Somalia

Somalia is located in the horn of Africa with boundaries to Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya. Somalia's last full functional government collapsed in 1991. Since then Somalia has been ruled by transitional governments backed by the United Nations and international unions and now the Somali federal government. Somaliland north part of the Somalia declared itself as separate sovereignty in 1992, although there is no country still recognized its sovereignty, similarly, Puntland; the north eastern regions of Somalia, established the semi- autonomous administration called Puntland state of Somalia in 1998. After the collapse of central government of Somalia, financial institutions destroyed, the central bank of Somalia was malfunctioning with no enough authority to manage the monetary system of the country. The country's cash management system became night mire, with no central management for the cash receipts of the country. The inflation reached at its peak with 30,000 so.sh exchanged to 1$ in 2008 and the management of cash to businesses and day to day transactions become too risky and costly.Somaliland launched new currency notes named Somaliland shillings in October 1994 to resolve financial disturbances from the rest of Somalia. In 2010 mobile money transfer has emerged in the horn of Africa country, Somalia; the telecommunications companies operated in Somalia started the mobile money transfer service, Golis Telecom Company, hormuud telecom and telesom company covering the three zones in Somalia namely Somaliland, puntland and south central somalia. golis telecom covered mobile money transfer services named SAHAL SERVICE in Puntland state, telesom company covered Somaliland and called it ZAAD SERVICE and hormuud telecom covered south central Somalia named its service as EVC PLUS.The emergency of mobile banking in Somalia started a new era in the field of bank system in Somalia. This new system has solved a lot of financial constrains faced the business and commerce in Somalia and started improving transactions and cash security in the country.Sahal service which is the mobile money transfer offered by golis telecommunication company has been launched in 2009 in all over puntland. This includes the major cities in puntland such as bosaso, garowe and galkacyo. The service which is owned and offered by golis Telecommunication Company, the largest telecom company in the region, with more than 15000 active subscribers (2015) has been easily accepted by the community which highly suffered the malfunction of monetary system in the country.Sahal service in puntland offer the community to the following services:Money transfer. Mobile paymentMobile banking and servicesMobile airtimeMobile remittanceMoney transfer service:Sahal service offered customers to transfer money from one to another, they can transfer from small fraction of amount ranging from 0.1$ to unlimited us dollars. Golis Company charged this service initially to small amount of which is as follows:Golis later decided to keep all the services free of charge. This service works as follows; the customer needs to deposit his cash amount to his mobile phone by visiting golis sales center. Later the customer can send the money back to other customers with sahal service where ever he is in Somalia.This service has largely been used by businesses and individuals for the transitions between the cities and regions and has been widely accepted by the community since it is cheaper than the normal remittances working in the region such as dahalshiil, amal or iftin. This is the graphical representation of how sahal service works:Figure 11 process of money transer service Figure 12 process of money transfer service Mobile payment (paybills): This is another service offered by the golis telecom company's SAHAL SERVICE. Mobile payment is also called merchant number and is intended to replace cash transactions between businesses and people. Golis customer has to get merchant number from golis sales offices and it is used for that business only, it cannot be used personal. You can get merchant number only if you have a running business with a name and location. After you get merchant number, the customer will do payment through this merchant number. The merchant number does not charge the customers as well as the owners, it is free of charge. The merchant number is bounded by cities and regions and cannot cross across different cities. If you wish to send money from one city to another for purchases, merchant number will not help you and will not work for that purpose instead you have to use sahal money transfer service. Merchant number offered by golis telecom has helped businesses to run their business with or without cash transactions. It increased the security of their transactions by keeping transactions with their merchant numbers history. The merchant person will go to golis offices to get the transactions he made this year or this month or simply a specific customer. This has increased the reliability and confidence of the merchants and they are heavily relied on this service. This service has changed the dynamics of the business transactions in puntland and it fills the gap of securing business transactions and payments in which otherwise the government should have to deal with. On the other side, there is a widespread believe that sahal service dominated the cash transactions in the country and if this service goes as it is now for many years there is a possibility that it will degrade the cash system of the country hence it should be regulated and concretely managed by the concerned government agencies.Use of Paybills service from golis telecom is shown graphically below:Figure 13 process of performing mobile payment Mobile banking system:Sahal service has an additional service called kaaftoon, this service connects your salaam bank account into your mobile with the help of sahal service. The customer who needs to use this service should first have sahal service enabled in his mobile phone, then your salaam bank account can be tailored to your sahal service simply by asking salaam bank offices to do so. After it is being opened, you will be able to deposit and retrieve you money to your bank account. Similarly, you can send and retrieve money from the other salaam bank account anywhere in the country.Kaaftoon services become the biggest nightmare for other competitor banks. It helped salaam bank which is co-owned by golis telecom to enter market tremendously and get a huge market share with the minimum amount of time. The community highly welcomed This service as it is a new service enabled with the latest technology and removed the constraint of lining up the bank offices to deposit or withdraw cash your account.The kaaftoon service works as follows; the customer should deposit cash money to his sahal service by visiting golis sales offices and depositing money to them then they will credit your sahal service account as per the requirement. Then inside your phone you can deposit the amount required to your salaam bank account and send money to other salaam bank accounts if required. Similarly you can withdraw money deposited in your salaam account into your sahal service and use it. You really don't require visiting salaam bank office or ATM machine to withdraw cash.The amount of money to withdraw or deposit using kaaftoon service is as follows; you can withdraw or deposit minimum of 10$, it will not accept below 10$. But you can withdraw and deposit as much as you need. This gives the customers a huge flexibility of managing their transactions and business into their premises. Figure 14 process of performing mobile payment through sahalMobile airtime: Mobile airtime is also another feature which allows customers to get golis airtime from their sahal service, this service give customers the ability to get airtime to their mobile phones by using their sahal service, similarly they are allowed to give airtime to their friends and any golis subscriber. Before sahal service come into existence, scratch cards, golis centers and agents used to give customers the airtime they need. Small amount of service fee are charged to the customers by the agents. But when sahal service begins to work all airtime work has shifted to the sahal service. Still there are agents of airtime which help customers those do not have registered sahal service to get their required airtime but they use their agency within sahal service. Al though this shift of airtime service paradigm lost jobs and services but the subscribers get the flexibility to manage their airtime. Figure 15 process of performing mobile airtime through sahal serviceMobile remittance (taaj service):The mobile remittance service or taaj service has been included sahal service package in the year 2013. Taaj is a subsidiary company of a sister companies named HTG (hormuud, telesom and golis) and formarly known as BARAKAAT REDSEA COMPANY. The company have been subsidized according to the locations and clan boundaries in Somalia. This gave birth to group of sister companies of HTG group. Taaj remittance belongs to HTG and it is supported by all the mobile banking systems of these companies viz SAHAL, ZAAD and EVCPLUS services.Taaj Remittance Company has been introduced in the Somali market in the year 2012, and has gained a large market share immediately, compelling the competitor companies with large market share to enter into the telecommunications company. The gaint Somali remittance companies', dahalshiil group and amal bank both entered the telecom company by forming SOMTEL and AMTEL companies respectively.The main aim of creating SOMTEL and AMTEL by dahabshiil and amal companies is the risk they faced from such technology as taaj company with the help of mobile banking systems such sahal service.Somtel has been largely launched Somalia at large and has come with their mobile banking system named E-DAHAB.AMTEL Company has been launched in the year 2017 and it is still in its initial start up phases. Since the collapse of Somali government in 1991, Somali community has largely become immigrant in almost all over the world. Somali communities in different parts of the world use to send money in their families back home. The banking system of the country collapsed and the transfer of money from abroad to the country become difficult and that time Somali remittance companies has emerged and take their role in transferring money between communities abroad and Somalis in Somalia. Coming back to sahal service package, taaj service is one of the services supported by sahal service, it supports both local and international money transfer and it works as follows: The person should deposit the amount of money to send into his sahal service. By using his sahal service, person should follow procedure accordingly and provide all the required information as seen graphically below:Figure 16 process of performing mobile remittance through sahal service Figure 17 process of performing mobile remittance through sahal serviceChallenges confronted sahal service in puntland:Introducing sahal service into the market met challenges which include technology related issues, reliability and money exchange business. We will address these three challenges below and how sahal service survived from these two challenges.Deficiency of sahal service technology:The customer got caught by lack of knowledge from this new technology in which they feel a huge risk of their money. They didn't have prior knowledge of such technology nor it is something they use to see. This makes the service rigid and decreases its reliability and flexibility. Golis telecom company which is the owner of sahal service started the service as follows; the company run the service only to its employees initially, to check whether the service runs as planned and rectify errors if any. This initially run of the service lasts for three months in which they send employee salaries, bonuses etc to this service, then the company opened the service to its customers by putting a lot of efforts to encourage customers the reliability, confidentiality and security of the service. They put a huge amount of marketing money to introduce and convince the customers to the new service. Golis telecom established a huge lcd tv's to many of its centers explaining how to use the service from technology point of view. Similarly they put advertisement agencies such as TV's, radios and newspapers explaining the same. This helped customers to understand the service and use it. Leter, sahal service customers started to increase each month. Reliability of the service:Inutility, customers got suspicious about the reliability of the service, they didn't convince to put their money in mobile phone and let it go. They believed the possibility that the company may collapse, or they misuse their money. Similarly since there is no strong financial system in the country they feel keeping their money with them is best policy. Golis telecom survived this problem as follows; first of all the service was not only run in golis telecom or in puntland but all across Somalia. ZAAD and EVC PLUS have been introduced in hargaisa and Mogadishu respectively. The introduction of the similar service across the country convinced the customers that the service has its demands now and may be it is the time to keep your money in mobile phones. The other asset which helped the company to convince the customers is the customer loyalty to the company. The company has made a clean image from fraud and financial mismanagement during its existence and the customers feel it that way and it increased its reliability. Similarly golis telecom run a lot of sales offices to handle sahal service customer care and customer issues in which it poured a huge money to immediately retrieve customer money in cash in case needed. This step greatly influenced the mindset of the customers and increased their confidentiality since their money is available 24/7 in cash or in the mobile phone. Money exchange businesses:Merchants from money exchanges business who do currency exchange from dollars to Somali shillings and vice versa saw sahal service as their biggest threat. These groups of business people immediately felt that if this service runs successfully all those exchange businesses will not live peacefully side by side instead sahal service is the end money exchange business. This is true in a way that no one will need to go exchange business to do exchanges from dollar to Somali shillings and vice versa since sahal service will do this and many more services. These group have tried to ruin the service and publicly misinform the community by spreading negative propaganda about the service and mostly aligning the service with financial fraud.Golis telecom company stuck to its plan of fighting and convincing the community the services offered by sahal service and its benefits. Their main defence strategy was security and convinced the community golis is the right place to secure their money instead of holding and incurring security costs similarly since there is no fully working financial banks both public and private there was a huge need of financial services which is better than the current unstructured financial systems and services. This is the place where sahal service got the attention of community as whole.

