APN leader project Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

APN leader project - Assignment Example She could not find time to set up a meeting with me so the interview was done over the phone while writing down the responses. The APN should be able to act accordingly as a leader, coordinate activities in the nursing fraternity and make relevant changes coupled with providing guidance to junior employees. The APN should conduct the leadership in a way that attracts other partners and per takers in the field, for example, the society and the patients, they serve. The leadership basis should be on the ability to think reflectively and critically in a way that focuses on the future and addresses current problems. Advocating for improved healthcare in terms of cost effectiveness and quality is also a key aspect of competency. Finally, the APN should be able to advance effective communication on matters to do with the practice (Mirr & Zwygart-Stauffacher, 2010) The Nursing practitioner should have the relevant knowledge of critical data analysis and in this way be able to improve the nursing practice. The nurse should also be able to incorporate scientific knowledge and the aspects of humanity in the course of the provision of nursing services. Finally, t integration of experimental results and formulated theories in the practice is important. These reflect on the ability of the APN to deliver quality results in the practice. The APN should constantly be seeking ways of improving nursing services to raise the standards of service provision. He or she must also evaluate the relationship between the costs incurred in the course of practice and the quality of the output generated. The practitioner should be able to integrate successfully new practice methods into the field. From experience, the practitioner should also be able to improve various aspects of the practice that need improvement. Investigation and research is vital in the nursing industry, thus, ii is essential for an APN to have adequate investigative skills. Technology is an important

Homework Wk 2 FIN444 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Homework Wk 2 FIN444 - Assignment Example The website also contains articles and blogs that an interested party can find the information they require regarding the industry. It is also a platform where different insurance companies can prospect for business through featured products and price quotes to lure customers. What is interesting about this site is that it has information that anyone seeking to know about the industry can get. This may include students, industry competitors and customers to name but a few. In future I can use the website for different reasons which might include but not limited to seeking of an insurance product, investment in the industry and learning information lawyers.com is a website on legal matters. It contains information about the law profession for those practicing and for the potential clients seeking representation. It is divided into different categories where clients and those in the legal profession can easily navigate to get information that might be of use to them. Those who might be seeking legal representation can get one and lawyers find clients when they are featured. An individual seeking clarity on a certain legal question can post a query and get a response. The website also contains legal documents on different matters of interest to different people seeking them for this or the other reason. In future I can use the website to get information I might require for the various different reasons from the blogs, articles and through queries. I can get important legal knowledge on matters touching on different aspects of my life and situations. This is because ignorance is no defense in law. There are seven main general principles of insurance. Among them is the principle of insurable interest. Insurable interest is found when a person who taking the insurance gets financial or other kind of benefit from the use or existence of the object that was insured. In this case if it is a person, their continued

