Holborne †Pavane and Galliard Essay

Holborne’s Pavane ‘The image of melancholy’ and Galliard ‘Ecce quam bonum’ (Behold, how good a thing is) are two pieces that belong to the genre of ‘consort music’, a form of domestic music that made its appearance in Elizabethan England. A consort may have derived from the French ‘concert’ which implied an ensemble of instruments or voices that perform. In later years, from about 1575, ‘Broken consorts’ were introduced and these included mixed ensembles. The usual instrumentation for a broken consort was lutes, viols (treble and bass) and flute. Consorts of viols began to appear during the time of Henry VIII with the earliest source of the music being a songbook of Henry VIII, found after his death that included copies of Viol consorts. There are three main types of consorts, one being the Pavane and Galliard, which is a dance form. In many of the pieces, the writing was very similar to that of contemporary writing for voices; therefore it was usually polyphonic in texture. When paired together, the Pavane usually takes the more melancholy character, while the Galliard a more cheerful one which is shown in these two movements by Holborne. Although dance forms were used for both movements, the dense counterpoint provides melodic interest for all five players and also listeners, which suggests the music to be more for listening than dancing. Not much is known about Holborne, but he did publish two collections of music with about 120 works altogether.

Explaining benefits of HRM practices within Unilever Essay

1. Benefits for Employer: For an employer, it is beneficial for its company growth that its workers perform well. An employer will always try to find the suitable candidates for suitable positions. It is always important for a company to get its job done efficiently and with less time which HRM practices help (Brewster and Hegewisch, 2017). HRM helps in the management of performance through proper business planning which is the first stage. It is designed for performance standardization along with budget outputs. HRM practices monitor the Performance of employees to ensure accuracy, communication, and discipline among workers. Overall it adds to the global company image and perception towards other competitive companies. 2. Benefits for Employee: HRM is involved not only in securing and enhancing the efficiency of each worker but also in providing definite plans for efficient communication between different workers in order to make organizational development (Obeidat and Abdallah, 2014). The importance of introducing individuals to the ethics of the company is emphasized by value-based interviewing. The employees are given progressive activities from coaching, training, projects, mentoring, and assignments. All these activities help an individual to enhance its efficiency. For the employee, it is beneficial because it nurtures the qualities within. M3 Different methods used in HRM Practices within Unilever 1. Strategic Planning: The first stage is Strategic planning is detailed planning of the business. The business planning steps are designed in such a way so as to extract standardized performance is generally conducted through a 6month mid-year period, the planning process of strategic business is crucial to the assessment of present capability and performance of a business. 2. Training and development: HRM practices regarding training and development specializes coordination in forming a strong relationship between the employer and employee. The area for training and development of HR also focusing on training that emphasizes the company’s fair trade practices and employee growth to prepare promising leaders for management and supervisory roles. 3. Employee satisfaction: A positive relation between the employee and HR help the company to achieve its objectives, morale and improves performance. This mainly comprises of achieving satisfaction, levels along the workforce (Zibarras and Coan, 2015). It helps to create ways to give strength to the employer-employee relations. Opinion surveys of employees are administered, a focus group is conducted related to job satisfaction and the steps the employer can maintain proper working relationships. 4. Recruitment: Employment process is being managed by the HRM department from examining resumes to scheduling interviews to new employees processing. They determine the most efficient for recruiting candidates. 5. Selection: professional HRs work with managers so as to effect good recruitment decisions, according to what the organizations need. They work together regarding standard hiring methods to ensure that the companies extend offers to suitable persons. 6. Compliance: HR workers need to make sure that the organization complies with legal regulations. They complete the necessary paperwork for documenting that the employees eligible to work in the country. They also comply with the organizational laws receive state or federal government contracts by ensuring flow logs of the applicant. References Brewster, C. and Hegewisch, A. eds., (2017).  Policy and Practice in European Human Resource Management: The Price Waterhouse Cranfield Survey. Abingdon: Taylor & Francis. Obeidat, B.Y. and Abdallah, A.B., (2014). The relationships among human resource management practices, organizational commitment, and knowledge management processes: A structural equation modeling approach.  International Journal of Business and Management,  9(3), p.9. Zibarras, L.D., and Coan, P., (2015). HRM practices used to promote pro-environmental behavior: a UK survey.  The International Journal of Human Resource Management,  26(16), pp.2121-2142.

