Grand proposal Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Grand - Research Proposal Example Similarly, renewed economic growth stimulates political stability accordingly. Thus, it seems clear and defined that the economic development generates political development and vice versa within the development context of industrialized countries. However, for all studies into the subject of relations in economic and political development, they lack the objective evidence necessary to resolve this argument, and describe the subject accordingly (Rivero 17). Thus, this desertion pursues a cross-cultural study in three different third world countries, to evaluate the economic and political development through structured study and present evidence into the subject. Thus, the evaluable contexts in the study incorporate the countries of Chile, Peru and Bolivia, all which are neighbours. They all present a multi perspective of the subject; hence, the selection for the study. As the population continues to increase and voter turnouts remain constantly low, then the question arises into the subject of the realistic aspect in a capitalistic democratic government ability to maintain economic stability and development. Consequently, as the costs of political influence increase, the evidence within the firm level and economic aspects in the developing countries also begins to show. Thus, from these consequential effect statements, the question of the interleaved aspects of economic and political development in developing countries continues to raise simulating debates, which seem to have no end (Rivero 69). Thus, this research proposal will seek to evaluate and present evidence into the relations between the economic and political development as they influence each other from a developing countries perspective. Thus, the hypothesis for the research entails that, both economic and political development present vast evidence of aspects of interrelations, which cause them inseparable in determining and fostering a countries development process and

EADs-BAe merger case analysis (Corporate Finance) Assignment

EADs-BAe merger case analysis (Corporate Finance) - Assignment Example Even though the companies had not revealed benefits and a detailed business structure for the merger it is believed that negotiations with the respective states had not reached that level. The two firms were optimistic that the merger would have built a strong case to pass to the owners of the business. This discussion will address the valuation of the two firms using various models, the motivation and strategy evaluation, the response in the security market and corporate governance analysis to seek ways of making such moves successful and establish the reasons behind the failure. Strategy and Motivation Analysis The motivation of the proposed merger were based on global rivalry, share in the market by the firms, the level of complimentarity, variation in the industrial structure like offsetting of the monopoly. BAE was also believed to be the springboard that would enable EADS to have its biggest jump it craved for in the Northern American continent (Jane's Defense Industry, 1900; p . 75). BAE has a chief role in the manufacture of military equipment as it was noted that 95% of the BAE systems total sales were related to military sales. BAE also plays a vital role in the production of military aircraft such as the Typhoon fighter and the Tornado fighter bomber. The terms of the negotiations were that EADs was to offer 35 billion Euros which was 12% bid premium even though the new ownership was to be divided on a ratio of 3:2 in favor of the shareholders of EADS. In case the term was favorable to BAE it would shape the likelihood of the merger’s success. The US state would also call for disposal of asset upon the merger strategy which was set for security review. There are no current plans to divest any of the company’s operations in the United States as a section of merger with EADS according to the spokesman of BAE (Spulber, 2007; p. 3). EADS and BAE had a deal to have cost savings without necessarily giving details in regard to the scale and the manner in which they might be generated. Amongst the potential opportunities was the potential to accumulate more sales as the network by BAE in the export markets was immense such as ties with India, Australia and Saudi Arabia which would open doors for the EADS. The benefits from the merger were meant to extend over widening markets and that the firms were to target industrial benefits and operational synergy in all joint business. The likely synergy from the merger comprised of a minimum synergy which could be derived as the value of the pre-merger of both companies + the synergy = pre-merger security value + the number of shares for the post-merger. Taking S = Synergy and taking data on 11th September where the EADS share price was 29.30Euros while the number of outstanding shares as at 31st December 2012 being 8.21 billion shares, it then stipulates that the pre-merger value for EADS was 26 billion Euros. Conversely, taking the share value for BAE on 11th September, 2012 as 4. 75Euros and the number of outstanding shares on 31st December, 2012 as 3.59 billion, it applies that the premerger value for BAE is 17.05 billion Euros found as 3.59X4.75 Euros (Financial times, 2013; p. 1-7). Now; by taking the pre-merger security price = the average price of the stock prior to the merger to be EADS + BAE It concurs that

