International Business Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

International Business Management - Essay Example 182). At the same time, it is also interesting to see that the global ICT network does not share many common features but has distinctive features (Shin & Park, 2007, p. 263). Due to the unique characteristics of high technologies and particular characteristics of ICT sector, development in this sector has become complicated (Chlivickas et al., 2009, p.324). In the following parts of this paper, the Internet history has been incorporated. The history of the Internet describes the role of the United States and its adversaries in the pre and post Cold War era situations. Subsequent to that, the definition of the Internet has been provided. It is followed by the information communication technology segment, in which the concept of information communication technology has been discussed. But before the description of some of the major aspects relating to the concept, the basic and comprehensive definition of information communication technology has been provided. This definition encompas ses not only the intangible aspects of ICT but also the tangible ones. Before the summary part, global trends and the effects of the Internet on the ICT have been included. History of the Internet The internet has continued to evolve, meeting the needs of all kinds of users (Kozierok, 2005, p.122). â€Å"The Internet’s roots can be traced back to 1957 when the United States formed the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) within the Department of Defence† (Gallo & Hancock, 2002, p.56). The formation of ARPA was mainly caused by the US response to the former Soviet Union’s launch of Sputnik, which was a unique innovation of artificial earth satellite. As the hostility continued between the two countries, the ARPA’s ultimate objective was to counter the measures taken by the former Soviet Union. In order to achieve this objective, ARPA’s mission was to make efforts and establish the United States as the world’s leading country in military a nd defence applicable science and technology applications (Gallo & Hancock, 202, p.56). Subsequent to that, the establishment of DARPA enabled the team of the ARPA to develop and run internetwork named ARPANET, the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network, in the year of 1969. Originally, the ARPANET was built to serve defence and military objectives, but with the passage of time it underwent numerous changes and modifications that increased its use among other people. The formal innovation and development of a comprehensive system of internetworking protocols started in 1973 (Kozierok, 2005, p.122). In the initial phase of this technology, only one protocol was used for the purpose of internetworking. However, with the passage of time improvements were introduced in the internetworking protocols and better versions of this technology began to show their importance for the current and potential users. Definition of the Internet It is hard to give a precise and exact definition elab orating all uses and characteristics of the Internet. However, Schneider et al. (2009) quote the definition provided by the Federal Networking Council (FNC), which states that â€Å"Internet† is â€Å"the global information system that: (i) Is logically linked together by a globally unique address space based on the Internet Protocol (IP) or its subsequent extensions; (ii) Is able to support communications using the Transmission

Environmental economics Essay Example for Free

Environmental economics Essay The market forces of demand and supply lead to equilibrium price and quantity that can be used to allocate sources effectively in many of the markets. At times they fail to deliver the best level of output for society. The government intervenes using various methods to correct market failure. This report details the six different types of market failure which can occur in the UK in addition to critically detailing how the government attempts to correct market failure. 2. Externalities According to Samuelson (1954) ‘Externalities create a divergence between the private and social costs of production’. Social costs are the production cost of a product or service including third party costs; in the event of a negative externality the social costs are much greater than private costs i. e. pollution. Externalities are external costs and benefits which arise during economic activity but which are not considered by the buyers and sellers involved as they effect third parties only. Ignoring external costs and benefits can lead to the wrong level of output in the market. Negative externalities, occasionally referred to as external costs, are the costs that separate social and private costs. They are the costs paid for by third parties, which is usually society as a whole. If negative externalities are left to the market mechanism it could lead to over production. Chivian and Bernstein (2008) concluded, ‘soft drinks in large quantities are unhealthy and could lead to medical problems’. This would increase the medical costs for the government, to tackle this issue they could tax soft drinks to discourage use in addition to elevating such charges from healthy drinks consequently providing a cheaper and healthier alternative. Consumers can create externalities by consuming certain goods or services. †¢Pollution from privately owned cars or taxis †¢Public damage caused by alcohol abuse †¢Litter on streets The UK government address these negative externalities through two primary functions; legislations and taxations. Pressure from environmentalist along with studies confirming the existence of global warming forced the UK government to introduce ‘Green taxation’. This includes an increase in petrol prices to discourage use of fuel reliant cars, increase in excise duty on alcohol as well as fines for perpetrators caught in the act of littering. Indirect taxes are used as a means of deterrence on products which could lead to market failure. They differ to specific taxes such as excise duty on tobacco as they are not fixed sum per unit. VAT is an indirect tax which raises cost of production. A pecuniary externality is a type of negative externality which relates to the economic activities rather than physical resources. Apple increased its market share from 25% to 36% in the mobile phone market while others have lost theirs; those suffering losses have incurred a pecuniary externality (Apple iphone market share, 2011). The key difference between pecuniary and real externality is while real externality ought to require compensation pecuniary should not. Positive externalities, if left to market mechanism, could under produce and would not reach level of output which is socially efficient. †¢Education system, government provides student finance to encourage higher education †¢Health service, government provides free health service By investing in human capital via promoting education and providing incentives to stay in education i. e. EMA, the government is assisting corporations through nurturing more educated individuals. This is essential in sustaining the country’s development. Positive externalities can also have negative effects; UK boasts one of the largest fast food market in the world, Britons spend average of ? 7 million a day on junk food, which contributed to UK being crowned as ‘the fattest country in Europe’ (Britain is Europes fattest nation, 2011). 3. Missing markets Missing markets transpires when there is a failure in the market to produce certain goods or offer services in spite of the level of demand. If conditions are not satisfied markets can struggle to exist and since it is unlikely they will ever form they are called ‘missing markets’. An example of this occurrence is the ‘pure public goods’ which provides to the population non-excludable and non-rival benefits. The free rider problem can be one of the causes which lead to missing markets; the term originates from the example of someone who doesn’t pay fares when using public transport. Everyone would want to use the product but would wait till someone else has paid for it which could lead to under-production or even non-production. For example, if an individual does not pay tax he can still use the roads or call the emergency services. Pure public goods and other markets with similar characteristics are unlikely to ever be considered as business opportunities by individuals or corporations given the impossibility of charging consumers at the point of consumption. Pure public good includes: street lights, national defence, police, fireworks display etc. All pure public goods have the following characteristics: †¢Non-rivalry: The consumption of the good by one person does not reduce the quantity available for others. The amount of usage does not correlate with the availability for example; a lighthouse’s light can be seen by more than one ship at any given time. †¢Non-excludable: If the good is provided for one anyone can use it, and they cannot be stopped from using it. Once a streetlight is erected it benefits all passers-by and there is no possible way of excluding someone. †¢Non-rejectable: The public cannot refuse the benefits or consequences of a pure public product. An individual cannot reject being defended by the armed forced of a country, nor can they reject the benefit of street lighting. To tackle the missing market failure the government may seize control of all operations relating to pure public goods and would then be responsible for meeting the demands of the people. In order to fund projects such as road building the government would raise taxes rather than charge individuals. The government introduces money making schemes such as congestion charges to raise funds for the transport system or charge private airlines landing fees at airports. In 2008, as a bid to attain ? 3 billion, an idea was proposed which would introduce congestion charge in Greater Manchester. 4. Information asymmetry Information asymmetry occurs when there is a lack of symmetry, or balance, between the knowledge of the buyer compared to that of the seller furthermore, the imbalance gets exploited which leads to a misallocation of resources. For instance, an unscrupulous dentist might tell his patient he needs lots of dental work done, when in reality not so much is required, just to create business. This can also be seen in lawyers, car mechanics, doctors etc. In the UK there are several laws which help the consumers and warrant them rights if a product is purchased or a service is used. The Trade Descriptions Act 1968 was introduced to prevent manufactures and retailers from misleading consumers by stating all products ‘must be sold as described, of satisfactory quality, and fit for purpose’(OFT, 2011). This prevents businesses from deceiving individuals by allowing them rights to know exactly what the product is. To inform consumers of their rights the government has setup websites and institutions which can be used to attain information readily. The OFT (Office of Fair Trading) was set up in 1973 to ‘enforce both consumer protection and competition law, acting as the UK’s economic regulator’. They can be contacted by consumers who would be given guidance about their matter and legal advice. The OFT carry out investigations into alleged unfair practices if consumers feel wronged for example, in June 2010 an investigation into credit score websites was opened after consumers complained about being charged monthly subscriptions fees. Verdict was reached and the accused companies agreed to not mislead consumers by making these charges known (Investigation into unfair practices, 2011). 5. Lack of competition in the market According to O’Connor (2012) a monopoly occurs if at least of the two conditions are satisfied: †¢The only organization in the industry †¢Substantial barriers of entry The UK government and many other agencies, informally, refer to any company with more than 25% market share as a monopoly. This includes companies on a national, regional or local scale. Monopolist businesses act as price maker, due to lack of competition, therefore can create artificially high prices if demand exists to earn abnormal profits. This is very different to the situation which occurs when competition exists in the market where businesses are constantly trying to reduce prices to undercut competitors. A restrictive trade practice is a strategy used to reduce competition and raise prices of products. Cartels are formed when businesses agree to set prices high, they are also illegal in UK. Competitors are forbidden to collude in restricting the flow of goods to a particular person or business. The UK government has various legislations to prevent abuse of power. Monopolies and Restrictive Practices Act (1948) In 1948 the Monopolies Commission was created to investigate industries where businesses are acting in collusion to limit competition. A report will be published after the investigation is concluded and will be given to the government to take necessary action. Monopolies and Mergers Act (1965) This act was created to investigate or prevent business that control at least 25% of the market from merging together. The Monopolies Commission would investigate the case then allow the merge to take place or disallow it if it does not act in the interest of the public. Restrictive Trade Practices Act (1956) Restrictive Trade Practices Act made it illegal for manufactures to act in collusion and control the prices at which their product is sold at in retail stores. The Registrar of Restrictive Practices acts as a database, businesses have to register any restrictive agreements between the manufactures. Fair Trading Act (1973) This act established the Office of Fair Trading with the aim of enforcing the act. Consumer protection and Competition law were the main agenda. The goal is to ensure markets work well for consumers, ensure strong competition and prohibit unlawful practices. Consumer protection was enhanced as businesses would be given warning at first but will be taken to court if problems persist. Competition Acts (1980 and 1998) Large businesses may limit competition and increase profits by predatory pricing, excessive prices, refusal to supply and price discrimination. This act was created to ensure businesses do not abuse their dominant market position and to deal with restrictive business practices. The EU influenced this act as the UK had to comply with EU competition policy. This act will be enforced by the Director General of Fair Trading and business if found at fault will be liable to financial penalties. Enterprise Act (2002) This act establishes new competition authorities, reformulates the law regarding mergers and markets, changed the law governing insolvency bankruptcy and criminalises anti-competitive behaviour. It also enhanced the Office of Fair Trading powers allowing it to carry out searches under warrant on the suspected mergers. Businesses can now appeal against the decisions made by the Competition Commission. The Minister of Trade and Industry used to play a major role but due to inconsistencies he no longer has the final say regarding mergers. 6. Unstable prices Unstable prices apply particularly to commodities, any naturally accruing substances, such as fossil fuels, coffee, wheat etc. If left to the market mechanism they tend to suffer from fluctuations in prices much more frequently than manufactured goods, which create problems for the suppliers of these commodities as they cannot plan with any certainty on what revenue they are going to receive. Lipsey and Harbury (1993) discussed the two strategies the government tries to control the price with: Price ceiling The government imposes a maximum price limit that can be charged for a particular item in order to protect consumers from environments that would make commodities inaccessible. A binding price ceiling is when the government decides to set the price ceiling below that of the free market price for example, if bread costs ? 2. 00 on the free market a price ceiling of ? 1. 00 would be considered a binding price ceiling. However, this can also have undesired results as some suppliers may slump out of the market as they cannot deal with the deficit, causing supplies to reduce and demand to increase as consumers bulk buy cheap items. A non-binding price ceiling is when the price ceiling is set above the free market price giving the suppliers/manufactures a buffer zone which is unlikely to have any practical effect. Price floor A price floor is the minimum price that can be charged for a product or service. If the mandatory price is set below the free market equilibrium price then it will have no practical effect but if the minimum price is set higher than the free market price it would mean consumers will have to pay more for the product. This could lead to demand falling which would result in manufactures seeing revenue decrease. An example of a minimum floor price is the National Minimum Wage Act 1998 which dictates the lowest amount employees can be paid. 7. Labour market failure Labour market should, according to Gregg and Wadsworth (2011), reach a certain equilibrium wage and quantity but in practice this rarely happens. Listed below are some potential causes of market failure: †¢Labour and skills immobility: Labour cannot always be where the jobs are, this is called geographical immobility. Skills immobility is when labour does not possess the right skills to fulfil the job. For example, coal miners lost their jobs when new industries were formed and because of the mismatch in skill they are left unemployed. †¢Discrimination: Race, gender, height, weight and age are some examples of discrimination which can take place and could lead to market failure. The government intervenes by creating legislations such as the National Minimum Wage Act and Equal Pay Act to help protect people’s rights at work. They also offer incentives for students to continue into further education. Gangmasters are the main employers in a town and will use their buying power to force wages below the national minimum wage rate. The government set up the GLA (Gangmasters Licensing Authority) to help control this problem and protect workers (Labour markets, 2009). 8. Conclusion The UK government acts admirable in the event of market failure to prevent further damage being inflicted onto the economy. However, the monopolistic business control acts are not in my estimation deterring businesses from unhealthy practices enough. The green initiative is laughable at best considering most households generally are in possession of two cars compared to just a single vehicle few years ago. Clearly more needs to be done to protect the environment. Although high petrol prices and an increase in insurance act as a deterrent to some the lack of alternatives is detrimental to the efforts. A higher tax should be implemented on tobacco as it is causes negative externalities which not only affect the individual but also the government, NHS spend on average five billion a year on treating diseases directly caused by smoking (Buckley,2003). 9. Bibliography Samuelson, P. A. , 1954, the pure theory of public expenditure, harvard university press. Chivian,E. C. and Bernstein, A. B. , 2008, sustaining life, oxford university press. O’Connor, A. C. , 2012, monopoly: the cause of evil, Lightning source uk ltd. Gregg, P. G. and Wadsworth, J. W. , 2011, The labour market in winter: the state of working britian, OUP oxford. Lipsey,R. G. L and Harbury,C. D. H. ,1993, first principles of economics, Weidenfield and Nicolson. Buckley,C. B. , 2003, thank you for smoking, Allison and busby. reuters. 2011. Apple iPhone market share. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www. reuters. com/article/2011/12/22/smartphones-europe-idUSL6E7NM0PI20111222. [Accessed 25 January 12]. metro. 2011. Britain is Europes fattest nation. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www. metro. co. uk/news/38242-britain-is-europes-fattest-nation. [Accessed 25 January 12]. office of fair trading. 2011. Investigation into alleged unfair practices. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www. oft. gov. uk/OFTwork/consumer-enforcement/consumer-enforcement-completed/adaptive-affinity/. [Accessed 25 January 12]. labour market failure. 2009. labour markets. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www. tutor2u. net/economics/presentations/labour_market_failure/player. html. [Accessed 25 January 12].

