Naturalization of Undocumented Immigrant

Prof. Alexandru November 18, 2013 Communications Immigration Laws Specific Purpose: To persuade my audience to Central Idea: The immigration system needs to be reformed. Introduction l. â€Å"Give us your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. † These words are engraved on the Statue of Liberty that was assembled in 1886. The statue was meant to be a beacon of hope for all immigrants that enter the U. S. Hope for opportunities, a better life, a better home. But can we really say that's what they are given?II. A big issue that has been focused on lately by the government is Immigration law reform. For this speech I have done research about immigration laws and how they affect undocumented immigrants. Ill. A recent study conducted by the Pew Research Center in Washington, D. C. has found that there has been an increase of unauthorized immigrants in the United States since the end of recession in 2009, which means there a lot more people that live in the United States that will be affected.This can also be said that everyone in California can be affected by these laws because we are a border state, which usually get a larger influx of immigrants. ‘V. Today I would like to tell you about the serious issues with present day mmigration laws and persuade you to help reform them. First I will explain what immigration laws are and their purposes. Then I will tell you about some of those laws, and how they affect undocumented immigrants and society. And I will end with why and how you can help to make a difference. Body (So what are immigration laws? ) l.Immigration laws were created to regulate who and what may come into the United States. According the National Association of Former Border Patrol Officers, this is to protect us in four different major ways: public safety, public health, Jobs, and national ecurity. A. Ever since 1960, creating laws based on public safety, is to ensure that immigrants that may be potential prostitute s, polygamists, sexual deviates, or criminals would not be allowed to cross our borders. B. For Public Health, there are laws that prevent contagious diseases epidemics or people with potentially dangerous mental diseases.C. To ensure our Jobs are secure, laws are created to keep immigration from depressing wages too much. D. And National Security – Foreigners who would harm the country cannot come here, but the definition of who terrorists, for instance. Now let's talking about some actual immigration laws) V. Immigration laws vary on circumstances and we have to remember that every law always have exceptions. Every law also has flaws. Now I'm going to tell you about two laws that I found alarming. A. The Center for Immigration Studies estimates that close to 400,000 US citizens marry a non-U.S. citizen. When a United States' citizen gets married to a person from a different country, there is a long process that the couple has to go through to prove their marriage and plenty of petitions need to be filled out to gain citizenship. A. l . The process and analysis of the couples were not at all alarming me until I ran across an article that went into detail about transgender spouses, who not only had to deal with the naturalization process but also the process specifying their gender.

Effective Speakers Essay

President William Jefferson Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States is a prime example of what it means to be an effective speaker. Although George H. W. Bush and Bob Dole were highly qualified opponents in the 1992 and 1996 elections, it was Clinton’s presentation skills and ability to work an audience that earned him his back-to-back terms in office. President Clinton â€Å"owned the room† from the beginning of his first presidential debate. Upon being asked his first question, Clinton walked up to the lady seeking answers, squared his shoulders toward her, looked her straight in the eye, and asked her to repeat her name. As soon as she responded with her name, Clinton repeated her name back to her and answered her question passionately and confidently. (Koegel, 2007, p. 06-07). Effective speakers can walk into a room, take the audience by surprise, and deliver a presentation that is both passionate and natural. A presenter does not have to be perfect, nor does the audience expect him or her to be so. According to Henninger (2010), making a mistake, forgetting a segment of your speech, or falling speechless for a moment is okay as long as your presentation has value. An effective speaker knows how to avoid gestures and facial expressions that point out his or her mistakes. Public speaking skills are not inherited. It is a talent and a technique that has become second hand to a speaker through a great deal of practice. Can anyone be an effective speaker? The answer to this question is yes; with sufficient knowledge, tools, and practice, anyone can stand up and â€Å"own the room. † Be Organized An exceptional presenter is one who is organized and an organized presentation is one that has a developed structure. The average human being has a very small attention span; therefore a speaker’s best speech is one that is short and to the point. At most, a good presentation only needs two or three main points. That’s really all the audience wants to hear anyway (Henninger, 2010). The audience is also more obligated to listen to a presenter who looks organized. First impressions are crucial when a presenter is trying to sell his or her ideas, services, or products. Thirty seconds of floundering before the audience can send a negative signal that suggests that the presenter is unprepared and can also create question as to whether or not the presenter is even confident in what it is he or she is trying to promote (Koegel, 2007, p. 45-46). A speaker only gets one impression, so he or she should strive to make it a positive one by looking and being organized. Speak Passionately A presenter must be passionate about his or her topic in order for the presentation to be persuasive. If a presenter is not passionate about the topic, then why should the audience even care about it? Many presenters are guilty of delivering lengthy presentations that painstakingly reinforce their topic. According to communication experts, the time on a presentation should be slimmed down and the energy should be boosted up (Layman, 2011). A presenter should be aware of his or her voice when delivering a speech. If one’s tone is droning and monotone, then the presenter can likely expect to look out into an audience that is either asleep or captivated with something other than the presentation on point. Speak up, speak from the heart, and speak with conviction. In keeping with Koegel (2007), a presenter’s voice is an outward expression of his or her passion. Engage the Audience A powerful speaker is one who can engage his or her audience. People do not particularly care to sit silently through an exhaustive presentation. Most audiences want to participate and be a part of it. One way to engage with the audience is to encourage audience participation. Meet with the audience before the presentation, learn a few of their names, and listen to comments that are being made. When delivering the presentation, the presenter can address these comments and call on audience members by name. Addressing the audience’s issues and demonstrating that time was taken to know them by name builds a relationship with the audience. It is significantly important to make eye contact with the audience as well. By looking people in the eye, a presenter enhances two-way communication as well as encourages and establishes trust and a congenial give and take relationship (Downey, 2011). Many speakers have been given the advice at one time or another to find an inanimate object, such as the wall in the back of the room, and focus in on it when delivering a presentation. By looking over the audience, the presenter can alleviate the anxiety that he or she may be experiencing, correct? Unfortunately, the wall in the back of the room is not going to be the one making the business decisions that day. The audience makes the decisions and if a speaker cannot talk to the audience, then the audience will more than likely seek business with someone who can. Act Natural An exceptional speaker always appears natural. If the speaker looks confidant and relaxed, then the audience will be relaxed. A presenter should stray from giving formal presentations overflowing with facts and statistics; try leaning towards a style that is more conversational, engaging, and full of illustrative stories and current events that relate to one’s topic. Telling a story or beginning a presentation with an anecdote is a good way to break the ice, ease a presenter’s anxiety, and engage the audience at the same time because telling stories is something that comes naturally to humans. However, be sure that the story or anecdote flows with the topic on point. An effective presentation should not sound scripted. Writing out the presentation is okay, but the speaker must then fight the temptation to read it word for word. The written word does not flow nor does it have the same approach as the spoken word. If a presenter feels obligated to write out his or her presentation and follow scripts, then he or she should be sure to lose the official tone and write in the manner that he or she speaks (Koegel, 2007, p. 122). Understand the Audience An effective speaker is one who can connect with his or her audience. According to Koegel (2007), understanding the business, issues, and concerns of the audience is an excellent way to achieve this goal. Before pitching a sales presentation, a presenter should research and thoroughly understand his audience. There are a number of ways one can achieve this, such as researching the company’s website to understand a firm’s morals, beliefs and objectives or another option would be to speak with employees within the organization prior to a meeting. As you present, you should look for opportunities to add value. Researching and understanding your audience is imperative and can present opportunities in which value can be added. An organization is more likely to listen and do business with a speaker who has demonstrated his or her knowledge of the company more so than a salesperson whose only preference is to acquire another sale. Once a speaker becomes familiar with the wants and needs of the audience, the presentation becomes much easier to craft (Mackay, 2011). Practice to Improve Humans are creatures of habit. The human body seeks comfort when placed in an uncomfortable situation. An example of this can be putting one’s hands in his or her pockets or looking down towards the floor. These minute gestures speak on behalf of the presenter and inform the audience that the speaker is uneasy about something. Without practice, a speaker cannot improve on these habits. There are many opportunities during the day to put into practice various speaking techniques. These skills should be practiced during one’s daily routine and not in â€Å"live† win-or-lose situations (Koegel, 2007, p. 6). If a speaker is in need of further assistance, he or she can hire a presentation coach. Effective speaking is not something one inherits at birth; it is a talent that is achieved through hard work and consistent practice. There is no reason to feel ashamed for asking for external help. Baseball great Hank Aaron batted cross handed until a batting coach corrected his style that led him to break Babe Ruth’s home run record. To Aaron and his colleagues, his hitting style before was satisfactory, yet it is often easier and beneficial to receive constructive criticism from outsiders instead of one’s own employees or colleagues (Porro, 2011). The point of this story is that even when someone is good at something already, that person is still not perfect. Practice, whether it is on one’s own time or through the assistance of a presentation coach, may not make a presenter a perfect speaker, but it opens the door for improvement and will make delivering a speech second nature to the presenter. By allowing one’s self to practice these techniques, it is then that the speaker becomes effective.

Law Commission Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Law Commission - Essay Example It may be stated that while legal entitlement may not be as clear cut in a cohabitation agreement as they are in a marital relationship, many of the same issues occur in both types of relationships. Since it is largely women who are the primary caretakers and providers of non financial components of a partnership, their interests cannot be ignored. Unless some of the marital provisions on divorce and inheritance of property are also enforced in cohabitation relationships, inequity will be generated, because such a relationship will provide further incentive for economically stronger cohabiting partners to derive the benefits of support from their partner without making financial provision as would be legally required in a marriage, thereby providing an undue advantage to one party at the expense of the other. Therefore in conclusion, the Law Commission’s proposal to introduce a fresh scheme for financial relief for cohabitees is to be welcomed, however care must be taken to ensure that the rights of the weaker partners are preserved in allocating financial relief on disposition of property. Moreover, couples without children must also be included within the scope of relief to be provided under the new schemes for cohabitees.