Expansion Of The Nurses Roles In Singapore

Expansion Of The Nurses Roles In Singapore There is no such thing as Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) in Singapore 10 years ago. However, Singapore started to expand the nurses role recently due to ever-changing of medical developments and technology, as well as the increase healthcare cost and waiting time within the healthcare industry due to ageing population. It posed a challenge to the healthcare models in Singapore to compete with other countries. A multidisciplinary team approach and the recognition of nursing expertise through clinical career paths are also important. (Chiarella McInnes, 2008). It is wise that Ministry has expanded the role of nurses with Masters Degrees. It can uphold nursing profession with advanced skills. The implementation of APNs can be an advantage to Singapores healthcare services. Critically analyze the development of role of APN in Singapore An Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) is an umbrella term given to a Registered Nurse who has acquired the expert knowledge base, complex decision-making skills and clinical competencies for extended practice (Ministry of Health, 2007). The American Nurses Association defines an advanced practice nurse as a registered nurse with advanced specialized clinical knowledge and skills for providing health care (Yarbro, Wujcik Gobel, 2011, p.1846). Rajasoorya (2002) observed that the role of APN in Singapore is formed with reference of APNs practices from United State while United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand took the similar approaches. The ability to make decision by having advanced knowledge with leadership skills, proactive in self-upgrade and actively participating with patients care management are essential qualities for an APN to have. Kjervik and Brous (2010) stated that APNs have increased in autonomy and authority over decision over patients care management compared to regular nurses roles. It crossed the boundaries of the traditional nurses roles. APNs are able to order a list of medications and investigations such X-rays if it is necessary for patients treatment. They are able to provide health assessment to patient where regular nurses doesnt have the full knowledge to perform. Kjervik and Brous (2010) agreed that APNs shifted and expanded their roles towards collaboration with medical personnel and specialist as well as providing primary and preventive care to patients, families and the communities. APNs are not like regular nurses who provide direct clinical care of the patients, but also discuss with the doctors and suggest alternative treatments that may benefit patients in terms of health and cost. In addition, APNs also collaborate with families on the abilities on managing patients illness so as to minimize the chance of readmission to the hospital. APNs also actively participle in research and health teaching to the communities to improve Singaporeans well-being so as to reduce the chance of developing chronic disease. The history of APNs Let us look at the history of APNs and examine how it can make an impact Singapores healthcare system. Arthur (2007) noted that Singapore nurses were limited by the highest qualification of being a Diploma holder without local career path to obtain higher qualification until recently, National University of Singapore (NUS) commenced the first Master in Nursing in Advanced Practice Nurse in 2003. Sheer and Wong (2008) noted that Singapores first batch of graduated APNs started in 2004 and Singapore established a registry for APNs in 2006. Schober (2010) agrees that the student who is selected by the employer or hospital can be fully funded by Singapore Ministry of Health during the course of studying period in National University of Singapore as well as to fulfill a period of bond after graduation after undergoing a period of 1 year of internship in order to registered with Singapore Nursing Board (SNB) as APN. Grounded in practicum experiences and guided by health care theory, policy, and research, graduates possess the knowledge and competencies to assume the advanced leadership roles required in future health care systems (Aduddell Dorman, 2010). The need of having APNs: It is important to understand why Singapore needs to have APNs. We will look into the reasons why the need of APN is important. I will covered in 4 terms. Completive, Aging population, providing better care and integrated healthcare, Completive Chia et al. (2007) labeled Singapore; including Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea; as Four Tigers of Asia countries with a strong competitive advantage by having highly educated and skilled workforce. To be able to compete with countries like Hong Kong in field of healthcare industries, Singapore have to upgrade healthcare workers. According to International Business Publications (2009), one of the economic development boards plans of Singapore is to develop into world-class medical hub for medical research, education and advanced care in specialized fields and healthcare services. With the pace at which health care is changing, we as nursing health care providers need to provide quality evidenced based health care, which is affordable to our patients (Bettin, 2010). Patients over the world would choose a higher standard of care if needed or affordable to. With the help of technology and the skills that APNs have, it will bring in a positive effect on Singapores healthcare industries, be it reputation or economically. Hence it is important to increase the skills and education of the nurses to attract the riches and the needy who in need of healthcare services, and most ultimately to save more lives by treating or preventing diseases. The introduction and increasing of APNs in Singapore represents a significant milestone in terms of nursing career path and expertise. It also contributes Singapore to form a world-class medical hub. Ageing population MCYS (2006) reported that the baby boomers reaches 65 years old in 2012. According to Kannusamy (2006), the need of providing better healthcare service and the nurses to upgrade their skills in the clinical arena is necessary to manage Singapores ageing population and chronic illness such as diabetes and heart disease and therefore, the role of Advanced Practice Nurse is formed. As people ages, people tends to fall sick or develop chronic illness, hence more people are dependent on healthcare services. >>>> Advanced skills to provide better care According to Schober (2010), Singapore provided the title APN is to retain highly skilled and potential nurses as well as to equip them with advanced skills and knowledge which can fill the gaps in the provision of healthcare services. With the skills and knowledge that APNs learnt in university, they are able to render specialized care to a patient where staff nurses are incompetent to perform these skills. Example : Wound nurse APN APNs plays an important roles as it acts as a bridge between nurses and doctors, as well as other healthcare professionals and services. Advanced practice nurses are taking their place in the forefront of the rapidly changing health care system, developing a myriad of roles in organizations that aim to provide cost-effective, quality care. (Jansen Stauffacher, 2010, p.3) By putting APNs into more discipline to practice, it relates to the vision of Singapores healthcare delivery. In Singapore, interest is growing in the advanced practice role for both acute and primary care settings, in an effort to improve patient outcomes with the least cost (Kannusamy, 2006). Intergated care of community and hospital (health services) APN roles is to collaborate The vision for transforming healthcare delivery in Singapore is to develop integrated Regional Health Services (RHS) to pro ­vide healthcare from prevention to palliation (Saxena, 2009). It means its aim is to try to collaborate from short term to long term care individual. It shown the urge Singapore needs to procedure more APN to increase the professional level of nurses in Singapore. This will not only increase the standard of nursing in Singapore but also recognized internationally. Sheer and Wong (2008) know that there are plans for Singapore to increase the number of APNs to two hundreds and also to include them into different fields like acute care, community care, mental health care and medical-surgical care. According to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Ministry of Healths vision is to develop 200 APNs by 2014. A discussion of the influence on nursing in Singapore Postive influence Great professional satifcation. There is evidence that collaboration among advanced practice nurses and physician colleagues improves the quality and cost of health outcomes and can lead to professional satisfaction (Maylone, Ranieri, Griffin, McNulty, Fitzpatrick, 2011). Relationships with other health care professionals are crucial because many advanced practice nursing roles involve a significant element of collaboration (Kannusamy, 2006). Expansion of roles in singapore Postive influence the needs of APNs. According to Ministry of Health (2007) in Singapore, the scope of practice as an APN includes diagnose, treat and management of illness; health education to the public; initiate and implement changes in health care services according to demands; provides education to nursing staffs and healthcare professionals and conduct nursing research. This role is registered and protected by the Singapore Nurse Board The Nurses and Midwives Act. By giving APN authority to practice The contemporary nurses role in relation to the issue Negative shortage of staff Lim, Bogossian and Ahern (2010) agreed that Singapore have much shortage of nurses in the workforce compared to Western countries and hence will contribute to increase workload. According to Health Manpower Statistics (2009), it indicated that there is an increase of about 12% of Registered Nurses between 2007 to 2009 in Singapore. Singapore plays an active role by having Ngee Ann Polytechnic (2007) introduced Nursing Course in 2005, in addition to Nanyang Polytechnic, where students graduate as a registered nurse 3 years later upon completed of the course. This may explains on the increment of Registered Nurses in Singapore. Changes in the health-care system, shortage of staff and increasing workload may also be affecting stress levels of nurses trying to adapt to increasingly higher levels of responsibility (Lim, Bogossian Ahern, 2010). This will affect how well an APN will perform after graduation. Singapore may need to think twice about the number of APNs to be increase. By increasing APN will only make shortage of Registered Nurses workforce even worst. If the solution is to upgrade enrolled nurses to registered nurses, who will take on the enrolled nurse roles? Singapore needs to increase the number of intake of nurses from schools. Negative Scope confusion Rajasoorya (2002) stated that in U.S., most often APNs may found themselves closely take up the role of the doctors as increase of APNs caused an expand of their practice nature. Doctor may fear and concerned about loss of power over nurses. APNs should be viewed not simply as doctor substitutes but as part of a new approach to address the changing nature of illness care (Kane, 2009). APNs are not necessarily the same as doctors of nursing practice (Kane, 2009). APNs are being trained for a number of different tasks. Some are specialists; some are generalists (Kane, 2009). Getting lack of support and collaboration from the doctors or surgeons for managing a group of patients, APNs may found themselves difficulties to fulfill their roles. Singapore need to consider by having clear and define roles between APNs, doctors, nurse clinician specialists to prevent overlapping and confusion of individual roles. Practice guided by the concepts of a conceptual model of nursing is more appropriate for advanced practice nursing than practice guided by a medical model (Ruel Motyka, 2009). Conceptual models are the foundation of advanced practice nursing and enhance nursing practice at all levels (Ruel Motyka, 2009). The use of conceptual models promotes professionalism which includes autonomous nursing practice, knowledge, and service (Ruel Motyka, 2009). The current and/or potential impact of the issue on the health care system. Conclusion focus cost effective, professional increase, integrated healthcare service, aging population. Lim, Bogossian and Ahern (2010) emphasized Singapore healthcare system focus on affordability for Singaporean on healthcare service by restructuring hospitals and the challenges Singapore needs to overcome like rising in healthcare cost and increasing public healthcare services expectation. Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) are taking their place in the forefront of the rapidly changing health care system, developing a myriad of roles in organizations that aim to provide cost-effective, quality care (Jansen Stauffacher, 2010). Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) are taking their place in the forefront of the rapidly changing health care system, developing a myriad of roles in organizations that aim to provide cost-effective, quality care Jansen Stauffacher (2010) said that in a rapidly chaning health care system, APNs take in roles to provide cost-effective, quality care to patient in a myriad roles in organization. By having APN in polyclinic for consultation for disease such as diabetes, it not only lowers down healthcare cost and also decreases waiting time for doctor consultation. Lacking of nurse workforce in Singapore to accommodate the aging populations healthcare needs, Singapore needs to continuously train more nurses not only to maintain the standard of nursing practice but to increase the standard and advanced their skills so as to cope with healthcare demands. Expansion of APNs workforce and practice to improve integrated patient care with heightened levels of safety and quality, and responsive to patients requirements both in hospital and in community. The implementation of APN roles is having a transformative effect on the healthcare systems of Singapore (Schober, 2010). witnessing a pride in the anticipated increased status for nursing associated with academic education and advanced nursing roles while at the same time watching some of the unanticipated struggles that occur with such a significant change (Schober, 2010). APN interns, as they mature in their role, are working in close partnership with physicians and are assuming responsibility for tasks that had been performed traditionally by doctors (Kannusamy, 2006). Conclusion end line. The APN scope of practice will continue to evolve to match the changing needs of the healthcare system (Wong, 2009). With the changes to and complexity within the health care system, advanced practice nurses need academic preparation in advanced care management of populations and leadership competencies (Aduddell Dorman, 2010). POINT TO CONSIDER Politics of nursing practice (Community at large, CLUTURE OF INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS, government regulation.) Power of nursing as APN (more control and directions.) Knowledge Singapore government SNB, MOH, ministry of environment, MOM, SHS Different perspectives on health care and health Image of nurses Nurse view as cleaning, maid, slave. As APN show different initiative. Legal issue re: APN, practicing outside nursing scope. Different perspectives on health care and health Advanced Practice Nurses. (n.d.). Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Retrieved March 20, 2011, from http://www.ttsh.com.sg/APN/ Aduddell, K. A., Dorman, G. E. (2010). The development of the next generation of nurse leaders. Journal of Nursing Education, 49(3), 168-171. Arthur, D. (2007). Towards an excellent health care system: Singapore nursing poised with 2020 vision. Journal of Research in Nursing, 12(6), 591-594. Bettin, T. (2010). Advanced Practice Nurse Forum column. Reflections on the DNP degree. Stat: Bulletin of the Wisconsin Nurses Association, 79(1), 7-8. Chia, H. B., Carolyn, E., David, R., Ping, F., Kuo, M. H., Lee, C. H., et al. (2007). Four tigers and the dragon: values differences, similarities, and consensus. Asia Pacific Journal of Management, 24(3), 305-320. Chiarella, M., McInnes, E. (2008). Legality, morality and reality the role of the nurse in maintaining standards of care. Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing, 26(1), 77-83. Health Manpower Statistics. (2009). Ministry of Health, Singapore. Retrieved March 24, 2011, from http://www.moh.gov.sg/mohcorp/statistics.aspx?id=5966 International Business Publications. (2009). Singapore Investment and Business Guide (6th ed.). USA: International Business Publications. Jansen, M. P., Stauffacher, M. (2010). Advanced practice nursing: core concepts for professional role development (4th ed.). New York, NY: Springer. Kane, R. L. (2009). The advanced practice nurse: an answer to the primary care challenge. Clinical Scholars Review, 2(2), 37-38. Kannusamy, P. (2006). A longitudinal study of advanced practice nursing in Singapore. Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America, 18, 545-551. Kjervik, D. K., Brous, E. A. (2010). Law and ethics for advanced practice nursing . New York: Springer. Lim, J., Bogossian, F., Ahern, K. (2010). Stress and coping in Singaporean nurses: A literature review. Nursing Health Sciences, 12(2), 251-258. Maylone, M. M., Ranieri, L., Griffin, M. T. Q., McNulty, R., Fitzpatrick, J. J. (2011). Collaboration and autonomy: Perceptions among nurse practitioners. Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, 23(1), 51-57. Ministry of Health. (2007). NUS Master of Nursing Programme. Health Professionals Portal. Retrieved March 24, 2011, from http://www.hpp.moh.gov.sg/HPP/MungoBlobs/318/187/FAQ%20on%20APNs.htm MCYS (2006). Committee on Ageing Issues: Report of the Ageing Population. Retrieved March 24, 2011, from http://www.mcys.gov.sg/successful_ageing/report/cai_report.pdf Ngee Ann Polytechnic To Offer Health Sciences (Nursing) Course. (2007, December 13). Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Retrieved March 25, 2011, from http://www.np.edu.sg/home/media/release/year2005/jan_mar/Pages/20050119.aspx OBrien, A. P., Arthur, D. G. (2007). Singapore nursing in transition: perspectives from the Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore. Singapore Medical Journal, 48(10). Rajasoorya, C. (2002). The Quest for Nursing Excellence. Singapore Medical Journal, 43(10). Ruel, J., Motyka, C. (2009). Advanced practice nursing: a principle-based concept analysis. Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, 21(7), 384-392. Saxena, A. (2009). Transforming Singapores healthcare delivery system: health care integration in Singapore (Vol. 9): Igitur. Schober, M. (2010). EDITORIAL: Singapore: At the hub of advanced practice nursing development in Asia. Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, 22(9), 449-449. Sheer, B., Wong, F. K. Y. (2008). The Development of Advanced Nursing Practice Globally. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 40(3), 204-211. Wong, H. H. (2009). Australian College of Mental Health Nursing 35th International Conference Mind to Care. International Journal of Mental Health Nursing, 18, A1-A27. Yarbro, C. H., Wujcik, D., Gobel, B. H. (2011). Cancer nursing: principles and practice (7th ed.). Sudbury, Mass.: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.

