Test 04 05 06 - 1644 Words

Test 04 Question 1 5 out of 5 points If the subcontractor to whom a struck company has contracted work is unionized, its employees legally can refuse to perform the work. Such refusals are allowed under the Selected Answer: ally doctrine. Question 2 5 out of 5 points Which strike occurs when one union strikes to support another union s strike? Selected Answer: Sympathy Question 3 5 out of 5 points All of the following observations are true of fact-finding except Selected Answer: it has a short history in U.S. labor relations. Question 4 5 out of 5 points All of the following are effects associated with shutdowns except Selected Answer: highly negative consequences for future labor†¦show more content†¦Selected Answer: True Question 2 5 out of 5 points Public sector labor relations are similar across the 50 states. Selected Answer: False Question 3 5 out of 5 points Duty-to-bargain laws substantially increase unionization beyond other public policy measures favorable to public sector unions. Selected Answer: True Question 4 5 out of 5 points A study of firefighters negotiations found that several factors predicted positive union outcomes. Which of these factors reflects multilateral bargaining? Selected Answer: Elected official intervention at impasse Question 5 5 out of 5 points What is the relationship between the costs of arbitration and the likelihood of parties negotiating their own settlement? Selected Answer: Higher costs; more likely to negotiate own settlement Question 6 5 out of 5 points Surveys suggest the use of arbitration is Selected Answer: low and decreasing. Question 7 5 out of 5 points Unlike those in the private sector, public sector employers are Selected Answer: simultaneously bargainers and legislators. Question 8 5 out of 5 points With arbitration at impasse, the union faces the prospect of management unilaterally continuing past terms without recourse to some other bargaining weapon. Selected Answer: False Question 9 5 out of 5 points Public sector locals need approvalShow MoreRelatedThe Red Zuma Project1309 Words   |  6 Pageswhich are on this critical path are shown in the table below: Table 1: Critical activities Critical path activity Duration (days) Market analysis 25 Product design 30 Product design and selection 10 Detailed product design 45 Build prototypes 25 Field test prototypes 15 Finalized product design 20 Final manufacturing process 10 Order production equipment 14 Install production equipment 35 Celebrate 1 Slack With a total slack of 179 days, the detailed marketing plan is the activity with the greatestRead MoreHow Ph And Peroxidase Affects Each Other And The Enzyme Was Made869 Words   |  4 Pages(Rodriguez-Cabrera, Regalado, and Garcia-Almendarez, 2011) In this experiment, four trials were conducted and recorded every 15 seconds for 5 minutes in order to calculate the optimum levels and IRV. Materials and Methods: The materials used were test tubes, a colorimeter, cuvette, dura-film, 8.9ml of deionized water, 0.1ml of guaiacol, 0.3ml of hydrogen peroxide, and 0.1ml of enzyme solution. Readings were took every 15 seconds for 5 minutes. This experiment had four different trials, a base lineRead MoreCorrelation Between Music and IQ in Children Essay631 Words   |  3 Pagessuggests that regularly playing an instrument changes the shape and power of the brain (Alleyne, 2009). Playing the drums and its link with IQ was specifically studied at the University of Toronto and children showed a significant improvement in IQ tests after taking drum lessons for a period of time (Weber, 2006). Moreover, Hochman states that drumming can help learners to concentrate, and grow academically (Hochman, n.d.). Playing a musical instrument was thus shown to have a definite effect on theRead MoreBacterial Enumeration of Various Meat Products1161 Words   |  5 Pageshowever, the dilution number will directly influence the number of bacterial colonies that form on the culture plates. MATERIALS AND METHODS. A sample of meat suspension sample A was taken and diluted through means of a 10-fold serial dilution into test tubes. Samples from the first through forth dilution were taken and were each applied individually to four nutrient agar (NA) plates, each of which was labeled as spread plates with the respective dilution number of each diluted sample (Shand 2014)Read MoreStatistical Analysis of 5 Microeconomics Variables4972 Words   |  20 Pagesrate, effect of DSI with changes in deposit rate, effect of DSI with changes in direct foreign investment. The objectives of the paper are to investigate the effect of macroeconomic factors on stock returns. A multiple correlation model is designed to test the relationship between the DSE stock returns and selected macroeconomic variables. INTRODUCTION The relationship between macroeconomic variables and stock prices has been extensively studied in developed capital markets and the literatures on thatRead MoreAnalysis Of A Functional Capacity Analysis1119 Words   |  5 PagesL5-S1 on 01/06/2017, 02/07/2017, 03/10/2017, 04/25/2017, A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) report dated 05/05/2017 was completed by James Orr. The claimant ambulates without the aid of a cane or walker. No sensory deficit was noted. The neurological examination was within normal limits. The claimants current physical