Will The World Starve Essays - Population, Environmental Issues

Will the World Starve? Looking out a window upon a barren desert, a dry wasteland unfolds as a carpet to nowhere. Abandoned cities dot the horizon, as the ruins speak volumes to the once populated extravagance of a country which lived on wealth and opportunity. The vision just described is not one out of a Hollywood movie script, but one that is not only possible but probable. Currently, the world population numbers over six billion, with China alone cradling over one-sixth of the world's total population. With the world population increasing at a rate of one hundred million a year, the numbers are expected to hit ten billion by the end of 2040. Most scientists agree that the maximum number of people that the earth can sustain is fifteen billion, leaving the earth in a quandary before the end of the twenty-first century when the total world population is expected to reach a staggering sixteen to eighteen billion. The consumption of the world's natural resources due to this exponential growth could result in worldwide famine, a complete breakdown in the world market, uncontrollable outbreaks of disease, and widespread crime and disorder. Currently, the ratio of land which can be used for agricultural endeavors is estimated to be one in nine acres. The world's produce producer is only a small sliver of a total land mass apple pie sliced into nine equal, yet tiny slices and as the amount of soil suitable for agriculture dwindles, the slice with which the world relies on continues to shrink. Considering the little amount of available farmland, it should be expected that there would be more of an effort to conserve this vital resource, but unfortunately the issue has not yet risen to a level of global importance. The amount of fertile topsoil is becoming more and more unusable for agriculture. Water, used for the irrigation of the world's life giving crops, contains naturally dissolved minerals and over time the minerals from the irrigated water supply collect in the topsoil. After many years of constantly farming a particular region, the soil begins to become less and less fertile. This process, known as salinization, has affected many of the farms around the world. Once this process is complete, the soil becomes totally useless for any kind of farming. Over long periods of time, salinization, combined with the erosion of the topsoil due to wind and rain, starts to cause the world's farmlands to exponentially dissipate. Ethiopia is a prime example of how salinization, combined with overgrazing and erosion, has affected every aspect of the economy. Food shortages, lack of domestic trade products, and low incomes for farmers and agricultural workers are all bi-products of a land ravaged by overuse and abuse. With the people scrambling to find a quick fix solution to this problem that has been building for decades, the economy along with the people's only domestic food source, is slipping further and further into a seemingly unrecoverable disaster. The earth's industry is expected to produce enough manufactured materials to support the world's current six billion people. The list of finished products includes food (from agriculture), clothes and all other luxuries which most of the world has become accustomed. If most scientists are correct, the maximum capacity of which the world can sustain is estimated to be fifteen billion people. Maximum capacity is described as the amount of people that can be sustained without causing a complete breakdown in society. Numerous scientists have speculated that many of the world's natural resources used to support current life such as clean water and air, gasoline, oil, and even coal will almost be completely depleted up by the end of the century. With decimated natural resources, a lack of topsoil, and a completely over-populated planet, anthropologists have agreed that the end of the century, if not before, will culminate in a complete breakdown of industry in the world market. With this extinction of resources looming, it is obvious that new methods of energy and topsoil conservation need to be discovered. Speculation has been made that it is too late to turn back the dependence which humans have developed for natural resources. How can anyone be expected to turn away from their gas-powered cars and their electric houses? If, however, the current rate of consumption continues, then there is no doubt what the future will hold. Since 1950 half of the world's trees have been cut down and every day six square acres of rain forest are lost to the hum of a

Types of Bankruptcy

Types of Bankruptcy Introduction Bankruptcy refers to a federal court process in which repayment arrangements are made to allow an insolvent debtor to clear the outstanding debts. Bankruptcy is often declared when a company or an individual is so deep into debt that starting afresh is the only reasonable option. This paper compares and contrasts the five types of bankruptcy proceedings.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Types of Bankruptcy specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Different Types of Bankruptcy The first type of bankruptcy is referred to as liquidation. It can be accessed by individuals, matrimonial couples or business partners. The group or individual seeking to apply for this bankruptcy proceeding must first attend an interview conducted by an agent of a credit counseling agency. The agent is obliged to appear in court during the bankruptcy proceedings. Unlike the other types of bankruptcy, the applicant is delegated a trustee wh o is expected to oversee the selection of assets that are to be excluded from the bankruptcy. Apart from the assets selected for exemption, the remaining assets are to be sold, and the proceeds used to settle the outstanding debts. The second type of bankruptcy involves municipalities that want to adjust their debts. It is contained in chapter nine of the United States bankruptcy code. This type of bankruptcy is different from the rest because it only is suited for municipalities. Municipalities in this respect include towns, cities, school districts, and counties. The third type of bankruptcy applies to business corporations and is referred to as reorganization. Unlike in liquidation where a trustee is allocated, this type of bankruptcy allows the corporation to design its own restoration plans. These plans for reformation can comprise measures that try to restore the productivity of the company, consolidate debt and begin repayment. Unlike liquidation, the reorganization type of b ankruptcy does not seek to purge all arrears immediately. On the contrary, a suitable payment plan is formulated to enable the business to keep all or most of its essential assets while paying its debts. The strategy for reorganization is ultimately ratified or dismissed by the court. The fourth type of bankruptcy involves fishermen and family farmers who have access to regular sources of income. Unlike liquidation, the applicant does not lose any of his assets.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The applicant is instead allowed to repay his debts out of his prospective earnings. A debt repayment plan is designed in a format that the applicant can observe. This bankruptcy is similar to the fifth type of bankruptcy since the debtor is allowed to design a plan for repayment in both cases. It is similar to liquidation with respect to the concept that a trustee is allocat ed to oversee the repayment. The fifth type of bankruptcy covers individuals who are not necessarily fishermen or farmers, but who must have regular sources of income. It resembles the previous type of bankruptcy since both types deal with people who have regular sources of income. However, unlike the previous, this type of bankruptcy is not restricted to specific professions. Like in liquidation, a credit counselor must be consulted. However, in this case, the work of the counselor is to establish the applicant’s ability to restructure his own debt payment plan. The fifth type of bankruptcy compares with the fourth and third since they all allow the applicants to retain their assets. Unlike liquidation, the insolvents do not acquire instantaneous absolution from debts. Conclusion There are five different types of bankruptcy outlined in the United States bankruptcy code. These types of bankruptcy apply to different individuals and companies and vary according to income, profe ssion and level of debt. It is advisable that each individual or organization examines the different bankruptcy types before settling on one.

