City Life Verses Country Life

City life v/s Country Life Many people would rather live in the city rather than the country to the fact that the city has more jobs, bus lines to commute to and from. The city life also has a higher crime rate than the country, pollution and a higher cost of living. First of all, I love the country life because I’m able to grow my own garden, raise farm animals compared to the city I wouldn’t be able to raise horses or cows in the city limits.Also living in the country I will be in a less polluted atmosphere away from the noise of the busy streets and people . By living in the country I wouldn’t have to spend as much money on gas I could possibly travel by horse to get to my destination. City living is also known for having high crime rates as to the country is much less, I would rather raise my children in a safe country cottage than a city high rise apartment.Even though it’s harder to receive all the great benefits of the city life such internet/cable television there are a lot of fun things me and my family can do in the country. With all the great benefits of both country and city living I would definitely say that country living is where I and my family will continue to live for now . As for the city life and people it’s hard to give a place I love and called home for so long.

Laugh, live, Smile.. today.. for who knows there may or may not be a tomorrow

Around some eighteen years ago, a miracle happened and a guy was born, yes u guessed it right, that guy was me. I was born in a town called Kanpur. Kanpur is my maternal place. I have lived most the summer vacations during my childhood over there. Since my father has a transferable job, I got to live in various cities, explore different culture and make tons of friends. I started my schooling from a school called National Convent School, Mirzapur. I did my LKG and UKG over there. Then I along with my mom, shifted to my Aunt’s place in Haridwar. She used to treat me like her own son.She was the one who recognized the hidden talent of singing in me. She sent me for the formal training in vocal music to a music teacher whom I consider my guru. I have always been a lazy lad, to overcome my laziness, she then sent me to the Taekwondo sessions in the evening. She is a lady of values & virtues. Discipline is in her blood. I have learned a lot from her. As she was an extensive travele r, I got to travel & explore the hilly regions of Uttarakhand. After the two amazing years in Haridwar,I along with my mom shifted to Kanpur and we started living with my grandparents.I took admission in DPS Kanpur and my mother was a teacher in another school. An year passed and I got promoted in fifth standard. Now here comes an interesting phase of my life. It was during the starting of the new session,I still remember the sequence. I was sitting forward in the extreme left row and then came a girl whom I had never seen,she came inside the class and went towards my parallel row and sat at the back bench. Now she bacame the first crush of my life,officially! Her name was Samya. †When she was around,I could just feel myself blush, the adrenaline in my blood was such a rush†!As time passed,our relationship changed from just friends into best friends. Even though, I was the most notorious element of the class, my teachers still used to love me a lot. My favourite teacher was Monica ma’am who was also our class-teacher. I still remember an incident when in class sixth,a mate asked our class teacher that â€Å"When all the naughty elements were eliminated ,then why did u still keep Tanay in the section? †Ma’am clearly replied†Because he is my favourite and I love him a lot! † It were the summer vacations of class sixth when came a point that I had to shift to Agra where my Dad was already posted.I was very desperate to move back with my Dad since it had been four long years I had been living away from him. But at the same time leaving the school without meeting anyone unexpectedly was a disheartening moment too. I missed them a long time and I am still in touch with them. Although my span of stay in Agra was short, but I have had a wonderful time there. With my Dad’s transfer came the most amazing city of my life. This time it was Banaras!! Banaras is a place where I turned from a child to a teenager to almost a n adult!My major upbringing happened to be in Varanasi. My mom got me admitted to DPS Varanasi which was the seventh and finally the last school of my life. I spent five most amazing years in my last school. When it comes to academics, I have always been a mediocre, even though I did achieve full marks in Maths, once in class Eighth, second time in class Tenth. My list of friends is quite long to describe. During this six years of my stay in Kashi,it has given me a lot,one of them is Ashu whom I often refer as Mota-Bhai who is not just a friend but a brother in literal.I usually don’t call every second friend of mine as bro,but when I do,mind it,I mean it!! It was the pre-sports day 2008. After I got selected for the long jump,I saw a pretty girl who was already staring at me. The moment I saw her,I was just astonished. Later on I came to know about her easily via different sources as I was quite social among the seniors. So yes,my first love was an year senior to me. The res t part of story is past. All I know is that feeling never came ever and I still respect her as I did once. One always remembers his first love. Its an out of this world feeling.When she was gone,I was heart broken. This incident has taught me that life goes on,no matter who comes,who goes. We make life harder than it to be. The difficulties started when†¦ conversations became texting, feelings became subliminal, the word ‘love’ fell out of context, trust faded as honesty waned, insecurities became a way of living, jealously became a habit, being hurt started to feel natural, and running away from it all became our solution. Stop running! Face these issues, fix the problems, communicate, appreciate, forgive and LOVE the people in your life who deserve it.The best part of my life started after entering into Symbiosis. I always wanted a sister,I asked for one and Symbi gifted me two real sisters from non-biological mothers! One is Honey,my besty who is a careless craz y freak and a party animal like me,a complete replica of my personality but has a delicate heart. Ridzi,d other one,d sweet one is a complete contrast of me and Honey. She treats me like her younger brother. We often dance on ‘‘shinchan shinchan† together,Ridzi being into the character of Himavari. We do not remember days, we remember moments.Too often we try to accomplish something big without realizing that the greatest part of life is made up of the little things. My way is to live authentically and cherish each precious moment of my journey and live life to its fullest core. I wanna fly high and live while I am young. I believe that if I will seek for peace,happiness will automatically follow my way. Because when you finally arrive at your desired destination, u don’t remember the destination,you remember the journey. So for today I ll laugh,I ll live and I ll smile for who knows there may or may not be a tomorrow.

Wall Street Journal Executive Summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Wall Street Journal Executive Summary - Essay Example The European Central bank decided to charge the commercial banks to avail money on deposits. To extenuate unnecessarily huge amounts of capital into the nation, the Central Bank of Denmark violently decided to print kroner. Countries that were in landmark of collapse, such as Spain, are able to recover their hope by selling treasury bills that are short-term. These treasury bills offer back to investors in the country less principals than they began with. A number of European countries, within and out of the Eurozone, sold away civil liabilities with maturities of not more than five years at a negative yield. This held investors responsible for the payment of privileges in holding it. If only they would sell the bonds at even higher prices, they would enjoy profits. Switzerland was not left behind either, as it sold out an aggregate of bonds maturing in 2025 and 2049. Ten years down the line, the yield was at a negative level as compared to the most modern similar bond around two months ago. Prices of Swiss bonds which were maturing up to eleven years in the days to come have moved up in the secondary market, in such a way that their yields have drafted into the negatives. Switzerland later got disturbed about the results that would follow the purchase of large amounts of euros to maintain the suppression of franc and so it chipped its upper limit on the franc and reduced the deposit rates by 0.75%. The foreign market therefore, was subjected to agitation. The fact that it took money to add cash as deposit renders the modest in negativity yield of the current ten year bond as appealing. An identical situation happens to be experienced in the Eurozone, as the Europe Central Bank has adjusted its deposit rates and reduced them by 0.2% then belligerently purchased bonds. This happened in January. Investors were scared away by the fact that deflation would possibly occur in the nation. They were also discouraged by the way

Internet Privacy --private individual Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Internet Privacy --private individual - Essay Example At any rate, it is important for people today to have Internet access to gain an advantage in their lives and perform better at work. However, a consequent and perhaps inevitable problem with this increased Internet usage is the issue of Internet security. Hacking is a persistent problem these days, in addition to malware or harmful viruses spread over the Internet that destroys files or programs, but the problem of hacking has gained big proportions due to its seriousness. Many people have suffered untold misery due to their sensitive personal information getting hacked like in cases of identity theft. Sensitive personal data are stolen and used maliciously by some individuals who have no qualms about destroying the lives of other people. In this regard, this paper discusses and tackles the important issues involved in Internet privacy of individuals. a) Background – the rapid spread of Internet use due to lower broadband connections had led to problems regarding the issue of privacy and security in the Web space (Hora, 2008:91). Incidents of identity thefts are on the rise, despite the development in Internet security Style and modus of Internet hackers had also evolved markedly (Poulsen, 2012:5). Rise of Internet-enabled transactions such as Web 2.0 increased hacking opportunities People need to be more aware and better educated on how to protect themselves while online against malicious software and equally malicious people out to get their data b) Thesis – people can better protect themselves if they are made aware of the dangers of data falling into the wrong hands, especially in the sensitive areas on their personal lives such as banking, personal communications, school records, and finally, confidential medical records. Awareness of the security risks enables people to take certain precautionary measures while they are on-line to protect against cyber-criminals. Among the more common crimes are on identity theft, digital piracy of copyrigh ted works (songs, films, books, etc.), pornography, in human trafficking, illegal drugs on sale, illicit firearms sold, and Internet gambling syndicates (Jaishankar, 2011:53). However, a focus of this paper is on banking-related on-line crimes causing at least 60% of all Internet crimes in terms of costs (Crescenzo & Rubin, 2006:36). Discussion (Main body) The bulk of Internet crimes are those related to financial transactions, such as those using the new digital technologies to transmit and receive monetary credits to bank accounts. Experts are of the opinion most of these crimes were committed by insiders, or people who had the needed access to penetrate the security barriers because they are authorized to do so. a) Emerging technologies - encourage more people to do their financial transactions on-line. E-services are now more prevalent than ever with new Web sites put up everyday Mobile commerce transactions are also on the rise due to new mobile applications Cyber payment syste ms now allow people to pay bills on-line faster and conveniently Digital banking (both mobile and Internet-based) allow people to move their funds b) Digital presence with existence of a Web site –

