Abstract This report provides an introduction to the current development of Yangtze River transportation in the aspects of economy, hinterland, dredging and container port. A further development plan of Yangtze River as well as a blueprint of dredging work announced by the central government are also briefly revealed. Finally, an introduction to three of the top five ports along the Yangtze River are given, in addition to PSA's China's prior research work on the remaining two of the top five ports i.e. Taicang and Zhangjiagang.
Outline:
Brief Introduction on Yangtze River
Economy & Hinterland
Yangtze River Transport
Development in Yangtze River Transportation
Port Along Yangtze River
Further Development Plan of Yangtze River
Dredging
The whole truck line
Responsible parties
Blueprint of dredging work
Lower Reaches
Brief Introduction on 3 of the Top 5 Ports Along Yangtze River
Nanjing
Wuhan
Chongqing
From the Paper "The emergence of important cities and industrial belt along the Yangtze is closely related to shipping on the river. By transporting raw materials, components and finished goods to and from industrial bases, the river plays a vital role in Yangtze region today. Statistics shows that the Yangtze Rivers carries 80% of the iron ore, 72% of the crude oil and 83% of the coal demanded by large factories and enterprises along the river. In some provinces and cities, more than 80% of foreign trade relies on the Yangtze River. Moreover, the transport of liquefied petroleum gas, chemicals and asphalt, as well as ro-ro transport, are also developing rapidly."
"According to the Yangtze Administration of Navigational Affairs, cargo throughput on the Yangtze reached 990m tons in 2006, 3.5 times as much as in 2000, and 3.8m TEU, 5.6 times higher than that of in 2000, making it the world's largest river in terms of freight volume."
Abstract This paper explains that, although global positioning systems provide cartographers with the ability to pinpoint topographical features and today the ability to express relief and contours on modern maps is commonplace, it was not always this easy. The author points out that, while the history of map-making is truly ancient, the ability to communicate accurately relief features on maps began in Italy during the 15th century. The paper concludes that today's cartographer enjoys the benefits of centuries of research into different ways of communicating three-dimensional features on two-dimensional planes and that the introduction of powerful three-dimensional computer-based visualization applications represents a true milestone in cartography history. The paper includes quotations and illustrations.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Rationale in Support of Study
Previous Research
Objective of the Study
Organization of the Study
Background of the Study of Relief Representation
Theoretical Framework
Methodology
Study Design
Theoretical Basis
Research Strategy Employed
Execution of the Study of Relief Representation
Results and Analysis of Relief Representation Techniques
Results
Analysis
Summary and Conclusions
Summary
Conclusions
Limitations of the Study
Recommendation for Future Research
From the Paper "According to Kirschenbauer and Buchroithner (2001), although these three-dimensional techniques provide the user with a decent overall impression of the represented relief, the transmission of detailed information and precise height data as it is rendered by contour lines is not simplified to any significant degree. This is because any of the older (which is to say a couple of years) present detailed landforms with techniques that do not provide a truly comprehensive picture yet. However, these authors emphasize that new technological innovations are making strides in this direction every day."
Abstract This paper explores the factors that could have caused hurricane Katrina and discusses if Katrina was predictable and the likelihood that New Orleans will be hit again. The paper examines this region in comparison to others that have a history of hurricanes and looks at whether the city should be rebuilt on its old location. The paper then discusses the measures that will make New Orleans safer if it is indeed rebuilt.
Outline:
Introduction: Predicting Disaster
Should New Orleans Be rebuilt?
