The Battle Of Algiers Movie Analysis Film Studies Essay

The Battle Of Algiers Movie Analysis Film Studies Essay The movie is set as a reflection of the struggle in the North African country to gain independence. The film is set in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, a French colony. The year is 1957, and the Algerian war is at its peak as the insurgents, the FLN fight against the French paratroopers, an elite team of ruthless soldiers. The film is a depiction of the Battle for Algiers, a segment of the Algerian war that charted the course for freedom. The movie starts with a scene where French paratroopers have just used torture to extract information from an old man. They now know where the last of the leaders of the freedom fighters, Ali Pointe is hiding and the French commander gives him thirty seconds to surrender. A large portion of the movie is shot as the flashbacks of Ali Pointe, a cornered leader of the insurgency. The flashbacks show him, three years before, as a hoodlum with a tainted past of theft and drug-dealing. He joins the militants to help rid Algeria of vice and problems associated with the French. Through the flashbacks, the movie follows the insurgents struggles and the French government s determination to end the war It then traces the metamorphosis of the insurgency into a national revolution. For the larger part of the 117 minutes the movie runs, it sees the war through Ali Pointe s eyes as it traces his struggles as a leader of the insurgency. The flashbacks end and the timeline returns to the present. Ali Pointe and all other captured FLN leaders are guillotined. The FLN retaliate and it becomes a national revolution as the insurgency grows in numbers and support. The movie then adapts a general focus and ends as Algeria attains independence in 1962. The theme The issues addressed by this movie are varied and universal. The violence evident in the movie is sickening, but it must be taken for its thematic content. It centers on terrorism as a method of war employed where conventional means are not applicable. It also tries to depict the issues brought about by imperialism and colonization and the endless struggle of people to achieve their independence at whatever cost. It also shows that terrorism is not a method merely used by insurgents but also by conventional militaries when it suits them. The French military is depicted as using unconventional methods such as torture and manipulation. While the ruthlessness of the insurgents is expected, the counter insurgency is a shocker. It is not expected that any trained military would use such methods, but this movies main theme centre on unmasking them. Exposition The movie adapts a quasi-documentary approach during the flashback scenes. Te viewer learns of how the war turned viral as it spread. It uses Ali Pointe s view as a starting point for the story, the flow of information is detailed and impossible for a 30 second flashback, but it is informative. The visual style used in this film was convincing with the initial recording being done in black and white due to the infant nature of color technology at the time. The last segment of the movie that has general focus on the story of the Algerian war adapts the omnipresent invisible narrator method. The transition is flawless and remarkable, and it enhances the overall effect of the story. Rising action The flashbacks in the story mean that the movie has rising action for only the first segment. The flow from the torture scene, to Ali Pointe s flashbacks marks the foundation of the action. It is centered on Ali s memories, the calmness and lack of any violence as he reminisces of his former life and the woes of his urgent life. The bloody, grizzly movie scenes also add to the action of the movie. The flashback approach, however, give the story very little raise in action because it is a war movie. Climax It is impossible to centre on any part of the Battle of Algiers as the only climax in the movie. It is riddled with multiple tense and explosive scenes, all centered on the flashbacks. This film provides a deeper insight and understanding of the dynamics of conflicts; this is done in the way it provides a detailed arm race between the warring factions that normally accompany conflicts. In short the idea of reciprocity in conflict which describes how each side attempts to outflank and outmaneuver the other help us tremendously understand the dynamics of the real world conflicts (Rainer, 10). A memorable scene is where several female NLF remove their veils and dress like Europeans in order to penetrate the enemy territory to plant bombs. Another scene shows businessmen relaxing in a bar, people waiting for a bus, teenagers having fun and a child who enjoying her ice cream and suddenly, a bomb explodes. Another bombing occurs in a coffee house at around the Casbah area. The scenes of the French Legion s torture cells, the deliberations of the Algerian resistance organization (National Liberation Front) top brass in the Casbah meeting room, their battle hardened and fearless soldiers on the rooftops, cafes, checkpoints as they detonate bombs, are all a product of a breathtaking casting Falling Action The second part of the movie signifies the start of falling action. The escalation of the insurgency into a full scale revolution indicates that while the French might have won the battle for the city of Algiers they lost the Algerian war. In a way, this compensates for the bloody action scenes as one is compelled to ponder on whether such bloodshed and death was necessary to gain independence. Although circumstances forced the locals were to start the war, the script is quick to show that they did not support terrorism as those who engage in it in the film have their reckoning moments (Ebert 123).They did not sanction the methods employed by the militants, but they were part and parcel of the gains. This is a true indication of a group that is formed with genuine reasons of freeing their society from some of the things that kept them exploited for centuries. Just when one would have thought that the war is over, bombs leaving hundreds of people dead and others injured. Resolution The producer, Pontecorvo used special filming techniques that gave the movie somewhat of a documentary-like grainy