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Institution (2)

Ford

Student’s Name

Institution

Ford

Question 1

Fords are detailed in its assessment of the diverse consumer market. It achieves this objective by creating diverse markets in all its customer groups through the use of segments. The company carefully studies the trends in all consumer groups ranging from the young the old and developing products which suit their needs.

Ford’s approach to understanding the roles that affect the buying decisions involves an in-depth study of the trends on political issues, technological issues, or economic changes that affect the buyer’s decision. Ford then uses this information to plan for those changes through developing innovations.

Question 2

The psychological influence behind the creation of the Ford pass is intended to have two varied impact for the customers and no customers. For the customers, Ford intends to show that It is committed to offering convenient services for its loyal customers. To the non-customers, Ford is using it as a marketing tool, which indicates that Ford is accommodating, and one doesn’t need to be a member’s toe enjoy its benefits. The introduction of the Ford pass psychologically triggers the consumer to develop trust on the products offered by Ford as well as loyal due to their innovativeness, and concern for the preferences of the consumer.

Question 3

Sheryl Connelly’s research is likely to prove influential at the third stage of the consumer by the decision process. The stage involves the evaluation of alternatives. At this stage, a consumer seeking to purchase an automobile will be weighing up their options. Knowing that Ford does research on consumer trends and also makes an effort to design their products to suit the consumers may help to sway the decision of the buyer towards purchasing Ford.

There has been a long-existing history of expert scientific witnesses serving in court

Forensic Science

Name:

Institution:

Date:

Forensic

There has been a long-existing history of expert scientific witnesses serving in court. The late eighteenth century gave rise to what people see as a modern expert witness, which was something awkward and contentious. In the early days of the eighteenth century, our modern eyes would recognize the English court, but barely. The judge could actively question the witnesses, but for the attorneys, they were marginally involved. For the accused, they had to represent themselves. Toward the end of that century, there were some changes as judges saw their power reduced to a neutral referee, and the new stars of the courts were the attorneys as they took control of the trial processes. At that time, scientists were regarded as gentlemen and active members of elite groups who concentrated much on grooming their image as opposed to making some ridiculous sums of money. Perhaps, this could be the reason why scientists were allowed to make testimonials even in the proceedings that did not concern them, and by then, any slight mistake automatically disqualified someone as a witness. Scientists we regarded as both independent and disinterested body who took their time to find out who considered themselves to be above the law. What surprises me is how those scientists were deemed to be righteous. They, too, are human beings, and they can make mistakes and, at the same time, hold some conflict of interest.

Expert witnesses take part in pleadings and discovery preparation. They may also review the completeness and technical consistency based on requests and integrity. Before trial, experts help in the development of demonstrative charts, exhibits, tests, among others. It is a prerequisite before the hearing to test any demonstration. During the trial or hearing, the expert witnesses are examined their credentials through summoning by the court attorneys. In essence, experts are required to present their academic qualifications, training, and relevant experiences as a prerequisite to qualify to obtain the right to speak on your examined evidence authoritatively. Considering all the parties involved during a court trial, the expert witnesses are the only ones under oath. It means that anyone could lie to them intentionally or unintentionally on the basis that they promised to be truthful. At the trial, testimonials are always crucial and should be taken with much emphasis, more precisely, the inconsistent testimonies between deposition and trial. As an expert witness, one is reprimanded only to speak the truth and organize trial testimonials by analyzing the case and your work effort. One speaks naturally, clearly, and slowly, and by any chance, experts should not be overwhelmed by their emotions. What comes as a surprise for me is the fact that too much is expected from the expert attorneys.

A person or group values are referred to as ethics. It often sounds preachy or strident whenever statements of ethical behavior arise. The bottom line, what grooms or ruins a reputation, is the response toward ethical behavior. The criminal justice system serves to improve the quality of services it offers to the society at large as opposed to tricking expert witnesses serving to try to help in resolving the disputes. Some unethical expert witnesses may cook report and present it to the court based on what ought to be professional findings and research. Still, in the real sense, the work represented is not their findings. At times, courts always have to deal with manipulated or somewhat falsified data supporting the presupposed expert evidence. In the emergence of crucible cross-examination in the court, the most appropriate decision is to exclude the expert testimony. On numerous occasions, expert witnesses show their lack of professional knowledge and competence in rendering the opinions that are sought. In such situations, the expert testimonials are discounted on the basis that they lack sufficient weight to be regarded as persuasive.

Reference

Houck, M. M., Funk, C., & Feder, H. (2018). Successful Expert Testimony. CRC Press.

Some Things can wait, but the House Foundation Should be Repaired Right Away

Foundation RepairSome Things can wait, but the House Foundation Should be Repaired Right Away

Normally, foundation problems are because of moisture. Typically, soil expands when it gets wet and contract when it dries out, and these kinds of movement will cause the base of the building to shift. In seismic areas, this problem is compounded because the movements of the earth increases the instability of the soil. It is important to make sure that any issue with you foundation is repaired as soon as possible to avoid base from getting worse; urgent attention is needed to stop the damage from spreading. If left unattended to, it can lead to costly repairs not to forget that, it is a safety hazard. Make sure that you hire professional foundation repair contractors to work on the problem; they have the right skills, and tools and equipment to carry out the task in the right way.

Evidence of foundation problems is normally apparent in the interior and the exterior of the building, as well as in the base itself and the ground around the house. There are many reasons why you should not ignore any problem with the base of your house. To start with, your home could collapse anytime. Though this does not happen often, without any doubt, it is a tragedy has happened and claimed many lives. The foundation supports thousands of pounds. So, if it has a great deal of damage, it cannot support the structures above. This may cause bricks or chunks of veneer to fall off, and this is bad for the safety of your family. However, you can protect yourself and your family from these extreme conditions by not waiting to repair any foundation problems your home may have.

