Physician-Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia are Murder Essay -- Euthanas

Willful extermination is Murder   â â â On June 4, 1990, Janet Adkins ended it all. She executed herself under the management of a man named Jack Kevorkian. Over and over, Kevorkian set up machines and executed patients that were as far as anyone knows in critical condition. He got away from discipline for a considerable length of time, however on March 26, 1999, Kevorkian was detained for second-degree murder. (Online,99) He had created numerous companions and numerous foes. One of his adherents was a lady who had created coronary corridor illness. Her name was Donna White. She considered self destruction frequently, particularly when her torment was unfathomably extreme. Help discovered her before killing did. A hospice care office caught wind of her plot to end it all, and they discovered assistance for her. They gave treatment to her self-destructive contemplations and serious melancholy, and they additionally furnished her with the drug to keep her agony free. She no longer follows Kevorkian's beliefs and is against him. (Shapiro and Bowermaster, 94) Over 52 patients were executed in Dr. Kevorkian's quality. (On the web, 99) What on the off chance that they could have discovered the assistance that they required?  Willful extermination is taking one's life on the off chance that one has a fatal ailment is a serious condition, and is finished by a deadly infusion. Willful extermination and Assisted Suicide started in old Rome and Greece. They accepted that it was alright in specific circumstances to permit an individual to bite the dust or to enable an individual to pass on. This was regularly the situation with the old in these societies. Certain religions are against willful extermination. The Christian, Jew, and Islamic religions all stick to the way that life is hallowed and ought not be removed. In certain societies, helping somebody to pass on is a similar thing as manslaughter, and is dealt with so in an official courtroom. (Encarta, 98)  ... ...ailable: http://www.angelfire.com/al/jefspage/index3.html Barnett, Erin Hoover. Is Mom Capable of Choosing to Die?. 1999. [Online]. The Oregonian. Date of Download: November 15, 1999. Accessible: http://www.oregonlive.com/news/99/10/st101719.html Cassel, Eric J. Willful extermination. Grolier Interactive Inc.. 1998 Euthanasia. Gould, Jonathan and Craigmyle, Lord. Your Death Warrant?. New York: Arlington House, 1971. Mattos, Jennifer and Sachs, Andrea. Characterizing the Right to Die. Time. April 15, 1996. Pg. 82 Rosenbaum, Stuart E. furthermore, Baird, Robert M. Willful extermination: The Moral Issues. 1989. Contradicting Viewpoints. New York: Prometheus Books. Shapiro, Joseph P. furthermore, Bowermaster, David. Passing on Trial. U.S. News and World Report. April 25, 1994. Pp. 31-39. Shapiro, Joseph P. Growing an option to bite the dust. U.S. News and World Report. April 15, 1996. Pg. 63.

Virgin Atlantic Essay Example

Virgin Atlantic Essay The organization I’m going to research is Virgin Atlantic. Virgin Atlantic is a British carrier, which was established right around 25 years back; it is a main player of Sir Richard Bransons Virgin Group, who own 51% of it and Singapore Airlines claims 49%. Its home office are situated in Crawley, West Sussex, England, close to London Gatwick Airport, they additionally have Technical Engineering Centers and different structures and workplaces for freight and Logistics in Manchester and Norfolk. It works between the United Kingdom and North America, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia from fundamental bases at Gatwick and London Heathrow Airport, utilizing a blended armada of Airbus and Boeing airplanes. Regardless of Virgin Atlantic’s development the administration remains client driven with an accentuation on esteem for cash, quality, fun and advancement. On its long stretch courses Virgin Atlantic works a two class framework: Upper Class (the airline’s business class) and Economy Class which is divided into Premium Economy Class and Economy. Virgin Atlantic as of late propelled the Upper Class Suite †another item which vows to take on other carriers’ first and business class items. Virgin Atlantic additionally has Upper Class Lounges at Various Airports in the UK, USA, Japan, Hong Kong and the Caribbean. Statement of purpose: A Corporate statement of purpose ought to be a declaration of the vision, the way of life and the mutual estimations of the association, just as characterizing the limits or extent of the business. We will compose a custom exposition test on Virgin Atlantic explicitly for you for just $16.38 $13.9/page Request now We will compose a custom exposition test on Virgin Atlantic explicitly for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Recruit Writer We will compose a custom article test on Virgin Atlantic explicitly for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Recruit Writer The four expressions to dissect a Mission Statement against, to assess its viability are: Is it sensibly concrete and activity arranged? Could People Understand it, identify with and put without hesitation? Does it separate organization from contenders? Is it straightforward, simple to articulated and simple to disclose to clients? Virgin Atlantic has a Simple Mission articulation: 1. To grow a gainful carrier 2. Where individuals love to fly 3. Also, where individuals love to work. 4. They’re statement of purpose is straightforward as its in basic words so nyone could get it, including the clients. It identifies with the association, its clients and the staff. The statement of purpose is concrete and activity arranged however not too much. It states what their objectives are and what they are accomplishing for yet doesn't go in a lot in insight concerning them. Goals: Our goal is to fly a beneficial aircraft that individuals love to fly and where individuals love to work. Our attention is on further improving client administrations for our business and recreation voyagers, just as setting new gauges for the remainder of the business to follow. Our system is to guarantee we offer the best business item noticeable all around, develop our relaxation business much further, and run a productive however viable worldwide aircraft. The Objectives of Virgin Atlantic are not very Specific, as they dont clarify why individuals are going to cherish flying and working with them they dont express the best items they are wanting to offer noticeable all around. They are quantifiable in light of the fact that they could ascertain the benefit. They are reachable and could be accomplished in light of the fact that the extravagance aircrafts offer comparative offices. Destinations are additionally Realistic in light of the fact that the Virgin Group is effective and has a lot of assets including cash. Be that as it may, there is no Time-Bound set on the destinations. Guidelines: Virgin Atlantics Standards are : We put client care and responsibility to our travelers at the core of what we do. We endeavor to hit the nail on the head, first time, inevitably. However, infrequently, things dont go as arranged. We accept that you reserve the privilege to recognize what level of administration you can anticipate from all of us the time even in those uncommon minutes when we miss the mark regarding the extremely exclusive expectations we have set ourselves. Setting gauges is helpful in accomplishing significant levels of client care, since then the staff comprehend what is normal from them and the achievement could be estimated. Virgin Atlantic ought to likewise present different principles, for example, chopping down length of the lines to check in. Client Feedback: The Methods Virgin Atlantic use to assemble client input is by Email, Post or Fax. These are compelling strategies on the grounds that the criticism given in these structures is initially composed or composed by the clients and can be put away to break down and improve the administration. Virgin Atlantic could likewise present Comment Cards on the planes, so clients can mark boxes and remark about their experience flying with Virgin Atlantic. The Feedback they accumulate is utilized for Accounts and Records, Advertising, Marketing and Public Relation, Administration of Membership Records, Research, Software Development and Testing and the thought of grievances Purposes. Staff isn't made mindful of the input assembled however they ought to be since they have a job in the association. Client Improvement To improve its Customer Care, Virgin Atlantic trains its staff at The Base-its new condition of-workmanship preparing focus. As per Virgin Atlantic, Investment in its workers prospects is essential for business to continue developing along these lines from first day representatives can concentrate on their preparation and improvement. Virgin Atlantic treats its representatives as single most significant piece of Virgin Atlantic. Richard Branson accepts: The individuals who make up Virgin Atlantic make Virgin Atlantic. This isnt an organization that just discussions about putting representatives first or loquaciously asserts that our kin are our most prominent resource. This is an organization that just wouldnt exist without the vitality, the assurance, the mind and the intelligence of our people†. Everybody at Virgin Atlantic has the knowledge to think and react quickly and react to any new improvements that come their direction, they make a solid effort to give one of a kind brand and administration which they are famous for. This, thusly, makes an energetic, agreeable condition where everybody knows whats expected of them and cooperates to accomplish it.. Prize and Recognition Schemes Virgin Atlantic has great prize plans to spur its representatives and to keep them upbeat since they buckle down. Virgin Atlantics full-time workers get Seven free Flights to wide scope of charming worldwide goal. Additionally they offer serious arrangement for assistance: Pension and private clinical plans Life confirmation Excellent limits over the Virgin Group and loads of different organizations Long term incapacity protection Spouses and wards advantage Dental plans Health screening Access to other significant carriers rebate travel, including European aircrafts All these advantages ought to propel staff and increment their assurance. Changes in Customer Care The Changes I would prescribe for Virgin Atlantic to make are-Add more goals worldwide to various mainlands, along these lines the organization can have a bigger market and the clients would have greater selection of goals to travel to. Virgin Atlantic ought to likewise begin flying broadly , inside the UK aswell as worldwide flights, This would be helpful to the brand-steadfast who need to make a trip starting with one city then onto the next. Other British carriers, for example, British Airways and BMI do national and global Flights. Since Virgin Group offers Various types of assistance like Virgin Trains, Virgin Mobile and so forth. Virgin Atlantic should offer rebate to its clients who utilize other Virgin Product or Services, This would energize clients. Reference index http://virginally-atlantic. com/tridion/pictures/newpolicy_tcm5-540700. pdf http://wwp. greenwichmeantime. co. uk/time-zone/europe/uk/site/travel/carriers/virgin-atlantic/list. htm http://www. virgin-atlantic. com/en/gb/record. jsp http://en. wikipedia. organization/wiki/Virgin_Atlantic_Airways

