Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Sweeney Todd Analysis Essay Example for Free
Sweeney Todd Analysis Essay The stage was quite large with a multi-level set. B) The set was dimly lit before the show and eerie music was playing to create a spooky atmosphere. C) Before the show, I could tell that there was going to be a lot of shady actions taking place due to the appearance of the dingy street setting. D) Sweeney Todd took place on a proscenium stage, where the audience was looking in upon the scene as if a wall were missing. E) The space seemed to have adequately met the needs for the production, because the set was very tall and involved several methods of moving from level to level. SCENERY: A) The set consisted of several run-down store fronts with very dim lighting and an early 20th century London feel. The top level of the set held the barber shop near stage right, and a bedroom balcony at stage left. The bottom level housed the bakery and the basement of the bakery, which included a glowing fire oven. B) The age and nature of the buildings hinted at the setting and time of the story. The implied shadiness of the set foreshadowed about the nature of the characters. C) The colors of the set involved many shades of grey and brown, with the inclusion of red lighting at times. D) The designer was very successful in the set design, because it was easy to visualize the intended setting due to the use of area lighting. When a portion of the set was not involved in the scene, it was blacked out making it easier to focus on the scene at hand. E) I felt that the bright red lighting shining from the oven was very symbolic, in that it went hand-in-hand with a shrill sound effect that was played every time a character was killed. The lighting and the sounds symbolized Sweeney Toddââ¬â¢s revenge. COSTUMES: A) The beggar womanââ¬â¢s costume portrayed that she was homeless due to the dirty rags that made up her dress. The style of clothing (length and material of the dress) hinted at the time as well. Pirelliââ¬â¢s costume was very flamboyant which matched his over confident and swindling personality. His personality was often only skin deep, and his costume played perfectly with the front he was putting on. B) The dingy colors of the beggar womanââ¬â¢s clothes fit the homeless role well and also played well with the concept of keeping her identity secret until the end of the show. Her clothes did not make her stand out on stage. Pirelli, on the other hand, wore bright red with ruffles, making him seem bright and villainous at the same time. C) The designer did very well with the costumes, because they fit the charactersââ¬â¢ personalities. For example, Mrs. Lovett was a very bold and outspoken woman, therefore her large, fluffy dress represented her well. LIGHTING: A) The lighting was kept seemingly dim throughout the show, which upheld the dreary, somber atmosphere in the scenes. B) The lighting seemed to portray night more often than day, as it only seemed to brighten when the focus was on Johanna. Red lighting was used to show when a character was killed and dumped into the oven. C) The most obvious use of lighting to portray emotion was the red, fire-like light that would emerge from the oven when a character was killed. Also, when Sweeney Todd was intended to appear as a man thirsty for revenge, he was encompassed in fog and the light created shadows on his face. ACTING: A-B) Sweeney Todd was excellent in my opinion. He wore a grey shirt with brown pants and suspenders. His body language was high-strung and motivated but also haggard and aged at the same time. The beggar woman was played with great success as well. The show progressed without much attention being brought upon her until her identity was revealed to Todd and the audience. She wore a bonnet and a dirty dress, and she was usually somewhat crouched to make her seem unimportant. Both of these characters performed well in singing their musical numbers as well. C) The scene where Anthony was serenading Johanna as she sat on the balcony served as an impressive portrayal of the connection between them. Johannaââ¬â¢s singing was very high-pitched. Needless to say it was hard not to notice the significance of this scene. I also enjoyed the murder scenes, simply because of the operational barberââ¬â¢s chair that doubled as a trap door leading to the downstairs oven. D) Every actor gave stellar performances in my opinion. E) The whole team had great chemistry and the show progressed without a hitch. The opening scene involved most, if not all, of the characters singing and moving in unison, and it was virtually seamless. DIRECTING: A) The director was trying to show the audience how revenge can drive a person to do some very crazy things, and the result was a success. B) Everything about the show conglomerated together successfully to create the setting and the emotional atmosphere. The overall uneasy, creepiness was constructed and supported well by the lighting, costumes, and scenery. C) Only the love scenes between Anthony and Johanna strayed away from the eeriness of the story, but even then the audience could sense possible turmoil to come. D) The movement and timing was excellent throughout the show. With bodies dropping down trap doors and synchronized group movements, the blocking was much without flaw. TEXT: A-B) The plot is out of chronological order because it starts with the townspeople burying Todd. He then arises to tell his tale, which consists of the judge ruining his life by exiling him. The plot of Toddââ¬â¢s story involves him meeting Mrs. Lovett and working to seek revenge on the judge and anybody else who stands in the way. The playwright is emphasizing the power that the motivation of revenge can have on a person. C) The conflict entails the judge having custody of Toddââ¬â¢s daughter, Johanna, and Toddââ¬â¢s efforts to retrieve her and kill the judge. D) Sweeney Todd eventually kills the judge, the beggar woman, and Mrs. Lovett, and then he is killed by Toby. This leaves Johanna to be with Anthony. E) As an editor, the only thing I would change about the show would be the length of the musical numbers throughout the show. They seemed longer than necessary and I felt as though some important information was unnecessarily presented in lyrics instead of straight dialogue.
Monday, October 14, 2019
A Story Titled Unbelievable English Literature Essay
A Story Titled Unbelievable English Literature Essay In our world everything is related. Who are we? How did we appear on this tiny comfortable planet? These questions stay unanswered. We can make up different stories for ourselves, but they stay fairytales. I will now tell you a short story, which happened to one simple guy, who was same as me, same as any of my friends. Yet, his life differed from ours from the birth, even though we have own story of ours. This boy was found at the door of the orphanage. He laid in little basket and it looked like life was fading away from him. It was dark around, scary and uncomfortable. Orphanage was empty already, everybody was gone already, and it seemed that nobody was able to help the small dying kid already, even though he needed not much: heat and some milk. Today Natalie Pavlovna had a difficult day, a lot of work, that is why she is late home, but the lady wanted to finish everything fast and go home where children were waiting for her. Under the thought of her Sasha and Zhenya Natalie Pavlovna made a worm smile. She had wonderful kids who loved her and cared for her. It wasnt difficult to take care of them, even though she raised them alone. When her man, nine years ago unexpectedly left her, Sasha and Zhenya stayed the only point of her life. Kids became her friends and helpers. So now she has finished her job and hurries home. As she had passed the hall, she pushed the door with power and stepped in the direction of cold, piercing wind. Sudden sound commanded her to stop and look around. What is this? She saw a small basket. When she saw what is in it, the hair on her head started to move. Newborn child!!! In the basket was a small, newborn, and freezing child!!! The heart of a woman shrinked because of pity! Natalie Pavlovna saved his life, took care of him, gave him his warmth, and after all legal procedures, their family became bigger on one person. Natalie Pavlovna gave him the name Viktor- the winner. That is how Vitya gained family, and who knows is it an accident or not. Vitya grew up like the simple child: kind, polite, and funny. His brother and sister loved him very much; they played different games with him, cooked for him-he is the youngest in the family. When he became seven, he went to school. Studying was giving to him really easy, and sometimes it looked like he did not study, but he knew it and he just forgot it. In general their life was silent and happy! That night Vitya