The Development Of Decision Making - 1238 Words

The Development of Decision-Making in Nursing Nursing is a profession that has traditionally attracted individuals who have a desire to help others and have an interest in the health sciences (Ruesink, 2012). In the complex world of health care, good intentions only go so far in terms of client safety, quality of care, and achieving the best possible outcomes, and that is why critical thinking, decision making, and evidence based practice are crucial to the nursing profession when acting on the behalf of our clients (Fero, Witsberger, Wesmiller, Zullo, Hoffman, 2009; Ruesink, 2012; Thompson, Aitken, Doran, Dowding, 2013). In this paper I will discuss and explore three decision-making models that support nursing decision-making, how†¦show more content†¦The College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia (CRNBC), defines Clinical decision-making as: A complex and dynamic process, occurring within a larger context and drawing from various dimensions of knowledge, in which nurses collect and organize information in order to form conclusions and choose actions, with the intent of creating the best outcomes for clients (2014, slide 19). The nursing profession demands a high standard of quality and safety, compelling nurses to act professionally, be accountable for their own actions, and embrace their Professional Standards (CRNBC, 2013). The CRNBC Professional Standards requires nurses to know where to access information to support their knowledge to deliver evidence-based, competent nursing care, as well as use decision-making tools to guide their assessments, diagnoses, and treatments (2013). For nurses to make clinical decisions that enhance a client’s health, promote realistic solutions, and reduce potential risks, decision making and critical thinking must happen in sync (Fero et al., 2009; Standing, 2005). To support critical thinking in nursing practice, and help novice nurses compensate for the lack of clinical experience, decision-making models have been constructed to help navigate the multi-dimensional complexities of the

Essay on Community Policing - 3379 Words

Community policing has emerged since the 1970s as an increasingly important strategy for controlling and preventing crime and enhancing community safety. It is both a philosophy and an organizational strategy that allows the police and the community to work closely together in creative ways to solve the problems of crime, drugs, fear of crime, physical and social disorder, neighborhood decay, and the overall quality of life in the community. Community policing is difficult to define. Although it does not have a single definition, there are many elements of community policing. Champion states there are several definitions to define community policing. 1. â€Å"[Community policing is] whenever citizens and police†¦band†¦together to fight†¦show more content†¦Community policing in America can be traced from the colonial times to the 1900s. American policing activities transpired in early England at or about the time of the Norman Conquest in 1066. Chancellors were used to settle disputes between neighbors, such as property boundary issues, trespass allegations, and child misconduct. â€Å"An early equivalent of the chancellor, with similar duties and responsibilities, was the justice of the peace, dating to about A.D. 1200. Together with the chancellors or justices of the peace, reeves (now more commonly know as a sheriff) maintained order in their respective jurisdictions (Champion 22). England’s use of policing became well known. Many other regions soon adopted England’s standards. American colonist continued the English system of law enforcement and the study of law. In addition to reeve s, constables were used for maintaining law and order in colonial communities. The duties of constables included collecting fees for highway usage, collecting taxes, and presiding over minor legal issues. The position of the sheriff was created and they became the principal law enforcement officers in the various counties throughout the colonies. Early policing was characterized as urban policemen walking beats and interacting daily with merchants and other members of theShow MoreRelatedHistory of Community Policing1780 Words   |  8 Pages THE HISTORY OF COMMUNITY POLICING The movement toward community policing has gained momentum in recent years as police and Community leaders search for more effective ways to promote public safety as well as enhance the quality of life in neighborhoods. The roots of community policing come from the civil rights movement in the 1960s.Even though its origin can be traced to this crisis in police-community relations, its development has been influencedRead MoreCommunity Policing And Community Crime1578 Words   |  7 Pages Community Policing and Community Crime Mackenzie L. Goehl Culver-Stockton College November 2015 Introduction Community policing is values that encourages organizational approaches such as strategies and policies. Community policing advises all parts of police business and also supports problem-solving practices. Community policing consist of strategies, tactics, and values. Thus, community policing is also sometimes know as problem-oriented policing. The sole purpose of communityRead MoreCommunity Policing And The Police Essay2008 Words   |  9 Pages Community policing is a police procedure forced to make a superior relationship between the police and the group. Community policing is characterized as a synergistic exertion between the police and the group that distinguishes issues of wrongdoing and clutter and includes all components of the Community in the look for answers for these issues. Does people group based policing achieve social orders coveted result and desires? This is one of many inquiries we may have about the genuinely new andRead More Community Policing in Canada Essay908 Words   |  4 PagesCommunity Policing in Canada   Community policing is a relatively new model of service delivery that is employed by the majority of police forces across Canada.   Community policing however, is not a â€Å"new† approach, it is more correctly a renewal or re-emergence of the old approach developed in Metropolitan London (Leighton Normandeau, p.21). The amendments to the current system are evident in Leighton Normandeau’s (1990) review of the future of community policing.   The ideas behind theRead More Community Organizing and Policing Essay3097 Words   |  13 PagesCommunity Organizing and Policing Introduction Community Development refers to efforts to mobilize people, who are directly affected by a community condition, into groups and organizations which enables them to take action on the social problems and issues that concerns them. 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Among them have been team policing, neighborhood policing, community policing, zero-tolerance policing and problem-oriented policing. Herman Goldstein was the first to propose problem-oriented policing in 1979. Problem-oriented policing is a policing strategy that involves the identification and analysis of specific crime and disorder problems, in order to develop effective response strategies in conjunction with ongoing as sessment. The emphasis in problem-oriented policing is onRead MoreBicycle and Horse Essay1010 Words   |  5 PagesCommunity-oriented policing is a system that addresses the top concerns of the community which implies there would need to be more communication between members of the community and police officers. The article Policing on Bicycles and Horses by Sam Swindell focuses on two types of community-oriented policing. The two types being bicycle and mounted patrol of C.O.P. Bicycle patrol is a type of community policing patrol serves well in that the police have the opportunity to encounter more citizensRead MoreCommunity Policing1234 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿Community policing The renowned Sir Robert Peel who helped found the London Metropolitan Police unit that was meant to be closer to the people than any other time before. His vision was to have a community where  ¦the police are the public and the public are the police ¦ (Braiden, 1992). His vision was to have a community where the idea of policing is closely interlaced between the formal police force and the community participation in the control and termination of crimes in the entire EnglandRead MorePolice Policing And Community Policing1513 Words   |  7 Pages Community Policing How effective is community policing? Community policing has several different definitions. In this paper I will prove that community policing is effective by defining, community policing as the police and citizens coming together to create a safe community, stop crime and resolve problems and also urgently responding to the community. Throughout many years, the people’s view of community policing have remained the same. There are some valid causes as to why