A Case Study of Patient Blood Condition

Question: Talk about the Case Study of Patient Blood Condition. Answer: Presentation: Fbc Values As per Full Blood Count: The Test (2016), coming up next are the full blood check esteems for oxygen status, safe status, and haemostasis. Oxygen Status All out red cells-all out red cells per liter of blood. Red platelet tally that is low causes sickliness. Hemoglobin focus alludes to grams of hemoglobin per decilitre of blood. Low hemoglobin uncovers that the patient is iron deficient Haematocrit-the segment of blood made out of red platelets low haematocrit connotes paleness Mean corpuscular volume-Determines normal size of every red platelet. Low implies microcytic weakness while high is an indication of macrocytic sickliness Mean corpuscular hemoglobin-Determines normal hemoglobin content in each red platelet. Low MCH portrays hypochromic pallor. Red platelet circulation width-decides how the red platelets shift in their size. A high RDW propose anisocytosis. Invulnerable Status Neutrophils-raised quantities of neutrophils (Neutrophilia) because of bacterial contamination and intense viral diseases. Neutropenia(Neutrophils Decreased) in insusceptible concealment. Lymphocytes-Raised number of lymphocytes (lymphocytosis) in some popular contaminations remembering glandular fever yet diminished for instance of resistant concealment including HIV disease. Monocytes Raised number of monocytes (monocytosis) in bacterial contamination and a few sorts of diseases Eosinophils-Eosinophilia in the event of hypersensitive response and parasitic contaminations Basophils-Basophilia (raised number of basophils) happens when there is a hypersensitive response, the beginning of viral and bacterial contamination, endocrinopathy and aggravation conditions. Haemostasis (Blood Clotting) Platelet Count-Low check indicatethrombocytopenia while high demonstrates thrombocytosis. Diminished levels because of hemophilia draining or other condition causing blood misfortune, Increase in certain disease Mean Platelet Volume-decide the mean size of platelets to decide any type of variety in size. 2.Abnormalities and physiological indications Variations from the norm in WBC As indicated by Full Blood Count: The Test (2016), coming up next are the irregularities of WBC and the physiological signs they cause: High WBC tally (leukocytosis) causes an insusceptible response bringing about issues like sensitivity, asthma, and other immune system ailments. Harold had leukocytosis as his WBC tally was 12.1*1000cells/ul which is over as far as possible 10.8*1000cells/ul, he built up a safe response against certain nourishment causing coming about to regurgitating, acid reflux, and heartburn. Neutrophilia (raised number of neutrophils) causes corruption and irritation of a tissue. Harold had neutrophilia as his neutrophils were 8.5*1000cells/ul which are over as far as possible 8.3*1000cells/ul. Incessant atrophic gastritis is a type of aggravation and is along these lines connected to neutrophilia. Basophilia physiological manifestations are hypersensitivity and irritation of the tissues-Harold had basophilia as his basophils were 1100 cells/ul which is over the maximum furthest reaches of reference run that is 200cells/ul. Basophilia might be the reason for his aggravation in the covering of the stomach and unfavorably susceptible responses like sickness, acid reflux and heartburn. Variations from the norm in Rbc As indicated by The Basics of Anemia (2016), Low Red platelet tally (2.6 that is beneath 4.7), low hemoglobin (10.6 that is underneath 13), low hematocrit (31.6 that is underneath 42) and high mean red platelet volume (118.4 that is over 90) brings about a few physiological signs including a high quick rate, discombobulation, weariness and tiredness, fair skin, cerebral pain and brevity of breath. Harold experienced indications like cerebral pains, tachycardia, and wooziness, exhaustion and breathing troubles because of variations from the norm in RBCs. Paleness Paleness An infection condition that outcomes in diminished conveyance of oxygen to the tissues. The malady is because of diminished red platelets or variations from the norm in the red platelets (The Basics of Anemia, 2016).The full blood check proof are: RBC check the Red platelet tally is underneath the ordinary reaches (2.6 that is beneath 4.7) which is an indication of which result to sickliness. Haematocrit-Low hematocrit level (31.6 that is beneath 42) means low degrees of red platelets in the blood consequently causing iron deficiency. The hemoglobin-low degree of hemoglobin (10.6 that is underneath 13) is a variation from the norm of red platelets which lead to less oxygen being shipped to the tissues as hemoglobin tie oxygen. Mean red platelet volume-The high mean red platelet volume (118.4 that is over 90) means that macrocytic red platelets which is a red platelets variation from the norm. Gastritis and nutrient B-12 The Harolds gastritis may cause decreased degrees of nutrient B-12 in the blood. Section 5. Nutrient B12 (2016) clarifies that the covering of the stomach produce an inherent factor which is imperative as it permits the retention of nutrient B-12 by the phones of the body. Incessant gastritis weakens the creation of the characteristic factor by the covering of the stomach which thus results to diminished degree of nutrient B-12 in the blood (nutrient B-12 insufficiency) Folic Acid Deficiency Anemia (Pernicious Anemia) Harold fringe blood smear is a proof of folic corrosive lack pallor. The folic corrosive inadequacy meddles with how the red platelets are framed and consequently results to their anomaly (Chapter 5. Nutrient B12, 2016). The red platelets for Harold are bigger than the typical red platelets thus are macrocytic red platelets which are a significant trait of a fringe blood film arranged from a patient with folic corrosive insufficiency. The cells likewise have a huge focal whiteness which implies low hemoglobin levels. The Harolds red platelets are additionally decreased in number contrasted with a solid person. Sporadically molded RBC in the fringe blood film affirms that he is inadequate in folic corrosive. The full blood include is additionally indispensable in the determination of folic corrosive sickliness. The most significant full blood check record is mean corpuscular volume which is expanded as the red platelet increments in size when folic corrosive is lacking. The others are low hematocrit fixations, low hemoglobin focus and low red platelet tally (Chapter 5. Nutrient B12, 2016). Treatment of Harolds Symptoms The reason for Harolds blood condition has been because of interminable atrophic gastritis which has brought about the ascent in white platelets tally and less red platelets check with variations from the norm because of nutrient 12 lack (Atrophic Gastritis Treatment Management: Medical Care, Prevention, Long-Term Monitoring, 2016). The best treatment of Harold manifestations is by first diagnosing the reason for his constant atrophic gastritis. The significant reason for incessant atrophic gastritis is a contamination brought about by H. Pylori. The other reason is immune system antibodies that are answerable for the devastation of the coating of the stomach cells. As indicated by Atrophic Gastritis Treatment Management: Medical Care, Prevention, Long-Term Monitoring (2016), the treatment will include wiping out the reason for atrophic gastritis. The treatment will, hence, use anti-microbials against H. Pylori if H. Pylori is the reason for atrophic gastritis or utilization of nutri ent B-12 infusions if the gastritis is because of immune system antibodies that annihilate the cells of the stomach lining. The specialist ought to likewise endorse drug that kills stomach corrosive as less corrosive condition advances the mending of the stomach lining quicker. Tachycardia and Chronic Atrophic Gastritis Constant atrophic gastritis is the reason for Harolds condition while Tachycardia is the indication of his condition. The interminable atrophic gastritis meddles with the creation of a natural factor liable for the retention of nutrient B-12 by the body. The nutrient B-12 is significant as it aid the creation of satisfactory and sound red platelets in the body. The lacking and anomalous red platelets produce a physiological sign that incorporates Tachycardia (The Basics of Anemia, (2016). References Atrophic Gastritis Treatment Management: Medical Care, Prevention, Long-Term Monitoring. (2016).Emedicine.medscape.com. Recovered 18 July 2016, from https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/176036-treatment Part 5.Vitamin B12.(2016).Fao.org. Recovered 18 July 2016, from https://www.fao.org/docrep/004/Y2809E/y2809e0b.htm Full Blood Count: The Test. (2016).Labtestsonline.org.uk. Recovered 18 July 2016, from https://labtestsonline.org.uk/understanding/analytes/fbc/tab/test/ The Basics of Anemia. (2016).WebMD. Recovered 18 July 2016, from https://www.webmd.com/beginning to end guides/understanding-weakness rudiments.