Anti-Obesity

Department of Science and Technology showed (Ambulates, 2010). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1. Billion adults, 20 and older, were overweight in 2008. Of these, over 200 million men and nearly 300 million women were obese. Studies showed that 65% of the worlds population live in countries where overweight and obesity kills more people than underweight (World Health Organization, 2012). Obesity is one of the greatest banes of our technology centered lives. This problem is evident not only in adults, but also in kids who are spending more time in front of the computer, television or video-game console instead of playing games outside. Since todays busy families have fewer free moments to prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals, the rapid increase of fast food Haines in the country should not come off as surprising. The modern person, though, has started to become aware of this problem. On top of image issues, obesity also poses a number of health-related problems which cannot be taken lightly. The increasing number of weight loss pills, herbal dietary supplements or teas and the fact that Samba has become extremely popular in Zebu, is proof of that (Sun. Star Zebu Newspaper, 2012). These have not yet been completely effective in eliminating the problem, though. Obesity has definitely become a growing problem, but a lot of anti-obesity educations, with fen-peen as the best example, have proven to have very damaging side-effects like lung hypertension and heart valve condition (Fen Peen, 2010). Royalist is also associated with a number of unpleasant intestinal side effects such as loose stools or an urgent need to go to the bathroom and the inability to control bowel movements. It is generally only prescribed as a last resort for weight loss (WebMD, 2013). The researchers have decided to Join in developing ways to eliminate obesity by studying the weight loss potential of Snow Pea pods extract. This, if proven effective, could be a natural way of treating obesity. Snow peas are popularly known as chicory or sisters in the Philippines. They are the most common type of peas found in the country. Peas are low in calories and are good source of fiber, vitamin C, iron, potassium and magnesium (Department of Primary Industries, November 2009). According to a chart provided by the George Maternal Foundation, a cup of green peas contains 30. 3% fiber and 14. 8% protein. Few foods provide us with such substantial amounts of protein and fiber as peas. Dietary fiber, which is found in snow peas, is undoubtedly one of the most talked about nutrients for health promotion and disease prevention (The George Maternal Foundation, Dietary fibers promote beneficial physiological detects including location, bal cholesterol attenuation and blood glucose attenuation or a combination of the three effects. (American Association of Cereal Chemists, 2001). Diets higher in protein and moderate in scars are often thought by experts to reduce blood fats. It also helps maintain lean tissue while burning fat for fuel. And this happens without dieters being sidetracked with constant hunger. Researchers have yet to figure out how protein works to reduce appetite, but it is speculated that it may be because protein causes the brain to receive lower levels of appetite-stimulating hormones (WebMD, 2012). With these information, the researchers hope that snow peas would prove to have significant anti-obesity effects. Objectives of the Study The purpose of the study is to find out the effectiveness of Snow peas Pious stadium vary. Saccharins pod extract as an anti-obesity agent on male albino mice. The study specifically aims to: 1 . Determine the weight loss or weight gained of each mouse and the difference in he weight of each mouse from day 31 to day 45. 2. Determine the percent anti- obesity activity of the test plant extract based on weight loss. 3. Determine the number of times each mouse stands or paws during the five minute locomotors test. 4. Monitor the quality of fecal activity of each mouse t o test the laxative property of Snow peas and check for the presence of fats and oils in the feces through spot test. 5. Determine the constituents present in snow peas pod extract using test tube reaction method. Significance of the Study If proven effective, the research study can serve as one of the basis for future searches, since not much anti-obesity agents were studied by the students of the Department of Pharmacy of the University of San Carols, Zebu City. The study would be a good step in the isolation and formulation of pharmaceutical products using Philippines rich nature, since it considers the potential therapeutic importance of a plant available in the Philippines. The study would promote the planting of Snow peas in the Philippines. Peas are one of the easiest of all vegetables to propagate and grow, giving rather rapid gratification. They will grow satisfactorily in most garden soils. Snow peas are one of the most satisfying vegetables to grow even in small spaces and are ideal as a plant for balconies and courtyards as they could and should be harvested every couple of days. As well as the pods you can also harvest the tender young shoots for salads and stir fried meals. They can be grown just as well in a pot as they can in the ground Just as long as they have a support to climb on to. The study would help minimize, if not eliminate, the problems concerning obesity and excessive fat intake from our diets. This will be made possible by encouraging people to include snow peas in their daily diet. Being overweight or obese puts a person at risk for many health problems. The more body fat a person has and the more a person weighs, the more likely for the person to develop diseases such as coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, gallstones, breathing problems, and CE retain cancers. Witt the help to modern technology, the study can help improve the quality of life of many people. The study will be beneficial not only to the Filipinos, but also to people outside the country. It will encourage people to eat vegetables, which contain a lot of nutrients. Snow peas have important role inside human nutrients. This plant contains protein, energy, fiber, vitamins and minerals which enhance metabolism. They provide a high dose of pectin, a soluble fiber that makes you feel full which may reduce your appetite. Also, it lowers OLD cholesterol reducing the risk of heart disease, regulates blood sugar which may reduce the onset risk or symptoms of metabolic syndrome and diabetes, and may reduce the risk of collateral cancer, and help manage diarrhea. They provide a good dose of thiamine, also known as vitamin 81, vitamin hat plays a role in energy metabolism, helps maintain normal digestion, appetite, and proper nerve function. Protein of snow peas has good source of amino acid. The study also helps discover the incredible weight