look. The movies plot also follows the documentary approach .In the scenes after Ali Pointe and other leaders are killed, it is clear that the French have shot themselves in the leg. Their actions against the insurgents have solidified the people s resolve and they have no choice but to grant them freedom The end The year is 1962 and Algeria is in a euphoric state. The scenes shift from happiness to the defeat of the French. The movie ends on a positive high, as the deaths of all those killed in the course of the war seem worthwhile. The dying scenes of the movie show the victory on the faces of the Algerian people. The characters The cast included only one professional actor, Jean Martin. The movie engages composite characters. The character Colonel Mathieu is a composite character meant to show the top leadership of the actual French regiments in Algeria at the time. It also seems likely that the producer and the actor attempted to show the colonel as an honest man merely doing his job, as opposed to a villain and emotionless leader of a ruthless military. Jean Martin plays the character well, but it still ends up depicting him as a villain. Other characters are real but have their names changed to fit in the story. The largely unprofessional cast was picked because of their appearance and expression. They therefore fit in with their role in the film, giving it the feel of a real time recording. ANALYSIS Battle of Algiers was released in 1966, 4 years after the end of the Algerian war. It is a movie that rebuilds the events that were witnessed in Algeria in 1954-1962. Its content clearly brings out the unbiased story in the war. It is not propaganda as it shows the detailed happenings of the war without showing an apparent bias. It is a political movie that concentrates on the war aspects of the Algerian War for independence and has indiscriminate depiction of the occurrences. One of the most notable things from the beginning is the lack of bias; the movie shows the atrocities committed by both sides despite the fact that its budget was partly footed by the Algerian government. The events in the movie are a true reflection of the War of independence in Algeria. It also shows how the insurgency crept into the Algerian society. The people rose in defiance of colonialism and eventually defeated the French. It represents a time when a wave of nationalism was spreading through Africa (Augends, 121). One can not help having to remind himself or herself that each and every frame of this frame has been staged (Solinas, et al, 124). The scenes of a bombing of civilian not only in cafes but also in the dance halls and hit and run assassinations of police officers from the French side, provides the few who witnessed the gruesome experience or those who have read the descriptive narrative of the resistance movement with a feeling of sorrow at the experiences. It creates a sort of nostalgic disgust, but it is unbiased because both sides are depicted for having committed atrocities. The superior script is further demonstrated by the fact that the several military organizations that are involved in one way or the other with terrorist organizations operating like National Liberation Front (NLF) have found this film a starting point in their military strategy. It has been used as they plan how to confront and defeat such organizations while keeping the casualties at a minimum. For instance, Pentagon has been screening it to its staff headed for terrorist hot spots like Iraq and Afghanistan. The aim is to show them the two sides of the war and what will happen if they do not take care of the natives. (Solinas, et al, 154). The flow of events in the film also adds to its finesse, which improves the degree of reality in it tremendously. One important thing about this is that it lays the background of why the (National Resistance Front) NLF had to take up arms against the French forces. This is normally the important part of any work of art, to achieve its primary aim. If this movie had no achieved this, there would be no convincing reason why they are fighting in the first place and it would make the movie pathetically hollow and amateurish. This further reinforces the fact that the film is devoid of any propagandist stuff despite the fact that it was subsidized by the Algerian government. It was tailored to guard and respect the real happenings of the Battle of Algiers and to tell the real story of the war. The choice of the characters in the film is another feature that further set it apart from a majority of the films in the same genre. The role of Ali la Pointe, played by Brahim Haggiag, is one such choice that fits into the part he is supposed to play. His prole-hero features are so riveting that no one can dispute that he was the real FNL actual leader. By portraying Ali as a down trodden Muslim in dire need of liberation from the French occupation, the directors of the film again match the cast with situations (Gilbert, 10). Ali is not only the perfect embodiment of the downtrodden Muslim clamoring for emancipation but also a representation of the ordinary Algerian. His eyes are the fervid center of this movie as the vivid flashbacks explain his story. Just like the majority of movies of this genre, there are a number of lessons that one can learn from film. The first such lesson is the amount to reciprocity in this conflict (Zuhur, 231). Reciprocity means both sides to the conflict are responsible to the conflict. That each side attacks or defends in retaliation to the other side implying in the absence of either of the two there would be no conflict. The same applies to the likes of trade and so many other endeavors in life that requires two to tango (Burr, 10). This reciprocity is normally what identifies one party to the dispute as a villain or aggressor and the other a victim. For instance, it is tempting to view the Algerians as victims while the French forces as the aggressors. This is a fallacious conclusion; if anything the French who annexed Algeria in 1800 and it is only a century and a half later that the revolutionary war begins. Nonetheless, as is made clear by the film, the French also have their fair share of victimization and revenge, primarily brought about by the need for resources that would enable them to dispel