Financial Analysis on Severn Trent PLC, being compared with United Utilities - Free Essay Example

Financial Analysis on Severn Trent PLC, being compared with United Utilities Trend Analysis The annual reports indicate that Severn Trent has experienced a steady rise in revenue over the period, with the exception of 2006 to 2007, when revenue fell by a third. This fall in revenue was due to the demerger of Biffa Plc, the waste collection and management company; as well as the sale of Severn Trent Property and US Laboratories. In addition, over the period from 2004 to 2007, the companys total equity fell by around 50% as a result of the demergers, as well as the decision to make a 575 million special dividend payout to shareholders in 2006. Over the period of the study, United Utilities has had much smoother performance, with revenue increasing steadily by up to 12% per year, with a small contraction from 2006 to 2007. United Utilities total equity has also risen by around 50%, to the point where it is now more than two and a half times that of Severn Trent, although United Utilities has only twice the post tax profit. This could imply that Severn Trents restructuring and demerging has made it more efficient when compared to its competitor. However, over the period of the study, the company has greatly expanded its balance sheet, taking on an additional 470 million of current assets and around 1.3 billion of long term debt. Most of the current assets were added from 2007 to 2008, as was most of the long term debt. This is due to the issue of new long term debt by Severn Trent to finance a major investment program to improve efficiency and meet its government KPIs. Severn Trents strategy of using long term debt for investment seems to be different from United Utilities, which has also increased its net assets by around 50%, but this has led to an 800 million increase in short term debt, with a 500 million reduction in long term debt over the course of the period. This could indicate that United Utilities current investments are more focused on short term gains and improvements, which Severn Trent is focusing on long term improvements to finance the long term debt. In terms of revenue and profits, Severn Trent has managed to raise its post tax profit by around 25 million, or around 14%, over the period, in spite of the loss in revenue due to the Biffa disposal. This represent significant financial efficiency gains, largely driven by the fact that operating costs have fallen by an even greater amount than the companys revenue. This indicates that the companys demergers and investments have been very effective at increasing the companys efficiency, even with the payout of a 575 million special dividend. In contrast, United Utilities has only seen a 15% rise in profit after tax in spite of seeing an increase in revenue of 11%, and not making any significant dividend payouts to investors. This indicates that, over the period of the study, Severn Trent has been more efficient than United Utilities in producing returns for its shareholders. Indeed, United Utilities has failed to even grow its revenues at the same rate as the overall UK water industry , which increased in size by a CAGR of 3.5% from 2002 to 2007 (Datamonitor, 2008a). Finally, Severn Trent has managed to reduce both its trade receivables and inventory over the period, indicating greater efficiency. However, it has only managed to reduce trade receivables by only 4%, in spite of a 23% fall in revenues. This implies that the company has not actually been effective at reducing receivables, particularly considering receivables fell by 100 million with the Biffa demerger. However, given that United Utilities saw a 37% increase in receivables over the same period, and a 22% increase in inventory, it seems that Severn Trent has performed better than its competitor. Ratio Analysis In this section; I will be analysing the ratios for Severn Trent Plc over the period 2004-2008 to determine the companys performance, and comparing them with United Utilities to gain an idea of the performance relative to industry peers. The main limitation to this analysis is that as Biffa, which was demerged in 2006, was a waste management company, it will have a different cost base to Severn Trent, and results from before this period may not be comparable to those after. In addition, the change in accounting standards from UK GAAP in 2004 and 2005 to IAS in 2006 (Severn Trent, 2009) may have caused inconsistencies in the ratio calculations. Unfortunately, without detailed management accounts, it will be impossible to determine the exact impact these changes will have. Liquidity Ratios Over the period from 2004 to 2005, Severn Trent maintained a very low current ratio of just 0.6, with an acid test ratio of around 0.55. This indicated that the company was in serious danger of liquidity problems should its creditors have decided to call in any loans. Indeed, in 2006 the current ratio fell to 0.44, and the acid test ratio to just 0.4. At this point, the company only had enough liquid assets to cover two fifths of its total short term liabilities, which could have been a cause for significant concern, particularly given that United Utilities maintained current and ratios of at least 1.15 over the same period. In 2007, both Severn Trents ratios rose slightly to 0.48 and 0.47; however this still placed the company in potential difficulties. However, from 2007 to 2008 the additional long term the company took on allowed Severn Trent to boost its cash reserves by around 500 million, boosting the current ratio to 1.15 and the quick ratio to 1.12. This action, which was pos sibly in response to concerns around the liquidity of short term credit during the credit crunch, brought both liquidity ratios up to a comparable level to United Utilities; which stood at 1.30 for the current ratio and 1.28 for the quick ratio respectively. Gearing / Solvency Ratio Over the period, Severn Trents debt ratio has increased from around 56% to 77%. This increase has generally been steady, but there was a significant jump from 2006 to 2007, from 62% to 74%, probably due to the disposal of the Biffa group and other assets. In terms of long term debt only, there was also a jump from 69% to 75% from 2007 to 2008, as a result of the additional long term debt taken on for restructuring and to raise cash. In contrast, over the same period United Utilities has steadily paid down its debts and reduced both debt ratios from both being around 68% in 2004 to the total ratio being 59% and the long term only being 54% in 2008. This could indicate greater prudence from United Utilities, or it could indicate that United Utilities is less efficient, and cannot find good places to invest its debts. Both companys debt to equity ratios have mirrored their debt ratios, with Severn Trents going from 129% in 2004 to 339% in 2008, whilst United Utilities has fallen from 213% in 2004 to 145% in 2008. In addition, Severn Trent has seen its interest cover fall from 9.6 in 2004 and 2005 to just 3.9 in 2008, whilst United Utilities has risen from 5.5 to 9.2 over the same period. This could indicate that, in spite of the greater efficiency discussed above, Severn Trents high debt levels could now be a cause for concern, and could cause the company to post losses if revenue falls or costs rise. Activity Ratios Severn Trents net asset turnover ratio and the non-current assets turnover ratio has remained fairly steady over the period 2004 to 2006, however it dropped quite sharply as the revenue generating assets of Biffa and the other demerged parts of the business were sold in 2006, going from 0.42 in 2006 to 0.29 in 2007. However, as of 2008, both ratios stand at around 0.25, which is very similar to United Utilities where they are 0.28 and 0.3 respectively. This indicates that Severn Trents demerging has brought its asset turnover ratios back to the standard level for the industry. Inventory turnover ratios for both companies are very high, however given that both companies primarily trade water, this is to be expected. Severn Trents inventory turnover has increased significantly since the Biffa demerger, and it now turns over its inventory around every six days. However, United Utilities turns its inventory over around every 3.5 days, indicating that it is either more efficient, or holds lower levels of inventory relative to its customer base. Both companies have high receivables days, which again could be expected given that the companies must work out flexible payment plans with their customers according to their charters. As such, any late payment generally needs to be treated more flexibly than in most businesses (Datamonitor, 2008b; Datamonitor, 2008c). However, Datamonitor (2008c) reports that Severn Trents asset and receivables turnover ratios are much lower than its peer companies, indicating a lack of operational efficiency. Profitability Ratios Severn Trents ROCE saw a quite significant increase from 7.7% in 2004 to 9.4% in 2006, with the ROCE on long term debt only going from 8.5% to 11.3%. However, following the Biffa demerger ROCE fell back to 7.57% and 8.29% respectively, which is likely due to the additional debt the company took on. This is mentioned in the 2008 accounts, where the Chief Executive discusses maintaining the debt ratio (Severn Trent, 2009). This is lower that Severn Trent, which has a ROCE of 8.4% and ROCE on short term debt of 9.5%. However, these figures have fallen from 11.6% and 11.7% respectively, which may indicate that United Utilities is moving towards where Severn Trent is. However, Severn Trents return on equity shows a significant and decisive move from 8.3% in 2004 to 17.5% in 2008. This is consistent with the companys strategic goal of increasing its return on equity to its shareholders, and indicates significant shareholder value creation. In contrast, over the same period United Utilities has fallen from 17.6% to 13% respectively, indicating that United Utilities is becoming more inefficient and creating less value for shareholders. Over the same period, Severn Trent has increased its gross profit margin from 19.4% to 25.8%, and net profit margin from 9.2% to 13.6%. This again indicates significant efficiency gains, mainly from the disposals which occurred in 2006, with gross margin going from 20.6% to 25.3% and net margin going from 9.9% to 16.8% from 2006 to 2007, before falling back in 2008. In contrast, United Utilities has witnessed more stagnant performance, with its gross profit margin falling from 35.3% to 28.1% and net profit margin rising slightly, but only from 17.1% to 17.6%. This implies that, as discussed above, United Utilities is performing poorly, and failing to create value through efficiency and gross profits. As such, it is forced to resort to paying down debt to maintain its net profit margins. Segmental Analysis Segmenting Severn Trents business is extremely simple: over 80% of the companys revenue comes from its core business of water and sewage, operated in the area from mid Wales to Rutland and from the Bristol Channel to the Humber (Severn Trent, 2009). Other important areas of business generally fall under water purification and operating services; pipeline rehabilitation; pipeline repair; and metering services. This is combined with a diversified portfolio of environmental services, giving Severn Trent a broad base to operate within water services. Prior to the demerger of the Biffa group and other business groups, Severn Trent had interests in other sectors including household waste management. However it has now concentrated its business in the water segment, with significant financial benefits. If this focus can allow its operating efficiency to reach that of its competitors, it may be able to improve yet further. References Datamonitor (2008a) Water Utilities Industry Profile: United Kingdom. Datamonitor Industry Profiles; September 2008. Datamonitor (2008b) United Utilities Plc. Datamonitor Company Profiles; April 2008. Datamonitor (2008b) Severn Trent Plc. Datamonitor Company Profiles; January 2008. Severn Trent (2009) Severn Trent PLC. https://www.severntrent.com/ Accessed 6th January 2009.