loss benefits of Snow peas and how much a person should eat to get maximum benefit from these peas. This research can promote awareness for everyone to pay attention to their lifestyle and food choice. Scope and Delimitation The research study will only focus on the potential anti-obesity property of Snow pea pod extract on male albino mice. The Snow peas pod will undergo ethanol extraction then dried in an oven to obtain its extract. The mice will be grouped into eight, with one mouse per group. Groups one to four will be receiving normal diet, while groups five to eight will be receiving high fat diet for a length of one month before testing. Two doses of extracts (500 MGM/ 20 g mouse and 1000 MGM/ 20 g mouse) will be used for the experiment and Royalist will be used for the positive control. Three trials will be conducted for this study. Anti-obesity activity will be determined with the use of body weight, locomotors activity test, and examination of fecal quality. The extraction process, confirmatory test, and photochemical testing will take place during the first semester of S. Y. 2013-2014 at the Department of Pharmacy, Father Robert Hopper Building, University of San Carols, Taliban Campus, Zebu City, Philippines. Definition of Terms Anti-obesity Agent. Substance with possible weight reducing effect administered to the albino mice. Extract. Substance obtained after ethanol extraction, filtration and evaporation of Snow peas pod. Locomotors Activity Test. The mobility test used to determine the capacity of mouse to stand on its rear paws within five minutes. Obesity. A condition characterized by the abnormal or excessive accumulation and storage of fat in the body that presents a risk to health. The test animal is said to be obese if its weight increases by twenty percent of its original weight. Spot Test. A test used to detect the presence of lipids. Lipids leave translucent spots (grease spots) on filter paper. Weight Gain. Increase in body weight of test animals which results from the intake of more calories than needed by the body. Weight Loss. Decrease in body weight resulting trot intake to weight-reducing agent, as weighing. CHAPTER 2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES Peas, Pious stadium determine deed by consistent Peas are a member of the Effaceable or legume family, which includes plants that bear pods enclosing fleshy seeds. There are two main kinds of peas: green and edible-pod. Snow peas (See Plate 1) belong to edible pods. Most edible-pod peas have seeds that are not yet fully developed (Calories, 2011). The legume family (Leguminous) takes its name from the Latin legume, or pod. Thesis a two-valve fruit with seeds attached to the edge of the upper margin. The payday be straight, coiled, mounded, flattened, winged, woody, flesh, smooth or hairy. When ripe, they may split open along with the margin or sometimes break into seeded segments. Many seeds are pea- or bean-shaped; all have two cotyledons and an embryo, and can often retain the capacity to germinate for many years. Pods of different species can display a number of interesting features (Millet, 2004). Snow Peas Pious stadium vary. Saccharins or snow pea is a variety of pea eaten whole in its pod while still unripe. In French, snow peas are called mange tout, which meaner eat all, since both the peas and the pods are edible. It is one of the earliest-known cultivated plants, with evidence of having been cultivated in a region that is now along the Thailand-Burma border, 12,000 years ago. Like all legumes, snow peas host beneficial bacteria, rhizome, that fix nitrogen in the soil, which is considered a naturalistic relationship, and are therefore a useful companion plant, especially useful to grow intercepted with green, leafy vegetables that benefit from high nitrogen content in their soil. The snow peas grow up to three inches long (7. 5 CM) with flat, bright green pods that are pointed at both ends. The peas sprout from a blossom that becomes a green leaflet at the stem-end of pods as the peas mature. The pods also have strings along their edges that are usually removed before cooking. The tendrils the vines produce for climbing are also edible and are often used in fine cuisine (Research, 2010). Plate 1. Habit of Growth of Snow Pea Plant Pious stadium vary. Saccharins (Rasa, 2009) ones A: Lead and I F rower (HAD Directory, B Pods (Burped, Snow peas are rich in nutritional value. They are high in dietary fiber, protein and vitamin C. They are very low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium. They are also a good source of Riboflavin, Vitamin 86, Pentatonic Acid, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Potassium, and a very good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Thiamin, Foliate, Iron and Manganese. (The Tucker Patch, 2012) The texture and sweetness of snow peas are at their best when eaten immediately after harvesting. They will also keep for several days in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or container. Snow peas may also be frozen and do not need to be thawed before being added to a dish. Fresh snow peas may be eaten raw as a snack or used as a salad ingredient. They also lend themselves nicely o quick blanching, which enhances their crisp texture and vibrant green color. Snow peas may be added to Asian stir-fry dishes, soups, and pasta. They require very little cooking time and should be added toward the end of the cooking process for optimal texture and color (Helter, 2 The extracts trot the seeds to snow peas nave been shown to have antibacterial properties that may help protect infants and children against certain infections from bacteria such as H. Pylori. Studies also shows that a substance contained in snow peas called glycogen-A has been effective to help overcome one cause of male infertility. Snow peas were proven to increase fertility in some men that are currently considered infertile (Liberating, 2011). Obesity A recent article by Galatea defined obesity as a result of the accumulation of excess fat on the body. It is considered a chronic disease, with many serious long- term consequences on an individuals health. Along with tobacco use and high blood pressure, it is leading cause of preventable deaths (Galatea, 2012). Department of Science and Technology Food and Nutrition Research Institute conducted a study last 2008 which showed that there were about 20 out of 100 Filipino adults of both exes who were overweight in 1998. The figures have then increased to 24 and 27 out of 100 in 2003 and 2008, respectively (Ambulates, 2010). Obesity is normally perceived as something adults would suffer. But according to Philip Chug, obesity in children has doubled the past couple of decades and tripled the past 30 years. Today, among the affluent people around the world, including those in developing nations, obesity afflicts about 20 percent of children aged 6 to 1 1, and more alarmingly, about 