Alternative Energy Renewable Energy - 966 Words

Alternative Energy. What is it? Alternative energy: energy generated in ways that do not deplete natural resources or harm the environment, avoiding the use of fossil fuels and nuclear power (Google Definition). ALternative energy is the way to go: it is cleaner than Fossil Fuels and Nuclear Power, it works with the environment, and is benefitial to the community. First off, the majority of the world, 80% of the United States uses Nuclear power or Fossil Fuels as a source of energy and electricity. However, there are various problems caused by this, most notable: cost and risks. Every year Fossil Fuels cost taxpayers and consumers $5.3 trillion (IMF). There are roughly 600 Coal plants just in the United states. Fossil Fuels cause air†¦show more content†¦Then, there are the risks of ‘proliferation, loose nukes, and terrorism’... With such high cost and various amounts of personal and environmental risks from power sources today, alternative energy has proven to be the better deal. There are countless sources of natural energy such as geothermal, Hydropower, a biofuel, to name a few. Studies are being carried out to harness other natural energies like lightning and tidal power. Beginning with Solar Power, Solar power, includes Skylights and Solar panels, taking advantage of the Sun s energy and converting it to electricity. The energy could be used the simple way, using the natural warmth and brightness. Skylights allow the rays of the Sun to illuminate and heat an area. Also, it can also be concentrated to heat water (as thermal energy). This use of sunlight can decrease energy consumption by 50% (EnergySage). The benefits include: lowering the cost of electricity, and heating and cooling. It happens that there is the unseen benefit of natural sunlight: exposure of vitamin D. Solar Panels: Convert sunlight to electricity for the masses, or individual homes. Wind Power, using the power of the wind to turn turbines to generate electricity. This method is best used in windy areas such as mountain passes, plains, and coastal regions (Mother Earth News).Show MoreRelatedRenewable Energy : Alternative Energy1559 Words   |  7 PagesAlternative energy can be defined as Energy, as solar, wind, or nuclear energy, that can replace or supplement traditional fossil-fuel sources, such as coal, oil, and natural gas. When thinking about alternative energy sources we generally focus on the main types: nuclear, solar, wind, and hydroelectric. These are things that mainly do not cause pollution and are very environmentally friendly (Alternative Energy). Alternative energy is thought to be renewable and â€Å"free.† Biomass Energy, Wind EnergyRead MoreRenewable Energy : Alternative Energy1419 Words   |  6 PagesAlternative energy includes forms that can be continuously renewed without the concern of the supply running out. Over the last two cen turies, renewable energy has become much more popular, worldwide. Forms of renewable energy most popularly include solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Laws and regulations are constantly created to improve the forms of energy we use and the amount in which each form creates. Alternative energy is also referred to as renewable, and received its name from being theRead MoreAlternative Energy : Renewable Energy1785 Words   |  8 Pagescurrent energy usage, which is fossil fuels, is not sustainable and carries negative effects to the environment. However nothing is perfect, even renewable energy has its fair share of disadvantages. Can alternative (reusable) energy sources such as nuclear, hydrogen, biofuels or solar energy meet the energy demands needed by humans to carry out their everyday tasks such as electricity, commuting, and so on better than fossil fuels such as coal and oil which creates a mast amount of energy today.Read MoreAlternative Energy And Renewable Energy1668 Wor ds   |  7 PagesThroughout the 20th and 21st century, our knowledge about the environment and energy has steadily grown, as well as our dependence on them. Nowadays, power and electricity are in every facet of our daily lives. Due to this, we overlook several negative effects our traditional use of fossil fuels have caused. Fossil fuels are fuel deposits that were formed hundreds of millions of years ago, which is where the term fossil fuels come from. The two most common fossil fuels currently in use are coal andRead MoreAlternative Energy Sources For Renewable Energy1710 Words   |  7 Pagesconcern for our environment, alternative energy has become a source of energy that is an alternative to the problem that these fossil fuels have caused our Earth. Alternative energy are renewable and is considered to be free energy sources (Alternative Energy). All alternative energy sources have lower carbon emissions when being compared to conventional energy sources. These sources in clude Biomass Energy, Wind, Solar, Geothermal, and Hydroelectric Energy (Alternative Energy). With the use of recyclingRead MoreAlternative Energy Sources For Renewable Energy1511 Words   |  7 PagesRenewable energy has become a widely popular topic in society. With the rapid depletion of fossil fuels, scientist are looking to natural and renewable resources to create a means to produce sustainable energy. There are many alternative energy sources that have proven useful in the past couple of years. Some of the alternative energy sources are not only more useful than others but have proven to be easier to attain and also prove to create a more substantial amount of energy. Today, the most widelyRead MoreAlternative Sources Of Energy For Renewable Energy1766 Words   |  8 PagesAbstract Majority of electricity generated in New Zealand are mainly from renewable source of energy that are naturally occurring. These source of energy are not consumed when converted hence they will not be depleted, and they are constantly reusable and replenish naturally. Increase in research and investment toward renewable energy will benefit New Zealand society as it will generate less pollution, and more jobs opportunities will emerge. Furthermore it will benefit New Zealand by reinforcingRead MoreAlternative Energy Solutions For Renewable Energy1295 Words   |  6 Pagesunderdeveloped technology and overlooked industry. There is much debate on whether any alternative energy solutions are able to effectively replace fossil fuels. Even if they are, we are then faced with the problem of how renewable energy programs could be implemented and improved. There are many aspects of this debate to consider, including energy demand, financial support, and ecological factors. The push for altern ative energies is essential and the need is eminent, therefore government subsidization shouldRead MoreAlternative Energy Sources For Renewable Energy1466 Words   |  6 Pagesseeking new forms of energy that will provide clean energy and also preserve Earth s lifespan. The use of renewable and non-renewable resources has been a major controversy throughout history; renewable energy such as wind power has been the main focus of this issue. Many would believe wind energy is the best renewable power source because it is the cleanest and most efficient, whereas, others view wind energy as a time bomb that will soon destroy the planet. Alternative energy sources should replaceRead MoreRenewable Energy : Alternative Energy Sources1906 Words   |  8 PagesNon- Renewable Energy These energy sources are very efficient in the way they work and provide for our needs. Unfortunately, there are two immense disadvantages for fossil fuels and non-renewable resources. They are named non renewable for a reason, the process that these resources go through literally takes millions of years for them to be useful for our needs. â€Å"We have to recognize there is a finite planetary quantity of each nonrenewable resource that can be recovered economically. In theory,

