Abstract The paper explains "op art" as a term that refers to visual art that makes use of optical illusions in its overall aesthetic effect. The paper
examines the history of op art and its humble origins, while investigating the genre's main characteristics. The paper also discusses its main practitioners, namely, Bridget Riley, Julian Stanczak and Richard Anuskiewicz.
From the Paper "Traces of the origins of op art can be found in the German Constructivist School known as the Bauhaus. The Bauhaus were known more as a philosophical and design school than they were as artists. Their design philosophy was rooted in the idea of "form and function" over purely aesthetic pleasure. The Bauhaus filtered all their ideas through serious, rational analysis. This movement would be imported to the United States with the rise of the Third Reich in Germany in the early 1930s, when the original Bauhaus academy was forced to close and many of its leading personalities fled to America. The 1930s and 1940s would see the creation of several proto-op works, including several works by Victor Vasarely, a Hungarian artist."
Abstract This paper is in two sections. The first part examines Mozart's Symphony no. 39 in E-flat and the second, Schumann's Quartet in A-minor, op 41, no 1. It discusses how Mozart's music was reflective of his life and his friendships and interwoven in this symphony are chords that resonate harmony and plays on the dynamics of sound to create a musical piece that slowly marches into a series of discords. In contrast it shows how Robert Schumann's music has often been identified with his love of poetry, painting and indicative of his personal moods and how many of his compositions mention characters or refer to scenes from poems, novels and plays.
From the Paper "E-flat was a one of his favorite keys. As in the rites of the opera, three solemn knocks on the portal of truth are evoked in the commanding chords upon which the Adagio introduction opens the symphony. Certain musical details of this exalted work have been viewed as Masonic elements: parallel thirds, symbolizing fraternity; the striking role of the clarinet, then a newcomer to the symphonic ensemble but commonly heard at Masonic gatherings and in the opera house; and even slurred notes, whose ties suggest friendship."
Abstract Analysis of Antonio Vivaldi's solo concerto "Primavera" Op. 8, No. 1 ("Spring"). The first of the 4 concertos that make up The Four Seasons, a programmatic piece. Discusses the ideas of the poem. Discusses interpretations. Details each movement and its motifs.
From the Paper "Antonio Vivaldi's Primavera, or Spring (Op. 8 no. 1) was the first of the set of concertos entitled Le quattro stagioni (Op. 8 nos. 1-4) published in Il cimento dell'armonia e dell'inventione at Amsterdam in 1725 (although the date of their composition is uncertain). The Primavera is a solo concerto scored for Violino principale, two other violins (ripieno), violas, violoncellos and double basses with continuo (usually played on harpsichord). The four concertos provide an example of programmatic music, illustrating four simple poems addressed to the seasons which may have been written, or at least adapted, by Vivaldi himself.
In the poem to Spring, in rough outline, the goddess is welcomed by the singing of birds and the breath of Zephyrs which makes the brooks murmur. Thunder and lightning, one of her signs, arrive and darken the sky. The storm is soon over and the..."
An examination of the solutions for the global poverty from Nicholas D. Kristof's op-ed column "Pregnant (Again) and Poor," published in The New York Times on April 4, 2009.
Abstract This paper discusses Nicholas D. Kristof's op-ed column "Pregnant (Again) and Poor," published in The New York Times on April 4, 2009. The paper examines the argument in the article concerning the actions that are necessary in order to reduce global poverty in developing countries. The paper specifically focuses on Kristof's example of a woman from Haiti called Nahomie.
From the Paper "This writer's argument is important because in order to fight poverty, we need to see beyond to determine what smaller actions will be needed to complete the task of reducing global poverty. The use of family planning will be beneficial although also it might hurt the feelings of those who have a lot of children. A discussion about what we want versus what we are able to handle economically would be useful. It seems that often what is beneficial for individuals will be beneficial for the entire society as well. This op-ed piece shows the reader how important it is to go deeply into this issue; it shows us that sometimes what seems to be a logical solution is the not the best one. We need to go deep. We cannot just plan our own solutions; we also need to plan a solution that will benefit others."
Abstract This paper discusses whether editorial and op-ed writers for "The New York Times" had a problem with the way either of the two presidential candidates and their campaigns behaved, whether the op-eds typically agreed or disagreed with the editorials, and whether the times encourage healthy debate.
Abstract Discusses the development of the citrus fruit as a crop. Origins and early historical function of oranges. Introduction to the New World. Growing popularity in America's citrus belt. Op[timal climate for growing sweet oranges. How growers combat frost. Effect of disease and economics.. Characteristics of oranges as a viable food crop.
From the Paper "This paper is a discussion of oranges, their development as a fruit crop, and the effects of weather, climate, and other environmental forces on their growth. Although oranges are familiar fruits across the world, they are a relatively modern addition to international food choices, providing health benefits as well as culinary diversity. They can be grown widely but only within the "citrus belt," the latitudes that allow for the temperate climates and sufficient rainfall that the trees need to produce healthy, good-sized fruit.
