Social Responsibility and Financial Performance Literature review

Social Responsibility and Financial Performance - Literature review Example In order to conduct a literature review, two main themes are being highlighted including the relationship of CSR and financial performance and the relationship of CSR and Shareholders Value (Aras et al., 2010). A literature review is carried out by incorporating conceptual and theoretical frameworks (Aupperle et al., 1985). The theoretical framework provides relevant theories and models associated with corporate social responsibility and its impact on financial performances and shareholders’ value. The conceptual framework would improvise the need for research on the basis of previous researchers by various scholars and be examining their objectives, the methodology adopted and research findings. This provides insight on how different variables identified in themes chosen are linked together and are a significant part of in the corporate sector. The emergence of corporate scandals, financial responsibilities, and environmental threats has sensitized the society to be concerned with the social and ethically responsible behavior of companies. The concept of Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to the role of businesses towards the society. Cane and Matten (2010) in their study highlights, ‘it is by now fairly widely accepted that businesses do indeed have responsibilities beyond simply making a profit’ (Crane & Matten, 2010). A number of concepts such as Corporate Citizenship, Corporate Sustainability, and Corporate Social Responsibility are listed with regard to social responsibilities.  

People’s Opinions Essay Example for Free

People’s Opinions Essay In this life, each and every person has his or her own personal beliefs regardless of his loyalty or disloyalty, in certain cases. The difference in personal beliefs of people lies in the fact that some of them hold his or her opinion as the correct one regardless whether or not it is right or wrong. This flawed thinking has led others to force those with separate or different opinions to force upon others their own personal beliefs and convictions even though their own opinions may be wrong. There are those, however, who, despite the pressures exerted by others to change their opinion, cling on to their beliefs and opinions because they truly believe in their convictions. In my humble opinion, these are the people who become more successful than others. First of all, people who hold their opinions are more respected by people. There is no better way of convincing people about one’s strength in character and belief than by holding on to those beliefs firmly. These people always seem to know what they are talking about and are steadfast in their resolve. In doing so, these people are able to convince others to believe in their own beliefs; most especially those who are hesitant or undecided on their personal convictions. Moreover, having the strength of resolve is very helpful especially when it comes to sharing ideas and opinions. More often than not, those who argue about matters that they do not believe in, quickly waver in their arguments. Those who hang on to their beliefs always prevail in the end. The second reason is that people who stick by their opinions often have the self-confidence that is needed to get the better end of the bargain come negotiations. A perfect example of this would be the time when one of my friends, not too long ago, was discussing a certain subject matter that he was not totally convinced of but decided that he would be more convinced if he was able to gain some support for his topic. As fate would have it, he was having the discussion with me and I had a different opinion on the matter. Disregarding the fact on who was truly right, it did not take long before I was able to convince my friend that my friend was wrong. What this shows is that, in order to be successful in life, one must have a strong personality and must be convinced that his or her cause is the right cause. I could have easily given up on the matter but I was not about to let go of my convictions. In the end, I was able to convince my friend and ever since he has developed a stronger character. His character has become so strong and his insight so powerful that even older people enjoy having conversations with him even though he is more than half the age of most of them. Thirdly, people who hold onto their opinions are more likely to develop their skills and have a good knowledge by reading, talking, and sharing controversial topics to encourage himself/herself to develop their skills to get a strong opinion, while people who have been affected by other people to change their opinions easily are rarely excited to develop their skills and knowledge because they have to depend on to have good results. Though it may seem that having a strong character may prevent one from learning more, believing in something and dedicating one’s self to knowing the truth with respect to a matter of fact does indeed strengthen one’s character. There are basically two kinds of people; People who merely parrot what other people say and think and those who have the strength to believe when nobody else does. I believe that I belong to the latter. I know what I believe in and I am not shy about those convictions.

Leadership in Nursing Skills

Leadership in Nursing Skills Leadership is process of persuading others to work toward achieving the common desired outcomes (Whitehead, Weiss and Tappen, 2007). In healthcare settings, leadership and quality of care are interlinked. Nursing leadership plays vital role in organisational success as it is client oriented. It facilitates and ensures the delivery of best possible care to the clients (Zori Morrison, 2009) There are certain leadership characteristics that determine the effectiveness of a nurse leader. This essay critically discusses these attributes and also discusses the significance of these characteristics in context of nursing leadership. Furthermore, it briefly explains the effect of change and use of power in nursing to accommodate the change. A leader is anyone who influences his followers to do what he want them to do for attaining the organisational goals (Sullivan Decker, 2009). Leaders possess many leadership traits that make them different from their followers and enable them to lead the group effectively (Marquis and Huston, 2009). Key personal qualities of an effective nurse leader are self awareness, integrity, courage and perseverance. Development of an ability to think critically, to share common vision, to manage conflict, delegation and communicating skilfully are essential leadership behaviours that make a nurse leader effective (Whitehead, Weiss and Tappen, 2007). Identifying the one` leadership skills is very crucial as it enables the person to achieve the organisational goals. The leaders must set an example to influence their followers. They must have high emotional intelligence to understand themselves and others (Linda, 