Miner Resume Essay

Objective To gain employment and work along side industry professionals, to further my experience and knowledge within the mining industry. I am a willing candidate who has the ability to adapt and respond to new challenges, in a safe and professional manner. Employment Coal Mine Worker Mastermyne April 2013 – Current Installation of underground secondary support at Moranbah North Coal Mine. Daily duties include: Installation of roof and rib support, mega bolts and high tension flexi bolts in accordance with mine managers support plans. Underground roadworks, installation of VCD’s, underground water storage dams and longwall face bolt up. Trained and authorized in the use of QDS bolting rigs, Airtrack bolting rigs, handheld bolting equipment and underground loaders (eimco ED7 ED10, Juggernaut). Daily practices in housekeeping, creating a safe and productive work environment and risk assessing each task. Coal Mine Worker Minestar Alliance January 2013 – April 2013 Installation of underground conveyor systems at Carborough Downs Coal Mine. Installing drive heads, sacrificial bases, transfer stations and all associated work Underground Civils and roadworks Coal Mine Worker Vulcan MiningNovember 2012- January 2013 Longwall take off and install at Carborough Downs Coal Mine Trained and authorized in the operation FBL 10, FBL 15, 50t Chock Chariot, RapidFace Bolters Transportation of heavy equipment for installation underground Daily tasks included, pulling of chocks from longwall face, building of cob timbers, bolt up of huesker mesh, transportation of chocks out in and into pit using wheel assisted chock trailer, roadwork’s, assisting fitters and general housekeeping duties WDSApril 2012 – November 2012 Development projects and operations at North Goonyella Coal e. g. Operating iner mounted bolters in sequence with the production of coal with an ABM20, Roadwork’s and set up for my crews development panel, working closely with other team members to maintain a safe and positive outcome Trained and authorised for operation of Driftrunner, loaders: Eimco LS130 ED7 ED10, Juggernaut, HfX miner mounted bolters, Stone dusters, Bolting rigs, Cable Reelers and other plants and attachments Follow instructions from supervisors and other team m embers in a safe and efficient manner to Complete tasks at hand Completion and understanding of CHALLENGES, JSA and Zero Harm Training commenced on other mobile plants e. . Shuttle car Coal Mine Worker Diversified Mining ServiceJuly 2011 – April 2012 Installation of underground conveyor belts at Broadmeadow Mine Underground civil work and preparation of work areas including concreting of intersections, take off roads, loop take up sites Follow instructions from supervisors and other team members in a safe and efficient manner Completion and understanding of TAKE 5, JSA and Zero Harm Operation of mobile plants and installation of heavy mechanical systems e. g. oop take up, belt maintenance stations, belt drives and transfer stations Junior Sous Chef Baguette Bar Bistro BrisbaneAugust 2009 – July 2011 Running of sections within a team of chefs Complete formation of menus, costing’s and maintain good upkeep on profit and loss Delegate other employees of the lower b rigade in daily tasks to achieve results Follow workplace health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment Personal Attributes Ability to work under pressure and for long periods of time Fast learning at all tasks and objectives Professional and safety first attitude to work ethics Hard working and reliable Highly self motivated, with the ability to work as an individual or as a team member Training and Authorisations Vale Carborough Downs Inducted, NGC inducted, Broadmeadows inducted Current Cold board medical and Underground Generics Working at heights certified Underground mobile plants e. g. Driftrunner, Loaders, HFX Miner Mounted bolting rigs, Various Hydraulic QDS attachment

Market Structures and Pricing Strategies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Market Structures and Pricing Strategies - Essay Example The basic understanding underlining the case study is that the four basic structures are perfect competition, monopoly, monopolistic competition and oligopoly. Perfect Competition and Monopoly are the extreme forms and most of the markets in existence lie between the two extremes. It has been observed by economists that perfect competition and monopoly are theoretical. During 1930s Edward Chamberlin of Harvard University and Joan Robinson of Cambridge University tried to make the study of market structures more realistic. The structure they analyzed is called monopolistic competition. â€Å"The concept of perfect competition was first introduced by Adam Smith in his book "Wealth of Nations". Later on, it was improved by Edgeworth. However, it received its complete formation in Frank Kight's book "Risk, Uncertainty and Profit".† Perfect competition is the market structure where you have large number of buyers and sellers. The sellers sell identical products. An example of Perfe ct Competition is the market of bathing soaps. Key characteristics of Perfect Competition are 1. Knowledge is freely available 2. No barriers to entry 3. Firms produce identical products 4. No single firm can influence the price. The firm is the price taker and the price is determined by the industry demand and supply. 5. There are large number of firms in the market 6. The motive of the firms is profit maximisation Monopolistic competition and Oligopoly lie between the two extreme market structures of Perfect Competition and Perfect Monopoly. ... Later on, it was improved by Edgeworth. However, it received its complete formation in Frank Kight's book "Risk, Uncertainty and Profit" (1921).† As stated on : http://economicsconcepts.com/perfect_competition.htm Perfect competition is the market structure where you have large number of buyers and sellers. The sellers sell identical products. An example of Perfect Competition is the market of bathing soaps. Features of Perfect Competition: Key characteristics of Perfect Competition are 1. Knowledge is freely available 2. No barriers to entry 3. Firms produce identical products 4. No single firm can influence the price. The firm is the price taker and the price is determined by the industry demand and supply. 5. There are large number of firms in the market 6. The motive of the firms is profit maximisation 2. Monopolistic Competition Monopolistic competition and Oligopoly lie between the two extreme market structures of Perfect Competition and Perfect Monopoly. What is Monopoli stic Competition? In this market structure, there are many buyers and sellers, like in a perfect competition. However, the products are more differentiated. An example could be Restaurants, where every restaurant may specialize in a different cuisine. As Karen Collins puts it in the book Exploring Business, â€Å"Products can be differentiated in a number of ways, including quality, style, and convenience, location, and brand name.† Features of Monopolistic Competition: The Key features of Monopolistic Competition as mentioned in the book â€Å"Economics: Principles and Policy† by William j. Baumol and Alan S. Blinder are: 1 Large number of buyers and sellers 2 Freedom of entry and exit 3 Perfect Competition 4 Heterogeneous

Huge inequality between Poor and Rich in China Essay

Huge inequality between Poor and Rich in China - Essay Example According to Gini Index, released recently indicates the income inequality between rich and poor, in rural China is 0.3949, near to the warning level of 0.4 fixed by the United Nations. Advanced research conducted by Central China Normal University's Center for China Rural Studies illustrated that the cash proceeds of rural families raised 14.13 percent and the per capita cash revenue in rural areas increased 11.95 percent. Agriculturalists in China aren’t becoming rich by farming activities. The rise in income growth in the rural areas are because of the salaries earned by those people who have uninhibited rural life to labor as migratory laborers in metropolises and big cities, the study stated. It is observed that the rural families are becoming more reliant on salaries received by their household members who work in cities. The study shown that salaries paid to the migratory employees estimated for 65.7%of the entire proceeds of rural families. Over and above the study as well established that the whole revenue of the top 20% of the rural families was 10.19 times more that of the lowest 20%. As per the study report, the prosperity difference in west China was larger than in the east of the nation. The appraisal by Central China Normal University did not study the income disparity of the country all together, since its scope was restricted to the rural region. But, it is stated by Xinhua, the state-owned news agency that the income disparity in China all together is well above 0.4, because of the huge income disparity amongst city and rural regions. In the year 2000, Chinese government issued a Gini index for the country which showed as 0.412. However many intellectuals at present believe that the index has gone up to between 0.45 and 0.50, stated Xinhua. The significance of Gini index is that ‘0’ indicate flawless equality and‘1’ indicate perfect inequality. The Gini index in the United States in 2009 was 0.468, referring to the U.S. Census Bureau. This is very close to the Gini index of China (Yoshida). The developing Asian countries like China, India, accepted the recent globalization move with comparable per capita GDP and income levels. However, China gone ahead with more to its open economy to the international market, despite the fact that major numbers of its coastline cities have made wide-ranging investment atmosphere for private investment. The outcome has been an amazing vibrant economic progress. Even though India has followed a similar system, however was slow in terms of opening up the economy and unsuccessful in making good investment atmosphere. Some of developing Asian countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam has achieved remarkable success, however other nations such as Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Philippines has less progress because of lack of , investment opportunity and weaker links to the international market. The China’s continued progress resulted i n unparalleled poverty reduction. According to domestic studies, it is estimated that the poverty rate in China in 1981 was 64% of the populace. It has come down to 10% in 2004, showing that about 500 million people have overcome poverty throughout this period. This poverty decline has happened in phases. The change to the family obligation method boosted a large upsurge in agricultural yield, and scarcity was reduced to half over the small period from