Saving Lives As A Cardiothoracic Surgeon - 1788 Words

Jennifer Monroy Mrs. Lozares Honors English II 15 February 2017 Saving Lives As a Cardiothoracic Surgeon 1. Saving lives sounds really amazing and god like. Doctors have always been one of my fascinations. The way that they can not make any mistakes and the challenges they face in saving a patient; it just grabs my attention. Ever since third grade I have wanted to become a doctor, but never really chose a specific occupation in the medical field. There are so many specialties; dermatologists, obstetricians, pediatricians, plastic surgeons, neurosurgeons, and many more. All these names may sound confusing; such as obstetricians. In short this is a doctor that delivers babies. Then there are some like plastic surgeons; this is a†¦show more content†¦The program will help in furthering students’ knowledge in the science and math fields. Students learn by hands on experience, and they work with the type of technology that will be seen in the medical field. When wanting to get into a career that can be as rigorous as becoming a surgeo n, students have to take advantage of the programs that their school offers. Universities and colleges that have great medical programs are also something that is important. The University of Oklahoma is one that many people, like myself, are interested in. The OU College of Medicine is widely known in Oklahoma. I have always wanted to attend this University because of the size of the medical plaza, which shows their contribution to the medical field. The College of Medicine is located in Tulsa, OK (Medical). 5. The College of Medicine, like other colleges and universities, has graduation requirements and curriculums. Biology, chemistry, physics, math and english are all subjects that applicants must complete, but it can be done as undergraduate work (Physicians). For years one and two it is called the preclinical curriculum. This curriculum includes learning how to connect basic science concepts with clinical concepts, and things like case studies and team problem solving concepts. Students learn how to interact with patients and are able to practice clinical skills. Clinical curriculum is for years three and four in which â€Å"allShow MoreRelatedSample Resume : Cardiothoracic Surgery1556 Words   |  7 PagesCardenas May 18, 2017 Pre-AP English Mrs. Sanchez Cardiothoracic Surgery Introduction Cardiothoracic surgery, holding someone’s life in your hands, could you handle it? Cardiothoracic surgeons are very important, with high demand all around the world. It takes many years of education, and their typical day consists of tedious hours in which they frequently witness death. However, all these drawbacks are outshined by the amount of lives they save, the lucrative salary earned, and the familiesRead MoreCardiothoracic surgery1005 Words   |  5 PagesWeaver 15 May 2013 Cardiothoracic Surgeon Research Paper Cardiothoracic Surgery is one of the most interesting and rewarding careers in the medical field. It was stated in Saving the Heart by Stephen Klaidman, â€Å"In the 1950s surgeons found ways to do quick repairs of congenital heart defects and faulty valves, and then the first heart-lung machine was invented, which made longer operations possible.† Since then, Cardiothoracic surgery has been constantly evolving to incorporate the new technologicalRead MoreA Career in Surgery1246 Words   |  5 PagesDid you know that surgeons make one of the highest amounts of money a job can make? Surgeons spend much of their days saving lives and working hard. Pediatric surgeons work specifically with children and young adults. These professional people have years of studying and hours of training. They work to their full potential and are always working to help people. Pediatric surgeons specialize and have certain qualities to be able to do the job that they do. Pediatric surgery is a career that requiresRead MoreCareer Overview of a Cardiovascular Surgeon Essay892 Words   |  4 PagesCARDIOVASCULAR SURGEON Career Overview – †¢ A cardiovascular surgeon, otherwise known as a cardiothoracic surgeon or a car-diac surgeon, is a physician who specializes in the treatment of disease and injury of the heart, as well as the major blood vessels located in the chest. A cardiovasc-ular surgeon’s job is usually more demanding than that of other surgeons. The procedures involved in operating on the heart are very complex. (Stephanie Dube Dwilson, 2011). Education and/or Training RequiredRead MoreGrey s Anatomy Created By Shonda Rhimes Essay1484 Words   |  6 Pagesseries that takes you through the lives of surgeons at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital formally known as Seattle Grace Hospital. In spite of some critics believing Grey’s Anatomy is awful, Grey’s Anatomy is sensible, instructive, and a motivating television show. Grey’s Anatomy has a realistic feel. The series indicates actual circumstances. For instance the main setting takes place in a hospital were surgeons spend the majority of their timeRead MoreGreys Anatomy, By Shonda Rhimes2271 Words   |  10 Pages incorporates many examples of Anatomy throughout the different cases as well as the surgeons themselves. For instance, each surgeon specializes in the different organ systems of the body; Cardiothoracic surgeon (Cristina Yang), Trauma surgeon (Owen Hunt), Pediatric surgeon (Arizona Robbins), Neurosurgeon (Derek Shepherd), Plastic surgeon (Mark Sloan), Orthopedic surgeon (Callie Torres) and the general surgeons (Miranda Bailey and Meredith Grey). This television series gives a glimpse of what mayRead MoreShould Animal s Organ Be Used For Human Transplantation?1036 Words   |  5 Pagesrequirement for organs is growing significantly. For example, in 2004, the United Network of organ sharing found that ove r 100,000 patients could have had an advantage from organ transplant, but only 29,000 were available. In 1963 Doctor Keith Reemtsma a surgeon who experimented with organ transplants. Thirteen chimpanzee’s kidneys were transferred into humans. Twelve patients survived for 60 days. One patient survived for nine months, so this option was considered a viable one. In the USA approximatelyRead MoreKirby Harper Is An Ordinary Girl1439 Words   |  6 PagesKirby Harper is an ordinary girl whose only desire is to live life according to God’s will, however when unexpected news came her way she thought her life had changed forever. Kirby is a 25 year old girl that is married to her high school sweet-heart Jake Harper. Kirby is studying at Harvard Medical School to be a Cardiothoracic Surgeon. Kirby was a girl that basically had everything going for her, until one day she noticed a slight discoloration of her urine. She thought it was a little strangeRead MoreStudy Of The Heart And The Cardiovascular System And Its Functions And Disorders1601 Words   |  7 Pagesactivities of the heart.(4) Cardiologists also study the Cardiovascular System(arteries ,veins, capillaries,etc)(1) C.What skills and tools do Practitioners in this field have? Cardiologists have to be interested genuinely and take pride in saving people s lives to live up to the stresses of the job(18) you have to be good in math because Cardiologists do mathematical calculations..(18) You should have dexterity with your hands as you need precision skills when you need to operate.(18) You have to knowRead MorePresent Day Robotic Surgery and Beyond8509 Words   |  35 Pagesidea behind making robotic surgery machines was to have something hold the instruments while the surgeon operates. It turned into something much more than that as years passed though. All the things a surgeon directly does on a patient will be done by robotic arms that hold miniature cameras and surgical tools. With such a system, operations will be more precise and done in smaller areas. In fact, a surgeon may never actually touch the patient. Not only will this be a more effective way of operating

Literature Review Global Financial Crisis Regulation Free Essays

â€Å"Global Financial Crisis: Regulatory Arbitrage and Paradigm Shifts† In early 2008, the economy ground to an almost complete halt. As the stock indexes were overwhelmed by a virtual tsunami of never relenting red digits, it became clear that the financial markets had been hit by a crisis the scope and scale of which had not been witnessed since the Wall Street Crash of the 1930’s. Over time the causes became more clear, and as the dust settled, the world was left with several important questions to answer. We will write a custom essay sample on Literature Review Global Financial Crisis Regulation or any similar topic only for you Order Now First of all, there was the question of whether or not the global financial crisis was actually caused by flawed regulations and financial institutions or whether it is the fundamental behaviour of the financial market that is flawed, as caused by behavioural issues such as moral hazard and principle agent problems. As an extension of this, the second question involves whether or not financial regulation will be sufficient in realizing a stable and sustainable financial system or if a true paradigmal and behavioural shift is required. Finally and more practically, the third question is how such a change may be brought about in practice, and which exact aspects of the financial paradigm should be altered in order to realize sustainable financial markets. As we look more closely at the following questions and the appropriate literature, one can discern several issues, which may form the basis for further academic inquiry. First of all, it is clear that despite far reaching efforts of scholars, governments and other institutions to develop and introduce financial regulation in response to the financial crisis, recent evidence suggests that these measures fail to recognize fundamental flaws in the paradigms and values Freewriting exercise – Skills 3: Academic Writing S. N. Geesing – 342570 2010-2011 underlying actions of main financial institutions and firms, which need to be addressed in order to realise a sustainable financial process in the long term. From this main statement, we can now look into several direct causes of the crisis that can be related to the incentives that underlie these markets. One of these causes, as it appears, is the fact that Wall Street managed to lure the brightest minds in economics and mathematics with promises of wealth and fame, thus managing to consistently outsmart governmental institutions. By exploiting loop holes in regulatory frameworks, often done by developing complex financial derivates, the bulge bracket firms that set the tone in investment banking gained access to nearly limitless profits, foregoing issues of ethics and risk minimization in favour of short term and often personal gain. After recognizing this pattern, one may conclude that simply increasing bank reserves or bailing out mortgages (as many governments have done so far) will not allow for long term sustainability within financial markets. Other measures, such as increased transparency, caps on bonuses and reinvented incentive reward systems are more effective, but have proven difficult to practically implement. Introducing new regulation is always troublesome and this type of regulations has been met by heavy resistance, especially in the US, the place where new regulation is especially necessary. For this reason and more, a more indirect way of changing values and paradigms must be sought. Scholars have suggested that such measures are most likely to be found in economic theory and, more specifically, in forms of game theoretical applications, in which the government and the financial institutions act as â€Å"players† in a game that can be described as the general economy and financial markets. How to cite Literature Review Global Financial Crisis Regulation, Essays