2005). A leader must be self aware. He should know his own strengths and weaknesses. If he recognises his strengths or weaknesses and likes or dislikes, it is much easier for him to identify othersà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢. Then, they can work together neutralising their weaknesses (Whitehead, Weiss and Tappen, 2007). The focus of leadership should not be they, but, it must be the client. They should emphasize on improving the quality of care provided to their clients (Hiscock Shuldham, 2008). Leading an organisation or department is very challenging. The leaders confront many problematic issues everyday, resolving these issues is complex. Successful leaders are critical thinkers too. They must be able to critically analyse the situation using their expertise knowledge and skills. Critical thinking is one of the components of decision making. Using the critical thinking skills, a leader examines the situation, looks for different alternatives and becomes aware of all the risks that may prevent the success of decision being made. Therefore, the leader attempts to avoid such pitfalls and decide the best possible alternative. Critical thinking is not innate, however, it can be learnt during one`s own experiences (Sullivan and Decker, 2009). Ability to share a common vision should be part of an effective leader`s behaviour. Nursing leaders think à ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒâ€¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"outside the boxà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ . They are capable to think about better future when the things are currently getting harder to deal with. They are open minded, ready to think laterally and search for different ways to tackle the problems (Morgan, 2010). They should be able to influence others to develop this vision and become involved in different strategies to initiate change (Grossman Valiga, 2009). Delegation is also a key attribute of nursing leadership which is learnt with practice. Delegation is reassigning the task to another person which you are supposed to do. Even though, you have delegated the task to anyone else, you are accountable for the task accomplishment. In healthcare settings, the nurse leader uses her professional judgement while delegating the nursing care to nurses depending upon their abilities and supervises their work too. By doing this, the nurses can gain more confidence and competence in their own performance. As the main focus of leadership is providing quality care to the client, supervision of work by leader nurse ensures that the patient receives standardised care. Hence, it brings them together as a team leading towards attaining the goal of providing safe and quality care to their clients (Whitehead, Weiss and Tappen, 2007). Communication plays a vital role in successful leadership. To be successful, leaders must develop excellent communication skills. Nurse leaders promote two-way communication. Effective leaders can successfully convey their messages to their followers by verbal and non-verbal communication and they are good listeners also. They encourage valuable suggestions from staff members that can help leaders for bringing about effective changes in organisation. Effective communication facilitates the constructive relationship between them (Marquis and Huston, 2009). Nowadays, nursing leadership is considered as very crucial factor in promoting health and catering for the unique health needs of the people by providing safe and quality care. It is very important for nurses to develop these leadership characteristics if they want to become a nurse leader (Davison, 2010). It focuses on evidence based practice. Being nurses, they are committed to provide best quality care to the clients. Nurses should believe and understand that their role impacts the clients and the outcomes. Therefore, they should make best use of their leadership skills to bring improvement in the client care (Hiscock and Shuldham, 2008). Nurse leaders model high emotional intelligence. It is very useful as it enables them to understand their own and clients` behaviour. Better understanding of client will assist them to recognise and fulfil unique health needs of client and achieve organisational goals. Nurse leaders use critical thinking skills everyday because they engage in making complex decisions related to client care. Critical thinking enables nurses to scrutinize particular situation and choose appropriate action using their sound professional knowledge. This can bring changes and achieve positive health outcomes (Hood, 2010). The nurse leaders have ability to see a changed reality. They also inspire others to see the change and persuade them to contribute towards achievement of the outcome. They must value the contributions of followers (Grossman Valiga, 2009). Nurse leaders should exhibit excellent communication skills. As they work as health team member, they need to communicate with all other members of health organisation with a common aim of achieving positive patient outcomes. They share their views and convey the messages clearly to the clients and subordinates. Besides this, nurse leaders are active listeners. They encourage active participation of clients in their own care. Nurse leaders maintain written records, which serves as evidence of care being given. These records can be used to track the delivery of health care. On the other hand, if nurses are unable to communicate effectively, it may lead to chaos as the clients will not receive appropriate care (Grossman Valiga, 2009). Delegation is an essential leadership trait. Nurse leaders delegate their work to their subordinates; however, they are accountable for their task. It acts as a tool as it facilitates development of skills of others. It also enables leader to carry out m ore tasks at the same time. Apart from these, it also develops teamwork (Sullivan Decker, 2009). Power can be defined as an ability to influence others to get work done. In healthcare organisations, the power is essential for the organisational effectiveness and workers` satisfaction. Nurses use power to influence clients and other health professionals. To use power effectively, nurses must be knowledgeable about different sources and types of power. All nurses exercise power in one or other way (Whitehead, Weiss Tappen, 2007). The nurses can use power to improve practice and achieve the goals of an organisation. When there is a change occurring, it is not taken as granted. The people may resist the change. In such situation, nurses can make effective use of their power to influence others and initiate change. Nurses aim to reduce the resistance by sharing the information, disconfirming currently held beliefs, providing psychological safety and dictating change (Whitehead, Weiss and Tappen, 2007). For instance, nurses can use informational power by sharing the information about the proposed change. They can influence clients by providing knowledge and sharing their vision about improvement of delivery of care (Huntington Gilmour, 2010). By using expert power, the nurse leaders can explain the reasons why the change is being brought in? They will ensure others that this change will improve their performance. They will appreciate suggestions from them and their concerns about it. Once, the nurse leaders successfully influenced others, they can implement change. There are many examples of use o f power by nurse leaders that brought changes in nursing practice. For instance, in Australia and New Zealand nurses used their power in form of legislative procedure and it enabled nurse practitioners to prescribe medicine (Huntington Gilmour, 2010). Nurses are obliged to protect the clients. When the clients need assistance to speak for them, the nurses act as their advocates. Using their power, nurses can present their views and suggestions and can demand for improving the quality of care being delivered to the clients. Nurse leaders should have understanding of clientsà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ rights, ethical issues to protect clients from any harm. For example, when working in Intensive Care Unit, if a nurse recognizes that one of other staff member does not practice good hand hygiene practice as per the norms of the hospital despite of previous warnings given. At first glance, nurse might find it challenging to report this issue to their superiors. However, keeping the client care as focus she will address this problem. This is an effective use of her legitimate power. When the client is not receiving appropriate care and there is need to change the situation, nurses act as protectors. Nurses preserve the rights of clients, protect the clients and monitor the quality of client care (Hood, 2010). Nurse leaders can use their power effectively by empowering others. They should work together as a team rather than competing with their co-workers. It prevents conflicts and promotes harmony in the healthcare setting. The clients may feel powerlessness due to their diseased conditions. Nurses can empower clients by actively engaging them in their care i.e. by giving them informed choices about their treatment, seeking suggestions to promote their health. This will strengthen their relationship by building trust between nurse and client and will enable patients to become an active partner rather than a passive recipient (Hood, 2010). In conclusion, effective leadership is a key element in organisational success. Effective leaders along with their team members, work together in order to achieve organisational goals. Leaders develop certain leadership attributes that enable leaders to influence others to follow them. Nursing leadership is an indispensable part of health care system. It plays a vital role in promoting health and delivery of quality client care. Nursing leadership is client oriented as it works for the best interests of their clients. Nurse leaders exercise power to influence clients, their families and other healthcare professionals in order to achieve positive health outcomes. Change is inevitable in health care. New changes can be introduced successfully with the effective use of power. The focus of care remains clients. The nurse leaders should communicate the change with their colleagues and clients and persuade them to allow this change. The nurses are obliged to protect the rights of clients a nd ensure optimal delivery of health care services. The changes are made to improve the quality of care and client safety.

The Farm :: Descriptive Farms Essays Papers

The Farm Flat Rock Farm was a hardscrabble anachronism in the 1950s. The dirt roads of Kansas, in those days, were littered with similar testimonies; relics of another time, passed down by the pioneers who carved them from the prairie. That it survived at all was a testament to the resourcefulness and tenacity of those that had scratched a subsistence from it during the dust bowl and great depression. Once the fulfillment of life-long dreams, farms like this one were being rendered obsolete by the emerging consumer society of post-war America. To the uninitiated there was nothing unique or extraordinary about this particular farm, except perhaps for the telltale signs of its certain obsolescence. The harness hanging from the tack room wall, the idle team of aging horses milling in the corral, the bucket at the cistern pump and the absence of electric lines all betrayed the homestead's lack of modernization and its inevitable future. Like thousands of others, it would be bought out and combined with a larger, more modern operation when death or bankruptcy hastened its demise. The passing of such a small and unremarkable homestead on the Kansas prairie would not be noticed nor long remembered -- yet it is. To a small boy growing up in the inner city, there was no place more wondrous or exciting to visit than that small farmstead somewhere northeast of Emporia. It was a vibrant place, alive with the sights and sounds of nature and bustling with important work that mattered. Work whose value and purpose was easily recognized by a child. Work connected to the land and animals in some grand collaboration with the universe. There were people there too who were glad when you came to visit. Patient people who cared, and who took the time to listen as well as teach. People who understood the value of a small child's efforts to help with the important work of the farm and encouraged those efforts. There always seemed to be a humming in the background that permeated everything there. A current, perhaps, that ran through it all and kept the people, land, and animals in sync with some universal pattern. I couldn't actually hear it, but if I sat very still on the rocks by the well pump, on a warm spring afternoon, and closed my eyes, I could feel it. The warmth of the rock beneath me, the sun reaching out to touch my skin, the breeze on my cheek -- all were connected -- as I was, with the sounds of the insects and animals around me.

Military and Leadership

In any environment whatsoever, the main targets, the paraphernalia, the products and team-leadership are all great aspects of running a business, all of which require talent, energy and a considerable amount of insight. The article â€Å"When Good Companies Do Bad Things† by Peter Schwartz highlights the importance of these aspects through the crucial significance of companies being ‘good’ and having the reputation for it as well.Schwartz states that there is a growing importance of reputation in the competitive world of global branding. We all like to believe that we’re working for good companies and that our systems are ethical, humanitarian and in the interest of the betterment of people. However, with the rising complexities in the globalization of the market, he draws from the examples of big companies such as Shell, Nike, Microsoft and Texaco, all finding themselves paying the price for a task as simple as to paying too little attention to the importa nce of reputation.The comparison of the aforementioned multi-billion dollar businesses with a military