College or University Graduation Speech -- Graduation Speech, Commence

Members of the faculty, parents, guests, and graduates, have no fear. I am well aware that on a day of such high excitement, what you require, first and foremost, of any speaker is brevity. I shall not fail you in this respect. When we arrived at State College, all was new to us and we walked around looking up at everything in awe. As we have been preparing to leave, we were given the chance to see State College from the top of the tallest building, looking down on everything with nostalgic familiarity—inspecting the tiny people that bring State College to life, trying to imagine the countless buses we squeezed to get on, and the hours spent talking to friends. State College has meant something different to each of us, the good, the basketball. The thing about State College is that everyone is so excited to be here that the energy is palpable. There is a vibrancy and newness and sense of possibility, that carries us as students, motivates you as teachers and staff, and makes an impression on those watching us—and indeed we know there are many people watching us, looking out for the good, the bad, the basketball. We are a community diverse in thought and background: the kind of terrain that is never easy to navigate. Take it from my own experience, as I have spent my whole life learning to walk through such terrains—through countries, and communities, and schools that are divided and diverse and marked by difference—so I know how challenging and uncomfortable and sometimes exhausting that process can be—but I also know that it is remarkably rewarding, and powerful, but most of all, necessary. I know that graduation speeches are notorious for trying to impart grand messages on a sea of overwhelmed and overheated people, ... ...moment since we were born. When we left for college, they knew that we were still kids at heart. Now they look at the young men and women we’ve become and find themselves as speechless as we are. For lack of words, just turn around and blow your parents a kiss, give them a wave; it’s Mother’s Day after all, and they know the gratitude and love that these simple gestures mean today. Our families held us up when we were learning to walk, while we were learning to become adults, and amidst the uncertainties of moving on, they once again become our ground and the arms that keep us steady. The best friends we’ve made have become our family too and they will be with us through this uncertainty and others. For now, savor the goodbyes and welcome the new beginnings and remember that four years ago, we were doing the same exact thing—and everything has turned out fine.

Accounting for the IPhone Essay

1. Compare the GAAP and Non-GAAP data and discuss their impact on the financial statements. In comparing data, when Apple reported it’s Q4 FY 2008 financial results on October 21, 2008, it reported both GAAP and Non-GAAP economic data. Under GAAP, Apple reported quarterly revenue of $7.9 billion and net profit of $1.1 billion. Under Non-GAAP, revenues amounted to $11.7 billion and net profit totaled $2.4 billion. The difference between GAAP and Non-GAAP revenues and net profit were $3.8 billion and $1.3 billion respectively. Needless to say, such a large difference will have a huge impact on the income statement and balance sheet. Both financial statements would be greatly understated. Apple reported both GAAP and Non-GAAP financial data because of this large difference and they felt that the GAAP data did not correctly portray Apple’s financial statements. 2. Which method best reflects the economic reality? I believe both GAAP and Non-GAAP accurately reflect Apple’s economic reality. Each method just simply presents Apple’s financial data in a different way. Under GAAP, revenue from iPhone is deferred and is recognized on a straight line basis over a 24 month period. This type of subscription accounting is required because Apple chose to give future, free software upgrades with the iPhone. GAAP requires this to prevent companies from trying to over-inflate revenues by increasing sales with the promise of a free incentive in the future then not delivering on the promise. See more: Sleep Deprivation Problem Solution Speech Essay Under GAAP, the huge increase in iPhone sales is represented in the deferred revenue accounts and the cash from operating activities on the statement of cash flows. Apple’s non-GAAP statements recognize revenue from iPhone sales immediately, instead of in a deferred account, and is represented by the increase in revenue and net profit. To investors, the non-GAAP statements are more impressive because of the large increase in revenue and net profit. However, the truth of the matter is that both methods present the same information but in different accounts and at different times.

The Structural Compartmentaion of Mammalian Cells

The structural compartmentation of mammalian cells and the differing functions of these compartments. All mammals are eukaryotes and therefore have eukaryotic cells. These cells contain several organelles suited to a specific function they carry out within the cell. These eukaryotic cells contain a Nucleus, Mitochondria, Ribosomes, Rough and Smooth endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and various other organelles. Most of the organelles are separated from each other by a membrane, these membranes are based on lipid bilayers that are similar to each other.The organelles membrane is there to keep the contents of each organelle separate from the rest of this cell. The membrane consists of a lipid bilayer that may have channels in order to allow the transport of specific molecules which are needed somewhere else in the cell. An example of this is proteins produced by the ribosomes are then moved to the Golgi apparatus in which they are processed and then sent to the correct part of the cell. | Fig 1 – Diagram of a nucleusSource: http://cdn. nursingcrib. om| The nucleus is a large organelle surrounded by a double membrane nuclear envelope; the nuclear envelope contains many pores to allow substances such as tRNA and mRNA to move between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. The nucleus contains most of the cells genetic material in the form of DNA. The DNA and proteins that make up the contents of the nucleus is known as the chromatin. DNA stored in the nucleus codes for different amino acids and proteins to be produced, depending on which genes are being expressed decides what proteins are produced and ultimately the function of the cell.At the centre of the nucleus is a nucleolus which is where ribosomes are manufactured. A diagram of a nucleus can be seen in figure 1. The double membrane keeps the nucleus separate from all the other organelles and serves as a barrier to prevent molecules diffusing freely into and out of the nucleus. The outer membrane has a str ucture similar to the rough endoplasmic reticulum with ribosomes scattered across it which are used to make proteins in a process known as translation. The mitochondria are the site in a cell that generates most of the cells energy in the form of ATP.Oxygen is used in a process called aerobic respiration to produce lots of ATP. The mitochondrion consists of an outer and inner membrane composed of phospholipid bilayers. The inner membrane contains several folding’s forming a structure known as cristae. The cristae increase the surface area of the mitochondria allowing more ATP to be produced. The part enclosed by the inner membrane is the matrix. This matrix contains most of the mitochondria’s proteins. The matrix contains several enzymes needed to synthesise ATP. The ATP produced in the mitochondria is transported to other parts of the cell that require energy.The ribosome is an important organelle for protein synthesis, it is the site at which the genetic code is conv erted into protein molecules. It is responsible for a process called translation which converts mRNA into an amino acid chain. The mRNA determine the order of the tRNA molecules that bind to the codons. The order of these tRNA molecule ultimately decide the amino acid chain that will be produced and hence the protein being produced. The proteins produced detatch themselves from the ribosome and move to other parts of the cell where they are needed.The ribosome is very large composed of many molecules including RNA and proteins. The ribosome is composed of two sub-units, a larger one and a smaller one, each of which have distinct shapes. As protein synthesis is very important to cells there are usually large numbers of ribosomes found throughout a cell. Ribosomes are usually found floating freely around the cell however they are sometimes found bound to the endoplasmic reticulum. The endoplasmic reticulum is the transport network for molecules. It is made up of several tubes and sacs .The space inside of the endoplasmic reticulum is the lumen. The function of the endoplasmic reticulum depends on the cell type. It is comprised of a rough endoplasmic reticulum and a smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The Rough endoplasmic reticulum has ribosomes attached to its surface which is what causes it to be rough. â€Å"The membrane of the rough endoplasmic reticulum forms large double membrane sheets that are located near, and continuous with the outer layer of the  nuclear envelope†[1]. Proteins are synthesized in the rough endoplasmic reticulum.The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for synthesizing lipids, metabolizing carbohydrates and regulating calcium levels. Lysosomes are also found in most eukaryotic cells. They contain several digestive enzymes used to break down worn out cellular components and bacteria. Lysosomes are highly packed spherical vacuoles but have a large variation in size depending on the materials they have taken up for digestion. The lysosome removes any unwanted material inside the cell by secreting these digestive enzymes onto them. Lysosomes protect the cell from foreign bacteria which could be harmful.They operate in a low PH which is maintained by a membrane around the lysosome, this reduces the risk of the enzymes digesting their own cell. The Golgi apparatus packages proteins inside the cell and are then sent to their destination. The Golgi apparatus is found within the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. It is composed of stacks known as cisternae. â€Å"The Golgi apparatus is integral in modifying, sorting and packaging these macromolecules for cell secretion†[2]. Proteins synthesized by the rough endoplasmic reticulum are modified in the Golgi apparatus.The Golgi apparatus is also responsible for transporting lipids around the cells and also producing lysosomes. All of these organelles have different functions and structures but work together to determine the overall function of the cell. The amount of each organelle greatly depends on its function, for example muscle cells will contain lots of mitochondria to produce more ATP as muscles require large amounts of energy. Bibliography [1] Shibata, Yoko; Voeltz, Gia K. ; Rapoport, Tom A. (2006). â€Å"Rough Sheets and Smooth Tubules†. Cell  126(3): 435–439. [2] â€Å"Regulated Secretion (Golgi): The Movie†. North Dakota State University.