The Extent of Destruction and Future Guidelines
From the Paper "Past civilizations have always been under the threat of some form of natural disaster. For some we only know of them because of a particular disaster that swallowed up and preserved them, such as the well-known Pompei example in ancient Italy. But in modern times we have the good fortune of knowing a lot more about what causes certain natural disasters, and to this extent we can help prepare certain regions for what inevitably will come their way. Figuring out all the geographical relations that determine a particular region becomes very important, and many areas of science must mesh to convey the full information, statistical or otherwise, of what causes severe weather systems, and to what degree is the pattern predictable. Currently there is increasing concern surrounding the hurricane Katrina disaster in New Orleans, and in general how we can prepare for an increase in tropical storms in this and other critical regions."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the tectonic plates effecting seismic activity in the state of California. The paper focuses on the Pacific plate and the North American plate, two adjacent plates moving in opposite directions, which form the San Andreas fault in California. The paper points out that plate tectonics play a major role in the various geological processes found in California, especially in relation to earthquakes and the San Andreas fault. The paper concludes that this plate tectonic activity has brought about much beauty and splendor, while also making the state a very dangerous and unpredictable place to live.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Geology of Plate Tectonics
The San Andreas Fault
Tectonic Activity in California
The Loma Prieta Earthquake
Conclusion
From the Paper "One important part of the San Andreas fault is known as the Coachella Valley Segment and in June of 1992, the Landers earthquake, measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale, alerted geologists to the potential of a large-magnitude quake somewhere in the Los Angeles area. The Landers quake place much scientific focus on the clustering of quakes and tectonic activity close to the Coachella Valley segment of the fault. Thus, many geophysicists have been increasingly concerned with the high number of quakes and amount of tectonic movement occurring so close together on the northern end of the segment. In 1985, several geological investigators determined that a magnitude 7.5 earthquake along or on the Coachella segment could possibly trigger the so-called "Big One," yet if such a scenario occurred on the next segment north and west of the Coachella segment, the heavily-populated city of San Bernardino could experience massive destruction. In addition, a rupture of this segment could conceivably continue in line past Los Angeles and produce a quake measuring 8.0 on the Richter scale (Nance, 1988, p. 174)."
Tags: fault earthquake geology America, Ring of Fire San Andreas
Abstract This paper explains that Portuguese is an Indo-European language, which originated from the Vulgar Latin about two thousand years ago. The author points out that, as Christians conquered the peninsula, a lot of the grammar and words used in Spain and France greatly influenced the modern Portuguese language although the morphology and syntax were only slightly changed. The paper reports that Portuguese is a pluricentric language, which varies from its geographic locations but remains one language. The author describes its phonology, vowels, morphology, syntax, lexicon and pragmatics.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
History
Phonology
Vowels in Portuguese
Morphology and Syntax
Lexicon
Pragmatics
Conclusion
From the Paper "Notice that there are actually three ways that one may say, "You make" in Portuguese. Vos fazeis is actually very archaic and is only used in Holy Scriptures or when praying to God. If you dare mention this, people would look at you very weird. It is similar to the use of ye in English which no one uses anymore (I hope not!). Now depending whether one is in Portugal or Brazil, the use of tu and voce varies. In the Portuguese spoken in Portugal, this dialect is considered as an honorable title. The pronoun voce is used when speaking to older people or when showing respect."
From the Paper "Throughout history, there has been tremendous progress made on the part of mankind. We, as a species, have been able to tame fire, learn to hunt, survive in extreme conditions, and use our resources to their fullest potential. But do we overuse our resources? I strongly believe that we, as a population, do overuse our resources. This is an issue, which we must now face as we head into the next millennium, for it is there, which we will find the answer to the future. Never has more alarm been raised about the peril that the Earth is in.Some choose to ignore it, most notably Julian Simon as far as this paper is concerned, while others, most notably Norman Myers, speak out against it, imploring the population of the planet to listen. Listen to the sounds of a planet that is overburdened, overused, and overheated. One can only wonder how much more our great Blue Marble can take. I don?t believe that it can endure any more."
Abstract This paper tracks the fall of the Spanish Empire over the 19th Century. Starting with the Napoleonic Wars and following the Empires demise into the 20th Century, the essay shows that great-power status is easier to obtain than maintain. It examines the reasons why the Empire fell, delving into economic analysis and socio-political environments.
From the Paper "European power and diplomacy has changed drastically over the past two centuries. With the onset and the outcome of both the First and Second World Wars, the map and power structures of Europe have been radically altered. Russia emerged as a leading European power and Germany, with its direct involvement in both World Wars, established itself as a country with important European power. Today, Great Britain, Russia, and Germany are seen as vital leaders in European affairs and even France is remembered as the once great power that it was. Many grand powers of the modern period are no longer even remembered as the leaders that they used to be and this is certainly true in the case of Spain. Spain, whose empire at the turn of the nineteenth century was the largest in the world is today mysteriously missing from the roster of European countries of authority. It is the purpose of this paper to discover what events and circumstances of the nineteenth century led to the ultimate demise of the Spanish Empire. Although previous centuries will not be directly discussed in this paper, it is important to note that the decline of the Spanish Empire had already begun before the turn of the century."