Services To Priority Health Care Platforms â€Myassignmenthelp.Com

Question: Disuses About The Services To Priority Health Care Platforms? Answer: Introducation The onset of mental health disease to any individual is often frightening and dilapidating. It makes the victims to be upset, frightened, and feeling of unwell comes in. This will appear like they are losing their mind. The fears are often reinforced through negative aspects which often mental people have shown. The common mental problems include depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In the case study is patient Jeremy Oaxley. He was one of the best talented singers and song writers in early 1980s. He was performing on a high rock band, The SunnyBoys. He was the brand wagon of the band steering to greater heights. As the force behind the band, Jeremy went high into his performances, running from shows to shows in a bid to lift his image. As this hustle went on, Jeremy was shrouded with stress to deliver, and ended up being at the periphery on lonely horror. He was consumed by paranoia and encountered disturbing thoughts. He was so concerned about his brother Peter and was so much protective on him. Jeremy with life of solitude and depression ended up being a victim of alcoholism. With dire denial of his disease state, Jeremy refused to accept medications and refused to accept that he has mental disease. His life became so miserable. When he tried to flash back how his audiences adored him for his music, he always ended up in conflicting emotions. He kept himself in solitude life and often became arrogant and annoyed easily due to the disease state. He chose to live alone and drifted from the people. His life became unpredictable, unmanageable for his family. Despite the medication mental health disease, Jeremy had also encountered diabetes and obesity which he was receiving medications for. With the double burden of his disease he started to blame everyone for his predicaments, with acts of self denial and lack of acceptance for his diseases state. Factors affecting mental health disease Mental health problems often have an effect on the way people feel, think and behave. The state of mental health always brings bad feeling which you cant see but observe through the behavioural behaviour of the patients, (McMahon et al 2013). Treatment medication is often effective in managing the disease. However the stigma under pinning this care provision and misunderstanding about how the disease should be managed still is missing. Recovery process is often relied upon factors which affect the disease. Mental diagnosis can be affected any cultural, social and development factors which hinders its management, (Nordmyr et al 2014). Cultural factors Culture often refers to a state of shared beliefs, norms and values. The variation in cultures often affects the way people behave and its approaches towards care process. Depending on the culture one grew up, feelings of emotional health can always affect the way patients are managed, and how the experience s are given the best coping measures for the care. in many cultures around the world, mental health has often been associated with spiritual lifes of the patients, thus how a person perceive mental health experience have an effect on the personal felling you have, (WHO, 2014). Cultural influences and societal influences have an effect on mental health care approach. Culture and social contextual nature often shapes the mental health of minorities and available mental health priorities available. The misunderstandings often found in culture among the care providers often deters access of health services and access and utilization of care and preventing them from adequate care prov ision, (Bjereld et al 2015). Patient culture often known as consumer mental health services has an effect on mental health care and utilization access. In this case study, patient Jeremy might not have been exposed to the culture of seeking medical intervention thus the restrictive nature and solitude denial he is facing. Social aspects of mental health Many dimensions of mental health and psychological well being are determined by the social factors which include, gender, social status, race and ethnical backgrounds. The ability of coping effectively with patients of mental health have often depend on the social arrangements which take place within the family or community set ups. In this case Jeremy social state is affected at how the family is treating him and according him the care needed. Mental illness epidemiology is complicated but how the relationship between symptoms occurrence, drug use and illness vary with the families support networks, (Funk,2016). The stigma often associated with mental health disease has led to perception of the disease, the cumulative burdens the disease cause on the family and those sorrowing the care are huge, (Bjereld et al 2015). These burdens depend on the magnitude of schizophrenia for patient Jeremy. Developmental factors affecting mental health Assessments of positive aspects of development and is aligned competencies are viewed as the scientific underpinnings which inform promotion of mental health disease. Prevention and promotion model for the young people entails interventions which alters the developmental process. This is essential in ensuring that the filed be grounded on a comprehensive framework that has a reflection on the developmental perspective. the most important feature so development process that are key to the case study include, age related patters of schizophrenia disorder for the patient, tasks involved and interactions between the biological and psychological and social aspects with regard to the patent status, (Conley et al 2017). Implementing mental health priorities International and national states have formed workforces which steers the agenda for mental health problems. The mental health priorities set have proved to be evidence based and cost effective interventions that are not accessible to the general population. The priority areas have been fundamental in ensuring better mental health care for the people affected with mental problems like in the case study and improve the support offered to them. The priority areas have often focused on the social and emotional problems, depression states, inattention and impulsivity, disruptive behaviours and aggression impacts, substance abuse and conflicting of self harm, (Hanlon et al 2014). These priorities are essential for the Jeremy in the case study so to offer appropriate help for treatment process and yielding better outcome. The association of family set ups forms key priority towards seeking support for mental health patients. The intervention of the family members for the victims of mental health illness is crucial. Statistics have shown that 15% of the children and adolescents have mental problems. This happened with the patient 30 years ago, further if it goes untreated which is the case for the case study affects the children and go long beyond when they can exhibit problem behaviours. However key aspects of managing this are ensuring positive and effective communication approaches on mental health issues. Studies done have shown that many families dont disclose the emotional problems which are linked to the disease, thus informing the urgent need for mental health communication between social support services and family, (Patel et al 2013). Family engagement on tackling the priority issues affecting mental health is crucial. Giving them advice and engaging them in therapeutic encounters for the patients and their families is essential for practice and skill development. Hence adequate skills and interventions of practical skills towards managing the mental priorities is essential in ensuring that mental health information and behaviour of the patients is achieved. National mental health framework This framework has provided a good opportunity for the improvement of mental health care provision in Australia, (Davidson et al 2016). The framework brings forth the recovery oriented approaches which aims at understand the recovery process of mental health care and ensuring service delivery for patients such as Jeremy Oaxley. The framework is essential in supporting cultural and attitude change for those providing care. The utilization of this recovery framework for this patient is essential in ensuring that guidance and tailored mental approach is given to the people with mental health disease, (Fenton 2016). The recovery oriented approach designed for patient with the lived experiences and insights of how he can be helped in view of providing expertise, knowledge and skills necessary for care for the mentally challenged patients, (Kidd et al 2015). The recovery health approaches underpinned in the framework allows for the utilizations of service rather than organization priorities. In ensuring patent safety and improving their capabilities, there is need to recognise the need for self determination incorporated into successful treatment approaches. The emphasis on recovery process and self determination for the patient is crucial. As the family is the immediate support network available, there is need to balance various aspects of care provided which include, providing maximum choice selection for the patient, supporting positive risk taking, dignity of risk, availing duty of care and promoting safety. Adopting these strategies ensures that the patient achieves self determination and con tinues in his efforts to reduce coercion and seclusion which is apparent in the Jeremy life experiences rolls, (Jorn 2014). According to the national health framework there are key domain areas which are embedded in the recovery oriented practice and service delivery. The first domain is promoting culture and hope to the patient. In this way there is need op encourage the patient to be optimistic and ensure that he rains hope of healing. The second domain entails prioritising the patient towards care process. This is ensured through putting the patient as the first priority at the centre of experience of mental issue and ensuring he gets adequate care delivery, (Slade et al 2014). There is need to support the personal recovery for the patient, encouraging the patient on the recovery process is essential in ensuring service delivery. Last domain of concern for the patient is the need to uphold the rights of the patent in accessing care process, (McKay et al 2016). As family which is illustrated supports the patient towards recovery process and this is vital towards disease management. Conclusion Thus it is essential that incorporating the framework in managing mental health conditions at the hoe settings is key towards managing Schizophrenia for Jeremy Oaxley. The framework offers a better opportunity to interrogate the facets associated with mental health disease and influence the design of services given such as trauma informed approaches towards managing his disease condition. Being in line with the Australian National Standards for Mental Health Services, 2010, this framework forms key basis for recovery oriented process for the patient. References Bjereld, Y., Daneback, K., Gunnarsdttir, H., Petzold, M. (2015). Mental health problems and social resource factors among bullied children in the Nordic countries: a population based cross-sectional study. Child Psychiatry Human Development, 46(2), 281-288. Davidson, F., Heffernan, E., Greenberg, D., Butler, T., Burgess, P. (2016). A critical review of mental health court liaison services in Australia: A first national survey. Psychiatry, Psychology and Law, 23(6), 908-921. Fenton, S. J. H. (2016). Mental health service delivery for adolescents and young people: a comparative study between Australia and the UK (Doctoral dissertation, University of Birmingham and The University of Melbourne). Funk, M. (2016). Global burden of mental disorders and the need for a comprehensive, coordinated response from health and social sectors at the country level. Hanlon, C., Luitel, N. P., Kathree, T., Murhar, V., Shrivasta, S., Medhin, G., ... Jordans, M. (2014). Challenges and opportunities for implementing integrated mental health care: a district level situation analysis from five low-and middle-income countries. PloS one, 9(2), e88437. Jorm, A. F. (2014). Why hasnt the mental health of Australians improved? The need for a national prevention strategy. Kidd, S., Kenny, A., McKinstry, C. (2015). The meaning of recovery in a regional mental health service: an action research study. Journal of advanced nursing, 71(1), 181-192. McKay, R., Coombs, T., Anderson, J. M. (2016). Mental Health and Addiction Workforce Development in Australia: Never the Twain to Meet?. Workforce Development Theory and Practice in the Mental Health Sector, 90. McMahon, E. M., Corcoran, P., McAuliffe, C., Keeley, H., Perry, I. J., Arensman, E. (2013). Mediating effects of coping style on associations between mental health factors and self-harm among adolescents. Crisis. Nordmyr, J., Forsman, A. K., Wahlbeck, K., Bjrkqvist, K., sterman, K. (2014). Associations between problem gambling, socio-demographics, mental health factors and gambling type: sex differences among Finnish gamblers. International Gambling Studies, 14(1), 39-52. Patel, V., Belkin, G. S., Chockalingam, A., Cooper, J., Saxena, S., Untzer, J. (2013). Grand challenges: integrating mental health services into priority health care platforms. PloS medicine, 10(5), e1001448. Slade, M., Amering, M., Farkas, M., Hamilton, B., O'Hagan, M., Panther, G., ... Whitley, R. (2014). Uses and abuses of recovery: implementing recovery?oriented practices in mental health systems. World Psychiatry, 13(1), 12-20. World Health Organization. (2014). Social determinants of mental health. World Health Organization.