Limitations Of Text Based Image Retrieval Psychology Essay

Limitations Of Text Based Image Retrieval Psychology Essay Sometimes a relevant image might be left out owed to the absence of specific keywords. While often there might be no relevant text surrounding the images or videos, but they are relevant. In fact, there might exist images or videos where the surrounding text has nothing to do with them. In these cases, these returned results might be irrelevant and have nothing in common with the required images and videos. The other approach uses the annotation of the images and vides and is often a manual task. The text-based technique first annotates with text, and then uses text-based retrieval techniques to perform image and video retrieval. Annotation of images and videos lets the user to annotate the image with the text (metadata) that is considered relevant. The text can be time, event, location, participants or whatever the user finds relevant. 2.6.1.1. Limitations of Text based Image Retrieval: Nevertheless, there exist two major difficulties, especially when the volume of image collections is large with hundreds of thousands samples. One is the huge amount of human labor required in manual image/video annotation and is very time-consuming. Textual based retrieval cannot append the perceptual significant visual features like color, shape, texture [Bimbo. 1999]. The other difficulty comes from the rich content in the images and the subjectivity of human perception which is more essential. The annotation of the image and videos completely depends on the annotation interpretation [Enser et al 1993] i.e. different people may perceive the same image differently as shown in the figure 3 . The perception subjectivity and annotation impreciseness may cause unrecoverable mismatches in later retrieval processes. And to retrieve the required data the user constructs a query consisting of the keywords that describes the desired image and video. Although the text based retrieval system has gained benefits of traditionally successful information retrieval algorithms and techniques. Figure 3: Multiple interpretation of same images Park like Tree, Sky, Horse, People, Ridding, Sunny Day, Outdoor Critics of text-based approach dispute that for accurate image annotation it must be automated. The automatic annotation is limited due to its deficiency of extracting semantic information from the images and videos. Only automatic annotation of images and videos in integration with pure text-based image retrieval will be inadequate. The available metadata is mostly restricted to the technical information surrounding the image or video, such as time, resolution of the image or video and name of the image or video. The users may find it difficult to use text to perform a query for some portion of the content of an image or video. Text-based retrieval techniques are absolutely limited to search the metadata that is tagged to the image or video. If the text queried is not annotated with the same tag as attached with the image or video, the data is not returned. This means that if a particular piece of the image or video is interesting this must be explicit included in the metadata. If the desired object is not a main part of the image or video, sometimes it may happen that is not described in the metadata and hence cannot be a retrieve as a result from a query describing such portions of the image or video. One of the disadvantages of text-based image retrieval is that a word can have different meanings. This problem is best illustrated with an example, searching for the images or videos of jaguar or Apple. The system cant differentiate either the user is looking for the jaguar car or jaguar animal as shown in the figure 4. The two concepts have the same name but contain an entirely different semantic idea. The retrieval systems dont have reliable ways to separate the concepts. These problems are present even in systems with automatic synonym lists or thesaurus capabilities [Schank et al. 2004]. There exist several text-based image retrieval services today, Google is a large player. Google is the largest player but still faces the same problem. Figure 4: Same name different Semantics Attempts have been made to make the tags attached to the image or videos more flexible by attaching vast number of descriptive words. The thesaurus based annotation or knowledge based annotation has gained much of the researchers attention [Tring et al. 2000]. Recent development in video retrieval has focused on models that combine several modalities for joint indexing and retrieval. Consideration to the demands, researchers concluded that visual features play a crucial role in the effective retrieval of digital data. This initiates to the development of the content based image and video retrieval [Venters et al. 2000]. 2.6.2. Content based Image Retrieval: The need to manage these images and locate target images in response to user queries has become a significant problem. One way to solve this problem would be describing the image by keywords. The keyword based approach has a bottleneck of manually annotating and classifying the images and videos, which is impractical for the overwhelm corpuses. The human perception subjectivity problem may affect the performance of the retrieval system. Current commercial image and video search engines retrieve the data mainly based on their keyword annotations or by other data attach with it, such as the file-name and surrounding text. This relinquishes the actual image and video more or less ignored and has been following limitations. First, the manual annotation of images requires significant effort and thus may not be practical for large image collections. Second, as the complexity of the images increases, capturing image content by text alone becomes increasingly more difficult. In seeking to overcome these limitations, content-based retrieval (CBR) was proposed in the early 1990s [Baeza-Yates et al. 1999]. Content-based means that the technology makes direct use of content of the image and video rather than relying on human annotation of metadata with keywords. Content-based retrieval (CBR) research endeavors to devise a retrieval system that exploits digital content in the retrieval process in a manner that is eventually independent of manual work. CBR is an umbrella term for content-based multimedia retrieval (CBMR), content based visual information retrieval (CBVIR), content-based image retrieval (CBIR), content-based video retrieval (CBVR) and content-based audio retrieval (CBAR). CBR may also be termed as multimedia information retrieval (MIR). Content based retrieval extract the feature of the image or video themselves and use it for retrieval rather than the user generated meat data. CBR uses the primitive features of the image and video like the color, shape, texture, motion etc. [Sharmin et al. 2002]. Content based system index the images and videos automatically by using different techniques for their visual contents. For the computer, a video is merely a group of frames with a temporal feature, where each frame is basically an image. The computer take each image as a combination of pixels characterize by the low-level color, shape and texture. CBR represents these features in the form of vectors called the descriptors of the image or video. CBR extract these primitive features by using automated techniques and then further use it for searching and retrieval. Thus, these low-level visual features extraction from images and videos has initiated to the many research in the CBR [Veltkamp et al 2000]. A typical CBIR system should be able to interpret the content of the images in a query and a collection, compare the similarity between them, and rank the images in the collection according to their degree of relevance to the users query [Tamura at al. 1984]. The figure 5 shows the typical content based retrieval system. Retrieval deals with the problem of finding the relevant data from the collection of images or videos according to the user request. The user request may be in the form of the textual data or in the form of query by example. Its relatively easy to extract the low level features from the images and videos in the query as well as in the collection and then compare it. Figure 5: Typical Architecture of Content Based Retrieval The paramount objective of CBR is efficiency during image and video search and retrieval, thereby reducing the need for human intervention. Computer can retrieve the images and videos by using CBR techniques from the large corpus without the human assumption. These low level extracted features then represent the image or video and these features are used later on for performing the similarity comparison between the other images or videos in the corpus. These extracted features serve like a signature for images and videos. Images and videos are compared by using different similarity comparison techniques. They are compared by calculating the dissimilarity of its characteristic components to other image or video descriptors. CBR approach shows substantial results with the queries like show me the images or videos of the red color, Show me the image with blue color is above the green color etc. The available automated CBR techniques deal such a type of queries elegantly but flunk to cope with the high level semantic queries like Show me the images or videos of the people in the park, people on the beach, car on the road etc. Such type of queries cannot be tackled successfully by the CBR systems. These queries require more sophisticated techniques to extract the actual semantics abstracted inside it. Related work in CBR from the perspective of images can be found from the overview studies of [Rui et al. 1999], [Smeulders et al. 2000], [Vasconcelos et al. 2001], [Eakins 2002], [Kherfi et al. 2004], [Datta et al. 2005] , [Chen et al. 2004], [Dunckley 2003], [Santini. 2001] [ Santini et al.2001], [Lew et al. 2001], and [Bimbo et al. 1999]. CBIR has received considerable research interest in the last decade [Vasconcelos et al. 2001] and has evolved and matured into a distinct research field. The CBIR mainly comprises of two main steps feature extraction and the similarity measurement. These key technical components of the CBIR system will be introduced in the following sections. 