MGM Journal Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

MGM Journal - Personal Statement Example In short, if we were to select two MGM tools as indispensible in the field, what would they be? With the ready help of information about a patient, the work of a physician gets much easier. And it does not only apply to a physician, but also to everyone working in the healthcare field. Access to important health information right on time will improve the efficiency and productivity, cutting down the average cost and nevertheless, make for a healthier world. Personal Health Record (PHR) guide is the just the tool for that purpose. The ultimate aim in medical profession is to achieve highest level of patient’s recovery, well being, and safety. Physician Practice Patient Safety Assessment (PPPSA) aims to increase the awareness and knowledge of the physician about the patient’s safety, thus creating a benchmark output for the physician. Better care and safety, lesser liability and better interaction is focused on to achieve higher level of performance and delivery on the part of the

Human Sexuality Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Human Sexuality - Coursework Example Media does not only have the power to gain support for a particular issue, it even has the ability to alter the current perception about an issue. Media has even impacted human being’s perception of sexual harassment and rape related issues, they have been able to alter cases and opinions from favoring one individual to another. For example: Several newspaper articles reported that Kobe Bryant was not responsible for the charge of rape and those individuals who have gone through these articles clearly reflected same position through their perception. 3. The sexual offenders in US have almost a zero right to privacy, as soon as they are evacuated form the prisons and are allowed to live back in the community, their information is posted online so people can access this information and keep an eye on those who have been previously prosecuted as sexual offenders. Providing of information of sexual offenders to the common public is absolutely correct and lawful because sexual offences are cognitive in nature and an offender can commit the same crime. So in order to save the society from such offenders, transparency of information of the offenders is very

Public vs. Private Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Public vs. Private - Essay Example P 1992) It covers a great range of ideas and policies varying from the eminently reasonable to the wildly impractical.’ The debate the paper delves on is what are the programs or sectors that are currently under the governmental supervision that can be privatized and what are the pros and cons of such privatization. Let us first look at some positive and negative facts and opinions from two sources in order to gauge the depth of the subject. Michael Williams in his article on Public Vs private pay, states the flaws in the current pay structure of an employee working for the US Postal service. Pointing out this difference in California where the average salary of a CalPers employee in 2004 for was about $46000 and the average of salary of all average per capita income of all Californians was $35000. Since then he says,’ the gap has only expanded. He has proved this by stating the case of Postmaster General E Potter. â€Å"Congress will hold a hearing next month into why Postmaster General John E. Potter has gotten a nearly 40 percent pay raise since 2006 and was awarded a six-figure incentive bonus last year, even as the U.S. Postal Service faces a multibillion-dollar shortfall that threatens a day of mail delivery. ALLISON SHELLEY/THE WASHINGTON TIMES REWARDED: Postmaster General John E. Potter received a compensation package totalling more than $800,000 for fiscal 2008.†(Williams. M 2009) While the above information gives us a strong reason for privatization of the US postal service, the following facts will educate us on the public opinion of privatization. When privatization was at its full length and breadth under the Bush administration Congressman Jim Mc Dermott stated the following in one of the discussions â€Å"It has become increasingly clear that the Bush Administration cares more about big business than about the average citizen. If this trend toward privatization continues, I worry that the privacy and

Aspects of Adaptive Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Aspects of Adaptive Leadership - Essay Example The various examples and cases discussed in the case study including that of the game strategy used by Earvin 'Magic' Johnson and Bobby Orr; helped in driving home the key message that leaders today are not only required to identify the critical challenges faced by the organizations posed by the external environment but must also orient the employees regarding such challenges and equip them with the task of adapting to the changes by reflecting on their day to day activities. Through various examples discussed in the case study, I learned the value of adaptive work and its relevance, especially in present day and age. This case study helped me in understanding the fact that in the absence of an adaptive work ethics in contemporary corporate environments, businesses risk the threat of extinction. Given the increasing competition brought about by globalization and technological advancements, conventional attitudes towards leadership and management it is imperative to replace convention al approaches to leadership with adaptive leadership. In conclusion, one of the most valuable lessons I learned via this case study is the fact that leadership entails a process of ushering in a generally unwelcome reality and motivating the employees and/or individuals to successfully adapt to it. It refers to the manner in which leaders coax the employees to unlearn the conventional work practices by guiding them to adapt their behavior in a way that helps them thrive in this extremely competitive and dynamic business environment.

Discrimination and Young People Essay Example for Free

Discrimination and Young People Essay 1.1 Explain what is meant by * diversity * equality * inclusion Diversity means difference. It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical abilities and religious beliefs. Equality means treating everyone the same regardless of their individual differences. It is the discovery of these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. Everyone has an equal right to be treated with dignity and respect. No one should be denied opportunities because of their race or ethnicity, their disability, their gender or sexual orientation, their age or religion. Inclusion means including people in a way that makes them feel appreciated and respected. Treating individuals fairly and respecting the differences between them makes it easier to include them. 1.2 Describe the potential effects of discrimination Discrimination is treating someone or a group of people in a different way to everyone else based on their individual differences. It involves the behavior towards a child or children such as excluding or restricting children from activities that other children are participating in. Discrimination happens when we fail to respect individuals and their choices. Discrimination affects everybody in different ways: Low self-esteem, depression, withdrawn behaviour, shyness, tearful, fearful etc. When someone is discriminated against, it can exclude them from friends, family, neighbours, and society in general. A child’s self-worth is reduced, as they feel isolated, and alone. Children’s Young People’s Workforce (2010 page 21) states that â€Å"When children experience prejudiced attitudes, there is a danger of damage to their self-esteem and self-confidence†. Discrimination can limit a child’s right to achieve their potential and objectives, their right to learn, their right to succeed. The most common forms of discrimination are racial remarks, being insulted and being the butt of hurtful jokes. Discrimination, racism and harassment may have significant mental and physical health consequences such as frustration, stress, anxiety and depression. Effects of discrimination physically and emotionally: Depression Anger Low self-esteem Isolation Loss of confidence Low self-worth Feeling stressed or unable to cope Fear of rejection The long-term effects could include: Loss of motivation Missed opportunities that may affect the childs experiences and development Limited access to services Mental illness caused by stress 1.3 Explain how inclusive practice promotes equality and supports diversity Inclusive practice is about the attitudes, approaches and approaches taken to ensure that people are not excluded or isolated. It means supporting diversity by accepting and welcoming children’s differences, and promoting equality by ensuring equal opportunities for all children. Child care workers show inclusive practice by working in ways that recognise, respect, value and make the most of all aspects of diversity. Children’s Young People’s Workforce (2010 page 25) states that another type of inclusive practice is to â€Å"offer children equality of opportunity to  participate, develop and learn. This does not mean treating them all the same; we have to acknowledge their diversity and treat children as individuals, with equal concern†. Having a sound awareness of and responding sensitively to an individual’s diverse needs supports them in developing a sense of belonging, well-being and confidence in their identity and capabilities and it helps them to achieve their potential to take their place in society. In addition, inclusive practice involves having an understanding of the impact that discrimination, inequality and social exclusion can have on an individual’s physical and mental health. Having such an understanding ensures appropriate, personalised care and support, thereby enabling an individual to develop self-respect and maintain a valued role in society. Children’s Young People’s Workforce (2010 page 20) states that â€Å"When children spend time in settings which promote diversity, equality of opportunity and inclusion, they are able to make progress in all areas of development†. Inclusive practice involves reflecting on and challenging one’s own prejudices, behaviours and work practices. It also involves challenging those of colleagues and other service providers with a view to changing ways of thinking and working and changing services to build on good practice and to better support diversity and promote equality. Bibliography Authors:Penny Tassoni, Kate Beith, Kath Bulman, Sue Griffin Year of publication:2010 Title:Children’s Young People’s Workforce – Early Learning Childcare Publisher:Heinemann