Accounting for Decision Makers -Discussion Question Assignment

Accounting for Decision Makers -Discussion Question - Assignment Example The major weakness of Rio Valley involves low levels of net income. In 2014, the net income was $1,425,000. This is very low when compared to the revenue amounts in 2014 of $5,100,000. The low net income explains that the operating expenses form a huge proportion. The company should thus adopt strategies that ensure financial efficiency. One example entails, adopting production technology that minimizes labor requirements, and thus reduces labor costs like salaries, motivation, retirement, and training expenses. One common size measure utilized in analyzing dollar amounts is the percentage increase in sales, based on 2010 as the base years. The sales level in 2014 is $5,100,000. This sales level illustrates 127.5% increase in the 2010 value of $4,000,000 (Al & Wayne, 2015). 127.5% of $4,000,000 = $5,100,000. El Paso should thus invest in Rio Valley, due to the sales revenue increasing trends. However, adequate strategies must be utilized in minimizing production expenses and also operating

Judgment of Auditors Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Judgment of Auditors - Research Paper Example The auditor has to be independent and objective during all the instances that he has to rely upon his judgment to assess the impact of any evidence and should be careful that his independence and objectivity is not impaired. In the start of the audit, the auditor plans his course of work that has to be performed during the audit of any client. During the planning, the auditor accounts for the client business risk, operations, position of the client, financial health and other audit determiners. The level of work that is to be performed by the auditor provides the auditor to plan the work and allocate the working hours of the audit for which the previous year’s hours are taken as a base and a time budget is prepared for the audit to be conducted in a timely manner.   During the preparation of the budget, the managers, as well as the seniors, lay emphasis on the cost control because of the fact that their motivation is provided through the evaluation of their performance. The firm also communicates it to the seniors as well as the managers regarding the fees that the firm will obtain from a particular client and this is communicated well before the preparation of the time budgets so that the short term profitability can be kept in mind. This approach of the auditors impairs the judgment and therefore the independence and the objectivity of the audit as the auditors pay less attention to the audit and exercise lesser judgment and expertise due to lack of time and pressure to complete the work on time. The increased fee pressure tends to decrease the positive impact on the risk assessment of the auditor and that has a direct consequence on the auditor’s judgment which may later impair the objectivity of the audit.

Type II Diabetes Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Type II Diabetes - Research Paper Example This equates to approximately $1 of every $10 health care dollars spent caring for this illness. Like all other healthcare issues in the United States, this cost has only increased in recent years. Although the statistics in the U.S. are staggering, the International Diabetes Federation reports that of the ten most diabetes-prone countries in the world, seven of them are developing countries that don’t typically have access to the best treatment, medicine or have reliable reporting techniques to be able to track the illness. Diabetes increases an individual’s risks of stroke and heart disease as well as present a number of other health problems. â€Å"These life-threatening consequences strike people with diabetes more than twice as often as they do others† (American Diabetes Association, 2006). Other complications associated with diabetes include kidney disease, blindness, and the threat of amputations. â€Å"In some countries in the Caribbean and the Middle Ea st, the percentage of the diabetic population ranges from 12 to 20 percent† (Dorfman, 2007). Regardless of one’s position within the medical profession, one should have knowledge of this illness and the way in which it can affect patient health. Insulin is the primary factor involved in diabetes. A healthy body produces insulin as a means of managing the levels of glucose within the bloodstream. Glucose is a simple sugar that enters the body through consumed food and makes its way into red blood cells as one of the body’s primary sources of energy. In a healthy body, the levels of glucose remain relatively constant, giving the individual a stable source of energy throughout the day. This is accomplished through the production of glucagons and insulin, both specific forms of hormones produced by the pancreas. The insulin acts as a regulator of glucose, preventing it from disproportionate increases. Type II diabetes refers to ‘non-insulin-dependent’ or

At the instructions box Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

At the instructions box - Essay Example ERM’s role within organizations is the provision of a reliable framework under which the methods and the processes essential in the management of risks are outlined. Expounding the same, it is a reliable tool expressing clearly the organizational objectives putting into consideration a balance between the potential risks and their rewards (Barton et al., 2002). In its capacity, the primary importance of ERM in business premises is the provision of an assurance that eventually enables organizations to effectively control the risks and maximize opportunities. As a case example risk management at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) reveals that if done and managed effectively, ERM impacts significantly in value addition, sound response to change as well as maintaining a steady improvement and enhancing adequate response to changes (Simkins & Ramirez, 2008). Although it cannot be quantified numerically, the assumption of ERM inclusion in any organization is expected to have a negative impact since a robust framework that decisions can be based upon is not provided. In turn, risk management becomes a challenge, as there is no reliable tool to balance and mitigate the process. Internal audit relevance in enterprise-wide management is embedded on three categories of roles, which are distinct, and the executive should remain aware of. The first category concerning ERM embarks on assurance, followed by risk management evaluation while the third category involves the management review of the key risks (Institute, 2004). As an indispensable part under ERM, internal auditing serves as a consultant and in turn; the physical duty to manage risks is left as a management’s responsibility. The relevance of the distinctions is providing a controlled process under which the management will be helped to set up and improve the crucial processes. It serves more of an advisory as opposed to actual risk

New product development is the key to 'Apple's marketing success Coursework

New product development is the key to 'Apple's marketing success. DISCUSS - Coursework Example ounced the launch of iBooks 2 for iPad which would feature iBooks textbooks, iTunes U application for iPhone, iPad and for iPod touch (Apple Inc-a, 2012). Apple aims to bring the best experience for its customers through its product and services. The business strategy of Apple is to leverage the unique abilities of designing and developing the company’s own operating system, software and hardware in order to provide its customers with superior products and innovative designs. The company believes in innovation which is the key strategy for the success of the company; as a result, Apple invests in its research and development in order to introduce new and innovative products. Apart from its R&D, the company also invests in its marketing and advertisement as a part of Apple strategy to stay ahead of its competitors. Apple strategy also includes expansion of its distribution network to reach more clients and provide the potential customers with high quality of sales and post purc hase experience (Apple Inc, 2011, p.1). Any changes made to a product are termed as new product development. New products can be defined as products which are new to the concerned company but it’s not new in the market; there are products which are completely different from the existing product and form a good replacement; finally, products which are new, innovative and unique (Chaturvedi, et.al, 2009, p.1). Apple is known for its pioneer work strategy being one of the most innovative companies. New product development is one of the key strategies of Apple; it is through new product that the company has been able to taste success being one of the leading companies globally. Apple launches new product in the markets to stay ahead of its competitors, to continue the product life cycle, to give the customers what they need, and to enhance the strategy. According to Steve Jobs, new product lines tend to give people the products which are needed by the consumers. The company expresses its

Facial landmarking (mapping) on the FBI facial catalogue Literature review

Facial landmarking (mapping) on the FBI facial catalogue - Literature review Example Owing to the sub rosa nature of criminal activity, such measurements are often inaccurate, but indicative nonetheless. There are several sources used to gauge crime rate in a country, the first being the official crime statistics drawn from criminal records compiled by the police and law enforcement agencies. However, unlike health, employment and housing, police records are not exactly comprehensive and complete, as some offenses, especially victims under threat and experiencing humiliation (i.e. rape and abuse), are not reported. Thus, governments like that of the United States institute public surveys throughout the different states, along with collating hospital and insurance records to fill the gaps that official police records are afflicted by. Having both economic and social welfare in mind, international organizations like the United Nations (UN) and the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) gather and compile crime statistics from different countries to publi sh worldwide crime indices. One such index was created by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (2009) which features a statistical compilation of various violent crimes that occurred from 2003 to 2008, classified according to the continent and country where they occurred. According to the index, there has been a steady decline of at least 5 – 10% in violent crimes that occurred in the European regions, specifically those involving crimes against property. This decreasing trend in the crime rate can be explained by the widespread installation of surveillance cameras that occurred at the turn of the millennia. Today, surveillance cameras are set up in main throughways, business establishments as well as in households, waiting to record the criminal activities of unsuspecting wrongdoers and help bring them to justice. Facial Recognition Where available, surveillance cameras are invaluable to the police and law enforcement agencies as the video record narrows down their s uspect list to persons that closely resemble the perpetrator caught on camera. According to Enciso et al. (n.d), however, matching the 3D image of a person to 2D photographs in a database presents several problems because it involves the processes of visualization and analysis. The procedure is therefore prone to asymmetries and deviations from the norm. Additionally certain video surveillance equipment have poor contrast and resolution or they are mounted at an angle that distorts the face of the criminal. Adding insult to injury, criminals have learned to wear masks to hide their faces. All these hinder precise identification. The following sections discuss the methods, current and previous, used to identify criminals in 2D photograph databases as well as the technology required to automate 3D facial recognition. Identification Methods Anthropometry is the field of science that defines the physical measurements of a person (i.e. size, form, stature) for the purpose of studying hum an physical and functional variations. According to De Angelis et al. (2008), the identification of the living began in the late 19th century and early 20th century. Discovered in 1883 by Alphonse Bertillon and accordingly termed â€Å"Bertillonage†, anthropometric identification was based on the unchanging measurements and characteristics of human body parts. This scientific field therefore worked on the premise that if a database of measurements of specific parts of every individual was recorded, it would

Coffee and Tea Essay Example for Free

Coffee and Tea Essay Coffee and tea have existed in the world for a long time. Hundreds of years ago, people who lived in South America started to produce coffee, but the earliest drink likes coffee was made by ancient Arabian. They thought it was a kind of medicine used for stomach. After the 15th century, coffee was spread to other countries such as Egypt and Ottoman Empire by Muslims who were back from Hajj, while in ancient China, Chinese people started to make tea about 3000 years ago. Because of nice environment and weather, the first part of tea plants was discovered in southwest China. After, drink tea became an important culture of Chinese people, and tea began to spread into countries near China. Coffee and tea are similar, but different in some specific area. First, coffee and tea are similar but different in population. People from all around the world like them. For example, British people used to drink a cup of tea with some snacks when they have a rest in the afternoon. Western people enjoy drinking black tea, and some of them mix it with milk to make milky tea. Likewise, most people like drinking coffee, for it often tastes good. In China, more and more people began to drink coffee, and some of whom want to taste better coffee like blue mountain coffee. However, although these two drinks are both popular around the world, coffee is still drunk most by western people, while the most quantity of tea is used in East Asia. People lived in China, Japan, and Korea regarded tea as the main drink. Second, coffee and tea are similar but different in function. Both coffee and tea can refresh people because there is a kind of chemical matter, which is caffeine in both of them. This chemical matter can be used for nerves to make a person feel awake and lively. Also, some experts said that black coffee and green tea can help a person lose weight. But, in contrast, tea has some more functions due to another kind of chemical matter which can’t be found in coffee. This chemical matter that named tea polyphenol whose ability is to relieve the effect that is made by poison. Finally, coffee and tea have similarity and difference in origination. Both of them are made from plants. Thousands of years ago, people lived in Africa planted coffee trees in succeed, and now, Brazil has the most coffee trees in the world. In south of China, there are a lot of terraced fields that grow tea trees. On the other hand, people use leaves from tea to make tea, while they use fruits from coffee plants to make coffee. To sum up, coffee and tea are similar in their population, function, and origination, while they are different of their use in different place, their different chemical matter, and their different material. I suggest that people should drink both coffee and tea so that they can be healthier.