Abstract A serious look at the agricultural industry in Nigeria, Africa. The importance of Soya is the topic. With extensive facts and figures.
From the Paper "Nigeria has recently turned to Soya foods as an alternative source to meat and other protein related food supplements. 98% of the Nigerian families consume soy- foods and over a 100,000 people are involved in its cultivation. Although farming does not take place on a large scale yet around several million tonnes of soy is produced in Nigeria. Nigeria is fortunate in its geography. The vegetational varieties endow the country to successfully undertake a wide variety of crops. Nigeria's major legumes are groundnuts (Peanuts), soybeans and cowpeas."
Abstract This paper examines the pollution problems facing Las Vegas. The author argues that Las Vegas has in the past violated major health standards and has been the major culprit in air pollution. This paper analyses how the city of Las Vegas can address the problem. Included is an analysis of health risks to the local population, risks effecting the environment, as well as economic and political issues relating to the problem.
From the Paper "Next to the famously smog-clogged Los Angeles, Las Vegas is one of the most polluted cities in the United States. (Clean Fresh Air.com) In fact, according to the EPA, Las Vegas was the only city in the entire country that violated all the federal health standards for the three major types of air pollution between 1989 and 1998. The prime culprit was dust from construction and unpaved roads and lots. This statistic is particularly shocking when one considers the fact that on a national basis, the levels of all six federally regulated pollutants decreased between 1989 and 1998. (?EPA Reports Las Vegas Violated Air Pollution Standards.?)"
Abstract This paper takes an in-depth look at one of Colorado's most interesting cities, Manitou Springs. The author discusses the history of the city, early explorers and denizens, and the ancient rock formations which makes Manitou Springs a tremendous tourist attraction. The paper looks at such Manitou sights as Pike Peaks, Garden of the Gods, and the Dawson formation.
From the Paper:
"Besides being home to a number of top-notch, countrywide renowned historic restaurants, as well as many desired locality eateries, Manitou Springs has a broad range of first class lodgings: an historic hotel, many exclusive Victorian bed& breakfasts, traditional motels, warm boutique motels quality motor inns, cabins by Fountain Creek, and secluded wooded campgrounds. What makes Manitou Springs the most absolute Colorado experience is the lure of the surrounding of the city. You can reach to the top of the Pike Peaks through the Manitou and Pikes railway station which has the elevation of 14,110. The Cave of the winds, will lead to the vivid pits of Colorado but very soon you will be back in time by the majestic view of Miromont Castle and the Cliff Dwellings Museum. "
Abstract This paper discusses the issues of tourism and immigration as major factors which assist in globalization. It addresses the points of foreign labor, recruitment, cultural concerns, immigration and job displacement.
From the paper:
"In many countries, where tourism has become a major export industry, the hospitality sector is the focal point for concepts of globalization to take root. Indeed, tourism has become the world's largest export industry, involving as it does enormous cross-border flows of people and capital. The hospitality industry is one of the world's largest employers and arguably one of the largest traders of foreign currency. It is often also a focal point for local society, and is clearly at the center of the transfer of ideas and the cross fertilization of cultures. At its heart, the hospitality industry plays an important part physically in bringing people together in a global community. And those countries suffering from trade imbalances due to high imports frequently look to tourism and hospitality to close the gap. Hospitality is thus not only an industry, it is a concept -- and a major force in the rapidly evolving global marketplace. "
Abstract This paper takes a look at the development of a welfare state in Guadeloupe and analyzes an article describing this formation by Claudine Attias-Donfut and Nicole Lapierre. It gives a living example of this by also looking at a book by Peggy Orenstein called Schoolgirls - which describes growing up in this society.
From the Paper "In their sociological article ?The Welfare Family: Three Generations in Guadeloupean Society,? Claudine Attias-Donfut and Nicole Lapierre describe the nature of "welfare culture" within the context of Guadeloupe, an island in the French Caribbean. The island of Guadeloupe, named by Christopher Columbus, was characterized by a plantation culture until the abolishment of slavery in 1848. The end of the nineteenth century oversaw a struggle between the white oligarchy and the native population. By 1946, the island had lost its colonial status and became a French administrative zone instead. The 1950's oversaw the development of a social welfare system within the region that is the focus of the article. (Attias-Donfut & Lapierre, pp.329-330)"
Abstract This paper takes a look at the cultural history of Texas going back to its origins as two different nations: Catholic Mexicans and independent American settlers. The paper describes the battle for the Republic of Texas and the symbolism in the Lone Start Flag.