10 percent of those aged 2 to 5 are obese. Among those between ages 12 and 19, 18 percent are also obese. The more obese the child, the greater the risk of developing a cluster of health problems and their complications early in life, which includes type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases. Obesity, in children or in adult, is a significant health danger (Chug, 2012). Obesity and overweight have many causes, including genetic, metabolic, behavioral and environmental. The rapid increase in prevalence suggests that behavioral and environmental influences predominate, rather than biological changes. Direct associations between obesity and several diseases, including aviates mellitus, hypertension, displacement and shamanic heart disease, are well recognized. Despite this, the relationship between body weight and all-cause mortality is more controversial. A very high degree of obesity (IBM > 35 keg/mm) seems to be linked to higher mortality rates (Mailing and Knobble, 2006). Despite the rapidly increasing cases of obesity worldwide, weight-loss medications should only be considered as an adjunct for patients who are at substantial medical risk because of their obesity and in whom non-pharmacological treatments have not resulted in sufficient weight loss to improve health or to prevent regain. The safety and efficacy of weight-loss medications beyond two years of use have not been established (Winooski and Winooski, 2002). Health Risks of Obesity (Abram, et al. , 2009) Cancer. Obesity is associated with a higher prevalence of breast, colon, and endometrial cancers. With breast cancer, risks increase in postmenopausal women with increasing body weight. Women who gain more than Bibb from age 18 to midlife nave double the risk to breast cancer compared Witt women who maintain a stable weight during this period of their life. In addition, obesity apparently increases the risk f breast cancer independent of overall obesity. In women with central obesity, this additional risk factor may be related to an excess of estrogen and a deficiency of sex- hormone-binding globulin to combine with the estrogen. Colon cancer seems to be more common in obese man and women. In addition, a high IBM may be a risk factor for a higher mortality rate with colon cancer. Endometrial cancer is clearly more common in obese women, with adult weight gain again increasing risk. Cardiovascular Diseases. Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disorders and increased mortality from cardiovascular disease. Studies have confirmed the relationship between obesity and increased risk of coronary heart disease and stroke in both men and women. In addition, obesity during adolescence is associated with higher rates and greater severity of cardiovascular disease as adults. Obesity increases risks by aggravating other risks factors such as hypertension, insulin resistance, low HAD cholesterol, and hyperthyroidisms. In addition, obesity seems to be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disorders, and obesity may be more important than IBM as a risk factor for death from cardiovascular disease. The increased mortality rate is seen even with modest excess body weight. Hypertension, dyspepsia, insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance are known cardiac risk factors that tend to cluster in obese individuals. Hypertension often occurs in obese persons and is thought to play a major role in the increased incidence of cardiovascular disease and stroke observed in patients with obesity. Metabolic abnormalities that occur with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (e. G. , insulin resistance and the resultant hypersensitiveness) aggravate hypertension and increase cardiovascular risks. The combination of obesity and hypertension is associated with cardiac changes (e. G. , thickening of the ventricular wall, schemas, and increased heart volume) that lead to heart failure more rapidly. Weight loss of as little as 4. 5 keg (10 lb) can decrease blood pressure and cardiovascular risk in many people with obesity and hypertension. Diabetes Mellitus. Obesity is strongly associated with impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and diabetes mellitus. In addition, obesity during adolescence is associated with high rates of diabetes as adults as well as more severe complications f diabetes at younger ages. Dyspepsias. Obesity strongly contributes to abnormal and undesirable changes in lipid metabolism (e. G. Increased triglycerides and OLD cholesterol; decreased HAD cholesterol) that increase risks of cardiovascular disease and other health problems. Gallstones. Obesity apparently increases the risk for developing gallstones by altering production and metabolism of cholesterol and bile. The risk is higher in women, especially those who have had multiple pregnancies or who are taking oral contraceptives. However, rapid weight loss with very low-calorie diets is also as sociated with gallstones. The reason for this may be that rapid weight loss appears to decrease the gallbladders ability to contract bile. But, it is unclear whether very low-calorie diets directly cause gallstones or whether the amount of weight loss is responsible for the formation of gallstones. Metabolic Syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors and chronic conditions that coco together and greatly increase the risks to diabetes mellitus, serious cardiovascular disease, and death. The syndrome is thought to be highly prevalent in the United States. Major characteristics include many of the health robbers associated with obesity (e. G. Dyspepsias, hypertension, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, central obesity). Osteoarthritis. Society is associated with osteoarthritis of both weight-bearing joints, such as the hip and knee, and non-weight bearing Joints. Extra weight can stress affected bones and Joints, contract muscles that abnormally stabilize Joints, and may alter the metabolism of cartilage, collagen, and bone. In general, obese people develop osteoarthritis of the knees at earlier a ge and are more likely than non-obese people to require knee replacement surgery. Sleep pane. Sleep pane commonly occurs in obese persons. A possible explanation is enlargement of soft tissue in the upper airways that leads to collapse of the upper airways with inspiration during sleep. The obstructed breathing leads to pane with hyperemia, HyperCard, and a stress response. Sleep pane is associated with increased risks of hypertension, possible right heart failure, and sudden death. Weight loss leads to improvement in sleep pane. Miscellaneous Effects. Obesity is associated with numerous difficulties in addition to those described above. These may include Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is being increasingly recognized and which may lead to liver failure Poor wound healing Poor antibody response to hepatitis B vaccine A