Abstract This creative rewriting of a scene from Ken Kesey's "One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest" starts with the character McMurphy thinking that signing into admissions is some type of prison and that "you know you are in for it when black boys have to check you into the place". The author describes the process of entering the ward and interactions with the other patients. The paper relates, using dialogue, that the court ruled that McMurphy was a psychopath and that he was going to let them think what ever they want 'if it gets me outta those damn pea fields".
From the Paper "The guy right in front of me looks pretty involved in a game of poker. I ain't even positive he knows how to play his cards. I walk over to him and tilt his cards back so I can see what he's got goin' for him. Poor fella, doesn't even have one pair. I squint and shake my head at 'em. "'Yessir, that's what I came to this establishment for, to bring you birds fun an' entertainment around the gamin' table. Nobody left in that Pendleton Work Farm to make my days interesting any more, so I requested a transfer, ya see.'' "
Tags:cardspsychopathreaction, community room, inpatients
Abstract The paper describes how over the course of the past few decades, there has been significant discussion related to the characteristics of the psychopathic personality. Once testing was developed that was considered capable of measuring psychopathy in patients, the next logical step was to discover treatments that would be effective in altering the psychopathic personality. For criminal justice professionals, court systems, governmental agencies and members of the community this was a significant issue.
From the Paper "The importance of the issue existed in the knowledge that most known serial killers in the country were considered psychopathic personalities and a large portion of violent crimes were related to psychopaths. Therefore, being able to identify and treat people with this mental disorder was believed to be capable of preventing these violent acts."
Abstract The paper offers a case study of ERG Smart Cards, a company offering the means for widespread use of smart cards. The paper explains that this is a system allowing for monetary value to be loaded onto "smart cards" with embedded microprocessors for recording transactions and calculating changes in value. The paper relates that this sort of technology has been in development for a decade or so and has been pursued by a number of companies, some in association with ERG, some acquired by ERG, and some concentrating on different aspects of the market than ERG.
From the Paper "ERG Smart Cards is a company offering the means for widespread use of smart cards, a system allowing for monetary value loaded onto "smart cards" with embedded microprocessors for recording transactions and calculating changes in value. This sort of technology has been in development for a decade or so and has been pursued by a number of companies, some in association with ERG, some acquired by ERG and some concentrating on different aspects of the market than ERG. ERG today is in a strong position for the future but is also faced with a reduced stock price because of problems with its association with Motorola, once a linchpin for the company and now a drain on the stock price. CEO Fogarty has to determine whether to continue to pursue the company strategy of concentrating on large-scale projects or chase smaller tenders."
Abstract Six page paper exploring the recent and out of control trend of college students getting themselves deep into debt by getting easy credit cards at school.
Abstract This paper offers a brief business plan for a small sports autograph and card shop, including an a website for selling the same merchandise and providing information about the sports collectibles market.
From the Paper "This business will operate a retail store selling sports autographs memorabilia and trading cards. In addition the company will have an online Web site for selling the same merchandise and for providing information about the sports collectibles market..."
Tags: small business plan, sports autograph & card shop, marketing plan
Abstract The paper deals with a very detailed investigation into how the kinetics of a reaction changes from alterationss in pH, the concerntration of reactants and the addition of a catlyst in a homogenous solution. Also included is the most effective, yet efficient manner, of determining the rate of the reaction including detailed mathematical calculations. There is a lot of experimental data as evidence included and a detailed practical guide of how the investigation was undertaken and numerous discussions.This paper is essential as a reference for those studying reaction kinetics.
From the Paper "Investigate the kinetics of the above reaction and thus attempt to find a rate equation for the reaction and also establishing the best method to determine the rate of the reaction. I will do this by varying the concentrations of Iodide ions, H+ ions and Hydrogen Peroxide to generate the rate equation, I will also try to find the effect of a catalyst: Molybdate ion on the rate of reaction and also if the amount of catalyst is relevant in a homogenous reaction. The rate will be found using the iodine clock reaction and also by the use of a pH meter and a colorimeter, and these methods will be assessed to help determine the best method of analysis."
Abstract This paper describes a chemistry experiment in enthalpy change during chemical reactions. It looks at the enthalpy change in the reaction between magnesium and hydrochloric acid. The experimental method is described and the results analyzed. The write-up shows details of the experiment recorded and how the calculations are made.
