Financial Accounting Standards Board Essay

Runway Discount (Runway), a privately held online retailer, has implemented a new customer referral marketing campaign. The campaign involves incentivizing current customers to refer their friends to Runway’s website. When a current customer refers someone who makes a purchase on Runway’s website, the referring customer receives a $25 credit to be applied to a future purchase. Two important provisions should be highlighted regarding this â€Å"Refer-a-Friend† program: The $25 credit is contingent upon the existing customer’s referral actually making a purchase The $25 credit is applied to the referring customer’s future purchase at the time that the referred customer makes a purchase The business purpose of this Refer-a-Friend program is to increase sales and expand Runway’s customer base by providing incentives for current customers to refer their friends. The first accounting issue associated with Runway Discount’s Refer-a-Friend program is identifying how the $25 referral credit should be recorded in Runway’s income statement. Is this consideration an adjustment of the selling prices of the vendor’s products or services, and therefore characterized as a reduction of revenue, or is it a cost incurred by the vendor for assets and services received from the customer, and therefore characterized as a cost or expense? The next significant accounting issue is regarding when Runway should record the $25 referral credit as a liability: (a) at the time an existing customer receives the $25 referral credit, or (b) at the time the existing customer actually uses the $25 referral credit to make a purchase? In the following sections, we will discuss the possible accounting treatments under U.S GAAP and IFRS, which relate to these accounting issues facing Runway Discount. Relevant examples will be provided of businesses that offer similar referral incentive programs. We will conclude with our recommendation of how Runway Discount should account for the referral credits it issues relating to its Refer-a-Friend program. Applicable Authoritative Literature FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 605-50, Revenue Recognition IASC International Accounting Standards (IAS) 18, Revenue Recognition View as multi-pages

The Power of a Little Girl’s Photo

The picture from Sudan, which won Kevin Carter a Pulitzer Prize in 1994, is memorable because it shows the seriousness of the situation in Sudan during that time; reflects the role of photographers in conveying the unknown circumstances to us; and   tells the impact of covering such events on photographers as manifested by Carter’s suicide. The winning picture depicts a pitiful, starving little Sudanese girl with her head bowed to the earth; obviously very weak and dying. Behind her back is a vulture which seems to be waiting for her to die so it could have something to eat.The story behind the picture is related by Mac Leod Scott in his article, The Life and Death of Kevin Carter. Mac Leod wrote how Carter was able to shot the photograph. Carter went to Sudan to photograph the rebel movement in the country. When he reached the country, he started taking pictures of famine victims. He saw lots of people who are starving. They were so thin and terribly malnourished. In his at tempt to find another view, he went to an open bush. While in the bush, he heard a soft whimpering sound and found a little girl trying to walk her way to the feeding center. He came nearer to photograph her.As he tried to shoot, a vulture landed just behind the girl. He captured the scene. Carter later confessed that he waited for another 20 minutes expecting the vulture to spread its wings but it did not. After taking all the shots that he needed, he chased the vulture away. He saw the helpless little girl attempting to walk toward the feeding center. Carter remained in his position under the tree. He smoked and cried. He became depressed afterwards.To stress why the Pulitzer-prized picture is memorable, four supporting claims are written below.Firstly, the picture itself shocked the world. According to Scott’s words, the photograph â€Å"made the world weep†. The emotional impact of the photograph is hard to forget.   In the picture, the vulture is just waiting fo r the girl to die so it could eat her. Imagine a big bird is preying on the flesh of a child for its food. Many find it gruesome as they don’t usually such kind of pictures and news in the headlines. The photo got many reactions from different people around the world. When someone sees it, there is something in the emotion that makes one feel more than pity for the little girl.Further, Scott reported how the picture was seen by millions of people.   The New York Times was looking for pictures about Sudan back then when Carter sold the photograph to the famous newspaper in March 26, 1993. The NY Times published the picture and many readers were overwhelmed by it. Many papers also published the picture and were stared by millions of people around the globe.The media picked up on the story and the picture. Those who saw the picture pity the Sudanese girl and wondered what have become of her. Hundreds of readers called the NY Times office to inquire what happened to the girl. T he NY Times said it did not know if she reaches the feeding center. The paper said that no one knows the fate of the poor little girl. Likewise, the readers also wanted to find out if Carter was able to help her in her struggle.Secondly, the picture reveals the real condition of Sudan during that time. The world came to know Sudan because of the picture. Sudan is a large country in North Africa. Until now, the political unrest in the country continues and the civil war is killing many people. On top of that, famine has been ravaging the land regularly. Based on an article by Bruce Nelan, published in Time Magazine on July 27, 1998, the country experiences famine every three or four years.Both the civil war and the famine resulted to the death of hundreds of thousands of Sudanese. The year 1994 marked the most devastating famine – the year when the picture was taken. Nelan added that hunger is always a threat in the country of roughly 40 million people. In 1989 alone, 250,000 died. In a related article, written by another Time reporter, Maryann London in 2001, about 1.5 million of people have already died either in the civil war or in famine. Sadly, the famine affects everyone most especially the children who are the most vulnerable segment of the population.Nelan further wrote that, usually, the only way to get to a feeding center is by walking which usually takes days or weeks to reach these centers run by international relief agencies. Mostly die along the way as what might have happened to the girl in the picture. According to Bill Keller, in his article in the Time Magazine published on July 29, 1994, the girl collapsed as she was on her way to the feeding center.Thirdly, the photographer who took the picture committed suicide by carbon poisoning three months after receiving his prize. Carter is from Johannesburg, South Africa. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography that year together with Paul Watson who took a picture from Somalia (Gord on, 1994).But, as Keller reported, the people blamed him for not helping the dying little girl. Carter’s action was criticized. Many suggested that he should have decided to help the little girl by giving her something to eat or by carrying her to the feeding center. He has the chance to help one starving little girl but he walked away after taking her picture.Moreover, as Scott said, Carter was haunted by what he had seen during his career- the violence, famine, dying people and war. Maybe he could not take it any more. Presently, there is a documentary film that seeks to explain Carter’s suicide, entitled as The Death of Kevin Carter: Casualty of the Bang Bang Club by Dan Krauss.On a personal note, I do not want to judge Carter as many have already blamed him in the past. However, I am one with others in saying that he should have somehow helped the dying girl by offering food or water. I do not know what was in his mind then. Blaming is the readers’ reaction on Carter which I think had much effect on him and his decision to end his life.Lastly, the picture highlights the role of photographers in showing the unknown to us. Before Carter took the picture, many people were not aware of the gravity of the situation in Sudan. Most people in the West are not even familiar with the country.Through the picture, the world suddenly realized that there is so much happening in many countries that we are not aware of. It is the photographers who connect us to the unfamiliar sufferings around the globe. They give us pictures which tell stories. As Susan Sontag wrote, â€Å"to collect photographs is to collect the world† and photographs provide evidences. More so, Nathan Thornburgh of Time Magazine penned that photography has the power to trap moment in time and he ascribed photojournalism as the perfect medium for showing stories. I say, without photographers, there would be no pictures to behold.Nevertheless, capturing the scenes of a war-tor n area or other violence-related activities is tough. From here, one can infer that covering such violence and heart-wrenching events have impact on the photographers as evidenced by Carter’s suicide. The drama and the difficulty of recording such delicate situations may have its negative influence on the photographers. It can be noted that Carter sunk into depression before he committed suicide. The violence, famine, and dying children- Carter remembered while he lived- and made him more depressed. He maybe was too sad. He might have remembered the dying little Sudanese girl from time to time.In conclusion, I guess the picture is powerful enough that’s why it is too memorable. My reasons are all cited above. Pictures show us reality. And the photographers who took them for us deserved to be affirmed as they serve as our link to many realities around the world. As what the picture of the dying Sudanese girl tells us, we can say that photographers are very important as they show us the different situations in the world. Without them, there will be no pictures which will show us how blessed we are because we have more than enough food to eat and how other people in the world are suffering because of famine. Without the pictures and the photographers, we will never know what is really happening. We will remain ignorant of the people who need our help – even just for a piece of food.Works CitedGordon, Jim.  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Judges have a difference of opinion†¦.†Ã‚  News Photographer  49.n5  (May 1994):  4(1).  General OneFile.  Gale.  Northern Virginia Community College Annandale campus.  21 Apr. 2008.Keller, Bill.  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Kevin Carter, a Pulitzer winner for Sudan photo, is dead at 33.†The New York Times  143  (July 29, 1994):  C16(N) pB8(L).  Expanded Academic ASAP.  Gale.  Northern Virginia Community College Annandale campus.  21 Apr. 2008  .London, Maryann B. â€Å"Baroness who Frees Slaves†. 19 March 2001. Time Magazine. 30 April 2008

Baby Shoes, Never Worn

Baby shoes, never worn The watch that hang over the table was ticking loudly in the silence. The two of them were standing muted in front of each other. They had been together for three years and each year she would ask him the question. She thought it was about time they started trying, but he still felt too young for the commitment. She said her biologically watch was ticking, but he maintained his opinion and told her to stop being anxious. He believed they still had plenty of time.One day she walked along the sidewalk and all she saw on her way was little people. She looked at Jumpsuits, diapers and perambulators. She got to a place with tiny shoes. She picked up a pair and caught herself in a mirror as she turned around. Something wet ran down her cheek and she could hear herself. Coming to her senses she stormed out to her car and drove home. She stayed up that night thinking about her misfortune. She decided to wake him up to convince him that the right moment was now. Luck wa s not with her.Wanting to put herself out of her misery and rage she discovered her hand moving to give him a red mark on the side of his head. She had never worried this much about anything before and he had never seen her this way before. The chaotic atmosphere had filled up the entire apartment. He tried to catch her before she got to the doorknob but failed. Her mind was empty for everything but her wish. She kept driving into the night not stopping at any point. The tank was almost empty when the first light hit the windscreen.A petrol station was the first place she saw and it was about time to stop. She sat on the bench looking at a newspaper with wet eyes when she saw the advertisement. It said â€Å"For Sales: Baby Shoes. Never Worn†. Looking at the address she drove fast across town. The picture of the baby shoes hang from the ceiling. She bulled over when she reached the right block. The young Mrs. opened the door to the apartment. She was home alone. They greeted each other. They had a noiseless clock over their table in the kitchen.The needle went from number to number, silently. She looked around not saying anything, not complimenting anything. The Mrs. observed her walking through the apartment, but stopped her when she came to the room at the far back. She barely got to see the room, but it was plenty. She looked at the Mrs. expression, turned around and walked down to her car on the street. The car was empty when she drove home to him. The clock was still ticking over the kitchen table however not as fast as it used to tick.