My Life Essay Example for Free

My Life Essay Above anything else, I still think that the most ambiguous term, concept, and thing in the world aside from its existence is life. A persons life can be the most difficult thing to describe, to define, to expound, and to measure. It will always be very challenging for an individual to summarize his of her entire life in nothing but words that do not even measure up to lifes vague beauty, wonders, and mysteries. But in the very best way that I can, combining everything I learned from writing, recounting history, and expressing my thoughts, I shall try to tell you what and how my life is so far. I will choose to tell how my life was in the past, what it is like now, and how I envision it to become in the future in my own tone and perspective. Simplicity is a very relative and subjective term. Some would associate this term with peace and serenity, but I would rather connect it with the ideas of non-extravagant beauty and non-chaotic momentum. And so, I would rather call my life a simple one in this sense. As for my childhood, I realized that this phase is not a completely natural incident and event which happens to everyone. In one way or another, and at least in my own life, I have come to understand that having a childhood is also partly an individual choice that people have to make. More importantly, having a happy childhood is the greater choice which people have to decide on whether they would have it or not. With regard to my own, I chose having a childhood and a worthwhile one. Twenty-three years ago, I cried meaningfully on the [insert date of birth; ex: 25th of December, 1986] which told my parents that I am already existing as a person. Throughout my entire childhood, I cried for various reasons — whenever I got hurt, got disappointed, felt sad, felt annoyed, and felt overwhelmingly happy. All these cries, my life proved, are part of growing up. In my lifes context, these things made me realize that I am but a human being who feels and learns to express what he feels whenever he feels the need for it. Growing up in Turkey, I can say that my past is as colorful and vibrant as my country. My mind never ran out of iridescent and crazy ideas when I was going through my primary and secondary levels of education. I think I owe to my parents the considerable amount of effort they had to sacrifice in order to give me and my one and only sister the kind of education which we can both be proud of. My heart never skipped a beat as it vigorously lived with the glorious days of my childhood and adolescent years when I felt like I was the most powerful and liberated man that God has ever created. In a nutshell, my childhood is something I would always want to reminisce over and over again. And so, I rekindle that vibrant feeling every now and then, especially now that I write this chronicle of my life. Excellence and being well-molded never fascinated me until my parents, together with my mentors at the previous schools that I attended, injected into my consciousness the significance of education to an individuals betterment. I think that it safe to say that generally, young people dislike going to school very much; however, it was during those days, when I was on the verge of hating school, when I started to realize that education is actually the strongest foundation I could ever have that will equip me with the skills and knowledge to become a competent person in the future. As an average person who grew up with his parents in Istanbul, Turkey and who is still spending his days as a university student under the custody of his parents, I can say that I now have a considerably complete idea of what being a well-molded individual is like. Upon seeing and knowing successful people around me, I have to realize that all their authority, wealth, honor, valor come from a sufficient amount of education and dedication to it. But for me, aside from this, one thing which also aids in creating a well-molded individual in each person is his or her choice of submitting and staying under the guidance of his of her parents, for no parent shall wish for his or her child to go astray. And so, I chose to stay aligned with my parents guidance and proved to myself that indeed, parents have the innate ability to know the best and only the best for their children. I have never learned and realized the power of material things. I may have become fascinated with some, but one of the most amazing and valuable things I have learned in my life is that most of the things that can actually give true happiness to people are the intangible things that money cannot purchase in anyway. In several instances, I have also experienced the most typical emotional and psychological milestones that a human being goes through in life. As I entered adulthood, I have realized the value of true friendship and the value of having a special person caring for me. I have also been able to go through several rites of passage that defined my membership to the so called â€Å"in-circles† in my youth. Many times I fell hard and stood up again, never surrendering to the most miserable heartbreaks yet the most meaningful lessons that I can consider indispensable for the rest of my life. Truly, no material form of wealth and luxury can ever compare to the most special things that I regard as my greatest achievements in my life so far; and these include my self-dignity, the seemingly everlasting friendship that I share with my peers, the love I constantly receive from the people around me, and the bright future that shines ahead of me in this point of my life. I chose to value these intangible treasures that will last longer than me and than the ones that will fade after I passed. Yet, no matter how colorful or pleasant my writing will turn out to be, I also believe that life is not always a bed of roses. For several instances, I have received harsh criticisms from people who tried to judge me from a far and tried to measure me as a person without knowing me completely. I have faced several failures that brought me serious humiliation and deep self-disappointment. I also have failed to live up to other peoples expectations a number of times. At one point, I thought these falls were bound to identify and label me as an individual and as a man. But my hopes, aspirations, and visions inside of me that have been kept hidden behind these failures always manage to float above everything else and take over my consciousness. Thus, I chose to believe that I as an individual can only be judged and measured according to how strong and triumphant I succeeded after a fall and not by how hard I fell flat on the ground. I chose to tell you this tale of my life in my endeavor to give myself a hint on how I would want to envision myself in the future. If there is one thing this chronicle has taught me and made me understand about myself, it is that my life is truly made up of great choices, and each choice is a fruit of a trial-and-error process of learning. Right now, the life of being a university student is giving me all the positive thoughts of what my life ahead would become. I could be successful like todays powerful and affluent people, yes I can say, but I would choose to follow this tale and make a success story of my own, keeping in mind all the vibrant memories I have had from my childhood, all the valuable lectures my parents and my mentors taught me, the inspiration that my sister, my friends, and loved ones gave me, and the indispensable lessons my failures made me realize. Most especially, I would choose to remember my own ambiguous yet insightful definition of what my life is right now and what it will be tomorrow. Thus, I would still choose, and in the future, I know there will still be more choices to make, but I guess that is what life is to me basically — a never-ending ball of choices which define who we are.