Flash Floods In Jeddah Saudi Arabia Environmental Sciences Essay

Flash Floods In Jeddah Saudi Arabia Environmental Sciences Essay Jeddah is one of the most important cities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Located on the shore of the Red Sea, the city has a population of more than 3.5 million, and after Riyadh, is the second largest urban settlement of the country (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). Containing the largest port on the Red Sea, it is the principal entry point for Mecca, the holiest city of the Islamic religion (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). It acts as a conduit for millions of worshipers on their way to Mecca and is otherwise a very busy commercial centre (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). Jeddah is also known to be among the more cosmopolitan of Saudi Arabian destinations and is home to many people from western countries, because of its sea facing location, commercial importance and international connectedness (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). The city experienced flash floods in the last week of November in 2009 (Al-Bargi, A., 2009, p 1). The floods resulted in a veritable catastrophe as much of the city was submerged in 3 feet of water and cars were swept away and piled on top of each other (Al-Bargi, A., 2009, p 1). Appendix 1 provides some pictures of the flash floods, which illustrate the extent and enormity of damage caused. The floods, which lasted for barely a couple of days, resulted in the loss of more than a 100 lives and damaged 2 billions of dollars of property (Abumansour, W., 2009, p 1). The next few days saw the residents of the city facing the dangers of a possible epidemic because of (a) overflowing sewage from the nearby Musk Lake, which threatened to enter the city, and (b) obvious difficulties in burying the men, women, children, and animals, who had died during the floods (Abumansour, W., 2009, p 1). Western citizens were bemused by the intensity of the havoc and destruction caused by just three inches of rain in a very short span of time on November 25. A resident of Florida writes as follows: On Wednesday, my part of west-central Florida received three-to-five inches of rain. No one died, even as the result of a traffic accident. Other than a few puddles an inch or two deep, the water was gone within hours of the rains passing. My city has a population of about 52,000 people and nowhere near the financial assets of Jeddah. (Crossroads Arabia, 2010, p1) The days that followed the floods witnessed an unprecedented wave of outrage in Saudi Arabia over the incompetence of the government in preventing the floods, which assumed the overtones of a catastrophe of great magnitude in terms of loss of lives and damage to property (Alice King, 2009, p 1). The episode also resulted in severe and all round condemnation of the inefficiency of town planning in Jeddah (Alice King, 2009, p 1). Numerous accusations of corruption against government officials and members of the bureaucracy led to the suspension of numerous responsible officials and the institution of a public enquiry (Al-Sulami, 2010, p 1). Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has ordered the cases of all those accused of complicity in the November floods in Jeddah referred to the watchdog for government employees and the national prosecution body The king made it clear that crimes involving financial and administrative corruption would not be included in the list of crimes he may choose to pardon later. (Al-Sulami, 2010, p1) 1.2. Definition of Problem Recent decades have witnessed a spate of natural flood related disasters of different dimensions with varying degrees of consequential damage. Pakistan has very recently, in early August 2010, experienced floods of immense severity, which have resulted in more than 1500 deaths. The impact of the Indian Ocean Tsunami, where more than 100,000 lives were lost, will not be forgotten soon (National Geographic News, 2005, p 1). A number of cyclones damaged American cities in the recent past and caused significant damage to life and property (Borland, 2010, p 1). Environmental and ecological experts attribute the greater occurrence of such natural disasters in recent years to global warming and consequential climatic change (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). With the impact of such climatic change not expected to abate in future, national and international policy makers are working on various stratagems to protect life and property from the consequences of such environmental turbulences (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). 1.3. Purpose Governments across the world are formulating and implementing customised plans and solutions for the protection of their citizens from the wrath of nature. Such plans obviously have to essentially be bespoke in character and designed to protect against specific environmental threats (Carter, 2007, p 330). Cities in hilly areas need to be protected from the consequences of earthquakes and landslides, even as residents of habitations near rivers, dams, reservoirs and seas need to be protected from the onslaught of water (Carter, 2007, p 330). Plans to protect citizens from disasters must also essentially incorporate disaster preparation and disaster management activities before, during and after the occurrence of disasters (Carter, 2007, p 330). The Saudi Government has evidenced high levels of concern about the implementation of flood and disaster management plans in the kingdom and the overcoming of associated difficulties and restrictions (A1SaudiArabia.com, 2010, p 1). This dissertation aims to investigate the various risks that can emerge from floods in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is also proposed to study the effect of various factors that can challenge or obstruct flood management plans at Jeddah and the various plans and measures that can be implemented to overcome such challenges. 1.4. Aims and Objectives The aims and objectives of this dissertation, framed in accordance with the defined problem and the purpose of this study, are now elaborated as under. To examine the various reasons that led to the enormous havoc and destruction after the occurrence of the flash floods in Jeddah on November 25, 2009. To examine and assess the various risks that can arise for life and property in the KSA because of unsuitable and inadequate flood management practices. To study the different issues concerned with flood management as also the implications of such issues on risk management for concerned public and private agencies and for members of the population. To study and understand the various implications of planning on ecosystems with specific reference to Saudi Arabia. To recommend specific strategies, plans and measures to protect the human population, animal and plant life, and individual and organisational property, in KSA, from such challenges. 1.5. Structure This dissertation has been structured to ensure sequential progress of research findings, right from the introductory section through the literature review, the choice of appropriate research methodology, and the obtaining and analysis of data to appropriate recommendations and conclusions. The bibliography and various appendices used during the study have been placed at the end of the dissertation. 2. Literature Review This review of extant literature involves a detailed study of various aspects of floods, their reasons, their effects, and the various ways in which communities and societies are (a) trying to prevent their occurrence, (b) minimise their impact on the ecosystem, human and animal life, and individual and organisational property, and (c) deal with their aftermath. Information sources have been chosen carefully for their relevance to the Jeddah floods of 2009, and to the broader issue of flood prevention and management in Saudi Arabia. 2.1. Risks from Floods Flooding is widely accepted to be the foremost causal factor for loss of life and damage to property from natural events in numerous regions of the world (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). It is to elaborate further considered to be far more damaging than other types of natural disasters or hazards like earthquakes and fires (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). The Munich Reinsurance Company, in a study conducted in 2000, found that practically 50% of loss of life and one third of economic losses that took place due to natural disasters, occurred because of flooding (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Damages from floods have been particularly severe in contemporary times (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). The last decade in particular has witnessed a number of flood related disasters across the world, which has resulted in widespread loss of life and damages, amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars, to property (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Whilst countries like China and Bangladesh experience flooding with associated loss to lives and property very frequently, other countries, like Saudi Arabia, for example, rarely face floods (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). However when floods do occur in such areas, their force, impact and consequential inundation is no less severe than in flood prone regions (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). It is evident that all populated areas across the world face risks from flooding, even as some societies are far more vulnerable than others to flood hazards (Alexander, 2006, p 1). Again whilst some societies have come to understand the damage that can be caused by floods and have adopted suitable measures to minimise associated damage, many others continue to be caught off guard and are found to be unprepared, to a great extent, when floods occur; such inadequacies exist both in minimising the damage from such floods and in taking appropriate post disaster action (Alexander, 2006, p 1). The members of such under protected societies thus often experience far more loss to life and property than those of better prepared communities (Alexander, 2006, p 1). The rapid and progressive increase in global population has led to the need for people to settle in new and hitherto unpopulated areas, some of which are known to be prone to natural hazards (Boruff Cutter, 2007, p 24). Saudi Arabia for instance is experiencing continuous increase in its population, much of which is fuelled by the inflow of people from other nations, who come in search of employment in the oil rich and fast growing Saudi economy (Boruff Cutter, 2007, p 24). The movement of people on account of political, social and economic reasons often leads to the development of habitation in areas that could be prone to flooding events (Boruff Cutter, 2007, p 24). Floods are defined in insurance contracts as a temporary covering of land by water as a result of surface waters escaping from their normal confines or as a result of heavy precipitation. (Kron, 2005 p 58) They can be categorised into three distinct classes, namely (a) storm surges, (b) river floods and (c) flash floods (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Apart from these three types of floods, flooding can also occur because of specific reasons like the occurrence of tsunamis, breaks in dams, rising of ground water, and glacial lake outbursts (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Storm surges occur mainly on the coasts of big lakes, seas, and oceans (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). They have in the past been the reason for the greatest losses to life and property that have occurred because of natural water related disasters (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). Whilst developed countries are fortifying their coasts in order to minimise the damage from such occurrences, storm surges continue to be a major threat in coastal areas across the world (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). River floods occur after heavy and continuous rainfall for many days, and even weeks, over substantially large geographical regions (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Saturation of soil in such cases results in the inability of the ground surface to absorb water indefinitely and further rainfall results in water running directly into streams and rivers (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Such floods generally grow gradually, even though they can sometimes occur within short periods, and can affect very large areas, especially where land topography is flat (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Whilst river floods in narrow valleys lead to inundation of small strips of land alongside rivers, the depths of such inundation and velocity of water can be excessively high and lead to enormous destruction of life and property in affected areas (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Whilst river floods occur from river based water sources and not from seas or oceans, their effect is often greater than that of flooding caused by seas (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Flash floods are predominantly local events, which occur in a scattered manner at different times across the world (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Such floods come about after the occurrence of intense rainfall in a short geographical area (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). The rate of infiltration of water into the ground in such cases is much slower than the rate of precipitation, even though the ground may not be fully saturated (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Flash floods often occur very suddenly and flood waves can rush to distant but contiguous locations in very short periods (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Whilst the forecasting of flash floods is very difficult because of the extremely small period between its first indication and actual occurrence and the actual period of occurrence of rainfall is short, their potential for destruction is immense (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Such floods occur not just in steep terrains, where water can flow swiftly, but also in flat areas where ground slopes are to o less for the occurrence of swift storm water runoffs (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Water in such situations collects on the surface in hardly noticeable depressions and in other areas like underground parking lots, basements and subways (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Flooding also occurs because of water logging when widespread and continuous rains inundate large traps of land (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). 2.2. Impact of Eco Systems on Floods Environmental experts state that whilst climate change is possibly influencing the excessive rainfall that has been ravaging Asia in the last few years, the purposeful and progressive destruction of eco systems by humans is playing a greater role in the intensification of the severity of floods (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Extensive deforestation, along with the conversion of wet lands to sprawling urban development and the blocking of natural drainage systems are intensifying the impact of floods (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). A number of environmental experts agree that whilst much of the modern day problems associated with environmental issues are being attributed to climate change, the severity of natural disasters is actually intensifying because of human destruction of natural infrastructure (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Millions of people are building homes along flood plains and increasing garbage is blocking natural water ways (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). All across Asia, cities are experiencing unplanned growth of urban sprawls, along with poor land and waste management (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Such developments are reducing natural protective phenomena and exposing human life and property to chances of extensive damage (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Obtaining a true understanding of eco system services in the safeguarding of human well being is difficult because of the range of factors that can both protect and harm humans during natural disasters (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). The following table illustrates the various ways in which eco systems play important roles in flood regulation (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). Key Role of Ecosystems in Regulating Extreme Events Ecosystem Role in Flood Regulation Cultivated Crop cover provides flood protection, conditioned on good management Dry land Protection through vegetation cover; recharge of aquifers Forest Protection from floods providing flood attenuation and soil loss prevention Urban Move people away from flood-prone areas, conditioned on good urban planning Inland Waters Provide mechanisms for flood attenuation potential (wetlands, lakes, etc.) Coastal Benefits from sediment transport to the coastal zone; flood protection provided by coastal ecosystems (barrier beaches, mangroves, etc.) Marine Benefits from nutrient transport to the oceans Polar Discharge regulation to oceans in the Arctic system (freshwater provision to Arctic oceans) Mountains Regulating flood-related events (slope stability) Islands Benefits from sediment transport to oceans through floods from the mainland; aquifer recharge as main source of fresh water (Source: Guenni, et al, 2005, p 444) 2.3. Role of Spatial Planning in Flood Prevention and Control Increased vulnerability to flooding of different types is occurring across the world because of destruction of protective eco systems like mangroves, coral reefs and flood plains (Alterman, 2001, p 7-19). Disasters have been found to be higher in regions that have suffered from greater environmental degradation (Alterman, 2001, p 7-19). Many countries experience severe problems from floods at irregular but frequent intervals (Chan Parker, 1996, p 313). The traditional approach taken by such nations for reduction of flood control consists mainly of (a) measures like construction of dykes and dams, and (b) improvements to canals, channels, and drainage systems (Chan Parker, 1996, p 313). Many of such programmes have been adopted specifically for cities and demarcated agricultural areas and have involved the deployment of a limited range of engineering activities for the overcoming of flooding problems (Chan Parker, 1996, p 313). Whilst some of these solutions have proven to be useful, others have ended up in aggravating flood damage (De Cola, 2002, p 363). Many western countries are now recognising the inadequacy of flood management programmes that are solely dependent upon structural measures (De Cola, 2002, p 363). Western countries are increasingly engaging in deployment of non-structural methods for flood prevention (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Such measures aim to minimise losses through controlling urban and collateral development in areas at risk from floods (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Non-structural measures are by and large utilised along with a range of structural measures in order to create comprehensive systems for dealing with flood problems (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Many such programmes with non-structural components have however met with partial success because of problems associated with zoning of land and relocation of people (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Comprehensive flood hazard management is the most effective way to address flood control issues. It incorporates a variety of engineering, environmental protection and planning measures. It includes flood plain management, flood control maintenance activities, storm water management, shoreline management, protection of frequently flooded areas under Growth Management, watershed management, other flood hazard mitigation activities, and preparation for flood disasters where mitigation activities cannot prevent flooding. (MRSC, 2010, p1) Experts agree that spatial management, which includes both structural and non-structural measures, can significantly help in preventing and reducing the impact of natural disasters (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Such planning essentially contains the following elements: Early warning system: Spatial planning will succeed only if it is based upon sound information on the region under consideration. This calls for the introduction and implementation of suitable methods for acquisition and measurement of data about environmental hazards. Risk Assessment and Mapping: The formulation of effective systems for prevention of flood related disasters depends upon the availability of comprehensive information on the causes and impact of flooding. Such systems require the creation of appropriate frameworks for assessment and evaluation of floods. Hydrological and geological information like thematic hazard maps can help significantly in reducing loss of life and property because of floods. Prevention and Reduction: Spatial planning efforts require the analysis of various inter-relationships between spatial planning and the occurrence of floods. Appropriate spatial models can be discussed and established only on the basis of results of such analysis. Risk management: Spatial planning, to be effective, needs to carefully look at various elements of infrastructure like evacuation routes and safety spaces, which can help safeguard and secure individuals during the occurrence of floods. Reconstruction: Spatial planning is of extreme importance during reconstruction after disasters, when rebuilding has to be appropriately executed in order to eliminate past inadequacies and prepare for future developments. (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82) 2.4. Prevention, Management and Control of Flood Disasters Spatial planning, whilst extremely important for mitigation of the impact of floods is only one of a number of dimensions that have to be considered, when planning for prevention, management, and control of flood disasters. Some extremely important aspects of flood control are detailed in the following sub-sections (Haeuber Michener, 1998, p 74). 2.4.1. Vulnerability Analysis and Mapping A vulnerability analysis aims to assess the risks faced by structures and populations within flood prone areas (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Such analysis assesses the potential impact of flooding by way of damage to roads, bridges, buildings and critical utilities (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Vulnerability analysis is executed for different probability levels of floods and leads to the development of an elevation-damage curve (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Such an analysis, by identifying high risk populations, is useful for formulation of required emergency responses in terms of evacuation and temporary shelters (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). A vulnerability analysis also helps in deciding acceptable risk levels and the level for which protection is essential (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Mapping is closely associated with vulnerability analysis and represents a detailed definition of risk prone areas (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). Mapping is an important fundamental activity for all types of flood preparation programmes (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). With such maps often having legal implications with regard to zoning and the execution of structural and non-structural flood control actions, they must be credible and accurate (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). Such mapping by and large takes place on the frequency of flood events and along with vulnerability analysis provides a basis for all flood control measures (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). 2.4.2. Protection of Flood Prone Lands Vulnerability analysis and mapping provide vital inputs for the formulation of policies and programmes for controlling the incidence and impact of areas that are susceptible to floods (Johnson, et al, 2007, p 374). Policies and programmes for effective flood control often envisage carefully thought out controls over fresh development in flood prone areas, along with programmes for reduction of damage to existing development (Johnson, et al, 2007, p 374). Such policies are needed to limit the increasing economic and social losses that come about from floods (Johnson, et al, 2007, p 374). Flood control programmes should in the first place focus on alternate utilisation of lands facing flood risks (Krischenbaum, 2004, p 57-60). It is often better to zone such lands and use them for parks or other nature areas, rather than to think of measures to protect future development from floods (Krischenbaum, 2004, p 57-60). Zoning along with appropriate measures for flood proofing can help significantly in mitigation of damages from future floods (Lerner, 1998, p 35). However the final utility of such measures depends upon maintenance and enforcement (Lerner, 1998, p 35). Many local authorities, who are under developmental pressure, have shown tendencies to relax their stand on flood control as years pass by without the occurrence of floods (Lerner, 1998, p 35). 2.4.3. Climatological Forecasting and Geographic Information Systems Significant advances in techniques and methods for climatological forecasting have now made it a very useful tool for mitigation of flooding risks (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). Such forecasting entails the correlation of extreme events to major alterations in ocean and atmospheric circulation patterns (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). The identification of such patterns helps in forecasting storm activity with substantially greater accuracy than what could be done in the past (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Climatological forecasting provides important information for improvement of emergency response readiness (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Such forecasts are also helpful for increasing availability of reservoir storage and for building awareness of flooding potential (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Such measures can lessen flooding severity, as and when floods occur (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). Forecasting of extreme flooding can help local authorities in taking preventive actions such as piling up of sand bags, arrang ing for supplies of food and water, and removing high value goods (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). Climatological forecasting helps in building public awareness of the potential impact of floods, highlighting expected public responses, and carrying out drills to assess degree of preparedness (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Geographic Information Systems (GIS) represent software driven information and management systems that help in forecasting of water flows and in development of emergency responses (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). Such systems use data from various sources, combine them suitably, and thereafter provide information for specific locations (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). Data on vegetative cover is for example combined with information on soil and slope of land to assess infiltration rates for purposes of forecasting (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). Climatological forecasting and geographical information systems, when used in combination, can be helpful in providing information for the taking of a range of precautionary measures for the mitigation of the impact of floods (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). 2.4.4. Structural Measures Structural measures represent the undertaking of a wide range of infrastructural activities that aim to protect regions from the devastation that can be caused by floods (Munich Re, 2000, p 1-5). Such structural measures largely consist of protective infrastructural development like reservoirs for flood storage, the diversion of flood water for storage in side channels or to other water sheds, and the building of storm channels that can carry water around risk prone areas (Munich Re, 2000, p 1-5). These structural measures can be built to ensure various protection levels and can help significantly in reduction of flood damage (MRSC, 2010, p1). The construction of structural work is influenced by (a) determined standards for protection against floods, (b) costs and benefits of planned structures, and (c) the need to satisfy determined risk levels (MRSC, 2010, p1). The undertaking of protective infrastructure is important when (a) substantial infrastructure is already in place, and (b) the costs of protecting such development is expected to be substantially less than what can be expected to arise out of relocation of such infrastructure, lost economic activity, reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, or disaster relief and assistance (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). The example of Winnipeg in Canada underlines the importance of engagement in appropriate structural measures (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). Structural flood protection measures amounting to USD 92 million were completed for the city in the 1960s (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). It is estimated that these structures minimised the impact of five floods that occurred since then and prevented damages that would have cost approximately USD 2 billion to repair (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). The erection of protective infrastructure often leads to increase in developmental activities in areas that are at risk from floods, because of assumptions that such areas become safe from floods after the execution of structural measure (Hultman Bozmoski, 2006, p 25). Such assumptions can however prove to be misplaced and lead to over development with consequent increase in the vulnerability of such areas to floods. Storage dams can prove to be extremely dangerous when development in surrounding areas exceeds specified thresholds, because unanticipated levels of rainfall can lead to swift increase in water levels, thereby making emergency and evacuation responses very challenging (Hultman Bozmoski, 2006, p 25). Structural work, to be successful against flood protection, must be accompanied by systematic and established programmes for assessment, repair and maintenance, in order to maintain originally specified design capabilities. Canals, channels, and dikes, may, for example, be weakened by progressive erosion, movement of animals or erection of utility facilities. Such infrastructural work need to be subjected to carefully thought out safety programmes, in accordance with established guidelines and standards. All new construction allowed in flood prone areas should incorporate flood protection measures in order to reduce the potential for future damage (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Building codes should incorporate measures for reducing flood damage by ensuring that important utilities are located above expected floor levels (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Items that cannot be moved away easily should not be allowed to be stored in basements or ground floors (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Whilst allowing new development, care must be taken to ensure that such development will not lead to significant increase of flood waters and thereby increase risks to the complete area (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Protection of existing structures from floods is often a challenging and expensive process (Handmer, 1987, p 51-58). Some governments have related post flood disaster help to the commitment of reconstruction methods that will reduce future damages from floods (Handmer, 1987, p 51-58). Such a strategy becomes specifically useful where flooding takes place often and monetary help for disaster assistance is an integral component of disaster policies (Pielke Jr., 2000, p 5-12). Flood protection of existing structures and buildings can incorporate measures like raising the level of structures to prevent future harm, movement of utilities, alteration in use of buildings, setting up of protective walls, building of waterproof enclosures, and utilisation of materials that are resistant to water and can be restored easily after flood events (Pielke Jr., 2000, p 5-12). The relocation of existing structures to other areas that are at lesser risks from floods is also a possible, though difficult option (Newson, 1997, p 22-36). Relocation for particularly vulnerable structures may however be imperative in certain cases, despite the associated difficulties and expenses (Newson, 1997, p 22-36). Particular buildings may be at such great risk that no amount of flood proofing measures may be sufficient to ensure desired levels of safety (Newson, 1997, p 22-36). Local authorities need to be firm in such situations and ensure relocation in order to prevent extensive loss to property and life in future flood events (Newson, 1997, p 22-