Oranges are believed to have originated in the more tropical regions of China and the Malay Archipelago. Leon D. Batchelor and Walton S. Sinclair write, "Oranges and other citrus species have been cultivated from remote ages, and records of this early distribution from the original habitat to nearby countries are lost ..."
Abstract Microsoft has left an indelible mark on the business community as an innovator of technology, as a fierce competitor and as a stock market juggernaut. In the wake of the June 7th ruling handed down by Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson (ordering that Microsoft be split into two companies) the paper argues that we may add to Microsoft's resume monopolistic predator, propagator of unfair business tactics and unrepentant defier of the courts. The paper shows that Microsoft is poised to take its place in history among the litany of other companies similarly forced to split upon scrutiny by the American courts. It shows that the Microsoft decision marks the biggest antitrust ruling since the breakup of AT&T in 1983. The paper shows that the ruling is a bold stroke by the Federal government to combat market monopolization and restraint of trade in the new technological age.
From the Paper "Obviously, the outcome of the Microsoft trial indicates a return to a more severe regulatory philosophy on the part of the Federal government. Carroll and Buchholtz remark that throughout the 80s, "the federal government played less and less of a role, especially in terms of monitoring and regulating business"(2000, p. 208). The Microsoft decision marks a definitive reversal of this trend. The Internet has, since its inception, been largely unregulated by the Federal government. And as Microsoft has shown, the repercussions of exploiting the laissez-faire tech-world can be manifold."
Abstract Paul Krugman's book, The Return of Depression Economics, examines the economies of seven different countries that produce the majority of the economic output of the world, and how each has been affected by major economic slumps throughout the world. This interesting yet very complicated book offers a tour of the major economic crises which have spread across the world in the 1990s, including those of East Asia, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia. Paul Krugman provides brief accounts of the devaluation of Thailand's baht currency, the "financial doomsday machine" created by hedge funds, and the "liquidity trap" of the Japanese economy. Krugman's light journalistic style is easy to read for the most part and is well-targeted at his intended audience. Many of the nine chapters stand very well on their own as slightly extended versions of what is known in the US as op-ed pieces. For example, the chapter on hedge funds contains as clear an explanation of the operation of such funds as a layman could get anywhere. It also contains a number of brief, enlightening and well-written stories under sub-headings like 'The Legend of George Soros' and 'The Madness of Prime Minister Mahathir', and concludes with 'The Panic of 1998' which outlines the demise of Long Term Capital Management. In other chapters there are equally succinct and fascinating stories concerning Mexico, Argentina, Thailand and so on. Some of these extracts ought to make very useful reading to stimulate discussion on undergraduate macro, international or development economics courses. It is the purpose of this paper to examine the major themes of Krugman's book.
Abstract This paper is on "The military and the media". It includes the history of the military's use of the media since the Revolutionary War. It also discusses how the military manipulates the media, what it allows to be shown/aired and how the military's own form of media-psy-ops (psychological warfare).
Tags: AMERICAN STUDIES AND HISTORY / MILITARY, military and media
Abstract This paper explains that, although many patients first turn to pain-reducing medications, the patients soon find that they are either eventually ineffective or that the risks associated with their continued use outweigh their benefits; thereby, a total hip replacement is indicated. The author points out that, although in previous years the actual hip replacement procedure was quite invasive, leaving a long scar from above the hip to mid thigh, today, new instrumentation and techniques are less invasive, completing the entire procedure through a single three to four-inch incision, resulting in faster recovery times. The paper reveals that, of all the complications possible during or following surgery, many patients are surprised to learn that the newly transplanted joint is more prone to dislocation than a normal joint; therefore, the patient is instructed to avoid sitting "low" or crossing his or her legs for some time following the procedure.
Table of Contents
Introduction?Overview of Total Hip Replacement
Preoperative Care
Recommended Procedures
Necessary Pre-Op Arrangements
Instrumentation
Old Method
New Minimally Invasive Method
Basic Procedure
Postoperative Care
Sedation
In the Hospital
Discharge
Possible Complications
Conclusion
From the Paper "The actual process leading to degenerative hip disease can be attributed to many factors. Foremost among these possible factors is osteoarthritis, or ?wear and tear arthritis,? meaning, much like a part in a car, the hip joint basically wears out. Further, although there does seem to be a strong genetic component involved in one's propensity to develop osteoarthritis, it can still occur in virtually anyone. In addition, vascular problems can also lead to the degeneration of the hip, causing the femoral head, or the "ball" of the hip to die from a lack of blood. Eventually, the dead femoral head collapses, leading to the degeneration of the joint. The risk factors leading to this condition include patient histories of alcoholism, cortisone treatment, as well as injury of the hip from falls or other accidents. Finally, anatomic abnormalities can also lead to hip degeneration. These abnormalities can also be a result of an injury, or even a deformity existing from birth."