From the Paper "This laboratory exercise studied the enthalpy change of a chemical reaction between magnesium (Mg) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) The experiment is designed to calculate the energy released from a single replacement reaction. The reaction is exothermic, i.e., it gives off heat. An empty calorimeter was weighed and the temperature of the calorimeter recorded. A g sample of Mg was added to mL HCl an the calorimeter with a thermometer attached. The maximum temperature reached during the reaction was recorded. The final weight of the calorimeter..."
Abstract The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) allows scientists to directly and exponentially amplify small samples of DNA. It will permit molecular archaeologists to analyze the genealogical relationships of extinct species and vanished populations and their relationship to living creatures. This paper outlines the technique and assesses its strengths and weaknesses.
Abstract This paper uses secondary data to analyze the credit card industry along five constructs: (1) Competitive analysis: Porter's Five Forces and PEST analysis, (2) monopoly vs. perfect competition, (3) standardization vs. localization, (4) competition vs. collaboration and (5) revolutionary vs. evolutionary change. The author points out that the existing credit card industry is a mature market, but it still has room to grow as more people become familiar with the allied financial services their credit and debit cards can provide. The paper relates that VISA enjoys the most powerful credit/debit card position in consumer cards especially in business credit cards, with it has extensive and integrated work in payments processing; however, the founders of First Data/Concord EFS were particularly aggressive business people. Many tables and charts.
Table of Contents
Introduction
In Brief
Background
Flies in the First Data Ointment
Objective
Methodology
Structure of the Dissertation
Literature Review
Competitive analysis
Porter's Five Forces
Porter's Five Forces Example
PEST Analysis
Economic Factors
Socio-Cultural Factors
Technological Factors
Literature Review
Monopoly vs. Perfect Competition
Standardization vs. Localization
National Initiatives
Competition vs. Collaboration
Revolutionary vs. Evolutionary Change
Opportunities
Overview of Credit and Debit Card Industries
Top Ten Card Issuers Compared
Bank Card Profitability
Differences between Credit and Debit Cards U.S. Payment Cards-in-Force (in millions)
Off-Line Debit History
Top 10 U.S. Issuers by Card Loans
Developed vs. Less Developed Nations' Credit Card Use
VISA Volume
2003 Top 10 Countries
Global Financial Cards in Circulation - 2003
Corporate /Commercial vs. Consumer Use
Analysis of VISA's Strategy
VISA's Strengths
VISA's Weaknesses
VISA's Opportunities
VISA's Threats
STP Strategy (Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning)
Conclusion
Conclusions and Recommendations
From the Paper "From the merchant's point of view, the merger was seen as one that would give them an alternative to VISA and MasterCard. Shortly after the merger, major STAR network contracts with high-profile banks such as Wells Fargo, Wachovia and BankOne were set to expire; this opened the field to some turmoil, in all likelihood, because VISA was already making a play to sign the same institutions for its processing and acceptance capabilities. FirstData/Concord was assumed to have the upper hand, however because analysts thought those two institutions, despite their disparate original sizes, understood contracts of that sort and banks themselves better then VISA. As it turns out, STAR did lose some of its bank contracts, reducing the value of the merger somewhat from the First Data standpoint."
Abstract For decades, various psychiatrists and researchers have worked toward developing an effective list of traits that can be associated with a psychopath. This paper uses sources, such as Hervey Cleckley's 1941 book, "The Mask of Insanity" and Robert Hare's more modern "Without Conscience", to illustrate the difficulty in defining the specific cluster of behaviors and personality traits typical of psychopathy.
From the Paper "In addition, unlike other individuals who react more to emotional words than neutral ones, these people react the same to both. When conducting brain scans through MRIs, it is seen that parts of their mind that are expected to react do not and those that are not expected to, do. In other words, emotional words do not have the same reaction for psychopaths that they do for normal people. This cannot be considered brain damage, adds Hare, rather a different way to process information."
Abstract Using Thomas Harris' thriller "Red Dragon", this paper discusses whether psychopaths and serial killers are born or made. The paper describes traits of serial killers, uses examples from the novel and examples from experts in the field of psychology as part of the discussion of this issue about nature vs. nurture.
From the Paper "A central question implicit in Thomas Harris' thriller "Red Dragon" is whether serial killers or psychopaths are born or made. What plays the largest role in pathological criminal acts, nature or nurture or a combination of both? The controversy of nature versus nurture is based on definitions of human behavior as evolving from two opposing theories. Nurture theorists contend that behavioral development is learned and that deviant or criminal behavior is based in cognitive behavior that begins with child rearing. Nature theorists on the other hand contend that behavioral..."
