ShantanuT01/DACTYL-Pretraining huggingface dataset:
Monopolies or Competition The recent merger between American Airlines and US Airways elicited varied reactions from practitioners and mainstream commentators, with several players in the airline industry registering doubts that such a merger could be perceived as enhancing a monopolistic orientation. However, as explained by the President of American Airlines, the merger was intended to strengthen the business case for the two airlines, particularly in terms of ensuring superior scheduling options, access to more destinations around the world, and a contemporary, fuel-efficient fleet (US Airways, 2014). The monopolistic orientation may pay dividends for the airlines in terms of facilitating an efficient and dynamic environment, increasing the economies of scale (e.g., increased output will lead to a decrease in average operational costs, which will be passed down to customers in the form of low airfares), and reinforcing international competitiveness through the consolidation of the American market (Szczutkowski, 2010). Additionally, unlike in a perfectly competitive orientation where individual demand curves are perfectly elastic, the monopolistically competitive orientation underscored by the merger implies that demand curves will not be perfectly elastic, hence giving the airlines the market power necessary to raise ticket prices without necessarily losing all of their customers. Lastly, unlike in a perfectly competitive market which assumes that products are perfect substitutes for each other, the monopolistically competitive orientation underscored by the merger will facilitate the airlines to develop highly differentiated products that will enable them to win more customers and grow their revenue base (Szczutkowski, 2010). Consequently, in the airline industry, it is argued here that a monopolistic orientation is better than a purely competitive market orientation. International Financing and Foreign Exchange Markets As the CFO of the parent company, I would take concerted efforts to manage the foreign exchange risk associated with the depreciating Mexican peso on the foreign exchange markets. In international money markets, the depreciation of the Mexican peso can be explained in terms of increased demand for the American dollar against a backdrop of an oversupply of the local Mexican currency (Hallgren, Ljung, & Temler, 2006). To deal with the situation, therefore, I would ensure that future loan repayments are made using American dollars due to the stability of the currency in foreign exchange markets. It is also possible that the Mexican peso is projected to depreciate by over 30 percent over the next year due to a higher inflation rate in Mexico (Hallgren et al., 2006). In such a situation, I would initiate a suspension of repayment until the inflation rate in Mexico stabilizes or until such a time when the Mexican peso ceases to depreciate. Hallgren et al. (2006) argue that companies are exp
Hispanic Americans, also known as Latino Americans are a group of people with diverse characteristics but linked up with a heritage of a universal language. The population of Spanish America stood at 35.5 million as per the 2000 United States consensus with a potential population growth of 60% every year. Mexican started migrating to the United States in considerable numbers as early as 1850 following the discovery of Gold in Sierra Nevada of California and continued doing so as the economy of the United States continued to improve in the 1920s. As of 2000 US consensus, there was a total of 15 million Mexican Americans residing in the United States with the highest population living in California, Texas, Arizona, Illinois, and New Mexico. Most Mexican Americans mix the Spanish language with the English language through code-switching and the resultant language is referred to as Spanglish. Approximately 76% of Mexican Americans practice the Roman Catholic Faith with the rest embracing the Protestant and Pentecostal religions. Economically, Mexican Americans have invested in farming business especially in Texas and California. Those who are in employment form the biggest source of cheap labor in factories and as domestic workers. Mexican Americans’ participation in US politics has been very limited as a result of discrimination as they have been considered as “outsiders” or “foreigners” in the United States politics. To protect their interests, Mexicans have formed protective organizations, the most notable pioneer was mutualistic, meaning Mutual aid society, where members pooled their resources together and provided insurances and other grants to each other. Orden Hijos de Americ a interpreted in English as Order of the sons of America was an organization established in 1921 limiting membership to American citizens of Mexico origin to cater to Mexican interests in the United States. Other organizations include the League of Latin American Citizens (LULAC) aimed at uniting and advocating for the rights of the Spanish Americas. Most Cuban Americans migrated to the United States for political reasons mostly triggered by the leadership of Fidel Castro, long-serving Cuban president. Recent migrations have been triggered by declining economic conditions in Cuba. 63% of totals Cuban Americans reside in Dade County, Miami, Florida with the rest spread in California, New Jersey, and New York. Cuban Americans speak Spanish as well as fluent English. 75% of Cuban American belongs to Roman Catholic religion and the rest are either protestant or adhere to no religion. The recent past has seen a major conflict between the Cuban Americans and African Americans over control of interests in states where Cuban and African Americans have settled. Because of the population size of Cuban Americans, they have significant influence in United States politics. 80 % of Cuban Americans are registered voters and are reputed to be conservative, voting for Republican Party in almost all elections. Financially, Cuban Americans are better off than any other Hispanic American group. They are a successf
