A BRIEF LOOK AT OBAMACARE Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers

A BRIEF LOOK AT OBAMACARE Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers A BRIEF LOOK AT OBAMACARE Human services change in the United States has a long history. Changes have regularly been proposed however have once in a while been cultivated. Har ry Truman during the 1940s , Richard Nixon during the 1970s, and Bill Clinton during the 1990s have given significant battles for a law that would cover each US resident in medical coverage. After every one of them, when Obama became president, he brought the wellbeing framework, which is called ObamaCare. In March, 2010, US President Barack Obama's medicinal services bill passed by Congress. It plans to give around 50 million Americans, 16 percent of the populace, social insurance. We have concluded that it's an ideal opportunity to give each American quality medicinal services. said Barack Obama in his discourse. The wellbeing framework in America is the world's most costly wellbeing framework. Regardless of the way that a wide range of wellbeing administrations, prescriptions and medical coverage premiums are costly, the nature of social insurance in the United States is low. The structure of the medical coverage framework in the USA is as per the following: State pays medical coverage costs for government authorities and warriors. (These are 2 percent of the populace.), The individuals who are old or exceptionally poor profit by two distinct applications called Medicare and Medicaid, which are subsidized from the financial plan. The state pays for these two diverse applications.(Medicare covers 15 percent of the all out populace, 16 percent of Medicaid.), In enormous scope modern foundations, workers in organizations, advantage from protection paid by premium establishments.(For about 45 percent of the populace, these projects give medical coverage.), Individual protections, bunch protections are typically over the top expensive and have restricted inclusion. (Just 6 percent of the populace profits by private protection with their own methods.) Numerous Americans need medicinal services. The extent of uninsured has been rising consistently since the 1970s. With the exception of the United States, no rich country on the planet neglects to give far reaching medicinal services that is free or reasonable to its whole populace. Therefore, wellbeing change has been talked about in the United States for quite a long time. The wellbeing change was a guarantee that Obama could satisfy. This change is the result of Obama's guarantee to give h ealth care for everyone's financial plan. The Law on Affordable Healthcare, referred to freely as Obamacare , went into power bit by bit from 2010 onwards, in spite of the unending restriction of the Republicans. The pr oportion of uninsured individuals in the nation has tumbled from 15.7 percent to 9.2 percent. Then again, the Republican Party has firmly restricted Obamacare from the earliest starting point in light of the fact that it encroaches on singular opportunities and the US Constitution since it obliges medical coverage. The new president, Donald Trump, indicated his assurance after the political decision that he was resolved to drop Obamacare aside from a couple of parts. In this manner, Obama's prosperity is a questionable issue, despite the fact that it is by all accounts among the guarantees Obama has made, it doesn't appear to be enduring. Obamacare, formally called the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPAC), yet more frequently called the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for short, transformed social insurance framework in general. Obamacare was marked into law to change the human services industry by President Barack Obama on March 23,2010 and maintained by the Supreme Court managing on June 28,2012. This decision included changing the law to permit states to quit growing Access to Medicaid. Obamacare was marked into law to address the national medicinal services emergency and to mama k e protection increasingly moderate and accessible for 44 million uninsureds. The Affordable Care Act 2010 is a renewal of human services framework to be t ter have the option to help and treat the huge level of law and center salary Americans who suff e r ordinarily without the best possible medical coverage. Obamacare,offered endowments to get moderate quality medical coverage and furthermore did things like extend Medicaid to right around 20 million additional Americans. The medicinal services law has just supported a great many Americans manage the cost of be t ter quality medical coverage, assisted with improving the medical coverage industry, and has extended Americans social insurance rights. The medicinal services law additionally expects to decrease inefficient spending and human services programs that are not working. The Affordable Care Act grows

Effects of Down Syndrome on Overall Well-being

Impacts of Down Syndrome on Overall Well-being Impact of Down Syndrome Scientist discovers the quality and shortcomings of kids with Down disorder and examination with ordinary kids. This investigation analyzed Down condition kid and normally creating kids on psychological capacity across five parts of youngster advancement which are language, self improvement, net engine, socioemotional and fine engine. Specialist found that Down condition kids they perform altogether more regrettable in the language whenever contrasted with normally creating youngsters. The essential finding in this examination is language is the most troubles for kids with Down condition because of anomalous intellectual improvement would adversely influence language learning and securing (Haikal, S. 2012). The discoveries for the four improvement angles are self â€help, net engine, socioemotion and fine engine. The outcome shows that Down disorder score lower than typical youngsters. It shows positive finding in this examination may because of the kids with Down condition they get early mediation in their youth. The discoveries were upheld by past looks into, which noticed that kids with Down condition may get significant advancement if under the productive and proper mediation and preparing, even accomplish to the ordinarily creating level, for example, engine expertise, socioemotional capacity (Haikal, S. 20 12). In spite of the fact that youngsters with Down disorder they formatively postponed in numerous viewpoints, however they will perform better in the event that they get early mediation program (EI). A longitude and distinct composed report, which contrasted kids and Down condition experienced with early mediation programs (EI) and without early intercession program affirmed the positive consequence of early intercession to kids with Down disorder (Haikal, S. 2012). The result demonstrated that kids with Down disorder under the EI program have fundamentally higher scores on scholarly and versatile working than those without early mediation. Down disorder youngsters they get well record and great impression from the network. They additionally improved on socioemotional appraisal. Past research shows that Down condition kids for the most part experience pretty much challenges in self-care exercises, for example, prepping. There are some comparable outcomes found in this examination that kids with Down disorder performed very more terrible on self improvement errands, which may because of the more youthful age of this investigation test. The presentation of self-care exercises were demonstrated progressively identified with the fine engine abilities required. The self improvement aptitude at school-matured youngsters with Down condition found that over portion of them (59.7%) required no assistance with self-care errands, which mean the self â€care ability can improve with expanded age (Haikal, S. 2012). Then again, Down disorder individuals show poor on social cooperations with others. Individuals who face social expertise shortages can add to separation from kinships and friend associations and can restrict further chances to improve social abilities. Social aptitude deficiency is risky in light of the fact that it will prompt negative encounters and evasion of social collaborations (Hajar, B. 2012). A portion of the examination show that improving kids with Down syndrome’ social abilities can counterbalance the development of increasingly genuine maladjustment. During the time spent socialization, the child will gain proficiency with the correct perspectives, aptitudes, qualities, and conduct so they will ready to pretend in the general public. The appropriate responses exhibited that social skills’ preparing is compelling in the socialization improvement in Down condition kids and this improvement was kept up over a 2-month follow-up period (Hajar, B. 2012). This investigation indicated social expertise preparing, expanding the capacity constructive social conduct with the individuals with Down disorder. The analyst likewise found that social aptitudes preparing compelling to better social conduct alteration in pre-adult. In the mediation gathering, it seems a model of social abilities and proper approaches to move toward different circumstances of kids with Down disorder. These models will train new practices to kids and it additionally will address an unseemly conduct that the kids have. Understudies with inability who procure great social abilities, and show increasingly good as far as social conduct, have progressively positive self-idea, and this prompts the comprehension of their confinements and capacities to better ways (Hajar, B. 2012) . In this manner, it is important to consider social abilities preparing to all understudies, particularly understudies with mental impediment who experience difficulty in going alongside peers. Clearly, proper social abilities preparing and giving chances and encounters will build their social connections, and makes the understudies apply techniques and social aptitudes in all conditions and genuine circumstances (Hajar, B. 2012). Formative handicaps likewise related to Down disorder youngster. They are qualified to get early mediation administration. The advantage of early intercession is understanding the qualities, capacities and extraordinary needs of adolescent, knowing the rights and chat for the child’s benefit. It likewise can help the youngster to create and get the hang of, having an emotionally supportive network and be engaged with the network (Aniza, I. 2013). Analysts additionally found that the mean of every space in youngsters who got early intercession is more famous than the individuals who got late mediation. This demonstrates the family will have better family results because of early mediation in numerous angles. Family results concentrate by NEILS found that guardians concurred their childrens support in early intercession programs has empowered them to help their kids to develop and learn, offer them the chance to work with the expert and talk in the interest of their youngsters about their needs. As per an examination by the National Early Intervention longitude Longitudinal Study (NEILS), moms training level and family pay likewise have a considerable connection to the family results. Guardians with advanced education levels have a progressively positive outcome in the family results. Ineffectively instructed guardians are normally found to have less information contrasted with the individuals who are accomplished so they don't know about the focal points identified with introduction and the foundation of early mediation programs in their place (Aniza, I. 2013). Other than that, Cunningham discovered monetary weight will influence family ties and increment family stress since bringing up youngsters requires a great deal of budgetary forfeits particularly for the groups of kids with exceptional necessities. Accordingly, the administration has built up preparing and administration community for these families, to be specific Kompleks KASIH Keluarga who composed projects and administrations meant to fortify the nuclear family (Aniza, I. 2013). Through this, guardians who have youngsters with incapacities can acquire information about their exceptional kids and how to deal with their family through investment in projects and workshops. Down disorder (DS) youngster will encounter sound issue, and have less access to medicinal services than everyone. There are some article show the advantages of physical action for youngsters with down disorder and some mediation programs for this populace. Proof demonstrates the advantages of physical movement for the prosperity of body, cerebrum, and the lessening of danger of ceaseless illness. Different examinations showed that physical action improved mental prosperity. In layman word is the manner by which we bargain, with stress and mental working, for example, dynamic, arranging, and momentary memory, diminished tension, and advanced more advantageous rest designs. Other than that, there are pretty much beneficial outcomes of ordinary physical movement are an improvement in cardiovascular and respiratory muscle work, a decrease in coronary supply route illness hazard factors, for example, raised systolic, diastolic blood pressures and a reduced level of by and large mortality and grimness. The advantages likewise may incorporate upgraded sentiments of prosperity, and improved execution at work environment, refreshment, and sports exercises (Lotan, M. 2007). Heller found that a gathering of grown-ups with DS, who partook in a wellness and wellbeing training program for 12 weeks, in that regard are a few changes of their mentalities towards training, demonstrated increasingly positive expected results and improved life fulfillment (Lotan, M. 2007). Then again, specialists have played out a run/walk program for DS members. The specialist can infer that grown-ups with DS had the option to improve their high-impact limit when playing out a precise and very much planned vigorous preparing program. This program exhibited critical improvement in muscle quality and dynamic parity, supporting a positive result. Carmeli executed a torment free treadmill strolling program for grown-ups with DS and blood vessel occlusive ailment. A portion of the members indicated critical enhancements in strolling pace, separation, and term. Agony levels were moved in individuals experiencing discontinuous claudication. In this manner, it is prescribed to do such projects all through the lifetime range of people with DS (Lotan, M. 2007).

