5 Classroom Games for Test Prep

How Much House Can You Afford - 2581 Words

How Much House Can I Afford? If you re thinking about buying a house, there are a few things to factor in before you fall in love with your dream home. Using a home affordability calculator can help you not only determine how much of a mortgage you can afford, but help you narrow down your search which is important when dealing with the hot Silicon Valley real estate market. Using the calculator below will help to determine your potential mortgage based on your monthly expenses, income, and other factors like your projected property taxes, home owner s insurance and other payments. This can give you an idea of what you can afford and what will fit your budget. (INSERT HOME AFFORDABILITY CALCULATOR HERE†¦) Determining how much house can†¦show more content†¦They assess this to determine how much additional debt you can take on, i.e., the front end. Ideally, it shouldn t be more than .28 or 28%. Determining your back-end ratio This is the total of all the payments from your debt-to-income ratio and your front-end-ratio. These are added and then divided by your monthly salary to determine how much total you will be able to afford. Ideally, it shouldn t be more than .36 or 36%. These totals aren t set in stone and each case may be different depending on the type of work you do and your specific circumstances. You may have higher debts and still get approved if you have a proven and consistent payment history. Factoring in your credit report Another area that lenders will look at is your credit report and your history to see how consistent you are with bill payments. This will help to determine your interest rate. Ideally, your credit report from the 3 bureaus should come out about 740, but if it s higher, that s even better. Your down payment An additional factor that s looked at is your down payment as a larger down payment will give you a smaller loan to pay off and smaller monthly payments. For some potential home owners, this is good news if they want to put down more than 10%, which is the average. Putting down 20% may help with the type of home you can afford. There are loan types that allow for 3-5% as a down payment. This is definitely something to look into if you know you

Importance of Electronic Medical Records (Sample Solution)

Question: why it is important for healthcare professionals to use electronic health records? Answer: Importance of Electronic medical records Electronic medical records (EHR) are paperless, computerized system of maintaining patient medical records and history. These are designed to increase efficiency and to reduce documentation errors. Health records tell your health professional about your medical history. Electronic health records (EHR) can be easily be exchanged with other clinicians to provide better attention and prophylactic. An existing electronic health record would save time at the doctors office. EHR provides quick access to our records, contained information such as blood type, allergic condition, and medical history, which can be lifesaving in emergency decision making situations (Health IT.Gov.,2014). In the past, doctors received medical information by asking your medical history. Every time you visit a new doctor's office, you filled out forms about your history, surgeries, allergic conditions and drugs you took on a regular basis. Sometimes you forget to tell a bit of information, which might not seem useful to you, but can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. In recent times, the doctor prepares electronic health records (EHR) which can be shared, just by asking your name, date of birth and identifying marks. This complete EHR can be used anywhere and by doctors and patient itself. This could assist in minimizing preventable medical mistakes and avoiding duplication of treatment or operation. This will also avoid bulky storage of medical records. EHR provides opportunity to interact smoothly with affiliated hospitals, labs, doctors and pharmacies. It helps healthcare providers to improve productivity and work life balance so that they can meet their business goals (About he alth, 2015). References About health, 2015, The benefits of Electronic health records, https://patients.about.com/od/electronicpatientrecords/a/EMRbenefits.htm. Health IT. Gov.,2014, what are advantages of electronic health records?, https://www.healthit.gov/providers-professionals/faqs/what-are-advantages-electronic-health-records.

The Economic Effects of the Olympics free essay sample

The Olympic Games is a sporting event that attracts worldwide attention. People travel from different parts of the world to participate in the Games, or to watch and support. Countries that are hosting the Games have to prepare to welcome this great number of visitors. They also have to set up all the equipments that would be needed. Hosting the Olympics is an expensive project, and it always leaves an effect on the host country. These effects may or may not be associated to the Games, and there are positive and negative effects. The area most affected by the event is the economics of the hosting country, as well as that of participating countries. The government and environment are other strongly affected areas. Determining whether the effects are advantageous or disadvantageous depends on the perspective of the viewer. Throughout the history of the Olympics, each hosting country has experienced a different effect. We will write a custom essay sample on The Economic Effects of the Olympics or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Regardless of some disasters linked to hosting the Games, countries still continue to desire to be hosts. Hosting the Olympics, in other words, is throwing the world’s largest party—and paying for it. As amusing as this may sound on the surface, financially, it does not sound especially attractive. However, there are different reasons to why a country would want to host the Olympics. Nowadays hosting the Games is like a business investment. It is a country’s way of putting itself â€Å"out there. † Some cities use the Olympics as a way to push through fast new infrastructure projects, such as airports and subways. It is an opportunity for them to be lifted from a backwards state of economy into â€Å"a new city of the future. † Barcelona in 1992 is an example of a city that was able to successfully take advantage of this event. For most political leaders, hosting the Olympics is about creating a legacy that will be remembered for generations. For others it is a way to promote transportation systems, decrease the rate of unemployment in their country, and lead economic trends. The Beijing games were intended to show off China’s spending and organisational power. On the other hand, the London Games was a means of bringing to life a poor part of the capital, East London, speedily. Tokyo hopes to boost Japans economy in the 2020 games. Whatever a country’s reasons may be, they have to give a lot in order to get. The government of the host countries invests in the Games expecting to â€Å"make money back. † However, not all the funds come from the country’s government. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) contributes funds to the hosting country. The primary source of revenue comes from the biddings. IOC sets up distribution of tickets, and most importantly, they take bids on where the Games will be hosted. There are other organizations such as NBC who help fund. In 2008, they paid $2. 2 billion for the distribution of the water games of 2010 in Vancouver, and to the Summer Games of 2012 in London. When they fund, they expect to make their money back—and they do, all the time. Another way the games are funded is through donations. Those in high class who are passionate about a certain sport might choose to provide the facilities needed for the game. Money from advertisers also contributes to help fund the games. When a country hosts the Olympic Games, there is always loss is one area, and gain in another. Some of the effects are immediate and ephemeral, while others come gradually, but last longer. Something might be an advantage to a group and a disadvantage to another group at the same time. The effects cannot be strictly classified as positive or negative. The Olympics is a powerful marketing tool. It creates a lot of business opportunities. The brand name â€Å"Olympic Games† attracts outward and inward investors. The Logo is used for souvenirs, sports equipments, clothing, and other creative things. Media exposure promotes the city as somewhere suitable for world class sport event, conventions and leisure travel. Spectators, visitors, sponsors, broadcasters, Olympic families, athletes and officials who come into the country boost the tourism business. There are new job opportunities in hotels, malls, restaurants, and entertainment areas. The country receives direct income from selling tickets. Through building the â€Å"Olympic Village,† and other locations, there is a boost in the construction department because new construction projects are created. The infrastructure of the country upgrades, and the facilities and constructions promote the city as world class. Also by having those facilities in place, the country has a greater chance of hosting other world-class sporting events. In addition, the Olympics generates national and international recognition for the country that is hosting. It creates a more competitive economic attitude, which has long-term positive effects. There is relatively permanent increase in trade. According to Rose and Mark Spiegel (Vice President at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco), there is about thirty percent increase in hosting countries. However, Spiegel mentioned that there is also remarkable progress seen in countries with â€Å"unsuccessful† bids. The Games promotes the host country’s image as a whole. As long as the city was a successful host, its reputation increases, and this is a long-term advantage. The stock market loves the Olympics. It benefits most from the hidden profits in the world’s most celebrated sporting events. Host countries receive exposure, and therefore their markets profit from that. The events create a lot of opportunities, and some of these opportunities even have no connection to the Olympics. Host countries generally experience rise on their markets similar to the performance of American markets. There are exceptions though, for example the 2000 Games in Sydney, Australia, and the Beijing Games of 2008. Stock markets react favourably to Summer Olympic Games because it lasts longer and is bigger than the Winter Games. The negative effects in hosting the Olympic Games are mostly seen in the budgets. The host country spends large sums of money, and usually the event costs more that it returns directly. The bidding process alone can overweigh the costs. The gain seen in one sector is in the expense of another. Resources are spent on equipping high class facilities, and on greening the country. Although this might be advantageous in upgrading the country, the accelerated development often disrupts long-term city planning. Tourism might help offset the costs, but this is not guaranteed. To some, hosting the Olympics is financial recklessness because countries spend hundreds of millions of dollars on sports venues; money that could be used on much-needed infrastructure. To support their agreement, many of the venues are useless after the Games. It is true that former Olympic cites become popular and world-centred, however they start collecting dust once the games are over. China’s Eagle Nest is memorable, and a place for tourism, but mostly it is an enormous structure that China does not know what to do with. Athens’s Olympic Park is not like a ghost town. Some of Greece’s costly stadiums now look run-down, and have few visitors. Los Angeles is one developed host city that did not spend too much on infrastructure because they used some already existing venues. Unlike some host cities, London has a plan to transform its Olympic Village into apartments. Hosting the Olympics can attract negative attention. Some countries have had to deal with people coming into the country illegally. Because there are so many guests coming in at the same time, it is hard to control what and who comes in and out. Security is also an issue. Usually security is tight where the games are centred. However, this security is sometimes provided while other places are deprived of it. Controlling illegal drinking, drugs, fight, and youth wildness are problems the host country has to deal with too. In some host countries, there have been protests against the government for its â€Å"waste. † Politicians can be left looking ridiculous. The 1968 Olympics in Mexico is much remembered for the mass of students who protested against the government ten days before the Games. This was a problem because in the seven years between the bidding and the event, the Politicians who led the bidding were no longer in power. The Olympics is a high-risk game. So, when a leader decides to bid to be host, following leaders will have to follow through and deal with whatever problem arises. Someone else will have to take the credit—or the blame. Participating countries have to pay their athletes. They also have to transport them and supporters, but that is not enough to put a dent in their economy. Every year the media tells us what athlete to fall in love with. A participating country can be positively affected if it is well represented by its athletes. If a country is constantly receiving medals, it stands out and attention is drawn to it. When a country is getting positive attention, its economy is sure to benefit from it in some way. In conclusion, it is not easy to throw the world’s largest party. It has significant lasting effects it has on the host country or city. The government of different hosting countries have reasons to why they want to host. They fund the Games expecting a return to their city. Exposure and media attention benefits both host countries and participating countries. For this reason, I think that the next Games should be hosted in a less developed country, such as Cameroon (or any country with the same level of development). The world knows that Cameroon is not able to fund the Games on its own, so IOC should support them. Ideally, this would be a better way to use resources for much-needed infrastructure. On the other hand, it would also be a good idea to host the event where it has already been done before. That way, the facilities can be used again. It would be better than having lots of useless game cites all over the world.