Calibrating a pressure gauge using an air-operated dead-weight pressure gauge tester for air gauges

Calibrating a pressure gauge using an air-operated dead-weight pressure gauge tester for air gauges INTRODUCTION: Calibrationis the set of operations that establish the relationship between the values of quantities indicated by a measuring instrument and the corresponding values realized by standards. The result of a calibration allows for the determination of corrections to be made with regards to the indicated values. It may also help in determining other metrological properties such as the effect of influence quantities. The results of a calibration are usually documented and referred to as calibration certificate or a calibration report. Necessary adjustments are made to the instrument after calibration so that it always indicates readings corresponding to given values of the quantity measured. When the instrument is made to give a null indication corresponding to a null value of the quantity to be measured, the set of operation is called zero adjustment . The Calibration Process The first thing to consider in calibrating an instrument is its design. In order to be able to cal ibrate an instrument, the design of the instrument has to be capable of measurements that are â€Å"withinengineering tolerance† when used within certain conditions and over a reasonable period of time. The criteria used for assigning tolerance values vary according to regions and according to type of industry. Manufacturers of instruments assign a general measurement tolerance and suggest the calibration interval as well as the optimum environment for use and storage of the instrument. The user of the instrument on the other hand assigns the actual calibration interval, on the instrument’s likely usage level. For example, if a manufacturer states that an instrument needs to be calibrated after usage for 8-12 hours of use 5 days per week is six months, that same instrument in 24/7 usage would generally get a shorter interval. The assignment of calibration intervals can be a formal process based on the results of previous calibrations. Calibration process versus cost G enerally, the process of calibrating an instrument is a difficult and expensive one. As a rule of thumb, the cost for ordinary equipment support is generally about 10% of the purchasing cost of the instrument on a yearly basis. Exotic devices such asscanning electron microscopes,gas chromatographsystems andlaserinterferometerdevices can be even more expensive to calibrate. When the instruments being calibrated are integrated with computers, the integrated computer programs and any calibration corrections are also under control. The calibration paradox Successful calibration has to be consistent and systematic. At the same time, the complexity of some instruments requires that only key functions be identified and calibrated. Under those conditions, a degree of randomness is needed to find unexpected deficiencies. Even the most routine calibration requires a willingness to investigate any unexpected observation. Theoretically, anyone who can read and follow the directions of a calibra tion procedure can perform the work. It is recognizing and dealing with the exceptions that is the most challenging aspect of the work. This is where experience and judgement are called for and where most of the resources are consumed. THEORY Principles of Operation Of Dead Weight Testers Pressure is defined as force per unit area i.e.