Create Your Masterpiece A 16-Step Guide

Create Your Masterpiece A 16-Step Guide Do you wish you could create something meaningful? Do you wish you had the time to work on that thing youve always wanted to produceâ€"that novel, that piece of art, that passion project? No need to keep wishing your life away. Based on my experienceâ€"i.e., years of procrastination, followed by a couple years of rigorous work, resulting in two personal masterpiecesâ€"Ive written a 16-step guide to get you started on your own masterpiece. If I could fire up the Delorean and rewind the last decade, this is everything I would tell my 21-year-old self about creating meaningful work. It would have been harsh, but I needed it, and it would have saved me a ton of heartache. Feel free to listen in. Step 1. Look yourself in the mirror. Its time for you to be honest with yourself, young Josh. Either youre accomplishing what you want to accomplish or youre not. There is no in-between. If its the latter, then you must admit to yourself that you are the only person preventing you from pursuing your passion project. Denial is a heartless bitch; so the first step is looking in the mirror and admitting that you havent even scratched the surface on creating something meaningful. Step 2. Kill your distractions. Make a list of everything getting in your way. Surfing the net too much? Get rid of the Internet at home. Are certain people draining all your time? Get rid of your shitty relationships. Are material possessions getting in the way? Get rid of your crap. Step 3. Make time every day. None of us were born equal. We come from different backgrounds, different cultures, different socioeconomic situations. Suffice it to say, we were not all born on a level playing field. Time is the one exception. The only thing we all have in common is time. We all have the same 24 hours in a day. So, get up at 3:30 a.m. if you have to. Find 30 minutes before you leave for work. Work through your lunch break. Find an hour after work. If you want it bad enough, youll find the time. You have the same amount of time as everyone else who has ever created a masterpiece. Step 4. Stop making excuses. I should do this. I should do that. I should, I should, I should. Too often, we should all over ourselves. You must instead make change a must. I must create a masterpiece! I must make time every day! I must kill my distractions! Those musts sound far more empowering than your shoulds, dont they? Step 5. Stop worrying. Most people are going to praise you for what you doâ€"theyll be proud of your masterpiece once its finishedâ€"but instead we tend to worry about the naysayers. Guess what: people are going to judge you. Some people are going to think what youre doing is stupid. Others will think youve lost your mind. But what other people think doesnt matter. They will be dead soon. And so will you and I. So we better get to work. Step 6. Grow a pair of balls. Step 7. Take incremental action. Nearly all masterpieces share two commonalities: time and action. Said another way, you have to do the work every day. You wont create your masterpiece overnight, so dont try. Its far more important to work on it each day. In the course of time, your daily actions will add up immensely. Eventually, youll look in lifes rearview mirror and everything will be different. Step 8. Change your physiology. Your brain and your body arent standing in opposite corners of the room. If you want to stimulate your mind, you must stimulate your body. So do something physical. Anything: Walk. Run. Hit the gym. Try yoga. Breathe. Exercise for 18 minutes a day. Trek 500 miles. Just do something to get your body moving. Motion creates emotion. Step 9. Focus. Focus on your masterpiece. Whatever you focus on, youll create. Think your project is crappy? Then it will be crappy. Think youll get it done no matter the odds? Then youll finish it even if you get hit by a bus. Step 10. Change your beliefs. One of the biggest reasons we dont accomplish what we set out to accomplish is our limiting beliefs. For years youve told yourself that youll never be this, youll never do that, youll never be good enough. But youre no different from  the people who have constructed their masterpieces. The people who create something specialâ€"something lastingâ€"arent necessarily smarter or funnier or better or more toothsome than you. They simply believed they could do it, and through this belief they didnt let anything stand in their way. Step 11. Become obsessed. Half of passion is love; the other half, obsession. Your masterpiece will feed off your obsession, growing mightily the more obsessed you become. Eventually, youll wake up thinking about it. Youll go to bed thinking about it. Youll think about it in the bathroom stall. This is good. Let your masterpiece become your obsession. Let it take over. Step 12. Cut the fat. Brevity is the soul of wit. Or perhaps, more accurately, brevity is wit. Julien Smiths book, The Flinch, is intentionally brief. The entire thing can be tweeted, page by page, line by line. Every line was carefully considered. Same goes for Everything That Remainsâ€"years of work, boiled down to a couple hundred pages. Sure, a masterpiece can be longer and more oblique and digressiveâ€"but does it need to be? Realize that you too can build something massive and then chisel it down to its essence. Do this and people will find value in your work. Step 13. Get the old guard out of the way. Are gatekeepers getting in your way? Cant talk to the person you want to pitch? Cant find an agent or a publisher willing to give you the time of day? Cant get on CNN or MTV? So what! Do it yourself. For the first time in history, you dont need the old guard. We live in an era where the Indians can circumvent the chiefs, taking their masterpieces straight to the tribe. Step 14. Make it inexpensive. Money was never the goal of your masterpiece, was it? No. You wanted people to hear your album or read your book or view your artâ€"to see, hear, feel, smell, and taste your masterpiece. So remove your boundaries and make it cheap (or give it away). Let it go. Its no longer yours anywayâ€"it belongs to the world. Step 15. Breathe. Pause and bask in the glory of your masterpiece. Go ahead: take it all in. Enjoy the moment. You deserve it. Step 16. Do it again. Return to step one. Get started on your next masterpiece. This lifetime can contain as many masterpieces as you allow. Lather, rinse, repeat. This essay was inspired by the homework assignment I wrote with my friend, New York Times bestselling author Julien Smith.

Essay on pulp fiction - 2691 Words

Pulp Fiction (1994) is a mesmerizing, violent and entertaining movie. It has a bizarre cast of characters, a nonlinear sequence of events and endless references to pop culture. The underlying theme of the movie, however, deals with religion and the transformation of two characters: Jules (Samuel L. Jackson) and Butch (Bruce Willis). nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;In the beginning of the film, Vincent (John Travolta) has returned from a stay in Amsterdam, and the conversation between Jules and Vincent deals with what Big Macs and Quarter Pounders are called in Europe. As the movie moves on, other references are the Fonz on Happy Days, Arnold the Pig on Green Acres, the band Flock of Seagulls, Caine from Kung Fu, TV pilots, and other such†¦show more content†¦nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Jules always quotes this just before he kills someone. The point is that the passage refers to a system of values and meaning by which one could lead one’s life and make moral decisions. However, that system has no connection with Jules’s life and as he realizes later, the passage is actually meaningless to him. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;In addition to the pop references in the film, its dialogue on language is concerned with naming things. What’s a Big Mac called? What’s a Quarter Pounder called? What’s a Whopper called? When Ringo (Tim Roth) calls the waitress â€Å"garà §on,† she tells him: â€Å"‘garà §on’ means ‘boy’.† When Butch’s girlfriend refers to his means of transportation as a â€Å"motorcycle,† he insists on correcting her: â€Å"It’s not a motorcycle, it’s a chopper.† When a Hispanic cab driver, however, asks Butch what his name means, he replies: â€Å"This is America, honey; our names don’t mean shit.† The point is clear that in the absence of any lasting ambition or value and meaning, our language no longer points to anything beyond itself. To call something good or evil makes it so since there’s no higher authority or criteria by which one might judge such things. Jules quotes the â€Å"Bible† before his executions, but he might as well be quoting the Fonz or Buddy Holly. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;This absence of any kind of system for making value judgments, this lack of a larger meaning to their lives, creates aShow MoreRelated Pulp Fiction Essays1384 Words   |  6 PagesPulp Fiction The puzzle pieces are carefully fitted together as director Quentin Tarantino intermingles three different story lines in his hit movie Pulp Fiction. The movie begins in a quiet little diner as two petty robbers discuss their next mission. The mission in question involves two lovebirds (Amanda Plummer and Tim Roth) holding up unsuspecting restaurants, instead of their usual liquor stores. As their plan falls into action, time alters and we find ourselves riding down the streetRead MorePulp Fiction Essay895 Words   |  4 PagesEthical Values in Pulp Fiction Pulp fiction is a movie filled with drugs, violence, gambling, and pop iconography, describing how real-life society is going towards the â€Å"death of god† era; a life without morals. A lot of movie critics would say that Jules (Samuel L. Jackson) and Vincent (John Travolta) possess no ethical values, no sense of morality. They also say that the movie does not convey a message. The movie does convey a message; Quentin Tarantino just masks it behind the street-savvyRead MoreThe Movie Pulp Fiction 2123 Words   |  9 PagesPulp Fiction, a film where every 1950’s pop culture icon is on display from Zorro to Buddy Holly. Quentin Tarantino s 1994, Pulp Fiction, went on to win an Oscar for best original screenplay, and gained a cult following. This report will examine the film s relationship with Nihilist theory. The film is centered around Jules Winnfiel’s [Samuel L. Jackson] transformation, from someone with no sense of what to believe in, to someone who exper iences ‘Divine intervention’ and rethinks his system ofRead MoreNarrative Structure of Pulp Fiction1304 Words   |  6 PagesQuentin Tarantino United States Of America - 1994 John Travolta, Samel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, Bruce Willis Quentin Tarantino’s American crime film â€Å"Pulp Fiction† is organized through three separate but interrelated storylines. There is one story that constructed by three distinct stories. At the beginning of the sequences, titles are shown on the black screen which provides a recognizable source for narration.The first story-Vincent Vega and Marsellus Wallace’s wife- is about Vincent VegaRead MorePulp Fiction Vs. Kill Bill1694 Words   |  7 PagesPulp Fiction Vs. Kill Bill I was a little late on the Kill Bill train and did not watch the movie until last year. As soon as the film started, I knew that it was going to be extremely intense. The same goes for Pulp Fiction. These two films directed by Quentin Tarantino were very different from all the other films that I’ve seen in my life. The mise en scene, dialogue, and music, were all different factors that intrigued me. I watched Pulp Fiction after watching Kill Bill and at first I thoughtRead MorePulp Fiction - a Sociological Debate1412 Words   |  6 Pagessome of the research approaches fore-mentioned. Analysing the main dimensions will be covered by discussing the appropriate concepts separately and by individually contrasting the classical and modern theories with Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 film ‘Pulp Fiction,’ known for its rich, diverse dialogue, ironic combination of humour and violence, a nonlinear storyline told in several differing orders, and a mass amount of cinema tic hints and popular culture references. A classical theory is HistoricalRead MoreEssay on Biblical References in Pulp Fiction1633 Words   |  7 Pages Pulp Fiction Throughout the movie Pulp Fiction, directed by Quentin Tarantino, there are many hidden references to religion and the Bible. The movie starts off, introducing our two main characters, Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield, as two cheap hitmen in search of a package belonging to their boss, Marcellus Wallace. The package is retrieved, and they then began their job of returning it to their boss. Along the way, they ran into difficulties, such as Vegas so-called date with hisRead MorePulp Fiction Film Analysis1134 Words   |  5 Pages Pulp Fiction is a black comedy crime film written and directed Quentin Tarantino (1994). The film’s â€Å"narrative follows the unpredictable actions and reflections of two hit men who philosophically meditate out loud about the Bible, loyalty, and McDonald’s hamburgers† (Corrigan, White, 368). The movie goes against the three-act structure of classic films as the story is told out of chronological order making the film so memorable to its viewers. Tarantino’s film begins in a coffee shop and also endsRead MoreMovie Review : Pulp Fiction 1611 Words   |  7 PagesIn 1994, Quentin Tarantino released his American Crime film that was nominated for 7 Oscars, winning one, and is currently #95 on AFI’s 100 Greatest American Movies. The movie, Pulp Fiction, is about three characters that are all connected to the life of crime. The first character is Vincent, a man who follow ever y order his boss gives him. Vincent is satisfied with his life of crime and doesn’t plan on changing his lifestyle. The second main character is Jules, a man who believes that he recentlyRead MoreEssay about Postmodernism in Pulp Fiction1681 Words   |  7 PagesThe film Pulp Fiction was an immediate box office success when it was released in 1994 and it was also well received by the critics, and celebrated for the way it appeared to capture exactly a certain pre-millennial angst and dislocation in Western capitalist societies. The term post-modernist, often used to refer to art and architecture, was applied to this film. The pulp fiction refers to popular novels which are bought in large numbers by less well educated people and enjoyed for their entertainment