The Political Economy of States in the Middle East and North Africa Essay

The Political Economy of States in the Middle East and North Africa - Essay Example First, the report highlights the dominant economic activities and social service in Egypt. Second, the study will look at the political systems in Egypt with an emphasis on their connection with the citizens. Third, the paper will explore the citizenship rights and the role of women in politics and development of Egypt. Finally, the research will relate the views of international community about Egypt with a keen interest on the stand of U.S on the matter. Political Economy of Egypt Egypt leads in the population in the Arab world. It is the second populous country in the African continent. It has a population of about 80 million people living in different locations. The regions include Alexandria and Cairo, the banks of river Nile, and along Suez Canal. The regions support many people. They are in the category of the world’s densely populated regions. On average, a square carries over 3,820 persons. Egyptians are fairly homogeneous people of Hamitic origins. Most of the citize ns in Egypt are Muslims. However, there are minorities who are Christians (Aldosari 33). Egypt economy depends on petroleum exports, tourism, and agriculture. Egyptians practice agriculture in the fertile grounds of Nile Valley and Delta. This area is approximately 2.5 million hectares. The estimate of the workforce that engages directly in farming is about one-third. Egyptians who do carry out the tilling of the land make their fortunes from the agricultural industries. The factories deal with processing of agricultural products that feed the Egyptians. The surplus is exporter to earn foreign currency. There are projects in progress to convert the Egyptian deserts to productive lands. This is a government initiative to balance agricultural outputs in Egypt. A good example of such projects is the Toshka project in the Upper Egypt (Aldosari 1144). The warm weather and steady supply of water supports crop farming throughout the year. Predominantly, Egypt grows cotton, rice, sugarcane, sugar beets onions, wheat, corn, and beans. Cotton contributes significantly to agricultural exports. Egypt also produces fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Egypt export crops such as grapes, potatoes, and green beans to Europe. The close proximity of Egypt to the European markets boosts the export trade remarkably. This is because the short distance reduces the shipping costs. Farmers rear livestock in small quantities. These comprise of buffaloes, chicken, and water buffaloes. In addition to the agricultural capacity, the Nile Valley and Delta Egypt is endowed with natural resources. These include petroleum, natural gas, phosphates, and iron ore deposits. The gulf of Suez Canal and Western Desert contain rich sources of crude oil. Natural gas comes from the Nile Delta that is off the Mediterranean seashore, and in Western desert. Oil and gas product contributes to about 12% of the Egypt Domestic Gross Product (GDP). In the year 2008-2009 the petroleum and its products brought in $ 11.4 billion (Oxford Business Group 104). Tourism industry flourishes in Egypt. The country provides reliable domestic air service for tourists. Cairo is the major tourist hub in Egypt. Egypt leads in tourist destination in the Middle East. For instance, in the year 1996 Egypt tourists’ arrival reached a high mark of 3.9 million. This was an average stay of six nights. This contributes to 25 % of all of the total tourist traffic to the Middle East. The

Prove the The Great Flood in the Holy Bible is the truth using science Research Paper

Prove the The Great Flood in the Holy Bible is the truth using science - Research Paper Example According to the Bible, Noah and his three sons survived the flood in a wooden ark, along with hundreds of animals representing every species on earth. All other living beings perished, and the ones surviving today are all descendants of the survivors of the Great flood. Described in great detail in the Book of Genesis (6-9), this event has witnessed ample speculation from all quarters of the world, and scientists and explorers have set out to unveil its mysteries. Through this paper, I intend to prove in light of sound scientific evidence, that the Great flood cited in the Bible is a real event that occurred thousands of years ago, and that Noah and his ark really existed. Keywords: Great flood, Noah's Ark, fossil graveyards, coal beds, Polystrate Fossils, Coconino Sandstones , Genetic pool, Mt Ararat The "Great Flood"- In Light of Scientific Evidence The Holy Bible states that God wished to wipe out all sin from the surface of the earth and that all humans were subjected to Godâ₠¬â„¢s wrath except a few who were righteous. A great flood destroyed every living being on earth, while Noah and his family survived in a huge wooden ark, which he built with God's guidance. A pair of every animal, male and female, was taken to safety in the Ark, while rain lashed on earth for a period of forty days and forty nights. â€Å"In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened. And the rain was upon the earth forty days and forty nights† (Gen. 7:11-12, New International Version). Noah's three sons Shem, Ham and Japheth, along with a few others, survived the flood, and mankind was repopulated from them. The Bible further cites that Noah's ark rested on Mount Ararat after the flood waters subsided. In view of this revelation, innumerable scientific expeditions have explored the Ararat mountain range in Asia Minor, in s earch of Noah's Ark. An object resembling a ship's bow has already been found, jutting out of mud and lava atop the mountains. The Turkish Air Force was the first to notice this object. Porcher Taylor, a professor at the University of Richmond confirmed its presence, after a long period of study through satellite imagery. Surprisingly, the dimensions of this object perfectly correlate to the dimensions of Noah's Ark described in the Bible. Following this discovery, many other expeditions have investigated the area, unearthing wood, anchors made from stone, and other remains of what might have been an ark. No matter how spell bounding such a discovery may seem, it is imperative to decipher the events of the great deluge in light of scientific evidence and data from recent expeditions. In order to prove that the great flood was an actual reality and not just a mythological event inscribed in ancient literature, I wish to put forth the following conditions, which if true, refute all po ssible arguments against the possibility of the great flood: 1. Fossil evidence suggesting fossilization under rapid conditions 2. Geological evidence of a global flood 3. Evidence of abundant water, enough to cover the surface of the Earth 4. Genetic dead-end due to lack of genetic

Questions on International Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

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Answer the quastions Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Answer the quastions - Assignment Example The use and maintenance of these technologies in organization depends mainly on the human resources. By focusing on people, organizations ensure that all other resources in the organization, including business technologies, are fully and effectively utilized. Secondly, managing the human element ensures that organizations fully understand and modify the attitudes people have towards new technologies and the organization in general. As a result, organizations are able to understand people’s fears and concerns, thereby making necessary adjustments if needed. If people cannot embrace and accept these technologies, then the chances of an organization succeeding are greatly reduced. Finally, as businesses attempt to gain a competitive edge over their rivalries, it is prudent that focus is given to people. Nearly all organizations have access to the same technologies, and therefore no organization can effectively gain a competitive edge by focusing on technology alone. People are th erefore an important resource in any organization and consequently, this critical resource needs to be effectively managed. In the modern competitive world, having a properly managed human resource is vital to

Change Management of People and Technology in an ERP Implementation Assignment - 1

Change Management of People and Technology in an ERP Implementation - Assignment Example Although the company had an internal IT department, its operation was not done in an efficient way. Similarly, the firm had poor application domain knowledge so that they struggled to carry out various functions effectively. Therefore, company management believed that the proposed strategy would assist the organization to improve its weaker areas. The case writers assert that the ‘areas of relative strength’ of the selected approach as ‘High’, ‘High’, and ‘Low’. It must be noted that a concept of expertise ‘buying in’ is associated with this approach rather than risking with unorganized development strategies. Since the proposed strategy was decided to acquire from a third party, it was possible for them to obtain high software expertise and application domain expertise. On the other hand, when purchasing an ERP approach from a third party vendor, probably the package may contain poor local company knowledge. Therefore, it is clear why the writers ranked ‘3rd party modified off-the-shelf solution’ as ‘High’, ‘High’, and ‘Low’ in terms of relative strength areas. Several problems encountered during the selection and implementation phases of the project. According to Edwards and Humphries, the chief executive officer and other senior managers had only a little knowledge regarding the proposed project. Since the persons at the helm of affairs lacked adequate information regarding the structure of the approach, they could not properly organize their employees. Naturally, this situation led the project to an operational failure. Similarly, PowerIT failed in the selection of a business development manager also. The firm gave emphasis only on the technical skill of the manager, but the appointed manager did not have sufficient social skill which was essential while operating in a traditional manufacturing environment. As a result, it caused some persona l conflicts between business development manager and other managers; and subsequently, lack of coordination in the project implementation phases. Even though none of the vendors submitted the project model in an accurate manner, the development manager awarded the contract to a vendor without considering the option for a review. Since the development manager could not get willing staff to attend the user group meetings, he made their attendance mandatory and that led to inactive participation. The new system was implemented in 2000 and some organizational sections viewed the system a failure one year after its full implementation. As Edwards and Humphries say, a considerable decline in productivity was the most major issue after the project implementation. The ‘brown paper mapping’ undertaken by business development manager was another issue encountered after the project implementation phase as it was not used for any detailed analysis. It is a known fact that the effec tiveness of an organization largely depends on the knowledge and experience of its employees. However, we have seen that even PoweIT’s CEO did not have adequate knowledge regarding the implemented project and it added to the strategic failure of the company. Moreover, the inefficient PowerIT management could not integrate the implemented changes into the existing structure of the organization and that gradually led to customer dissatisfaction.