The Architecture Of The Mosque

The Architecture Of The Mosque Philosophically, the whole Earth is a mosque and by this principle namaz will be complete wherever performed. Initially there was no specific building to spread the message of Islam. The Muslim Arabs, being nomads, had a minimum approach and preclude the use of permanent buildings and everything they possessed had to be demountable and portable. Thus there was no specific edifice as such. Only a square area marked out by a line drawn in the sand was sufficient for communal prayer. The only basic necessity was that one side of the square had to face Mecca to indicate the direction of the prayer. Knowing the importance of the mosque to the religion of Islam today it is quite surprising to hear the ironic story behind its evolution. From the start, monotheistic religions like Islam were opposed to the idea of building specially designed to house the faithful for prayer. The mosques (literally meaning place of prostration), are the Centre of religious life throughout the Muslim World and develops as one of the major forms of religious architecture. In one of its most evolved forms, it has one or more minarets, arches, domes and is often decorated with elaborate tracery and Arabic calligraphy from the Koran. The evolved mosque forms are known to be some of the finest structures in Islamic architecture. The mosque is the only building type, which has spread throughout the entire Muslim world, from the beginning of the religion in 610 A.D. A mosque is a building, where Muslims congregate to pray. Mosques can be small, at a neighborhood scale or large, at the town/ city level. Such as a neighborhood mosque or they can be large and used by Muslims of a large town, or city. The large mosque is called a Jami Mosque. Jami means Juma or Friday. All Muslims are required to pray together every Friday at midday and the large mosques were constructed for this purpose. Mosque is used for worship usually for which there is a hall and open court, but could also have other functions like that of a Madarsa, a school for education and a community center. It consists of many architectural elements like, minaret, arch, dome, color, calligraphy and other decorative forms ornamenting the surfaces. Like all other liturgical edifice, the mosque has a standardized assembly of components, which vary in accordance with the size of the prayer (i.e. whether its for prayer for an individual or congregation-small/ large). There is a demarcated space, partly roofed and partly open to sky, varying in size and form, from region to region depending on the harshness of the climate. The roofed part is the prayer hall, rectangular or square in plan, supported by a trabeated structure or arcuated structure. The Prayer hall must have one wall facing Mecca (Qibla wall) with a niche or series of niches (Mihrab), which is the central and most decorated part of every mosque. The pulpit (Minbar) consisting of steps of varying height is stationed to the right of the mihrab and the imam during Friday prayer delivers the oration (Khutba) from it. The minbar is however absent in smaller mosques. A wooden platform (dikha) of single storey height is positioned in line with the Mihrab. From there the respondents (qadi) of the mosque repeat the ritual postures of the imam and give their response. Next to the Dikha, the lectern (kursi) is placed on which the Quran rests. Another most necessary feature of many mosques is the water pool or fountain intended for the prescribed ritual of ablutions (wazu) before the prayer. The five times daily call for prayer (azan) is heard from the minaret, a tower like structure, originally serving as more of a local landmark. A portal is created as a general characteristic of the architecture of the Islamic world as the concealment of the interiors of a building from outside view. Thus, most mosques are surrounded by high walls. With reference to architectural elaboration, the art of writing is taken to higher level of visual expression in mosque architecture. Certain calligraphic scripts are used in the Qibla wall and direct focus, helping substantiate the religious importance of the mosque. The writing often quotes from the Quran or is information about the builder of the mosque. Another mode is geometric patterns and vegetal forms used in screens (jali) and as surface ornamentation. Geometric patterns result from taking a simple form and replicating/ extending it in various directions to arrive at the final. The patterns in their dizzying and unending configurations connote unity in God. In the present time, modern mosques designs have been modified as per newer technologies and ease of building construction. The size of mosque has been decreasing due to lack of space in cities. The main components of the mosque have been reduced and elements have lost their original meaning and serve as symbols. The geometric patterns rich with meaning are devalued to mere decoration. The architecture of mosque has been changing to modern, to contemporary but to what end? 1.2 Research Question: How did local/ regional/ vernacular architecture affect mosque architecture in the past and how/ why does the contemporary mosque differ from the traditional mosque? 1.3 NEED IDENTIFICATION In modern society the mosque served as the single most important visible representation of identity and value. More mosques are being built today than any other liturgical edifice of any other religion. However for a structure representing one religion and a specific body of people, it is odd that it should be so varied in style and divergent in beauty. The reason for this lies in the mosque located in different parts of the world representing different perspectives of different clients. Each mosque is differing in traditions, climate, building materials, local condition of nature and diverse aesthetic and social requirements. As a student of architecture and representing a Muslim region from India, I share a keen interest in Islamic Architecture. And since the mosque lies at the very heart of Islamic architecture, there is a feeling of even a greater need to study this specific structure. Due to time and space constraints, there are certain limitations; hence, I will focus on contemporary Mosques Delhi regions as primary case studies. The architecture of the modern mosque is much at variant when compared with the mosque of the past due to globalization, advanced technology, tendency to go towards the sky due to lack of ground space, the use of architectural elements as symbols and reduction of patterns as surface decorations. 1.4 OBJECTIVES To trace the development and follow along the different established types of mosques, starting from Early Islamic period in the 7th century times. To identify the basic principles behind the specific vocabulary of the mosque. To study symbolic and functional attributes of the mosque and its evolution. To study various differences in space configuration, built expression, material, elements /components and technology between modern and traditional mosque. 1.5 SCOPE This dissertation is not intended as a historical survey of Islamic mosque architecture and therefore does not include all the fine monuments, which exist. The origin and development of the mosque would be understood only to get the bearings right to analyze contemporary examples. The general history of the advent of Islam in Arab, India and the mosque forms that evolve henceforth would be discussed briefly to build a context. From vernacular mosque form, the shift is to, what is built now- what is the vernacular of today? And hence what happens to the mosque and is the use of symbols necessary to be able to identify the building as a mosque? 1.6 LIMITATIONS It is not possible to study all the mosque architecture of all Islamic regions under the given time frame. Therefore, the study is limited to mosques in India focusing on the Northern region with a brief study of the contemporary mosque outside India. As result of time and space constraints, mosques of the entire Indian sub-continent will not be discussed in detail but only to form the overall context, with brief analysis of mosques of the South, East, West, and North. Detail account of the history of the one region is beyond the scope of this dissertation, thus only relevant pieces of their history will be mentioned. The focus will be on selected mosques, which reflect the most prototypical form of particular periods of the respective region. Thus, only a few mosques will be discussed which act as indicators of that particular architectural form. 1.7 METHODOLOGY The first step is to analyze the topic and define what direction this dissertation takes, and what the author wants to come up with at the end of it, the end result may be documentation, a detailed analysis, or a set of solutions. The regions selected for the study are not easily accessible and this dissertation will rely mainly on literature survey from secondary sources rather that from primary data for major sections of the work. Primary data would be collected through site visits limited to mosques in Delhi and discussion with experts. Secondary sources include literature survey. Literature Survey: This involves data collection, reading and understanding literature from various sources like SPA (New Delhi) libraries, Jamia Milla Islamia Architecture library and the internet. Analysis of nature of open spaces, the role of open spaces in the mosque and role of closed spaces is understood. After the collation process, the next stage would be, systematic representation of data. Interaction With Experts This involves opinion of various architects, discussion about what is happening in India and exposure to other related issues, along with discussion on primary case studies. Identifying issues, discussion on various issues and analyzing their opinion would be the major tasks. Primary Data collection Methodology for the study of Delhi mosque architecture: A brief account of the mosque architecture in Delhi is essential to contextualize the primary studies, as these were the immediate references for what is happening now. The first mosque developed in 11th century in Delhi by the Slave dynasty. Each changing phase will be studied by taking the significant mosque of that period. Though a personal visit would be made to these sites, information will be obtained through literature survey also. The mosques of contemporary times would be the primary study, with a complete analysis of the determinants of form. The process for case studies: Selection of case studies of new mosque buildings. Collection of information- basic plan and maps showing site surrounding areas, site boundaries, built mass and visual readings of mosque as landmark, materiality and building elements. Analysis of the chosen case studies. IV. Survey methodology for case studies Few case studies of contemporary mosques of Delhi are considered- one is under construction and the other mosques have been in use for considerable amount of time. This dissertation includes survey through discussion with the people who are users of the mosque. The drawing and other important data would be collected from the architects office. All photographs are taken at the site. After doing all case studies conclusion are drawn and recommendations are made for design strategies of the future mosque architecture. With the help of three examples of mosques, which are built in different time periods, I want to illustrate that architecture of mosques is in a process of complete transformation because global culture and technology is constantly affecting it, along with highlighting what helps maintain its identity. V. Analysis of case studies The case study is analyzed as per following: Built /open spatial spatial configuration (arising from basic needs of religion itself) Purpose and use of space. Visual expression of mosque- includes massing, elements, surface elaboration and materiality. Chapter 2 EARLY ISLAM 2.1. HISTORY OF ISLAM AS A RELIGION Islam began in Arabia, where the revelation was first received by the Prophet, but spread rapidly among the Persians and Black Africans, and soon thereafter among Turks, Chinese, Indians, and many other ethnic groups. Muhammad was born in the city of Mecca in 570 CE. At the time, people were busy with their business, markets were crowded with nomads and residents alike, buying and selling goods. His parents died when he was 6 years old. He cared for by his grandfather, and uncle, Abu Talib and eventually became head of the Hashim clan. Young Muhammad was a camel driver and roamed the peninsula with his uncle, to know about various cultures and religions including Christianity and Judaism. As idol worship had come to dominate Mecca, this contact turned out to be significant for later times. The Kabah itself housed many idols, including those representing the three main goddesses. He continued travelling in Arabia, encountering different faiths and customs, but riches did not satisfy Muhammad and he developed enemies in Mecca. Therefore, he decided to leave Mecca. And he started a journey. This journey was known as the Hijri. Muhammad arrived in Medina as the new leader, bearing tremendous responsibilities. While receiving communication from God and teaching his devotees, he had to protect Islam from opposition and find a peaceful solution to the local feuds. He was able to unite the feuding clans through his teachings the Jewish and Muslims prayed together. First time the prayer was read in the direction of Jerusalem, and after some years the prayer was read towards Mecca instead of Medina, as Muhammad instructed. For this reason some followers turned against Muhammad, and they created a separate group. Violence erupted, ending in the expulsion of some Jewish tribes from Medina. He established a new community with his followers and began raiding caravans bound for Mecca. These kinds of raids were not uncommon at the time, and they provided sustenance for the Muslims. This angered the Meccans, and a series of battles followed. Despite a few setbacks, the Muslims gained power and recognition. After destroying or converting his tribal enemies, Muhammad controlled the entire Arabian Peninsula. Finally, in 629 CE, Mecca submitted to the Muslims. Muhammad entered the city and headed directly to the Kabah. After circling it seven times, he smashed the stone idols. He spoke of the oneness of God, or Allah, and proclaimed himself a prophet. The spread of Islam occurred in waves. In less than a century after the establishment of the first Islamic society in Medina by the Prophet, Arab armies conquered a land stretching from the Indus River to France and brought with them Islam, which, contrary to popular Western conceptions, was not, however, forced on the people by the sword. Periods of Islamic history Mosques were built outside the Arabian Peninsula as Muslims settled in other parts of the world. Egypt became occupied by Muslim Arabs as early as 640 AD. Islamic architectural history can be roughly divided in to three main periods, during which one or more traditions were dominant: the Early Islamic (650-1050), which may be called the age of Arab Dominance; the middle Islamic (1050-1450), the age of Iranian Dominance; and the later Islamic (1450-1850), the age of Turkish and Indian Dominance. 