demand level was sedentary, with occasional lifting or use of force of 10 pounds. The claimant was unable to complete 60 minutes of sitting and standing tolerance tests due to increasedRead MoreThe Label Printing Software At Nirvana Llc1022 Words   |  5 Pagespressure to meet project deadline 4.4 Product Deliverables (Chapter 5) Deliverables Date Available User manuals/guidelines 07/01/15 Training material TBD – will be determined once software has been implemented in production Process forms 05/01/15 Draft documents 04/25/15 Progress reports N/A – the reports will be available at every stage gate of the Work Breakdown Structure. Refer to work breakdown structure and milestone deliverables Table 1. Key Project Deliverables 4.5 User Product AcceptanceRead MoreImpact of Macro Economics Factors in Share Market19276 Words   |  78 PagesEconomic factors and Companies of selected sector. 2. ANOVA: ANOVA (F test) is used since there are more than two independent variables. There are five Macro Economic chosen for the study, Independent Variable are more than two , so Anova test is used in this study. 3. t Test : To know the specificity that is which independent variable has an impact on share price movement) t test is used. t Test is used in this study is to find which MacroEconomic factors have much impactRead Morelevel pool routing report1229 Words   |  5 Pagesobserved. Reservoir routing yielded reliable results which conformed to the expected error based on the equipment used to measure values. A high level of accuracy was observed with only small variation between simulated and observed results. Had more tests been carried out the observed average may have changed and correlated even more closely to the theoretical data. When using the Puls method the observed results were seen to slightly over estimate the water level within the pool. This should be notedRead MoreCorrelation Between Inflation And Total Life Insurance1271 Words   |  6 PagesTable No: Correlation between Inflation and Total life insurance premium in India Year Inflation (in %) Premium (Rs. In Crores) 2000-01 34898.47 2001-2 4.3 50094.46 2002-03 4.1 55747.55 2003-04 3.8 66653.75 2004-05 3.9 82854.80 2005-06 5.2 105875.76 2006-07 7.3 156075.84 2007-08 8.1 201351.41 2008-09 9.8 221785.47 2009-10 12.7 265447.25 2010-11 291638.64 2011-12 287072.11 2012-13 287202.49 2013-14 314301.66 2014-15 328101.14 Correlation: r = significant: p = Source: RBI

Compulsory Voting Free Essays

Compulsory Voting Compulsory voting would result in a decrease in the quality and accuracy of voting results and political leadership. Countries such as Australia do not take many factors into consideration when they require their citizens to vote in local, state, and national elections. Compulsory voting causes skewed results and stress for citizens who are not physically fit or mentally competent enough to vote accurately. We will write a custom essay sample on Compulsory Voting or any similar topic only for you Order Now Apathy and uneducated citizens can result in invalid voting results. If all people were forced to vote, uneducated citizens who are not familiar with the issues and concerns on the ballot might cast random, careless votes. Voters who are complacent about their country’s government would also create skewed results because they are not likely to research the topics they vote on. Secondly, each individual who is knowledgeable has a greater impact on the final results. These citizens who are informed, keep up with current events, and take the time to vote voluntarily because they recognize the importance of it should be rewarded. In many countries, citizens do not have an influence in government decisions. In parts of the world where citizens have the right to vote, the only method to create an accurate representation of the desires of citizens is to leave voting voluntary, not compulsory. Implementing a required voting system would be inconsiderate to many people and would cause many negative effects in society. It does not take into account citizens who are elderly, mentally or physically incompetent, or struggling financially. For elderly people, leaving the home in order to vote may enervate them. Many other groups of people might find it challenging to vote, such as those who can not afford gas or a car to drive the voting site. Some may not own a TV or a computer to research the candidates or issues they are supposed to vote for. With everyday stresses such as children, work, and finances, adding voting as a requirement for all would cause chaos. The government would have to grant exceptions to some citizens who are unable to vote, possibly causing disorder and lawsuits in the court system from people who believe they should be excused from voting. In every nation, residents should be given the choice to participate in influencing government affairs if they so choose. It would prevent inaccurate results by not forcing citizens who are unaware of the candidates or issues to vote, and would reward those who voluntarily take time out of their day to vote and research the issues. Discrimination against people who are unable to vote would also not occur. Voting should be encouraged by the government, but enforcing it would impinge on citizens and would be a disservice to society. How to cite Compulsory Voting, Essay examples

