The Impact of Technology in Business Dissertation

The Impact of Technology in Business - Dissertation Example 3.0 Literature Review 3.1 Impact of communication advancement on Business Despite the fact that the bigger companies have huge and dedicated information and communication technology departments, today, the technology levels the playing field to accommodate even the smallest companies (McKenney, Copeland and Mason, 1995). The smaller companies have a huge chance of surpassing the bigger companies if the smaller companies can use the ever increasing technology to their advantage (Johnson, 2009). 3.2 Impact of Databases to replace file systems in businesses A lot of technology has been applied in businesses today. For example, Database management systems are being used over the world in businesses. The database management systems replaced the old file systems (Atkinson and Draheim, 2010). This is probably one of the most widely used technology in businesses today. The database management systems are especially used in the accounting departments. Wang, 2014, suggests that businesses are solemnly driven by databases today. The better the database design, the more effective the business. 3.3 Impact of teleconferencing and home working Technology has changed how businesses operate is improvements in communications. With advances in communications, businesses can easily communicate with clients, suppliers and other important stakeholders quite effectively. This has led to increased productivity in the businesses. With teleconferencing for example, people can attend a meeting without necessarily being together in a physical room.

Marketing Strategy and Implementation Plan Essay

Marketing Strategy and Implementation Plan - Essay Example This essay describes the Absorb Rite Tissues and Towels, Inc. company, that is a successful manufacturer of dairy paper products, enjoying for many years the loyalty of its customers. Competing in the private labels industry for many years, the company is currently facing a down-ward slope in its sales and overall profits due to the shift in customer (retailers) demands. The emergence and development of grocery and super store chains have ultimately pushed prices down; a fact that has caused a lot of pressure to Absorb Rite as it merely produces ‘on the line’ of breaking even. In addition to that, a loss of some of the major clients has considerably further reduced the profits gained. The company has been focusing on manufacturing an innovative product that has a dual utility; the products have already gone through the R&D department and have been tested to sample markets with positive feedback and reviews. The overall strategy of Absorb Rite Tissues and Towels, Inc. sho uld be directed towards marketing and promoting the innovative new products that have already been designed in the R&D department and researched in test markets. To this extend, Absorb Rite needs to redirect its strategy and objectives towards promoting this new line and eventually penetrating the market while capturing largest portions of the market. This marketing plan effectively offers a complete action plan for the necessary activities that need to be implemented towards restoring the position of the firm and increasing total sales.

Supply and Production Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Supply and Production - Essay Example One of the most important advantages is that the implementation of the supply chain management makes it possible to reduce the inventory days of supply by half and introduce the order-cycle time more efficiently. It means that the products are delivered much faster and the delays happen much rarely compared with the traditional competitive processes. Using supply chain management every party involved has an important role and the whole structure works as one unit - there is no division among departments. Finally, supply chain management is an effective cost reduction tool - there is not need to rent or build huge warehouses because the inventory is not getting piled up. One of the most obvious disadvantages of supply chain management is its unity and connectivity. For example, if one chain of the system fails the whole process will fail as well. If one of the suppliers is unable to meet the delivery time, the next unit will not be able to move forwards. Therefore, the company has to ensure that every level operates but still have alternative supplier in case one of the levels does not work out.

Commercial Accounting Essay Example for Free

Commercial Accounting Essay Commercial accounting is an accurate account of business transactions, it can only be acquired if both cash and credit transactions are performed, recorded, and recognized in such a way that there can be no duplication and the transactions are recorded under commercial accounting. The system known as double entry book keeping or the commercial accounting system that records both aspects of transactions, also it records credit transactions in cash accounting the day of the receipt. The single entry in accounting for example: there is a sale, where the transaction is complete after the exchange of cash for goods. In commercial accounting the date in which the transaction was made needs to be recorded regardless to whether it was paid or it wasn’t. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles better known as (GAAP) is the collection of standards and practices that are required to be used by business’s to record and present the results of their financial activities and their records of what they owe, established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB). These accounting principles are standardized and used for the many private and publicly traded companies in America today. Every economic event within business must be associated with and recorded by a specific entity and business records must not include the personal assets or liabilities of the owner. If an idea holds no impact on a decision maker, investors, or creditors, then the relating (GAAP) principles do not have to be followed. (GAAP) requires the use of accrual basis accounting rather than cash basis accounting, this is imposed on businesses so that investors have a minimum level of consistency in the financial statements they use when analyzing businesses for investment purposes. The accrual basis of accounting over the cash basis of accounting in commercial accounting and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) is different depending on whether you run a large scale business or a small business. Cash basis is used mostly by small businesses where owners and creditors want a simple way to understand the financial statements and to understand whether there is a profit or loss in the business. Accrual basis is used by large businesses and when revenue is earned expenses are accrued. Cash basis gives you a clear picture of your cash flow, but does not give you a good idea of business in the long term because you are not recording income when it is actually earned. Accrual basis accounting accurately matches your income and expenses and if not managed carefully you could lose track of your actual cash flow, with accrual basis transaction statements they are recorded in which the events occur. You don’t have to wait until you see the money, or actually pay money out of your checking account, to record a transaction. References (Investopedia.com) (Wiley PLUS)