was not sleeping, bad presentiments did not allowed him to fall asleep. It was seemed that even the air from around was very heavy. In the morning his mood was not good, but Vitya put his coat on and went to school as usually did. Only when he started to concentrate on the lesson, in their class opened door and teacher silently started to talk with somebody. Vitya was sure that something happened. When the teacher closed -1- the door, she found Vitya with her eyes. She asked him to leave the class. Vitya went and he understood that some changes are happening in his life. Near the window the director of their school was standing. He slowly came to Vitya and said that in their family had a big grief- his mum has got to a serious car accident, so she is in the hospital, and she wishes to see him. The director took Vitya with his hands, and went with him to the courtyard. They came to his car, and director opened the door for Vitya. The boy has sat down in it, and while they were going he thought of his mum, he recollected the holidays of his family and campaigns in parks, forests, on the lake, and when they were on the Black sea in Crimea. They came to the hospital very quickly. Here is a hospital. The cold, grey, and thick walls in the hospital oppressed. Unexpectedly Vitya started to think of, why are the walls in the HOSPITAL are such grey and thick. In the hospital are people who want something fresh and bright, because they feel very bad, but instead there are grey walls, which are making y our mood bad. And also why do the walls need to oppress sick people? If he could change something, he would change the color of walls. With this thoughts he came to the chamber were his mother was lading. Vitya pushed the door and entered the chamber were his mother laid on pillows and looked at the window. When she heard that somebody came to her chamber, she turned and saw Vitya, she tried to smile but she could not. Vitya came to his mum and he took her hand. The same time he did that, he started to feel the unbelievable pain, and the pain was so hard, that he even had choked. In some ten or even less seconds Vitya understood, that that it is not his pain- he feels his mothers pain. He was feeling the sufferings of his mum. He did not know why is it like this, but he knew that he is not wrong. In horror he ran out of the chamber! He was standing near the window, and he tried to understand what has happened to him. Then he heard the talking of two men, they were talking about his mum, the car accident, that her mum does not have any chances to live, because all of her bones are broken. He understood that it is true and also he understood that only he can help his mum. With true feeling of big love, he entered the chamber, approached to the bed, and looked in his mother face. It looked like she looked at him, but she did not see anything. Uncertainly he took his mothers hand, his body pierced the acute pain, but he did not release his mums hand, and than he suddenly felt that the pain of his mother passes. He stood like that some ten more minutes, and than unexpectedly understood that all terrible things are behind. Lifeless he sat down near his mum, and waited when his mom will wake up. How? Why? Vitya wished to think, but he could not. Could not yet! One man from the corridor came to the chamber, and sat near his mum. He turned to Vitya, and asked to leave for a while; he wished to examine Natalie Pavlovna once again. The boy left and even when he was tired , everything was warm and quiet on his heart. Vitya was sure that now with his mum everything would be good. He could not explain from where he has this confidence, but he was sure that he is not wrong. The doctor went back from the chamber, and the deep expressions on his face make Vitya laugh. But he was shocked of what he saw, that he just started to run to the other doctor. When he reached the other doctor, he said that out of thirty years, which he was working in this hospital, the situation like this was the first time. The woman that had just a half of percent, feels well, and that all her bones are not broken. She wants to go back home with her son. -2- How could it be like this? Can you explain this? -The voice of another was very excited and guarded. No. I do not have any explanations. I think they can go! In twenty minutes Vitya with his mum went from the hospital and went home. In the evening everybody from the family were seating near the fireplace and reading. It seemed like his mother did not remember anything. She told to Sasha and Zhenya that she had a small accident, and some good people put her in hospital, they told her that she does not have any serious traumas, then Vitya came took her and they left the hospital. Vitya listened to her, and he was feeling really good. He knew that today he rescued his mum. The boy could not explain how he did that, but has been assured that it managed to return his mum to life. When everybody came to the different rooms, Vitya lay down to sleep, but his mother came. Thanks sonny! I knew that you are special. She gently kissed him and left. Special?! Vitya was lying on the floor with closed eyes, and many different thought went through out his mind. Special! What else he can do. Slowly he has fallen asleep. He dreamed about the green field. Far there were many trees, and their leaves were bright lilac color. Near him were flying multicolored birds. It seemed like all the colors of rainbow painted even the air. All of a sudden there appeared the woman, which starched hands to him. Vitya wanted to run to her, but all of a sudden the loud voice thundered. Ilona! He is not ready yet! He is really small! The woman lowered her hands and started to melt, some two or three seconds passed and woman disappeared. Vitya woke up. His heart was beating really fast, and he could not breathe normally. The dream did not leave him, it seemed like the voice was in his ears even now. Vitya was lying on the bed, but still could not sleep. The woman has put down her hands and started melting. Several seconds passed away and she was gone. Vitya woke up. Heart was beating wildly in his chest. This dream didnt leave his mind! It looked like the voice still rang in his ears. Vitya lay long time without sleep, but progressively he did fall asleep and woke up in the morning fresh. All events, which happened to him yesterday became a background and werent that amazing anymore. Vitya as always went to school, met his friends and started living like an average eight-year-old boy. Two years flew by. Vitya studied, played. Also. Vitya loved dogs a lot. He wanted to buy a puppy, but his mom didnt allow him. His mom explained him that they show up home rarely and couldnt play with him much. Vitya understood it, but he still wanted it a lot! So once Vitya and his friends were walking back from school through the park. It was spring, nature woke up after hibernating in winter. -3- Suddenly kids heard a horrifying barking. Kids ran at the sound and saw a terrible picture. A gigantic dog attacked another dog. The gigantic dog was scary. From the huge jaws spilled sticky saliva, eyes were shining with red light. Kids were far yet, but felt the awful aroma, which surrounded the beast. Kids were frightened and they have stopped. The monster had slaughtered the other dog, which was defending something till its last breath. But here was its last breath and the victim, bloody, wounded, and scowled last time. The monster didnt calm down! It needed something the dead dog has protected with the value of own life. Very shortly kids saw what was the target of the monster. A puppy! Little helpless puppy! One more second and its tiny body will be bitten in two parts by the filthy fangs of this titanic dog. Vitya couldnt hold it and he screamed! Slowly. Very slowly the monster has turned his horrible face towards the kids. It looked like the dog smiled. Suddenly he turned and sprinted towards kids. Several meters separated kid from the dog, in fear they watched, how the dog was getting closer. They clearly saw the mad, blood filled, eyes. They understood that their faith is what of the killed dogs. Monster ran towards the kids and prep ared to jump. Unexpectedly it started watching Vitya straight in the eyes. It looked like it was trying to understand something. -Go away! Leave us alone! Said Vitya. And suddenly the dog appealed! He turned away and slowly staggered away. Kids in fear watched this furious fight of Vitya against the dog. While Vitya in this time already held the puppy in his arms and walked home. He knew that two never going to be separated. When mother heard the story of Jack, this name Vitya chose for his four- legged friend, she wasnt against the fact that the puppy would stay and live with them. Puppy grew fast. It looked, like him and Vitya understood each other without any words. Two more years