Cultural Relevance of Artwork Essay

The very spirit of an artwork remains in the time it was created. There is no better way to appreciate art than to understand its situational context, that is, the space and time of its creation. Works of art are like photographs taken in a particular time and place. In this paper we explore the situational context of three works of art: (1) Produced in the late seventeenth century, Wedding of Mary and Joseph is Peruvian painting; (2) Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s Acrobats At The Cirque Fernando (1879) shows two young Parisian girls; and (3) Figure of a Mother Holding a Child, created in the nineteenth century by an unknown Lulua artist (See Appendix). All three pieces of art tell interesting, unique tales about their makers and the conditions of their times. What’s more, layers upon layers of human thought through different times and places of human history may be unearthed through this process of art appreciation. Our present understanding of historical societies and cultures must also influence the process of interpreting a work of art. After all, one scholar may consider a painting with the eyes of a sociologist in our time, while another may be a trained psychologist. Such designations did not exist before now. Regardless of how an artwork is interpreted and with what lens and in which frame it is looked through; works of art stay alive as we glean historical information through them. As the following section on Wedding of Mary and Joseph shows, it is possible to develop various interpretations about the time and place of an artist even if researched historical information is there to assist us in our interpretation. Wedding of Mary and Joseph Produced by an unknown artist, Wedding of Mary and Joseph is an oil painting on canvas, depicting the couple getting married before the high priest who is clothed in a â€Å"richly flower-patterned hooded mantle (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). † There are clergymen assisting the high priest. Joseph is carrying his staff which has flowers at the top. Moreover, both the bride and bridegroom have golden halos. Ann, the mother of Mary stands right behind the bride. By Ann’s side is a suitor of Mary who has been rejected by God’s command. The suitor is shown breaking his staff, which has not flowered like the staff of Joseph (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). The painting is enriched by â€Å"gold stamping,† which â€Å"unifies the composition (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). † There are Peruvian flowers scattered on the ground where Mary and Joseph stand. This transfers the scene of the Bible from the Holy Land to Peru (â€Å"Wedding of Mary and Joseph†). Furthermore, it describes an important movement in Peruvian art history by the name of Cusco School (Bennett). Indeed, this painting accompanies a very important period in Peruvian history. Spanish colonization had not only managed to transfer the Spanish Inquisition to the Spanish territories around the globe, but also brought European art into Peru (Bennett). The Spanish Inquisition had claimed many lives in Europe. In Peru, the Inquisition had centered on the discovery of people who were Jews by birth, but had claimed to have converted to Christianity. These people were suspected to have gone back from Catholicism to Judaism. Thus, the Peruvian Inquisition was about punishing the Jews or converted Catholics for apostasy (Lea). The Peruvian Inquisition had taken place in the seventeenth century. Seeing that the sociopolitical environment of Peru revolved around religious affairs at the time, it is not surprising that the Christian, Peruvian artists started a new art movement – the Cusco School – to create religious art in particular (Bennett). As a matter of fact, the Wedding of Mary and Joseph is a perfect example of Cusco art. The Cusco School happens to be the largest movement of art in the Peruvian art history. The movement was represented by â€Å"mestizo painters and sculptors who produced countless depictions of religious figures adorned in gold (Bennett). † The Spanish colonizers had used religious art to teach Christianity to the New World. Subsequently, the native artists of Peru had begun to meld European art with their local style and tradition (Bennett). So, while the figures of Mary and Joseph in the Peruvian painting reveal European, Christian influence on the Peruvian artist; the flowers and long tailed birds of Peru scattered on the ground show that the artist continues to love his land despite colonization. The golden halos of the bride and the bridegroom are, of course, the signature of the Cusco School. Hence, the painting, Wedding of Mary and Joseph, reveals itself as an excellent tool to understand the culture of Peru with respect to Spanish colonization. By discovering more about the conditions of the artist’s time, history of the Americas may also be studied in great depth. Moreover, this painting helps viewers to appreciate how artists are influenced by their environments and the times. Acrobats At The Cirque Fernando Produced in another place and time altogether, renowned Parisian painter, Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s Acrobats At The Cirque Fernando (1879) shows two real girls, most probably between twelve and fifteen years of age, taking turns to perform their act at the circus (Mancoff). The facial and bodily expressions of the girls and their onlookers are open to any number of interpretations. One of the young girls is carrying balls around her chest while the other is communicating with the audience as part of her act. The girl who is communicating with the audience has a questioning, innocent expression on her face. The one who is carrying balls is possibly waiting for her turn to perform. She, too, is innocent and fresh in appearance as the other. However, she seems to be dwelling on her new experiences of semi-adulthood. Perhaps she is musing on the boys in her life – the young men who admire her very much. The audience depicted in the painting, behind the bodies of the two young girls, appears to consist of men alone after all. The men appear like judges, in their black coats, giving them the semblance of uniformed officers. Only one of the men has his face visible through the painting, and the face is hard enough for the girls to display their innocence in all its glory with the assumption that the counterpart of a harsh and doubtful attitude must be softness. Although the girl carrying the balls has her back turned toward the hard faced man, she knows that she too would have to perform. The expressions of the male and the females in Renoir’s Acrobats At The Cirque Fernando are rather similar to the expressions of the two sexes depicted in many of the artist’s works of the time. The woman is seen as the adored and innocent object that performs, even though the man is hard faced, perhaps weary of the work that he performs to fend for his family day after day. The woman is the amuser, the muse, and the object of entertainment to fend for. After all, she is beautiful (Norfleet). The only beautiful facet of the man is that he is strong – in Renoir’s paintings, at least. What is more, the man is always staring at the woman in Renoir’s works. He fondles her whenever he has the chance. The woman remains faithful to him – this is depicted through the innocence on her face. If she becomes unfaithful she knows that the hard faced man would discontinue supporting her. The French word for ‘thank you’ is merci, which, if used in English, perfectly describes the attitude of the woman in late nineteenth century Paris. Although Paris was one of the first places in the west where women were generally believed to have been liberated, Renoir’s painting reveals that the women were definitely not liberated through promiscuity or debauchery. Rather, the urban Parisian women in the late nineteenth century seem to have been given permission by their men to be out and about, entertaining them, while remaining faithful to their innocence as well as their marital vows (Norfleet). As the facial expression of the young girl carrying the balls in Renoir’s Acrobats At The Cirque Fernando reveals – women understood their position in Parisian society even as they were aware that men and women are equally dependent on each other. Then again, the painting remains open to numberless sociological interpretations. Figure of a Mother Holding a Child As our analysis of Renoir’s painting shows, it is possible to understand the situational context of a painting in any number of ways. Sociologists and historians may be more interested in discovering the history of society in a block of time. If psychoanalysts were to join in, there would be various intricacies of the human mind revealed through artworks. On that note, Figure of a Mother Holding a Child is a very interesting sculpture because there are multiple ways of understanding its import. On one hand, the sculpture is a perfect depiction of the pain of starvation that the African people have been experiencing for a long time, and that nobody outside of Africa has done anything consequential about – despite the fact that the entire world discusses it. On the other hand, it represents a ritual that the Lulua tribe of the Democratic Republic of Congo had practiced for its own survival (â€Å"Figure of a Mother Holding a Child†). The sculpture is that of a skinny, African female with an infant in her arms. The woman’s head is larger than her body. The bone lines on her neck are particularly telling. Even so, the bone lines on her neck and the wrinkles on her face had actually been created by the artist to show that the Lulua peoples had used scarification to adorn their bodies (â€Å"Lulua Tribe: Democratic Republic of Congo;† â€Å"Figure of a Mother Holding a Child†). Indeed, it is scarification that adorns the woman carrying the infant. Just the same the viewer is made to feel sorry for the woman and her child because they appear extremely poor. Made with wood and copper alloy, the woman in the sculpture has bulging eyes and a â€Å"pointed base (â€Å"Figure of a Mother Holding a Child†). † According to the Brooklyn Museum, the base was most probably â€Å"thrust into a pot containing earth and various bishimba, or materials of mineral, plant, animal, or human origin endowed with protective powers (â€Å"Figure of a Mother Holding a Child†). † In actuality, the sculpture had been created for a Lulua woman who had experienced difficulties in childbirth. The Lulua people believed that it was the evil spirit which interrupted the process of childbirth for women. So that the woman would attract the ancestral spirit of the Lulua tribe and get rid of the evil spirit, the artist gave her the sculpture to care for until delivery. The bulging eyes of the sculpture reveal that the woman is aware of the influence of the evil spirit that is stopping her from becoming a mother (â€Å"Lulua Tribe†). The Lulua peoples had migrated from western Africa to the Democratic Republic of Congo during the eighteenth century. These people lived in â€Å"small regional chiefdoms,† and therefore formed closely knit communities (â€Å"Lulua Tribe†). Because they were immigrants, they were rather concerned about their continuity. Moreover, the Lulua people believed that their sculptures had to be created for religious reasons (â€Å"Lulua Tribe†). The Lulua artists who created sculptures such as the Figure of a Mother Holding a Child must have had faith that they were carrying out their moral duty toward their own people. Indeed, the religious values of the Lulua people were guarded by their art. Sculptures of females were quite popular among them, as these figures exemplified â€Å"the union of physical and moral beautify (â€Å"Figurative Sculpture†). † The Lulua people believed in equating proper behavior with physical beauty (â€Å"Figurative Sculpture†). It can be inferred that the Figure of a Mother Holding a Child and all other sculptures created for the same reason were reminders for the Lulua people that the human body cannot be separated from morality. This principle is clearly exemplified by the bond between mother and child. Conclusion We focused on the political conditions surrounding the artist of Wedding of Mary and Joseph. Societal context of Renoir’s painting, Acrobats At The Cirque Fernando, was explored with a brief overview of gender relations in 19th century Paris. This study may have been conducted with historical information gleaned through novels, too. Finally, the cultural context of Figure of a Mother Holding a Child was explored. Although this discussion was centered on political, societal and cultural contexts of three works of art, it was clarified as part of the discussion that an artwork may be appreciated in any number of ways. There are countless theories and innumerable stories about the history of mankind. What is more, every piece of artwork tells a tale about the space and time of its artist alone. The work lives on as students of art and historians delve into paintings over and again. Any number of assumptions could be made about the situational context of an artwork thus. Perhaps, therefore, it is reasonable to state that a work of art has as many minds as interpreters as the number of people that consider the artwork through the passage of time. Moreover, only assumptions can be made about the situational context of an artwork. History is best left to those that lived it. After all, we only make educated guesses about what people of the past lived through to gather useful information for our lives in the present. Works Cited Bennett, Caroline. â€Å"Art and Architecture. † Viva Travel Guides. 11 Nov 2008. . â€Å"Figurative Sculpture. † Central African Art. 11 Nov 2008. . â€Å"Figure of a Mother Holding a Child. † Brooklyn Museum Collections: African Art. 11 Nov 2008. . Lea, Henry C. â€Å"Inquisition in 17th Century Peru: Cases of Portuguese Judaizers. † Modern History Sourcebook. 11 Nov 2008. . â€Å"Lulua Tribe: Democratic Republic of Congo. † For African Art. 2006. 11 Nov 2008. . Mancoff, Debra N. â€Å"Paintings by Pierre-Auguste Renoir. † How Stuff Works. 2008. 11 Nov 2008. .