Importance of English Essay Example for Free

Importance of English Essay By using language someone could make statements, convey facts and knowledge, explain or report something, and keep social relations among the language users. These indicate that by means of language, people can express their ideas, feeling, information etc through communication. Ladies and Gentlemen, As one of language in the world, English is considered and applied as international language. Since then, it is very popular and have been spoken and learnt by almost people in the world. There are some reasons why English is important and many people attempt to learn it. Some of them are: for finding job, traveling, interacting one each other, doing business, taking examination, doing research, writing in the foreign language, etc. Ladies and Gentlemen, In such developing country like Indonesia, English has a vital role in all aspects of life, particularly in science and technology. Furthermore, it can be used for developing relationships in the international forum, for reading English book (especially for students from primary school up to colleges/university), to tighten the relationship among nations in the world, etc. As students, we learn English are intended to obtain various knowledge, to comprehend and understand the textbooks learned in English, to gain knowledge and skills, and to be ready enter to the university, as one of the test requirements for students of senior High School (SMA), etc. Looking at the above important roles of English, that is why English is very important to understand and to master by every people throughout the world since before. My brothers and sisters! At the end of my speech, I will quote a wise expression This expression reminds us how importance of English for human life is. As global or universal language, English is not only enables us to communicate and interact with every people throughout the world, but also it could alter our life to be better. Furthermore, we also must be aware that the western countries play extra ordinary role in developing and keeping science and technology. Thus, if we want to be a skilful scientists, linguists, and be able to compete with the other countries in the world, we must understand, master and learn the language they use, namely English. Ladies and Gentlemen, Before ending this speech, let me conclude the essential points of my speech: 1. English is highly necessary to be learned and mastered by everyone, in order to be able to compete in the globalization era; 2. English is a key to open and master science and technology, because most of scientists write their experts and inventions in English. 3. As students of high school (SMA), we have to prepare ourselves by learning hard, particularly English as well as the other subjects at school; 4. By mastering English enables us to become survive and go anywhere throughout the world; Goethe (a Greek philosopher) has ever said: â€Å"Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do† Remember: Language indicates Nation. And Don’t Forget â€Å"English is a bridge for the future† Ladies and Gentlemen, I think it’s completely enough for me to this point. The wrong utterances are caused by limitation of my ability and the right one is merely from Allah SWT. So, I beg your pardon, finally I say.