Cutlure of Music essays

Cutlure of Music essays Music plays an important role in todays culture. Whether youre driving in your car, watching a movie, or are at a sporting event, music is all around you. It pleases your emotions, soothes your soul and takes away all the worries in the world. But its not just one type of music that has this effect on everybody. In fact, there is an indefinite amount of genres of music. (The amount depends on how one classifies the music). Throughout this paper I will tell of different genres of music in todays American culture and give a thorough description of each. The first genre, and probably most well known, is Rock s income would come from this genre. Rock is a form of dance music originating around the 1950s, and is a blend of rhythm and blues with country and western. Electric guitars, vocals, an electric bass and a drum set consisting of a snare drum, a bass drum, tom-toms, a hi-hat cymbal, a ride and a crash cymbal usually comprise the sound of Rock, but a keyboard and a piano can also fall into this category. There is many different subdivisions of Rock, for instance theres Punk Rock, Heavy Metal, Death Metal, Surf Rock, etc. Pop usually appeals to younger people due to its catchy and simple music, but it plays quite the significant role in todays culture. Next is Opera music. Opera is drama set to music. Around 1600, it originated in Italy and has been spread throughout many countries. In late history, Opera was originally composed and performed for the upper-class society, whereas in todays society, it can be enjoyed by anybody. Jazz is the next category. Jazz is an American tradition. Its categorized by its strong but flexible rhythm with solo and group improvisations on basic tunes. To sum it all up, you can call it big band dance music. Jazz originated in New Orleans around the turn of the 20th century and since th...

Definition and Examples of Nicknames

Definition and Examples of Nicknames A nickname is a familiar form of a proper name (of a person or place), or any descriptive name or epithet used informally. Also known as a  sobriquet or prosonomasia. EtymologyFrom the Old English, extra name Examples and Observations Rhymes, contractions, verbal analogs and suffix additions seem to be the commonest ways of forming a nickname by internal methods: Colley yields Dolly, Patricia goes to Trish and Ramow to Cow.(Jane Morgan et al., Nicknames: Their Origins and Social Consequences. Routledge, 1979)Nicknames are often descriptive, even if allusively so, though . . . they can be based on a persons forename or surname. They may replace an original name or be used in addition to it. The latter type of nickname is familiar with royal names, e.g., Alexander the Great, Ivan the Terrible, William the Conqueror. For such names, the formula with the is common, but the nickname may appear without it.(Adrian Room, An Alphabetical Guide to the Language of Name Studies. Scarecrow Press, 1996)Teachers NicknamesGiving teachers nicknames is a way of weakening their terrible authority, probably. . . . My friends and I had teachers and coaches we called Flipper (real last name, Flappan), Stublet (not very tall), Stank (hy giene problems), Bat (short for Wombat; real name, Wambold), Dawg (short for Schoondog; real name, Schoonover), Papa Joe (longtime gym teacher), Easy Ed (beloved basketball coach), Myhoo (real last name, Mayhew), Woodchuck (real first name, Charles). There was a Latin teacher whose real last name was Wucker, an unfairly easy target; we called him Ed (his first name), Tony (what his wife called him), or Wuck.(David Owen, Call Me Loyd. The New Yorker. Feb. 11 18, 2008) The Range of Nicknames[P]laces (The Big AppleNew York), sports teams (GunnersArsenal), newspapers (The ThundererThe Times), and musical works (EroicaBeethovens third symphony) illustrate the range of entities that have been nicknamed.(David Crystal, Words, Words, Words. Oxford University Press, 2006)Ekename: The Origin of the WordA nickname is not, as one might at first suppose, a name that has been stolen or nicked from somewhere else; it is, literally, an additional name. The current form of the word, with the element as nick-, is in fact a corruption of the earlier form eke-name (with the first element as eke-). . . .An eke-name, then, is orginally an additional name: your real name is eked out by having another name added to it, and in time this ekename may become a substitute for the original. But how did ekename become nickname? . . . . When the words were written down in the Middle Ages by people who had never seen them in writing, the n evidently got detached from the an and attached to the eke, giving us a nekename; and when the vowel sound in eke is subsequently shortened through fast or lazy pronunciation, we end up with todays form, nickname.(Tom Burton, Long Words Bother Me. Sutton, 2004) ProsonomasiaProsonomasia defines a person or thing by some characteristic: the Conqueror (William I of England); the dismal science (political economy); the king of beasts (the lion); the Father of Lies (Satan): the great unwashed (the populace); the Iron Duke (Wellington); the Jolly Roger (pirate flag); the Knight of the Rueful Countenance (Don Quixote); and so on.(Willard R. Espy, The Garden of Eloquence: A Rhetorical Bestiary. Harper Row, 1983)George Carlin on the Lighter Side of NicknamesI cant understand a grown man whose nickname is Fuzzy and who actually allows people to call him that. Do these guys really introduce themselves that way? Hi, Im Fuzzy. If some guy said that to me, I would say to him, Well, you dont look very fuzzy to me.(George Carlin, When Will Jesus Bring the Pork Chops? Hyperion, 2004)Nicknames in Monty Pythons Flying CircusInterviewer: Last week the Royal Festival Hall saw the first performance of a new symphony by one of the worlds leading modern composers , Arthur Two Sheds Jackson. Mr Jackson.Jackson: Good evening.Interviewer: May I just sidetrack you for one moment. Mr. Jackson, this, what shall I call it, nickname of yours.Jackson: Oh yes.Interviewer: Two sheds. How did you come by it?Jackson: Well, I dont use it myself. Its just a few of my friends call me Two Sheds.Interviewer: I see, and do you in fact have two sheds?Jackson: No. No, Ive only one shed. Ive had one for some time, but a few years ago I said I was thinking of getting another one, and since then some people have called me Two Sheds.Interviewer: In spite of the fact that you have only one.Jackson: Yes.Interviewer: I see, and are you thinking of purchasing a second shed?Jackson: No.Interviewer: To bring you in line with your epithet?Jackson: No.(Eric Idle and Terry Jones in episode one of Monty Pythons Flying Circus, 1969)

Asthma Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Asthma - Essay Example Asthma is caused by either a narrowing or block in the bronchial tubes. The bronchial tubes narrow from being blocked by mucous and swelling or they are squeezed from the muscles outside A person may have asthma without having flare ups for long periods of time. Asthma can be a continual disease, however there are typically triggers that initiate the bout. According to Web MD there are several triggers to asthma and identifying which culprit flares one asthma episode will allow the individual to off-set attacks (www.webmd.com/asthma). Allergies are a known asthma trigger. It is estimated that up to 80% of people with asthma are allergic to airborne substances. Certain foods can also flare up asthma. Additives that can be found in certain foods can bring on an attack. Excessive exercise can also be a culprit. Strenuous exercise can cause narrowing of the airways which makes it difficult to breathe. It is stated that severe heartburn and asthma have a direct connection. Gerd (gastroesophageal reflux disease) causes stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. If the stomach acid reaches into the the throat or airways then an asthma attack can be triggered. Smoking is another asthma trigger as smoking interferes with lung functioning. Introducing smoke into an asthmatic body only worsens the condition and further obstructs airway passages. Sinusitis and upper respiratory infections cause more mucous to be produced in that line the sinuses which can also bring on asthma attacks. When airways get inflamed then sinusitis may occur triggering asthma attacks. Infections are another thing that can bring on asthma attacks. This common cause can be found to bring on asthma attacks especially in children under 10. Along with the preceding triggers, medications are also a culprit. It is common for those with asthma to have sensitivity to certain medications especially anti-inflammatory drugs and beta

The support of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Case Study

The support of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises - Case Study Example Furthermore, Marjolein and Henny (2005) indicated that SMEs Support in most countries has been motivated by the belief that this support generates much employment, encourages people, and is widely provide good opportunities to develop new business, and to enhance its competitiveness within effectiveness performance. In the same manner as varied definitions have been given to small and medium enterprises throughout the entire globe, the researcher has also discovered the different ways by which governments support them. According to Sissenich (2007), the extent of the support given to SMEs in different countries have been a very popular area for research as this has been considered to be of paramount importance to the success of the SMEs which could in turn, bring about positive benefits for the economic growth and development of these countries. For instance, the Chinese Central Bank has adopted several measures by which they could help in lessening the difficulties being experienced by the Small and Medium Enterprises in the country. In general, the said support is firmly anchored on four specific policies that are friendly and of paramount importance to the Small and Medium Enterprises. ... he other hand, shows that governments in Africa does not provide any support for the Small and Medium Enterprises for the country thereby contributing to the failure of such in their country. According to the said author, the absence of the said support has been relatively detrimental to the country's economic growth and development. The report entitled Saudis give priority for developing SME sector (2005) showed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been giving paramount importance to the SME sector since 2005. According to the said report, the country has placed top priority on the said development as a result of their accession to the World Trade Organization. For the authorities in the country, much effort must be given to the reinvigoration and strengthening of the base of the Small and Medium Enterprises as they are the backbone of their economy thus illustrating their importance for the economic growth and development of the kingdom (Saudis give priority for developing SME Sector, 2005). However, there are some aspects of efforts and decisions have been made by the government and private sectors in Saudi Arabia to encourage citizens to establish small to medium- sized businesses. One of these significant decision and extension of support for SMEs in the mentioned state has recently been announced by Human Resources Development Fund (2009) that the (HRDF) decided to provide the applicants, who have already passed the phases of establishing small or medium business and have already received the loan, SR three thousand per month during the first tow years, in order to supply the essential requirements during establishment stage away from the prejudice to the capital. Also the same report listed several organizations that support SMEs, such as Technical and