Introduction The 20th century is considered one of the worst centuries in human history in terms of human-made atrocities that resulted in the deaths of millions of people. Although the progress humanity achieved in the 20th century brought many technological advances that improved the quality of life, it also caused a great amount of suffering in the numerous wars and conflicts that occurred in that century. The negative events that happened in the 20th century completely contradicted all possible principles of human morality and ethics. While there were reasons behind these actions, they are not enough to justify everything that happened in that century (Valentino, 2013). Inhumanity in the 20th Century General Description Many events that occurred during the 20th century can be considered inhumane. The most brutal among them were World War I and World War II, the Holodomor or famine-genocide in Ukraine, the Auschwitz concentration camp, the bombardment of Dresden, the use of an atomic weapon in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Gulag camps, the Burma Railway, the Vietnam War, the Great Chinese Famine, the Rwandan Genocide, the Sri Lankan Civil War, and the Khmer Rouge regime. Also, numerous minor-scale conflicts resulted in thousands of human deaths (Glover, 2012). Statistics show that most of these events are among the deadliest in human history. Thus, the overall number of victims of World War I is approximately 40 million people. The number of casualties of World War II is more than 80 million people. The Great Chinese Famine killed 40 million people. As a result of the Holocaust, 20 million people died. The Gulag caused 3 million deaths. Technological advancements such as the atomic bomb and similar means of mass destruction used in war also contributed to the increase in the number of victims (Becker, 2014). Reasons All the disasters mentioned above occurred for various reasons. Some of these reasons were based on good intentions but ended in disaster. For example, Mao Zedong’s motives in his Great Leap Forward were positive as he wanted to create a great communist country, but he underestimated the situation and caused the Great Chinese Famine in which millions of people died. In terms of the atomic bombardment of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the intent was to stop the war, which could be considered good, though its implementation was far from humane. Nevertheless, even good intentions cannot justify such horrible actions (Valentino, 2013). Prevention It is certainly natural after such disastrous events for people to be determined to seek more humane approaches and not repeat past mistakes. This can also be regarded as a good intention, but considering past events, there is no guarantee of a positive outcome. In theory, it is possible to prevent such negative events from happening. However, in practice, human nature can mount a great obstacle in this process of prevention (Becker, 2014). In retrospect, one analyzing the greatest human-made disasters of the 20th cent
Introduction There has been a tendency to hire people who are more just like us. Thus the choice of people whole is more like us is worth considering when hiring people both on its benefits as well as its disadvantages. From the concepts of the social construction of reality, groups or persons interacting together form mental representations or concepts from the actions of each other. These concepts later on become habituated and played back in reciprocal roles by each other. The reciprocal role is said to be institutionalized when new society members gain access to these roles and play them out. The result of this institutionalism is that meaning is embedded within the society and belief otherwise termed as people’s conception and knowledge becomes embedded within the society. Thus social reality can be said to have been socially constructed. Overview Some people have argued out that when we are confronted with an issue our reply is never wholly ours. It is dependent on what others do and in particular what they may say, suggest or direct us to do (Berger, P. L., and Luckmann, T.1966). This can be summarized as;  1. The outcome of an interaction is both unpredictable and unintended. The outcome is neither due to either of the parties involved but due to “us”. Thus it turns out to be a community outcome and not an individual outcome. Thus although different individuals have got what they desire on their own, what results from an exchange is a different outcome.  2. Thus joint interactions produce a “we” situation that people find themselves in, hence resulting in the creation of ‘our world’ between the interacting people.  3. Thus in creating ‘our world’ people also end up creating the ‘persons’ they are which would thus be translated to mean ‘like us’.  4. ‘Structure’ and ‘organization’ of this ‘world’ reality cannot thus be traced to any particular individual as nature is externally caused.  5. ‘Our world’ seems to have a meaning or to be ‘pointing towards something’ as it is always has a relation to something beyond its self. Thus it always acts as if though it has some kind of intelligence directed towards a certain product or a mentality with a certain intention.  6. But although people feel that they like a given world, they always perceive it as open to their further action.  7. The “world’ does always seem to motivate or invite other possibilities. Thus failure to meet its expectations results in a feeling of guilt something that hurts the ‘being’ of the space. This could be termed ethically wrong. This created ‘world’ thus makes some kind of rulings on what shouldn’t or should be done (Berger., P.L and Luckmann., T.1967). Social construction doesn’t come without skeptics. In the analysis of social problems, the theory o