Herbal Products Market Research

Herbal Products Market Research Abstract: Herbal products have gained a lot of attention in the recent years. This has pushed natural and nutraceuticals companies globally to take interest in these products. Herbal extracts are no longer a concoction of plants but are sophisticated standardized extracts. This has led countries all over the world to set regulatory guidelines and policies in order to maintain good quality, standardized herbal medicines. Konark Herbals Health Care, an India based company, manufactures solid and liquid herbal extracts in semi finished form. The company recently has decided to launch its products globally. This project focuses on opportunities of herbal products in the European Market i.e. the European Union. Europe being the central hub of herbal medicines is integrated with a number of regulatory guidelines set by the EU. The project aims at understanding these regulatory policies, gauging the market scenario and presenting ideas for launching the companys products by creating its place in the market. The main objective of this project was to gain an understanding of the herbal products already in the market and finding newer opportunity for its use Introduction About the Company Konark Herbals and Healthcare is a medium sized company established in 2004. The company is into manufacturing and selling of semi finished herbal products. These products include soft and dry herbal extracts, in both solid and liquid form. The company is also associated with the Konark Research foundation which carries out all the quality assurance and testing to ensure quality and standardised products. Konark manufactures over 300 herbals extracts, though its flagship product is curcumin and its derivatives. Up until 2010 the companys main focus was the domestic market. The products were marketed and sold either for domestic use or to other Indian companies for export purposes. The main problem faced by Konark was the competitive prices. The company also found that since the regulations in India were not very strict most competitive suppliers would sell sub standard quality products at a cheaper rate. A thorough study was done to understand the pros and cons of focusing on the domestic market. Therefore Konark Herbals and Health Care decided to launch its products globally. Therefore, this report focuses on opportunities of herbal products in the European market. Traditional Medicine has always had its popularity worldwide. In addition over the last few years there has been increase in the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) in many developed and developing countries. The last 15 years have seen an increase in the popularity of plant based medicines in the western world. Therefore the safety and quality of the CAMs have become very important concerns for the health authorities as well as the public. Several traditional medicine practices have been developed over the centuries in different cultures but without a parallel advance of international standards and using inappropriate methods for evaluating traditional medicine. Therefore strict guidelines and policies for herbal medicines are critical to the continued existence of quality products. Even though India and China are known for their herbal medicines since centuries, the hub of herbal products is Europe. More than 60% of the Europeans and greater than 80% of Germans (Figure 1) have used herbal products at some point of time in their life. Herbal remedies which we earlier sold in small special shops, often without any license, have now become mainstream drugs manufactured by multinational companies and sold in pharmacies throughout Europe. It is due to this high usage of products that the European Union has an extensive set of guidelines for herbal products. The EU has laid down guidelines and policies for all the processes related to these herbal products from manufacturing right up to market authorization and which it expects all to adhere to. European Union Overall Market Size The member states of the European Union represent the largest single commercial market for herbal drugs and medicinal plants in the world. The European market for herbal supplements along with herbal medicines is currently at $7.4billion. An analysis based on the data from IMS health placed the global European over the counter (OTC) market for herbal medicines at approximately $5billion. Imports The EU is also the largest importer of Crude medicinal plants and herbal extracts with imports approximated at around 100,000 tonne. This is almost double the quantity imported by the USA (IMS report). Germany is the most important European importer with 40% of the European market followed by France and Italy. European Guidelines Europe consists of 50 countries. And each country has its own regulatory guidelines and policies. It is important to know that out of the 50 countries only 27 countries fall under the European Union. Legislation in the European Union is set at the EU level, but there may be (additional) legal requirements which may be country specific. Although maximum synchronization is aimed it is not always achieved because of negotiations, debates and national interest. The European Medical agency along with the THMPD (Therapeutic herbal Medical product directive) are the two many regulatory bodies within the European Union. Each of the two bodies has a set of guidelines which has to be followed by not only the companies within Europe but also the companies that want to enter the European market for business opportunities. It includes policies from cultivation right up to marketing of the product in Europe. Understanding these guidelines is necessary for Indian companies such as Konark Herbals H ealth Care because in order to enter the European markets, they need to abide by them. The committee on Herbal Medicinal products (HMPC) HMPC, a part of the European Medical Agency, is responsible for preparing the agencys opinions on herbal medicines. In 2004 it replaced the proprietary medicinal products working party on herbal products which introduced a simplified registration procedure for herbal drugs in EU member states. The committee has the responsibility to prepare monographs of well established herbal medicines which is based on evaluation of available scientific data or on its traditional use in the European community. The monograph includes uses, safety information and information on undesirable effects. Traditional Herbal Medicinal Product Directive (formerly The Directive 2004/24/EC) The THMPD was established in 2004 to provide a simplified regulatory approval process for traditional herbal medicines in the EU. Under this regulation all herbal medicinal products are required to obtain an authorization to market within the EU. As per the THMPD all products marketed before this legislation came into force can market their product till 30 April, 2011. Once this limit expires they must gain market authorization. These guidelines are of great importance especially during the audits done by the European companies. As a mandatory procedure, all European companies conduct a thorough audit of the manufacturing facilities of the suppliers to check them for GMP compliance. The audit even checks for Good Agricultural practices (GAP) complied by the farmers supplying the crude plants to the supplier. GAP includes various documents and certificates that the supplier must have from the farmers. In case any of the guidelines are not met with, the supplier is not only rejected but is blacklisted by the company for future purposes until such time that the supplier has proven to be GMP and GAP compliant. Therefore the suppliers cannot afford to make any mistakes Examples of EU legislations relevant for herbal products: Directive 2001/83/EC on marketing authorization for medicinal products for human use, including homeopathic products and herbal medicines. Directive 2003/94/EC on the principles and guidelines of GMP for medicinal products for human use Phytosanitary measures. Directive 2000/29/EC Regulation 338/97 on the protection of endangered species in trade, CITES Preventive measures on organisms harmful to plants Directive 2000/29/EC Country Profiles Out of the 27 countries belonging to the European Union few countries such as Germany, UK and France are the major markets for herbal products. As mentioned earlier EU legislations are set at the EU level, but there may be country specific (additional) legal requirements. Understanding the guidelines for each of the countries is crucial because it is through these countries that Indian companies will make their entrance into the European Herbal Markets. Germany: Germany by far is the most important consumer of plant based medicines in Europe which accounts for more than 50 % of all European licensed herbal product sales. It is also the largest producers of herbal phytomedicines. Cultivation in Germany has declined massively over the years, which has lead companies to import herbal extracts from other countries such as India and China. This proves advantageous for Indian companies. It is also important to notice that even though Germany does have domestic cultivation, only 5% 10 % of the total requirement is covered by the domestic production. Germany is by far the largest importer of medicinal plants and extracts with imports of around 50,000 tonnes on a yearly basis. The basis of market authorization in Germany has been laid out in the Second Medicines Act which was formed in accordance with the EU legislative framework. It required a review of the safety and quality of 300 plants. This was done by a team of experts known as the Commission E who published more than 235 medicinal plants. Germany is one of the very few countries that consider herbal products as medicines thereby providing complete reimbursement of such products. The herbal drugs are reimbursable by the health insurance system unless special criteria for their exclusions apply. These exclusions are due to negative assessment by commission E. There are 380 monographs presented in the American Botanical CouncilsÂÂ  The Complete German Commission E Monographs, Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines, which has recently been translated into English The monographs include lists of approved and unapproved herbs, uses, indications, side effects, interactions of herbs with conventional drugs and duration of administration German Regulations: A national pharmacopoeia, the Deutsches Arneibuch and the European Pharmacopoeia are used, both of which are considered to be legally binding. A number of additional monographs have also being issued such as the Deutcher Arzneimittel Codex but are not legally binding. Regulatory Requirement for the manufacture of herbal medicines include adherence to the information in the pharmacopoeias. In the absence of pharmacopoeias, monographs, the GMP rules for conventional pharmaceutical, German Medicines Act and the Eudralex. Compliance with these requirements is ensured through inspection. Herbal medicines are sold in Germany in pharmacies as OTC and prescription medicines in special outlets and supermarkets. Advantages for an Indian Company to supply to German companies: Not more than 10% of the total requirement is covered by domestic market Only a handful of herbal plants are cultivated in Germany as compared to India. As per the adapted from BAH (Figure 2) more than a 100 Indian medicinal plants can cater to these therapeutic categories. Many Indian plants such as curcumin, Amla, Ashwagandha or on the positive list of commission E. Several curcumin products are reimbursed by the health insurance system. France: France is both a major producer and consumer of medicinal plants. It is the second largest market in Europe after Germany. It has more than 4000 hectares under cultivation of which over 30% is dedicated to plants such as thyme fennel chamomile and peppermint. Southern France is a major market for essential oils and aromatherapy. France imports around 30,000 tonnes of medicinal plants and extracts from countries such as India and China. France is also an exporter of medicinal plants which is about 8000 tonnes on a yearly basis. Most exports are simply intra European consignments often within same company. French regulations make it difficult to sell unlicensed herbal remedies. Around 527 medicinal plants are listed in the French Pharmacopoeia of which 454 plants are contained in list A (positive benefit /risk ratio). These include plants such as acacia. Curcumin, Aloe Vera etc. Plants such as tobacco and Thuja fall under list B that has a negative benefit/risk ratio. Despite all this, herbal medicines are classified as medicines in France and are subject to market authorization under the Health ministry. Guidelines: The French Republic does not have any national policy, laws, expert committee or national research institute on traditional medicines. Herbal medicines are regulated as OTC medicines and by law claims may be made about them. The same GMP rules for manufacture are applicable for herbal medicines as for the conventional medicines. Compliance with the requirements is ensured through inspections. Safety requirements are the same as that for conventional drugs. Out of 787 medicines registered none, are listed on national essential drug list. Advantages for Indian companies to target France: France is the Hub for essential oils and aromatherapy products. Therefore many Indian companies can supply oils such as cinnamon oil, turmeric oil etc. Out of the plants listed in List A of the French Pharmacopoeia more than 250 plants are available in abundance in India. Although the government is coming up with newer policies, cultivation in France is only for a minor group of medicinal plants. Therefore French companies have to look at supplier of plants and extracts. United Kingdom United Kingdom (U.K.) has until recently been well below that of many European counties. U.K. based MNCs have given limited importance to research in herbal drugs. British farmers too have not given much importance to medicinal plants. Less than 2000 hectares are devoted to medicinal plants. But consumption of herbal medicines has been growing at the rate of 10% (WHO report, 2008) Although U.K. has no single national office, the medicines and Healthcare product regulatory agency and the department of health in England have numerous teams to develop policy on the safe use and practice of traditional medicines. Herbal medicines are regulated under Medicines Act 1968 (2001/83, EC also applies). Until 2011 the directive provided two regulatory routes for herbal medicines to reach the market i.e licensed herbal medicines and unlicensed herbal medicines. Since May 2011 unlicensed herbal medicines have been ban in the market. The British Pharmacopoeia contains 124 national monographs. There are around 500 licensed herbal drugs in the U.K. but none are included in the national essential list. Herbal drugs are sold in pharmacies as OTC and prescription medicines. Overview of the top diseases affecting European human population Chronic diseases are the main cause of mortality in Europe. Research (by EDEC) suggests that complex conditions such as diabetes, depression and dementia will impose a prominent burden in the future. Some years ago chronic diseases were considered to be a problem of only the rich and elderly people. But today we know that which high income countries, poor as well as young people are affected by these chronic diseases. The implications of the diseases are also very serious. There are a number of chronic diseases that affect people all over Europe. The most prevalent ones are: Depression Obesity Diabetes Mellitus Alzheimers disease Parkinsons disease Dementia Schizophrenia COPD The link between disease and age is crucial from an economic public policy standpoint. The proportion of Europeans aged 65 years and older is projected to grow from 15% to 23% by 2030. This trend is clearly one of the many reasons for the growing burden of chronic diseases in Europe. (Pomerleau, Knai and Nolte, 2008). The prevalence of mental disorders is very high in Europe. Dementia amongst those who are aged i.e. 65 and above, in 2000 was estimated to vary between 6% to about 8 %. WHO has estimated that one in five persons will develop depression and each year 33 million European suffer from major depression. In 2008, the rates were lowest in Spain, Greece and Portugal while the highest estimates were for Finland, Israel, Belgium and France. Suicide from depressive disorders is the third leading cause of death among young Europeans. Top diseases affecting livestock in Europe Novel strategies and responses are necessary to meet the economic and human health risks that are associated with livestock diseases. Human-health threats from livestock come in two basic forms: (i) zoonotic diseases, and (ii) food-borne illnesses. Zoonotic diseases are those diseases that arise in animals but can also be transmitted to humans. Potentially pandemic viruses, such as influenza, are the most newsworthy, but many others, including rabies, brucellosis and anthrax also do exist. Food-borne illness can come from disease agents such as salmonella and E. coli. Highly pathogenic livestock diseases remain alarming for the people of Europe because: They are still highly pathogenic for humans. They are continuing to evolve. There is a risk of generic recombination with the viruses that are better adapted to, and can be easily transmitted among humans. The diseases affecting livestock in Europe include: Livestock Disease Avian influenza Bovine Tuberculosis Rabies Bovine Brucellosis Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) Ovine and Caprine brucellosis (B. Melitensis) Salmonellosis (zoonotic salmonella) Livestock Disease Avian influenza Ovine and Caprine brucellosis (B. Melitensis) Salmonellosis (zoonotic salmonella) African Swine Fever Bluetongue (High risk endemic areas) Methodology The main product to be launched by the company being Curcumin and its various derivates, a secondary research was conducted to gain an understanding about the product. Such a research gave an idea about its current use globally. Various companies across the globe are already manufacturing curcumin products and supplements therefore the product per se is not a novel product. But by understanding its current use it is possible to point out the areas that have never been explored. Companies such as Indena, Sabinsa, and Sigma Eldrich have been selling curcumin supplements over a decade. But it is astonishing to see that even today the full potential of curcumin and its derivatives has not been realized. This gives a possibility for companies to use such products for newer diseases. Reviewing diseases affecting Europe serves great importance since it explains the need for drugs in those sectors and consequentially the unmet medical need. About Curcumin Curcumin is a hydrophobic polyphenol derived from a the rhizome Curcuma longa (Turmeric). It is a gold-coloured spice frequently used in India, not just for health care but also for the preservation of food and as a dye for textiles. Since the time of Ayurveda (1900BC) numerous therapeutic actions have been assigned to curcumin for a selection of diseases, including skin diseases, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal systems, wounds, sprains, allergies and liver disorders. It is in the last few decades that curcumin has gained a lot of attention by researchers, scientists and nutraceuticals companies worldwide. It is due to this, that there have been more than a hundred experiments been conducted in animals and plants for various diseases. Konark Herbals and Health Care has a vast portfolio of curcumin extracts of various standards. The company manufactures the extract from 1% curcuminoid content up to 99% curcuminoids. KHHC products Curcuma longa powder extract (Total curcuminoids NLT 95% by HPLC/UV spectrophotometer) Curcuma longa powder extract (Total curcuminoids NLT 40% by HPLC/UV spectrophotometer) Curcuma longa powder extract (Total curcuminoids NLT 10% by HPLC/UV spectrophotometer) Curcuma longa Granular (Total curcuminoids NLT 95% by HPLC/UV spectrophotometer) Curcuma longa Granular (Total curcuminoids NLT 85% by HPLC/UV spectrophotometer) Uses There have been various trials conducted for a wide variety of diseases most of which have been successful but have not received their due. Below is a short summary of the various uses of curcumin Neurological Disorders: Curcumin being a potent anti inflammatory agent has found its use in a number of diseases. Various trials have been conducted for its use against several neurological disorders. Current treatments for the majority of these diseases have not succeeded adequate until now. Both of oxidative damage and inflammation have been proved as having roles in age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Because of its pluripotency, oral safety, prolonged history of use, and low cost, curcumin has huge potential for the prevention of numerous neurological conditions for which present therapeutics are less than optimal. Parkinsons disease Alzheimers disease Schizophrenia Depression Oncology: It has been proved that curcumin is an anti oxidant. This property of the molecule has allowed it use for several diseases such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. The anti oxidant property has potentiated its use even in the field of oncology which today is by far the most researched therapeutic category. Studies done on animals and humans have proved promising in more than just one type of cancer. There have been a number of articles published in journals all over the world regarding its potential use against prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer breast cancer and even blood cancer. Antibacterial Activity: Yet another property of curcumin is its proven use in the antibacterial and antifungal category. Curcumin was known to have antibacterial property since centuries but only recent experiments and research have proved its antibacterial activity. This has not only interested physicians but also veterinarians in potentially using curcumin as a topical drug. Patents The according to the Intellectual property rights, the use of curcumin cannot be patented since it is protected by traditional Knowledge of the country. But there have been several patents granted for novel drug delivery system of curcumin. The reason for modifying the molecule developing new delivery systems is because curcumin is a hydrophobic molecule and hence it has a low bioavailability. In order to over this problem researchers have formulated various novel systems to enhance its bioavailability. Understanding the current patents held for curcumin is needed because it shows how advance the industry is. A list of a few patents has been given below Water soluble curcumin based compounds , US patent application Curcumin Dextrin combinations, US patent application Buccal Drug Delivery System for Curcumin, US patent application Vaginal drug Delivery of curcumin, US patent application Spray freeze dry for pulmonary administration, US patent application Potential launch of curcumin products for Diabetes Mellitus Type 2: Diabetes is a chronic disease that arises when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to raised glucose levels in the blood and can cause long-term damage to the body and failure of various organs and tissues. Currently about 55 million Europeans are affected by diabetes Mellitus type 2. Studies conducted at research institutes have proven the effect of curcumin against diabetes. A comprehensive study was done on the diseases and the use of curcumin against various symptoms of the disease. A matrix approach was taken up. (As suggested by Dr Arun Bhatt, Clininvent) With the help of secondary research it was observed that curcumin can treat almost all symptoms relating to diabetes. Various poly herbal formulations are also in the development stage at Konark herbals and health care which have the potential to treat diabetic conditions. Through the research it was observed that several herbs in combination with curcumin could be used against the diabetic symptoms. Curcumin also has shown positive results for reducing cholesterol and LDL levels in the body i.e. preventing obesity. This can give curcumin an opportunity to act as a drug for pre diabetic syndrome. This can have a much better market since it has been observed that the trend amongst more people globally is cha nging from illness to wellness. Effect Potential Cure Eyes and vision Retinopathy caused due to oxidative stress and inflammation Cataract- does not prevent but delays its occurrence. Curcumin Feet and skin Foot ulcers. Polyherbal formulation (on going RD at Konark ) Joint pain osteoarthritis Osteoporosis- Curcumin , curcumin + Ashwagandha Oral Gum diseases Curcumin , curcumin + neem Curcumin in the form of THC Dry mouth Anti bacterial effect of curcumin Gingivitis Antibacterial effect s of curcumin Complications Alzheimers disease Curcumin, Melissa officinalis, ashwagandha, tinoprora cordifolia Cancer Prostate cancer Breast Cancer Colon Cancer Curcumin Cholesterol Metabolic syndrome Curcumin UTI Curcumin +boswelia antibacterial activity Further work remaining in the project: Potential launch of product for various diseases Speaking with the experts SWOT analysis Marketing strategies 4Ps Barriers to entry and overcoming challenges References: http://www.ema.europa.eu/ema/index.jsp?curl=pages/medicines/landing/vet_epar_search.jspHYPERLINK http://www.ema.europa.eu/ema/index.jsp?curl=pages/medicines/landing/vet_epar_search.jspmid=WC0b01ac058008d7a8HYPERLINK http://www.ema.europa.eu/ema/index.jsp?curl=pages/medicines/landing/vet_epar_search.jspmid=WC0b01ac058008d7a8mid=WC0b01ac058008d7a8 http://www.imb.ie/EN/Human-Medicines/Human-Medicines/Traditional-Herbal-Medicines-Registration-Scheme.aspx http://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/issues/2008-07/view_features/the-global-herbs-amp-botanicals-market/ http://www.anh-europe.org/node/3113 http://www.turmeric-curcumin.com/ http://www.research.ucla.edu/tech/ucla02-427.htm http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jps.22512/abstract http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/754681 http://www.clininvent.com/clininvent/Publications/Complementary%20medicine%20Need%20for%20a%20balanced%20approach%20-%20Heal~1.htm http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2929771/