Empire of the Sun Essay Example for Free

Empire of the Sun Essay Empire of the Sun In this essay will be talking about how Ballard shows Jim changing over the course of the book The Empire of the Sun. I am splitting the essay into 5 paragraphs: What Jim is like at the start of the novel, Jims first upheaval, the prison camps, the way Dr Ransong and Bassie treat Jim and the contrast, finally what Jim is like at the end of the novel. At the start of this book, Ballard shows us a typical English schoolboy living in Shanghai. This boy Jim and his family are very wealthy, so you can imagine what sort of lifestyle Jim was living in: Big house, servants that he can call on 24/7, a bike, many toys including aeroplanes. Then there are his clothes: A school blazer and cap. He is also is taught Latin. This shows us that he is very much surrounded by money and anything he could ever wish for. This creates an impression that he leads a very sheltered life and that he does understand reality. Jim has a very normal life. Everything is working well for him. Until one day before he starts school, the Chinese fleet attack the Petrol (a Japanese gun boat. ) This is the first big upheaval in Jims life. This is totally unexpected to Jim. Nothing like this has ever happened before in Jims life, so it comes as a surprise to him. Ballard gives us the sense that Jim is a very ignorant boy because he thought that he started the war when he was flash his light at the opposite Chinese gun boat, and after the bombs had gone he still thought that he would go to school. This shows a lack of maturity and common sense. This gives us a very bad picture of what Jim is like as a person. He thinks that he will still be able to go to school even though there is a war going on. Most people would think that he would be mad to think that. Ballard makes us see Jim as a very naive person. During the book, Jim spends a lot of the time in a prison camp. When he gets to the first camp, he befriends an American called Bassie. He persuades Bassie to help him find his parents in return for a reward. This gives Bassie an opportunity to use Jim for any errands that he has for Jim, and for this Jim gets a little something in return. This is a complete change of lifestyle for Jim. He normally gets people to do his work for him, but now Bassie is making him do work for him. During his stay at the detention centre, Jim experiences hunger, disease and hallucinations. This again is another new experience for Jim. If he had the slightest illness when he was with his parents, he would get the best treatment for the illness, but now he has lost his parents, he has to fend for himself. I think he copes with it very well. He manages to survives and moves on with his life When Jim and Bassie to another camp called Lunghua, Dr Ransong starts teaching him Latin. I think the reason he does is to try and keep Jim as a child. This is because he is losing his childhood because of the war. It is just trying to keep Jim safe until he matures fully. The way Dr Ransong and Bassie treat Jim are very different. Dr Ransong tries to keep Jim as a child to try and protect him from any dangers that occur. Bassie on the other hand, he treats Jim as a young adult. This is because Bassie want Jims trust so that he can do more for him. Bassie tries to keep Jim alive by telling him the way to survive is to steal the metal food bowls in the detention centre from the dead people. So Jim is split two ways, Dr Ransong is trying to maintain Jims ignorance of the world by keeping his childhood to keep him safe, and Bassie is trying to make Jim look at the world very broadly so that Jim can survive and so Jim can keep doing jobs for Bassie. At the end of the novel, Jim is a transformed child. He has gone from being a nai ve 10 year old, to being a mentally scarred 14 year old with a certain understanding of war and life in general. He has lost his childhood completely because of the death and war that he has experienced.

Free Euthanasia Essays: Hospice and Physician-Assisted Suicide :: Euthanasia Physician Assisted Suicide

Hospice and Assisted Suicide/Euthanasia One Work Cited This essay will present the views of that worldwide organization named Hospice which has seen the quiet, natural death of millions of terminally ill patients - without the use of physician-assisted suicide. It is important that the voice of the largest caregiver for the terminally ill be heard, and listened to attentively. For they have the most experience. The Hemlock Society is nothing (in scope, importance, goals)in comparison to this great Hospice Organization (HO). Hospice professionals and caregivers have given the issue of physician-assisted suicide much thought and consideration in recent years, and adopted an organizational position on the issue as early as February of 1992. Last year, when the debate increased in intensity, the HO not only reaffirmed its earlier position, but strengthened it. The Organization's Resolution clearly states, "That assisted suicide is not a component of hospice care; ..." and "That the Hospice Organization does not support the legalization of voluntary euthanasia or assisted suicide in the care of the terminally ill." Hospice workers, likely more than any other group of care providers, deal with the desperation that many individuals feel when they accept the fact that their illness is likely to be the cause of their death. In that process, hospice staff deal not only with the physical pain of the illness, but also the emotional pain of facing leaving one's family, the social pain of enduring what may be considered indignities, and the spiritual pain associated with one's cultural and personal beliefs about life after death. Through an interdisciplinary approach that is unique to hospice care, patients who elect hospice receive treatment for all their concerns. Hospice caregivers have discovered three central reasons a terminally ill person may want to discuss suicide. One is a fear of uncontrolled pain. Another is fear of abandonment, of being left alone to die and feeling there is no one to care. The third is concern over financial pressures that may leave a family devastated by the last illness. Hospice addresses these concerns as quickly in the disease process as is possible, and hospice workers everywhere will tell the public that when these issues are under control, the desire to end one's life becomes a non-issue. Hospice workers dedicate their professional and often their personal lives to successfully resolving those issues. The hospice community is very concerned that the legalization of