Nanotechnology In Architecture

Nanotechnology In Architecture Historically and geographically human have lived in extremely varied technology or environment and have had to adapt to comfort habitats and thus the architects have had to manage the ideal of design as well as incorporate the evolutionary technology. A technology has evolved to a level where it is just too complex. Sometimes satisfying the need of the user and sometimes becoming too dangerous when the negative consequences are not taken care of. For example, the issues of the Large scales in architecture is one such matter which has been partially solved with the help of low cost materials, energy savingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦etc. The scientists have developed and are continuing to develop nanotechnology to help architects incorporate more artificial intelligence in construction. Nanotechnology is a combination of various fields of science like, Bio- technology, Chemistry, Physics, Bio-informatics, etc. There are three chief divisions in Nanotech: Nanoelectronics, Nanomaterials, and Nano-Biotechnology. Worldwide, there is much enthusiasm about nanotechnology as it has application in medicine, electronics, biomaterials, energy etc. It is observed that US, Japan, and Germany dominate the current RD effort in nanotechnology with a focus on they own expertise and needs (Hyd and spook, 2012). The use and control of the technology at an atomic or particle scale known as nanotechnology has started to have its impact like never before in materials of constructions and has immense futurist impact in architecture, this application of the nanotechnology and nanomaterials in architecture is NanoArchitecture. The nano world in technology is a real challenge for todays designers, it started with an understanding and control of the technology and materials on one billionth (10-9) scale. The understanding of these materials, its use in architecture to be profitable for users and its implication on the building (Construction) are some of the key aspect for inquiry in this dissertation. With the perfect solution of this dilemma, the Architects would not only know how big their task is but how it might lead to new ways of thinking architecture. After understanding the meaning and origin of this technology, we will study certain aspects that is a must in todays constructions and then we see the direction where this science is going, we will also look at the ways to incorporate these technologies in our architecture, therefore the question that will guide our research is how does nano (technology, materials, science, concept, form and function) become important to the level of influencing architects (designers). Nanotechnology is developed in the manner that it is active or passive, this repartition will lead us to a large study but our focus will rely on the relation passive active nanostructure and application of nanotechnology in a building design and construction. Passive nanotechnologies, such as nanocoatings, nanoparticles, and nanostructured materials, are already available. Second generation active nanostructures, for example, nanoelectro-mechanical systems, nanomachines, self-healing materials, and targeted chemicals, can evolve their properties, structure and/or state during their operation. This could increase nanotechnologys impacts and require new approaches for risk assessment. Active nanostructures are likely to have a different and increased profile of impacts (including benefits as well as potential risks) compared with passive nanotechnologies. RESEARCH QUESTION: How does nano (technology, materials, science, concept, form and function) becomes important to the level of influencing architects (designers). NEED IDENTIFICATION: Over the years the materials used in buildings (during construction, inside or outside finishes) has been of a large scale, the evolution today have brought into existence the materials on a microscopic scale with even more value to life and building. They can be metals, ceramics, polymers or composites. Known as nanomaterials, nanocomposites, and manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs), the method of making these materials begins at the molecular or atomic level, sometimes creating new products with extraordinary physical and chemical properties. For example, a carbon nanotube has strength of 150 times that of steel but is approximately six times lighter. Besides strength enhancement, properties can include self-cleaning, super hardness, electrical conductivity, antimicrobial superior thermal resistance and stability, non-flammability, lightweight, anti-corrosion, superior barrier, light emitting and low permeability, among others. Applications in the building industry include use as fire retardants, high performance insulation, protective coatings, equipment lubricants, structural integrity enhancement and monitoring, photovoltaic, stronger tensile cables, and self-cleaning or heat absorbing windows ( CFN, 2011 )à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Using these materials which contain extraordinary application in the building can also bring amazing influences to the architect, designer or the design. Therefore apart from attempting to understand the transformation that the nanotechnology brings to our building there is a need to understand by students the uses of nanotechnology for creating better design. SCOPE: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A general understanding of nano especially toward architecture à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Nanotechnology (materials) applications in buildings à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Concept; form and function derived from nano LIMITATION: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The laboratories details of certain materials and nano applications in medical branches will not be part of our research. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ This research dissertation will have some limitation in details like calculations, manufactures process, chemical components. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Thinking in more detail about how to use nanomaterials in a design context, a first consideration is simply to define what is being design?. But there is a lack of built case studies, so we will rely on existing, futurist, basic concept and reading materials. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Regarding the size of this matter nanotechnology, we will limit at the level where nanotech is active and very briefly talk about the passive Nanotechnology RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: N A N O A R C H I T E C T U R E PART O. COLLECT RELEVANT DATA This methodology starts with a basic understanding (through various sources) of nano technology specially its applications in the materials and its relation with form and function in architecture. A. Research Books B. Online discussions; ancient and actual debates. C. Study previous paper or dissertations and case studies done on this matter. D. Literature survey; Consist keep together all info found and relative to the topic and relevant to the research question. PART I. INTRODUCTION, NEED IDENTIFICATION, SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE RESEARCH PART II. NANOTECHNOLOGY What is nanotechnology Nanoproducts Categories (Passive and Active) Why this fuss Nanotechnology risk Sectors application NANOTECHNOLOGIES APPLICATIONS IN ARCHITECTURE = NANOARCHITECUTE PART III. APPLICATION-FORM AND FUNCTION with its Impact Air-purifying Anti-fogging Solar protection Fire-proof Anti-graffiti Scratchproof and abrasion-resistant Anti-fingerprints Self-cleaning Easy-to-clean (ETC) Thermal insulation Temperature regulation UV protection Anti-reflective N. Antibacterial Case studies and examples showing how does certain of these proprieties can be include and what promise does it bring to buildings; New architectural readying. New creativities in form and functions. C O N C L U S I O N CASE STUDY METHODOLOGIES: Primary Case study By consulting an expert in the energy consumption field and materials that relate to it. The reading of the applications in nanotechnology in todays constructions is more related to Green designers, this part of the design has an impact in the ecology and climate control therefore the green rated buildings has in fact a considerable amount of nanotechnology use in it. This leads us to refer to architects involved in green concepts or sustainability from LEED etc ( Ar Alex Nyembo Kalenga) and also we could make a visit studies on the actual certified Green building Rajiv Gandhi urja Bhavan at Vasan Kunj New Delhi Still in Construction. A list of questions has guided our study and survey interview in which the answers are include to our conclusion of this research: 1. A personal understanding of Nanotechnology or Nanoarchitecture. 2. If any specific material at a nano scale is used to improve certain aspects in the building, such as: Insulation reduction Lighting Energy storage Air purification Water management 3. How do you think buildings designed exclusively on scientific principles of Nanotechnology will affect their occupants? 4. Does Nanotechnology have an impact on todays practicing architects If yes; at what scale does it influence them? Any example? If not; Why so? Secondary Case study The conceptual level derived of the interpretation of nano differs from an architect to another. 1. Two typology of this nano buildings as guided this part of the research: 5. Existing Nano Buildings ( Nano House Initiative, Australia ) 6. Futurist Nano Buildings ( Multi-storey Apartment building, 2001 ) 2. A list of materials (Function) originated from nanotechnology or concepts that have already been involved to some construction process, structurally or non structurally, environment effect has been touched on to clarify its impact to architecture. REFERENCES.. Hyd and spook (2012, January), nanotechnology in india. Retrieved from http://www.indianofficer.com/forums/11771-nanotechnology-india.html#ixzz2Awlr7jNb Center for Functional Nanomaterials ( 2011). Nanomaterials for architecture and buildings. Brookhaven. Retrieved from http://www.solaripedia.com/13/360/nanomaterials_for_architecture__building.html NANOARCHITECTURE Importance of nanotechnology in architecture N A N O T E C H N O L O G Y II.1. Fundamental Knowledge II.1.1. WHAT IS NANOTECHNOLOGY? A brick is the smallest building block in construction. Whatever you do, the strength of the building is limited to the strength of the brick. The brick itself is made of minute particles of clay bonded together. One has limited control over how the particle of clay forms. Each particle of clay in turn is formed from molecules joined together in a particular pattern dictated by the forces of nature. What happens if it is possible to arrange these molecules in a pattern that provides greater strength? You get stronger clay and a stronger brick. This results in a much thinner, but stronger wall. This technology of arranging molecules the way we want is a basis of nanotechnology. (Johnzactruba, 2011) A strict definition of nanotechnology characterizes it as the manipulation of a matter at the scale of one-billionth of a meter or smaller. The measurement of one-billionth of a meter is identified as one nanometer (nm) (Jeffrey H. Matsuura,1957). Nano, is a word which does not only mean billionth less but also leaves a billionth of question in mind, because of the complexity to understand its simplicity. It is a world hold by the scientist, chemist and physicians. Yes nanotechnology is a relatively recent development in scientific research but not new. The level of its study and diversity has involved touching now many sector of life and becoming more and more known by the public. The concept first was introduced by American physicist Richard P. Feynman (1918-1988). But it is noted that in the 10th centuries the 16th centuries the ruby-red color of many stained-glass windows from the medieval era was a consequence of embedded nanoscale metallic particles within the glass. There were no scientific understanding of these phenomena at the time, nor were there deliberate attempts to produce what we now know as nanomaterials. Early knowledge relied on craft-based trial and error to achieve effects we must keep in mind, however, that not all interesting color phenomena are a result of embedded nanomaterials ( Michael F. Ashby, 2009). The evolution of nanotechnology has been more or less in the domain of chemical, medicine and physics (technique) then it involved to the environment, energy, agriculture, communication and information because of some of its advantage and disadvantage in the society. The main tools used in nanotechnology are three main microscopes: Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), and Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM). (Jamie Jackson, CIS 121) II.1.2. NANO PRODUCTS Use as gateways to build other nano products, Nanosensors can be chemical sensors or mechanical sensors. Amongst other applications they can be used: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ To monitor physical parameters such as temperature, displacement