The Holocaust: Buchenwald :: European Europe History

The Holocaust: Buchenwald Introduction The Holocaust is the most horrifying crime against humanity of all times. "Hitler, in an attempt to establish the pure Aryan race, decided that all mentally ill, gypsies, non supporters of Nazism, and Jews were to be eliminated from the German population.He proceeded to reach his goal in a systematic scheme." One of his main methods of "doing away" with these "undesirables" was through the use of concentration camps. "In January 1941, in a meeting with his top officials, the 'final solution' was decided". The Jewish population was to be eliminated. In this paper I will discuss concentration camps with a detailed description of the worst one prior to World War II, Buchenwald. Concentration Camps The first concentration camps were set up in 1933. In the early days of Hitler's regime, concentration camps were places that held people in protective custody. Victims for protective custody included those who were either physically or mentally ill, gypsies, homosexuals, Jehovah Witnesses, Jews and anyone against the Nazi regime. "Gypsies were classified as people with at least two gypsy great grandparents." By the end of 1933 there were at least fifty concentration camps throughout occupied Europe. "At first, the camps were controlled by the Gestapo (police), but by 1934 the SS, Hitler's personal security force, were ordered, by Hitler, to control the camps." Camps were set up for several different purposes. Some for forced labor, others for medical experiments and, later on, for death/extermination. Transition camps were set up as holding places for death camps. "Henrick Himmler, chief of the German police, the Gestapo, thought that the camps would provide an economic base for the soldiers." This did not happen. The work force was poorly organized and working conditions were inhumane. Therefore, productivity was minimal. Camps were set up along railroad lines, so that the prisoners would be conveniently close to their destination. As they were being transported, the soldiers kept telling the Jews to have hope. When the camps were finally opened, most of the families who were shipped out together ended up being separated. Often, the transports mirrored what went on in the camps; cruelty by the officers, near starvation of those being transported, fetid and unsanitary conditions on the trains. "On the trains, Jews were starved of food and water for days. Many people did not survive the ride to arrive at the camp." Jews were forced to obey the guards' orders from the moment they arrived at the camps.

The Model Theory Of Dedekind Algebras :: Algebra Mathematics Essays

The Model Theory Of Dedekind Algebras ABSTRACT: A Dedekind algebra is an ordered pair (B, h) where B is a non-empty set and h is a "similarity transformation" on B. Among the Dedekind algebras is the sequence of positive integers. Each Dedekind algebra can be decomposed into a family of disjointed, countable subalgebras which are called the configurations of the algebra. There are many isomorphic types of configurations. Each Dedekind algebra is associated with a cardinal value function called the confirmation signature which counts the number of configurations in each isomorphism type occurring in the decomposition of the algebra. Two Dedekind algebras are isomorphic if their configuration signatures are identical. I introduce conditions on configuration signatures that are sufficient for characterizing Dedekind algebras uniquely up to isomorphisms in second order logic. I show Dedekind's characterization of the sequence of positive integers to be a consequence of these more general results, and use configuration signat ures to delineate homogeneous, universal and homogeneous-universal Dedekind algebras. These delineations establish various results about these classes of Dedekind algebras including existence and uniqueness. 1. INTRODUCTION One of the more striking accomplishments of foundational studies prior to 1930 was the characterization of various mathematical systems uniquely up to isomorphism (see Corcoran [1980]). Among the first systems to receive such a characterization is the sequence of the positive integers. Both Dedekind and Peano provided characterizations of this system in the late 1880's. Dedekind's characterization commenced by considering B, a non-empty set, and h, a "similar transformation" on B (i.e. an injective unary function on B). In deference to Dedekind, the ordered pair B = (B,h) is called a Dedekind algebra. While the study of Dedekind algebras can naturally be viewed as a continuation of Dedekind's work, the focus here is different. Rather than investigating whether a particular Dedekind algebra (the sequence of the positive integers) is characterizable, we proceed by investigating conditions on Dedekind algebras which imply that they are characterizable. In the following we review some of the results obtained in the model theory of Dedekind algebras and discuss some of their consequences. These results are stated without proofs. Weaver [1997a] and [1997b] provide the details of these proofs. Attention is restricted here to the model theory of the second order theories of Dedekind algebras. Weaver [1998] focuses on the model theory of the first order theories of these algebras. 2. CONFIGURATIONS Given a Dedekind algebra B = (B,hB), AB is the transitive closure of hB.