Sustainability in emerging economies - Simplified business plan (topic Essay

Sustainability in emerging economies - Simplified business plan (topic of your choice ) - Essay Example o work with Kenya locals to construct greenhouses that would ensure the country produce food that is sustainable to its population so that hunger can be averted. Attention is drawn to the fact that this country majorly depend on agricultural products as their basic point of the economy. Agriculture is the backbone of their survivals since it is the source of their daily food and comprise almost of 75% of their exports that earn foreign exchange that enables them to balance the trade deficits. But as studies shows, there has been a decline in a significant production. This significant decline is due to climate change and global warming. The two has led to extreme temperatures and excess heat that are unfavorable for food production. (Pearce, Barbier & Markandya (2013) shows that the production of food in these societies has an annual decreased from of up to 10% in the last decade. On the other hand, research by Barrett, Ilbery, Brown and Binns, (1999), shows that exports from these countries have fallen by 20% and the trend is likely to continue if not addressed. Thus, due to these demanding issues, the corporation has identified greenhouse c onstruction in these societies as the primary remedy for the situation. The establishment of the greenhouse will make the locals produce more than enough for their consumption against the extreme weather conditions. Hence, food security is ensured that will lower the poverty index to reduce by a greater percentage. Furthermore, production is expected to be in excess that can be used for exchange for other products from various societies. Hence, the balance of trade will be manageable that enhances growth in the economy creating sustainable development. The world institutions have proposed various heads that encourage the corporation to participate in the project developments. A report from World Bank shows that climate change is destroying the events gains that have been achieved over times hence companies and governments

Criminal justice Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Criminal justice - Thesis Example The state of affair above means that there is a correlation between increased immigration and the rising cases of crime since the immigrants who form a crucial part of this debate are the very perpetrators of crime in the United States. For instance, in line with this rationale is the disclosure by the Pew Hispanic Center which pointed out that in 2007, those sentenced for federal crimes were largely non-US citizens Hispanics who accounted for 74% of the immigration offenders. The same accounted for 25% of drug offenders, 6% of firearms offenders, and 8% of the white collar crimes perpetrators. This statistical provision above is of great interest, given that non-native Hispanics account for 5.1% of the nations adult population. In the same vein, the Federal Bureau of Prison corroborates the statement by the Pew Hispanic Center to state that 26.4% of inmates that are incarcerated in federal prisons are non-US citizens. The seriousness of the mater is underscored by the fact that thes e illegal immigrants are small enough to comprise a paltry 8.6% of the US adult population. The rationale herein is that if a small population such as the non-US citizen can account for the inordinately high rates of crime and prison population, then the situation can turn into a tragedy if the number of the illegal immigrants in the US increases. In another wavelength, there are other observers such as XXXX who point out that the concomitance between increased immigration and high rates of crime is too strong to be gainsaid. XXX points out that illegal immigration in itself is a crime, and therefore, it could suffice to moderate the question. XXXX points out that this is because, illegal immigration is not only a crime, but it has steadily scaled upwards since 1995. In Maricopa County, 22% of felons are illegal immigrants; in Collier County, 22% of prison inmates are illegal immigrants; in Lake County, 19% of prison inmates are illegal immigrants; and in Weld County,

Tourism as a Tool for Reducing Poverty Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Tourism as a Tool for Reducing Poverty - Essay Example Mkangi and Mbindyo, Kenya is an extremely fertile country, which stretches from the sea level in the eastern part to the snow-covered mountains to the north. Mountains that can be found in Kenya include Mt. Kenya, Mt. Elgon and Mt. Kilimanjaro, which also borders Tanzania. Its greatest feature includes the Great Rift Valley, found in the central and western part of the country. Also, there are a number of lakes and rivers found in Kenya, which include Lake Turkana, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Bogoria among others while rivers include River Nzoia, Gori, Ewaso Ngiro, and Yala among others, which form part of Kenya’s Geography. Kenya does not perform quite well, but it is the largest economy in East Africa. The economy, based on the market with a few infrastructure enterprises owned by the state, also maintains an external liberal trade system. Adholla, Mkangi, and Mbindyo (2008) state that 70% of people in Kenya is employed in the agricultural sector in which half of th e sector focuses on subsistence farming. The growth rate of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Kenya has decreased over the last decade from 6.5% every year to 4% every year since independent and then to only 1.5% per year during the 1990s. Politically, Kenya has always been considered a stable country despite all the changes in its political system and conflicts in the neighboring countries. Tourism is the second largest export earner in Kenya after agriculture, which forms a crucial foundation for its economy.... A  unique  tourism features in Kenya include wildlife and beaches, which have enabled it to  out  space  all its neighbors in East Africa due to  excellent  planning  and  leadership. In addition, solid infrastructure and  devotion  to conservation of wildlife has driven Kenya to the forefront of the  regional  tourism industry. In Kenya, tourism dates back in the pre-independence time i.e. as early as 1930s, when explorers from abroad started visiting Kenya. The explorers and visitors mainly visited Kenya for  solitude, as well as big-game hunting expeditions, which the Swahili people started referring to as safaris. Some of the  early  visitors included Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Earnest Hemingway, and Theodore Roosevelt among other celebrities. About 10% of Kenya  has been set  aside for wildlife conservation and biodiversity. Since most visitors to the  country  are  mainly  interested  in seeing animals especially the  big   five (rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo and leopard), game viewing is a  popular  practice. Also, there are other small and  unique  animals present in the country, which attract tourist too. Moreover, there has been a  remarkable  rise in the number of tourist since the beginning of tourism in Kenya. For instance, in 2003, Kenya received over one million tourists, which lead to rise in  bed  capacity, in classified hotels to over 73,000. Tourism in Kenya has employed over 219,000 people, which is approximately 11% of the total workforce in the country. Currently, Kenya is still in a state of  growth  i.e.it is still a developing country. However, there are many factors that are inhibiting

Strategic Financial Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Strategic Financial Management - Essay Example Understanding current approaches to managing risk and uncertainty in the appraisal of capital investment projects require a deeper insight into the role of financial management in the modern business corporation. Unlike in the past when finance managers merely oversaw the accounting function, recent advances in technology changed the way business is conducted around the world, resulting in the radical transformation of financial management. Presiding over processes that cut across the business, financial managers set strategy, lead crucial change initiatives, and act as real partners in decision-making. The title Chief Financial Officer (CFO) indicates a bigger role for financial managers in ensuring corporate growth. They design ways to maximise shareholder value on a sustainable basis, not only to meet quarterly targets but to transform the corporation into a forceful influence on their industry, nation, and the world. In a globalising world where financial markets operate 24/7, the CFO has to know how to build world-class resource support that would keep the business sustainable. This requires the CFO to instil in the corporation a more positive approach to structural and process streamlining and risk management (Read & Kaufman, 1997, p. v-vii). Events in the past decade highlight the transition of the finance function into strategic financial management, giving emphasis to the importance of present decisions on the future of the business. The focus shifted from profits and into strategic issues of control and adding substantial shareholder value on a sustainable basis. In the wake of the financial scandals early this century, CFOs have focused on managing uncertainty and risk, working hard to avoid nasty surprises in financial reporting, ensure the firm’s conformity with laws and regulations, and sustain a strong credit rating. In fact, managing risk has become one of the most important functions of strategic financial management. Every business

DB 4 Carminsl Justice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

DB 4 Carminsl Justice - Essay Example To that end, significant research is being conducted to find out ‘what works’ to end the cycle of recidivism. In recent years, various strategies have been tried. During the next ten years we must capitalize on what we have learned, and use the hard-earned tax-payer money that we are spending in ways that will be both cost-beneficial and socially responsible. (Maurer, Susan L. 2001). Crime control must be examined in relation to the community roots of social problems like poverty, unemployment, drugs, and inadequate housing. Penal reform should be planned in relation to societal reform in areas like education, economic opportunity and racial equality. We need a new paradigm for sentencing and corrections. The continued reliance on imprisonment is costing society a tremendous amount of money, wasting lives, and doing little to prepare offenders to be successful in the community. To face these challenges, three steps should be taken: 1) Create a task-force to examine corrections. 2) Study the problems. 3) Prepare an action-oriented strategic development plan, to ensure that critical problems will be addressed. Among the basic theories relating to criminal justice and its relation to individual rights and social control, is community justice or restorative justice. Restorative justice is future-oriented, focuses on restoration for the victim and society, and is less expensive for the taxpayer. Victims have historically been left out of the criminal justice process. Only recently have programs been started to assist victims and ensure that their voices are heard throughout the process. Also, taxpayers do not have to spend large amounts of money to punish and incarcerate non-violent offenders, who represent little risk to their communities. Restorative justice emphasizes that they should â€Å"make right† the harm that they