Foundation problems also manifest by ugly cracks that form either in bricks or sheetrock. These cracks often form around windows and doors and cause these structures to malfunction. Some of the faulty things that you will notice with these structures if the foundation is damaged include doors that drag or stick and windows that stick or won’t open at all. Besides this affecting the aesthetic value of your house, it can cause more repairs and costs that must be dealt with as time goes on.

Fixing foundation problems helps you protect the resale value of your home. No one wants to buy a home that has a foundation problem. You do not want your biggest investment be compromised or destroyed. Also, cracks and spaces can become a haven for insects and rodents. Call a professional foundation repair specialist to assess your problem and make a plan to fix it.

Jim Crow

From Jim Crow to Civil Rights

Student’s name

Institutional affiliation

From Jim Crow to Civil Rights

Jim Crow Laws were a combination of local and state statutes that legitimized racial segregation. The laws that were named after a character in the Black minstrel show existed for 100 years; from post-civil war until 1968. The laws were meant to marginalize people of color by denying them the right to an education, vote, and hold jobs and other job opportunities. People that tried to defy Jim Crow laws faced jail sentences, arrest, violence, death and fines. Jim Crow laws began as early as 1865 after the ratification of the 13th amendment, which declared slavery unconstitutional across the United States. Black codes dictated how and where former slaves could work and for how much pay. The black codes were common in the south and were a legal way of incorporating black people in indentured servitude to control where they lived, take their voting rights and seize children for the purpose of labor. For instance, the codes limited the property black people could own and in excluded them from skilled trades and business.

The Civil Rights Act of 1875 criminalized racial discrimination in public facilities and places such as public transport and restaurants. However, in 1883, the Supreme Court declared the act unconstitutional. In 1896, there was a challenge to the Separate car Act of 1896 that warranted all railroads functioning in the State to provide separate but equal accommodations for white passengers and those of color (Bishop, 2017). Although the separation laws in Louisiana were upheld by an 8 to 1 majority, John Marshall Harlan, a famous dissent, opposed the decision. Harlan advanced the idea that the U.S. constitution is “color blind.” The decision of Plessy v. Ferguson case was later overturned by Brown v. Board of education in 1954. The case brought forth the case of Plessy v. Ferguson before the Supreme Court. This led to separate but equal segregation among white and black populations across the country. Other laws such as miscegenation laws that made cohabitation and marriage with black people illegal only exacerbated segregation. The effects of the Jim Crow laws are that they made it difficult for former slaves to attain economic independence. The segregation in public transport carriers made travel for black people difficult. The equal but separate doctrine led to poor facilities for people of color, including housing and school. Compared to their white counterparts, children of color had limited opportunities. Jim Crow laws made it impossible for people of color to be elected to a public officer, serve on juries, vote and partake as equals in social and economic spheres of life.

Brown v. Board of Education of 1954 was a Supreme Court case that marked the turning point of racial segregation across America. The court made a unanimous decision that racial separation in public spaces, particularly schools violated the 14th amendment of the Constitution (Onwuachi-Willig, 2019). According to the amendment, states could not deny people (irrespective of race) equal law protection within its jurisdiction. The Supreme Court deemed separate schooling facilities to be inherently unequal hence reversing the Plessy v. Ferguson ruling of 1896. However, the ruling of Brown v. Board of education only applied to school spaces, but it was meant to imply that racial segregation was not permissible in other public spaces. The guidelines for putting an end to racial segregation were offered, and school boards instructed to proceed with deliberate speed. Years later, Congress passed the Voting Rights of 1965 and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Fair Housing Act of 1968, all meant to curb racial discrimination against people of color in voting, housing, employment and other sectors of life.

References

Bishop, D. W. (2017). Plessy v. Ferguson: A reinterpretation. In The Progressive Era in the USA: 1890–1921 (pp. 353-361). Routledge.

Onwuachi-Willig, A. (2019). Reconceptualizing the harms of discrimination: How Brown V. Board of Education helped to further White supremacy. Va. L. Rev., 105, 343.

To analyze the functional value chain of Expedia, Inc.,

Functional AnalysisTo analyze the functional value chain of Expedia, Inc., the major functions include R&D, Marketing, Service, and Information Technology and Operation. The functional analysis uses four criteria to evaluate the performance of each function. The measures of criteria are efficiency, quality, innovation and customer response. The following table is the result of the functional analysis with a rating scale of High, Medium, and Low.

Table: Functional Analysis

R&D Marketing IT & Operation Service

Efficiency High High High High

Quality High High High High

Innovation Med. Med High Med

Customer Response N/A High N/A High

R&D

Expedia, Inc. is an online traveling company that provides traveling information and reservation tools to its customers. Therefore, the first priority of R&D function within Expedia, Inc. is seeking the variety of traveling products and services and obtaining a wide range of travel brands.

Overall, the performances of R&D within Expedia, Inc. are high because Expedia, Inc. strives to obtain maximum customers, partners and suppliers through frame wide-ranging brands collection. In order to be the leading brand in this industry, Expedia, Inc. believes relying on widespread brands collection would get maximum value and market shares. Therefore, Expedia, Inc. mentions that “Expedia, Inc. believes its flagship Expedia brand appeals to the broadest range of travelers, with its extensive product offering ranging from single item bookings of discounted product to complex bundling of higher-end travel packages” (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 5).

In order to enhance its suppliers, Expedia, Inc. uses the extent brands collection and international points of sales. This can help Expedia, Inc. offer a variety of products and services. According to the annual report of Expedia, Inc., Expedia will keep investing in R&D to maintain the best brand portfolio and create maximum value to its suppliers, partners and customers (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 5).

Marketing

The marketing strategy of Expedia, Inc. is to construct an effective, profitable channel by raising awareness of the consumers who are sensitive to price and to enhance the benefit of its subsidiary companies and itself. Furthermore, the media strategy of Expedia, Inc. includes TV commercials, print media, direct-mail, and Internet such as portal website, Expedia.com, and other co-operative enterprises. By using these types of media, Expedia, Inc. has a straight channel to communicate with its target market.