negative perception of people who are obese that affects their education, socioeconomic, and employment status High costs associated with treatment of the medical conditions caused or aggravated by obesity as well as the costs associated with weight-loss efforts In women, obesity is associated with menstrual irregularities, difficulty in becoming pregnant, and increased complications of pregnancy In men, obesity is associated with infertility In children and adolescents, obesity increases risk of bone fractures and muscle and Joint pain. Knee pain is commonly reported, and changes in the knee Joint make movement and exercise more difficult. Ann-obesity Drugs Anti-obesity drugs or weight loss drugs include all pharmacological treatments intended to reduce or control weight. The two main categories of anti-obesity drugs are: (1) Anti-obesity drugs that act on the gastrointestinal system (pancreatic lipase inhibitors) and (2) Anti-obesity drugs that act on the central nervous system mainly to suppress appetite. Royalist is an example of the first kind of anti-obesity drug that inhibits pancreatic and gastric lipase, which reduces dietary fat absorption and in turn leads to weight loss. Submarine is the example of second kind of anti-obesity drug that promotes a sense of satiety. It is an anorectic or appetite suppressant that reduces the desire to eat. Remonstrant is a recently developed anti-obesity drug. It also acts centrally on the brain and decreases appetite. There are many anti- obesity drugs but some of them have severe or life-threatening side effects. Therefore, they are recommended to be taken only under medical supervision. Prescription weight loss drugs are approved only tort those Witt a B above, or 27 and above if they have other risk factors, such as high blood pressure or diabetes (Pharmaceutical Drug Manufacturers, 2012). Royalist Royalist (See Figure 2) is (S)-2-formulation-4-methyl-pentatonic acid (S)-l AS)-3-hexed-4-ox-2-external] methyl]-decoded ester. Its empirical formula is C29H53N05, and its molecular weight is 495. 7. It is a single discriminate molecule that contains four choral centers, with a negative optical rotation in ethanol at 529 NM (Genetic, 2010). Figure 1 . Chemical Structure of Royalist Royalist is a white to off-white crystalline powder. Royalist is practically insoluble in water, freely soluble in chloroform and very soluble in methanol and ethanol. Royalist is not capable of ionizing within the physiological pH range (Ruche, 2012). Royalist is used together with a reduced-calorie diet to help a person lose weight and to help keep the lost weight from returning. It is also used in overweight people who may also have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease. This medicine is available both over-the-counter (ETC) and with doctors prescription. This product is available in capsule (Kenny, 2012). Royalist works by blocking chemicals (enzymes) such as pancreatic and gastric lipase in the gut which digest fat. Nearly a third of the fat that one ingested is blocked by royalist. The undigested fat is not absorbed into the body, and is passed out with the stools. The normal dose is one capsule 120 MGM, three times a day with each meal. However, it is not needed to take one if there is no fat in the meal or if one misses a meal (AIMS, 2012). Royalist can also interfere with the absorption of various medicines and vitamins bind to fat vitamins A, D, E and beta- carotene) and affect the way that they work. Its most notable drug-to-drug interactions happen when it is taken together with a cyclotrons, carbons, emendation, and warring. It is also possible with a contraceptive pill. Therefore, if a person takes royalist he must take a multivitamin supplement at bedtime a time when he will not be taking royalist to help ensure adequate vitamin intake. If a person takes the contraceptive pill and have severe diarrhea en should use other met nods to contraception in addition to the pill to example, condoms. One must tell his doctor or pharmacist about other medicines that they take, before starting on royalist (Kenny, 2012). The common side effects of royalist includes: bladder pain, diarrhea, fever, general feeling of discomfort or illness, loss of appetite, muscle aches and pains, nasal congestion, nausea, sweating, unusual tiredness or weakness, abdominal or stomach pain or discomfort, back pain, difficulty with moving, gas with leaky bowel movements, inability to hold bowel movement, increases in bowel movements, loss of bowel control, oily bowel movements, and oily spotting of underclothes (Micrometer, 2012). Male Albino Mice Most of the mice used in laboratories are white albino house mice (See Figure 3). The mouse has been used in biomedical research since the early 20th century. Several characteristics have made the mouse an appealing research subject. These include the mouses genetic similarity to humans (at least 80% of DNA in mice is identical to that of humans), small size, short lifespan and reproductive cycle, low maintenance in captivity, and mild manner. For these reasons, house mice constitute the majority of mammals used in research, testing, and education. Over ten million mice are used each year in U. S. Laboratories alone, in tests of new procedures and drugs as well as in research involved in the production of biological products such as vaccines (Animal Liberation Front). The average lifespan of a wild mouse is typically one to two years, while mice kept as pets usually live about three years and have survived up to six years. Mice reach sexual maturity at between five and six weeks of age and have tremendous reproductive potential. They breed throughout the year and may produce as many as eight litters in a single year, with the average litter consisting of four to seven pups. Animal Liberation Front). [pick] Figure 2. Male Albino Mouse (Cheerleaders, 2013) Mice should be kept in rooms with the temperature set at about 21. 1 co and humidity at 50%. Lights should not be too bright since most white mice are albinos and too much light hurts their eyes. They are diurnal. Their bedding should not be wood shaving since some wood emits toxic fumes to mice. They should have fresh mouse or rat food and water available at all times. Their bedding should be changed 2 or 3 times a week to prevent the buildup of urea (Florida Atlantic University, 2012). Mice in research facilities are generally fed a polluted rodent diet ad labium. Maintenance diets generally contain 4-5% fat and 14% protein. An adult mouse will consume about 1 5 grams of feed per 100 grams of body weight per day (Subscriber, 2007). The majority of laboratory rodents are albinos, due to a common mutation in Tyrosine gene in all albino laboratory rat strains and in at least some of the albino mouse strains. Tyrosine is the rate-limiting enzyme in the production of melanin pigment. The prevalence of albinism among laboratory rodents is because many of