2.2 Origin and evolution of mosque Origin It is a strange face of history that the Muslim tradition of architecture, productive of some of the worlds outstanding monuments, was first patronized by a people, the Arabs, who had none but the crudest notions of building. For them the finest architecture was a tent. In the starting of Islam, the Kaaba had only four walls in 608. In the age of the orthodox Caliphs (632-661), the eras brought nothing architectural to the conquered countries beyond what would serve their orthodoxy than by their taste. The building of their time ware utilitarian, without architectural pretense, and consisted of mosques (Basra, 638-639; kufa, 638-639; and fustat, 642) and government buildings. The first mosque was built in Mecca. This area was surrounded by pre Islamic buildings. The Kaaba mosque is the holiest structure of Islam. The earliest mosque is Prophet Mohammad house in Medina which was built in 622CE. This qibla wall was facing toward the direction of Jerusalem. Mohammad house is situated left side of the qibla wall. There were three entrances into the courtyard. The courtyard area was roofed, and the prayer was performed here. After one or one and half years, the qibla wall direction was changed, and was made to face in the direction of Mecca, as it is today. The Medina mosque had social, political and judicial functions, in addition to being the house of the Mohammad family. The religious functions were merged with other functions. Rules of the performing prayer were not decided that time. And in the Koran, the rules had not been given till now. In addition to early mosques of Medina and Mecca, now the cities have contemporary mosques, which are more complex as per the demands and needs of the people and their religion. After the death of Muhammad, mosques became important symbols of Islam. The Muslim conquerors established mosques everywhere. They built the mosque first and later built the military camp around the mosque. The Muslim conquered Medina or Mecca city and constructed mosque in the place. This became the center of the region of Muslim conquered people. Muhammads house was divided into hall and courtyard, which was surrounded by the columned verandah. This was an ideal mosque where the faithful conjunct for prayer, but also one for social assembly and political deliberation. A building without architectural pretensions, it was a hypo style hall and was deep, apparently having three aisles, divided by three rows of nine columns each. The most significant aspect this house offers to Islamic architecture of later was that it provided the orientation (Qibla) of praying area towards the sacred city of Mecca. Evolution The Masjid as a type of architecture intended for congregational prayer did not exist at Mecca before the hijra. In Medina, the stronghold of Islam, however, the two concepts of Musalla and Masjid came to receive distinct interpretations. The controversy among the traditionalists over the performance of prayer in either the Musalla or the Masjid was surrounded around the fact that they were structurally different. Kaaba mosque was the first newly built mosque of Islam and Abraham assisted by his son Ismail, when he found the order of Allah, built the existing foundation. They performed prayers together with their followers at this site. The site of Kaaba was also believed to be place of angles of Adam, erected by Allah and used for worship. The orthodox Caliph leaders were succeeded by the caliph dynasty of the Umayyads (661-750), who were held by many Muslims to be upstarts. After this the philistine people started the taunt type structure. The kaaba was rebuilt in 684 AD and was decorated with mosaic marble, which was collected from Yemen churches. Iranian architectural elements were also used in the building. The location of the mosque was decided by Prophet Muhammad when he did the first time Friday prayer there. He lived beside the masjid in Medina, which was use as doubled purpose as both a religious and political center for the early Muslim community. The Umayyad Mosque is an example of the form of mosque derived from the Prophets house, and was built in (705-715) in Damascus. In the 10th century, different types of mosque started to develop because of influences of local traditional material and techniques of building. Distinctively different types of mosque developed in the different countries. Mosques are usually ornamented with stone, marble, wood carving, patterned brick, mosaic, glass, murals. Contemporary mosques are built using new technologies of construction, and are adopted in most parts of the world, but it is remains traditional in layout. When Islam spreads out of the deserts of Saudi Arabia and into the cities like Damascus and Cairo, the rapidly expanding Muslims population required house for worship to meet their spiritual and social requirements. The mosques that followed are innovative and magnificent examples of architecture, original in their own way with reminensces of their culture. 2.3 Concept of mosque The Space: The mosque comprises of a demarcated space, partly roofed and partly open to sky. This proportion of covered and open space varies from region to region depending on the harshness of the climate. The open space is a court used for performing prayers for large gatherings on occasions. Local community mosque Chapter 3 Local culture and Variation in the Mosque 3.1 Vernacular variation across the World The Islamic world extents its boundary from Spain and West Africa eastwards to as far as China, in south- East Asia. It is therefore not surprising to hear that Muslims comprise around one fifth of the world population and constitute a majority of more than forty nations of the Middle East Asia and Africa. Islam holds a strong position in the world. The religion must not only be powerful by faith and logic but also have charm and beauty to attract such an immense audience to brace the religion and look upon it with awe. There is no other more suitable edifice to depict this elegance and act as symbol of the religion as well as the mosque. In the early day, Islam borrowed features from existing religious and cultural buildings. They gave them harmony with the existing and yet originality and proved beyond doubt that Islamic leaders not only possess the power of assimilation, but that of organization and adaptability as well. These borrowed styles were recognizable at first but the new styles that evolved started forming their own architectural identity and style. In the various new lands, the mosques were built by exploring local traditions and materials available. Each region had with its own craftsmen, their own building methods. Combined with extreme differences in climate, this gave rise to highly disparate styles and each region introduced to the world a diverse style of architecture of their own. Thus it is seen that despite an essential feeling of cultural unity which pervades the entire Islamic world, there exists an investable diversity in the styles of architecture of each region. Generally, the Islamic world had divide in to the eastern and the western regions where one gets influenced by the other. The eastern part of the Muslim world looks to the Persian Language and culture for inspiration. Iran was one of regions which is covered vast area including Central Asia and Afghanistan and spread into the Indian. Initially Iran had accepted Western architectural forms and stemming from Arab style. However with the emergence of local dynasties awareness was created. These divergent styles may be categorized in to five basic types of mosque. These are 1.the hypostyle hall with a flat roof and possibly one or more small domes (as seen in Arabian and African Examples) 2. Building with a very large central space often covered by massive domes provided with lateral support by the weight of hall domes (such as those in the Ottoman style) or having pyramidal pitched roof (as in Indonesia) 3. The layout with an Iwan (vaulted hall) placed each side of a bi-axially divided central rectangular courtyard (as developed in Iran and Central Asia) 4. The triple domed mosque with courtyard (typical of Mughal architecture in India). 5. And finally the walled Complex with a number of pavilions set in the enclosed landscaped spaces (as found in China). Case study of vernacular mosque 1. Great mosque of Djenne in Mali, Africa. Economical Approach (Regional Resources) -1907 The Djenne mosque of Africa is the largest mud brick mosque of the world. This is the famous mosque of Africa and boasts of impressive mud structures. Mud construction is a friendly environment material. Mud is appropriate according to the climate and is less expensive to build with, as it is locally available. Easy construction to create mud mortar and plaster. Palm wood use for the scaffolding and roofs. The walls are thick in size and tapered and provide protection from heat. During the day, the wall absorbed the heat of the sun that is released throughout the night time; this helps to maintaining cool environment during the day time. It also has roofs vents with ceramic cover, which is removed at night to ventilate the interior parts and spaces. 2. Traditional Kampung Hulu Mosque, Malaysia (1728AD) The traditional mosque design of south- East Asia has inspired the simple pyramidal layered roof, which becomes an important element of design. It relies on the roof over hangs with open serambi and the recessed walls to respond to local climate high rain fall Æ’Â   excellent rain water discharge. Wall openings are crucial in the mosque design. The wall openings are at the ground floor and segmented roofs wall level of four-and-a-half storey building. These openings induce natural cross ventilation and stack effect. The emphasis is on cross air ventilation. Recessed wall help tackle the problem of direct exposure from tropical sunlight, luminosity, solar radiation and this concept only works well to block high angle sunlight but not low angle sunlight. VERNACULAR TYPOLOGY IN INDIA Islam arrived in India via the Malabar Coast in 600 AD. It was just about the same time that it was spreading into Arabia. This is not surprising, considering the proximity of the two coastline trade links from pre-Islamic times. Arab merchants traded Indian spice with other parts of the known world. A number of them set up households in the Malabar as well, and it is through them that Islam was introduced into the Indian subcontinent. According to the legend, Malik-ibn Dinar- Mohammads message reached king Crangannur in AD 642-643 on Hijri 22, and the Chera king, Cheraman Perumal to accept Islam. Malik-Ibn-Dinar built the first mosque there. This was followed by eleven more along the coast. These mosques are some of the oldest to be established, not only India but within the Islamic world. South India Kerala Mosques Introduction- Kerala is in the middle of a mosque-building boom. Proposals for new mosques and the redevelopment of older structures have consequences on the urban landscape of this west coast state. Pan- Indian and pan- global influences sweeping across Kerala fuelled by migration to the rest of India and abroad may be the reason for this activity. Traditional mosque of Kerala (vernacular mosque) The traditional mosques in Kerala are different from those in the imperial and provincial Indo- Islamic architecture. In Kerala built form of the mosque derived enough from local domestic building traditions. In traditional dwellings like Nalaketts, the concerns of torrential rain and the need for the ventilation found expression in remarkable roof and wall elements, executed in abundantly available timber. In Kerala, the temple, churches and the Mosque (palli) take from the local architecture evolved from local climate, materials. The mosque was constructed under the guidance of religious leaders whose requirements were functional and simple, using the model of existing places of worship. A traditional mosque in the Malabar comprises of a rectangular prayer hall with a mihrab on the western wall (qibla) and enclosed verandah on the sides that serve as spill over space. A front verandah facing the street becomes a space that often leads to a front hall preceding the main prayer hall. An ablution tank is accommodated on one side. The entire structure is raised on a high plinth/ base, similar to the adhisthana of a temple. The tiled roof has elaborate covered gables. The structural system for the hall is of timber posts, beams, and brackets and often the columns are square or octagonal as in the temple mandapa pillar. Nakhudas or ship builders sculpted the mimbars in many Mosques, representing the very best skills in wood-carving. Mishkaal mosque Kuttichira Most of the Malabar mosques built in the 6th centuries are in Kozhikoda(Kalikat), Mallapuram, Thalassery and cochin. This time the basic building construction material was bamboo. A brief case study of two mosques in Kuttichira, a Mappila neighborhood in Kozhikode is presented here. In Kuttichira, centered on the sacred Kuttichira tankand all mosque of Kuttichira was construced with local timber material. Miskaal palli mosque is having a largest rectangular hall and tiled roofs at fourth levels- housing subsidiary space. The existing building is dated as 1578. It sits in close association with the tank. Not very far is the Jamaat Palli, the Friday mosque, on the other side of the tank. This is smaller in size and at am awkward angle to the narrow street, proclaiming an exact orientation to Mecca. Its front porch is marked by the heavily carved gable; matched by an exquisite timber ceiling, with floral, geometric and calligraphic motifs. It has two light wells, one over the ablution tank and another in side in the prayer hall. The forms of light wells remind us of the four sides. The oldest inscription in the mosque dates from 1480-81 covered on a wooden lintel on the ante chamber. CHERAMAN JUMA MASJID, KODUNGALLAUR. This is the first and oldest mosque of India. The first renovation of the mosque was completed in the 11th century. And later in 1974, the masjid president P.A. Mohammed Sayed added the extension, after demolishing the front portion of the old mosque during renovation. The oldest part of the mosque, including the sanction sanctorum, was left untouched. It was renovated again in 1996 and 2003, by adding extension to accommodate more capacity of 3000 people. While the oldest part will be restored, the desire for a grand size still remains. Surrounded by shops and homes. And a community institution is situated within the building. The original structure did not look like the mosques of the west and rather resembles vernacular buildings. This was double stored with sloping tiled thatched roof. This mosque also does not not look like the mosques of north India, with no calligraphy used on the wall and no minarets found with the mosque. The entrance gate is very simple and inviting. The main room is part of the original structure. This is a very small area for the mosque. Only 15 people can stand in a single row for prayer. The main room was built with old timber, with a big brass lamp hanging from the roof, which may have been a Hindu temple lamp. West JAMA MASJID OF AHMEDABAD Location This is the vernacular mosque of Ahmedabad.it is made of yellow sand stone.This is the oldest mosque of Ahmedabad, built during in 1424 the reign of Ahmad Shah. This mosque is laying in the Mahatma Gandhi Road of teen Darwaza,

