabia among adolescents. Through this analysis, a measurement methodology will be defined which includes categorical qualification and variable comparison to determine at-risk levels for adolescents in this global region. A main aim of this analysis is to investigate the relationship between urban and rural obesity as well as the other variables including exercise and diet which influence the prevalence of this disease. Overall, the objectives of this analysis are to provide indicative data regarding obesity prevalence and the association of socio-demographic and lifestyle variables including dietary habits and exercise frequency. By exploring the specific caloric intake levels and food profiles, determination will be made regarding consumption differences between rural and urban areas, generating a blueprint of obesity that supersedes traditional boundaries. Significance of Study In modern Saudi Arabian society, childhood obesity remains the most significant of health concerns, detracting from overall well-being regardless of economic or social factors. Madani (2000) reminds that obesity is a direct contributor increase in mortality rates due to cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and non-insulin dependent diabetes. The main objectives of this study are to explore the main contributors to Saudi Arabian obesity in the context of diet, exercise, and demographic data. Through comparative analysis, this study will provide an empirical framework wherein at-risk categories can be prescribed for health care practitioners to assist in attribution. Furthermore, this analysis will directly contribute to leading academic theories regarding differentiation between urban and rural social foundations and their influence on children. Providing evidence to inform a strategy for obesity combat, this research will offer a gateway for further research and encourage local awar eness and implementation of control measures. Review of Literature Obesity is the heavy and disproportionate collation of fat to an extent that that it can significantly increase risk of disease contraction which can prove detrimental to health like heart disease and diabetes. Whilst there are a genetic, environmental and psychological components contributing to obesity, the main cause is a lack of activity combined with high calorie food intake. This chronic disease is characterized by a severe imbalance in energy metabolism as a result of excessive food intake in tandem with reduced energy expenditure. The WHO estimates that approximately 20 million children less than five years old, all around the globe, are overweight (WHO, 2003). Statistics have shown that it is not only developed countries suffering from this problem; developing countries in the Middle East, Western Pacific and Latin America have high levels of obesity among children (Popkin, 2002a). The Gulf States (GCC) are the richest among the developing countries and as a result of the economic boom, obesity and overweight have become one of the main health problems in this part of the world (Musaiger 2004). Significant economic growth has had a negative impact on the Saudi life style, particularly in terms of diet habits and customs, where traditional food has been replaced by high fat, high sugar, fast food (Al-Othaimeen, 2007). Moreover, this financial change has encouraged the people of Saudi Arabia to move from rural villages to urban cities. This huge change in the environment has led to a change in food habits and styles of physical activities, because urbanisation provides easy access to modern technology, including transportation and a high availability of food at all times of the year (Mendez and Popkin, 2004). Obesity in Saudi Arabia is a rampant disease that has continued to escalate in frequency and breadth over the past decades. More than one study has shown that the prevalence of obesity in Saudi Arabia ranges between 11.8 per cent and 36.1 per cent (Al-Nozha et al., 2008). Recently, a study found that more than 52 per cent of pregnant women are obese (El-Gilany and El-Wehady, 2009). Moreover, research to study cardiovascular disease and its impacts among 17,232 Saudi adults demonstrated that 72.5 per cent of Saudi people are obese or overweight (Al-Nozha et al., 2005). The highest prevalence of obesity among Saudi children was found in Riyadh, the central region of Saudi Arabia (Al-Nuaim et al., 1996) The prevalence of obesity in Saudi Arabia is of significant concern, and research studies have been undertaken to better develop causal hypotheses and predictions for future incidence. Abalkhail (2002) determined that between 1994 and 2000, a significant increase in BMI in Saudi Arabian adolescents occurred which was directly correlated with lifestyle and eating habits. These variables led to the conclusion that enhanced nutrition education and school system intervention were essential to supporting healthy development of Saudi children. In fact, recent research by Mahfouz et al. (2008) determined that Saudi school interventions involving increased physical activity and behavioural therapy have garnered significant results in the decrease of childhood obesity. Given that preventative techniques are linked to social networks, establishing a foundation of aversion and active mitigation continues to assist Saudi residents in overcoming the influences of this disease. To date, there is only one national nutrition survey represent prevalence of childhood obesity in Saudi Arabia. This household survey done between 1994 to 1998 and involved only 12,701 children aged 1-18 years (Al-Nuaim, 1996 ). These data were collected from families living in capital cities and urban areas which make this study not truly representative. Beside this national survey, there are number of studies collected at regions level. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Saudi Arabian children is vary because of using different standards and definitions of obesity. Table 1.1 summaries some of published studies. Table 1.1 studies from Saudi Arabia Reference details subjects Measurement methods Main outcomes Life style and nutrition and their impact on health of Saudi school students in Abha, Southwestern region of Saudi Arabia Farghaly, N(2006) Cross sectional Country: Saudi (south) N: 767 Age: male and female students in primary, intermediate and secondary school (7-18 years). -BMI -Height -Weight -BMI=weight (Kg)/ height2 (m2 ) -Obesity: weight-for-height z-scores more than 2 standard deviation above the mean. (WHO NCHS) -72% of primary school students consume food rich in carbohydrates, low fiber -male practicing longer physical activities than female -15.9% were obese -11% were overweight. Overweight and obesity and their relation to dietary habits and socio-demographic characteristics among male primary school children in Al-Hassa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Amin,T et all (2008) Cross sectional study Country: Saudi (Eastern region) N:1139 Age: 5th and 6th grades. -weight -height -BMI -Youth and Adolescence Food Frequency Questionnaire (YFFQ) -obese when BMI>95 -overweight when BMI>85 -YFFQ: to assess dietary consumption of adolescents by asking of frequency food consumption per day. -14.2% were overweight. -9.7% were obese -the prevalence of obesity and overweight is