Infant and Child Development Essay

This assignment will critically review Howlett, Kirk and Pine’s (2011) study, which aims to investigate whether attendance of gesturing classes affects parental stress. Howlett et al. , (2011) attempt to examine claims, advertised by commercial products, that believe attending gesturing classes can improve child-parent communications, thus reducing parental stress. Participants gave demographic information and completed a Parenting Stress Index (PSI) questionnaire. ANCOVA was used to look at whether attending gesturing classes affected parental stress, mothers attending a gesture group and mothers attending a non gesture group were compared; with ‘sibling status’ and ‘birth order’ controlled. Researchers found that mothers who attended infant gesture classes had higher stress scores than mothers who had attended non-gesturing classes. From these findings the following claims are made: that mothers in the gesture group had higher pre-existing stress than in the non gesture group, * that mothers attended gesturing classes in an attempt to alleviate their pre-existing stress, * that gesturing classes may cause mothers to view their child negatively. This critique will firstly provide an overall evaluation of the article with reference to strengths and weaknesses found. Flaws will also be highlighted with suggestion to how these could be rectified. Points of detail in the evaluation will then be expanded and conclusions di scussed. Overall evaluation First and foremost, the overall presentation of the article appears to lack in structure and organisation; this results in a lack of flow and clarity. In the introduction, the research question and key definitions of interest (i. e. ‘gesture, ‘non gesture’ and ‘stress’) are not discussed at the beginning. Characteristics of non gesturing mothers are instead firstly mentioned in the discussion section. The outline of categories in the background demographic questionnaire should have been made aware to readers in the methodology. Furthermore, in the results, findings from the study should have been stated in the opening paragraph. A fundamental flaw consistent throughout the article regards its lack of sufficient detail in ensuring strength of argument. In the introduction and discussion more research is needed in relation to how and why parental stresses occur to support findings. Furthermore unjustified claims are used to sustain argument which questions the validity of the research. The lack of detail regarding the direction of study also instigates ambiguity. More information is also needed about the procedure of the study so as to allow for replication. Further details as to how these flaws can be rectified are discussed later. Fundamental flaws are apparent regarding the non-random sample used and the lack of baseline stress measures. As no baseline pre-test has been conducted authors’ claims, as stated previously, can only be based on speculation. More information is provided on these flaws in the latter section. Strengths highlighted in the article include the demographic information provided. This information is useful as it allows for generalisation of results by ensuring groups are appropriately matched and offers useful information for future research in the region. (Keith, 2010). Furthermore the PSI questionnaire used, is well validated (Colver, 2006); using a creditable measuring instrument like this increases the reliability of the study. Moreover, the correct statistical test has been used, ANCOVA, and results are also provided with appropriate information. Abstract and Introduction The abstract fails to provide a rationale for the study; as this is unclear, readers may misjudge the subject matter. There is also no description of the stimuli used; the meaning of ‘gesturing’ is unexplained. Authors should elaborate upon what they mean by ‘gesturing’ so as to avoid misinterpretation. However, principal findings and design measures used in the study are stated. The introduction appears to lack in structure and organisation. No initial description of research question with reference to what it attempts to demonstrate is present; this is firstly mentioned in the third paragraph. Furthermore, authors first provide a definition of ‘gesturing’ in midpoint of this section. Considering this topic is the phenomenon of the study it would have been more appropriate to be stated at the beginning, rather than after the discussion of the benefits of gesturing; this may prevent misinterpretation. Although an explanation of ‘non-gesturing’ is provided in the discussion section, it would also be helpful for readers if it were included in the introduction; this enables differentiation between the two conditions. Similarly, a definition of the authors’ interpretation of ‘stress’ could have been stated at the start in ensuring readers’ clarity of terms. There is also no statement of hypothesis. nd authors do not provide a rationale or historical backdrop, therefore it lacks in significance and does not substantially contribute to the literature. Moreover, research discussed appears to be framed as a general review of literature and set out in list form with a lack of evaluation. For example, research has been described in relation to a study that has found no relationship between gesturing and linguistic benefits in infants (Kirk, Howlett, Pine and Fletcher), however it has not been evaluated or linked to the aims of the study. Furthermore, there are limited findings provided relating to the negative aspects of gesturing. Considering the paper is directed towards whether these classes affect parental stress, more research should be discussed in relation to the disapproval of gesturing classes, to support findings in the article. In addition, the article has included different research examples to support their view that parental stress can inhibit parent-child relationships, however there is no development in argument of how or why these stresses occur. To rectify, in ensuring clarity, more detail should be provided whereby these examples should be put in context with direct reference to the research question. Moreover, unjustified claims have been used in an attempt to sustain argument; for example, Howlett et al. , (2011) highlight ‘‘advertising claims that baby sign will reduce parental frustration and stress have little empirical foundation’. As this statement is not explained, it may seem misleading and as an ineffective use of argument. There is also no valid reference provided. In improving the structure and validity of their argument, authors should use evidence from influential papers to provide further detail in supporting their claims. The direction of study also appears ambiguous as authors switch between terms when stating the aim of the research. It is unclear whether authors are focusing on gesturing affecting stress or gesturing reducing stress. Howlett et al. , (2011) firstly state, ‘there are valid reasons to suggest that gesturing with an infant could reduce parental stress, this paper evaluates that claim’, (p. 438) they continue by stating, ‘this research investigates whether gesturing with an infant affects parenting stress’ (p438). One clear statement of what is being intended to measure needs to be used throughout the article so as to avoid confusion. The final paragraph includes a vague definition of variables whereby readers are left to determine their own assumptions. For example, it is stated that the frequency and duration of gesture use was used to measure the relationship between gesture use and stress, however it is unclear at this stage whether authors are implying ‘gesturing’ in terms of when mothers’ attended gesturing classes or their general use of gesturing; in and out of classes. The PSI is outlined, however researchers have not explained its benefits or why it have been use; this may leave readers questioning its credibility. Furthermore, it is important for researchers to include a statement of predictions, however this is not present. Methodology The authors recruited 178 participants (mothers) from the south-east of England; the sample size represents regional bias as mothers’ solely attending gesturing classes in this region is not representative of the whole country. Age range of infants used in the study is firstly mention in this section. It is stated infants ranged between 3 and 36months; however research discussed in the introduction only refers to the importance of gesturing from 9 months. Therefore authors have not justified the relevance of focusing on infants younger than 9 months; in certifying readers understanding, this could have been mentioned in the introduction. Authors have stated the measuring instruments used in the study. A strength regards the sufficient detail provided about the PSI booklet; examples of typical features such as the subscales of both the child and parent domains have been described. However no further details are provided about the background demographics questionnaire; categories are presented in the results section, however, it would be helpful for readers if details were included in this section. The potential confounding effects of using self-report questionnaires should also be noted. Social desirability bias may be apparent whereby participants may respond in a favourable light; mothers may not want to admit they are experiencing difficulties and respond untruthfully. Furthermore, as questionnaires are standardised, ambiguous questions cannot be explained; this may lead participants to misinterpret questions. Motivation for parents to complete questionnaires may also be scarce, resulting in superficial responses. In helping overcome these difficulties, authors could have stated whether participants were informed about why the information was collected and how the results will be beneficial; if participants knew the importance of their responses and were informed that negative responses were equally as helpful as positive, it may have made them want to answer more honestly. A fundamental flaw in methodology regards the fact that authors have not measured parental stress levels before conducting study. As there is no baseline stress measures prior to class attendance, there is no way of knowing if gesturing classes caused an increase in stress or what would have happened regardless of the implementation of the program; to rectify, researchers should use a pre-test methodology. Furthermore, another weakness in the methodology regards the fact that no ethic considerations are discussed. For example, authors could have included whether participant confidentiality was taken into account and whether de-briefing was offered subsequent to the study to respondents who may have expressed signs of upset. Description of procedures appears to lack in detail whereby there is no sequential pattern to how the research was carried out. There is also no precision in relation to what is investigated, to whom, and under what conditions. For example, Howlett et al. , (2011) state ‘contact was made with the infant groups’ (p. 39); more information should be provided such as how and when participants were contacted. Furthermore, no information is provided on how many classes parents had attended before the study or when the questionnaires took place; more sufficient detail is needed so as to allow replication and in ensuring consistency. There are also issues surrounding the amount of time participants were given to complete the PSI; it is stated the questionnaire takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, however, the procedure of collection differed between participants. Some gave completed questionnaires to a group leader, others were returned by post; the same conditions should be applied to all participants in ensuring standardisation. In addition, authors have not provided details of data collection or analysis undergone in the study; to avoid ambiguity it is important to include where the scores used in the analyses have derived from. An apparent fundamental flaw in the procedure relates to the fact that participants were not randomly allocated to the two groups in the study; randomisation is important as it eliminates sources of bias and ensures unpredictability. To rectify, random selection of mothers from a population could participate in the study. Results The beginning paragraph of the results is too vague; the hypothesis is not stated and no information on what statistical tests were used is provided. Furthermore, what the study found has not been not stated; it is firstly mentioned half way through this section. However, a strength in the article regards the demographic information provided for the two groups of mothers. Hours a week mothers’ work, maternal education, family income and siblings were included. It also highlights the similarities and equivalence between the two groups, making the interpretation of results valid. Another strength to this study regards the fact that researchers have applied the correct statistical tests. Two analyses of ANCOVA were conducted to measure the differences between the gesturing and non gesturing groups’ PSI scores. ANCOVA is appropriate to use as it allows to compare one variable (PSI stress scores) in two or more groups (gesture group and non gesture group) ith consideration for variability of other variables; covariates (‘sibling status’ was used as a covariate in the first ANCOVA and ‘birth order’; in the second). Controlling ‘sibling status’ and ‘birth order’ stops these conditions being confounding variables and ensures validity. As ‘sibling status’ and ‘birth control’ covariates have been controlled, it may have been more beneficial for readers if authors ma de aware of these strategies used prior to the results section as there is no discussion relating to siblings until this point. Results found from ANCOVA also confirm to readers exactly what the researchers were intending to measure; after confusion from the introduction, uncertainties are clarified and findings explain that the focus is upon whether attending gesturing classes affects parental stress. Results are also provided with adequate information whereby the obtained F value, df and level of significance have been stated. Furthermore researchers are correct in using a Pearson’s r correlation in confirming results which is used to see if there is a correlation between at two continuous variables. By doing so, it was found that there was no relationship between how long or often gesture groups mothers had been gesturing with their infant, and the mothers’ total stress scores. Therefore mothers stress levels were unrelated to frequency and duration. Furthermore, in this section descriptive statistics have been provided in two separate tables. In ‘Table One’, which shows the ‘mean (S. D) stress scores for each item on the PSI by group’, data does not seem to be explained in full. The scale used is unclear and readers have not been informed on the system used whereby there is confusion as to what the numbers mean. Tables 2 which shows the ‘summary of two ANCOVA results’, is more coherent as a brief description is displayed underneath describing the covariates. Discussion In this section, yet again, the aim of the research remains unclear; it is stated ‘the aim of the study was to investigate the impact of gesturing with an infant upon parental stress’ (p442), authors need to be more specific in their interpretation of ‘gesturing’, whether they are referring to attendance of gesturing classes or general use of gesturing is uncertain. Possible explanations for findings have been discussed, such as the view that there may have been a difference between gesturing and non gesturing mothers due to gesturing mothers feeling more stressed prior to the study. Authors continue by suggesting these mothers chose to attend gesturing classes because of these feelings of stress in hope that they would help. However, authors’ claims can only be seen as speculation as no baseline measurement was used. It should be noted that researchers have evaluated their findings and acknowledged that as baseline measures are not present, no assumptions can be made as to why mothers who attended gesturing classes had increased stress levels compared to non gesturing mothers or whether they were more stressed before attending the classes. Due to the lack of solid findings, like in the introduction, groundless claims have been used in an effort to uphold argument in explaining mothers’ cause of stress. For example, it is stated ‘mothers have high aspirations for their child and the parenting industry may, albeit unwittingly, foster maternal insecurities’(p443); no justification has been provided for this claim. Moreover, additional research is needed to support the authors’ concluding claims that attending gesturing classes may be detrimental and effect mothers’ perception of their infant in a negative light. Only Hyson’s (1991) study relating to mothers who induced academically focused activities on preschool children has been used as evidence to back up this claim, this does not justify the authors’ inflated claims. To conclude, even though this article has used creditable measuring instruments and appropriate statistical tests, Howlett et al’s claims can only be seen as speculation as no pre-test baseline is used. No findings can be validated without measuring the stress levels of mothers prior to class attendance, whether increase in stress has occurred due to attending gesturing classes in unknown. For future recommendations, authors could use a baseline measures to test mothers’ stress scores prior to the study.