Normal Pathophysiology of Gastric Acid Stimulation and Production The healthy functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is crucial for the human body since it ensures digestion, absorption, and assimilation of all the necessary components of nutrition, without which other processes cannot run successfully. When the tract acts normally, food is ingested into the mouth cavity for moistening and mechanical processing; then, it is forwarded along its length with the help of peristaltic movements of the muscles into the stomach and small intestine. There, enzymes are secreted to break carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into basic nutrients that are absorbed across the epithelium of the small intestine (McCance & Huether, 2015). Gastric acid, secreted by parietal cells in the stomach, is needed to create the optimal pH for pepsin and gastric lipase, thereby assisting food digestion. Normally, gastrin output begins even before food intake and can be caused by the thought, sight, or smell of it. G-cells (found in the distal one-third of the stomach) that secret gastrin gets stimulated further when protein arrives there (McCance & Huether, 2015). As a result, histamine is released from enterochromaffin-like cells, which stimulates parietal cells. Then, the secretion of acid occurs. Antral D cells react to the drop in pH by releasing somatostatin that causes the so-called negative feedback control (inhibition of gastrin release) (Waldum, Hauso, & Fossmark, 2014). The output of acid begins at birth and reaches its maximum level at the age of 2. The decline begins in elderly individuals; nevertheless, the process normally continues throughout the entire life. Changes of Gastric Acid Stimulation and Production with GERD, PUD, and Gastritis Disorders Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD (a stomach disorder typically referred to as heartburn) is a widespread condition that appears as a result of acid reflux. Hydrochloric acid produced by the stomach causes the secretion of gastric acid by the gastric gland. As it has already been mentioned, digestive enzymes it contains are required to split molecules. When too much acid is released, it irritates the stomach; as a result, some people can experience acid reflux to the esophagus, causing the so-called heartburn (Orlando, 2016). Therefore, gastric acid is the major triggering factor of GERD. It has been proven by research that excessive production of it can be stopped by changes introduced to the diet and lifestyle (McCance & Huether, 2015). Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) is the condition occurring as a result of the disturbed m
Since time immemorial, artists have always tried to come up with new ways of trying to express their feelings, emotions as well as thoughts (Archer 14). They try voicing out their concerns about identity, history as well as memory through the use of modern and contemporary art. With the onset of modern technology, it becomes much easier for them to be creative and innovative using different objects and murals, hence expanding their imaginations (Bishop 82). One such way that they use to express their thoughts is through Installation Art. Installation Art can be defined as a visual art method used by artists whereby sculptural materials and other murals are used to alter a given space or area (Archer 22). It can be in form of photography, painting, sculpture, video performance, and/or performance by individuals. Part of the composition used by the artists is normally the specific settings such as floors, walls as well as lighting. The use of Installation Art came to be in the early 1970s and incorporated almost any media to affect a particular environment (Bishop 84). Installation art is normally meant to create or narrate the story of the artist to the audience and it can either be temporary or permanent. In this kind of art, the emphasis is mostly put on the idea that the artist is trying to bring out rather than the murals he is using (Ibid 85). Installation art was already in operation in London and New York in the 1960s. Artists shared a desire to make temporary or permanent use of suggestive spaces to express what they thought and felt (Davies & Ronald 27). An example of such an artist is that of Mr. Mario Merz who came to be after World War II. He used a wide range of forms, diverting from the traditional concept of painting and sculpture (Archer 24). He expressed his ideas on floors, ceilings as well as walls. He did this using a variety of materials for instance fruits, vegetables, pieces of glass, wax, mud, bundled twigs, and loaves of bread (Davies & Ronald 32). Other known artists in the 1960s include July Chicago, Group Material, Isaac Julien, and Robert Morris (Bishop 89). As a whole, artists both in London and New York were still in the experimental stages of installation art. They experimented on different backgrounds and materials and observed the reaction of their audience concerning what they had created and expressed at the end (Archer 39). For instance, in 1961, an artist in New York created a form that included gigantic geometrical solid objects constructed in gray-painted plywood, that the audience could walkthrough since it wormed itself into the fabric of the architectural space provided in the gallery (Bishop 105). In London, the majority of its gallery spaces are dedicated to installations and installation art as a whole. What is most interesting is the involvement of women in installation art since the 1960s. Moving away from the traditional culture which believed that art was only meant for men, installation art brought about events as well as personalities of women’s civil rights and movements (Davies & Ronald 48). Installation artworks of women such as Margo Machida whose paintings represented the multiplici