more in urban than in rural. -obesity in children linked with low educated mother. Overweight and obesity among attendees of primary care clinics in a university hospital Country: Saudi (Central region) N:3205 Age: all patient male and female who visited outpatient clinics at the University Hospital -Riyadh Between 22 April-22May 2006 -weight -height -BMI -BMI: weight in kilogram divided by height in meters square. -all anthropometric measurements were taken by professional nurses. -60.3% of adolescent are within normal body mass index -18.7% were overweight, (BMI=25 to -only 3.4% were morbid obese, BMI>40 Obesity among Saudi male adolescents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Al-Rukban,M (2003) Saudi Med J ; Vol. 24 (1): 27-33 Cross sectional study Country: Saudi (central region) N: 894 Age:12-20 -BMI overweight >85th -obese >95th BMI percentile -13.8% were overweight -20.5% were obese. Obesity and Related Behaviors among Adolescent School Boys in Abha City, Southwestern Saudi Arabia Mahfouz,A et al(2007) Journal of Tropical Pediatrics Vol. 54, No. 2 Country: Saudi (southern region) N: 2696 Age:11-19 -height -weight -BMI -general structured questionnaire underweight : -normal weight :15th- -Overweight :85th- -Obese:>95th percentile -questionnaire include question about socio-demographic condition, consumed food and physical activities. -16% were obese -95% had lack of exercise -obesity among adolescent in Abha is a health problem now and near future. Prevalence and socioeconomic risk factors of obesity among urban female students in Al-Khobar city, Eastern Saudi Arabia, 2003 Al-Saeed, W et al (2006) obesity reviews 8 , 93-99 cross sectional study Country: Saudi (Eastern region) N: 2239 Age:6-17 years -socio-demographic questionnaire -BMI -questionnaire given to parents to fill it out, includes question about fathers education, occupation and family incomes. -BMI= Weight (in kg)/Height (in m2). -20% were overweight -11% were obese -obesity and overweight in children are associated with highly educated mothers. -obesity among female is higher than male. Power (2009) voices compelling concerns about the prevalence of obesity within the gulf regions and focuses in particular on Saudi Arabia. According to Power (2009) obesity has now reached such a proportion that it is seriously beginning to threaten the Saudi community as becoming a nationwide epidemic. Furthermore empirical studies performed by Novotny (2003) have further implicated Saudi Arabia as the gulf capital for obesity as a sample of Saudi nationals over a five year period were selected utilizing a multistage stratified cluster sampling format with probability being proportionate to size. Physicians had a health obligation of measuring obesity accurately which was done through a quartet index of Body Mass Index. The data showed a sample of 8,865 participants comprising of 46.8% males with a mean age of 33.5 years. The prevalence of overweight came to 28.7% for females and 31.4% for males. With respect to obesity Novotny (2003) continues that holistic prevalence was 21.5% mal es and 25.4% for females. Indeed, the research design is suggestive of the notion that such figures many indeed represent accurate values nationally. According to the multiple logistic regression analysis, issues such as area, income, age and gender etc are from a statistical perspective significant predictors of obesity. Fairburn (2005) agrees and cites that the prevalence of obesity as the data suggests is normally higher in females than males due to sedentary lifestyles but lower in people residing in rural regions who adhere to traditional forms of life. Thus, the data may suggest that the prevalence and pattern of obesity according to gender and age is similar in Arab nations to those in western counties. The risk factors to children are huge. Power (2009) further mentions that Saudi Arabian children in particular are known to be sedentary kids and are more likely to gain weight due to a severe lack of physical activity. Fairburn (2005) however is adamant that some risk factors can be manipulated or modified and eagerly states that most of the risk factors impacting children are controllable in early life and thus negating the risk of heart disease later in life. Fairburn (2008) cites that parents can help children maintain a healthy body weight through physical activity and limiting salt consumption whilst educating them about the dangers of smoking highlighting that nicotine in cigarettes can cause the contraction of blood vessels and thus restricting blood flow through the vessels. In relation to obesity Fairburn (2005) argues that controlling portions containing fewer calories is the best way forward. Power (2009) however cites that this may not be applicable in all instances and states that more methodical ways need to be devised like fun games in order to increase activity. Further research among Saudi adolescents highlighted categorical variance that played a pertinent role in levels of childhood obesity. Amin et al. (2008) determined through quantitative research that male Saudi children with less educated parents and more working mothers were increasingly prone to obesity and overweight. In fact, such research is directly correlated with the work of Al-Subaie (2000) in which mothers education acted as a singular influence on Saudi females dietary habits formation. In a study by Al-Saeed et al. (2007) research amongst Saudi female students determined that parental working patterns were positively correlated to the incidence of childhood obesity. From this perspective, those children whose parents were actively working in private jobs were more likely to become obese. These specific demographic variables and their influence on Saudi obesity are essential to predicting incidence and moderating the increasing prevalence of this disease. From an alternate perspective, geographic research further explores the variability of obesity amongst Saudi adolescents. Regional research by Al-Nuaim et al. (1996) and El-Hazmi and Warsy (2002) has demonstrated that the incidence of obesity is positively correlated to geographic location in Saudi Arabia. These studies highlight increased obesity in the Eastern Province while the Southern Province demonstrated a significant decrease in incidence. El-Hazmi and Warsy (2002) postulate that such discrepancies may be directly related to environmental or genetic factors, thereby illuminating unique traits of obesity that are specific to Saudi Arabia. Further geographic research conducted by Khalid (2008) demonstrated that children at higher altitudes in Saudi Arabia tend to be increasingly overweight which has been suggested to be related to lifestyle and exercise habits. Each of these analyses provides a foundation of necessity for further evaluation of geographic differentiation in obes ity between rural and urban children in Saudi Arabia. Such evaluation could provide an undeniable link between exercise habits, diet, and income which allows regional officials to employ strategic preventative measures to reduce the incidence of obesity. Many medical and psychological risks and complications are associated with childhood obesity and overweight (Lobstein et al., 2004). ).. A strong relationship was found between asthma and BMI among obese