The World Of West Africa - 1580 Words

Between the years 1500 and 1900, Europeans forced hundreds of millions of people from West and Central Africa to become slaves in the Americas. Once in the Americas, they were put on plantations and worked in brutal, degrading conditions. Millions of Africans were killed in the process. They were stripped of their identity and were no longer considered human, just a slave to the forces of white men. The people of west africa had a rich culture and history, as well as a variety of political systems, such as kingdoms and city states, before European slavers arrived on their shores. Art, learning and technology flourished in Africa. The people were skilled in medicine, mathematics and astronomy. They made luxury items in bronze, ivory, gold and terracotta. Each of these items were valued by the Portuguese and other Europeans, along with spices, particularly pepper. The Europeans bought and kidnapped some Africans who were for sale in Europe. However, transatlantic slaving did not becom e a dominant trade until the 17th century when plantation owners demanded workers to supply the ever increasing demand for sugar. Most of the Africans enslaved were war captives. Some, however, were kidnapped or sold into slavery to pay a debt. These captives were shackled to each other and marched to the coast where they waited in stone forts. The journey to the coast often took as long as months. Once the slaving ships arrived, the Europeans would offload the many trade goods to give toShow MoreRelatedEducation Of West Afric A Little Background Information1101 Words   |  5 PagesEducation In West Africa Illiteracy rates in West Africa are the highest in the world (Dakar). In the United States the ability to read with competence, or even receiving education to do so, is something that’s often taken for granted. We often forget that this privilege is not universally shared. This is especially true in West Africa. 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In World History classes—both high school and college— these consequences for Africa are usually omitted, and a more Eurocentric view of the Atlantic Sla ve Trade dominates. Because of this, many are not aware ofRead MoreMali : The Largest Country1246 Words   |  5 Pages1. Mali - Mali is the eighth largest country in the entire West Africa. The economic center of Mali runs on agriculture and also fishing. Mali is the third largest gold producing country in the world, another interesting thing it produces is salt. Mali also produced a federation in the year 1960 after gaining independence Mali had gotten the Mali federation. 2. Chad - Chad is located in central West Africa it borders with Libya and Sudan on either side of it. Chad is a very unique place it isRead MoreImpact Of Trans Atlantic Slave Trade On African Societies1314 Words   |  6 PagesFor 300 years, Africa participated in the Atlantic slave trade, providing humans in exchange for other goods. During that 300 years, some twelve million Africans were transported to the Americas. This mass, forced migration had many consequences for Africa, in many aspects of its history. In World History classes—both high school and college— these consequences for Africa are usually omitted, and a more Eurocentric view of the Atlantic slave trade dominates. Because of this, many are not aware ofRead MoreThe Growth Of Trade Between Africa1037 Words   |  5 Pages The growth of trade between Africa, Asia and Europe influenced a very important religion. The location of the Islamic world was ideal for trade, it lay between the Mediterranean S ea and the Indian Ocean. Muslims traveled by land and sea, creating a network of trade. A Muslim scholar named Ibn Battuta traveled around Europe, Africa and Asia for about 7 years. Ibn Battuta traveled all around West Africa, Europe and Asia. The goods they traded were silk, paper, dishes, spices, gems and coconuts

Lab 1 Intro to Science Essay - 1348 Words

TYPE YOUR FULL NAME: Clarence Loveless TYPE YOUR FULL NAME: Clarence Loveless UMUC Physical Science 101/103 Lab 1: Introduction to Science INSTRUCTIONS: * On your own and without assistance, complete this Lab 1 Answer Form and submit it via the Assignments Folder by the date listed on your Course Schedule (under Syllabus). * To conduct your laboratory exercises, use the Laboratory Manual that is available in the classroom. Laboratory exercises on your CD may not be updated. * Save your Lab 1 Answer Form in the following format: LastName_Lab1 (e.g., Smith_Lab1). * Submit your document in a Word (.doc or .docx) or Rich Text Format (.rtf) for best compatibility. Exercise 1: Data Interpretation Table 1: Water†¦show more content†¦Why? I would use a bar graph because it would be easy to follow and understand the information presented. 7. Graph the data from Table 1: Water Quality vs. Fish Population (found at the beginning of this exercise). You may use Excel, then â€Å"Insert† the graph, or use another drawing program. You may also draw it neatly by hand and scan your drawing. If you choose this option, you must insert the scanned jpg image here. 8. Interpret the data from the graph made in Question 7. The graph above displays the relationship between increased dissolved oxygen and a fish population. Exercise 2: Testable Observations Determine which of the following observations (A-J) could lead to a testable hypothesis. For those that are testable: Write a hypothesis and null hypothesis What would be your experimental approach? What are the dependent and independent variables? What is your control? How will you collect your data? How will you present your data (charts, graphs, types)? How will you analyze your data? 1. When a plant is placed on a window sill, it grows three inches faster per day than when it is placed on a coffee table in the middle of the living room. testable Hypothesis – IF a plant is placed on a window sill THEN it will grow faster than a plant placed on a coffee table in the middle of a living room. Null Hypothesis – A plant on a window sill does not grow faster than a plant on a living room coffee tableShow MoreRelatedTimetable: Touring Car Racing and Life Science Team1676 Words   |  7 PagesHealth amp; Life Science – co-ordinator – Mike Keenan mike.keenan@uws.ac.uk 0141 849 4 Process of nursing – co-ordinator – Barbara Killoran Barbara.killoran@uws.ac.uk 0141 849 4282 Year 2 Timetable Trimester 1 - Week 1 September 11 cohort Date | 9am-12.00pm | Lunch | 1.00pm-4.00pm | Mon CAPS17/09/12 | M004 amp; F309 9-10am Intro to module J.WhiteRead MoreWhy I Am An Engineer907 Words   |  4 Pages1. Choosing to be an Engineer was one of the easiest choices I’ve had to make in my life. 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The Truth on Commitment free essay sample

â€Å"Till death do us part.† This phase a meaningful, cherished saying formen and women commit to each other before sayingâ€Å"I do.† But, in reality does this phase really have any meaning behind it? I believe that commitment is hard. These vows have proven to me how much people take them for granted. This sacred time in someone’s life and all it takes is for one person not to fully commit to the other. Personally, I have been a witness of this true reality multiple times.It’s called divorce. The word nobody likes to hear yet, more than half of us will have it happen to them in a lifetime. My personal experience with divorceall started with little disagreements and the occasional scream fights. Not only making me scared but, to the point where I didn’t feel comfortable in my own house. This is just the start. Then, it becomes a weekly thing where being in the same room as my parents was adanger zone. We will write a custom essay sample on The Truth on Commitment or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page I felt as if I had to walk on eggshells around my house. One word could set my parents off. I believed I was the source of fighting and caused all this mayhem. Finally, the last resort I thought this situation would ever come to-divorce. I would be sat down with my sister and hear the sentence, â€Å"Mommy and Daddy don’t love each other anymore. But, that doesn’t mean we love you any less.† The sugarcoated version of â€Å"mommy and daddy want to get the heck away from each other!†For the longest time, I believed that this was my fault. That I could have done something to stop this. I started having bad anxiety which slowly began to take over my everyday thoughts. Will my dad ever come back? Does he still care about my sister and I? Will I even have a strong relationship with my dad again? The question I continuously ask myself today. The thing that hit me the hardest in this situation was knowing that I could do nothing to control it. It made me put a guard and distance myself from the one’s that truly loved me. I feel as if I will never be able to be in a serious committed relationship with someone. For the rest of my life, I will end up destroying personal relationships that truly matter to me because Ihave commitment issues not only with myself but others. The words spoken, don’t always match up with actions done.

The World Is Flat Executive Summary free essay sample

The World is Flat by Thomas L. Friedman is best described as an expos © of the realities of the present day business world and of the effects that certain advances in technology as well as political upheavals have had on capitalism during the past three decades. The flattening of the world is a metaphor used to describe an increasing interconnectivity among the citizens of the world. This increase in interconnectivity is ascribed to several events such as the fall of the Berlin wall, and most prominently, the advent of the internet. The point is stressed that for companies to survive in todays environment, they must keep pace with the constant advances in technology that are making previous ways of doing business no longer competitive. It is also noted that it is becoming less important that a company be subservient to a particular nation state. Outsourcing to countries where labour is cheaper such as India, will save companies money, establish business practices in foreign countries, and, ironically, produce better results. We will write a custom essay sample on The World Is Flat Executive Summary or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page As a result we are left with he same capitalism as before, but Just a different (and ever changing), and much wider playing field. Its shocking to learn how backward the United States of America has become. To think that the country responsible for setting the pace of modern day capitalism has been able to educate its population so poorly is a troubling reflection of our value system. To quote the text, In China today, Bill Gates is Britney Spears. In America today, Britney Spears is Britney Spears and that is our problem. America is no longer motivated. Our youth have become lazy underachievers who will certainly be left at the bottom of the food chain where the upper rungs will be occupied by todays hardest workers who come from todays poorest countries. That is of course unless Americans have a drastic change in mentality. Unfortunately, I believe what will happen is that as a nation we will end up underpaid (or simply paid what we are worth) or unemployed. Essentially, being Ame rican is no longer a valuable thing. We are becoming worthless. As a nation we are apathetic to issues that are most mportant to the survival of our country; instead, we would prefer to focus our energies on fguring out how much pot Lindsey Lohan smokes and whether such and such a celebrity beats his wife or not. It is because of this media induced epidemic that I foresee an increasingly slimmer portion of the US population benefiting from globalization. The rest I see as being indefinitely underpaid if paid at all. The most important lesson to take away from this book is the importance of hard work. Also, it is very important to realize how to benefit, in business, from this hanging world and to adapt as quickly as possible to its parameters. It is those who are best equipped to adapt that will be able to stay afloat financially. The importance of networking also cannot be overlooked. Not only is networking in general going to be more and more important; with whom you network, and how you communicate with each other could make the difference between a successful business and a failure. Those who plan to adapt the best must establish vast and purposeful networks. Furthermore, in business we have to continue think globally, and we have o think about long term benefits. In America we have trouble thinking beyond the snort term. ts probably not uncommon to tind a businessman trom the other side of the world whose long term goals include the prosperity of generations underneath him, In America people increasingly dont even have their own prosperity in mind. So not only is it time to take into consideration our own prosperity, but it is also time to ensure that the generations that succeed us will also have the ability to prosper. Eric Snoddy