No Phones in School Essay

Cell phones are good for education. Cell Phones are good for education for many reasons. First you can use cell phones for research purposes. Although most schools have at least 1 computer in the classroom and a computer lab, sometimes this still isn’t enough. It can also be expensive to provide a computer to each student at school, so a good option is to use cell phones for research instead. Next, I want to talk about why apps are good for education. Some people think that some apps are bad and kids will get distracted and use them in class. And the truth is that cell phones have many educational apps as well. Which do you think would be more fun and exciting for a student? Either studying with a boring book that is hard to understand, or playing an educational app that is still studying, but much more exciting. I would definitely choose the second choice. Here are some good features of phones that are good for school: 1.Calculator. It doesn’t matter if your phone is expensive or not, almost every single phone has a calculator. Lots of students are required to have a calculator as one of their school supplies, but if they have one on their phone, then they don’t have to get one. 2. Stop Watch. Lots of phones have a stopwatch, which can be used in science class. I know that when I was in public school we used stopwatches all the time for experiments, and the teacher only had 3 stopwatches so we had to take turns. 3. Dictionary. Cell phones can be used as a dictionary, which can be VERY useful in a classroom setting. You can always search on the Internet for the definition, or if you classroom or school doesn’t have wi fi, you can text to 466-456 the word you need defined and Google will text you back the definition of that term.

Homeless Women in America Essay

Imagine not having all the luxuries that embellish one’s life. All the things that make someone happy can be a mere memory in an instant. It is a reality that many women are becoming homeless at an alarming rate. Many for the reason that one parent works and the other stay home. The husband comes home with no money to provide nor give to his children because he rather spend it on beer or on drugs and not even have a thought that he has a family waiting for him at home. What is a woman to do with no money, no home, and no job. She has never had to work in her life, which has no job experience, Due to the fact she has always been dependent on her husband. Prostitute? This is what homeless women end up doing to support and feed their children. â€Å"There’s been a study about the prostitution of homeless women. 75 percent of women in escort prostitution had attempted suicide, 62 percent reported having been raped in prostitution and 73 percent reported having experience physical assault in prostitution†(Kay 2). Historically, homeless women become homeless due to their husband using drugs or being under the influence. However, today the reasons are more because of their economic issues. The fact, that there is not funding for women shelters or job training women and their families are forced to live in their cars or on the streets. The lack of government funding is forcing women out of their homes and having to find shelters for their children and themselves. How could it be possible that state and local government are revoking or reducing the monthly financial aid to women with families? Homeless women are exchanging their bodies for money to support their family.

Plant Physiology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Plant Physiology - Essay Example White sorghum plants are sweeter than red sorghum plants, and they are used as grain crops. Red sorghum plants are less tasty than white sorghum plants. However, red sorghum plants are beneficial to farmers in that birds are less likely to attack and eat them, and they make good beer. Sorghum plants are usually planted directly from the seeds in rows, and they are planted in the spring. The plants grow in a variety of soils and are drought resistant. However, sorghum plants will grow better in soil that has been fertilized on the preset. The characteristics of sorghum plants having originated in hot temperatures of Africa, being field crops, having the appearance of "cane-grass" and being drought resistant make the plants susceptible to stressful environments because the sorghum plants have the capability of being clustered together in a group, meaning that the plants are close enough where they can generate energy from the other plants. Also, they have the appearance of "cane-grass" helping them to be tall enough to withstand and guard the neighboring plants from the harsh temperatures. Also, since the sorghum plants are drought resistant, they have the capability to go without water for long periods of time.

Spring Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Spring - Assignment Example The themes that pop up in the mind, while listening to this piece, can be linked together to form an imaginary saga. The music rejuvenates the mind with flamboyant colors and a lively weather. It populates our imagination with things that are associated with the positive memories of lives. The symphony starts with a beautiful composition of violins which gives off a lot of youthful energy. It conjures an image of a young person in the middle of the meadows. The cloudy weather and cool breeze is captivating the attention of this person. The person has nothing on his mind apart from the ambience surrounding him. His past and future are beyond him at that moment. The present is only what concerns him. He has no idea where he came from and where he is going to go. Two minutes into the symphony, a strange disturbance seems to approach that person. Perhaps some people are following him for something that he is not even aware of. He cleverly escapes from the trouble and tries to figure out why he was being chased. He then enjoys a tender meal out in the open. This whole notion emphasizes the fleeting nature of dark interludes in our lives. Whatever the story of this character may be, he just cannot let go of the beauty that surrounds him. The music does not tell much about the person but it does give a hint of royal touch to the character of the person. It sounds as if he left the royal life and all its riches to live the life of a common man and just be able to feel the blood gushing trough his veins. The music reminds us that life comes from nature and that there is nothing more beautiful than nature. Problems will come and go but one cannot forget to observe and appreciate the beauty and purity of nature because if he forgets than perhaps nat ure will forget to do the same too. The music illustrates that such joy can come after committing a noble act even if it gets us into trouble so our protagonist could have committed such an act. That would explain the

GENDER DIFFERENCES Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

GENDER DIFFERENCES - Essay Example Nature vs. Nurture has been seen as one of the reasons why the actions of boys and girls are so conflicting and different from each other. According to Alan Dix, there is not a very significant difference between the average general IQ scores of men and women. However; when it comes to spatial and linguistic skills, the differences do exist. As research suggests, females have greater linguistic skills while their male counter parts are better when it comes to visual-spatial skills. (Dix 2002) Both, genetics and environment, play an important role in the formation of personalities but it gets extremely difficult to analyze and differentiate between them. One cannot determine the effects between inborn genetic talents and family influenced development. According to Woo Moo Hurh, it is almost impossible for human beings to survive and exist without nature as well as nurture. He also raises a question about whether men and women act differently because of biological differences or because of culturally specified gender-roles that have been assigned to them. (Woo Moo Hurh 2000) There were higher rates of bipolar disorder and neurosis amongst women whereas the rates of personality or character disorder were higher amongst men, regardless of time or place. This means that men are more likely to behave anti-socially and get into drug and alcohol addiction and while women are more prone to suffer from neurosis and manic depression. (Woo Moo Hurh 2000) Is it very evident that boys and girls function differently and this can be considered as one of the main reasons why scientists have been researching for years to find out why these differences exist? A study shows that boys and girls use different strategies to explain and solve mathematical problems. This difference in strategic thinking can be seen in children when they are only in first grade. People might argue that this difference exists because of genetics but in reality, it is more than

Case study-essay Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Case study- - Essay Example This leads to the production of the products to the markets while they target a special group. For example, the company is aware that the sick or the people who have health ailments take organic tea makes them come up the organic and maintain the company produce more tea making the group depend on them an remain as costumers. The company also supplied the products to hotels, to learning institution and the shops that market tea. The marketing director explains that the company is much better in the sense that the regulars stick with their products each time they would buy. The Numi tea organization treats the customers with a better option therefore; they had to develop a new market that would target another group of customers. The marketing manager of the group explains that the company’s major customer are the youth since the company mostly sold the products at the learning institutions and the prices were cheaper that all the students could afford. The management of the com pany is trying to come up with ways that they would come up with the best skill that will convince the people from different age groups such as the old. The tea product from Numi explains why the people keep asking at the coffee shops and the restaurants. This happens after a person tastes the tea in the sense that they go ahead and asks where they can obtain the tea or how to come up with tea. The advertisement of the company is all over Facebook and Twitter making the product grows fast across United States of America. Numi’s relationship with its customers The relationship with the producers in Numi is dismal in that they need to come up with a better way of relating the two parties. To Numi the consumers are better than the producers are because the concern on the producers is. Marketing relate well with the consumers since they have to convince the consumers on how to purchase the products frequently and have to buy their tea but not from another company. The company goe s miles ahead to advertise through various available means such as the internet and through the restaurants and coffee shops or the cafes. The producers’ collies with the company and the achievement of the company will eventually lead to the achievement of the producers. Technology and its relations with customers The company has adapted the current technology since they look up for better ways that will attract more customers to adept to their product. Currently Numi uses the tea products and the necessary skill that will lead to development of the tea company. For example, Numi takes advantage of the numerous populations that access the internet. This stimulates the management of the company in the sense that the company advertises its product online and the information get across numerous people. The company has taken advantage of the social media on the internet such as Twitter and Facebook. The company uses these social sites for the advertisements since numerous people across the world access them frequently. However, the management needs to come up with better ideas such as the creating of free posters and post them online or back their services by introducing other services such as the free deliveries. This service will encourage even customers from far countries or states to access the products. Suggestion on methods of data collection Several data collection methods For easy running

Managing Employee Retention and Absenteeism Essay

Managing Employee Retention and Absenteeism - Essay Example Retention of employees has become one of the main challenges for human resources professionals. Employment opportunities have sky rocketed in the recent years and employees today have numerous choices. There is a great demand for skilled and experienced labour. Therefore, it has become very hard for organizations not just to attract the best talent but also to retain them. Studies in the recent years have shown that managing employee retention has become a top priority to HR professionals leaving behind employee relations issues, performance management issues, etc (Taylor, 2002).Top most priority when it comes to managing employee retention is to understand why employees quit. It is only when HR professional understand the intrinsic motivators of the employees that they can effectively manage employee retention. There are various challenges or issues that HR managers face with respect to employee retention and following are few important ones:Theoretically, numerous reasons can be po inted out for employees quitting the company. But studies and researches have shown that the number one reason that employees leave their job is the relationship they have with their immediate supervisors or managers. Whatever are the policies, culture or human resource strategies of a company, at the end of the day employees communicate and deal with their immediate supervisor or manager (Halpern & Lubar, 2003). Employees’ perception of the company depends on the interaction with their supervisor or manager.