To what extent does political participation reflect a bias in favor of Essay

To what extent does political participation reflect a bias in favor of the privileged - Essay Example This is particularly reflected in political participation. Inherent Inequality Ideally, political exercise is open to all. The constitution and the collective laws of any democratic government ensure this. Here, most people are eligible to seek public office or be involved in electing people to public positions. For some communities, even those who do not know how to read and right are not excluded to participate. Unfortunately, the electoral process in democracies today is characterized by competition, wherein political participation is â€Å"circumscribed by unequal access to both resources and the decision-making process.†1 Equality would have been easier to practice in the brand of direct democracy adopted in Greece, wherein all citizens are entitled a voice in policymaking. But the circumstance today – one about political participation through representation – is radically different. The rules and dynamics of choosing representatives are no longer as straigh tforward as those in the past. Resources are needed in order to get represented and this aspect tilts the balance to those who have more than others. This is highlighted by the predomination of individuals and private enterprises in political exercises with their capability to influence all policy networks. Elitism In the United States, political representation is especially biased towards the elite. The manner in which individuals are elected, demonstrates a process wherein the privileged enjoy extreme advantage. For example, there are no laws that regulate private expenditures for partisan political purposes. The system currently treats private funding in the American elections as part of the egalitarian value of freedom to support the candidate of one’s choice. The argument is that when one restricts the use of money, it is tantamount to restricting the rights to liberty and free speech. This is demonstrated in the way candidates in the US can buy advertising airtime in th e media. Private money in this instance is translated into a very important political resource, severely disadvantaging those individuals and parties that do not have the means or cannot raise them in time. Chapman classified the privileged between the socio-economic elite and the political elite. She explained that the latter tend be dominated by the former and that in most likelihood property, income, occupation and education are those that would render people from this class more likely to enter politics.2 Another variable that underscore the bias of the current democratic political participation in the US is the conservative view on politics. This is manifested best by the American Electoral College system, wherein popular vote is disregarded in favor of certain groups and individuals. The Founding Fathers of the American Constitution were known to have noted the fickleness and selfishness of the masses and, hence, entrusted the power to elect the American President in the hands of the learned and the capable. This is rationalized, wrote Sullivan, Piereson and Marcus, by the idea that universal transformation of human nature is too much to expect and that political representation should be given only to the virtuous or the â€Å"more highly educated and more responsible segments of the public.†3 And so when Al Gore won the popular election, George W. Bush was elected

Crosscultural communication and classroom ecology Essay

Crosscultural communication and classroom ecology - Essay Example Prhps surprisingly, it dos not mn trting ll qully. For xmpl, qulity of opportunity will not ncssrily b nsurd if thos who spk nglish s thir scond or third lngug r ssssd qully ginst thos who spk it s thir first nd only lngug. Th formr my nd dditionl cr nd tching if ssssmnt ginst othrs in thir yr is to hold mning. In this rspct, simply rmoving obstcls from th pth of ll studnts my not b nough to provid ll with qulity of opportunity. Positiv ction (somtims rfrrd to s 'positiv discrimintion') my b ncssry. This involvs crting th circumstncs in which qulity of opportunity cn xist, rthr thn lving it to chnc. For physiclly- disbld studnt, prcticl chngs to th school nvironmnt r ndd (such s rmps instd of stps). pupil struggling with ttntion dficit disordr cn find this disdvntg diminishd or limintd if thy r std s clos to th tchr s possibl nd surroundd by positiv rol modls. For clssroom tchrs, thr r fw qustions tht cn b focusd on priodiclly to bring ttntion to th issu of qul opportunitis. Th gol is not to work slvishly to th nd for qulity of opportunity but to dvlop nturl instinct for 'sussing out' whn pupils my b indvrtntly disdvntgd. This might b rsult of th work you hv skd thm to do or of thir intrctions in your clssroom. W ll hv prjudics - it's prt of intrcting with humns. But bing wr of your prjudics prvnts thm from dominting, or dvrsly ffcting, your tching). Cn you think of tim whn you hv unintntionlly discrimintd ithr for or ginst pupil Think bout your prsnttion to clsss, th rsourcs you us nd th tsks you xpct of pupils. Cn you think of circumstncs in your lssons whn ll pupils would hv flt prticulrly mpowrd Might thr hv bn occsions whn som my hv flt dismpowrd Wht fctors might hv contributd to this Is thr vidnc of bullying or 'scpgoting' in your clss(s) r you ctivly bl to promot inclusion (Mlon,2005) Hv you vr tlkd to your pupils bout how thy viw qul opportunitis in your clssroom Dpnding on th g of thos you tch, this cn b n xtrmly ffctiv wy of gining insight into wht it's ctully lik bing tught by you. Do thy hv n id of wht it mns to b discrimintd ginst Tll thm how importnt it is tht thy fl includd nd providd for. Your profssionl judgmnt will tll you if thir viws hv bn distortd. Non of this involvs bcoming so proccupid with nsuring qulity of opportunity tht th tsk in hnd (i.. tching) gts nglctd. It is bout bing wr, nd bout mking subtl chngs in prctic whn ncssry. Th widr pictur of your tching nd not b ffctd. ftr ll, you lon cnnot b rsponsibl for qul opportunitis in your school. But your wrnss of th issu could mk ll th diffrnc to th pupils in your cr. Th thnic mk-up of our ntion hs chngd, nd th mk-up of our univrsitis hs chngd, too. W hv mor intrntionl studnts, nd our domstic studnts r vrid in thnic, socil, conomic, rligious nd culturl bckgrounds. Our job s tchrs is to hlp ll studnts lrn, to mk th clssroom whr ll studnts fl wlcom, rspctd, qully bl to prticipt, firly trtd. It is vry importnt to mk ll studnts fl wlcom.In th minuts bfor clss bgins you cn crt informl xchngs with studnts tht mk thm fl lss nrvous or isoltd.B sur to mk prsonl contct with studnts from undrrprsntd groups so tht thy know thy r noticd nd wlcom.B xplicit with your clss tht you pprcit th divrsity of th studnt body.void trms tht cn sm to b drogtory or slurring.It is vitl to trt studnts s individuls.Don't strotyp studnts nd don't ssum tht womn won't do wll in mth or tht mn don't lik potry or tht thlts rn't intrstd in cdmics.Don't ssum tht studnts from