2.6.2.1. Feature Extraction: Images are described by visual words just like text is defined by textual words In fact, an image or a video frame is merely a rectangular grid of colored pixels for a computer. And to a computer an image doesnt mean anything, unless it is told how to interpret it. Image and video descriptors are intended for the motive of image or video retrieval. Descriptors seek to apprehend the image or video characteristics in such a way that it is facile for the retrieval system to identify how similar two images or videos are according to the users interest. CBR system index images or videos by using the low-level features of the image and videos itself, such as colour [Pass et al. 1998, Smith et al. 1996a, Swain et al. 1991], texture [Manjunath et al.1996, Sheikholeslami et al. 1994, Smith et al. 1996b], shape [Safar. M et al. 2000, Shahabi et al. 1999, Tao et al. 1999] , and structure features [Pickering et al. 2003, Howarth et al. 2005]. The color, shape and texture are the principal features of the images. The visual contents of images and videos are then symbolized a s a feature vector of floating numbers. For example, the colour, texture and shape features extracted from an image form an N-dimensional feature vector, and can be written as Where is a vector of its own, and is the colour, is texture and n3 is the shape. While for the video there is an additional vector, where is the motion. In the following section, we introduce the visual features to give an impression of how images and video framesncan be converted into a representation that the retrieval system can work with. 2.6.2.1.1. Color: A very common way to see at images is by analyzing the colors they contain. Colour is the most prominent visual feature in CBIR since it is well correlated with human visual perceptions of objects in an image. A digital colour image is represented as an array of pixels, where each pixel contains three or four tuples of colour components represented in a numerical form. The abstract mathematical representation of colours that computers are able to use is known as the colour model. The similarity between the images and the videos is calculated by using the color histogram value. The histogram depicts the specific values of the pixels inside the image or video frame. The current color based retrieval techniques divides the image into regions by using color proportion. The color based technique doesnt depend on the size and orientation of an image. Since 1980s various color based retrieval algorithms have been proposed [Smith et al. 1996 c]. A most basic form of color retrieval involves specifying color values that can be further used for retrieval. Indeed, Googles image and Picasa 3.0, can also provide the facility to the user to search the images that contain homogenous color composition. The most common representation of color information is in the form of color histogram and color moment. Color anglogram [Zhou X.S. et al. 2002], correlogram [Huang J. et al 1997], color co-occurrence matrix (CCM) [Shim S. et al. 2003] are some of the other feature representations for color. Figure 6: Color based image interpretation 2.6.2.1.1.1. Color Spaces: There are many color spaces designed for different systems and standards, but most of them can be converted by a simple transformation. i. RGB (Red-Green-Blue): Digital images are normally represented in RGB color space; it is the most commonly use color space in computers. It is a device dependent color space, which used in CRT monitors. ii. CMY (Cyan-Magenta-Yellow), CMYK (CMY-Black): It is a subtractive color space for printing, it models the effect of color ink on white paper. Black component is use for enhancing the effect of black color. iii. HSB (Hue, Saturation, Brightness) or HSV (Hue, Saturation, Value): It was used to model the properties of human perception. It is an additive color model. However it is inconvenient to calculate color distance due to its discontinuity of hue at 360. iv. YIQ, YCbCr, YUV: Used in television broadcast standards. Y is the luminance component for backward compatibility to monochrome signal and other components are for chrominance. It is also used in some image compression standards (e.g. JPEG) that process luminance and chrominance separately. Figure 7: The additive colour model HSV 2.6.2.1.1.2. Color Models: A color model is an abstract mathematical model describing the way colors can be represented as tuples of numbers, typically as three or four values or color components. When this model is associated with a precise description of how the components are to be interpreted (viewing conditions, etc.), the resulting set of colors is called color space  [1]  . A color model is a formularized system for composing different of colors from a set of primary colors. There are two types of color models, subtractive and additive. An additive color model uses light emitted directly from a source. The additive color model typically uses primary color i.e. red, green and blue light to produce the other colors. Combination of any two of these additive primary colors in equal amounts produces the additive secondary colors or primary subtractive model colors i.e. cyan, magenta, and yellow. Integration of all these three colors RGB in equal intensities constitute white as shown in the Figurea8 a. Figure 8 (a): RGB: Additive Color for light-emitting computer monitors. Each colored light add to the previous colored lights. A subtractive color model illustrates the blending of paints, dyes,   and natural colorants to produce a full series of colors, each generated by subtracting (absorbing) some wavelengths of light and reflecting the others. Colors observed in subtractive models are the due to reflected light. Different wavelength lights constitute different colors. The CMYK model (Cyan-Magenta-Yellow-blacK) model is the subtractive model. The combination of any two of these primary subtractive model color i.e.(Cyan, Magenta, Yellow) results in the primary additive model or secondary subtractive model color i.e. red, blue, green and the convergence of it constitute black color as shown in the figure 8 b. Figure 8 (b): CMYK: Subtractive colors for Printer. Each color added to the first color blocks the reflection of color, thus subtracts color. For some of the concepts the color scheme helps in achieving suitable results like forest, sky, tree, grass, sea etc. The color descriptor will help in retrieving the accurate results. But for the categories like the car, house, street etc. Color descriptors cant play a vital role. The color descriptor will fail in a situation of the same car with different colors as shown in the figure 9. For the retrieval based on the color two most frequently used representative are color histogram and color moment. These representatives are represented in the section below. Figure 9: Same Car with different color composition a. Color Histogram: A histogram provides a summary of the distribution of a set of data. A color histogram provides a comprehensive overview of the image or video frame in terms of color. A colour histogram for a coloured image describes the different intensity value distributions for colours found in the image. The histogram intent to define the number of times each color appears in an image/video frame. Statistically, it utilizes a property that images having similar contents should have a similar color distribution. One simple approach is to count the number of pixels of each color and plot into a histogram. The histogram h of an image I is represented as: H(I)= Where pi is the percentage of i-th color in the color space, N is the number of colors in the color space. To enable scaling invariant property, the histogram sum is normalized to 1. The percentage is proportional to the number of pixels in the image. Figure 10: Shows the Color Histogram Mostly commercial CBR systems like Query-By-Image-Content uses color histogram as one of the feature for the retrieval. Colors are normally grouped in bins, so that every occurrence of a color contributes to the overall score of the bin it belongs to. The bin explains the intensities of different primary color i.e. quantity of red, blue or green for a particular pixel. It doesnt define individual color of the pixels. Histograms are usually normalized, so that images of different sizes can be fairly compared. The colour histogram is the most commonly and effectively used colour feature in CBIR [Swain et al. 1991, Faloutsos et al. 1994, Stricker et al. 1995, Deselaers et al. 2008, Chakravarti et al. 2009 and Smeulders et al. 2000]. Retrieving an images based on the colors technique is widely used because it does not depend on image size or orientation. The most common method to create a colour histogram is by splitting the range of the RGB intensity values into equal-sized bins. For example, a 24-bit RGB colour space contains 224 possible (RGB) values. Since this gives us approximately 16.8 million bins, it will be too large to be dealt with efficiently. Therefore, we need to quantize the feature space to a smaller number in order to reduce memory size and processing time; as examples [Stricker et al. 1995, Swain et al. 1991] have proposed techniques for colour space quantization. After having defined the bins, the numbers of pixels from the image that fall into each bin are counted. A colour histogram can be used to define the different distributions of RGB intensity values for a whole image, known as a global colour histogram, and for specific regions of an image, known as a local colour histogram. For a local colour histogram, the image is divided into several regions and a colour histogram is created for each region. A histogram refinement strategy has been proposed by Pass for comparing the images [Pass et al.1996]. Histogram refinement splits the pixels in a given bucket into several classes, based upon some local property. Within a given bucket, only pixels in the same class are compared. They describe a split histogram called a color coherence vector (CCV), which partitions each histogram bucket based on spatial coherence. [Han et al. 2002] proposed a new color histogram representation, called fuzzy color histogram (FCH), by considering the color similarity of each pixels color associated to all the histogram bins through fuzzy-set membership function. This approach is proves very fast and is further exploited in the application of image indexing and retrieval. The paradigm of the color histogram works on the assumption that all the images or videos frames with the similar color composition are similar [Jain et al. 1995]. It will retrieve all the data whose color composition is similar to the given query. This will be true in some cases. Color composition cant be the identity of the image or object inside the image. Color Moment: Color moment approach was proposed by [Stricker et al. 1995]. It is a very compact representation of color feature. The mathematical meaning of this approach is that any color distribution can be characterized by its moments. Moreover, most of the information is concentrated on the low-order moments, only the first moment, second and third central moments (mean, variance and skewness) were extracted as the color feature representation. Color similarity can be measured by Weighted Euclidean distance. Due to the ease and sound performance of color histogram technique it is widely used in color based retrieval systems. Color is the human visual perceptual property. Human discriminate an images or objects initially on the basis of colors. Color can be extracted from the digital data easily and automated and effective functions are available for calculating the similarity between the query and the data corpus. Color feature are effectively used for indexing and searching of color images in corpus. The existing CBIR techniques can typically be categorized on the basis of the feature it used for the retrieval i.e. color, shape, texture or combination of them. Color is an extensively utilized visual attribute that plays a vital role in retrieving the similar images [Low et al. 1998]. It has been observed that even though color plays a crucial role in image retrieval, when combined with other visual attributes it would yield much better results [Hsu et al. 1995]. This is because, two images with entirely similar color compositions, may have different color composition and sometimes two images have same color composition but they are not similar as shown in the figure. Hence something that looks similar is not semantically similar. The color composition of both the images in figure 11 is same but they depict the entirely different semantic idea. By analyzing both the images using the color based retrieval techniques both the images are similar