The Ethical Significance of Consumerism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Ethical Significance of Consumerism - Essay Example This research will begin with the definition of consumerism as a negative phenomenon because it involves the purchase of various items and products in very large quantities. Consumerism is often understood as a kind of manic enthusiasm for shopping. This concern is amplified by the fact that â€Å"consumerism appears to be becoming increasingly global in its influence†. Despite the opinion that consumerism is a negative phenomenon (it increases man's dependence on the service sector making him/her earn more), one can point out several arguments in favor of the idea that in ethical terms, consumerism is good. Firstly, one should remember that consumerism is able to bring psychological satisfaction for a shopaholic, making his/her inner condition calm and balanced. In addition, consumerism may be presented in the form of ethical consumerism. Finally, participating in the economic development of the region, consumerism helps to create more favorable conditions of life for many pe ople. Consumerism has ethical significance in the sense that it can help to stabilize relations between people. There are people who need to perform actions that can bring them pleasure and at the same time contribute to the stabilization of their psychological state. As a result, a shopaholic relieves his/her psychological tension and stress and can continue communicating with his/her friends and family in a peaceful state of mind. In addition, consumerism can be presented in the form of ethical consumerism.

Creation, Evolution and Intervention Essay Example for Free

Creation, Evolution and Intervention Essay I think religion and science have always been in conflict. Since the theory of Creationism has always been tied to religious accounts, it is only natural that this comes in conflict with the theory of Evolution. As it is, the theory of Creationism is based on legends and ancestral stories, whereas the theory of Evolution is based on empirical observations and scientific inquiry (â€Å"History of Creationism†). Whereas Creationism, in its literal sense, poses that all species have been existent and static since the birth of time, the theory of Evolution proposes that the existing species today are different from what existed many centuries past. The theory of Evolution eliminates the participation of a Supreme Being, which is the main character in Creationism. This, and the denigration of the human being as above other â€Å"creation† have been the root of much controversy ever since (â€Å"Evolution†). The introduction of the Intervention theory becomes another challenge for both the Creation and Evolution theories. Its affirmation of the existence of extraterrestrials and those human beings are descendents of primordial beings are against the views of Creationism, while the elimination of Neanderthals, Australopethecines and other intermediaries of human evolution and the process of Evolution per se, is completely against the views of the Evolutionists. The Views I have researched on the different views on the theories. The Creation Theory posits that the whole of the universe is made into existence by a Supernatural being. Different religions and beliefs have different versions on how the universe and the world were created by their respective Gods. The most common version of Creation is that told in the Bible Book of Genesis. Based on what I am taught, the universe was created in seven days by the God, Yahweh. It is said that the first to be created was light and in order, it was followed by the separation of the land and waters, the plants, the sun and the moon, the air and sea creatures, the land animals and lastly the first man and woman. On the seventh day, the God rested. This Creation story is similar to the version of the Muslims whose Supreme Being is called Allah. The Greeks, the Norse, the Babylonians and other cultures have their own versions but in general, the theory of Creationism holds similar elements like: the birth of the first men, a father and/or mother goddess, a supreme being, as well as a theory on destruction (â€Å"Origin Belief†). The theory of Creationism appears to be the opposite of another theory that was developed by Charles Darwin, The theory of evolution. Evolution is the process in which a certain species undergo a slow but intricate change in their traits. The changes in traits happen very slowly that differences in form and structure are only noticeable after successive generations, which could then, possibly allow the development of newer species (â€Å"Evolution†). In short, the theory of Evolution relates all organisms as having a common single ancestor that had undergone a series of changes. This means that we are still undergoing the process of evolution and our descendants my possibly be of different species. The process of evolution is subdivided into more processes, starting from adaptation, in which a species acclimatize itself with the environment; genetic drift, gene flow and mutation, in which the species body transforms its structure into something more capable of living with the environment; selection, in which the species who proves themselves incapable of adapting to the environment are naturally eliminated; and speciation, in which another species arise from a single ancestor species (â€Å"Evolution†). The Intervention theory poses as an alternative to the previous two theories. According to my research on the Intervention theory, terrestrial life was introduced on Earth by intelligent extraterrestrial beings (â€Å"Intervention Theory†). Among others, Lloyd Pye has made a controversial claim involving the Intervention theory. According to Pye’s claims, the first Homo Sapiens were products of interbreeding between the existing primates and extraterrestrials (â€Å"Lloyd Pye†). The Current Situation My experience in the academe, my observations and the theories that I’ve read say that the issue on Creationism and Evolution continues to this day. The proponents of the Evolutionary theory still hold firmly against the idea that the universe is created by a higher being while the proponents of Creationism supports the idea. While some believes that the two views are impossible to reconcile, other views are more accommodating. There are separate groups who believe that each of the theories answer different questions and must be considered separately (â€Å"Creation-evolution Controversy†). The teaching of Evolution in schools also currently poses an issue. The proponents of Creationism see the teaching as anti-theistic and propose that the theory be eliminated in the school curricula (â€Å"Creation-evolution Controversy†). The US President Bush thinks that both theories must be taught in schools to provide the public with a clear idea and understanding on the real root of the issue (Bumiller 3). The view on the Intervention theory involves a separate issue, which is against both the previous theories. Currently, there is limited evidence that could support the theory. Conclusion Among others, I think that only the Evolution theory shows empirical evidence. The other two, particularly the Creationism theory and the Intervention theory are merely based on age-old stories and hypotheses that are not yet supported by any historical and observational evidence. Proving the truth of the last two theories would be difficult. Proving any one of these involves evidence of the existence of a Supreme Being or and extraterrestrial being. This is the main problem in both the theories. The non-existence of evidence, however, does not necessarily prove its falsity. Such a case makes possible the incorporation of all the three theories into one. It is my view that the Creationism theory should not be interpreted literally. The â€Å"days† as mentioned in the Book of Genesis, for example could be interpreted as the â€Å"eras† or â€Å"eons† mentioned in the Evolution theory. Also, the Creationism theory does not mention the impossibility of the evolutionary process. It is possible that what happens in between â€Å"the days† in the Creation theory represents what the evolutionary process call â€Å"speciation†. If the land animals (including the primates) were â€Å"created† on the fifth day, and the human beings on the sixth day; and if the Creation’s â€Å"days† are equivalent to the Evolution’s eons, then what happens in between the fifth and sixth â€Å"days† was the speciation of today’s human beings from primates to Homo sapiens. That the order of â€Å"creation† of each group of living things coincides with the age of the firsts of each species creates another sound theory: the theory of Creationism and the theory of Evolution is not opposites but rather, the same theories. In other words, the theory of Creationism is simply an allegorical representation of what the theory of Evolution posits. Works Cited Bumiller, Elisabeth. Bush Remarks Roil Debate on Teaching of EvolutionThe New York Times. The New York Times. 3 Aug 2005: 3 Creation-evolution controversy. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 5 Feb 2007, 02:49 UTC. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 6 Feb 2007 http://en. wikipedia. org/w/index. php? title=Creation-evolution_controversyoldid=105712111. Evolution. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 6 Feb 2007, 06:13 UTC. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 6 Feb 2007 http://en. wikipedia. org/w/index. php? title=Evolutionoldid=105994871. History of creationism. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 1 Feb 2007, 23:14 UTC. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 6 Feb 2007 http://en. wikipedia. org/w/index. php? title=History_of_creationismoldid=104954907. Intervention theory. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 13 Jan 2007, 15:06 UTC. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 6 Feb 2007 http://en. wikipedia. org/w/index. php? title=Intervention_theoryoldid=100447011. Lloyd Pye. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 15 Jan 2007, 00:24 UTC. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 6 Feb 2007 http://en. wikipedia. org/w/index. php? title=Lloyd_Pyeoldid=100764730 Origin belief. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 2 Feb 2007, 02:20 UTC.