insurgencies of that nature not only in Algeria but in all colonies that were in the French sphere of influence. It is obvious that the Algerian would not have taken up arms had the French agreed to meet their legitimate demands. Given that the French policy of assimilation had made the Algerians second class French citizens. As observed, conflicts are reciprocal in that any of the competing side has an option of discontinuing the conflict by restraining itself from any retaliation. This means that surrender is hardly ever considered an option. However, in most of the cases there would never be a side that would be wiling to do such a thing, until of course, the situation demands it or they are defeated in war. That is the reason why both sides are to blame itself for any undesirable consequen ces of the conflict that they were part of. The second lesson which this film teaches us and which is also related to reciprocity in conflict that we have talked of is the significance of normative analysis (Burr, 10). The film sequentially illustrates the successful decisive events of this conflict between the Algerian insurgency and the French forces in the 1950s, without appearing to side with any of the protagonists. This neutral and detached approach is precisely the reason that explains why the film is so powerful, thought provoking and authentic. This makes anybody alluding that the film is a propaganda tool appear utterly ignorant of the glaring description to the contrary. The same can be viewed as the reason why the film is so enriching and compelling. The visual presentation of important events in the struggle for independence and especially the entire colonial rule is so neutral that it can easily pass for a documentary. The hardened French soldiers in the first scene ruthlessly torturing an Algerian insurgent toge ther with the Algerian children and women who we are shown planting bombs in military checkpoint shows that both sides engaged in inhumane, immoral, and illegal behaviors (Rainer, 10). They are both ready to engage whatever means necessary to meet their respective ends, which is the reason there are no heroes in this film (Pujol, 3). In short, what the author wishes to communicate is laying the exposure of all the human tragedies that happen amongst us but people do not seem to pay a lot of attention on them (Ebert, 67). The movie reveals the realities of the atrocities of the war between the army of the French and the soldiers of the National Liberation Front. However, it may superficially seem justified for the FLN insurgents to use such methods to fight against the French rule; their struggles and methods are crude and inhumane. They have caused suffering by killing and maiming people in cold blood as a result of the bombs they plant targeting the Europeans. The attacks by the FL N were reciprocated by the French military in a much more treacherous way due to superior training and weaponry (Evans Morgan, 234). This brutality has affected all those involved. These people live in fear of being ganged down and this explains why they were never at peace (Ebert 87). The development of this movie was superb and indeed it led to the realization of the goal that the producers intended. The movie was developed so many years ago but till today it remains relevant. This is because it shows the effects of any war on the natives and what both sides lose when they go to war. The film is indicative of a thorough choreography and splendid script. These are sure indications that there was thorough input by the assisting crew to live up to the original script. Summary In summary, at every stage of this conflict we get a clear illustration of how the two sides of the conflict change their tactics in a bid to get an upper hand in the conflict; we also see a slow but unstoppable escalation of fighting into war. The Battle of Algeria is a good and unbiased description of the revolutionary battle pitting the insurgents against the French forces; a war that escalates until one party emerges the victor. It tries to bring out the suffering of the people, the wanton destruction of property and life. This is important and can be applied to almost all competitive situations that can be modeled in a war with an enemy with better weaponry and training. The makers of the story created a fictional script that captures the real story. The unbiased approach might have been refuted later by some parties to the war but the real story is there for all to see. It is also up to the viewer to decide whether such bloodshed was really necessary in the struggle for independence. It is a remarkable lesson in history and the injustices in war. At the end of the movie, it is left to the conscience of the viewer to decide which side he or she feels was justified to fight with such unconventional methods. This question is left unanswered because the movie shows such a remarkable balance in the depiction that it is almost impossible to pick sides with justified reasons. It also shows how the French lost the battle of Algiers but ultimately lost the Algerian War. Algeria gained independence in 1962, the same year the Algerian war ended.

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The Revolutionary War The revolutionary war is a revolution that occurred in the thirteen British colonies located in North America, which was a follow of the British Empire during the eighteenth century. The colonies were settled by immigrants from Europe especially from England and interpreted by the right to secede from the British and conduct their affairs by themselves. The war began on April 19, 1775, when the American revolutionists clashed with the British army in the cities of Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts, and lasted eight years and ended on September 3, 1783 at the signing of the Treaty of Paris between Britain and the United States, Which Britain declared the independence of the United States. The main reasons for the birth of the American democracy were because of the economic policy pursued by British government at that time and the taxes that were on tea. A law was passed in the year of 1651 provides for move all the exports from the colonies to England on ships owned by Englishmen and also operated by Englishmen. Additionally...