Franz Joseph Haydn Essay -- essays research papers

FRANZ JOSEPH HAYDN   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Dear President Schneider : On behalf of the great Franz Joseph Haydn, I write this letter of recommendation to support the admission of a great composer into the International Enlightenment Society. In order for a musician to be eligible for your society, I understand that he must embody the characteristics of the Enlightenment and more specifically, as a composer, his music must possess the characteristics of the Classical period. I assure you that what you will find in this letter of recommendation will not be disappointing. Franz Joseph Haydn was a great composer of the Classical era. Known as the Father of Symphony and the inventor of string quartets, the examples and styles that Haydn set forth were relied upon by Mozart and Beethoven in creating their own respective masterpieces.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Born in a small town just inside Austrian borders, Haydn did not have much of a chance to be anything other than a wheelwright like his father. However, his father was a man who loved to sing and when Haydn was a boy, he memorized almost every song his father sang. This was his beginning in music. Later on, he received an education from his uncle where he gained more of an interest in music. Participation in a choir gave him the opportunity to go to Vienna and there, he studied the piano sonatas of Emanuel Bach and was given the chance to finally get a chance to compose; something he had always wanted to do. This is when the first string quartet was developed. Later on, he was employed by the Esterhazy family and was given the chance to conduct an orchestra and write symphonies. It was at this time and place that Haydn was “completely isolated from the world…he could experiment…improve, alter, add, or cut as boldly as he pleased.'; This was the s tart of a magnificent career.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  To understand why Haydn was a great classical composer, it is important to understand the certain characteristics and themes of the Classical Period. Unlike baroque music, classical was secular; it was non-religious and it resided more in the homes of nobles or in public works rather than in the church. There was the creation of symphonies, string quartets, and piano sonatas using a method called the sonata form. Unlike the complicated baroque counterpoint ... ..., and prancing horses down to the wrigglings of the humble earthworm.'; Despite being of a Baroque genre, it was simple and logically thematic making it more Classical than it was baroque. As you can quite see Mrs. President, Franz Joseph Haydn, definitely belongs in the International Enlightenment society. He was the inventor of the string quartets and the father of symphony, two important genres of the Classical period. He created the sonata form which has been echoed by other great composers including Mozart and Beethoven. His wide variety of music from happy dancing to somber funeral music was greatly appreciated by the public and the nobles earning him a honorary degree from Oxford as Doctor of Music. Unlike Mozart or Beethoven, when Haydn died he was not forgotten. Two weeks after his death, “the whole art-loving world of Vienna';, went to a great memorial service at the city center in honor of the greatest composer of the Classical period. If substance, restraint, simplicity, and balance of music are important characteristics of the Classical style, then it is not difficult to see why through his music, that Haydn was the greatest composer of Classical his tory.

Nature of Dreaming

The dreaming is the centre of the Aboriginal culture which everything relates back to, the creation of people, animals, water and land. The Dreaming for Aboriginals is, ‘the past, the present and the future’. 1. Outline the nature of the Dreaming- its stories, symbolism and art. Outline means to sketch in general terms, indicate the main features of. Aboriginal people tell the stories of the land and how it came to be with all its living creatures through expression of song, dance, painting and storytelling. The Aboriginal Dreaming is set into multiple layers from the simplest first layer which anyone can access and understand to the second layer onward where the concepts are more complicated and a person must have a relationship to the Aboriginal people or culture to understand. The last couples of layers are only for initiated Aboriginals and Aboriginal elders and are very sacred and secret from anyone and everyone else. Aboriginal Dreaming stories are depicted in the numerous artworks done using various techniques and coloured natural paints. Behind every painting there is hidden symbolism and every little shape, line and colour relates to some form of the Aboriginal life. The painting Sugarleaf at Ngarlu is an excellent example of hidden symbolism using shapes to create meaning such as camp sites, women dancing, footprints, ceremonial poles and women gathering socially. The stories of the dreaming are important as it is passed from generation to generation by the elders about the different experiences, lessons and Gods and spirits. Painting was the main way of expressing stories from ancestors specifically on rocks, utensils, weapons and as body art. Rock art has given evidence of human presence in Australia for over 30000 years. In the present day and in the past, body paintings have been used to show social position, relationship to their family, ancestors and to a person’s totem. Reference http://www.aboriginalartonline.com/art/art.php

10 Interviewing Tips and Techniques

10 Interviewing Tips and Techniques 10 Interviewing Tips and Techniques 10 Interviewing Tips and Techniques By Mark Nichol Whether you are conducting a journalistic QA session or preparing an oral history, it’s important to prepare carefully for an interview. Here are some guidelines to help you succeed with the interview session. 1. Be Straightforward When you contact an interview subject, state your objective clearly and honestly. The nature of the interview you conduct should be the nature of the interview you described to the subject. Diversions from the stated agenda may upset the subject and undermine the interview. However, do not provide your questions to the subject in advance; tell him or her that any questions you prepare ahead of time are only part of the interview. 2. Choose an Interview-Friendly Location The interview subject’s home or office is generally better than a public location such as a coffee shop, with fewer unfamiliar distractions. A subject in the comfort of his or her own environment will provide you with better material, and you can make light conversation about a photograph, a memento, or some other object or feature to start the interview off on a relaxed footing. 3. Research the Subject Thoroughly Find out as much as you can about the person before the interview. Be well prepared, and distinguish between facts and opinions so you can query the subject appropriately about what you’ve learned. 4. Determine a Theme Avoid treating an interview as simply a series of general questions and answers. After conducting research, decide what the tone of the interview will be, and what you expect to get out of it. Develop a narrative flow based on the questions you wish to ask. The resulting content probably won’t follow that scheme, but your interview should have structure, and the questions should be organized logically by topic. 5. Prepare Questions Write down every question you can think of, whether you think you’ll have time to have them answered or not, in the order in which you would like the interview to progress, and then winnow the list to a manageable number of questions (but more than you think you’ll have time for). Craft simple questions consisting of a single query, and ask the most important ones first, in case the interview is interrupted or halted. Be prepared to jettison some questions, and be flexible enough to digress when the subject goes in an unexpected direction. Continue to follow that lead until it’s no longer productive and you are able to resume your line of questioning, preferably with a smooth transition. 6. Record the Interview If possible, use a recording device, but take notes in writing as well to help you shape the interview and in case the device malfunctions. Before you begin the interview, inform the subject that you are recording it to enhance the accuracy of the final product. Tell him or her that after you begin recording but before the interview begins, you will ask for his or her consent so that you have a record of it, and then do so. 7. Ask Questions Only the Subject Can Answer Do not waste the subject’s time by asking questions that can be answered through research. Do, however, use quantitative information such as age as a starting point. Instead of asking how old someone is, for example, ask someone who is old enough to have lived through a certain period in the past about his or her experiences during that time. 8. Engage with the Subject Demonstrate that you are interested and that what the subject is saying is important. Maintain eye contact as much as possible, but be objective and use neutral body language and avoid nodding, which may actually inhibit a substantive response. 9. Be Polite But Persistent If some of your questions are provocative or sensitive, word them carefully and ask them diplomatically. If the subject doesn’t answer or provides an inadequate response, ask again in other words. If a response still isn’t forthcoming, return to the topic again later in the interview, explaining why it’s important that the subject respond. 10. Be Patient When the subject seems to complete a response to a question, do not immediately move on to the next question, whether scripted or thought up at the time. Continue to be attentive, and patiently await more information. Sometimes, the postscript to a response is the best part. Likewise, when the interview is over, and the subject is more relaxed, take advantage of an opportunity to ask a casual question or two or to comment about something he or she said earlier. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Business Writing category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:50 Incorrect Pronunciations That You Should AvoidOn Behalf Of vs. In Behalf OfCareful with Words Used as Noun and Verb