Politic Matters and Its Effects on Childhood in Congo Research Paper

Politic Matters and Its Effects on Childhood in Congo - Research Paper Example Childhood is a phase everyone goes through to learn, socialize and integrate into the wider society. However, due to the fact that a child is in a preparatory phase of their lives to be ushered into an era where they will work and become productive to their nations, they need to be given proper care and medical attention to ensure that they remain healthy and have a good early life to give optimal results in their adult life. Maintaining and enhancing childhood and child health has not been easy for nations in the developing world, particularly conflict-plagued nations in Africa. These nations are often plagued with war and conflicts. These conflicts make it difficult for Western-influenced medical and social intervention difficult. This paper examines the childhood, war, and conflict as well as how it affects children in Africa with special emphasis on Congo. Child Health & Childhood Childhood is seen as the early years of a person’s life where the person socializes with memb ers of the society and gains an understanding of the world around him or her in preparation for a productive life after age 18 (NICHD Early Childhood Research Network, 2005). In most studies covered by this research though, childhood seems to stretch from the time of birth to about age 12, where a child needs care and attention. As a child grows, s/he needs to get a proper blend of emotional, mental and physical health (Kehily, 2004) in order to become a stable and healthy adult. Emotional health encompasses the right bonds with adults, care and protection from trauma and other harsh conditions that may make a child disturbed. Mental health has to do with the right structures that will give the child a stable mind. Physical health means protection from diseases and other physical injuries that would prevent the child from normal life. In the modern setting, these things should be available to the child as he goes through contact with his or her parents, school and the local communit y. Clarke et al (2003) stress that a good childhood is one in which a child gets the opportunity to grow up an ideal setting. This includes access to good and healthy food, the opportunity to learn and play, protection from diseases and harsh environmental conditions as well as access to proper health care. Child health is the â€Å"professional and academic field that focuses on the determinants, mechanisms and systems that operate and maintain the health, safety, wellbeing and appropriate development of children and their families in countries and societies in order to enhance the future health of society and subsequent generations† (Alexander et al, 2004) This is an aggregate and collective view of the process and system of child health. It shows that child health is about the entire health profession, research, and academic community and its relation with the creation and maintenance of structures and systems that ensure the wellbeing and proper growth of children and the people closest to them that they will normally fall upon for assistance and support.  

Behaviorally based expectations for responsible student behavior Essay

Behaviorally based expectations for responsible student behavior outside the classroom, directly supervised by a teacher - Essay Example 1.) Use of learning centers/or computer stations a.) Students will follow instructions. – Students will be able to use the learning center/computer station effectively, in orderly manner. b.) Students will leave my place clean. – This will help students maintain the computer stations/learning center. c.) Students will ask assistance when needed. – This will allow students use the learning center/computer station with ease. Implementation of A: A note of instruction and proper use of the leaning center/computer stations is visibly posted in the room. 2.) Student attention/participation during teacher led activities a.) Students will be resilient. – Student will develop the sense of flexibility in every situation in the activities. b.) Students will be respectful. – Being courteous, students will gain respect in return from their peers. c.) Students will know how and when to assert oneself. – This will allow an organized activity, without disorder. Implementation of C: Students are required to raise their hands and wait for teacher’s selection. 3.) Playground time and /or recess a.) Students will be an active participant. – This gives an opportunity for students to show their abilities.

Harold Lasswell's theory of the socialization Essay

Harold Lasswell's theory of the socialization - Essay Example This is why even the best of governments are known as necessary evils. The difference between the society and the government is that the society has unlimited wants whereas the government is a source of the so called ‘wickedness’. For instance, Friedrich Engels attacked the state by stating that the important fact about the state on religion is that it puts the anxiety of mankind before itself. Often, it has been said that only those who are corrupted seek power. Political affairs are a much variegated web of many vices and virtues along with a small possibility of truth and false hood of every shape interwoven (Lasswell 8). Moreover, politicians and statesmen are compared to men who are skillful in juggling and making all kinds of incantations and tricks of all kinds. With this kind of men it is very difficult to escape their influence. In spite of all the evil associated with power, not everything about power is a symbol of evil. Power can be used for worthy purposes by the good and the strong. Not all those with power work for strange and cunning occults arts to gain power and keep it. As for those who believe that power is evil, the sometimes agree that not all who use power are evildoers. On the contrary, some men in power have been named as the heroes of mankind, great men in history, liberators, founders of nations and even statesmen (Lasswell 9). From this perspective, power, personality and government are judged favorably. Recent expansions and discoveries in the psychological, social and medical science have added to the knowledge of power and those who seek power. From a social political objective, there is instrumentation of democratic values. The connection between power and personality can be associated with service of human dignity. According to Lasswell, power is an interpersonal situation; those who hold power are empowered (10). As long as those in power give