past away. Nothing special happened to Vitya. At last here he sees a dream. He is again at the field, but the air smells like something has burned, and Vitya feels pain, someones pain! Again there is a woman in front of him, which he had seen before. She looks at him extremely gently. -Hello Vitya! she doesnt say anything, but Vitya hears her. -Vitya, you were born on this planet. Earth needs help and you were sent there to save humanity from devastation . We are not alone in the galaxy. There are many more planets with life on them and not all of them are kind. Planet Kloakie is full of evil creatures. They have destroyed many intelligent races and now want to destroy people on Earth. They need Earth, because on this planet is very pleasant environment for the life of Kloakans. They are about to bring virus to Earth, which will destroy the humanity. You have a lot of power; you can heal people only with touch. Your goal is to help people and prevent spreading of the diseases. They are going to try to stop you, but you have to save the people. Now you have to learn everything. You still have time. -4- Vitya woke up. He remembered, how he healed his mother, how strange did the monster-dog acted in front of him. He thought about that he always felt special. He thought about his mother, about how strong is his love towards her, towards his brothers. From this moment he had looked at his life values. If hes got faith, he accepts it! Vitya had studied, studied, and studied! Chemistry, physics, anatomy. All these science Vitya studied day by day. Time passed by. Many years passed. Vitya became a doctor. Very good doctor. He cured people, grasped on most hopeless cases. Patients said, that he healed even with his sight, even with his touch. Yet, Vitya remembered his mission every minute, he knew, that major battle for lives of people is to be fought. Once Victor went to the museum. He went there time from time. He liked to spend his time wisely, He liked to discover something new. In the museum he accidentally heard the speech of a man and young boy. -Dad, tell me, why do these monsters appear? Are they scary? I am afraid of them! Son, these are not monsters! These are dressed actors! You dont need to be afraid of them! If i only knew who could show this kind of circus to kids. Victor didnt pay much attention to the speech that time, but when he left the museum, he had a flashback of this speech for some reason. Clearing these thoughts, Victor rested. Suddenly, his attention was captured by two men of about 30-40 years old, wearing the suits and ties, which walked on the road with cars in bold manner, risking to get under the wheels of the automobile. The car had desperately ringed at them. One of the men made a vulgar hand sign and kicked the car, leaving a crack on the wing. When the angry car driver jumped out of car, these hooligans beat him with their fists. The driver jumped back in and shut the door. Two men gave high five to each other and continued their path towards the museum. When they reached the alley, one of them grabbed a rock and pointed towards the museum. While they walked towards the museum they have bullied people on their way. Fights appeared, but even police couldnt bring the justice to the street. People screamed, fought, fell, spill ed with blood. What happened to these men? Who are they and why are they behaving themselves like they are mad? Victor was extremely amazed by the fact, that they had passion to bring pain. Most people did not have this lust to bring pain to people just like selves. Furthermore, their feeling of self-defense was absent. Police with enormous effort finally separated the hooligans from the raging mob. They were beaten hard in this quarrel, thats why the cops brought them straight to the hospital. Victors day, which had such a wonderful start, was hopelessly messed up. Victor thought that he needs to understand the behavior of these men so he headed to the closest hospital. He thought that -5- the hooligans and their victims might be going there and is guesses proved to be right. In the hospital all the empty places were filled with the wounded. While Victor walked the hall, trying to find the hooligans, he had luck to discover something from the parts of speech. These men were famous people; they did a lot of good to the people of the town, especially to kids. Now, they are getting back from circus, which was made especially for kids. Nobody could explain their behavior now. Victor found their room and went inside. Dirty, bloody, men lay at tables, doctors tried to help them. One of them was unconscious. The face of the other one captured victors attention. The eyes of the man went glass, and the jaw hanged. His eyes were dead. Victor decided to talk to the doctor, which helped the man, to find out in what shape was the patient. How can you explain their extraordinary behavior? i dont understand. They dont understand, it looks like they are machines created to kill. We had to give them calming pills,- doctor desperately looked at Victor and continued with the wounded. -What is this? Doctor turned towards Victor. When Victor and Doctor looked at the wounded, they were already dead. With the filling of melancholiness Victor has exit the hospital with numerous questions, for which answers he didnt have. When he arrived home, he relaxed and decided to think out everything calmly. Making himself cup of coffee, he turned on the TV. Instantly his attention went towards the announcement. Young woman told about the strange, unexplained deaths in her town. -Today, his father killed the little child. How did he deserve it?- questioned himself doctor. Blood covered child appeared on the screen. The handle of knife was sticking from his neck. Victor jumped up! It was a boy from museum! What could make father make such a heartless action?- the woman went on.- We are now going to visit the father and we will ask him, what have he done, woman has turned towards the cops, who held the villain. The young guard of law in confusion looked at the camera. He is dead. He has died;-thats all he could say. Victor has turned off the TV and went deep into his mind. What is happening? He couldnt answer this question. He had difficult sleep this night. Some unmatchable thought flew in his mind but he couldnt capture it. Suddenly he woke up. The circus! The hooligans from museum, and the boy with his father went to the circus. Maybe, it was just a coincidence, but vicar felt, that he needed to visit the circus. With such a thought he -6- went back to sleep. To his luck he woke up completely rested. After he ate fast, he went to circus. The weather was bad, rain dropped, freezing wind blew. The circus was built at the edge of a town near the forest. The main part of circus looked sad. Everything was old and breakable. Victor had looked over the audience. Mostly parents with their kids had visited. Moving along the hall, Victor had looked at the artists of the circus. There were a lot of real freaks: the wolfman, snakeman, birdman, who flapped his wings. The main part yet was that Victor felt the pure evil in this place. Evil was everywhere, it ate mind, whispered, surrounded. -Its all my nerves! Thought Victor and looked around. Victor stopped near the dwarf named Echo. -Hello!-greeted him little girl. Hello you too answered Echo with her voice. -Oh mommy he talks like me! Screamed the girl. Victor noticed, that woman gave a fake smile, while in her eyes some strange emotion blinked, she shook her head, like she was trying to get rid of some thoughts. -Whats your name?