Health Related Physical Fitness Physical Education Essay

Health Related Physical Fitness Physical Education Essay Physical fitness is the ability to carry out daily tasks with vigor and alertness without undue fatigue and ample energy to enjoy leisure time pursuits and meet unforeseen emergencies. (Presidents Council on Physical Fitness and Sport)  ¿Ã‚ ½Physical fitness is the ability of the heart, blood vessels, lungs and muscles to perform at optimal efficiency. ¿Ã‚ ½ (Bud Getchell, PhD)  ¿Ã‚ ½Physical fitness is the ability to perform moderate to vigorous levels of physical activity without undue fatigue and the capability of maintaining such ability throughout life. ¿Ã‚ ½ (American College of Sport Medicine)  ¿Ã‚ ½Physical fitness is a set of attributes that people have or achieve that relates to the ability to perform physical activity. ¿Ã‚ ½ (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Definitions with vague, subjective wordings and definitions made up of terms that also need defining led to confusion and lack of ability for objective measurement of physical fitness. There are other numerous definitions of physical fitness which are vague and subjective as pointed by the below statement;  ¿Ã‚ ½Physical fitness is one of the most poor defined and most frequently misused terms in the English Language. ¿Ã‚ ½ (Brian Sharkey, PhD, professor emeritus of Montana State University) To enable objective measurement of physical fitness, it is divided into two components; health-related components of physical fitness and athletic ability components of physical fitness. The later components are related to performance or skill. Figure X: Components of physical fitness (ACSM, 2008). From the public health perspective, health related physical fitness are more important than those related to athletic ability or are skill-related or performance related components. The assessment of health related physical fitness is commonly done by fitness professionals, however, despite the recognized importance of health related physical fitness, it is not commonly assessed by clinicians(ACSM, 2008). As illustrated in figure X below, all health-related components of physical fitness contribute equally and in balance to the whole construct of health related physical fitness. Figure X: A balance between all five components to the construct of health related physical fitness (ACSM, 2008). a. Cardiorespiratory fitness Cardiorespiratory fitness is related to the ability of a person to perform large muscle, dynamic, moderate to high intensity exercise for prolong periods and can be assessed by various techniques. Cardiorespiratory fitness of a person reflects the functional capability of the heart, blood vessels, blood, lungs and relevant muscles during various types of exercise demands. It is related to the ability to perform large muscle, dynamic, moderate-to-high intensity exercise for prolonged periods. There are many methods available to measure or predict cardiorespiratory fitness. Those methods fall into three general types of assessment which are; i. Field test. These tests generally demand maximal effort for the best score. For this type of test, the subjects have to perform a timed completion of a certain distance, complete a measured distance, or perform for a set time to predict cardiorespiratory fitness. Examples of field tests modes include walk, walk-run, cycle, swim and others. ii. Submaximal exertion test. This type of test require using either step test or a single-stage or a multi-stage submaximal exercise protocol to predict maximal aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness from submaximal measures of efficiency of certain measured variables (usually heart rate response). Some modes of submaximal exertion tests include steps, treadmill, cycle and others. Many of these tests required to be performed in a laboratory setting. iii. Maximal exertion test Maximal exertion test use a graded or progressive exercise test to measure an individual ¿Ã‚ ½s volitional fatigue or exhaustion which involves a measure of cardiorespiratory fitness rather than prediction and is likely performed in a laboratory setting. Maximal exertion test along with collection of expired gases is considered as a true measurement of cardiorespiratory fitness however it is desirable in many setting. Decision of which test to be use depends on; * Time demands * Expenses or costs * Personnel needed (qualification) * Equipment or facilities needed * Physician supervision needed * Population tested (safety concern) * Need for accuracy of data b. Flexibility Flexibility in health related physical fitness is defined as the ability of a person to move a joint through its complete range of movement. Flexibility is not joint specific as it is dependent upon which muscle and joint being evaluated. Other factors effecting flexibility includes distensibility of the joint capsule, adequate warm up, muscle viscocity and compliance of ligaments and tendons. Flexibility assessment is necessary because of the recognized association between decreased performances of activities of daily living with inadequate flexibility. Development of muscular lower back pain may be contributed by poor lower back hip flexibility. In reality, there ¿Ã‚ ½s no single test that can used to truly characterize a person ¿Ã‚ ½s flexibility. The most widely used test for the assessment of flexibility is the sit and reach test. Even though it does not represent the whole body flexibility, it does represent hamstring, hip and lower back flexibility. c. Muscular strength Muscular strength in health related physical fitness refers to the maximal force that can be generated by a specific muscle or muscle group. d. Muscular endurance Muscular endurance refers to the ability of a muscle group to execute repeated contractions over a period of time sufficient to cause muscular fatigue, or to maintain a specific percentage of the maximum voluntary contraction for a prolong period of time. CENCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK Cardiovascular diseases risk (National Vascular Disease Prevention Alliance, 2009); 1. Modifiable risk a. Lifestyle related i. Nutrition ii. Physical activity level iii. Smoking status iv. Alcohol intake b. Metabolic risk i. Blood pressure ii. Waist circumference and body mass index iii. Serum lipid iv. Blood sugar 2. Non modifiable risk a. Age b. Sex c. Family history of premature CVD d. Social history (cultural identity, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, mental health) Physical Fitness a. Health related physical fitness a. Cardiovascular endurance b. muscle endurance c. muscle strength d. flexibility JUSTIFICATION OF STUDY OBJECTIVES 1. General objectives To compare the effect of light resistance training using light dumbbells and ankle-wrist weights on body composition, metabolic risk and health related physical fitness level. 2. Specific objectives i. To determine and compare the effect of light resistance training between using dumbbells and using ankle-wrist weights in term of changes in body composition; a. Body mass index b. Waist circumference c. Waist to hip ratio d. Percentage in body fat e. Fat free mass ii. To determine and compare the effect of light resistance training between using dumbbells and using ankle-wrist weights in term of metabolic risks; a. Blood pressure b. Lipids i. Total cholesterol ii. LDL-C iii. HDL-C iv. Non-HDL v. Total cholesterol/HDL-C ratio vi. TG c. Fasting blood sugar iii. To determine and compare the effect of light resistance training between using dumbbells and using ankle-wrist weights in term of other components of health related physical fitness; a. Cardiorespiratory fitness b. Flexibility c. Muscular endurance d. Muscular strength 3. Research questions Does light resistance training using dumbbells have a similar significant beneficial effects compared to light resistance training using ankle-wrist weights. 4. Study hypothesis Both types of light resistance training; using dumbbells or using ankle-wrist weights does have beneficial effects in term of improvement in body composition, reducing metabolic risk and improving health related physical fitness level. METHODOLOGY Tumpat is a district (jajahan) in Kelantan, situated at the East Coast of peninsular Malaysia. The town of Tumpat is approximately 15km from the state capital, Kota Bharu. Tumpat district has an area of 169.5 square kilometres is one of the smallest district in Kelantan (Tumpat District Council, 2012). Total population of Tumpat district in 2010 was 143,793 with the majority being the Malays (130,922 or 91.0%). Other ethnic groups include Chinese (6,227 or 4.8%), Siamese (4,784 or 3.7%) and Indians (121 or less than 1.0%). Tumpat district is divided into seven subdistrict (mukim) which is Jal Besar, Kebakat, Pengkalan Kubor, Sungai Pinang, Terbok, Tumpat and Wakaf Bharu (Department of Statistics Malaysia, 2010b, Department of Statistics Malaysia, 2010a). 1. Study design This is a single-centred, randomized parallel group trial. 2. Reference population The inference population for this study were Malaysian adults 3. Target population The target population were Malaysian overweight and obese adults 4. Source population The source population for this study were all adults living in Tumpat Districts. 5. Sampling frame Overweight and obese adults living in Tumpat District were recruited for this study. 6. Subjects i. Inclusion criteria a. Aged equal or more than 18 years old at the time of recruitment. b. Body mass index of equal or more than 23 kg/m2. ii. Exclusion criteria a. Pregnancy b. On any weight management treatment/program i. Taking any medication which the primary intention is to reduce weight ii. Taking any traditional medication which the primary intention os to reduce weight iii. On any dietary modification for weight management c. Existing joint pain which restrict physical movement d. Existing cardiac condition which restricted physical activity i.e.: a person with NYHA Functional capacity class II, III and IV (American Heart Association, 2011) 7. Sample Size determination Number of subjects required for this study were calculated using sample size calculation for test of means with repeated measures in STATA software (StataCorp., 2011). With power of study (1-?) set at 80% and ? set at 0.05, summary of sample size calculated were as table X below; Table X: summary of sample size calculation variable 8. Sampling techniques All eligible and consented subjects were included in this study. 9. Randomization techniques Subjects were randomized into 2 treatment groups; light resistance training using dumbbell and light resistance training using ankle-wrist weights using RandomAllocation Software version 1.0 (Saghaei, 2004). 10. Blinding No blinding methods were applied in this study. Both participants and observer know group allocation. 11. Study time and duration This study was conducted for 6 months beginning from March 2012 until August 2012. 12. Methods * Both groups will receive health education of promotion of healthy lifestyle which includes promotion of healthy diet, encouraging physical activity and benefits of not smoking. * Resistance training: i. Dumbbell exercise. In this group, participants performed dumbbell exercise with a pair of light weight (1kg) soft dumbbells for at least 15 minutes per day, three non consecutive days per week using dumbbell exercise method invented by Professor Suzuki Masashige, Bull Inst. Health Sport Science, University of Tsukuba (Suzuki, 2000). Supervised group exercises were conducted for 3 months and after that, the subjects will be required to do the exercise on their own. Subjects were given a diary to write the date and duration of training they perform. During weekly follow up, adherence to exercise was assessed. Subjects who did not adhere to minimal requirement of training will be excluded from the study. Non adherence was defined as a participant who performs the training less than 80% of required frequency and duration (less than 9 times per month). Figure X below illustrates the resistance training using soft dumbbells with sets of movement as below. This dumbbell exercise consists of 12 steps with 12 repetitions using a pair of soft light weight dumbbell. Step 1: push up motion Step 2: pull down motion Step 3: the leg bends Step 4: Upper body twists left and right movement Step 5: double doors closing movement Step 6: opening and closing movement forward tilt swing Step 7: winding down motion with both hands Step 8: winding down with one hand movement Step 9: pulling down with one hand movement Step 10: hand down the back swing movement Step 11: arms swing down forward movement Step 12: bending arms stretched behind the head movement Figure X: 12 steps of dumbbell exercise using sandbags. ii. Resistance training using ankle and wrist weights. This group of subjects was not given any specific exercise regime. They were given a pair of 0.5 kg ankle and pair of 0.5kg wrist weights and they were instructed to wear them for at least 15 minutes 3 non consecutive days per week during activities of daily living which involves movements of upper and lower limbs such as walking, doing house chores or gardening. Subjects will be given a diary to write the date and duration of training they perform. Adherence to the training was assessed every week. Non adherence was define as a participant who perform the training less than 80% of required frequency and duration (less than 9 times per month) and those who did not meet minimal requirement of the training were excluded from the study. 13. Tools and materials a. Data collection sheet A data collection sheet was used to obtain demography data of the subjects; i. Age ii. Sex iii. Race b. Anthropometry measurements Anthropometric measurement was assessed by a team of trained personnel. Measurements as below were obtained. i. Height Measurement of height was done using a stadiometer. With shoes removed, standing straight up and looking straight ahead, the subject take a deep breath and hold. The height was recorded in centimetres to the nearest 0.5cm (ACSM, 2008). ii. Waist circumference The waist circumference was measured using a non elastic measuring tape with the subject stand straight and relaxed. Measurement was taken 2.5 cm (1 inch) above the umbilicus and below the xiphoid process. The measuring tape was applied tautly but not tightly avoiding compression or pinching of the skin. The smallest circumference at the measurement area was taken as waist circumference, recorded to the nearest 0.5cm (ACSM, 2008). iii. Hip circumference Similarly, hip circumference was measured to the nearest 0.5 cm using a non elastic plastic tape at the largest circumference around the buttocks, above the gluteal fold (posterior extension) (ACSM, 2008) . iv. Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) As it name indicate, WHR is a comparison between circumferences of the waist to the circumference of the hip and it represents the distribution of body weight and perhaps body fat of an individual; an important predictor of health risks of obesity. The WHR or also known as the abdominal to gluteal ratio (A:G ratio) were expressed as a ratio hence there are no units. Calculation as below was used to calculate WHR (ACSM, 2008); v. Resting blood pressure Electronic blood pressure monitoring device; Medisana ¿Ã‚ ½ Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor MTD (Medisana AG.) were used to measure resting blood pressure. Subjects are requested to be free of stimulants which include nicotine products, caffeine products, alcohol or other cardiovascular stimulants for at least 30 minutes before the resting measurement. The subjects also did not involve in any strenuous exercise for at least 60 minutes before resting blood pressure measurement. For measurement of blood pressure, the subjects were asked to sit comfortably on a chair with back well supported, feet flat, leg uncrossed and relaxed. The right arm which was used for blood pressure measurement in this study was free from any clothing, rested on a table and slightly flexed at the elbow. An appropriate size cuff (a normal adult cuff for those with arm sizes between 24 and 32 cm, and a large adult cuff for those with arm sizes between 32 and 42 cm) was used. The BP cuff with bladder width be tween 40 to 50% of arm circumference and the length of bladder encircled at least 80% of the subject ¿Ã‚ ½s arm circumference was applied tightly at the level of subject ¿Ã‚ ½s heart. Second resting blood pressure measurement was done at least one full minute after the first measurement and if the first and second measurement differ by more than 5 mmHg, third measurement was taken after one full minute (ACSM, 2008). vi. Resting heart rate Resting heart rate measurement was taken together with resting blood pressure using similar device used for blood pressure measurement as above. c. Assessment of body composition Body composition was determined using the bioelectrical impedance method; Omron Karada Scan HBF-362 ¿Ã‚ ½ Body Composition Monitor which gives information on; i. Weight ii. Body mass index iii. Total body fat iv. Subcutaneous fat percentage v. Visceral fat level vi. Skeletal muscle percentage vii. Fat free mass were calculated by extracting total body fat from the body weight. Calculations as below were used. Bioelectric impedance analysis is based on the principle that the resistance to an applied electric current is inversely related to the amount of fat-free mass within the body. This method does not take into account the location of body fat. This method of body composition analysis is very simple and quick to perform. The impedance measure is affected by body hydration status, body temperature, time of day, and therefore requires well controlled conditions to get accurate and reliable measurements. If a person is dehydrated, the amount of fat will likely be overestimated. Bioelectrical impedance measures the resistance of body tissues to the flow of a small, harmless electrical signal. The proportion of body fat can be calculated as the current flows more easily through the parts of the body that are composed mostly of water (such as blood, urine muscle) than it does through bone, fat or air. It is possible to predict how much body fat a person has by combining the bioelectric impen dence measure with other factors such as height, weight, gender, fitness level and age. To ensure validity of the BIA measurement, several measures was taken to ensure that the subjects has normal hydration level. * No eating or drinking within 4 hours of the test. * No exercise within 12 hours of the test * Urinate completely within 30 minutes prior to test Omron Karada Scan HBF-362 ¿Ã‚ ½ Body Composition Monitor was used for this test. Researcher inputs the subject ¿Ã‚ ½s age, gender and height and then the subject which wear light clothing steps onto the platform barefoot and holding the hand electrodes at 90 degrees. Electrodes in the foot and hand sensor pads send a low, safe signal through the body. Weight, body mass index, total body fat percentage, subcutaneous fat percentage, visceral fat level, and skeletal muscle percentage is calculated automatically in less than a minute. d. Health related physical fitness The remaining components of health related physical fitness level besides body composition were then assessed in all participants. Before starting these assessment, subjects were explained regarding the tests procedures and demonstration were done by researchers to ensure subjects clearly understand and able to perform the tests with correct techniques. i. Cardiorespiratory fitness Assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness to predict aerobic capacity of participants were done using Kasch Step test or also known as YMCA 3-Minutes Step test which relies on having the subject step up and down on a 30.48 cm (12 inch) step box. Before commencing test to the participants, the techniques were explained to the participants and demonstration of the alternating stepping cadence was done. A metronome was set at cadence of 96 beat per minute which gives a stepping rate of 24 steps per minute (4 clicks = one step cycle). With the first beat, one foot is stepped up on the bench, stepped up with the second foot on the second beat, stepped down with one foot on the 3rd beat, and stepped down with the other foot on the fourth beat. The subjects were also allowed to practice the stepping to the metronome cadence. After the three minutes are up, the subjects stop and palpate the pulse at the radial site while standing within the first 5 seconds. A 60 seconds pulse count is taken as the test score (toptrendsports.com, 2012, ACSM, 2008). ii. Muscular endurance To assess muscle endurance of the subjects, two test was administered; the push-up test and the curl-up test. Push-up test: The test was administered with the male subjects starting in the standard  ¿Ã‚ ½down ¿Ã‚ ½ position (hand pointing forward and under the shoulder, back straight, head up, using the toes as the pivotal point) and the female subjects in the modified  ¿Ã‚ ½knee push-up ¿Ã‚ ½ position (legs together, lower leg in contact with mat with ankles plantar flexed, back straight, hands shoulder width apart, head up, using knees as the pivotal point). The subjects then raise the body by straightening the elbows (up position) and then return to the  ¿Ã‚ ½down ¿Ã‚ ½ position until the chin touches the mat. The stomach is maintained elevated and not touching the mat. The subjects position is ensure to be straight at all times and the subjects must push up to a straight arm position. the test was stopped when the subjects strains forcibly or is unable to maintain the appropriate technique within two repetition. The maximal number of push-ups performed consecutively without r est was counted as the score (ACSM, 2008). Figure X: Push-ups performed by male subjects. Figure X: Push-ups performed by female subjects. One minute sit-up test (Crunch test): With the shoes remained on, the test was performed with the subjects assume a supine position on a mat, the knees at 90 degrees and the hands held across the chest. The trunk was then elevated to 30 degrees, lifting the shoulder blades off the mat; hands placed on the thighs and then subjects then do a slow, controlled curl-up until the hands reach the knee caps. The subjects were required to do as many curl-ups as possible in one minute and the number of curl-ups performed without pausing were recorded as the score (ACSM, 2008). iii. Muscular strength Handgrip test using a Lafayette ¿Ã‚ ½ 100kg Handgrip Dynamometer model LA-78010 was conducted to determine muscular strength of the subjects. The test was performed with the subject standing and using the dominant hand only. The grip bar of the dynamometer was adjusted for each subject, ensuring that the grip bar fit comfortably within the subject ¿Ã‚ ½s hand and the second joint of the finger fit under the handle of the handgrip dynamometer. Before starting test, the handgrip dynamometer is set to zero. The subject holds the handgrip dynamometer parallel to the side of the body at about waist level with the forearm levelled with the thigh and the arm is slightly flexed. The subject then squeezes the handgrip dynamometer as hard as possible without holding their breath (Valsalva maneuver) and the results was recorded in kilograms. For each subject, the test was repeated two more times and the highest reading was taken as the measure of handgrip strength (ACSM, 2008). Figure X: Use of hand-grip dynamometer to test iv. Flexibility For assessment of flexibility, the Sit and Reach test (Trunk Flexion) using a sit-and-reach box was administered. Before starting the test, subjects were offered the opportunity to do some stretching exercises and light to moderate aerobic exercise for 5- 10 minutes to warm up their muscles. Subjects were allowed to take a few practice tries before the actual measurement and if the subject has any back problem or the test bothers them, the subject was excluded for the assessment. To assist with the best attempt, the subjects were advised to exhale and drop the head between the arms when reaching. The knees of the participants were kept extended (but not pressed down). Subjects were also advised to breathe normally and that they should not hold their breath during the test. The subject sits without shoes and the sole soles of the feet flat against the sit-and-reach box at the 26cm mark. Inner edges of the soles were placed within 2cm of the measuring scale. With hands kept parallel, the participant then slowly reaches forward with both hands as far as possible and the fingertips were in contact with the measuring portion of the sit-and-reach box. This position was hold for approximately 2 seconds. The test were repeated three times and the score taken was the most distant point (in nearest cm) reached with the fingertips (ACSM, 2008). Figure X: Sit and reach test using a sit-and-reach box. e. Biochemical analysis Five millilitres of blood from antecubital vein was taken from each subject after at least 12 hours overnight fasting for biochemical analysis of metabolic abnormalities. The blood was collected in two tubes, the first tube was plain tube without anticoagulant and the second tube was with oxalate/fluoride. The samples were send to a private independent laboratory (BP laboratory) for biochemical analysis below; a. Fasting blood sugar b. Fasting lipid profiles 14. Data collection * At baseline, all participants were given advice on healthy lifestyle: promotion of healthy diet and physical activity. * The study participants then completed questionnaires and assessments for; a. Sociodemography. b. Measurement of anthropometry. c. Body composition measurement. d. Health related components of physical fitness assessment. e. Biochemical analysis for blood sugar and lipid profiles. * The study participants were then randomized into two equal size groups. The first group undergo light resistance training using dumbbells and the second group undergo light resistance training using ankle-wrist weights for at least 15 minutes, three times per week. Group training was conducted for the first 3rd months in the dumbbell group with weekly adherence monitoring for both groups. * At the end of first sixth and 12th week, patient were assessed for; a. Anthropometry measurement b. Body composition measurement c. Physical fitness assessment d. Biochemical analysis * After the third months, participants in both groups were required to do the light resistance training on their own and at the end of 6th month, all the above parameters were assessed again to look at the sustainability of the training program and its effects. Statistical analysis Data entry and statistical analysis were done using SPSS software version 18.0 (SPSS Inc.). As the same subjects were observed on multiple occasions (at baseline, 6th, 12th and 24th week), repeated measures analysis of variances were selected as the statistical test. As data were obtained repeatedly from the same subjects, RM ANOVA enables us to obtain information regarding individual ¿Ã‚ ½s patterns of change, were more economical as fewer subjects were required and enable us to reduce error of variance. Carry-over effects and latency effect were not involved in this study as there ¿Ã‚ ½s no cross-over of intervention in the study design. However, learning effect might be involved in this study especially in assessing health-related components of physical fitness as the subjects might improve with repetition of the assessment. For all objectives, all the three different designs used in repeated measures were assessed in this study; * Within group factors with regard to time (time effect) o 6th week compared to baseline o 12th week compared to baseline o 24th week compared to baseline o 12th week compared to 6th week o 24th wee compared to 6th week o 24th week compared to 12th week * Between group factors regardless of time (treatment effect) o Ankle-wrist weight group compared to dumbbell group * Within-between group factors with regard to time (Time-treatment interaction). o Ankle-wrist weight group compared to dumbbell group at baseline o Ankle-wrist weight group compared to dumbbell group at 6th week o Ankle-wrist weight group compared to dumbbell group at 12th week o Ankle-wrist weight group compared to dumbbell group at 24th week All the four steps involved in RM ANOVA were executed as below; i. Data exploration and cleaning ii. Fit the RM ANOVA model iii. Checking assumption of; a. Normality of residuals b. Homogeneity of variance c. Assumption of compound symmetry iv. Interpretation, presentation and conclusion Step 1: Data exploration and cleaning Descriptive statistics for all the variables were obtained with data exploration. Any missing values and error in data entry were assessed before analysis with data cleaning. Subjects with missing data were excluded from analysis. For numerical variables, descriptive statistics using syntax below were used to central point of numerical data, dispersion and graphical visualization of data normality (histogram with normality plot). FREQUENCIES VARIABLES= VariableName /FORMAT=NOTABLE /NTILES=4 /STATISTICS=MEAN STDDEV MEDIAN /HISTOGRAM NORMAL /ORDER=ANALYSIS. For categorical variables, syntax below was used to obtain frequency and percentage of those variables. FREQUENCIES VARIABLES= VariableName /PIECHART PERCENT /BARCHART FREQ /ORDER=ANALYSIS. Step 2: Fit the repeated measure ANOVA model Repeated measures ANOVA were executed using syntax below; GLM Var_baseline Var_sixwk Var_twelvewk Var_twentyfourwk BY Intervention /WSFACTOR=time 4 Polynomial /METHOD=SSTYPE(4) /POSTHOC=Intervention(BONFERRONI) /PLOT=PROFILE(time*intervention) /EMMEANS=TABLES(OVERALL) /EMMEANS=TABLES(intervention)