Marina Gana Vida Essay

PROBLEM: What could Jonah Nobleza do to balance the employment and production of MGV? OBJECTIVES: To be able to find an alternative way to scale-up the production without sacrificing the mission of MGV. To prove to the investors that MGV is a successful social enterprise with viable economic. To be able to spot the best possible solution balancing employment vs. production. AREAS OF CONSIDERATION: Strengths The staffs of MGV are all professionally trained. Providing health products to consumers Promoting environmentally friendly fishing practices Well-developed facilities Provides healthy fish farming Women are skilled in fish processing Opportunities Providing business opportunities to Muslim women in Davao community Having more loyal customers Adopt technology Weakness Limited capacity of production Lack of investors Not using chemical pesticides that reduces the quantity of fish Threats Competition of other fishing industries Natural or man-made calamities ALTERNATIVE COURSES OF ACTION: Stick to their goals to hire more workers by adding another processing plant Merge machine labour and manual labour in production process Replace the manual labour into automated labour process while the workers will serve as indirect employees. RECOMMENDATION: The best alternative course of action is the second solution, which is merging of manual and automated labour process which is in production there will be a machine to help fasten their production for better labour process and to maintain the employment, there should also be a manual process for the workers to help manipulate and monitor the machines. CONCLUSION: We therefore conclude that our recommendation can help the company increase their production without eradicating workers in view of the fact that they can also help in monitoring the machinery to speed up production and we can assign them in manipulating the machines. Adding more machines also means hiring more workers and as a result of having faster production. As their goal is to provide employment to many poor household they were able to maintain their social enterprise.

Comerica Case Study Essay

The purpose of this paper is to recommend Jack to long the Comerica Incorporated (CMA) stock. In this paper we explain how banks operate and present a small back ground on the issue Comerica is facing. Then we more on to financial statements analysis of CMA, which does not present a very strong outlook of the company, but because of the financial crisis, whole industry is experiencing financial stress. Next, our valuation methods show that CMA is undervalued relative to its peers, and hence is a good company to invest in. BACKGROUND: Simply putting, banks accept deposits from public; keep some of those deposits with them and lend the rest to businesses and individuals. Businesses and individuals in turn pay interest on those loans and banks pay interest to depositors, making money from the spread. Nowadays banks operations have become more and more complicated, and hence more important to capital markets. To get in to more detail, banks’ profits come from the following several ways: Differences between Interest Rates on Loans and Deposits: As already explained Banks lend loans at the interest rates that are higher than the ones they pay for deposits. A large part of banks’ profits come from the spread between banks’ depositing and lending rates. Service Fees: Banks provide financial services to their clients and charge certain amount of fees. By charging fees for managing customers’ bank accounts and providing other financial services such as issuing letter of credits, banks create another source of income, known as noninterest income. Now banks’ services have also expanded into investment consulting and information disseminating. These services usually cost expensive fees. Financial Products: Banks provide financial products to help clients manage their property and generate noninterest income. A good example can be that banks sell mutual funds to their clients and gain income from both commissions and certain percentage of the funds’ returns. In addition, banks sometimes also act as  brokers and generate revenues from bid-ask spread. Investment: Some banks play an active role in venture capital industry. By making investments in promising small companies, banks earn the benefits like capital investors or buy-out funds do. In addition, banks can also explore profit opportunities within currency exchange market. Circulation Intermediary for Cash: Bank can boost the economy by reallocating idle money to investors who need money. Banks can gather the discrete money by absorbing deposit and then lend out loans, thereby increasing the liquidity of cash and thriving investment activities. Create Derivative Value: Because of banks, several times the value of original deposit is created. People save their money in banks, and banks lend the money out. New loans throughout the banking system generate new deposits elsewhere in the system. Thus new deposits are derived by the loan and create more sources of cash for banks to lend out. Payment Chains: Banks encourage the business between companies by managing the shift of funds through corporate accounts. Banks can also represent their clients to make payments and help their clients to honor cash. Comerica Incorporated (CMA), one of the 20-largest banks operating in America, has major operations in Midwest, California, Texas and Florida. Comerica operated under three business segments: the business bank, the retail bank and the wealth and institutional management. Due to the financial crisis of 2008, banks, especially ones with high exposure in mortgage related loans, were under a lot of stress. Comerica, being one of them, is being evaluated by the Jack, as a potential investment. CHARACTERISTICS OF CMA’s FINANCIAL HEALTH: Based on the financial statements provided and the Exhibit 5, we have outlined the main characteristics which define CMA’s financial health. Increase in Credit Loss Reserves: Credit loss provisions are the estimated loan losses from the current operating period, which means that company is not expecting to receive these loans back and hence expensing them out, by increasing the allowance for credit losses on balance sheet. There is a substantial increase in the company’s credit loss provisions for Comerica. The percentage of credit loss provisions to PBT plus credit losses skyrocketed, from 3.6 percent in 2006 to 66 percent in Jun 2008, indicating the Corporation’s tough situation in collecting the outstanding loans. Increase in Non-Performing Assets: Reserve coverage ratio, despite the increase in loss reserves, is decreasing dramatically, from 213% in 2006 to 87% in June 2008, indicating an enormous increase in non-performing assets (NPA). The main reason on increase in NPAs the fact that high percentage (32.9%) of company’s total loans is Real Estate loans. This is the reason that company’s interest income has decreased despite the increase in loans made in 2008. Efficiency ratio is basically an operating expense margin measure, the lower the better. The above 60 percent efficiency ratio, 50 percent generally regarded as optimal, is an indicator of company’s deteriorating performance. Use of Long Term and Short Term Debt to Finance Loans: Balance sheet show that Comerica’s total deposits are maintaining a level since 2005, however company’s net loans have increased by almost $10 Billion. Balance sheet clearly shows that these loans are finance from the increase in short-term and long term debt, which cast doubts on the profitability of company going forward. Unsustainability of the Dividend Pay-out Ratio: Exhibit 5 shows an increasing trend in the dividends, which Comerica has tried to maintain despite the low earnings. In the June 2008 quarter, company paid $99 Million as dividends against the net income of $56 Million during the same quarter. These levels of dividends are not sustainable in the current recessionary environment, and when the company does cut dividends, it will send a bad signal to the market. Downward Revision in the Federal Funds Rate: We noticed that spread, which equals to net interest expense as a % of earning assets minus net interest expense as a percentage of interest bearing liabilities, is decreasing. One of the reason of this phenomenon is that interest bearing deposits are increasing – which is bad for the company. Moreover, there has been a downward revision of 3.25 percent in the federal funds’ rate from its original level of 5.25% in July 2007, to 2.0% in 2008 – limiting the banks’ ability to charge higher spreads. Moreover, commercial loans are predominantly floating rate, so decrease in the Federal Funds rate will affect company’s interest income. We do think that decrease in the Fed’s rate will increase the demand for loans but given the credit crunch, it seems unreasonable in the short run. Decrease in Interest Income Percentage Measures: The shrinkage of interest income can be obviously seen from the Corporation’s net interest income as a percentage of earning assets, from 6.82% in 2007 to 4.86% by the end June 2008. This decrease is due to both factors of the ratio, one interest income is decreasing, secondly earning assets for Comerica Inc., which is loans, investment securities available-for-sale and short-term investments are increasing. Moreover, net interest margin, which is calculated as a difference between net interest income and net interest expenses divided by earning assets, show a downward trend. VALUATION: To value Comerica, we have used both methods Jack is planning to use. We will first do the sensitivity analysis (Exhibit 7 in the case) to find the range of tangible book value, earnings and dividends. Using that sensitivity analysis table, we will find the range of firm’s value employing comparable and dividend discount models. Sensitivity Analysis: In the Exhibit 7 at the end of the case, we have already been given the existing quarterly earnings estimates and tangible book value at the end of 2009. Those estimates are based on charge-off ratio of 0.85%. We have completed the sensitivity analysis based on the following assumptions: †¢Percentage of charge off is annual, and dollar value of the charge off will be distributed over each quarter equally. †¢Company’s charge-off ratio taken in 2008 will continue to be the same in 2009. We think this is a  reasonable assumption because of current low reserves for credit losses to NPA ratio of Comerica, as compared to its peers. †¢Company will maintain a certain level of allowance of loan losses. Therefore any increase in percentage of charge off will translate to decrease in tangible book value of the company through the income statement. †¢Dividends are taken to be 48% of earnings in case of positive net income and zero in case of negative net income. Company is trying hard to keep the level of dividends constants, to avoid sending bad signals. But company will not be able to sustain this level of dividends, so it will revert to the historical average of 48% dividend payout ratio (Exhibit – 1). Using these assumptions, we get the range of tangible book value, at the end of 2009, of $5,247 Million in case of 0.85% charge off to $4,647 Million in case of 2% charge-off. Detailed calculations are provided in the Exhibit – 2. Comparable Method: We have chosen two multiples to value Comerica i.e price to tangible book value and price to earnings ratio. Since, due to the current financial crisis, earnings of the companies are very volatile, we think price to tangible book value is a better multiple. Therefore, we will use price to earnings ratio just as a check multiple. Now that we have decided which multiples to use, we need to assign weights to the comparable companies to find out the weighted average multiples. To assign weights, we considered the following factors in terms of similarity between Comerica and comparable companies. †¢Geological location of the operations †¢Percentage of loans from different business segments †¢Financials – Including total revenue break up, return on equity and assets, reserves for loan losses to total loan and total NPAs etc. Based on these weights assigned we calculated the comparable weighted average of the price to tangible book value ratio and price to earnings ratio. Following table summarizes values calculated by both the methods and their sensitivity to the charge-off percentage. Detailed calculations are given in Exhibit – 2 and 3. As we mentioned before, earnings are very volatile right now and are suppressed because of the financial crisis. So we think price to tangible  book value is a better measure of company’s intrinsic value. Therefore we think, company is undervalued right now and hence Jack should propose to long its stock. Dividend Discount Model (DDM): We have also used DDM to find the intrinsic value of the company. We think that company will not be able to sustain its dividends of $0.66 per share per quarter in the short run. However, by year 2010 company will have enough earnings to come back to its previous level. Keeping in mind the fact that company has been growing its dividend payout ratio, and earning are also expected to increase in the long run; we have assumed that company’s dividends will grow at the rate of 2% in perpetuity. Using these assumption, and cost of equity 8.8%, dividend discount model gives us the share price of $40.39 per share, which also indicates that company is undervalued right now. Detailed calculations are provided in Exhibit 4. FUTURE INDUSTRY OUTLOOK: The collapse of mortgage market has taught financial industry an expensive lesson, making a lot of financial institutions unable to fully recover even till now. One of the major factors that cause a lot of banks’ failure and bankruptcy during financial crisis is the banks’ overconfidence in real estate market and issuing huge amount of new debt without the checking credit quality of borrowers. After the financial crisis, banks have become very cautious when dealing with mortgage related loans. Requirements regarding borrowers’ personal incomes and documentation have been considered necessary and valuation process about mortgages has gone very conservative. Facing the illiquidity during the financial crisis, banks are required to improve their capital bases to improve their insolvency. One regulation from Base III incorporates a significant expansion in risk coverage and introduces modified ways to calculate risk-based capital. Moreover, complex hybrid capital ins truments, which used to be considered as a part of banks’ equity, has been exclude from banks’ equity calculation. Base III also puts increasing focus and emphasis on banks to acquire common equity that can be quickly cashed out when facing unexpected situation. The enactment of Base III and the self-improvement happening in the banking industry or, even broader, financial industry have made bank valuation focus more on bank’s  traditional originate-to-hold business, and associated bank’s securitization activities with higher risk. Increasing focus has also been put on a bank’s capital base, which has everything to do with a bank’s solvency and liquidity. Banks, whose equities have complex hybrid equity capital instruments, tend to be less liquid and have higher business risk. Funding source is another factor considered. Banks with less retail funding on their balance sheets are more vulnerable when unexpected situations happen. Loan quality, which had been largely neglected when everyone had big overconfidence to housing market before the burst of the financial cris is, has been brought back to the ‘valuation table’ and greatly reemphasized. These improvements in the regulatory requirements have restored the confidence of investors in the banking industry to some extent. That’s why we see the financial industry raising to the level where it was before the financial crisis. CONCLUSION: Financial statements analysis of CMA does not present a very pretty picture, but because of the financial crisis, whole industry is under stress and experiencing the same deterioration in the quality of earnings. However, our valuation methods show that CMA is undervalued relative to its peer companies and hence is a good investment to hold right now.