- asked Victor the dwarf. Victor didnt answer, he was afraid, that the dwarf will hear his voice. His fear was conscious, like with his voice the dwarf could steal his soul. Go away. Go as fast as possible. Thought victor, heading towards the exit with fast steps. At the exit out of circus he was paying attention on the visitors. They pushed each other, moms shouted at their kids roughly. Victor knew for certain, that this circus is evil, and he knew that he will be back here. The shock he had experienced was replaced by cold boldness. He knew what to do. Evil has to be destroyed! Late evening Victor was waiting near the circus already. Only fire can destroy the evil, thought Victor. In his hand he had a canister with fuel. Young man wanted to wait till night, when all devilish artists are going to be asleep, he will combust this cursed circus. Suddenly he felt, how someones ice-cold hand dropped on his shoulder. Turning around he saw one of the actors. He was short, with wide shoulders, almost without no neck. He had short hair and tiny ears. It was senseless to run from him, so victor allowed to capture himself. They went into little room. In the room it was half dark, but he understood, that -7- he was in directors office, the director of this inhumane, cruel circus. The horrifying creature was right in front of Victor. Victor stepped back. This is probably how the offspring of shark and monkey would look. Dark-blue skin, body covered with abs, no neck and ears, two cuts instead of nose, and hands with knife-sharp curved nails. Yellow eyes stared at Victor. The lower part of fish head suddenly opened, and from his jaws sparked razor-sharp teeth, which grew with several rows. Creature has raised on its legs and slowly headed towards Victors direction. -Oh, thats you. Its impossible to hide from you. You visited my circus today. I feel attendance, obstacles. Victor, you cant stop us. In order to stay alive you have to join Kloake. The Earth is doomed. Victor needed all his self-determination, so he could gloriously watch his enemy in the face. -You have to answer now! Life or painful death? You cant save the people, evil is already present and they will kill each others themselves, continued the director. Speedily grabbing the canister with fuel, Victor spilled the fuel at different sides on the floor and lighted the match. The circus got on fire instantly. The soul-piercing howl. Viktor had jumped out of the door fast as lightning. He ran towards the forest. His instincts told him that the monster was still alive. On the edge of the field the sand had moved suddenly and started rising. No, this is not the sand. Its something huge and dark. Director, Victor stepped back and froze on place. His heart was beating wildly. His faith gives him a chance. Viktor has taken out an icon from church. The monster was right above it. Its wicked hand started towards Victor. Victor was defenseless. During his last seconds of life Victor could only make one last pre death scream full of horror and despair. Yet, the malice nails didnt rip his throat. The monster froze. Victor stood up and saw the shiny ray of light. From this ray showed up Ilona and several other people. Their faces were positive and kind. Lady looked at victor and smiled. -You made it, sonny! You stopped the evil and saved the Earth. We never doubted you and always believed in you. Now we take the Kloak to jail, and you have a choice: you can fly away with us or stay on Earth. -I would rather stay home. My home- Earth! Answered Victor. Ilona came close slowly and wiped her hand across Victors face gently. -Goodbye, sonny! People need you, they need your help!- she watched him gently and melted. Soon Victor stayed alone. Slowly he marched out the forest. His heart was light and glad. -8-
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Twitter: Protecting User Privacy Essay -- Twitter vs Government Survei
Social media has seen a significant number of stories that bring attention to failures in surveillance policies over the past decade. Time after time we hear about how surveillance technology is digging deeper and deeper into our personal information and is infringing on our rights more and more. It is important however to recognize successes in personal information protection and acknowledge achievements on behalf of the common population. As more and more attention is brought to surveillance the public is becoming better informed. As this trend progresses it is becoming more and more beneficial for social media companies to side with the individual and protect their userââ¬â¢s rights. Twitter is a social media company that has had success in protecting their users rights and working towards an open and transparent information environment. Between Twitterââ¬â¢s involvement with the Do Not Track program and their lawsuit against the United States Justice Department, the company models a successful social media surveillance strategy. In one of the articles I reviewed focused on how Edward Snowden, a United States citizen who leaked classified surveillance information, is a hero. The Edward Snowden case brought the issue of government surveillance to the forefront of American attention. This attention has put surveillance of all varieties under scrutiny from the American public. Some companies have adapted to this changing dynamic by opening up about surveillance policies and information. As the article from class argues, these efforts to provide more transparency about surveillance practices should be received in a positive light by the general population. Social Media sites, which cater to a variety of individuals, are especially interested in being perceived in a positive light by the general population. Practicing and striving for transparent practices and consumer protection are commendable efforts that the public will appreciate. Building a social media site around these efforts should be an effe ctive and profitable business strategy. (Cassidy) Twitter is presently suing the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice over surveillance transparency concerns. (Ortutay) Earlier this month Twitter filed a nineteen page complaint with the government agencies that listed the complaints the social media company ha... ...en to be an attractive feature for providers of online services to have. Of course all of this is just steps in the pursuit of freedom from surveillance. As Mr. Frank says; ââ¬Å"Transparency alone may not be enough to restore public confidence, but itââ¬â¢s a great place to start.â⬠(Neal) Works Cited Cassidy, John. "Why Edward Snowden Is a Hero - The New Yorker." The New Yorker. N.p., 10 June 2013. Web. 29 Nov. 2014. . Hachman, Mark. "Twitter Joins 'Do Not Track' Initiative." PC Magazine (2012): 1. Business Source Premier. Web. 28 Nov. 2014. Nakashima, Ellen. "Twitter sues Justice Department over ability to disclose surveillance orders." Washington Post, The Aug. 0010: Business Source Premier. Web. 28 Nov. 2014 Neal, Ryan. "Facebook, Microsoft Release Data On NSA Surveillance; Google, Twitter Demand Greater Transparency." International Business Times 15 June 2013: Business Source Premier. Web. 29 Nov. 2014. Ortutay, Barbara. "Twitter Sues FBI, DOJ To Release More Information On Government Surveillance Of Its Users." Canadian Press, The (n.d.): Business Source Premier. Web. 28 Nov. 2014.
Saturday, October 12, 2019
Essay examples --
CASE STUDY 1. What are the Inputs, processing and outputs of UPSââ¬â¢s package tracking system? Answer: INPUT: UPSââ¬â¢s package tracking system input is associated with a package that is scan able bar -coded label. The sender scan able label, package destination, the recipient, and the package should arrive Includes detailed information. Users downloaded by UPS or UPS website to access provided by using special software can print their own labels. PROCESSING: Package is raised before, scan able bar -coded label data Mahwah, New Jersey, or Alpharetta, Georgia, one of the centers in the UPS has transferred to the computer and sent to its final destination the closest distribution center goes. Label in the center dispatchers and traffic data downloaded every driver to know that the most efficient delivery route using special software to create, season, and location of each stop. A delivery information acquisition device (DIAD), a handheld computer, the way his or her day Free UPS enables drivers. DIAD also automatically sign users grab information as well as pickup and delivery. Package tracking information from UPS for the storage and processing is transferred to the computer network. At various points along the way from sender to receiver, bar code equipment package label and the progress of the package of Central computer data feed is used to scan shipping information. OUTPUT: UPS computer network information about users to provide delivery information or to answer customer questions can be accessed worldwide. Customer service representatives connected to the central computer, desktop computer, check the status of any package to customer inquiries and are able to respond quickly. UPS, users have their own computers or wireless devices... ...ollection options include receiving payments or can be very helpful and billing options as a business which can reduce the cost of shipping plus any third- party receiver and Shipper billed to other parties (receiver or any other person). Shipper -receiver only shipping costs or any other country in which a third party pays the duties and taxes paid to Shipper pays the duties and taxes are the options for international billing options can reduce the cost of business just for the shipping costs . Transactions with other businesses worldwide to make business easier and to get a business that can target market. Shipping cost analyzes and cost of such reports , management reports and reports as Freight generates reports , the download is available for download business analysis tool is also . This tool for accountants in business a long time and can save a lot of effort
Friday, October 11, 2019
Behaviour Assessment in HRM Why Is Behaviour Assessment A Perennially Troubled Aspect of Human Resource Management?