Abercrombie and Fitch and the Moral Degradation of America Essay

Abercrombie and Fitch and the Moral Degradation of America This past month I made my last visit to the popular teenage/college student retail store Abercrombie and Fitch. Finishing up some back to school shopping, I was on a quest for jeans, and I knew the place to get them. My last two favorite pairs were from Abercrombie and Fitch, and I was planning on buying the same kind once again. Happy and relieved that I would not spend the afternoon ransacking the mall for one pair of jeans, I entered the store to the pulsating beat of techno dance music. In front of me was the teenage Mecca of what is truly hip -- the first thing I noticed were the life-size pictured that covered the walls -- half-clad muscular and glistening young men, frolicking around with pouty faced but beautiful young women who were wearing either size 2 short shorts with bikini tops or 3 layered sweaters. The tables were covered with overpriced shorts, shirts, and sweaters, strewn about by desperate customers searching for the perfect outfit. The sales people wh o roamed the floors were definitions of cool themselves -- ranging from age 16-22, they modeled their employee discounts in a haughty way which encouraged the customers to strive for their ultra-hip look. And strive the customers did. What was the most noticeable upon entering the store (besides the blaringly loud music which made me wonder if I was at a clothing store or a dance club) were the herds of desperate young men and women, who seemed to range from age 12-25, strutting around the store and searching for anything that had the name A&F on it. I can only imaging how many nights of baby-sitting it would take some of these eager teenagers to buy one sweater. The young custome... ...r yourself and don't allow anyone else to decide for you. Even more important than the clothes you wear is how you choose to live your life -- a choice that is entirely your own and no one else's. No store can choose a "lifestyle" for you, and no one should talk you into believing that drinking, having sex, or anything else can make your life better than it already is. In their desperate attempt to sell their products, Abercrombie and Fitch has forgotten the individuality of the word "lifestyle". While claming that underage drinking and just the right outfit will make your life better, they forget that it is impossible to ever change your individual persona, or who you truly are. No tomboy flares or martini shakers will change that. That's why I decided to stick with my old jeans -- they're comfortable, I like them, but most importantly, they're me.

Biodiesel :: Energy, Biomass

Biomass can be classified as dry biomass (such as wood) or the wet biomass sources such as organic fraction of domestic waste, agro-industrial wastes, slurries and waste water. Thermal conversion or gasification of the dry biomass generates energy. Figure 3 summarizes an approximate worldwide energy consumption level. Nearly 2 kg billion biomass is burned everyday in developing countries. Especially in India, 90% of primary energy use is accounted for biomass in rural areas (wood-56%; crop residues-16%; dung-21%). Combustion of these sources leads to high concentrations of respirable particulates, gases including CO, SO2, nitrogen oxides and toxic compounds such as benzene and formaldehyde [23]. The wet biomass is less suitable for thermal conversion. Biotechnological processes are involved where the reactions are catalysed by microorganisms in an aqueous environment at low temperature and pressure. Aquatic biomass presents an easy adaptability to grow in different conditions and has enhanced CO2 fixation accompanied with a low nitrous oxide release. Some microalgal biomass is considered as a better alternative renewable energy source, either terrestrial or aquatic (Botryococcus braunii) (Fig. 1m). In view of the oil content of many microalgae (Table 2) energy recovery from biomass can be implemented on a large scale readily. The photosynthetic efficiency of aquatic biomass is much higher (6-8%) than that of its terrestrial counterpart (1.8-2.2%) [13]. Further, aquatic biomass presents an easy adaptability to grow in different conditions either in fresh or marine water or in a wide range of pH. This makes the aquatic biomass more adaptive or an enhanced CO2 fixation to afford a high biomass production. The only practicable methods of large scale production of microalgae are tubular photobioreactors [19] and open raceway ponds [20]. Extensive studies have been carried out for the cultivation of different marine microalga using a variety of cultivation systems including open ponds and various types of closed photobioreactors [21, 2 2]. Since already several articles were dealt with large scale production, this paper did not concentrate on these issues. Biomass for power generation has been recognized as an important component of the renewable energy programme in India and this is reflected in the priority attached to it by the MNES. There are niches with substantial potential for the use of biomass for power generation e.g. bagasse cogeneration in sugar mills, decentralized gasifier based diesel cogeneration systems in south India and biomass waste from agricultural operations or agro-industries in concentrated geographical pockets [23]. A biomass power / cogeneration capacity addition of 115 MW in six states was created in the country during the year reaching a cumulative power generation capacity of 727 MW.

Understanding Product Knowledge When Purchasing a Computer :: Essays Papers

Understanding Product Knowledge When Purchasing a Computer Buying a computer seems like a daunting task to many. There are many factors to consider when making a purchase. Brand name, functionality, speed and customer support are just some of the factors that one must consider when researching the options. In order to wisely purchase a computer, one must attain a considerable amount of product knowledge, to get the most value for their dollar. Consumers have different levels of product knowledge, which they can use to interpret information and make product choices. (Peter 64) When researching computers, product knowledge could range in consumers minds from abstract to less abstract thoughts about the options. Within this scope of abstract to less abstract options could be 4 sub-categories of product knowledge. These include product class, product form, brand name and the model or features. The most abstract and first of the four categories is product class. This is the most basic of the four categories. Simply for this demonstration, the product class being discussed is a desktop computer or generally the product type. Now this class differs slightly from some other similar computing product classes such as laptop computers, mainframes and personal digital assistants (PDA’s). The second of the four sub-categories is product form. The basic product form differentiation that one must make is what do you need a computer for and if you need a home-based PC or business-based PC. This would be considered identifying the product class, a home-based system versus a business based-one. The fact is that the average home user who needs a general-purpose PC to go on the Internet and run productivity applications differs little from the average worker in an office. â€Å"Indeed, the actual features in a vendor's business line does not differ much from what's in the home, except at the extreme end of the spectrum, such as a non-upgradeable closed-box corporate PC versus a loaded gamer's system with all the entertainment trappings that a business user would find superfluous.† (MSN) If the computer is strictly for business or word processing purposes and will rarely be relied upon for gaming and multi-media applications than sound and graphics component s are less important because there's little need to keep up with the newest games that require the best graphics and sound components.