The Dragon Can free essay sample

# 8217 ; t Dance Essay, Research Paper The Dragon Can # 8217 ; T Dance The Dragon Can # 8217 ; t Dance. The writer, Earl Lovelace, allows even the non-indigenous reader to understand, to experience the physical and psychological worlds of destitute Calvary Hill # 8211 ; every # 8220 ; Sweet, writhing, aching aching # 8221 ; ( p. 133 ) # 8211 ; more intensely, more wholly, through his usage of paradox. Indeed, oxymorons pepper the pages of his novel, disputing our wonts of idea and arousing us into seeking another sense or context in which these self-contradictions may be resolved into truths, truths that are clearly cosmopolitan yet at the same clip inseparable from the combined coloring material and sordidness of post-World War II Trinidadian life. Striking contradictions are employed most often in the writer # 8217 ; s word picture of Sylvia. While she is a comparatively fringy character, in her, Lovelace limns a startlingly existent portrayal of a adult female, organic structure and psyche, and, as virtually all male characters in the novel are mesmerized by her, it is suiting that the extent of her power is most regularly conveyed in footings of paradox. We will write a custom essay sample on The Dragon Can or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Already at age 17 she possess a # 8220 ; cognizing artlessness # 8221 ; ( p.39 ) , intuitively cognizant of her sacrificial function to her overburdened female parent # 8217 ; s rent aggregator, Guy. When he would touch her, she sometimes stood still, feeling, about badly, the demand to hone the # 8220 ; exultant resignation # 8221 ; ( p.40 ) fitted for the prostitution that was her fate, if non her naming. Along with the omniscient storyteller, the supporter Aldrick Prospect is fascinated by her. When she comes with a white frock and oversized places to offer herself to him, he thinks that it is # 8220 ; as if she had come both to give herself and to defy his taking her. # 8221 ; Unable to accept the societal duty that she implies simply by her presence, Aldrick will subsequently see Sylvia in needfully contradictory footings as # 8220 ; Sylvia, that child, adult female # 8230 ; her eyes # 8230 ; inflaming a sort of active uncaring # 8221 ; ( p. 114 ) toward him. Her physical beauty, # 8220 ; the rhythmic rise-fall of her natess, the quavering up-downing of her buttocks # 8221 ; ( p.151 ) , will do him # 8220 ; injury for her, for the taming of her # 8221 ; ( p. 152 ) , for old ages to come. Graduating from the physical, nevertheless, that # 8220 ; up-downing, drop-rising # 8221 ; ( p. 152 ) of her underside, Aldrick will come to recognize that # 8220 ; her really desirableness placed her above ordinary desiring # 8221 ; ( p. 229 ) , the mere ownership which Guy intends, and it is at carnival that he foremost glimpses the hereafter that they might portion, how he might paradoxically # 8220 ; lose himself and derive himself in her, twirling off with her until together they disappeared into the ego that she was naming back, naming Forth # 8221 ; ( p. 141 ) . Repeating the Indian, Pariag, and Philo the Calypsonian, Aldrick begins to want to merely populate and love and turn, which is precisely why he has ever loved Sylvia: her beauty was non a arm, but a # 8220 ; declaration of a religion in life and a promise of life # 8221 ; ( p. 228 ) . He entirely realizes the paradox that Sylvia is both # 8220 ; illuminated and doomed by that aura # 8221 ; ( p. 229 ) of inner # 8220 ; sainted # 8221 ; beauty which Guy threatens to stamp down by efficaciously sequestering her in a new place in Diego Martin. Merely through the usage of paradox could Lovelace convey the full scope of emotion between Sylvia and Aldrick, who both realize early on the spiritualty of their love that blossomed like a Mangifera indica rose against the unmitigating background of Aldrick # 8217 ; s little room, the brainsick formation of boxboard and wood-board hovels on the Hill, against all of the physical and economic worlds of Port-of-Spain. When Sylvia notices Aldrick coming up the Hill after his five-year prison sentence, for illustration, the sight of him sends # 8220 ; a chilling runing thrilling experiencing # 8221 ; through her flesh ( P . 206 ) . The oxymoron is particularly disposed given the strength of her true feelings for Aldrick and her guilty cognition of the fact that she has affianced herself to Guy entirely for economic grounds. Lovelace continues to use paradoxes to to the full dramatise the ubiquitous economic tensenesss in Calvary Hill. For all of Diego Martin # 8217 ; s comparative asepsis # 8211 ; # 8220 ; the newness and sameness of everything # 8221 ; ( p. 227 ) # 8211 ; the streets of the Hill remain # 8220 ; the really backbones of emptiness # 8221 ; ( p. 143 ) , and Fisheye and his set of ill-affected warriors have small else to make but lounge at the Corner, keeping their organic structures # 8220 ; in that relaxed animation # 8221 ; ( p. 26 ) as they watch # 8220 ; the humdrum prosaic journeying of people ensnared in their day-to-day surviving, a ritual driven # 8230 ; set in gesture, # 8221 ; Lovelace writes, # 8220 ; by that most baronial and obscene ground: the married woman, the kids, the belly, the dorsum of the pes ; the demand to maintain maintaining on # 8221 ; ( p. 166 ) . It is easy discernible how maintaining on in such economic conditions is # 8220 ; baronial and obscen e # 8221 ; at the same clip. The oxymoron serves to increase the sense of pragmatism and, with it, the built-in poignancy for the predicament of the uprooted urban workers # 8211 ; even for Fisheye and his unemployed bullies. Frustration and choler # 8211 ; # 8220 ; an choler older than themselves # 8221 ; ( p. 164 ) # 8211 ; is the inevitable consequence, which manifest in the posturing and ultimate misdirected force of Fisheye and his set. With effortless narrative gait, Lovelace # 8217 ; s description of the set members # 8217 ; # 8220 ; tight humorless smiles # 8221 ; ( p.165 ) culminates in the # 8220 ; serious stupidity # 8230 ; the of import stupidity # 8221 ; ( p. 179 ) of their failed pseudo-revolution in Woodford Square. Finally, the racial biass which characterize the Hill are besides efficaciously dramatized in self-contradictory footings. Despite Miss Cleothilda # 8217 ; s excavate oxymoronic axiom, # 8220 ; All o # 8217 ; we is one # 8221 ; ( p. 14 ) , an foreigner like the Indian, Pariag, will neer be able to experience a human bond with the others in the Yard. Then once more, that is non entirely true ; merely paradoxes can accurately and adequately convey the urban truth. It is merely after the devastation of his bike that the Yard can see past Pariag # 8217 ; s race to his humanity ; Pariag feels this intimacy every bit good. However, with the culturally pluralistic ideal about in range, Lovelace translates the self-contradictory and practical world for the reader: Pariag # 8230 ; felt touched that they had recognized him # 8230 ; Yet, it pained him that they had recognized him merely at that minute when he was pulling off ; and this hurting brought a height to his walk, so that he was at that clip both closer to them and further from them. It would be across this distance and with this intimacy that they would see each other henceforth ( p. 155 ) . Even Fisheye will finally halt coercing # 8220 ; two shilling # 8221 ; from Pariag whenever Pariag base on ballss by him. But when a immature fellar says to him, # 8220 ; I didn # 8217 ; T know he was your friend, # 8221 ; Fisheye responds: # 8220 ; Get the degree Fahrenheit # 8211 ; out of here, who say he is my friend # 8221 ; ( p. 155 ) ? Of class Fisheye # 8217 ; s come back contradicts what he unconsciously feels inside, but it is declarative of that apparently unachievable end of non merely Trinidad and Tobago, but of all states # 8211 ; # 8220 ; Indian, Chinee, white, black, rich, hapless # 8221 ; ( p. 163 ) # 8211 ; that Pariag redefines, thought of Miss Cleothilda and her All o # 8217 ; we is one: # 8220 ; No. We didn # 8217 ; Ts have to run into one. I woulda be me for my ain ego. A get downing # 8230 ; # 8217 ; ( p. 224 ) . And Lovelace # 8217 ; s vision in The Dragon Can # 8217 ; t Dance provides merely that: a microcosmic beginning, pealing challenging, all-too-relevant truths about humanity from a universe of self-contradictions, through a limpid poesy of paradox. To borrow Lovelace # 8217 ; s ain words about Miss Cleothilda, his is arguably a novel of # 8220 ; brave and pious magnificence # 8221 ; ( p. 147 ) .