Strategic Competitiveness Example

Strategic Competitiveness Example Strategic Competitiveness – Case Study Example E-Activities E-activities are so helpful in learning. They enable the to easily and fast create flash activitiesfrom a library of customable templates. Many teachers and lectures mostly engage their students in e- activities since they tend to make their work easier (Watkins, Pg. 100). In this work, I am going to discuss the first e-activity we had. From our first e-activity, the Cox Cable Company is found to be the most completive. Its two primary drivers are; ability to bundle core service offer discounts and faster internet speeds, better picture quality through Verizon. The first primary driver is the most influential. Apart from high quality services, many customers are normally happy when they are offered some discounts since human beings are rational, and they always want to minimize the cost. The company’s ability to bundle core service and offer discounts is, therefore, what influences many clients and, as a result, make the company be the most competitive in the mark et (Watkins, Pg. 101). In determining strategic actions, the input-output model (I/O model) only concentrates on gathering the most important resources to execute the strategy dictated by the circumstances and limitations in the outside environment (Watkins, Pg. 101). On the other hand, the resource-based model concentrates more on the internal environment of a firm than the external environment. The model looks at the internal environment on bases of its resources and abilities. It is, therefore, the most effective in determining strategic actions than the input-output model which only focuses on the internal environment (Watkins, Pg. 102). Out of the above two models, the resource-based model is, therefore, the best model that can enable the Cox cable company earn average returns. Companies, therefore, should be advised to use this model in determining their strategic actions so as to earn above average returns.Work citedWatkins, By Ryan, â€Å"Developing interactive e-learning activities.† Performance improvement, 44.5, (2005): 5-7, print

Drowned Rose Essays

Drowned Rose Essays Drowned Rose Essay Drowned Rose Essay Essay Topic: Drown The Drowned Rose Show how different points of view in the family community are developed in the story and how it affects the reader response. The Drowned Rose by George McKay Brown Is a ghost story about a doomed love affair which takes place In a close knit community and Is pieced together through various pollens by locals. In this essay I will show how different points of view can influence reader response through characterization, theme, symbolism and structure. The story tells us about a young school teacher called Sandra Macmillan, who was avian an affair with a married man named John Germinations. On the isolated island which they live on the close knit community have different opinions about the young couples affair. One night Sandra approaches William Reynolds the new school master at the local school as she mistakes him for John. William Reynolds immediately attracted to Sandra and Is desperate to find out more about her. Later on In the story when Mr. Reynolds Is playing a game of chess with the local molester Reynolds had seen her ghost. One of the main characters who influence the reader throughout the story is William Reynolds. He is immediately attracted to Sandra Macmillan and is fascinated by her and introduces the reader to them main theme in the story which is love. Throughout the story he doesnt have anything negative to say about her. She was certainly a very beautiful girl, with her abundant black hair and hazel eyes and small sweet sensuous mouth. This quote draws the reader in straight away and makes the reader become interested and eager to find out ore about her. Also the use of alliteration Small sweet sensuous helps the reader create a powerful Image of Sanders beauty. Another character who influences the reader throughout the story is Mr. Hendrickson. He is Mr. Reynolds next door neighbor and is very noses. He did not approve of Sandra and Johns affair and has nothing good to say ab out either of them. Mr. Hendrickson was a stereotype islander, very gossipy, bitter and narrow minded. Mr. Reynolds, I consider it my duty to watch, yes, and to report to proper quarters if necessary. This shows that Mr. Hendrickson watched Sandra and John throughout their affair and felt that he had to, when really he Just wanted to know everything that was going on between the young couple. This antipathies how noses and gossipy Hendrickson Is. Also George McKay Brow uses symbolism to empathic Hendrickson character because Henderson only gossips over his garden wall to Reynolds and the walls surrounding him symbolism his narrow mindedness. Due to his disapproval and deedless for the young couple the reader becomes aware that one of the mall themes in this story is persecution as Hendrickson was strongly against the couples Sandra was the school mistress at the local primary school before she died and the children at the school add to the readers response. The children really warmed awards Sandra and enjoyed having her as a teacher. She would take them on nature walks to let them see the wild flowers and would take them to the beach to collect shells. She made all the children feel special and they became almost obsessed with her. Miss Macmillan Miss Macmillan Miss Macmillan The name scattered though the school as if a rose had shed its petals. This quote shows the childrens obsession with their old teacher by using the repetition of her name. The way in which the children look up to their teacher and how they admire her encourages the reader to eel sympathy towards Sandra because she was Judged and seen as a bad perso n. Also Brown uses symbolism to show Sanders character and symbolisms her as a rose. A rose is the symbolism of love and the color red can suggest danger. This shows she is in love with John and is also dangerous toward Reynolds as he could end up very hurt and broken hearted. This also shows effectively the theme of love. George McKay Brown uses symbolism again when talking about the children. The class- room had been murderous as a beehive. This simile shows that the bees are symbolizing the children in the classroom. This s very effective because bees are attracted to flowers such as a rose therefore this antipathies the childrens feelings towards their old teacher. The local minister Donald Barr is also another important character in the story. He is the complete opposite of Mr. Hendrickson, he keeps himself to himself and doesnt like to talk badly about anyone especially Sandra Macmillan. Donald Barr is the person who reveals to Mr. Reynolds that Miss Macmillan is actually dead and is not keen at all to talk about her and how she died. This is because he will not talk wrong about the dead. Never ask me for a partial account. It seems to me they were happy. I refuse to wrong the dead. This shows the ministers loyalty towards the people in his community as he refuses to Judge the lovers for what they did and will not talk badly about it. This makes the reader think the same, what they did might not have been the right thing to do but they should not have been treated differently because of it. As well as characterization, theme, alliteration and symbolism I also found the structure of the story particularly effective. George McKay Brown wrote th e story in flashbacks. By using this structure it allowed the reader to form their own opinion of Sandra Macmillan as it takes you back to when she was a school teacher and lets the reader see what she was like with the children she taught. It also lets the reader see how the events in the past have effected the present day. In conclusion to this The Drowned Rose by George McKay Brown was a very interesting story to read and had a few twists which added to the enjoyment of reading it. After studying the story I grew to like Sandra Macmillan although Mr. Hendrickson was so critical towards her and because he was very much against her made me sympathies for her as he is a nasty individual.

How to Conjugate Utiliser (to Use) in French

How to Conjugate Utiliser (to Use) in French In French, the verb  utiliser  means to use. This is pretty easy to remember because it looks and sounds like the English word utilize. French students will be happy to know that the conjugations are almost as easy. Thats because its a regular verb, so transforming  utiliser  into the French for using or used follows a very common rule. This lesson will explain everything you need to know. The Basic Conjugations of  Utiliser French verb conjugations are a bit of a challenge because you have to memorize a new verb for every tense as well as every subject pronoun within that tense. This gives you five extra words to study, but  utiliser  is a  regular -er verb. It uses the same infinitive endings as the majority of French verbs, making each new one easier to memorize. The indicative mood is where we find the basic present, future, and imperfect past tenses. These should be your top priority when studying  utiliser. Using the stem (or radical)  utilis-  and the chart, match the subject pronoun to the appropriate tense to find the proper ending. For instance, I am using is  jutilise  and we will use is  nous utiliserons. If you practice these in context using short sentences it will help you learn them faster. Luckily,  utiliser  is such a useful word that youll have endless opportunities to use it. Present Future Imperfect j utilise utiliserai utilisais tu utilises utiliseras utilisais il utilise utilisera utilisait nous utilisons utiliserons utilisions vous utilisez utiliserez utilisiez ils utilisent utiliseront utilisaient The Present Participle of Utiliser The  present participle  of  utiliser  is  utilisant. This was created by simply adding -ant  to the verb stem. Thats another rule you can keep in mind that works for almost every verb ending in -er. Utiliser  in the Compound Past Tense When it comes to the past tense, you have the choice between the imperfect or a compound known as the passà © composà ©. This one requires a quick construction using the auxiliary verb avoir and the past participle utilisà ©. When forming the passà © composà ©, conjugate  avoir  into the present tense appropriate to the subject. Then, attach the past participle, which indicates the act of using already happened. For example, I used is  jai utilisà ©Ã‚  and we used is  nous avons utilisà ©. More Simple Conjugations of Utiliser Among the other useful and equally simple conjugations of  utiliser  that you may need are  the subjunctive  and  the conditional. Where the subjunctive questions that the action will take place, the conditional says that its dependent on something else. While its not a bad idea to add the  the passà © simple  or  imperfect subjunctive  to your vocabulary, its often not a necessity. These are used only on occasion, but you should be able to at least recognize each as a form of  utiliser. Subjunctive Conditional Pass Simple Imperfect Subjunctive j utilise utiliserais utilisai utilisasse tu utilises utiliserais utilisas utilisasses il utilise utiliserait utilisa utilist nous utilisions utiliserions utilismes utilisassions vous utilisiez utiliseriez utilistes utilisassiez ils utilisent utiliseraient utilisrent utilisassent The one conjugation that does not require the subject pronoun is the imperative. For this, you can simplify your sentence from tu utilise to utilise. Imperative (tu) utilise (nous) utilisons (vous) utilisez

Strategic Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 3

Strategic Management - Essay Example There are many psycho-social characteristics that are unique in a very diverse organizational environment, such as values, principles, ethical and moral perceptions, or even inherent motivations that will predict whether the employee will act upon or resist the change imperative. Therefore, many organizations will try to develop culture through human resources practices, attempting to strengthen the bonds of socialization so that the organization maintains competitive advantage through human capital development. However, these actions are not always successful, requiring the strategic manager to become more integral in attempting to balance out overt socialization in groups. For example, when groups have a great deal of closure, their social ties become stronger. There is a phenomenon in the organization referred to as groupthink, where members of a group begin to fear questioning the shared beliefs of the group (Dess, et al., 2010). Why does this happen? Social psychology theory rem inds that when people consider an organizational employee or manager as being credible, attractive and trustworthy, they will tend to role model behaviors they observe within in-group members. Groups with very strong social connections look toward other group members as reference groups, those by which individuals measure themselves, their identities and behaviors. Therefore, it would be socially improper for a group member to openly and publicly discount the opinion of group members, leading to unproductive groupthink. This is highly important when studying strategic management and its many complicated responsibilities. In the decentralized organization, as one example, decision-making no longer occurs top-down but moves horizontally in a way that allows employees to be... This essay discusses one of the most fundamental elements of strategic management that is the development of an appropriate culture that is dedicated and motivated to achieve strategic objectives. This essay describes a concept in strategic management known as closure, which is defined as â€Å"the degree to which all members of a social network have ties with other group members†. An interactive strategic manager in the HR process as well as establishing control barriers between excess socialization within the organizational environment would seem to have the most effective outcomes based on sociological and psychological theory. No research materials are available that describe specific, effective methods to prevent overt closure problems and groupthink; therefore, these suggestions could be piloted in a strategic management model to determine whether it has effective balancing results and effective productive outcomes from employee groups. Many of the recommendations or sug gestions for improvements provided in this essay are based on theoretical premises, there is enough research evidence available on human behavior and transformational strategic leadership to justify attempting its inclusion into a relevant organizational model. This can be accomplished through experiential learning in training practices and adding interactivity to the multitude of responsibilities of strategic management. If these steps are piloted, it is likely that social capital will have its balances and provide a better path to strategic goal attainment.