Analysis Of The Movie Blackfish - 1633 Words

â€Å"Fifty years of connecting and caring;† this is one of SeaWorld s many advertisements to entice people to come to their parks. This park, along with others like it, is a large tourist attraction for people of all ages. Who doesn’t love observing sea creatures, especially killer whales, perform tricks like a circus in the water? In the documentary, Blackfish, released in 2013, Gabriela Cowperthwaite tells the story of Tilikum, a killer Orca whale held in captivity by Seaworld. This is a story of how the sea park industry hides the risks and reality of working with these intelligent and emotional mammals. This film is written to educate the general public about how little is known about these animals, and point out that the sea park industry is a multi million dollar business exploiting these sea creatures. At the beginning of the documentary, the tone is set. The beginning introduces SeaWorld and the beautiful whales in all its glory. The trainers are shown intera cting with the whales. After watching the beginning clips, the audience wants to find out more. Throughout this documentary, Cowperthwaite exposes the conditions of Orca’s â€Å"behind bars† with the use of irony along with using logical and emotional appeals. Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the director of Blackfish, has directed, written, and produced documentaries for fifteen years. This documentary is one of the highest grossing documentaries of all time. She has written for ESPN, National Geographic, Animal Planet,Show MoreRelatedAnalysis Of The Movie Blackfish 1770 Words   |  8 PagesBlackfish is a documentary produced in the year 2013 and was directed by a person known as Gabriella Cowperthwaite, and this documentary focuses on a killer whale that had been taken into captivity. A killer whale can also be referred to as the orca, and this is a toothed whale that belongs to the family of the dolphins. The orca in this movie was called Tilikum that was a bull orca who was living in captivity. He had sired twenty one calves and he was involved in the deaths of three individualsRead MoreSea World Park And Entertainment Company3696 Words   |  15 Pagessee in the wild. On 19th January 2013, a documentary named BLACKFISH premiered at the sundana film festival. Blackfish is directed by Gabriela cowperthwaite. This documentary features Tilikum the killer whale, trainers and people who were associated with sea world. Documentary is mainly focused on the death of the trainers that took place in the past years, and how these animals are being treated at sea world. Blackfish tired to understand and explain the reasons behind sea world’s highly

Mental Health in Adolescents Free Essays

string(72) " and suicidality was measured with mental health service use questions\." Mental Health Service Use Among Adolescents and Young Adults With Major Depressive Disorder and Suicidality Amy H Cheung, M D Carolyn S Dewa, Objectives: Despite being recognized as a serious public health concern, suicidality among adolescents and young adults is frequently missed, and completed suicide remains the second leading cause of death for young Canadians. With such close links between depression, suicidality, and completed suicide, any intervention must address all 3 of these issues. However, to develop effective interventions, we must understand the types and rates of mental health service use among adolescents and young adults. We will write a custom essay sample on Mental Health in Adolescents or any similar topic only for you Order Now This study examines service use rates in young Canadians with depression and suicidality and the influence of sex on the types of service provider chosen. Methods: We used data from the Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Weil-Being. Our sample included 619 individuals, aged 15 to 24 years, who screened positive for depression and suicidality in the past 12 months. We examined mental health service use rates in general and by provider type. Results: Among adolescents aged 15 to 18 years with depression, 40% had not used any mental health services. This rate was higher for adolescents with suicidality at 50%. In young adults aged 19 to 24 with depression, 42% had not used any mental health services. Among young adults with suicidality, 48% had not accessed services. Female adolescents and young adults were more likely to receive services from nonspecialty mental health providers. Conclusions: In Canada, many adolescents and young adults with depression and suicidality do not receive mental health services. Further, there may be a preferential treatment of young men by mental health specialists. Further research is needed to understand the quality of care received by these young Canadians and the factors influencing service use. (Can J Psychiatry 2007;52:228-232) Information on funding and support and author affiliations appears at the end of the article. Clinical Implications †¢ About 50% of adolescents and young adults with depression and suicidality do not use mental health services. †¢ Strategies to increase service use in youth with depression are needed. Strategies to decrease differences between the sexes in service use are needed. Limitations †¢ The quality of care could not be examined from the CCHS 1. 2 data. †¢ The survey results were based on patient recall. †¢ Although this was a national population-based study, the sample size was small. 228 †¢ La Revue canadienne de psychiatrie, vol 52, no 4, avril 2007 Mental Health Service Use Among Adolesc ents and Young Adults With Major Depressive Disorder and Suicidality Key Words: adolescents, depression, suicidality, service use, young adults D pression and suicidality (ideation and attempts) among adolescents and young adults are frequently unrecognized and untreated by any health professionals. ‘ Not only are depression and suicidality often linked, but both pose a significant burden on patients and their families. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in youth aged 15 to 18 years, second only to motor vehicle accidents. ^ Further, almost 50% of teens who complete suicide have a diagnosable mood disorder, such as depression, and have expressed suicidality prior to completing suicide. ^^ There are also consistent differences between male and female adolescents, with male adolescents more likely to complete suicide and female adolescents more likely to have depression and suicidality. ^ Policy-makers, families, and providers have struggled to understand how to addres s this significant public health issue. A first step in addressing the issue is to understand the mental health service use pattems among adolescents and young adults with depression and suicidality. Given the differences in prevalence rates between young men and women, it is also critical to understand the influence of sex on service use in this age group. have a form of depression. ^ Further, according to a biannual survey of youth in the United States, more than 16% of US teenagers have had thoughts about suicide, and 10% had actually attempted suicide in the previous 12 months. ‘† We found similar rates in Canada, with almost 20% of teens aged 15 to 18 years reporting suicidality in their lifetime. † However, it is not known how many of these youth received mental health interventions. Given that depression and suicidality are so closely linked, it would be a reasonable first step to examine the rates of mental health service use among Canadian adolescents and young adults and, flirther, to look at which type of service provider they are seeing to address these problems. Therefore, this study examines the rates of service use in adolescents aged 15 to 18 and young adults aged 19 to 24 with depression and suicidality. We will also comment on how these service use rates could be used to develop policies targeted at this population. Methods Subjects The survey sample was drawn from the CCHS 1. 2. We examined a subsample of CCHS 1. 2 respondents aged 15 to 24 years. The total sample size for the CCHS 1. 2 is 36 984, with a sample size of 5646 for individuals between the ages of 15 and 24 years. Our subsample included 619 individuals who screened positive for a diagnosis of depression and (or) suicidality in the past 12 months. We examined the rates of mental health service use in general and according to provider type. Major Depressive Disorder. The diagnosis of MDD was evaluated in the CCHS 1. 2 through the use of structured interviews. The interview modules were drawn from the CIDI. ‘^ A diagnosis of MDD was derived from the CIDI. We used the 12-month estimates for MDD. Suicidality. Suicidal attempts and ideation were measured by using the questions on suicide in the depression section ofthe CCHS 1. 2 survey. Subjects were interviewed for suicidality regardless of their screen for depression. Although there are significant risk differences between those with suicidal ideation and those with attempts, we combined these 2 groups in our analyses because of Statistics Canada reporting rules regarding rare events. Service Use. Service use for MDD and suicidality was measured with mental health service use questions. You read "Mental Health in Adolescents" in category "Essay examples" All service use was measured according to provider and place of contact in the following groups: GPs (nonpsychiatrist medical doctors), psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers or counsellors, and other professionals, including nurses, religious counsellors (such as ministers or rabbis), and naturopaths or other alternative health care practitioners. Service use for each of the groups was defined according to use and nonuse. Statistical Analyses The CCHS 1. 2 uses a stratified design with differences in sampling fractions across the strata, with some geographical 229 Several studies have examined the rates of mental health service use by adolescents and young adults. However, most of these have been US-based studies. * These studies show that service use is less than 50% among adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 24 years* and that up to 80% of children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years do not receive needed mental health services. Among adolescents with depression, 50% are not diagnosed prior to adulthood. * In Canada, the rates of depression and service use in Canadians aged 15 to 24 were examined in the Ontario Mental Health Supplement in the early 1990s,’ which found the rate of service use in this age group to be less than 50%. However, aside from the supplement, no other Canadian study has examined the rates of service use by young Canadians aged 15 to 24 with depression. Therefore, even with the increasing recognition by policymakers and service providers that depression poses a significant burden on our youth and their families, there is very little research furthering our understanding of this issue or helping to develop effective strategies to address it. Similarly, we know very little about young individuals with suicidality and their pattern of service use. US surveys have shown that more than 50% of youth who complete suicide Abbreviations used in this article CCHS 1. Cl CIDI GP MDD Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Heaith and Weli-Being confidence interval Composite International Diagnostic Interview general practicitioner major depressive disorder The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, Voi 52, No 4, Aprii 2007 Original Research Table 1 Twelve-month service use rates by provider type among youth with major depression and sutcidality Any service % (95%CI) Psychiatrist % (95%CI) GP % (95%CI) Psychologist % (95%CI) Social worker or counsellor % (95%CI) Other provider % (95%CI) Respondents Adolescents aged 15 to 18 years. suffered from major depression Male Female 56. 3 (34. 4 to 78. 1) 55. 9 (40. 7 to 71. 1) 45. 5 (21. 2 to 69. 9) 21. 4 (11. 2 to 31. 6) 24. 6 (7. 2 to 42. 0) 30. 7 (17. 9 to 43. 6) 25. 2 (0. 5 to 49. 8) 16. 7 (7. 9 to 25. 5) 10. 8 (0. 9 to 20. 7) 39. 9 (24. 7 to 55. 0) 23. 9 (-0. 6 to 48. 3) 16. 4(8. 1 to 24. 8) Adults aged 19 to 24 years, suffered from major depression Men Women 52. 5 (37. 3 to 67. 8) 55. 6 (44. 3 to 66. 9) 28. 9 (15. 3 to 42. 5) 26. 1 (18. 0 to 34. 2) 37. (22. 2 to 51. 9) 45. 9 (35. 3 to 56. 5) 33. 9 (19. 2 to 48. 6) 21. 9 (13. 4 to 30. 5) 17. 6 (7. 8 to 27. 5) 29. 1 (20. 3 to 38. 0) 9. 5 (1. 9 to 17. 1) 21. 1 (12. 7 to 29. 5) Adolescents aged 15 to 18 years. suffered from suicidality Male Female 36. 5 (18. 4 to 54. 5) 49. 0 (38. 5 to 59. 5) 23. 3 (6. 3 to 40. 3) 19. 3 (10. 9 to 27. 7) 14. 7 (4. 4 to 25. 1) 27. 2 (17. 7 to 36. 7) 21. 7 (4. 5 to 38. 8) 21. 0 (12. 3 to 29. 8) 13. 2 (4. 2 to 22. 2) 31. 9(22. 1 to 41. 7) 16. 2 (-1. 1 to 33. 4) 15. 9 (8. 5 to 23. 3) Adults aged 19 to 24 years, suffered from suicidaiity Men Women 39. 5(27. 1 to 51. 9) 50. 8 (37. 0 to 64. 6) 22. 6 (12. 3 to 33. 0) 17. 5 (9. 6 to 25. 4) 27. 9 (16. 6 to 39. 1) 41. 3 (28. 3 to 54. 3) 24. 1 (10. 9 to 37. 3) 24. 6 (14. 0 to 35. 2) 12. 8 (4. 9 to 20. 7) 20. 8 (11. 6 to 30. 0) 9. 3 (2. 2 to 16. 4) 16. 2 (7. 0 to 25. 3) areas under- or overrepresented in the sample relative to their representation in the population. Therefore, we used the weights recommended by Statistics Canada when conducting analyses. Rates of service use for mental health reasons were calculated for subjects with MDD and (or) suicidality in the past 12 months. Service use rates were examined according to provider type and the sex ofthe subjects. Chi-square tests were conducted to examine for differences between young men and women with depression and (or) suicidality. Results Among adolescents aged 15 to 18 years with depression, 40% (95%CI, 28% to 53%) had not used any mental health services. The rate was higher for those with suicidality, at 50% (95%CI, 41% to 59%). Most adolescents and young adults with depression were either not accessing services at all or accessing services for their mental health problems through one provider. Among those aged 15 to 18 years, 22% (95%CI, 11% to 33%) accessed services through one provider, compared with 20% (95%CI, 14% to 27%) of those aged 19 to 24 years. Among young adults aged 19 to 24 years with depression, 42% (95%CI, 33% to 51%) had not used any health services for mental health reasons. For those with suicidality, 48% (95% CI, 39% to 5 8%) had not accessed services in the past 12 months. As with those with depression, most of our sample with suicidality either did not access services at all or accessed services through one provider. Among those aged 15 to 18 years with suicidality, 21% (95%CI, 14% to 28%) accessed services through one provider, compared with 22. 12% (95%CI, 14% to 30%) of those aged 19 to 24 years. 230 Differences between young men and women were not found in the overall use of mental health services. Service use by type of provider and sex are shown in Table 1. However, female adolescents aged 15 to 18 years with depression were more likely to use services from social workers and (or) counsellors, compared with male adolescents (female adolescents; 40% [95%CI, 25% to 55%]; male adolescents, 11% [95%CI, 1% to 21%]). Similarly, in young adults aged 19 to 24, a higher percentage of yotmg women saw social workers and (or) counsellors (women, 29% [95%CI, 20% to 38%]; men, 18% [95%CI, 8% to 28%]). For those with suicidality, female subjects in both age groups were more likely to use mental health services from GPs. Among those aged 15 to 18, 15% (95%CI, 4% to 25%) of male adolescents saw GPs, compared with 27% (95%CI, 18% to 37%) of female adolescents. Among those aged 19 to 24, 27. 9% (95%CI, 17% to 39%) of young men saw GPs, compared with 41% (95%CI, 28% to 54%) of young women. Overall, female adolescents and young adults with depression and (or) suicidality were more likely than male adolescents and young adults to use services from GPs (female subjects aged 15 to 18 years: x^ = 4. 53, dfl,P 0. 03; aged 19 to 24: X = 14. 88, df 1, P 0. 001) and from social workers and (or) ^ counsellors (aged 15to 18:^^=15. 54,dfl,P How to cite Mental Health in Adolescents, Essay examples