The Theme of Love in William Shakespeares Twelfth Night Essay

The Theme of Love in William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night In Twelfth Night, Shakespeare focuses strongly on the theme of love; romantic love, friendship, brotherly and sisterly love, unrealistic love and self-love. In this essay I am going to explore these aspects and write about the different sides of love in the play, such as humour and suffering. We find that in Twelfth Night love is a very complicated thing and confusion often occurs. At the beginning of the play we find Orsino talking dramatically of his love for Olivia but actually seems to be in love with the idea of love itself. This shows that his feelings are not actually true and that he is very self-indulgent. He uses exaggerated language whilst lying in rose beds, listening to music and talking constantly to his servants of Olivia's beauty. He also compares his love to food and in this quote he is saying how he hopes his appetite will simmer when it all gets too much and he can no longer handle it. Orsino says, 'If music be the food of love, play on; give me excess of it, that surfeiting, the appetite may sicken and so die.' (I.i.1-3). Orsino seems to be rather in love with himself and assumes that Olivia will return his feelings for her. He says 'Her sweet perfections with one selfsame King!' (I.i.39). Here he compares himself to a King, which shows his self-love and arrogance. Viola's love is an example of true love in the play and she also shows no self-love unlike Orsino, Olivia and Malvolio. In scene ii, Viola is shipwrecked on the Illyrian coast and is distraught as her brother Sebastian disappeared during the storm. She shows strong love for her b... ...s he is so close to Sebastian. There is a lot of confusion and swapping of feelings in Twelfth Night. I feel that the only true love is Viola's love for Orsino as this is the only man she loves during the whole play and is the one she ends up marrying. I think Olivia seems to fall in love too easily as she thinks she can have any man. Also, Maria and Sir Toby seem to marry just for the sake of it as they are close and have no one else to really be with. Feste remains self-contained and is not driven by love or ever gets distressed by it. In Twelfth Night, Shakespeare explores love with great detail and explains it extremely well. I think that his thoughts on love and the way in which he writes about all the tangles and confusion give a lot of interest to the play making it a great play to read and also act out.

Close-Read of Life of Pi

The Power of Faith What power does Faith have? People who believe in a religion see faith as a powerful tool that can be used to solve life problems. In the novel Life of Pi, by Yann Martel, the protagonist Piscine M. Patel, or P', is a member of multiple belief systems. He has a strong faith in God, which helps him in the most troubling of times. Pi sees faith as very important and is possibly a key reason he was able to survive his ordeal. The importance of faith to Pi is clearly shown in the first part of the book Life of Pl. Bapu Gandhi said, ‘All religions are true. I Just want to love God. † (Martel 69). Pi is fascinated by multiple religions, and sees them all as a way to become closer with God. He sees the similarities between each religion and puts his beliefs and prayers into one higher entity. Pi has learned that faith is equal to love and he chooses to show his love for God by accepting multiple religions. â€Å"It is not atheists who get stuck in my craw, bu t agnostics†¦ To choose to doubt as a philosophy of life is akin to choosing immobility as a means of transportation† (28).Pi holds faith on a higher tandard and views people who do not have faith in something to be close-minded or unimaginative. His beliefs that faith is all we need conflicts with others who do not have the courage to believe in faith. Pi even mentions how he can imagine what an atheist would say on his deathbed, but an agnostic, â€Å"to the very end, [would] lack imagination and miss the better story' (64). Pi doesn't understand how someone can survive on doubt when there are many things to put their faith into. But his faith will be tested with the horrible event that awaits him.Pi's strong beliefs and faith in God help him to survive his terrible experience on the lifeboat. â€Å"l will not die. I refuse it†¦ Now I will turn miracle into routine†¦ Yes, so long as God is with me, I will not die. Amen. † (148). Pi turns to a system an d to faith to help him through the new life he must face. He creates a schedule for himself, planning â€Å"general inspection†¦ fishing†¦ [and] prayers† (190) to bring balance and order back to his life. Pi prays and has faith in God to help him survive, his faith pushing him to think wisely about his situations. grew weary of my situation†¦ But life would not leave me†¦ It was natural that, bereft and desperate as I was, in the throes of unremitting suffering, I should turn to God† (284). Even in his weakest moments, he still has faith in God, still believing that God will give him the strength to carry on each day. He prays to all his gods in times of trouble. â€Å"Jesus, Mary, Muhammad and Vishnu! ‘ I saw a sight that will stay with me for the rest of my days† (150). Pi's faith in God never ended, even when he felt he could not go on any longer.A voice in his head, his faith in his survival, kept pushing him to hold on. Or was it re ally his faith? Pi's faith may not be main reason he made it through his adventure. â€Å"It is life's only true opponent. Only fear can defeat life† (161). Pi's is suddenly thrust into a strange and terrifying situation, and to live he must fight off the fear that attempts to engulf him. He must push away the fear to think rationally and being able to make it out alive. Pi's fght for survival and the internal struggle he you†¦ Richard Parker, thank you.Thank you or saving my life† (286). Richard Parker could be the reason Pi survived. Richard Parker was there for Pi, to show Pi how other dangers paled compared to Richard Parkers presence, to keep Pi busy and distracted from the terrible life they have to live, and to provide Pi with some form of company. Without those things, Pi would have most certainly given up on life. Pi's strong belief in faith and his own faith in God may have been the reason for his survival. His faith kept him strong through his whole horr ific ordeal, keeping him from giving up on life.There are many other possible reasons he would have survived if it had not been faith in the first place. Faith is a powerful object, giving strength to some in times of need and weakening others when their power is too great. But one fact is evident. Everyone needs faith in something, whether it's a religious form, a theory, or a value. Without faith, people would not be able to see the point of living life and giving all you have to it.