unit may not be high in terms of product and sales strategies, yet the aspect of units of men working for a certain target with a certain image before people is highly common between both these instances. A military unit, much like a corporate unit, works on the principle of task-orientation. It also believes that its goals are ethical and in sync with the good of mankind. The simple personal experience that I had of watching the troops walking, saluting and parading in formation is a clear-cut example of the height of conformity within its set up.However, Hawkins (2007) reports the research conducted at Los Alamos, recognizing that the â€Å"behavior of a group of people depends strongly on the interaction of personal (individual traits) with the collective moods of the group as a whole†. This simply means that the high levels of conformity we see in the formation and smoot h working of a battalion is also connected deeply with the individual’s interaction with the whole. The same way a platoon is influenced by its unit members’ passion and dedication towards their goals, the corporate set up is also directly influenced by values in the system.Integrity, as interpreted by Schwartz, is: being well-integrated with one's society and understanding what the society's expectations are. I agree to this definition as it has the potential to create more aware institutions. Capitalist set ups, by definition, are businesses run for the sole purpose of making a profit (Haralambos and Holborn, p. 8). The age of media and technology grows faster today than it ever did – therefore it is better to have emerging corporate culture, which has encoded in its basic structural DNA, empathy and a sense of compassion for its surroundings.It is indeed so in the military that an environment of debate is not encouraged in the military set up. It is the belie f of experts that ‘saluting without questioning exemplifies the military's ‘can do' attitude that can create an optimist out of even the most skeptical naysayer† (Wong and Lovelace, p. 2). In the military the ability to prepare or get ready to fight, skill in actual fighting and the will to prevail in combat against a foe, are the critical dimensions of leadership (Hawkins, n.p.).The military may also find itself faced with disastrous results if it chooses to ignore the voices that exist outside its barracks. The example of the Iraq and Afghan wars, Abu Ghuraib jails, the American public speaking out against the War, are plenty for the world media and global peacemakers to click their tongues and wonder at the foreign policy of the United States of America. Schwartz mentions that corporate magnates sometimes end up baffled with certain results because they have almost no contact with the outside personnel, which play an equal and a highly effective role in shaping their commercial and corporate success.Retired Army Major General John Batiste spoke openly regarding the War in Iraq, outlining the importance and sway of the respective socio-political system on the task of the military, â€Å"Military leaders of all ranks, particularly the senior military, have an obligation in a democracy to say something about it†. In the case of German post-war governments, learning from mistakes and paying attention to what the world is saying is making a big point in their arguments.Post-war governments have claimed to maintain a conscript army in order to safeguard against political extremism in the armed forces (Paterson, n.p.). Similarly Major General Bill Rollo had a whole briefing about the concern of military commanders regarding the effect of bad publicity on morale, and â€Å"particularly over a series of high-profile cases involving the alleged abuse of Iraqis by British soldiers† (Norton-Taylor, n.p.).It is apparently fair to an organ ization if the perception of the market-consumers shape its reputation. The company gains profits through the masses which pay for their goods, which in turn help it run its business, big or small. It is, as says Schwartz, not possible to completely fulfill the needs and aspirations of the working team and the consumers. The company must strive and motivate the circle through addressing their needs and choices as much and as far as they can.I would personally lead my company/unit by way of establishing a culture of bringing out the best products through the maximum information provided not only by the society’s general consensus, but through the voice of the working individuals of the team. It is in the inherent nature of man to seek expression. By appealing to this very nature, I would direct and lead the company into more responsive whole rather than a conformed group of tight-rope walkers who won’t know when trouble actually hits them because they were too busy list ening to orders.Work CitedHaralambos, Mike and Holborn, Martin. Sociology: Themes and Perspectives. United Kingdom: Collins, 2000.Norton-Taylor, Richard. Top brass fight to save army's reputation. December 30, 2005. The Guardian. October 2nd, 2007. https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2005/dec/30/topstories3.iraq

A triangulation approach Essay

Thomas had heard the same devastating story before. He knew what to expect or so he thought. He had seen the shattered lives, lost youth and the trail of broken dreams that had divided families and friends. Often it was the innocent bystanders most affected by such behaviour. The collateral damage was often so costly. But it was Thomas who would end up as Daniel’s target that day. Introduction All researchers have different beliefs and ways of viewing and interacting within their surroundings. As a result, the way in which research studies are conducted vary. However, there are certain standards and rules that guide a researcher’s actions and beliefs. Such standards or principles can be referred to as a paradigm. To gain a better understanding of why and how the researcher chose the methodological approach in this study, an initial discussion will be completed about the paradigm that best fits the focus of this study. Following a discussion about the research paradigm, the aim of this chapter is to discuss the research design and methodology utilised in this study. In order to describe the variety of research activities undertaken during this study, the data collection activities and associated analysis methods will be systematically discussed under four phases. For ease of discussion, the study activities will be described in the order in which the researcher completed them. The order of the study activities have been outlined in Figure 3. Research Paradigm According to Taylor, Kermode, and Roberts (2007, p. 5), a paradigm is â€Å"a broad view or perspective of something†. Additionally, Weaver and Olson’s (2006, p. 460) definition of paradigm reveals how research could be affected and guided by a certain paradigm by stating, â€Å"paradigms are patterns of beliefs and practices that regulate inquiry within a discipline by providing lenses, frames and processes through which investigation is accomplished†. Therefore, to