Accounting Theory and Current IssuesPositive Accounting Theory

Question: Discuss about the Accounting Theory and Current Issuesfor Positive Accounting Theory. Answer: Introduction Paul V Dunmore for the Massey University, Wellington situated in New Zealand propounded the article Half a Defense of Positive Accounting Research of which the critical evaluation is done in the current study. Herein, this research paper an optimistic approach is followed towards the accounting research. A wider review of the intellectual project is made to understand the significance and drawbacks of positive accounting research. The article purpose is to draft a casual description of human behaviour in different account settings. The goal of conducting current literature analysis is to determine the article significance in the field of positive accounting. To uncover the facts an initial summary is specified aiming at main arguments of the article. Furthermore, to develop a deeper understanding of the literature of review research question and theoretical framework is specified in the report. Lastly, to derive a valid conclusion the importance and limitation of the article will be evaluated thoroughly. Article Summary The concept of Positive Accounting Theory is considered to be a vital segment of the academic accounting research that aims at evaluating and forecasting the current practices in accounting. The research is in direct contrast with the normative standards of accounting, which is more focused onto the description of optimal accounting standards. The report explores on how the accounting is applied and recommends the deficiencies in its implementation that leads to overall program ineffectiveness. Half a Defense of Positive Research has specified ways in which it can enhance the positive accounting for promoting the optimal practices, which can be adopted by individuals. The aim of the positive research is to not explore the implications and experiences rather its purpose is to explore the causation. There is a detailed examination done on the ontology and epistemology of positive research and determines what falls short in the current practices of accounting research. The key argument stated in the article is whether positive accounting seeks better theoretical models, which are highly precise and susceptible. Further, stating that the inappropriate progress in a positive accounting is because of the ad hoc quantitative models that are abridged to mere statements of the probable sign of the relationship between two variables. The other elaborated models that occurred from analytical research is unstructured, which makes it difficult to operationalize the same in a suitable manner. Further, there is impelling need for a better measurement that shall help in rigorously testing the theoretical models. The accounting concepts are to be diligently operationalized to upkeep the interesting key concepts that fruitful and important for the businesses. The policy makers are required to draw their focus onto considering the requisite functional forms, which can help in forming a better linear relationship with the already existing concepts of accounting. The Paul V Dunmore showcase the formation of a reliable study to gauge a concept that can be considered as standards for further studies. Thus the approach will help in promoting enhancements within the standards and prevent reinvention of measures for each study. Next, is there is a need for a shift of focus far from the hypothesis testing to estimate the parameters. The confidence intervals for parameters must be compared with the theoretical prediction of such parameters or pick from other studies any comparable measurement. To check whether the result is significantly zero is to check whether the confidence interval comprises of zero, but nonetheless, measured confidence interval shall comprise of significant extra information that the real test does not proclaim. Moreover, the need subsists to archive data of measurement of the significant concepts those that are made to test theory and those that contribute to the archive. Lastly, a need for extensive replication is done for validating the hypothesis testing confirming to the accurateness of measurement. Research Question The current article is based on the Positive Accounting research and thus below following research questions are stated: To make a successful positive research program what measures are required to be taken? What ways are there for analytical modelling? What models of vulnerability are required to tested rigorously? Whether it should focus on the measurement than testing? What is the viability of current results to explore the parameters of applicability of past findings? Theoretical Framework The literature review states the key limitation in performances of positive accounting research, which obstructs it from delivering a complete participation in a wider based project. The key requirement for a valid qualitative research is that the overall concepts maintain the level of testing further to restrain their applicability in research (Creswell, 2013). These theories are required to be formulated through a test against each other to draw a valid conclusion. The requirement for a detailed repetition of research may occur to confirm with the conclusion derived from the different testing of hypothesis. A paradigm shift is also required for further developing a conceptual framework. The shift is marked from theory testing to an evaluation of the basic conceptual outlines of research. To perfect an accounting research, it is important to use enhanced measurement tools. Furthermore, the models should be advanced for forming the base of hypothesis testing. Models framed should be flawless checking that there is no environmental vulnerability subsisting. The criticism framed in the articles is as follows S.NO. Statement criticised by Paul V Dunmore 1 Positive Accounting does not serve any remedy as it states what shall happen rather than what ought to have happened. It does not fulfil the key aim of accounting theory. 2 The positive accounting theory is not free from the value as it focuses on explaining what people shall do disregarding the fact that what are they actually needed to do. 3 The theory makes an assumption that every management and stakeholder action are built on the basis of their self-interest with key goals to enhance their own wealth without looking on the adverse aspects. As per the Kuhn (1970), description of normal science adequately gets in tune with the positive accounting research rather than actual science. Positive accounting research has worthy contribution to serve a wider understanding of human behaviour due to its distinctive setting and specific range of behaviour that accounting embraces. Kuhn also argues that a model is replaceable only when it no longer supports the concept of normal science. For some reasons it has been proclaimed that the social system is not steady but an adoption of the modified system shall help in suiting the advanced knowledge thus not leading to any severe crises. Further, Kuhn uses the notion of a disciplinary matrix for suggesting the positive research through an example that can be used for solving all puzzles, irrespective of the contribution in its social system. The positive accounting theory was almost patented by the Watts and Zimmerman (1990, 1978 and 1986) nonetheless their contribution can be seen really narrow in comparison to the wide-based concept of positive research. Many other aspects of accounting research are not determined by the theoretical model. The aim of accounting research is for extending the base of understanding and application of different theories in accounting research. It is important to ascertain a better approach for validating the finding of this research. Significance and Limitation Of Article The research article propounded by Paul V Dunmore has a significant contribution to serve for deeply understanding the social context of human behaviour. It is due to the unique setting that is being used in this research to ascertain the specific range of behaviour which accounting comprises of. Provided the fact that research paper shall assist in policy makers to use the research for the future development of the theories working onto the existing disadvantages in the models of positive accounting. The theoretical inferences made by Paul V Dunmore for the research analysis viable as it is suitably sustained by valid fact and justifications. Yet there is also a significant limitation in the analysis section. In the current practices, the key output comprises of statistically important coefficients, but the interpretation does not serve the connection suspecting the measurement that is inconsistent with the theories and sample which are not challenged and whose applicability is not verified rather presumed. According to Flick (2015), the tools and models that are supposed to be employed for a comprehensive analysis must be adequate for the objective of study otherwise it shall affect the validity of study adversely because of inadequacies. Limitation and benefit are specified in the study but are not completely clear from the readers point of view. There are suitable constraints identified in the study affecting the research validity, which question the reliability of its use for future studies. Conclusion The current literature concludes that the article has presented a wide data on how the positive accounting research is essentially practised. The study states that there is a lot more development needed to enhance the rigorous theories and most of these have failed when tested. The current article states suitable finding and allow the reader to draw valid inferences from the hypothesis testing. Through this aspect, there shall be confirmation of accurate measurement by which researcher can investigate the boundaries of research findings of the study. References Creswell, J.W., 2013. Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches. Sage. Flick, U., 2015. Introducing research methodology: A beginner's guide to doing a research project. Sage. Kuhn, T. S., 1970. The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, 2nd Edition. University of Chicago Press, Chicago. Watts, R. L., Zimmerman, J. L., 1990. Positive accounting theory: A ten year perspective. The Accounting Review 65 (1), 131-156. Watts, R., Zimmerman, J., 1978. Towards a positive theory of the determination of accounting standards. The Accounting Review 53, 112{134. Watts, R., Zimmerman, J., 1986. Positive Accounting Theory. Prentice Hall.