Connections Essay

The overall connection that I chose to analyze in this report was the importance of marriage, as it is an idea that is present in almost everybody’s life, and it is something that heavily impacts the nature of a society. Marriage is seen in society in both positive and negative ways, involving emotions from true love to bitterness. In the texts A Thousand Splendid Suns, by Khaled Hosseini, The Ballad of Calvary Street by James K Baxter, The Silk by Joy Cowley and Atonement directed by Joe Wright, this idea of the importance of marriage is clearly present in all of them, yet they are all shown so differently (negatively and positively) as to give examples of the ways that it is interpreted in different societies, and allow me to deduce the importance that this idea holds on a global scale. Romantic love is recognized in most societies by the practice of marriage. This is a prominent symbol in all the texts I have covered except for Atonement, where the absence of marriage is used to show the couple’s true love. In this film, we see that Cecelia and Robbie are in love, however a misunderstanding on the part of Cecelia’s sister, Briony, means that Cecelia and Robbie are prevented from marriage or even being together. This is shown as a particularly tragic incident, which shows the importance that society places on the process of marriage. This is also a very prominent idea in the novel, A Thousand Splendid Suns, which is set in Afghanistan. We see two women, Laila and Mariam, who are owned and controlled by their shared husband, and their lives literally rely on him, because as women, they are unable to attain independence due to their country’s beliefs. In Afghan society, marriage is a sacred business, and any sexual relations outside of marriage are greatly looked down upon, and the punishment for a female offender can be as severe as torture or death by the girl’s family or husband. This also shows the idea of the importance of marriage that is shown in Atonement, as marriage is seen as the pinnacle of happiness in both texts, However in A Thousand Splendid Suns it is shown in a more negative manner, with marriage being shown as an essential burden rather than a desire. Marriage is also shown as a necessity in the poem, The Ballad of Calvary Street, but for different reasons. In this poem, a poorly suited elderly couple stay together, to prevent the disruption of their family. This shows that even New Zealand society can view marriage as an important action, and a obligation in functional family life. This shows a similar idea to that in A Thousand Splendid Suns and Atonement, that marriage is a necessary action. In the short story The Silk, we see an elderly married couple, of which the husband is nearing death. The woman in the relationship is finding it hard to come to terms with her husbands impending demise, as she has a set routine which revolves around her and her husband’s relationship. This presents the idea that is shown in A Thousand Splendid Suns, Atonement and The Ballad of Calvary Street, that marriage is a prerequisite for a happy life, and it is a tragedy to be without it. In the Silk, we can tell that this married couple are truly in love from quotes such as, â€Å"she guarded him so possessively that she even resented the twice-weekly visits from the district nurse,† which shows the devoted way that they take care of each other, presenting the traditional idea of marriage. In Atonement, when childhood sweethearts Robbie and Cecelia are prevented from being together, we are struck by the tragedy of the fact that they will never be able to get married, and live out their lives together. This portrays the aspect of marriage that is shown in The Silk, that marriage is a symbol of the love between two people, and that it is a contract which binds the two people together for the rest of their lives, as we see Robbie and Cecelia denied of this entitlement. In today’s society, a happy couple who are in love are expected to get married. This relates to both The Silk and Atonement, as in both texts marriage is seen as a necessity for the happiness of the people involved, which further supports the idea that society regards marriage as particularly important. From these texts, society may be able to reassess its outlook on the controversial matter of gay marriage. The tragedy of Cecelia and Robbie’s separation that is shown in Atonement and the portrayal of the happiness involved in marriage that is shown in The Silk could be enough to convince the large portion of society that is against gay marriage that they are wrong, as in both texts marriage is shown as a component of happiness that should not be denied of anyone. The relationships and situations that are shown in the texts are not exclusive to heterosexual couples, and would translate just as well to homosexual relationships, meaning that the ideas attached to the texts can be applied to same-sex couples as well, and could have an influence on the opinion that people hold towards gay marriage. Unfortunately, marriage is not always a happy affair, as it is intended to be. This is plainly shown in the text The Ballad of Calvary Street, as we see an unfortunate couple who are forced to remain together due to the stigma attached to divorce. Quotes such as â€Å"Mum takes down the family files,† suggest that family is not an important thing to the couple, since they have fallen apart, but that they continue to treat it as such, as they consider it their duty as parents to remain married. This idea that marriage is a compulsory task is also shown in A Thousand Splendid Suns, as we see protagonist Laila is forced into marriage, for her own survival. Her husband knowingly takes advantage of her vulnerable situation, saying, â€Å"These days, times being what they are, a woman needs a husband,† showing that marriage can often take place for reasons other than love (as was shown in The Ballad of Calvary Street), and that this can easily be taken advantage of. This presents the idea that in many different societies, (New Zealand and Afghan), marriage is seen as an essential measure, even when one or both of the people involved in the relationship are unhappy. Although this is an unfortunate truth, it is one that must sometimes be accepted, as it is often present in today’s society. These texts could help people come to terms with the idea that marriage is not always a representation of love, as they show legitimate alternative reasons for marriage, (the stability of family life or the safety of a person in a certain community. ) This could benefit society as it would create an understanding and acceptance of the reality of marriage today. In conclusion, the idea of marriage is a common theme in many texts, including Atonement directed by Joe Wright, The Silk by Joy Cowley, A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini and The Ballad of Calvary Street by James K Baxter. Although marriage is not always the quintessential act of love and can sometimes tell a tragic story, it is important that it is expressed in forms such as these texts so that society can reflect on its faults and hopefully improve its approach on the subject.

The Fire Next Time Essays - Religion, Literature, Bible, Free Essays

The Fire Next Time Essays - Religion, Literature, Bible, Free Essays The Fire Next Time Breading Hate Opher Yunger Enc 1102 turning to that man on his right, he began to speak of the white devilsWhat had they made him (me) feel?Elijah went on about the crimes of white people, to this endless chorus of 'Yes, that's right.' The so-called American Negro is the only reason Allah has permitted the United States to endure so long; the white man's time was up in 1913, but it is the will of Allah that this lost black nationbe redeemed from their white masters and returned to the true faith, which is Islam. (Baldwin 65-6) This is a quote from James Baldwins' The Fire Next Time written in 1962, twenty years after Hitlers Third Reich reigned over much of modern day Europe. In the late 1930's Many of Hitlers speeches sounded very close to this one, and most of Europe blindly followed after him. The world may never be the same since the Holocaust, but it is things like this that make me wonder. Did the world really learn from the past? Baldwins The Fire Next Time discusses progress. Did the human race really make progress after World War Two? In the pre World War Two era, Germany was one of the most advanced nations in the modern world, yet they also led Europe in the horrible murder of twelve million men, women and children. How could a man like Elijah Mohammed, who was considered a very spiritual man, take aim at the white people and call them devils saying that the black man needs to reclaim the world. Did he not see how twenty years before hand the reckless words of hatred from a single man condemned twelve million men, women and children to death? I began to see that Elijahs power came from his single-mindedness (Baldwin 66). Elijah Mohammed thought, in the 1960s, exactly like Hitler. He thought that the black race was better than any other race in the world. This is an understandable thought, his nation was being oppressed and put down because of the color of their skin. Who is to say that if anyone else was in that situation, he or she would not also want to destroy the people who were oppressing them. But Elijah Mohammed was hiding behind g-d saying that this is what the Koran says. It happens way too many times, that g-d is brought into the picture. Does g-d really want people of a certain race to rule the world? Today in the twentieth century people are still murdering innocent people and standing behind g-d. Almost weekly we hear about a terrorist attack in the middle east, many of which are funded by religious extremists. It is easy for a leader to use g-d when they are speaking to many people who feel they are oppressed and have no where else to turn. A person who feels he has nothing to lose will do almost anything he is told. If the African American people had followed Elijah Mohammed who knows what could have happened. The American people could have repeated a Holocaust right in their own country. Many people say a Holocaust could never happen again. Its things like this that can make people think twice. Bibliography Baldwin, James. The Fire Next Time. New York: Vintage, 1993.

5 Ways to Fix the Comma Splice

5 Ways to Fix the Comma Splice 5 Ways to Fix the Comma Splice 5 Ways to Fix the Comma Splice By Mark Nichol A comma splice is simply a sentence in which a comma is called on to do more than is appropriate for the workaday but weak punctuation mark. When a sentence contains two independent clauses each of which could essentially stand on its own separated by a comma (or by nothing at all, in which case it’s called a fused sentence), employ one of these five strategies to fix the splice and create a correct connection: 1. â€Å"Of course not all companies will survive, it is our goal to give the investing public accurate information on all companies profiled.† Divide the sentence into two (and set â€Å"Of course† off with a comma as well): â€Å"Of course, not all companies will survive. It is our goal to give the investing public accurate information on all companies profiled.† 2. â€Å"Some buildings hearken back to Main Street, USA, others offer strip-mall modernism.† Insert a subordinating conjunction to convert either clause into a subordinate clause (one that depends on the other to be the main clause): â€Å"Some buildings hearken back to Main Street, USA, while others offer strip mall modernism.† (While could, alternatively, begin the sentence.) 3. â€Å"Several people have told me they want to buy a house before they are laid off, otherwise they won’t be able to get a loan.† Replace the comma with a semicolon (and, in this case, set otherwise off from the rest of the second clause: â€Å"Several people have told me they want to buy a house before they are laid off; otherwise, they won’t be able to get a loan.† 4. â€Å"At times, it resembled the pitch of a whirring blender, at other moments, an angelic choir.† Separate the clauses with a coordinating conjunction: â€Å"At times, it resembled the pitch of a whirring blender, and at other moments, an angelic choir.† (The final comma and the elided phrase â€Å"an angelic choir† are correct; repetition of â€Å"it resembled† is implied.) 5. â€Å"Other cops have an alternative solution, they simply arrive on the scene long after the criminals have fled in order to avoid any confrontation.† Employ a colon in place of the comma when what follows is a definition or explanation stemming from the first clause: â€Å"Other cops have an alternative solution: They simply arrive on the scene long after the criminals have fled in order to avoid any confrontation.† Better yet, to create a stronger impact with the sentence, move the final modifying phrase forward as a parenthetical: â€Å"Other cops have an alternative solution: In order to avoid any confrontation, they simply arrive on the scene long after the criminals have fled.† More than one of these strategies is usually an option; each of the sentences above can be repaired with at least two of the methods described. Often, however, depending on the sentence content and structure, one solution will stand out as the best. (An em dash can also be used to set one independent clause off from the other.) Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Punctuation category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:30 Synonyms for â€Å"Meeting†Flier vs. FlyerPreposition Mistakes #3: Two Idioms

Argument about SONY organizational charts Essay

Argument about SONY organizational charts - Essay Example Company’s CEO, taking into consideration the financial situation of Sony, the problems with its electronics department ex-profit-generator that appeared to show ‘a lackluster performance’ (Certo & Certo, 245), came to the conclusion to conduct major organizational changes. The company was divided in 4 divisions with a vice-president (VP) responsible for each of them. Now on the top of organizational structure of Sony stand the CEO, who had 4 VP (each responsible for one division) in submission. Despite the fact that this organizational structure has its advantages, some better results might be achieved in case two more executive VPs would be put between CEO and VPs of departments. Although, lots of variations links between divisions, executive VPs and CEO available, in this case we will stick to the idea that these two executive VPs had an authority over VPs of the particular divisions and that CEO had only them two in submission (see illustration in appendix). Less sources of information. Because of this organizational change the CEO now needs to focus only on tracking two people, but not four. By doing this he can spend less time on getting reports, analyzing them and making significant observations to make future decisions, but can delegate his executive VPs to be responsible for analyzing all the data and reporting him only the most valuable information. This will give him more free time to focus on general strategic planning in organization. As now the CEO has executive VPs in submission that might be responsible for filtering and analyzing information, he might make more well-thought decision and an overall performance of the company might go up. More balanced organizational strategy. For this proposed organizational structure, the executive VPs could be in charge of particular divisions grouped, so they might have more well-balanced organizational strategy. For example, VP with a background in marketing and sales can be focused on promotion of