Thien Hau Temple, A Temple that is dedicated to Mazu

Thien Hau Temple, A Temple that is dedicated to Mazu Traditional Taoism is the oldest system that contained the past beliefs of the Chinese. During that period when this system was applicable when both the shamanism and pantheism were common. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Thien Hau Temple, A Temple that is dedicated to Mazu specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Some of the components that were in this system include the repeated occurrence of seasons, life and death of conscious human beings and their continuous generations. Another major component of this system was the mystery of the life origin. In the traditional Taoism, there were some scriptures like the I Ching where most essential readings appeared. This scripture was composed of 64 hexagrams with each one of it carrying six yang lines. In this scripture, the readings included images, solutions of some problems, and the interpretations of the readings. Due to the challenges of the ever-changing world, the people who were responsible in to providing solutions started seeking for unity and continuity among the people. High expectations of finding solutions in Tao were among the traditional thinkers. There were three known sources of Taoism in the traditional china, the first source was the ancestor whose name was the yellow Emperor who came up with the use of traditional Chinese medicine. His wife was also famous through her act of teaching other women on how to obtain silk from silk worms. Through yellow emperor and his wife, there was introduction of the first Chinese characters. The second source of Taoism is the book â€Å"Tao Te Ching† the old book that contained supernatural issues, and its author was Laozi. The third source was Chuang Tzu together with his book that was eponymous. Apart from these three major sources, other sources came up later introducing other traditional aspects to the system. Taoism has influenced the culture of china for long period. The influence of Taoi sm came in different forms for instance, by philosophy, literature, and at times use of arts. Taoism also made some emphasize on getting the freedom for the human kind, understanding the human nature, and tried to obtain human retirement from the social works. Advertising Looking for essay on religion theology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Taoism as well tried to bring the mystery and many questions relating to religious into light for everyone to understand. By use of arts, Taoism divided the life of the educated people into two groups such as social group and a private one. The life of the educated people made use of the arts during their free time to pass different messages to other people in the community. For instance, a person may volunteer to make use of calligraphy or paintings to express a certain idea to the illiterate people in the community. The use of poetry by these people was also common to interp ret or clarify a certain aspect of life to their fellow leaned Chinese. Some educated Chinese went to an extent of conducting some researches on medicine that was useful for human use, and later passing the findings to the others through use of arts. Between 1940 and 1982, Taoism faced many challenges in china whereby most of its operations remained stack for a long period. Most of their priests and other men who were working in church found themselves working in odd places as casual laborers without receiving any recognition as priests. There were mass destructions of the infrastructure that were using, together with their holy sites. In 1982, some leaders started recognizing the importance of this tradition religion, and some of its aspects began restoration. Some of the Taoism temples started their operation, and continued to preach peace and unity among the Chinese people as it was doing before. Up to date Taoism is still a common belief in china because it has more than one bil lion followers. Globally, it is the second largest religion. There was a major debate about the Taoism whether being a philosophy or a religion. Most of the people from western see Taoism as a philosophical aspect because Lao Tse and Zhuang Zi did not talk anything about worshipping or performing rituals, and they are the major people in Taoism. On the other hand, some people refer it as a religion because the work of Lao Zi involved some rituals, and mentioning of works of gods. The debate leaves the relationship between the Taoist religion and Taiost philosophy being hard to understand. In this debate some sense of religious practices are present, and some arguments of philosophy are there. However, most of the religious practices originate from the background of Taoism.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Thien Hau Temple, A Temple that is dedicated to Mazu specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Thien Hau Temple is among the most popular places of worship in china, it mostly devotes its worshipping activities to Mazu who is the goddess of the sea, and other cultures that relates to the sea like fishing or sailing in a boat. This temple was originally a church but later became a temple for celebrations, receiving blessings, and giving offerings as well as performing rituals. The religious activities of this temple are also devoted to Guan Yu who is the famous god of resolving conflicts, righteousness and promoting a good relationship among people. The other god that is involved in the Thien Hau Temple is Fu De who is the god responsible of the earthly materials like wealth and other beneficiaries. In this temple, the Buddhists have a site of worship. The management of this temple is under Camau Association of America although it receives some other support from East Asian communities. One of the most important celebrations done in the temple is the celebration of the Mazu birthday on March 23 of eve ry Lunar Calendar. Many believers from all over the world come together, to share the happiness of this important day. The day is marked with different types of foods, lion dances, and other interesting games. Birthdays of Fu De, Guan Yu, and Dizang are also performed in this temple but not as big as of that of Mazu. Another difference between the traditional Taoism temple and Thien Hau Temple are the activities that take place in each temple. In Thien Hau Temple, members from different societies meet in the temple to receive blessings as they perform some religious rituals. Many people gather to praise deities, while lion dancers perform continuously as a way of chasing evil spirits. There are representatives from over 25 families who are supposed to gather with the rest of the community to light the firecrackers at midnight as a sign of celebrating Chinese New Tear.Advertising Looking for essay on religion theology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Starting from the first day of the year to the fifteenth day, the ceremony continues out side the temple. Experts play drums and bells, as people specialize with vegetarian foods. On special days, people slaughters a big animal like a pig, roasted but they eat it away from the temple as a way of showing respect to the Buddhists. Once the first fifteen days are over, people from different communities come together again to show their money needs to Mazu, as they give her what they had promised towards the year-end. Thien Hau Temple hosts even other types of ghost festivals for the communities to celebrate. The honor given to Mazu in Thien Hau Temple is out of her silence, which came from the fact that she did not cry when she was born. Mazu was the seventh daughter in her family and her father and brothers were mostly fishermen. She was very courageous to take care of the fishing tools that her brothers were using. She used to guard even during the most risky moments. After her death , several fishermen and other sea workers decided to honor her acts. Her identification color is red, which she used to wear most of the time. During her celebrations in Thien Hau Temple, her courageous acts are an inspiration to many people within the community. Guan Yu is another god, a famous historical figure in East Asia, well known by his efforts during the civil war that resulted to the end of the Han Dynasty in china. His efforts and contributions assisted in setting up the kingdom of Shu. That is why people called him the god of war, and receives much respect as he showed loyalty and righteousness. His symbol is a warrior with long beard, and holding weapons with his face painted red as a sign of loyalty. His involvement in this royal fight did not lead to destruction of the kingdom but to the improvement of it. Some people expected the worst from this conflict but Guan Yu fought a fight of wisdom and full of righteousness. Many people honored him and that is why he is a celebrity in the Thien Hau Temple up to date. Fu De is a special earthly god worshipped by both the religion worshippers in the Thien Hau Temple and the Taoists. He is a god of wealth and riches and commonly found in every village to cater for the common affairs. The major challenges that faced most villagers were agricultural and weather related problems. Although his powers were minimal, villagers were nowhere to turn for help. During the hard times of drought and famine, Fu De was the only hope for the people within the community. To some extent, his powers saved people in several cases, and that is why people decided to be honoring his acts. Today his image is preserved in several altars, and house doors, where people go to beg him for wealth and their family wellbeing. His image portrays an elderly man, with white beard, executive hat, and a robe to show his administration aspects. The Taoism Temple devoted most of its activities to Laozi who was the known author of Tao Te Chi ng book. His popularity came because of the fact that his conception took place while her mother was looking at a falling star. Another extra ordinary fact about him is that people believe that he stayed in his mother’s womb for 62 years. There was also a super natural power during his birth as his mother was leaning against a tree. During that time, people knew him as a grown man, with grey hair and some physical appearances that showed his wisdom and ability to live long. Some people regarded this as being reborn. According to her famous traditional sources, he is referred as the keeper who took good care of the royal court records. Through keeping watch of this royal court, he learned a lot from the Yellow Emperor and other wise people. Although he was a man full of wisdom, he did not open a school but many people were seeking knowledge from him. He was a teacher to many students who were admiring his life, and wanted to be like him in their future lives. Even royal dis ciples followed him for some pieces of advice and knowledge. Laozi had a wife and a son who later became a famous soldier. Although a great debate took place over whether Laozi issues were true or force, he remained someone worth celebration. Most of people claimed that it was hard to prove his history, although some of his acts remained memorable up to date. Laozi is celebrated, as he was the founder of Daoism, a major religion that has many followers. During the time when Daoism became strong and gained some followers, people started recognizing his efforts and he became a god. A sector for Daoists that was performing religious rituals and worshipped god emerged through which the Daoist tradition grew and developed. It reached a place where people started seeing Laozi as a personification of Dao, but Laozi claimed to have gone through many challenges to reach to such a point. Despite all the arguments against Laozi, he became famous day after day especially because he founded th e Daoism. He is the major god in Daoism who these believers trust and solves much of their problems.