Napoleon Essay -- essays research papers

In 1797, Napoleon Bonaparte became first consul after overthrowing the Directory and establishing the Consultate. He had many achievements for France under educational, financial, administrative, legal and religious reforms. However, these achievements are often exaggerated. Napoleon was indeed the ‘heir’ of the revolution as he completed much of the work that the revolution had started, such as the creation of a Civil Code and the reforming of the education system. Despite this, he also destroyed much of the revolution’s work. He ignored and betrayed some of the revolution’s beliefs and much of his achievements were incomplete. Napoleon’s achievements in Europe were mainly for his own purposes – he wanted to enhance his prestige and make France a great nation. He appears to have had little interest in helping the European people. Napoleon, although his main achievements centered on areas such as administration, had other remarkable, although minor, achievements in France. He improved the appearance of French cities such as Paris by building bridges and canals and by planting trees at the sides of roads to protect them from the sun. This aided the beauty of Paris as it is today. Napoleon also reformed the tax system, which meant that no one was tax exempt. One particular achievement, which may rank on the same level of importance as the Napoleonic code, but appears to be often overlooked in textbooks, is Napoleon’s founding of a national education system from primary to university. The focus of his attention was secondary schools, of which he opened more. Higher education also became more available in major cities. Napoleon spent more money on education than anything else during his time in power. However, Napoleon was somewhat inefficient in this achievement. The educational system discriminated against females. Napoleon saw education as being “not suitable'; for girls. Female students were to learn the very basics of education – how to read and write, and also how to do traditional female work such as nursing and embroidering. Pupils had little choice over their career – most were forced into a military career. What is considered to be Napoleon’s most significant achievement for France was his establishment of the ‘Napoleonic Code&... ...id so in order that France would be the beneficiary'; Napoleon went against the French revolution’s belief in freedom of speech. He reduced and suppressed newspapers in France and the newspapers that remained were threatened or bribed in to supporting him. It has been claimed that “his genius owes more to propaganda than to deeds';. Napoleon did wish to continue revolutionary reforms. Although it can be argued that he did not continue all of its aims, this was because many of the revolution’s goals and believes were impractical: “we must see what was real and politically possible in it’s principles, instead of grasping at their speculative and hypothetical side.'; After 1815,France lost all of the territory she had acquired in the Napoleonic wars. The monarchy was restored in France and Germany and Italy were still not united. Therefore, Many of Napoleon’s achievements did not last. Napoleon was the ‘heir’ of the revolution but his achievements are exaggerated because the revolution had al ready done much of his work for him: “…he found the work already three-quarters done for him';.

Nano Technology in Civil Engineering Essay

Nanotechnology is one of the most active research areas that encompass a number of disciplines including civil engineering and construction materials. Nano construction; Traditionally, nanotechnology has been concerned with developments in the fields of microelectronics, medicine and materials sciences. However, the potential for application of many of the developments in the nanotechnology field in the area of construction engineering is growing. In this paper a broad overview of the potential application of various nanotechnology developments in the construction engineering field is discussed, and the potential for further basic research that may lead to improved systems is evaluated. Nonotechnology; Nanotechnology is a field that is dominated by developments in basic physics and chemistry research, where phenomena on atomic and molecular level are used to provide materials and structures that perform tasks that are not possible using the materials in their typical macroscopic form. The  evolution of technology and instrumentation as well as its related scientific areas such as physics and chemistry are making the research on nanotechnology aggressive and evolutional. Not surprisingly, it is observed that expenditure on nanotechnology research is significant. However, the research is mainly moving forward motivated by immediate profitable return generated by high value commercial products . It has been established by study, nanotechnology in construction ranked 8 of 10 applications that most likely have impact in the developing world. Nanotechnology covers the design, construction and utilization of functional structures with at least one characteristic dimension measured in nanometers. The field of nanotechnology has developed in major leaps during the past 10 years. These developments were mainly driven by factors such as dedicated initiatives in the field (e.g. the National Nanotechnology Initiative) , APPLICATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY IN CONSTRUCTION: Nanotechnology can be used for design and construction processes in many areas since nanotechnology generated products have many unique characteristics. These include products that are for: Lighter structure; Stronger structural composites e.g. for bridges etc ; Low maintenance coating ; Improving pipe joining materials and techniques ; Better properties of cementitious materials ; Reducing the thermal transfer rate of fire retardant and insulation ; Increasing the sound absorption of acoustic absorber ; Increasing the reflectivity of glass. There are large numbers of applications of nanotechnology in construction engineering/industry. Some of these applications are examined in detail below.   