Commercial Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Commercial Law - Essay Example For the agreement to be effective, the assured has to inform the insurer of certain information about the thing that he or she wants to be insured. The assured can be an individual or a company and is expected by law to insure something that has money value. In other cases, the person or the company can insure a person who she or he values, for example, a wife insuring her husband. Scenario Steve is a customer who has an insurance policy to cover the house which he constructed in 1940. When he was agreeing with Home Protection Insurance to cover his house, he said that the house was built using concrete blocks but in reality it was built using straw bale. He failed to provide information on the strength of the building materials even though the company asked him. One month after getting the cover to protect his house, a severe storm damaged his house together with the items inside the house (Kelly, 1997). Analysis and facts Steve should have been aware of the following facts so that the Home Protection Insurance Company could compensate him when his house was damaged by a severe storm. The request to insure the house by Home Protection Insurance was intended by Steve but he forgot to disclose all the information concerning his house. For example, he did not mention that his house was very old and that it was built with materials that could not last long, therefore, increasing the risk to the company. If the company could have known this information by the time they were writing the policy they could have maybe increased the premium per month (Dobson, 1997). The communication between Steve and Home Protection insurance was not properly done and what was insured was not clearly described. The communication process was also not clear because the kind of damage which Steve insured against was not disclosed. For example, neither Steve nor the Home Insurance Company stated whether it was a fire insurance or burglary. Steve did not also take time to test whether the i nsurance cover could work for him before officially signing it. The law of insurance states that, â€Å"the alleged offer must be in force at the time when the other party purports to accept it.† The time taken before the insurance fully comes into force is important because the customer can gauge how well it can work for the intended needs. Steve did not take this into consideration when he was taking the cover (Ellison, 1997). The agreement between Home Insurance Company and Steve is important when claiming the insured value of money after damage has occurred. A detailed analysis of every factor that can arise and affect the agreement should have been discussed. The facts which are known to the Home Insurance Company about house insurance covers, should have been discussed. Home Protection Insurance Company is well experienced in issues dealing with house insurance and, therefore, it has fine details that people do not recognize when it comes to dealing with house covers. A nother important detail the law of insurance is concerned with, and that should be captured when formulating an insurance cover, is the information which is hidden. However, Home Insurance Company can get this information by deeply interviewing the customer (Dobbyn, 2003). Although the insurance company tried to interview Steve, most of

EEOC Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

EEOC - Essay Example EEOC is a regulatory or a supervising body which is awarded with the function of ensuring that laws that are federal in nature are being followed by organization. These laws have made discrimination based on various aspects completely illegal. The main responsibility in the case of age discrimination of EEOC is to work as an investigator of age related discrimination charges that have been levied on employers who have at least 20 people working in their workforce (Findlaw, 2014). Once the investigate and figure out that charges levied are true, the EEOC tries to settle the case with the employer and if the charge settlement does not take place then EEOC files a law suit from the side of the employee who has experienced discriminatory practices. They even play the role of educator and they try to make sure that age related discriminatory practices do not occur by educating the employers and employees. In case of age related discrimination the federal laws state that it is the role of the employer to not to fire or hire or make decisions regarding compensation, benefits and training for employers on the basis of their respective age. But these laws are only limited to employees and applicants who age between 40 and 65. The law clearly states that employees should not be divided and provided less burdens and benefits in contrast to their age, and this clause even includes discrimination that is related to age and is conducted in terms of paying wages (Eeoc.gov, 2014). Employers are even restricted from printing as well as publishing material that is considered discriminatory on the basis of age. For example: employers may advertise positions based on ages and may restrict those who are above 40 from applying. Such advertisements are considered unlawful. The law even states that elements such as retirement as well as insurance plan should not even influence an

Islam Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Islam - Research Paper Example Introduction One thing is for certain, Islam like all religions without exception is beautiful, peace- loving, moral, and its core consists of humanity above all. The phenomenal prosperity of Islamic reformation was the result of its capability to lead the masses out of the wretched predicament generated by the demode civilizations. Islam launched a splendid chapter of social records of mankind. It hauled away the played out old, to establish the vital new. The quest of Prophet Muhammad was to invigorate the country, eager in inquiry of learning and power in the tide of evolution (Roy, 1958) Islam, like all others religions preaches its followers to do good deeds and refrain from bad ones. The purpose of every religion is to promote and spread love, peace, tolerance, and sustainability and Islam is no different. It is essentially a peaceful and tolerant religion and it is a shame that today we have turned a blind eye towards the beautiful and fragrant flower that is Islam and are ent angled in the nonnegotiable and complex web of controversies and misunderstandings surrounding it. Methods Research papers, videos, books, and websites relating to the research were explored and studied to substantiate the findings and providing a base for the discussions. Results Emergence of Islamic Culture Muslim youth are less inclined to the propensities of voluntary ethnic isolation of their elders. The group efficaciously makes friends with Muslims of different races and ethnic inclinations and also effectively develops friendships with people from Jew, Christian, or other religions that they meet socially or professionally. Children of immigrants are likewise step by step entering a broader range of professions and are becoming prominent with each passing day. Western culture has its qualities in its appreciation for the individual, the adaptability of its polite social order, and the limitations it endeavors to place on the haughtiness of political force. It has its shortco ming in its helplessness to yield family values and strict ethics to the longings of business and trade (Moaddel, 2002). The religion of Islam, taking into account the eager accommodation of the single person to the Divine Will is a fitting religion for such a social order. The Divine Will, as enunciated in the Qur'an uncovers the standards by which the welfare of the singular and the neighborhood are orchestrated. Along these lines, Muslims ought to have the capacity to uncover a critical place in Western social order, utilizing the structure for organization building and for singular progression to make utilization of the qualities of Western culture and to help overcome its shortcomings (HRH, 1993). Progressively, that is the thing that western Muslims have achieved successfully. Similarities I chose to discuss the most basic and most controversial aspects; One God The most basic and fundamental testimony of Islam and every other mainstream religion is having faith and believing that there is only one God. It was the most important and central message delivered to the followers, at first by Abraham, Isaac, Ishmael, and Moses (Prophets and Prophecy). Moses testifies; â€Å"Hear, O Israel The Lord our God is one Lord.†