A better understanding of the topic can be achieved by incorporating into the analysis the idea that ââ¬Å"behaviour assessmentâ⬠is also similar to ââ¬Å"performance appraisalâ⬠and this means that both concepts deal with the assessment of employee performance in terms of what is expected of them and also on its effect on the overall competitive advantage of the firm in relation to its position in the industry.On the issue that behaviour assessment as a standard company policy is giving problems for both the organization in general and Human Resource Management (HRM) in particular can be explained based on the following propositions:1. Behavior assessment and other performance appraisal tools/systems are not clearly understood both for its true meaning, goals, and purpose. 2. Behaviour assessment and other performance appraisal tools/systems do not deliver on its promises to improve overall efficiency and profitability both for the organization and the individual employe e. 3. Behaviour assessment and other performance appraisal tools/systems need to be accurate all the time ââ¬â there is great pressure on management ââ¬â very little margin of error for a system generated by subjective human observations/judgements.4. Behaviour assessment and other performance appraisal tools/systems are sometimes regarded as the silver bullet that will solve all problems related to human resources. 5. And finally, these assessment tools are troubling the organization simply because it emanates from a department (HRM) that has weak foundations. It is an understatement to say that behaviour assessment tools are very difficult to understand and are all too complex to be used effectively.This stems from the fact that even HR specialists do not agree on what constitutes a correct performance appraisal system. Confusion abounds in the HRM world on how to standardize systems. Each company has their own version on how to observe and verify employee performance. Wor se, each company devises their methodology based on their needs and uses appraisal systems for varying reasons. The use of HRM behaviour assessments has its advocates and its critics.This polarization adds to the problem as members of the organization would be in a tug-of-war on how to proceed if ever they will decide to use such tools. Advocates of Behaviour Assessment Systems Amy Delpo in The Performance Appraisal Handbook harps on the benefits behaviour assessment tools and she said, ââ¬Å"If youââ¬â¢ve been told to conduct performance evaluations itââ¬â¢s because the people who run your company realize that a performance evaluation system can deliver important benefits and improve the success of each employee, each department, and ultimately, your entire company (2005).She then lists the expected outcomes as follows: â⬠¢ motivate employees to perform better and produce more â⬠¢ help employee identify the ways in which they can develop and grow â⬠¢ increase emp loyee morale â⬠¢ improve respect employees have for their managers and senior management â⬠¢ foster good communication between your staff and you â⬠¢ identify poor performers and help them get on track and â⬠¢ lay the groundwork to fire poor performers lawfully and fairly when they donââ¬â¢t improve.One of the reasons for the implementation of performance appraisal system is the need for building a strong organizational culture and many managers feel that the said appraisal system will guarantee correct data on what and where adjustments must be made to help the company move closer into that place where every employee is aware and always striving to maintain that organizational culture. On this great need, Mathis and Jackson explains the motivation to put in place such a system and he said:Every organization has a culture, and that culture influences how executives, managers, and employees act in making organizational decisions [â⬠¦] the financial scandals in many firms in recent year illustrate the consequences of an ââ¬Å"anything goesâ⬠organizational culture. (1989) What ignited the revolution for the use of behavioural assessment tools according Armstrong came from the landmark works of McClelland in 1973 and Boyatzis in 1982.McClelland suggested that ââ¬Å"Criterion referencing or validation is the process of anlysing the key aspects of behaviour that differentiates between effective and less effective performanceâ⬠(cited in Armstrong, 2003). This was later developed by Boyatzis when he said that competency is, ââ¬Å"A capacity that exists in person that leads to behaviour that meets the job demands within the parameters of the organizational environment and that , in turn, brings about desired resultsâ⬠(as cited in Armstrong, 2003 ). No self-respecting manager can resist the promise of behaviour assessment systems.Advocates of performance appraisal tools based their justification on a theory of change ââ¬â Force Field Analysis ââ¬â that was put forward by Kurt Lewin. Lewinââ¬â¢s idea as summarized by Sinclair-Hunt and Simms, is described below: The idea is that a situation stays the same only when the forces for change are equivalent to the forces resisting it. The organization is then in equilibrium. Change happens when the forces for change outweigh the forces for restraint. Conversely, where the forces for restraint outweigh the forces for change, things remain the same.If handled carefully, the driving forces can overcome resistance. (2005) Those who believe in this approach could not be blamed. A case study of British airways ââ¬Å"forceful changesâ⬠made on the organization resulted in averting bankruptcy and amazing growth. Sinclair-Hunt and Simms reveal a portion of the revolution that occurred in the said UK company, ââ¬Å"Between 1982 and 1987 British Airways went from a publicly owned company with bureaucratic command culture and huge losses and decreasing mar ket share to a privately owned company with a market and service driven culture and profits of over $400 million.â⬠(2005) The authors (Sinclair-Hunt & Simms) then listed the cause of the change was attributed to the following: â⬠¢ Massive reduction in the workforce from 59,000 to 37,000 people â⬠¢ Training programmes to develop appreciation of the business as a service industry â⬠¢ Profit sharing, a bottom-up budgeting system, a user friendly computer system and the CEO engaging in question and answer sessions ââ¬â all served to emphasise the new participative management style Many organizations are banking on the above-mentioned statements about change.They are mobilizing their HR departments to apply enough pressure for positive change to occur. Critics of Behaviour Assessment Systems Critics on the use of ill-conceived behaviour assessments asserts that theses procedures contain generally held assumptions and fallacies that if there is an input then there wi ll be an output and if enough pressure is done then change will occur. This idea was debunked by Sinclair-Hunt and Simms using the work of Kanter and associates and they said:Kanter et al. (1992) suggest that Lewinââ¬â¢s model of change is too simplistic. They argue that Lewinââ¬â¢s model is based on the view that organizations are essentially stable and static. They disagree with the idea that change results only from concentrated effort and that it happens in one direction at a time. Kanter et al. (1992) argue that change is multi-directional and ubiquitous ââ¬â in other words, it happens in all directions at once and at a more or less continuous process.This complexity can help to explain why Lewinââ¬â¢s model may not seem to have much relationship with real lie, where change seems a more confused process. (2005) Herein lays the problem with those relying so much on assessment to encourage change when they fail to include in their system the idea that every aspect of the organization must be considered and all the forces at work in the enterprise as well.On the aversion for the idea that aggressive action will bear immediate positive results, Campbell (1989) said, ââ¬Å"We need reminding that trainees do not just fall out of some great trainee bin in the sky; they probably have rather long and varied organizational histories, which have created certain attitudes, values and behaviors relative to specific training experiencesâ⬠(as cited in Baldwin & Magjuka, 1997). Baldwin and Magjuka supports the idea of deliberate planning and implementation of organization change and not a one shot fix all scheme as is evident in most HR list of suggested solutions and they said:An assumption common to most training guidebooks is that the learning context can be managed or designed in a way that will affect trainee cognitions and, ultimately, training effectiveness. However this assumption tends to oversimplify the complexity of managing contextual fac tors in organization. We contend that the complexity stems in large part from the difficulty of predicting how employees will attach meaning to management acts, and the reality that, for organization employees, training is not an isolated event or singular activity, but an episode that occurs among many other organizational episodes experienced by those employees.(1997) Problems Encountered in the Real World Clampitt in his book Communication for Managerial Effectiveness shows that behaviour assessment is very difficult to execute properly in the real world. This is because the frailty of human being in terms of their personal agenda and other self-serving interest hinders them from giving an objective assessment. Using the words of Sissela Bok, Clampitt showed what the ideal scenario should be and how far is reality from it:At its best, discretion is the intuitive ability to discern what is and is not intrusive and injurious, and to use this discernment in responding to the conflic ts everyone experiences as insider and outsider. It is an acquired capacity to navigate in and between the worlds of personal and shard experiences, coping with the moral questions about what is fair or unfair, truthful or deceptive, helpful or harmful, Inconceivable without an awareness of the boundaries surrounding people, discretion requires a sense for when to hold back I order not to bruise, and for when to reach out.