The American Tactics of the Revolutionary War

Most of Europe thought that the British with their immense amount of capital, soldiers and supplies would beat the American resistance in the American revolutionary war without much of an effort. However the Patriots realized, from their earliest difficulties, to capitalize on the enemys weaknesses. Guerrilla warfare and a strategy that emanated from the ability to manipulate events to their own benefit enabled the Americans to defeat the ostensibly more powerful British. The Americans suffered great abuse from their mother country. The British laid upon the Americans heavy taxes between the years 1764 to the middle of 1776. They created such taxes in the Sugar Act, Townshend Act, Tea Act, the Intolerable Acts and many other acts. These acts over the course of the years destroyed much of the faith that Americans had in the British government. The greater portion of the population thought the British were inadequate rulers and that they could do a much better job in ruling themselves. The Americans were tired of the Quartering Act which let British troops be housed in their own homes. They didnt enjoy housing British troops so that their families could be spied upon or have their children raped. The least the Americans thought they deserved was the right to have a representation in Parliament and the right to settle the land over the Appalachian Mountains. If the farmers could have more land to work on, the Americans could have a surplus of food to ship to other countries creating a better economy for the American people. Over the course of about twenty-five years the Americans sent over 500 bills to the British House Of Trade trying to repeal the economic acts that Britain laid down upon them. The Americans also tried to convince the British to let them have the ability to trade with other countries. If the British would have allowed this the common people of American would have been doing better economically; the percent of poor people would have been lowered greatly and the average income would have gone up a great deal. The reason it would have gone up so much is that Britain controlled the prices of products. The British decided how much they would buy a product for from the Americans and charge them two or three times as much to buy it back. All the American people really wanted was to be treated properly. As Thomas Paine said in Common Sense the British treated the Americans like an abusive mother would treat her child. Due to the economic hardships the Americans suffered they knew that they were going to face many problems in the war. The Americans knew that the British had a larger supply of men ranging from more experienced generals to more soldiers. The British had such a surplus of income from all of their colonies that they were able hire and supply mercenaries from Germany to come and fight in America. They had a stronger navy and a lot more artillery than the Americans had. The Americans faced many other disadvantages such as lack of guns, ammunition, food, clothing, and most of all they were heavily outnumbered by men. The British had most advantages except for three main things. The first of all the British had a harder time setting up their supply line because they were so far away from any major base. Their main head quarters was on Long Island. The British had a difficult time setting up a supply line outside of New York and New Jersey to feed, clothe, and keep in contact with their men. The second disadvantage was that the American generals knew the land and terrain where they were fighting a lot better then the British generals did. The American Generals knew how to deal with certain weather issues and turned it to their advantage. The Americans could plan out strategies based on land and terrain rather than sheer numbers, which is how the British tried to deal with the patriots. The third and probably one of the most important British disadvantages that they faced was that the Patriots had more desire to win. The soldiers knew that they were defending their land, their families, and they were protecting their desires. The British soldiers were fighting for what most of them considered to be nothing. Most of the British soldiers were tired of fighting in America and wanted to go home and see their families or create and have a family. The Americans at the beginning of the war tried a certain style of warfare known as Jomini warfare. The two enemies would decide when to have a battle and attack each other. The two enemies would charge at each other, shoot and hope that the basic strategy that was planned at the beginning would hold out. Much less strategy was used and involved in a battle such as this. The only problem with this style of warfare for the Americans was that in certain battles the British sometimes outnumbered them four to one. One such battle that proved that the Americans could not beat the British using European warfare was in the Battle of Brandywine. Washington was trying to keep the British from overtaking Philadelphia and at least give the Continental Congress time to leave Philadelphia before they were attacked. Washington with a force of 11,000 men thought he could take on General Howe. Howe divided his army and over took Washington with a flanking maneuver and forced Washington to retreat. Washington had lost about a thousand men. This battle proved to Washington how he needed a strategy that would not have them going into a man to man combat situation where numbers were the main deciding factor. He tried to overtake General Howe at Germantown in fog by sending half of his army to the backside of the town and half to the front side of the town. The army failed to move properly so Washington lost the battle of Germantown but it prevented Howe not to have another assault on Philadelphia that year. Even though Washington lost this battle it was a victory for him personally as a commander and for the army. It proved to the Americans how they could not face the British in direct man to man combat and forced them to form new methods to fight the British so that they could survive. The Americans created new strategies in order to overcome their enemies and capitalize on their weaknesses. The native people coined this new strategy called guerrilla warfare. The basis of this style of warfare is to quickly attack your enemy and run away. The Americans carefully selected their battleground and time of attack as much as possible in guerrilla warfare so that they could have every advantage possible so that they could have a chance to win. Two such instances where the time of day and choice of terrain were the complete reasons for British defeat were at Stony Point and at Paulus Hook. The battle at Stony Point took place on the night of July fifteenth and ended the morning of July sixteenth. Washington assigned Mad Anthony Wayne to this attack. Wayne had 1,350 men that were given to him for this attack. He set his men in two tight lines and marched towards the fort in and camouflaged by the night darkness. The first men to raid the fort attacked with their bayonets. The British fort soon went into chaos and surrendered very quickly. In total this battle cost the Americans 15 lives, they killed 63 British soldiers, and General Clinton was forced to surrender the fort to the Americans. Another battle that was won by time of day and terrain was in Paulus Hook, New Jersey. Harry Lee took a small squad and attacked the 200 men post. He attacked at dawn and caught the British completely off guard and shocked them. He killed or captured almost everybody at the fort. He retreated with everyone within two hours of the attack to make sure no British reinforcements arrived. There were many different guerilla warfare styles and strategies over the course of the revolutionary war. One such strategy was to have two rows of riflemen fire and then run away. The British would then try to catch them and the troops would be lead into a trap waiting for them. Two of the best, and most successful, uses of this strategy were at the Battle of Cowpens and the Battle at Guilford Court. The Battle of Cowpens physically took place on January 17 but was set up between January 2,1781 and the day of the actual battle on January 17. The battle of Cowpens was a major battle of the war against the British for conquest as much as morals. Previous to the battle General Greene had separated his army of about 1,700 into two divisions. His army would have 1,100 and General Morgan would have about 600 men. General Cornwallis thought this to be a very foolish move and sent out Banastre Trarleton, one of the most fearsome British officers with 1,100 men. Morgan knew he would lose against Trarleton at his present so he traveled to Cowpens South Carolina to wait for the onslaught that they knew was coming. On the way to Cowpens Morgan picked up enough men to almost evenly match the British man for man. He knew that Trarleton would attack frontally so he prepared a strategy that would be able to handle it. He knew and planned on the fact that his militia would retreat at first sign of charge so he laid out a strategy that would take this into account. He had his militia stand in two rows. All of the militia that were in the rows were instructed to fire twice and leave. This strategy worked better then Morgan could have ever planned. His two rows of men, totaling about 400 men knocked back and completely destroyed the first British charge and then the militia retreated. Leaving his other men to charge at the British, General Morgan completely humiliated Trarleton. Morgan had killed or captured more than three fourths of his force. Trarleton had only escaped with 140 horsemen. The same strategy was implemented at the battle at Guilford Court. British General Cornwallis wanted revenge on General Morgan for what he did to the British at Cowpens. So Cornwallis had his army of 2,500 men trail General Morgans army who chose to go north after their victory and rejoin with General Greenes army. He trailed their army for nearly two months and after losing at least 500 men trailing Morgan and Greene, he decided to go in a complete circle back to Hillsborough. There General Nathan Greene was waiting for him. He had applied their previous strategy in the battle at Cowpens to this battle. General Greene started with 2,000 men after the Battle at Cowpens and had increased his numbers up to over 4,500 men. He decided to place a good number of his militia in two forward lines and the continental part of his army in a third row. He called Colonel Washington to protect his left flank and Light Horse Harry Lee to protect his right flank. After the quick attack Greene decided to leave and not pursue a fight. He knew that the losses that they would have suffered would not have been worth the fight but during this battle they killed about 300 British troops. This battle at Guilford Court caused Cornwallis to retreat all the way back to Wilmington and then to Virginia where the demise of the British was. Another reason the Americans won certain battles over the British army was that the British did not take the American resistance with total seriousness causing them to do some stupid things do to poor judgement. One example of a battle when the British lost due to their stupidity was in the Battle at Bennington. The British were heading towards Vermont to obtain horses, food, and other supplies to aid the German mercenaries who had been without horses for a great length of time. Lieutenant Colonel Fredrich Baum was instructed not to risk heavy losses but to scare and despoil the Vermonters. Baum left his camp with about 700 men and two cannons, which was thought to be more than enough to fight any small resistance that they might face. His first defiance of his orders was when Baum encountered a force of 200 men sent by Brigadier General John Stark. After the battle he was informed that these men were part of a militia force gathering at Bennington. He decided to press towards Bennington and destroy the force, even though it went against his orders again. Baum then marched towards Bennington. On his way there Baum saw two contingents of men going towards his rear and presumed that they were Tories that were going to flank the enemy and didnt give them a second thought after seeing them. When Baum approached Bennington, Stark order his men in front to charge, at the same time the two contingents of men already behind Baum also attack him and Baum was massacred. If Baum had taken any care as to even think of the contingents traveling behind him he could have possibly beaten the Americans at Bennington. But because of his disobedience of orders and his ignorance he lost the battle. The British, with all their money, men, supplies, and power couldnt overcome what little the Americans had. The Patriots realized, from their earliest difficulties, to capitalize on the enemys weakness. The Americans devised new tactics to overcome the British in their traditional Jomini style of warfare. The Americans used all that they possibly had to beat British. What drove the Americans to create these new strategies, though, was their desire; their desire to overcome the British is what gave the colonial fighters their true advantage during the American Revolutionary War.

Earn a Doctorate Degree Online

Earn a Doctorate Degree Online Earning a doctorate degree online can improve your earning potential and qualify you for a variety of prestigious career options, all while learning from the comfort of your own home. As the highest degree attainable in the United States, a doctorate degree can prepare you to work in leadership positions, university-level professorships, or other highly skilled professions. But, how do you choose a doctorate degree online program? How much work does an online Ph.D. require? And, what payment options are available for online doctorate students? Read on. Who Should Earn a Doctorate Degree Online? Earning a doctorate degree online requires a significant commitment of time and money. The best students are those who are able to set aside study time each day and balance their studies with family and work responsibilities. Because most online doctorate degree programs are reading and writing focused, doctorate students should be highly literate. They should have advanced research skills, be articulate, and have the ability to comprehend complex texts. Additionally, students should be self-motivated and able to work independently. Keep in mind that earning a doctorate degree online may not automatically improve your salary. Most jobs requiring a doctorate degree offer a decent salary and a certain amount of prestige. However, many academic jobs such as professorships may pay less than jobs in the non-academic sector. When contemplating earning a doctorate degree online, research your future employment options to determine whether a new degree in your field will be worth it. Online Doctorate Degree Program Accreditation Many diploma mill schools offer the promise of â€Å"quick and easy† online doctorate degrees. Don’t fall for their tricks. Earning a doctorate degree online from an unaccredited school will be worthless. Many former diploma mill â€Å"students† have lost their jobs and their reputations by listing a diploma mill school on their resumes. Because the doctorate is a culminating degree, proper accreditation is especially important. When selecting an online doctorate degree program, your best bet is to choose a school accredited by one of the six regional accreditation organizations. These are the same organizations that accredit reputable brick-and-motor schools. If your school is accredited by one of the regional organizations, your degree should be accepted by most employers and your credits should be transferable to most other schools. What Else to Look for in an Online Doctorate Degree In addition to selecting an accredited program, study potential online doctorate programs to determine which suit your needs. How are classes held? Are there multimedia components? Must the degree be completed in a certain amount of time? Will you be assigned a mentor to help you through the difficult years ahead? Create a list of questions and interview a representative from each online doctorate program. In addition to completing courses, doctorate programs generally require students to pass in-depth subject-matter exams, write a dissertation, and defend their dissertation in a meeting with university faculty. Before enrolling in an online doctorate program, ask for a list detailing the college’s specific graduation requirements. Types of Doctorate Degrees Online Not all doctorate degrees can be earned through the internet. Some training, such as that received by medical doctors, must be highly supervised. However, many other doctorate degrees can be earned virtually. Some of the most popular online doctoral degrees include Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Public Health (DPH), Doctor of Psychology (Ph.D.), and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). Online Doctorate Degree Residency Requirements Most online doctorate degree programs require students to spend time taking classes or attending lectures on an actual campus. Some online programs require only a limited residency, asking students to attend a few weekend lectures or meetings. Other programs, however, may require a year or more of on-campus residency. Residency requirements are generally non-negotiable, so be sure that the online Ph.D. program you select has requirements that fit your schedule. Paying for a Doctorate Degree Online Earning a doctorate degree online can cost tens of thousands. While many brick-and-mortar schools offer doctorate students paid teaching fellowships, online students are not afforded this luxury. If your new doctorate degree will help you be a better employee, you may ask your employer to pay for a portion of your doctorate degree costs. Many graduate students qualify to take out government-subsidized student loans with lower-than-average interest rates. Additionally, private student loans are available from banks and lending institutions. Your online school’s financial aid advisor can help you determine which options are right for you. Don’t Give Up Earning a doctorate degree online can be a challenge. But, for the right student, the rewards are definitely worth it.