Professional Growth Essay Example for Free

Professional Growth Essay Developing Ethical Practice Part I   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In any industry, business or work, morality is a sensitive issue that needs to be personally and professionally addressed. Individuals have moral convictions as much as companies have their moral values where usually their corporate culture is based. Thus, t is important for companies to look at their moral background as this will influence the moral values of their employees. Equally, employees should share the right moral values for their company and colleagues.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Yet where before professional development revolved around trainings and educational achievements for a person to be able to propel forward in his career, today professional development embodies different aspects of growth. Apart from training, professional development now requires goal setting, research, action plans, improvements, and a never-ending learning process. Each one is a pre-requisite of the other to qualify that a person is really growing professionally and developing in his chosen industry. Moral values are integral aspects of this. (Litke, 1996) Before, planning is a job for firm administrators. They dictate where the company is going, and where the people in it go as well. This exemplifies how the values of a company help shape the individual values of the employees. This has widely changed. Effective planning is now a personal decision of the employees. It is now their prerogative. Thus, moral values have now become an individual choice as well. In effect, these individual ethics make up the ethics in which the company dwells in. (Rennekamp, nd) Education   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   My educations influenced my ethical upbringing in a variety of ways. Throughout my school years, I had my share of challenges on my moral and ethical values. Specifically, interaction with other students tested my ability to uphold my ethical beliefs. While other students indulge in what can be considered forms of cheating, speaking ill about others, and the likes, I tried my best to avoid doing such. It is undeniable that it is not only once when I experienced such occurrences. There were also times when I failed fighting these temptations. Yet most importantly, those experiences taught me the value of friendship and camaraderie—when it is right and wrong, honesty, dignity, and strength of values.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Education has been a big part of my ethical development. My formal education and training where starting points on the way I performed and moved through my career. I received my professional certification upon passing the licensure examination of Canada in 1991, the same year after receiving my diploma in Associate Arts in Nursing. Also in the same year I was employed as a clinical nurse for the medical respiratory-cardiac unit of a hospital until 1994.   After this assignment I received a position as a critical care nurse in an intensive care unit. Until now, I have been handling this type of job for intensive care units while also holding a position as an e-Nurse. All these roles challenge my morality every day. All of these also create new ethical principles to live by. Yet school was also the one who started on building the foundation for good moral values. Teachers and instructors as well as inspiring mentors who exhibit impressive values and proper ethics in their work and in their classes are the forefront ways in which students like me learned good values. I believe that if students did not learn, then the teachers did not teach. If teachers are able to encourage their students to do and say the right things through deliberate didactic teaching and through practice and good example, then students will have a good moral foundation that they will carry on at work. Luckily, my educational experience provided me this. Work environment At work, moral values are continually put to a test as well. Colleagues who are practicing unethical decisions at work are rampant. Patients and clients may also encourage unethical practices if its end favors them. At these times, the ethics I learned from school, from mentors, and from my colleagues during the times that I was still in school teaches the right thing to do. It takes analysis to decide how to go about the situation, but the bedrock values one learns will always reign. In the few instances when temptation to do the immoral and unethical was too strong, the inspiration of ethical people at work also helps. When there are people in my side approving of the right action that I want to take, it is easier to choose what is right from wrong. In the same way, when more people choose what is wrong, it is harder to indulge on what is right. It takes rooted values to fight these temptations.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   As a nurse, though, it is easy to choose the ethical. Varcoe et al. explains that because nurses are moral agents, their practice of ethics and values become more important than with other professions. (Module 4A, page 7) When a nurse knows this, it is harder for him to choose things that are contrary to what values dictate. Being ethical is always the thing to do. This expectation on me as a nurse created a culture of moral, ethical, and virtue-driven focus. Thus, I have instilled in me a deep understanding of the values I have to undertake in my role as a nurse and in setting my priorities in and out of my profession. This created an identity that is unique to me, brought about by the many influences that I receive in my practice. Doane proves this. He states that identity emerges from a series of social relations. Thus, people learn their values by listening or telling stories on how one has been moral or immoral in his actions. (Module 4A, page 8, 10) Doanne states that nurses are relational and narrative beings. Thus, nurses often learn from other people and from outside sources such as literature. He suggests that nurses should pay attention to the relationships that they maintain, the conflicts that they encounter, the feelings that they develop towards every event that they go into, and the values that they engage or disengage in. In their way they develop their role as nurses and become ready for bigger challenges in their practice. They are also encouraged to narrate their experiences to others as it will bring them forward as moral agents. (Module 4A, page 12) I have proven these true. In fact, many of my values which I learned from work were based on the ethical principles of other people. They were mentors, colleagues, and patients who have shared their stories on how they fought the unethical and upheld their principles. As much as they inspired me and my other colleagues, they also strengthened the values that we already learned in school. They gave the reassurance that doing the right thing is the right thing. Self-reflection Maintaining good values was also brought about by reflection. Just the same, self-awareness and self-definition became possible through reflection. Reflecting on everyday activities at work are good indications of one’s work values and attitudes. It will also help if a person will be able to watch or listen to recordings of own work performance which will harness an identification of faults—of strong and weak points—where improvements will be available. This is also how I was able to gauge my performance at work and how I enhanced my skills. (Continuous assessment and professional growth, nd) According to Rennekamp (nd), professional development has several stages. In all these stages there are values inherent to an employee. There is the entry stage, the period when the employee is new to his industry and is still developing the faculties that he needs to sharpen and use in his job. Much of the ethics in this stage come from the school and the family. The second stage is the colleague stage. This is the point when the entry-level employee has mastered his surroundings and the scope of his job. At this stage the employee is an active part of the problem-solving team and no longer the passive listener or follower. He has also found his way around several ethical standards in the company which he may have adapted. (Rennekamp, nd)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After the colleague stage is the counselor role. Here, the employee takes on a new role as a mentor to others. Leadership roles are prevalent at this stage. Apart from their regular assignments, employees in the counselor stage may take on additional tasks in leading others. They are now sharing their values to others. (Rennekamp, nd)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Finally, there is the advisor stage. In this stage the employee is no longer just an employee but an essential part in strategic planning of organizations. The employee in the advisor stage is more influential and is now a holder of more responsibilities. He also sets standards of practice rather than just encouraging others to do them. (Rennekamp, nd).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Currently, I would presume that I am in the counselor role. I have mastered my job as a critical care nurse and have created networks. I have also established myself as a nurse and have been helping others achieve as well. However, I am in the colleague stage of my e-Nursing and nursing informatics career. I have just entered this role, but I now have taken leadership roles. Despite this difference in my stages in the two job matrices that I am in, I am in the counsellor stage of my moral and ethical life at work. I learn principles every day and teach them as much to others. Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are many factors in which ones moral values are founded. Doane claims that moral identity comes from layers of influences, including the self, others, and the culture or environment in which one is in. Socialization empowers morals and ethics as much as they may disempower them. It is important for a person to have the freedom to choose how he wants to decide about a situation. Ethics cannot be practiced by mechanically teaching employees how to act, speak, or think. It takes proper integration of ethical principles and living by example to enable ethical values to be learned. (Module 4A, page 10)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Overall, ethics is an important part of work in any industry. Where there is no ethics, proper social relations is impossible. It is inevitable to be in situations calling for the unethical practices to be made. However, if the ethical is feasible, then it shall be made. Part II   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Ethics is often tested at work. There was a time when a patient who was terminally ill and was diagnosed to have just several days more to live consulted me if she should seek medical intervention for giving her earlier death. She was not in any pain only because she was practically living on pain killers. Despite her medical insurance, she also cannot sustain the monetary requirements of her illness.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The family feels otherwise. They know that every centavo that they are spending is worth it. They are confident that she will survive. She has not told them about her thoughts.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I am personally against euthanasia. Even though there are instances and occasions when it is needed, I prefer the natural way for death. It was painful to hear a patient decide that way. It was not surprising, though. Before the conversation, she has always been complaining about her medicines, her family, her illness, her life, and her finances. She was sharing that her family wants her gone. She wanted to end the pain and the pain killers. I was not able to help but share this conviction with my patient. I told her that first, she is not in real pain and that even though her pain is only subsided because of pain killers, it should give her hopes of living; secondly, I shared her several things about life that can encourage her to go on. I told her, despite the onset of her disbelief, that there is a right time for everything. I left her room, and I know that she is dismayed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The patient lived for almost another year. She even managed to be discharged from the hospital. After our conversation, the topic was never raised again. The family never knew about that conversation, nor did the other nurses I was working with. Yet I felt that the attending physician had to know, and so I told him, and to my relief he shared my convictions. He likewise helped the patient recover from the psychological turmoil that was pushing her to the edge. In the end, the patient proved herself wrong. Becoming a moral agent   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The patient’s story impacted my values a lot. When I heard that she died, I felt sad but victorious that I did what I and the physician thought was the right thing. I became a catalyst of her change of mind and heart. I knew I did the right thing because she outlived the deadline that was given to her life by the doctors. Whether she realized that we made the right thing or not did not matter anymore. The heart of the matter is that I was able to win over this morally distressing situation and get out of it the right way.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I was a moral agent, and my moral agency stressed on me that the right thing to do is allow her to live some more. It was my duty to prolong others’ life as much as I could. It would have been an exactly different feeling if I decided otherwise, against my moral principles. Nursing, I subscribe, is a job that entails moral responsibilities. Lessons learned After this situation, I became extra sensitive to the psychological and emotional needs of the patients especially those with terminal cases. I read about positive psychology and shared my learning to other nurses. I was also able to magnify cues that may lead to the same situation as well. When I identify them, such as when the patient is verbalizing thoughts that the family wants her gone or that she should not be living anymore, I try to console her and share my thoughts on life and her health. There are times when the patient will lash out on me with disagreement, but this does not make me bend my convictions. I stayed on believing, because of that patient who survived, that when I make the right choices the right things will happen. In the process, my ethics and morality is also nurtured. Raines assert that there are four antecedents to the occurrence of a moral agency. First is the modeling. In the situation, the patient showed signs of discontent and giving up. She was practically moving away from all other choices but death. Secondly there is the coming of the ethical dilemma. This was when the patient verbalized what she really wanted, which was to cheat on death by ending it earlier. The third stage, the alternatives, caught me in the situation. I was torn between the choice of the patient and my personal ethics; my beliefs or the patient’s beliefs. (Module 4A, page 15) Lastly, my decision was based on information. I gathered all the facts that I have instilled in me to be able to encourage the patient to live longer and have hope. I believe that all these four antecedents take integral roles in accomplishing an act of moral agency. A moral agent cannot be so if there is no ethical dilemma at hand, posed by modeling of the impending dilemma. Alternatives and information, likewise enabled the solution of the dilemma, thus were equally important. (Module 4A, page 15) It is likewise important to have alternatives. Raines assert that nurses should consider that there are always alternatives to a situation. This will put them off the pressure to being gullible followers of a single choice which may not be right. In doing so, ethical values may be put in jeopardy. Gathering and giving information, as well, is important. (Module 4A, page 15) Other factors Communication is another important skill in this. I should still try to learn more about communication processes and skills. Growth can be enhanced by being updated with new policies and guidelines in the skills being developed and the work itself. (Continuous assessment and professional growth, nd) I can do this by attending trainings about effective communication skills, effective listening, and customer support. This does not only benefit my communication with patients and their caregivers, it will also give me the ability to communicate with the other members of my team more effectively which in effect will give me more chances to deliver better and ethics-based patient care in behalf of the company, my team, and myself.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Ethics and values should be part of the highly complex goal-setting strategy of a person. They are as important as any other aims. Interestingly, Cooper (nd) states that 87% of people do not have goals. These people were found to have difficulties coping with the demands of their jobs. They also found it difficult to excel in their fields. In the contrary, 3% of people have clearly defined goals which are written down. These people were found to be achievers, accomplishing their goals and developing in their careers at 50 to 100 percent of the time. While it is not a requirement, employees should write down their ethical and moral resolutions and read them a couple of times periodically. This will instill in them these resolutions. Through all this process of planning, Rennekamp (nd) instills that flexibility is an important element. While being focused on goals and achievements is important, preparations for unexpected events should be considered. In my personal practice, for instance, I usually encounter many dilemmas that challenge my values. It is hard to please everybody, and the moral thing is not always the good thing to do. There will be times when the unethical may bring the good for the more number of people, and it can be sometimes the right choice. References BCIT Document, Specialty Nursing. 2007. Developing ethical practice. Module 4A.    BCIT Document, Specialty Nursing. 2007. Developing ethical practice. Module 5.    Continuous assessment and professional growth. nd. Retrieved November 4, 2007, from http://www.wested.org/online_pubs/Chapter6.Carlson-Final-Pdf-4.pdf Cooper, T. nd. An action plan for growth and success. Retrieved November 4, 2007, from http://teachersnetwork.org/NTNY/nychelp/Professional_Development/growth.htm Litke, C. 1996. Professional growth in changing times: challenges and choices. Retrieved November 4, 2007, from http://www.ucalgary.ca/~cll/resources/litke.html Rennekamp, R. nd. Professional growth: a guide for professional development. Retrieved November 4, 2007, from http://www.ca.uky.edu/agpsd/stages.htm

