Abstract The paper begins by explaining the process of pollination and its necessity for reproduction. It distinguishes between different reproductive structures - sexual cells within the plant or cones. The paper first examines the procedure of cone-bearing pollination and then that of flowering pollination. This is followed by a study of self- pollination and the strengths and weaknesses possessed by species with this type of pollination. The benefits of cross-pollination are discussed and the paper concludes with a look at the role of pollinators.
From the Paper "Pollination is when pollen grains from the male structures of plants are transferred to the female structures of plants. The pollen grains are vital for reproduction ? they contain cells that will develop into male sex cells. The female structure contains the female sex cells, more commonly known as the egg. Pollination prepares the plant for fertilization ? when the two sex cells join. Nearly all grains, vegetables, wildflowers, trees, and fruits must go through pollination in order to produce seeds (or fruits). Pollination is also critically important in the reproduction of crops grown agriculturally, such as corn, rice, wheat, apples, tomatoes, and squash. (Dickson)"
Abstract This paper examines the importance of pollination services. As the author explains, the health of ecosystems and agriculture worldwide depends on pollinating services performed by particular pollinators. This paper evaluates the importance of pollinators, provides statistical evidence for vertebrate and invertebrate pollinator decline and examines causes and consequences of pollinator decline. The paper also demonstrates the consequences of pollinator decline in terms of plant pollinator interactions and corresponding research, including figures. The paper concludes that that the functional diversity of the pollination network is critical to ecosystem sustainability and productivity.
I. Introduction
II. Importance of Pollinators III. Pollinator Decline
A) General Pollinator Decline
B) Honey Bee Decline
C) Decline of other Pollinators IV. Causes of Pollinator Decline
A) Pesticide Misuse
B) Loss of Habitat and Forage
C) Diseases and Pests
D) The "Killer Bee Hype"
E) Light Pollution) Monocultures
G) Climate Change
V. Consequences of Pollinator Decline
A) Plant Pollinator Interactions
B) Decline of Genetic Variability and Effect on Plant Populations
VI. Reduction and Prevention of Future Pollinator Decline-
A) Possible Actions
B) Future Research Needs
VII. Conclusion
VIII. Literature Cited
IX. Figures and Data
From the Paper "Green plants represent the primary food source for a large portion of the worlds living biota. Many plants reproduce sexually and require pollination agents to ensure genetic diversity and other adaptive advantages through cross-pollination. During the search for nectar, pollen, oil, or mates, pollinators transfer pollen from male anthers to female stigmas and hence perform pollination (Cane, 2001). Due to co-evolution among angiosperms and pollinators, many primary pollinator- plant relationships are highly specific. Therefore the health of ecosystems and agriculture worldwide depends on pollinating services performed by particular pollinators. In recent decades human activates have decimated biodiversity in many different species-rich groups, including invertebrates (Cane, 2001). Declines have been recorded in many groups of pollinators including: insects, bats, birds and mammals. This decline represents less frequent flower visitation, gradual decrease of seed and fruit production, and reproductive losses in additional taxa within the community and could eventually disrupt community function (Cane, 2001)."
Abstract This paper examines some of the ecological dynamics and game theory behind mutualisms and cheaters focusing on plant-pollinator relationships.
Table of Contents
Reciprocal Exploitation
Defensive Strategies: fruit abortion and selective maturation
Offensive Strategies: cheating insects
To cheat or not to cheat?
Evolutionary Consequences of Cheating
References
From the Paper "Although mutualisms have often been heralded as mutually beneficial relationships that exist for the good of all those involved, they are often not as good-natured as people would think (Soberon & Martinez del Rio 1985). Perhaps Darwin knew best when he claimed that "Natural selection cannot possibly produce any modification in any one species exclusively for the good of another species; though throughout nature one species incessantly takes advantage of, and profits by, the structures of another" (1859). Upon close inspection of the many mutualisms that pervade the global ecology, it becomes clear that there is a strong incentive for exploitation, either by one of the partners in the mutualism or by a third party species. Because of the conflict of interest that often exists between members of a mutualism, certain tendencies to "cheat" have evolved. By escaping the costs that go hand in hand with mutualisms, these cheaters are able to reap the benefits of the mutualistic relationship without having to provide any services or resources in return. Far from one partner acting altruistically toward the other, members in mutualisms are actually pursuing their own agendas, often carrying out self-beneficial actions as far as the other partner will allow. "
Abstract The paper maintains that Stott's book, "The Cross of Christ," is an important book. For those Christians who want to further explore the meaning behind the Cross and behind Christ's death, it is a thought-provoking resource. The paper explains how Stott makes a very good case for the Cross being more than simply important, but rather that it is a vital part of Christianity. Without the Cross, Stott argues that Christianity as we know it would not exist. The paper is of the opinion that after reading this book, it is difficult to argue with this perspective.