The Lost Symbol Chapter 22-23 Free Essays

string(125) " She paused before a large canvas depicting the Three Graces, whose nude bodies were spectacularly rendered in vivid colors\." CHAPTER 22 Pacing the library, Katherine Solomon pulled back the sleeve of her lab coat and checked her watch. She was not a woman accustomed to waiting, but at the moment, she felt as if her whole world were on hold. She was waiting for Trish’s search-spider results, she was waiting for word from her brother, and also, she was waiting for a callback from the man who was responsible for this entire troubling situation. We will write a custom essay sample on The Lost Symbol Chapter 22-23 or any similar topic only for you Order Now I wish he hadn’t told me, she thought. Normally, Katherine was extremely careful about making new acquaintances, and although she had met this man for the first time only this afternoon, he had earned her trust in a matter of minutes. Completely. His call had come this afternoon while Katherine was at home enjoying her usual Sunday- afternoon pleasure of catching up on the week’s scientific journals. â€Å"Ms. Solomon?† an unusually airy voice had said. â€Å"My name is Dr. Christopher Abaddon. I was hoping I might speak to you for a moment about your brother?† â€Å"I’m sorry, who is this?† she had demanded. And how did you get my private cell-phone number? â€Å"Dr. Christopher Abaddon?† Katherine did not recognize the name. The man cleared his throat, as if the situation had just become awkward. â€Å"I apologize, Ms. Solomon. I was under the impression your brother had told you about me. I’m his doctor. Your cell number was listed as his emergency contact.† Katherine’s heart skipped. Emergency contact? â€Å"Is something wrong?† â€Å"No . . . I don’t think so,† the man said. â€Å"Your brother missed an appointment this morning, and I can’t reach him on any of his numbers. He never misses appointments without calling, and I’m just a little worried. I hesitated to phone you, but–â€Å" â€Å"No, no, not at all, I appreciate the concern.† Katherine was still trying to place the doctor’s name. â€Å"I haven’t spoken to my brother since yesterday morning, but he probably just forgot to turn on his cell.† Katherine had recently given him a new iPhone, and he still hadn’t taken the time to figure out how to use it. â€Å"You say you’re his doctor?† she asked. Does Peter have an illness he’s keeping from me? There was a weighty pause on the line. â€Å"I’m terribly sorry, but I’ve obviously just made a rather serious professional error by calling you. Your brother told me you were aware of his visits to me, but now I see that’s not the case.† My brother lied to his doctor? Katherine’s concern was now growing steadily. â€Å"Is he sick?† â€Å"I’m sorry, Ms. Solomon, doctor-patient confidentiality precludes me from discussing your brother’s condition, and I’ve already said too much by admitting he is my patient. I’m going to hang up now, but if you hear from him today, please ask him to call me so I know he’s okay.† â€Å"Wait!† Katherine said. â€Å"Please tell me what’s wrong with Peter!† Dr. Abaddon exhaled, sounding displeased with his mistake. â€Å"Ms. Solomon, I can hear you’re upset, and I don’t blame you. I’m sure your brother is fine. He was in my office just yesterday.† â€Å"Yesterday? And he’s scheduled again today? This sounds urgent.† The man heaved a sigh. â€Å"I suggest we give him a little more time before we–â€Å" â€Å"I’m coming by your office right now,† Katherine said, heading for the door. â€Å"Where are you located?† Silence. â€Å"Dr. Christopher Abaddon?† Katherine said. â€Å"I can look up your address myself, or you can simply give it to me. Either way, I’m coming over.† The doctor paused. â€Å"If I meet with you, Ms. Solomon, would you please do me the courtesy of saying nothing to your brother until I’ve had a chance to explain my misstep?† â€Å"That’s fine.† â€Å"Thank you. My office is in Kalorama Heights.† He gave her an address. Twenty minutes later, Katherine Solomon was navigating the stately streets of Kalorama Heights. She had phoned all of her brother’s numbers with no reply. She did not feel overly concerned about her brother’s whereabouts, and yet, the news that he was secretly seeing a doctor . . . was troubling. When Katherine finally located the address, she stared up at the building in confusion. This is a doctor’s office? The opulent mansion before her had a wrought-iron security fence, electronic cameras, and lush grounds. As she slowed to double-check the address, one of the security cameras rotated toward her, and the gate swung open. Tentatively, Katherine drove up the driveway and parked next to a six-car garage and a stretch limo. What kind of doctor is this guy? As she got out of her car, the front door of the mansion opened, and an elegant figure drifted out onto the landing. He was handsome, exceptionally tall, and younger than she had imagined. Even so, he projected the sophistication and polish of an older man. He was impeccably dressed in a dark suit and tie, and his thick blond hair was immaculately coiffed. â€Å"Ms. Solomon, I’m Dr. Christopher Abaddon,† he said, his voice a breathy whisper. When they shook hands, his skin felt smooth and well tended. â€Å"Katherine Solomon,† she said, trying not to stare at his skin, which was unusually smooth and bronzed. Is he wearing makeup? Katherine felt a growing disquiet as she stepped into the home’s beautifully appointed foyer. Classical music played softly in the background, and it smelled as if someone had burned incense. â€Å"This is lovely,† she said, â€Å"although I expected more of . . . an office.† â€Å"I’m fortunate to work out of my home.† The man led her into a living room, where there was a crackling fire. â€Å"Please make yourself comfortable. I’m just steeping some tea. I’ll bring it out, and we can talk.† He strode toward the kitchen and disappeared. Katherine Solomon did not sit. Female intuition was a potent instinct that she had learned to trust, and something about this place was making her skin crawl. She saw nothing that looked anything like any doctor’s office she had ever seen. The walls of this antique-adorned living room were covered with classical art, primarily paintings with strange mythical themes. She paused before a large canvas depicting the Three Graces, whose nude bodies were spectacularly rendered in vivid colors. You read "The Lost Symbol Chapter 22-23" in category "Essay examples" â€Å"That’s the original Michael Parkes oil.† Dr. Abaddon appeared without warning beside her, holding a tray of steaming tea. â€Å"I thought we’d sit by the fire?† He led her over to the living room and offered her a seat. â€Å"There’s no reason to be nervous.† â€Å"I’m not nervous,† Katherine said entirely too quickly. He gave her a reassuring smile. â€Å"Actually, it is my business to know when people are nervous.† â€Å"I beg your pardon?† â€Å"I’m a practicing psychiatrist, Ms. Solomon. That is my profession. I’ve been seeing your brother for almost a year now. I’m his therapist.† Katherine could only stare. My brother is in therapy? â€Å"Patients often choose to keep their therapy to themselves,† the man said. â€Å"I made a mistake by calling you, although in my defense, your brother did mislead me.† â€Å"I . . . I had no idea.† â€Å"I apologize if I made you nervous,† he said, sounding embarrassed. â€Å"I noticed you studying my face when we met, and yes, I do wear makeup.† He touched his own cheek, looking self- conscious. â€Å"I have a dermatological condition, which I prefer to hide. My wife usually puts the makeup on for me, but when she’s not here, I have to rely on my own heavy touch.† Katherine nodded, too embarrassed to speak. â€Å"And this lovely hair . . .† He touched his lush blond mane. â€Å"A wig. My skin condition affected my scalp follicles as well, and all my hair jumped ship.† He shrugged. â€Å"I’m afraid my one sin is vanity.† â€Å"Apparently mine is rudeness,† Katherine said. â€Å"Not at all.† Dr. Abaddon’s smile was disarming. â€Å"Shall we start over? Perhaps with some tea?† They sat in front of the fire and Abaddon poured tea. â€Å"Your brother got me in the habit of serving tea during our sessions. He said the Solomons are tea drinkers.† â€Å"Family tradition,† Katherine said. â€Å"Black, please.† They sipped their tea and made small talk for a few minutes, but Katherine was eager for information about her brother. â€Å"Why was my brother coming to you?† she asked. And why didn’t he tell me? Admittedly, Peter had endured more than his fair share of tragedy in his life–losing his father at a young age, and then, within a span of five years, burying his only son and then his mother. Even so, Peter had always found a way to cope. Dr. Abaddon took a sip of tea. â€Å"Your brother came to me because he trusts me. We have a bond beyond that of normal patient and doctor.† He motioned to a framed document near the fireplace. It looked like a diploma, until Katherine spied the double-headed phoenix. â€Å"You’re a Mason?† The highest degree, no less. â€Å"Peter and I are brothers of sorts.† â€Å"You must have done something important to be invited into the thirty-third degree.† â€Å"Not really,† he said. â€Å"I have family money, and I give a lot of money to Masonic charities.† Katherine now realized why her brother trusted this young doctor. A Mason with family money, interested in philanthropy and ancient mythology? Dr. Abaddon had more in common with her brother than she had initially imagined. â€Å"When I asked why my brother came to you,† she said, â€Å"I didn’t mean why did he choose you. I meant, why is he seeking the services of a psychiatrist?† Dr. Abaddon smiled. â€Å"Yes, I know. I was trying to sidestep the question politely. It’s really not something I should be discussing.† He paused. â€Å"Although I must say I’m puzzled that your brother would keep our discussions from you, considering that they relate so directly to your research.† â€Å"My research?† Katherine said, taken totally off guard. My brother talks about my research? â€Å"Recently, your brother came to me looking for a professional opinion about the psychological impact of the breakthroughs you are making in your lab.† Katherine almost choked on the tea. â€Å"Really? I’m . . . surprised,† she managed. What is Peter thinking? He told his shrink about my work?! Their security protocol involved not discussing with anyone what Katherine was working on. Moreover, the confidentiality had been her brother’s idea. â€Å"Certainly you are aware, Ms. Solomon, that your brother is deeply concerned about what will happen when your research goes public. He sees the potential for a significant philosophical shift in the world . . . and he came here to discuss the possible ramifications . . . from a psychological perspective.† â€Å"I see,† Katherine said, her teacup now shaking slightly. â€Å"The questions we discuss are challenging ones: What happens to the human condition if the great mysteries of life are finally revealed? What happens when those beliefs that we accept on faith . . . are suddenly categorically proven as fact? Or disproved as myth? One could argue that there exist certain questions that are best left unanswered.† Katherine could not believe what she was hearing, and yet she kept her emotions in check. â€Å"I hope you don’t mind, Dr. Abaddon, but I’d prefer not to discuss the details of my work. I have no immediate plans to make anything public. For the time being, my discoveries will remain safely locked in my lab.† â€Å"Interesting.† Abaddon leaned back in his chair, lost in thought for a moment. â€Å"In any event, I asked your brother to come back today because yesterday he suffered a bit of a break. When that happens, I like to have clients–â€Å" â€Å"Break?† Katherine’s heart was pounding. â€Å"As in breakdown?