and overweight children (Muà ±oz et al., 2001). Further, obesity can affect children emotionally and psychologically, as low self-esteem in obese children is likely to increase levels of anger and loneliness (Strauss, 2000).One of the main concerns of health professionals is the strong relationship between childhood obesity and subsequent adulthood obesity and overweight. Especially among adolescents, a high Body Mass Index (BMI) is highly predictive of obesity in adulthood (Laitinen et al., 2001). As result of the difficulties to assess the relationship between obesity in childhood and obesity in adulthood, epidemiological studies have used different design, age group, definitions and measurements (livingstone, 2000). Beside these limitations, more than one study have found that there is a strong relationship between childhood obesity and adulthood obesity (Whitaker et al., 1997);(Hill et al., 1998) ;(Gue et al., 1999). Obesity in adults is associated in turn with a variety of chronic diseases. For instance, a recent publication of the American Institute for Cancer Research (2007) found that an increase in body fat was associated with a variety of cause cancers including cancer of pancreas, oesophagus, colorectal, breast, kidney, allbladder and liver cancer (AICR, 2007). Roberts (2002) contends that obesity is closely linked to insulin resistance and to elevated blood pressure. Roberts (2002) further contends that complications arising from obesity typically include cancer like renal cell cancer, breast cancer and endometrial cancer. Mendosa (2005) agrees and underlines that other complications include sleep deprivation, liver malfunction, obstetric and gynaecologic complications, myocardial infarction, peripheral vascular disease, and hypertension. Mendosa (2005) in particular relates to the short term consequences of obesity as high blood pressure which can result due to a disproportionate body mass index. Mendosa (2005) cites that whilst high blood pressure has no immediate problems, it is a major risk factor which can lead to serious cardiovascular problems and ultimately heart disease. Wright et al (2005) agrees and further argues that with high blood pressure additional pressure is placed on the to heart to work more intensely in pumping blood around the body which can over a prolonged period of time damage arteries resulting in a blockage and thus a stroke. Contrarily though Roberts (2002) cites that whilst this is a short term problem, this problem mainly increases with age and thus adolescents are not at immediate risk. Wright et al (2005) further notes that osteoarthritis can also be a long term consequence which is a joints disorder. This arises due to additional pressure being placed on bones and joints due to obesity. Wight et al (2005) cites that even reducing weight by as little at 10% can minimise the risk of heart disease by improving blood circulation in the heart and osteoarthritis by negating pressure on bones. Fairburn (2005) further alludes to weight management and cites that blood pressure can decrease by up to 2.5/1.5 mmHg for each excess kilogram which is eliminated. Fairburn (2005) contends that a healthy diet is also essential in counteracting high blood pressure i.e. 6-8 portions of a plethora of fruit and vegetables and a low in salt/fat diet. Thus, high blood pressure is a short term problem which can lead to more serious long term problem but can be controlled through weight management and a sensible diet. Childhood obesity is become a major public health concern as result of its immediate and a later-life affects and consequences. Table 1.2 showed the early and late impacts of childhood obesity. Table1.2 Early and late impacts of childhood obesity (Wabitsch, 2000) Early impacts Late impacts Psychological problems Adulthood obesity Social consequences (low self-esteem and more loneliness) cancer Physical appearance Cardiovascular disease Metabolic disturbance Diabetes and hypertension Immune system and infection (High airway infection) Skin problems (acne and skin infection) Physical disabilities (decrease body mobility and activity) Mendosa (2005) refers to diabetes. Obesity can lead to both type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease and has affected almost nearly 42% of the adult population in Saudi Arabia. Mendosa cites that obesity and diabetes are both increasing at epidemic proportions that as many as 16% of the population may have even acquired metabolic syndrome. Wilson (2009) agrees and cites that chronic inflammatory response comprising of abnormal cytokine production, can lead to acute phase reactants and inflammatory signalling pathways being activated. According to Wright (2005) there is an intense correlation between obesity and health related quality of life due to multiple domains of quality of life and the heterogeneity of obesity. Furthermore as Wilson (2009) notes the concept of health related quality of life can be rather difficult to operationalise since from a theoretical standpoint it is inclusive of all issues of life. Power (2005) agrees and mentions that each domain of health is characterised by various components. As a consequence, quality of life is measurable by certain indices that mirror certain aspects of overall quality of life like functional restrictions and depression. Empirical studies as alluded to by Power (2005) have focused on the relationship between obesity and quality of life and have made use of generic scales instrumented specially for obese people. Additionally, as Wight (2005) notes obesity is a heterogeneous condition, and evidence does suggest that cultural, social, familial and individual facto rs can impact the level of obesity one contracts. In accordance with such a debate Power (2005) in particular argues that short term implications include difficulty in standing and walking. Power (2005) carried out dual studies in 2002 which solicited data from 120 obese individuals in the Saudi town of Tabuk. The data shows that 92 respondents depicted signs of limitations in relation to climbing several flights of stairs. Furthermore, all respondents displayed signs of physical wear and tear in relation to other activities whilst many also displayed emotional distress. However, the world health organisation (WHO) in contrast is critical and cites that underlying conditions such as arthritis may have contributed to this physical wear and tear. As such there is a link between obesity and poorer quality of life was in all age groups and both genders. A growing body of data has been correlated in obesity to suggest impairments in quality of life from a short term view are a genuine co ncern. Childhood obesity needs to be taken very seriously as contended by Poskitt (2008). Economic development in Saudi Arabia over the last three decades has lead to many changes in nutritional and lifestyle habits. Whilst these alterations have indeed influenced the quantity and quality of food consumption and predisposed individuals to a sedentary lifestyle, research of childhood obesity in Saudi Arabia is inadequate. The literature has shown that obesity has continued to proliferate in Saudi Arabia. Whilst some interventions have been imposed they have failed to substantially buck the trend of rising obesity statistics. The short term and long