Statement of Career Goals Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Statement of Career Goals - Essay Example I believe this noble phrase is relevant to my case and pursuit of excellence. After my MBA attainment, I still feel incomplete and seek to pursue education to the heights and exhaust management concepts. Besides, I am aware of the increasing dynamism in any social organization hence need to adopt culture of flexibility. In that respect, I strive to take up more courses related to management and grasp ICT concepts which has proved to be instrumental in the contemporary management practices. I strongly believe in ethical practices in line with the requirements of good administration responsibilities. My current enrolment for MPA (Master In Public Administration) graduate program is targeted at strengthening my ability to realize desirable results for any organization and assignment. I strongly believe that blending my theoretical knowledge with practical application in management will bring about the best in me. My central goal is to become an acclaimed public administrator with critical management

Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 5

Leadership - Essay Example In light of this she is still to give recommendations to the senior management on where the ‘additional’ officers will be deployed. Kathy’s team members are aware of this move and as a result they are distressed: an aspect that as earlier stated is affecting their work performance a great deal. The main aim for Kathy is to ensure that the team members’ work performance is within acceptable levels especially during this transition period. This paper will use a leadership approach to come up with how best to solve the dilemma Kathy has. Leaders are supposed to always be able to ensure that things are done through influencing others. For a leadership process to be complete there has to be the leader followed by the task to handle and lastly the ones being led: termed as followers. Â  According to Stojkovic et al. (2008) a leader has to be visionary, good behaviour, be charismatic, have a trait and above all manifest a form of leadership style. Leaders in daily duties are faced with situations that force them to act in a certain manner. Situational variables dictate what to be done and at what time. Some of the situational factors that are of importance to consider are the style the leader opt, followers’ behaviours and capabilities among others. Contingency theories therefore play a key role in guiding leaders on how to lead more so depending on situational analysis. Contingency theories indicate that there is no particular style of leadership that can apply to any given situation. This clearly stipulates th at leaders’ approaches to a demanding situation will depend hugely on the dynamics that the situation poses. The same case applies to leaders themselves whereby if one fails to change with a situation then the chances of success in a volatile environment are slim. Decision making process is complex and can be made simple by a leader’s ability to appreciate change in the environment and by approaching

Ethical Standards Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Ethical Standards - Essay Example The new code of conduct will act as a guideline for all the employees to follow, when confronted with a dilemma (Roth, 2005). The devised code of conduct will try to cover all the business aspects where any predicament can arise. Thus, code covers the matters of business conduct, marketing and sales practices, business gifts, relationship with colleagues and clients, insider trading, reporting measures and the use fo company or clients’ resources. Therefore, it is very important for every ECG employee to fully understand and abide by the code of conduct. A company’s image is affected by the manner the employees, within and outside the workplace. With ECG’s plan of venturing into international business market, acquiring rival firms and launching an IPO it is essential for the company employees to be on their finest behaviour. This will affect the company’s representation and in turn affect the planned investments (Johnson, 2006). The purpose of developing a code of conduct and policies is to ensure through mutual consent and understanding that these policies are implemented in order to achieve the ultimate target of integrity. The role of all the HODs is very crucial in this regard. The HODs have to become an example for their subordinates. Until the HODs follow these codes of conduct, it is very unlikely for the members of that department to do so. In order to ensure that these policies are adhered to at all times, the HODs should adopt the â€Å"lead by example† approach in this regard (Roth, 2005). The code of conduct clearly specifies the kind of behaviour which is expected from all the employees, irrespective of their stature in the company. Emphasis has been placed on integrity, honesty and trust which should be the foundation of any ethical code. The general business code of conduct lays down the rules for the employees, for the business practices and for the overall business as well. The code of conduct outlines the cul ture of the organization and provides the employees with a framework which will help them in their daily activities. The code also provides the employees with a framework by which they can judge their own behaviour and also learn how to interact with other colleagues and clients. A successful and positive relationship with our clients is essential for the success of ECG. We as a company have been proud of the fact that all out business activities are dealt with honesty, integrity and fairness. Since the relationship with our clients is so vital for our success, care should be taken with the information we provide to our clients, which is always accurate and never misrepresented. Even though client servicing is important, care should be taken when the company is incurring expenses on account of client entertainment or other benefits. These expenses should not exceed a reasonable limit and should always be approved by the finance department. This is made mandatory in order to increase transparency within the system (Lagan & Moran, 2005). Special attention needs to be paid to the marketing and sales department in particular. The marketing department is the department that directly interacts with the consumers. Therefore, the working of the marketing department is a reflection of the company’s image and policies. Documentation of the transactions is an essential part of the code of conduct. Employees are required to document every transaction which takes place between ECG and its clients. This not only makes audit very easy, but also helps

Written Assignment #5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Written Assignment #5 - Essay Example because of their association with big organization, and their capability to purchase and stock high volume commodities, act as a distributor of the product. Traditionally, wholesalers were believed to be just an intermediary in the channel with no value addition to the customers, because of the common perception that value addition is done by the retailers only, who sell the final goods. But in the context of ever changing marketing scenario, this has been modified. Customers demand more and have higher expectations from their suppliers, especially distributors. Out of stock for a long time after placing order increases the lead time which is not desirable and it may result in customer penalizing both the wholesaler and the retailer for the incomplete order. Today, customer loyalty is based on supplier performance. Performance is both in terms of quality and timely delivery of the specified products. Customers’ ever increasing expectation of the value added services provided w ith the requirement without any additional cost has been responsible for exerting enormous pressure to the retailers. Thus, in order to handle the requirements, wholesalers must step forward and take proactive actions in terms of close integration with the customers by simplification of the distribution process in a timely and cost effective way and must ensure that the customers are perceiving value added services as unique (udel.edu, n.d.). Potential of the Internet as an efficient and effective communication channel appeared obvious due to the ease of global reach; ease of access; enhanced interactivity; speedy and flexible transaction of large amounts of information in a cost effective way and maintenance easiness (Pyle, 1996; Jones & Visayasarthy, 1998). Modern wholesalers and retailers are dependent on internet in the following

Marketing of TelePacific Communications Case Study

Marketing of TelePacific Communications - Case Study Example It is evidently clear from the discussion that financial strength is one of the prime constraints of TelePacific which restricted them to promote the company across the world. Therefore, e-marketing will be an effective promotional tool to develop awareness among the people of the world. Moreover, the award received in 2010 has enabled the company to increase its annual revenue by 13% each year. Managing customers efficiently is an important competency of an organization dealing in the service sector. Maintaining long-term relationships with the existing customers and developing unique strategies will enable the company to retain and to attract new clients. Involving customers in planning future strategies of the company will influence them in maintaining long-term relationships with the organization. Moreover, employee satisfaction is also an important factor which should be dealt sophistically. The employees are the core communicators who interact with the customers. Thus, job sati sfaction and continued training programs are essential for enhancing the relationship among the customers and the organization. Managing the Customer Relationship TelePacific is renowned for providing excellent services to its customers along with quality network coverage. In order to measure the performances of their employees the company has implemented various metrics which create accountability and visibility across the organization. The metrics are reviewed every week on an organizational level discussing relevant issues and developing customer experiences through their services. One of the core commitments of the company is to enhance the relationship with the existing customers and to introduce innovative products for attracting new customers. Thus, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is an effective tool for maintaining long-term relationships with individual customers. The strategies of CRM help create new and shared value for individual customers that leads to building preferences for the organization ultimately generating appropriate outcomes related to business results (TelePacific Communications, 2012) . The company enables customers for communicating with the top level management by providing them direct phone numbers regarding any issue. In addition, TelePacific can invite ideas from customers for jointly planning and developing values distinct to the class of customer. Furthermore, the management can collaborate with the distribution channels for enhancing individual customer satisfaction. Integrating customers’ suggestion into their technologies will develop their participation and involvement with the company. Moreover, e-marketing is growing rapidly as a competent tool for promoting a company and its products. Various strategies are being employed by organizations to attract the attention of the customers in order to promote their unique products and services offered. Social networking sites are quite common these days to promote c ompany’s products. The use of social networking sites has developed immensely among the younger generations and corporate. Therefore, generating awareness of the services offered by TelePacific through Facebook or Twitter will attract new customers. Furthermore, it gives the company an opportunity to interact directly with the individual customers and identify the common desires and evolving trends.  