† She couldn’t imagine her brother breaking down over anything. Abaddon reached out kindly. â€Å"Please, I can see I’ve upset you. I’m sorry. Considering these awkward circumstances, I can understand how you might feel entitled to answers.† â€Å"Whether I’m entitled or not,† Katherine said, â€Å"my brother is all I have left of my family. Nobody knows him better than I do, so if you tell me what the hell happened, maybe I can help you. We all want the same thing–what’s best for Peter.† Dr. Abaddon fell silent for several long moments and then began slowly nodding as if Katherine might have a point. Finally, he spoke. â€Å"For the record, Ms. Solomon, if I decide to share this information with you, I would do so only because I think your insights might help me assist your brother.† â€Å"Of course.† Abaddon leaned forward, putting his elbows on his knees. â€Å"Ms. Solomon, as long as I’ve been seeing your brother, I’ve sensed in him a deep struggle with feelings of guilt. I’ve never pressed him on it because that’s not why he comes to me. And yet yesterday, for a number of reasons, I finally asked him about it.† Abaddon locked eyes with her. â€Å"Your brother opened up, rather dramatically and unexpectedly. He told me things I had not expected to hear . . . including everything that happened the night your mother died.† Christmas Eve–almost exactly ten years ago. She died in my arms. â€Å"He told me your mother was murdered during a robbery attempt at your home? A man broke in looking for something he believed your brother was hiding?† â€Å"That’s correct.† Abaddon’s eyes were appraising her. â€Å"Your brother said he shot the man dead?† â€Å"Yes.† Abaddon stroked his chin. â€Å"Do you recall what the intruder was looking for when he broke into your home?† Katherine had tried in vain for ten years to block out the memory. â€Å"Yes, his demand was very specific. Unfortunately, none of us knew what he was talking about. His demand never made sense to any of us.† â€Å"Well, it made sense to your brother.† â€Å"What?† Katherine sat up. â€Å"At least according to the story he told me yesterday, Peter knew exactly what the intruder was looking for. And yet your brother did not want to hand it over, so he pretended not to understand.† â€Å"That’s absurd. Peter couldn’t possibly have known what the man wanted. His demands made no sense!† â€Å"Interesting.† Dr. Abaddon paused and took a few notes. â€Å"As I mentioned, however, Peter told me he did know. Your brother believes if he had only cooperated with the intruder, maybe your mother would be alive today. This decision is the source of all his guilt.† Katherine shook her head. â€Å"That’s crazy . . .† Abaddon slumped, looking troubled. â€Å"Ms. Solomon, this has been useful feedback. As I feared, your brother seems to have had a little break with reality. I must admit, I was afraid this might be the case. That’s why I asked him to come back today. These delusional episodes are not uncommon when they relate to traumatic memories.† Katherine shook her head again. â€Å"Peter is far from delusional, Dr. Abaddon.† â€Å"I would agree, except . . .† â€Å"Except what?† â€Å"Except that his recounting of the attack was just the beginning . . . a tiny fraction of the long and far-fetched tale he told me.† Katherine leaned forward in her seat. â€Å"What did Peter tell you?† Abaddon gave a sad smile. â€Å"Ms. Solomon, let me ask you this. Has your brother ever discussed with you what he believes is hidden here in Washington, D.C. . . . or the role he believes he plays in protecting a great treasure . . . of lost ancient wisdom?† Katherine’s jaw fell open. â€Å"What in the world are you talking about?† Dr. Abaddon heaved a long sigh. â€Å"What I am about to tell you will be a bit shocking, Katherine.† He paused and locked eyes with her. â€Å"But it will be immeasurably helpful if you can tell me anything you may know about it.† He reached for her cup. â€Å"More tea?† CHAPTER 23 Another tattoo. Langdon crouched anxiously beside Peter’s open palm and examined the seven tiny symbols that had been hidden beneath the lifeless clenched fingers. â€Å"They appear to be numbers,† Langdon said, surprised. â€Å"Although I don’t recognize them.† â€Å"The first is a Roman numeral,† Anderson said. â€Å"Actually, I don’t think so,† Langdon corrected. â€Å"The Roman numeral I-I-I-X doesn’t exist. It would be written V-I-I.† â€Å"How about the rest of it?† Sato asked. â€Å"I’m not sure. It looks like eight-eight-five in Arabic numbers.† â€Å"Arabic?† Anderson asked. â€Å"They look like normal numbers.† â€Å"Our normal numbers are Arabic.† Langdon had become so accustomed to clarifying this point for his students that he’d actually prepared a lecture about the scientific advances made by early Middle Eastern cultures, one of them being our modern numbering system, whose advantages over Roman numerals included `positional notation’ and the invention of the number zero. Of course, Langdon always ended this lecture with a reminder that Arab culture had also given mankind the word al-kuhl–the favorite beverage of Harvard freshmen–known as alcohol. Langdon scrutinized the tattoo, feeling puzzled. â€Å"And I’m not even sure about the eight-eight- five. The rectilinear writing looks unusual. Those may not be numbers.† â€Å"Then what are they? Sato asked. â€Å"I’m not sure. The whole tattoo looks almost . . . runic.† â€Å"Meaning?† Sato asked. â€Å"Runic alphabets are composed solely of straight lines. Their letters are called runes and were often used for carving in stone because curves were too difficult to chisel.† â€Å"If these are runes,† Sato said, â€Å"what is their meaning?† Langdon shook his head. His expertise extended only to the most rudimentary runic alphabet– Futhark–a third-century Teutonic system, and this was not Futhark. â€Å"To be honest, I’m not even sure these are runes. You’d need to ask a specialist. There are dozens of different forms– Hlsinge, Manx, the `dotted’ Stungnar–â€Å" â€Å"Peter Solomon is a Mason, is he not?† Langdon did a double take. â€Å"Yes, but what does that have to do with this?† He stood up now, towering over the tiny woman. â€Å"You tell me. You just said that runic alphabets are used for stone carvings, and it is my understanding that the original Freemasons were stone craftsmen. I mention this only because when I asked my office to search for a connection between the Hand of the Mysteries and Peter Solomon, their search returned one link in particular.† She paused, as if to emphasize the importance of her finding. â€Å"The Masons.† Langdon exhaled, fighting the impulse to tell Sato the same thing he constantly told his students: â€Å"Google† is not a synonym for â€Å"research.† In these days of massive, worldwide keyword searches, it seemed everything was linked to everything. The world was becoming one big entangled web of information that was getting denser every day. Langdon maintained a patient tone. â€Å"I’m not surprised the Masons appeared in your staff’s search. Masons are a very obvious link between Peter Solomon and any number of esoteric topics.† â€Å"Yes,† Sato said, â€Å"which is another reason I have been surprised this evening that you have not yet mentioned the Masons. After all, you’ve been talking about secret wisdom protected by an enlightened few. That sounds very Masonic, does it not?† â€Å"It does . . . and it also sounds very Rosicrucian, Kabbalistic, Alumbradian, and any number of other esoteric groups.† â€Å"But Peter Solomon is a Mason–a very powerful Mason, at that. It seems the Masons would come to mind if we were talking about secrets. Heaven knows the Masons love their secrets.† Langdon could hear the distrust in her voice, and he wanted no part of it. â€Å"If you want to know anything about the Masons, you would be far better served to ask a Mason.† â€Å"Actually,† Sato said, â€Å"I’d prefer to ask someone I can trust.† Langdon found the comment both ignorant and offensive. â€Å"For the record, ma’am, the entire Masonic philosophy is built on honesty and integrity. Masons are among the most trustworthy men you could ever hope to meet.† â€Å"I have seen persuasive evidence to the contrary.† Langdon was liking Director Sato less and less with each passing moment. He had spent years writing about the Masons’ rich tradition of metaphorical iconography and symbols, and knew that Masons had always been one of the most unfairly maligned and misunderstood organizations in the world. Regularly accused of everything from devil worship to plotting a one- world government, the Masons also had a policy of never responding to their critics, which made them an easy target. â€Å"Regardless,† Sato said, her tone biting, â€Å"we are again at an impasse, Mr. Langdon. It seems to me there is either something you are missing . . . or something you are not telling me. The man we’re dealing with said that Peter Solomon chose you specifically.† She leveled a cold stare at Langdon. â€Å"I think it’s time we move this conversation to CIA headquarters. Maybe we’ll have more luck there.† Sato’s threat barely registered with Langdon. She had just said something that had lodged in his mind. Peter Solomon chose you. The comment, combined with the mention of Masons, had hit Langdon strangely. He looked down at the Masonic ring on Peter’s finger. The ring was one of Peter’s most prized possessions–a Solomon family heirloom that bore the symbol of the double- headed phoenix–the ultimate mystical icon of Masonic wisdom. The gold glinted in the light, sparking an unexpected memory. Langdon gasped, recalling the eerie whisper of Peter’s captor: It really hasn’t dawned on you yet, has it? Why you were chosen? Now, in one terrifying moment, Langdon’s thoughts snapped into focus and the fog lifted. All at once, Langdon’s purpose here was crystal clear. Ten miles away, driving south on Suitland Parkway, Mal’akh heard a distinctive vibration on the seat beside him. It was Peter Solomon’s iPhone, which had proven a powerful tool today. The visual caller ID now displayed the image of an attractive middle-aged woman with long black hair. INCOMING CALL–KATHERINE SOLOMON Mal’akh smiled, ignoring the call. Destiny pulls me closer. He had lured Katherine Solomon to his home this afternoon for one reason only–to determine if she had information that could assist him . . . perhaps a family secret that might help Mal’akh locate what he sought. Clearly, however, Katherine’s brother had told her nothing of what he had been guarding all these years. Even so, Mal’akh had learned something else from Katherine. Something that has earned her a few extra hours of life today. Katherine had confirmed for him that all of her research was in one location, safely locked inside her lab. I must destroy it. Katherine’s research was poised to open a new door of understanding, and once the door was opened even a crack, others would follow. It would just be a matter of time before everything changed. I cannot let that happen. The world must stay as it is . . . adrift in ignorant darkness. The iPhone beeped, indicating Katherine had left a voice mail. Mal’akh retrieved it. â€Å"Peter, it’s me again.† Katherine’s voice sounded concerned. â€Å"Where are you? I’m still thinking about my conversation with Dr. Abaddon . . . and I’m worried. Is everything okay? Please call me. I’m at the lab.† The voice mail ended. Mal’akh smiled. Katherine should worry less about her brother, and more about herself. He turned off Suitland Parkway onto Silver Hill Road. Less than a mile later, in the darkness, he spotted the faint outline of the SMSC nestled in the trees off the highway to his right. The entire complex was surrounded by a high razor-wire fence. A secure building? Mal’akh chuckled to himself. I know someone who will open the door for me. How to cite The Lost Symbol Chapter 22-23, Essay examples