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome: A Case Study

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome: A Case Study Dr. Shruti Bohra Dr Pratik B Kariya Dr Seema Bargale Abstract: Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) classically shows a triad of orofacial swelling, fissured tongue and facial palsy, more commonly the oligosymptomatic form. The orofacial swelling is characterized by fissured, reddish-brown, swollen, nonpruritic lips or firm edema of the face. The facial palsy is indistinguishable from Bells palsy. The least common feature is fissured tongue, although seen in one third to one half of patients but when present it assists in the diagnosis. The histologic finding of MRS includes noncaseating, sarcoidal granulomas, not invariably but their absence does not exclude the diagnosis. All these findings together provoke the careful search for provocative causes for the reactive symptom complex of the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. Key words: Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. chelitis granulomatosa, facial palsy, fissured tongue. Introduction: Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is considered to be a rare syndrome. Hornstein- estimated the incidence to be 0.08%.1MRS is a non-caseating granulomatous disease showing (complete or incomplete form) a triad of facial paralysis, orofacial oedema and fissured tongue (scrotal tongue, lingua plicata, or furrowed tongue). Orofacial swelling is the most consistent and dominant feature of the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. In a review of 200 patients diagnosed with Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome, it was the most frequent initial presenting sign.2Most commonly the lips are affected, with the swelling sometimes confined only to the lips. Cheilitis granulomatosa (or granulomatous cheilitis) is achronic inflammatory granulomatous swelling of the lip, which is referred as Miescher cheilitis which is generally regarded as a monosymptomatic form of the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome.3 Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome usually presents in a monosymptomatic or oligosymptomatic form. Around 200 cases are re ported in a review of Zimmer et al2, we hereby report an additional case. Case report: A 16 year old female patient reported to dental OPD with the chief complaint of generalized gingival enlargement as well as swelling in upper and lower lip since 8-9 months. Patient was apparently alright 9 months back when she had an episode of fever which lasted for 8 days and subsided with medication taken from a local clinician. It was followed by episodes of remission exacerbation of gingival enlargement with swelling of upper lip with pus discharge and bleeding to touch since 8-9 months. Then patient was referred to the department of oral pathology for needful. On examination face was bilaterally asymetrical with swelling of face on right side. Both upper and lower lips were swollen (markedly swollen upper lip) (Fig: 1). On palpation the swelling had normal temperature, was not painful, and was nonpitting and rubbery in consistency. Face was flattened on left side. Mandible was deviating on right side on opening of mouth. On intraoral examination generalized gingival enlargement was noticed which was covering cervical 1/3rd of almost all the teeth present in the oral cavity (Fig: 2). Teeth preset were incisors to second molars in all four quadrants. The tongue had deep grooves and fissures. A long prominent central groove was evident on the dorsum of the tongue going in a straight line with numerous small grooves and fissures running laterally from the middle third of the tongue (Fig: 3). An initial diagnosis of angioedema was made. Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, 100 mg, was administered intramuscularly followed by a course of diphenhydramine hydrochloride, 50 mg orally, four times a day. After 24 hours no noticeable reduction in facial swelling was evident. Therefore, re-evaluation of the diagnosis was necessary. As a result of this history, recurrent cheilitis granulomatosa consistent with Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) was added to the differential diagnosis. A biopsy specimen of the affected lip area was sent for histopathologic examination, confirming the final diagnosis of MRS. On histopathological examination the mucosa consisted of parakeratinized, hyperplastic, stratified squamous epithelium overlying collagenous connective tissue. Within the connective tissue there were discrete aggregations of lymphocytes, generally with a perivascular distribution; however, some bad central foci of histiocytes consistent with granulomatous lesions. The histologic findings were consistent with cheilitis granulomatosa. (Fig: 4) Treatment consisted of application of lip gloss to prevent cracking of the exposed mucosa. No further treatment was deemed necessary except continuation of his regular biannual preventive recall appointments. Discussion: Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) classically shows a triad of orofacial swelling, fissured tongue and facial palsy. Oligosymptomatic form of this syndrome is more common one of the example is Miescher cheilitis.3Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome may often go undiagnosed for some day as in present case. History states that Rossolino in 1901 was the first to describe a particular association of oedema of the face, facial nerve palsy and scrotal tongue, the syndrome was named after Melkersson and Rosenthal.4 In 1928, Ernst Melkersson, a Swedish physician, described a 35-year-old woman with facial edema and paralysis. Shortly after, in 1931, Curt Rosenthal, a German neurologist, described 3 patients who had fissured or plicated tongues in addition to orofacial swelling and facial palsies and proposed a link between the triad of symptoms. Subsequently, the triad of clinical findings came to be known as the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. Although MRS is reported as commonly found during the second to fourth decades of life, there are many published reports of MRS in children and preadolescents, Roseman et al 7 described a case of MRS in a 7-year-old girl, Cohen et al 8 described four cases of MRS in children younger than the age of 11 years, and Yuzuk et al 9 described the case of a 13-year-old girl who presented with the oligosymptomatic form orlabial edema coupled with fissured tongue. Melkersson Rosenthal syndrome does not appear to have an obvious predilection for either sex, although Some claim that it is slightly more common in females. 6,7,8 No particular racial predilection has been noted in MRS. Etiology of this disease remains largely unknown. 10 In granulomatous cheilitis normal lip architecture is altered by presence oflymphoedemaand noncaseating granulomas in the lamina propria.TH1 immunocytes produceinterleukin12 and RANTES/MIP-1alpha and granulomas.Expressionof protease-activatedreceptor1 and 2 occurs in orofacial granulomatosis (OFG).HLA typingmay show HLA-A2 or HLA-A11.11 Pathogenesis of MRS was suggested by Hornstien.1 He suggested that abnormal regulation of the autonomic nervous system leads to excessive permeability of the facial cutaneous vessels. From this abnormal circulation, nonspecific antigens then stimulate the perivascular cells to form granulomas. Obstruction of perivascular vessels by granuloma has been proposed as a causative factor in the swelling. 1 Initially, a patient with MRS usually complains of painless facial swelling that has persisted for a long time. Further investigation may reveal a history of previous episodes of swelling associated with facial paralysis or fissured tongue that the patient has never connected. The most common symptom of MRS is recurring orofacial swelling in which the upper lip is more often affected. Other areas affected by orofacial swelling in MRS in order of frequency, are cheek, nose, eyelid, alveolar process, and chin.2,12 Zimmer et al 2 reported orofacial manifestations in 42 patients with MRS who were examined at their clinic: they also reviewed 220 cases reported in the literature between 1965 and 1990. They found that 82% of patients presented with labial swelling, 40% had swelling in other parts of the face, not including the lip, 24% had Bells palsy, and 59% had fissured tongue. Other areas of intraoral swelling were, in order of frequency, the gingiva ( 11 % ), buccal mucosa ( 16% ) palate (8%). and tongue (7%). The swelling of the face and lip is described as recurrent, nontender, nonpitting, and firm, but not of hard consistency. The orofacial swelling is usually sudden and, in most cases, precedes facial paralysis by weeks, months, and even years. 2, 5, 6. First episodeof edema sometimes accompanied by fever and mild constitutional symptoms (as seen in present case e.g. headache, visual disturbance) usually subsides completely in hours or days. Recurrences can range from days to years, each recurrent episode lasts longer and is more pronounced, and swelling may ultimately become permanent. 2,5,6 The facial paralysis associated with MRS is frequently indistinguishable from Bells palsy. The site affected by paralysis usually corresponds to the site of swelling. As in the present case with facial swelling, the paralysis is on right side. Each recurring episode is more profound and lasts longer. 6,13,14 Other neurologic presentations associated with MRS are altered taste, migraine headaches, and trigeminal neuralgia.2,5,6,13,15 Fissured tongue ( eg. lingual plicata) is usually found at birth and therefore considered an incidental finding of MRS. Nevertheless, fissured tongue is ten times more likely to be found among individuals diagnosed with MRS than in the general population. 2, 6, 15. Miyashita et al 16 described MRS in a 56-year-old woman, who was afflicted with cheilitis granulomatosa caused by lingual candidiasis of a fissured tongue. The edematous lesion, on histopathologic investigation, is a noncaseating epithelial cell granuloma with perivascular mononucleated lymphocytic infiltrate. Fibrosis of the granulomas is typical in long-term and recurrent lesions. 1,2,17 Differential diagnosis includes Crohn’s disease, sarcoidosis, Aschers syndrome, and allergic angioedema, leprosy, tuberculosis.1,5,15,17,18,19 In Lab studies Serum angiotensin-converting enzymetestmay be performed to help exclude sarcoidosis.Reactions to metals, food additives, or other oral antigens are excluded by using Patch tests which may be associated with some cases of granulomatous. 20 If found positive they are advised to avoid the allergen. Imaging studies like gastrointestinaltractendoscopy, radiography, and biopsy may be used to differentiate from Crohn disease. Chest radiography or gallium orpositron emission tomography(PET) scanning may be found helpful in excluding sarcoidosis and tuberculosis. Orthopentamogram (OPG) helps in ruling out presence of a chronic dental abscess. A final diagnosis of MRS is made from the clinical history and histopathologic assessment of the edematous tissue, which usually includes the lip. When biopsy of the edematous tissue is difficult or not warranted, then a history of recurrent idiopathic facial swelling associated with atleast one of the following two entities, idiopathic facial paralysis (ie. Bells palsy) or fissured tongue, is sufficient to make a positive diagnosis of MRS. Treatment of MRS is aimed at the facial swelling and the paralysis. Because the etiology and pathogenesis of MRS are not well understood, treatment continues to be empirical and, in most cases, unsuccessful. Fortunately, both the swelling and the paralysis are selflimiting and usually go into remission on their own. Treatment with oral prednisone or nerve decompression has been shown to be effective.1,5,6 Treatment with oral prednisone or nerve decompression has been shown to be effective.5 Also, interlesional injections with triamcinolone hexacetonide suspension have been shown to provide temporary benefit.12 Plastic surgery may be considered in the case of permanent fibrotic lesions. Nevertheless, thorough documentation by many dentists eventually allowed MRS to be included in the differential diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of good history taking, regular follow-up and thorough documentation for proper patient management. References: HornsteinOP. Melkersson-Rosenthul syndrome: A neuromucocutaneus disease of complex origin. Curr ProbI Dermatoi 1973 ;5:117-156. Zimmer WM, Rogers RS. Reeve CM, Sheridan PJ. Orofacial manifestations of MeIkersson-Rosenthal syndiume: A study uf 41patients and review of 22tn cases from the literature. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral PiU ho I IW:;74:61O-6I9. Rogers RS 3rd: Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome and orofacial granulomatosis, Dermatol Clin.1996 Apr;14(2):371-9 Magid El Shennawy and Galala El Enany: Melkersson-Rosenthalsyndrome; Review of theliteratureand report of acase, The Journal of Laryngology Otology Volume87 / Issue09 /September 1973, pp 898-902 Green RM. Rogers RS, Melkersson-Rosentlial syndrome: A review of 36 patients. J Am Acad Dermatoi 1989:21:1263-1270. Orlando MR, Atkjns JS Jr. Melkersaon-Rosenthal syndrome. Arch Otolaryngol Mead Neck Surg I99O;116:728-729. Roseman B, Fryns JP, Van den Bergle C Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome in a 7-year-old girl. Pediatrics 197S;61:490-491. Cohen HA. Cohen Z, Ashkenasi A, Straussberg R. Frydman M, Kauschansky A, Varsano 1. Melkersson-Rosen thai syndrome. Cutis 1994:54:327-32S. Yuzuk S, Trau H, Levy A. Shewaeh-Millet M. Melkersson- Rosenthal syndrome. Int J Dermatoi i9SS:24;456-457. Tilakaratne WM, Freysdottir J, Fortune F. Orofacial granulomatosis: review on aetiology and pathogenesis.J Oral Pathol Med. Apr 2008;37(4):191-5. Ketabchi S, Massi D, Ficarra G, et al. Expression of protease -activated receptor-1 and -2 in orofacial granulomatosis.Oral Dis. Jul 2007;13(4):419-25. Miele FA Jr. Tlie big lip. Diagnostic and treatment considerations. Gen Dent 1994;42O.i8-:59. Graff-Badlord SB. Melkersson-Rosen thai syndrome, A review of the literature and a case report. South Afr Med J 1981:60:71-74, Balatiieh AB. Pillai KG, Maiisour M. Ai-Khail AA. An unusual case of the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol 1995:80:289-292. Winnie R, DeLuke DM. Mel kersson-Rosenthal syndrome: Review of literature and case report. Int J Oral Ma.illofac Surg 199;;; 1:115-117 Miyashita M, Baba S, Suzuki H. Role recurrent oral caniiidiasis associated with lingua plicata in Me I kersson-Rosen thai syndrome. BrJ Dermatol 199Ã ®:l.l2:.ll 1-312. Minor MW Fo^ RW, Bukant; SC, Lockey RF. Melkersson- Rosenthal sjndrome. J .Miergy Clin Immunol l9a7;S0:64-67. Kano Y, Shiohara T. Yagita A, Nagashima M. Association between cheilitis granulomatosa and Crohns disease. J Am Acad Dermatol 1993:281:801. Lloyd DA, Payton KB, Guenter L, Frydman W. Melliersson-Rosenlhal syndrome and Crohns disease: One disease or two? Report of a case and discussion ofthe literature. J Clin Gastroenterol I994;18:213-2I8. Fitzpatrick L, Healy CM, McCartan BE, Flint SR, McCreary CE, Rogers S. Patch testing for food-associated allergies in orofacial granulomatosis.J Oral Pathol Med. Jan 2011;40(1):10-3. Figure legends: Figure no 1) extraoral photograph showing swollen upper and lower lips. Figure no 2) intraoral photograph showing generalized gingival enlargement Figure no 3) intraoral photograph showing deep grooves on dorsal surface of tongue Figure no 4) photograph showing histological presentation of chilitis glanduralis at low power (10X) and high power (40X) Learning ponts Concomitant presence of orofacial swelling, fissured tongue and facial palsy or any one of them may be a case of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS). A final diagnosis of MRS is made from the clinical history and histopathologic assessment of the edematous tissue. Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome may recur intermittently and can become a chronic disorder. Gold: History, Properties and Nanoscale Analysis Gold: History, Properties and Nanoscale Analysis Since first extracted in the 5th century, Gold has been regarded as one of the most important matters in the world. When divided into smaller fragment sizes, way below 100nm it becomes even more ‘precious’. The optical, catalytical and electronic properties of Gold nanoparticles differ greatly from those of their bulk counterparts. This is mainly due to the large surface area-to-volume ratio as well as the spatial confinement of the free electrons of Gold nanocyrstals. Gold at Bulk scale Noble metals such as Gold, silver and platinum exhibit plasmonic properties. When the surface of a noble metal is hit with incident light, electrons which are situated on the surface begin to oscillate. This is known as the surface plasmonic resonance (SPR), as illustrated in figured 1. Metals are able to absorb and reflect light with great efficiency to their SPR. It is because of these plasmonic properties that noble metals such as Gold, silver and platinum are widely used in jewellery. Moreover being highly reflective metals makes them very appealing to the eye. Plasmonic properties arise due to noble metals having delocalised electrons on the surface. An atom consists of protons, electrons and neutrons. The nucleus is made up of protons and neutrons and the electrons spin around the nucleus in different orbitals. There are many orbitals in metals which overlap and form metallic bonding between the atoms. In the bulk form, there are many delocalised electrons within the metal that cause metallic bonding. This in turn allows the electrons to flow freely between the nuclei. Good electrical and thermal conductivity is due to the delocalised electrons Gold at Nanoscale Reflection does not occur in particles which are smaller than the wavelength of the incident light; however there is still an interaction between the nanoparticles and the light. The two main interactions are light scattering and light absorption. Electrons tend to oscillate at the same frequency as the light which was absorbed causing a dipole moment around the nanoparticles where all the electrons on the surface of the nanoparticle are oscillating. The oscillating dipole is known as a localised surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). Electromagnetic radiation is released when these electrons are oscillated. This can be seen in figure 2. The secondary electromagnetic radiation released by the nanoparticles is called scattered light. The electromagnetic radiation that is released has the same frequency History The synthesis of colloidal gold, or nanogold as it is now called, has been known to man since the ancient times. Although the process was not fully understood, synthesis of colloidal gold was crucial to the 4th century Lycurgus cup. The Lycurgus cup was known to change colour depending on the direction of light. Later it was used as a method for staining glass. A potion made from gold, which was also known as an Elixir of Life was discussed, and may also have been manufactured, in ancient times. It was not until the 16th century that the alchemist Paracelsus, claimed that he had created a potion called Aurum Potabile. (latin: potable gold). It was in the 17th century that the glass-colouring process was refined byAndreus CassiusandJohann Kunckel, allowing them to produce a deep-ruby coloured form of glass. However modern scientific evaluation was first made by Michael Faraday in the 1850s. Faraday is said to have been inspired by previous work done by Paracelsus. In 1857 Faraday prepared the first pure sample of colloidal gold, which he called activated gold, in 1857. Phosphorus was used to reduce a solution of Gold chloride. For a very long time chemists were unclear about the composition of the Cassius ruby-gold. Several chemists suspected Cassius ruby-gold to be a gold tin compound due to its preparation, However it was Faraday who was the first to recognize that the colour was actually due to the minute size of the gold particles The first colloidal gold in solution was first prepared in 1898 by Richard A. Zsigmondy. Shape and size tuning Fine tuning of shape and size in a controlled environment is one of greatest challenges faced by material scientists. These factors are not only very important in the rational design of nanomaterials, but are also equally as important for their applications. This is because many of their catalytical, optical and electronic properties of nanomaterials depend greatly on their size and shape. In Gold nanorods the longitudinal plasmon wavelength exhibits a nearly linear dependence on their aspect ratio, making it one of the most intriguing properties possessed by Gold nanorods. Moreover, even when looking at Gold nanorods with the same aspect ratio, the plasmon resonance properties are strongly dependent on the shape of their head. Over the past five years, the ability to finely tune the shape and size of Gold nanorods, has made huge progress. Seed mediated growth Gold nanospheres Changing the diameter of the sphere can easily and effectively tune the optical properties of gold nanospheres. This can easily be shown using the Mie Theory, which has been successfully shown to model the light scattering and absorption properties of spherical particles on a nanometer scale. The intense peak in the spectrum for each particle can be seen in figure 9. This peak is caused by the oscillating electrons which in turn produce a single dipole. Increasing the diameter of the gold nanosphere results in shifting the peak to a higher wavelength, this indicates the interaction between the light and particles is changing. In comparison to bulk gold (figure 4), the optical properties of gold nanospheres differ immensely. The local medium can also change the optical properties of the particles. This is due to the LSPR of the particle interacting with the medium. A change in the medium can result in a measurable change in the optical properties of the particles. In addition shape of the gold nanoparticles can significantly alter the optical properties. Gold nanorods Gold nanorods are of great interest due to their biocompatibility and NIR ( near infra-red) optical properties. The shape of the gold nanorod is what determines its NIR properties. The non-spherical shape of the particle causes two different dipoles to form when interacting with light. The transverse dipole (diameter) and the longitudinal dipole (length) account for the oscillating electrons throughout the particle. The dipole interactions affect the optical properties of the particles. GNR LSP illustration Optical properties of GNRs The aspect ratio (A.R) is defined as the length over the diameter of the Gold nanorod (GNR). The shape of the particle causes the absorption and light scattering spectrum to have two peaks: longitudinal and transverse. The interaction between these two dipoles causes the longitudinal peak to be observed in the visible to NIR region. The longitudinal peak is much more intense than the transverse peak and can be tuned by changing the aspect ratio of the gold nanorods. As the A.R of the gold nanorods is increased, the longitudinal peak shifts into the NIR region. The optical properties of GNRs have been successfully modelled using Gans theory and Discrete Dipole Approximation (DDA). Two equations were derived using the two theories to output the longitudinal peak wavelength by inputting a given aspect ratio. GANS THEORY DDA The two equations can predict the A.R of GNRs using absorption data collected from the UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer. The equations can give preliminary estimation of the A.R before observing the particles on a TEM. Figure 11 displays the absorption data, estimated A.R from theory, and a visual representation for a set of GNRs with different aspect ratios. The tunable optical properties of the GNRs make them very desirable for a wide range of applications. The visible representation shows a colour shift as the A.R changes. Visual representation of different shapes and sizes of GNRs Normalised absorption of the particles