Abstract This paper explores the different aspects of a legal case brought against McDonald's, dubbed the "McLibel" case, examines the "Super-Size-Me" issue made controversial by the movie entitled just that, ?Super-Size-Me," and examines the issues that Australia is presently handling in the educational system in relation to the McDonald's Corporation. Finally, the paper compares and contrasts all of these cases and their various attributes.
From the Paper "According to a report from ABC Newsnet Online, one-thirds of Australians are either overweight or obese. The plan for a ban on advertising of junk food during children television hours is expected from the Government as a strategic effort in reducing childhood obesity. According to the report at least one out of five people in Australia are overweight. Dr. David Kemp, Prime Minister of Education met with McDonald's Corporation concerning an issue of training at McDonald's as being integrated as school curriculum and points being given the students in this Mcplan of curricular oddity."
This paper discusses "Symphonie Fantastique" by Hector Berlioz Op. 14 (1830), with particular attention given to the 5th movement, "Dream of a Witches' Sabbath".
895 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 0 sources, 2002, $ 31.95
Abstract This paper explains that, though the theme of the Berlioz's 5th Movement, "Dream of a Witches' Sabbath," might suggest a dark or boding tonal element, the focus of this work as a lively piece that integrates images of the trivial and excitable relates a different perspective on this theme. The author points out that Berlioz initiates the "idee fixe" with the use of a clarinet, which appears to suggest a kind of dance movement, integrating timpani and brevity in order to maintain some question as to the purpose of the dance. The paper states that there are musical elements that further contextualize the dance, creating a quick-moving segment utilizing violins and violas, which create darkness in the sound quality that underscores the contrast between exuberance and loss.
From the Paper "These factors are related to the alternative interpretation in the immediacy of the contemplative nature of the dramatic personae in Berlioz's work. The use of this component shapes the perspective integrated into the work and also sets the stage for change. It is not surprising, then, that the fast pace of the dance segment and the liveliness presented can sometimes be used to interpret a different meaning from the work. Further, Berlioz also sets apart the elements of doom, including the introduction of the Dies Irae, which is a mass-like component that suggests dread or doom. This element is based on the belief that the Witches Sabbath is defined by death or by the death of an individual and the need to be a part of a burial process, all of which also demonstrate the loss inherent in the work."
Abstract Gabriel Faure's requiem in D minor, Op. 48, is one of the most popular requiems (funeral masses in the Christian tradition) and is a tour de force of 19th Century music. Usually performed by choir and orchestra, it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful requiems written. This paper gives background information, including dates, edits and Faure's own intent in the work, and then gives a complete movement by movement music-to-text evaluation of the requiem itself.
From the Paper "What is important to note is that the composers of the day tended to write for progressively bigger and bigger orchestras, with thicker, more complicated textures, and phrases which stuck slavishly to the divisions of the bar line. Faure, on the other hand, opted for smaller ensembles and spare orchestrations, omitting violins and winds in the Requiem when he felt they were unnecessary. Faure also thought on a smaller, more intimate "musical" scale than many of his contemporaries. There are none of the larger-than-life statements of Berlioz or Wagner; the entire Requiem has roughly 30 bars of fortissimo singing, and most of it does not rise above mezzoforte."
Abstract This paper examines why Charles Robinson Smith's letter to the editor, of the "New York Times," usually relegated to the op-ed section of the paper, ended up on the front page. This paper details the contents of Smith's letter which was a simple analysis of the post-war European debt. This paper discusses the after effects of WWI, including societal changes that were heaped upon the advancing world. As power and money becoming singly intertwined after the war, Britain, France, and the U.S. became undisputed powers. The writer of this paper contends and explains why the end of the war not only highlighted Europe's indebtedness to America for its involvement in the struggle, but also a fiscal indebtedness for the financial assistance. This paper analyzes Smith's unique understanding of the modern western world, by stating that England and France had different levels of indebtedness to the U.S. that were not based upon expenditures in war effort, but were instead historical, which are cited in this paper.
From the Paper "Among the many other affects of the War were the societal changes it heaped upon the advancing world. The maintaining vestige of the changes was an ever-present financial pressure, one felt not only at home but also abroad. As power and money becoming singly intertwined after the war, Britain, France, and the United States became undisputed powers. The United States, previously a lesser unknown across the ocean, stretched its finances and flexed its military muscle to help the other countries, all of which witnessed great governmental expansion on home turf. At the end of the war, citizens were left with heaps of new taxes and levies; in the European Countries, these were, in part, the responsibility to pay back the debts to the American government."
Tags: history, world, war, england, france, america, journalism, finance, economics
Abstract This paper discusses Samuel Barber as an important composer of works for piano. It examines one of his most lush works for the piano, Piano Sonata Op. 20 ("Excursions"). It looks at how this work, like his other compositions, was essentially neo-romantic in form, affect and idiom. The paper focuses on two of the Sonata's four movements.
From the Paper "Although Samuel Barber is best known for his Adagio for Strings which he wrote as the slow movement of a string quartet, he was also an important composer of works for piano. This paper examines one of his most lush works for piano, "Piano Sonata Op Excursions".