Ceaseless Service Delivery and Development †MyAssignmenthelp.com

Question: Discuss about the Ceaseless Service Delivery and Development. Answer: Introduction Practice development is defined as a ceaseless process focused on improvement by increasing the effectiveness in patient-centered care. It is based on several principles that are applied in healthcare, one of the principles is person centered care defined as an approach in which the beliefs, values and preferences of the patient are expressed and used in the whole process of management (Manley McCormack 2004). According to Manley (2004) it is a philosophical approach to service delivery and development that focusses on services through the needs, preferences and values of the people under care. This paper shall focus on person-centered care which is one of the principles under practice development. From image one, person centered care revolves around the patient through basing decisions on the needs of the patient rather than the perspective of the practitioner. This represents what the care is all about. To understand person-centered care we need to understand the definition of person, caring and person centeredness. The person is believed to be unique, authentic, worthy and dignified and is recognized, respected and trusted to deal with anything(McCormack McCance 2010). Person centeredness is seen as the characteristic of people depending on relationships and living in a social world while each exists in their own context making them recognized, respected and trusted as a person(McCormack McCance 2010).This means that practitioners have to change the care process from whats the matter with you to what matters with to you as shown in Image 2, where the focus is the needs of the patient rather than the problems that they have. The person-centered care is built on four areas. First we have the prerequisites which define the nurses attributes that affect the care given(McCormack McCance 2010). The other area is the care environment which describes the entire context in which care in offered. Person-centered process is the other area that focuses on the activities employed during care delivery. Through a holistic approach, the care revolves around patient by incorporating the family, healthcare team and healthcare instructions to achieve the best approach that meets the specific needs of the patient as shown in Image 3. Lastly, its the outcomes expected after the implementation of person-centered care. The main role of the approach is to develop better relationships between the parties involved in the process. Through a holistic approach that integrates the family, healthcare practitioners and medical instructions to the needs of the patient. Better relationships are formed thus leading to increased healthcare outcomes. From Image four, the practitioner is the driver of the vehicle while the patient is passenger who determines whether the practice is appropriate or not. Lastly, through participation in developing clinical outcomes, people become proactive in meeting their needs thus reducing pressure on health and social services. Conclusion Person centered care is one of the principles for practice development and has been able to foster a therapeutic relationship between the patient and provider through the patients engagement and involvement in care. Healthcare organizations need to restructure their processes and ensure that they focus on meeting the needs of the patient. The approach can improve healthcare outcomes by observing the varying needs of the patient in a hospital set up. References Brummel?Smith, K, Butler, D, Frieder, M, Gibbs, N, Henry, M, Koons, E, Loggers, E, Porock, D, Reuben, DB, Saliba, D, Scanlon, WJ, Tabbush, V, Tinetti, M, Tumlinson, A Vladeck, BC 2016, 'Person?Centered Care: A Definition and Essential Elements', Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, vol 64, no. 1, pp. 15-18. Manley, K 2004, 'Transformational Culture: A Culture of Effectiveness', in B McCormack, K Manley, R Garbett (eds.), Practice Development in Nursing, 1st edn, Blackwell Publishing Ltd, Oxford. Manley, K McCormack, B 2004, 'Practice Development: Purpose, Methodology, Facilitation and Evaluation', in B McCormack, K Manley, R Garbett (eds.), Practice Development in Nursing, 1st edn, Blackwell Publishing Ltd, Oxford. McCormack, B McCance, T 2010, Person-Centred Nursing Theory and Practice, 1st edn, John Wiley Sons Ltd, West Sussex.

Discontent is the first necessity of progress. Essay Example

Discontent is the first necessity of progress. Essay Fatty Discontent is the first necessity of progress. Its often from a sense of discontent, feelings of incompleteness, or even a twinge of true unhappiness that the seeds of great accomplishment are sown After studying the case of Jerry Sanders emerging as one of the greatest entrepreneurs of his times, one can easily figure out what It takes to go through all the up and downs and be an extraordinary one. From the skills of negotiation, decision making and risk taking to self-confidence, selflessness and contentment, we can see how efficiently he has utilized them over time. In my opinion each one of the above mentioned qualities are very much important for someone to get the best out of something but in case of Jerry Sanders it was The discontentment that he had and that made him so deferent and sophisticated that he never stopped taking risks and making decisions. He has been listened many times saying the fight sentient over. Discontentment or dissatisfaction is what keeps you going on setting a goal, achieve it and move on to the next one, bigger and better. Jerry Sanders had some excellent capabilities, some of which were innate expressed in his personality and some of them were developed through a course of time, Like It has been mentioned that sometimes you have to adopt new attributes and then act as a chameleon to be able to adjust In a new environment. Even though he got what he wanted but still there was a constant urge of doing something better. We will write a custom essay sample on Discontent is the first necessity of progress. specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Discontent is the first necessity of progress. specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Discontent is the first necessity of progress. specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Referring to case study we can see that he spent some of his time with the Shaw Group to help hem achieve a milestone. Though they had quite a profitable business but it was Jerry who wanted to take all those lessons that he learnt there and make his next move not in the same field but in another one. He also took help from his skills like making connections and expanding his social circle to add more people in his life that would channel him to a better spot. His meeting with Simulative is one of the examples.

Free Essays on Confucianism And Christianity

Confucianism And Christianity The premise of Confucian teachings are centered on the idea of Jen or the virtue of. To accomplish this divinity, five relationships must be honored: ruler and subject, living family to ancestors, father and son, elder and younger brother, husband and wife. These relationships led a push for a revolution of the political system to adopt the methods of Jen. Confucius sought to revive the ancient Chinese culture by redefining the importance of society and government. He described a society governed by reasonable, humane, and just sensibilities, not by the passions of individuals arbitrarily empowered by hereditary status. He felt that this could be achieved through education and the unification of cultural beliefs. He believed that citizens that were cultivated people whose intellects and emotions had been developed and matured by conscious people would benefit a nation. He felt that those born into the feudal system were had a personal duty to excel socially by means of power. Those w ho were of lesser class should also seek out education to better themselves. Confucius felt that love and respect for authority was a key to a perfect society; this strict respect was practiced through rituals and magic. The Confucius traditions have caused a tradition to set within its institution and are extremely active. It has, unfortunately, allowed the political institution to manipulate the Confucius system, as with Christianity. Christianity also preaches a divine, brotherly love. Modern Christianity seeks to discover a rational understanding of the person, as did Confucius; yet, Christianity feels that faith in the Jesus Christ, as a personal savior is essential to this enlightenment. It was also under the guise of Christianity that it had to confront totalitarian systems uses of power in its sphere of influence. Christians believed in an Absolute against all absolving of the relative, can protest in the name of God. ... Free Essays on Confucianism And Christianity Free Essays on Confucianism And Christianity Confucianism And Christianity The premise of Confucian teachings are centered on the idea of Jen or the virtue of. To accomplish this divinity, five relationships must be honored: ruler and subject, living family to ancestors, father and son, elder and younger brother, husband and wife. These relationships led a push for a revolution of the political system to adopt the methods of Jen. Confucius sought to revive the ancient Chinese culture by redefining the importance of society and government. He described a society governed by reasonable, humane, and just sensibilities, not by the passions of individuals arbitrarily empowered by hereditary status. He felt that this could be achieved through education and the unification of cultural beliefs. He believed that citizens that were cultivated people whose intellects and emotions had been developed and matured by conscious people would benefit a nation. He felt that those born into the feudal system were had a personal duty to excel socially by means of power. Those w ho were of lesser class should also seek out education to better themselves. Confucius felt that love and respect for authority was a key to a perfect society; this strict respect was practiced through rituals and magic. The Confucius traditions have caused a tradition to set within its institution and are extremely active. It has, unfortunately, allowed the political institution to manipulate the Confucius system, as with Christianity. Christianity also preaches a divine, brotherly love. Modern Christianity seeks to discover a rational understanding of the person, as did Confucius; yet, Christianity feels that faith in the Jesus Christ, as a personal savior is essential to this enlightenment. It was also under the guise of Christianity that it had to confront totalitarian systems uses of power in its sphere of influence. Christians believed in an Absolute against all absolving of the relative, can protest in the name of God. ...