12 Angry Men and the Psychology of the Jury Room Essay

12 Angry Men and the Psychology of the Jury Room - Essay Example The 1957 film 12 Angry Men perfectly captures the tension of the jury room, where life-and-death decisions come down to not only careful deliberation, but inner prejudices, self-concerned personal priorities, and invective. Ultimately, the human ego plays just as important a role in the film’s outcome as the examination of evidence and witnesses in that cloistered room. The protagonist of the film, Juror #8, is â€Å"the only skeptical (and rational) man in the jury room† who â€Å"shines incorruptible† throughout the entirety of the movie (Verrone 96). Juror #8 is the lone standout at the beginning of the jury deliberations, which angers many of the other jurors who feel it is an open-and-shut case. But Juror #8 explains his hesitation: â€Å"It’s not easy to raise my hand and send a boy off to die without talking about it first† (12 Angry Men). Juror #8 represents caution and consideration in the jury room. The character does not demonstrate some of the same logical flaws as his fellow deliberators: he is depicted as lacking the prejudices, biases, and egotistical self-absorption that prevent the other jurors, at least initially, from considering all of the facts in the case. In an effort to open the other jurors’ minds to the possibility of the boy’s innocence, Juror #8 takes on an almost aggressive role in trying to sway several of the jurors, particularly Juror #3, â€Å"whom he goads and satirizes on occasion to try to show him his own potential for violence that subconsciously prejudices him against the youthful defendant† (Cunningham 115). Juror #3 plays the role of the main antagonist and seems to relish the idea of sending the boy to his death. Along with the virulently racist Juror #10, he represents the darker aspects of human behavior in that jury room, with a furious anger bubbling underneath the surface throughout most of the movie. Juror #3 fiercely maintains his verdict of â€Å"guiltyâ⠂¬  even in the face of the other jurors’ conviction that the boy is innocent. In a narcissistic appropriation of the case in his own mind, Juror #3 equates the boy on trial with his own estranged son—his prejudice is born from his relationship with the child who rejected him and the â€Å"barely suppressed violence† (116) that drives his behavior in the jury room. Ultimately, his belief in the boy’s guilt has little to do with the facts of the case. It is not until he feels—and accepts—the shame of his own failings as a father that Juror #3 is able to vote logically as opposed to emotionally and irrationally. Juror #8 â€Å"wins† in the end because he is able to subtly manipulate the other eleven men into looking at the case in a similarly logical manner. In this way, he is also the most Machiavellian character in the film, astutely manipulating the other characters into deliberation by observing their behavior carefully in the jury room. Juror #8 couches his decision in the language of negotiation, thus carefully avoiding an outright claim that he truly thinks the boy is innocent: â€Å"He explained that he voted ‘not guilty’ not because he is sure of the defendant's innocence, but because he wished to discuss the case objectively, without prejudging the defendant. This minimized the group’s antagonism and alienation† (Evirgen 181). Juror #8 employs his observational skills to determine each juror’s underlying bias and motivation, and then uses that knowledge to â€Å"marginalize †¦ his most vocal enemies†Ã¢â‚¬â€Jurors #3 and #10—and â€Å"shift †¦ the dependence of ‘in-the-middle’ jurors to himself† as opposed to them (181). He systematically destroys each man’s preconceived notions of the boy’

We Should Pull Our Troops from Afghanistan Research Paper

We Should Pull Our Troops from Afghanistan - Research Paper Example Taliban continue its encouragement to Afghanistan for preventing Western invasion. Many ethnic groups and political pressure groups strengthen their independence struggle against Western invasion. It is relevant to connect the issue of Afghanistan to Vietnam. David Halberstam and Daniel Joseph Singal obsesrve similar cases in Vietnam. As they comment; â€Å"Bright, sophisticated people traditional warriors they have never accepted the rule of the outsiders† (Halberstam & Singal 8). Even though U.S. troops continue their operations in Afghan regions, various terrorist groups and extremists including Al-Qaeda keep control in majority of the Afghan region. U.S administers are not react seriously towards the crisis which happened in Afghanistan. Similar attitude they had followed in Vietnam War. â€Å"In those days, American were not unaware of the difficulties ahead† (Halberstam & Singal 12) Therefore, U.S. Troops face severe problems in handling conflicts that emerged fro m the urban areas. Here one can feel withdrawal of U.S. troops is an essential one. Examining the existing social, religious and political scenario that laid in Afghanistan, one can see that the country has been rapidly destabilizing.

Environmental Analysis Essay Example for Free

Environmental Analysis Essay Sample Responses to Questions 1.Laws and Regulations. What are some key laws and regulations under which this company and the music industry must operate? Key laws and regulations in the music industry might include copyright regulations, contracts, royalty practices in both retail sales and radio broadcasting, anti-trust, advertising regulations, foreign-trade practices. 2.Economy. How does the state of the economy influence the sales of this company’s products? The state of the economy has traditionally had less of an immediate impact on the music industry than on some others. CDs and on-line music sales tend to be low-ticket items, and are less likely to be affected too adversely even by a recession. A key driver of sales is the presence or absence of popular new talent. 3.Technology. What new technologies strongly affect the company you have selected? New technologies permitting on-line music sales, like iTunes, and recording and playing devices like iPod and upcoming cellphone technologies, increase the easy availability and sale of music products. They also allow music companies to avoid the expense of manufacturing and distributing CDs, and sharing sales revenues with retailers. A major downside is that new technologies permit easy copying of music without payment. Technology that can provide copyright protection (e.g., preventing unauthorized copying) may be one solution to this problem. 4.Demographics. What changes in the population might affect the company’s customer base? Demographics affecting the company might include changes in the population of young people who are the primary purchasers of pop music (conversely, the gradual decrease in classical music sales as the demographic for that segment ages), and the growing importance of the Hispanic market. 5.Social Issues. What changes in society affect the market for your company’s music products? Social issues affecting the company include not only the increased tolerance for illegal copying of music, already mentioned, but also the increased fragmentation of public tastes and interests. Objections to obscenity in lyrics, and the rising influence of the religious market, are other social factors influencing the music business. 6.Suppliers. How does your company’s relationship with suppliers affect its profitability? The lower the cost of supplies, the more profit the company will make. In the music industry, supplies are both tangible (the cost of CDs and jewel cases, for example) and intangible (the money paid to artists.) Companies that introduce new artists take bigger risks, but also have smaller costs than companies that record and distribute the music of established acts. 7.Competitors. What companies compete with the firm you have selected? Do they compete on price, on quality, or on other factors? Key competitors in the industry include Bertelsmann, EMI, Sony, Universal, and Warner Music. There used to be many more companies, but the industry has experienced considerable consolidation. (There might be even more consolidation but for anti-trust regulations in the U.S. and Europe.) The companies do not compete on price at all, or even on the quality of their products per se; the main sources of competitive advantage are the companies backlist the music copyrights they own and, even more important, the new talent they are able to find and sign. Most music buyers do not know or care which company is selling the music they are buying. 8.New entrants. Are new competitors to the company likely? Possible? Traditionally, new entrants were extremely unlikely; given the large capital investment the music business requires (millions to launch a new album, for example). That may still be the case, but today potential new entrants include music distributors themselves, like Apple, who can decide to bypass music companies and sign new talent on their own. This is unlikely, as companies like Apple currently do not have the expertise, experience, or perhaps even interest in the business. But it remains a possibility that music companies need to take into account, particularly as on-line distributors become an increasingly important part of the supply chain. In addition, the ability to sell music on line may reduce the need for some well-known artists to rely on the marketing and distribution capabilities of music companies, and to sell directly to consumers on their own. 9.Substitutes. Is there a threat of substitutes for the music industry’s existing products? There are many substitute delivery systems for music, and the music industry is constantly being threatened by non-paying delivery systems. Music itself is more difficult to replace, however time spent on other forms of entertainment may decrease the amount of time and money spent on music. 10.Customers. What characteristics of the company’s customer base influence the company’s competitiveness? Customers in the industry are characterized mainly by the fickleness, volatility, and unpredictability of their tastes. Only a small fraction of new releases succeed and these are new releases issued by extremely experienced, knowledgeable companies, in an extremely competitive industry. Even sales of new albums by well-known groups are difficult to predict, and very few stars maintain their longevity. Customers also think theres nothing wrong with making free copies of music for their friends, nor do they have great affection and respect for music companies. Sample Responses to Discussion Questions 1.What has the company done to adapt to its environment? To adapt to the environment, music companies are taking over more of the supply chain, manufacturing their own CDs and managing their own music clubs. They are making deals with on-line music distributors to sell individual songs. They are also increasing their on-line marketing efforts, as in letting AOL offer its customers music video and song samples. 2.How does the company attempt to influence its environment? To influence the environment, music companies pay slotting fees to retailers to gain shelf space, and pay fees to ensure play time on radio stations. They heavily market new releases. They are aggressively seeking to enforce copyright laws forbidding illegal copying their success in shutting down Napster is an example of that. They are also enlisting the artists themselves in an effort to educate and influence the public on the illegal copying issue. In the U.S., they are also asking the government to pressure China to reduce the widespread music piracy in that country.