Strategic Management Culture and Planning

Introduction The aim of this research is to critically evaluate two schools of thoughts of Strategic Management, culture and planning. The role of culture and planning has been increased in the productivity, developments and then perfection of the national as well as the multinational organisation in this globalization world. In this respect, this study will initially consider the origin and the basic principles of each of the school of thought.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Strategic Management: Culture and Planning specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This paper will also present a critique of each school of thought, in addition with the example of an organisation that has either successfully or unsuccessfully pursued this cultural and planning observation. Origin of each SoT (Cultural and Planning Culture is the outcome of widespread knowledge and backgrounds that really drives the culture in its esse nce-are the wise, distributed, taken-for-granted assumptions on which persons groundwork their every day behaviour. Culture is the outcome of mutual knowledge and backgrounds. It works out one-by-one demeanour, collective demeanour, and the procedures of seeing, concern patterns and values (Zammunto and Krakower, 2001, 83-114.). The source of the formation of culture is a highly pragmatic, junction discovering method over time where a certain set about was taken to overwhelm a difficulty, to deal with a kind of connection or to fit into the organisation’s natural environment and the outcome was successful. There is a possibility that rapid advances could be implemented wrongly with incorrect credible sourcing. It had been observed and noted to happened previously. The bias should habitually be to outlook your culture as power, because it is a composite of the seen determinants to which past achievements are attributed. Culture builds up a specific society’s behaviour. Business organizations, like communal schemes need a very fast and productive connection scheme method in alignment to effectively come to their targets. In the Citigroup organisation, the enterprise culture is personal to the demeanour of each one-by-one employee (Jenkins and Collier, 2007, 1-7). The enterprise tends to â€Å"overemphasize interior determinants and underemphasize external causes†. According to the research by Quinn and Spreitzer (2001), Culture is the addition total of all the distributed, taken-for-granted, often subconscious assumptions that an assembly has wise all through its history. â€Å"Its evolution can be traced all the way back to the organisation’s initial â€Å"reason for being† or raison d’etre and the one-by-one culture of the founder† (Quinn Spreitzer 2001).Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More On th e other location the planning set about to management is as vintage as warfare, and it even has infantry origins. From the infantry origins as it was the foremost ground of the very vintage conflicts, strategic planning has habitually directed at the â€Å"big picture.† The aim is on outcomes or conclusions, other than goods or outputs. Strategic planning is less worried with how to accomplish conclusions than with characterising what those conclusions should be. Through the late 1950’s strategic planning’s aim moved away from organisational principle and structure (Ager, 2008, 58-214.) in the direction of the management of risk, commerce development, and market share. In the up to designated day world the strategic planning has became a benchmark management equipment in nearly every large-scale and numerous lesser businesses as well. The basic tenets of each SoT (Cultural and Planning) Basic tenets of Cultural school of thoughts Communication Communication in t he workplace is vital. It is the base for achievement in a cultural management organisation. Poor connection can be mortal to the achievement of a enterprise or organisation. â€Å"Good connection double-checks persons understand what is anticipated of them and double-checks coordination inside the organisation† (Bowling, 2007, 74-147) Communication inside the Citigroup organisation is productive most of the time. Anytime a change in principle is broadcast, a CIB (Change in business) newsletter is dispatched out to the management employees to broadcast with their teams. The employees are granted accelerate observe and taught on how the data should be broadcast to the customers (Schein, 109-119, 2000). DiversityAdvertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Strategic Management: Culture and Planning specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Xenikou and Furnham (2006) suggested that varied assemblies are inclined to be more creative and present better on problem-solving jobs than homogeneous assemblies, but they furthermore emerge to have smaller grades of communal integration and higher revenue than homogeneous groups (Xenikou and Furnham, 2006). The Citigroup organisation accepts as factual that a varied work force best assists the concerns of the employees and the customers. They furthermore accept as factual employees from all backgrounds should accept as factual that possibilities for expert development and advancement are accessible in the work environment (Quinn and Spreitzer, 2001, 115-142.). Dress and