Furthermore, Expedia, Inc. has cooperated with other hotels, transportations, and travel agencies. The company and the co-operative enterprises posted their commercials on each other’s company website while also setting the commission for each website which has online booking from each strategy alliance partners. In addition, Expedia, Inc.’s “affiliate partners can make travel products and services available through an Expedia-branded website, a co-branded website, or their own private label website. Expedia, Inc. also provides its affiliates with technology and access to a wide range of products and services” (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 8). In conclusion, Expedia, Inc. uses its variety of marketing channels and the affiliate partners to maximize the value of its various brands to obtain more consumers. In general, the performance of the marketing is high.

Information Technology & Operations

Expedia, Inc. constantly continues to aggressively innovate its Information Technology and Operating system. For instance, Expedia, Inc. introduced “TravelAds sponsored search product for hotel advertisers, Hotwire’s Airfare Savings Hub and Hotels.com’s slider tools to improve search results and the TripAdvisor Media Network to offer travel applications for download on Facebook.com” (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 5).

In general, Expedia, Inc. keeps innovating to its suppliers, advertisers and customers by providing a service-oriented technology platform on its websites across its broadest brands collection. Expedia, Inc. believes this will make its IT innovation more flexible and faster. And Expedia, Inc. believes this changeover will help it to improve its “site merchandising, browse and search functionality” and also improve “search engine indexing” which will add noteworthy personalization features (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 5).

For its suppliers, Expedia, Inc. develops “proprietary technology” which will make more efficient communication between its websites and hotel central reservation systems. This process will also help the hotels manage its reservations easier through Expedia, Inc.’s websites. This “direct connect technology” can help hotels upload the information of their products and services from hotels’ central reservation systems to Expedia, Inc.’s websites. At the same time, when the customers book the hotels on Expedia, Inc’s websites, the system will automatically confirm hotel reservations. Before the “direct connect system” are introduced, all the process are made manually via proprietary extranet (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 5). Expedia, Inc. also makes efforts in data handling. In order to improve data handling, Expedia, Inc. built the “enterprise data warehouse” that will increase segmentation and merchandising on its’ websites and also improve its e-mail communications with its travelers (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 5).

In order to make its operation and service more flexible, Expedia, Inc. provides 24-hour-a-day, seven-days-a-week service by telephone or via e-mail through a combination of outsourced and in-house call centers. Expedia, Inc. mentions that it “plans to make significant investments in its call center technologies in 2008 and beyond” (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg 8-9). In the IT& Operation function, the rate of Expedia, Inc.’s performance is high. This is because Expedia, Inc. invests aggressively on its IT and operation functions in order to provide a better service for its consumers, suppliers, and partners.

Service

In the service function, Expedia, Inc. mainly focuses on the partner service because all of its operations will rely heavily on its suppliers and partners and its overall performance in this function area is high. In order to succeed in this industry, Expedia, Inc. heavily depends on its capability to expand or maintain the relationships with its suppliers and GDS partners. Expedia, Inc. also mentions that if Expedia, Inc. could not improve its existing relationship with suppliers or partners and could not change its lack of ability to get new arrangements with its new partners on favorable terms, it will reduce Expedia, Inc.’s quality, amount and breadth of attractively priced travel products and services that it provides to its customers (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 11). In fact, this situation will affect Expedia, Inc.’s financial performance and this is why Expedia, Inc. heavily focuses on the partner service (Expedia, Inc., Annual Report, 2007, pg. 11).

Stakeholder Participation in Eco and Smart Cities Construction

Future Cities: Stakeholder Participation in Eco and Smart Cities Construction

Introduction

Cities are built as a result of various interests and desires of stakeholders coming together. Some of the key stakeholders include planners, landowners, investors, the public, governments, transport engineers, and architects, amongst others (Arlati et al., 2021). There are a variety of stakeholders in each place, including government and industry, startups, people, and, of course, architects. Stakeholders are those who have an interest in something. They all have a role in the development of cities. Even while no one stakeholder is more vital than the others, success is impossible without all of them. Planned development in the cities and urban settings is in collaboration with all stakeholders (Wesley & Ainsworth, 2018). Stakeholder engagement is the most difficult aspect of enhancing urban planning while simultaneously incorporating individual interests. The development of a city involves a large number of individuals. So, in the development endeavors, it is important to remain open, transparent, and participative. Local working groups (comprised of all relevant stakeholders) are recommended as part of the urban design planning based on a method of finding ideas that benefit the community while also fitting with the city’s declared strategic aims (utilities, administrative departments, enterprises, civil society representatives, and scientific institutions) (Laspidou, 2014). The said development partnership in the running of cities not only promises to be inclusive but also to create a product (future city) that serves the interests of every stakeholder. The aim of this paper is to show that cities are built by an amalgamation of stakeholders including landowners, investors, government institutions, planners, architects, the public, and any other interest party. No one party has monopoly over the other in terms of what to create in city planning and design and each stakeholder has a role to play in the moderation of processes that include the physical, economic, ecological, and social city development.

Stakeholders in the Future of Cities

Cities are experiencing fast population growth, resulting in increased demands and financial obligations. In order to retain their competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth, cities must discover methods to increase their efficiency and save money while maintaining a high quality of living for their residents. By 2050, Bjørgen, Fossheim, and Macharis (2021) report that cities will be home to 70% of the world’s population, increasing the pressure on management to become more intelligent, while stakeholders acquire significance and interest as research topics, beginning to threaten the territories’ domination of the global economy. As a result, Martinez and Olander (2015) point to the need to include stakeholders who can provide valuable feedback (as well as an indication of how a subsequent planning application will be received). The term stakeholder refers to anyone who has a vested interest in the development or conclusion of the project (Guo & Kapucu, 2019). Persons participating in the design of a city in any capacity, including designers and investors, as well as subcontractors, as well as persons employed in any position by local governments and the legal system, are all considered possible stakeholders in a typical city design process. Nonetheless, their participation requires careful organization and a clearly defined mandate, as they may lack prior design experience and their actions may be beyond the control of internal and direct stakeholders including investors and land owners.