US Dollar And Turkish Lira Exchange Rate

US Dollar And Turkish Lira Exchange Rate In finance, the exchange rates which are also known as the foreign-exchange rate, forex rate or FX rate between two currencies is how much one currency is worth in terms of the other. In other words, it is the value of a foreign countrys currency in terms of the home countrys currency. Furthermore, the foreign exchange market is considered as one of the largest markets dominating in the world, and approximately about 3.2 trillion USD of currency changes transactions takes place every day. Specific currencies become more valuable when demand for it is greater than its supply. On the other hand, it will become less valuable or in other words it will depreciate whenever demand becomes lower than its supply. Investors all over the world will probably choose to buy certain currencies only if the return on this particular currency is high. Therefore, the higher the countries interest rate, the greater will be the demand for that countries currency. We chose to compare the $U.S against the Turkish Lira as we know that turkey is a very strong country with a floating currency; that is, not fixed exchange rate. Turkey is well known and popular for exporting textiles and clothes all over the world and taking to consideration its past history at a stage in time it had ruled many parts of the world and so it was among the most powerful countries ruling most of the Arab countries. Therefore, we chose to select the Turkish Lira and compare it to exchange rates of the $U.S and analyze what events or factors have lead to the depreciation or the appreciation of the Turkish lira. Our aim in this research project is to develop a general understanding of the forex market world and be able to compare and analyze different markets in the exchange market as well as relating national and international events and factors contributing to the success or the failure of a particular currency. Moreover, we will gain the knowledge of tips of smart international business activities such as currency exchange investments for instance when to buy or sell certain goods under certain currencies. Turkey Economy Overview: Government Type: Parliamentary ,Representative, Democracy. Currency: Turkish Lira Turkey economic is largely dominated by modern industries and the services sector. Also, its one of the leading countries in world in producers of agricultural products; textiles; motor vehicles, ships and other transportation equipment; construction materials; consumer electronics and home appliances and they import non-auto consumer goods, fuels, production machinery and equipment, non-fuel industrial supplies, motor vehicles and parts, food, feed and beverages to partner in European Union, China, Canada, Mexico and Japan Furthermore, the gross domestic product it worth in December 2099 -6.50% -7.00% Jun 2009 of the world economy, according to the World Bank.  [1]   As we can see from the table above, the Turkish lira inflation rate has experienced a noticeable disinflation rates which is defined as the slowing in the rate of the inflation as well as a remarkable decline in the volatility of inflation which is due to some factors such as tight fiscal and monetary policies. However, previously since the 1970s and the 1990s the Turkish lira had been depreciating in its currency value due to turkeys constant inflation. US Economy Overview: Government Type: Constitution-based federal republic; strong democratic tradition. Currency: US Dollars. The economic history of the United States has the largest national economy in the world in both nominal and purchasing power parity. In addition, US have a stable overall GDP growth rate, a low unemployment rate, and high levels of research and capital investment. The United States Gross Domestic Product is worth in December 2009 -1.90% September 2009 -2.50% of the world economy, according to the World Bank. The US has several export import; first the export is machinery and equipment, industrial supplies, non-auto consumer goods, motor vehicles and parts, aircraft and parts, food, feed and beverage to partner Canada, European Union, Mexico, China and Japan. In addition, US import non-auto consumer goods, fuels, production machinery and equipment, non-fuel industrial supplies, motor vehicles and parts, food, feed and beverages. To the Main import partners are: European Union, China, Canada, and Mexico and Japan  [2]  . N/A ,0.03%(Jan 2009) Table Source: InflationData.com (2003- 2009). Inflation Rate in Percent for Jan 2000-Present. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.inflationdata.com/inflation/Inflation_Rate/CurrentInflation.asp On the other hand, U.S.A seems to have similar inflation rates across the years, as the U.S economy is considered to be the largest in the world. Forex rate system used in Turkey: Turkeys exchange rate has been changing over the past years and this can be related to its economy validated in many ways. In 1990-1997 Turkey exchange rate system was considered as a crawling band which means that the Currency is maintained within certain fluctuation margins around a central rate is adjusted periodically a fixed preannounce rate or in response to change in selective quantitative indicators  [3]  . However the exchange rate in 1998 -2000 was crawling peg which define as the currency is adjusted periodically in small amount at a fixed preannounce rate or in response to change in selective quantitative indicator.  [4]   Since 2001 the exchange rate change to independent floating which can be defined as the exchange rate is market determine with any foreign exchange intervention aimed to moderating the rate of change and preventing undue fluctuation in the exchange rate rather than at establishing a level for it  [5]  . This change has taken place after the financial crisis the country had at the same time which result the Turkish lira to depreciate against the euro.  [6]   After conducting Turkey the floating exchange rate system had lost more than 50% of the Turkish lira value. Therefore the lira appreciated in the mid of 2002; however their sensitivity fluctuated in the exchange rate. After this appreciation, the lira depreciated again due to the Iraq crisis. On the other hand the Turkey government takes some action to prevent the lira and its economy from certain events such as switching to formal inflation target regime. On 2006 the central bank implemented the formal inflation target and it used the interest rate as a short instrument which was the result to depreciate the lira again.  [7]   Forex rate system used in US: As a matter of fact, the U.S mainly went through two different exchange rate regimes. The first referred to what is commonly known as the Bretton woods system of fixed exchange rates and this has been the period from 1958 till 1973. However, after that period and until this day the exchange rate regime is referred to as the managed floating .The first, which lasted effectively from December 1958 to March 1973, was the Bretton Woods system of fixed exchange rates. In the second, which began in March 1973 and has continued to the present, exchange rates have been subject to managed floating which is characterized by fluctuating exchange rates on a daily basis however they are affected by the intervention of the U.S central bank in order to stabilize their currency by buying and selling their own currency. Turkish Lira history: First lira Turkish lira is the currency of turkey that is subdivided into 100 Kurus. Turkish liras symbol is TL and according to the international standard its code is TRY. Turkish lira had experienced many difficulties and changes in its history. To begin with, the Bimetallism system was adopted in turkey between 1881 and 1884. Bimetallism refers to the fact that the country functions on a double standard in other words both gold and silver were used. According to turkey at that time: 1 lira = 519 grams pure gold = 99.8292 grams pure silver  [8]  . Then, the classical gold standard was adopted in turkey from 1881 until the 1914. Gold standard means that under this particular standard the exchange rate between any two currencies will be determined only by their relative gold contents.  [9]   However this system vanished and the gold lira was worth nine lira money. As a result, and after all those changes that took place in turkeys monetary system, they pegged to British pound, then to French France, and finally to U.S.A dollars  [10]  . Second lira:- After all the difficulties in January 2005 six zeroes has been deleted from the lira currency and the Turkish lira generally became the official currency and unit of payment in turkey. The categories of liras book notes were 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100. In addition the coins Category were 1, 5,10,20,50,100.  [11]   As a matter of fact, a lot of countries drop zero(s) from their currency in order to facilitate their transactions and avoid any mistakes. Dropping six zeroes and the effort to decline the inflation impact on the currency is a useful way for turkey to have a good reputation in its lira currency. Therefore dropping the zero from its currency had reduced the mistakes and problems that had arisen in the calculation side and record problems. In short, the transition to the New Turkish lira was necessary both for the expected positive effects on the currency, as well as for its reputation. Furthermore, the New Turkish Lira is considered also as a symbol or a sign of Turkeys determination to reduce inflation.  [12]   Turkish Lira against the U.S. Dollar during the past 5 y The below graph demonstrate the behavior of the exchange rate of Turkish Lira against the U.S. Dollar during the past 5 years, which reflects the economic situation in both countries. Table Source: Yahoo! finance (2009). TRY/USD (TRYUSD=X). Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=TRYUSD=Xt=5yl=onz=mq=lc Table outlining the exchange rates desired on a daily basis: In our research, we are going to study the exchange rate fluctuation between the Turkish Lira (TL) and the U.S Dollar (USD) during the period from 14 September to 4 December 2009. Our study depends on using the daily data of FX of TL against the USD and will focus on analyzing the factors and events that affect the exchange rate and interpreting the causes of fluctuation during the period of study. The exchange rates graph on a daily basis: Analysis of national and international events contributing to results we obtained from the graph: 17 September to 1 October As observed from the graph, the Turkish Lira had a downward sloping against the US Dollar starting from 17th September to 1st October 2009; this may be due to the fallowing factors and events. Events:- Turkish bond yields rose on due to worries about the countrys widening budget deficit Reduction in Turkeys GDP which has lead to the depreciation of the Turkish lira against the $U.S. Turkey seeks bids for sugar factories. Turkey is selling six factories that produce sugar to finance the global slow down economy. Turkey also trying to reduce the government control in its economy. However this event will test turkey privatization  [13]  . Factors:- September 2009 Balance of Payment Budget of the government: The current account deficit realized a huge increase by 60.5% from 558 in August 2009 to 869 in September 2009. This reflects the increase on the country expenditures over revenues that negatively affected the TL exchange rate The level of the country trade: The deficit of the goods and services increased by 18%, which is a mean of increase of TL supply over demand that is reflected negatively on the TL exchange rate, and put a pressure on the TL to depreciate against US Dollar.  [14]   US inflation decreased from -8.90 in June to -9.90 in September. Therefore US $ appreciated over the TL. Turkeys industrial production fell by 8.6% in the year to September. The biggest decline was in the production of capital goods, the output of which fell by 18.2%.  [15]   1 October to 15-October:- During this period our graph direction went up due to the below factors and events Events:- In October 2009 the annual meeting of the World Bank held in Istanbul, this was the fist time the meeting being held in a country other than the United State. The country outlook rating of Turkey outlook has been upgraded by the two rating agencies Moody and Standard Poors. In addition to that, there is a strong probability to upgrade Fitch rating agency of the Turkey outlook rating. This is due to Turkeys policies in handling the financial crisis and its ability to implement policies to stabilize the economy.  [16]   Factors:- Inflation: the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey decreased the inflation rate from 5.27 in September to 5.08 in October 2009. This is considered a positive indicator that leads investors to invest in TL, consequently, TL appreciated. We can observe that the Turkish Lira firmed in October than its performance in September against the US dollar and this was due to the fact that the central Bank of Turkey stated that the annual inflation in October would be low despite the end of stimulus tax cuts on durable goods and a near 10 percent hike in power prices. 