Nocardia Isolation by Paraffin Baiting Technique

Nocardia Isolation by Paraffin Baiting Technique Nocardia isolation from clinical samples with paraffin baiting technique Abstract Background: The genus Nocardia is cause infection in lung, skin, brain, cerebrospinal, eyes, joints and kidneys. This bacterium is slow-growing and it is difficult to isolate of polymicrobial specimens. Several methods have been reported for Nocardia isolation from clinical samples. In current study, we used of three methods such as paraffin baiting technique, paraffin agar, and conventional media for Nocardia isolation of various clinical specimens from Iranian patients. Methods: In this study, we collected five hundred and seventeen from various clinical specimens including sputum of patients with suspected tuberculosis, bronchoalveolar lavage, sputum of patients withcystic fibrosis, trachea, cutaneous and subcutaneous abscess, cerebrospinal fluid, dental abscess, mycetoma, wound, bone marrow biopsy, and gastric lavage. Smears of all clinical specimens were investigated with Gram stain, partially acid fast and kinyoun stain. All collected specimens were cultured on to carbon free broth tube (paraffin baiting technique), paraffin agar, sabouraud dextrose agar, sabouraud dextrose agar with cycloheximide and incubated at 35 °C. Results: In direct microscopy, partially acid fast and Gram staining were seen positive for five and three clinical specimens respectively and the kinyoun stain were negative for all isolates. Seven isolates of clinical specimens were isolated with paraffin baiting technique. In our study, paraffin baiting technique is more effective than conventional media and paraffin agar for Nocardia isolation. Conclusions: In the present study, shown that use of paraffin baiting technique is more effective of other methods for Nocardia isolation of various clinical specimens. Key words: Nocardia, Paraffin baiting technique, Paraffin agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar Introduction Nocardia spp. are group aerobic actinomycetes, gram positive rods, partially acid fast, non-motile, filamentous branches, catalase positive and methenamine silver-positive [1-3]. The genus Nocardia is opportunistic pathogens [2] that are found around the natural environments. This bacterium is not part of normal microbialflora in human body and animals [1, 4, 5] as well as, there is no report of person to person transmission [5]. This microorganism first introduced by Edmond in 1888 [1, 6]. Nocardia species are cause serious infections in different parts of the body especially lung and skin [6]. Nocardial infections acquired via inhalation of aerosolsor skin damage [7]. In recent years, nocardiosis increased in immune disorder diseases such as Pemphigus disorder, Behà §et’s disease, malignancy, organ transplantation [8-10]. Todate, isolation and identification of Nocardia is improved from clinical specimens [11, 12]. Clinical diagnosis in nocardiosis is controversial and clin ical signs are not specific for this bacterium. Standard tool in Nocardia infections identification are including: isolation and pure culture, Gram stain and partially acid-fast [12, 13]. Nocardia species are slow growing bacteria and isolation this bacterium of polymicrobial specimens is difficult in clinical microbiology laboratory [14]. Decontamination of pulmonary specimens such as sputum is toxic for the genus Nocardia. Paraffin baiting technique was reported for Nocardia and mycobacteria isolation of soil [15]. Paraffin baiting technique was reported that is successfully for Nocardia isolation of various clinical specimens especially poly microbial specimens such as sputum [3,14, 16]. The aim of this study is unique for two reasons: The first aim of this study were comparison of paraffin baiting technique with other methods such as conventional media including sabouraud dextrose agar, sabouraud dextrose agar with cycloheximide and paraffin agar to isolate Nocardia from various clinical specimens such as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), sputum of patients with suspected tuberculosis, sputum of patients with cystic fibrosis, cutaneous abscess, cerebrospinal fluid(CSF), dental abscess, mycetoma, trachea, wound, bone marrow biopsy and gastric lavage. The second aim was to estimate the prevalence of Nocardia infection in Iranian patients. There are few numbers of case reports of Nocardia infection and there is no comprehensive database of nocardiosis, therefore, it is essential to better assess the prevalence of this bacteria. Methods Sample collection Five hundred and seventeen various clinical specimens such as sputum of patients with suspected tuberculosis, sputum of patients with cystic fibrosis, BAL, cutaneous and subcutaneous abscess, CSF, dental abscess, mycetoma, wound, bone marrow biopsy, gastric lavage and trachea were collected between February 28, 2011 through March 8, 2013 (Table 1). Direct microscopy All clinical specimens were examined with direct microscopy. The first, clinical specimens were homogenized and were centrifuged in 10000 rpm for 10 minutes and the supernatant was discarded. The smears were prepared from the sediments and were stained with Gram stain, partially acid fast and Kinyoun stain. Culture on different media Sediment of specimens were inoculated on sabouraud dextrose agar (Merck- Germany), sabouraud dextrose agar with cycloheximide(cycloheximide-Sigma-Aldrich-USA), paraffin agar (KH2PO4, K2HPO4, NH4Cl, NH4NO3, MgSO4 .7H20, ZnSO4, FeSO4, MnSO4, Bacto- Agar and Distilled water) and McClungs carbon-free broth tube (MgSO4 7H2O: 0.5 g, ZnSO4: 2 mg, FeCl3: 10 mg, MnCl2. 4H2O: 8 mg, K2HPO4: 0.8 g, NaNO3: 2 g, Distilled water: 1lit, pH 7.2) with paraffin coated glass rod placed. Tubes were incubated at 35 °C for one month with daily controlled [14, 17]. Results Examination of stained smears in direct microscopic, were detected three specimens with Gram staining and five specimens with partially acid fast staining and all smears were negative for Kinyoun stain. In McClungs carbon-free broth, colonies similar cream to white-colored appearing on the paraffin-coated glass rod (Figure 1). Colonies similar to the genus Nocardia were cultured on nutrient agar and were purified (Figure 2). Colonies were stained with Gram positive and partially acid fast and were negative for Kinyoun stain. All clinical isolates were grown in lysozyme broth medium. Seven specimens were positive for the genus Nocardia (1.3%) with paraffin baiting technique as compared with sabouraud dextrose agar and sabouraud dextrose agar with cycloheximide and paraffin agar (Table 1). In comparative to various media, paraffin baiting technique was better in the isolation Nocardia, so this technique is effective and specific for Nocardia isolation of various clinical specimens espe cially poly microbial samples (Table 1). Prevalence of nocardiosis in sputum (238 specimens), BAL (143 specimens) and cutaneous abscess (45 specimens) were 1.6%, 1.3%, 2.2%, respectively. In our study, we isolated one Nocardia spp. from cutaneous abscess of patient with Pemphigus disorder. Discussion In scientific resource, recommended the use of paraffin baiting technique for isolation Nocardia from polymicrobial flora such as sputum [18]. Nocardia spp. utilized of paraffin wax as the sole carbon source [15, 19]. It has been reported different medium containing antibiotic for isolation this organism such as chloramphenicol with sabouraud dextrose agar. Some species of the genus Nocardia are susceptible to chloramphenicol [16]. A wide range of nocardiosis occurs in Immunocompromised and immunosuppressive patients [8-10]. Mycobacterium tuberculosis mimicking pulmonary nocardiosis so isolation and identification Nocardia is very important because treatment in two organisms is difficult. In a study by Mishra and colleagues in 1969, they investigated 555 clinical specimens such as sputum, BAL and Gastric lavage and were positive respectively 10, 1 and 1 about Nocardia spp. [19]. Singh et al surveyed 1510 sputum specimens and results showed paraffin baiting method has higher efficacy of sabouraud dextrose agar [17]. Another study by Venugopal et al were examined 350 sputum, BAL, pleural fluid, pus , biopsy specimens and isolated 15 strains of Nocardia [20]. A study in 2001 from Iran, Eshraghi et al surveyed 142 sputum specimens and was positive 1 isolate (0.7%) but in our study was positive 4 isolates (1.3%) of 291 sputum of patients with suspected tuberculosis. The results show that Nocardia infection is increasing in Iranian patients. The reports showed paraffin baiting technique is more selective and effective than usual medium and paraffin agar. Conclusions We recommended that the be used of paraffin baiting technique for Nocardia isolation in clinical laboratories. due to aging and autoimmune or immune disorders in Iranian patients, isolation Nocardia spp is very necessary for treatment. Acknowledgments This study was supported by Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Deputy of Research. References 1.Eshraghi SS Molecular typing of Nocardia species. J Med Bacteriol 2012; 1(1): 38-45. 2.Budzik JM, Hosseini M, Mackinnon AC Jr, et al. Disseminated Nocardia farcinica: literature review and fatal outcome in an immunocompetent patient. Surg. Infect 2012; 13(3): 163-170. 3.Hollick GE. Nocardiosis. clinical microbiology newsletter 1988; 10(14): 105-109. 4.Eshraghi S, Amin M. Nocardia asteroides complex in patient with symptomatic pulmonary nocardiosis in a patient with bronchiectasis. Iran J Public Health 2001(3-4); 30: 99-102. 5.Stevens DA, Pier AC, Beaman BL, et al. Laboratory evaluation of an outbreak of nocardiosis in immunocompromised hosts. Am J Med 1981; 71(6): 928-934. 6.Brown-Elliott BA, Brown JM, Conville PS, et al. Clinical and laboratory features of the Nocardia spp. based on current molecular taxonomy. Clin Microbiol Rev 2006; 19(2): 259-282. 7.Patel MP, Kute VB, Gumber MR, , et al. Successful treatment of Nocardia pneumonia with cytomegalovirus retinitis coinfection in a renal transplant recipient. Int Urol Nephrol 2012; 45: 581-5. 8.Poonwan N, Kusum M, Mikami Y, , et al. Pathogenic Nocardia isolated from clinical specimens including those of AIDS patients in Thailand. Eur J Epidemiol 1995; 11(5): 507-512. 9.Srifuengfung S, Poonwan N, Tribuddharat C, et al. Prevalence of Nocardia species isolated from patients with respiratory tract infections at siriraj hospital, Thailand. J Infect Dis Antimicrob Agents 2007; 24: 1-6. 10.Sahathevan M, Harvey FA, Forbes G, et al. Epidemiology, bacteriology and control of an outbreak of Nocardia asteroides infection on a liver unit. J Hosp 1991; 18: 473-480. 11.Das D. Actinomycosis in fine needle aspiration cytology. Cytopathology 1994;5(4): 243-250. 12.Wada R., Itabashi C, Nakayama Y, et al. Chronic granulomatous pleuritis caused by Nocardia: PCR based diagnosis by nocardial 16S rDNA in pathological specimens. J Clin Pathol 2003; 56(12): 966-969. 13.Gupta N, Srinivasan R, Kumar R, et al. Two cases of nocardiosis diagnosed by fineà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ needle aspiration cytology: Role of special stains. Diagn Cytopathol 2011; 39(5): 363-364. 14.Shawar RM, Moore DG, LaRocco MT. Cultivation of Nocardia spp. on chemically defined media for selective recovery of isolates from clinical specimens. J Clin Microbio l 1990; 28(3): 508-512. 15.Narang P, Dey S, Mendiratta D. Paraffin slide culture technique for Baiting Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria. Indian. J. Tuberc 2000; 47(4): 219-222. 16.Garrett M, Holmes H, Nolte F. Selective buffered charcoal-yeast extract medium for isolation of Nocardiae from mixed cultures. J Clin Microbiol 1992; 30(7): 1891-1892. 17.Singh M, Sandhu RS, Randhawa HS. Comparison of paraffin baiting and conventional culture techniques for isolation of Nocardia asteroides from sputum. J Clin Microbiol 1987; 25(1): 176-177. 18.  Yu C T, Chua JA. Nocardiosis. PJMID 2001; 30: 56-61. 19.Mishra S, Randhawa H. Application of paraffin bait technique to the isolation of Nocardia asteroides from clinical specimens. Appl Microbiol 1969; 18(4): 686-687. 20.Venugopal PV, Taralakshmi VV, Subramanian S, , et al. Nocardia species from bronchopulmonary infections and mycetomas. Sabouraudia 1980; 18(1): 11-18. Figure 1. Isolation and growth Nocardia on paraffin coated glass rod Figure 2. Nocardia grown on nutrient agar medium 1