Priority Sector Lending in India

Definition and more details5 Priority sector: A need5 Priority Sector Target: Financial Reforms Effect6 Effect of reforms on priority sector lending:6 Priority Sector: Specific sector guidelines8 Agriculture8 Small enterprises8 Weaker section:9 Other sectors9 Priority Sector: present status10 Participating Entities : Targets to be met10 Participating Entities : How much is achieved11 Public Sector banks11 Private Sector banks11 Foreign banks12 Participating Entities : penalties in case of failure in achieving the target12 Priority Sector : Advantages12Priority Sector : Major Issues13 Strategies Ahead13 Exhibits15 References18 INTRODUCTION Priority sector bank lending was mainly started by the government to reach the unbanked areas through regular banks which were till that time not much willing to go to rural and undeveloped areas. It was one most important tool in our financial policy to compel banks to increase their loanable customers. Before independence, banks were mostly privat ely owned and they used to lend only to the sectors in which they were assured of returns.According to the reports from 1940s, 79% of bank finances were made available to industry and commerce. Of that amount too, around 32% went to large industries of jute, cotton and sugar mills. When looking at the less rosy picture, the advances to agriculture sector stood a meager 4%. Post independence, according to RBI survey of 1954, in 1951-52, of all credit disbursal by credit agencies to cultivators, only 7. 3 % was from institutional credit agencies. Of this small contribution, the part of banks was only 0. 9%. Rest was given by government and cooperative agencies.From this statistics, it is clear that the rest of the credit was availed by the cultivators from non-institutional credit agencies. When the interest rates charged by these agencies was checked, they were found to be usuriously high with professional moneylenders charging 41. 9% interest rate while agricultural moneylenders cha rged 23. 9% interest rate which was 5-6 times more than the normal bank rate. It shows that if a farmer is getting loan at this interest rate, chances are more that he will never be able to repay it fully and fall in the vicious circle of loans.By getting working capital at such high interest rates, it was equally difficult to breakeven. So, agriculture and small and medium enterprises were in deep need for credit at easy terms. PRIORITY SECTOR DEFINITION AND MORE DETAILS Priority sector and its coverage area kept changing all through these years, mostly due to economic and political pressures. Although its definition can be divided in two parts i. e. pre-reform and post reform period.Pre reform period definition: â€Å"It included agriculture, Small scale industry (including setting up of industrial estates), small road and water transport operators, small business, retail trade, professional and self employed persons, state sponsored organizations for SC/STs, educational loans gr anted to individuals by banks under schemes, Credit schemes for weaker sections and refinance by sponsor banks to Regional Rural Banks. † About the post reform definition we will talk later in details when dealing in the section about priority sector guidelines. PRIORITY SECTOR: A NEED Population support and employment generation: According to the definition of priority sector it covers about 70% of India’s population by rough estimates. So, by making it mandatory for the banks to lend to priority sector, government is actually trying to cover a big part of population. Priority sector mostly includes agriculture and allied sector which employs largest number of people in our country. †¢Freedom from non-institutional credit: The priority sector cut out by government was mostly the one which was earlier taking loans from non-institutional sources and was always indebted because of usurious rates of interest.By creating priority sector lending, it was tried to make in stitutional credit available to a bigger section, at affordable interest rates. †¢Willingness of banks: Most of the banks were not willing to lend to this sector because of the risk involved here as well as more paperwork required to lend smaller loans to large number of people. They were happy lending to urban sector which was more reliable and trustworthy. They preferred lending to industry, commerce, trade and securities as their traditional loanees and who were supposed to default less. Location of banks: Banks were earlier situated mostly in urban area where the business was and so, it was geographically also difficult for them to lend to rural and backward areas where there was no banking network earlier. It was difficult to know about the credit history of borrower and the potential ability of loaned to repay the loan as well as potential of the project for which loan was to be given. So, they were skeptical about loaning to those sectors. †¢Institutional credit: By allowing priority sector credit to flow, RBI and government actually allowed large amount of institutional credit to flow in this area.So, as it became mandatory for the banks to complete certain target for priority sector, they started searching for viable projects and loaners who can successfully repay the loan. For this to happen branches were opened in rural areas and people were encouraged to take loan from banks. Many people availed loan under priority sector lending and got involved in successful enterprises. PRIORITY SECTOR: FINANCIAL REFORMS EFFECT After financial sector reforms, priority sector lending underwent lots of change.As earlier, it was only focused towards weaker and rural section of society but afterwards it included many new sectors as well as the definition of earlier sectors was widened to include more areas in them: Priority sector targets are: Table 1: Priority Sector Targets to be achieved by Banks Before 1991 After 1991 Total priority sector credit 40% o f net bank credit 40% of net bank credit Agricultural credit 18% of net bank credit 18% of net bank credit Weaker section credit 10% of net bank credit 10% of net bank credit Export credit – 12% of net bank credit for foreign banks SSI credit – 10% of net credit for foreign banksSource: Reserve Bank of India Banking norms EFFECT OF REFORMS ON PRIORITY SECTOR LENDING: A chorological sequence of changes in priority sector lending policy is given below which show how the definition of priority sector has changed in all these years: 1. 1992-1993: In the light of reforms, and many new industries coming up in all sectors, government and RBI decided to help out industry with credit facilities and asked banks to fulfill demand of small scale industries upto Rs. 100 lakh limit for setting institutional framework to rejuvenate potentially viable small scale industry units. . 1993-1994: The overall target of net bank credit to be given for priority sector remained unchanged but t he direct and indirect target for lending to agricultural sector was clubbed together to make a sub target of 18% for agricultural lending. But, in this system also, the indirect lending was not supposed to extend one-fourth of the total sub target. Lending above this in indirect lending, was not to be considered in priority sector lending. At least 40% of total credit was supposed to go to small scale and khadi and village industries within limit of Rs. 5 lakh.Foreign banks were asked to revise their priority sector advance target from 10% to 32%. Two more sectors were included in that i. e. advances to small-scale industries and export sector were made with each being 10%. 3. 1995-1996: In case of any shortfall in PSL (agricultural sector), banks were required to contribute to Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), which was set up under NABARD, the maximum of which was 1. 5 % of bank’s net credit. Shortfall in case of other areas, they were required to provide Rs. 1 000 crores for financing in Khadi and Village Industries Commision (KVIC).All the refinances which was done to RRBs by the banks was now to be considered under priority sector lending. 4. 1996-1997: In this year Union Budget provided Rs. 2500 crore for RIDF fund. Export credit target increased from 10% to 12% in this year. Credit advanced to priority sector increased this year very much. From the last year numbers, it increased from 30. 37% of net bank credit to 32. 4%. 5. 1997-1998: The scope of priority sector lending was increased for road and water transport operators, with number of eligible vehicles increasing from ‘not more than six’ to ‘not more than ten’.The credit limit for housing in rural and urban areas also increased upto Rs. 5 lakh. 6. 1998-1999: In this year, the interest rate subsidy for loan in PSL was taken away on the argument that now priority sector lending is also commercially viable for banks. Banks were also given the option to inve st the PSL shortfall by lending to NABARD/SIDBI, so the restriction of not lending to profitable sector was slowly being taken away. 7. 1999-00: Banks were asked to lend to NBFCs and MFIs under priority sector, to enable them to lend to rural and weaker section.INSTITUTIONAL AND NON-INSTITUTIONAL CREDIT IN INDIA Before independence, the credit which was available to farmers was just non-institutional credit or in other words private money lenders. But, after independence, government took major steps to uproot this problem which was eating up the poor population and was hampering with the country’s economic growth. In 1951, institutional credit accounted to 92. 7% of the total credit availed (Refer Graph-1) where as all these reforms positively impacted the credit scenario in India making the Non-institutional credit accounted to be 38. % in the year 2002. Graph 1: Trend of Institutional and Non-institutional credit in India PRIORITY SECTOR: SPECIFIC SECTOR GUIDELINES AGRICULT URE 1. Direct finance: Finance given to individual farmers (including SHG & JLG) for agricultural and allied activities are included under this sector. This includes short-term loans for raising crops, advances upto 10 lakh against pledge of agricultural produce for maximum 12 months period, working capital and term loans, for purchase of land, to indebted distressed farmers, for pre and post harvest activities.Loans given to partnerships, corporate and institutions for agricultural activities, and upto 1 crore for most of the activities mentioned above also come under direct finance. 2. Indirect finance: It covers vast range i. e. corporate, Primary agricultural Credit societies, Farmers service societies, Large sized Adivasi Multi Purpose Societies, cooperative societies, and for the construction of warehouse, agricultural input dealers, arthias, NCDC, NBFCs, NGOs, MFIs, RRBs and overdraft upto 25000 for no-frills account in rural and semi-urban areas. SMALL ENTERPRISES 1. Direct finance: a.For manufacturing enterprises, for small enterprises the upper cap for taking loans is less than 5 crores, while for micro enterprises it is upto 25 lakh only. b. For service enterprises, for small enterprises it is upto 2 lakh, while for micro enterprises it is only 10 lakh. c. For khadi and village industries it is upto 60% of small enterprise segment. 2. Indirect finance: a. It is made available for the person involved in marketing activities of artisans, village and cottage industries. b. Under this Loans made by NABARD, SIDBI and commercial banks to NBFCs and cooperatives involved in this sector also come.WEAKER SECTION: In weaker section, small and marginal farmers with less than 5 acres land holding, landless labourers, artisans, village and cootage industries, beneficiaries of SGSY, SC, ST, DRI, SJSRY, SLRS, self help groups, distressed poor, minority communities etc are included. They are given loans under priority sector loans. OTHER SECTORS Retail trade : Retai lers involved in essential commodities, consumer co-operative stores, private retail traders, upto the limit of Rs. 20 lakh. Micro-credit : For poor indebted borrower of non-institutional credit, it is given against collateral or group security.The upper limit for it is upto Rs. 50000 per borrower. State sponsored organization: It is for scheduled castes/tribes for extending credit for purchase of input or for marketing of output. Education: Within India the maximum cap for education loan granted is 10 lakh, while outside India it is 20 lakh. It is applicable for individuals as well as NBFCs. Housing: a. For purchase and construction of houses, the maximum loan allowed is 20 lakh. b. For repair of houses, the maximum loan allowed is 1 lakh in rural India and 2 lakh in urban areas. c.For government agencies for construction of dwelling units, or for slum dwellers, upto a maximum of Rs. 5 lakh is allowed. PRIORITY SECTOR: PRESENT STATUS PARTICIPATING ENTITIES: TARGETS TO BE MET The Re serve Bank of India from time to time has issued a number of guidelines/instructions/directives to banks in lending credit to Priority sector. In priority sector various banks that are involved are- public and private sector bank under domestic banks and foreign banks. There are separate targets to be met for all the banks which are set by the RBI.RBI issues a master circular containing all the guidelines for incorporation of priority sector lending. If the targets are not met, then various penalties are to be borne by them. The targets set for the domestic and foreign banks working in India are already mentioned before in Table-1. The total advances that a domestic bank has to offer for the priority sector is 40% where as for foreign banks working in India is 32 %. These advances are further bifurcated into the advances provided to agricultural sector, small scale industries (SSI), export credit and weaker sections.However, domestic banks don’t have to contribute to SSI and foreign banks don’t have to contribute to agricultural advances and weaker sections. Over the years, the advances provided to this sector are increasing in gross value and some other sectors like education, housing, retail trade which were not the part of this sector previously were also included. The trend observed during the last three years is explained in the graph provided below. In the year 2006, the advances offered by the public sector banks were Rs. 409. 745 thousand crores where as private sector provided Rs. 06. 556 thousand crores. Then in year 2008, these advances increased to Rs. 605. 965 thousand crores and Rs. 165. 225 thousand crores by public and private sector bank respectively. This marked a growth rate of 48% in public sector and 53. 5 % in private sector.Source: Reserve Bank of India- Trend and Progress of Indian Banking 2008-09 The share of various sectors i. e. agriculture, SSI, education, housing have also registered a change as shown in the figure gi ven below. The share of advances provided to agriculture sector is more or less same where as the dvances provided to SSI has been replaced by small enterprises, housing and education where housing accounted for 30% of the advances and education accounted for 25% of the advances. Source: Reserve Bank of India- Trend and Progress of Indian Banking 2008-09 The rationale of including these sectors was to provide the holistic development to the poor people. It was understood that it’s not just the credit requirement which has to be fulfilled but also the education which would ensure the socio-economic development of the society. In all, those sectors which can impact large section of populations are to be a part of priority sector.But, how efficiently are banks able to achieve these set targets – is still questionable. PARTICIPATING ENTITIES: HOW MUCH IS ACHIEVED PUBLIC SECTOR BANKS Exhibit-1 shows the targets achieved by public sector bank. The public sector banks were ab le to meet the target of 40% till 2005-06 but in 2007 they fell short by 0. 7%. There were 28 banks in total, out of which- seven banks failed to achieve the target (Allahabad Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce, Syndicate Bank, IDBI Ltd. , State Bank of India, State Bank of Mysore and State Bank of Patiala).However, only 8 banks were able to meet target of agricultural lending and only 7 for weaker sections. PRIVATE SECTOR BANKS Exhibit-2 shows the targets achieved by private banks in lending to the priority sector. Out of 26 private sector banks, four banks (Bank of Rajasthan Ltd. , Centurian Bank of Punjab Ltd. , Jammu and Kashmir Bank Ltd. and Karnataka Bank Ltd. ) didn’t achieve the target as stipulated for the priority sector lending. However, only three banks were successful in meeting agricultural credit target and no bank met the target for weaker sections. FOREIGN BANKSExhibit-3 shows the targets achieved by foreign banks in lending to the priority sector. Out of 29 for eign banks working in India five banks (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, Citi Bank, HSBC Ltd. and Mizuho Corporate Bank) did not achieve the target. However, only Seven banks (Bank of Nova Scotia, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, Citi Bank, HSBC Ltd. , JP Morgan Chase Bank, Mizuho Corporate Bank and Shinhan Bank) were not able to achieve SSI target and three banks (American Express Bank, Bank International Indonesia and Mizuho Corporate Bank) were not able to achieve the export credit target.The banks which failed to achieve the target have to pay the penalties decided by the RBI. PARTICIPATING ENTITIES: PENALTIES IN CASE OF FAILURE IN ACHIEVING THE TARGET DOMESTIC BANKS Domestic banks which fail to achieve the target have to contribute to Rural Infrastructure development Fund (RIDF) established with NABARD or funds with other financial institutions, as specified by RBI by giving them one month’s notice. The particulars of this fund are decided in the beginning o f financial year. Interest rate and period of deposit are also to be decided by RBI.FOREIGN BANKS Foreign banks which fail to achieve the target have to contribute to Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) or funds with other financial institutions, as specified by RBI . The particulars of this fund are decided in the beginning of financial year. Interest rate and period of deposit are also to be decided by RBI. Non-achievement of meeting the priority sector targets are considered while granting regulatory approvals for various purposes. PRIORITY SECTOR: ADVANTAGES 1.Financial Inclusion – It provided credit availability for small-marginal farmers, and to those sections which were previously deprived of taking any credit from the institutions. 2. Previously because of high default rate amongst the weaker sections,the institutions were reluctant to give credit to those people which forces the farmers or the weaker people to go to the money-lenders who charged them h igh rate of interests (varying between 10% to 50%). Mandatory lending to priority sector has eradicated this problem and ensured advances by the institutions. 3.Poverty Alleviation – If the timely credit is provided to small households, they can give more inputs to their produces which will result in better productivity. In effect agricultural GDP grows, which helps in upliftment of both the primary and secondary sector which are dependent on small scale industries and agriculture, directly or indirectly. It generates more employment, hence, resulting in poverty alleviation. 4. Social Inclusion – Poorer sections previously were deprived of participating in various community activities. The rise in their livelihood has given them a strong support to participate in various social activities.PRIORITY SECTOR: MAJOR ISSUES 1. High Non-performing assets – Since borrowers are not able to repay the loan on time, have created a fear in the banks and provoke them to make slow disbursement of loans. 2. Quantitative targets –Since, the stringent targets has been set by RBI, this has resulted in lowering the quality of delivering targets. 3. Government interference – Due to the regional Government intervention, the more influential people get the loan, and the poorer still get ignored. So, rich gets more richer. 4. Transaction cost – Handling disbursement of huge quantity of small loans requires more time and labor. 5.Low absorption of credits -This occurs due to lack of capital infrastructure in agriculture and other small scale industries. 6. Low Profitability -Low rate of interest charged from the borrowers makes this sector vulnerable. STRATEGIES AHEAD 1. Initiatives by Government a) Recovery of Non-Performing Assets †¢Establishing Debt-recovery tribunals – this will act as a mediator between the bank and borrower and will help bank in better recovery from the borrowers. †¢Internal audit before sanctioning of l oan should be done. b)Strengthen the cooperative bank network to increase credit advances to the farmers. c)Link crop-insurance with loan amount.This mitigates the risk for Lender and borrower. d)Promote group lending to people – group lending develops a collective responsibility amongst the borrowers which decreases the default rate. e)Government need to promote rigorous extension activities for promoting modern agricultural techniques for increasing production. f)Strict actions needs to be taken against the banks for not meeting the priority sector criteria. 2. Initiatives by Bank a)Banks should increase the term and delay the installments under term loan in case the borrowers are not able to repay in time. b)They should not charge compound interest on the loan amount.In a nutshell, Government need to strengthen backward and forward linkage both to provide inputs, increase productivity and develop markets. EXHIBITS Exhibit 1: Target achieved by Public Sector banks Exhibit 2 : Target achieved by Private Banks Exhibit 3: Target achieved by foreign banksREFERENCES †¢Priority Sector lending information (2010). Retrieved on August 4, 2010 from-http://www. rbi. org. in/scripts/FAQView. aspx? Id=8†¢Trends, issues and strategies (2010). Retrieved on Aug 5, 2010 from-http://www. academicjournals. org/jat/PDF/Pdf2009/December/Uppal. pdf†¢Planning Commission reports on labour and employment (2010). Retrieved on Aug 5, 2010 from-http://books. google. co. in/books? id=qOOmWsfqfe4C&pg=PA96&lpg=PA96&dq=priority+sector+lending+appraisal&source=bl&ots=HZTEbRCSVo&sig=QtcebyqWJ5xWqkZ_TMdmPzCp4-4&hl=en&ei=KbFaTLK7DISXrAe9u52-DA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CEsQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q&f=false†¢All India Debt and Investment Surveys (2002). Retrieved on August 6 ,2010 from- http://www. rbi. org. in/scripts/BS_SpeechesView. aspx? Id=298†¢Trend and Progress of Indian Banking 2008-09 (2009). Retrieved on August 6, 2010 from- http://www. rbi. o rg. in/scripts/AnnualPublications. aspx? head=Trend%20and%20Progress%20of%20Banking%20in%20India