Definition and Usage of the French Word Enchanté

Definition and Usage of the French Word Enchantà © French has long had an influence on the English language. The two languages  share the same  alphabet  and a number of  true cognates. But, the biggest influence of French on the English language may be the number of words- such  as  enchantà ©- that have been passed from the former to the latter tongue. The French word enchantà © is an adjective, but you are likely to use the term to express delight when meeting someone new. Definitions: Enchantà ©Ã‚  vs. Enchant The word  enchantà © in French means enchanted, delighted, overjoyed, smitten, or bewitched. In English, the word enchant means to influence by charms and incantation, to  bewitch, attract, move deeply, or rouse to ecstatic admiration. The similarities in the French and English terms are clear. The spellings are quite similar, but the pronunciations are a bit different. The word enchantà © is pronounced [a(n) sha(n) tay] in French. Not surprisingly, the English word enchant has an origin dating back centuries, having derived from its sister word  enchantà ©Ã‚  in French. Origin of Enchantà ©Ã‚  and Enchant The  Oxford Living Dictionaries  notes that the modern English term enchant actually comes from  Middle English, the language spoken in England from about 1100 to 1500. Enchant is derived from the late Middle English term meaning to put under a spell and delude. The term was originally spelled incant in Middle English, as in an incantation.​ Before that, the English word derived from the French term, enchanter, which in turn originated from the Latin incantare, meaning in   cantere,  to sing.  The French term  enchanter  is the infinitive form of the word, meaning to enchant, to delight, to be overjoyed, or to bewitch. Examples of  Enchantà © To gain a fuller understanding of  enchantà ©, it may be helpful to see how the term is used in French and translated into English. French Sentence(s) English Translation Je suis enchantà © de cette pià ¨ce. I'm delighted by this play. "Voici mon frà ¨re David.""Enchantà ©." "This is my brother David.""Nice to meet you." Cette forà ªt est enchantà ©e. This forest is enchanted. Note how, in the first two examples,  enchantà ©Ã‚  is translated as delighted or nice (as in delighted to meet you). The word, nice by itself translates as  agrà ©able  in French. The word nice only translates as  enchantà ©Ã‚  in the context of expressing delight or enchantment upon meeting someone. Enchantà © in French Literature The notion of enchantment has a firm grounding in French literature.  Ã‚  William C. Carter,  in his book, Marcel Proust: A Life, said that the famous French novelist always sought to enchant his readers: His intently seductive voice is similar to Walt Whitmans, whose sounds and words constantly seem to urge the reader to lie with him and exchange caresses. This brings you back, then, to the original meaning of the term  enchantà ©, meaning to bewitch or cast a spell on, which certainly makes it an alluring term. So, the next time you are searching for just the right word when you meet someone new, use the term  enchantà ©Ã‚  to show your delight at meeting that person or to cast a spell as you draw in your reader or listener.

Bacterial Growth Requirements

Bacterial Growth Requirements Free Online Research Papers Bacteria are single celled organisms that can only be seen with a microscope. They are so small that scientists measure them in micrometers. A micrometer is equal to one millionth of a meter. On average, a bacterium is equal to one micrometer long. This would mean that the head of a pin could hold hundreds of thousands of these microorganisms. Bacteria, which can be traced back 3.5 billion years, live all around us and also inside us. They are in the air, soil and water of the earth and in plants and animals as well. In humans bacteria can be found in many places. They are on skin surfaces, the inner surfaces of our nose, throat, stomach and intestines, to name a few. The only places you normally don’t find bacteria in our bodies, according to Encarta,† is in the muscles, blood and the nervous system.† They can, however, invade these areas and cause our immune system to get rid of them. Generally, most bacteria live in or on our bodies and help prevent disease. (pg.2) According to Alcamo’s Fundamentals of Microbiology,† growth in the microbial world usually refers to an increase in the population size†. Bacteria reproduce asexually using a process called binary fission. Binary fission involves cytokinesis which is an inward pinching of the cell wall that separates it into two. This process occurs after a cell has grown large enough to divide. Under the right conditions some bacteria can reproduce in 15 to 20 minutes. This means that one cell can become two in that time and those two will then become four cells in about half an hour. After 6 hours, in ideal conditions, one bacterial cell can become 131,000 or more bacteria. (pg.139) In order for bacteria to grow and reproduce they need nutrients and other outside factors. The nutrients are absorbed through pores in the cell wall and passed into the cytoplasm. Some examples of the factors important to cell growth are oxygen, temperature and pH level. â€Å"A thermophile grows at high temperatures, an acidophile grows at low pH, and an osmophile grows at high solute concentration,† are according to textbookofbacteriolgy.com, which shows how the names correspond with growth conditions. (pg.8) Temperature has been deemed one of the most important factors for growth because each species has an ideal growth temperature. The temperature range for these bacteria is a range of approximately 30 degrees with their ideal temp being somewhere in the middle. For example, â€Å"the thermophiles mentioned earlier multiply best at 60 degrees Celsius but still multiply between 40 and 70 degrees,† according to Alcamo’s Fundamentals of Microbiology. They tend to multiply better at the higher temperatures than they do at the lower ones. There are, however, cells that are opposite of this and would multiply better at lower temperatures than they would at the higher ones. (pg.147) The next factor important for growth is oxygen. Many bacteria depend highly on oxygen and those are called aerobic cells. Oxygen in aerobic cells is used to make energy which is important for cell function and growth. There are, however, cells that don’t need oxygen and these are called anaerobic. Anaerobic cells would, obviously, use means other than oxygen for their energy source. The pH level, which refers to the acidity or alkalinity level, is very important to bacterial cells. The cytoplasm in most of them has a pH level of 7.0 which is in the neutral range. This would make it important for these cells to be in an environment with a similar level in order for them to grow. There are cells that are more tolerant to lower acid levels and can survive in them. However, the majority don’t grow well in acidic environments. In the human body this is good news for the stomach. The acid levels here would help deter disease and keep bacteria from reaching other areas beyond the stomach. As stated previously, bacteria are everywhere and in most cases are harmless and beneficial. However, there are bacteria that cause disease and when the immune system is not functioning properly they can invade areas of the body. Generally harmless bacteria can also become a problem if they enter the body through a cut or injury and make their way into the bloodstream. The bloodstream is one of the areas bacteria are not normally found and in the case of a weak immune system it would be an ideal place for them to multiply. For many cells the temperature, oxygen and pH levels are perfect in the bloodstream, for growth, and this can cause many problems for the human body. Other places that bacteria can grow which are harmful to a person are food and water. When they multiply to high numbers on things that we ingest it can cause food poisoning and other serious and sometimes deadly diseases. The human immune system is designed to help keep bacteria counts at a normal range to keep us healthy and to fight off attacks of harmful bacteria. There are also other ways in which we can protect ourselves if our immune system is weak. One way is through antibiotics which are antibacterial drugs that are a very important part of the battle with bacteria. However, in time bacteria can become immune to antibiotics so they are no longer effective. Other ways to insure good health and good bacteria counts is through vaccines and maintaining healthy clean environments. These methods will help to prevent bacteria spread and a large number of health issues that go along with it. References Marquis, Robert E. (2007). Bacteria. Encarta.msn.com. Retrieved June 29, 2007, from http://encarta.msn.com/text_761574409___0/Bacteria.html Pommerville, Jeffrey C. (2007) Alcamo’s Fundamentals of Microbiology. Eighth Edition. Todar, Kenneth (2004) University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Bacteriology. Nutrition and Growth of Bacteria. Retrieved June 25, 2007, from http://textbookofbacteriology.net/nutgro.html Research Papers on Bacterial Growth RequirementsGenetic EngineeringInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesNever Been Kicked Out of a Place This NiceBionic Assembly System: A New Concept of SelfResearch Process Part OneThe Masque of the Red Death Room meaningsMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever ProductDefinition of Export QuotasPETSTEL analysis of IndiaIncorporating Risk and Uncertainty Factor in Capital