Concrete: Concrete is one of the most common and widely used construction materials. The rapid development of new experimental techniques makes it possible to study the properties of cementitious materials at micro/nano-scale. Research has been conducted to study the hydration process, alkali-silicate reaction (ASR), and fly ash reactivity using nanotechnology. The better understanding  of the structure and behavior of concrete at micro/nano-scale could help to improve concrete properties and prevent the illness, such as ASR. Addition of nanoscale materials into cement could improve its performance. In , Li (2004) found that nano-SiO2 could significantly increase the compressive for concrete, containing large volume fly ash, at early age and improve pore size distribution by filling the pores between large fly ash and cement particles at nanoscale. The dispersion/slurry of amorphous nanosilica is used to improve segregation resistance for self-compacting concrete. It has also been reported that adding small amount of carbon nanotube (1%) by weight could increase both compressive and flexural strength . Cracking is a major concern for many structures. When the microcapsules are broken by a crack, the healing agent is released into the crack and contact with the catalyst. The polymerization happens and bond the crack faces. The selfhealing polymer could be especially applicable to fix the microcracking in bridge piers and columns. But it requires costly epoxy injection. Structural Composites Steel is a major construction material. Its properties, such as strength, corrosion resistance, and weld ability, are very important for the design and construction. FHWA together with American Iron and Steel Institute and the U.S. Navy started to develop new, low carbon, high-performance steel (HPS) for bridges in 1992. Nano with concrete; The new steel was developed with higher corrosion-resistance and weld ability by incorporating copper nanoparticles from at the steel grain boundaries. Sandvik NanoflexTM is new stainless steel with ultra-high strength, good formability, and a good surface finish developed by Sandvik Nanoflex Materials Technology. Due to its high performance, Sandvik NanoflexTM is suitable for application which requires lightweight and rigid designs. Its good corrosion and wear resistance can keep life-cycle costs low. Attractive or wear resistant surfaces can be achieved by various treatments (Sandvik Nanoflex Materials Technology). MMFX2 is nanostructure-modified steel, produced by MMFX Steel Corp. Wireless sensors based on nanotechnology are used to alert engineers; Compared with the conventional steel, it has a fundamentally different microstructure- alaminated lath structure resembling â€Å"plywood†. This unique structure provides MMFX2 steel with amazing strength (three times stronger), ductility, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Due to high cost, the stainless steel reinforcement in concrete structure is limited in high risk environments. The MMFX2 steel could be an alternative because it has the similar corrosion resistance to that of stainless steel, but at a much lower cost (MMFX Steel Corp.). Nano coatings; Coating: The coatings incorporating certain nanoparticles or nanolayers have been developed for certain purpose. It is one of the major applications of nanotechnology in construction. For example, TiO2 is used to coat glazing because of its sterilizing and anti fouling properties. The TiO2 will break down and disintegrate organic dirt through powerful catalytic reaction . Furthermore, it is hydrophilic, which allow the water to spread evenly over the surface and wash away dirt previously broken down. Other special coatings also have been developed, such as anti-fraffiti, thermal control, energy sawing, and anti-reflection coating. Nanosensors: Nano and microelectrical mechanical systems (MEMS) sensors have been developed and used in construction to monitor and/or control the environment condition and the materials/structure performance. One advantage of these sensors is their dimension (10-9m to 10-5m). Nano sensors; These sensors could be embedded into the structure during the construction process. Smart aggregate, a low cost Piezoceramic-based multi-functional device has been applied to monitor early age concrete properties such as moisture, temperature, relative humidity and early age strength development. The sensors can also be used to monitor concrete corrosion and cracking. The smart aggregate can also be used for structure health monitoring. The disclosed system can monitor internal stresses, cracks and other physical  forces in the structures during the structures’ life. It is capable of providing an early indication of the health of the structure before a failure of the structure can occur. FUTURE CHALLENGE AND DIRECTION: As with most developing technologies, a major number of challenges exist during the initiation of the application of the technology into reality. It is important to be realistic and identify and plan for the limitations and challenges inherent in this process. In this section a short summary of selected challenges and limitations affecting application of nanotechnology in construction engineering are provided. The following main challenges and limitations can be defined: Fabrication, Health, Environment and Cost: Fabrication: Current efforts in the field of nanotechnology are focused on the fabrication, characterization and use of these materials on a nanoscale domain. This leads to most of the development work focusing on very small quantities of material that is typically far removed from the type of quantities required for typical construction infrastructure. One of the potential solutions to this is to focus on the nano materials to act as catalyser, thereby reducing the amount of nano material required substantially. Another viewpoint is that for many applications, the material does not necessarily have to be used on a nano scale to obtain a major improvement in benefits. This would be the case with reduction of the dimensions of cement, where a substantial improvement in strength can already be obtained through the large scale milling of the cement to a finer form than the traditional form. Although the cement may not be purely a nano material as yet, the benefits obtained would already be substantial. Nano in roads; Health: Nanotechnology based construction products might be harmful to health. For example, the nanotubes [14] might cause a lung problem to construction workers. In other words, it creates an environmental challenge to the construction industry as well. Environment: The effect of various nonmaterials’ on the natural environment is hotly debated in nanotechnology and environmental