Government and the Public Sector

In response to the steps taken by the private sector toward sustainable businesses, cities are increasingly shifting their focus toward digital technology innovation. Curwell et al. (2005) mention that future cities will include a more interactive and responsive municipal government, safer public spaces, and addressing the needs of people of all ages. Cities are also becoming more environmentally friendly. In the field of city planning, the government and the public sector play an essential role. Thanks to new legislation and widespread popular backing, governments will be able to guide the development of futuristic city planning. Also included are initiatives to encourage positive stakeholder behavior and awareness, to encourage citizen-driven experimentation from the ground up, and to include an innovative lifestyle into all services provided to people.

Investors and Financial Partners

Investors include those who have financial investments and institutions that lend money to individuals in order to accomplish development projects in urban areas, among other things. They provide assistance to businesses and governments through the sponsorship and investment in initiatives. They safeguard the assets of both small and big depositors by investing in only the most profitable enterprises. The vast majority of investors feel that urban design has a key influence in increasing the value of real estate sales and rentals. In the decision-making process of city residents, environmental quality is regarded as a critical concern, among other criteria like as access, parking, security, service (particularly in the IT sector), and internal environmental management (Bridgman, 2004). When it comes to creating stronger returns and future growth possibilities from their investment, the investors understand that addressing the initial development’s lack of participation in urban planning is critical.

Research and Innovation sector

The research and innovation sector is a major stakeholder in city design and a notable contributor to future cities. University-based research is essential for the development of creative ideas that may result in a more sustainable and healthier urban environment in the long run. Due to the increasing urbanization, globalization, and climate change, scientists have been compelled to develop and test novel processes, as well as intelligent city solutions based on prototypes and models that bridge the technological as well as socioeconomic gap. Making city designers more aware and understanding of the future system, as well as the breadth of technology and solutions available, is crucial to ensuring the success of the transition (Anttiroiko, Valkama, & Bailey, 2014). In addition to assisting cities in their efforts to achieve overall sustainability, Laspidou (2014) notes that academic research and the knowledge it generates will help to increase the city systems’ short- and long-term flexibility. At present, Anthopoulos and Vakali (2012) point to the way consumer behavior is shifting in a positive direction as a result of the introduction of novel legal frameworks, business models, services, and technological solutions. Incorporating current research into real-world solutions allows for a greater grasp of the problem’s complexity while also proving practicability and economic feasibility for the solution. Demonstration projects carried out at clusters and research institutes produce useful knowledge on market applications and commercial arrangements that may be exploited in future city designs.

Constructors, Architects, Planners, and Designers

Regardless of their size, planning committees, real estate developers, competence centers, technology suppliers, and system integrators all play an important role in the transition process toward a future city. Smart meters, data displays, and energy management services for multi-fluid systems assist in disseminating future city projects in test users’ homes, new or existing residential dwellings, public buildings, and communal housing, among other places (Pereira et al., 2018). In order to continue progress and innovation in urban areas, a number of revolutions in design, engineering, and construction have taken place in the recent decade, bringing together different sector players with variant contributions matching up to a singular aim of having better city designs that are inclusive and sustainable. All of these developments may be ascribed to the present industrial and technological revolution, which is shifting the focus away from traditional construction systems and toward industrialized building systems that will eventually lead to future cities.

The Civil Society and Activists

While the involvement of the civil society and activists may not be on a technical capacity in city design, it must be provided careful consideration. Civil societies have the interests of the people and may shift narratives, bring a population for or against certain design projects. For example, civil societies have influenced the inclusion of transgender individuals in the design of urban toilets. Such subtle shows of power point to the importance of civil societies as stakeholders in dictating urban designs and the future of cities (Abusaada & Elshater, 2021). The needs and concerns of the community’s members serve as the starting point for its actions. The themes that are discussed and disputed are determined by the interests of the general population. Individuals are helped and mobilized throughout the process in order to bring their difficulties to the public’s attention and strive for a resolution.

Citizen participation is crucial to urban rejuvenation and should be completely integrated into smart government systems to achieve maximum results. A technique for reestablishing public trust in city design officials is to involve citizens in the decision-making process about the city’s future. Citizens are making the move from being end consumers to being prosumers, providing data and information, and taking on new duties in the smart and sustainable city of the future. Social innovators in future urban design attempt to inspire new modes of civic involvement (Lim, Kim, & Maglio, 2018), with an emphasis on inclusion and social protection (Abusaada & Elshater, 2021), that are capable of meeting social needs effectively and with up-to-date capabilities, and an emphasis on inclusion and social protection (Laspidou, 2014). All of these factors contribute to the development of emerging urban economies to include social entrepreneurs driven by certain community demands, community-based initiatives, and innovative corporate collaboration models.

Climate Change and Eco Cities: Copenhagen

A worldwide phenomenon, climate change has a profound impact on the way people live in urban areas, particularly in the developed nations such as Denmark. Because of this, sea levels are rising and more extreme weather events have been witnessed. Other effects include faster spread of tropical illnesses. All of these impacts have a substantial financial impact on cities, infrastructure, housing projects, jobs, and the general public. City dwellers are a substantial source of greenhouse gas emissions, and as a result, they make a considerable contribution to the global warming problem. The bulk of the CO2 emissions in the world today are attributed to cities, according to (Joss, 2011), with transportation and buildings accounting for the vast majority of these emissions.

Stakeholder involvement is very important in changing the way a city design regards the issues of climate change and the adoption of eco cities. In Copenhagen, the city’s climate plan has a path laid out for the city focusing on attaining carbon neutrality in the next 3 years (HagHigHatafSHar et al., 2014). The city focuses on every little sector that makes up the city’s overall carbon footprint. The City has a plan to attain significant reduction in emissions to have eco cities that are conscious of the climate change issue.