Investment Strategy and Portfolio Management Essay - 2

Investment Strategy and Portfolio Management - Essay Example The types of investment are real investment, fixed assets, or financial investments, basically agreement made on contracts such as securities, bonds among others. The purchase of financial investments leads to the purchase of real investments. Financial investments also give the buyer a realm into a look in real investments. Having a great financial investment requires the buyer and portfolio manager to have great investment philosophies.An investment philosophy is thinking about how markets work, varieties that affect stocks in the market and the varieties of assumptions that investors do make. Investment strategies are basically designed to make use of this mistakes that are made by investors to make a gain out of them. There are several factors that affect the investments assumptions made by investors. They include: Human behavioral traits, human beings do behave and coordinate different as nature has put it. But while this is so, most human beings have a tendency to believe in majority or crowds being right especially on decisions. Thus for every momentum investor, who tends to invest in places where he sees crowds investing owing to the believe that they could be right in the terms of gain being brought about by the investment, there tends to be another person who doesn’t believe in the same, contradictory. The contradict ends up investing in other securities rather than the common one. while this in the short run tends to be a total failure for the contradict in the long term the prices end to push and pull each other due to market factors and do variant in the long term bringing benefits to both. Markets efficiency is another factor to consider for a great investment policy. Markets are an organized system that collects buyers and sellers in one place for the exchange of goods and services. Securities are traded in various types of markets. Some do have a physical location while others do

Student Learning from Preparing and Discussing Two Briefing Papers Essay

Student Learning from Preparing and Discussing Two Briefing Papers - Essay Example The products involved the power generation, transmission, distribution, industrial and building systems, and transportation, while the regions consisted of Asia Pacific, Europe and America (Haberberg and Rieple, 2008). For this reason, Bernavik was recognized for creating a fundamentally different model that could be used to organize and manage a large company. Before Bernavik handed over to Goran Lindahl, in 1997, ABB had continued to achieve spectacular results in which its profits had increased nearly four times, its turnover had doubled, and its return and capital employed had also increased from 12% to 20%, from 1988. However, five years later, after Goran took over the management, ABB started experiencing loses. According to Haberberg and Rieple (2008), the company had a debt of more than $4billion and had suffered a loss of about $691 million within five years: its survival was hanging in the balance. When Bernavik was the CEO, the company purchased about 200 companies, which were successful and formed the basis of global leadership positions. However, the main problem arose after the company decided to purchase an American Industrial boiler manufacture called the Combustion Engineering. As stated by Haberberg and Rieple (2008), after ABB had purchased the company, it was declared that Combustion Engineering insulated its product using asbestos. ... According to Haberberg and Rieple (2008), minimal administration led to lack of standardization of products. The company had four headquarters and about six hundred spreadsheets were being used around the ABB, which made it difficult to share files. In addition, independence of the companies was extremely high. For instance, one factory decided to export transformers to Africa, which was not in its Charter. Moreover, CEO Lindahl contributed highly to the problems ABB was facing. First, he simplified the innovation structure to eight product based divisions, which dissolved the regional dimensions from the matrix. According to Haberberg and Rieple (2008), this caused unnecessary political debate and compromised solutions because the managers concentrated on reconciling the demands of the products and regional bosses. Additionally, Lindahl made a decision to exit the transportation and power generation businesses and closed eleven factories in Europe, which led to loss of about 10,000 jobs. Although this helped the company to make a profit, it affected the expansion and productivity of the company. In addition, other CEO’s who came after Lindahl did not do much to promote the growth of the ABB. For instance, Jurgen Dormann did not know much about the company and the problems it was experiencing by the time he was appointed the CEO. He set up pension funds for the former CEO’s Bernavik and Lindahl of $51 and $81 respectively, which affected the financial status of the company. According to Douglas and Wind (2010:568), success can only be obtained by developing marketing strategies and products that match the specific characteristics of the international markets. Adopting a uniform

Preventing a brave New World WK5 assignment Essay

Preventing a brave New World WK5 assignment - Essay Example He argues that whatever scientists call ‘therapeutic cloning’, is the use of embryos as a font of tissues (Kass, 2001, p. 327). He also offers some reasons against cloning which covers both reproductive and therapeutic cloning. In his arguments against cloning, Kass advocates for ethical practice in biomedical projects. His views however, may face some challenges. In this essay, the discussion will cover Kass’ reasons for advocating for a ban on human cloning, and the strengths and weaknesses of his argument. Kass’ Reasons against Human Cloning Kass has four reasons against human cloning. That the process of cloning humans is unethical, because the child to-be is used in an experiment that subjects him or her to risks of developmental and bodily abnormalities. That cloning threatens individuality and confuses identity. The clone is made from a genotype that has already lived. This denies the cloned individual his or her individuality. The process of cloning results in an individual that could be a twin to the person he/she should refer to as a mother or a father. It means the clone’s relation to the parent is confused. That cloning is a way of turning procreation into manufacture, and that it is a major form of child abuse and parental tyranny (Kass, 2001, p. 324-328). Strengths of the Argument Evidence shows that cloning is very risky and expensive. According to Sharma (2007), cloning is inefficient and 90% of attempts fail. Cloned animals have been found to have high rate infection, carcinoma, low immunity levels and some disorders. Even Dolly sheep suffered some abnormalities when it was five years old (Gupta, 2004, p. 256). Evidence also shows that cloned animals’ genomes are compromised and some of them behave abnormally. They also suffer from congenital abnormalities due to programming errors. Some cloned animals die young (Sharma, 2007, p. 167). The concept of cloning supports the argument on identity and individu ality. The process involves removal or deactivation of a nucleus from an unfertilized egg and introduction of a somatic cell nucleus from a selected adult (Levine, 2009, p. 9). This means that the cloned individual will not have the natural genetic distinctiveness and independence. Procreation has indeed been turned into a manufacturing process. Levine indicates that cloning technology already has commercial uses with many private companies and academic scientists owning various patents. These patents cover various elements of derivation of human embryonic stem cells, and nuclear transfer technique (Levine, 2009, p. 144). Weaknesses of the Argument Different people have different views on what is wrong or right. Arguments against cloning, therefore, that procreation has been turned into a manufacturing process, that cloning leads to the production of abnormal babies, and that the cloned individual may lack identity and individuality; may all not be considered unethical by some peopl e. Some may argue that malformed, unhealthy and abnormal children are born every year due to various factors. Some may argue that Kass’ arguments do not consider the goodness of well-being. Some may argue that considering the advantages of well-being over disadvantages could be more appropriate (The President's Council on Bioethics, 2002). Conclusion Cloning should be banned based on the reasons given by Kass. Apart from