Hackers Hell Essays - Hacker, Computer Network Security, Cybercrime

Hackers Hell To deal with hackers who break through office systems through the Internet it is important for information managers to understand their enemy well. If they have sound background knowledge about hackers, they might be prepared to deal with them in a much more effective method. Hackers are very educated often mostly university or high school students who try to break through systems for which they have no authorization. They deal poorly with people, have few friends and less relationships, but at the same time are very smart. Therefore they revert to computers because they know computers will not reject them. With bulletin board communication they can form social relationships but those are behind the screen, where hackers feel shielded. (Pfleeger, pp.12-13) Hackers justify the crime of cracking through systems by stating that nobody gets hurt in this situation. Hacking can be done without having a conflict with any human. Hackers also usually work in groups, and when they do so they become more dangerous to office systems. By sharing information they manage to put together a solution that would allow them to break in a office system. The news media has labeled hackers as mere children who play pranks. (Pfleeger, p.13) Even Amy Wohl who is a noted information systems consultant states that ?the hacker risk is the smallest of the computer crime risks.? (Ray, p. 440) Amy Wohl's statement is incorrect because due to the hacking of automated office systems millions of dollars in damages have occurred. According to the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) the increase attacks by hackers through the Internet has jumped to 323% since 1992. Total losses to the U.S. industry are approximately $2 billion per month. Thus it is very essential for information managers to know about the different problems hackers can create for automated office systems through the Internet. (Anthes ?Hack Attack.?, p.81) One of the main problems that hackers can cause is that they can break into office electronic mail (e-mail) messages. This can be especially dangerous for those office systems who use electronic mail as their main source of communication.. Electronic mail on the Internet is as confidential as a postcard. After the sender transmits the message, it travels from one network to another until it reaches its recipient. Therefore, hackers can easily break into electronic mail while it is traveling towards its destination. Further, when it reaches the recipient there will not be any evidence of tempering with the e-mail. (Rothfeder , p. 224-225) Another tool that hackers use is called a sniffer. A software which can be easily planted in an organizations system, works like a concellead recorder and captures e-mail messages as they are exchanged. (Behar, p.35) Hackers value e-mail because it contains valuable information. They can find anything from secret strategic plans to log-in passwords r equired to get into the office system. Once they have this vital information, hackers can have access and cause major damage to the office system. (Rothfeder, p. 225) One of the victims of e-mail hacking was Wind River Systems. A software company, Wind River Systems has a communication system where they exchange e-mail with customers on the Internet. By trying a few passwords on the office system, hackers were able to access the system of Wind River Systems in California and France. When a expensive bill for accessing the Internet came to Wind River Systems, they found that hackers had gotten in their communication system. Wind River Systems discovered that due to the intrusions hackers obtained programming codes which could have the potential to hurt future performance of the company. (Behar, p.33) Penetrating electronic mail is just one way hackers intrude and destroy office systems. Banks who have established office system that provide online banking services to clients also face problems. One of the first Internet banks, Security First Network had to stop hackers from electronically breaking into account files in the first few months of its operations. In addition, Citibank's office system was also hacked when a Russian hacker electronically transferred $11 million from New York to Finland, Israel, and California. These incidents leaves many banks in doubt whether they should have systems that are capable of providing customer service on the Internet. Instead,

Free Essays on Stem Cell Issues

2 Should we as society condone embryonic stem cell research or condemn it? Which is the greater moral obligation? To protect embryos as a being, or to promote research to improve the quality of life for countless numbers of people affected by numerous diseases and conditions? The answers to these questions seem to be in the eye of the beholder which seems to differentiate very different opinions on the matter. Do We Protect Embryos as a Being? Scientifically speaking, an embryo begins as a blastocyst, which is a cluster of cells that forms approximately five to seven days after conception. Typically fertilization would occur within a woman’s womb. However no one is suggesting we harvest living cells from a woman’s womb. The embryonic stem cells viable for research are these from embryos that are created outside of the womb in fertility clinics fro the purposes of invitro fertilization. Many of these embryos are never used and eventually will be discarded of. As Zuckerman states in his article, the otherwise discarded embryos would create more than enough stem cell lines for scientists to use for research purposes. (2004) This is where the first question arises, do we protect embryos the same as a fully formed human life? In Zuckerman’s article he quotes U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch, one of 58, which seek a change in Presidents Bush’s policy on stem cell research saying â€Å"Only after an embryos transferred into a woman’s womb †¦..Is that natural capacity to become? 3 A person attained, and only then does the government gain an interest in protecting that entity.† In another article from the Wisconsin State Journal Steven S.Clark makes the argument that even before fertilization begins the sperm and... Free Essays on Stem Cell Issues Free Essays on Stem Cell Issues 2 Should we as society condone embryonic stem cell research or condemn it? Which is the greater moral obligation? To protect embryos as a being, or to promote research to improve the quality of life for countless numbers of people affected by numerous diseases and conditions? The answers to these questions seem to be in the eye of the beholder which seems to differentiate very different opinions on the matter. Do We Protect Embryos as a Being? Scientifically speaking, an embryo begins as a blastocyst, which is a cluster of cells that forms approximately five to seven days after conception. Typically fertilization would occur within a woman’s womb. However no one is suggesting we harvest living cells from a woman’s womb. The embryonic stem cells viable for research are these from embryos that are created outside of the womb in fertility clinics fro the purposes of invitro fertilization. Many of these embryos are never used and eventually will be discarded of. As Zuckerman states in his article, the otherwise discarded embryos would create more than enough stem cell lines for scientists to use for research purposes. (2004) This is where the first question arises, do we protect embryos the same as a fully formed human life? In Zuckerman’s article he quotes U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch, one of 58, which seek a change in Presidents Bush’s policy on stem cell research saying â€Å"Only after an embryos transferred into a woman’s womb †¦..Is that natural capacity to become? 3 A person attained, and only then does the government gain an interest in protecting that entity.† In another article from the Wisconsin State Journal Steven S.Clark makes the argument that even before fertilization begins the sperm and...

Cross-cultural Training for Global Virtual Teams Research Paper

Cross-cultural Training for Global Virtual Teams - Research Paper Example Global virtual teams will not automatically respond to â€Å"country-specific knowledge† instead of â€Å"in-depth knowledge of interpersonal interactions† because human behavior does not consist only of culture. Pre-conceptions make it difficult for members to adjust immediately when in the actual interaction. This becomes applied stereotypes that do not always work accordingly and thus tends to frustrate members, rendering cultural orientation program as ineffective (ibid, pp.346-347). Cultural awareness training, on the other hand, is focused on the goal of learning to adjust in various situations especially those which tend to be unexpected rather than being constrained by area-specific interaction. This type of training is geared toward altering attitudes of information and the availability of alternative viewpoints when faced with unknown information and recognize it as an opportunity to familiarize with unfamiliar circumstances. Another important aspect of cultural awareness training is its acknowledgment that culture shock is a common part of adjusting to an unknown culture. This is what it aims to develop by instilling to the members the importance of developing sensitivity and acceptance to enable him to comfortably work with people whose cultures may be different from that of his own. The newcomer is also obliged to do the same and be receptive to the situation to strengthen the virtual team.

Impact of Technology on Small Businesses Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Impact of Technology on Small Businesses - Essay Example In the present paper the impact of technology is critically analyzed to understand whether adopting technology in its various forms is profitable to small businesses or not through qualitative research methodology. Small businesses drive the economy by leading in innovation and very crucial for national economies because of their large contribution in terms of employment and turnover (Burns, 2007). Small Medium Enterprises (SME) according to the Bolton committee is defined as an independent local firm whose ownership and management is vested in the same individuals and market share is small. A firm is termed as SME when it meets two of the three criteria’s namely consisting â€Å"up to 250 employees, up to  £50 million annual turnover and  £43 million annual statement of financial position total† as given by the European Commission of 2003 (Amm, 2011, p.1). Small businesses like large firms, in their operations try to apply latest technologies in order to be competitive, knowledgeable, more efficient and eventually more profitable (Kierman, 1995). However it has been found that technology is also negatively affecting the small businesses by decreasing the personal aspect of the business relationship, surveillance and constant monitoring using technology is decreasing employee morale and productivity significantly and brick and mortar small stores are losing their market share to large companies who use technology extensively (Hanley, 2013) moreover technology brings change that might not be adopted well by employees and is expensive and keeps changing (Keirman, 1995 and Burgess, 2002). SME’s compared to larger firms respond quickly to market threats and opportunities because they are more market-driven than larger firms who are more research driven. And use innovative technology or technology innovatively in developing new markets and about ten percent of SMEs are technology based and can be termed as innovative.  