Business Essays Heineken Beer Market

Business Essays Heineken Beer Market Heineken Beer Market Executive Summary Chapter 1 analyze threats Heineken is facing and opportunities the company can get from the beer market by using two model PESTLE and Porter Five Forces. PESTLE describe what difficulties come from external environmental factors that the company is facing and Porter five force analyze the threats as well as opportunities of Heineken in suppliers, buyers, competitors, substitutes and new entrant. OT factors in SWOT analysis also use to define in chapter 1 for threats and opportunities of the company. Chapter 2 describes strengths and weaknesses in the company operation through the analysis of internal environment such as company resources, organizational structure and culture. The resources with include tangible, intangible, management capability and marketing which used to identify what the advantages Heineken are managing for the performance of their operation. SW in SWOT also use at the same time to analyze strongly what strengths and weaknesses Heineken is taking. Chapter 3 assesses how Heineken perform in term of effectiveness, efficiency and return to shareholders based on efficiency ratios and performance investment ratios. This assessment identifies the market share and market growth of company in the market. Chapter 4 finding the options those are available to the company and recommendation of the most appropriate ones for future strategic direction. Chapter 5 finding recommendations for structures, systems and policies which use to implement these strategies successfully. Chapter 6 the outline of my assessment of the usefulness of strategic management models for Heineken analysis. How PEST, Porter Five Force, SWOT, resource-based and financial analysis use to be described for my analysis successfully. Introduction Today beer is widely available and enjoyed in most countries and cultures around the world. Heineken is one of the largest companies in a global network of distributors and breweries. In addition, Heineken owns and manages one of the worlds leading portfolios of beer brands in terms of sales volume and profitability. Moreover, the company has been able to remain one of the worlds leading consumer and corporate brands for more than 130 years. It became Europes favorite beer brand successfully exported to every corner of the world. Chapter 1 Analysis of the external general PESTLE model Political Beer is a kind of drink that the government excises significantly because it contains alcohol which is addicted people. Therefore, this will affect Heineken Company in sale volume in the market. With internationalisation and globalisation, more and more brewers are hunting for new markets, governments on the other hand with and intention to gain maximum profit as well as get empathy on ethical grounds are imposing heavy taxes on liquor and beer imports. As a result, this fact will bring threat for Heineken. For example, recently drinking alcohol is prohibited on public transport in London. This hence will impact on the beer market because people want to enjoy their beer not only at home but also at public where they can have fun time with their friends. Economic Heineken has many operations in mature – mainly Western European and it is reported in Euros. Therefore, the currency fluctuations could create threat to the overall company results, especially relating to the US dollar. However, Heineken has a clear policy on hedging transactional exchange risks; this would postpone the impact on financial results. Nowadays, unemployment has risen due to recession in the market and this will result in more people will choose some cheaper alternative. As a result, Heineken with premium price will be impacted for that. This also brings threats for company in distribution aspect. Social culture Nowadays, beer is not only for men enjoy it but women also drink beer to enjoy its taste. Furthermore, life style of the new generation has become very fast and different, which result in lack of time in today life. Thus the consumption at bars is declining. This means that the beer market will be affected by this as well as Heineken Company, this will lead to go down in sale volume. Furthermore, demographic changes would influence the company a lot. For examples, in China where the population is going up rapidly and this combined with consumer having increasing amounts of leisure time. Therefore, these would lead to consumption of beer in China grew by 33.56% between 2000 and 2006. China now has overtaken the United State to become the largest national beer market in the world. As a result Heineken Company will have significant sale volume in this market. Technology Now it is hard to find a part of the company’s business that doesn’t use technology. Therefore, technology is developed will impact the company as well as beer industry. Information technology security upgraded has created opportunities for Heineken’s worldwide business operations, and connectivity in the company and with outside partners is increasing. For example, the recent advancement in the technology has opened huge markets for organizations to access world population without any barriers. This can be taken as a chance to reach out to almost every location on the globe. Hence Heineken will open their market in many locations in the world. Porter’s five forces model The bargaining power of suppliers The suppliers of raw materials to Heineken Company are mainly farmers. Therefore, the threat for power of supplier is high. The bottle supplier for Heineken is provided by Heye Glas Nederland which is fully supplied the green bottle for the worldwide distribution of Heineken beer. In the past, Heineken kept only 33% its stake in Heye Glas in order to secure the supply of high quality export bottles at a lower cost to meet the needs for demand but now Heineken has kept 100% stake in 2002. Beer is produced by water, barley, hops and yeast. These ingredients are supplied by farmers. Heineken also mentioned that competition for agricultural products from the biofuels industry that is affecting their costs. The bargaining power of buyers The buyers in this industry have many choices as there are many companies serving beer. This will increase the choice of the customer and hence the threat for power of buyers is high. For example, for serving customer at the pub, there are a lot of beer brands for them to fit their taste such as Guiness, Carlsberg, Tiger. Therefore, buyers now have a choice to choose the one they like. As a result, choosing of customer for what kind beer they want to drink will bring threats for Heineken. The threat of potential new entrants Nowadays, an explosion of smaller brewers has entered the market during the past decade that making the industry much more competitive. Heineken is one of the largest brewers in the world and they have to share market with other brewer. The barrier in the beer market is low. Therefore, the threat of potential new entrants for Heineken is high. This will make Heineken considering to create innovation or uniqueness into their product that can sustain competitive advantages in the beer market. The threat of substitutes Beer is a kind of beverage which contains alcohol. However, people can switch to drink wine which also is alcohol drink. Customer’s taste is not similar so that they have right to choose what they want to enjoy, so this will affect the beer market as well as Heineken Company. As a result, the threat of substitute for beer market is high. The extent of competitive rivalry Heineken has achieved the economy of scale in the market especially in Europe. It holds about 30% of market share in European beer market. Since the beer market is growing, so the competitors will try to attain their growth targets. The large brewer like Heineken tends to enforce their own strategies to the beer industry and due the economies of scale they will produce higher quality and unique products which can make their own place in the market, hence keep themselves growing to achieve their target. Chapter 2 Internal analysis of the company Analysis the resources Tangible: Since Heineken know that their plant and equipment is a key for company production, they invest so much in the infrastructure to make sure that their operation is working efficiently. For example, Heineken have four breweries in Russia, all those use KHS Till plant technology. This equipment at Heineken’s packaging can processes 50 liter kegs in addition to 30 liter at an output of up to 140 kegs an hour. As a result, the two-lane machine can operate with one racking, six washing and sterilizing stations. Intangible: brand name is most valuable asset of the Heineken Company, they has built this name Heineken with premium brand. The company recognizes that brand is very important key for them to develop a strong presence globally in the beer market so that Heineken have a lot of marketing activities for its brand name. Furthermore, branding is also a highly defensible competitive advantage for Heineken; this would bring strength to company expansion. Hence Heineken Company can stretch their production internationally and add more money for company. Management capability: Heineken implemented a number of new initiatives in the area of leadership development in 2004. One is a new leadership competency model that defines behavior expectations from all senior managers at Heineken. The model takes Heineken company ambitions and values as a starting point and translates these into the leadership behavior required from senior managers. With marketing differentiation using different message within normal media advertising can also have differentiating effect. This differentiation will bring strengths for Heineken. When most advertisers are pursuing essentially the beer market with the same message like showing gregarious groups of males in public houses having an enjoyable night out. In the other hand, Heineken managed to differentiate its beer by using a series of advertisements employing humour and the caption Heineken refreshed the parts other beers can not reach. Organizational structure In 2005 Heineken announced that it was created a new top management structure, this would drive and support growth as a global organization. In order to connect functions, operation and finance in a more effective way, the company create a new more streamlines Executive Board. Hence change would lead to create strengths for operating regions and global functions. Furthermore, Heineken has grown substantially over the past four years. The new structure is better suited to the present organization and ensures faster decision-making. In the beer market where the consolidation process is accelerating and rapid introduction of innovations is essential, this is crucial to the achievement of Heineken’s long term ambitions. Culture Heineken is proud of they are one of the world’s great beer companies. Hence their culture will reflect the company view and values. These values create so many strengths for company to develop their environment within the company. Heineken based on the value that they respect their employees, business partners, customers, shareholders and all others who are connected to the company. Furthermore, Heineken make life more enjoyable by bring enjoyment to life, they also encourage this core value within the working places and atmosphere within the company. In addition, company has a fundamental belief in the concept and delivery of quality, it is also reflected in their other activities such as their social and employment policies. This will create benefit and value both for Heineken and their reputation. As a result, these values define Heineken corporate culture and working methods which help company to do the business successfully. Chapter 3 Evaluation of the company’s financial performance 2005 2006 2007 Return on investment (ROI) 14% 20% 12% Return on equity (ROE) 21.1% 27.0% 15.5% Net profit margin 7.05% 11.02% 7.72% Dividend payout ratio 25.8% 24.3% 42.5% Earnings per share 1.71 1.90 2.29 Return on investment of Heineken changed from 2005 to 2007. In 2006 return on investment have a significant improvement compared to 2005. The increasing of ROI show the efficiency which Heineken got profit from its technology investment. The reason for increasing ROI is that the company deployed Windows Mobile 5.0 in 2006 and has experienced significant business benefits. Company has improves account development by offering its sales representatives instant access to pricing, promotions, availability and accounts receivable data. Window mobile led to an average sales increase after deployment. The return on equity of Heineken rose 5.9% in 2006 then declined 11.5% in 2007.The reason for going up return on equity is net profit increasing. In 2005 Heineken’s net profit is â‚ ¬761 millions and it was increasing to â‚ ¬1211 millions in 2006.The rising of return on equity shows that the company have used money from shareholders effectively in manufacturing. However, declining return on equity indicated that the Heineken beer was getting more expensive to produce because the prices of raw materials and packaging have raised significantly, transportation, energy and pressure on labor costs were also expected in the beer market. In 2006 net profit margin of Heineken increased so much compared with 2005 and 2007. 