Language Dress attire and look should habitually contemplate the largest benchmark of professionalism. The look of the employees performances a significant part in how the public perceives the company. In the Citigroup organisation, an enterprise casual dress has been adopted. Business casual dress entails apparel befitting for the office. It furthermore entails â€Å"dressing professional ly, looking calm yet tidy and dragged together† (Quinn and Spreitzer, 2001, 115-142.). Language is absolutely crucial to encouraging professionalism in an organisation. Language and culture are intimately intertwined as dialect is the vehicle through concepts and insights expressed. Some facets of a community’s culture are conveyed in the dialect they use. The Citigroup organisation focuses on sustaining an expert work natural environment and double-checking that their employees are sustaining a befitting likeness when talking to our ‘internal and external’ customers(Zammunto and Krakower, 2001, 83-114.). Basic tenets of planning school of thought As researched by Mintzbergm Ahlstrand in 2008, there are numerous distinct types of organisational planning tenets. The four rudimentary grades of goals are the objective, strategic, tactical, (Mintzberg, Ahlstrand, 1998, 85-258) and the organisational goals. E. H Schein (2000) mentioned Contingency planning is an other absolutely crucial kind of planning (Schein, 2000). The first tenet is the strategic plan it evolves strategic goals. This universal plan summarise the established goals that contemplate effectiveness (appropriate outputs) and effectiveness (high ratios yields to inputs) (Schein, 109-119, 2000). Effective scheme is a convention of activities and asset shares conceived to accomplish organisational goals. Strategic designs have powerful external orientation these bosses are to blame for development.Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The second tenet is the tactical plan which is calculated to accomplish tactical goals to put into procedure components of the strategic plan. Such a claim had been proposed by the investigator Bowling in the year 2007. Nathan Bowling (2007) claimed that tactical designs are a set of activities for converting very broad strategic goals into exact goals. Tactical designs aim mainly on foremost activities than on in writing designs to fulfill strategic plans; in other phrases focusing on persons and action. Effective tactical planning engages both development and execution. The key players are middle-level managers comprising of the vice leader of operations (Bowling, 2007, 74-147). The third tenet is the operational plan which has a focal issue of bearing out the tactical designs to complete the operational goals. The managers having these names are supervisors or sales managers. Zammunto and Krakower (2001) mentioned that the functions of the front-line/lower-level managers are cruc ial to the planning method for some reasons. First, these managers are a precious source of interior data for other managers as designs are formulated and applied by being exactly engaged with non-management. Second, managers at the middle and frontline grades of numerous organizations generally execute the designs urbanized by the top-level managers (Zammunto and Krakower, 2001). The last tenet is the contingency plan which is furthermore renowned as the crises management. These designs are of alternate techniques of activity to be taken if an proposed plan is suddenly disturbed or rendered inappropriate. Contingency planning is evolving progressively significant for most organizations (Xenikou and Furnham, 2006, 349-371.). Dany Jacobs claimed in his research Mapping Strategic Diversity that Contingency planning is a helpful technique for assisting managers contend with doubt and change (Jacobs, 2010). Strategic tools SoT (Cultural and Planning) Cultural tools Cultural tools and te chnique are the main building blocks are deep-rooted and durable of an organisation. They stimulate behaviour and response to touch. â€Å"They underpin the very way people approach their work, make choices and decisions, and deal with each other† (Quinn and Spreitzer, 2001, p. 115-142). To setting an organisational culture, the managers and the management should learn the following tools to: Engage in a learning process to know about others as individuals to be able to work closely in strong and beneficial working partnerships. Identify the differences between individuals and develop an understanding of the diversity that may exist in the organization. Select individuals who are more sutiable to the organizational framework. Formulate teams and improve working within groups. Steer up commitment by encouraging individuals and motivating them to achieve the desired organisational goals (Ager, 2008, p. 58-214.) Witte and Muijen (2001) made a note that studies conducted by E. H. Schein in the year 2000, 1985 and 1993 indicated that the primary reason for an organisation’s lack of success is a neglect of their organisational culture (Witte Muijen, 2000). Planning tools There is a collection of strategic planning tools that could be used for developing effective strategic plans. These tools could be considered as mental approaches and procedures that could be applied to deal with a situation and plan the best strategy for dealing with the