Admiral Graf Spee - World War II - Kriegsmarine

Admiral Graf Spee - World War II - Kriegsmarine Admiral Graf Spee - Overview: Nation: Germany Type: Heavy Cruiser/ Pocket Battleship Shipyard: Reichsmarinewerft , Wilhelmshaven Laid Down: October 1, 1932 Launched: June 30, 1934 Commissioned: January 6, 1936 Fate: Scuttled on December 17, 1939 Admiral Graf Spee - Specifications Displacement: 14,890 tons Length: 610 ft., 3 in. Beam: 71 ft. Draft: 24 ft. 1 in. Speed: 29.5 knots Complement: 951-1,070 men Admiral Graf Spee - Armament Guns (as built) 6 Ãâ€" 28 cm (11 in.) SK C/28 (2 x 3)8 Ãâ€" 15 cm (5.9 in.) SK C/288 Ãâ€" 53.3 cm (21 in.) torpedo tubes Admiral Graf Spee - Design Construction: A Deutschland-class panzerschiffe (armored ship), Admiral Graf Spees design was intended to nominally conform to the naval restrictions set forth by the Treaty of Versailles which ended World War I. These limited future German warships to 10,000 long tons. Though the vessels of Deutschland-class exceeded this displacement, the German designers devised numerous methods to reduce weight. These included the incorporation diesel propulsion and the large-scale use of welding. The class armament centered on six 11-inch guns mounted in two triple turrets. As a result, the Deutschland-class ships were able to deliver a potent attack despite their relatively small size. As a result of this, they became know in other navies as pocket battleships. Capable of around 28 knots, they were able to out-gun many of the foreign warships that were fast enough to catch them. Laid down at Reichsmarinewerft in Wilhelmshaven on October 1, 1932, the new panzerschiffe was named for Vice Admiral Maximilian Reichsgraf von Spee who had defeated the British at Coronel on November 1, 1914, before being killed at the Battle of the Falklands a month later. Launched on June 30, 1934, the vessel was sponsored by the late admirals daughter. Work continued on Admiral Graf Spee for another eighteen months. Commissioned on January 6, 1936, with Captain Conrad Patzig in command, new cruiser drew much of its crew from the old battleship Braunschweig. Departing Wilhelmshaven, Admiral Graf Spee spent the early part of the year conducting sea trials. Upon their completion, it was designated flagship of the German Navy. Admiral Graf Spee - Prewar Operations: With the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in July 1936, Admiral Graf Spee entered the Atlantic Ocean and commenced non-intervention patrols off the coast of Spain. After conducting three patrols over the next ten months, the cruiser put into Spithead in late May 1937 to take part in the Coronation Review for King George VI. At the conclusion of the ceremonies, Admiral Graf Spee returned to Spain where it relieved its sister ship, . Returning home late in the year, it participated in fleet maneuvers and made a goodwill call to Sweden. Following a final non-intervention patrol in early 1938, command of the ship passed to Captain Hans Langsdorff in October. Embarking on a series of goodwill visits to Atlantic ports, Admiral Graf Spee also appeared in a naval review in honor of Hungarian regent Admiral Miklà ³s Horthy. After visits to Portuguese ports in the late spring of 1939, the ship returned to Wilhelmshaven. Admiral Graf Spee - World War II Begins: Anticipating the beginning of World War II, German leader Adolf Hitler ordered Admiral Graf Spee to sail for the South Atlantic to be in position to attack Allied shipping. Departing Wilhelmshaven on August 21, Langsdorff steered south and rendezvoused with his supply ship, Altmark, on September 1. Alerted to the beginning of hostilities, he was directed to stringently adhere to prize law when attacking merchant vessels. This required the raider to search ships for war materials before sinking them and ensuring the safety of their crews. On September 11, one of Admiral Graf Spees floatplanes spotted the heavy cruiser HMS Cumberland. Successfully evading the British ship, Langsdorff received orders on September 26 directing him to initiate a campaign of commerce raiding against Allied shipping. On September 30, the cruisers floatplane sank the steamer Clement. To ensure the crews safety, Langsdorff radioed Brazilian naval authorities and informed them of the attack. Alerted to the pre sence of a German raider in the South Atlantic the Royal and French Navies formed eight groups consisting of four carriers, two battleships, one battlecruiser, and sixteen cruisers to hunt down Langsdorff. Admiral Graf Spee - Raiding: On October 5, Admiral Graf Spee captured Newton Beach and two days later sank the cargo vessel Ashlea. Though the former initially was used as a prisoner transport, it proved too slow and was soon discarded. Taking Huntsman on October 10, Langsdorff retained the steamer and took it to a rendezvous with Altmark a week later. Transferring prisoners to his supply ship, he then sank Huntsman. After sinking Trevanion on October 22, Langsdorff steered for the Indian Ocean in an attempt confuse his pursuers. Sinking the tanker Africa Shell on November 15, Admiral Graf Spee turned for the Atlantic in order to refuel from Altmark. While rendezvousing on November 26, the cruisers crew made efforts to alter the ships silhouette by building a fake turret and a dummy funnel. Continuing his campaign, Langsdorff sank the freighter Doric Star on December 2. In the course of the attack, the Allied ship was able to radio for aid and relay its position. Receiving this, Commodore Henry Harwood, commanding the Royal Navys Force G, steered for the River Plate anticipating that this area would be Admiral Graf Spees next target. Harwoods command consisted of the heavy cruiser HMS Exeter and the light cruisers HMS Ajax (flagship) and HMS Achilles. Also available to Harwood was Cumberland which was refitting in the Falkland Islands. The sinking of Doric Star was quickly followed by an attack on the refrigerator ship Tairoa. Meeting a final time with Altmark on December 6, Langsdorff sank the freighter Streonshalh the next day. On board, his men found shipping information that led him to decide to move against the River Plate estuary. Admiral Graf Spee - Battle of the River Plate: On December 13, Admiral Graf Spee spotted masts off the starboard bow. While Langsdorff first believed these to be convoy escorts reports soon informed him that it was a British squadron. Electing to fight, he ordered his ship to maximum speed and closed with the enemy. This proved a blunder as Admiral Graf Spee could have stood off and hammered the out-ranged British warships with its 11-inch guns. Instead, the maneuver brought the cruiser within range of Exeters 8-inch and the light cruisers 6-inch guns. With the enemys approach, Harwood implemented a battle plan which called for Exeter to attack separately from the light cruisers with the goal of splitting Langsdorffs fire. At 6:18 AM, Admiral Graf Spee opened the Battle of the River Plate by firing on Exeter with its main guns while its secondary armament targeted Ajax and Achilles. Over the next half hour, the German vessel hammered Exeter disabling both its forward turrets and starting several fires. In return, the British cruiser hit Admiral Graf Spees fuel processing system with an 8-inch shell. Though his ship appeared largely undamaged, the loss of the fuel processing system limited Langsdorff to sixteen hours of usable fuel. To aid their compatriot, the two British light cruisers closed on Admiral Graf Spee. Thinking the British ships to be making a torpedo attack, Langsdorff turned away. The two sides continued the fight until around 7:25 AM when the action came to an end. Pulling back, Harwood decided to shadow the German ship with the goal of attacking again after dark. Admiral Graf Spee - Scuttling: Entering the estuary, Langsdorff made a political error in anchoring at Montevideo in neutral Uruguay rather than the friendlier Mar del Plata, Argentina to the south. Putting in a little after midnight on December 14, Langsdorff landed his wounded and asked the Uruguayan government for two weeks to make repairs. This was opposed by British diplomat Eugen Millington-Drake who argued that under the 13th Hague Convention Admiral Graf Spee should be expelled from neutral waters after twenty-four hours. Advised that few naval resources were in the area, Millington-Drake continued to press for the ships expulsion publically while British agents arranged to have British and French merchant ships sail every twenty-four hours. This action invoked Article 16 of the convention which stated A belligerent warship may not leave a neutral port or roadstead until twenty-four hours after the departure of a merchant ship flying the flag of its adversary. As a result, these sailings held Admiral Graf Spee in place while additional naval forces were gathered. While Langsdorff lobbied for time to repair his ship, he received a variety of false intelligence which suggested the arrival of Force H, including the carrier HMS Ark Royal and battlecruiser HMS Renown. While a force centered on Renown was en route, in reality Harwood had only been reinforced by Cumberland. Completely deceived and unable to repair Admiral Graf Spee, Langsdorff discussed his options with his superiors in Germany. Prohibited from allowing the ship to be interned by the Uruguayans and believing that certain destruction awaited him at sea, he ordered Admiral Graf Spee scuttled in the River Plate on December 17. This decision infuriated Hitler who l ater directed that all German ships were fight until the end. Taken to Buenos Aires, Argentina with the crew, Langsdorff committed suicide on December 19. Selected Sources Panzerschiffe Admiral Graf SpeeGerman Navy: Admiral Graf SpeeLangsdorff of the Graf Spee