Crime and Punishment and Raskolnikovs article, On Crime :: Crime Punishment Essays

Crime and Punishment and Raskolnikov's article, "On Crime" Raskolnikov's article, "On Crime," is vital to the understanding of his beliefs. This article also has a profound effect on Crime and Punishment as a whole, the subject matter being one of the main themes of the novel. The idea of the "extraordinary man" is referred to literally throughout the book, but also notable is the subconscious effect the idea has on Raskolnikov. Sometimes Raskolnikov is not even aware of this influence. It is important to note originality, or the ability to "utter a new word," as a defining characteristic of the extraordinary man. Therefore, we must take into account the presence of similar ideas, those of Pisarev, Nietzsche, and nihilism, as these might bring to light the possibility that Raskolnikov is not original, a possibility that haunts him throughout the novel. Within the article Raskolnikov analyzes the psychology of a criminal before and after the crime. This main portion of the article is not discussed, but it is likely that the psychological explanation that Porfiry gives Raskolnikov later, in the examination, is very similar. During this later examination, Raskolnikov appears resentful, but never disputes what Porfiry tells him, perhaps because it is a regurgitation of Raskolnikov's own thoughts. In the last meeting of the two men, Porfiry admits that he liked the article very much, and actually felt a connection with it. The one part of the main body of the article that is mentioned is "that the perpetration of a crime is always accompanied by illness" (225). Porfiry comments that this idea is very original; Raskolnikov welcomes this praise. Shortly, Porfiry moves on to the main topic of their discussion, a topic only mentioned briefly in the article, the idea that "certain persons...have a perfect right to commit breaches of morality and crimes" (225). Raskolnikov immediately realizes that Porfiry is intentionally exaggerating the idea, and "decided to take up the challenge" (226). Dostoevsky lets the reader know that the conversation will be a battle of wits. The ensuing argumentative dialogue makes the passage very entertaining, especially in contrast to later interviews between the two, in which Porfiry does nearly all the talking (he loves to hear himself talk). Raskolnikov attempts to clarify his idea, explaining that the "extraordinary" people have the right, but are not bound, to "overstep obstacles" if it is "essential" for the fulfillment of their idea.