Written Assignment #5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Written Assignment #5 - Essay Example because of their association with big organization, and their capability to purchase and stock high volume commodities, act as a distributor of the product. Traditionally, wholesalers were believed to be just an intermediary in the channel with no value addition to the customers, because of the common perception that value addition is done by the retailers only, who sell the final goods. But in the context of ever changing marketing scenario, this has been modified. Customers demand more and have higher expectations from their suppliers, especially distributors. Out of stock for a long time after placing order increases the lead time which is not desirable and it may result in customer penalizing both the wholesaler and the retailer for the incomplete order. Today, customer loyalty is based on supplier performance. Performance is both in terms of quality and timely delivery of the specified products. Customers’ ever increasing expectation of the value added services provided w ith the requirement without any additional cost has been responsible for exerting enormous pressure to the retailers. Thus, in order to handle the requirements, wholesalers must step forward and take proactive actions in terms of close integration with the customers by simplification of the distribution process in a timely and cost effective way and must ensure that the customers are perceiving value added services as unique (udel.edu, n.d.). Potential of the Internet as an efficient and effective communication channel appeared obvious due to the ease of global reach; ease of access; enhanced interactivity; speedy and flexible transaction of large amounts of information in a cost effective way and maintenance easiness (Pyle, 1996; Jones & Visayasarthy, 1998). Modern wholesalers and retailers are dependent on internet in the following

Understanding Good Customer Service Essay Example for Free

Understanding Good Customer Service Essay This is when they ask for something and they expect a certain level of service Customer satisfaction- This is when customers feel like you’ve given them a good service Main characteristics of typical customers- Typical customers purchase goods/services, make queries and ask for advice. Exceeding customer expectation- Providing good value for money, giving advice and information quickly, providing additional help and support and good discounts. Falling short of customer service- Being unable to meet customers’ expectations, unable to deliver services/goods and being rude. Different responsibilities in customer service Supervisor- training, day to day responsibilities, supervision and a source of advice Line manager- more supervision, more responsibility, and auditing. Customer service roles- Receptionist, shop assistant, delivery driver and accounts manager. Different kinds of information- Informative, instructive, directive, warning and safety. Common sources of information- Brochures, leaflets, internet, press reports and from your customers. Customer’s service experience is affected by the behaviour they receive from customer service practitioners Showing concern- Sympathy Listening- Nodding, saying yes Positive body language- Keeping eye contact Indentifying the reason for dissatisfaction- Faulty goods, no delivery. Apologising- Saying sorry, explain the reasons Remaining calm and in control- Not losing temper Typical customer service problems- Complaints, faults, deliveries and not fit for purpose Reporting customer service problems- To your supervisor, to your manager and to the supplier. Teamwork: To customer- Consistent service and effective cover for absences To organisation- Consistency and effective cover for absences To self- Help, support and an impact on motivation Organisational practices and procedures- Keeping accurate records, answering phones, staff appearance and dress, refunds policy and complaint handling. Importance- Ensuring consistent and reliable service, customer satisfaction, efficient operation and corporate identity. Reffering to someone in authority when? Outside own expertise, outside own authority, seeking advice and unable to deal with customer. Reffering to someone in authority how? Face to face, in writing, over the telephone and via text or email. Security of customer and their property- Compliance with health and safety laws, ensuring hygienic work practice and having a security alert. Security of customer information- Data protection laws and credit and debit details. Health and safety- Compliance with health and safety regulations, control of substances hazardous to health regulations 1994 and fire safety regulations. Treating customers equally- equal opportunities, racial and gender discrimination and compliance with regulations act. Importance of confidentiality to customer- making sure name, address, debit and credit card and details of purposes are secure. Importance and confidentiality to staff- making sure names, address’s are secure. Also making sure it is compliant with the data protection act- access limited to authorised personnel and computers need a password to be accessed. Legislation- Working time directive 1999, working with computers, equality act 2010 and the disability discrimination act. Effect of external regulations- organisational procedures and the trade body codes of conduct.