research. Various ongoing investigations focus on the uncertainty regarding the potential effects of materials that exist on the nanoscale with properties that are different than when using the material on a micro or macro scale. Some work in this regard shows that the potential effects may be minimal. As constructed infrastructure are provided in the natural environment, all materials used in the construction and maintenance of these facilities need to be compatible to the natural environment and their effects on the natural environment should not be negative. Typical potential problems in this regard include leaching of materials into groundwater, release of materials into airways through the generation of dust and exposure to potentially harmful materials during construction and maintenance operations. The nanotechnology becomes a double-edge sword to the construction industry. More research and practice efforts are needed with smart design and planning, construction projects can be made sustainable and therefore save energy, reduce resource usage, and avoid damages to environment. Cost The costs of most nanotechnology materials and equipment are relatively high. This is due to the novelty of the technology and the complexity of the equipment used for preparation and characterization of the materials Nano Technology in Transportation Engineering However, costs have been shown to decrease over time and the expectations are that, as manufacturing technologies improve, these costs may further decrease. Whether the expected decreases will render the materials as run-of-the-mill construction engineering materials will have to be seen, and depends largely on the benefits rendered through the application of these materials. Current opinion is that in special cases, the materials will enable unique solutions to complicated problems that cause them to be cost effective, which will lead to large-scale application of these specific technologies. In other cases the traditional methods for treating the problem may still remain the most cost effective. It is the challenge to the  construction engineer to solve real world transportation infrastructure problems and provide a facility to the general public at a reasonable cost. CONCLUSIONS †¢Nanotechnology is a rapidly expanding area of research where novel properties of materials manufactured on the nanoscale can be utilized for the benefit of construction infrastructure †¢A number of promising developments exist that can potentially change the service life and life-cycle cost of construction infrastructure. : †¢Focused research into the timeous and directed research into nanotechnology for construction infrastructure should be pursued to ensure that the potential benefits of this technology can be obtained to provide longer life and more economical transport infrastructure REFERENCES: www.asme.org/nanowebcast www.aggregateresearch.com www.nanoforum.org www.gogle.com

Malunggay can be used as water purifier Essay

Aside from its potential as biofuel feedstock, the seed of moringa, locally known as malunggay, could also be used for treating water, a Filipino scientist said yesterday. Dr. Isidro Sia, a professor of the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology of the University of the Philippines-Manila, said moringa seeds have been found to be one of the most effective water purifiers, based on international studies. He said the technology is being used in Kenya, Indonesia and Uganda. In the Philippines, he said UP has an ongoing project to study the water-purifying property of the local variety. According to research, moringa seeds treat water on two levels, acting both as a coagulant and an antimicrobial agent. â€Å"It is generally accepted that moringa works as a coagulant due to positively charged, water-soluble proteins which bind with negatively charged particles (silt, clay, bacteria, toxins, etc.) allowing the resulting ‘flocs’ to settle to the bottom or be removed by fil tration. The antimicrobial aspects of moringa continue to be researched,† it said. Solutions of moringa seeds for water treatment may be prepared from seed kernels or from the solid residue left over after oil extraction. Reports said moringa seeds, seed kernels or dried presscake can be stored for long periods but moringa solutions for treating water should be prepared fresh each time. In general, one seed kernel will treat one liter of water. The process of treating the water with moringa seeds would take at least one to two hours. â€Å"This clean water can then be filtered or sterilized to make it completely safe for drinking,† a report said. Moringa is also being promoted as animal feedstock. According to research, moringa has seven times the vitamin C in oranges, four times the calcium in milk, four times the vitamin A in carrots, three times the potassium in bananas, and two times the protein in milk. In addition to nutritional qualities, it has medicinal uses, external and internal. Its oil can also be used for cooking and for cosmetics and lubricants. Medical experts and herbalists attest to the long line of health benefits of Malunggay (scientific name: Moringa oleifera). And the most recent finding by researchers at the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) shows that crushed Malunggay seeds are potent in purifying dirty water. The research has scientifically proven the practice of Filipinos and Egyptians in using crushed malunggay to purify water. The PSU researchers claimed in a paper that the protein in the Malunggay seed kills bacteria by gathering them into clusters that sink into the bottom of a container. The protein fuses the membranes that protect the bacteria, thus destroying them in one fell swoop. The proteins are reportedly potent in their cleaning ability when harvested as mature seeds during the rainy season. Writing for Popular Science on June 11, 2015, Mary Beth Griggs said the role of Malunggay seeds as water purifier would be a boon to hundreds of millions of people with little access to potable water. With Malunggay seeds as alternative, those living in remote communities need not secure nanotech filters and light-based water purifiers. Indian researchers also discovered that Malunggay improves the motility of spermatozoa, making it a favorite among men who want to sire many children. Several years ago, the Department of Agriculture (DA) launched a campaign to popularize the propagation of Malunggay through the