From the Paper "John R. W. Stott takes the position that the Cross is essential to Christianity. He makes his convincing argument by dividing the discussion into four parts, discussing the Cross as a symbol, the need for forgiveness, the spiritual benefits that the Cross has provided to believers and finally, on the practical and earthly teachings that the Cross can offer. Stott does not have all the answers on the subject of Christ's Cross. However, the book is a thoughtful and complex study offering suggestions on the subject of the Cross upon which Christ died. The Cross is important, Stott states, because it performs more than the single function of being the method of execution favored by the Romans."
Abstract This paper explains Wal-Mart's proprietary cross-docking system as part of a global supply chain management system. The paper describes advantages of the technique of cross-docking, how this innovation supports the replenishment of Wal-Mart stores.
From the Paper "Cross-docking is a relatively new and extremely effective technique used in global supply chain management. This technique can rapidly consolidate shipments from different sources and reduce the cost of outbound transportation by eliminating the inventory-holding function of a warehouse without hampering its consolidation and shipping functions. An important adjunct to the warehouse management systems now in use in many industries, Hill Fig cross-docking eliminates several intermediate steps in the warehousing process."
Tags:cross-docking, Wal-Mart, warehouse management system, global supply chain management
Abstract This paper discusses the relaxation by the Australian authorities of cross-media and foreign ownership laws. The debate seems to balance out as to the number of the pros and cons and the weight of the arguments of each side. However, sifting through the arguments the paper shows that they meet halfway on the need to protect media against excess concentration of power and foreign influence. On these concerns, the Australian government seems to draw lessons from the media liberalization programs of other developed countries, which are allowing cross-media ownership and foreign participation up to more manageable limits and only in specific media areas where activities are calculated to pose lesser risks. The paper concludes that the problem is that, despite these safeguards, people will always look at media deregulation with suspicion and misgiving because of the sensitive nature of this industry.
From the Paper "After Lord Morley left journalism to join government service in the early stages of the development of media in UK, there is an oft-quoted remark made to him by Kennedy Jones, co-founder of the venerable Daily Mail. "You left journalism a profession. We made it a branch of commerce," Jones told Morley. The equally famous rejoinder was: "The more, the pity." One view in effect exults that media has evolved into a business proposition, where profit takes precedence over its traditionally loftier priorities. The other opinion looks with sadness at such commercialization of journalism, implying that this is inimical to public interest.
That pithy exchange from the past captures the essence of the present-day debate in Australia triggered by the government announcement of plans to deregulate media after 20 years of controls on foreign ownership and cross-media transactions. The Morley-Jones clash of views between the public service and business orientation of media deferred to old UK conditions, but the same hairsplitting still rings true today and continues to reverberate throughout the world as economic opportunities diminish and competition for scarce resources tighten up. Since almost all sectors of national economies have been served up for foreign interests in the universal drive to generate much-needed foreign investment, governments in many parts of the world, both developed and underdeveloped, are fixing their attention on the media industry as the last remaining enticement for foreign investors. As Australian Sen. Ron Walker puts it: "Media has become the last major industry begging for reform to bring it to the 21st century." By inference, the senator is batting for a new scheme that would keep Australian media in step with the times by allowing foreign investment into the arena."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the topic of non-profit disaster mitigation organization. Specifically, the paper analyzes the American Red Cross including the mission of the organization, its involvement in recent disasters, and funding issues. The paper also examines the Red Cross's relief and disaster efforts.
From the Paper "The American Red Cross has been in existence since the nineteenth century. Organized by nurse Clara Barton, it has grown to be one of the premier disaster mitigation organizations in the country and the world. It is a non-partisan, humanitarian organization responds to all types of local and national emergencies, from families displaced by home fires to war and terrorism victims. Its mission is to step in during any time of disaster and provide food, clothing, shelter, and assistance to any victims of that disaster."
Abstract This paper reviews Richard Fletcher's book, "The Cross and the Crescent," which presents a history of the relations between Muslims and Christians. The reviewer sees Fletcher's work as coming at an opportune times, since today the West often feels a sense of hysteria regarding anything related to Islam. The reviewer sees the "The Cross and the Crescent" as providing important information about Islamic civilization and culture, presenting the Arab world in a more comprehensive way. The reviewer also describes the Muslim view of the Christian world, and concludes by citing Fletcher's opinion that both cultures influenced each other.
From the Paper "Fletcher's book focuses on the attitude that the Muslims had regarding to the Christians and vice-versa more than to purely historical aspects. For example, he pays not so much attention to the historical events of the crusades, but to the effect they had on the Muslim population. The book provides a valuable insight to Islam and to the relations between Islam and Christianity."
Tags:Cross, and, the, Crescent, Richard, Fletcher, Christianity, Islam, West
Abstract This paper is a critical analysis of cross-cultural politeness using the Brown and Levinson's model as a basis for defining and understanding politeness and applying it to three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese.