Analysis Of Gdp Determinants Statistics Economics Essay

Analysis Of Gdp Determinants Statistics Economics Essay The aim of our report is to identify the factors which affects GDP for any country. In our report we are analyzing such factors in relation to Indias GDP. The report will be dealing with regression analysis, hypothesis testing, mean, median, mode etc of such factors which are independent variables and their affect on GDP which is a dependent variable. 2. Introduction: The report revolves around an exploratory study. It includes analyzing the statistical data of Indias GDP and other factors like Employment to population ratio, FDI, population for the past 20 years. Our aim is to identify the dependence of above mentioned factors on GDP of India and results of the regression analysis. Here we take GDP as the dependent variable and other three factors as the independent variables. Before getting into analysis we look into the substitute measures of each variable used in the report for analyzing regression, hypothesis testing and calculating the mean and median values. GDP Lending Interest Rates FDI Population Employment to population ratio 2.1) GDP: GDP forms the dependent variable of our research study. GDP is an indicator of overall economic welfare of a country. It is the sum total of the final goods and services produced within the borders of the nation. In other words, summing up the consumption, government expenditure, investments and net exports results in the GDP growth rate of a country. It is considered to be a very important element as it helps in estimating the health of countrys economy. Calculating the GDP is not an easy task because of which they are left to be calculated by the economists. GDP growth rate of an economy is dependent on various factors like FDI, population to employment ratio, lending interest rate, population etc. Governments closely watch out the GDP as it measures the economic performance of the country. If GDP rises it means the economy has grown and vice versa. GDP is criticized on various grounds like it does not talks about the spending power, distribution of income or well being of countrys inhabitant. Formula of calculating GDP: GDP=C+I+G+(X-M) Where, C=consumption I=investment G=government expenditure (X-M) =Net Exports The independent variables (Population, Lending Interest rates, FDI, Employment to population ratio etc ) that we are using in the research analysis affect each of these above mentioned components. The data related to GDP has been shown in the appendix 9.1 2.2 ) Employment to population ratio: It is taken as an independent variable in our study. We attempt to measure the impact of this ratio on GDP growth in India. Employment to population ratio basically means the ratio of the total working age of the labor force employed over total population. Following formula is used in calculating the ratio: Employment to population ratio= Employed Persons/ Total non-institutionalized civilian population *100 This ratio does not bear underrating problems relating to unemployed persons and other discouraged workers that enter or exit the labor force. The data of employment ratio is shown in appendix 9.1 2.3) FDI: Foreign direct investment is an independent variable in our research report. We try finding out the impact of FDI on GDP growth rate. In simple words it is an investment made by one company in a given country in another company based or set up in another country. FDI has been a major source of managerial skills, technology, capital and access to market desired for sustained economic development and growth in the recent past. All the Countries are involved in inviting more and more of foreign direct investment to come and invest in their country resulting in rapid economic growth. FDI is considered to be an important factor in facilitating growth, however, it will result in growth only if the inflows are carefully managed and invested. The related data is included in the appendix 9.1 for the past 20 years . All the inferences related to FDI has been drawn on the basis of such data. 2.4) Population: The growth of population has always been a debating issue. There is no conclusion as to it is negative or positive for growth of an economy. Population and economic growth are interrelated to each other in a way that, population increases due to high economic growth leading to early marriages and hiking birth rates and checking on the mortality rates by providing healthy environment to the citizens. Higher population also depresses economic growth through diminishing returns. (Becker, Glaeser, and Murphy 1999, p. 145) In our study we attempt to study the impact of population on economic growth which is expressed as the real GDP per capita. The data regarding population for past 20 years has been included in the appendix 9.1. All the analysis related to it has been done on the basis of such data and various results has been drawn on such basis. 2.5) Lending Interest Rate: Lending Interest rate is the amount of interest charged by a lender from a borrower in case of loan being offered. A countrys real GDP and interest rates are interlinked in a variety of means. They have a direct relationship, i.e., high lending rate results in high growth for the economy. The dependence of GDP on Lending Interest Rate can be studied in the analysis of the study. The related data regarding interest rate is included in appendix 9.1 3. Tools used for research study: The statistical tools used in our research study with the objective of finding the dependence of GDP on various independent variables like, Population, Lending interest rates, FDI, Employment to population ratio are Regression Analysis, Mean, Median, Mode, Hypothesis Testing Steps involved in analysis: Our first step was to scrutinize and identify the factors responsible for GDP growth of a nation. Next, we tried locating data of the identified factors for the past 20 years. Than we tried finding relationship of various factors with the GDP of a nation. The data was than constructed and summarised in a proper manner to conduct regression analysis. SPSS software was used to conduct the regression analysis and hypothesis testing. All the data and factors collected are using the secondary sources, i.e., Internet and Journals. 4. Data Description: N i.e. the number of observations for our research is 20. There are two types of data: Qualitative Quantitative Qualitative data deals with categorical measurement and is not measured in terms of numeric values. For our study the qualitative factors can be like Market Risk, Business Confidence etc, which affects the GDP but due to their qualitative nature we overlooked them of the study. Quantitative data deals with the numerical measurement of the database. Relating to our study, the quantitative data factors are Population, GDP, Lending interest rates, FDI etc. We have limited our research taking in account only the quantitative data. Data can also be time series or cross sectional: Cross sectional data is the data for a given point of time analyzing the differences among the subjects. Whereas time series data is concerned with the data over a spread time course In our report we are using time-series data, for 20 years i.e. from 1991 to 2010. Regression Analysis: Regression Analysis means scrutinizing the relationship between a dependent and independent variable. After conducting an analysis, regression statistics is helpful in identifying the dependent variable when the independent variables are unknown. Dependent Variable- GDP growth of India Independent variable- FDI, Employment to Population ratio and Real Interest Rate The regression equation is: Y=b1X1+b2X2+.+E In the above equation- Y= dependent variable X1, X2 =independent variables b1, b2 =coefficients describing effect of independent variables on the dependent variables E=error term In our study, the equation looks like, GDP=b1F1+b2F2+b3F3++bnfn Where, F1 to Fn= independent variable factors Hypothesis testing: Hypothesis testing is the test of significance wherein we identify the likelihood that an assumption is true, and at what likelihood we would hold the assumption as true. The assumption made is referred as the Null hypothesis and is denoted by H0 and an alternate hypothesis is defined known as an Alternative Hypothesis and is denoted by Ha. The rationale behind this test is to hold null hypothesis to be true and then performing the study on the argument in question. Once the hypothesis is defined and data is collected and constructed, following steps of hypothesis are followed: A critical region of size alpha is determined using the sample distribution of the test statistics Using the sample data, identify the values of test statistics The last step is confirming that the value of test statistics falls under the critical region defined; if no, we accept the null in favour of the alternative hypothesis and if yes, we reject the null hypothesis. 5). Variables considered as independent in hypothesis and doing regression analysis In doing the analysis of various factors affecting GDP growth some of the factors which is been considered as the variables are FDI, Employment ratio, Population and Lending interest rate as they impact directly in the growth of GDP for any country. The factors are denoted by r and following relation between the factors as stated above and the regression can be explained under 5.1) Population (H1) Although increase in population has a negative impact on the economy of any country. However, such increase allows availability of labor at cheap rates which attracts the companies or firms to make more investment in the form of Foreign direct investment or FIIs that helps to give upward thrust in GDP. 5.2) Foreign Direct Investment(H2) It can be argued on the grounds of proven facts that Foreign Direct Investment has a positive relation for boosting the economic growth of any country which results in increasing the GDP of the country. FDI allows the money to come in the economy which creates opportunities to increase growth of the economy. 5.3) Employment Ratio(H3) It also affects the economy which indeed affects GDP growth as with the increase in the employment more expenditure will have to be incurred which in turn affect countrys GDP 5.4) Lending Interest Rate(H4) If the interest rate increases it will lead to less money circulation in the economy. The banks and financial institutions of the country will not able to lend money as the people will not be willing to accept because the increase in interest rate will attract more interest expense and hence will resist to it. This will result in decrease in the consumption which will bend the GDP down and secondly money circulation will also reduce which result in the fall in GDP growth. Hence the whole discussion can be summarized in the following manner-: H1- Increase in population lead to increased GDP. Hence it has a positive relation H2- Increase in FDI Increases GDP. It also has a positive relation H3- Increase in employment leads to increase in GDP. It shows positive relation H4- Increase in Interest rate leads to fall in GDP. It has a negative relation 6). Regression results 6.1) Employment Regression (Appendix 9.3.1) In this regression model, Employment ratio is an independent variable and on X-axis. GDP is a dependent variable and on y-axis. After doing data analysis of this model, we conclude that the regression equation for this is: Here, is an intercept which is 1.736 is a slope of this equation which is -2.958 Estimated value If employment ratio is increase by 1, there is decrease in GDP by 2.958. There is negative linear relationship between GDP and employment ratio. Now if we talk about correlation between these two variable which is R. = +à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡(.720) = +.849 In this + sign shows that correlation is positive and is .849 Now is .72 which shows that 72 % variance in GDP is explained by employment ratio. Now if we talk about this model whether it is good or bad, we have to check two condition. should be high In this is high. Hypothesis test: : ÃŽÂ ² = 0 (no linear relationship between X and Y) : ÃŽÂ ² à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚   0 (linear relationship between X and Y) This is conclude by t statistics Now, = -6.80 Standard error à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢value is .000 and we assume ÃŽÂ ± is .05 which is greater than p-value. Hence we reject . So we conclude that it is a good regression model. 6.2) FDI Regression (Appendix 9.3.2) In this regression model, FDI is an independent variable and on X-axis. GDP is a dependent variable and on y-axis. After doing data analysis of this model, we conclude that the regression equation for this is: Here, is an intercept which is 3.894 is a slope of this equation which is 0.029 Estimated value If FDI is increase by 1, there is increase in GDP by . There is positive linear relationship between GDP and FDI as the slope is positive. Now if we talk about correlation between these two variable which is R. = +à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡(.782) = +.884 In this + sign shows that correlation is positive and is .884 Now is .78 which shows that 78 % variance in GDP is explained by FDI. Now if we talk about this model whether it is good or bad, we have to check two condition. should be high In this is high. Hypothesis test: : ÃŽÂ ² = 0 (no linear relationship between X and Y) : ÃŽÂ ² à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚   0 (linear relationship between X and Y) This is conclude by t statistics Now, = 8.025 Standard error à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢value is .000 and we assume ÃŽÂ ± is .05 which is greater than p-value. Hence we reject . So we conclude that it is a good regression model. 6.3) Lending interest rate (Appendix 9. 3.3) In this regression model, Lending interest rate is an independent variable and on X-axis. GDP is a dependent variable and on y-axis. After doing data analysis of this model, we conclude that the regression equation for this is: Here, is an intercept which is 2.088 is a slope of this equation which is -1.066 Estimated value If lending interest rate increases by 1, there is decrease in GDP by 1.066. There is negative linear relationship between GDP and lending interest rate as the slope is negative. Now if we talk about correlation between these two variable which is R. = +à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡(.466) = +.683 In this + sign shows that correlation is positive and is .849 Now is .46 which shows that 46 % variance in GDP is explained by employment ratio. Now if we talk about this model whether it is good or bad, we have check two condition. should be high In this is high. Hypothesis test: : ÃŽÂ ² = 0 (no linear relationship between X and Y) : ÃŽÂ ² à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚   0 (linear relationship between X and Y) This is conclude by t statistics Now, = -3.964 Standard error à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢value is .001 and we assume ÃŽÂ ± is .05 which is greater than p-value. Hence we reject . So we conclude that it is a good regression model. 6.4) Population Regression (Appendix 9.3.4) In this regression model, Population is an independent variable and on X-axis. GDP is a dependent variable and on y-axis. After doing data analysis of this model, we conclude that the regression equation for this is: Here, is an intercept which is 3.894 is a slope of this equation which is 0.029 Estimated value If population is increase by 1, there is increase in GDP by 3.60 There is strong positive linear relationship between GDP and POPULATION as the slope is positive. Now if we talk about correlation between these two variable which is R. = +à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡(.819) = +.905 In this + sign shows that correlation is positive and is .905 Now is .81 which shows that 81 % variance in GDP is explained by population. Now if we talk about this model whether it is good or bad, we have to check two condition. should be high In this is high. Hypothesis test: : ÃŽÂ ² = 0 (no linear relationship between X and Y) : ÃŽÂ ² à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚   0 (linear relationship between X and Y) This is conclude by t statistics Now, = 9.031 Standard error à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢value is .000 and we assume ÃŽÂ ± is .05 which is greater than p-value. Hence we reject . So we conclude that it is a good regression model. 7) Conclusion The effect of factors like employment ratio, foreign direct investment, lending interest rate and population on GDP of India are considered as important variables which we have tried to explain with the help of regression analysis and hypothesis testing. By considering the data of past 20 years we have also calculated its mean, median, mode, Variance, standard deviation (appendix 2). We have one dependent variable that is GDP and four independent variables which are FDI, employment ratio, population, and interest rate. According to multiple regressions, the equation for the model is: Where x1, x2, x3, x4 are the independent variable, estimated value E(y) is expected by these variable. In our report, we have taken separate simple regression models Regression analysis cannot interpret as a procedure for establishing a cause and effect relationship between variables. It can only show that how much these variables are related or associated with each other. Regression equation tells us about mean value of y for given value of x. According to Hypothesis test, all four regression model is good model and it estimates the mean value for these independent variables with less errors. The models also shows the relationship between GDP and these independent variables and their effect on GDP. If value of these independent variables is increase by 1, we conclude how much it affects the estimated value of GDP. Estimated value of GDP is increases by 3.60 if there is one unit increase in population Estimated value of GDP is increased by .029 if there is one unit increase in FDI Estimated value of GDP is decreased by 2.958 if there is one unit increase in employment ratio Estimated value of GDP is decreased by 1.066 if there is one unit increase in interest rate Hence it can be concluded that all factors affects GDP and we cant estimate GDP if we dont have particular value of these independent variable. 8) Bibliography References Amosweb.com (2012) AmosWEB is Economics: Encyclonomic WEB*pedia. [online] Available at: http://www.amosweb.com/cgi-bin/awb_nav.pl?s=wpdc=dspk=employment-population+ratio [Accessed: 29 Nov 2012]. Anderson, D. and Sweeney, D. (2011) Statistics for Business and Economics. 11th ed. New Delhi: Cengage Learning India Private Limited. Databank.worldbank.org (2012) World Databank. [online] Available at: http://databank.worldbank.org/ddp/home.do [Accessed: 29 Nov 2012]. Investopedia.com (2012) Real Interest Rate Definition | Investopedia. [online] Available at: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/realinterestrate.asp#axzz2DS1wJc9k [Accessed: 29 Nov 2012]. Scribd.com (2012) GDP. [online] Available at: http://www.scribd.com/doc/81376677/GDP [Accessed: 29 Nov 2012]. Scribd.com (2001) FACTORS INFLUENCING THE GDP OF INDIA. [online] Available at: http://www.scribd.com/doc/84520340/FACTORS-INFLUENCING-THE-GDP-OF-INDIA [Accessed: 29 Nov 2012]. Unknown. (2012) [online] Available at: http://web.williams.edu/go/math/sjmiller/public_html/BrownClasses/162/Handouts/StatsTests04.pdf [Accessed: 29 Nov 2012].

American Independence Essay -- essays research papers

The British colonies of north America declared their independence primarily for political reasons to what extent do you agree with this statement? The original 13 colonies of the United States of America were in desperation of independence and the advantages of leading a long, successful, happy life. In colonial times words like ?tyranny,? ?enslavement,? ?entrapment? and ?slavery? were part of the cultural norm. These words were common place and often used to describe the British control over the colonies. Thomas Jefferson, the writer or the Declaration of Independence, stated 27 gripes which were a direct result of years of frustration, abuse, and neglect from Britain. The Declaration of Independence was an inevitable rebellion which stated their independence and was the beginning of the new era which would now be called, The United States of America. The foundation of representative government is the power of the people to make laws for the good of all people. King George interfered with that process by rejecting legislation proposed by the colonies, dissolving colonial ...