buy custom Comprehensive Mental Health Services essay

buy custom Comprehensive Mental Health Services essay Introduction The awareness of mental health needs of adolescents and children is increasing among health care specialists. Violence in schools, increased dropout rates, suicide and homicide tendencies, bullying, and high-risk behaviors are observed commonly across the United Kingdom and United States schools. The economic impact and human toll of insufficiently addressing mental health issues is extremely crucial because untreated mental abnormalities increase higher rates of children incarcerations, drug abuse, unemployment, school dropout, and family dysfunction. The proportion of school children, in which mental disorders are observed, has gone up from 8 percent to 22 percent over the past two decades.According to the United States Pediatric Report on juveniles mental health published in 2000,18 percent of school children require active mental health treatment, 12 percent show significant functional disorder, and 6 percent have severe functional disability. These data were extracted from the Institute of Mental Abnormalities in the United States school children (US Public Health Service, 2000). Current study attempts to seek how mental health services are developing as a strategy to resolve these issues by eliminating barriers to availing mental health interventions, and enhancing coordination of those treatments. The study also examines potential in the School-initiated mental health services for prevention efforts, and intervention strategies. Needless to mention that more than 70 percent of health physicians advocate the need of counseling and psychological facilities in school campus, which include interventions, referrals, and assessments.Schools play a powerful role in providing mental health treatment for many pupils.These mental health interventions range from minimal services offered by school pediatrics to a compact, integrated program of identification, prevention, and treatment within a school campus. Many schools in the United States have introduced comprehensive SBHC benefits for the benefit of children. There are now 1,200 SBHCs providing mental health servic es. Mental Health Services on School Campuses The optimal way to identify components of schools initiated mental health services is to examine a three-leveled health model of needs and services. The first level provides a set of health services for minor mental abnormalities. Activities in the first levelmodel should be ubiquitous so that all children can avail in the school campus. Preventive mental wellness programs are those, which focus on minimizing risk factors and building awareness, providing a friendly, positive, and social environment at school campus while ensuring that each pupil receives an encouragement from his or her family that associates with healthy development. A sense of pupil involvement in school activities renders positive influence on academic career and minimizes risky behaviors.For instance, schools must offer students extracurricular activities, multiple and varied curricular programs, thereby increasing the probability that each pupil will effort to be successful in some sphere of school life. The second level focuses on the targeted mental health interventions, which are created to help children, who have one or more mental health disorders, but their performance is quite satisfactory to engage in many academic, social, and other extracurricular activities. Second level services can include provision of individual therapy to students. Further, for students facing learning problems in education, as well as for those showing behavioral problems, this tier may include behavioral characteristics of these students, and specialized and individualized education programs may be designed that can eliminate these students behavioral problems. The third level of mental health services focuses on those students who are diagnosed with severe mental health disorders and symptoms. These children need treatment from a multidisciplinary professional team that usually includes an individual therapy, special education services, pharmacotherapy, and coordination of social agencies. Researches, so far, have not produced satisfactory results on the success of school-initiated mental health services models. Whereas, the Bridges Project model that uses the three-leveled model in schools has produced positive results with improved school grades and attendance, improved emotional and behavior rating scale (Brock, 2011). Preventive Strategies As school administrators design the first tier of mental health services (a compact program of mental health prevention), schools should provide active participation of pediatricians, nurses, primary social services, community agencies, and parents. The health program should offer: 1) collective opportunities for pupils to build resiliencee and resistance to different stresses; 2) discipline and behavior plans; and 3) mental health syllabus (violence and bullying prevention), which are included into health education curricula (Bruns, Walrath, Glass-Siegel, Weist, 2004). Discipline and behavior plans should be implemented in schools for acquainting consistent behavior consequences and expectations of all participants. School management should teach administrators and educators the following basic principles: 1) the vital characteristics of behavior management techniques; 2) diagnosis of mental health disorders at an early age; 3) creating a secured environment for students. Some schools prepare school nurses, teachers, and other staff to volunteer in student health improvement programs after school hours. Support staff also leads health care providers to assist children to express themselves to their parents within a comfortable, safe, and secured environment. Schools should develop multidisciplinary support teams, which will include nurses, mental health specialists, school staff, and physicians to review and design intervention strategies for children experiencing mental problems at school, as well as at home (Hussey Guo, 2003). Conclusion School-based mental care programs are increasingly gaining significance in most schools of the United States. These mental health services improve accuracy of diagnosis and treatment of children. One of the key challenges to offering mental health services to children is gaining information regarding behavior of students in different environments. Schools serve as a wealth of opportunities to obtain information on how students cope with social and physical stresses, on how well they perform in the academic context, and how they develop interpersonal relationship with teachers, and peers. Several challenges have been observed in providing mental health care at school campuses. First, mental health services should be rendered under the strict guidance of medical experts, such as a general physician, mental health specialists, and social welfare organizations. Otherwise, mental health problems may not be effectively diagnosed and students in need of health care services may be neglected . Second, mental health care must be included in school syllabus so that these medical services become an integral part of education curriculum. Finally, since parents play a vital role in mental health intervention for students, creative strategies must be designed to attract their participation in medical services, not simply parental consent. Buy custom Comprehensive Mental Health Services essay

Dells Supply Chain Management Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Dells Supply Chain Management - Case Study Example It also highlights the key issues or limitations of existing SCM process followed by Dell and recommends specific measures to prevent or overcome those limitations. Dell Inc ('Company') is a multinational technology company that offers a broad range of product categories, including computer desktop systems, servers and networking products, mobility products, software and peripherals and enhanced services. The Company has often been cited as one of the premier innovators in supply chain design and execution. Its demand-driven, outsourced operational model enabled it to achieve market domination, which then allowed it to dictate costs and standards to suppliers. This report is based on analysis of information available on the Company's website and publicly published reports. Supply chain management (SCM) is a comprehensive activity including management of the flow of materials, information, and funds across the entire supply chain, from suppliers to component producers to final assemblers to distributors, and ultimately to the consumer; including after-sales service and sales returns Johnson.(M. Eric & Pyke F. David 1999). In a global environment, firms have to deal with multiple suppliers and customers and are required to manage inventories in new and innovative ways. Various industrial researchers have stressed the importance of viewing SCM as an integrated system. With different methodologies of SCM implemented by various businesses in the same sector, it is more of a competition amongst the various methods of managing the supply chain for businesses, even those belonging to the same sector. SCM has generated much interest in recent years for a number of reasons. It has become crucial for businesses across sectors to realize that weak performance of one member of value chain could ultimately influence the profitability of the entire business. In this highly competitive business environment, cost of poor coordination between suppliers and customers can be extremely high. Especially in sectors characterized by fluctuating demand, a weak SCM can result in inefficient use of production, high transportation costs and high inventory costs. This cost increases as we move up the supply chain from consumer to distributor to producer, a phenomenon known as a 'Bullwhip Effect' (Johnson .M. Eric & Pyke F. David 1999). Similarly, an efficient SCM which is well integrated across the value chain of the business can provide a significant competitive advantage. On a broad level, supply chain management can be based on one of the two approaches; 'push approach' or 'pull approach'. The push system takes full benefit from economies of scale in production and input acquisition by producing optimal output size and then distributing to wholesalers and retailers (Papadakis 2002). On the other hand, pull approach is known for its adaptive efficiency and is applied by sectors where demand is highly volatile and technology is depreciated fast. According to the pull system, a value adding transformation takes place only after someone demands it, in a Just in Time (JIT) fashion, thereby inventory risk is minimized (Papadakis 2002). Dell has applied the pull system of supply chain mana

Causes of the Middle East Instability Since the End of the Second Essay

Causes of the Middle East Instability Since the End of the Second World War - Essay Example Firstly, the essay will discuss the fundamental concepts such as the working definition of the Middle East and the strategic importance of its geographical location. Â  The discussion shall proceed to the Israeli-Arab dispute and examine its origins and developments, and how these relate to the superpower intervention in the region, its advantages and disadvantages. Â  Thirdly, the role of oil exploration and exportation and the likely scenario in the economy shall be discussed. Â  Firstly, the essay will discuss the fundamental concepts such as the working definition of the Middle East and the strategic importance of its geographical location. Â  The discussion shall proceed to the Israeli-Arab dispute and examine its origins and developments, and how these relate to the superpower intervention in the region, its advantages and disadvantages. Â  Thirdly, the role of oil exploration and exportation and the likely scenario in the economy shall be discussed. Â   A particularly se nsitive discussion of terrorism follows, and the ties it holds to the region’s fundamentalist Islamic segment. Â  Part of the discussion shall be why terrorism should not be equated with Islam which decries the ends, means and methods taken by terrorists purportedly in the name of their faith. Â  Finally, the essay winds up with a closer look at patterns of conflict among the Middle East countries, and prospects that loom large in its future. Â  The conclusion assesses whether or not stability is likely for the Middle East. Because of the breadth of the study in the sheer number of topics to be discussed, deeper treatments of their implications will not be attempted here. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive picture of the Middle East, and how instability resulted from the developments in the past. 2. Definitions 2.1 What is the Middle East The Middle East is aptly named, because it is situated where the great continents of Africa, Asia, and Europe converge. While the countries of the Middle East are considered part of Asia, there are many aspects of the varied cultures in this area that combine aspects of the cultures of the three continents that surround it. There are varied opinions concerning which countries comprise the modern definition of the Middle East. Armenia and Azerbaijan, for instance, have historically been counted as Middle East countries, but because of the several interim contemporary developments, they have been accorded greater recognition as European countries, since their economic and political trends are more closely aligned with the greater Europe. The same is true for the former Russian republic of Georgia, and of Cyprus. On the other hand, there is some confusion as to whether Egypt should be counted among the