From the Paper "What is politeness? If I propose that 'politeness' be used as pragmatically terminology, the preferable definition is to be found in appropriateness. It can be also said to be universal only in the sense that every society has some sort of norms for the appropriate behavior, although these norms are vary. The primary purpose of this paper is to provide a cross-cultural context by applying a well-known Brown and Levinson's model (1978 and revised in 1987), which has been applied in various settings, from casual services, encounters to EFL classrooms. However, Brown and Levinson's model (1978) has been criticized for being too geared to Western (especially American) notions of "independence" and, hence, for its limited applicability in Asian contexts. I have attempted in the following by first giving a general and brief account for Brown and Levinson's model (1978), and then try to apply and analyze the Brown and Levinson's model (1978) in three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese. "
Abstract If the purpose of social science, at large, involves the testing of possible theories and models for social improvement, it will have to contend with what at first appear to be complicating factors in increased numbers of places and situations in which cross or inter-cultural dynamics are at work.
Abstract This paper analyzes Emanuel Leutze's 1851 painting "Washington Crossing the Delaware". The artwork is examined in terms of the subject chosen and how the artist used light, color, form, mood and symbolism to recreate the historic event on canvas.
Abstract This paper examines the effects of environmental pollution on pollinators, specifically the honeybee, and how this organism can be used as an indicator of environmental health. Emphasis is placed on examining the toxicity and effect of various pesticides including DDT, malathion and various fungicides. In addition, the influence on the health of pollinators from atmospheric heavy metal pollution is addressed. The importance of the honeybee to the future of agriculture is the theme throughout this essay.
From the Paper ?Bees are one of the most important elements of agriculture. They are one of the most widespread and efficient pollinators. For this reason, the effects of pollution on bees is an ever growing area of interest for many scientists who fear that bee populations may be at risk from human activity. Air pollution from vehicles and industry can have adverse effects on bee populations. However, one of the greatest areas of concern is the effect of pesticides due to the direct and sometimes high exposure of foraging bees to these toxic chemicals."
Abstract The paper presents the thesis that Tim O'Brien's "The Things They Carried" depicts Jimmy Cross' journey from boyhood to manhood and reveals a character marked by youth's naivete, unshared love, war, death and the feeling of guilt. The paper discusses the common features he shares with other soldiers regarding his young age, his lack of experience and his misinterpretation of the war. The paper also considers the differences between Jimmy Cross and the other soldiers, Martha's mark on Lieutenant Jimmy Cross and how Lieutenant Cross copes with the death of Ted Lavender.
Outline:
Abstract
Similarity to other soldiers
Differences between Jimmy Cross and the other soldiers
Martha's mark on Lieutenant Jimmy Cross Lieutenant Cross' coping with the death of Ted Lavender
From the Paper "The Things They Carried is the first of a series of short stories that depict soldiers' lives during war times. The stories are based on author Tim O'Brien's own experience with war and his own charter is sometimes included in part of the writings. The short story revolves around a platoon of soldiers fighting in Vietnam and the things they carry with them (not only the actual things but also what they carry in their mind)."
Abstract A discussion of the human sexuality of cross-dressing as it relates to psychology. The paper investigates the findings published in several books and journals concerning cross-dressing. The research also focuses on the treatments that are available for individuals that cross-dress and their families. The paper begins by defining cross-dressing and the psychological factors that can lead to the behavior.
From the Paper "Defining Cross Dressing can be a rather arduous task because it is a complex subject. One of the main topics that come to mind when addressing the subject is gender identity. (Bullough) A book entitled, Cross Dressing, Sex and Gender, explains that gender identity ?is the total perception of the individual about his or her own gender. It includes a basic personal identity as a boy or girl, man or woman, as well as personal judgments about the individual's level of conformity to the societal norms of masculinity and femininity.? (Bullough). The author goes on to explain that gender roles or the way that men and women are seen in society, can also contribute to cross dressing behavior."
Abstract This paper studies the sign of the cross, or the ritual hand motion emulating the structure of the cross. The paper examines how the sign of the cross originated and follows its development throughout history. The paper also provides descriptions of what the symbol of the cross meant to different cultures and also explains the symbolic significance of the sign of the cross in several instances such as baptism and mass.
From the Paper "An interesting contemporary sociological significance of the sign of the cross and its implications in secular culture arose at a football match in 2006. Last year a Celtic football player by the name of Artur Borac, during a game in Scotland, created an instant controversy when making gesticulations that were directed towards crowd members that were supporters of the opposition. He also blessed himself throughout the football match. The combination of his gesticulations and blessing himself was considered offensive. He was cautioned by the Crown Office. The Roman Catholic Church in Scotland issued a statement that a gesture of religious significance should not be considered offensive."