and flow à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ As accelerometers in Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices that can rapidly and remotely detect change in their surroundings like airbag sensors à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ For medical diagnostic purposes either as blood borne sensors or in lab-on-a-chip type devices à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ To detect various chemicals in gases for pollution monitoring à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Sensors using carbon nanotube detection elements are capable of detecting a range of chemical vapors. These sensors work by reacting to the changes in the resistance of a carbon nanotube in the presence of a chemical vapor ( Hawks Perch Technical Writing, 2007). II.1.2.1. Nanotube Known as well as Carbon Nanotube (CNTs), it is a tube-shaped material or cylindrical nanostructure made of carbon, having a diameter of nanometer scale. Nanotubes form a tiny portion of the material(s) in some baseball bats, golf clubs, or car parts. Carbon nanotubes are the strongest and stiffest materials yet discovered in terms of tensile strength and elastic modulus respectively. In 2000, a multi-walled carbon nanotube was tested to have a tensile strength of 63 gigapascals (GPa). Since carbon nanotubes have a low density for a solid of 1.3 to 1.4 g/cm3, its specific strength of up to 48,000 kNà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢mà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢kgà ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢1 is the best of known materials, compared to high-carbon steels 154 kNà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢mà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢kgà ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢1. Standard single-walled carbon nanotubes can withstand a pressure up to 24GPa without deformation. The bulk modulus of super hard phase nanotubes is 462 to 546 GPa, even higher than that of diamond (420 GPa for single diamond crystal) and can produce materials with toughness unmatched in the man-made and natural worlds. Because of the carbon nanotubes superior mechanical properties, many structures have been proposed ranging from everyday items like clothes and sports gear to combat jackets and space elevators. However, the space elevator will require further efforts in refining carbon nanotube technology, as the practical tensile strength of carbon nanotubes can still be greatly improved (Wikipedia, 2012). II.1.2.2. Nanocomposites The definition of nano-composite material has broadened significantly to encompass a large variety of systems such as one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional and amorphous materials, made of distinctly dissimilar components and mixed at the nanometer scale (Kanatzidis, 2006). New materials with novel proprieties are generate rapidly through this field. The properties of nano-composite materials depend not only on the properties of their individual parents but also on their morphology and interfacial characteristics. Although nanoscale reinforcements (or nanofillers) of nanocomposites have different kinds of fillers such as nanofibers, nanowires, nanotubes and nanoparticles etc, their mechanical behaviors have some common features. As the figure shows a potential use of nanocomposites as multifunctional materials (Journal Club, 2008). AREA OF APPLICATION Such mechanical property improvements have resulted in major interest in nanocomposite materials in numerous automotive and general/industrial applications. These include potential for utilisation as mirror housings on various vehicle types, door handles, engine covers and intake manifolds and timing belt covers. More general applications currently being considered include usage as impellers and blades for vacuum cleaners, power tool housings, mower hoods and covers for portable electronic equipment such as mobile phones, pagers etc (Professor J.N. Hay, 2001). The inorganic components can be three-dimensional framework systems such as zeolites, two-dimensional layered materials such as clays, metal oxides, metal phosphates, chalcogenides, and even one-dimensional and zero-dimensional materials such as (Mo3Se3-)n chains and clusters. Experimental work has generally shown that virtually all types and classes of nanocomposite materials lead to new and improved properties when compared to their macrocomposite counterparts. Therefore, nanocomposites which combine new nanomaterials with more traditional ones such as steel, concrete, glass, and plastics, can be many times stronger than standard materials and promise new applications in many fields such as mechanically reinforced lightweight components, non-linear optics, battery cathodes and ionics, nano-wires, sensors and other systems. On the market there already a nanocomposite steel that is three times stronger than conventional steel. Before long, nano-reinforced glass might be used for both structure and enclosure. In the some student projects in the nanoSTUDIO at Ball State University, nanotube structural panels create transparent load-bearing curtain walls free of columns and beams, quantum dots make walls and ceilings light up or change color with the flip of a switch, and nanosensors in building components create smart environments that constantly adapt to their environment and users. II.1.3. TYPOLOGY M. C. Roco, one of the driving forces behind the NNI, has developed a more detailed typology of nanotechnologies. He identifies four generations of nanotechnologies: passive nanostructures, active nanostructures, systems of nanosystems and molecular nanosystems (J. Clarence, 2009) ( Fig04: For generation of nanotechnology development, Center for Responsible Nanotechnology ) Each generation of products is marked by the creation of commercial prototypes using systematic control of the respective phenomena and manufacturing processes. Products may also include components which correspond to different generations. Todays rudimentary capabilities of nanotechnology for systematic control and manufacture at the nanoscale are expected to evolve significantly in both complexity and the degree of integration by 2020. II.1.3.1 Passive to Active nanotechnology It has been suggested that an important transition in the long-run trajectory of nanotechnology development is a shift from passive to active nanostructures. Such a shift could present different or increased societal impacts and require new approaches for risk assessment. An active nanostructure changes or evolves its state during its operation, according to the National Science Foundations (2006) Active Nanostructures and Nanosystems grant solicitation. Passive: (steady function) nanostructures Behaviour: inert or reactive nanostructures which have stable behaviour and quasi -constant properties during their