(as cited in Clampitt, 2005) For his final analysis (Clampitt) on his reservation for performance appraisal systems and the like is partly seen in the following statements: Much ink has been spilled over the issue of performance appraisals, Business journals, periodicals, and books are filled with discussion on how to more effectively conduct the performance review. And with good reasons; there is probably no greater area of employee dissatisfaction. In fact, although most organization maintains a formal performance process, few achieve their objective [â⬠¦] Ot her complaints abound.Unfair rating scales, lack of objectivity, and lack of specific examples to back up the evaluationâ⬠¦(2005) Using Baldwin and Magjukaââ¬â¢s insights on the slow learning process experienced by an employee. It is now clear why employees would view such behavioural assessment systems as unfair. Management can be designing an assessment procedure that will look for behavioural changes that are not present. Not because the employee is lazy or has no resolve to change but as pointed out by Baldwin and Magjuka, it is not there yet because the natural process of learning has not yet taken its course.Clampitt adds the following reasons for the infectivity of this HR system 1) managers resist the appraisal process because it is used to accomplish multiple goals that are sometimes incompatible; 2) many mangers feel compelled to inflate ratings in favor of their department; and 3) many managers resist the appraisal process because they feel that they are ââ¬Å"pla ying Godâ⬠(2005). Goals of Behaviour Assessment The following is the discussion of the generally accepted goals of behaviour assessment and will be used as a basis for understanding the failure of said assessment tools in achieving the following objectives.The first common reason for incorporating such practice of evaluating employees stems from the great need to ascertain how competent a worker/employee is in his/her given position. Background information can be gleaned from the works of Woodruffe (1990), ââ¬Å"Competency is a person-based concept which refers to the dimensions of behavior lying behind competent performance. â⬠Woodruffe (1990) added that competence is ââ¬Å"A work-related concept which refers to areas of work at which the person is competentâ⬠(as cited in Armstrong, 2003).The Need for Accuracy This paper propose that one of the reasons that behaviour assessment is a very much troubled aspect of HRM practice is due to the fact that there is no ro om for error on its findings and recommendations. Consider the following documented events on UKââ¬â¢s experience with a failed assessment for correct pay costs as described in Armstrong and Brownââ¬â¢s book Paying for Contibution: Chancellor Gordon Brown (regarding the most publicized UK pay developments in a single month ââ¬âMay 1998- ), saw the UK private sector earnings growth of 5.6 percent as giving serious cause of concern, threatening the competitiveness of the UK economy and the maintenance of price stability; in June the Bank of England cited wage increases outstripping productivity growth as the prime justification for an increase in interest rates [â⬠¦] that rising wages could, destroy the enormous prize of economic growth and stability. (1999) Amy Delpo on the need for accurate and fair appraisal issued the following warning, ââ¬Å"As you may have been told, conducting a shoddy performance appraisal can get your company ââ¬â and you ââ¬â into lega l trouble.There is no point in sugarcoating it for you: Writing the wrong things on a performance appraisal or doing the appraisal unfairly or improperly can have devastating consequences if you are sued by an employeeâ⬠(2005) Promises Are Made to be Broken There is an expectation amongst employees that if they did a fairly good job then management will notice. This is reinforced by the fact that a regular performance evaluation is being conducted by the people from HRM.This leads to the expectation that salary will be adjusted based on competency and the workerââ¬â¢s striving not only to achieve a higher level of performance but also on a higher degree of conforming to what is believed to be as admirable behaviour befitting a model employee. It will be such a disappointment for said employee to discover, or when he realizes after a few years of no wage increase, that the job performance evaluation was worth nothing. Armstrong and Brown explain why promises of performance r elated pay is most often a figment of imagination, and the authors said:The motor industry presents a good example of the competitive pressure which have forced similar changes in pay and working practices across many sectors. The threat in a ruthlessly competitive European market from Far East manufacturers, and the opportunities for an increasingly concentrated set of globally organized companies to shift production to lower cost locations (VW in Eastern Europe), or closer to new markets (Mercedes and BMW in the United States), means that the European firms simply cannot afford to have uncompetitive wage costs which are out of line with the productivity and performance of alternative location. (1999)If this is the case then HR specialist must stop deluding employees that the job performance will affect their pay grade. The truth is HRM needs the evaluation to enforce change and to make personnel related decisions but could not deliver on its promise to the employees for economic r easons; this has disheartened not a few employees. The Problem with HRM After all these things are said and done, the most unbelievable reason perhaps as to why behaviour assessment is such a troubling aspect of management in general and HRM in particular lies in the fact that the department tasked to design such evaluation systems is in trouble itself.Consider the following insights from David E. Guest, UKââ¬â¢s own expert on the study of human resource management, and he said: There has been a rash of studies demonstrating a positive association between human resource management (HRM) and performance, providing encouragement to those who have always advocated the case for a distinctive approach to the management of human resources. While these studies represent encouraging signs of progress, statistical sophistication appears to have been emphasized at the expense of theoretical rigour. (1999) In Australia the problem of HRM is a concern.Graham Andrewartha likes to believe that : [â⬠¦] human resource management is a management specialty that has not yet achieved professional status. Further, because of its monopoly over the people management area, it has diverted other managers from taking responsibility for people issues and unintentionally contributed to the continuing decline in people skills in Australian organization [â⬠¦] HRM has always been reshaping itself, continuously changing and innovating, et not really changing at all. It requires foundation ââ¬â not innovation ââ¬â to be effective. (1998) ConclusionThe reason why behaviour assessment has met a lot of controversy in organizations around the world and most especially in Australia is due to confusion on what a correct and beneficial employee-performance-evaluation-system should look like. This is exacerbated by the lack of positive results on the basis of the use of such system for corporate and personnel gain. The answer to the query can be found in all these and more important ly on HRM need to change first before it can expect change from the corporation it wishes to serve. References Andrewartha, Graham. (1998). The Future Role of Human Resource Management. In G. L. Oââ¬â¢Neil & R.Kramar (Eds. ) Australian Human Resource Management: Current Trends in Management Practice. Australia: Woodslane Pty Limited. Armstrong, Michael. (2003). Human Resource Management Practice. London: Kogan Page Ltd. Armstrong, M. & Brown, D. (1999). Paying for Contribution. London: Kogan Page Ltd. Baldwin, T. T. & Magjuka, R. (1997). Organizational Context and Training Effectiveness. In J. K. Ford et al. (Eds. ). New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc. Berger, L. A. & Berger, D. R. (2000). The Compensation Handbook: A State-of-the-Art guide to Compensation Strategy and Design. New York: McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. Clampitt, Phillip.(2005). Communication for Managerial Effectiveness 3rd ed. London: Sage Publications Ltd. DelPo, Amy. (2005). The Performance Appraisal Hand book: Legal and Practical Rules for Managers. 1st ed. CA: Consolidated Printers, Inc. Guest, D. E. () Human Resource Management and Performance: A Review and Research Agenda. In R. S. Schuler & S. E. Jackson (Eds. ) Strategic Human Resource Management. Oxford: Blackwell Publishers Ltd. Mathis, R. L. & Jackson, J. H. (1989). Human Resource Management. 11th ed. NE: South-Western. Sinclair-Hunt, M. & Simms, H. (2005). Organizational Behaviour and Change Management. UK: Select Knowledge Limited.
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Role of Ngos in Bangladesh
Role of NGOs in Bangladesh In all spheres of development, NGOs are reported to have created a landmark in the history of Bangladesh. NGOs as the proper alternative organizations have the vision of imagination, flexibility, autonomy, creativity, innovative machinery, experience resources and strategies of executing programmers including non formal constructive education. NGOs have different projects towards development.Doubtlessly to say, the NGOs with their constructive efforts have been promoting development strategies by creating unique changes in the field of socioeconomic progress in Bangladesh since her independence. Most of the endeavors made by the NGOs mainly targeted to achieve overall development of the country by meeting pragmatically or practically. The NGOs have their constructive mission in developing the country. They touch the fundamental elements of socio economic development of a country.If human resources are not properly used, it will be gradual inactive and usele ss for the country bringing no utility. The most important NGO innovation has been in the way they reach the poor. A group-based or target group mobilization strategy underpins virtually all development NGO programs aimed at service-delivery. Such an approach serves to fulfill not only the goal of economic improvement through direct targeting and beneficiary participation, but also that of social and institutional development through strengthening the organizing capacity of the poor to be more able to help them.The identification of credit as a critical need felt by the poor and subsequent designing of an efficient and cost-effective delivery mechanism to serve this need, have justifiably become the most will-known of the development NGO innovations in Bangladesh. The model pioneered byà Grameen Bank (GB)à has established micro-credit as the most widely replicated anti-poverty program in both government and development NGO sectors. The role of the development NGOs has been cruci al in a number of primary healthcare concerns, notably immunization and diarrhea control.NGOs have been particularly successful in effectively disseminating health through innovative media campaigns. Gains in immunization are already being reflected in reduced infant mortality. Universal awareness of oral dehydration therapy has also sharply cut down cases of diarrhoeal deaths. Low enrollment and high drop-out rates have been major problems that plague primary schools in Bangladesh. In response to this the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee(BRAC) pioneered a system of model is focused on poor children.It employs young Para-professional teachers (mostly female) drawn from the community. A strong emphasis is placed on parent and community involvement. Some NGOs undertake unique programs of technology transfer. Declining soil fertility is an emerging environmental concern. About eight NGOs are currently involved in ground-breaking farm-level innovations in fertilizer-use and pest-m anagement. These activities are complemented are developing an extension system for appropriate technology transfer to homestead agriculture.It encourages cultivation of a variety of fruits and vegetables and teaches the proper method of cooling. The result not only provides income but also improves the nutritional status of the family, particularly children. During the seventies and early eighties, irrigation led agriculture was promoted by the government agencies. Small farmers with an acre or less of land could not afford irrigation technology. In response to the need of the small and marginal farmers and also to promote crop diversification, NGOs developed low-cost irrigation technologies through research and experiment.