Research Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words - 1

Research Report - Essay Example It is conceived as a medium of developing resistance towards insulin, which might increase the chances related to developing diabetes (Lee, 2014). The objectives of the proposed research will be as follows: In the present day perspective, it has been recognized that people are more attracted towards fast food as it is a convenient and economical way of quenching hunger. In this respect, the present generation of adolescents is recognized to be the ones to be positively attracted to fast food. The modern day individuals consume fast food in an immense manner due to various factors which include convenience, inexpensive and delicious. Additionally, consumption of fast food has become a popular trend amid a major percentage of individuals (Paeratakul et al., 2003). Fast food is conceived as a package of food consisting of high calorie and low-level nutrients. Correspondingly, fast or junk food is accountable for several health risks, which include coronary heart disease and diabetes among others (UMN, 2012). Subsequently, the proposed research study will be conducted with the objective of identifying the procedures based on which the chances of diabetes increase from sustained intake of f ast food. This particular proposed research study will be conducted to ascertain the health risks associated with the consumption of fast food. Moreover, the proposed study will also assist in determining the importance and procedure for causing diabetes amid the present generation population. In this regard, examination concerning health risks of diabetes associated with consumption of fast food will assist nurses in possessing adequate knowledge about the causes accountable for diabetes. The key search terms for this proposed study include fast food, health hazards and diabetes. Additionally, the proposed study will aid in determining the association that exist amid these search terms. The modern day individuals especially adolescents along with young

Samsung electronics Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Samsung electronics - Research Paper Example Notably, the company was founded in the year 1938 as a trading company. Samsung has since been manufacturing many electronic components. Some of these include lithium-ion, chips, hard drive, flash memory, and semiconductors for its major clients including Sony, Apple, Nokia, and HTC. However, in the recent years, Samsung electronics has since diversified its services into consumer electronics. Currently, Samsung is known as the largest mobile phones and smart phones manufacturer. This latest shift sparked the popularity of Samsung electronics’ Samsung Galaxy (Michell, 2011). Other than the phones, Samsung electronics is also a major tablet computers vendor particularly the Android powered Samsung Galaxy tab. Samsung also manufactures personal computers for commercial purposes. The figure below shows how the prices of the Samsung Galaxy smart phones, Samsung Galaxy tabs and Samsung personal computers have changed in the last two years (Russell and Cohn, 2012). Opportunity cost refers to an activity a firm can undertake as an alternative to its current line of business. For Samsung, two such examples include the motor vehicle industry and home furniture industry. Samsung is considered a firm that produces very high quality products. Consumers have trust in their products. If the firm was to start manufacturing motor vehicles, the same quality would be transferred. This good quality comes at an affordable price. This would mean that even the average consumer would buy a high quality vehicle at an affordable price (Russell and Cohn, 2012). The same case applies to the production of home furniture. Consumers would be willing to pay for getting good service. One scarcity issue faced by Samsung is the overwhelming demand for its products. In the year 2000, it had to issue licenses to various production companies worldwide to manufacture their products under their name. It is very possible to get a Samsung electronic device made in China and a

Homeland Security Analysis Speech or Presentation

Homeland Security Analysis - Speech or Presentation Example   The second amendment advocates for a well regulated Militia. It further declares that the right of the militia to own fire arms should not be infringed. It may be indisputable that gun ownership makes a nation safe.   However, the access of the fire arms by criminals may however be uncontrollable.   It is also questionable if the presence of a gun may cause unnecessary harm such as an ordinary argument escalating into a shooting. There are legal issues legal issues/laws that highly conflict with the policy. ii). Background Currently, the Homeland Security is one of the largest federal agencies in the United States of America. The second amendment in the US constitution states that a well regulated militia, is necessary for the security of a free nation and that the citizens have the right to own firearms. Quite often, conflict arises about how the second amendment should be interpreted. Other issues also emerge from a possibility that fire arm ownership causes increased. Ther e is difficulty in establishing a balance between ethical issues, individual's right of self-defense and national security. Each State in the US has fire arm laws clearly stated in their constitution. Most of the States have provisions for the right of an individual to own a firearm. The right to own firearms has been derived directly from the second amendment of the Unites States of America Constitution (William 1994). Most of the State constitutions give reasons for why an individual should be allowed to own firearms. Some these reasons are: a) Self-defense. Twenty four states give this as a valid reason for the use of arms b) State-defense Twenty eight states give this a proper purpose for gun use by individuals. c) Home/Property defense Ten states cite home/property defense as a reason for gun ownership. d) Family defense Five states advocate for this as a reason for gun ownership. e) Hunting and Recreation. Six states give this as another reason for fire arm ownership. The stat e constitutions do not permit confiscation of fire arms except for those used in crimes. iii). Discussion/analysis There is now written limit as to how many guns an individual can own. How many fire arms an individual can own is therefore an individual’s own business. For the sake of security, it is best that every home has access to a gun. Conflict arises from the need to have the public free of guns and the need to allow the public own guns. One can justify each position with the same point. Having guns with the people increases violent crimes and cases of murders by gunshots. On the other hand, ownership of guns increases safety within the public through reduced crimes as people are able to defend themselves. A number of legal issues do arise from the clause on gun/ firearm ownership cited in the second amendment of the constitution of the US. These legal issues are discussed below. a) Right to self defense All state constitutions allow gun ownership for reasons of self de fense. Other than these, recreation activities such as target shooting and hunting are also reasons for firearm ownership. Allowing gun ownership is thus a fundamental step in ensuring personal safety among the citizens. Though there are cases of death reported as a result of gun use in self defense, they are significantly lower to cases of life saving as a result of gun use for self defense. The gun ownership clause thus aids in increased safety among the

Discribe the parliamentary sovereignty from constitutional prespective Essay

Discribe the parliamentary sovereignty from constitutional prespective - Essay Example According to the conventions of the British constitutional law in the past century, it is indicative that the dicey theory was the most influential one among all that were advanced in the century. The theory advanced by lord dicey postulates that the parliament has the right under the English constitution to make or repeal any law irrespective of circumstances. The theory goes further to state that there is no one under the constitution that has the right to override or amend the legislation made by the parliament. Therefore, the theory posits that the sovereignty of the parliamentary made legislation is absolute as long as it is working within the scope of the constitution. Notwithstanding the above ideal postulated by the theory, there are some sophisticated arguments that can be levelled against the doctrine that lord dicey fronts. The argument, notably, challenge the validity of the theory in the light of devolution, European convention on human rights and European union laws. This means that the point of absolute power of the parliament is not valid since there are limitations imposed upon it on the issues stated. Therefore, due to lack of the common point of reference on the absolute power of the parliament made legislations, various authorities in constitutional law have suggested an evaluation of the sovereignty of the constitution from a purely conventional approach. This approach seeks to remove the notion postulated by dicey theory on the supremacy of the parliament made law. As indicated earlier the power of the parliament in making the laws is absolute and it can only be repealed by another parliament. However, some of the scholars in law insist in the absolute power of the parliament in making the laws. This means that the parliament still harbor the right to make the unquestioned law as it is a convention under the British constitution. Others argue that in as much as the sovereignty of the constitution forms a

Gender in TFA Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Gender in TFA - Research Paper Example His father’s lack of courage and financial insecurity stirs his obsession for masculinity and he is motivated to become a chivalrous warrior and a man of great wealth, who could provide everything his family needs. Thus, Okonkwo’s character thrives on the notion of filling a vacuum in the realms of masculinity that his father so cowardly left. On the other hand, he remains concerned about his son Nwoye of 12 years of age, whom he perceives as lazy. This causes the anguish in Okonkwo that his son will grow up to become an ‘efukfu’, a worthless loser like his father. Consequent to a settlement, Okonkwo acquires a virgin and a 15 year old boy named Ikemefuna as reward from another tribe and he envisions an ideal son in the latter. However, despite his love for Ikemefuna, he kills him just to save himself from appearing weak in front of others. Thus, through each thread in the fabric of TFA’s plot, Achebe emphasizes Okonkwo’s yearning for recognit ion as a manly hero in the patriarchal society that values masculinity as the most honored trait. Right from the beginning of the story, Achebe illustrates the significance of masculinity in the Umuofian society by referring to the fact that at the age of 18, Okonkwo has earned honor in the village by winning a wrestling contest with ‘Amalinze the Cat’ who has been the unbeaten champion for over seven years. Even while describing the fight, the author strives to accentuate the masculinity of both warriors by showing how every vein and â€Å"every muscle† on their arms, back and thighs stands out (Achebe Ch.1). Thus, the audience receives a clear idea of the pivotal role of masculinity in the Nigerian culture and how male characters in the story cherish the notion of manliness. On the other hand, Achebe also distinctly depicts the motivation of the male protagonist by orienting the readers about his father’s lack of masculinity by portraying Unoka,

What constitutes a crime Understanding the various Acts that Essay

What constitutes a crime Understanding the various Acts that Constitute a Crime with Examples - Essay Example There are certain acts that get categorized as criminal activity and one must acquire knowledge about what comes under the boundaries that are considered unlawful according to the law of the land. Knowledge about the acts that constitute a crime is necessary for not just criminologists but ordinary people too. An understanding about the source behind a criminal activity helps in eradicating any sort of upcoming harm generated through that act. It also refrain people from heading towards the wrong (and unlawful) path. This paper discusses the most significant acts that propel a criminal activity or a crime in detail along with helpful examples. Any illegal or unlawful act comes under the category of crime. Crime is the commission of an act or it may be named as the omission of an act, through which the law is violated and results in punishments by the authorities (Milhorn, 2005). Crime serves several functions; it is because of crimes that the societies set the boundaries related to m orality. There are three classified main types of crime that is conventional or ordinary, occupational and organizational. Conventional category includes the unlawful acts regarding violence such as assault, rape and murder, but mainly involves of property crimes for example theft, robbery and burglary. Usually people involved in such acts belong to the lower and blue collar classes. Whereas the occupational crimes comprise of acts which are entirely different like violation of laws named as white collar crime, performed by people of middle or upper social classes. The people may include business persons, government employee etc. Third category is the organizational crime, which is committed by organizations, industries, labor unions etc. (Yeager, 1980). In general, ordinary crimes can be further divided into two categories personal and property crimes. Personal crimes are violations against any other person which may include the crimes such as assault, battery, betrayal, false impr isonment, kidnapping, homicide crimes namely first and second degree, murders and involuntary manslaughters and vehicular homicides. The property crimes comprises of actions against properties such as larceny, arson, burglary, forgery, false pretenses and receipt of stolen goods etc. Above are some of the crimes which are equivalently affective both personally and property wise like robbery involves enforcement through physical force as well as theft of ownership. Organizational crimes are the white collar crimes that include embezzlement, bankruptcy fraud, mail and wire fraud, bribery, theft or trade secrets, etc. They are named as corporate crimes because the acts have impact on the state. Assault, is a crime by a person who has an anxiety of fulfilling a pending damaging or violent connection. An assault does not take place when merely words are used to threaten; rather it takes place when apprehension of harm, that is, use of certain action along with the threat is called an ass ault. For example, a man commits an assault when he sexually harasses a female either verbally or physically. Battery is said to be a type of common assault, which is the result of a volitional deed, which is an action executed to cause harm to another person. For example, if a person even throws a rock at someone with the cause of hurting him and the rock hits the person, then this will lead to battery. False imprisonment is a form of crime in which a person is confined against his will by