11.02 % show that the company got more profit from their sale. In that year, the distribution of Heineken went up with 111.9 hectoliters in consolidated beer volumes. Furthermore, the company achieved the best annual growth rate for Heineken premium brand for many years with growth of 11.8 %. With these reason Heineken achieved their performance effectively. From the table above we can see dividend pay out ratio decrease 1.5% in 2006 and then increase so much 18.2 % in 2007.The reason of increasing is that Heineken  has been changing its dividend pay-out policy at the end of 2006. This means that it would up the amount paid to shareholders from 20-25% of net profit before exceptional items and amortization to between 30% and 35%. These proposals support Heinekens intention to preserve its independence, to maintain a healthy financial structure in order to grow the business both organically and through acquisition. Earning per share of Heineken increased from 2005 to 2007. These figures above show the company has maintenance revenue. Distributions of company increase every year so that Heineken could earn from 1 share which investors have invested. Moreover, increasing company market share by earning per share will indicate that the profit getting from every dollar invested can satisfy both Heinekens’ stakeholders and shareholder. Chapter 4 Recommendations on strategic options 4.1. To face with the alcohol pressure in the market, Heineken have the strategy to produce and sell beer in the ways that have a positive impact on society at large. With this strategy, Heineken promotes awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of alcohol, this also encourage informed consumers to be accountable for their own actions. For example, in 2006 the launching of the â€Å"Enjoy Heineken Responsibly† program was finalized. Therefore nowadays company is becoming more and more engaged to promote responsible consumption in partnership with consumers. By using this strategy as purpose the company does not want beer consumers to condone in any way the abuse of alcohol, particularly Heineken Brand. As a result this will lead to the Company get positive aspect for their production in the society. I strongly recommend Heineken should use this strategy. 4.2. For solving the problem with currency risks as the global market is unstable in exchange money, Heineken have a strategy on hedging transactional exchange risks which postpones the impact on company finance result. After deduction of dollar-denominated costs, a net cash inflow in US dollars remains. This cash flow is hedged in advance mostly by means of forward contracts. This reduces the volatility of export results and the â‚ ¬ cash flows due to short-term fluctuations in the value of the US dollar against the Euro. Transactions are entered into with a limited number of counterparties. I don’t recommend that the company use this strategy because the global market is unpredictable. 4.3. To intensify the international marketing Heineken have sponsored for a lot of entertainments activities in the world. This strategy would bring the biggest strengths for Heineken brand name. For example, company is a major sponsor of tennis champion such as Wimbledon, the US Open, Australia Open and the Shanghai Open. Moreover, the music plan adopted also remains a key sponsorship area for Heineken. For example, in Singapore has been successful that it is now used in other markets such as Malaysia and Thailand. Following with these marketing strategies on advertisement, the good thing company would show that Heineken always attend to social activities that mean they are not only bring enjoyable but also bring responsible to people around the world. I recommend Heineken should continue to pursue this strategy. 4.4. For adapting with development of technology, Heineken has a strict information technology (IT) security strategy to ensure confidentiality, integrity and availability of information and data. Furthermore, supporting and monitoring activities towards operating IT are being strengthened for the company. Moreover, IT contingency measures with regard to the partly outsourced IT shared service centre. The benefit of this strategy on IT would help Heineken to connect with so many operations around the world. I recommend company use this strategy. 4.5. By using brand strategy Heineken has built a strong portfolio that combines the power of local and international brands. Furthermore, the consistent growth of brand requires solid creative brand management which Heineken coordinate centrally. Company has developed and adopted brand strategy to get strengthening in the market share where there are lots of other brewers there. I recommend Heineken use this strategy. 4.6. To sustain with strong position in the beer market, Heineken have adapted competitive strategy in its management. By offering competitively priced and quality products, Heineken want to give consumers the premium product with reasonable price compare with other brewers. The management of company recognizes that to maintain Heineken’s sales, they need to focus on what consumer needs. In addition to look at the strengths and weaknesses of the competitor in the key business segments, competitive strategy would bring advantages for Heineken to compete with it’s competitor for attracting customers. Chapter 5 Recommendations on the most feasible strategic options 5.1. Responsibility is a heart of alcohol policy. Based on the alcohol policy adopted Heineken want to stress that their operations need to sustain dialogue with government and health organizations. The objectives of policy are to prevent misuse and abuse of alcohol. Furthermore, they want to ensure that responsible consumption of beer is socially acceptable. In addition to help Heineken be a truly sustainable business. With this alcohol policy would implement for succeed of strategy. 5.2. As consumer needs and tastes vary, Heineken must decide how much to adapt marketing strategy to local needs using a variance of standardized marketing mix adapted marketing mix, owing to the strong brand preferences loyalties that exist among the beer drinkers. Also, Heineken need to prioritize between global integration versus national responsiveness evident from decreasing sales in Holland, Rest of Europe, and Africa. Besides that the beer market is also attractive in terms of size and future growth, this approach would help the company differentiate Heineken beer with premium price compared with other beer brewer. 5.3. Data synchronization provider system can manage data behind the firewall while benefiting from one point of access to the Global Data Synchronization Network. This system would help to minimal disruption to Heinekens day-to-day operations. This integration is the first in a series of initiatives that Heineken International has been planning to accelerate its data synchronization activities through one central connection point. As a result, this system would implement highly for technology strategy to the company. 5.4. Using the branding policy the company has built brand recognition for long-term to differentiate the brand Heineken and be sure to add value to the product in order to get the brand loyalty. The brand policy also stresses for maintenance of beer quality or creates benefits for society and culture, and also provides an emotion to its consumers. This policy would add more value for Heineken Company in successful way. 5.5. Heineken has in place a strong competition compliance policy across the entire business and has a comprehensive code of business conduct for all employees. Furthermore, Heineken believes in the principle of fair competition. It will keep in place policies and programmes aimed at giving guidance to employees to ensure that they understand competition laws and act in compliance with them. Chapter 6 The assessment of the usefulness of strategic management models 6.1. To me, I find that the PEST analysis is a useful business measurement tool. It’s looking at external factors to the organization. Following the factors of the analysis, I can see the big picture of Heineken’s environment in which they are operating and the opportunities and threats that lie within it. By analyzing factors of PEST model I can understand the Heineken external environment and how the environment affects business performance of the company. 6.2. For me, I find that The Porter’s five forces tool is a simple but powerful tool for understanding where power lies in a business situation. This model is useful because it helps me understand both the threats of Heineken current competitive position and the strength of a position company are looking to move into. Furthermore, understanding the nature of Heineken competitive environment by using Porter’s five forces model, I can analyze what are crucially important for company to build long-term business strategy and sustain competitive advantages in the market. 6.3. SWOT analysis is a powerful model for me to understand Heineken strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that company face. This model helps me to assess what Heineken can and can not do as well as its potential opportunities and threats. Therefore, I can know what may assist the firm in accomplishing Heineken’s objectives and obstacles. Moreover, the model is also useful in the way that it gives me the overall performance of Heineken. Hence I can analyze where the place the company get their position. 6.4. Resource-based theory is useful to me in the analysis of internal factors of Heineken following these reasons. Firstly, I can find the factors that deliver sustainable competitive for the company like branding. Secondly, the physical resources can give me a look about the efficient operation of Heineken in new technology they adopted. Thirdly, by understanding resource-based I can recognize that the way company has the dominant position in the beer market compare with other breweries. 6.5. Financial analysis method is useful for me to understand the measurement of performance of Heineken. Based on the ratio formula I can see how effectiveness and how the financial risk company was doing. Moreover, looking at the numbers which company has represented on the financial statement, I can know the market share that Heineken has positioned in the market place and the market growth company has developed. As a result of calculating for financial analysis for every year I can find how the company has operated in the effectiveness way. Conclusion I think that with all analysis include external and internal environments, company performance and all the strategy and policies Heineken adopted will help company to step more successful in the future. Although Heineken now have some troubles in production or distributions but the top management are considering creating flexible way to overcome them and then Heineken Company will keep their position is that one of the most largest brewers in the world. Appendix Key financial ratios 2007 IFRS 2006 IFRS 2005 IFRS Net profit margin 7.72% 11.02% 7.05% Operating profit margin 12.0% 15.3% 11.6% EBIT margin 12.2% 15.5% 11.9% EPS 2.29 1.90 1.71 Operating cash flow per share 3.53 3.77 3.82 ROE 15.5% 27.0% 21.1% Equity/ borrowed capital 0.85 0.74 0.62 Interest coverage ratio 22.7 19.7 14.8 Net Debt/ EBITDA 0.8 0.7 1.3 Operating free cash flow/ net debt 0.39 0.59 0.43 Cash conversion rate