clarify the researcher’s structure of inquiry and methodological choices, an exploration of the paradigm adopted for this study will be discussed prior to any discussion about the specific methodologies utilized in this study. This study utilised a triangulation approach to explore and guide the development and evaluation of a clinical forensic nursing educational package. The use of both the qualitative and quantitative methodologies was necessary to encompass the different aspects of forensic science and nursing’s holistic approach to patient care. According to Lynch (2006), providing forensic patient care requires objectivity and neutrality while attending to the various human dimensions of health and well-being. To address the diversity and complexity of such nursing and forensic issues, a mixed methodology was necessary. According to Weaver and Olson (2006), the paradigms most commonly utilised in nursing research are positivist, postpositivist, interpretive, and critical social theory. The quantitative methodology shares its philosophical foundation with the positivist paradigm (Weaver and Olson). The positivist paradigm arose from the philosophy identified as logical positivism and is based on rigid rules of logic and measurement, truth, absolute principles and prediction (Halcomb and Andrew, 2005; Cole, 2006; Weaver and Olson). The positivist philosophy argues that there is one objective reality. Therefore, as a consequence, valid research is demonstrated only by the degree of proof that can be corresponded to the phenomena that study results stand for (Hope and Waterman, 2003). In this study, such rigid principles lend themselves more to the scientific forensic aspects such as scientific knowledge, logic and measurement incorporated into this study (Weaver and Olson, 2006; Lynch, 2006). However, such inflexible beliefs did not have the capacity to accommodate the investigatory aspects of this study that dealt with the social and human experiences. As a result, qualitative methodologies were also incorporated  into the research design (see Table 3.1). The qualitative methodology shares its philosophical foundation with the interpretive paradigm which supports the view that there are many truths and multiple realities. This type of paradigm focuses the holistic perspective of the person and environment which is more congruent with the nursing discipline (Weaver and Olson, 2006). Additionally, the interpretive paradigm is associated more with methodological approaches that provide an opportunity for the voice, concerns and practices of research participants to be heard (Cole, 2006; Weaver and Olson). Cole further argues that qualitative researchers are â€Å"more concerned about uncovering knowledge about how people feel and think in the circumstances in which they find themselves, than making judgements about whether those thoughts and feelings are valid† (p. 26). Due to the complex nature of the research study, there was no single paradigm that could satisfactorily deal with all of the required methodological aspects. Therefore, the researcher found it necessary to combine the quantitative/positivist paradigm with the qualitative/interpretive paradigm. The blending of both paradigms provided the researcher with the ability to statistically analyse the scientific data whilst also recognizing the complex psychosocial and emotional factors that influence patient care issues. The discussion that follows will further elaborate and describe in detail how each paradigm and methodological approach was implemented in this study. Research Design In this descriptive study, qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques were used including; semi-structured interviews, chart audits, pre and post-test questionnaires, focus group interviews, and the researcher’s field notes of personal observations and conversations. Additionally, to provide a more complete and  multidimensional understanding of the issues, a triangulation methodology design was employed (Taylor, Kermode, and Roberts, 2007). In the section below, the discussion will be divided into two main headings; that of descriptive research and triangulation. Descriptive Research In order for the researcher to gain different perspectives and draw attention to different factors that affect forensic practice in Western Australia, descriptive research methods were employed in this study. According to Polit, Beck, and Hungler (2001, p. 180), descriptive methods are used when the researcher seeks to â€Å"describe, observe, and document a naturally occurring phenomenon which cannot readily be ascribed an objective value†. In other words, descriptive research deals with questions that look to explain what things are like and describe relationships but do not predict relationships between variables or the direction of the relationship. Depending on what is to be described, descriptive research can be very concrete or more abstract (DeVaus, 2002). At a concrete level, data collected is often strongly quantitative in nature (Polit, Beck, and Hungler, 2001). In this study, data will be collected in the form of participant demographics, chart audit data, monitoring of implementation tools, and data collected from the pre and post-test questionnaires. In addition, more abstract descriptive research, in the form of stakeholder interviews, was also included. According to Morse and Richards (2002), qualitative descriptive approaches are extremely helpful because evidence of experience and knowledge can be easily missed when quantitative methods are used. In this study, semi-structured interviews were incorporated into the study design because the researcher believed that open ended questions would be the most efficient way to collect data from stakeholder participants. Open ended questions are thought to allow an individual time and scope to discuss their perception and knowledge (Morse and Richards, 2002). DeVaus (2002) believes that descriptive research can play a key role in highlighting the  existence and extent of problems which can stimulate interventions and actions that lead to policy change. The intent of stakeholder interviews was to investigate and describe current forensic practices occurring in Western Australia. According to Taylor, Kerrmode and Roberts (2007), qualitative interviews attempt to â€Å"make meanings† from individual accounts and experiences. Forensic patients are usually treated in partnership by medical and legal professionals (Lynch, 2006). Therefore forensic and healthcare stakeholders who work in the field have the best ability to contribute, enhance links and increase the successful integration of services (Haddow, O’Donnell, and Heaney, 2007). The incorporation of stakeholders in this study was to enhance the understanding of the current issues and experiences confronting forensic and healthcare professionals working with and providing care to forensic patients. Triangulation Multiple triangulation methods were utilised in this descriptive study. Triangulation involves the application and