Is It Best to Live with Roommates? Essay

Is it best to live with roommates? Or is it best to live alone? There’s no right or wrong answer to this question — and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. It’s a personal decision that all apartment dwellers are entitled to make, and your answer should depend on what you want at the time you’re looking to rent. If you need help deciding whether to live with a roommate, consider the common reasons why people choose one route over the other. Reasons to Have a Roommate There are many good reasons to have a roommate. See if any of these reasons appeal to you: * You won’t be lonely. Even if you’re not close with your roommate, having a roommate means having someone else around, so you won’t have to feel lonely. * You’ll gain convenience. Having a roommate adds convenience. For instance, if you have different schedules, a roommate can feed your pet or water the plants when you’re not at home to do it. If you go out of town, your roommate can tell you about any important mail you receive. * You’ll save money. When you have a roommate, you’ll save money in several ways. First, you can rent a larger apartment that would give you both more room and more value. You’ll also split utility bills and the cost of groceries, among other apartment expenses. Plus, if you or your roommate cook (even if you just do the basics), cooking for two (or three or more) normally saves money over cooking for just one. * You’ll have help. With a roommate, you can split the chores needed to keep your apartment in shape. So, you won’t have to be the one to do grocery shopping all the time. Or, if you become the designated grocery shopper, your roommate can take on other errands that you would normally have to do. Sharing errands helps lighten the load for both of you. Reasons Not to Have a Roommate Many people appreciate the reasons in favor of having a roommate but feel that the reasons for living alone present a much stronger case. You shouldn’t live with a roommate if: * You want more privacy. If you live alone, you’ll almost certainly have more privacy than if you live with others. Simply stated, not having roommates means you can do what you want, when you want it. For instance, you can have guests over as you please or get home late and leave early without having to worry about disturbing a roommate. * You don’t want to risk problems. Although having a roommate can be a rewarding experience, there are many types of problems that may arise in a roommate relationship. These range from lifestyle conflicts (think of a roommate who likes to play guitar while you need peace and quiet to study or do work) to financial issues (think of a roommate who has trouble paying his share of the rent and expenses). Living alone is the only way to guarantee that none of these problems ever arises.