Abstract The paper explains that a video card (also referred to as a graphics card) is an essential part of computer hardware. The paper relates that without these cards, monitors would not display the pixels in a format the human eye could understand. The paper discusses the evolution of the graphics card from simple chips that displayed nothing more than text, to the graphic wonders that can create any detail today. The paper predicts that they will continue to add vivid color, striking details and complex capabilities for computer users far into the future.
Outline:
Abstract
Evolution of the Graphics Card Future of the Graphics Card
From the Paper "Graphics cards are essential to the computing we know today. From PDAs to laptops, the graphics card allows the user to play games, create graphics and complex mapping, and even view the world one pixel at a time through programs such as GoogleEarth. Graphics cards have evolved from simple MDAs that only displayed text to complex cards that can render ever more complicated and detailed graphic images. In the future, computer users can expect graphics that are even more detailed, faster memory and interfaces that reduce rendering time, and even better 3D graphics that will allow them to become "part" of the screen."
Abstract The paper ascertains the attitudes of students relative to credit cards, examining their attitudes towards their perceived convenience, risk and the extra cost of potential transactions. The analysis includes both the students' and their families' income, the frequency of parents' fights over money and credit cards, specifically, and the number of credit cards carried. The paper discusses the conclusions from this research, that shows the marketing of credit cards for college students, both to their parents and to the students themselves, is extremely effective. The paper explains that credit card companies are successfully imparting the messages of control, ego gratification and the rationalization of emergencies.
Outline:
Executive Summary
Research Issue
Methodology
Analysis of Results
Conclusions/Recommendations
Limitations
Appendices
From the Paper "Fifty students were given the printed questionnaire and assured complete anonymity and privacy, and also were left alone in classrooms after sessions were over to complete the survey. A $3 Starbucks Card was offered to the first ten students to complete the survey, so that motivation to quickly finish the research instrument would be assured. Graduate-level students were asked to complete the survey during an evening course break. "The sampling focused primarily on business students, with an even mix of women and men in the samples to rule out gender bias in the analysis of the results, a research design advocated by Hair, J.F., Anderson, R.E., Tatham, R.L., & Black, W.C. (1995) in their book."
Abstract While credit cards give the consumer many advantages, this paper takes a look at how credit cards have pushed the margin on high interest rates, at hidden fees and negative marketing strategies which have put society into debt.
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
A. Americans in credit card debt.
II. Origin of credit cards A. Dates
B. Statistics
C. Relevant background
III. High Interest rates
A. Interest rates in recent years
B. Usury Laws
C. Who sets these laws?
IV. High Hidden Fees
A. The inflating Interest Rate Game
B. The Grace Period
C. Extra Fees
V. Negative Marketing Strategies
A. What to do first, if you have a complaint
B. Government agencies to contact
C. Can the company get penalties?
VI. Laws and Legislation regarding high interest rates, hidden fees and negative marketing strategies.
A. Truth in Lending Act
B.Governing finance charges
C.EFT Act
VII. CONCLUSION
From the Paper "Credit cards have become a symbol of the American way of life. Until recently Americans were enjoying a period of wealth and freedom never before experienced in history. They were in a mood to buy, and buy they did. Many turned to credit cards to make the purchases that they desired. Some commodities, such as rental cars cannot be obtained with out plunking down a credit card. While credit cards give the consumer many advantages, credit cards have pushed the margin on high interest rates, hidden fees and negative marketing strategies, putting society in to debt."
Tags: interest, consumer, dept, economy, loan, social
Abstract This paper points out the numerous opportunities for fraud that would be created if the U.S. government were to mandate the use of identity cards. The paper explains that, while the idea of issuing identity cards came about as a response to the events of 9/11, the ease and ability of creating false identity cards, as evidenced by the number of 9/11 hijackers who held false passports, could actually work against the purpose of identity cards, which is to help keep out potential terrorists.
From the Paper "Since the attacks by al-Qaeda on the United States on September 11, 2001, both citizens of and officials of our government have considered what we can do to reduce the chance that al-Qaeda could launch another successful attack. We now see long lines at airports as luggage and carry-ons are more thoroughly checked, and travelers are required to show identification multiple times before boarding planes and other public transportation systems (La Londe, 2002). However, because each state sets its own standards for issuance of major methods of identification such as driver's licenses, some have argued that the United States should issue federally controlled identity cards. In this way we could standardize the documentation required, and have more confidence that they were accurate indications of who the person is."