Marketing Professional Practice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Marketing Professional Practice - Essay Example No doubt, all activities guzzle resources and produce wastes and, consequently, have a possible to injure the environment. Furthermore, tourism is no exemption: the worldwide environment is the source of the entire material inputs feeding the tourism subsystem and is the sink for every its wastes. Tourists' per capita expenditure of resources, multiplied by tourist numbers, provide the total flow of resources or throughput from the worldwide environment to the tourism subsystem then back to the worldwide environment as waste. Such throughput growth in the past, and at the present, sees lots of tourism firms and organizations, tourism purpose planning authorities and tourists themselves acting in environmentally-damaging ways. Such injure is, though, only one of the grave issues facing tourism purpose authorities: in addition sociocultural changes, happen from acculturation and commodification processes, pursue from tourism growth and both sets of changes have to be impartial with how the donation of tourism to the destination financial system can be maximized in terms of jobs and the material normal of living of the host population. Furthermore, these issues are the majority marked in destinations catering for mass tourism. If mass tourism continues to operate at there levels transporting great numbers of holiday-makers over substantial distances to restricted and concentrated destinations and hopeful them to eat at high levels further damage will occur. No doubt, stress here is on tourism's communication with the physical environment and the question asked is 'whether present tourism operations and activities can be made more environmentally well-matched' Background Literature Search About Perth In Singapore Singapore & the Marine Environment If we analyzed then we come to know that the island city-state of Singapore is home to 4 million people inside a restricted area of around 700 square kilometers. No doubt, the country has a flourishing, financial system and is home to the world's third main petroleum refinery, as well as vivacious chemical, pharmaceutical and electronics sectors. No doubt, Singapore has a steamy climate and is bounded by the rich biodiversity of flora and fauna of Southeast Asia. Furthermore, both the earthly and marine environments in Singapore have undergone fundamental transformations over past decades to house Singapore's fast urban growth. In exacting, coastal environments, counting mangrove and coral reefs have been at length modified via land recovery and port growth activities. According to the experts group who has particular interest in the hazard to Singapore's coastal atmosphere from contagion derived from both marine and earthly sources. I have conduct analysis to determine the fate and sharing of inorganic (heavy metal) and organic contaminants (pesticides, flame retardants etc) in marine ecosystems and linked food chains. No doubt, all experts are interested in the growth of techniques for the bioremediation of hydrocarbons derived from the spillage of oil in the marine atmosphere. A Statistical And Trend Analysis Of Singaporean Travellers To Perth Survey Methodology National Visitor Survey (NVS) If we analyzed then we come to know that telephone interviews are conducted by means of Australian residents

Roman Life Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Roman Life - Essay Example Rediscoveries and excavations of the sites directly affected by the long catastrophe had sparked interest among the historians of the 16th century to obtain further insights and reveal the type of culture and life at the city under Roman empire. Archeological efforts that pieced together fragments of stones and layers upon layers of sediments alluded how fertile Vesuvius slopes were in ancient times that grapes and olive groves thrived along the good climate of the mountain surface which most wealthy Romans took advantage of in their lavish way of living (Pompeii). Indication of wine shops emerged as well in Herculaneum when buried artifacts unraveled distinct carvings of grapes, for instance, on jars and pots in the similar manner that bread and goat designs gave hints on the age-old containers which were intended for livelihood through milking and baking (Pompeii). Along with the frescoes found near the ruins, certain evidences showed that Pompeiis control water tower adapted a flow system that was lain out such that it set priority according to the order of society which had been a well-established truth in the Roman communities of that period. More to class divisions and means of food storage, excavating into the buried city produced other rich findings typically with the cast retrievals by Fiorelli method of furniture forms the way Pompeii civilization managed its unique architecture. Fallen or completely devastated structures also turned up landscape attitudes during the final moments as the inhabitants made horrifying attempts at avoiding the noxious fumes. In particular, the cast shapes enabled understanding of the amount of sufferings and the measure of sacrifice and courageous response to such terrible condition from which to draw inferences on philosophies by which early Romans lived in every aspect that was later to reflect in the customary gesture, practices, and set of values for the descendants to imbibe at depth down the history line

Ethical Theories identified in (bazerman) and the Essay - 1

Ethical Theories identified in (bazerman) and the - Essay Example Firstly, utilitarianism is established on the principle that ethical choices should be established with their consequences. People always consider the probabilities of their decisions when deciding what to do. Furthermore, Utilitarianism is trying to do the utmost good for the highest number of individuals. Thus, Utilitarian approach is frequently used by leaders to ethical decision-making. In contrast to utilitarianism, Kant categorical imperative argues that no matter the consequences, people should always do what is morally right. Moreover, the word categorical means devoid of exception. However, Kent’s approach to ethical reasoning is the best-recognized deontological ethics. The deontological ethics argues decisions ought to be made according to our duties to trail universal truths that are engraved on our sense of right and wrong. Lastly, violation of these morals is indicated by guilt. Thirdly, justice as fairness guarantees equal opportunities and rights behind the shr oud of ignorance. Lastly, Communitarianism states that individuals should shoulder their responsibilities and pursue the common good (Johnson, 2014). In the study of any discipline, as well as leadership theories are important. The theories explain the relations among significant variables and concepts, organize information in a field and help practitioners and scholars to make predictions about the strategies that will be effective. Moreover, approaches to leadership theoretically, fall into one of the two classifications: normative or descriptive. Therefore, the descriptive theory describes the way leaders behave. Further, researchers earlier on discovered two fundamental dimensions to the styles of leadership. They included relationship and task. They discovered that while other leaders are focused more on building better relationships with members, others are focused more on tasks. However, the normative leadership theory advises leaders how