combination of several research methodologies in one study (Schneider, Elliott, Lo-Biondo-Wood, and Haber, 2003; Taylor, Kermode, and Roberts, 2007). There are four common types of triangulation discussed within the literature including: data triangulation that involves time, space, and persons; investigator triangulation which uses multiple observers; theory triangulation that uses more than one theoretical perspective to interpret the study phenomenon; and methodological triangulation that involves using more than one methodological strategy during data collection. According to Halcomb and Andrew (2005), the use of multiple data sources and methods to cross-check and validate findings increase the depth and quality of the results and also provides valuable guidance to nursing practice. Triangulation provides in-depth data, increases the confidence in the research results as well as enables different dimensions of the problem to be considered (Barbour, 2001; Jones and Bugge, 2006). A combination of methods is thought by some to improve the consistency and accuracy of data by providing a more complete picture of the phenomenon (Roberts and Taylor,  2002; Halcomb and Andrew, 2005; Williams, Rittman, Boylstein, Faircloth, and Haijing, 2005; Jones and Bugge, 2006). Morse (1991) cited in Minichiello, Sullivan, Greenwood, and Axford, (1999, p. 258) believes that triangulation is a means by which the researcher is able to â€Å"capture a more complete and holistic portrait of the phenomena under study†. In this study, the researcher employed methodological, data, and unit of analysis triangulation. Each of these aspects of triangulation will be discussed individually below and study examples provided to help illustrate the concepts. Firstly, methodological triangulation will be explored which can be sub-divided into within and across-method triangulation (Schneider, et al., 2003; Halcomb and Andrew, 2005). Methodological triangulation Methodological triangulation, according to Taylor, Kermode, and Roberts (2007), involves using two or more research methods in one study at the level of data collection or design. Across-method triangulation involves combining research strategies usually qualitative and quantitative methods. Such an approach is common in nursing studies (Jones and Bugge, 2006; Halcomb and Andrew, 2005). In this study, for example, data from stakeholders interviews were utilised to reinforce and complement the data from quantitative chart audits because concepts mentioned by the stakeholders were checked during the chart audits. Complementary findings in a study make a more valid contribution to theory and knowledge development, enhance diversity, and enrich the understanding surrounding the study’s objectives and goals (Schneider, et al., 2003; Macnee and McCabe, 2008). Data triangulation Data triangulation can be described as the use of multiple sources of data to obtain differing views about a situation in a single study (Roberts and Taylor, 2002). For example, in this study, data was collected from various interviews, pre and post-test questionnaires and by reviewing nurse participant’s documentation within patient medical records. Multiple data  sources help validate the findings by exploring different views of the situation under investigation (Taylor, Kermode, and Roberts, 2007). Data triangulation can be divided into categories of time, space, and person (Roberts and Taylor). Time triangulation involves researchers collecting data at different points in time such as time of day; at different days of the week, or at different months of the year (Rinaldi, Carpenter, and Speziale, 2006). In this study, however, the goal was not to compare participant knowledge between shifts or from one month to the next. 46 Instead, the researcher was interested in evaluating an educational intervention over time. Therefore, for this study, only two types of data triangulation were utilised: space and person.  Space triangulation involves the collection of data from multiple sites (Roberts and Taylor, 2002). In this study, for example, data was collected from two hospitals emergency departments. Analysis from both sites helped evaluate the effectiveness of Phase III activities of this research and also increased the validity and strengthened the study (Begley, 1996; Halcomb and Andrew, 2005). Person triangulation implies that data was collected from more than one category of person (Roberts and Taylor, 2002; Taylor, Kermode, and Roberts, 2007). For example, in this study, participants included ED nurses as well as key forensic and healthcare stakeholders. The use of various legal and healthcare professionals provided greater insight into a variety of issues including: hospital administration, staffing, costing concerns; medical practices; Western Australian legal requirements and governmental policies; current evidentiary processes; as well as existing investigatory practices. Such data was utilised to support, supplement, and validate the information gained from published forensic material as well as the research data.

The MEK lubricant and de

The MEK lubricant and de Introduction A lubricant’s de-waxing process involves removal of paraffinic hydrocarbons so as to improve the pour point of the feed stock. The pour point of oil is the lowest temperature in which oil can flow, pour or move when refrigerated or cooled without disruption under certain fixed conditions.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The MEK lubricant and de-waxing method specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More De-waxing produces high yields of products of improved quality base oils. Waxes require isomerization for their conversion into lubricant base oils. De-waxing processes create pure un-branched hydrocarbon chains without either aromatic contents or unwanted hetero-atoms in gas to liquid (GTL) processes (Gary Handwerk, 2001).During the de-waxing process, the solvent is subjected to a mixture of the waxy oil. In the catalytic de-waxing mechanism, wax components are reduced in the reaction to recapture the de-waxed oil molecules. A de-waxing process involves prior solvent extraction before the process is done. Heavy gas and oil from a refinery that is usually at very high temperatures is usually the feed stream. The gas is usually at high temperatures of 95 degrees Fahrenheit. This fact allows the feedstock not to crystallize. Shock treatment can cause formation of small crystals by the wax which would block the filter cloth during filtration process hence lowing wax recovery (Speight, 2010). The solvent is usually of equal temperature with the wax stream. It is then filtered through rotary filters. The primary rotary filter separates the stream into de-waxed oil or wax solvent stream. The de-waxed oil stream undergoes heat integration and continues to solvent recovery process. The wax or oil stream proceeds to the secondary filter. Here, it is separated into mostly solvent and wax with 3wt% oil content. The oily wax is de-oiled by re-melting to release trapped oil. The final filteri ng step is the tertiary filter. It separates waxes into hard and soft ones. Soft wax is recycled and hard one is re-slurred and purified to food grade wax. De-waxing products can be categorized into two: 1. Base oil which is used to make lube oil for automotive and industrial lubricants and for production of automatic transmission fluids.2. Food grade wax which is used to produce sealants. Crayons, cosmetics, foods and candles are also produced from this wax. Lubricants’ oil de-waxing methods Lubricant manufacturers may use either catalytic or urea de-waxing or solvent waxing. During the catalytic de-waxing process, there is usually selective removal of lighter non- normal hydrocarbons and also an even removal of normal paraffin. Urea de-waxing is normally used to produce low pour points using urea.Advertising Looking for research paper on chemistry? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This process of de-waxing is good for recovering refrigeration and transformer oils because no refrigeration is required. It is important to include a desirable solvent because urea has no MEK properties. The viscosity of the oil has negative results in its contact between oil and urea. Difficulties are encountered during filtration, hence the addition of solvents. MSDW’s process This process uses a two-stage cascade system. It is shaped like a selective de-waxing catalyst in the second stage (Fleig, 2005). This system is highly flexible and functions with hydrogen pressures between 27 to 207 bars. The waxy oil and the hydrogen are mixed and then heated. They are then directed to the top of the de-waxing reactor. Downstream, the by-products which are basically low sulfur distillate, high-octane, naphtha and hydrogen-rich recycled gas are separated from the lube base oil (Pujado Jones, 2006). Propylene- acetone’s de-waxing process Propylene and acetone is the solvent mixture in this process. This process is adaptable to de-waxing plants that utilize propane instead of MEK (Fahim, Al-ShhafElkilani, 2009).Crystallization as a process is complex as it is usually determined by the rate of cooling of crystals. High and low cooling has an impact of the speed of the crystallization process and the quality of formed crystals. Propane is widely available as a byproduct in refineries and therefore its utilization is easier. This process leads to production of elements with low pour points, low refrigeration loads and reduced filter usages. Industrial technological research should focus on creation of catalysts that enhance the de-waxing of propylene and acetone instead of overreliance on products like propane. This fact would ensure that the performance of the solvent raw materials in this process is enhanced. MEK de-waxing method Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) is an anti-oil solvent and thus dissolves little wax at low temperatures. It is a wax precipitating agent. Toluene is an oil solve nt that dissolves the oil. At low temperatures, it maintains fluidity. A combination of major solvents is used in solvent de-waxing. MEK has become the most commonly used anti solvent in modern times but over reliance on it could lead to possible depletion of raw materials used in making it and consequent production of counterfeit products in the market. Industrial experts have advised that more research should be done to create new anti-oil solvents to complement the use of MEK. Nature of MEK de-waxing MEK has a poor solvent power and selectivity of paraffinic elements. It precipitates the wax leaving the de-waxed base oil. Studies have shown that the combination of toluene and MEK solvents in de-waxing processes causes an optimum wax precipitation of 40-75 v %. With increased MEK, the oil’s viscosity index increases but the solid point is maintained.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The MEK lubricant and de-waxing method specifically for yo u for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Process of MEK Flow diagram shows a de-waxing process The solvents used in this process are MEK and toluene which are mixed with the wax or oil stream feed. The feedstock is usually of high temperature; about 95Â °Farenheit therefore, the solvent added should have corresponding temperature. The solvent of the same temperature is again added. This fact prevents shock treatment. The mixture is then filtered through the rotary filters which separate the stream into de-waxed oil or wax solvent stream. Process variables MEK is highly preferred because of its distinct anti-oil solvent characteristic. All the other solvents have almost similar properties but MEK or toluene combination is the most commonly used one in refineries. High solvent as opposed to oil use improves the process of filtration. A high solvent facilitates faster crystal growth reducing the viscous nature of the varied streams. At 100 wt. % MEK, there is a signifi cant wax recovery. High cooling rates have been reported to form undesirable wax that is hard to filter since it blocks the filters. Surface pressure exchanger The heat exchanger is used for crystallization of the wax. The process involves the use of the mid of the heat exchanger, the heated stream flows inside as the coolant flows on the outside. Wax crystals form slowly as the stream cools (Prestoris, 2004).Advertising Looking for research paper on chemistry? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The fact shows that there is usually poor heat conduction between the waxy feed and the coolant due to the formation of wax crystals. The surface heat exchanger contains scraper blades which are usually inconstant rotation (Gary et al, 2007). Their rotation removes clogged wax inside the pipe. This fact allows formation of more wax crystals. Figure 1 shows a surface heat exchanger Vacuum rotary filter Vacuum rotary filters are drums with a vacuum inside them covered by cloth. This fact prevents entry of the wax into the drum as the oil seeps in. This process removes any oil that might have been left in the wax. As the drum rotates, the scrapers remove the wax. It is deposited into a collection basin where it is re-slurred and re-melted with more solvent. It is used in separation of aromatic impurities and naphthalene by precipitation or dissolving of the components. Filters’ process operation In its operation; liquid is sent to tube units set below a drum. The drum cycles th rough the liquid and the vacuum pulls the solids away from the liquid into the drum pre-coat system. The liquid sucked through the filter causes the solid to stick to the outer surface of the drum. Figure 2 shows a vacuum rotary filter Maintenance and protection of the system Maintenance and protection of the system has to involve the maintenance of the various filters. The oil or the coolant filters has to be changed after every 500 hours so that they can clean away the contaminants. The oil separator has to be changed with change in oil for it to separate oil from air effectively. The drive belt has to be changed after 800 hours for effective performance. Other