Merry King Essay -- Globalization, Competition, Software Development

In today's commercial market environment, competition and globalization has increased dramatically. The excessive cost arising from inefficient processes and operation have been considered to be the major causes of losses to the organizations over the past several years. Several organizations, particularly larger companies, recognize the need to hedge and manage against undesired risks. Software development is presently one of the most common risk issues. Adler et.al., (1998) reveal that the software development project includes risk events that can cause damage to improving processes. Moreover, it would be an error of judgment to overlook the significant risk areas of the project as this will impair decision quality and impact massive product changes. Raz et.al., (2002) describe project risks as adverse events that can cause delays, surplus expenditure and dissatisfaction with the project outcome. Apart from this, each project varies in size, duration, uncertainty, complexity, objectives, limitations and others. In an effort to enhance the quality of procedure and minimize the risk profile, better execution and implementation will also reduce undesired performance. Adler et.al., (1998) note that there is a tendency to claim that Cleanroom approach would be more appropriate to improve the overall trustworthiness and quality assurance issues. This essay will first describe how the effects of software risks have a direct impact on day-to-day business activities. It will then define how software risk management plays an important role in coping with the project risks. In the second section, it will introduce two software risk management models namely the Software Risk Evaluation model (SRE) and Cleanroom Softw... ...able for software engineers to monitor quality control that can be scientifically verified in a formal statistical diagram. In a study, Raz et.al., (2002) point out that there is a continuing requirement for an adaptation from the different risk management techniques to the different kind of projects and the improvement of the specific devices to mitigate risk from several different type of projects. In essence, it could be said that many organizations increasingly recognize the importance of software risk management to ensure accessibility of the overall information of the project risks. What is more, Ward (2005) concludes that a company which constantly develops risk management tends to gain a competitive advantage, and it appears probable that a well-defined software risk management practice can assist to increase the company's competitive advantages as well.

Aeneas Fights With Turnus Essays -- Aeneid Virgil Essays

Aeneas Fights With Turnus In the Aeneid, Virgil describes many human qualities, problems and characteristics. Some examples which I wish to illustrate can be found in the end of epic, in the scene of the final duel between Aeneas and Turnus. Virgil also introduces a novel idea in his work. Both sides, the Trojans and the Latins, are portrayed as noble people. Even though Aeneas is fated to win, and he is the hero of the work, the opposing force, Turnus, is not portrayed as evil, but rather like a noble person in a very hard situation. Virgil deals as much with physical and psychological problems Turnus faces, being an honest and noble man, as he does with Aeneas’s problems. By the time the battle begins, Turnus knows that he will lose. His sister, who was given some divine powers by Jupiter earlier, helped him during the battle before the final duel, but then she is called off by Jupiter. Turnus knew even before the battle started that he will lose, because it was fated for Aeneas to receive the land and marry Lavinia. He was urged by King Latinus and Lavinia herself not to fight but as the poet says, â€Å"Words cannot check the violence of Turnus† (Book XII, 62). Who was Turnus’s â€Å"violence†, or anger against? I do not think that it was Aeneas. Turnus was angry at the fate that forced him to give up the woman he loved to some newcomer. He could not accept that. Virgil is showing that anger can drive a person to the most irrational decisions. Turnus went, knowingly, to die because he was angry at fate, which cannot be changed. Aeneas faces a similar problem when he has to leave Dido -- fate is against his desires, but Aeneas, chooses fate’s way, while Turnus chooses his desires. This quality is not only portrayed in the ... ...ght of Pallas’s belt upon his murderer. He decides to avenge him, and punish Turnus for his crimes. Here, justice prevails over mercy, and repentance does not achieve any results. It is difficult to see how in later times Virgil might have been referred to as a Christian before Christ. He clearly here states that Aeneas, who was a very humane hero, kills Turnus to avenge his friend despite the fact that Turnus repented his sins. At the end, justice triumphs over feelings like mercy. Both men, Aeneas and Turnus are shown to be bound by justice. Turnus cannot accept Aeneas’s usurping of his wedding rites, and is prepared to fight and die for it. Aeneas cannot accept the slaughter of his friend, and must avenge him. And even though only one of them is the hero of the epic, both follow a similar path through the work, and both get what they were assigned to by fate.