Facilitating Learning And Assessment In Practice

Introduction I am a registered nurse based in a ward that manages spinal and orthopaedic conditions among patients. Currently, I am finalising my training as a qualified mentor. This paper presents a reflective account of my experiences in facilitating, teaching, and assessing student learning during their learning practice. It also highlights the learning outcomes drawn from the experience. Due to ethical considerations of any academic publication, which demands confidentiality, and anonymity of the persons that were actively involved in my encounter, this paper omitted names or used pseudonyms in the development of the account (Polit & Beck, 2008). Practice-based learning provides the students with needed experience, which is an essential aspect of skill development that enhances their ability to effectively interact with clients as well as their families by developing the student’s communication, interpersonal, psychomotor, and technical skills (Myall et al., 2008). Practice-based learning is also an effective opportunity that allows the learners to link theory and practice, which are vital in the learner’s professional development (Zachary, 2011). Furthermore, practice-based learning is essential in a nursing career due to its vocational nature as well as its role in determining the learner’s clinical competency and hence protecting the public from instances of incompetency in nursing practice (NMC, 2008). Through demanding and instilling high standards of professionalism during assessments, practice-based learning makes sure that nursing students are able to effectively practice before they are registere d as nurses (Myall et al., 2008). This demonstration of my eligibility to assess and supervise nursing students in practice coupled with successful completion of this training will allow me to be an effective mentor in nursing (Price, 2007). Therefore, I will be able to actively participate in the development of future nurses that will meet the needs of patients, which are increasing in diversity and complexity (Polit & Beck, 2008). Nursing Standards In order to promote adherence to specific attributes that support assessment and learning in practice, the nursing standards offers specific guidelines that must be met by teachers, practice teachers and mentors (NMC, 2008). Specifically, the fixed requirements cover standards, frameworks, and information on the approaches for assessment in nursing practice. There standards are defined by eight domains including: leadership, evidence-based practice, context of practice, creating a learning environment, learning evaluation, assessment and accountability, learning facilitation, and establishment of valuable working relationships (NMC, 2009). Linking these domains to my own practice, I hold high regard for leadership and formation of useful working relationships. Establishment of good working relationships is essential in nursing as a nurse works together with the patients family in ensuring the best nursing care is provided for the patient (Polit & Beck, 2008; Appendix 1) enhancing the standards of care. Good working relationship is also important in minimizing the negative student experiences building on the student’s competency in practice (NMC, 2008). Consideration of the imperativeness of family-centred approach to nursing care and the promotion of good working relationships demands effective leadership. To be specific, leadership in my case involves influencing others, improving nursing care, and role modelling (NMC, 2009). This demands application of a situational approach to leadership when handling different leadership situations at work. In my work setting, leadership is broad ranging from handling the pa tient’s family issues, which requires participative leadership, or directing a practicing student, which demands assertiveness. However, it is imperative for a nurse to act in the best interest of the patient (Price, 2007) which can best be achieved through autocratic approach to leadership. Consequently, establishment of effective leadership and relationships require knowledge, skill, and experience and are vital in the provision of high-quality nursing care (Myall et al., 2008). There are several professional challenges that I encountered during the assessment which emanated from the complexities related to staffing levels and hastiness in the ward that negatively influence the quality of practice assessment (Polit & Beck, 2008). The sustained pressure from clinical commitments and the limited time availability affects the process of student supervision and assessment during practice-based learning (NMC, 2009). More so, there may be inconsistency in achievement, which affects the process of student assessment with regard to their fitness to practice (NMC, 2008). In other cases, some students in practice-based learning do not conform to the existing support systems for instances of failure limiting their learning and effectiveness of the assessment. In addition, the supervisor may be reluctant to fail an incompetent learner due to perception that he process is too complex or general poor assessment, this also posed a challenge in my practice. The existing nursing standards that guide learning and assessment of students in practice offer frameworks for nursing mentors. However, the document is limited, as it does not consider all competence assessment aspects (Myall et al., 2008). Therefore, some forms of assessment are subjective as much as the framework for assessment is provided due to the intrinsic nature of the nursing profession and the variations in nursing skill-set to be assessed. It is challenging to establish a comprehensive assessment of competency especially due to learners’ spontaneous action to utilise their skills, knowledge, and attitude from an emotional intelligence perspective (Bradshaw & Merriman, 2008). These issues are enhanced in situations where a mentor fails to fail instances of incompetency among learners (Myall et al., 2008). These problems are resolved through the use of sign-off mentors that offer final evaluation of the students before being accredited to be effective to service as pr ofessional nurses at the end of nursing training program (NMC, 2009). Consequently, more support to the nursing standards is needed to promote effectiveness of learning assessment for practice-based learning. This support is provided various nursing documents such as nursing guides, which offer strategies and support for practitioners in the nursing profession. Facilitating Learning and Assessment This is an important approach for assessing skills, knowledge and attitudes among nursing students (Price, 2007) and is complex in nature with the focus of promoting objectivity in the assessments (Bradshaw & Merriman, 2008). The ensure the diversity of the nursing settings are accommodated during the assessments, there are several assessment approaches that can be used in student mentorship programs including mini clinical assessment exercise, direct observation, case-based discussion, and mini peer assessments (Myall et al., 2008). Mini clinical assessment exercise offers an overview of student performance of key clinical skills. This assessment approach works both in routine patient encounter as well as ward environment. Direct observation of procedural skills involves observing a nursing student which conducting a clinical procedure where the observer provides necessary feedback at the end of the procedure. A good example of a clinical procedure that can be observed is preparatio n of a dressing trolley by a student. Case-based discussion, on the other hand, involves an interview aimed at exploring judgment and behaviour such as asking the student to list what he/she observed during a specific patient care program. Finally, mini peer assessments encompass a team of qualified professionals that offer feedback on the performance of an individual. The process of selecting the method of assessment should consider its cost effectiveness, educational impact, acceptability, validity, and reliability (Bradshaw & Merriman, 2008). Assessing a student’s craft knowledge helps the student to reflect and develop based on experiential learning (NMC, 2009). Effective assessment should focus on developing insights into a student’s craft and formal knowledge in order to understand the student’s ability to assess risks and utilise learned knowledge in meeting practice requirements (Price, 2007). There are four vital areas that cover student assessment, namely motivation, performance, skill, and knowledge. Even though continuous assessment is known to promote effective positioning of a student’s performance, it has limitations with regard to reliability and validity. Therefore, successful implementation of student assessment require coordination between service providers and educators to ensure the assessment approach is appropriate in terms of its summative and formative perspectives which are imperative in promoting a working linkage between theory and practice (Myall et al, 2008). Mentorship program in clinical setting is complex due to the pressure emanating from the need of sustained student assessment in front of the patients and their family as well as other professionals, which may raise anxiety among the students as well as assessors, which may negatively impact on the assessment process (Bradshaw & Merriman, 2008). Anxiety may be caused by a variety of reasons including curriculum changes, which may undermine the assessor’s competency, the student’s readi ness during assessment, and the assessors feeling of competency with regard to the assessment process. This portfolio outlines an assessment of the competency of a nursing student with regard to the appropriate use of pain assessment tools. I considered this to be vital in the profession of nursing due to the importance of pain assessment skills in nursing care as it is classified as the fifth vital sign in nursing (Murray et al., 2008). Considering the requirement that nursing students should actively participate in vital signs, developing this competency is vital for patient safety (Price, 2007). Further, I considered this assessment to be a direct observation of a procedural skill where I was available during the whole process while offering feedbacks and assessments on the process (NMC, 2009). To ensure the assessment was a success, I developed a plan that included a criterion for implementing the process as well as questions that were used for testing the levels of understanding exhibited by the learner. Furthermore, the assessment plan was developed with the consideration for th e student’s level of practical and theoretical learning (Myall et al., 2008). The questioned used in the assessment were open-ended to allow the student to offer the rationale behind their action path. This was important in developing deeper insight into the leaner’s competency, as well as promotes appreciation of diverse approaches to skills application (Murray et al., 2008). The assessment was initiated after ensuring the ward was quiet enough to minimise the effects of a noisy setting on the assessment program. The process commenced with an official introduction between me and the student as an approach to familiarization between me and the student to minimise instances of anxiety (Price, 2007). After that, I proceeded by informing the student my expectations, the timeline, and offered my reassurance that the process was not formal as I was just interested in observing the process and offering my feedback at the end of the process (Murray et al., 2008). As much as I managed to develop effective background information needed to establish an effective assessment void of anxiety, I did not inquire about the learner’s previous experience, which could have assisted in the assessment process. As much as I had previous encounter with the student, lack of enough background information hampered my effective participation in the growth of the student durin g the practice-based learning. Furthermore, I did not clearly identify the outcomes of the assessment at the beginning of the assessment. As much as appropriate information was provided and the environment was conducive, developing a summary of discussion could have enhanced the levels of student conceptualization of the expectations as well as minimize anxiety and confusion (NMC, 2009). When the student completed the first process, I asked the student several questions. These questions were established to evaluate the student’s communication skills, their understanding of the problem at hand, and general nursing skills (Murray et al., 2008). From the assessment, I observed that the student effectively communicated with the patient as well as the patient’s family a clear illustration of practical application of family-centred approach to nursing (Price, 2007). The student also effectively addressed the nursing situation at hand, as he utilised Wong-Baker pain rating to stabling the pain situation by the patient (Wong et al., 2001). After the student had gained an appropriate pain score, I asked the student a question regarding the appropriate frequency for observing pain, in which the response of the student was appropriate (Bradshaw & Merriman, 2008). From the case, it was evident that I had a problem with my communication skills as I had to repeat mys elf severally before the student could understand what I was addressing. Lowering my communication speed is necessary to enhance the student’s ability to comprehend the information given to them during assessment and minimise on instances where students are overwhelmed by information that is faster than their processing rates. I offered the student a feedback session with the aim of promoting proactive learning relation with the student (Murray et al., 2008). This feedback included active involvement of the student in the development of an action plan for dealing with the identified inconsistencies during the assessment. Considering that the student demonstrated competency in the skill that I was assessing, the action plan was centered on increasing the number of alternative approaches that can be used in applying the skill with the focus on increasing the student’s reflexive skill and hence a holistic competency (Zachary, 2011). The process of provision of the feedback considered developing a positive and constructive impact on the student to assist the student in building self-esteem, cultivating a positive working relationship as well as a supportive learning environment which are important aspects that reduces anxiety during nursing practice (Myall et al, 2008). Research has demonstrated that st udent-mentor relationship influences the student’s learning experience (Price, 2007) and therefore, effective communication between the mentor and the learner can illicit competency concerns at early stages to minimise instances of failure (Zachary, 2011). Even though the student and the mentor may feel sad due to a failed assessment, it is vital for the mentor to appreciate failure as avoiding to report of failure may have an adverse effect on the progression of the student (Bradshaw & Merriman, 2008). This feedback was provided immediately after the assessment session as an approach to providing the student with prompt support and offer immediate corrective measure for any unpleasant conduct exhibited by the student during the session (Zachary, 2011). Based on the assessment and my individual reflections on the outcomes, I identified various areas of my practice that require improvement. Specifically, my feedback on the assessment was limited and did not offer the student a wider scope on improvement. Furthermore, my speaking speeds need to be slowed to ensure effective communication. I also need to focus on developing in-depth background information about the student before the assessment as well as offering the student the expected outcomes of the assessment. In addition, asking the patient about the service will also enhance the determination of the performance of the student as well as development of an effective feedback. Reflective Commentary Mentorship is an important leadership characteristic (Zachary, 2011). Transformational leadership is founded on the ability of an individual to influence others through affecting their thinking. Adoption of this approach of leadership in nursing promotes autonomy as well as enabling the students to realise their full potential. It is also central to encouraging the development of excellent Interprofessional rapport (Myall et al., 2008). By becoming a role model at work through formulating solutions to problems that exist within nursing mentorship, I will be able to benefit myself as well as the student. This influence can also be transferred to other situations in the nursing environment, which will culminate to a better outcome in my nursing practice (Price, 2007). Common obstacles to mentorship such as staffing issues, hectic hospital environment, and clinical commitments influence my ability to perform as a mentor and hence the development of an effective relation with the student is essential (Price, 2007; Appendix 2). Due to the hectic nature of the nursing environment it is challenging to get time for developing a written feedback for the student however to enhance by mentorship capability I need to establish relationship with other mentors that is founded on sharing evaluation feedback as an approach to building my scope with regard to student evaluation. Being able to share with other mentors about feedback can also expand my evaluation to the benefit of the student. As much as this approach is effective in enhancing a student mentorship program in hospital settings, it is challenging especially in cases where other mentors are not interested in sharing their experiences and work limiting its usability. Promoting teamwork in mentorship can be an effective approach to overcoming this obstacle. Dealing with the problem of anxiety requires innate understanding of the student, which implies discussing with the student the most appropriate way for implementing the assessment. This is effective as it encourages the student to be actively engaged in the assessment program and also creating a better relationship between the mentor and the student (Zachary, 2011). Conclusion The process of student assessment is only successful if it is administered objectively and fairly. As much as this approach may result to some emotional distresses by both the assessor and the student, it is imperative for the success of a mentorship program and prevention of negative implications on the student’s advancement. It is also necessary for ensuring approved nurses are competent enough to guarantee patient safety. Therefore, I am determined to ensure that students that I mentor, assess and approve and fit and competent to service as nurses in their respective fields. To achieve this, I will focus on developing a closer working relationship with the students to ensure all competency issues are identified and addressed timely. This is important in ensuring the students that I encounter do not face surprises later during their summative assessment or even when practicing as registered nurses. Furthermore, involvement of the patients and their families in the assessment of my students will be a major trademark of my mentorship and assessment program as I regard inputs by the patient vital to determining the competency of the student nurse. Consequently, as much as the practice of assessment and mentorship is challenging and compound in nature, I believe that effective application of relevant knowledge and skills while focusing on the expected outcomes, it is possible to deliver efficiently in this function. This reflection process has enriched my understanding on the concept of mentorship and its significance in the nursing profession. It has also enhanced my perception of the concept of professional and personal development. I believe that if I eliminate the few areas of weakness that I have identified in the reflection, I will be able to offer effective mentorship and assessment for nursing students in clinical practice. References Bradshaw, A., & Merriman, C. (2008). ‘Nursing competence 10 years on: fit for practice and purpose yet?’ Journal of Clinical Nursing, 17(10): 1263-1269. Murray, C., Grant, MJ., Howarth, ML., & Leigh, J. (2008). ‘The use of simulation as a teaching and learning approach to support practice learning.’ Nurse Education in Practice, 8(1): 5-8. Myall, M., Levett?Jones, T., & Lathlean, J. (2008). ‘Mentorship in contemporary practice: the experiences of nursing students and practice mentors.’ Journal of clinical nursing, 17(14): 1834-1842. Nursing and Midwifery Council, NMC. (2009). Additional information to support implementation of NMC Standards to support learning and assessment in practice. London, UK : Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Nursing and Midwifery Council, NMC. (2008). The Code: Standards of conduct, performance and ethics for nurses and midwives. London: NMC. Retrieved from http://www.nmc-uk.org/aArticle.Aspx Price B. (2007). ‘Practice-based assessment: strategies for mentors.’ Nursing Standard, 21 (36), pp. 49-56. Polit, DF., & Beck, CT. (2008). Nursing research: Generating and assessing evidence for nursing practice. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Zachary, LJ. (2011). The mentor’s guide: Facilitating effective learning relationships. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Appendices Appendix 1: Critical thinking competency standards Source: http://www.drake.edu/media/collegesschools/soe/images/msld/competency_model.png Appendix 2: Essential competencies for an effective mentor