16 October to 28 October:- During this Period our graph has a downwards sloping due to the below factors and events. Factors:- Interest rate: a Central Bank of Turkey lowered its interest rate from 7.75 in September. To 6.75 in October 2009. As a result the TL depreciated ay the beginning of October reflecting the expectations of the investors that the currency will have downward direction. Budget: Finance minster of Turkey stated that Turkey end-2009 budget deficit of 62.8 billion lira ($43.1 billion) before a fall to 50.1 billion lira in 2010 which affect TL negatively. 29 October to 8 November: As the Graph show the TL lira appreciate in this period due to some factors and events. Events:- As reported in Turkey newspaper four officials at the tax office were suited for damages caused by the record tax office the case was brought by the media group. Factors:- Oil: the crude oil prices went up on November 2009 this is in indicator that investors shift their investment from dollars to oil leading dollars prices down, accordingly TL appreciated against US dollars. US dollar: Federal Reserve on Wednesday 5th November offered a caution economic outlook and kept borrowing costs near zero as a result the US dollar depreciated and the TL appreciates. The Turkish bank Turkey Ekonomi Bankasi have reach 47 % rise of profit which leads to upward TL sloping . 9-Novamber to 25 November The graph illustrate that the TL has been depreciated in this period for those factors and events. Factors Financial stability report: the CBRT has published the financial stability report, the report indicates that Turkey economy would notice a slow improvement, and in banks profitability levels in 2010 would decrease. According to the report the consumption levels is expected decline which will lead to lower the investment expenditures. This news has affected the public confidence in the economy of turkey and resulted in a decline of the TL exchange rate. Unemployment rates: According the Hurriyet Turkish news paper unemployment rate problem would still grow and would not be solved anytime soon. This is also a negative indicator that TL value will decline. US Gross Domestic Product: The third quarter economy statistics of the US have been published on 24 November 2009, it shows that the US GDP has increased at an annual rate of 2.8%, this increase in US GDP is a result of the positive contributions from personal consumption expenditures (PCE), exports, private inventory investment, federal government spending, and residential fixed investment that were partly offset by a negative contribution from nonresidential fixed investment. As a result USD gained more confidence and rose against the TL. 26 November to 30 November As the graph shown in this period the TL has a downward slop which is the most negatively sloping at the analysis period of our project. Events:- From 27 to 30 November Turkey government and business sector had a public holiday to observe the occasion of Eid Al Adha. The economy during this period slow down and this caused the downward of the TL exchange rate against the USD. The global crisis has hit turkey trade especially turkey exports to neighborhoods decrease to 7.7 % as publish in Hurriyet Daily News and Economic. EU to ask Turkey to adopt a more European Iran policy The European Union welcomes Turkeys stabilizing role in the Middle East but feels uneasy with its Iran policy,  [17]   Factors Oil: Oil price decreases on 25 of November which attract investor to buying oil by dollars as a result the TL depreciate. Inflation: in November the turkey inflation rate increases from 5.08 on October 2009 to 5.53 in November which lead to depreciate the TL in this time. Balance of trade: Turkey balance of trade increase from -2573.0 to -3948.0 deficits which mean that turkey import increase in November increasing the supply of TL which leads to downward TL. 1 December r to 4 December:- As we observe after the deep down wards at the end of November the TL appreciate at the beginning of December leads to upwards slopping. Events:- Turkish news has announced that Turkish lender Sekerbank has signed a deal loan with the international finance cooperation to finance the agriculture and foods project that worth 30 millions. Turkey news has announced that turkeys poverty rate has decreased from 17.79 percent in 2007 to 17.11 percent in 2008which leads to strong Turkish lira reputation. Factors Gold : the gold price increase from 1054.00 on November to 1115.40 on December as a result the investor shift their investment direction to invest more in safe assets which is gold leading to supply the market by dollars as result the dollars depreciate and the TL appreciate . Government Budget: the Turkey government budget has 989.80 surpluses on December after having a budget deficit for the past month. As a result the TL appreciated. Current Account : the current has increase from -863.0 on September to 671.0 on December which mean the export is greater than import and the demand of TL is greater than supply leading appreciate TL on December 2009. Conclusion:- In conclusion, we have benefitted a lot from this study as we were able to analyze the Turkish lira exchange rate against the U.S Dollar as both economies have many factors and events affecting this exchange rate phenomenon such as gold reserves, balance of payments of each country, unemployment rates in addition to inflation rates, crisis in other countries, as well as many other implications .Furthermore, As for the exchange rates instability during the past three months as was required for us to analyze, the Turkish-dollar exchange rates observed several highs and lows which was generally due to multiple political, economical, social factors, and fiscal monetary policies by both countries the U.S and Turkey. We benefitted a lot from conducting this research study as it gave us the knowledge of relating the international and national events with the currency performance along with understanding the role of the exchange rate system applied in analyzing the appreciation as well as de preciation of the currency. References: ANKARA Anatolia News Agency. (2009). Crisis hits trade relations with neighbors. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=crisis-hits-trade-relations-with-neighbors-2009-11-30 ANKARA Bloomberg. (2009). Fitch lifts Turkish outlook, poised to upgrade rating. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=fitch-lifts-turkish-outlook-poised-to-upgrade-rating-2009-10-27 ArticlesBase.com (2005-2008). Export Import in Turkey. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.articlesbase.com/ask-an-expert-articles/export-import-in-turkey-1219667.html ASIM ERDÄ °LEK. (, 2009). How vulnerable is Turkey to an external financial shock?. Retrieved on 10-11-2009. http://www.todayszaman.com/tz-web/columnists-137712-how-vulnerable-is-turkey-to-an-external-financial-shock.html Bankim Chadha, Eswar Prasad. (1997). Real exchange rate fluctuations and the business cycle: Evidence from Japan. International Monetary Fund. Staff Papers International Monetary Fund, 44(3), 328-355. Retrieved December 15, 2009, from Research Library. (Document ID: 22542091). Burak Sansal ( 1996-2009). Turkish Economy. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.allaboutturkey.com/economy.htm Bureau of Economic Analysis is an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce.(2009). Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Corporate Profits. Retrieved on 3-12-2009. http://www.bea.gov/newsreleases/national/gdp/gdpnewsrelease.htm Burka Sansal (1996-2009). New Turkish Lira. Retrieved on 8-11-2009: http://www.allaboutturkey.com/ytl.htm CBS Interactive Inc.(2009). U.S. exchange rate policy: Bretton Woods to the present includes glossary. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m4126/is_n11_v76/ai_9153142/ Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey. (2009). Balance of Payments Statistics. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.tcmb.gov.tr/yeni DÃÆ'-NDÃÅ" SARIIÃ…Å ¾IK (2009). EU to ask Turkey to adopt a more European Iran policy. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=eu-to-ask-turkey-to-adopt-a-8216more-european-iran-policy8217-2009-11-25 Eun Resnick (2009), International Financial Management. McGraw Hil Exchange-rates.org. (2009). 1 Turkish Lira (TRY) to Dollars (USD) Retrieved on. 6-10-2009. http://www.exchange-rates.org/history/USD/TRY/T Forex-Here.com. (2009). Turkish lira grows on growing risk appetite. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.forex-here.com/node/128 Global Futures Forex (2009). GLOBAL FOREX TRADING, WORLDWIDE LEADERS IN ONLINE CURRENCY TRADING. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.gftforex.com/resources/currency/emerging.asp IndexMundi.(2009). Turkey GDP real growth rate. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.indexmundi.com/turkey/gdp_real_growth_rate.html IndexMundi (2009). Turkey Inflation rate (consumer prices). Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.indexmundi.com/turkey/inflation_rate_(consumer_prices).html InflationData.com (2003- 2009). Inflation Rate in Percent for Jan 2000-Present. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.inflationdata.com/inflation/Inflation_Rate/CurrentInflation.asp Investopedia (2009). Managed Currency. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/managed-currency.asp Investopedia (2009).Disinflation. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/disinflation.asp ISTANBUL Hà ¼rriyet Daily News (2009). Turkeys poverty rate at 17.11 percent. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=turkey8217s-poverty-rate-at-17.11-percent-2009-12-01 ISTANBUL Hà ¼rriyet Daily News (2009). Central Bank foresees slow, gradual recoveryRetrieved on 3-12-2009. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=the-bank-foresees-slow-gradual-recovery-2009-11-24 ISTANBUL Hà ¼rriyet Daily News (2009). Executives eye competition and innovation. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/h.php?news=executives-eye-productivity-and-2009-11-05 Joanna Stryjek(2007). Exchange Rate Regimes in the Middle East and North Africa Countries. Retrieved on 12-11-2009:http://www.arabia.pl/english/content/view/414/16/ Koà §Ãƒ §at, H.. (2008). Exchange Rates, Exports and Economic Growth in Turkey: Evidence from Johansen Cointegration Tests. International Journal of Economic Perspectives, 2(1), 5-11. Retrieved December 15, 2009, from ProQuest Central. (Document ID: 1809709051). Meyer, C., Zanetti, A.. (2008). Unit Labour Costs, the Real Exchange Rate and Swiss Competitiveness. Aussenwirtschaft, 63(1), 43-68,109. Retrieved December 15, 2009, from ProQuest Central. (Document ID: 1474657321). Online Turkey Travel Guide. History of Turkish Money. . Retrieved on 8-11-2009: http://www.turkeyforyou.com/turkey_money_history Reuters India. (2009). UPDATE 1-Turkey seeks bids for sugar factories -sources. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://in.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idINLA72980020090910 Summaries of EU legislation (2008). Turkey. Retrieved on 12-11-2009 : http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/enlargement/ongoing_enlargement/community_acquis_turkey/e01113_en.htm The Economist Newspaper. (2009). Economic and financial indicators. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.economist.com/markets/indicators/ Trading Economics.(2009). United States Current Account. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.tradingeconomics.com/Economics/Current-Account.aspx?Symbol=USD Trading Economics.(2009). Turkey Current Account. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.tradingeconomics.com/Economics/Current-Account.aspx?Symbol=TRY TURKEY: Financial crisis points to deep recession. (2008, October). Oxford Analytica Daily Brief Service,1. Retrieved December 15, 2009, from ProQuest Central. (Document ID: 1688053781). Turkish Embassy Office of the First Economic Counsellor, London. (2004-2008). ECONOMIC OUTLOOK OF TURKEY. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://www.turkisheconomy.org.uk/economy.html Turkish Press. (1997-2009). I Am Proud With Value of Turkish Currency, P.M. Erdogan. Retrieved on 10-11-2009. http://www.turkishpress.com/news.asp?id=253819 Wikipedia (2009). Turkish lira. Retrieved on 8-11-2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkish_lira Wikipedia (2009). Economy of Turkey. Retrieved on 14-11-2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_Turkey Wikipedia (2009). Managed float regime. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Managed_float_regime XE Corporation. (1995 2009). CORRECTED-Turkey Factors to Watch on Nov 5. Retrieved on 10-11-2009. http://www.xe.com/news/2009-11-05%2002:37:00.0/781409.htm?c=1t XE Corporation (1995-2009). Turkey Factors to Watch on Nov 1. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.xe.com/news/2009/11/10/790301.htm XE Corporation (2009). Turkey Factors to Watch. Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://www.xe.com/news/2009-12-03%2002:06:00.0/834505.htm?c=1t=102 Yahoo! finance (2009). TRY/USD (TRYUSD=X). Retrieved on 8-12-2009. http://finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=TRYUSD=Xt=5yl=onz=mq=lc