term consequences have been implicated as being a serious risk to those who are obese. Furthermore, the evidence does not bode well for childhood obesity which needs to be taken very seriously to prevent the emergence of such diseases as enlisted within the literature review. It should be studied and then implemented in the curriculum to prevent children from adopting a sedentary lifestyle leading to potentially deadly diseases. Study hypothesis: Urbanisation is negatively correlated to obesity Socio-economic status is ambiguously correlated to obesity Dietary intake is positively correlated to obesity Vitamin D deficiency is significantly associated with obesity Location: This study will be carried out in the Riyadh region which is one of the 13 regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Riyadh region is located in the centre of Saudi Arabia; it includes 21 small regions called Emirates. It also includes more than fifty rural areas all belong to these small Emirates. Study design and sampling: Cross- sectional study conducted in intermediate and secondary schools in Riyadh region in urban and rural areas. Age group: from 12-17 years male and female students. Participant will be recruited in urban and rural schools which have been chosen randomly based on schools list provided by educational authorities in Riyadh. Schools will be divided into 3 levels depend on the socio-economic statues of the locality; low, medium and high. Five schools will be randomly selected from each SES level. This study design to choose participant will be on two stages by using cluster sampling technique: First stage is choosing schools randomly.Second stage is choosing classrooms randomly. Then 50 participants will be randomly selected from each school by using school enrolment number. Eligibility: All students male and female age 12 to 17 years old attending and studying in the chosen schools. Ethical considerations: This study will be approved by the Social and Behavioral Research Ethics Committee of the Flinders University. Permission will be obtained from the local School Health and Education Directorate authorities. An introductory letter to participant explains research protocol and includes consent form for the parents. *Parents will be asked to sign consent if they wish their child to participate in this study. * In addition agreement will be obtained from children to ensure they do not object to participating in the study. *Parents and participant can refuse or withdraw at any time, even if they signed a consent form. *If they refuse or withdraw from this study, they dont have to give reason for it. Data collection and techniques: Anthropometric measurements All ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASURMENTS will be measured by trained researchers and the accuracy of measurements will be checked before use. Researcher will use the SECA digital 763 (Germany) which is a combination scale (weight) and stadiometer (height). The instrument will be calibrated before use at regular intervals as per a standard operating procedure (SOP). Weight: Participant will be weighed without shoes and with minimal clothes. Height: participant will be measured with shoulder in relaxed position without shoes and looking straight ahead. BMI: calculation formula Body weight in Kg/Height in meter*2 (James, 2004). Waist circumference: will be measured with a flexible measuring tape. Blood pressure: by using electronic blood pressure machine, participants will be measured on the same arm with a standard cuff while the participant sitting and in a relax position. Three separate measurements will be taken and the average will be recorded (Pickering et al., 2005). Obesity and overweight determination: Based on the WHO growth chart table (Onis et al,2004); Underweight Nutrient intakes: By using Youth / Adolescents Food Frequency Questionnaire (YFFQ) (Rockett, 1995). This method will be validated with weighed food record on small sample size to evaluate appropriate when using it with Saudi adolescents. YFFQ in Arabic language will be created and students will be asked to complete this questionnaire in the classroom. For assessing food habits and behaviors, closed-ended questions will be added, including the following: frequency of breakfast last week, breakfast at home or outside, frequency consumption of fast food and soft drinks, consumption of confectionary, cakes and biscuits (e.g. ice cream, cake), eating while watching TV or computer. Physical activity: Exercises and physical activities will be measured by using metabolic equivalent (MET) questionnaire (Craig, 2003). Students will be asked to recall last 7days physical activity. It will include activity scale ranged from sleep to high physical activity. For each activity level, MET value will be multiplied by time spend in this activity level. The MET-time at each level will be added to get the total over 24 hours MET-time (Craig, 2003). Socioeconomic status: A self-adminstered questionnaire will be sent to parents to complete and return along with the consent form. It will include questions like household ownership of car, computer, TV and other equipment indicative of socio-economic tatus. -current residence If family has driver or housekeeper. Employment status Educational level. Family income. Family size. Breast feeding status of reference child (i.e. initiation and duration) -Own house or rent -Type of house; villa, town hose, house or unit. Biochemistry: A subsample of participants will be asked to provide a blood sample, obtained by venepuncture for analysis of vitamin D level in the blood. Trained registered nurse staff collected all blood samples. Blood samples were kept on ice and directly transported to a accredited pathology service centre within 12 hours. Vitamin D, lipids and blood glucose will be measured from this blood sample. Data management and data processing: Data entry and data processing will carry out using SPSS software. Expected Outcomes This study is designed to frame tangible data regarding the influence of urbanisation, SES, dietary intake, and physical activity on obesity in children localised to both urban and rural areas in the Central Region of Saudi Arabia. From initial study, benchmark hypotheses will be evaluated including the following suppositions: Physical activity is negatively correlated to obesity Socio-economic status is ambiguously correlated to obesity (non-exclusive)

The Japanes Tsunami Disaster