Introduction A personal philosophy can be defined as a set of beliefs, attitudes, concepts, and convictions that guide an individual’s way of living and doing things, personally and professionally. Many people consider the creation of personal philosophy as an elementary exercise that serves only to fulfill the requirements of certain academic endeavors. However, it is an indispensable component of proper life because it allows people to make better choices that are based on personal values and beliefs. Moreover, it gives their life purpose because they act and behave in ways that aim to achieve certain desired outcomes. As a nursing major, my personal philosophy is based on my inclination to help people alleviate suffering and improve the quality of their lives. It is my duty to apply my knowledge and skills to prevent and manage illnesses so as to improve the physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being of patients. My Personal Philosophy My personal philosophy is founded on certain beliefs and values that guide my decision-making and that inspire me to engage in a meaningful contribution in my career as a nurse. My beliefs and values influence the choices I make every day. Therefore, it is important for me to identify them, clarify their influence, and live them daily. These values include honesty, responsibility, compassion, lifelong learning, and kindness. Nursing is not only a career, but a calling that requires the possession of integrity, knowledge, and compassion (Kim 54). My personal philosophy postulates that I have a responsibility to use my knowledge and abilities to help people alleviate their suffering by providing safe and holistic patient-centered care regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. It is my responsibility to meet my needs and those of my patients by being honest, kind, and compassionate. Moreover, it is my obligation as a nurse to create a healthy environment that will promote a speedy recovery and improve the physical and psychological well-being of patients. I am committed to lifelong learning because that is the best approach to improving the quality of my life and progressing in my career. Who am I? I am a passionate and spiritual human being who is committed to using physical, mental, and spiritual capabilities to live a meaningful life through service in the nursing profession. I am a product of my beliefs, ideas, and values that have been acquired through life experiences and the acquisition of knowledge. Spirituality is an important component that enhances an individual’s kindness and compassion (Smith and Parker 83). Important components of self-identity include world view, self-esteem, personality attributes, physical attributes, and knowledge of one’s skills (Masters 95). Self-identity is an important aspect of building a strong character. I chose to pursue a career in nursing owing to my attributes that include compassion and commitment to alleviate physical suffering. My Goals My goals are to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, maintain a lifelong learning habit, and help
Immigration is a burning issue in the 21st century, especially in Europe. Germany and the United States have been a frequent sight on newspaper headlines in terms of their immigration policies. Germany is known for encouraging countries to accept immigrants and refugees, while the US Administration exercises caution and negligence to immigrants’ application to cross the borders. Germany and the United States contrast each other in resolving the public issue of immigration. In both countries, immigration policy implementation challenges are rooted in the national attitude to immigrants and asylum seekers. One of the reasons for Donald Trump winning the presidential elections lay in the public fear of foreign nationalities (Martinez-Brawley & Zorita, 2018). In contrast, German officials expressed a welcoming attitude to immigrants, which manifested in its acceptance of Middle East refugees (Ostrand, 2015). Therefore, the leadership’s sentiment is the difference in implementing policies. The immigration policies of Germany and the United States cater to specific key stakeholders. Germany intends to solve its unemployment issues by integrating immigrants who will compensate for the lack of workforce (Deutsche Welle, 2019). This makes German employers the target audience of the government’s actions. In the United States, the Administration favors the middle-class working population, which views immigrants and ethnic minorities as a threat to their well-being (Fukuyama, 2018). As a result, the US wants to prevent immigrants from rising to power. Policy dynamics vary between Germany and the United States as each country pursues different objectives. According to the statistics on immigrant arrival, Germany has accepted over a million asylum seekers since 2015 (BBC News, 2018). The intake of immigrants continues; therefore, Germany does not intend to change its policy. In contrast, the United States has shown a reserved attitude toward accepting refugees, even before Trump. Thus, it is likely that even if Trump does not get reelected, the US will retain its course of minimal immigrant entries. In both countries, key planning issues are related to either allocating immigrants or restricting their inflow. Germany needs time to process asylum applications, while refugees have to be kept in special centers for asylum seekers (BBC News, 2018). As such, planning pertains to finding appropriate placements for such centers and managing the immigrants’ necessities. The United States planning is similar in that it also looks for ways to control the refugee flow. The difference is that Washington intends to curb border crossings, whether it is legal or not. As with other public areas, current events in immigration are complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Germany’s policy of integrating immigrants into the labor force backfires in the form of rising coronavirus cases (Deutsche Welle, 2020). Most of the industries where immigrants work are affected by the economic consequences of the pandemic. A similar problem persists in the United States, where the quarantine measures caused a subs