Strategic Plan For The Chronicle Gazette

Strategic Plan For The Chronicle Gazette The goal of the consultant report is to indicating the problem of steady decline in subscriptions to the paid newspaper not only in metropolitan area and affecting the whole industry. Advertising revenue has also dropped due to advertiser had diverse their ads in different way such as TV broadcast, CNN, CCTV, Internet etc. This report is to offer the management of The Chronicle Gazette a strategic vision of where the newspaper publishing industry stands today and where it is headed over the next decade also propose strategies the newspaper can investigate to survive in the new business environment. State of the newspaper The Chronicle Gazette subscription had been fallen by 35% and also advertising revenues also dropped by 28% in past eight years. Refer to Newspaper Association of Americas, newspaper circulation had start declining from year 1993 and keep go on comparing with the index of 2008, there have around 22 % of circulation was gone. [Total Paid Circulation: Source: Editor and Publisher International Yearbook: http://www.naa.org/TrendsandNumbers/Total-Paid-Circulation.aspx, accessed on 1st Feb, 2010] For the advertising revenue have starting to share progressively with internet publishing during year 1997 and the proportion of the total advertising volume had kept increasing comparing with 1997 and 2005 data, there have around 13 times increase of Internet advertisement in volume. Also from the chart we can see the newspaper advertising revenue keep decreasing and Internet advertising revenue keep increasing simultaneity hence that Internet had absorb part of the lose in newspaper ads. [Advertising Expenditures: http://www.naa.org/TrendsandNumbers/Advertising-Expenditures.aspx, accessed on 1st Feb, 2010] [Online advertisement revenue:- http://www.brianmcdaniel.org/2009/04/06/will-online-ad-revenue-beat-newspapers-in-2011/, accessed on 1st Feb, 2010] According to The New York Times Company reports 2009 Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year Results, although the groups revenues had increased from 21.8% to US$36.3M from US$29.8M but look into the details on the advertising revenues had dropped around 25.3% to 30.2% compare with year 2008. The group major revenues income healthy gains in both Internet cost-per-click and display advertising and also in other form of digital advertising to offset the other lose. [New York Times Press Release: http://www.nytco.com/pdf/4Q_2009_Earnings.pdf, accessed on 13th Feb, 2010] Referring to the Newscorp 2009 annual report, we can indicate that all the media revenue and the operating income had dropped which may lead by Global economic recession reason. The data also showing that the newspaper industry had affected obviously including The Wall Street Journal the worlds leading business publication. The Wall Street Journal had diverse their business in different area such as enhancing their publishing and advertisement in digital ways and providing different type of subscription to attract more reader and also providing specific personalize information for particular group. Improving the quality of contents and report in more in-depth to build up reader loyalty and convenience. [http://www.newscorp.com/Report2009/media/Newscorp_2009_annual_report.pdf, accessed on 15th Feb,2010] Company objective 3.1 External assessment Economic downturn forced newspaper to cut costs due to massive revenues decline as a result of global economic downturn. In October 2008, advertising revenues from New York Times Media Group had dropped 15.3% as compare to the same period in 2007. Social and cultural have no much change recently as people are still willing to pay for newspaper and having circulations. According to the Newspaper Demographic Analysis, the daily and the Sunday readership allocation pattern are mainly focus on Adults over 55 since they can have more leisure time and get used to read newspaper every day. Demographics of American Newspapers pattern can classifieds as below:- The Wall Street Journal is read by the people who run the country. The Washington Post is read by people who think they run the country. The New York Times is read by people who think they should run the country and who are very good at crossword puzzles. USA Today is read by people who think they ought to run the country but dont really understand The New York Times. [http://bitsandpieces.us/2008/07/13/demographics-of-american-newspapers/, accessed on 2nd Feb, 2010] [http://sify.com/finance/economic-downturn-forces-us-newspapers-to-cut-costs-news-default-jeguQJbdihc.html , accessed on 2nd Feb, 2010] [http://www.nnnlp.com/newspaper-demographics/, accessed on 2nd Feb, 2010] Political arena is a large influence upon the regulation of newspaper press freedom of those reported content and the business trading agreements of the region or national or in the state and also for EU, NAFTA, and ASEAN if the newspaper will press outside the state. Economic factors such as the demand and supply or the newspaper industry in both short and long terms, market positioning and the pricing also need to be considered. Social and cultural influence the perception of the newspaper contents and acceptance and what can attract reader to increase the circulation, consider the time will the reader spend on reading that and the layout arrangement of those content and the ordering. Identify the role of men and women within the society and get used to concentrate the aim of selling those people. The main factor affecting newspaper industry is Technological force Internet and other digital media. Being with the digital age, most of the information had been merge or migrate into the virtual world Internet. People can easily found the information they required for simple a click; some of the information can be accessed by free. One of the major revenue incomes for newspaper industry is advertisement which currently affected by the new challenge of Internet advertisement. Advertiser had starting to switch their advertisement from the traditional print out on newspaper to other media like TV, Fall ads, Road show on the public transportation and the Internet web-site. Recently, the pop-up advertisements from the Internet web-site are quite popular and some of the major search engine and newspaper web-site had enrolled as well. At the mean time, that advertisement income revenue had keep increasing rapidly and become the major parts of earning for those companies. The major advantages of the online advertisement is the advertiser can sell their services or product in text mode, colorful graphic mode, animated flash graphic or even can record a short video clips with sound for attracting audiences and enhance their perception and image. Referring to the New York Times president and CEO Janet Robinson said their coming business strategy is to enhance their digital platform and planning to introducing a paid model for NYTimes.com in 2011 to create additional revenue stream. Hence that other competitor in newspaper industry is exploring other publishing media to maintain their robust advertising business and attracting other new business partners. Competitive Force Porter five force analysis:- [Source from: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/Porters_five_forces.PNG/800px-Porters_five_forces.PNG] Porters Five-Force model can be use to analysis the newspaper industrial competitive environment. Threat of new entrants of newspaper publishing can be define as low to medium since the scale economies in the production and sales of newspaper had took advantage by the major newspaper distributor. Some famous brand of advertisement will only post on the popular newspaper and never shown in others. Product differentiation cannot take part in it newspaper industry since the product itself is indifferent and non-standard one. The major entry barriers in newspaper industry is the entry capital is relative high although government have no or less barrier to such industry but the equipments such as camera, printing machines, video recorder are expensive. Also the benefits of associated in newspaper industry is low and also the current distribution channel is almost occupied by other major newspaper. The amount of daily copies is high so the cost per copy of the major newspaper is low and its hard to compete with them. Small entrepreneurs have difficulty obtaining supermarket shelf space for their publishing because large retailers charge for space on their shelve and gave priority to the established publishers that can pay for the advertising needed to generate high customer demand. Switching cost is low since the readers had build up loyalty with the current subscribed newspaper and take comfortable of their printing layout and its hard for them to switch to read another newspaper easily. Bargaining power of customer is relative high since there have many other sources to get information from others like Internet, free newspaper which distribute on the street or cafà © and also from train station. Also its un-different and non-standard product which reader can easily found another similar product in the market like NY Times, WSJ, etc. Customer affect an industry through their ability to force down prices and inter-related because they purchases a large proportion of the newspaper and they have potential to integrate backward of the newspaper contents. Alternative vendors of newspaper are plentiful because newspaper is standard or undifferentiated, customer can choose among many newspaper providers and switching to read other newspaper cost is very little or zero. Once the paid newspaper is unimportant to the final quality and customer can be easily substituted it with free newspaper distribute among on the street daily so it make The Chronicle Gazette revenue keep de clining. Bargaining power of suppliers can be classified as medium to high since the important input for issuing newspaper like paper and ink supplier is dominated by a few companies only buy they sells to many. Meanwhile paper, ink and printing factory are unique which had built up a strong relation in between thus switching costs existed. Supplier are able to integrate forward or backward compete directly with their present customers like newspaper company can forward to investee in newspaper or other publishing firm or vise verse. Threat of substitute product can classify as high since we may notice that the up-trend of online publishing a rapidly increase and the cost-performance ratio comparing with traditional print out newspaper are relatively low and also the content update are most in time and interact. According to Michael Porter, Substitute limit the potential returns of an industry by placing a ceiling on the prices firms in the industry can profitably charge. Extent that switching cost is low so substitutes may have strong effect on industry. Customer are switching they platform to read the news from traditional paper printed newspaper to the online version or other free distribute newspaper and sharing the profit in the industry. Rivalry among industry is high since we may note that the newspaper industry wide revenue trend is down and not only in The Chronicle Gazette, it also affects New York Times, WSJ as mentioned. Referring to the New York Times Company 2009 Full-year report, their total revenues were down 11.5% which show that the top U.S. newspaper is also affected by economic recession and also the new internet revolution. Some type of competition such as price cut is typically highly destabilizing are likely to erode the average level of profitability in newspaper industry like Apply Daily firstly launch in HK and just sell at $2 when other traditional selling at $5 which erode the whole industry profitability. [Internet user trend :-http://www.c-i-a.com/internetusersexec.htm, accessed on 15th Feb,2010] 4. Internal assessment 4.1. Organizational processes and structure 4.2. HR capabilities Publisher The publisher is responsible for all of the operations procedure of the newspaper in both editorial team and business team. The main duties and aim of the publisher is to monitor that the newspaper run financially healthy and smoothly. Editor The editor is responsible for all the content of the editorial newspaper and monitoring the budgets and cash spent by the editorial and other supplementary of the newspaper. The publisher and editor usually is the same person. Editorial page editor The editorial page editor is responsible for the editorial page, supplementary page and also the op-ed page for the newspaper. Those pages are the letter printed on the editorial pages like letters to the editor, columns by syndicated columnists and guest columns by local people or oversea senders. Managing editor The managing editor is the person who handle and monitor the day-to-day newspaper production and also for the online version as well. City Editor The city editor also called the metro editor whom is in charge of the news coverage of the metro-area in which the newspaper is located or distributed. This position is the most important staff for collecting and analysis the news happened in that area. The city editor usually got the largest portion of staff and assigns most of the local news reporters within a organization. Chief copy editor The chief copy editor is in charge of the newspapers copydesk. The people on the copydesk read news stories and