On March 11th 2011 at 2:48pm a magnitude 9 earthquake occurred lasting a record time of 5 minutes until 2:53pm. This awful event occurred in the country of Japan in Asia, east of china, south of Russia and lies on the Pacific Ocean. Then 20 minutes later a tsunami hit Ofunato and then followed by Sedai and Niyko. There were lots more area affected by the tsunami. Causes The tsunami that hit Japan was a series of water that became many waves that built up by travelling along the Pacific Ocean, gradually gathering up speed. By the time it hit Ofunato it was as fast as a jet engine and going 800 kph. This tsunami happened because of the pacific tectonic plate subducted the Asian tectonic plate and caused an upwards wave to start and increase in length and it caused a massive tsunami to hit Japan. Japan had a massive tsunami hit them because of the magnitude 9 earthquake (a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust that creates seismic waves) that hit them first, which caused the pacific tectonic plate subducted the Asian tectonic plate and created a flood of water to go in to the fault line and cause it to build up pressure and heat up. Then the water sprung up in to a travelling along the Pacific Ocean causing a tsunami, this caused over 15,000 deaths, 6,000 injured and 4,000 missing. Another cause of the tragic tsunami was that it gained an extra metre in height because the coast line dropped a metre; this was one of the effects of the earthquake. Social effects The effects on people were that there houses had fallen down and many were homeless. The disaster caused falling birth rates, some mothers and children were forced to move to other towns and cities, even 200-300 miles away from their broken homes. Buildings were shaking, lights flickering; they crumbled down in front of the people inside them. Bridges were in pieces, shaken and broken by the earthquake and tsunami. The people in Japan were in a horror film. Their families were broken, torn apart by 7 metre high waves. At least 170,000 households were running without any water said by the health ministry. Up to 47,000 building were destroyed, washed away or burnt down, the national police agency of Japan said. A total of 164,059 households in the north were without electricity, tohoku electric power co said. You can read also Waves Economic effects The tsunami caused a large negative impact on the economy of Japan but lesser effect on world trade and financial markets. Japan has lost considerable physical damage estimated to be from $195 billion to as much as $305 billion. The negative effects of the earthquake and tsunami caused a potential nuclear disaster. Only 150 miles from Tokyo, radiation leaked from a nuclear plant crippled by an explosion. Although it wasn’t at the same scale of Chernobyl, but 170,000 people were evacuated. Another economic effect is that hundreds of factories were shut across Japan and the country was pushed in to recession. Nissan and Toyota had to halt production at all 20 factories. Toyota, the world’s largest carmaker, evacuated workers from two plants in the worst affected regions. The plants make up to 420,000 small cars each year, mostly for export. Environmental effects The effects the tsunami had on japans environment was that were lots of debris everywhere because the tsunami had picked up everything in its way when it hit Japan and when it had stopped all the debris was left on the ground leaving lots of mess. All the debris that was on the floor meant it was harder to find missing people. The tsunami also carried lots of dead fish and animals habitats would have been damaged because of the water. The fish were all dead in the tsunami due to the fact that the Pacific Ocean contaminated because of the radiation of the nuclear plant explosion. This also meant that any birds wouldn’t have been able to feed or they would have died eating contaminated fish. The smell also would have been unbearable to cope with because of the amount of dead fish and bodies and debris carried by the tsunami. Liquefaction during the earthquake as well, this would have left big cracks in the concert and some water may of septet up through the cracks. Short term responses After the tsunami occurred everyone immediately tried to help the injured get to a safe placed so they could be helped. Fire engines and ambulances were there to help and to rescue people from the debris. There were lots of people injured and dead so that when the people were being searched for by people of Japan to save time if a person was dead under the debris they would have put down a flag so they could go on and search for people that were alive and could be saved. Then later they would have gone back to the body and they would have moved it. Everyone hurt by the tsunami/earthquake got medical care by the other helping countries wanting to help. China was one of the 91 countries that helped Japan as soon as possible by providing $4.5 million worth of humanitarian aid. Their first shipment was from Shanghai to Tokyo. It contained 2,000 blankets, 900 tents and 200 emergency lights to help Japan get through the tragic amount of injured people. Seventeen Latin American countries, including Honduras, Ecuador and Brazil, and four African states – Djibouti, Morocco, South Africa and Tunisia had also offered assistance. The mayor of Kandahar city in Afghanistan pledged $50,000 to support relief efforts. The World Bank, Unicef, Unesco and the Office for t he Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs were among the international organisations pledging support. Other responses were that they were lots of tents and shelters put up for people to stay safe because their houses would have been crushed by the tsunami or fall because of the magnitude 9 earthquake. In the shelters, the people got free food and water to keep them alive. Almost everywhere there was no gas or electricity because of the impact of the tsunami. All they could us were emergency lights and torches to see. Products in Japan went up because lots of stock was ruined or damaged and it was a struggle to get stock from other countries or cities because the expressway fell down and transport-roads were blocked. Some charities also help the tsunami victims such as architecture for humanity helped by fundraising and giving all the money they made to Japan to help the people that were made homeless or that were unemployed because their workplace might have been hit. Save the Children meet the needs of children and their families affected by the tsunami, whilst Christian Aid’s partners in the Philippines helped to evacuate the most vulnerable coastal communities. People living in these communities had been warned to prepare for a tsunami wave at least one metre high along the east coast. Partners of the British Red Cross in Japan, America and the Philippines worked alongside the emergency services to support victims and evacuate high risk areas. Long term responses General recovery efforts progressed, super markets gradually reopened, gas stations in northern Japan resumed business, and roads were accessible. The Japanese government significantly supported the country’s relief efforts and provided much of the needed temporary housing. Everything that was rebuilt in Japan however it cost them 25tn yen which actuates to  £189bn. Schools were rebuilt and teachers were provided so the children could get an education. Conclusion In my opinion, I think that the Japan tsunami was a disaster because of the impact that it caused to the people (such as the deaths), the environment (dead animals, liquefaction, amount of debris needed to be cleaned up) and the amount of money that it cost them. The amount of deaths that the tsunami caused was devastating, the amount of missing people and pain that the tsunami caused families. It was an awful event that caused pain to everyone and cost lots of money. I think to stopped this happening to Japan again they should build a bigger wall on the coast to protect them or even buy tsunami capsules from all households even though they are expensive it would help and save the life’s of many if it occurred again.