Character Analysis: John Updike A&P

John Updike’s story entitled â€Å"A&P† is a narration of a man who seeks for his identity and pride. The narrator of this story is also the main character – Sammy. This protagonist is a simple man – a grocery clerk and an observer.Because of this job, Sammy used to observe his costumers and the ambiance of the A&P. However, due to one situation that occurred into the grocery store, Sammy realizes many things and gives him certain actions that changed his life. Being the main character of the store, Sammy shows different emotions – happy, angry, sad, confused, and puzzled. That is why Sammy is a picture of transforming identity from the beginning up to the end of the story.In terms of sympathy towards Sammy’s character, I have seen that Updike uses different factors and elements to show emotions and actions coming from the main character. It is to provide conflict, climax, and resolution to the story. the author sympathize with Sammy’s character that can be seen in the end of the story where Sammy realizes that he has no job and the worlds will not be a better place for him anymore.This part shows sympathy in a sense that the author makes the character realize the fact of life and did not only release the solution of the conflict. Updike shows the justification and idea of Sammy after he quit his job, which is a form of sympathy to the character.Because the character comes from a middle class, the language is casual and straight. In the beginning of the story, we could see that Sammy is very observant with people or with his environment. When Sammy wants to express his feelings, he shows it directly without any form of pretention.From this fact, it defines the identity of Sammy as a normal character with dignity and pride. However, the way he describes things or people is dramatic in a sense that he provides accurate imagination to feel and understand his perceptions. As the story goes by, we could able to show t hat Sammy starts to express his actions and words together that changed his path.Sammy is easily affected by his environment. This is the most significant trait that he showed throughout the story. From the beginning up to the end of the story, Sammy establishes a concept of being affected to everything that happens in his environment. From this fact, we could distinguish that Sammy is a composition of attraction, curiosity, inferiority, and distinction. All these factors rehabilitate the mind and actions of Sammy towards other people like Quennie and Lengel.In my own observation, I can say that Sammy’s persona is dynamic because his actions and motivations are not stable. As the story goes on, Sammy’s personality elevate from one factor to another. In the beginning of the story, Sammy is an observant. When he saw Queenie in a swim suit, he started to analyze things. When Lengel enters the scene and confronts the ladies in swim suit, Sammy talks to Lengel. When Sammy t hinks that Lengel’s actions are illogical, he quits his job. His actions had a process to establish his character – not just a static formation of his identity.From all of these, I can say that Sammy is a good character that can be played. He is flexible enough to adjust in different scenarios. This is what I like with his character. Even if he is prank, direct, and ‘weird’ character, there is a concept of intelligence that lies within his persona. It shows that Sammy was not easily manipulated by his environment but he could think and become supple to show who he really is.Work CitedUpdike, John. A&P.

Critical Reflection and Leadership in Identity Making Essay

â€Å"Vision is the key to understanding leadership† (Haslam, Reicher, & Platow, 2011). I have spent many years trying to avoid positions of authority and leadership roles, bedside nursing was a perfect escape. This paper will show that we are all born leaders and to get to those hidden leadership abilities is to engage in self-awareness, self-reflection, and achieve a higher education to learn how to apply them (Lowney, 2003). Critical Reflection and Leadership in Identity Making â€Å"Vision is the key to understanding leadership† (Haslam, Reicher, & Platow, 2011). I have spent many years trying to avoid positions of authority and leadership roles, bedside nursing was a perfect escape. Over the years, I have worked virtually every aspect of nursing, except management. I found conversations to be one sided, often leaving the staff feeling they were guilty until proven innocent. I have had some remarkable â€Å"Nurse Managers but, most were ineffective, selfish, and unappealing. This did nothing to inspire me to become a leader. Becoming the Intensive Care Units’ â€Å"Unit Based Educator† made me realize that the only way to achieve my vision to make a difference, was through education geared toward leadership. According to Lowney (2003), the insight into being a leader is through self-reflection. (Valli, 1999) interjects this theory into five types of reflection, further guiding us into a deeper self-awareness. The reading that had the most impact on me this week would have to be critical reflection. To me, critical reflection is interchangeable with critical thinking. I am bombarded with information that requiring on the spot decisions. Through the use of Critical thinking, I make decisions from past experiences, information at hand, and the impact my decisions will have now and the future. On the other hand, critical reflection, is more of a process that allows us to question past experiences, then consider, reassess and analyze those experiences prior to applying them to the current situation. The information provided in this week’s study has already impacted my leadership style. I have applied critical reflection to make more informed decisions, and being better informed, I am less reactionary. Being reflective has allowed me to be more insightful on how destructive, self- deception has been in my personally, socially, and in my work. I no longer say â€Å"I cannot†, instead; I review the situation, reflect on alternatives, and then make a decision. I agree with Lowney (2003) we are all born leaders and to get to those hidden leadership abilities is to engage in self-awareness, self-reflection, and achieve a higher education to learn how to apply them. I thought that I had escaped the claws of leadership by becoming an educator, another self-deceptive thought. This course has taught me that the Educator has the most influential leadership position. Being an Educator is my motivation to learning how to be that sound, moral leader I want to be.

Analysis Of The Book The Circle

Dave Eggers’ The Circle, it set certain reverberations echoing in my mind, especially through the correlation of The Circle’s three slogans, â€Å"SECRETS ARE LIES, SHARING IS CARING, PRIVACY IS THEFT† (Eggers 305), with 1984’s â€Å"WAR IS PEACE, FREEDOM IS SLAVERY, IGNORANCE IS STRENGTH† (Orwell 6). I then began to see, like others, that Eggers’ dystopia is a contemporary 1984; therefore, I felt it would be appropriate to compare them. In almost all the reviews and essays written on The Circle, there is not†¦ Grand Central Publishing released Flora Rheta Schreiber’s book Sybil. Through the book Dr. Wilbur, Sybil’s therapist psychoanalyses Sybil’s sixteen different personalities. The book went through all the different personalities and what is the cause of her dissociation. After her analysis was complete Dr. Wilbur thought a book should be written, this was when Flora was introduced into the picture. Flora had had previous work as a journalist and editor of varying psychiatric papers and articles. After†¦ The Hughes Brothers imprint their religious point of view in their 2010 American post-apocalyptic film, â€Å"The Book of Eli†. In this dramatic tale Denzel Washington stars as Eli, a mysterious wanderer that carries the world’s only remaining copy of King James’s Bible. He ventures 30 years across a desolated post-apocalyptic landscape in the attempt of finding a safe haven for this sacred book. Determined to complete his mission, Eli’s quote â€Å"We walk by faith, not by sight† from the Bible conveys a†¦ J07 -- THE BOOK OF TELLS 1 Citation. Collett, P. (2003). The book of tells: How to read people’s minds from their actions. London, United Kingdom: Doubleday. Tells are a recognizable action or a method of performing an action that reveal something about a person that is not otherwise easily observable (Collett, 2003, p.15). The Book of Tells, written by social psychologist Dr. Peter Collett, decodes tells to explain what these subtle clues of human behaviour and motivations are telling us. By delving†¦ establishing and emphasizing whatever specific emotion that the artist wishes to portray. It can also signify a call for extra attention from the reader to a specific page, as the line work suddenly changes in style between pages. In â€Å"The Outside Circle†, the line work on the 26th page is conveying the shattered life and transitioning that the character Joey Caver is going through, and is a visual representation of his emotions negatively being broken down. Lines are everything within a comic as†¦ Major Works Review General 1. Title- The Book Thief 2. Author- Markus Zusak 3. Date of Original Publication- 2005 4. Novel Type- Historical Fiction Structure 1. Point of View- Death 2. Relationship to Meaning- As an omniscient force Death can provide insight on several different events happening all over the world at different points in time, and thoughts running through all the characters’ heads, while also being able to share his own thoughts and feelings about humanity. 3. Plot Structure- a. Exposition-†¦ transporting them. As a result between with a death of 9.6 and 10.8 million Africans arrived in the Americas alive. With the odds against Aminata Diallo, she faces many losses but through these losses Aminata manages to re-defines herself. In "The Book of Negroes" the novel focuses on Aminata 's self-discovery through her many loses, including her loss of innocence, the loss of safety, and the loss of relationships. Aminata first losses her innocence at the age of 11 when colonist invaded her small†¦ Comparatively: A Review Circles are globally ubiquitous. They occur naturally, are used for style, and used as metaphors. One metaphorical use of circles is found in Zen Buddhism. An EnsÃ…  is a hand drawn circle, generally in one brush stroke. It is elegant in its simplicity and symbolises enlightenment, the void, and the wholeness of the universe. In Peter Singer’s book The Expanding Circle, he argues that moral progress comes when people use their reason to progressively expand their circle of empathy from†¦ The novel, The Book Thief, was published in the year 2005 and falls under the genre of historical fiction. In the novel, death narrates the story beginning in 1938. Liesel Meminger is presented as the book thief and is faced with many hardships at the beginning of the novel. She has lost both her parents including her little brother, Werner. This girl is faced with agony and death at such a young age in her life. This forms Liesel into a person who isolates her inner humanity and compassion towards†¦ According to Psychology Today, on average kids spend 5-7 hours a day looking at screens. This is a staggering amount, accounting for around half of daylight hours. In The Circle, a novel by Dave Eggers, a young girl named Mae in a job with a large technology company spends close to her entire day on a screen, leaving little time for interactions with people. Instead she relies on how others perceive her online, rather than as a real human being. Truman’s entire life is fake in The Truman Show, a†¦