sometimes stories from other sections like through internet to make sure they are written according to the newspapers industry standards legally. The chief copy editor can make the final decisions about the copy contents and who is in charge of the staffing of the desk. Copy editor The copy editor especially well trained to read the stories that other have written and make sure they conform to the rules of grammar and style. A copy editor also performs headlines writing and performs other duties that help produce the newspaper every day. Photo editor The photo editor is not a photographer although he/she is often the case that the photo editor is a promoted from photographer previsely. Photo editor assign photographers and helps select the most outstanding photos that the newspaper will prints. Photographer The photographer takes pictures of local or oversea news events for the newspaper. Photographer have a variety of assignments each day. Larger newspapers have sports photographers focusing on those event. But in order to cut cost, most newspapers photographer will assigned to shoot not only sports stories and sometime will assign for special event shooting.. Graphics editor The graphics editors is the head of the graphics department sometimes also the art department. This editor is in charge of all of the graphics and illustrations produced for the newspaper and online version. Graphic reporter The graphic reporter perform researches and designs informational graphics that support news stories for the newspaper. A graphic reporter is an expertise in graphic forms as well as 3D flash animated graphic and must be able to associate the information that can be used to build graphics. Reporters Reporters are assigned to all the sections of the newspaper to gather news from anywhere. They gather information about events and subject that the newspaper editors had choose to cover. Reporters must know how to find the useful information, skill for interview people, professional sight for observe events and write the information they gather in a way suitable to the paper. 4.3. Financial position Revenues are down across the board caused by information is now freely available to the public through the internet. Traditionally news and advertisement are mainly publish in newspaper since newspaper is the major source for getting news around the state or worldwide and also including the advertisement. But nowadays, those information can be freely access through internet and to be more up-to-date information can be reach easily in many other interacted presentation like real time camera of the news location, promoting product with movie clip and sound demonstration and also for example mobile phone, manufacturer starting to use Flash 3D to model the real phone with all feature for reader to try out the new feature and functions of the phone in order make purchasing interest. Advertising market had being share with Internet and other media like television pay TV etc 4.4. Marketing/sales capabilities The recent marketing trend switching to publish news and other advertisement through Internet and other interactive media. Sales revenue source had switch from newspaper copy to internet base in recent few years. Referring to the New York Times 2009 annual report, newspaper advertising revenues had dropped dramatically and lucky they had develop an online version and trying to adopt the loses from newspaper advertisement and luckily they had get successful reflected by their annual report. The Chronicle Gazette already had a sales team for handling customer advisement and we only have to restructure those them and make necessary investment on those equipments required for digitalize publishing through Internet or television. Sales capabilities are possible as Chronicle Gazette got strong customer base and both parties had need to keep abreast of the latest technology and also can adopt another segment of customer in order to widen the vision and services base. Also its the only way can make survival in this industry as its the trend of the coming future. 4.5. Operational capabilities Operational capabilities can be viewed by value-chain analysis to determine the competitive advantage of Chronicle Gazette, since Chronicle Gazette is a leading newspaper in a major metropolitan area and reaching paid circulation of 225,000 customers and ranked as first-rate newspaper over the years which mean they had built up a strong loyalty with reader. Considering the outbound logistics which approach the newspaper can be distribute on time to the retailer and also can deliver the internet version simiutainstly for subscriber. Inbound logistics like material- paper and ink can deliver to printing factory on time to reach Just-In-Time production is the aim. Operation can be make more efficient like utilize the use of Internet and E-mail to deliver the reports and photos to central office for press release in order the shorten the time and cost. Quality of the reported contents and advertisement must be reviewed by chief editor before press release, organize a clear workflow for e ach department to avoid any job duplicate and make it work with procedure smoothly. Currently Chronicle Gazette have no online version, IT capability require to implement and fund may require for investage in IT equipments like servers, internet access, web-site designer and cam-recorder etc., security issues may also need to consider since some confidential and privacy content may easily expose through internet and somehow each subscriber got different limits of access authority which related to their payment level or country. 4.6. Strengths and weaknesses Here is the SWOT analysis listed the evaluation of those opportunities and threats in the business environment. Strengths Opportunities Stay at the leading newspaper in major metropolitan area. High circulation rate and won awards for their hard work over the years. Loyalty built up with readers. Traditionally style enjoyed with readers. Setup online version to compete with other newspaper. Providing discount subscription fee for online user to attract customer. Weaknesses Threats No online version of newspaper. No animated graphic and video clip features. Release time restriction due to its printed material. Insufficient on online publishing experience. Online page layout may not be accepted by old customer. High investment for IT equipments. 5.) Marketing Strategy Recently Chronicle Gazette only sold at retail stores, counter and shop which covered in major metropolitan area and being a leading first-rated newspaper in those area. Providing web based newspaper for online subscription with discounted price. Providing some free news headline to attract customer and web-surfer to read in-depth and make them hungry for details thereby to become a subscriber. Also offering classified subscription for subscriber to select what they want to see and removing other unwanted news materials by their account. Setting up a loyalty program for contact base subscription such as subscribe for 2 years will have 20% discount and 1 year with 10% discount offer from Chronicle Gazette. The 24 hours online version of Chronicle Gazette can be update periodically like 2 to 3 hours for the latest news which can have additional photos and video clips for more details. In order to take care of the blind people, vocal news report can be also available in the online version. Customize page layout can be personalize to display what they want in the main page and also welcome for subscriber to provide suggestion and new for the editor. Student subscription in very attractive price and arrange delivery service to their school after the peak hour so that we can utilize the uses of our transportation team and also can maintaining worker have available job to draw the social responsibility out. Additional student supplement post can be attached which those report can be directly related to student or submit by school tutor and student. Q A forum and some education quiz can be containing in the supplement for enhancing the knowledge of student. Meanwhile we can provide the market requirement for specialist and business trend analysis for student to plan their future job direction. Those attractive package offered to student can build up loyalty and attract them for subscription after graduated. Strengthen with the connection with Newspaper Association of America for those domestic and oversea newspapers, commercial radio and television broadcasts which have a great opportunity for corporation. Those representative can share the hardship in their group and other organization may providing suggestion and experience to get survival. All sales strategies through this multi-channel/direction approach with different price strategies can utilize our current asset and production capacity and showing that we have care in all level of people. 6. Steps for The Chronicle Gazette to deal with challenges The step for The Chronicle Gazette might take in order to deal with the challenges can have the following:- Short-term plan which react within one year: Implement the online version of chronicle Gazette and consult with I.T. specialist for setting up the first release. Investigate on those equipments and make necessary funding and financial plan. Strengthen the current Sales Marketing team to adopt the new challenges and providing I.T. training and explanation for all staffs. Reduce the redundant staffs and suggesting early retirement for elderly staff with attractive scheme. Promoting saving of office electricity, paper and other equipments and cut some un-necessary expense from staff which will not affect their normal report activities and operation. Promoting direct sales of the newspaper with delivery service together with the discount price. Attracting more customers for pre-payment to increase the company cash flow for further implementation. Introducing the coming online version and interactive advertisement for old and current advertiser and show them the coming trend and advantage for those advertising media and plan for coming development. Launching a free copy version to increase the customer base and coordinate with advertiser to providing their product discount coupons to achieve win-win situation. Increasing the content of the newspaper such as putting additional recruitment ads, Buy sell, student special column etc to widen the reader base. Distributing the newspaper oversea with localize news and report which seek for a way to develop oversea market. Contact those colleges and university to promoting student version newspaper with supreme discount price with delivery service to increase the reader base and build up the future loyalty. Long-term plan which react for two to five years: Review all the department staff job nature and review their education background and working experience to evaluate their job performance and provide necessary opportunity to increase his/her productivities. Aim to cut down the operating expense by 10% to 30% gradually. Re-structure the organization and management team to work more efficiency and know how to work smart in all level of staff. Increase more customer base through different media like the online version and distribute version. Also trying to sell the newspaper for oversea customer. Special free newspaper distribute in crowd business area like Metro, Headline to attract customer/readers. Advertisement revenue may increase in such distributing channel. Enhancing the online version of Chronicle Gazette with fully graphic base and containing real time video news report. Online translated version can be enjoyed by different country people. Vocal version can be implementing for blind people and showing how we approach to take the social responsibility. Attracting different advertising agent and provide them for continuously advertisement placement with discounted price. New report topic and keep expanding into state-wide and foresee the trend to entry to worldwide market instead of regional newspaper. Employing some young people for form a young group for innovation, brave topic publishing. Closely work with the young people trend in order to think and make creation for sharing with readers. Both short term and long term strategies need to implement together which can help Chronicle Gazette to gain back to lose portion of revenues and develop many other income source. I.T. affect not only in the newspaper industries and it affect the entire world already. Currently we stay with information age which most information can be found easily through internet so we must provide reader a correct way and attitude to analysis that information and to recognize the validity. 7. Conclusion Chronicle Gazette revenue downturn due to the losses of the advertising income. Advertiser switching their advertise media from the traditional newspaper to other broadcasting and Internet. In order to capture the lose market share, Information technology required to implement for online version of newspaper and capture back the advertiser to use or service and wide distribution channel. Both short term and long term strategies plan are helpful to make Chronicle Gazette survive and even getting better than before. Keep an eye for the market trend and innovation is the key point to make the business success. To broaden sources of income and reduce expenditure are already true to make the business more successful.