Biotechnology Program Office (BPO) then under Dr. Alice Ilaga and consultant Dr. Satunina Halos. It was even suggested that oil from Malunggay seeds could be extracted and used for various pharmaceutical purposes. Malunggay leaves are a good source of calcium, iron, ascorbic acid and phosphorous. Filipino boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao credits soups with Malunggay leaves for boosting his energy during training. Moringa Water Purification In many parts of the world river water which can be highly turbid is used for drinking purposes. This turbidity is conventionally removed by treating the water with expensive chemicals, many of which are imported at great expense. Natural coagulants have been used for centuries in traditional water treatment practices throughout certain areas of the developing world. Crushed Moringa seeds clarify and purify water to suit domestic use and lower the bacterial concentration in the water making it safe for drinking. By  using Moringa seeds people will no longer be depending on expensive means originating from the West. Using Moringa to purify water replaces chemicals such as aluminium sulphate, which are dangerous to people and the environment, and are expensive. Moringa seed powder can be used as a quick and simple method for cleaning dirty river water. Studies showed that this simple method of filtering not only diminishes water pollution, but also harmful bacteria. The moringa powder joins with the solids in the water and sinks to the bottom. This treatment also removes 90-99% of bacteria contained in water. Water from varying sources will need different amounts of Moringa seeds powder because of the impurities present will not be the same. Experiments with a jar will help in working out the correct amount needed. Moringa In addition to food, shelter and clothing, water is one of our basic human needs and lack of potable water is a major cause of death and disease in our world.  Moringa oleifera seed contains 40 per cent by weight of oil, with the remaining presscake containing the active ingredients for natural coagulation. The high market value for the oil make the case for promoting the cultivation of the seed a strong one. The growth of Moringa oleifera trees by smallholder farmers should be actively promoted as a means of providing vegetables and raw material for oil extraction in addition to a simple, but effective natural coagulant for turbid river water. Using natural materials to clarify water is a technique that has been practiced for centuries and of all the materials that have been used, seeds of the Moringa have been found to be one of the most effective. Studies have been conducted since the early 1970’s to test the effectiveness of Moringa  seeds for treating water. These studies have confirmed that the seeds are highly effective in removing suspended particles from water with medium to high levels of turbidity (Moringa seeds are less effective at treating water with low levels of turbidity). Moringa Water Purification Theory Moringa oleifera seeds treat water on two levels, acting both as a coagulant and an antimicrobial agent. It is generally accepted that Moringa works as a coagulant due to positively charged, water-soluble proteins, which bind with negatively charged particles (silt, clay, bacteria, toxins, etc) allowing the resulting â€Å"flocs† to settle to the bottom or be removed by filtration. The antimicrobial aspects of Moringa continue to be researched. Findings support recombinant proteins both removing microorganisms by coagulation as well as acting directly as growth inhibitors of the microorganisms. While there is ongoing research being conducted on the nature and characteristics of these components, it is accepted that treatments with Moringa solutions will remove 90-99.9% of the impurities in water. Water Treatment with Moringa Seeds Solutions of Moringa seeds for water treatment may be prepared from seed kernels or from the solid residue left over after oil extraction (presscake). Moringa seeds, seed kernels or dried presscake can be stored for long periods but Moringa solutions for treating water should be prepared fresh each time. In general, 1 seed kernel will treat 1 liter (1.056 qt) of water. Dosage Rates: Low turbidity NTU250 2 seeds per 1 liter (1.056 qt) water INSTRUCTIONS TO CLEAN WATER WITH MORINGA SEEDS 1 Collect mature Moringa oleifera seed pods and remove seeds from pods. 2 Shell seeds (remove seed coat) to obtain clean seed kernels; discard discolored seeds. 3 Determine quantity of kernels needed based on amount and  turbidity of water; in general 1 seed kernel will treat 1 liter (1.056 qt) of water. 4 Crush appropriate number of seed kernels (using grinder, mortar & pestle, etc) to obtain a fine powder and sift the powder through a screen or small mesh. 5 Mix seed powder with a small amount of clean water to form a paste. 6 Mix the paste and 250 ml (1 cup) of clean water into a bottle and shake for 1 minute to activate the coagulant properties and form a solution. 7 Filter this solution through a muslin cloth or fine mesh screen (to remove insoluble materials) and into the water to be treated. 8 Stir treated water rapidly for at least 1 minute then slowly (15-20 rotations per minute) for 5-10 minutes. 9 Let the treated water sit without disturbing for at least 1-2 hours. 10 When the particles and contaminates have settled to the bottom, the clean water can be carefully poured off. 11 This clean water can then be filtered or sterilized to make it completely safe for drinking. DANGERS Secondary Infection: The process of shaking and stirring must be followed closely to activate the coagulant properties; if the flocculation process takes too long, there is a risk of secondary bacteria growth during flocculation. Recontamination: The process of settling is important. The sediment at the bottom contains the impurities so care must be taken to use only the clear water off the top and not allow the sediment to re-contaminate the cleared water. Additional contaminants: Moringa treatment does not remove 100% of water pathogens. Using Moringa oleifera as a replacement coagulant for proprietary coagulants meets the need for water and wastewater technology in developing countries which is simple to use, robust and cheap to both install and maintain. Water purified with oringa seeds, is acceptable for drinking only where people are currently drinking untreated, contaminated water.