Strategic Accounting for Decision Making

Strategic Accounting for Decision Making Super Service Mini Market. Contents (Jump to) Abstract Chapter 1 – Introduction Chapter 2 – The Mini Markets Chapter 3 – Conclusions and Recommendations Tables Abstract One of the key factors in achieving bottom line performance in any business enterprise is a complete understanding of how controlling costs contribute to the attainment of profitability. Walters and Giles (2000)[1] point out that managers who exercise â€Å"†¦flexibility in timing of decisions†¦Ã¢â‚¬  provide themselves with options in equating the viability of opportunities. The utilization of strategic accounting in decision-making represents a departure from past accounting practices whereby it was used to predict fiscal performance and then report on what was achieved. Today’s accounting theory sees this function as an ongoing active component in business operations. The proper utilization of varied accounting principles permits business owners and managers to utilize past results as a foundation for predicting future performance as well as the performance for the addition of new product lines. Horngren et al (1997)[2] indicate that effective planning along wit h effective control represent critical factors in the achievement of business objectives. They go on to state that through effective planning goals are selected with more care and input and that the achievement of goal objectives calls for the utilization of effective controls. The introduction of a new section in a ‘mini market’ represents an application of the foregoing whereby the employment of ‘strategic accounting for decision making’ is a process by which the business can be evaluated from differing operational perspectives. The foregoing setting shall be utilized to explore and pose solutions and answers to business conditions and questions with respect to varying business decision-making areas within this setting. Chapter 1 – Introduction The Setting An entrepreneur in South Wales postulated that the establishment of a mini market selling a limited variety of varied food items would be able to establish a foothold and survive in a competitive environment that included major supermarkets, Tesco – Safeways, Asda along with other outlets. The main theme for the foundation of this enterprise was based upon offering consumers ‘convenience’ as well as ‘quality service’ in an establishment where they could purchase either a single or multiple items quickly. The foregoing concept proved successful, as this entrepreneur was able to add three more mini markets in the area. And success brings with it the need to innovative, improve operations and seek areas of opportunity to continue growth. In order to be successful when a business goes through expansion an entrepreneur needs to evolve into a professional manager and understand not only how to delegate, but how to lead as well as communicate and plan. And since sales and profitability are the barometers by which business is measured, the importance of being able to forecast revenues and expenditures, identify probabilities, analyze operations, and control costs are key components of strategic accounting. The foregoing principles became apparent as a result of attending a University course for ‘Budgetary Planning and Control. In order to develop a more sophisticated and effective system, the assistance and input of the managers of the stores was not only an necessary component, it was vital in gathering information as well as insight on the individual operations. Simons (1987)[3] emphasizes that a ccounting represents an informational as well as control mechanism that managers must utilize to understand the varied components of their business and mold their accounting systems in terms of information gathering and construction, to fit the needs of the entity. Background Facts and Factors It was noticed that one of the store managers, located in Aberdare, was committed but lacked the expertise to functionally participate in the formal ‘Budgetary Planning and Control’ system that was being implemented. As a result is was agreed that the company would pay for this manager to attend a course conducted at the ‘Glamorgan Business School Weekend MSC Accounting programme’. At a meeting that called together all of the store managers it was explained that hence forth each store would be rated and evaluated on its individual performance rather than the prior group consolidation basis. This entailed each manager producing a yearly budget for their outlet in consultation with their department managers to generate figures for each retail area. The overall line management organizational structure of the four mini markets is as follows: Table 1 – Organizational Structure Managing Director Newport Penarth Cowbridge Aberdare Each manager was directed to compile the following: ‘Profit and Loss Account’ for their individual mini markets for the period ending 31/21/04, a breakdown of staff salaries, employee composition by mini market section, percentage of floor space allocated to sections, asset value of each cost center within their mini markets, and, a Forecast of Profit and Loss for the six month period 01/01/05 through 30/06/05 The foregoing produced an interesting response from one of the department manager of General Groceries at the Aberdare mini market. The analysis of floor space in that section found that there was under-utilized space that could be put to better use. The manager had conducted some research and uncovered that there was no location in Aberdare where one could have photographs developed or enlarged. The idea was broached with the store manager and after gathering of some additional information regarding the cost of film it was included in reports to be presented at a meeting of managers and the owner. These were to consist of the following: A comprehensive comparison of the Aberdare and Penarth mini markets that includes their relative strengths as well as weaknesses. An analysis of the profitability of the profit centres in Aberdare. Because each mini market was henceforth to be operated as individual business entities, options as well as constraints with regard to raising capital to expand operations at the Aberdare location also were to be included. Budgetary planning and control was delegated to the manager of the Penarth mini market. The foregoing was based upon the fact that all managers had attended a seminar on this subject matter. Proposals for new revenue sources. Report on ‘working capital management’ emphasizing debtor control and the lack of a link between it and profit / cash flow. Presentation of the Forecast Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss Account for the Aberdare Super Service mini market in 2005. Chapter 2 – The Mini Markets 2.1 A comprehensive comparison of the Aberdare and Penarth mini markets that includes their relative strengths as well as weaknesses. In developing a basis for comparison of the Aberdare and Penarth the constant that is attributable to both locations is the general layout of the locations and organizational style. As shown by Table 3 the Penarth mini market does not have a sales area devoted to ‘alcoholic drinks and cigarettes’ as well as a separate defined space for the ‘administrative office’. And while the specifications do not provide information on this point, the allocation of 50% of space in the Penarth mini market to ‘stores’ would seem to indicate that this area also is utilized for administrative functions. The other difference in general layout between the two subject locations is the absence of ‘alcoholic drinks and cigarettes’ section at the Penarth mini market. As these products represent traffic builders as well as profitable items, alcoholic drinks at the Penarth mini market they are assigned to the ‘general groceries’ area for alcohol ic drinks and most likely checkout location for cigarettes. This aspect indicates a weakness in the Penarth mini market as the sales of alcoholic drinks and cigarettes contributed 7% to revenue. Table 2 Organization of Aberdare / Penarth Mini Markets The allocation of 50% of floor space to ‘stores’ in the Penarth mini market represents a sizeable amount of area devoted to a non-sales function and would seemingly create a more cluttered layout for the remaining departments. For consumers accustomed to the spacious layout of major supermarkets such as Tesco – Safeways, and Asda the loss of floor space at Penarth as well as definitive section for ‘alcoholic drinks and cigarettes’ could negatively affect sales performance. However, the operating profit as shown by Table 4 for both locations is extremely close, recording 19% for Penarth and 17.4% for Aberdare. Table 3 – Financial Comparisons for the Penarth and Aberdare Mini Markets Penarth Aberdare 2.2 An analysis of the profitability of the profit centres in Aberdare In calculating the profitability of each department at the Aberdare and Penarth mini markets, areas 3 (stores) and 7 (administrative office) need to be removed in order to calculate the relative profitability of the remaining sales areas. The calculations relating to the aforementioned were derived from Table 5 below. Table 4 Organization of Aberdare / Penarth Mini Markets Clearly, the stores (3) and administrative office (7) do not contribute to sales, and thus are cost expense areas. The following Table 6 distributes gross profitability against sales departments. An area that stands out in the analysis of these two locations is that Penarth has 50% of its available space devoted to ‘stores’ a non-sales area. In contrast, Aberdare devotes just 22% of its available space to this department (stores) and another 5% for administrative function thus losing just 27% as opposed to 50%. The percentage of profitability figures for Penarth sales sections double as a result of deducting the 50% allocated to ‘stores’. By comparing the two mini markets in this manner it is apparent that the Penarth mini market has a higher ratio of sales percentage attributable to the departments utilizing the remaining floor space. The largest discrepancy occurs in the frozen food section which is the third most profitable department at Aberdare ( £47, 387.5) as well as ranking third in terms of sales ( £174,375) behind general groceries, which ranks first in terms of sales ( £465,000), and profits ( £136,260), and dairy products which ranked second ( £348,750 and  £124,775 respectively). Table 5 Percent Profitability of Aberdare and Penarth Sales Areas In equating the percentage of sales attributable to each department at the Aberdare mini market, stores (3) along with the administrative office (7) were eliminated as these represent expense (support) functions. In so doing the percentage of sales differs from the percentage of space allocation in reaching this calculation. Table 6 Comparison of Area Percentage and Percentage of Sales – Aberdare Table 7 Overhead Expense and Net Profit Allocations at Aberdare As one of the points that were mentioned in the meeting of all mini market managers, any activity(s) that was producing a loss was to be discontinued. The preceding directive calls into question the ‘stores’ department at the Penarth mini market. At 50% of the available floor space allocation for that section is grossly out of line with the space allocated at Aberdare at 22%. Interestingly, the Penarth mini market does not indicate an allocation for an administrative office while Aberdare has a specific space for this function at 5% of floor space. As the directive indicated any activity that generates a loss is to be eliminated, the 5% allocated for the administrative office at Aberdare needs to be discontinued. The positioning of the stores department as well as the administrative office at the rear of the store means that existing floor space for dairy products as well as a portion of general groceries could be expanded from the 5% that will become available. Since th e subject of adding a film developing department was broached, the utilization of the added 5% in floor space will be covered in a later section. As administrative functions represent desk space for a computer, files, printer, telephone and allied equipment a small segment of space in the stores area will be utilized for this function. The Penarth’s stores allocation needs to be reduced to a percentage that approximates Aberdare’s 22%. This would open up 28% to be devoted to profitable sales such as diary products and general groceries, significantly expanding these sections as well as providing additional space for small increases in the other departments, fresh meats – frozen foods and space for alcoholic drinks and beverages which is completely missing from the Penarth mini market. 2.3 Because each mini market was henceforth to be operated as individual business entities, options as well as constraints with regard to raising capital to expand operations at the Aberdare location also were to be included. Options for raising capital at each mini market are governed by prudent business practice. The calculation of factors such as ‘interest cover and gearing provide guidelines by which to operate in constraining the raising of capital beyond acceptable levels. Interest Cover represents an important financial variable for business entities in that it provides a gauge concerning the interest paid on the businesses borrowings as measured against its operating profit (HM Revenue Customs, 2005)[4]. This figure is arriving at by dividing the operating profits of the mini market by the interest paid during the same fiscal period. The preceding ratio illustrates the relationship of gearing with respect to the profit and loss. Simply stated, ‘gearing’ describes the debt compared with the mini market’s equity capital (Randall, 2003)[5] Table 3 – Financial Comparisons for the Penarth and Aberdare Mini Markets Penarth Aberdare 2.4 Budgetary planning and control was delegated to the manager of the Penarth mini market In fulfilling this aspect of the directives discussed in the manager’s meeting the balance between improving operational performance through decision making precedes budgetary planning as the direction and changes to be employed must first be decided upon and all impacting variables considered. One such example is the allocation of space at the Penarth mini market whereby the stores department occupies 50% of available floor space. The decision making process in this instance revolves around how to reapportion space and to what departments to maximize the return. Another decision-making process entails the introduction of film processing at the Aberdare mini market and the allocation of resources as well as space based upon projections and market research. Decision making entails utilizing a checklist of steps to assist in arriving at the most viable selection based upon a consideration of factors, facts, influences and alternative options. The following are decision-making procedures to aid in determining what courses of action to take: Pareto Analysis This technique helps to select the most effective changes through following the courses of action that will yield the largest benefits. The technique entails listing the changes that could be made and grouping them into changes that are related. The list items are scored by the basis of profit, customer satisfaction or other titles basing the scores on the profit generated or reduction in complaints, to utilize and example of the two possibilities indicated. In this manner attention is paid to those items with the highest scores (Reh, 2004)[6]. Paired Comparison Through this technique the importance of options that are relative to each other is worked out. The methodology aids in setting priorities when resources are subject to conflicting demands. Placing options on a grid permits the varied options to be compared and then numbered ranging from 0, representing no difference, through 3 which represents major difference(s) are assigned. These values are converted to percentages of the total score (Marsh et al, 2003)[7]. Grid Analysis The utilization of a grid analysis is employed when there are a number of good possibilities or alternatives. The list of options is placed into rows and factors are put into columns. The relative importance of factors comprising the decision is worked out and shown as numbers. These are utilized to apply varying weights to preferences through the importance of the factors. If this is not apparent then ‘paired comparison analysis is utilized (Olsen et al, 2002)[8]. Decision Trees This time proven method begins with the decision that needs to be made which is drawn as a square. Lines emanating from this square are drawn to the right for every possible solution with the explanation written on the line. The end of these lines considers the results and if it is not certain a circle at the end is used to designate this with squares used for decisions. The process is continued until as many possible outcomes as can be thought of are considered (Monahan, 2000)[9]. PMI The Plus-Minus-Implications technique weighs the pros as well as cons of a decision. The process entails utilizing a table with the headings ‘Plus-Minus-Implications’ where one writes the positive (plus), negative (minus) and possible outcomes (implications) of taking a particular course of action (Hennen, 2004)[10]. If the decision is not obvious after the preceding then scores are applied in a subjective manner to complete the exercise. Force Field Analysis This looks at all of the forces as well as pressures for as well as against change. The process looks to strengthen those forces that support the decision and weaken the impact of those forces in opposition. The forces representing change are listed in one column, with those against change listed in the other, then a score is assigned from 1, representing weak, to 5, representing strong are used (Lewin, 1951)[11]. Six Thinking Hats Looking at a decision representing all the possible points of view is the basis for this technique. The method forces thinking outside of habitual styles and employs emotional, creative, intuitive, creative as well as negative views so that resistance to change and other factors are considered (de Bono, 1999)[12]. Cost/Benefit Analysis This relatively simple method entails adding up the relative value of a course of action’s benefits and then subtracting the costs that are associated with it. These costs may be one time or ongoing. Time is factored into the equation by looking at the period required for payback or breakeven as well as the costs (risks) involved (Gramlich, 1981)[13]. Budgetary planning represents actions and activities undertaken by a company over a specified period of time whereby the costs and results are contained in forecasts and projections that consider the factors resulting from the decision making process to arrive at the courses of action (Otley, 1978)[14] ). While decision-making is utilized to arrive at the answers or solutions, budgetary planning uses elements that have already been decided upon and worked into a coherent plan. Decision-making represents the phase when possibilities are considered, whereby budgetary planning entails utilizing elements that are parts of the overall plan for the business entity, both new as well as existing. 2.5 Proposals for new revenue sources The manager of the Aberdare mini market was approached by one of the departmental managers who suggested that an unutilized space in the General Groceries section could be used for photograph development, enlargement, etc. The manager presented the following facts to support the recommendation: Equipment utilized in the process of developing and enlargement cost  £18,000 with a useable life cycle of three (3) years. Operation of the service would entail hiring an additional employee at  £15,000 per annum. The cost of photographic paper would total  £0.75, and would represent 36 prints per sheet. The cost of chemicals to develop 36 prints would total  £0.40 It was suggested that a good marketing promotion would consist of giving customers a free album with each roll of film that was developed. The cost of each album was presented as  £0.80. Competitive pricing put the figure for developing 36 prints at  £5.50. In order to retain customers it was recommended that an offer of a free roll of film be provided customers for each roll brought in for developing. Film could be obtained from Fuji at  £0.75 per roll. In conjunction with the foregoing the manager of the Aberdare mini market prepared a demand forecast representing film development for the years 2005 through 2007: Table 8 Demand Forecast for Films Developed 2005-2007 Year 2005 2006 2007 Films Processed 11,000 12,500