As Copenhagen has shown through its comprehensive city of the future plan, successful outcomes can only be achieved by a comprehensive global, regional, national, and local strategy and effort. The involvement of all stakeholders is very important in this process. There must be total cooperation from all direct and indirect stakeholders including planners, designers, land owners, governments, local authorities, legislation, investors, and any other interested group. City authorities must also play an important role in the fight against climate change by ensuring that all other players are involved. Copenhagen is already taking steps to minimize industrial emissions, including the use of renewable energy sources (Hallegatte et al., 2011), the improvement of production processes (Carter, Clegg, & Wåhlin, 2011), and the imposition of restrictions or the provision of financial incentives to reduce overall carbon footprints. In the next five decades, emissions reductions in Copenhagen will aid in the reduction of pollution from industry and transportation (Smiley, 2017), resulting in improved air quality and the health of city people as a result.

Smart Cities and Technology: Singapore

As the world’s population continues to grow, it becomes increasingly critical to have a framework in place for adopting and supporting sustainable development initiatives. The majority of it is made up of information and communication technology. The ICT design includes a digital city, which is a network of networked devices that connect via wireless technologies and the cloud (Yaqoob et al., 2017). Municipalities, organizations, and individuals may all benefit from analyzing real-time data and installing cloud-based IoT applications (Joo, 2021). Citizens can engage with smart city ecosystems through mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, as well as through connected autos and homes. By integrating digital technology with a city’s physical infrastructure and services, it may be possible to save money while boosting its sustainability.

Historically, city management and authorities saw smart technology solely as a means of increasing operational efficiency. As seen in Singapore, technology is increasingly being integrated into daily life and influencing the design and management of entire cities. Millions of individuals may now use their cellphones to obtain real-time information about transportation, traffic, health services, safety alerts, and local news (Johnston, 2019). Cities are increasingly leveraging data and digital technology to deliver outcomes that are more relevant and meaningful to their residents, effectively advancing them past the experimental stage. Smart cities like Singapore are using data and digital technology to improve the lives of their citizens and the city as a whole (von Richthofen, Tomarchio, & Costa, 2019). More comprehensive, real-time data gives the capability to monitor events live, discover demand trends, and respond with faster, more cost-effective solutions.

By implementing smart city technologies, Singapore is able to enhance its infrastructure, public services, transportation, and other fundamentals. For example, connected traffic signals receive data from sensors and automobiles and adjust the cadence and timing of lights in real time to accommodate the current flow of traffic, hence reducing congestion (Woods, 2020). In the next 50 years, Singapore will have parking meters and electric vehicle charging stations that will enable communication with connected autos, guiding drivers to the next available space and other benefits. Rather than relying on a fixed collection schedule, smart trash cans communicate with waste management companies to arrange pick-ups as needed (Joo, 2021). A smartphone doubles as a mobile driver’s license and identification card, complete with digital credentials, providing an easy way for citizens to access city and local government services.

Conclusion

From the above analysis of the involvement of different players in Singapore and Copenhagen to create smart cities using technology and considering climate change needs through eco cities, the role of every stakeholder in influencing the design and construction of a city cannot be ignored. The discussion establishes that persons participating in the design of a city in any capacity, including designers and investors, as well as subcontractors, as well as persons employed in any position by local governments and the legal system, are all considered possible stakeholders in a typical city design process. Therefore, the report can confidently summarize that cities of the future will be built as a result of various interests and desires of stakeholders coming together. While some of the key stakeholders (including planners, landowners, investors, the public, governments, transport engineers, and architects) have more technical and physical involvement, this done not cancel out the crucial role of other stakeholders (such as civil societies, city legislation, activists, and other lesser involved parties) who also have a say in influencing how cities are built. The examples from Singapore and Copenhagen indicate that without the active and positive involvement of every stakeholder, city construction and design would be in chaos. Local working groups (comprised of all relevant stakeholders) are recommended as part of the urban design planning based on a method of finding ideas that benefit the community while also fitting with the city’s declared strategic aims (utilities, administrative departments, enterprises, civil society representatives, and scientific institutions). Overall, no stakeholder possesses monopoly over the other in terms of what to create in city design and each stakeholder has a role to play in the moderation of processes that include the physical, economic, ecological, and social city development.

References

Abusaada, H., & Elshater, A. (2021). Competitiveness, distinctiveness and singularity in urban design: A systematic review and framework for smart cities. Sustainable Cities and Society, 102782.

Anthopoulos, L. G., & Vakali, A. (2012, May). Urban planning and smart cities: Interrelations and reciprocities. In The Future Internet Assembly (pp. 178-189). Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.

Anttiroiko, A. V., Valkama, P., & Bailey, S. J. (2014). Smart cities in the new service economy: building platforms for smart services. AI & society, 29(3), 323-334.

Arlati, A., Rödl, A., Kanjaria-Christian, S., & Knieling, J. (2021). Stakeholder Participation in the Planning and Design of Nature-Based Solutions. Insights from CLEVER Cities Project in Hamburg. Sustainability, 13(5), 2572.

Bjørgen, A., Fossheim, K., & Macharis, C. (2021). How to build stakeholder participation in collaborative urban freight planning. Cities, 112, 103149.

Bridgman, R. (2004). Criteria for best practices in building child-friendly cities: Involving young people in urban planning and design. Canadian Journal of Urban Research, 337-346.

Carter, C., Clegg, S., & Wåhlin, N. (2011). When science meets strategic realpolitik: The case of the Copenhagen UN climate change summit. Critical Perspectives on Accounting, 22(7), 682-697.

Curwell, S., Deakin, M., Cooper, I., Paskaleva-Shapira, K., Ravetz, J., & Babicki, D. (2005). Citizens’ expectations of information cities: implications for urban planning and design. Building Research & Information, 33(1), 55-66.