use. Potential risk: e.g. nanoparticles in cosmetics or food with large scale production and high exposure rates. Active: (evolving function nanostructures) Behaviour: the nanostructures properties are designed to change during operation so behaviour is variable and potentially unstable. Successive changes in state may occur (either intended or as an unforeseen reaction to the external environment). Potential risk: e.g. nanobiodevices in the human body; pesticides engineered to react to different conditions. Categories of active nanostructures are: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Remote actuated active nanostructures, such as light-actuated embedded sensors; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Environmentally responsive active nanostructures, such as responsive drug delivery; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Miniaturized active nanostructures, such as synthetic molecular motors and molecular machines; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Hybrid active nanostructures, or uncommon combinations of materials, such as silicon-organic ; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Transforming active nanostructures, such as self-healing materials. (M.C. Roco, 2004, 2007) Tour estimates the time it will take to commercialize each of these types as 0-5 years for passive nanotechnologies, 15-50 years or more for active nanotechnologies and 7-12 years for hybrids (J. Clarence, 2009) II.1.4. WHY ALL THE FUSS ABOUT NANOTECHNOLOGY? NANOTECHNOLOGY: THE SCIENCE CHANGING YOUR LIFE Penny Sarchet The advantages of using nanomaterials in construction are enormous. When you consider that 41 percent of all energy use in the United States is consumed by commercial and residential buildings, the potential benefits of energy-saving materials alone are vast (Dr. Pedro Alvarez of Rice University, 2010) and when we have to evaluate the energy used by buildings in the rest of the world the result will surly show that the use of the nanomaterials in buildings will be of an anxiety necessity. Nanotechnology thus has profound potential because it can free us from some traditional limits and offer us useful new capabilities. Nanotechnology can change some of the physical rules that have traditionally confined us. It can also free us from some of the limitations that have long been placed upon us by size ( Jeffrey H, 1957). The key is to understand the specific risks and implications of the product before it is widely used. This way we can ensure that nanotechnology evolves as a tool for sustainability rather than as an environmental liability (Dr. Pedro Alvarez of Rice University, 2010). Benefices and profit with the nanotechnology is now in the hand of everyone and architects are with no doubt going to shape this realm to another level. e.g.: Solera enables seamless integration of natural daylight into the design and function of buildings. Well daylighted spaces deliver substantial and measurable benefits to sustainability, energy efficiency and human performance. This series of products provide architects with solutions to solve the challenges traditionally associated with daylighting techniques including solar heat gain, cost, complexity and glare. Other materials such as brickà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ have already showed us the changes that it has done to the industries, life, designers, buildersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ In the early days, paint was available in a limited variety of colors for you to choose. Now most of the paint shops have mixers that allow the users to choose the color they require. The manufacturers have to produce and stock only a few basic colors, reducing production and inventory costs at much greater satisfaction to the consumer. The future of nanotechnology will be the personal nano-factories, like the paint mixers, that allow you to produce any material that you require. The shops have to carry only stock in molecular form. Advances in nanotechnology are moving at an exponential rate. It will eventually encompass every field of human activity including energy. (Johnzactruba, 2011) Disadvantages of Nanotechnology: Safety hazards with nanomaterials, Some studies detected possible cancer-causing properties of carbon nanotubes, Some nanomaterials bounded with other materials or components (Jamie Jackson, CIS 121) II.1.5. RISK OF NANOTECHNOLOGY It is obvious to find out that except from the greatness and impressive opportunities that nanotechnology offers, the risks are associated with it as well. And these risk touch-up on Health, environment, Industryà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Because of the size of the particles, nanomaterials may enter human and other living bodies and disrupt body-functions. Some nanoparticles may also be non-biodegradable thereby posing a new threat to the environment. Therefore it is crucial to examine and estimate the risk for regulating the production, use, consumption and disposal of these materials. (Hyd and spook, 2012). For example, Health effects of several insulating materials are a concern; 1. The fibers released from fiberglass insulation may be carcinogenic, and fiberglass insulation now requires cancer warning labels. 2. There are also claims that the fire retardant chemicals or respirable particles in cellulose insulation may be hazardous (Dr. George, 2007). The risk most talked about is the ability of nanotech carbon tubes to potentially cause asbestosis-type illnesses, (Mike Childs, 2012) Manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs); and nanocomposites are being considered for various uses in the construction and related infrastructure industries. To achieve environmentally responsible nanotechnology in construction, it is important to consider the lifecycle impacts of MNMs on the health of construction workers and dwellers, as well as unintended environmental effects at all stages of manufacturing, construction, use, demolition, and disposal. Emphasis in industries; In India, late industry participation has also begun in this area, and there is an emphasis on fostering public-private partnerships (PPP). Nonetheless government support to this sector remains crucial for three reasons: 1. Nanotechnology is a capital-intensive technology and is in an embryonic phase, thus industry would not be able to sustain the research effort needed for the establishment of scientific and technological infrastructure. 2. The state is required to define the regulatory framework. In 2010-11 this process was initiated. 3. The state ,particularly in the developing country context, can set the agenda and resist the tendency to uncritically follow international trends in research that do not address their developmental needs. REFERENCES.. Dr. George, 2007. Insulation, nanotechnology for green building. Retrieved from http://esonn.fr/esonn2010/xlectures/mangematin/Nano_Green_Building55ex.pdf page 12 Dr. Pedro Alvarez of Rice University (2010, January). Future Cities: Nanotechnology promises more sustainable buildings, bridges, and others structures Retrieved from http://portal.acs.org/portal/acs/corg/content?