Family Practices Essay Example for Free

Family Practices Essay Parents have the big responsibility of rearing their children in the best way they can. They have a lot of investment towards their children to bring them up in the most righteous way. Parents impart knowledge, values and even some of their known practices which they grew up with. There are so many common practices imparted to us by our parents. These practices revolve maybe on simple things such as eating together during dinner and saying a prayer before we sleep. Our family believes in the power of herbal medicine that would be able to heal our illnesses. Herbal medicines are kind of medicines that come from plants (Bupa’s Health Information Team, 2007). An herb is a plant that is commonly used because of its flavor, scent and medicinal properties. Many of these herbs are processed and are available in the market is various forms such as tablets, capsules, teas, etc. but there are still some herbal medicine that may cause threat is people’s health. Some may cause health problems and some may not interact well with other drugs (â€Å"Herbal Medicine†, 2009). The Western hemisphere has long abandoned the used of the herbal medicines due to the advancement of technology and healthcare that is able to provide a single medicine that will cure illnesses. Many people, professional and lay individuals, do not know that plants may be able to provide useful health benefits. The benefits of the plants are in the form of alternative and complementary medicines and many people consider it as irrelevant part of folk times (Ernst, 2000). This nontraditional health practice has been passed on my family through generations. Not only able to preserve our family solidarity but our health as well. References Bupa’s Health Information Team. (2007, August). Herbal Medicine. Bupa. Retrieved January 20, 2009 from http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/html/herbal_medicine.html. Ernst, E. (2000). Herbal Medicine: A Concise Overview for Professionals. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann. Herbal Medicine. (2009, January 13). Medline Plus. Retrieved January 20, 2009 from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/herbalmedicine.html.

Gawain :: Essays Papers

Gawain Passage Analysis An anonymous author around the fourteenth century wrote Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. The story is set in the time of King Arthur and deals with two major plot devices that are common in such tales: the beheading contest between Gawain and the green knight and the attempted seduction of Gawain by the lady. The passage contained in lines 928-993 occurs shortly after the lord of the castle invites Gawain into his home and offers him a meal. The section focuses on the introduction of the lady who will later try to tempt Sir Gawain to sin. The author describes her in such ravishing splendor that the reader can imagine how hard it would be to resist her advances. The hag by her side is also introduced here as a direct contrast to the lady. In this way, the lady's and the hag's respective physical characteristics are further enhanced by the presence of each other. Similar to other stories written in this period, the hag in this story has magical elements that are not revealed until much later. The lady of the castle comes to Gawain only after dinner and prayers are attended to by herself and her lord for she "Longed to look on the knight"(Norton, 222). Prior to her appearance, the lady has been secluded away in the church closet with her maids. From the very first words written about her, she is described as a very attractive person. The author goes on to describe her hair, face, and manner of dress, all of which only lend more brilliance to this vision. The passage is a testament to her comeliness and will later be important in the story since it sets the foundation for the obvious attraction Gawain feels towards this woman from whom "He claims a comely kiss, and courteously he speaks; / They welcome him warmly, and straightaway he asks / To be received as their servant, if they so desire"(222). The lady later admonishes Gawain the next morning when he fails to kiss her as a chivalrous knight should. The lady's appearance is only enhanced by the presence of the hag at her side. The magical element of the hag has also been introduced in such other literary works as "The Wedding of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnell" and in "The Wife of Bath's Tale" in Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. In each of these stories, the hag turns out to be something other than what she seems. Gawain :: Essays Papers Gawain Passage Analysis An anonymous author around the fourteenth century wrote Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. The story is set in the time of King Arthur and deals with two major plot devices that are common in such tales: the beheading contest between Gawain and the green knight and the attempted seduction of Gawain by the lady. The passage contained in lines 928-993 occurs shortly after the lord of the castle invites Gawain into his home and offers him a meal. The section focuses on the introduction of the lady who will later try to tempt Sir Gawain to sin. The author describes her in such ravishing splendor that the reader can imagine how hard it would be to resist her advances. The hag by her side is also introduced here as a direct contrast to the lady. In this way, the lady's and the hag's respective physical characteristics are further enhanced by the presence of each other. Similar to other stories written in this period, the hag in this story has magical elements that are not revealed until much later. The lady of the castle comes to Gawain only after dinner and prayers are attended to by herself and her lord for she "Longed to look on the knight"(Norton, 222). Prior to her appearance, the lady has been secluded away in the church closet with her maids. From the very first words written about her, she is described as a very attractive person. The author goes on to describe her hair, face, and manner of dress, all of which only lend more brilliance to this vision. The passage is a testament to her comeliness and will later be important in the story since it sets the foundation for the obvious attraction Gawain feels towards this woman from whom "He claims a comely kiss, and courteously he speaks; / They welcome him warmly, and straightaway he asks / To be received as their servant, if they so desire"(222). The lady later admonishes Gawain the next morning when he fails to kiss her as a chivalrous knight should. The lady's appearance is only enhanced by the presence of the hag at her side. The magical element of the hag has also been introduced in such other literary works as "The Wedding of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnell" and in "The Wife of Bath's Tale" in Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. In each of these stories, the hag turns out to be something other than what she seems.