Discribe the parliamentary sovereignty from constitutional prespective Essay

Discribe the parliamentary sovereignty from constitutional prespective - Essay Example According to the conventions of the British constitutional law in the past century, it is indicative that the dicey theory was the most influential one among all that were advanced in the century. The theory advanced by lord dicey postulates that the parliament has the right under the English constitution to make or repeal any law irrespective of circumstances. The theory goes further to state that there is no one under the constitution that has the right to override or amend the legislation made by the parliament. Therefore, the theory posits that the sovereignty of the parliamentary made legislation is absolute as long as it is working within the scope of the constitution. Notwithstanding the above ideal postulated by the theory, there are some sophisticated arguments that can be levelled against the doctrine that lord dicey fronts. The argument, notably, challenge the validity of the theory in the light of devolution, European convention on human rights and European union laws. This means that the point of absolute power of the parliament is not valid since there are limitations imposed upon it on the issues stated. Therefore, due to lack of the common point of reference on the absolute power of the parliament made legislations, various authorities in constitutional law have suggested an evaluation of the sovereignty of the constitution from a purely conventional approach. This approach seeks to remove the notion postulated by dicey theory on the supremacy of the parliament made law. As indicated earlier the power of the parliament in making the laws is absolute and it can only be repealed by another parliament. However, some of the scholars in law insist in the absolute power of the parliament in making the laws. This means that the parliament still harbor the right to make the unquestioned law as it is a convention under the British constitution. Others argue that in as much as the sovereignty of the constitution forms a

What constitutes a crime Understanding the various Acts that Essay

What constitutes a crime Understanding the various Acts that Constitute a Crime with Examples - Essay Example There are certain acts that get categorized as criminal activity and one must acquire knowledge about what comes under the boundaries that are considered unlawful according to the law of the land. Knowledge about the acts that constitute a crime is necessary for not just criminologists but ordinary people too. An understanding about the source behind a criminal activity helps in eradicating any sort of upcoming harm generated through that act. It also refrain people from heading towards the wrong (and unlawful) path. This paper discusses the most significant acts that propel a criminal activity or a crime in detail along with helpful examples. Any illegal or unlawful act comes under the category of crime. Crime is the commission of an act or it may be named as the omission of an act, through which the law is violated and results in punishments by the authorities (Milhorn, 2005). Crime serves several functions; it is because of crimes that the societies set the boundaries related to m orality. There are three classified main types of crime that is conventional or ordinary, occupational and organizational. Conventional category includes the unlawful acts regarding violence such as assault, rape and murder, but mainly involves of property crimes for example theft, robbery and burglary. Usually people involved in such acts belong to the lower and blue collar classes. Whereas the occupational crimes comprise of acts which are entirely different like violation of laws named as white collar crime, performed by people of middle or upper social classes. The people may include business persons, government employee etc. Third category is the organizational crime, which is committed by organizations, industries, labor unions etc. (Yeager, 1980). In general, ordinary crimes can be further divided into two categories personal and property crimes. Personal crimes are violations against any other person which may include the crimes such as assault, battery, betrayal, false impr isonment, kidnapping, homicide crimes namely first and second degree, murders and involuntary manslaughters and vehicular homicides. The property crimes comprises of actions against properties such as larceny, arson, burglary, forgery, false pretenses and receipt of stolen goods etc. Above are some of the crimes which are equivalently affective both personally and property wise like robbery involves enforcement through physical force as well as theft of ownership. Organizational crimes are the white collar crimes that include embezzlement, bankruptcy fraud, mail and wire fraud, bribery, theft or trade secrets, etc. They are named as corporate crimes because the acts have impact on the state. Assault, is a crime by a person who has an anxiety of fulfilling a pending damaging or violent connection. An assault does not take place when merely words are used to threaten; rather it takes place when apprehension of harm, that is, use of certain action along with the threat is called an ass ault. For example, a man commits an assault when he sexually harasses a female either verbally or physically. Battery is said to be a type of common assault, which is the result of a volitional deed, which is an action executed to cause harm to another person. For example, if a person even throws a rock at someone with the cause of hurting him and the rock hits the person, then this will lead to battery. False imprisonment is a form of crime in which a person is confined against his will by

The New Rave Generation Essay Example for Free

The New Rave Generation Essay Electronic Dance Music, better known as EDM, has the potential to be the largest genre of music in the near future. From the start this music has acted as a spiritual and emotional release for anyone who listens, this being one of, if not the most innovative forms of music in the history of entertainment. Throughout the existence of this genre there were many struggles amongst the industry. After nearly 40 years of efforts, EDM has revealed itself to the mainstream of music entertainment. â€Å"For an industry increasingly reliant on aging headliners like Bruce Springsteen, Madonna and the Rolling Stones the appeal of a genre with fresh stars and a huge young audience is undeniable.†(The New York Times) In other words, the older generations of music are fading out for a new wave to come in. Without this new generation, the rise of EDM may not have occurred. The origin of this music varies depending upon the specific type of EDM. The United States progression from traditional acoustic music to Electronic Music started in the 1970’s and now grows larger than ever expected. The true origin of this genre was in the 1960’s in Jamaica. Artists would overlay multiple tracks (normally instrumentals of existing tracks) on reel to reel tape players, which were commonplace at the time, to create their own unique tracks. They’d hook the reel to reel tape player up to an amp, along with an MC, and then throw large parties. Disco being one of the original forms of EDM was heard during the mid to late 1970’s among a very diverse but specific crowd which included the black, Latino, gay, and psychedelic communities. Donna Summer’s 1977 hit â€Å"I Feel Love† took the recent birth of this music put a slight twist on it which in turn expanded the electronic music culture. Although Donna Summer experimented with many genres, her impact on electronic dance music was substantial. Pairing with producer Giorgio Moroder was a defining moment for not just the sub-genre disco but for all of EDM. Disco’s combination of beats, strings, horns, and synths significantly impacted, whether directly or indirectly, every electronic artist from burgeoning house music DJs and New Order in the ‘80s to modern producers, like Calvin Harris and Avicii, revisiting those same sounds. Donna Summer’s career and more specifically her hit song â€Å"I Feel Love† is in some way responsible for every mainstream genre of EDM due to the explorative diversity of her music. Upon entering the 1980’s disco’s short lived popularity diminished. From the ashes of disco arose many new genres of EDM featuring electro, freestyle, techno and house. The musical aspect of the Jamaican culture, dub music was soon carried over to the US where artists such as Frankie Knuckles, known as the â€Å"Godfather of House†, began to introduce this magical genre. Due to the low demand for this electronically crafted music concerts were non-existent. In place of concerts, fans heard this music at warehouse parties and nightclubs. Using RB records, Frankie Knuckles and other artists used a mixer and two turntables. These records were not just left to play, the DJs reconstructed their sounds by mixing two records together at the same time, adjusting their tempos, and layering percussive beats over the top. This was the start of mainstream House Music. Night clubs and discos such as Paradise Garage and Studio 54 in New York City, or The Wharehouse in Chicago started employ DJs for every night they were open with the demand for EDM rising. These venues would have their sound system prepared more for DJs rather than the traditional live acts. At this point the interest for the DJs themselves had surpassed any expectation. In other words, fans began to appreciate the talent and dedication these artists possessed. With sudden interest in the DJs, they began to produce more of their own music. The increase in production led to the making of remixes. Remixing music proceeded to increase the popularity of this music and the individual DJs. By the 90s there was enough content and a large enough response to EDM where large concerts would be held indoors or outdoors casually known as raves. Raves feature loud, live music with breathtaking light shows which will put almost any person in awe. â€Å"Happy people, dancing happily without a hint of cynicism.†(Huffington Post) describes the atmosphere of any rave, perfectly. Raves gave off a sense of happiness among the whole crowd which is an indescribable feeling. Over years raves varied in styles to broaden the appeal, the venues started adding additional interactive entertainment including paint, glow sticks, foam and other stimulating accessories. Although the rave scene should have boosted the fan base substantially, EDM had reached the boundaries of its popularity for many years. Recently the electronic dance music scene has expanded past any expectations. Currently EDM is one of the most popular genres among all cultures. â€Å"If you’re 15 to 25 years old now, this is your rock ‘n’ roll,† said Michael Rapino, the chief executive of Live Nation Entertainment, the world’s largest concert promoter. This young audience is known as the new rave generation and they are nearly growing in numbers and variety. There are more performers, better technology and larger events every year. This scene is expanding with no intentions of slowing down. Electric dance music festivals are the hosts of the craziest events in the United States. These festivals took the average rave and super-sized it in every way possible. Most festivals are held over multiple days some providing overnight accommodations. Fans will spend thousands of dollars in preparation for these unforgettable couple days. The Electric Daisy Carnival in 2011 had over 200,000 guests at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. These fans gathered from all around the world to hear the top DJs of the industry give the crowd everything they had. As the crowd roars across the many stages thousands of people share something they will take with them forever. This remarkable experience gives out a vibe like no other and greatly impacts the lives of everyone attending. Electric Dance Music has not only impacted the music entertainment industry forever but also the lives of millions of people. With roots from all over the world EDM has collectively created something nobody could have ever had predicted. Bringing thousands of enthusiasts from around the world together for a spiritual journey creates a surreal experience nobody can dislike. EDM is a genre that is here to stay and will continuously influence generations to come.