Wireless Technology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Wireless Technology - Assignment Example Many cellular phone companies have emerged over the past few decades but few have managed to become household names. The few we acknowledge are namely, AT&T, Verizon, Comcast and ClearWire. All of these use different technologies to offer credible services to their consumers in individual ways they feel fit. These technologies offered, of course, have their pros and cons which will be addressed and compared in this study. All these organizations are established in the U.S but some have consumers across the globe. Their services include, voice transfer, internet services and subscription T.V channels among others. Subscribers may be on a personal or commercial subscription. Personal subscribers pay for their personal needs (in their homes) while commercial subscribers buy and sell these services for profit. They may do so directly or indirectly. This paper will observe the mobile telephone, the premium or pay television and the Internet access, as a means of communication. Telephony i s the construction, development and application that deploys communication and information between two or more parties through the use of wires and the device known as the telephone. Mobile telephony is similar but without the use of ‘wires’. ... AT & T is currently the biggest cellular service provider in the U.S having establishments across twenty two states and enjoys a global market of about 292 million people (AT&T, 2013). This is mainly due to its adaptation of 4G technology which makes it one of, if not the fastest data service provider in the world. ClearWire seems to have the cutting edge when it comes to speed and a wider spectrum in data communication. It uses 4G technology that offers wireless data transfer of up to 2.5 GHZ which is seven times faster than normal cellular service providers, further more it uses (TDD) Time Division Duplex technology which enables it to reuse existing IP network infrastructure which enables it to save on costs of hardware installations (Clearwire Corporation, 2013). It does not congest even in densely populated urban areas due to its deep and wide spectrum. It is also robust and cost effective.\ Verizon and ComCast seem to be at loggerheads when it comes to competition in consumer o utreach, sales and services provider. They also offer the same high speed internet and TV services and are also established in the same city, Philadelphia. Comcast had the primary advantage of having established itself well before Verizon came into the picture and had the monopoly of customers in the whole of Philadelphia. The reason for its temporary fallout was the frustration by consumers of having only one internet service provider and that is where Verizon seizes the opportunity to establish itself. Both however, offer enticing packages, premiums and bonuses on their services to attract more customers and switching between either services does not incur expenditure but you may do so only to find your previous ISP with an even more enticing offer.

The US Presidential Candidates on Foreign Policy Essay

The US Presidential Candidates on Foreign Policy - Essay Example Our relations with Iran and North Korea are at center stage. Our plan for the war in Iraq and an international consensus may be vital to our success there. Almost every issue from banking to human rights requires some degree of foreign policy expertise. While McCain's years as a Senator qualifies him as the most experienced candidate, what Obama lacks in experience he makes up for in expertise. In today's world, Obama's plans and approaches to foreign policy are a better fit with the international community and the growing globalization. One of the critical differences is in the approach and style that the men bring to the table. While McCain's years of experience have given him significant exposure to foreign events and crisis, many of his methods arise from his experiences and are anchored in the past. For example, his comment during the debate of 'walk softly and carry a big stick' may have been effective in dealing with the 20th century banana republics, but is not relevant to 21st century Iran. In addition, he has recently contended that Iran's Ahmadinejad was responsible for their nuclear policy when in fact it is the Ayatollah Kahmenei and Iran's National Security Council. When questioned he simply replied, "any average American thought of Ahmadinejad as the Iranian leader, and so he would, too" (Frick). However, we would not expect the average American to run our foreign policy. While Obama may lack the direct experience, he has a lifetime of studied thought and a personal interest in foreign affairs that gi ves him a historical perspective and an expertise that McCain lacks. This ability to think and examine is shown by the candidates' difference in their approach to Iran. McCain steadfastly argues that we should never negotiate with terrorists and refuses to talk to the Iranians. This approach is a continuation of the Bush policy that has been responsible for the election of the extremist government in Iran. While Iran is a rather moderate and modern country, they have elected a hard line government in response to the Bush right wing rhetoric of the early 2000s. However, Obama contends that we should be talking to the Iranians. Note that Obama understands the difference between negotiating and talking, which offers no guarantees, makes no promises, and has no pre-conditions (Fang). While we may come away from the table with nothing, it may thaw out an icy relationship and create a first step to a diplomatic process. Here again, Obama favors the reasonable avenue of diplomacy with war as a last resort, while McCain favors the pre-emptive strike policies (a reckless and dangerous approach) that have been pursued by the current administration. These same shortsighted policies will be pursued by McCain in North Korea, while Obama will favor constructive diplomacy to defuse the situation. The most immediate foreign policy dilemma that will face the next president will be the plan for Iraq. The critical difference between the candidates is their steadiness and commitment to a goal. Obama has supported a phased withdrawal with a timetable to extract the US presence in Iraq since the war began. McCain had been adamantly opposed to a timetable arguing that it would simply motivate the enemy to wait for our exit. Meckler reports that, "After months of ridiculing opponents who want to set a timetable for withdrawal in Iraq, today John