Olaudah Equiano: a Man of Many Customs

James Pajich Prof. Carla Lovett Hist. 105 18 October 2012 Olaudah Equiano: A Man of Many Customs The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano describes the life of a native African who was kidnapped from his homeland in the Eboe Province (which is now the Nigerian town of Isseke) at age eleven and thrown into the horrors of the African slave trade. Unlike most victims of the slave trade, Equiano regained his freedom and experienced multiple facets of life that no one could have expected.Equiano became a man of diverse customs and values. However, due to the absence of written records’ it is often a matter of debate as to what his true origin really was. Throughout his autobiography, Olaudah Equiano defined himself as a native African. He used vivid illustrations of his homeland and experiences on the Middle Passage, and was even willing to defend the public’s view of him as a man of Africa. I personally define Equiano as a European citizen according to his c ustoms, personal desires, and behavior.Equiano’s narrative played a key role in a variety of cultural, historical, and literary issues, therefore, the identification and ultimately the validity of its author take on special importance. While reading The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano I found it very apparent that Equiano viewed himself as an African born individual. He illustrated his culture and customs as an Igbo African in vivid details of culture, religion, law, and agriculture. (43-56) He also described the atrocities of the Atlantic slave trade as if he had recently experienced them: stating the smell, appearance, and reaction of his fellow slaves. 64-68) â€Å"Although culturally Equiano became â€Å"almost and Englishman,† embracing Christianity and British customs, the experiences Equiano shared with slaves and free people of color, and living in a world that did not differentiate between members of separate African communities, led him to consider himself also a son of Africa. † (21) Equiano embraced his African heritage throughout his life and even fought to uphold his reputation as such. There was an instance where two anonymous notes appeared in London papers charging that he was not from Africa at all, but was actually born on he Danish island of St. Croix in the Caribbean. Equiano realized that this claim falsified the validity of his Narrative and immediately confronted and threatened those responsible for the papers with legal action, providing actual witnesses of the fact that upon his arrival in England he was only able to speak an African language (24-25). This reaction shows that Equiano held much pride in his African identity and was willing defend it against those who claimed otherwise. However, there is evidence of significant authority that claims Equiano may have fabricated the origins of his identity.There are two certain documents, discovered by literary historian Vincent Carretta, that pin point the birthplace of Equiano in South Carolina that keep modern day scholars and historians from absolute certainty of his actual birthplace. One of these documents was written on February 9, 1759 in the baptismal registry of St. Margaret’s Church in Westminster, England. It read, â€Å"Gustavus Vassa (Olaudah Equiano) a Black born in Carolina 12 years old. † (26) The second document was from Equiano’s Arctic expedition in 1773. It claims that he was currently 28 years old and born in South Carolina.Neither of these findings is conclusive as to whether Equiano was African or American-born, but they certainly leave plenty of room for uncertainty. (26-27) I personally define Equiano as European, particularly an Englishman. Notions of English nationality are found in great abundance throughout the text. Equiano’s narrative repeatedly expresses his desire for a male English identity. He doesn’t view Englishness as a racially exclusive nationality, b ut one that evokes an ethnic identity that Equiano defines through Christianity, and citizenship.Two to three years after arriving in England Equiano claimed â€Å"I no longer looked at them as spirits, but as men superior to us; and therefore I had a stronger desire to resemble them; to imbibe their spirit, and imitate their manners I therefore embraced every occasion of improvement; and every new thing that I observed I treasured up in my memory. † (83) Here we see Equiano’s envy for his new â€Å"superiors† and his wish to possess their culture and belongings. This desire strongly encouraged my opinion of Equiano’s identity as European.My opinion was also influenced by Equiano’s acculturation into English society and customs during his early teen years. â€Å"I could now speak English tolerably well, and I perfectly understood everything that was said. I now not only felt myself quite easy with these new countrymen, but relished their society a nd manners. † (83) It is clear that Equiano identified his shipmates as his â€Å"countrymen† and personally enjoyed the interactions he had with each one of them. It was now between three and four years since I first came to England, a great part of which I had spent at sea; so that I became inured to that service, and began to consider myself as happily situated; for my master treated me always extremely well; and my attachment and gratitude to him were very great. From the various scenes I had beheld on ship-board, I soon grew a stranger to terror of every kind, and was, in that respect at least, almost an Englishman. † (83) This passage shows that Equiano developed an affectionate relationship with his master and also that their bond strengthened Equiano’s identity as an adult man.Even more important, the identity Equiano is trying to proclaim for himself as an adult man, â€Å"a stranger to terror of every kind†, is as a European. There are also certain actions and beliefs that Equiano maintained that provoked the establishment of his European desires. For instance, he believed the only manner towards proper adulthood is as an Englishman. Equiano doesn’t come right out and say this but there is a point in the text where he noted that he considers himself very fortunate that he didn’t receive his family members’ tribal marking on his face, as is would have represented his entrance into mature Ibo manhood. As I