Dow’s Bid for Rohm and Haas Essay

Dow started as a manufacturer of commercial bleach in 1897, and was founded by Herbert Dow. He merged his company in 1900 with Midland Chemical, which lead to diversification of his portfolio to agricultural and food products. In 1912, Dow started to pay dividends every quarter without any reductions or interruptions. By doing so, they were the only Fortune 200 firm that established these figures. Dow became a major player in the M&a field, since they acquired between 1983 and 2007 95 business, took stakes in 58 firms and divested 166 businesses. In 2006, Dow’s CEO Andrew Liveris announced the ‘Dow of Tomorrow’ strategy, which consisted of two pillars. One was pursuing an asset light approach to its commodity business. In order to do so, he signed a JV agreement with a subsidiary of the Kuwait Petroleum Company, named Petroleum Industries Company. Dow and PIC signed a Memorandum of Understanding, which generated Dow a $7.2 billion after tax revenues. Second, Mr. Liveris wanted to build a high-growth and high-value added performance business. In order to achieve this objective, Dow agreed to purchase Rohm and Haas. This acquisition had the purpose for Dow to become a producer of high-value chemicals and advanced materials. Why does Dow want to buy Rohm and Haas? As mentioned in the introduction, CEO Andrew Liveris announced the ‘Dow of Tomorrow’ strategy. This included becoming a high growth and high-value added producer of specialty chemicals, with less cyclicality. Rohm and Haas fitted the picture perfectly, since they were an advanced material and specialty chemicals company, operating in 27 countries. Besides the interesting company profile description, there were several other reasons  why Dow was interested in the Rohm and Haas company. Most important reason was that the acquisition would make Dow reduce its cyclicality and increase its growth prospects. Expanded product portfolios, increased geographic market, improved market channels and innovative technologies will obtain the expected growth and cost synergies. Forecasts predict additional growth synergies values between $2.0 and $2.6 billion and $0.8 billion costs synergies, including shared services and governance, manufacturing, supply chain and work process improvements. Besides the above-mentioned advantages, Dow and Rohm could be a global leader in specialty chemicals and advanced materials if they combined forces. Also by combining their R&D, the development of new products and innovations could be stimulated. So overall, Rohm and Haas fitted the picture projected by Andrew Liveris perfectly. Rohm and Haas supported Dow’s commitment to maintain their highest standards in pursuing and selecting growth opportunities to satisfy their long-term shareholder values. Was $78 per share a reasonable bid? In order to draw a conclusion of the reasonability of the bid, we need to valuate Rohm and Haas as a firm with and without the synergies created by the acquisition. If this total value exceeds the $78 share price, Dow will pay the price, since it will be beneficial for them. The benefits of the synergies can be calculated by dividing it between the two firms on a multiple or 50/50 basis. The excel file attached to the assignment contained a WACC of 8,5% based on a tax rate of 35%. In our analysis, we also calculated a WACC with a tax rate of 26%, since this was the average tax rate. This leads to a WACC of 8,7%. As a basis, we took 2% growth. Rohm and Haas had at time of the acquisition 195,200,000 shares outstanding. From the balance sheet of Rohm and Haas 2008H1, we took the values of cash and debt (long and short term debt). Both inputs were needed in order to calculate the share price. Below, you can find how we calculated the share price for the situations with and without synergies. The synergies involved consist of two different types, namely growth and cost synergies. Growth synergies include expanded product portfolios, increased geographic reach, improved market channels and innovative technologies. These synergies are expected to create between 2 and 2.6 billion dollars, which gives an average of 2.3 billion. Second, potential cost synergies consist of purchasing synergies, shared services and governance, manufacturing & supply chain improvements and work process optimization. These synergies are expected to generate 0.8 billion dollar. The values of these synergies combined totals a 3.1 billion dollar gross benefit, which is a netted by deducting the 1.3 billion cost of implementation, leaving a value of 1.8 billion dollars. In order to make the most suitable valuation and draw the best conclusion for the reasonability of the share price of $78, we take the original and revised forecast into account. Both cases are also used for the sensitivity analysis to be as specific as possible. Below are the sensitivity analyses of Rohm and Haas for the original forecasts. Based on our assumptions, share price of Rohm and Haas is $55.79 without synergies and $65.01 with synergies. These values differ a little from the share price we found in our valuation analysis, however this is due to rounding and number of decimals difference in WACC and growth percentages. Lowest value without synergies is $47.10 with a growth of 1% and a WACC of 9% and a highest share price of $95.58 with a growth of 3% and a WACC of 7%. If we now look at the original forecast with synergies, we see an increased share price, which is logical, since value is created by the synergy. The share price of Rohm and Haas is $65.01 based on the growth rate of 2% and a WACC of 8.7%. The share price differ between lowest value of $56.32 and highest value of $104.80, based on the same input as with the analysis with no synergies. In both cases, the share price is below $78 so if Dow offers this price in both situations, the will not profit from this acquisition. However, we will still perform the 50/50 and multiples valuation in order to see which is the best in the situation if Dow is obliged to acquire Rohm and Haas. Looking at  case were synergies are created and using the 50/50 method, we get a share price of $55.79 + ($65.01 – $55.79)/2 = $60.4. As we already mentioned, this price does not match the $78. Now using the gross profit of Rohm and Haas as a percentage of the gross profit of both companies combined, we get a multiple of 26.11%. Using this 0,2611 multiple, the appropriate share price is $55.79 + (0,2611 * (65.01 – $55.79)) = $58.20 Again, this is below the share price of $78, which makes the outcomes of both methods unfavorable for Dow. Now let us look at the revised forecast. Since this is a post-crisis forecast, predictions were lowered, which lead to a lower overall value. Hence, this will be reflected in our sensitivity analysis by lower share prices. Below are our findings. As already predicted, share prices are lower in the revised forecast due to the crisis adjustments. For the sake of the case, we will also perform a 50/50 and multiples calculation. If we look at the 50/50 share price, we get a share price of $41.38 + ($50.60 – $41.38)/2 = $45.99. The multiples basis will give us a share price of $41.38 + (0,2661 * ($50.60 – $41.38)) = $43.79. Reviewing both forecasts and within these forecasts both with and without synergy, we can conclude that a share price of $78 is not reasonable. This conclusion holds in the case of 50/50 and multiples calculations. Major deals risks and allocation We will pay special attention to Exhibit 4 when examining the major risks and their respective allocations. The first risk comes from the item 1.01 describing the financing of the deal. Dow will issue a fixed amount of $4 billion in convertible preferred stocks to Berkshire, Hathaway and Kuwait Investment Authority. This amount is independent of the current stock price of Dow, meaning that a drop in Dow’s share price would need more shares to pay for the deal, decreasing the relative voting rights of current shareholders. To be even more precise, in paragraph 2.1a it states that no matter what happens Dow has to pay $78 dollar per share at the time of the merger, transferring all the financial  risk to Dow. Furthermore, a large part of the deal is financed with a $13 billion loan, issued by a consortium of 19 banks lead by Citigroup, Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley, increasing their leverage ratio and overall risk of the company. These high debt values come with high interest payments, leaving fewer cash to meet its dividend obligations. In a possible economic downturn this problem becomes larger, increasing the probability of not meeting their dividend payments which have not been changed for over 97 years. A further interesting statement is the ticking fee to ensure the deal would close. When the deal is not closed before January 10, 2009, the payment per share will increase with 8% annually, translating to a higher deal price of approximately $3 million more per day until the deal is closed. In addition if the deal is not closed before October 10, 2009, Dow has to pay $750 million termination fee. This will, again, transfer all the risk to Dow if the deal cannot be closed before October 10, 2009. In paragraph 3.1 the Material Adverse Effect clause states that Dow is allowed to withdraw from the transaction if the business, operations or financial conditions of Rohm is hit by a material adverse effect. This seems fair but there is a large set of exceptions made in the clause for which Dow cannot withdraw from the transaction, including the following events: any event which affects the chemical industry, macro economy as a whole, the financial, debt, credit or security market, any decline in Rohm’s stock price or any failure to meet internal or published projections. So, in case of an economic downturn mainly Dow is affected and not Rohm. Roam and Haas are even protected from a decline in their share price. Thus, these statements will, again, transfer almost all the risk to Dow Furthermore, Dow takes on another risk by relying on the joint venture with Kuwait’s PIC to finance $7 billion of the deal. They do not take into account the possibility that this joint venture could fail due to i.e. a downturn in the overall economy. If it fails it leaves a gap of $7 billion in their financing plan, exposing Dow to even more risk. Finally, the overall high price and ticking clauses make it a risky deal when compared to the expected synergies. The probability of achieving all expected synergies is a magnitude smaller than the probability of high costs, which is certain. It leaves Dow exposed to a possibly large loss when the expected synergies are not met in the future. The only risk that Rohm and Haas face is the possible termination of the deal from their side if the deal is i.e. taking too long. They have to pay a $600 million termination fee if the decide to do so. Other than that, considering the mentioned risk allocations from above, the total risk of this deal is mainly resting on the shoulders of Dow Chemical. CEO recommendations To give a complete view of the options that both CEOs had at the time we will first describe the situation they were in.   Shortly after the deal announcement the financial crisis started, causing an overall recession including in the chemical industry. Dow was hit on many fronts: overall share prices dropped with over 50%, a fourth quarter loss of $1.6 billion, quarterly sales decline of 23% and a drop in operating rate to 44% in 2008. Forcing Dow to close off 20 facilities and firing over 5000 employees. Furthermore, after the joint venture deal was closed with KPC’s PIC, the failing oil prices and overall recession caused KPC to terminate the contract by paying a termination fee of $2.5 billion to Dow. This caused a gap in the financial plan for the merger for Dow, decreasing their stock price even further and degrading their rating to BBB. As mentioned before, Dow was not the only one affected by the economic recession. Rohm was facing a poor performance as well, forcing it to fire over 900 employees, freeze spending and a 20% decline in sales. Considering the above, Dow refused to close the deal with Rohm and Haas after approval from the European Commission and U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Arguing that the recent macro-economic developments are material adverse effects, enabling them to terminate the deal. Options and recommendation for Dow’s CEO, Andrew Liveris Considering the situation as described above, Liveris had three different options: continue with the termination of the deal, close the deal for $78 per share or renegotiate with Rohm and Haas to agree on different terms. If Dow continues to terminate the deal it will go to court for the approval by the judge. It needs to win in court otherwise Dow is forced to commit to the deal. Given the statements enclosed in the material adverse effect clause, the chances for Dow to win are pretty slim. If Liveris opts to close the deal for $78 per share he will need a lot of additional cash. Considering the economic situation, and the fact that the joint venture failed, acquiring this amount of additional cash will be very hard. The possibility to acquire more debt through the already existing bridge bank loan from 19 different banks is pretty small considering the low credit rating of BBB. If he does succeed in acquiring more debt he will probably not be able to meet the net-debt-to-total-capitalization restriction in the covenant. This is, according to the first loan of $13 billion, required to be lower than 65% which they will not be able to meet, thus not creating incentives for the banks to lend more money. Considering the above, terminating the deal will not be possible and closing the deal for $78 per share lacks financing. The best option Andrew Liveris thus has is to renegotiate the merger deal and buy some time. He will then be able to look for other sources of financing or renegotiate the already existing bank loan. One possible option could be to sue KPC for terminating the joint venture and claiming the $2.5 billion, which in turn could finance the termination fee. Considering that this will destroy the relationship between these two companies this would not be recommended. Options and recommendation for the CEO of Rohm and Haas, Raj Gupta The situation for Raj Gupta is a bit simpler: either sue Dow for not completing the deal or renegotiate with Dow to postpone the deal. Both having different advantages and disadvantages. The first option is to go to court and continue the case that Dow has to complete the deal or otherwise pay the termination fee. Considering the  exceptions stated in the material adverse effect clause that macro-economic effects and effect on the chemical industry in general are excluded from this clause, Gupta will have a strong case and is likely to prevail in court. Committing Dow to the deal or otherwise paying the termination fee of $750 million. The second option is to renegotiate the deal with Dow. The most important disadvantage considering this option is that it would almost certainly come to a deal which is less favorable for Rohm and Haas when compared to the original deal. Which term should be reconsidered? For example, a lower price per share would decrease the expected value for the shareholders. Shareholders will not vote for such a deal, especially the Haas family who owns 30% of the company and is waiting to exit for $78 a share. The only option, although shareholders will not be amused in the least, is to delay the due date of the deal, preserving the harmony between the companies. Even if Gupta will win in court, the possibility that the deal will go through considering the financing problems of Dow is still small. Rohm and Haas will in this case only receive the termination fee of $750 million. Gupta obviously wants the deal to go through and so do the shareholders of Rohm and Haas, enabling them to exit the company and receiving a high premium while doing so. Terminating the deal will negatively affect both companies and their shareholders. Therefore it would be better for Gupta to facilitate any possibility that the deal will go through, even implying a possible decrease in price per share. Our recommendation thus is to renegotiate the deal, making sure that it succeeds. The premium for the shareholders might be lower but both companies can benefit from the acquired synergies and shareholders can still opt to exit. Resolving the legal dispute Considering the above, it would have been in the best interest of both companies to renegotiate the deal. However, Rohm and Haas decided to continue their trail against Dow Chemicals. The judge will therefore make a decision based upon the facts presented to him. Based on the facts alone, the most likely option for me, William B. Chandler  the Third, Chancellor in the Delaware Court of Chancery, is to enforce the merger contract between the two parties. In particular, the specifics of the Material Adverse Effect clause in paragraph 3.1 state that the MAE clause does not include the following events: â€Å"any event which affects the chemical industry, macro economy as a whole, the financial, debt, credit or security market, any decline in Rohm’s stock price or any failure to meet internal or published projections.† To be more specific; the argument according to Dow that the recent material developments have created unacceptable uncertainties on the funding and economics of the combined enterprise, justifying the termination of the deal, is overruled by the ‘specific performance’ clause in paragraph 3.1. Therefore, the ‘specific performance’ clause, as requested by Rohm and agreed upon by Dow, is binding and hereby enforced. The merger will be executed as planned. Dow will have several different options to solve the financing issue, cutting dividends, renegotiating debt and other means to generate cash could be used. If the deal is not closed before January 10, 2009, as stated in the contract, Dow will pay a ticking fee of 8% per annum. Dow should have been more careful drawing up the contract as it is signed and before me today. Since the possibility of an economic downfall is especially stated in the deal clause, I will make no exception and hereby conclude that the Dow will meet all deal requirements as stated in the contract. Every penny has to sides, if you risk it, you could lose it. Thank you. *slams the hammer*