Metapath Case Report Essay

1. PURPOSE The purpose of this briefing note is to provide recommendations for Metapath Software Corp. (â€Å"Metapath†) on its financing offers received in September 1997. These two offers came from 1) a fund consortium led by Robertson Stephens Omega Fund (â€Å"RSC†) and Technology Crossover Ventures (â€Å"TCV†) and 2) CellTech Communications (â€Å"CellTech†), a vendor of wireless technology which had recently gone IPO. 2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Metapath has made good progress in developing its business since its inception – generating $6.4m revenue in the September quarter of 1997 with representation of three large customers. However, with the ambition to win a good chance of IPO within the next two years, more capital needed to be raised to gain traction in customer acquisition and smooth out current quarter-to-quarter revenues. Metapath has received two offers as at September 1997 and they are discussed as follows: RSC and TCV consortium offered to buy $11.75 million of stock at a $76 million pre-money valuation (â€Å"Series E Preferred†). The proposed stock instrument was a participating convertible stock (â€Å"PCPT†). This instrument functions the same as the convertible preferred stock in the event of a qualified public offering whereas in the event of a sale, RSC and TCV consortium not only receives the face value of the consideration, but also gets the equity participation. CellTech offered Met apath’s shareholders to receive common stock at closing in CellTech at $115 million. 3. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMS The problems associated with the offers from RSC and TCV consortium are listed as follows: Proposed stock instrument is extremely dilutive to the founders in the event of a sale where the liquidity preference will reduce  the amount of funds available to the other four tranches from previous investments. If the Metapath goes public, the percentage of ownership for C & D tranches will be further diluted, after RSC and TCV consortium exercises its liquidity preference. The problems associated with the offers from CellTech are listed as follows: CellTech’s liquidity and financing issues. Strategic/Business fit between CellTech and Metapath. 4. ANALYSIS Comparing the term sheet of the offer from RSC and TCV consortium to that of CellTech, RSC and TCV’s PCPT had a much more dilutive impact to Metapath upon exit. Under liquidation, the term sheet stipulates that the Series E investors is entitled to claim its initial investment of $10.75 million plus any accrued but unpaid dividend. Any proceeds after this claim will then be distributed to all common and Series E Preferred shareholders on an as-converted pro-rata basis. This double dipping means that RSC will not only recover its initial investment of $5 millions, but also enjoys the convertible benefits. As a result, if the sale occurs before 2000, the profitability for A-D tranches will be negatively impacted by the ‘preferred’ characteristic in the Series E. However if the sale occurs after 2000, A and B tranches will be gradually redeemed on an annual basis, which will leave C and D tranches to be mostly impacted adversely by the preferred characteristic in the Series E stock. Under the circumstance of an IPO, tranches C, D and E will convert to common at their negotiated prices while A & B will be redeemed. However, on the flip side, the price offered by RSC and TCV consortium was $6, which was significantly higher than the first three rounds of financing (tranches A,B and C) at $1.05 and final round (tranche D) at $1.62. PCPT instrument was created to enable the consortium to mitigate the risks in the event of a sale/liquidation that would be of the founders’ interests and  value destroying. CellTech’s valuation of $115 million was certainly attractive for a company like Metapath with a revenue run rate of $25.6 million. However, this represents approximately 30% of the totally capitalisation. The willingness from CellTech to sacrifice such a large amount of capital indicates that either CellTech genuinely believed that Metapath would contribute significantly to the synergies to the NewCo or there could be asymmetric information hidden from the management. It signalled CellTech’s underlying business might have limited upside. This issue needs to be further investigated if offer is accepted from CellTech. In addition, CellTech’s balance sheet indicated ongoing liquidity and financing risks. As we can see from the table below, the company continued to face liquidity pressure where its cash ratio and quick ratio deteriorated over the course from 1995 to 1997. CellTech had six consecutive quarters operating loss, which indicated that its unhealthy operating cash flow ratio. Doubts were raised whether CellTech was a good strategic fit to Metapath’s business model. This is due to the fact that CellTech’s products were mostly hardware-based and installed in the field with cellular base stations, whereas Metapath’s products largely consisted of software running on standard server platforms in the wireless switching office. The only benefit gauged regarding this point was that some of CellTech’s engineers could potentially be useful to Metapath’s development group. 5. CONCLUSIONS The recommendation for Metapath is to take the offer from RSC and TCV consortium. Even though CellTech has performed well since the IPO and bullish views from the stock analysts, its potential information asymmetry issues and liquidity risk could harm the value of Metapath post acquisition. The limited strategic fit is also of our concern, which might constrain Metapath’s growth potential. With our ambition to lead Metapath to IPO, we see RSC and TCV consortium as a better fit in this case. Tranches A and B’s  interests will be protected through their initial capital structures. Tranches C and D’s interests will be diluted; however it enables Metapath to continue its growth momentum with limited downside.