Agility and ability of ITC Ltd to adapt to its external environment

Agility and ability of ITC Ltd to adapt to its external environment In this particular analyses of ITC Limited we are going to look upon the the agility and ability of its growth and how it has been sustainable over a longer period of time. ITC limited, is a multi-business portfolio headquartered in Kolkata, India by Yogesh Chander Deveshwar. It is a 100 year old company. It focuses on all round value creation to build a strong corporate governance policies and systems. It expanded its business in the following years: Presently ITC Limited is purely an independent Company In August 24, 1910 it was incorporated by Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited and shared ancestry with Imperial Tobacco. In 1970 it was changed to India Tobacco Company Limited from Imperial Tobacco Company of India Limited. Later in 1974 it was changed to I.T.C Limited. In 1985, it introduced Surya Tobacco Company in Nepal which was renamed ‘Surya Nepal Private Limited’ in August 2002. In 1972, ITC entered into Hotels business. ITC premier chain of luxury hotels is known as ITC Welcome group. In 1975, it introduced its hotel business in Chennai named ‘Hotel Sheraton’. It has entered into hotel business to have privilege to host the guests across the world .It was first one to introduce brand sustenance in the Hotel Industry. Its restaurants such as Dakshin, DumPukht and Bukhara are known world wide for its auspicious Indian cuisines from the various sectors of the country.One reason why ITC entered into hotels because it was a British company and in Indian society trend of Tobacco was looked down upon at that time. With enhancement of tourist infrastructure in Hotel business it earns high foreign currency which helped company to govern a good brand image and added a valuable amount to Indian Economy. It great infrastructure of Tourism and large scale of direct and indirect employment has added a great value to the nation. It 1979, it introduced its paperboards business named ‘ITC Bhadrachalam Paperboards Limited’ which was on November, 2002 merged with Tribeni Tissues Limited (which was introduced in 1990 and was the major tissue paper supplier). It was the first supplier in packaging, therefore it has high value added position in market. In 1990 it entered with its Agri-business for the export of agri-commodities. Today it is one of the largest exporters industry .Throughout its agricultural areas in India it has developed a network in business model centers of Internet connected Kiosks, known as e-Choupal. In 2000, it Introduced Lifestyle Retailing business under brand name ‘Wills’ with great International quality of relaxed sports wear for both men and women. In 2002, it expanded its range including Wills Classic Formal Wear and specific segment of men’s wear brand, ‘John Players’. In 2003, with wills Club-life evening wear. In 2004, government put estoppel on Tobacco advertising which compelled ITC not to associate â€Å"Wills† by the brand name of Cigarettes anymore, to save it from being charged for it advertising. In 2000, it also came with its owned subsidiary business of Information Technology named, ‘ITC Infotech India Limited’. It has availability of high man power quality. In August, 2001, ITC entered into Food Industry with packaged and branded food business of ready-to-cook eatables with the brand name â€Å"Kol† with a premium price range. In the beginning it followed the strategy that it will trade at the places where there are less number of competition to built its brand image. Along with the food industry, it has also launched a new brand named, ‘Kitchens of India’. In that period there was a great demand for processed food because of increase in disposable income and urbanization resulted in growth opportunities. One of the reason why ITC entered into Food Industry because in 2001-02 the excise duty on budget on processed fruit and vegetables has been brought down from 16% to z ero level .Later in june,2002 , to generate more revenues it launched products like staples, snacks and confectionery.

Food inc Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Food inc - Essay Example My general reaction to the film is that, it is an amazing documentary that made many facts public. The film could help people protect themselves from their own businesses, something that their own government knew and allowed. Furthermore, the government should be first in fighting such foods, just as it is in fighting Osama Bin Laden. Even though some believe that cheap, a fast and tasty meal is the best food for workers on basis of convenience, this is far too little to consider, instead of its nutritional value. One of the least convincing arguments is that doing away with technology and fertilizer would leave us only with starvation documentaries to watch. Contrary, I believe that the cost of doing away with genetically modified foods is cheaper than the cost of treating diseases related with such foods, and worst of all, the lose of many lives. In order to well understand this documentary, people should remove themselves from their personal opinions and view it, just the way it is. Rhetorical devices have effectively conveyed the message. The call of action at the end is however hypocritical. This is because it only recommends buying foods at farmers markets and organic yoghurt as the only solution to the

Advertisement appeals as put forth by fowles Essay

Advertisement appeals as put forth by fowles - Essay Example The consumers develop resistance to the adverts of which the advertisement agencies try to use different appeals to reach out to the consumers. The level of penetration depends on the willingness of the consumer to listen or watch the advertisement appeals. Advertisement Appeals as Put Forth By Fowles According to Fowles (2) the advertisers make efforts to thwart the rational, guarded, doubtful clout acquired by the consumers when choosing the brands to buy. Most consumers develop a certain clout around their thinking which the advertisers try as much as possible to avoid. In doing so, the advertisers make effort to appeal to the consumers to prevent reacting without thinking but to pay attention to the fundamental ideas or information being passed through the adverts. This helps the advertisers to realize their main objectives in the advertisement campaigns. There is the utilization of the subliminal plea. This refers to the remarks which are directed to the conditions as well as th inking amongst the merchandisers. It is noted that most buyers and consumers are normally resistant to adverts or develop some form of opposition to the adverts. According to various studies most Americans are exposed to different forms of adverts which come in different media such as the televisions, radio, newspaper, billboards, and direct mails among other media. The consumers try their best to develop a filter in regard to which adverts to listen to or read or watch and which ones to ignore. The advertisers make efforts to be tactical in order to get access to the subconscious mind. Moreover, the advertisers make use of the personality appeal and the need to nurture. This is because there is a presumption that the character of consumers is unique. It also presumes that human beings have different range of unmet urges or desires which must be fulfilled through the advertisements aired over the media. There are appeals such as tenderness, ambitions, lust and susceptibility hence t hey seek resolution. By use of the personality appeal, these mental appeals must be met in order to be receptive to the advertisements being aired over the media. Nevertheless, it always difficult to penetrate through these unfulfilled desires of which other types of appeals must be used to supplement this form of appeal to the consumers. In addition, advertisers make efforts to appeal to the consumers by use of the exceptionally selected pictures of images. This is meant to trigger the shell of consciousness the consumers have developed. The images may be that of celebrities identified by the consumers, female models or very nice looking children. Some make use of the text while the majority makes use of the artwork. It is in the assumption that visual adverts are best appropriate for more primeval parts of the brain system. The consumers can easily be hooked when this form of appeal is combined with impression of satisfaction for stated intention. However, most adverts are always prejudged by the consumers with the type of content in the sense that majority tend to give the impression that if the consumers lack something, they have a solution or substitute for fulfilling their desires. Another form of appeal for most adverts that are aired over the media is the intense running force in the thoughts of the consumers. In line with this form of appeal is the creation of near permanent attachment to the products or services being merchandized. The identity of products, their producer, forms of packaging and the aims that are attached to its usage. The consumers have to be made aware of the most trivial details

Hosting a Picnic for Employees Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Hosting a Picnic for Employees - Assignment Example Give the guard your name and ID as part of the village security measures. By Bus: Take the 1230 bus that exits at Road 29. Get off at the Exit 29 bus stop. There is a taxi terminal at the bus stop. Take a cab using the directions for by car to reach my residence. Your name will be left with the security team. You will be required to leave your ID at the gate as well for security purposes. Ill leave your names with the security team of the village so please confirm your attendance before the end of the week with my secretary. You won't be allowed entry into the village if your name is not on the list. Thank you for the outstanding work that everyone did this year. I have been told by our Accounting staff that the bonus checks will be ready to be distributed by Mr. Burns during the program that will be held during the picnic. On behalf of Mr. Burns and our company, I would like to offer you all our sincerest thanks and appreciation. Congratulations to all of you on a job well done. You all performed beyond our expectations!

Critical review and application in Dell Company Essay

Critical review and application in Dell Company - Essay Example The company is appointing new board member to add to the executive board. The changes aim is to improve on the performance of the company and open new business opportunities for the company. These changes are to streamline the operation of the company, facilitating strategy execution. The company focal point is their consumers. The market is competitive, and for the company to maintain the lead in service provision consumer needs are a priority (Marshall, 2010). That way the company will make an impact in the market, increasing their share segment. The organization is undergoing changes, and effective transition is crucial to it survival. Change is unavoidable in companies. The managers of a company need to understand the model of change that best fits the organization. To do that they have to define what they want to achieve, the time available for them to achieve, the cost and the impact that the changes will bring on the concerned parties. This calls for proper planning and efficient management of the organization. The models of change are many; thus, the managers have to exercise their intuition and expertise in the selection of the best model (Jones, 2006). Irrespective of the change model that a manager decides to use, there are basic concepts that involve changes. The organization should have excellent communication channels to create consciousness of the projected changes. This is important so that the attitudes of people become receptive to the idea in readiness for the implementation. Empowering people through knowledge creates positivity towards the intended changes. When the people understand the foundation an idea they can create an enabling environment for it to succeed (Jones, 2006). The model of action research examines the change process during implementation and behavior of the participants. It also measures the attitudes held through the change duration. The model’s concern

What is good about stillwater Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

What is good about stillwater - Essay Example This is not possible in Kuwait due to the extremely hot weather. If my head is already aching due to study, I can take a walk outside which refreshes the mind seeing trees and greeneries while enjoying the weather. If I will do this in Kuwait, I will be toasted by the sun and will likely lose my mood to study again. It is not only me who enjoys the weather in Stillwater. My wife is beginning to love the outdoors which she used to avoid back in Kuwait because of the scorching heat. She can now walk with a stroller with our baby which was not advisable in Kuwait because of the baby’s sensitivity to heat. The population of students at Oklahoma State University at Stillwater comes from different countries and ethnicity and this gives me wonderful opportunity not only to learn the curriculum but also other people from different cultures. In a way, studying at Stillwater does not only expand my mind through its academic rigors but also expands my cultural perspective being to understand people from perspectives and backgrounds different from mine. This is called cultural agility which is necessary skill at the global economy. The interconnectedness of countries and economies will require us someday to work with other people of different nationality. This opportunity of learning other people of different cultures would be very limited had I studied in Kuwait. Colleges in Kuwait are also very good except that curriculums are taught in Arabic and this limits foreign students to enroll there. So in effect, Kuwait colleges does not provide an opportunity to be exposed in an international env ironment because most of its students came from Kuwait and Gulf countries. Studying in Kuwait would not expand my cultural horizon as it would if I will study at Stillwater. Having a diploma from Oklahoma State University at Stillwater will surely give me an

Hosting a Picnic for Employees Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Hosting a Picnic for Employees - Assignment Example Give the guard your name and ID as part of the village security measures. By Bus: Take the 1230 bus that exits at Road 29. Get off at the Exit 29 bus stop. There is a taxi terminal at the bus stop. Take a cab using the directions for by car to reach my residence. Your name will be left with the security team. You will be required to leave your ID at the gate as well for security purposes. Ill leave your names with the security team of the village so please confirm your attendance before the end of the week with my secretary. You won't be allowed entry into the village if your name is not on the list. Thank you for the outstanding work that everyone did this year. I have been told by our Accounting staff that the bonus checks will be ready to be distributed by Mr. Burns during the program that will be held during the picnic. On behalf of Mr. Burns and our company, I would like to offer you all our sincerest thanks and appreciation. Congratulations to all of you on a job well done. You all performed beyond our expectations!