Stellar Evolution Essay -- Astronomy Space Cosmos Papers

Stellar Evolution A star begins as nothing more than a very light distribution of interstellar gases and dust particles over a distance of a few dozen lightyears. Although there is extremely low pressure existing between stars, this distribution of gas exists instead of a true vacuum. If the density of gas becomes larger than .1 particles per cubic centimeter, the interstellar gas grows unstable. Any small deviation in density, and because it is impossible to have a perfectly even distribution in these clouds this is something that will naturally occur, and the area begins to contract. This happens because between about .1 and 1 particles per cubic centimeter, pressure gains an inverse relationship with density. This causes internal pressure to decrease with increasing density, which because of the higher external pressure, causes the density to continue to increase. This causes the gas in the interstellar medium to spontaneously collect into denser clouds. The denser clouds will contain molecu lar hydrogen (H2) and interstellar dust particles including carbon compounds, silicates, and small impure ice crystals. Also, within these clouds, there are 2 types of zones. There are H I zones, which contain neutral hydrogen and often have a temperature around 100 Kelvin (K), and there are H II zones, which contain ionized hydrogen and have a temperature around 10,000 K. The ionized hydrogen absorbs ultraviolet light from it’s environment and retransmits it as visible and infrared light. These clouds, visible to the human eye, have been named nebulae. The density in these nebulae is usually about 10 atoms per cubic centimeter. In brighter nebulae, there exists densities of up to several thousand atoms per cubic centimete... ...J. Stellar Evolution. London: Pergamon Press, 1967. Shklovskii, Iosif S. Stars: Their Birth, Life, and Death. Moscow: Central Press for Literature in Physics and Mathematics, 1975. Livio, Mario. Unsolved Problems in Stellar Evolution. Cambridge: The Cambridge University Press, 2000. Websites: http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astronomy_and_astrophysics Encyclopedia of Astronomy Terms http://imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/science/how_l1/spectral_what.html NASA’s Introduction to Spectral Analysis http://zebu.uoregon.edu/textbook/se.html Hypertext Book on Stellar Evolution @ The University of Oregon http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/starlog/staspe.html#c1 Star Spectral Classifications @ Georgia State University http://oposite.stsci.edu/pubinfo/PR/96/22/pulsars.html How Pulsars Are Formed @ The Space Telescope Science Institute