given task. Most of the strategic planning tools can be overliying, (Mintzberg, Ahlstrand, 1998, 85-258) thus, if a setting up a strategic planning process is going on, no need to practice all of them, even most of them. Only those strategic planning tools must be used that are relevant to the company’s goal and the tools that can prove to be good for the organization. The tools of planning process are as the following: SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) PEST Analysis (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological analysis) Scenario Planning Competitive Analysis Goals Grid Supply Chain Analysis (or Supply Chain Strategic Planning) Focus Groups as Part of Strategic Planning STP (Situation – Target – Path Method or Model for Strategic Planning) Critique of each SoT(Cultural and Planning) Critique of Cultural Culture as an origin metaphor moves to the delineation of organisation and what it entails to be organized. The methodology is founded on widespread activities of employees and researchers. Insiders (employees) are compelled to articulate their rudimentary assumptions, and investigators understand verbal and non-verbal cues founded on the values/norms of the insiders. Having a powerful culture permits an organisation to function with their view on the future that should be sustained by well evolved and well broadcast convictions and values (Ager, 2008, 58-214.). Critique of Planning Strategic planning is a dynamic planning tool. Its practi tioners frequently consider and reassess ecological components and use evaluative data about the former year’s undertakings to modify the plan’s strategic goals and objectives. If utilised appropriately, it is an action-oriented, futuristic, and innovative management tool (Mintzberg, Ahlstrand, 1998, 85-258). One should be aware; although, that strategic planning will have a result n diverse constituents of management functioning systems–such as making allowance for, organisational structure, staffing configurations, and staff evaluation. Example of organisations SoT(Cultural and Planning) Culture example Organisational culture is a key in the achievement or malfunction of organizations, as is apparent in up to designated day society. Although organizations disagree in power of culture and those with powerful, affirmative cultures are inclined to be the most effective and creative, powerful cultures can furthermore become contradictory and powerfully leverage an organisation in a contradictory way. Such is the case with the Enron Corporation, a one time huge power business that endured arguably the most horrific economic disintegrate in American history (Xenikou and Furnham, 2006, 349-371.). The Enron malfunction started with the development of a flawed business (organisational) culture, and was fulfilled by the unchanging reinforcement of that culture. From the peak down, Enron’s business culture damned the company’s achievements and double-checked it for eventual collapse The Enron case is a clear demonstration of how organisational culture can contrary sway a company. The vigilance that is paid to very careful development of organisational culture can be the keeping grace of a labouring business or the source of corruption in a hungry one. Enron failed to conceive a thriving business culture from the start there was not anything in its set of convictions and standards that accounted for clientele service, enterprise ethics , or integrity. It was in detail Enron’s malfunction to evolve the right business culture that directed to its collapse. Planning Example The demonstration is, not long before gas consuming vehicles was a family’s illusion car. Due to the financial downfall, the increase in petrol charges, and the ecological catastrophic consequences to the earth’s air fuel effective automobiles are actually the new tendency over the nation. CEO’s and Board of Director’s have evolved strategic designs in the development of a more economical and effective vehicle (Ager, 2008, 58-214.). Through the above analysis of two different schools of thought of strategic planning, we can conclude that the role of culture and planning had a greater impact on developmental process. It is imperative for multinational organizations undergo strategic planning with its roots associated with the role of culture and planning. In today’s globalizing world, it is recommended that multinational companies take the lead of planning for user and ecological friendly strategic management. Culture and planning go hand in hand that overall stresses the need of strategic management. References Jenkins, M., Ambrosini, V. and Collier, N.,(2007),’Advanced strategic management : strategy as multiple perspectives’, in ‘Advanced Strategic Management: a multi-perspective approach’, 2nd edition, Jenkins, M., Ambrosini, V. and Collier, N.,(Eds), pp.1-7 Jacobs, Dany, (2010),’Mapping Strategic Diversity’, Routledge; 2nd edition, pp. 25-247 Mintzberg H Ahlstrand, Lampel (1998),’Strategy Safari’. Free Press; 1st edition, pp. 85-258 Ager, David. (2008)†Organisational Culture.† Sociology 25. Harvard University, pp. 58-214. Bowling, Nathan. (2007) â€Å"Role Conflict.† Encyclopedia of Industrial and Organisational Psychology. Ed. Steven Rogelberg. Vol. 2. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, pp. 74-147 Quinn, R.E. and S preitzer, G. (2001) The psychometrics of the Competing Values Culture Instrument and analysis of the impact of organisational culture on quality of life. Research in Organisational Change and Development vol. 5 pp. 115-142. Schein, E.H. (2000). Organisational culture. American Psychologist vol. 45 pp. 109-119. Witte, K., Muijen, J. (2000). Organizational Culture. London: Psychology Press. Xenikou, A. and Furnham, A. (2006). A correlational and factor analytic study of four questionnaire measures of organisational culture. Human Relations vol. 49 pp. 349-371. Zammunto, R. and Krakower, J. (2001).Quantitative and qualitative studies of organisational cultures. Research in Organisational Change and Development vol. 5 pp. 83-114. This critical writing on Strategic Management: Culture and Planning was written and submitted by user Carlos Munoz to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Americas M4 Sherman Tank, a WWII War Machine

America's M4 Sherman Tank, a WWII War Machine The iconic American tank of World War II, the M4 Sherman was employed in all theaters of the conflict by the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, as well as most Allied nations. Considered a medium tank, the Sherman initially had a mounted 75mm gun and had a crew of five. In addition, the M4 chassis served as the platform for several derivative armored vehicles such as tank retrievers, tank destroyers, and self-propelled artillery. Christened Sherman by the British, who named their U.S.-built tanks after Civil War generals, the designation quickly caught on with American forces. Design Designed as a replacement for the M3 Lee medium tank, the plans for the M4 were submitted to the U.S. Army Ordnance Department on August 31, 1940. Approved the following April, the goal of the project was to create a dependable, fast tank with the ability to defeat any vehicle then currently in use by Axis forces. In addition, the new tank was not to exceed certain width and weight parameters to ensure a high level of tactical flexibility and permit its use over a wide array of bridges, roads, and transportation systems. Specifications M4A1 Sherman Tank Dimensions Weight: 33.4 tonsLength: 19 feet, 2 inchesWidth: 8 feet, 7 inchesHeight: 9 feet Armor and Armament Armor: 19-91 mmMain gun: 75 mm (later 76 mm)Secondary armament: 1 x .50 cal. Browning M2HB machine gun, 2 x .30 Browning M1919A4 machine gun Engine Engine: 400 hp Continental R975-C1 (gasoline)Range: 120 milesSpeed: 24 mph Production During its 50,000-unit production run, the U.S. Army built seven principle variations of the M4 Sherman. These were the M4, M4A1, M4A2, M4A3, M4A4, M4A5, and M4A6. These variations did not represent a linear improvement of the vehicle but rather changes in engine type, production location, or fuel type. As the tank was produced, a variety of improvements were introduced, including a heavier, high-velocity 76mm gun, wet ammunition storage, a more powerful engine, and thicker armor. In addition, numerous variations of the basic medium tank were built. These included a number of Shermans mounted with a 105mm howitzer instead of the usual 75mm gun, as well as the M4A3E2 Jumbo Sherman. Featuring a heavier turret and armor, the Jumbo Sherman was designed for assaulting fortifications and aiding in breaking out of Normandy. Other popular variations included Shermans equipped with duplex drive systems for amphibious operations and those armed with the R3 flame thrower. Tanks possessing this weapon were frequently used for clearing enemy bunkers and earned the nickname Zippos, after the famous lighter. Early Combat Operations Entering combat in October 1942, the first Shermans saw action with the British Army at the Second Battle of El Alamein. The first U.S. Shermans saw combat the following month in North Africa. As the North Africa campaign progressed, M4s and M4A1s replaced the older M3 Lee in most American armor formations. These two variants were the principle versions in use until the introduction of the popular 500 hp M4A3 in late 1944. When the Sherman first entered service, it was superior to the German tanks it faced in North Africa and remained at least on par with the medium Panzer IV series throughout the war. Combat Operations After D-Day With the landings in Normandy in June 1944, it was learned that the Shermans 75mm gun was incapable of penetrating the front armor of the heavier German Panther and Tiger tanks. This led to the rapid introduction of the high-velocity 76mm gun. Even with this upgrade, it was found that the Sherman was only capable of defeating the Panther and Tiger at close range or from the flank. Utilizing superior tactics and working in conjunction with tank destroyers, American armor units were able to overcome this handicap and achieved favorable results on the battlefield. Operations in the Pacific and Later Due to the nature of the war in the Pacific, very few tank battles were fought with the Japanese. As the Japanese seldom used any armor heavier than light tanks, even early Shermans with 75mm guns were able to dominate the battlefield. Following World War II, many Shermans remained in U.S. service and saw action during the Korean War. Replaced by the Patton series of tanks in the 1950s, the Sherman was heavily exported and continued to operate with many of the worlds militaries into the 1970s.