Guo, X., & Kapucu, N. (2019). Examining stakeholder participation in social stability risk assessment for mega projects using network analysis. International Journal of Disaster Risk Management, 1(1), 1-31.

HagHigHatafSHar, S., la Cour Jansen, J., Aspegren, H., Lidström, V., Mattsson, A., & Jönsson, K. (2014). Storm-water management in Malmö and Copenhagen with regard to climate change scenarios. J. Water Manag. Res, 70, 159-168.

Hallegatte, S., Ranger, N., Mestre, O., Dumas, P., Corfee-Morlot, J., Herweijer, C., & Wood, R. M. (2011). Assessing climate change impacts, sea level rise and storm surge risk in port cities: a case study on Copenhagen. Climatic change, 104(1), 113-137.

Johnston, K. (2019). A comparison of two smart cities: Singapore and Atlanta. JCULP, 3, 191.

Joo, Y. M. (2021). Developmentalist smart cities? the cases of Singapore and Seoul. International Journal of Urban Sciences, 1-19.

Joss, S. (2011). Eco-cities: The mainstreaming of urban sustainability–key characteristics and driving factors. International Journal of Sustainable Development and Planning, 6(3), 268-285.

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new gastrulation in the mouse

Gastrulation in the mouse

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Embryonic development refers to the process of growth and development of embryo. Stage of embryonic development is a phase within the period of embryonic development that is marked by distinct growth changes in the embryo. Gastrulation is a stage in the development of embryos in the mouse. The reason for gastrulation is to form a body plan that serves in the succeeding embryo morphogenesis. In the Mus musculus (house mouse), gastrulation is like a continually changing process, three-dimensional puzzle that has specific characteristics when comparing it to non-mammals and other mammalian embryos.

In mouse, gastrulation starts after a blastula implants into the uterine walls of the mother, and is immediately followed by development of different organ systems also knows as organogenesis. Organogenesis is characterized by the formation of vital organs such as brain and spinal cord, coelom, muscle tissues, notochord and neural tube (Ibim, 2010). The coordinated cell movements result in a spatially organized embryo, and puts together the framework on which other features are to develop from into building the body. Gastrula is the term used in defining the process in which embryo undergoes gastrulation.

In mouse a two-day gap exist between implantation and starting of gastrulation; there is an implantation of blastocyst in the uterine wall and this occurs after two and half days after coitum (DPC), and gastrulation commences six and half DPC. In the two-day span, cells undergo transformation to develop a fertilized egg called zygote. In the cleavage process, cells are united together by adhesive proteins, which must be deactivated to permit movements of specific cells. The relaxed cellular bonds allow the inner cell mass to enlarge and reorganize into specific layers. One the layers, the epiblast, is layer of cells, which are the precursors of all embryonic cells. As epiblast continues to grow, the shape become cup like, with the rim situated on dorsal side of embryo.

The cleavage or cell division stage starts approximately 18-36 hours after fertilization. The zygote formed after fertilization divides into multiple cells through a process known as binary fission (Campbell & Reece, 2005). The resultant cells after fission carry equal number of chromosomes and genes. After the 8-cell stage, the cells bind to form a compact sphere. Further divisions within the sphere lead to the formation of a 32-cell mass known as morula. Each of the cells within the molula is known as blastomere. This is followed by a process known as cavitation in which the outer cells secret fluid containing proteins into the sphere, facilitating rapid division of the cells (Forgacs & Newman, 2005). Despite the increase in the number of cells in this phase, the volume of the zygote remains the same. The zygote lands into the uterus during the 6th or the 7th day, after which developmental changes lead to the formation of three membranes: placenta, chorion and amnion (Forgacs & Newman, 2005). Further development of the morula leads to formation of a ball containing about 2000 cells known as blastocyst. Also, a fluid-filled cavity called blastocoele is also formed within the embryo. The developmental changes end with the formation of a structure known as blastula. The blastula is surrounded by a layer of single sells called trophoblast. However, it contains a thick inner layer of cells at one end of the inner cavity, from which the embryo will develop (Campbell & Reece, 2005).

Differentiation is the third phase in which specialized structures that perform more functions start to form. About 21 days after the implantation of the embryo onto the uterus, the endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm grow further and differentiate to form neutral tube and notocord, among other vital organs of the body. The process of formation of body organs from the germ layers is called neurulation (Campbell & Reece, 2005). Notocord develops from mesoderm and undergoes through a series of developments to form the vertebral column. However, notochord in human beings disappears before birth. The development of neural groove in this stage leads to the formation of brain, and spinal cord (Campbell & Reece, 2005). The mesoderm also undergoes through a series of developments leading to the formation of vertebrae, muscles, and connective tissues. In addition, the mesoderm grows to form gonads, adrenal glands, and kidneys. Furthermore, coelom is formed by the end of differentiation phase.

Embryonic Period

Prenatal development is the process that occurs during pregnancy whereby an embryo gestates from fertilization to birth. Fertilization occurs when a sperm penetrates fully into the egg. The end product is called a zygote (Sagan 1997 p.164). There are various stages of development that a zygote undergoes before birth namely; the germinal, embryonic and fetal stage. The embryonic period is that stage at fertilization that is, at the second week of gestation and continues up to the tenth week of gestation. It starts after the germinal stage when the blastocyst attaches itself to the uterine wall a process called implantation.

The stage is marked by the zygote’s attachment to the uterine wall and the first occurrence of ossification, that is, the formation of solid bone. Also, the placenta and the umbilical cord fundamental in supporting the embryo develop.

It is worth noting that at this particular stage, there is evidence of lots of growth of the embryo and cell differentiation. Cells differentiate into various body systems including blood cells, kidney cells and nerve cells. Differentiation of organ systems takes place in three layers (Miller 1967).

a). Ectoderm -This is when the nerve system and the sensory cells develop. At this point, the hair, nails and the outer layer of the skin and the skin glands develop.

b). Mesoderm -This layers is characteristic of the muscles, skeleton, the excretory and the circulatory system develop. The inner skin layers also develop.

c). Endoderm -The gastrointestinal tract, glands, the lungs, pancreas and liver develop.