Why are we so fat Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Why are we so fat - Essay Example adults (33.8%) are obese and approximately 17% (or 12.5 million) of children and adolescents aged 2—19 years are obese† (U.S. Obesity Trends). Obesity is caused by excessive fat deposits in body. Lack of physical workouts, overeating, changing food habits, excessive fat contents in foods etc are some of the reasons for the increasing trends in obesity statistics. This paper tries to answer the question; why are we so fat? According to what’s known as the Expensive Tissue Hypothesis, early humans compensated for the energy used in their heads by cutting back on the energy used in their guts; as man’s cranium grew, his digestive tract shrank. This forced him to obtain more energy-dense foods than his fellow-primates were subsisting on, which put a premium on adding further brain power. The result of this self-reinforcing process was a strong taste for foods that are high in calories and easy to digest; just as it is natural for gorillas to love leaves, it is natural for people to love funnel cakes (Kolbert). One of the major reasons cited for the overweight related problems among Americans is the changes happening in the brain systems. It is a fact that brain is getting far more developed as time goes on. In other words, current generation has brain size much higher than that of the generations in the past. Thus brains of the current generation require more energy and for that purpose they consume more energetic foods. American medical association committed a serious blunder by asking the public to take only low fat food. â€Å"They failed to take into account that when people do that, they increase their carbohydrates. Slashing carbohydrates and sticking to protein (Why are We So Fat?). It should be noted that blocking of fatty foods not only prevented the ketosis process but also it caused increased hunger. Thus people started to eat more and more foods enriched with carbohydrates which resulted in overweight. Current Americans are c onsuming foods like pasta, potatoes, flour, cereal products, and bread more and more than the Americans in the past. These food items have low glucose contents and therefore a spike in insulin production may occur. Low blood sugar can increases hunger and appetite for food and the final outcome could be overweight. It is an accepted fact that Americans are enjoying the most lavish life styles in the world. Majority of the people in America may have their own vehicles and they use it for their traveling needs. In other words, Americans may not walk even a single kilometer if they wanted to go somewhere. Moreover, busy life styles prevented them from engaging in any physical work outs or playing some games. Majority of the leisure times are spent in front of the computers by the Americans. The increasing popularity of social networks and the availability of easy to use communication tools such as palmtop, laptop, tablet PCs, iPads, mobile phones etc are forcing the Americans to spend more time in front of the computer and internet. In short, mental or verbal exercises are increasing among Americans whereas physical exercises are decreasing. Thus, extra energy consumed through excessive foods may become deposited in the body rather than burning it out through physical exercises. The line between being in and out of energy balance is slight. Suppose you consume a mere 5 percent over a 2,000-calorie-a-day average. "That's just one hundred calories; it's a glass of apple juice," says Rudolph Leibel, head of molecular genetics at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. "But those few extra calories can mean a huge weight gain." Since one pound of body weight is roughly equivalent to 3,500 calories, that glass of juice adds up to an