Physician and Nursing Shortages Essay

Healthcare reforms including Obama Care, formally named the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act greatly impacts physicians and nursing shortages. There are several provisions which could direct impact physicians and nurses through incentives for potential recruitment, grants, training and retention. Through potential initiatives, the act may indirect effects that may question or present new reimbursement alternatives and models of health care delivery options. Healthcare reforms will allow millions of additional working as well as no working Americans to obtain healthcare coverage and this may challenge and highly impact physicians and nurses workforces across the United States. Many healthcare facilities have already reported high vacancy rates for technicians, pharmacists, maintenance staff, housekeeping staff and radiology technicians and laboratory technologists. Today, fair percentage of the American population, roughly 20%, lack proper access to needed primary care becau se there is an ongoing shortage of physicians. Some doctors, almost 30% are declining to accept new patients whom are insured with Medicaid. The changing demographics of the United States today and perverse reimbursements are direct impacts from the physician shortage. The looming physician and nursing shortages will inevitably hinder the health care system that is already being tax as well as alter the way patients and their physicians interact because the doctor-to-patient ratio will continue to be raised which will hurt patient outcomes. All workers within the healthcare arena play a vital part in making the healthcare system successful. Physicians and nursing shortages definitely create problems for every department and for all other workers within their system. Worldwide shortages that the United States are currently experiencing may create dangerous and unacceptable care to patients. Shortages additional enable work environments that do the foster retention of highly experienced and  qualified healthcare professionals, resulting in high turnover and revolving worker pool. Physicians and nursing shortages present c hallenges that do not help the workforce in healthcare organizations worldwide. These challenges include inadequate incentives which may attract students to join the profession, understaffing in various medical professions, as well as inadequate training facilities, and primary care being undervalued. Obama Care relies on primary care providers to coordinate care in the hopes of lowering costs and improving outcomes. â€Å"If the population growth, aging and demand for care created by the newly insured, it is estimated that by 2025, the U.S. will face a shortage of 30,000 primary care physicians, nearly 5,000 of which are attributable to the expansion of insurance under Obama Care.† (Howard, 2013) The health care system involves a network that is a combination of hospitals, employers, insurers, physicians, patients and various other stakeholders. A significant change impacting one component will reshape the entire system. Stakeholders are greatly concerned because the qualities of health care as well as the cost of care. Health care reforms will need to a ddress changes that are missing in policy outlines which should make primary health care more rewarding and appealing to potential new nursing and physician staff and which will also help to maintain the nursing and physicians that are already practicing. Additional the current supply of primary health care physicians will continue to fall behind the increasing patient demands. This will also result in stakeholders presented with the problems of increasing shortfall during the next decade within the primary care physicians. The availability of primary care is consistently and positively targeted to continued improvement with patient outcomes, raising health costs, lower utilization of health and reduced mortality rates. The Affordable Care Act set forth millions of dollars to address the problems and concerns that are associated with existing physicians shortages. The Affordable Care Act also has provisions that are aimed to improve the education, ongoing training as well as to help with the recruitment of nursing, physicians, doctors as well as other health care personnel. In addition, there are provisions in place that help to increase workforces’ cultural competency, enhance faculty training of healthcare professionals, and diversity. The provisions also play a vital role because of the fact they are put into place to examine innovative  reimbursement and care delivery models that highlight primary care services value and offer in improvement in the patient care coordination. On an average, primary physician groups may see about four or five patients within an hour, probably about one patient every fifteen minutes. Because of increase productivity and cost restraints and pressures, this number could increase dramatically. This trend, unfortunately, will be matching the burden of physicians declining incomes and job market. A lessor number of physicians earn what physicians earned many years ago. Primary health has been affected more as compared to services rendered. Additionally, the shift to a bundled fee for performance from the fee for service reimbursement system for force solo practicing physicians and small group practices into forming or partnering into larger practices. Physicians and nursing staff are not surprised by many of the findings. The Doctors Company, the largest physician-owned medical malpractice insurer in the nation in 2012, released results from a survey in which more than 5,000 physicians participated in across the nation commented on the future of health care reform. A result of the survey concluded that 60% of the respondents concluded that the pressures of trying to increase patient numbers will probably have a negative effect on the level of care physicians whom have the opportunity to provide services. The study concluded that 51% of the physicians thought that their ability to successfully keep positive relationships with their patients and grow patient relationships would be negatively affected. Lastly, the study concluded that out of 10 physicians, nine are disillusioned by the concerns with the shortages so that several of the physicians actively discourage family and friends from pursuing careers in medicine. Unfortunately, this is a shocking reality of what many of us already know, and statistics presented from the study would be even higher if the exact survey questionnaire was conducted today. While the many projected newly insured patients that will enter the health care system may obtain their insurance coverage through available st ate ran exchanges, many new patients may still find themselves unable to afford potential discounted policies. This will cause many to look for coverage from Medicaid out of urgency and because they may feel as though they have no choice. Primary care physician payments have been reduced in the past and we can look for them to be continually reduced maybe even more in the future. Many  physicians are unhappy with the fact that they may owe over 160,000 when they finish medical school. Many potential physicians do not find this attractive because many will have salaries that are likely to be less than the cost of their education. Many physicians in this case will find it more attractive and enticing to become specials which again will attribute to the physicians and nursing shortages. Physician assistants and nurse practitioners may have to step up in fill in. Physician assistants are qualified personnel that have been license and qualified to provide needed preventive care options. Physician assistants have an important role in the management of chronic disease prevention and management, administering blood sugars testing and interpreting blood sugar levels. When physicians have only a short time, less than 10 minutes or so to see a patient, sometimes they encounter issues which may leave no choice but to pass responsibilities to their , who are able, to practice with the supervision of the physician in most states. â€Å"Under the proposals, issued with a view to impending physician shortages, it would be easier for hospitals to use advanced practice nurse practitioners and physician assistants in lieu of higher-paid physicians.†(Pear, 2011) Because these change, hospitals could benefit by seeing savings which would be immediate. Legislation within several states at this time is seeking to extend the physician assistant’s autonomy by enabling the assistance to independently practice without of physicians, but under certain guidelines and protocol s. Many Americans may find this legislation to be filled with controversy, but many may feel that the legislation is needed to increase productivity of physician assistants, nurse practitioners and primary-care physicians whom will ultimately have responsibilities because of the growing shortages. Doctor-patient relationship will definitely change because of the shortages. In the past, patients were granted appointment times that could last up to 60 minutes, these days are gone because patients are rushed out because of people waiting to be seen in addition. This doesn’t mean service will go down or the quality of medical care will not be like it was. Even though many people have doubts and are not optimistic, I feel the quality of medical care and health service will improve. Research also indicates the quality of patient care will improve performance measurements will prove this in the future. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will impose  changes that may be dis ruptive in the delivery of primary care. The act allows expansion of primary care access to physicians, millions of new patients, and policymakers will be faced with increase pressure to resolve primary care practitioner’s shortages. Even though controversy surrounds the Affordable Care Act enactment, the government should do more to drive motivation among physicians, nurses and professional medical associations. They can also embrace medical societies that may offer strategy initiatives suggestions that will help to meet the nation’s primary care needs. Physicians have experience some success to this date with embracing the changes to primary care, such as supporting laws that allows primary care practice to be perform by non-physician practitioners including assistants and nurse practitioners. Some physicians have realized that they may benefit from the integration of primary care practice from population health needs. Many physicians have realized that the environment now created is beneficial, it helps the m. Many physicians have chosen to stop being against non-physician practitioners and are welcoming them to work with them. Physicians can also offer problem solving and physicians should take initiatives to foster policies and develop solutions which addresses primary care shortages. Initiatives can involve no more opposition of non-physician practitioners with primary care providers (in the past medical organizations as well as physicians did show opposition to this). Additionally, physicians should embrace changes with the delivery of primary health care including the shifting of some responsibilities to the practitioners. Lastly, because of the Affordable Care Act focuses with prevention and wellness, physicians should realize that opportunities exist to the integration of the primary care practice with population health. Many Americans will have coverage with the expansion of health insurance coverage. With the nation’s continued growth and new covered Americans the drive the demand for primary care to levels will definitely exceed existing capacity levels. The millions of newly insured Americans who may not had access to primary care will definitely be looking for primary care now with the enactment of the act. Because of this, there will more than likely be disruptive and unwelcome changes in the delivery of primary care. Important ethical issues are presented with health care reform. The recently 2010 enacted Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act have  ignited ethical debates over some minor and major controversial topics. Why do many feel as though reform within the health care system such a controversial issue? Politicians seek to gain advantages over their worthy opponents which fuel the policy debate. Differences which are important to us all, with values and moral beliefs are the underlying issues of political differences. To help comprehend the moral paramete rs of debate within health care reform, it may be beneficial to start by analyzing the primary goals of the nation’s health care system. Individuals and as the society want and have high expectations with our health care system. The United States health care system has been shaped by fundamental desires and goals. The American people will accept nothing less those exceptional, high levels of quality care which provides excellent health benefits. Americans expects the United States to continue being the frontiers of medicine and expects the United States to continue improving the quality of health care. The American people also want and welcome having a freedom of choice which means they make their own decisions about their care. These decisions can include deciding where to receive care, if and when they do, what kind of care they get, and from which health care provider in which they seek care. Basically, Americans including myself would like to maintain our on control over our health care needs, choices and providers. We also want affordability with healthcare, we don’t want to spend all our hard earned money on health care costs and not have enough money to cover our other needs. In addition, most Americans feel as though our fellow Americans can share in the costs of providing health care benefits to us all and Americans Americans as well as the government wants to make sure that medical care costs are controlled. This is an important attribute of the cost of medical care and it’s a vital element of the health care reform enactment. Extending care access to everyone without appropriate cost control measures will be unsustainable. â€Å"The number of emergency room visits continues to rise at a rate greater than that of population growth, exemplified by an increase in emergency room visit rates from 352.8 to 390.5 per 1000 persons from 1997-2007.† (Tang, 2010) Today, the United States spends the most on health care per capita, more than any other country. Americans generally would prefer cost containment that does not reduce quality or services. Cost containment approaches are not design to interfere with the  value of health care. The PPACA have address cost containment strategies which include patient care that is accountable, patient-centered medical homes, and programs to reduce patients being readmitted and patients acquiring new conditions while admitted as well as bundled payments. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act have some provisions that may be negative for doctors, however in some instances patients can suffer more. However examining the positives, On a positive side, provisions as well programs can help many of us. The Affordable Care Act seeks to provide additional access to coverage, lowering health care spending and improving the quality of health care delivered services. Initiatives of the ACA aid health care organizations; doctors and providers work together to coordinate health care of patient’s beneficiaries to ensure the quality of health care continues to improve while spending and costs are lowered. Many of the elderly have begun receiving the benefits of the provisions of the law. Some of these benefits include lower payments and preventive service care. They also are seeing the benefits of Medicare prescriptions at lower drug cost. The Affordable Care Act is helping seniors by allowing annual wellness visits and preventive services in which they have no upfront or out of pocket costs, offering coverage to individuals that may have pre-existing conditions and it allows for no one to be denied coverage because of pre-existing condition and huge savings on prescription drug costs. Though the health reform law includes measurement which may address the presented and growing shortage, other provisions in the law most likely will raise the demand of primary care. For example, the law is expected to extend coverage to millions of uninsured people by 2019, which will definitely increase the demand for primary care services. â€Å"The PPACA coverage expansions are predicted to increas e the shortage of primary care physicians from approximately 25,000 to 45,000 by 2020.† (Carrier, 2012) There are several measurements that can be implemented to help improve access to primary care providers and services. Because the U.S. has a high percentage of Americans without adequate healthcare a Mobile Health Clinic or a Nursed Managed Centers can be used to attract a lot of people such as the homeless people who do not have the means to be able to go to the doctor (Whelan, et al, 2010). This will allow them to be able to see a doctor and get the proper medical attention they need to have healthier lives. One possible  approach to alleviating pressures on the primary care workforce is greater use of nurse practitioners, which could both increase the number of primary care providers and potentially free up physicians to care for more complex patients. Improving access to primary care services and having more effective public health measures are critical to ensuring that individuals have access to high-quality services at the place and time that best meets their needs. Physician assistants can we be a part of the answer as well. They are well trained, have the clinical skills, with a high level knowledge base, and be a part of the solution. The skills they bring to the table can help address the impending avalanche of patients. Not only are they cost effective with overall labor costs less than a physician, but can take the stress off of a physician needing to see a certain amount of patients per day, as to keep the productive practice (Bahrych 2011). Finally, a scholarship program for students committed to providing primary care in communities with doctor shortages should be implemented; the program can allow open residency slots to be utilized in areas with shortages. Grants and incentives should be established. Also initiatives should be in place to forgive student loan debt. I would also make the following recommendations for improvements that will increase the availability of specialty care through tele-health, bringing specialists to primary care sites, and using physician assistants to deliver specialty services; and also expand the role of primary care providers, physicians and nurse practitioners to handle more specialized health issues through consultations and ongoing training. References: Howard, Paul. (2013, July). Get Obama Care While Supplies Last. Retrieved from http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2013/07/11/obamacare-doctors-medicaid-primary-care-column/2510199/ Tang N, Stein J, Hsia RY et al: Trends and characteristics and US emergency department visits, 1997 – 2007. JAMA 2010; 304: 664-670 Pear, Robert. US Moves to Cut Back Regulations on Hospitals, October 2011. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/19/health/policy/19health.html?_r=0 Bahrych, Sharon. Let Physician Assistances be Part of the Primary Care Answer, December 2011, Retrieved from