History of Frankincense, Ancient Aromatic Tree Resin

History of Frankincense, Ancient Aromatic Tree Resin Frankincense is an ancient and fabled aromatic tree resin, its use as a fragrant perfume reported from a multitude of historical sources at least as early as 1500 BC. Frankincense consists of the dried resin from the frankincense tree, and it is one of the most common and sought-after of aromatic tree resins in the world even today. Purposes Frankincense resin was used in the past for a variety of medicinal, religious and social purposes, and many of those purposes are still used today. Its perhaps best-known use is to create a permeating scent by burning crystalized pieces during rites of passages such as weddings, childbirth, and funerals. The incense is and was used to smooth and oil hair and sweeten the breath; soot from the incense burners is and was used for eye makeup and tattoos. More pragmatically, melted incense resin is and was used to mend cracked pots and jars: filling the cracks with frankincense makes a vessel watertight again. The bark of the tree is and was used as a red-brown dye for cotton and leather clothing. Some species of resins have a delightful flavor, which is sampled by adding it to coffee or by simply chewing it. Frankincense also is and was also used as a household medicine for dental problems, swellings, bronchitis, and coughs. Harvesting Frankincense has never been domesticated or even truly cultivated: the trees grow where they will and survive in place for very long periods. The trees have no central trunk but seem to grow up out of the bare rock to heights of about 2-2.5 meters or about 7 or 8 feet. The resin is harvested by scraping a 2 centimeter (3/4 of an inch) opening and allowing the resin to ooze out on its own, and harden on the tree trunk. After a few weeks, the resin has dried and can be taken to market. Tapping the resin is done two to three times a year, spaced out so the tree can recover. Frankincense trees can be overexploited: take away too much resin and the seeds wont germinate. The process was not easy: the trees grow in oases surrounded by harsh deserts, and overland routes to market were difficult at best. Nonetheless, the market for incense was so great the traders used myths and fables to keep rivals away. Historical Mentions The Egyptian Ebers Papyrus dated to 1500 BC is the oldest known reference to frankincense, and it prescribes the resin as a use for throat infections and asthmatic attacks. In the first century AD, the Roman writer Pliny mentioned it as an antidote to hemlock; the Islamic philosopher Ibn Sina (or Avicenna, 980-1037 AD) recommended it for tumors, ulcers, and fevers. Other historical references to frankincense appear in the 6th century AD in the  Chinese herbal manuscript Mingyi Bielu, and numerous mentions appear in both old and new testaments of the Judeo-Christian bible. The Periplus maris Erythraei (Periplus of the Erythryean Sea), a 1st century sailors travel guide to shipping lanes in the Mediterranean, Arabian gulf and Indian Ocean, describes several natural products, including frankincense; Periplus states that South Arabian frankincense was of a finer quality and more highly prized than that from East Africa. The Greek writer Herodotus reported in the 5th century BC that frankincense trees were guarded by winged serpents of small size and various colors: a myth promulgated to warn off rivals.   Five Species There are five species of frankincense tree which produce resins suitable for incense, although the two most commercial today are Boswellia carterii or B. freraeana. The resin harvested from the tree varies from species to species, but also within the same species, depending on local climatic conditions. B. carterii (or B. sacra, and called olibanum or dragons blood) is thought to be the tree mentioned in the bible. It grows in Somalia and the Dhofar valley of Oman. The Dhofar valley is a lush green oasis, watered by monsoonal rains in sharp contrast to its surrounding desert. That valley is still the leading source for frankincense in the world today, and the highest grade resins, called Silver and Hojari, are only found there.B. frereana and B. thurifera grow in northern Somalia and are the source of Coptic or Maydi frankincense, treasured by the Coptic church and Saudi Arabian Muslims. These resins have a lemony scent and today are manufactured into a popular chewing gum.B. papyrifera grows in Ethiopia and Sudan and produces a transparent, oily resin.B. serrata is Indian frankincense, golden brown in color and mainly burned as incense and used in Ayurvedic medicine. The International Spice Trade Frankincense, like many other aromatics and spices, was carried from its isolated origins to market along two international trade and commercial routes: the Incense Trade Route (or Incense Road) that carried the trade of Arabia, East Africa and India; and the  Silk Road  that passed through Parthia and Asia. Frankincense was extremely desired, and the demand for it, and the difficulty of getting it distributed to its Mediterranean customers was one of the reasons the Nabataean culture rose to prominence in the first century BC. The Nabataeans were able to monopolize the frankincense trade not at the source in modern Oman, but by controlling the Incense Trade Route that crossed Arabia, East Africa, and India. That trade sprang up during the classical period and had a huge impact on Nabataean architecture, culture, economy and urban development at Petra. Sources: Al Salameen Z. 2011.  The Nabataeans and Asia Minor.  Mediterranean Archaeology and Archaeometry  11(2):55-78.Ben-Yehoshua S, Borowitz C, and HanuÃ… ¡ LO. 2011.  Frankincense, Myrrh, and Balm of Gilead: Ancient Spices of Southern Arabia and Judea.  Horticultural Reviews: John Wiley Sons, Inc. p 1-76. doi: 10.1002/9781118100592.ch1Erickson-Gini T, and Israel Y. 20113.  Excavating the Nabataean Incense Road.  Journal of Eastern Mediterranean Archaeology and Heritage Studies  1(1):24-53.Seland EH. 2014.Archaeology of Trade in the Western Indian Ocean, 300BC–AD700.  Journal of Archaeological Research  22(4):367-402. doi: 10.1007/s10814-014-9075-7Tomber R. 2012.  From the Roman Red Sea to beyond the Empire: Egyptian ports and their trading partners.  British Museum Studies in Ancient Egypt and Sudan  18:201-215.