Annotation of one of the Prescribed Journal Articles Essay - 1

Annotation of one of the Prescribed Journal Articles - Essay Example Introducing the role of nurses in the special administrative region in Hong Kong, the author focuses on workforce, educational and practice issues, as well as on leadership in nursing. In a significant conclusion to the article, David R. Thompson suggests that there should be an effective strategic plan to determine sufficient numbers of properly educated nurses in Hong Kong. In this article analysis paper, the focus has been a reflective analysis of the arguments made by Thompson in his article determining the central arguments and assessing the validity of the essential points. In the introductory section of the article, Thompson focuses on the vital the role of nurses in the special administrative region (SAR) in Hong Kong and the author is emphatic about the importance of nursing to health and healthcare developments in the region. Thus, he explains the importance of nursing with regard to direct care, care coordination, health promotion, and health education. The nurses of the region deal with these essential functions in hospitals as well as community. â€Å"Nurses and nursing are central to health and healthcare developments taking place in Hong Kong, not the least because nurses comprise around 40% of the healthcare workforce. Nurses play a key role in the provision of direct care, care coordination, health promotion, and health education, both in hospitals and in the community. Quality and safety, driven by quality improvement programs and the promotion of evidence-based practice, have been two features that are central to nursing and healthcare.â €  (Thompson 2006, P 158). Therefore, according to the author, educational preparation and continuing professional development of nurses are of vital importance in Hong Kong. Resembling any other countries, nursing is experiencing several significant challenges in Hong Kong and the author broadly classifies those under four themes. These significant challenges confronting nursing in Hong Kong are

Reflection paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 30

Reflection paper - Essay Example illiant work of American FBI agents and their valuable experience, they still sometimes miss important facts just because the crime is committed by a person who simply could not be suspected of committing any crime. The case of Robert Hanssen was one of such cases which seem hopeless. The most unpleasant moment in the investigation is the desire of agents not to find a spy, but to close the case. They started suspecting an innocent man Brian Kelly and traced him everywhere until he was fired from job. They caused many troubles to him, but the real violator remained free and unsuspected. Finally, looking for the evidences of Brian’s non-existed guilt, they got the file with the proofs of spies work in the Soviet Union from the ex-agent of KGB for $7 million. Inside the file they found an audio record of a conversation. They were sure that they would hear the voice of Brian Kelly and were unpleasantly surprised when heard a voice of a different man, unknown, but a bit familiar. Finally one of the agents recognized the voice: it was the voice of Robert Hanssen. It is also known that they found the fingerprints of Hanssen on one of the document and recognized the voice only after that. But we can hardy state that he would be suspected only due to fingerprints. Criminalists are currently facing a very serious problem connected with the interpretation of fingerprints. They doubt if they should believe this method. If genetic dactyloscopy can be considered an absolutely reliable method of personality identification provided that the selection was made correctly, plain analysis of fingerprints frequently leads to mistakes. Widespread belief in the uniqueness of papillary lines for each person is rather a product of intuition, but not of the scientific investigation. Such belief is not supported by any scientific method, theoretical model or empirical evidence. The wide application of a method can’t guarantee its credibility. During many years the best Eur opean

Gibbs-Donnan Effect on Resting Membrane Potential

Gibbs-Donnan Effect on Resting Membrane Potential How the Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium conditions and diffusion through a semipermeable membrane are involved in creating the resting membrane potential Introduction The resting membrane potential (RMP) is an electrical potential difference in cells, occurring across their plasma membranes. The cytoplasm of the cell is electrically negative in comparison to the surrounding extracellular fluid, this difference in electrical charge gives rise to the RMP. The RMP is essential for the functioning of many electrically excitable cells including, neuronal cells, smooth and skeletal muscle cells, as well as cardiac myocytes, which through electrical impulses control the contractility of the heart. During this essay the generation of the resting membrane potential will be explored, including the effects of the Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium conditions, the structure and function of the plasma membrane, and how, with the diffusion of ions through a semi permeable membrane they give rise to the RMP. (Levy, N. et al.2006) Plasma Membrane The plasma membrane asserts tight control over the interstitial environment of the cell, this is achieved through the formation of a phospholipid bilayer containing protein constituents (ref). Phospholipids are distributed into two leaflets within the bilayer, with the hydrophobic portions facing inwards and the hydrophilic tails of the phospholipids facing the aqueous environment, the presence of phospholipids give the membrane its capacitance. Integral membrane proteins and ion channel proteins span the length of the membrane, like that of the Na+-K+ pump and Sodium-Potassium leak channels discussed later, which aid in the conductance of the cell membrane. The inter and extracellular surfaces of the membrane are negatively charged, due to the presence of acidic phospholipids and the anionic nature of proteins at biological pH, this negative charge on the outer membranes with respect to extra and intracellular fluid is known as the zeta potential, which causes the formation of a sma ll electrical field (ref); This electrical field works to achieve electroneutrality with opposing charged particles, and by doing so aids in the formation of concentration gradients. Changes to surface charges within the plasma membrane, such as ionic concentrations, can therefore effect the resting membrane potential and the ability of a cell to reach threshold (Sperelakis, N. 1998). Concentration gradient and Electrical Potential To understand how the flow of ions contribute to the RMP, the formation of a concentration gradient and electrical potential must first be understood. Molecules diffuse from an area of high concentration to an area of lower concentration, if two aqueous compartments separated by a membrane were formed, containing equal concentrations of the X molecule then no diffusion would occur between compartments (Figure 1). However if the concentration of X increased in compartment A, then the ion would flow down its concentration gradient into compartment B until equilibrium is reached between compartments. However diffusion is more complexed in biological compartments as ions are found in the form of cations and anions. If an X+ion was placed in compartment A, which contained a higher concentration of X+than compartment B, then X+ would again flow down its concentration gradient into compartment B, however X+ now also flows against its concentration gradient back into compartment A, due to th e electrical potential difference across the membrane, generated by the loss of cations from compartment A, causing an increase in negativity, and an increase in X+in compartment B, increasing electrical charge opposing cations (Figure 2); This movement of ions causes a potential difference to arise between compartments, increased movement of X+ down its concentration gradient, increases the potential difference, and decreases the ability of X+ to move against its electrical gradients, thus an equilibrium is reached between the concentration gradient and electrical gradient, known as the equilibrium potential (Aidley, D.1989). Gibbs-Donnan Equilibrium The cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells contain permeable ions as well as many impermeable ionised molecules that cannot penetrate the cell membrane, such as proteins, nucleic acids and glycoproteins. Many of these intracellular molecules are negatively charged at physiological pH, causing a notable effect on the concentration gradient and electrical potential of permeable cations and anions across the plasma membrane. The effect of impermeable intracellular anionic molecules therefore influences the resting membrane potential, this is known as a Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium. Again consider two aqueous compartments separated by a semi permeable membrane, compartment A contains Na+ and proteins (Pr-), compartment B contains Na+ and Cl- (Figure 3a). The semi permeable membrane is permeable to Na+, Cl- and Water but impermeable to Pr-. Compartment A and B contain 0.1 molar solutions of Na protinate and NaCl respectively, as the concentration of Cl- is higher in compartment B it diffuses down its concentration gradient into compartment A, this is turn causes the creation of an electrical potential as compartment A increases in negativity due to the anionic properties of Cl-, prompting a flux of K+ down its electrical gradient from compartment B to A. Equilibrium will eventually occur between compartments so that the concentration of Na+ and Cl- are equal (Figure 3b): [Na+]A[Cl-]A= [Na+]B[Cl-]B This is known as Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium conditions (Sperelakis, N.1998). However it must be noted from the equations that only the permeate ions satisfy the gibbs-donnan equilibrium conditions, the impermeable Pr- are not included as they are unable to diffuse and reach equilibrium (Sperelakis, N.1998). Applying the Nernst equation for either Na+ or Cl- results in a negative electrical potential, this is due to the impermeable protein ions in chamber A (Sperelakis, N.1998), these negative impermeable intracellular anions therefore contribute to the negativity of the cytoplasm in relation to the extracellular fluid, contributing to the resting membrane potential (Donnan, F). Another property of Gibbs-Donnan equilibria should be noted, looking at figure 3b it can be seen that the net concentration of NaCl in chamber A is greater than that of chamber B, this is due to the presence of protein anions in chamber A when establishing electrochemical equilibrium between ions, and is a general property of Gibbs-Donnan equilibria (Levy, N. et al.2006). Finally it is important to mention the equilibrium state of water, as previously mentioned chamber A contains a higher concentration of ions than chamber B, therefore there is a large osmotic gradient between the two chambers; This leads to a flux of water from chamber B to A, however, the osmotic effects of water influx on chamber A acts to dilute ion concentrations building up within the chamber, therefore hydrostatic pressure in chamber A would be insufficient to oppose water influx, leading to a depletion of water and NaCl ions from chamber B (Sperelakis, N.1998); However this situation does not resemble true Gi bbs-Donnan equilibrium conditions, where by the build up of osmotic pressure in chamber A would resist the further osmotic influx of water, resulting in swelling of the chamber, if it were to be enclosed, such as a living cell (Sperelakis, N.1998). If unopposed gibbs-donnan equilibrium would cause the cytoplasm of living cells to have an osmotic pressure greater than that of the surrounding extracellular fluid, as water enters cells, control over cell volume may be lost (Sperelakis, N.1998). However this is not the case due to the cells ability to transport ions (Levy, N. et al.2006). Ion transport The resting membrane potential within skeletal muscle cells is around -80mV, this is due to the differing ion concentrations between the cytoplasm and surrounding extracellular fluid (ref), this difference in ion concentrations is maintained by the active transport of ions against there electrochemical gradient, powered by metabolic energy (ref). The ion pump of most importance to preserving potential difference across the cell membrane is the Na+/K+ATPase, this pumps out three Na+ in exchange for two extracellular K+, through the hydrolysis of a membrane bound ATPase, this ratio of 3:2 leaves the cytoplasm negative in respect to the extracellular fluid, and is therefore termed an electrogenic pump (Huang, F.et al.2009). Although the Na+/K+ATPase is responsible for only a small amount of the RMP between 12-16mV in skeletal myoblasts (Sperelakis, N.1998), overtime inhibition can lead to lack of cell excitability due to the accumulation of small depolarisations. Ion Diffusion To understand how Na+, K+ diffuse across the plasma membrane causing the RMP, their intra and extracellular concentrations must be established (Figure 4). Each ion is capable of establishing a RMP, therefore the potential depends on several factors, the permeability of the membrane to each ion, the intra and extracellular concentrations of each ion and the polarity of the ions (Guyton and Hall.2000). Firstly if the membrane is only permeable to a certain ion then that ion will be solely responsible for the generation of the RMP, for example, in a nerve fibre K+ concentration is greater in the cytoplasm than the extracellular fluid, if the membrane were only permeable to K+, then K+ would diffuse down its concentration gradient into the extracellular fluid until opposed by its electrical gradient, this would leave the cytoplasm with a negative charge of around -94mV with respect to the extracellular fluid, thus K+ would be responsible for a resting membrane potential of -94mV, as this is the Nernst potential for K+ (Guyton and Hall.2000). However the RMP cannot be caused by one ion alone, as the nerve cells has a RMP of -90mV, and the Nernsts potentials for K+ and Na+ are -94mV and +61mV respectively, therefore if the RMP was caused by one univalent ion it would be equal to that of their Nernst potential (Guyton and Hall.2000). Due to the Nernst potential of K+, it can be assumed that this ion is the major contributor to the RMP, the cytoplasmic concentration of K+ is 35times higher than that of its extracellular concentration, and it diffuses through the membrane via Potassium-Sodium leak channels in which its is 100 times more permeable to than Na+ (Guyton and Hall. 2000). However Na+ also contributes to the RMP by low amounts of Na+ diffusing through the Potassium-Sodium leak channels, this small amount of diffusion leads to a ratio of 0:1 Na+ in the cytoplasm to the extracellular fluid, giving a Nernst potential of +61mV (Guyton and Hall. 2000). Using the Nernst potentials for Na+ and k+ in theGoldman-Hodgkin-Katz equationtheir contribution to the RMP can be established, this results in an internal membrane potential of -86mV (Guyton and Hall. 2000). The remaining -4mV comes from the contribution of the previously mentioned electrogenic Na+-K+ pump, leading to a RMP of -90mV in nerve fibres (Guyton and Hall. 2000). Conclusion To conclude, the RMP arises due to a combination of several factors most of which have been covered in the preceding discussions. The cell membranes structural properties allow for the capacitance and conductance of electrical charges, as well as the generation of electrical fields due to the negatively charged outer membrane, this works to aid in the formation of concentration gradients by which ions flow. In the presence of ionic species which are unable to permeate the cell membrane, such as anionic intracellular proteins, a Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium occurs, in which the distribution of permeable ions favour the intracellular environment due to the presence of impermeable anionic molecules, this disruption of ionic concentrations across the plasma membrane coupled with the presence of impermeable anionic molecules, brings about a negative intracellular environment, and thus a potential difference across the membrane. However in a closed system such as the eukaryotic cell, the Gibbs -Donnan equilibrium leads to a greater intracellular osmotic pressure, if unopposed this would lead to a loss of control over cell volume, therefore ion transporters are in place to dissipate ion concentration, like that of the Na+-K+ ATPase. The exchange ratio of 3:2 potassium for sodium respectively, performed by the Na+-K+ ATPase also contributes to the electronegative intracellular environment, and thus the resting membrane potential. The major cause of the RMP is however down to the diffusion of potassium into the extracellular fluid via Sodium-Potassium leak channels, coupled with the low extracellular diffusion of sodium and the aforementioned Na+-K+ ATPase and Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium conditions, the resting membrane potential is formed. References Sperelakis, N. 1998. Cell Physiology Source Book. Second edition. Californa: Academic Press. Aidley, D. 1989. The Physiology of Excitable Cells. Third Edition. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Levy, N. et al. 2006. Principles of Physiology. Fourth edition. Philadelphia: Elsevier Mosby. Huang, F. el al. 2009. Distribution of the Na/K pumps turnover rates As a function of membrane potential, temperature, and ion concentration gradients and effect of fluctuations.Journal of Physical Chemistry B113(23), pp. 8096-8102.