What is good about stillwater Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

What is good about stillwater - Essay Example This is not possible in Kuwait due to the extremely hot weather. If my head is already aching due to study, I can take a walk outside which refreshes the mind seeing trees and greeneries while enjoying the weather. If I will do this in Kuwait, I will be toasted by the sun and will likely lose my mood to study again. It is not only me who enjoys the weather in Stillwater. My wife is beginning to love the outdoors which she used to avoid back in Kuwait because of the scorching heat. She can now walk with a stroller with our baby which was not advisable in Kuwait because of the baby’s sensitivity to heat. The population of students at Oklahoma State University at Stillwater comes from different countries and ethnicity and this gives me wonderful opportunity not only to learn the curriculum but also other people from different cultures. In a way, studying at Stillwater does not only expand my mind through its academic rigors but also expands my cultural perspective being to understand people from perspectives and backgrounds different from mine. This is called cultural agility which is necessary skill at the global economy. The interconnectedness of countries and economies will require us someday to work with other people of different nationality. This opportunity of learning other people of different cultures would be very limited had I studied in Kuwait. Colleges in Kuwait are also very good except that curriculums are taught in Arabic and this limits foreign students to enroll there. So in effect, Kuwait colleges does not provide an opportunity to be exposed in an international env ironment because most of its students came from Kuwait and Gulf countries. Studying in Kuwait would not expand my cultural horizon as it would if I will study at Stillwater. Having a diploma from Oklahoma State University at Stillwater will surely give me an

Understand the role of the Social Care Worker Essay Example for Free

Understand the role of the Social Care Worker Essay Ai: Three differences between a working relationship and a personal relationship are: A working relationship is a relationship that remains professional within the workplace where as a personal relationship you may spend time with someone out of work hours. A personal relationship is a relationship in which information sharing is unlimited yet a working relationship information sharing is on a need to know basis with colleagues, residents and other professionals. A personal relationship is one of choice with someone you like and share common interests where as a working relationship may be with someone you may not usually be friends with but have to form a team with that person and work under certain rules. Aii: One example of a working relationship in an adult social care setting is the relationship between carer and resident. This relationship is important as you need to maintain a professional duty of care. Another example would be between the senior in charge and the G.P. When a G.P comes to see a resident that is poorly they are relying on the carers and the senior in charge to inform them of any changes in that resident so they need to be professional at all times. Aiii: It is important that social care workers work in partnership with individuals using the service and their families because we all have a common interest in doing whats best for the individual and keeping them from harm. The service user is there because they may not have someone that can look after them the way they need therefore involving families and help to improve the way you care for them. For example, you might think that â€Å"Doris† may like going to bed at 10pm every night but is always very tired during the day after getting up at 7am. The family can tell you that in fact â€Å"Doris† used to go to bed at 9pm and likes getting up at 8am when she was at home. It is  essential to establish and maintain a good working relationship with family as they can also help to overcome any communication issues you may have with that service user and also find out their preferences for food choices. It’s all about person centered care. The resident is less open to abuse as there are clear boundaries and expectations of the social care workers relationship. Aiv: Three ways of working that can help improve partnership working are: Involve the resident in all decision making regarding their care plans for example what time they like to go bed, whether they prefer a bath or shower and if they like to go out on planned outings Give them a choice at meal times and what they would like to wear that day Try to promote their independence by giving them as much do to by themselves as possible for them without allowing them to struggle and that someone is there if they need a hand. Av: When people with different views, skills and expertise work together there may be disagreements about the best way forward. Here is five different skills or approaches that may help resolve conflict. 1.By listening to each side may help you and others see that your way may or not be the best way 2.By compromising you can figure out the best outcome by thinking about all possible solutions 3.Stay calm. If you start to lose your temper than the problem isnt going to get resolved 4.Communication is key. By talking it through you all may come up with a suitable solution as a team 5.By using a person centered approach everyone has the residents best interests at heart. Avi: Two ways in which you could obtain support and advice about working in partnership and resolving conflicts are by talking to colleagues and senior members of staff. They may have more experience and knowledge when dealing with conflicts or partnership working. The manager can help you by offering a professional solution to conflicts and follow the complaints procedure. If necessary the manager will enable you to access conflict management training or any other training that may be relevant. Task B Bi: Agreed ways of working means: That you should keep up to date with legislation Follow policies and procedures Work within your job description Work within your code of conduct Work in line with care standards Bii: Its important to have up to date details regarding the agreed ways of working because if a piece of legislation changes, as they do quite regularly, you need to know what is expected of you. When I was pregnant in order to keep myself, my colleagues and the residents safe my job description changed slightly and my new agreed ways of working were updated regularly. These changed back when I returned to work after having the baby. Biii: Where I am not trained in giving medication if I was to carry out this task I would be liable if something was to go wrong. I do not carry out tasks that are not within my job description and that i have not been trained in as these are not within my agreed ways of working. Its important to follow these guidelines so that I do not cause harm to myself, my colleagues or the residents.