Undecided Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words - 1

Undecided - Research Paper Example During this process, water becomes produced first from the fractures present within the coal. This process continues until the pressure declines to the level where methane would begin to desorb from the coal surrounding substance itself. The extent of the coalbed fracture stays controlled by the characteristics of the geologic formation, the fluid used in fracturing, and the pressure employed in pumping. The distance at which the fracturing would be performed also comprises geological formation characteristics. The ability for a fracture to grow taller or longer would be determined by the material goods of the surrounding rock. A hydraulically generated fracture would take the route of least resistance through the surrounding rock formations and coal seams (EPA Chapter 1; 3-4). Studies by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Marcellus Shale Team, and the Energy Institute have clearly confirmed the effectiveness of present-day state regulations in protecting water resources. Thi s research paper positions itself to supporting that methane hydraulic fracturing fluids into coalbed wells pose a minimal threat to underground drinking water sources. Discussion EPA conducted a research study into evaluating the impacts of hydraulic fracturing of coalbed methane to underground sources of drinking water. The study employed a methodology covering hydraulic fracturing processes and potential incidents of water quality associated with the process. Also, the methodology would determine hazardous constituents contained in hydraulic fracturing additives and fluids as well as identification of coalbed methane basins hydrogeology. The approach employed a detailed and extensive collection of reviews and information of theoretical and empirical data. EPA also reviewed cases of underground drinking water contamination alleged to have resulted from the injection of methane hydraulic fracturing fluids into coalbed methane beds (EPA Chapter 2; 2). Methane hydraulic fracturing fl uids include foamed gels, acids, potassium chloride water and clear water, cross or linear linked gels and a combined treatment of any two or more of these fluids. On the other hand, hydraulic additives include biocides, friction reducers, breakers, acid corrosion inhibitors and fluid loss additives (EPA Chapter 4; 2-8). Their findings on water quality incidents reflected data from formal studies, in addition to the opinions of, residents living near coalbed methane sites namely Black Warrior, Powder River Basins, San Juan and Central Appalachian. Incidences of contamination could be attributed to common production activities such as surface discharge of fracturing and production fluids, and methane migration through fracturing and drilling made outlets. In addition, contamination could arise from improperly abandoned production well, aquifer dewatering and poorly installed or sealed production wells. Moreover, natural factors, resource development, historical practices and populati on growth also constitute potential sources of contamination to drinking water. However, the follow-up outcomes of the study concluded that underground drinking water sources could not be contaminated by hydraulic fracturing. According to EPA, the production of ground water would minimize the likelihood that chemicals contained in fracturing fluids could impact negatively on underground drink

Essay questions Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 10

Questions - Essay Example Claims made by Matthew are geared towards the Jews to whom Jesus had come to set free by returning them back to their creator. Through connecting Jesus with King David, Matthew was trying to make his message more appealing to the Jews since they were well informed about the courageous acts of King David and how he was able to unite the entire nation of Israel and to bring peace to it. So the people were to believe that Jesus was to do the same although his approach was to be more spiritual than physical. On the other hand, John seeks to affirm the fact the fact that Jesus was God and was part of the trinity. Jesus was not just the messiah but he was God and this is demonstrated by John through the miracles that he performed such as changing water into wine, walking on water, raising the dead and healing many sick people. The claims of John were not just meant to be for the Jews but for the whole human race to whom Jesus being God had created and cared about (Neville,