_nfpb=true_pageLabel=PP_ARTICLEMAINnode_id=2103content_id=CNBP_025646use_sec=truesec_url_var=region1__uuid=00475ea1-8da9-4443-8448-baaff07d9f4a Hawks Perch Technical Writing (2007). Carbon nanotubesand applications. Retrieved from http://www.understandingnano.com/nanotubes-carbon.html Hyd and spook (2012, January), nanotechnology in india. Retrieved from http://www.indianofficer.com/forums/11771-nanotechnology-india.html#ixzz2Awlr7jNb Jamie Jackson, CIS 121: Computer Programming II (C++). Nanotechnology and the Development of Computer Circuits retrieved from Jeffrey H. Matsuura, (1957). Nanotechnology regulation and policy worldwide. why all the fuss about nanotechnology?. Artech house, boston-london. Journal Club ( 2008, may ). Mechanical Behaviors of Polymer-matrix Nanocomposites. Retrieved from http://me.utep.edu/lrxu/Mechanical%20Behavior%20of%20Polymer.htm J. Clarence davies, PEN( 2009, April) Oversight of next generation NANOTECHNOLOGY Johnzactruba, (2011, may). Applicationof nano technology for energy, Retrieved from http://www.brighthubengineering.com/power-plants/87228-applications-of-nanotechnology-for-energy/ Kanatzidis, (2006, may). Nanocomposites. Retrieved from http://www.cem.msu.edu/~kanatzid/Nanocomposites.html Michael F. Ashby, Paulo J.Ferreira, Daniel L. Schodek, (2009) Nanomaterials, Nanotechnologies and Design, a brief history of materials, elsevier Ltd. pg 29 Mike Childs, 2012, march technology making the splash. http://www.guardian.co.uk/nanotechnology-world/technology-making-a-splash M.C. Roco (2004, 2007), shift to active nanostructures is hypothesized. Retrieved from http://bit.ly/activenano Professor J.N. Hay and S.J. Shaw (2001, September). Nanocomposites: proprieties and applications. Retrieved from http://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=921 Wikipedia ( 2012, november). Carbon nanotube. Retieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_nanotube NANOARCHITECTURE Importance of nanotechnology in architecture A P P L I C A T I O N S ( Fig05: Analysis of Nanotechnology from an Industrial Ecology Perspective Part I: Inventory Evaluation of Life Cycle Assessments of Nanotechnologies.) III.1. Environmental application Environmentally, Nanotechnology also has the potential to help our environment. Example: It controls pollution through source reduction. This is a method of eliminating toxic waste at its source, with the understanding that releasing the waste into the environment is the last resort. Source reduction can be achieved by cleaning up existing processes or by reducing consumption of resources where such consumption creates pollution. III.1.1. Insulation The impact of the improvement of insulation reductions is counted by billions of pounds annually. Ref table (Fig06: Potential sources of EU CO2 emission reductions ) Nanoscale materials hold great promise as insulators because of their extremely high surface-to-volume ratio. This gives them the ability to trap still air within a material layer of minimal thickness (conventional insulating materials like fibreglass and polystyrene get their high insulating value less from the conductive properties of the materials themselves than from their ability to trap still air.) Insulating a nonmaterial may be sandwiched between rigid panels, applied as thin films, or painted on as coatings (Dr. George, 2007) Nanogel panels; Aerogel This material as an incredible ability and capacity such as strength, it can take its own load 2000 times reminding that it has only 5 percent solid and the rest is filled with air only an are also applicable on fabric architecture or structures. Because nanoporous aerogels can be sensitive to moisture, they are often marketed sandwiched between wall panels that repel moisture. Aerogel panels are available with up to 75 percent translucency, and their high air content means that a 9cm (3.5) thick aerogel panel can offer an R-value of R-28, a valu

The Focus on Cultural Competency in the Social Work Profession Essay

The focus of social work practice can be best described as a pendulum, with major theoretical shifts occurring in accordance with, among many things, social climate, funding, and federal and state legislation. Thus, incorporating concepts of cultural competency into the clinical setting has been an evolutionary process. The focus on cultural competency in the social work profession has developed from a trend, to what is now regarded as an academic knowledge base and professional standard (Bridge, Massie & Mills, 2008). The nineties marked a shift towards multicultural and cultural diversity competency, it is still a fairly novel concept†¦.. In many instances discussions on cultural competency have been broached by non-social work professionals and in terms of multicultural therapy and counseling (Lu, Lum & Chen, 2001). With the client population becoming a more expansive group in terms of socioeconomic level, race, gender identification, and sexual orientation, it is imperative that clinicians engaged in cross-cultural work conduct ongoing â€Å"self-inventories,† and be involved in collaborative discussions with their agency in regards to cultural competency. The following paper will be a perspective on my conception of cultural competency as a clinical social worker in an agency setting. McPhatter (1997) defines cultural competency as the ability to bring cultural awareness and understanding into â€Å"health and/or psychosocial interventions that support and sustain healthy client-system functioning within the appropriate cultural context (pg.261).† Akin to many of my peers, I am inclined to envision myself upon graduation as a self-aware, knowledgeable, enthusiastic clinician capable of servicing all kinds of clients without prejudices... ...ural contexts, it is crucial that cultural competency garners attention from both the clinician, and agency. The ongoing work involved in this journey is emotionally demanding, and I find it incredibly helpful to revisit the very reason why I choose this profession. As Elizabeth J. Clarke, Executive Director of the National Association of Social Workers so eloquently states, â€Å"We are holders of hope for our clients, our communities, and our society†¦. social work is the last best profession (pg.11).† Given that, it is critical that as social workers we remember that although discussing societal constructs, such as, racism, classism, sexism, and homophobia in the therapeutic relationship can be remarkably challenging, by engaging in such conversations you are combating the power that these constructs possess in your life, your client’s and the global society at large.