Answer the four questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Answer the four questions - Essay Example I feel like socializing and even sometimes exercising. I just feel overall better about myself and find it easier to wind down and even sleep at night. If I have a terrible day at home, I find that when I go to school, my mind is in another place. I think about what is going on at home, replay the instances in my mind and worry about it to the point of where I cannot focus as well. It is more emotionally draining to have problems at home because being home with my family is not something I can or want to escape from. If school is awful, I know that there is an end to it someday or with an awful job, I know I can always quit. I simply cannot quit a home life. If it is bad, it can be depressing. If I am having a wonderful day at home, I feel excited about my day. I am enthusiastic. I may find myself working much harder and anxiously anticipating going home from school or work so I can spend more time at home. It is self-fulfilling for everything to be going great at home. One of the topics of discussion by Dr. Wadsworth was a sense of feeling out of control. It seems as though everything is going okay and then all of a sudden something goes wrong. Little things can be irritating. The demand/control/support theory is that workers or students feel more strain when they are under conditions of high demand and low control. The two of these intertwined can be difficult to deal with rather than one of the two alone. To have a lot of work to deal with and tasks to accomplish can be overwhelming and a person can find themselves procrastinating to get the job done which then only adds to more stress. A person may find themselves slacking on job performance just to get a task done. This can contribute to mental issues and other health issues of a person’s well-being. To have low control is a feeling in which a person feels as if they are stuck. It creates an environment at work or school that is undesirable to be in. This can then hinder other

Writer's choice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 27

Writer's choice - Essay Example Krauss and Reed observe that the increase in the production and supply of oil especially in the case of Saudi Arabia is because domestic consumption oil within the country has increased due to a surge in the number of middle-income class of its population. This has led to an annual growth in domestic consumption of 6 percent over the last ten years. Moreover, this growth in the middle-income proportion of the population has also resulted in an increase in taste and demand for luxurious commodities. To meet this ever-increasing demand, Krauss and Reed observe that the Saudi government has spread its refinery business to other nations such as Japan, US, etc., a factor that gives them a huge refinery network that keeps them abreast their competitors. A point to note is that despite the decline in oil prices, the country has no plans whatsoever to reduce their production in their future. This is because the country wants to maintain its market share, and if possible, even expand it, a dream that cutting on production may curtail. Additionally, Krauss and Reed quotes Husseini, a former vice president for Saudi Aramco as saying that it would be unwise second-guess market trends, hence the need to continue with the current production rate. Regarding how the article relates with the course structure, the article outlines a circumstance where the supply of a product, oil in this case, remains unaffected by a decrease in demand prices. While theoretical market dynamics in such a situation expects a correction mechanism that most likely would have been a decrease in supply in order to raise profit margins as outlined by McEachern (2012), the course is totally different. The theoretical concepts as outlined in the course relate to a free market structure, typical of the one observed in the oil industry. Currently, the oil market is self-adjusting

Mathematical Cognition and Mathematical Learning Difficulties Essay

Mathematical Cognition and Mathematical Learning Difficulties - Essay Example Any difficulties in learning or understanding these skills may result in mathematical learning difficulties. It is imperative that we gather information about arithmetic skills in order to perpetuate our understanding of the root cause of dyscalculia. This can be done with the help of the two main neuropsychological models of numerical abilities which are outlined below. McCloskey, Caramazza, and Basili (1985) have divided arithmetic skills into three main groups: (1) comprehension of number concepts; (2) production of numbers; and (3) calculation. (from Shalev and Gross-Tsur) These skills call for the ability to process verbal and Arabic representations of numbers. Further it requires an understanding of the processed numbers coupled with the ability to transcode numbers from one representation to another. Calculation refers to arithmetic competency in terms of strategies used to solve problems, a keen grasp of the concepts involved and a decent knowledge of the counting principles. The "triple-code model" w... sychological as well as an anatomical basis and its premise is the three basic elements of verbal, visual, and magnitude representation in acquiring arithmetic skills. According to this model verbal processing is done in the left hemisphere of the brain whereas magnitude estimations and visual representations are bilaterally localized. Any deficit or failure in acquiring these skills is bound to manifest itself as a mathematical disability. Normal children use a particular or judicious mix of strategies in using these skills to solve arithmetic problems but studies have shown that "MD children tend to use immature problem-solving strategies" (Geary 1993, 348) MATHEMATICAL DISABILITIES FROM A COGNITIVE PERSPECTIVE MD children presumably have difficulties in the retrieval of basic arithmetic facts from their memories and in the computation or procedures involved in arithmetic processes. According to Geary, "lower order deficits of MD children potentially reside in five component skills: procedural, memory retrieval, conceptual, working memory, and speed of processing." The first two are functional skills and they are important determinants of mathematical performance whereas the latter three skills are underlying components which may influence the output. Studies have shown that MD children are, "characterized by a high frequency of computational and memory-retrieval errors" (Geary 1993, 348) This indicates that these children are not fully cognizant of the tenets of mathematics (poor conception) which is further accentuated by a retrieval deficit memory. Moreover their counting speed is slow and this mars problem- solving ability as the working memory falters and finally decays. MD children ar e unaware of the errors they make and hence there is repetition of errors.

Health Care And Increasing In Taxes On Cigarettes Term Paper

Health Care And Increasing In Taxes On Cigarettes - Term Paper Example An increase in price of a cigarette pack with 10% would result in a decrease, in demand, by about 4%. With regard to cigarette taxation, there have been increases in tax by various governments as a way of controlling the consumption of cigarettes and in essence reducing demand. In order to understand the effects of tax increases on cigarette use, there is a need to know two things; the magnitude of results that the tax change will cause and the link between the consumption changes and price change (Taylor & Akila 94). Economists and researchers have been using estimates of price elasticity of demand, which refers to the change in percentage of consumption, consequently from a 1% increase in price, to evaluate the effects of change in prices of cigarette on cigarette consumption. Overall, the price elasticity for a cigarette is within the range of -0.14 to -1.23, but mostly it falls within the narrower range of -0.3 to -0.5. This implies that a change in price of tobacco will result i n a slight decrease in demand. In spite of the fact that higher cigarette taxes reduce sales or consumption, cigarette tax income increases because the loss in income as a result of lower sales is more and could be offset by the increased taxes (Cordes 440). Policy makers in the tobacco control department and tax revenue docket will always agree that, provided the price elasticity of demand for cigarettes is not more than -1, then total revenue from sales increases when price increase.... In spite of the fact that higher cigarette taxes reduce sales or consumption, cigarette tax income increases because the loss in income as a result of lower sales is more and could be offset by the increased taxes (Cordes 440). Policy makers in the tobacco control department and tax revenue docket will always agree that, provided the price elasticity of demand for cigarettes is not more than -1, then total revenue from sales increases when price increase. As evidenced in this study, the price elasticity of demand for a cigarette is less than one, meaning that in as much as tax will have an effect on the demand for cigarette consumption, it will also yield additional tax revenues. The passing into law of tobacco control policy with the increasing prices will eventually have significant results in reducing tobacco consumption, making cigarettes expensive to juveniles (Besanko et al 151). Do increases in cigarette taxes have any other effects? In response to the increased taxes on cigar ettes, some problems can be seen to be rising. They include theft, interstate smuggling and channeling. Channeling primarily describes the changes in ways people obtain a product they seek. Making one by rolling it is a good example. The most serious one of the three above is smuggling. Smuggling can be related to moving goods across international borders to avoid paying tariffs or duties for the product. There are commonly five characteristics of a product that are likely to be smuggled somewhere for a profit. They include the product tax differential; transaction cost; transportation cost; the effort required to obtain the product and the possibility of police or authority intervention. Cigarette thus makes the perfect product for smuggling. The product is not heavy and has large tax