equipments used in this process include chillers with heat exchangers which gradually lower the temperature of the mixed stream of solvent and wax or oil to allow crystallization to take place. The others are the de-waxed oil and slack wax evaporators. Features of the vacuum rotary filters Their features include drum, val ve, drum deck, filter cloth, internal piping, agitator and the tank. These features are small in size and structure to facilitate faster operation. They are powerful and suffer low labor intensity making them easy to operate. The drum is supported by the trunnion which is set at the end of valve. It helps in formation of the vacuum cell at the bearing end. The valves are used to regulate the cycle sequence. Each portion is exposed to the vacuum, the dead zone and the blow. The valve contains adjustments blocks and fixed forms which creates the drying ratio in the filtration process. The internal piping can be single or double row piping to facilitate the channeling of the filtrates, steam and waste. The drum deck is separated into compartments waved to the vacuum or the rotating drum. The filter cloth acts as the cake tied to the drum face and it’s made from propylene or polyester. The agitator suspends the sludge material as the tank houses the drum and the agitator. Vacuum and rotary filters’ process variables The process variables in rotary filtration involve temperature, pressure, solid content and particle size and distribution (Parkas, 2003). The variables define the present status of the process. The temperature is usually maintained high with operational temperatures going as high as 2000C. High temperatures are required for distillation, evaporation and thermal breakdown. Pressure is crucial and is maintained at 6 bars with the pressure filters taking different timing like 10 minutes for cake application and 8 hours for polishing. The solid contents take about 50% or more of the weight with the particle distribution being 1 to 2 microtones. Chillers These equipments are heat exchangers which gradually lower the temperature of the mixed stream of solvent and wax or oil to allow crystallization to take place (Lum, 2011). They are specially designed to scrap out the wax deposits in the heat exchanger surface so as to have efficient heat tr ansfer. Chilling involves direct heat transfer. Evaporators The evaporator is used in recovery of the solvent from the de-waxed oil and wax. Components include the motor which rotates the evaporating flask, vapor duct that channels the sample, vacuum system that reduces pressure, water bath for heating the sample and the condenser that acts as a coolant. Solvent recovery system The solvent recovery system supplies parts and services for recycling equipment, wastewater treatment and washing of parts. The process reduces the cost of disposing solvents and waste water charges. The solvent recovery system involves the following process as shown in the diagram. Solvent used The solvent de-waxing stem involves MEK, toluene, propane benzene ,methylene chloride, ethylene dichloride, sulfur dioxide and cyclohexane.MEK is used in industries in the dissolution of wax at low temperatures. MEK toluene propane benzene butane Boiling point(0C) 79.64 110.62 -43.7 31.1 31.1 Freezing(0C) poi nt -86.69 -94.99 -09.8 5.5 -2.17 Molecular weight 72.11 92.14 44.10 78.11 58.92 Vapor pressure(Torre) 74 28.5 0.13 0 o A graphical comparison of the various solvents as per the table is as follows Feedstock From Process Typical products to unit Lube base stock Vacuum tower Treating De-waxed lubes To Hydro-treating Wax To Hydro-treating Spent agents To Treatment or recycle Table : 24.2 Hydrocarbons Compounds derived Methane Methyl chloride, chloroform, methanol, formaldehyde, formic acid, freon, hydrogen for synthesis of ammonia. Ethane Ethyl chloride, ethyl bromide, acetic acid, acetaldehyde, ethylene, ethyl acetate, nitro ethane, acetic anhydride. Ethylene Ethanol, ethylene oxide, glycol, vinyl chloride, glyoxalin, polyethene, styrene, butadiene, acetic acid. Propane Propanol, propionic acid, isopropyl ether, acetone, nitro methane, nitro ethane, nitro propane. Propylene Glycerol, alkyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, acrolein, nitroglycerine, dodecyl benzene, cumin, Bakelite. Hexane Benzene, DDT, gammexane. Heptane Toluene Cycloalkanes Benzene, toluene, xylenes, adipic acid. Benzene Ethyl benzene, styrene, phenol, BHC (insecticide), adipic acid, nylon, cyclohexane, ABS detergents. Toluene Benzoic acid, TNT Benz aldehyde, saccharin, chloramine-T, benzyl chloride, benzyl chloride. A new development in lubricants’ de-waxing processes The industry is facing a lot of development with respect to technological advancement. Nowadays, there is greater use of the skill in solvent extraction. Industries are producing edible vegetable oil from oil seeds and protein units that are nutritious and economically viable. Capital investment is prioritized. The industry is making efforts in investment and money making through incorporation of various ideas in respect to this industry. The food industry also applies the PEG-NaCl system to fragment small molecules like nucleic acids and peptides. Information on DNA purifi cation is important in generating biotechnological purified genetically material. Conclusion The MEK lubricant and de-waxing method have proven to be useful industrial components (Favennec, 2001). More research should be done to improve their performance in industrial processes. The government should allocate more funds to safeguard industrialists from fraudulent people who sell counterfeit products hence reducing the marketability of the MEK lubricant. The de-waxing method has also proved to be a resourceful one and scholars should devise easier ways of understanding the solvent extraction system, heat exchanger and the functioning of the filters because it is important considering that health and ethical standards have to be adhered to. References Fahim, A.M., Al-Shhaf, A.TElkilani, A. (2009).Fundamentals of petroleum refining. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Elsevier Science. Favennec, J.P. (2001).Petroleum Refining, Refinery operation and management.Paris, France: Editions Technip. Flei g, F. (2005).Oil Empire: Visions of prosperity in Austrian Galicia (Harvard Historical Studies. Harvard, United Kingdom: Harvard University Press. Gary, J. et al. (2007).Petroleum refining: technology and economic. New York, USA: CRC Press. Gary, H.J., Handwerk, E.G. (2001).Petroleum Refining. New York City, USA: Routledge Taylor Francis. Lum, G. (2011).The negotiation field book. Simple strategies to help one negotiate everything. New York City, USA: McGraw-Hill companies. Parkas, S. (2003).Refining process hand book. Burlington, USA: Elsevier Science. Prestoris, A. (2004).Compositional Analysis of Naphtha and Reformats. New York, USA: CRC Press, Pujado, R.P., Jones, J.S. (2006).Handbook of petroleum. Rotterdam, Netherlands: Springer. Speight, G.J. (2010).The refinery of future. Oxford, United Kingdom: Elsevier Science.