Frankenfoods Essay -- Biotechnology Farming Agriculture Essays

Frankenfoods Biotechnology and genetically modified organisms have gained quite a bit of notoriety in the past decade. Proponents of biotechnology are claiming that genetic modification will revolutionize agriculture and medicine and overall benefit human kind far beyond the reaches of imagination. On the other side of the issue, there are those who claim that genetic modification is dangerous and unneeded. But is either side correct? Will GMOs revolutionize the food and health industries or will they cause damage and downfall? Moreover, is it even ethical to tamper with nature and release science fiction into the food supply? GMOs and the History Behind Them Genetic modification has been present in agriculture since the Egyptians and the Sumerians first developed it over four thousand years ago. While modification was first used at a very basic level, today it involves implantation of DNA from one organism to another. The basis for genetic modification occurred in the 1970's when the technology to isolate individual genes and alter and copy them in cells was developed. In 1994, the first genetically modified crop, the Flavr Savr Tomato, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for sale and consumption 1. Since then the GMOs have taken over the agriculture industry with over 22 percent (or roughly 60-70% of commercially sold foods) of crops worldwide being GM crops. The basis of modern biotechnology began in 1953 when a biologist and a physicist by the names of Watson and Crick discovered the structure of DNA2 . Since then, scientists have discovered ways to manipulate DNA and even transfer the DNA from one organism to another. Current genetic modification involves a process in which a gene segment literally g... ..., 18 Nov. 2003, Shah, Anup. Genetically Engineered Food. 2001. 18 Nov. 2003. < http://www.globalissues.org/EnvIssues/GEFood.asp> Stone, Brad. The Flavr Savr Arrives, 1994, 18 Nov. 2003, Sutton,Jason. Trasngenetic Crops: An Introductio and Resource Guide, 2002, Traynor,Marty. Hazards of Antibiotic Resistance Genes ni GE Foods, 2002, Wright,Robert. Molrcular Biologists James Watson and Francis Crick, 18 Nov. 2003, http://www.biotechnology.gov.au/biotechnologyOnline/interactives/gene_splicing_interactive.htm

Perspectives of media in health and social care Essay

The objective of this essay is to understand the representations of the media in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/AIDS issue on gays and bisexual persons within health and social care setting. The importance of the mass media will be discussed to gain insight in promoting awareness on HIV/AIDS. It will clarify some specific theories and models of approach as they relate to mass media context in relation to the case studies and conclude. Irwin et al (2003) assert that the prevalence of HIV/AIDS epidemic in both developing and developed world including the United Kingdom (UK) has increased to a level that is beyond the control of the human behaviours; as a result, the increasing rate of people infected with the HIV/AIDS and the rate of people dying in terms of mortality rate have caused a concern among policy makers, journalists, governments and the Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) throughout the entire world. For example, people infected are estimated at 34 million with HIV/AIDS while people who died is at 1.7 million globally (UNAIDS 2012). This led journalists across the globe including the United Kingdom (UK) to adopt strategies and develop tools to combat the epidemics. Hart (1991) defines mass media as devices that simultaneously transmit messages to large numbers of people and indicates that media are classified in three different kinds which include presentational, representational, and mechanical or electronic media. The mass media performs three key functions: educating, shaping public relations, and advocating for a particular policy or point of view. As education tools, media not only impart knowledge, but can be part of larger efforts to promote health issues and other related activities (e.g., social marketing) to promote behaviour change social utility (Department of Health 2011). For instance, when using the social marketing, the mass media targets a particular through poster and other adverts to inform gays and bisexual about the HIV. Beck et al (2005) emphasises that the presentational media ensures face-to-face communication, e.g. speech. He also indicates that the representational media enables messages to be stored, passed over a distance and produced in the absence of the participants because they use symbol  codes of prints, graphics and photography to communicate e.g. newspapers, comics and magazines. Thomson and White (2008) said that the messages are projected through television, radio, newspapers adverts, magazine, leaflets, books, and internet. This is evidenced in the communication model which states that the flow of information is a system of conveying a message in two ways, or in a multiple channels, because individuals will get opinions which are influenced by the type of message to be delivered. The model is based on two step system of information flow which in turn influences the wider community (Wellings and Field 1996). In United Kingdom (UK), the Department of Health allocated  £ 2.9 million each year to promote at the national level, the HIV/AIDS prevention campaigns through TV and other adverts (House of Lords 2010). The application of Marxist theory emphasises on the direct relationship existing between those who have economic power and those who can be able to disseminate information across the society. Tones and Tilford (2001) emphasised that the environmental model of approach is based on the advocating for the prevention of disease rather than depending on medical cure. Medical treatment is limited in providing effective behavioural change and cure. In other perspective, when using the environmental approach, a set of series programmes about HIV has only attempted to raise the awareness of how the disease can be contracted and prevented. Karpf (1998) identified the looking after yourself model said that this model mainly focus on individuals behaviour change. The concept of look after yourself approach has helped media and health organisations to campaign through TV, Radio and providing advices and necessary information to make people aware of the HIV effects. It also changed the way the society used to perceive the value of culture in line with the HIV/AIDS among gay and bisexual society, and this has become mainstreamed in the society (Miller 2002). McQuail (2010) emphasis that Marxist theory, put emphasis on promoting ideas than looking at material structure of the society. However, Marxist theory has contributed to the promotion of mass media; its critics depend on how media could have the power to influence the society in order to effectively effect change (McQuail 2010). The functionalist theory is based on the human behaviours which are run by the way social pattern reflect some kind of stability in relation to the social reality (Brym and Lie 2010) For instance, the use of TV as a channel to  disseminate information on HIV/AIDS has offered sights and real message to stimulate people representation to understand the significance of the effect of having HIV/AIDS. Despite the use of TV as means of disseminating the message on HIV/AIDS, has a limited scope in term of coverage because it is often limited to crises (Basten 2009). The UNAIDS (2004) report indicates that with TV there are some costs associated to it, for instance, the cost of advertising a short avert on health issues such as the HIV/AIDS is high, because of time consuming and creative art for the performance to meet a particular market segments ( Hornik 2008). Beck et al (2005) indicates that the use of the radio as a media of communication has the potential to reach diverse groups of people and huge number of people within the community.