The Importance of the Title of Stone Angel :: Stone Angel Essays

The Importance of the Title of Stone Angel Margaret Laurence's The Stone Angel is the story of Hagar Shipley's life, told entirely by Hagar through her memories and thoughts. Though she remembers her past with vivid detail, she has trouble with the happenings of the present. Hagar at ninety is a proud and strong woman suffering from the unjustness of old age. Once proud and independent, she now needs to be taken care of by her son Marvin, who she never loved. As the book begins, the readerÕs first glimpse is of that of the stone angel. "She was not the only angel in the Manawaka cemetery, but she was the first, the largest, and certainly the costliest." A unsuitable memorial of her mother for she was thought of as a "feeble ghost." It seems rather to represent Mr. Currie and Hager, both strong and full of pride. It was there for his needs, to "proclaim his dynasty." As the story progresses, the reader becomes more aware as why the book is titled The Stone Angel. Through important events in her life: the death of Dan, her marriage, her two sons, and Mr. TroyÕs singing; Hagar shows her inability to show tenderness and love and how her stone heart melts always and she is finally able to speak the words which both she and Marvin need to hear. The Stone Angel serves as a double meaning: The large marble stone angel in the cemetery and Hagar. Like the stone angel, Hagar displays no emotion. Even when her brother Dan is dying, her proud strengths leads her to be unable to comfort Dan. "But all I could think of was the meek woman IÕd never seen, the woman Dan was said to resemble so much and from whom he inherited a frailty I could not help but detest, however part of me wanted to sympathize. To play at being her Ð it was beyond me." When her favorite son John dies, she sheds not one tear; although she loves him very much. Her inability to communicate her emotions to others leads her to appear as a cold and grumpy woman. Her pride and strength causes her to do what she needs to do, but also she is blinded like the stone angel because she is unable to do what others need from her.