Synthesis And Characterization Of Glycerol Based Polymer Biology Essay

Synthesis And Characterization Of Glycerol Based Polymer Biology Essay In oleochemical industry, glycerol (1,2,3-propanetriol) is always produced as a by-product in the manufacturing of acids, soaps, methyl esters, alcohols or nitrogen-containing derivatives. It can also be made from propene via epichlorohydrin (1-chloro-2,3-epoxypropane). However, the petrochemical supply route is less important due to the increasing supply of glycerol from oleochemical industry, the high price of propene and the demand for epichlorohydrin for other purposes (Gunstone Henning, 2004). Figure 1.1 Glycerol Glycerol possesses a unique combination of physical and chemical properties which are utilized in many commercial products. It is hygroscopic, colourless, odorless, viscous, sweet-tasting, low boiling point, non-toxic, emollient, a good solvent, and water soluble. Besides, it is easily biodegradable (Gunstone Henning, 2004). Furthermore, it is very stable under normal storage conditions, compatible with many other chemical materials, non-irritating in its various uses, and does not have negative effects on the environment (Pagliaro Rossi, 2008). The glycerol market is currently undergoing radical changes, driven by very large supplies of glycerol arising from biodiesel production. The effort to reduce the dependence on foreign oil has increased the production of biodiesel and glycerol is the major co-product from the transesterification process used to produce biodiesel. Hence, there is a need to find new uses for glycerol. Polymerization is one of the methods which large amount of glycerol can be used (Wyatt et al., 2006). There two types of polymerizations. First, soluble products are obtained regardless of the extent to which the reaction is carried toward completion. The products formed are mainly linear polymers. The second type of polymerization is those that lead to gelled or insoluble products, provided that the reaction is carried far enough. The reactants are capable of producing large three dimensional molecules (Flory, 1941). According to Flory (1941), gelation occurs only when there is the possibility of unlimited growth in three dimensions. It is a significant characteristic of polymerizing systems to have a sharply defined gel point at a certain critical extent of reaction which is independent of temperature, amount of catalyst and so on. Through polymerization of glycerol, the pre-polymers synthesized could be further reacted to produce longer chains of hyperbranched polymers. Hyperbranched polymers belong to the family of macromolecules known as dendrimers. Dendrimers are highly branched monodispersed molecules produced by multistep syntheses. Preparation of dendrimers requires a high degree of purity of the starting material and high yields of the individual synthetic step. On the other hand, hyperbranched polymers are randomly branched molecules prepared by a simple one-step reaction (Wyatt et al., 2006) via polyaddition, polycondensation, radical polymerisation, and so forth, of an ABn monomer (Vogtle et al., 2009). Due to their unique combination of low viscosity, excellent solubility, and facile synthesis, hyperbranched polymers have received significant attention (Lin, Q Long, T.E., 2003). Reaction of the functional A groups with the functional B (coupling) groups of a second monomer molecule gives rise to randomly branched molecule. Since the C groups are present in excess (n à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 2), crosslinking are avoided from the outset. Reaction can be brought to a standstill by addtion of stopper components. Since the synthesis of hyperbranched polymers does not involve coupling to core molecule, but only ABn monomers react with one another. Both branched molecules and linear sequences maybe formed (Vogtle et al., 2009). Hyperbranched polymers produced from diacids (A2) and glycerol (B3) are an example of the AB2 system. AB2 monomers are not readily available and kinetic calculations show that the first condensation reaction, which produces an AB2 species, is faster than the subsequent polymer propagation. Thus, the remainder of the reaction progresses as polycondensation between AB2-type species prior to the gel point. Several methods have been used to avoid gelation in A2+B3 systems, including performing the reactions in dilute solutions or reacting them in the absence of solvents while monitoring. This glycerol-based polymer is expected to show similar properties and characteristics as polyalkylene glycol (PAG). A polyalkylene glycol having the general formula: HO-[R-O-]n H in which n has a value of at least 2 and R is an alkylene radical containing at least 10 carbon atoms. PAG liquid are used as synthetic lubricants in many diverse applications. Thus, glycerol-based polymers could also have the potential to be use as high performance lubricant, coolant or as a lubricant additive (such as viscosity modifier). Materials with polymeric structures can be used in lubricant to enhance its properties, such as viscosity, pour point and so on. It can be used as starting material for certain types of additives. These polymeric additives can be viscosity modifier, pour point depressants, emulsifiers and demulsifiers, and foam inhibitor in lubricants (Totten, G.E. et al., 2003). Oils can be effective lubricants at low temperature. However, at higher temperature, they become less effective. To overcome this problem, viscosity modifiers are useful in minimizing viscosity variations with temperature. Viscosity modifier is a polymer with average molecular weights of 10000 to 150000. At all temperatures, viscosity modifier is able to increase oils viscosity. The thickening of oil at lower temperature is less than that at higher temperature. At low temperatures, the polymer molecules occupying a small volume have a minimum association with the bulk oil. The situation is reversed at high temperatures as the polymer chains expand due to the increased thermal energy. Besides, at higher temperatures, polymers are more soluble and therefore cause the viscosity to increase(Totten, G.E. et al., 2003). There are two types of viscosity modifiers available commercially: olefin-based polymers and ester polymers. Polyisobutylenes (PIBs), olefin copolymers (OCPs), and hydrogenated styrene-diene (STDs) polymers. Ester polymers include polymethacrylates (PMAs) and styrene ester polymers (SEs) (Totten, G.E. et al., 2003). Literature Review In a research done by Wyatt and his co-workers (2006), novel oligomeric prepolymers were synthesized by acid-catalyzed condensation of glycerol with iminodiacetic. The prepolymers were obtained after purification by chromatography in an average yield of 62%. The compounds were characterized by using 13C NMR, 1H NMR, matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight-mass spectrometry, and gel permeation chromatography. It was discovered that linear products bearing cyclic urethane structures were obtained in the reaction between iminodiacetic acid and glycerol. Qi Lin and Timothy E. Long (2003) studied the polymerization of A2 with B3 monomers to produce hyperbranched poly(aryl estrer)s. A dilute bisphenol A (A2) solution was added slowly to a dilute 1,3,5-benzene tricarbonyl trichloride (B3) solution at 25 °C to prepare hyperbranched poly(aryl ester)s in the absence of gelation. The molar ratio of A2:B3 was maintained at 1:1. The maximum final monomer concentration was ~0.08 M. The phenol functionalities were quantitatively consumed during the polycondensation. This was showed in 1H NMR spectroscopy and derivitization of terminal groups. Two model compounds were synthesized to identify 1H NMR resonances for linear, dentritic, and terminal units. The final degree of branching was determined to be ~50%. The hyperbranched polymers exhibited lower glass transition temperatures compared to their analogues. J.F. Stumbe and Bernd Bruchmann (2003) also used the A2+B3 approach to prepare hyperbranched polyesters with controlled molecular weights and properties. The process was carried out by reacting glycerol and adipic acid without any solvents. Tin catalysts was used. The products were evaluated by size exclusion chromatography(SEC) analysis and NMR spectroscopy to determine molecular weights and degrees of branching. A study was also carried out on the glycerol esters from reaction of glycerol with dicarboxylic esters. The glycerol esters were synthesized by the base catalyzed reaction of glycerol with aliphatic dicarboxylic acid esters (such as dimethyl oxalate, dimethyl glutarate, dimethyl adipate, etc). Various parameters that may affect the transesterification were studied in order to optimize the yield of products. The reactions were carried out by varying the glycerol/ester molar ratios. The optimum ratio was 4:1, whereby the quantity of the monoester was 60% after 8 h. The conversion decreased slightly when the molar ratio exceeded 4:1. At higher temperatures, the amount of monoester in the reaction mixtures increased and it reached a maximum level after 6 h when the reaction was carried out at 100  °C to 120  °C. It took 8 h at a lower temperature. However, the overall yield at the end of the reaction was not affected by the temperature. The formation of both monoester and diester wer e produced in an overall yield of 80% after 15 h of reaction time (Cho et al., 2006). Sunder et. al. (1999) carried out a controlled synthesis of hyperbranched polyglycerols by ring opening multibranching polymerization. Hyperbranched aliphatic polyethers with controlled molecular weights and narrow molecular weight distribution were prepared via anionic polymerization of glycidol with rapid cation-exchange equilibrium. Glycidol which represents a cyclic AB2 monomer was polymerized in a ring-opening multibranching (ROMBP). The anionic polymerization was carried out under slow addition conditions with partially deprotonated (10%) 1,1,1-tris(hydroxymethyl)propane (TMP) as the initiator. 13C NMR, MALDI-TOF spectrometry, vapor pressure osmometry (VPO), and GPC were used to characterize molecular weights and polydispersities of the polyols formed. The 13C NMR spectra used to assess the degree of branching (DB) ranged from 0.53-0.59. A complete attachment of hyperbranched polymers to TMP initiator and the absence of macrocyclics were showed in MALDI-TOF spectra. There was n o macrocyclics or hyperbranched macromolecule obtained, due to slow addtion. T.J. Mulkern and N.C. Beck Tan (2000) studied a series of blends of hyperbranched polyester with high molecular weight polystyrenes. The processability and compatibility in the blends were investigated as a function of volume fraction of hyperbranched polyols (HBP) added and reactivity of the matrix phase. Due to its low viscosity and high reactivity, HBP polymers are suitable for reactive polymer blending. Through processing and rheological studies, it was found that HBPs are effective processing aids. A significant drop in the blend viscosity occurs immediately on addition of HBP, even at levels as low as 2 vol. %. In 1934, Herman Bruson discovered a synthetic oil additive when he was exploring the synthesis and possible applications of longer alkyl side chain methacrylates. Brusons invention, polymethacrylates (PMAs) was found to have the potential to function as thickener or viscosity index improver for mineral oils. It increases viscosity at higher temperature more than at lower temperatures (Kinker, B.G., 2009). The alkly group in the ester portion of the polymer can be altered to obtain products with better oil solubility and viscosity-improving properties. It also have good compatibility with a large number of refined and synthetic basestocks. In a study by Duncan and Turner (1997), blends of lubricant basestocks with high viscosity complex alcohol esters were produced. The blend comprises of a polyhydroxyl compound R(OH)n, a polybasic acid and a monohydric alcohol. The complex alcohol ester showed a pour point of less than or equal to -20 °C and a viscosity in the range about 100-700 cSt at 40 °C. The lubricating oil according to Duncan and Turners invention has excellent lubricity as determined by engine performance, vane pump test, Yamaha Tightening Test, and reduced valve sticking. Besides, it has good stability as evidenced by the results of RBOT and Cincinnati Milacron tests. The lubricant has also unexpected biodegradability as measured by Sturm test (Duncan et al., 1997). Hunt et al. (1993) carried out supercritical fluid extraction to analyse liquid poly(alklene glycol)(PAG) lubricants and sorbitan ester formulations. The PAG matrix was adsorbed onto silica and the selectivity obtained by this method was compared with that obtained by the direct extraction of adsorbed and unadsorbed PAG. Extraction was also done for unadsorbed PAG through the in-line column and it was successful in separating additives from all but the lowest molecular mass PAG oligomers. This extraction procedure enabled fractionation of the product and could be used as a sample preparation technique for further spectroscopic analysis. It is difficult to produce polymers with narrow molecular weight distributions by traditional methods. Supercritical fluid technology is applied to overcome the conventional methods. The solubilty parameter of supercritical fluid can be tailored. Selective extraction and fractionation are possible from multi-component mixtures. The key to making high quality polymers is to ensure precise control of molecular weight and polydispersity at high yield while keeping residual contaminants below acceptable tolerance levels. Hernandez et. al. (2005) tested the rolling fatigue of three polyglycols (PAG-9, PAG-12 and BREOX-B-135X). Polyglycols (also called PAG or polyalkylene glycols) are widely used in the lubrication industry. These compounds have very high viscosity indexes, very low pour points, a high thermal conductivity with respect to mineral oils, hydrolytic stability, etc. Rolling fatigue tests were carried out using IP-300 standard in order to obtain the characterization of the fluids. A four ball test machine was used and 10% life (L10) and 50% life (L50) were obtained. The stress-time curves for L10 and L50 were also determined. All polyglycols were tested under boundary lubrication regime (ÃŽÂ » In oils of the same family, the pressure-viscosity coefficient is relatively constant. An increase in viscosity improved the minimum film thickness with the consequent increase of the ÃŽÂ » ratio. Fatigue life is largely a function of the ratio of lubricating film thickness to composite surface roughness (ÃŽÂ » ratio). Differences in ÃŽÂ » ratio for the three polyglycols resulted in different asperity interactions and rolling contact fatigue lives. With regard to rolling contact fatigue, the choice of viscosity class should avoid asperity interaction, so that the only mode of failure will be subsurface failure. Although average pressure in the contact was the same, increase in viscosity from PAG-9 to BREOX-B135X improved the ÃŽÂ » ratio from 0.18 to 0.34. At less ÃŽÂ » An investigation was then carried put by Garcia and co-workers on PC-SAFT volumetric and phase behavior of carbon dioxide + PAG or POE lubricant systems. The densities of synthetic PAG oil was measured from 283.15 K to 333.15 K while the solubilities of CO2 in this oil was measured from 253 K to 333.15 K. Molecular weight of the lubricant was estimated using fast atom bombardment (FAB). Molecular weight and experimental densities were used to calculate characteristic parameters of PC-SAFT model for several commercial PAG oils. Transferable characteristic parameters were used for POEs. The thermophysical properties and phase behaviour of CO2-lubricant oil mixtures is important for the design of refrigeration and air-conditioning. The circulating fluid comes into contact with the lubricant used in compressors and a portion of the oil is transported into the refrigeration circuit with various effects in terms of performance. If the oil is immiscible with the refrigerant, the compressor may be damaged due to poor oil return to the compressor. Oil may accumulate inside the heat exchanger tubes reducing heat transfer capabilities, enthalpy change and resulting in an overall decrement of the refrigeration capacity and cycle performance. In addition, high solubility of the refrigerant in the lubricant may reduce the viscosity of the oil-rich phase and results in lower lubrication properties which gives rise to breakdown of the compressor mechanical parts. Hauk Weidner (2000) studied the thermodynamic and fluid-dynamic properties of carbon dioxide with different lubricants in cooling circuits for automobile application. The datas of the binary mixture were measured at temperatures between 5 and 100  °C under pressure of up to 150 bar. The phase behavior was observed qualitatively in a hugh-pressure view cell and was determined in an autoclave based on a static-analytical method. The viscosity of the lubricant saturated with carbon dioxide was measured with an integrated quartz viscosimeter. The applicability of lubricants in car-climatization systems can be evaluated with the knowledge of phase behavior and the resulting viscosity of gas-saturated lubricantsThe phase behavior of oils with carbon dioxide can be divided into three different types which are binary systems with closed miscibility gaps, systems with open miscibility gaps, and systems that show barotropic phenomena. Oils that show barotropic behavior in contact with compressed carbon dioxide are not recommended as lubricants. Oils with complete or limited miscibility with carbon dioxide may be used. Firdovsi Yagoub (2006) investigated the synthetic heat carrier oil compositions based on polyalklene glycols. Thermal stability, mass loss on vaporisation at 250  °C, 350  °C and changing the specifications after heating at 300  °C for 10 h were also studied. The prepared PAGs have been taken as basic components for heat carrier oil compositions. It was discovered that the specifications of PAGs such as viscosity indices, pour points, acid number and flash points changed dramatically upon heat treating. In order to improve the thermal stability and viscosity indices, anti-oxidant and anti-foaming additives were added to the base material to reach optimum compositions. The obtained heat carrier oils showed comparable improved properties in comparison with commercially available heat carriers. Methodology This project will be divided into 2 stages as listed below. Poly(glycerol-diacid) polymer will be prepared by using different hydrocarbon chain length of diacids (such as azelaic, succinic and adipic acid). The products will be analysed in order to study their chemical and physical properties. Phase 1 : Chemical reactions of glycerol with different hydrocarbon chain length of diacid compounds (e.g. azelaic, succinic or adipic acid) at different mole ratios, are carried out under N2. The mixtures were charged to a reaction vessel equipped with distillation apparatus. The reaction product is allowed to react at the desired temperature and time. Acid value (AV), hydroxyl value (OHV) and glycerol content will be measured to maintain the reaction progress. Optimization of the reaction parameters will be studied by varying different reaction parameters such as type and amount of diacid, reaction time, temperature and pressure. The final product will be washed, dried and characterised. Phase 2 : The products obtained will be analysed by using both High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Other instrumentation such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) will also be utilised to further confirm their molecular structure. Physical properties of the products obtained such as viscosity, solubility, flash point, fire point, density, specific gravity, biodegradability, and oxidative stability will be performed. Expected result: Polymers resulting from the copolymerisation of glycerol with diacids of varying carbon chain length, molecular structure, and composition will be obtained. Structures having more than two free acid functionalities at the end-terminals can occur only after branching. As the time of reaction proceeds, the viscosity increases which limits the interaction between the reactants and the growing polymers. The water solubilty of the oligomers decreases with increasing chain length of the diacid monomers of the diacid monomers used in preparing the oligomers. This glycerol based polymers are expected to possess wide range of applications such as cosmetics and lubricants.