Richard III and Adolf Hitler :: Richard II Richard III Essays

Richard III and Adolf Hitler      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In William Shakespeare's Richard III, we see Shakespeare's interpretation of despot rule and the parallels that stem from this interpretation.   The character type of Richard has been examined and marveled for thousands of years.   From Plato's examination of despot rule in the Republic, we see the motives of what drives despot rulers.   A look at the background of Richard and how his upbringing and personal life contributed to his insecurities will help to understand why someone may become a despot.   The comparison of Adolf Hitler to that of Richard, shown by the modern motion picture Richard III, will show the rapid rise and fall of the despot and the reality of totalitarian rule.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Plato's Republic, a fascinating look at the comparison of the just soul and the unjust soul, allows one to see the philosophical motives behind despot rule.   Despot rulers are simply driven by fear.   Their anxieties and insecurities lead to a hatred that has a desire to destroy, deep-rooted in violence.   Despot rulers are also never satisfied with the power they have at any given time, thus exposing their constant fear of retaliation from their subjects.   This examination of the despot ruler by Plato clearly shows the motives by which despot rulers rule, but it fails to explain why and how these motives originate in the human mind.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In order to comprehend why such a high level of fear and insecurity can be brought about, a look at the upbringing and personal life of Richard should be brought into discussion.   One of three brothers, Richard was in constant competition of who would succeed in gaining the throne of England.  Ã‚   Richard, like his other brothers, wanted the title of king quite badly, but as time pressed on it seemed less likely that Richard would succeed in gaining the throne.   His shrewd attitude and a physical deformity, that left him nearly paralyzed, were two of the many reasons why Richard would be kept of the throne.   Richard quickly became aware of this and he therefore began his rampage to insure himself the throne.   After killing off his brothers and many others, who were eligible to succeed, Richard finally became King of England.