Sociology and Globalisation Essay -- Sociology Essays

Many historians and sociologists have identified a transformation in the economic processes of the world and society in recent times. There has been an extensive increase in developments in technology and the economy as a whole in the twentieth century. Globalization has been recognized as a new age in which the world has developed into what Giddens identifies to be a â€Å"single social system† (Anthony Giddens: 1993 ‘Sociology’ pg 528), due to the rise of interdependence of various countries on one another, therefore affecting practically everyone within society. In this essay I will give a detailed explanation of what sociologists mean by the term ‘globalisation’ and how they have tried to explain it. Globalisation can be construed in many ways. Many sociologists describe it as an era in which national sovereignty is disappearing as a result of a technological revolution, causing space and time to be virtually irrelevant. It is an economic revolution, which Roland Robertson refers to in his book ‘Globalisation’ 1992 pg 8, as â€Å"the compression of the world and the intensification of consciousness of the world as a whole†. It is argued that globalisation allows the world to become increasingly more united, with people more conscious of ethnic, societal, civilizational and individual aspects of their lives. When exploring the topic of globalisation, sociologists have categorised the term into three components, economic, political and cultural globalisation. They have done this in order explain what it means. I have aimed within this essay to explain all three types of globalisation in order to answer the essay question. I intend to concentrate mainly on the economic an... ...e† them (Marsh, ‘Making Sense of Society’, 2000 pg 487). What we can understand on the whole, is what sociologists mean by the term globalisation is that it is a profound, dynamic process which is affecting the world immensely. It seems from what I have examined so far about globalisation that there may come a time eventually, when a world government comes into existence, where international inequalities will always remain and where social conflict will always be active. This is because the policies that drive the globalisation process are largely focussed on the needs of business. Globalisation is a continuing process which needs to be managed wisely. It is a crucial development which has and always will cause significant social changes within society and the world as a whole.

Alien Invasion

2012 ALIEN INVASION? [pic] Researcher Ian O'Neill said that it’s ridiculous 2012 doomsday theories can get. He also said that according to the Examiner. com (a rather dubious, yet expansive news website), 2012 could be filled with an alien invasion fleet after â€Å"3 very large, very fast moving objects† were spotted in some astronomical images. But there's a problem. The â€Å"UFO Examiner† reporting this nonsense appears to have made the whole thing up, using a fictitious astrophysicist as a source, a dodgy astronomical photograph and a whole truckload of delusional imagination to communicate the fantasy.Researcher said that it’s his first real attempt for some time that he had seen someone trying to indicate there will be an alien invasion in 2012. It's been done before, but the invading aliens involving Zecharia Sitchin's comical â€Å"Annunaki† — are supposed to be traveling aboard a fictional planet called Nibiru (set to arrive on Dec. 21, 2012, of course). Armageddon Planet or Astronomical Baloney? Bad Astronomer Phil Plait clearly points out; the flimsy piece of evidence being used by the â€Å"UFO Examiner† is actually an image defect on the observation plate. It also happens a lot!What makes this particular example (the picture on the top) susceptible to image defects is that the original image was captured on a physical photographic plate and then scanned and digitized (i. e. , copied onto a computer for easy access) through the 2nd Generation Digitized Sky Survey. During the scanning process according to Phil Plait, it is nigh-on impossible to remove all dust and other debris from the plates, so dust and other debris can often be found floating in some digitized images. Also, chips and cracks in the emulsion of the plates will be scanned.But how do you know if what you're looking at is a chip, scratch or coffee stain and not a ginormous alien space ship flying toward Earth? Apart from the simple appl ication of logical thought, astronomers will often photograph the same part of the night sky with several different filters. If the object is in the blue filter, say (as the above photo was lifted from), and not in the red filter, then it is highly likely that the object isn't real and it's just a fleck of dirt on one of the plates. CONCLUSION: HonestIy I really don’t believe in aliens. We might be scraping the bottom of the barrel, come on, aliens?Giant spaceships? Different colored people? Alien invasion in 2012?! I think the explanation above is enough to make us believe that â€Å"alien invasion† is not true. Anyone who wrote about that alien thing is just aiming to earn. They aren't publicizing the end of the world as some helpful public service announcement, obviously we really know that, they're doing it to make money. The writers or researchers who would say that they aren't doing it for money are doing it because they have a dubious grasp on reality. 2012 Phen omenon Myths of the Near Future?The release of the new Roland Emmerich Hollywood blockbuster ‘2012’ has brought fresh fervour to Internet geeks and astrological scholars alike, both of whom might have a keen interest in the prophesies events of December 21, 2012, although most likely for different reasons. The end of the world predictions for 2012 according to some researchers, stem from the belief that at the conclusion of the 5,125 year-long Mayan long count calendar, which coincides with December 21, 2012 in our Gregorian calendar, there will be some sort of earth-shattering event or a series of events that will bring about the destruction of mankind.The modern day interest in all this can be traced back to the late 1950s when Maud Worcester Makemson, an archaeoastronomer (someone that studies ancient astronomy and its sociological implications) noted that the end of this time cycle would have had great significance for the ancient Maya people. This idea was further developed by an American anthropologist, Michael Coe. In his book The Maya Coe claimed that some ancient Mayan writings suggested that the end of the long count calendar on December 21, 2012 marked the end of the world, Armageddon, doomsday!The basis for these doomsday predictions appears to have some slightly thorny origins. The December 2012 date is connected to the conclusion of a time cycle in an ancient Mesoamerican calendar that began its countdown somewhere around 3114 BC. This starting point is when the ancient Maya people believed the previous world ended and a new one (the current one) began. Researchers also found out that there are a number of issues with these theories that should be noted however.Firstly, many scholars argue that in classical Maya literature there are conflicting accounts of what the end of the long count calendar might actually signify, and very few sources suggesting that it might mean an end of world scenario like the one interpreted by Micheal Coe. Secondly, the countdown was calculated differently from one Mayan city-state to another, so the precise date of the conclusion of the Mayan long count calendar is far from clear.It is also interesting that modern decedents of the ancient Maya people place little or no significance on the date December 21, 2012. Also, the ancient Maya scribes wrote about events that were set to take place after the date corresponding to December 21, 2012, so at least some of them did not predict the end of the world to take place on that date. Furthermore, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that either the end of the long count or its somewhat arbitrary beginning a little over 5000 years ago, have any scientific significance whatsoever.An American author, John Major Jenkins, who has written extensively about the Mayan culture and its relation to New Age mysticism suggests that the ancient Maya knew of this galactic alignment of planets and stars, and that this was part of their calendar coun tdown. However his claims, which relate to where in the sky the zodiacal constellations appear, would have had more credence in 1998 when the alignment he talks about was more precise than it will be in 2012.But there are even more grand things going on in our picture of the end of the world cataclysm predicted for December 2012. Our doomsday prophecy puzzle also incorporates the idea of a significant galactic alignment that just happens to coincide with the 2012 winter solstice in December 2012, meaning the galaxy itself is conspiring against us. It turns out that no end of the world predictions would be complete without a little input from the most famous seer of them all, practically a by-word for futurology, none other than Nostradamus himself.While there are many accounts that can be found floating around the Internet, which say Nostradamus predicted the end of the world in 1997 or was it 1999, or even 2012, none of them are able to say conclusively what the predictions really were, and clearly some of them were just plain wrong, since we are still here. This is mainly because Nostradamus wrote in such an archaic language, mixed with mysticism and metaphor, no one really knows for sure what his precise meaning was in many of his predictions.In any case, most experts agree that if he did set a date for our demise it is somewhere in the late 38th century, so we should be OK for at least our lifetimes. As well as the better known, or at least more talked about end of the world predictions, there is also a theory that a massive geomagnetic reversal is on the cards in 2012 it is according to the researchers. This involves the magnetic poles and the Earth’s magnetic field completely reversing.Scientists in this area do agree that the Earth is long overdue such a reversal, and end of the world theorists have tied this into the predicted peaks in solar flare activity that are due in 2012, which could theoretically affect the Earth’s magnetic field. However experts are keen to point out that geomagnetic reversal is not something that would simply ‘start one day’. The process takes several thousand years and is not necessarily triggered by solar activity.What is more, the original predictions of a peak in solar activity in 2012 have now been put back to 2013. Perhaps the most bizarre end of the world prophecies centers on the mysterious Planet X, which was once thought by scientists to be the tenth outlying planet in the solar system. However, later evidence proved that the perceived gravitational effects of Planet X were actually miscalculations, and that it actually never existed.Not to be put off by mere evidence, New Age thinkers, most notably Nancy Lieder, adopted the planet and re-named it Nibiru, claiming that it she had information that its orbit would take it right by the Earth somewhere around 2010, creating geomagnetic polar shifts that cause absolute devastation across the world, wiping out most of human ity. Incidentally, Lieder’s predictions are based on information she was given through an implant in her brain from aliens living in the Zeta Reticuli star system, honestly. Can Science beat the Doomsday hype?According to Fraser Cain a publisher of the Universe today the world will come to an end. In approximately 4 billion years time, when the sun has depleted its supply of hydrogen in its core, our nearest star will swell like a balloon when it starts to burn heavier elements, swallowing the planets of the inner solar system. Earth will be toast. However, this is the only guaranteed end-date scheduled in our planet's future. Granted, there will undoubtedly be asteroid strikes, â€Å"killer† solar flares, geomagnetic reversals and possibly one or two interstellar gamma-ray bursts, but 4 billion years is Earth's sell-by date.CONCLUSION: During my research about the 2012 phenomenon I have learned that; nothing special is predicted to happen in 2012. Especially that we a re just human and only God knows what will happen in the future. No ancient civilization, prophet or crazed doomsday conspiracy theorist can see into the future. As I have said only God can do it. Indeed, they have never predicted anything of note in the past how could they predict the future. There's also a lot of insanity in the world, there are a lot of people genuinely scared that the world might end in 2012.We already know what are the signs if end of the world like for example, great famine, nations by nations war, fortuitous events that are all acts of God, etc. , not those scientific explanations who doesn’t believe in God. But probably the most frightening thing of all, I think is that many people will blindly believe that the Apocalypse is just around the corner, and no amount of science will convince them otherwise. This often distracts from real-world problems, such as climate change and crisis. Sure, the world will end in 4 billion years time, but we don't need t o worry about that yet.