During the fourth week of gestation, the embryo is approximately the size of the human thumbnail. It is interesting to note that even at this small size, there is a pulse by a small vessel which eventually becomes the heart, at 200 heartbeats a minute.

At the eighth week, nearly at the end of this period, the head is as large as the body of the embryo. It is worth noting that at this time, some features including the face, fingers, toes, eyes and the external genitalia are recognizable (Harris & Butterworth 2002).

Growth is the last phase in embryo development. During this phase, the body goes through a period of growth characterized by formation of new cells, extra cellular matrix, and new organs (Campbell & Reece, 2005). The growth phase starts between the eighth and ninth months after conception and continues until birth. Fetal developments in the growth phase are described in the next section.

Gastrulation commences with the formation on primitive node on epiblast’s posterior side. Primitive node is a collection of cells that secretes cellular signals in forms of proteins for instance fibroblast growth factor (FGF). The signals assist the cells to move within embryo during gastrulation. When node appearances it indicates the existence of tail and head distinction or posterior and anterior polarity. From the node, a structure termed as primitive streaks develops. This is a groove that comes from embryonic ventral side. As primitive streak increases in size, epiblast cells situated in the inner sides of cup enters into streak. As cells moves into primitive streak, it relates with cellular signals, which regulates the tissue type the cells can form. The cells that go through streak become mesendoderm, which are endoderm and mesoderm precursors. After they leave the primitive streak, these cells scatter and form a wave of mesendoderm that protrudes to cover the exterior of embryo.

In the mouse, mesendoderm covers the ectoderm, which later form the nervous system and epidermis. The mesendoderm splits into mesoderm; which becomes the muscles, skeleton, and different internal organs. On the other hand, endoderm separates to become gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. The mesoderm forms in the anterior portion of embryo, and endoderm on the posterior side where primitive streak initiated. The two, mesoderm and endoderm fully separate from each other around sixteen DPC.

As various researchers normally employ gastrulation in mouse as model for gastrulation in other mammals, the ordering of the germ cells is precisely opposite as in majority of the mammals for instance in human beings. In human beings, the development of foetus from conception to birth can be divided into three stages: first trimester, second trimester and third trimester. Each of the stages consists of three months. The process of transformation of embryo to foetus is a gradual process that takes place within the first trimester. Transition starts during the cleavage phase, characterized by rapid division of cells within the embryo. This is followed by the formation of germ layers (endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm), chorion and amnion within three to six weeks after conception. Organogenesis follows in the next six to eight weeks (differentiation phase) characterized by the formation of vital organs such as brain and spinal cord, coelom, muscle tissues, notochord and neural tube (Ibim, 2010). In humans, the gastrula arranges in flat shape, known as planar arrangement, whereby the ectoderm situated on the dorsal side de of endoderm and mesoderm. However, the transition from embryo to foetus continues after the differentiation phase. Other changes occur from the ninth week, which make the embryo to look more like a human being (Ibim, 2010). The changes include the formation of head, ears, nose, heart, hands and legs. Also, the placenta is fully formed by the end of the ninth week. By the end of the first trimester, the embryo is fully transitioned into foetus. The chorion is fully established, the embryo is in the amniotic sac and the sex of the foetus can be determined (Ibim, 2010).

The second trimester is characterized by more growth and refinement activities and less developmental activities. The placenta plays the biggest role in maintaining homeostasis through secretion of progesterone and transfer of nutrients and wastes. The foetus is approximately 6cm by the beginning of the first trimester. At 20 weeks, the foetus has grown to approximately half a kilogram. At this time, heartbeat can be heard and the legs, head, face, and hands are prominent (Ibim, 2010).

Further growth and development continues during the third trimester. A series of changes and developments take place in the circulatory and respiratory systems which facilitate air-breathing after birth. Additional changes and developments occur, which enable the foetus to maintain constant body temperature. Changes also occur such as increase in size and weight, reduction in the size of head, thickening of the muscle and hardening of bones and skin (Ibim, 2010).

Maturation processes within developmental stages in the foetus

After birth, the foetus is required to adapt to the environmental changes by establishing and maintaining physiological homeostasis, without the assistance of the placenta. Therefore, the survival of the foetus after birth is dependent upon maturation of structures and organs that interface with the new environment. Examples of essential organs and structures are lungs, immune system, gut, liver, pancreases and kidney (Strauss & ‎Barbieri, 2013). Various studies have shown that maturation processes during foetal development are induced by glucocorticoids (Strauss & ‎Barbieri, 2013). Critical maturation processes that occur during foetal development include deposition of glycogen in the liver; activity of enzyme systems in the foetal brain, thyroid gland, pancreases, retina, and gut; and production of surfactant by foetal lungs. Maturation of the foetal lungs is particularly important since inability to breathe due pulmonary immaturity has been found to be a leading cause of mortality among preterm infants as well as neonatal morbidity (Norris & Lopez, 2010). However, the key functions of glucocorticoids in the process of maturation are not yet clear. As Norris and Lopez (2010) highlight, some studies have shown that glucocorticoids do not initiate maturation of cells; they simply accelerate the process of maturation.

Sources

Campbell, N. A. & Reece, J. B. (2005). Biology. London: Pearson, Benjamin Cummings.

Gilbert, Scott F. Developmental Biology, 9th edition. Sunderland, MA: Sinauer, 2010.

Forgacs, G. & Newman, S. A. (2005). Biological Physics of the Developing Embryo. Cambridge

University Press,

Ibim, S. (2010). Biology: Threads of Life. New York (NY): Xlibris Corporation

Johnson, L. R. (2003). Essential Medical Physiology. New York (NY): Academic Press.

Miller B.F. (1967). The Complex Medical Guide. New York: Simon and Schuster.