Socio-economic Influences on Health

Socio-economic Influences on Health Scenario You are employed by the Public Health England as an assistant to the regional Public health officer in UK. Your manager has asked you to produce a report on why the life expectancy of individuals in the Midlands is lower than the London. Your report should cover AC 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 (Evidence type-Report) AC 1.1 Explain the effects of socio-economic influences on health. Your report should highlight the reasons for the difference in life expectancy for the two regions M1. The term socio-economic has been developed from the sociology and economic disciplines which, respectively, explore and examine people which comprise society and the economy which encapsulates finance. Together, social and economic factors, their interaction is examined to identify its impact and/influence on outcomes such as health. Socio-economic factors include income/low or no income, employment/unemployment, the environment, access to information, and citizenship status. The availability of jobs, and the type of jobs, is, in the main, the factor which impacts on life expectancy. Income is derived from employment, whether self or external, and with income housing can either be purchased or rented, food can be bought and citizenship issues can be resolved; albeit across a range such as the quality of food and housing stock. However, it is quite often the case that without income acquiring food, clothing and shelter is problematic. Over many years the main industries, which allowed families to manage their lives, have been either reduced or eliminated across the UK, and more so in some areas than in others. In the Midlands many of the textile industries no longer exist, as too the car manufacturing industries, and training in new technologies, available in other areas of the UK such as London, has either not been made available or is available in specific areas as opposed to all areas. Hence, without investment in other technologies by both the private and public sector jobs in areas such as the Midlands are limited; educated Midlands people whose voice may have been heard in demanding better civic services, such as in regular weekly bin collection, are no longer heard as many migrate to London for employment, and/or better employment opportunities. High socio-economic factors almost guarantees good health in that the quality of food is most likely to be nutritious and with ready access to health information, whether in text or through networking such as having a neighbour who is a doctor or a medical researcher, high socio-economic individuals will manage and monitor their health with regular visit to alternative practitioners and gyms as they practise a preventative health lifestyle to avoid negative socio-economic health conditions. Obviously, some health conditions cannot be prevented if they are hereditary but, conditions linked to obesity for example, are more likely to be avoided with the assistance of a physical fitness trainer for example. In so doing, obesity is avoided and linked lifestyle conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and hypertension can either be avoided or delayed. This may not be the case with those living with low incomes, either owing to poorly paid employment positions or unemployment. Such people would n ot be able to afford a personal trainer who may also assist them in constructing a menu conducive to a healthy lifestyle; notably not all vegetables are of the same nutritious quality so even if low income families are eating healthily they may not be eating quality health food when compared with those with a high income (Fowajuh, 2007; Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 2011). Based on available employment opportunities, it would be safe to claim that high income individuals/families are more likely to be found in London than in the Midlands, with the observation that life expectancy being greater in London than in the Midlands. Along with the quality of food purchased, and opportunities to purchase help to support a healthy physical regime, is the issue of housing. Low income individuals may have to content themselves with having a roof over their heads, irrespective of damp which brings on mould, poor heating and a generally unpleasant environment. Conditions, as stated in previous sentence, impacts on respiratory health, and if a child grows up in such conditions, these conditions can either exacerbate asthma or increase the chances of developing it, with long-term effects into adulthood and quite limiting life expectancy. A child from a high income family may have asthma but the chances of his or her home environment aggravating the condition is quite minimal, if at all. In addition, those with high disposable incomes are more likely to live in hospital trust areas which are well resourced and well-funded, and if not they are more likely to make a fuss to try and force a change or have the know how to de mand a second opinion or go to the private sector; Low income individuals are unlikely to do the same and most certainly will not have the finance to go private Quite, unfortunately, socio-economic factors, which are greatly affected by income leave certain regions in the UK at the mercy of those dispensing healthcare, whether it is adequate and fit for purpose or not, hence the discrepancy in life expectancy in regions such as London and the Midlands. In essence, the central socio-economic factor, Money buys goods and services that improve health. The money families have, the better the goods and services they can buy. [and] For various reasons, people on low incomes are more likely to adopt unhealthy behaviours smoking and drinking, for example while those on higher incomes are more able to afford healthier lifestyles (Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 2014). AC 1.2 Assess the relevance of government sources in reporting on inequalities in health in England There are many various government sources reporting on the levels of health experienced by public service users across England. These sources include Health Survey for England (HSFE), Acheson Report Independent Inquiry in Inequalities in Health (1998), Census Data and Health and Lifestyle Surveys (HALS). These sources, with the exception of the Census Data, provide a snapshot of health of public health service users in England. The information acquired from these different sources assist the government in its decision making when allocating health related funding to the various regions in England, recognising that the variation in health needs, or to be precise health inequalities, within one particular region may be as great, or greater than, the variation in needs between regions. In a blog, on the Guardian website in 2010, the following statement partly explains the relevance of government sources in reporting on inequalities in health in England in that It has been said that each stop on the District line to east London cuts life expectancy by a year (Guardian, 2010). The District line runs through some of the most expensive areas in London through to some of the most deprived. Drawing on statistics produced by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), this same blog highlighted the following: the average life expectancy age of a man in London is 78.6; however along the District Line, from west to east, the following boroughs showed variants around this average age, as follows: Ealing 78.9 Hammersmith Fulham 78.1 Kensington Chelsea 84.4 Westminster 83.4 Tower Hamlets 76.0 Newham 76.2 Barking and Dagenham 76.5 (Guardian, 2010). In an NHS study on life expectancy it was observed that Money may not buy you happiness, but it is linked to good health (NHS, 2015). Notably, this report considered the North-South divide in England, but this observation is very much applicable to the findings included in the Guardian blog above. Either side of the two richest boroughs in England, Kensington Chelsea and Westminster, the link between money and health, in London, is clear. At the west end of the District line male life expectancy differs from the London average by tenths of a percentage point; Ealing being six tenths of a percentage point higher, while Hammersmith and Fulham is five tenths of a percentage point lower. Overall family income levels are not as high in these two boroughs when compared with Kensington Chelsea and Westminster, however, family income levels are higher than those in Tower Hamlets, Newham and Barking Dagenham which have all been classed, at various times, as deprived boroughs (Hill, 2015). Although, the examples of life expectancy above are for men in London, the point should not be missed that money, or to be precise the lack of money, does play a part in health inequalities. Thus, it is undoubtedly necessary for the government to be fully conversant with the varying conditions of wealth, which impact health outcomes, across England. In this way, funding and resources should be deployed to areas experiencing inequalities in health, and in so doing health inequalities should be address for the benefit of the population most in need of public funded health care. AC 1.3 Discuss reasons for barriers to accessing healthcare. There are many reasons why there are barriers to accessing healthcare. These reasons include a lack of education, information, funding for staff and facilities and mobility, plus limited or no access to GPs and other health professionals. In detail, there is a somewhat convoluted cycle of lack which may results in those with the most health needs not receiving the necessary medical attention. A lack of education may prevent a potential public service user from accessing and/or receiving the relevant information even if it is available, which may assist them in making an informed decision as to which health professional could be seen first. In England, now, a pharmacist could be the first point of call, avoiding possible long waits to see a GP. Therefore, simple and treatable conditions could get worst while awaiting a GP appointment. Without the appropriate information a public service user may not know that a certain question should be asked; it is difficult to ask a question if one is ignorant of the fact that a question should be asked. Lack of information, along with restricted numbers in staffing contributes to ignorance in health related conditions, since the staff which could possibly mitigate the outcomes, arising from no written information by sharing that information in discussion, may have been cut owing to limited and/or reduced funding. Funding, or the lack of it, reduces staffing levels and the appropriate facilities to address public health issues. Funding also impacts on GP availability if a health trust decides to cut funding per patient to a GP; in this way GPs may be reluctant to accept new patients, or reduce surgery cover which may impact on the services provided by other health professionals linked to a surgery. Without a nearby and accessible surgery, those service users with mobility issue s may find it a struggle to attend the nearest surgery which requires a journey involving two or more changes using public transport. Whatever the reason, or combination of reasons, for being unable to access healthcare, most negative outcomes are probably quite preventable, and as such more costly to the public health providers when corrective action must be taken. REFERENCES Fowajuh, G. (2007) West Midlands Key Health Data 2007/08 Chapter Ten: Inequalities in Life Expectancies in the West Midlands Available online at  http://medweb4.bham.ac.uk/websites/key_health_data/2007/ch_10.htm  accessed on 27/02/17 Hill, D. (2015) Londons Poorest Boroughs Once Again Prepare to Make the Biggest Cuts Available online at  https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/davehillblog/2015/feb/23/londons-poorest-boroughs-once-again-prepare-to-make-the-biggest-cuts accessed 27/02/2017 Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2011) Does Income Inequality Cause Health and Social Problems? Available online at https://www.jrf.org.uk/report/does-income-inequality-cause-health-and-social-problems accessed on 27/02/17 Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2014) How does Money Influence Health? Available online at https://www.jrf.org.uk/report/how-does-money-influence-health accessed on 27/02/17 NHS (2015) Study Finds North-South Divide in UK Life Expectancy Available online at http://www.nhs.uk/news/2015/09September/Pages/Study-finds-North-South-divide-in-UK-life-expectancy.aspx accessed on 27/02/17