A Game of Thrones Chapter Fifty-seven

Sansa The walls of the throne room had been stripped bare, the hunting tapestries that King Robert loved taken down and stacked in the corner in an untidy heap. Ser Mandon Moore went to take his place under the throne beside two of his fellows of the Kingsguard. Sansa hovered by the door, for once unguarded. The queen had given her freedom of the castle as a reward for being good, yet even so, she was escorted everywhere she went. â€Å"Honor guards for my daughter-to-be,† the queen called them, but they did not make Sansa feel honored. â€Å"Freedom of the castle† meant that she could go wherever she chose within the Red Keep so long as she promised not to go beyond the walls, a promise Sansa had been more than willing to give. She couldn't have gone beyond the walls anyway. The gates were watched day and night by Janos Slynt's gold cloaks, and Lannister house guards were always about as well. Besides, even if she could leave the castle, where would she go? It was enough that she could walk in the yard, pick flowers in Myrcella's garden, and visit the sept to pray for her father. Sometimes she prayed in the godswood as well, since the Starks kept the old gods. This was the first court session of Joffrey's reign, so Sansa looked about nervously. A line of Lannister house guards stood beneath the western windows, a line of gold-cloaked City Watchmen beneath the east. Of smallfolk and commoners, she saw no sign, but under the gallery a cluster of lords great and small milled restlessly. There were no more than twenty, where a hundred had been accustomed to wait upon King Robert. Sansa slipped in among them, murmuring greetings as she worked her way toward the front. She recognized black-skinned Jalabhar Xho, gloomy Ser Aron Santagar, the Redwyne twins Horror and Slobber . . . only none of them seemed to recognize her. Or if they did, they shied away as if she had the grey plague. Sickly Lord Gyles covered his face at her approach and feigned a fit of coughing, and when funny drunken Ser Dontos started to hail her, Ser Balon Swann whispered in his ear and he turned away. And so many others were missing. Where had the rest of them gone? Sansa wondered. Vainly, she searched for friendly faces. Not one of them would meet her eyes. It was as if she had become a ghost, dead before her time. Grand Maester Pycelle was seated alone at the council table, seemingly asleep, his hands clasped together atop his beard. She saw Lord Varys hurry into the hall, his feet making no sound. A moment later Lord Baelish entered through the tall doors in the rear, smiling. He chatted amiably with Ser Balon and Ser Dontos as he made his way to the front. Butterflies fluttered nervously in Sansa's stomach. I shouldn't be afraid, she told herself. I have nothing to be afraid of, it will all come out well, Joff loves me and the queen does too, she said so. A herald's voice rang out. â€Å"All hail His Grace, Joffrey of the Houses Baratheon and Lannister, the First of his Name, King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men, and Lord of the Seven Kingdoms. All hail his lady mother, Cersei of House Lannister, Queen Regent, Light of the West, and Protector of the Realm.† Ser Barristan Selmy, resplendent in white plate, led them in. Ser Arys Oakheart escorted the queen, while Ser Boros Blount walked beside Joffrey, so six of the Kingsguard were now in the hall, all the White Swords save Jaime Lannister alone. Her prince—no, her king now!—took the steps of the Iron Throne two at a time, while his mother was seated with the council. Joff wore plush black velvets slashed with crimson, a shimmering cloth-of-gold cape with a high collar, and on his head a golden crown crusted with rubies and black diamonds. When Joffrey turned to look out over the hall, his eye caught Sansa's. He smiled, seated himself, and spoke. â€Å"It is a king's duty to punish the disloyal and reward those who are true. Grand Maester Pycelle, I command you to read my decrees.† Pycelle pushed himself to his feet. He was clad in a magnificent robe of thick red velvet, with an ermine collar and shiny gold fastenings. From a drooping sleeve, heavy with gilded scrollwork, he drew a parchment, unrolled it, and began to read a long list of names, commanding each in the name of king and council to present themselves and swear their fealty to Joffrey. Failing that, they would be adjudged traitors, their lands and titles forfeit to the throne. The names he read made Sansa hold her breath. Lord Stannis Baratheon, his lady wife, his daughter. Lord Renly Baratheon. Both Lord Royces and their sons. Ser Loras Tyrell. Lord Mace Tyrell, his brothers, uncles, sons. The red priest, Thoros of Myr. Lord Beric Dondarrion. Lady Lysa Arryn and her son, the little Lord Robert. Lord Hoster Tully, his brother Ser Brynden, his son Ser Edmure. Lord Jason Mallister. Lord Bryce Caron of the Marches. Lord Tytos Blackwood. Lord Walder Frey and his heir Ser Stevron. Lord Karyl Vance. Lord Jonos Bracken. Lady Sheila Whent. Doran Martell, Prince of Dorne, and all his sons. So many, she thought as Pycelle read on and on, it will take a whole flock of ravens to send out these commands. And at the end, near last, came the names Sansa had been dreading. Lady Catelyn Stark. Robb Stark. Brandon Stark, Rickon Stark, Arya Stark. Sansa stifled a gasp. Arya. They wanted Arya to present herself and swear an oath . . . it must mean her sister had fled on the galley, she must be safe at Winterfell by now . . . Grand Maester Pycelle rolled up the list, tucked it up his left sleeve, and pulled another parchment from his right. He cleared his throat and resumed. â€Å"In the place of the traitor Eddard Stark, it is the wish of His Grace that Tywin Lannister, Lord of Casterly Rock and Warden of the West, take up the office of Hand of the King, to speak with his voice, lead his armies against his enemies, and carry out his royal will. So the king has decreed. The small council consents. â€Å"In the place of the traitor Stannis Baratheon, it is the wish of His Grace that his lady mother, the Queen Regent Cersei Lannister, who has ever been his staunchest support, be seated upon his small council, that she may help him rule wisely and with justice. So the king has decreed. The small council consents.† Sansa heard a soft murmuring from the lords around her, but it was quickly stilled. Pycelle continued. â€Å"It is also the wish of His Grace that his loyal servant, Janos Slynt, Commander of the City Watch of King's Landing, be at once raised to the rank of lord and granted the ancient seat of Harrenhal with all its attendant lands and incomes, and that his sons and grandsons shall hold these honors after him until the end of time. It is moreover his command that Lord Slynt be seated immediately upon his small council, to assist in the governance of the realm. So the king has decreed. The small council consents.† Sansa glimpsed motion from the corner of her eye as Janos Slynt made his entrance. This time the muttering was louder and angrier. Proud lords whose houses went back thousands of years made way reluctantly for the balding, frog-faced commoner as he marched past. Golden scales had been sewn onto the black velvet of his doublet and rang together softly with each step. His cloak was checked black-and-gold satin. Two ugly boys who must have been his sons went before him, struggling with the weight of a heavy metal shield as tall as they were. For his sigil he had taken a bloody spear, gold on a night-black field. The sight of it raised goose prickles up and down Sansa's arms. As Lord Slynt took his place, Grand Maester Pycelle resumed. â€Å"Lastly, in these times of treason and turmoil, with our beloved Robert so lately dead, it is the view of the council that the life and safety of King Joffrey is of paramount importance . . . † He looked to the queen. Cersei stood. â€Å"Ser Barristan Selmy, stand forth.† Ser Barristan had been standing at the foot of the Iron Throne, as still as any statue, but now he went to one knee and bowed his head. â€Å"Your Grace, I am yours to command.† â€Å"Rise, Ser Barristan,† Cersei Lannister said. â€Å"You may remove your helm.† â€Å"My lady?† Standing, the old knight took off his high white helm, though he did not seem to understand why. â€Å"You have served the realm long and faithfully, good ser, and every man and woman in the Seven Kingdoms owes you thanks. Yet now I fear your service is at an end. It is the wish of king and council that you lay down your heavy burden.† â€Å"My . . . burden? I fear I . . . I do not . . . â€Å" The new-made lord, Janos Slynt, spoke up, his voice heavy and blunt. â€Å"Her Grace is trying to tell you that you are relieved as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard.† The tall, white-haired knight seemed to shrink as he stood there, scarcely breathing. â€Å"Your Grace,† he said at last. â€Å"The Kingsguard is a Sworn Brotherhood. Our vows are taken for life. Only death may relieve the Lord Commander of his sacred trust.† â€Å"Whose death, Ser Barristan?† The queen's voice was soft as silk, but her words carried the whole length of the hall. â€Å"Yours, or your king's?† â€Å"You let my father die,† Joffrey said accusingly from atop the Iron Throne. â€Å"You're too old to protect anybody.† Sansa watched as the knight peered up at his new king. She had never seen him look his years before, yet now he did. â€Å"Your Grace,† he said. â€Å"I was chosen for the White Swords in my twenty-third year. It was all I had ever dreamed, from the moment I first took sword in hand. I gave up all claim to my ancestral keep. The girl I was to wed married my cousin in my place, I had no need of land or sons, my life would be lived for the realm. Ser Gerold Hightower himself heard my vows . . . to ward the king with all my strength . . . to give my blood for his . . . I fought beside the White Bull and Prince Lewyn of Dorne . . . beside Ser Arthur Dayne, the Sword of the Morning. Before I served your father, I helped shield King Aerys, and his father Jaehaerys before him . . . three kings . . . â€Å" â€Å"And all of them dead,† Littlefinger pointed out. â€Å"Your time is done,† Cersei Lannister announced. â€Å"Joffrey requires men around him who are young and strong. The council has determined that Ser Jaime Lannister will take your place as the Lord Commander of Sworn Brothers of the White Swords.† â€Å"The Kingslayer,† Ser Barristan said, his voice hard with contempt. â€Å"The false knight who profaned his blade with the blood of the king he had sworn to defend.† â€Å"Have a care for your words, ser,† the queen warned. â€Å"You are speaking of our beloved brother, your king's own blood.† Lord Varys spoke, gentler than the others. â€Å"We are not unmindful of your service, good ser. Lord Tywin Lannister has generously agreed to grant you a handsome tract of land north of Lannisport, beside the sea, with gold and men sufficient to build you a stout keep, and servants to see to your every need.† Ser Barristan looked up sharply. â€Å"A hall to die in, and men to bury me. I thank you, my lords . . . but I spit upon your pity.† He reached up and undid the clasps that held his cloak in place, and the heavy white garment slithered from his shoulders to fall in a heap on the floor. His helmet dropped with a clang. â€Å"I am a knight,† he told them. He opened the silver fastenings of his breastplate and let that fall as well. â€Å"I shall die a knight.† â€Å"A naked knight, it would seem,† quipped Littlefinger. They all laughed then, Joffrey on his throne, and the lords standing attendance, Janos Slynt and Queen Cersei and Sandor Clegane and even the other men of the Kingsguard, the five who had been his brothers until a moment ago. Surely that must have hurt the most, Sansa thought. Her heart went out to the gallant old man as he stood shamed and red-faced, too angry to speak. Finally he drew his sword. Sansa heard someone gasp. Ser Boros and Ser Meryn moved forward to confront him, but Ser Barristan froze them in place with a look that dripped contempt. â€Å"Have no fear, sers, your king is safe . . . no thanks to you. Even now, I could cut through the five of you as easy as a dagger cuts cheese. If you would serve under the Kingslayer, not a one of you is fit to wear the white.† He flung his sword at the foot of the Iron Throne. â€Å"Here, boy. Melt it down and add it to the others, if you like. It will do you more good than the swords in the hands of these five. Perhaps Lord Stannis will chance to sit on it when he takes your throne.† He took the long way out, his steps ringing loud against the floor and echoing off the bare stone walls. Lords and ladies parted to let him pass. Not until the pages had closed the great oak-and-bronze doors behind him did Sansa hear sounds again: soft voices, uneasy stirrings, the shuffle of papers from the council table. â€Å"He called me boy,† Joffrey said peevishly, sounding younger than his years. â€Å"He talked about my uncle Stannis too.† â€Å"Idle talk,† said Varys the eunuch. â€Å"Without meaning . . . â€Å" â€Å"He could be making plots with my uncles. I want him seized and questioned.† No one moved. Joffrey raised his voice. â€Å"I said, I want him seized!† Janos Slynt rose from the council table. â€Å"My gold cloaks will see to it, Your Grace.† â€Å"Good,† said King Joffrey. Lord Janos strode from the hall, his ugly sons double-stepping to keep up as they lugged the great metal shield with the arms of House Slynt. â€Å"Your Grace,† Littlefinger reminded the king. â€Å"If we might resume, the seven are now six. We find ourselves in need of a new sword for your Kingsguard.† Joffrey smiled. â€Å"Tell them, Mother.† â€Å"The king and council have determined that no man in the Seven Kingdoms is more fit to guard and protect His Grace than his sworn shield, Sandor Clegane.† â€Å"How do you like that, dog?† King Joffrey asked. The Hound's scarred face was hard to read. He took a long moment to consider. â€Å"Why not? I have no lands nor wife to forsake, and who'd care if I did?† The burned side of his mouth twisted. â€Å"But I warn you, I'll say no knight's vows.† â€Å"The Sworn Brothers of the Kingsguard have always been knights,† Ser Boros said firmly. â€Å"Until now,† the Hound said in his deep rasp, and Ser Boros fell silent. When the king's herald moved forward, Sansa realized the moment was almost at hand. She smoothed down the cloth of her skirt nervously. She was dressed in mourning, as a sign of respect for the dead king, but she had taken special care to make herself beautiful. Her gown was the ivory silk that the queen had given her, the one Arya had ruined, but she'd had them dye it black and you couldn't see the stain at all. She had fretted over her jewelry for hours and finally decided upon the elegant simplicity of a plain silver chain. The herald's voice boomed out. â€Å"If any man in this hall has other matters to set before His Grace, let him speak now or go forth and hold his silence.† Sansa quailed. Now, she told herself, I must do it now. Gods give me courage. She took one step, then another. Lords and knights stepped aside silently to let her pass, and she felt the weight of their eyes on her. I must be as strong as my lady mother. â€Å"Your Grace,† she called out in a soft, tremulous voice. The height of the Iron Throne gave Joffrey a better vantage point than anyone else in the hall. He was the first to see her. â€Å"Come forward, my lady,† he called out, smiling. His smile emboldened her, made her feel beautiful and strong. He does love me, he does. Sansa lifted her head and walked toward him, not too slow and not too fast. She must not let them see how nervous she was. â€Å"The Lady Sansa, of House Stark,† the herald cried. She stopped under the throne, at the spot where Ser Barristan's white cloak lay puddled on the floor beside his helm and breastplate. â€Å"Do you have some business for king and council, Sansa?† the queen asked from the council table. â€Å"I do.† She knelt on the cloak, so as not to spoil her gown, and looked up at her prince on his fearsome black throne. â€Å"As it please Your Grace, I ask mercy for my father, Lord Eddard Stark, who was the Hand of the King.† She had practiced the words a hundred times. The queen sighed. â€Å"Sansa, you disappoint me. What did I tell you about traitor's blood?† â€Å"Your father has committed grave and terrible crimes, my lady,† Grand Maester Pycelle intoned. â€Å"Ah, poor sad thing,† sighed Varys. â€Å"She is only a babe, my lords, she does not know what she asks.† Sansa had eyes only for Joffrey. He must listen to me, he must, she thought. The king shifted on his seat, â€Å"Let her speak,† he commanded. â€Å"I want to hear what she says.† â€Å"Thank you, Your Grace.† Sansa smiled, a shy secret smile, just for him. He was listening. She knew he would. â€Å"Treason is a noxious weed,† Pycelle declared solemnly. â€Å"It must be torn up, root and stem and seed, lest new traitors sprout from every roadside.† â€Å"Do you deny your father's crime?† Lord Baelish asked. â€Å"No, my lords.† Sansa knew better than that. â€Å"I know he must be punished. All I ask is mercy. I know my lord father must regret what he did. He was King Robert's friend and he loved him, you all know he loved him. He never wanted to be Hand until the king asked him. They must have lied to him. Lord Renly or Lord Stannis or . . . or somebody, they must have lied, otherwise . . . â€Å" King Joffrey leaned forward, hands grasping the arms of the throne. Broken sword points fanned out between his fingers. â€Å"He said I wasn't the king. Why did he say that?† â€Å"His leg was broken,† Sansa replied eagerly. â€Å"It hurt ever so much, Maester Pycelle was giving him milk of the poppy, and they say that milk of the poppy fills your head with clouds. Otherwise he would never have said it.† Varys said, â€Å"A child's faith . . . such sweet innocence . . . and yet, they say wisdom oft comes from the mouths of babes.† â€Å"Treason is treason,† Pycelle replied at once. Joffrey rocked restlessly on the throne. â€Å"Mother?† Cersei Lannister considered Sansa thoughtfully. â€Å"If Lord Eddard were to confess his crime,† she said at last, â€Å"we would know he had repented his folly.† Joffrey pushed himself to his feet. Please, Sansa thought, please, please, be the king I know you are, good and kind and noble, please. â€Å"Do you have any more to say?† he asked her. â€Å"Only . . . that as you love me, you do me this kindness, my prince,† Sansa said. King Joffrey looked her up and down. â€Å"Your sweet words have moved me,† he said gallantly, nodding, as if to say all would be well. â€Å"I shall do as you ask . . . but first your father has to confess. He has to confess and say that I'm the king, or there will be no mercy for him.† â€Å"He will,† Sansa said, heart soaring. â€Å"Oh, I know he will.†