Does War Affect Literature

Many writers use the environment, political issues, or social issues as inspiration to their work. During romanticism nature imagery was a common occurrence in literature. However does on particular issue effect writers so much that a new literature movement is sprung from it? I pose the question what were considerable differences between Victorian literature and Modernism and how did the Great War play apart in those differences?Was it because of the war that there was the Victorian Era and Modernism or was it bound to be a new literary movement with or ithout the Great War. I pose to answer these questions to the best of my ability in this paper. The Victorian era took place from 1830 – 1901, which is almost the exact same time frame that Queen Victoria reined thus the name Victorian Era. Writers during this time were at an awe trying to respond to the expansion of the country due to the industrialization going on at the time. Reactions it the changes going on at that time w ere numerous between writers and the people.Some welcomed the changes, while others challenged the changes because they found them to be threatening to their raditions. While others felt that breaking away from the traditions was more freeing than trying to maintain this conventional life. The Victorian Era was full of liveliness surrounding the social and industrial changes that were going on at the time. Nevertheless with all the change some things are bound to stay the same, Great Britain was still in a great deal of debt. Even though national debt was at an all time high the British banks continued to borrow money.Brantlinger says borrowing money is the best way of sustaining credit in his book, the debt that the country was n played a major role in the literature and art of the time because money is used in everyday life. Whether you were paying with credit or ready money determined whether or not you would eat that night. During the Victorian Era writers focused most of their literature on social differences in social classes and reform. During this time society's interpretation reined supreme over personal interpretation. During that time writer such as John Stuart Mill, Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde emerged.John Stuart Mill shed more light on the philosophical idea of Utilitarianism. John Stuart Mill son of Philosopher James Mill was a close friend to the creator of Utilitarianism, Jeremy Bentham. Utilitarianism is the doctrine that actions are morally and socially acceptable if they benefit the majority. John Stuart Mill used this doctrine to preach reform in the social classes. John Stuart Mill felt that the government should work on the living conditions of working and lower class people. This philosophical idea was used to argue in most political arguments during the Victorian period.Even when it came time for parliament to decide whether to continue to borrow money from allied ountries, this greater good philosophy came into play. An idea that rema ins strong and has stand the test of time still being used by philosophers today. Charles Dickens was renowned to be one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian Era. His works were heavy on sub textual references. He enjoyed creating then breaking down meanings and interruptions. Otten times ne put some ot his own person experiences into his work.Fore example in his novel â€Å"Oliver Twist†, Charles Dickens himself once lived in an orphanage after his father was thrown into debtor prison like many people during this time period. While using â€Å"Oliver Twist† to somewhat tell his life story, he was also using a very melancholy type of humor reminiscent of other authors during the time. Mid Victorian era literary realism appeared, Writers and artist began to incorporate the industrial work and the excessive use of credit in the country into their work likewise discussing the social conventions of the time.Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest takes a Jab at Victorian social conventions in this satire filled play. Beside the play making fun at the Victorian Era it also marked the end of an era and the start of Modernism and also the events leading up to the Great War. The Great War began in summer on 1914 with the assassination of the Archduke of Austria-Hungry, once Britain entered the war they quickly asked for both financial and military assistance from allies and colonies of theirs. By entering the Great War, a greater financial strain was put on to both the country and the people.Britain fell further into debt with the United States as the war continued to rage on and on. Besides Britain suffering financially, on the battlefield the men were suffering. Spending countless days and nights in muddy blood filled trenches to stay out of the line of fire. A new type of warfare emerged through the bloodshed, poison gas. All you saw on the battlefields during were gas masks gas, gas, and gas. Chlorine gas killed more soldiers than actual bullets during this war. Most men who enlisted to fght during the Great War were dead men walking.Chlorine gas was a favorite weapon of the Germans as Duffy has told us. However soldiers went the only ones being choked to death so to speak. Freedom of speech was being silenced in Britain by the Defense of the Realm Act in 194, besides silencing the people election were deferred during the war. Britain was becoming a place were the people no longer aw eye to eye with the government. The working class was now truly breaking away from the idea of the Victorian period; they no longer wanted to survive Just solely on credit in fear of losing everything if they were not able to pay their bills on time.This war made the people actually see what was going on in their country and in their government and it began to spill over into literature and arts. Literature went from discussing social class and poverty to describing battlefields in great details and questioning the readers' moral Judgme nt. Modernism directly followed the Victorian Era. It is said that Modernism started in 1901 and lasted until the 1960's or 70's. I believe it was small changes in art and literature started in 1901 but Modernism did not really begin to appear until during the Great War and everything after.It was a conscious break from traditional art, subjective, full of alienation and despair while also rejecting the past. Modernism is extremely different from Victorian Literature, while modernism focuses on how the readers will interpretation the work and not society. Where in Victorian literature it was society's interpretation trumps everything. Also during this time both World Wars had occurred giving writers at the time even more to write about and shed their own opinions on.This period was a time where experimentation and individualism were encouraged most things about the past were thrown to the side and discouraged like writing about social conventions or painting pictures ot a dinner sce ne. Also Modernism unlike Victorian Era gives you a clear definition on what to expect from literature and art during that time period. I attribute the mast amount of differences between the two literary periods to the dark cloud that was hanging over Britain and its people once the