Essay on Global Companies Essay

International companies are characterized by many factors among them geographical dispersion, demand for rationalization and differentiation and cultural diversity. These factors pose numerous challenges to international HR managers on how to ensure successful performance of their functions. The paper highlights various challenges the mentioned factors presents to IHRM in their work. It assembles evidence and previous research findings done by other writers. The paper also demonstrates why managing international HR is more difficult than managing HR in a large domestic firm. Challenges presented by geographical dispersion to international HR directors As employees in an international company come from different backgrounds and possess diverse experience, it’s hard to standardize pay and conditions of work (Briscoe & Schuler, 2009). Doing so is likely to bring conflicts among staff doing similar jobs in different locations. Standardizing working conditions is also tricky because of diverse cultures, rules and laws of different nations. Home working conditions and policies cannot be transferred to another country due to existence of different legislations in host country. In such a case each host country could have a slightly different working condition (Paik and Vance, 2006). Due also to natural differences in each country, it is hard to standardize business processes and pay in a multinational company. One of challenges faced by international HR managers is dealing with multiple time zones. This time differences bring about difficulties for managers to consult with key decision makers (Herod and Yearn, 2002). These difficulties may result into ramifications on productivity. Closely associated with this problem is the continued heavy reliance on face to face communications since improvement in technologies has not completely bridged this gap (Punnett, 1989). Rolling out a non conflicting international compensation system is a challenge to international HRM. This is due to the fact that conditions of employment differ among various categories of employees (Mendenhall et al, 1987). In addition, there exist variations among countries on ways of compensating workers. Salary levels for the same job also differ amongst countries. As a matter of fact compensation packages can be a source of conflict . This is mostly occurs when local employees start comparing their salary to those of expatriates and may conclude that there is no fairness. Expatriates in most of cases have better compensation packages than local employees doing the same job. As a result local employees may feel unappreciated and treated unfairly. Consequently, it may result to resentment and eventually lower employees’ morale and productivity (Roberts et al, 1998). The process of hiring and placement of different national categories of workers is very complex in global context. International HRM involves movement of people across international boundaries (Briscoe & Schuler, 2009). In such a case staffing becomes very hard as managers face hard choices to make from three pools of employees categories: employees from host country where the company operates (HCN), nationals from home country where the firm has headquarter (PNC) and citizens of other countries that may be sources of labor (TNC). The three types of employee groups have different backgrounds. This therefore requires the managers to have international mindset and adopt policies that facilitate establishment of internationally oriented staff (Briscoe & Schuler, 2009). Distinct countries have different government policies and ethical requirements which can pose problems to international HR managers. For instance an international company situated in South Africa would have expatriates willing to work there required to undergo a compulsory HIV/AIDS test. This could result to loss of talented employees who may not be willing to comply with the requirement. It would be therefore a challenge to managers to convince such expatriates to accept the requirement (Roberts et al, 1998). International HR managers also face difficulties determining compensation package among various categories of workers. This is so because of varied nationalities of workers and different levels of economic development in home countries. It therefore becomes hard to determine some form of compensation for instance hardship allowance (Hofstede, 1992). International scene is also more complex due to language differences. This becomes a challenge in ease of accessing company’s documents such as vision and mission statements, company’s records and procedure manuals. Language barriers could also impede communication and sharing of information among the workers. This can only be solved by language standardization (Laurent, 1986). The nature of employee involvement also varies depending on country and institutional factors. Employee involvement is crucial in any organization and results into enhanced communication, coordination of tasks, enhanced information sharing and reduced turnover. Employee involvement is however is influenced by organization and national factors such as industrial relations, financial system, social forces and market forces (Petti and Fadel, 1997). Consequently in a global context, the nature of employment will vary due to diverse national forces. Challenges occasioned by need for rationalization and differentiation to international HR directors. Process of rationalization normally involves lowering of organizations operational costs and more improved control (Punnett, 1989). This requires timely provision of information. On a global context, it is a challenge to HR managers to obtain information quickly and to become proactive in achieving business objectives. Due to the complex nature of international organization, it becomes challenging to ensure faster access to high quality information at a significantly business processing cost . However due to rationalization demands in order for the company to remain competitive, managers have to carry out proper compensation, recruitment and placement (Punnett, 1989). Differentiation is the process of distinguishing firms’ products or services from those offered by competitors (Petti and Fadel, 1997). This is done by making them unique and more attractive to a particular target market. Differentiation is normally implemented by ensuring differences in functional features, quality, availability and reputation. Formulation of differentiation strategy is vital for making firms’ products more competitive in a competitive market. In global context it poses challenges for managers to adopt proper strategies in recruitment and selection to ensure the products remain unique and reputable (Petti and Fadel, 1997). Challenges presented by cultural diversity to international HR directors International companies operate in different countries with diverse regulations, standard of living and labor unions (Hofstede, 1992). In some countries, labor unions determine wage policies. In Australia for instance unions negotiate rates of payment on behalf of workers. In other countries like Hong Kong unions have little influence and pay rates are determined by free market. This makes the process of determining pay package very hard to HR managers in global scene (Hofstede, 1992). International HRM must be aware of cultural differences and develop culturally sensitive attitudes for business to thrive (Laurent, 1986). Majority of HRM functions such as compensation; training, recruitment and selection are done according to cultural practices of host nation. Sometimes adapting to local expectation and customs brings more problems. In Indonesia for instance local employees are obliged to employ members of their family. However, acting in such nepotism way may be detrimental to the company since the best fitted persons will not be hired (Punnett, 1989). Diverse norms on methods of motivating employees amongst countries are a key challenge. The use of incentives and gifts for instance may have varied results. In cultures such as America money may be a good motivator. In other cultures such as Japan, non financial incentives for instance job security, social acceptance and promotions may motivate employees better (Mendenhall et al, 1987). The international HR managers are hence challenged to match the motivators with cultural values. International businesses also operate in countries with different cultural differences amongst groups of people in the same country. This ultimately translates into different HRM policies procedures and system. The work of IHRM is therefore determined by cultural aspects of the host country (Petti and Fadel, 1997). This places a challenge to IHRM managers to reconsider each strategy in terms of the country’s cultural condition. Some strategies may work in some country but fail in others. A Hong Kong company dealing with dental services for instance decided to offer a ‘use it or lose it’ policy worth $1000 a year. Initially the company had a high staff turnover of 24%. After a short time, the company’s turnover dropped significantly to 4%. The strategy could not just work in that context (Petti and Fadel, 1997). As the case illustrates, research is required to be conducted amongst employees to establish the kind of strategies which are workable. People also have varied takes and attitudes with regard to contracts. People from western countries think of it just like a contract and will follow it after it’s signed. The Chinese however take it different and prefer continued relationship with their manager. So they will sign it, have a handshake and get to know their manager (Laurent, 1986). Therefore the IHRM has to consider acceptability and adaptability. Diversity management is also a challenge especially managing varying expectations in workplace. Some countries emphasize on gender equity and affirmative action while others do no (Hofstede, 1992)t. In such a case organizations with such policies face difficulties implementing them in some countries. In some parts of the world woman expatriates may experience difficulties in gaining acceptance (Hofstede, 1992). Culture is also a significant constraint in employee performance appraisals and feedback process. Western counties have been found to have different styles of performance appraisals which are difficult to transfer to non western countries (Briscoe & Schuler, 2009). The purpose of appraisal, acceptance of its result and the mode of conduct of the feedback process are also different amongst countries. In some cultures for instance Japan performance appraisal are not acceptable and are normally interpreted as sign of distrust. In other cultures such as Chinese performance appraisals are used to determine pay (Briscoe & Schuler, 2009). Why managing International HR is inherently more difficult than managing HR in a large domestic firm. Unlike domestic firm, international HR involves moving staff across many countries with diverse cultural and economic aspects. As such international HRM is more complex as it deals with different categories of workers from different countries. There are also many aspects and a broad range of issues o take into consideration (Paik and Vance, 2006). To begin with, there are more HR activities to deal with in an international environment. Foreign employees are normally subjected to both domestic and international tax liabilities. This necessitates need to design tax equalization policies to bridge this gap. There are also a lot of international relocation and orientation activities. This may take the shape of arranging pre departure training and providing information such travel details, shopping and schooling. Foreign employees must also be provided with housing, medical care and recreation services. The expatriates also require to be provided by administrative services within which the host country operates. In addition the international HR must provide language translation services (Mendenhall et al, 1987). The international HR manager is also required to take a broad view of issues. This is particularly due to the fact that the managers deal with more than one national group of employees all working together. One such broader perspective would be to ensure that employees working in foreign locations receive foreign premium regardless of their nationality. Such a policy should be implemented without showing preferential treatment to only employees working on overseas assignment but even to foreigners assigned to firm’s home country (Chan, 1994). The IHRM thus has to deal with equity issues with regard to compensation. International HR managers are also required to get more involved in employees personal lives (Herod and Yearn, 2002). The HRM needs to ensure that expatriate employees comprehends compensation package such as cost of living allowances, premium taxes among others. He also needs to ensure they understand housing arrangements and health care. This creates need for establishment of a section that provides services such as handling of employees’ investments, banking and coordinating home visits. If for instance there is to be a relocation or transfer, the HR department will need to know the employees personal life in order to provide the level of support required. This is particularly due to some governments requirements like marriage certificate in order to stay in some locations. In addition the HR managers may want to assist the family left behind at home country (Herod and Yearn, 2002). In the international context, there is always need to change emphasis in HR operations as workforce varies. This mostly occurs when more trained locals become available and hence the need of foreign employees decline. Resources which had previously allocated to allocated to expatriate issues have thus to be transferred to local stuff training and development. This broadens HR activities such as training, planning and compensation (Chan, 1994). International assignments increase exposure to risks that HRM has to deal with. There are more severe consequences resulting from expatriate failure and underperformance. Such a failure may be too costly to the company in terms of salary, relocation expenses and travel costs. There could also be loss of foreign share, market share and breakdown of foreign relations. The HR department must also consider possible acts of terrorism. On top of that the HR must put in place emergency evacuation procedures for assignments in locations susceptible to epidemic crises (Roberts et al, 1998). International HRM also has to deal with more and complex external factors. The company must comply with government’s requirements about staffing in foreign locations. Moreover, local codes of conduct and religious groups’ regulations must be obeyed (Roberts et al, 1998). Conclusion The research and evidence presented in the paper demonstrates that managing HR in global context is more challenging and complex than in domestic scene. There are many issues which constrain international HR managers and which are unique to each country. The managers are therefore required to be flexible and adopt a local responsive strategy in order to have successful and sustainable businesses.