The Role of Strategic Leadership

Over time the concept of leadership has changed. In a contemporary learning environment, leadership has demonstrated the need to overcome recurring challenges to allow room for the development of great qualities that make up an effective leader. Not everyone can be in leadership positions; however, as aspiring young leaders develop a new comprehensive and collaborative framework they will improve their leadership practice. This is not to say that they will be effective leaders.I feel that experience is key in many ways because through the leadership simulation it has allowed me to evolve and improve on the whole concept of the responsibility of being and effective leader. Throughout my years in education I saw many schools experiencing the need for improvement in as far as leadership is concerned. The principles of leadership simulation continue to enhance leadership growth and development in the 21st century. We now know what the role of a leader is about.Many times I felt, from pas t experience in dealing with more then one administrator, that we have always lacked this one thing; that is, effective communication. Participating in the simulation period has really allowed me to be more open to suggestion during my quest for more leadership experience. I have weak points that I need to address. However, being in athletics has made me more tolerant and more outspoken. In addition, I still need to learn a few things about leadership because there is always room for improvement.Throughout my experience while taking this leadership course I have learnt that leadership revolves around the central role of providing problem solution in order to achieve set objectives. It gave me a clear understanding of the unique styles of different types of leaders as well as learning the type of leader I am. In my experience through the simulation periods I felt there was a need for each participant to be involved as much as possible. This would allow them to grow as individuals thr ough people they don’t know and never seen.Even though we all had different theories of how things should have been done I felt that we accomplished a lot together. My understanding of the leadership course is that it demonstrates the general concept of the leadership framework. Leadership framework that offers problem-based experience that engages participants in addressing real world problems and situations in a learning environment. I know that principals and school leaders are expected to encourage critical, creative and strategic thinking in an environment that is collaborative.I am aware of strategic pedestal that leaders use to influence the effects on the school success. This will only through creative analysis of strategic base within the limits of school policy as well as solving organizational problems of schools. I felt that the leadership courses builds on the principles of problem solving as well as critical thinking skills in a realistic world that is typical o f collaboration, consultation and interactive simulation.Ultimately, as a school leader over the athletic department it is my responsibility to demonstrate experience and expertise in making decisions that may influence the success of the athletic program. Strategic leadership addresses effective management and planning so as to achieve an organization’s goals or a group’s targets. Scholars define strategic leadership as a person’s ability to expect, envision, maintain flexibility, think strategically and work with others to create a viable future for the organization (Ireland &Hitt, 2005).According to strategic leadership theory organizations are a reflection of their top level managers, and most especially the executive. The experiences, knowledge and values of the top executive shape the organization’s destiny. It is important that top executives collect important data in order too make wise decisions for their organizations. My experience as a high sc hool athletic director has taught me the importance of a leader’s knowledge, values and experiences in helping him or her make better decisions for advancing the organization’s objectives.Through my vast experience I have been able to note events and situations that tend to repeat themselves over the course of time so that I am better able to prepare for their reoccurrence. Also, the knowledge I have gained over the years through studies, work and other sources has directly or indirectly shaped the direction of my decisions. Again most of my decisions have been determined by my values; the primary value being service to others. As the high school athletic director, I deal with coaches and athletes on a daily basis since I run the athletic program.My decisions are therefore key to the progress of the athletic program. My knowledge, values and experiences impact the direction that the program takes because these factors determine my decisions for the program. Through the leadership course I have developed an appreciation for the importance of effective communication as a tool that any good leader should perfect in order to ensure the progress and future of his organization. I have developed an appreciation for the relation between good communication and effective collection of data that is critical to decision making for leaders.When a leader is able to effectively communicate with his team then he is in a position to effect quality operation of the organization. However when the leader is not able to effectively communicate his vision to his team then chances are that the organization’s future may become uncertain citing inability of the team to stir the organization towards what the leader has identified as the direction that the organization ought to take. In other cases conflict and animosity may occur due to bad communication.Conflict within a team breeds disharmony among the team members which effectively reduces cooperation. This ther efore retards the organization’s growth. As a high school athletic director, I have responsibility of stirring the program towards success. Having noted that there is a need to improve communication in school administration, and with my new found knowledge about the importance of effective communication, I will strive to improve communication between me and the coaches, athletes and school administrators.Thanks to the leadership course and the simulations I am better able to deal with these people, in tune with my leadership style. As a leader I can therefore say that I am in a better position, thanks to the leadership course to effectively lead the athletic program to ensure its development and survival. The concept of leadership has changed over time, so that leaders of today have more advanced and unique expectations than those of the past. Different individual have different leadership styles.What is to note however is that, no matter the variation in leadership style, co mmunication is key to effective leadership. Strategy, critical thinking and a problem solving attitude are also prerequisites to effective leadership. References Ireland, R. D. , & Hitt, M. A. (2005). Achieving and Maintaining Strategic Competitiveness in the 21st Century: The Role of Strategic Leadership. Retrieved August 7, 2010 from, http://www. nwcor. com/NWCOR/Content/Readings/Chapter 13-StrategicLdrshp- AME CLassic. pdf