Harris M. & Butterworth G.(2002). Developmental Psychology: A Student Handbook. New York: Taylor and Francis Inc.

The American Messiah

George Washington: The American Messiah

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George Washington is probably the most popular president in the history of the United States because of his efforts in creating what is nation this free nation. His popularity over these other controversial presidents like Trump maybe because he laid the foundation for the freedom that allowed them the chance to be president. This meme seen in the picture below is an insinuation that George Washington was a savior, Messiah is a Hebrew word that means savior or a leader sent to liberated people form a form of oppression. Although this is what George Washington was, he did heroic things for America that would amount to this great honor. It is even safe to argue at least he was an actual person that people got to see and interact within recent history.

He was the leader of the American Revolution and led troops against the British colony winning freedom for Americans before assuming the role of president after. Being the first president of America he helped define what that role was going forward. However, the heroics of George Washington that may shape this perception of him by Americans began way before he became the Army General in the Revolution. His military exploits began when he was only 21 years old.

In 1753, the French who had occupied Canada was moving towards a region south of Lake Erie, which was an area claimed by Virginia (now in present-day Western Pennsylvania) and were already starting to build a commercial port. Virginia was under British rule and the Governor at the time, Robert Dinwiddie could not sit back and watch. Both France and Canada were well aware of the commercial viability of this area. In retaliation, Dinwiddie sent Washington then a 21-year old major to deliver a message to the French, demanding that they vacate the area. This responsibility for such a young man resonated with the journey of the Messiah in preparation for a major task.

It is reported that the journey was demanding and Washington together with his guides and locals Indians that were commissioned to accompany him hiked for many days. The return trip was especially demanding and it is told that Washington’s experienced handler at one point suffered frostbite. Although the journey was long, Washington fell into Allegheny River which was ice cold off a raft and slept on the island without shelter, he suffered no illness. Governor Dinwiddie was so impressed that he published the account of this grueling 900-mile journey in Williamsburg and London, making George Washington world-famous by the time he was 22. Just like the messiah, his life was carved out at a very young age. Every sine pointed to how great he was going to become.

Washington was sent back a few months later, as a lieutenant colonel commanding an army of 150 men to assert the claims of Virginia over the land the French had refused to release. Washington scuffled the French soldiers killing 10 men including their commander. He then surrendered to a place called Fort Necessity where he was ambushed by French soldiers and surrendered. He resigned from this commission but then went back as a volunteer aide to General Edward Braddock sent by the Crown to drive the French from Ohio. Although the army did not succeed in their quest Washington stood strong and witnessed two of his horses being shot under him as well as four bullets going through his coat. Although he was extremely brave he did not have enough support to win that war. Because of this conduct, he was promoted to command Virginia’s entire army and performed well in carrying out an assignment that required him to protect a 350 miles frontier which was quite a frustrating assignment.

All these assignments prepared him for the most difficult one yet. Just like the Messiah, these were odd trials that strengthened him for the American Revolution. The American Revolution was a revolutionary war fought between 1775 and 1783 between the British colonies in America and the crown. His duty in the American war began in the First and Second Continental Congress. The continental congress was a group of representatives from each colony that decided to rebel against the colonist and met initially to broker a deal with Britain. This deal did not, however, materialize because Britain decided not to flinch which culminated for a call to arms. in May of 1775 the Continental Congress appointed Washington as the general of its Army.

His task as the general of the Continental Army was not by any measure easy. Unlike the British who had men brewed in combat, he had to rely on farmers. As the savior he is, he was able to hold his army together during the tough battles and the defeats. Over the six years that the war lasted, George overcame every obstacle to win the war against the British. Crossing the Delaware was one of Washington’s most notable victories where he staged a surprise attack on the British on Christmas day, 1776. This was such a decisive victory in that it turned the favor back to the Americans. Washington went to fight numerous battles years after until the British surrendered on October 17, 1781.

Although many people regard Washington as the father of the nation, they have not sat down and evaluated the trying journey he endured for the sake of every free American today. Just like the Messiah, his journey was extremely trying with obstacles an average man would not have endured. He was indeed a messiah for the American people. Washington then served as president for two months and spent his two terms establishing the traditional roles of the presidents. He built the nation from the direction of words from the constitution. Like the hero he was, he felt it necessary to leave office two terms because unlike a tyrant, a president was not supposed to be too powerful.

Bibliography

Head, David. “The Papers of George Washington: The Revolutionary War Series, Volume 23: 22 October–December 1779 ed. by William M. Ferraro.” Journal of the Early Republic 37, no. 4 (2017): 787-790.

Mount Vernon. “George Washington’s Life.” George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Accessed February 2, 2020. https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/biography/.

Nevins, A., and H. Graff. “George Washington.” Encyclopedia Britannica. Last modified December 10, 2019. https://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Washington.

social media platform

Facebook is an important social media platform in the lives of many people throughout the world. It is a platform that most of us logs in to interact with people across the world and we get an opportunity to get to know what is happening in real time. The use of Facebook has increased to billions of people and the amount of information people have opted to share out there in their lives is quite alarming. Just last year, Mike Zuckerberg paws before the US Congress as he needed to explain how Facebook aided Cambridge Analytica in obtaining peoples information. Although many agree that social media has been of huge impact, many people are also of the consensus of the numerous negative impacts that Facebook has had on top of the list being as it led to people getting severe polarized in key issues including the election. According to a research article by Serena Coppolino, et. Al on Computer in Human Behavior, they clearly portray the polarization due to use of social network platforms (Perfumi, et.al, 2019).

References

A

Perfumi, S. C., Bagnoli, F., Caudek, C., & Guazzini, A. (2019). Deindividuation effects on normative and informational social influence within computer-mediated-communication. Computers in human behavior, 92, 230-237.

B

Perfumi, Serena Coppolino, et al. “Deindividuation effects on normative and informational social influence within computer-mediated-communication.” Computers in human behavior 92 (2019): 230-237.