From the Paper "Texas is identified for a number of reasons throughout the United States. One of the most common reasons is because of the number of flags it was governed under throughout the years. For the fifteen years from 1821 to 1836, it was ruled under the reign of the Mexican government. This flag represented many aspects of life in Texas and Mexico. However, the two cultures and political ideas caused many conflicts, as did the distrust the Mexican people held for the American settlers. To begin with, the Americans and the Mexicans held two different sets of values. The Americans believed strongly in freedom of religion, while the Mexicans held a very strong belief in the Catholic Church. The Southern Texan settlers felt it was acceptable to own slaves, while the Mexican people were strongly opposed to this action. The Mexican people also had a long tradition of respect for authority, while the American settlers in Texas, emigrating from a new, independent nation, held little or no respect for authority. Another difference was in the human nature of the two cultures. The American people possessed an individualistic nature that was blunt and self-assertive. This clashed with the Mexican nature, which was subtle and secretive. These differences caused problems for two primary reasons. The first being that it is difficult to effectively govern people who posses such different opinions in values and different characteristics in human nature. The second is that the Mexican flag stood as a symbol over Texas. This symbol represented their control over the Texas settlers, which therefore enforced the Mexican values and personalities upon Texans. These differences were the beginning of the discontent towards the Mexican flag, its government, and its people. "
This paper examines the experiences of infrastructure provision in developing countries, assessing the instruments typically used in strategic development, planning, and implementation.
Abstract This paper looks at experiences in providing basic services, such as transport, water and sewerage to the urban poor in the developing world. It looks at the various ways in which urban authorities attempt to raise funds for improvements, such as privatization versus state ownership. The emphasis these days is on 'participation' by local people in the provision of services that they benefit from. Examples are given of public, private and participatory provision of essential services.
From the Paper "One of the most significant of all postwar demographic phenomena and the one that will be of major concern in the future is the rapid growth of cities in developing countries. The developing world is being transformed from a world of villages to a world of towns and cities. In 1960 less than 22% of the population of low and middle income countries was urban. By 2020 it is estimated that more than half of the population of developing countries will be urban (World Bank: 1995). This enormous growth over the past fifty years has and will continue to place enormous strain on the infrastructure and general services within developed countries. Former World Bank President Robert McNamara expressed his scepticism that huge urban agglomerations could be made to work at all: "These sizes are such that any economies of location are dwarfed by costs of congestion. The rapid population growth that has produced them will have far outpaced the growth of human and physical infrastructure needed for even moderately efficient economic life and orderly political and social relationships, let alone amenity for their residents" (Todaro: 1997: 8). Research increasingly suggests that the problem is not just a lack of resources, but that the resources available are used inefficiently. Here we will discuss experience of infrastructure provision under various systems of administration and planning."
Abstract This essay is a study of the island of Jamaica. It gives an historical overview of its discovery. It details Jamaica's social, political, and economic situation and describes the main factors that effect its situation. This paper also examines the adjacent Caribbean islands and their present day situations. It gives an historical overview of the discovery of the Caribbean and the part the British and Japanese have played in the Caribbean's history.
From the Paper "Early in the sixteenth century, Spaniards landed on, and claimed, the island of Jamaica. Previously inhabited only by Arawak Indians, the island, located along the ocean route connecting the Old World to the New World, soon became a way station for Spanish galleons and a marketplace for slaves and goods from many countries. Along with the Spaniards, it was home to British citizens as well as multinational buccaneers and entrepreneurs.
"According to Daniel J. Seyler, in his contribution to Countries of the World, "Jamaica's story is one of independence that began in the seventeenth century with the Maroons, runaway slaves who resisted the British colonizers by carrying out hit-and run attacks from the interior. Their 7,000 descendants in the Cockpit Country have symbolized the fervent, sometimes belligerent, love of freedom that is ingrained in the Jamaican people as a result of both their British tutelage and their history of slavery. Independence came quietly, however, without a revolutionary struggle, apparently reflecting the lasting imprint of the British parliamentary legacy on Jamaican society" (Seyler 1991)."