Great War was over. People were questioning both their countrys morality and their own patriotism.Just like the Victorian Era there were great Modernism authors. Authors like Joseph Conrad, T. S Eliot, and Wilfred Owen all with very similar dark styles that you can attribute to the Great War. Joseph Conrad still known for his short story The Heart of Darkness and novel â€Å"The Nigger of the Narcissus†. Both works drift far away from the traditional standards of the Victorian Era and was a true work of modernism. The slow dark story of The Heart of Darkness was a story whose major theme was savagery versus civilization while traveling through Africa. That was something that was not seen at that t ime.This story made people question savagery and civilization. Everyone has a little savage in them but how much is too much and you cross the line of being uncivilized. This was a very big question during the Great War, what was too much? What was considered uncivilized? That was a question that was constantly raised during the Great War. Besides questioning civilization Conrad had a dark way about his work similar to another Modernism writer. The Heart Of Darkness was dark story about a voyage, a voyage that many of us could never dream of making or going on.A voyage that would test the morality of most men, Just like the Great War tested the morality of most of its soldiers. Was it morally acceptable to continuously heave poison gas back and forth at each other? T. S Eliot was a dark writer with his works such as â€Å"The Hollow Men†, a poem that begins by quoting Conrad's The Heart of Darkness and mimicking its darkness for entirety of the poem. Unlike the Conrad's story , which questioned what is civilized and what is not this poem, speaks of the end of the world and humanity, as we know. The poem discusses us as humans losing our individuality and becoming empty.While reading â€Å"The Hollow Men†, I questioned was humanity lost after the Great War with all of the unnecessary bloodshed and death. People in Britain became empty and inhuman after the Great War. Besides his dark works T. S Eliot's poems are prime examples of Modernism. Poems like â€Å"The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock† and â€Å"The Wasteland† both poems were bold and broke far away from everything Victorian. In Eliot's â€Å"The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock† he broke away from tradition with a title that has on particular inference to anything in the poem, there was no love in this poem.Modernism is all about being different and T. S Eliot did that. He also wrote with a style that forced readers to read his work several times to grasp the different meaning, with his lines like the muttering retreats, of restless nights in one-night cheap hotels. Which could be interpreted as he had a considerable amount of one- night stands or he traveled a great deal and was in a different city every night. The interpretation varies from reader to reader another characteristic of Modernism. Lastly Eliot's work do not fit any type of cookie cutter mold, Eliot focused only on † The Love Song of J.Alfred Prufrock†. Solely on his chaotic thinking and perception of his ife. He's not worried about what social effect his poem has on the world. This poem shows he does not care if the reader can even understand his thought process completely subjective like Modernism works should be. Wilfred Owen another author to nave works published during Modernism. Owen is known tor his war poems classifying him as a war poet. Many of his poems describe British soldiers after or during battle. Most famously known for his poem â€Å"Dulce et Decorum Es t† which was published towards the end of the Great War.In his poem Owen paints a gruesome picture of English troops dying from poison gas. The same young men that were so anxious to fght for their country are now tired covered in blood and barely alive. At the end of the poem Owen uses Just a bit of satire after describing this horrible scene. Owen's tells us that it is sweet and right to die for your country. Owen tells readers the old Lie: Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mor. But really how sweet is it to choke to death for your country. I bet most soldier would rather be shot than to die choking on a cloud of poison gas.The Great War made it possible for works like â€Å"Dulce et Decorum Est† to be created and become popular for the reason that it is ust like a car crash people will slow down to watch, so if a writer is describing the horrors of the battlefield people will slow down and read it. Just like the writers I described before Owen's his works our faultless examples of Modernism and how the war contributed to the development of the literary movement and the clear differences between Victorian era and Modernism. After writing this paper I know have an improved understanding of what was going on in Britain Pre war and after.I also can further see the differences between the two literary movements, the topic that were debated on plus by what means the topics were conversed about. The primary topic in literature during the Victorian Era were the remarkable differences between the social classes and the living conditions of the mast majority of citizens in Britain during this time. Most of these works were Jam-packed with humor to try to contradict the dim truth about the horrible situations many citizens had to deal with on the day to day.Spending countless hours each day working low paying Jobs in factories, orphans on the street begging for money because their parents were locked in debtors' prison. As much as authors complained of the living conditions and he need for social reform in the country, they still remained very patriotic. Nevertheless once the Great War began both the country and the literature started to change. I expected the change but I did not expect to see such a massive change in the short four-year timespan of the Great War.Even though the textbooks roughly estimates that Modernism began before the Great War on the other hand authentic Modernism did not appear until the war began. That is because most Modernism literature questioned actions that occurred during the war. Actions like use of poison gas, trench warfare, and imperialism. Modernism was also a decline in the patriotism that was apparent in Victorian literature. The Great war made writers break from caring about the entirety of the countries issues and focus only on what interests them.For Wilfred Owen it was war, Joseph Conrad focused on imperialism and questioning morality. To answer the question I posed in my introduction the Great War played apart in making the differences between Victorian era and Modernism because it gave authors a new topic to discuss and new moral to question. Pre-war authors did not have to question the acts of their countries soldiers if they were morally acceptable or not. The last question I posed – was it because of the Great war that Modernism appear or was it bound to be another literary movement with or without the war.After doing this paper I believe that it was bound to be another movement without the war i t is Just that the war gave authors the push needed speed up the movement. In the end I can say that war does affect literature.