was now amongst a people who had not their faces scarred, like some of the African nations where I had been, I was very glad that I did not let them ornament me in that manner† (69). Also, during Equiano’s voyage to Jamaica and the Mosquito Shore he went to see a Guineaman doctor to purchase slaves to cultivate a plantation. He even chose them according to their native land in hopes that it is near his own. (189) The identification of Olaudah Equiano is of the utmost importance becaus e of the critical role he played in the antislavery movement. Even the timing f a personable voice speaking out against slavery was important because it was a time when opposition to slavery was scattered throughout Britain and America and Equiano’s narrative, along with other factors, helped assemble the movement into one of the greatest in British history. It was Equiano’s personal accounts and experiences that validated his narrative. He possessed the intelligence and capability to spread his ideas to men and women on all levels of British society. He also had the members of significant political authority to support his narrative to yet further its validity.Unfortunately, Equiano never had the opportunity to bare witness to what he worked so hardly toward because the slave trade ended in both England and the United State ten years after his death (1807). Conclusively, it is very apparent that Olaudah Equiano distinguished himself as an African-born man, even though I personally identify him as a man of European customs based on his desires, influences, and his acculturation into European society. Most importantly, Equiano’s narrative played a key role as an abolitionist tool in the fight against slavery and the identity of its author deems it valid as a historical document.

Analysis of Paranoia by Shirley Jackson.

Analysis of Paranoia by Shirley Jackson. Shirley Jackson is an American author most remembered for her chilling and controversial short story The Lottery, about a violent undercurrent in a small American town. Paranoia was first published in the August 5, 2013, issue of The New Yorker, long after the authors death in 1965. Jacksons children found the story in her papers in the Library of Congress. If you missed the story on the newsstand, it is available for free on The New Yorkers website. And of course, you can very likely find a copy at your local library. Plot Mr. Halloran Beresford, a businessman in New York, leaves his office quite pleased with himself for remembering his wifes birthday. He stops to buy chocolates on the way home and plans to take his wife to dinner and a show. But his commute home becomes fraught with panic and danger as he realizes someone is stalking him. No matter where he turns, the stalker is there. In the end, he does make it home, but after a brief moment of relief, the reader realizes Mr. Beresford still might not be safe after all. Real or Imagined? Your opinion of this story will depend almost entirely on what you make of the title, Paranoia. On first reading, I felt the title seemed to dismiss Mr. Beresfords troubles as nothing but a fantasy. I also felt it over-explained the story and left no room for interpretation. But on further reflection, I realized I hadnt given Jackson enough credit. Shes not offering any easy answers. Almost every frightening incident in the story can be explained as both a real threat and an imagined one, which creates a constant sense of uncertainty. For example, when an unusually aggressive shopkeeper tries to block Mr. Beresfords exit from his store, its hard to say whether hes up to something sinister or just wants to make a sale. When a bus driver refuses to stop at the appropriate stops, instead just saying, Report me, he could be plotting against Mr. Beresford, or he could simply be lousy at his job. The story leaves the reader on the fence about whether Mr. Beresfords paranoia is justified, thus leaving the reader - rather poetically - a bit paranoid herself. Some Historical Context According to Jacksons son, Laurence Jackson Hyman, in an interview with The New Yorker, the story was most likely written in the early 1940s, during World War II. So there would have been a constant sense of danger and distrust in the air, both in relation to foreign countries and in relation to the U.S. governments attempts to uncover espionage at home. This sense of distrust is obvious as Mr. Beresford scans the other passengers on the bus, looking for someone who might help him. He sees a man who looks as though he might be a foreigner. Foreigner, Mr. Beresford thought, while he looked at the man, foreigner, foreign plot, spies. Better not rely on any foreigner †¦ In a completely different vein, its hard not to read Jacksons story without thinking of Sloan Wilsons 1955 novel about conformity, The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit, which was later made into a movie starring Gregory Peck. Jackson writes: There were twenty small-size gray suits like Mr. Beresfords on every New York block, fifty men still clean-shaven and pressed after a day in an air-cooled office, a hundred small men, perhaps, pleased with themselves for remembering their wives birthdays. Though the stalker is distinguished by a small mustache (as opposed to the standard clean-shaven faces that surround Mr. Beresford) and a light hat (which must have been unusual enough to grab Mr. Beresfords attention), Mr. Beresford rarely seems to get a clear view of him after the initial sighting. This raises the possibility that Mr. Beresford is not seeing the same man over and over, but rather different men all dressed similarly. Though Mr. Beresford seems happy with his life, I think it would be possible to develop an interpretation of this story in which it is the sameness all around him that is what actually unnerves him. Entertainment Value Lest I wring all the life out of this story by over-analyzing it, let me finish by saying that no matter how you interpret the story, it is a heart-pumping, mind-bending, terrific read. If you believe Mr. Beresford is being stalked, youll fear his stalker - and in fact, like Mr. Beresford, youll fear everybody else, too. If you believe the stalking is all in Mr. Beresfords head, youll fear whatever misguided action hes about to take in response to the perceived stalking.