Generations Essay -- Sociology, Baby Boomers

Generations at Work The dynamics associated with working with people in an office, department, or organization are difficult to classify or explain. Also, personalities, positions, ages, and values are all aspects of how people relate in order to get the job done. Moreover, each generation brings elements and distinct predilections to the work environment. Thus, the four generations represented in today’s workforce is examined. My Generation People born between 1946 and 1964 are classified in American society as baby boomers. I found out in my thirties that I was part of this generation. While I had heard of the term growing up it never occurred to me that I was a member, especially since I barely qualify. According to a survey conducted by Pew Social & Demographic Trends Project, baby boomers are the gloomiest generation. Moreover, their outlook on everything from health, finances, and quality of life is bleak (Cohn, 2008). However, some experts refute this assessment. They maintain baby boomers also referred to as the â€Å"Me† generation, are competitive, self-sufficient and are called are considered workaholics. Hence, their serious work ethic prompted many to remain in the workforce longer than expected. Consequently, baby boomers stay on the job in some capacity typically as part-time workers to sustain a certain level of income to support hobbies and other non-career interests (Cordington, 2010). Clearly, some baby boomers have a sense of despair heightened by a combined dread of aging and loss of income (Cohn, 2008). Although this generation’s median household income is more than adults 25 to 44 ($53,000) and adults 65 and over ($30,000), transitioning to a fixed income with increased medical bills is... ... â€Å"While older workers make more errors, perhaps due to declining physical attributes, they hardly make an severe errors, perhaps due to more experience,† (Fernandez, 2011, p.1). Ironically, the skills older workers have are too specific and unique to fit the needs of today’s multi-layer positions. Therefore, multi-dimensional, computer savvy younger workers, weaned on cutting edge technology are preferred (â€Å"The New York Times,† 2009). Conclusion The four generations represented in today’s workforce have tendencies perceptions and misconceptions about the other that can hamper work relationships. However, each group brings capabilities, beliefs, and values necessary to make a company successful. Hence, the creativity, innovations, and ingenuity indicative of the American workforce are due in no small part to tolerating the gaps perceived in each generation. Generations Essay -- Sociology, Baby Boomers Generations at Work The dynamics associated with working with people in an office, department, or organization are difficult to classify or explain. Also, personalities, positions, ages, and values are all aspects of how people relate in order to get the job done. Moreover, each generation brings elements and distinct predilections to the work environment. Thus, the four generations represented in today’s workforce is examined. My Generation People born between 1946 and 1964 are classified in American society as baby boomers. I found out in my thirties that I was part of this generation. While I had heard of the term growing up it never occurred to me that I was a member, especially since I barely qualify. According to a survey conducted by Pew Social & Demographic Trends Project, baby boomers are the gloomiest generation. Moreover, their outlook on everything from health, finances, and quality of life is bleak (Cohn, 2008). However, some experts refute this assessment. They maintain baby boomers also referred to as the â€Å"Me† generation, are competitive, self-sufficient and are called are considered workaholics. Hence, their serious work ethic prompted many to remain in the workforce longer than expected. Consequently, baby boomers stay on the job in some capacity typically as part-time workers to sustain a certain level of income to support hobbies and other non-career interests (Cordington, 2010). Clearly, some baby boomers have a sense of despair heightened by a combined dread of aging and loss of income (Cohn, 2008). Although this generation’s median household income is more than adults 25 to 44 ($53,000) and adults 65 and over ($30,000), transitioning to a fixed income with increased medical bills is... ... â€Å"While older workers make more errors, perhaps due to declining physical attributes, they hardly make an severe errors, perhaps due to more experience,† (Fernandez, 2011, p.1). Ironically, the skills older workers have are too specific and unique to fit the needs of today’s multi-layer positions. Therefore, multi-dimensional, computer savvy younger workers, weaned on cutting edge technology are preferred (â€Å"The New York Times,† 2009). Conclusion The four generations represented in today’s workforce have tendencies perceptions and misconceptions about the other that can hamper work relationships. However, each group brings capabilities, beliefs, and values necessary to make a company successful. Hence, the creativity, innovations, and ingenuity indicative of the American workforce are due in no small part to tolerating the gaps perceived in each generation.

Racism :: essays research papers

The sizzling streams of sunlight were just beautifully glimmering down on the crisp green school yard. Such a wonderful day that was. Nothing could have ruined it. Little Jimmy, since it was such a wonderful day decided to go to the corner store and buy himself a little treat. As little Jimmy started walking over to the store, clouds flocked over the dazzling sun and the sudden pitch dark meant no trouble. On the other side of the road were three white boys from Jimmy's same school. Upon recognizing Jimmy, the boys ran over the street to where he was. "Hey Negro, what's up?", one of the white Boy said. "Did your mamma pack you enough to eat to-day?", another hooted. "Just leave me alone.", Little Jimmy said "Oh no, Jimmy's really getting pist off!?", the first boy retaliated. "Just shove off and let me be," Jimmy answered. It is like this everyday, everywhere, and everytime, people suffer discrimination. All because they have differen ces amongst each other. Different beliefs, different cultures, different skin colour, all of these act like building blocks to help construct what we know as Racism. Racism has become one of the many burdens amongst multi-cultural worlds like Canada and the States. Racism is a part of each and every one of us. No doubt, we are all racist, but this the term racism has been used too loosely. Racism has been mutated to such an extent that it could be a reason for war, a symbol of terrorism, and even an excuse for neglecting. Is that all there is to it? No, actually it is just the beginning. Racism is just like warfare in which there is no shelter and nobody is neutral. Nobody is exempt from this demon. He has haunted us with a bitter curse. On one occasion I remember, nobody would play with me at school. I would walk around by myself and ask people if we could play together. Everywhere that I went, like the process of induction, everyone would avoid me. Like two inducted poles with the same polarity, they would just shimmer off into the distance and continue to do whatever they're doing. Because of racial differences, they neglect me. People are afraid of the unknown, and it is this difference amongst people that spread rumors and distrust amongst people. Corrupting our thoughts and reasons, we get accustomed to thinking differences are omens.

Health Is More Important Than Wealth

Anonymous: Some people believed that health is more important than money, I also have the same concept as them. Money cannot buy health despite having the ability to acquire the best medical system however; money is earned through hard work. If our health is affected, how would we be able to concentrate on our work to bring back the bacon home? Therefore is it vital that we remain healthy so that we can focus on our work to put food on the table.Health can also bring joy in our life for an example, imagine that you were overseas doing all sort of crazy thing while you being healthy but all of the sudden you fell ill not being able to spend your last few day in this wonderful trip . Wealth is on the wish list for many people through out the world but having a healthy longevity is their top wish. To grow to a ripe old age to see your family tree grew is a memorable memory. Money is also known as the source of evil, it can cause dispute among family member when a sum of money is left be hind without a will.Unlike money, it can do quite the opposite effect when a love one is gravely ill family member instead of quarrelling over the asset instead show love, concern finally yet importantly Care. Our ancestor being able to live to 60 years old is consider a sage and above all better than being wealthy. Nowadays there a rapid growth of competition in the market as the world is constantly changing thus people are fighting to keep their jobs and solve their bread and butter issue forgetting how important their health in a stressful environment.Being Overworked can lead to health problem such as fatigue, increase chance of having hypertension and other health problems. But there are some health problem that is incurable take Human immunodeficiency Virus(HIV) despite nation pouring money into research it have yet find a cure. Money can be use for one personal lifestyle such as building a mansion with a swimming pool but if one is in poor health how would he be able to use i t? Therefore, I conclude that health is more important than money although money can bring joy to some people life but greed will one day overcome them turning them into a demon.