10 Facts on Health Economics for a Presentation

10 Facts on Health Economics for a Presentation Health Economics is one of the interesting topics to study. It is defined as the branch of economics concerned with issues related to the effectiveness, efficiency, value and behavior in producing and consuming, health and healthcare. Due to its broad scope, your instructor may ask you to create a presentation on a related topic of your choice. You can always check our 20 topics on health economics for a presentation to find a topic that best suits you or you can scroll down to check the following ten facts for inspiration. There is a current debate as to whether healthcare is a want or need. Health care becomes a want depending upon one very important factor, which is if a person is either earning handsomely or just the bare minimum. If a person is earning generously, they will try to avoid going through pain and discomfort using any means possible. On the other hand, those earning less will try to avoid expensive health care in any way possible. However, health care becomes a necessity for people who are aging, especially those living on their own. Health economics is a way to improve existing health systems or create new structures altogether. A certain value can be added to the health system if each resource is allocated in a smart and efficient way. The reason why health economics needed an extra category under the umbrella of general economics is because health care takes a huge chunk out of a country’s economy. In the United States, health care is a huge concern as it consumes over 16 percent of the country’s GDP. As the population of USA increases every year, more people require health care services. Not only does this exponential growth of health care requirements affect the government budget, it also affects the profitability of private sectors. Health is generally considered to be one of the basic human rights by the World Health Organization. While this seems like a very accurate statement, economically attaining absolutely free health care system is a huge strain on a country’s economy. Once again, optimizing health economics is one of the most effective methods to minimize costs. Adverse Selection is a very basic principle that a student of health economics must learn. This is when either the buyer or the seller of health care insurance has prior information about each the other which they obscure from one another for personal benefit. In simpler terms, it is when the buyer of the policy hides key facts about their medical history or the seller unethically finds out information that will lead them towards rejecting applications of people whose medical history is costly. Basically, if the seller or the buyer manipulates asymmetrically acquired information in a way that it benefits them on account of the other party, this is considered to be adverse selection. Health care costs have skyrocketed in the United States and this has been a huge topic of discussion amongst many sectors. According to the Centers for Disease Control Prevention’s health statistics, health care costs have doubled since the year 2000 as it has grown from 1.2 trillion dollars to 2.3 trillion dollars. According to various national surveys, the cost of health insurance, out of pocket costs and national health expenses are rising as each year passes by. According to the CIA, the US stands at a surprisingly 43rd rank when it comes to life expectancy in the entire world. Similarly, it stands at a disappointing 167th position in the world in terms of infant mortality. A study also found out that the USA’s percentage of stopping preventable deaths is declining in great numbers as compared to the healthcare system of Japan and Australia. The size of the hospital affects the cost of treatment due to several very important reasons. A larger establishment can have a larger network of specialized medical units. This compartmentalization can lead to efficient treatment and, more importantly, extra throughput of treated patients. Through basic economics, the cost of treatment drops because the supply increases due to a larger efficient system. Moreover, a larger institute can afford to buy supplies in bulk quantities. All of this boils down to the ethical code of the hospital. To ensure that the system is not manipulated, medical establishments that create supply-monopoly and perform unnecessary treatments for profit can be held accountable and punished by the law if their misconduct is exposed. According to various studies, the supply of labor can be increased if there is improved healthcare provided. However, this has its side effects too. If the economic growth is incapable of withstanding the sudden influx of labor, there will be no profit in the per capita output. The results can actually be very devastating as the unemployment rate will increase. Generally speaking, health economics is not immune to the overall economic growth of the country. Therefore, if the healthcare system is improved in a poor society, it will have adverse effects such as rise in population, increase in poverty, and poor health of the population. If a balance is created between the overall economic growth and health economics, the results can be very opposite. Improved health of the employees can result in a substantial bump in the production efficiency and the cost per unit drops accordingly. If the overall health conditions of an area improve, that can also start housing projects as people will become more prosperous. A good health program increases the overall morale as well, motivating entrepreneurs to start small businesses. Health economics is an extremely important study because it is the very connection between the basic health and the resources required to sustain it. Resources do not just mean money, though; they can also be the amount of people, material and time. These resources are not infinite and, therefore, they need to be allocated and managed systematically. Once you decide on a topic from these, do not forget to check out our guide on how to write a presentation about health economics to come up with an excellent presentation which your instructors will grade you generously for. Resources: Bhattacharya, J., Hyde, T., Tu, P. (n.d.). Health Economics. Gruber, J., Newquist, H. P. (2011). Health Rare Reform: What it is, why its necessary, how it works. New York: Hill and Wang. Health Affairs. (n.d.). Retrieved April 21, 2016, from http://content.healthaffairs.org/content/33/1/67.long Sloan, F. A., Hsieh, C. (2012). Health economics. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press. COUNTRY COMPARISON :: LIFE EXPECTANCY AT BIRTH. (n.d.). Retrieved April 21, 2016, from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2102rank.html Drummond, M., Drummond, M. (2005). Methods for the economic evaluation of health care programmes. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Is the US Population Behaving Healthier? (n.d.). Retrieved April 21, 2016, from nber.org/papers/w13013

Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Frame Buildings with Different Dissertation

Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Frame Buildings with Different Ductility Classes Using EC8 and EC2 - Dissertation Example The paper tells that over the years gradually there have been greater advancements in the various concrete structures and measures that can be applied for the construction of buildings. In the present times, thus, the strength theory is significantly considered in building constructions. Load factors have been found to be necessary for the determination of the concrete structures used for the construction purposes. The strength theory focuses on the ultimate strength design that makes use of inelastic strains thus distributing the stress of loads uniformly. The concept of reinforced concrete was first initiated in Japan during the 1950s. However in the initial times, the use of the RC buildings was not considered as significant, a situation that has modified in the present times. Considering natural calamities like the earthquake, it is essential that the constructed buildings are based on such materials that are capable of resisting such calamities. Ductility or robustness of the co ncrete structures plays a significant role in this regard. However obtaining the necessary concrete structures might require the application of advanced technologies that at times may be difficult for developing countries to achieve. Reinforced concrete materials are easily available as well as they are economical in nature. Its characteristic stiffness provides efficient support to the constructed buildings in situations of earthquakes. Damages, to a great extent, can be reduced through such measures. (Dowrick, 2009, p.367). Structural Eurocodes represent the technical rules needed to be followed while selection and construction of buildings. There are a number of such Eurocodes of which Eurocode 2 is associated with the design of the concrete structures and Eurocode 8 is associated with the provisions of design for earthquake resistance of structures (Beckett & Alexandrou, 1997, p.2). These Eurocodes are essential for the determination of the ductility of the concrete structures t hus enabling the buildings to be tolerant to earthquakes, which is a primary concern of the current study. Thus a general overview on the RC constructions reflect that it is necessary to involve such concrete structures in building constructions for the safety and protection of the buildings from earthquakes that also depend on the ductility of the structure. 1.2. Aim & Objectives: The primary aim of the current study is to learn about the seismic response of reinforced concrete frame buildings with different ductility classes using EC8 and EC2, these being the two of several forms of Eurocodes involved in construction of buildings. In order to conduct the above mentioned study, the following objectives have been set such that a detailed analysis and understanding may be achieved. The objectives are: To learn about the behavior of RC structures under a seismic load To conduct a seismic analysis of the RC structures using methods like the Equivalent Static Method, and Response Spectr um Method To enhance the analysis involving case studies on 4-storey- 3-bay RC buildings with different levels of ductility To conduct a design check on the structural elements of the constructed buildings To make some recommendations while concluding after the study and analysis 1.3. Methodology: The study involves a qualitative research based on secondary sources. Qualitative research techniques do not involve any numerical figures for the study but focuses on a detailed understanding of the concerned topic based on experiences and opinions of different individuals (Creswell, 2003, p.18). Secondary sources are referred to the sources that are not novel but are derived from studies conducted earlier by different authors or experimenters (Hamilton, 2005, p.4). The present study has focuses on secondary sour

Position Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Position Paper - Essay Example This paper will serve to look into the reasons as to why animal testing should not be tolerated and should be banned altogether from use in our highly advanced 21st century society of animal rights activists. According to NAVS, the reason that animals became the de-facto choice for testing of human products was really quite simple, the animal body closely resembled that of humans. For the early scientific community, that was the only criteria they needed in order to justify animal testing. The first documented use of animal experimentation dates back to the 4th century. But our modern society no longer has a need to use animal testing now that we understand the human and animal body a lot better than our ancestors ever did. Many doctors agree animal experimentation should be taken with a grain of salt, because it is outdated, inaccurate, and an unnecessary evil needing to come to an end. Fergie Woods M.D. states, â€Å"Animals tend to react differently than humans to drugs, vaccines , and experiments which can consequently be very harmful to humans’ health.† A clear example of the huge difference in results between animal and human testing can be seen in the conflicting results of Thalidomide testing during the 1960's and 1970's. Although the sedative had no visible and long term effect on the animals it was tested upon, it caused massive physical damage upon the human babies whose mother's were unlucky enough to have taken the drug during the pregnancy. Of the mothers who had taken Thalidomide, at least ten thousand children were born throughout the world with severe deformities (Woods). Then there is also the Digitalis case wherein the dogs who took the drug were found to have elevated levels of blood pressure. However, the drug did not have the same effect during human testing. Rather, the drug helped to lower the human heart rate whenever necessary. Another example of the inconsistency between human and animal reaction is digitalis, a drug whic h can be credited in saving countless cardiac patients’ lives by lowering their heart rate. When digitalis was tested on dogs, it raised their blood pressure to dangerously high levels (Woods). NAVS members point out in a study Mark Levin, Ph.D. presented results regarding the inaccuracy of animal models in drug testing. Levin found that in twenty-eight new drugs tested for liver toxicity in rats, seventeen were shown to be safe. Of the drugs cleared during testing, eight proved to be safe for human use and six were found to be toxic to humans. In another study, spanning over ten years, the FDA found out of one hundred and ninety-eight new medications developed, one hundred and two were either recalled or had side effects not predicted in animal tests (NAVS). Since the results of animal testing these days no longer confirm the same effects to be probable in humans, the need to test drugs and other medical related items on animals has become an archaic and moot point. It no lo nger serves in man's best interests. â€Å"Experimenting on animals in order to understand the drug or disease response in humans is an archaic and scientifically invalid research method†, states NAVS. Animal rights organization, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) argue that the cruelty animals endure during