Wednesday, October 9, 2019
Carbon Fibres and Composite Material Free Sample for Students
According to Goodman et al. (2011), a composite material refers to a combination of two or more materials that are of different composition, physical property, and morphology. These materials are often combined on a microscopic scale. Depending on the constituent properties, composites are in many cases designed to (or ââ¬Å"intending toâ⬠) producing materials with materials aimed at fulfilling specific mechanical, physical, or chemical requirements. As a result, Hofmann (2016)à points out that the use of composite materials have progressively increased for the past 40 years and have many uses in the automotive, aeronautic, medical, and naval fields among other industries. Consequently, different composite biomaterials have been tested and studied for use in the medical field and are often commercialized for their advantages of the traditional composite materials that were used before. In the medical field, most human tissues such as skin, bones, tendons, teeth, and ligament are composites made up of single constituents whose distribution, morphology, amount, and properties are the major determinants of the final behavior of the resulting organ or tissue according to Paknikar and Kumbhar (2015). The same study denotes that human-made composite materials can as well be used in making prostheses that are used to mimic these biological tissues with the aim of ensuring thy match their mechanical behavior and restore the mechanical functions of the body tissues that have been damaged. This paper presents the history, structure and synthesis, mechanical properties, possible uses, as well as pros and cons of the carbon-fiber-reinforced,à peek (CFR-PEEK) composite material whose use have been studied, tested, and proven fit for medical purposes. Carbon Fiber, a polymer that is also known as a graphite fiber, is a very strong material and light in weight. Though stiffer than steel, its light weight makes it suitable for use as a raw material in the manufacturing of other materials (Garry, 2013). The composite material was discovered back in 1879 by Edison Thomas. The scientist backed bamboo silvers and cotton threads at high temperature carbonizing them into a fiber filament of all-carbon. His invention led to the use of high-performance carbon fibers in 1958 in Cleveland. CF-PEEK was then introduced as a matrix where long and short PEEK fibers were used as the composite matrix to ensure the end product had the qualities of both fibers. Despite the fact that they were inefficient, the fibers contained approximately 20% carbon with low stiffness and strength properties. However, the carbon fiberââ¬â¢s strength potential was realized in 1963 through a new manufacturing process at British research center (David et al., 2014). In the medical field, carbon-fiber-reinforced peek materials range from large scale components such as x-ray application materials to most invisible bolts internally used to support the bones in the body according to Paknikar and Kumbhar (2015). CFR-PEEK materials have for a long time been adopted for use in the medical field in different facets. They are widely used in the orthopedic processes mainly for bone crafts, bone cementing, hip joint replacement, and in the fixation of the bone plates in the body. Hofmann (2016) points out that CFR-PEEK can be fabricated with tensile strength or stiffness in the capability of the bone they replace in the body. As a result, the materials are successfully finding their way into the medical devices as implants to replace the internal body organs and tissues. Historically, many challenges have been faced by implant designers in achieving acceptance from different regulatory agencies globally. However, the uses of carbon-fiber-reinforced peeks are on the rise as a result of technological advancements and innovations. New medical applications and composite materials are gaining popularity and approval in many parts of the US food and drug administration (Garry, 2013). CFR-PEEK are used in the formulation of bone growths for implants such as temporary bone supports and bone screws mainly adopted in the orthopedic repairs. These materials have been adopted for use in the bioresorbable polymers that can safely break down and be absorbed by the body in the rebuilding process of the bone. In the medical industry, the first synthesis requirement is a performance parameter indicating the relative merits of different designs of CFR-PEEK with the primary knowledge that the growth and micro-motion of bones can be used for different purposes in a clinical view. What follows is a finite element code that determines the strains in the bone used as essential parameters in evaluating the performance of the carbon fiber. The CF-PEEK composite is manufactured by the use of a hybrid fabric composing of PEEK and carbon fiber as a matrix that is then modified and treated by low temperature and oxygen plasma. The process is then followed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transformation attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) that are essential I relating the functionality and roughness of the carbon fiber surface with the PEEK interfacial adhesion strength.à The plasma treatment is aimed at increasing the roug hness of the carbon fiber surface while the prolonged treatment results into the smoothing. According to Duraccio, Mussano, and Faga (2015), the structural properties of a composite material are determined by the length, volume, and alignment of the carbon fiber it contains. Apart from being strong, carbon fibers have high tensile strength and stiffness but with low weight. It also has a high chemical resistance and is often tolerant to high temperature and excessive heat but with a low thermal expansion as denoted by Garry (2013). According to Cano and Guilemany (2016), the mechanical property of a composite material can be determined by the mechanical properties of CFR-PEEK. Carbon fibers consist of strong and thin crystalline carbon filaments for the strengthening of other materials. David et al. (2014) denote that the fibers can be thinner than the human hair but gets its strength when the fibers are twisted and laid over a coated and molded into plastics or resin. For these mechanical properties, carbon fiber is adapted for use not only in the medical field but many industries such as the military, automotive, and aerospace. There are two main forms of carbon fiber incorporation used in composites for medical applications. Short CFR-PEEKs that consist of short carbon fibers randomly aligned and are mostly less than 0.4 mm, used as producers of the homogeneous material property for the implant. Long CFR-PEEK consists of carbon fibers essentially running the entire width of most composite materials. The long CFR-PEEK has a tensile strength that is greater than 2000 Mpa when compared to the 170 Mpa which is of the short carbon fiber (Aspenberg, 2014). As a result, their controlled alignment of these carbon fibers hence helps in providing a broad range of anisotropic properties that can be controlled for specific functions depending on there the composite material that needs to be made and the use.