The early petroleum industry in the US :: essays research papers

The Early Petroleum Industry in the United States Ancient Egyptians used bitumen for embalming, the Assyrians used it in building, the Chinese for heating and lighting, and for centuries fishermen have used it to make their boats watertight. Naturally, man being what he is, was not content to let well alone, and soon petra- oleum (rock oil) and its associated products were being used in many delightful ways to cripple and annihilate his fellow men. The famous "Green Fire" was used in various forms for many centuries once it became known that when a mixture of petroleum and ground quicklime is exposed to moisture spontaneous combustion takes place. The flaming mixture thus produced was thrown by a pump mounted on the prow of a warship and the consequent havoc wrought on the enemy's ships can easily be imagined. Then oddly enough, the ancients knowledge of the properties of petroleum seemed to fall into abeyance and during the Middle Ages, and up to the beginning of the 19th century, petroleum was only remembered for its medicinal uses. It was to capitalize on this use that an American, Samuel Kier, decided to bottle the oil that seeped into his father's brine wells. He put it up in half pint bottles and advertised it as containing wonderful medical virtues. Another American George H. Bissell, saw his advertisement but was interested in oil for other reasons so, together with a friend, he leased 105 acres of farmland, near Titusville, Pennsylvania, paying $5,000 dollars for a 99 year lease. So in 1854 the first oil lease was granted. Having obtained the land, which he was fairly certain covered oil deposits, Bissell commissioned Edwin & Drake to drill a well for him. Drake did so and struck oil on August 27th, 1859. The first oil well had been sunk and a great industry had been born. Within a few months of the completion of the Drakwell, oil wells were being sunk all over the United States and within two years the country was exporting great quantities of oil. Simple distillation of seep and salt well oil was being carried out in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, by Samuel Kier who built a one-barrel still. He was buying crude by the gallon. Later Kier made a still of five-barrel capacity. These two stills for treating crude oil constituted the first commercial refinery in America. The five-barrel apparatus of Kier has survived and is in the Drake Well Museum.

The Hunters: Phantom Chapter 37

The next morning found them al back at the boardinghouse. After the previous night's rain, the sunshine had a fresh quality to it, and everything felt bright and damp and clean, despite the smel of smoke that permeated the boardinghouse and the charred remains of the garage that could be glimpsed through the windows of the den. Elena sat on the couch, leaning against Stefan. He traced the burn lines, nearly entirely faded, on the back of her hand. â€Å"How do they feel, heroine?† he asked. â€Å"They hardly hurt at al , thanks to Damon.† Damon, on the other side of Stefan, gave her a brief, blinding smile but said nothing. They were al being careful of one another, Elena thought. She felt – and she thought everyone else probably did, too like the day looked: shining and freshly washed, but slightly fragile. There was a lot of quiet murmuring back and forth, exchanged smiles, comfortable pauses. It was like they had completed a long journey or a difficult task together, and now it was time to rest. Celia, dressed in pale linen trousers and a silk dove-gray top, elegant and poised as always, cleared her throat. â€Å"I'm leaving today,† she said when they al looked up at her. Her bags sat neatly on the floor beside her feet. â€Å"There's a train to Boston in forty-five minutes, if someone wil drive me to the station.† â€Å"Of course I'l take you,† Alaric said promptly, getting to his feet. Elena glanced at Meredith, but Meredith was frowning at Celia in concern. â€Å"You don't have to go, you know,† she told her. â€Å"We'd al like it if you stayed.† Celia shrugged expressively and gave a little sigh. â€Å"Thank you, but it is time I get going. Despite the fact that we destroyed a priceless rare book and I wil probably never be al owed on the Dalcrest campus again, I wouldn't have missed this whole experience for the world.† Meredith grinned at her and raised one eyebrow. â€Å"Even the brushes with death?† Celia raised an eyebrow of her own. â€Å"Was there a part that wasn't a brush with death?† They laughed, and Elena was grateful to see that the tension between them had evaporated. â€Å"We'l be glad to have you anytime you want to come back, dear,† Mrs. Flowers said to Celia earnestly. â€Å"I wil always have a room for you.† â€Å"Thank you,† Celia said, looking touched. â€Å"I hope I can come back and see you al again someday.† She and Alaric left the room, and soon the rest of them heard the sounds of the outside door shutting and a car starting up. â€Å"Good-bye, Celia,† Bonnie chirped. â€Å"She turned out to be okay in the end, though, didn't she?† She went on without waiting for an answer. â€Å"What are we going to do today? We need to have an adventure before summer ends.† â€Å"You haven't had enough adventure yet?† Matt asked her disbelievingly from where he was sprawled on a rocking chair in the corner. â€Å"I mean a fun, summery kind of adventure,† she said. â€Å"Not al doom and gloom and battles to the death, but fun-in-thesun stuff. Do you realize we've got only about three weeks before it's time to start school again? If we don't want our only real memories of this summer in Fel ‘s Church to be one disastrous picnic and a horrific battle with a phantom, we'd better get started. I vote we go out to the county fair today. Come on!† she urged them, bouncing in her seat. â€Å"Rol er coasters! Fun houses! Fried dough! Cotton candy! Damon can win me a big stuffed animal and take me through the Tunnel of Love! It'l be an adventure!† She fluttered her eyelashes at Damon flirtatiously, but he didn't take her up on her teasing. In fact, he was gazing down into his lap with a strained expression. â€Å"You've done very wel , children,† said Mrs. Flowers approvingly. â€Å"You certainly deserve some time to relax.† No one answered. Damon's tense silence was fil ing the room, drawing everyone's eyes to him. Final y, Stefan cleared his throat. â€Å"Damon?† he asked cautiously. Damon clenched his jaw and raised his eyes to meet theirs. Elena frowned. Was that guilt on Damon's face? Damon didn't do guilt – remorse wasn't one of his many qualities. â€Å"Listen,† he said abruptly. â€Å"I realized†¦ while I was making my way back from the Dark Dimension†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He stopped again. Elena exchanged an anxious glance with Stefan. Again, stammering and having trouble finding the words to say what he wanted to say were not typical of Damon. Damon shook his head and col ected himself. â€Å"While I was remembering who I was, while I was barely alive again, and then while I was getting ready to come back to Fel ‘s Church, and everything was so painful and difficult,† he said, â€Å"al I could think of was how we – how Elena – had moved heaven and earth to find Stefan. She wouldn't give up her hunt, no matter what obstacles she faced. I'd helped her – I'd risked everything to do so – and we were successful. We found Stefan and we brought him home, safe and sound. But when it was my turn to be lost, you al left me on that moon alone.† â€Å"But Damon,† said Elena, reaching out to him, â€Å"we thought you were dead.† â€Å"And we did try to move heaven and earth to save you,† Bonnie said earnestly, her big brown eyes fil ing with tears. â€Å"You know that. Elena tried everything to bribe the Guardians to get you back. She almost went crazy with grief. They just kept saying that when a vampire died, he or she was gone for good.† â€Å"I know that now,† Damon said. â€Å"I'm not angry anymore. I haven't been angry about it for what seems like ages. That's not why I'm tel ing you this.† He glanced guiltily at Elena. â€Å"I need to apologize to al of you.† There was a tiny col ective gasp. Damon just didn't apologize. Ever. Elena frowned. â€Å"What for?† Damon shrugged, and the ghost of a smirk passed over his face. â€Å"What not for, my princess.† He sobered. â€Å"The truth is, I didn't deserve saving. I've done terrible things to you al as a vampire, and even when I became human again. I fought Meredith; I endangered Bonnie in the Dark Dimension. I endangered al of you.† He looked around the room. â€Å"I'm sorry,† he said to everyone, a note of sincerity and regret in his voice. Bonnie's lips trembled; then she threw her arms around Damon. â€Å"I forgive you!† Damon smiled and awkwardly patted her hair. He exchanged a solemn nod with Meredith that seemed to indicate that she also forgave him – this time. â€Å"Damon,† said Matt, shaking his head. â€Å"Are you sure you're not possessed? You seem a little†¦ off. You're never polite to any of us but Elena.† â€Å"Wel ,† said Damon, looking relieved at having gotten the confession off his chest, â€Å"don't get used to it. Matt.† Matt looked so startled and pleased that Damon had cal ed him the right name for a change, instead of â€Å"Mutt† or nothing at al , that Damon might as wel have given him a present. Elena saw Stefan give his brother a sly, affectionate nudge, and Damon elbowed him back. No, she wouldn't get used to it. Damon, temporarily drained of his jealousies and resentments, was as beautiful and intriguing as ever, but a heck of a lot easier to get along with. It wouldn't last, but she could enjoy it for now. She took a moment to real y look at them, the Salvatore brothers. The vampires she loved. Stefan with his soft dark curls and sea green eyes, his long limbs and the sensitive curve of his mouth that she always longed to kiss. Sweetness and solidity and a sorrow she'd had a hand in lightening. Damon, leather and silk and fine chiseled features. Mercurial and devastating. She loved them both. She couldn't be sorry, couldn't be anything other than sincerely, whol y grateful for the fat e that had thrown them in her path. But it wouldn't be easy. She couldn't imagine what would happen when this new comfort and friendliness between the brothers, between al of them, ended. She didn't doubt that it would dissolve. Irritations and jealousies were just a part of life, and they would build up again. She squeezed Stefan's hand in hers and smiled past him at Damon, whose dark eyes warmed. Inwardly, she sighed a little, then smiled more widely. Bonnie was right: Col ege was just around the corner, a whole new adventure. Until then, they should take their pleasures where they could find them. â€Å"Cotton candy?† she said. â€Å"I can't remember the last time I had cotton candy. I'm definitely up for Bonnie's idea of adventure.† Stefan brushed his lips against hers in a kiss that was as sweet and light as cotton candy itself, and she leaned into the comfort of his arms. It couldn't last. Elena knew it. But she was very happy. Stefan was himself again, not angry or fearful or grieving, but himself, the one she loved. And Damon was alive, and safe, and with them. Al her friends were around her. She was truly home at last.