Financial Analysis Tools for SMEs

Financial Analysis Tools for SMEs CHAPTER FIVE DISCUSSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS INTRODUCTION The SME sector development is seen as a key strategy for economic growth, job generation and poverty reduction (Agupusi, 2007:2). This study endeavored to explore and describe the financial performance measures currently used by manufacturing SMEs in Mauritius. It was undertaken due to the fact that many studies were conducted on obstacles faced by SMEs in obtaining finance, but it appeared that not enough were undertaken on how these SMEs manage their finances; whereas some studies found that small businesses fail because more often than not cash flow is not properly managed (Mbonyane, 2006:18). In this context the Z-score model is presented as a useful bankruptcy model for SME. This chapter concludes the research project by summarizing the previous chapters and highlighting the results of the empirical study in Chapter Four with respect to the objectives of the research. It also includes comments on the contribution and limitation of the study as well as recommendations and suggestions for future research. SUMMARY AND OVERVIEW OF THE RESEARCH Chapter One presented the background of the study, followed by problem statement, rationale and objectives of the research, a preliminary literature review, research methodology and layout of the Chapters. Chapter Two presented a literature review regarding SMEs and their role in the Mauritian Economy. It was shown that the development of a sound SME sector is a key factor in job creation and economic growth for Mauritius. Many obstacles were pointed out as causes of SME failure, including financial performance skills, which were the focus of this study. Moreover, an international comparative analysis was presented. A brief discussion of non-financial measures was given as well, followed by financial performance measures that included financial ratios and bankruptcy prediction models. Chapter Three presented the research plan including sampling, data collection, and data analysis. Chapter Four presented the results of the empirical research findings on financial performance measures currently used by manufacturing SMEs in Mauritius. Thematic content analysis was used in presenting the results, taking the themes in the literature of the topic as basis for comparison. Chapter Five is the final phase of the study and aims at using the information from the literature study and the empirical findings to provide solutions to manufacturing SMEs’ financial performance measurement according to the findings and through recommendations. DISCUSSIONS OF FINDINGS FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT The first objective of the study was to identify financial tools currently used by manufacturing SME’s in measuring their financial performance. This objective of the study was achieved during the field study with semi-structured interviews at SME premises that helped gather information on the financial performance measures used by each. The findings revealed the following ratios as the most widely used by respondents: Cash flow to total debt (used by six respondents); Current ratio (used by six respondents); Working capital to total assets (used by five respondents); Cash flow to average total current liabilities (used by five respondents); Gross profit margin ratio (used by four respondents); and Inventory turnover (used by four participants). Gross Profit Ratio The level of satisfaction was measured using a likert scale. The conversion of the 5- point Likert- type scale for the satisfaction with current financial performance scale to illustrate the total score was as follows: (not satisfied at all = 1 (1), not satisfied = 2 (2), somewhat satisfied = 3 (3), satisfied = 4 (4), very satisfied = 5 (5)). The higher the mean score indicates a higher level of satisfaction. Upon computing the mean for this scale,, it was found that the mean was 2.4000, this implies that there is a relative low level of satisfaction prevails with the owners of the SMEs concerning their current financial performance. It can be seen that all of the participants felt that measuring financial performance is important. However, despite the fact that measuring financial performance is important, none of the SMEs used a finance officer or an external consultant to evaluate their financial performance. It can be observed that financial ratios (100%) is the only used tool by the SMEs sampled as compared to tools such as Scoreboards (0%), the Bankruptcy Prediction Model (0%) and other models(0%). Based on the results of the analysis, it was found that even though the owners of the SME used financial ratios, only 39 percent of them found the ratios to be useful in helping to improve their financial performance. BANKRUPTCY PREDICTION MODEL The use of bankruptcy prediction models (another financial tool in the literature) was totally absent among the respondents. In fact, almost all the participant SMEs knew nothing or very little about bankruptcy prediction models. The limited use of ratios and non use of bankruptcy prediction models raises the issue of objective number two which is to recommend necessary improvements on financial performance measurement of SMEs which will be part of the recommendations. Also, the lack of knowledge of bankruptcy prediction models by interviewees at different SMEs may necessitate relevant training for the financial officers of SMEs; that is the issue of objective number three of the study, which will be part of the recommendations section as well. The last objective of the study was to recommend necessary improvements on financial performance measures used by manufacturing SMEs. The study found that most manufacturing SMEs used financial ratios to measure their financial performance, but to a very limited extent. Very few ratios were used by individual SMEs and most of the ratios used were not the best indicators mentioned in the literature. Though, some of the interviewees acknowledged that they need to use more ratios. This objective will be part of the recommendation section below. Another objective of the study was to recommend necessary training interventions that would be needed for manufacturing SMEs’ successful financial performance measurement. The research findings indicated that none of the respondents used any of the available bankruptcy prediction models; whereas it was proven in the literature that the models could be used successfully by SMEs as well as big businesses. SMEs could use the models not necessarily for predicting failure, but as a tool to constantly assess how they are doing financially so as to take necessary measures anytime they feel threatened. It was found that most of the respondents knew nothing or very little about the models, and it seemed quite obvious that relevant training is needed. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY These results can only be seen as a trend and further studies need to be conducted for any attempt at generalization. For this study for example, either emails were not responded to at all, or potential participants kept postponing, suggesting that the researcher call the following week. In the end, respondents had to be approached at their business premises and requested to participate. It is costly if it is taken into account that many SMEs would decline to participate, but works better as procedure; and should be considered in future studies. Also, it was noticed that more small businesses (70%) participated in the study because most medium business that were approached declined the invitation. Therefore, for a bigger study that would seek to generalize the results, researchers should endeavor to have a more balanced number between small and medium businesses that participate. There was very limited literature on the topic of financial performance of SMEs as well. This resulted on the study having to be built on theory. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that SMEs use more ratios, especially those in the literature study (Chapter Two) as improvement of their financial performance measures. SMEs should probably consider the use of the six most used ratios as summarized in section 5.3 above, since they seem to be working well not only for the majority of participants, but for businesses in general. It is also recommended that SMEs owners/ managers request and enroll their financial staff for training on bankruptcy prediction models at relevant institutions such as universities. The few models presented in this study may be used by SMEs as well, since they are simple and cheap, and should not pose problems to trained financial staff. Another recommendation would be for those SMEs that can afford it, to try the use of specialized software (e.g. PASTEL or PRO ACC5), which were indicated as effective by the few participants who use them. The SMEs would be able to use ratios that are computed from the software. The Z Score is also a critical business tool managers utilize to make informed business decisions to improve the financial health of the business. The Z Score helps managers assess the factors contributing to poor financial health. Z Score factors that contribute to under-performance; working capital, earnings retention, profitability and leverage can be isolated. This enables managers to initiate actions to improve the score of these factors contributing to financial distress. Targeting actions to specific under-performing stress factors allows managers to make capital allocation decisions that mitigate principal risk factors and produce optimal returns. Focus areas for managers to improve Z Score are transactions that effect earnings/ (losses), capital expenditures, equity and debt transactions. The Z Score provides a quantitative measurement into a company’s financial health. The Z Score highlights factors contributing to a company’s financial health and uncovers emerging trends that indicate improvements or deterioration in financial condition. The Z Score is a critical tool business managers use to assess financial health. It helps managers align business strategies with capital allocation decisions and provide transparency of financial condition to lenders and equity capital providers. Business managers use the Z Score to raise capital and secure credit. The Z Score is an effective tool to demonstrate credit worthiness to bankers and soundness of business model to investors. The Z Score is based on actual financial information derived from the operating performance of the business enterprise. It avoids biases of subjective assessments, conflicts of interest, brand and large company bias. The Z Score employs no theoretical assumptions or market inputs external to the company’s financial statements. This provides users of the Z Score with a consistent view and understanding of a company’s true financial health. SMEs should have proper financial planning. They should undertake both financing and investment program according to financial planning. SMEs should keep all records of financial transactions in a system way. This will provide accurate accounting and financial information for making both routine and non-routine managerial decisions by the management of SMEs. This will also enable lending agencies to conduct credit risk analysis; and rating agency to carry out the rating job for the SMEs. SMEs should introduce internal audit to restore effective financial control in the SMEs. SMEs need to have an effective management system as well as skilled manpower. This is expected to exert a positive influence in efficiency as well as productivity of SMEs. Good culture in the firm develops leadership in the organization who can be able to trace the financial distress early and thereby prevent SMEs from the exposition to financial and operating risk. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH Further research could be conducted on a wider scale in an attempt to generalize the findings to manufacturing SMEs in Mauritius; and in different regions of Mauritius. Further research could also be done to determine whether the findings of the study are consistent across different sectors. Financial performance measurement of larger enterprises could be another subject of study as well. CONCLUSION It is fair to say that, contrary to what one may think, many manufacturing SMEs (with respect to the number of studied SMEs) in Mauritius, use financial ratios (one of the financial tools in the literature study) to measure their financial performance. Though, this use of ratios by the studied SMEs is limited, because only a few ratios are being used by the respondents. Yet again, out of the ratios used, few are among those in the literature that were found to be the best financial measures or good financial distress predictors. None of the respondents used any of the available bankruptcy prediction models. In fact, most of the respondents knew nothing or very little about the models. Some of the participants have opted for the use of computer software and are getting satisfying results from them. Although most of the respondents have performed fairly well so far, to improve their financial performance, SMEs should use more of the recognized ratios identified in this study. Six ratio s were identified to be widely used by the various SMEs interviewed, and because most of the respondents indicated that their financial performance has been satisfying (even though some said there is a need to improve), these ratios should be taken into consideration. SMEs need also to train their financial staff on other financial tools such bankruptcy prediction models that are quite easy to use. It was also pointed out in the literaturereview that ratio analysis and bankruptcy prediction models (since they consist of a group of ratios with variables of different weights) have their shortcomings as well. Therefore they should only be used as an indication. This study will contribute toward filling the gap in the literature of SME financial performance measurement; and if taken seriously by SMEs, will help them in effective financial performance measurement by drawing attention to the various tools that are available to them for that purpose and the necessity of training financial staff on various measures as well.

Case Study of The Prodigy :: GCSE Projects History Music Band Essays

Case Study of The Prodigy My task in this case study is to write about a band/artist that has reached public prominence in the last 10 years within the u.k and that have also had at least one top 20 single within the u.k singles chart. Their music must be completely original and they must have produced at least 1 hit album. The band I am about to write about in this case study is the Dance/Rap band whom some people call the techno terrorists, The Prodigy. Early History The Prodigy consisted of 5 original members, 2 dancers, 1 DJ and 2 M.C.s, however before these 5 met the Prodigy didn’t exist and only was a thought inside the DJ and musical genius Liam Howlett’s head. Howlett was certainly the musical force behind the Prodigy sound. He was born in 1974 in Braintree in Essex. He was educated in music as a classical piano player. As he grew older he began to listen to early ska and punk and by secondary school Liam had become very much attracted to the hip-hop scene and listened to bands like Grand master flash and Run Dmc. Only a few years later, still very much influenced by hip-hop, Liam had saved up enough cash to by two decks or turntables and became the DJ for a rap band called â€Å"Cut to Kill†. The band eventually secured a record contract with a record company named â€Å"Tam Tam records†. Yet the record deal excluded Liam, despite the fact that the band used one of his tracks to win the contract. After this betrayal Liam left the band, started to loose faith in the rap scene and started to look for brighter more promising areas in music. While Liam was DJ-ing in the hip-hop scene, a new wave of illegal music had taken to the underground scene – Acid House. This used technology to create fast and powerful head stimulating beats that could never be simulated or created by human beings. The only way to experience this sort of music was to go to large illegal warehouse parties that eventually formed the foundation for what is now known as a rave. Liam’s first experience of this was at a place called the barn in Rayne, he thought it was the best thing he had ever been to and even begin DJ-ing at some of these illegal underground events. This was then where Liam met dancer Leroy Thornhill and singer/dancer Keith Flint.