how to write research paper fast

how to write research paper fast how to write research paper fast Step 1: Relax Your Mind (15 Minutes) Before you get started on this paper, I want you to relax your mind. This doesn’t mean grabbing a beer. It means calming yourself down and focusing your mind on the paper topic. You have one night to finish this paper, and you can do it. Turn on some classical music if it helps you stay relaxed and focused. Step 2: Develop a Great Thesis Statement (45 minutes) Alright, once you’re relaxed it’s time to focus your attention on writing a great thesis statement. Your thesis statement is what will keep your research and writing on topic. This is the most important part of your paper. Spend some time reading thesis statements in Google Scholar or whatever journal article database you have access to. Use whatever you find as a springboard for writing your own argument. Make sure to save citations and quotes from any relevant journal articles you find. Step 3: Write a Killer Introduction (15 minutes) The way to start your paper with a bang is with a great introduction. You need an introduction that not only grabs the attention of your professor, but focuses the paper on the topic at hand. You should have one or two intro sentences, and then jump right into your thesis statement. If you can’t think of an introduction, simply use your thesis statement. Step 4: Defend Your Thesis in a Brainstorming Session (30 minutes) You should brainstorm a bunch of reasons why your thesis statement is true. Brainstorm for 30-minutes and think of every reason why your professor should be convinced of your claim. Write down the key arguments because those become your supporting paragraphs. Each argument is a mini-thesis that helps you support your paper. Step 5: Start Your Research to Defend Your Thesis (2 hours) Professors sometimes will give you a minimum number of references they want to see in your bibliography. That should be your minimum too, so make sure to list more than what’s required. Log into your college’s library database and start researching your topic. This is the part that most people wast time, so give yourself just two hours to copy and paste your citations into your paper. Try to organize the quotations within an appropriate argument (from step 4). More than likely, you’ll find more arguments for your topic when researching. So add these arguments to your list. Step 6: Time to Write (4 to 5 hours) Select your best arguments (with supportive references) and use them as the introduction for your supporting paragraphs. Convince your professor that your thesis is true with strong arguments leading each

IT Conference White Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

IT Conference White Paper - Essay Example However, the PSI-CoE has also indicated its interest in increasing effectiveness, efficiency, cost saving and productivity of the program. Army requests are currently the only requests being processed by the CoE; this however rules out the army reserves and the national guards. The main objective behind this move was to ensure the CoE had the sole responsibility of issuing security clearances and at the same time, bring down any other channel apart from the CoE that issued security clearances. Initially, about 36% of the total requests are being accepted with percentage destined to rise significantly after merging. Pros and Cons Pros The APG will acquire a new platform, while at the same time the additional technical personnel will boost its operations by making it efficient and effective. The APG NEC is currently indicated to lack high bandwidth pipes connecting its different locations, thus the building up of an updated network infrastructure will upgrade the process of attaining a nd working on the information received in the APG NEC. In addition to this, supplementing technical support will also increase efficiency and effectiveness of the Aberdeen Providing Ground Network Enterprise Center. The joint services between the various departments of security will enhance corporation between the numerous personnel involved in the different departments. A good example as indicated is the facilitation of the military intelligence (COEMI) by the Intelligence command (INSCOM). In addition to this, workstation maintenance is destined to be provided by the APG NEC especially if the joint services between the CoE and the MI are undertaken. Moreover, improvement of security is guaranteed upon undertaking the course of action. This will be made possible as the crucial facilities such as the technical and network infrastructure will undergo upgrading or complete makeover. Self-reliance and self-containment will also be upheld in missions, as it will provide the APG NEC with greater flexibility. In order to achieve self-reliance, the mission will rely on organic staffing (Personnel Security Investigation – Center of Excellence (PSI-CoE) IT Way Ahead Conference

Describe rehearsal, exercise and maintenance of business continuity Essay

Describe rehearsal, exercise and maintenance of business continuity - Essay Example In the rehearsal or exercise, there are important ingredients that need to be incorporated, according to the proposed exercise checklist, to wit: (1) clarity of objective and format of the plan; (2) budgets and approvals that were obtained; (3) facilities that are specifically identified to be needed; (4) design of alternative scenarios for the exercise process; (5) proper documentation before and after the scheduled exercise; (6) actual exercise activity; (7) learning outcomes; (8) advisory to stakeholders; and (8) revisions of portions where risks have been identified (Credibility, Rehearsals, Exercising, Audits of Plans and Risk Decision-Making, 2014). Maintenance is another relevant component in terms of keeping the plan updated, in the light of new developments, resources, or participants who need to be apprised and oriented. As emphasized, â€Å"organizations, its people, and environments are continually changing† (Credibility, Rehearsals, Exercising, Audits of Plans and Risk Decision-Making, 2014, p. 12). The review process, per se, was recognized as part of the maintenance component. Benchmarking is defined as â€Å"a measurement of the quality of an organizations policies, products, programs, strategies, etc., and their comparison with standard measurements, or similar measurements of its peers. The objectives of benchmarking are (1) to determine what and where improvements are called for, (2) to analyze how other organizations achieve their high performance levels, and (3)to use this information to improve performance† (Benchmarking, 2014). Applying this measurement tool in business continuity plans, benchmarking reviews the plan’s components, structures, objectives, and processes in the light of similarities or disparities with other plans and to incorporate any component that is deemed pertinent for the current organization’s