à Ajioka et al. (2016) denote that carbon-fiber-reinforced peek material is engineered to produce a varying degree of stiffness and strength based on the number and orientation of the carbon fibers used. It is hence easier to help the manufacturer match the elasticity of the bone to be replaced with the composite implant material that will be fixed. On the other hand, Paknikar and Kumbhar (2015) also denotes that using carbon fibers as composite materials is easier since, before their innovations, manufacturers were facing challenges from modulus mismatch of the then used metal implants. For instance, the mismatch was often producing stress shielding; alter loading, and a periprosthetic bone remodeling process that was often detrimental. Commercially available carbon fiber composite materials have been tested in several ways for fatigue cycles but have always proven to be effective and resistant. Nayeri (2014) denotes that the average strength for a 4.5mm implant plate is 19.1 Newton meters while that of a similar 4.5mm stainless steel compression plate is 17.8 Newton meters. The bending strength of available 10-mm CFR-PEEK is averagely 80.3 Nm, while an 11-mm titanium tibial plate bending strength is 43 Nm. This has proven that the testing for wear debris of the implants is significantly lower than the wear debris strength of titanium plates made from the steel as pointed out by Goodman et al. (2011). The same study denotes that the healing and fracture reduction are available for a standard radiograph. The absence of both MRI and computed tomography means that CFR-PEEK for the composite implants has applications for infections, spine, and for oncologic cases. Even though there are several advantages of using the carbon-fiber-reinforced peek composite implants for medical reasons, there are also some specific disadvantages. For instance, they cannot be contoured hence making their use in fracture fixation limited to straight diaphyseal hence calling for a specific locking screw technique anatomically designed for the specific fracture Utech and Boccaccini (2016). At the same time, stiffness can be beneficial to the receiver, but the too much flexibility is as well dangerous as it can lead to pseudarthrosis. The increased fatigue strength of the implants helps in decreasing any possible risk to fatigue failure. However, the radiolucent nature of the carbon-fiber-reinforced peek used in the manufacturing of the implants precludes directly hence visualizes radiography. In his study, Hofmann (2016) denotes that all biomaterial composites intended for use in the body of any living organism have to meet certain conditions, regulatory requirements, and criteria. These include; Carbon-fiber-reinforced peek have found a wide application and use in different facets of the medical sectors. These include bone cementing, bone grafting, hip joint replacements, bone fixating plating, and other forms of bone replacements (Asghari et al. 2017). In the manufacturing and design of prosthetic composite implants used for the replacement of the central bone and the combined joint, the primary objective is often to arrive at an implant with a higher bone growth stimulus but slightly lower that the titanium alloys implants that are currently used (Egger et al. 2017). From the CFR-PEEK innovations, patients can easily get access to rapid and easier proper implant fixation and bone replacement. Achieving these objectives requires the synthesis and structure of the composite implants to consist of three primary elements. In his study, Soboyejo (2017) points out that CFR-PEEK includes bio-glass-ceramic, xenograft, and allografts often used in joint replacements and tissue engineering. They are often made of different layers of long and short carbon fibers; the final product often combines the properties of both the materials used. The resulting product is often mechanically strong but lightweight at the same time. Saleh (2016) also denotes that the materials have low density and can easily resist corrosion. The use of composite body implants has several advantages when compared to the metallic devices that were used before their inventions. It modules if elasticity and fatigue strength makes the CFR-PEEK an ideal composite implant material for bones plates and nails. The disposal of CF-PEEK is becoming a major issue since the different carbon fiber reinforced composite materials are reaching the end of their live services. According to Schinner, and Brandt (2011), over 27 000 tons of CF-PEEK have produced annually. As a result, grinding up the waste material and sending it to landfills or disposing of it through incineration has little appeal to the environment since it is non-biodegradable.à With global warming and climate change policies affecting every global industry, incineration is not the best method of disposal of the material as it will lead to the production of greenhouse gasses as well as smoke, thus leading to pollution. Disposal into landfills also reduces the aesthetic value of the environment turning the areas into wastelands and creating environments for disease-predisposing factors such as stagnant water collection points for mosquito and bilharzia breeding when it rains. As a result, different recycling methods such as pyroly sis have been adopted that strips away the epoxy resin from the fibers while leaving the original properties undamaged. The medical industry is driven and guided by the demands of the medical profession that seeks constant improvements and device innovations for better medical care. Consequently, different composite biomaterials have been tested and studied for use in the medical field and are often commercialized for their advantages of the traditional composite materials that were used before. Carbon fibers have found a wide application and use in different facets of the medical sectors. These include bone cementing, bone grafting, hip joint replacements, bone fixating plating, and other forms of bone replacements. Ajioka, H., Kihara, H., Odaira, C., Kobayashi, T., & Kondo, H. (2016). Examination of the Position Accuracy of Implant Abutments Reproduced by Intra-Oral Optical Impression.à Plos ONE,à 11(10), 1-12. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0164048 Asghari, F., Samiei, M., Adibkia, K., Akbarzadeh, A., & Davaran, S. (2017). Biodegradable and biocompatible polymers for tissue engineering application: a review.à Artificial Cells, Nanomedicine & Biotechnology,à 45(2), 185-192. doi:10.3109/21691401.2016.1146731 Aspenberg, P. (2014). Alendronate-eluting polyglucose-lignol composite (POGLICO).à Acta Orthopaedica,à 85(6), 687-690. doi:10.3109/17453674.2014.979724 Bailey, S. R. (2009). DES Design: Theoretical Advantages and Disadvantages of Stent Strut Materials, Design, Thickness, and Surface Characteristics.à Journal Of Interventional Cardiology,à 22S3-S17. doi:10.1111/j.1540-8183.2009.00449.x à Cano, I., & Guilemany, J. (2015). Cold spray as an emerging technology for biocompatibility of Carbon Fibers: state of art.à Journal Of Materials Science,à 50(13), 4441-4462. doi:10.1007/s10853-015-9013-1 David, J., Cyril M., Seligson,à D., Bennie L. (2014). Use of Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Composite Implants in Orthopedic Surgery, Journal of Orthopedics, 37 (12): 825-830 Duraccio, D., Mussano, F., & Faga, M. (2015). Biomaterials for dental implants: current and future trends.à Journal Of Materials Science,à 50(14), 4779-4812. doi:10.1007/s10853-015-9056-3 Egger, J., Gall, M., Tax, A., ÃÅ"cal, M., Zefferer, U., Li, X., & ... Chen, X. (2017). Interactive reconstructions of cranial 3D implants under MeVisLab as an alternative to commercial planning software.à Plos ONE,à 12(3), 1-20. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0172694 à Garry, P. (2013). Self-tapping ability of carbon fibre reinforced polyetheretherketone suture anchors.à J Biomater Appl. Epub ahead of print. doi:10.1177/0885328214535274à Goodman, B., Stuart, S., Kelsey, G. & Deborah, J (2011). Composite Implant for Bone Replacement. Journal of Composite Material, vol. 261, pp.à 63-81. Hofmann, A. (2016). Surface Functionalization of Orthopedic Titanium Implants with Bone Sialoprotein.à Plos ONE,à 11(4), 1-23. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0153978 Kumbhar, J. (2015). Applications of bacterial cellulose and its composites in biomedicine.à Applied Microbiology & Biotechnology,à 99(6), 2491-2511. doi:10.1007/s00253-015-6426-3 Paknikar, K., & Kumbhar, J. (2015). Applications of carbon fiber and its composites in biomedicine.à Applied Microbiology & Biotechnology,à 99(6), 2491-2511. doi:10.1007/s00253-015-6426-3 Saleh, M. M. (2016). Biodegradable/biocompatible coated metal implants for orthopedic applications.à Bio-Medical Materials & Engineering,à 27(1), 87-99. doi:10.3233/BME-161568 Schinner, J. & Brandt, H. (2011). Recycling carbon-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites, J Thermoplast Compos Mater, 6(9), pp. 239ââ¬â245 Soboyejo, W. (2017). Polymeric composite devices for localized treatment of early-stage breast cancer.à Plos ONE,à 12(2), 1-11. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0172542 Utech, S., & Boccaccini, A. (2016). A review of carbon-based composites for biomedical applications: enhancement of hydrogel properties by addition of rigid inorganic fillers.à Journal Of Materials Science,à 51(1), 271-310. doi:10.1007/s10853-015-9382-5
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)