Female Discrimination in the Workplace Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Female Discrimination in the Workplace - Essay Example It is certainly unethical to discriminate workers based on their gender. These include holding back promotions, giving them a different job title and preventing them from taking part in other work opportunities (Finn n.d.). Keeping the female worker in the team would result in better outcomes for the client as she is better suited to deal with the client’s assignment. Since the consulting firm KPMG itself discourages gender discrimination, this would allow talented individuals to come forward rather than inexperienced and incompetent individuals. By discouraging gender discrimination, there will be equal opportunities for both male and female workers based on their expertise resulting in enhancement of the company’s image. Legally as well, a woman possesses the right to complain to the Human Resource department of the firm regarding the discrimination. If the claim is found to be true then legal actions are taken against the offenders and this might lead to defamation o f the firm ruining its image in the business world. Removing the female worker from consideration might lead to demotivation of the worker. This might also result in low morale, low productivity and can also negatively impact the firm’s revenues. I will keep a watch or a countdown timer that would calculate the amount of time spent playing games or studying. Also, I will keep an Objectives Chart on which I will record the chapters I have completed successfully. I will write down whatever goals I have achieved regarding the topic or subject. Every time I will spend the designated amount of time playing games, which is one hour, I will reward myself by adding $3 to the reward fund that is to be spent at the end of each week. If I spend lesser time than one hour, I will add an additional $1 to the $3.

Economics Unit †housing prices from different cities Essay Example for Free

Economics Unit – housing prices from different cities Essay The cost of housing is commonly the reflection of the value of the land plus the price of the house and the amenities that come with it. This is often affected by what’s around the place, the nearest recreation areas or sceneries. This affects how housing is priced, and is also usually affected by the supply and demand of the land. Because of this, there are various considerations when choosing where to have a house, including the total costs and what you’ll actually get from it. Usually, these prices also vary from city to city, as it is known that not all cities are the same regarding what you get from the housing deals, like the nearest public transportation, market, and schools. These all appeals to the needs of the people, and these are usually the ones that affect the pricing. The housing prices are directly affected by the changes in supply and demand of the land. This is because of the developments done in housing, wherein house prices are thoroughly based on the value of the amenities that are directly available in the neighborhood (Nelson). Because of this increase in demand, there will be an increase in the competition for the houses, since there are a lot of people wanting the same thing, and that is a good housing. As a number of residents are acquiring homes, the more the managers of the land would try and make sure to provide benefits for these residents. This includes additional security, recreation areas and shopping areas for the people. They are not only investing on the housing that they are being sold, but also with the things that come with it that would surely benefit the people. This is how the housing value is affected when there is an increase in demand: it is not only because you have to increase the price when a lot of people demand for housing in a specific city or area, it is also because of the increase in the services that one should provide for these increasing number of residents. The cost of those additional amenities would then be reflected in the housing price: the more amenities offered, the higher the price (Duca). Comparison of different cities In order to actually see how amenities affect the price of housing, the housing situations in various cities are compared. This is by comparing the price of a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house in several cities like San Francisco, California; Topeka, Kansas; Dallas, Texas; Concord, Massachusetts; and Seattle, Washington. The results for the housing prices in these different cities were varying, and it is because of the added amenities that you can find available upon purchase, plus the neighborhood and the type of house. The most obvious result was between the housing of a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house in San Francisco, California and Dallas, Texas. The cost of housing in San Francisco, California ranges from $600,000 to a million US dollars. Meanwhile, the cost of housing in Dallas, Texas for a 3-bedroom, 2-bath house ranges from $40,000 to a hundred thousand US dollars (Realtor. com). The difference is quite large, and this is roughly because of the amenities that are included upon purchasing these houses. Housing in Dallas, Texas doesn’t offer much, wherein it is far from public transportation, and are often in subdivision areas. On the other hand, housing in San Francisco, California has amenities like community exercise and recreation areas, hill/mountain view, Water view, and so much more. Because of those differences, the prices of these housing deals are comparatively far from each other. These differences in housing deals give the people choices, wherein they are free to choose what type of amenities they want in their house. Also this variety would give them a wide array of choices, either wanting a plain, not so costly house, or to a fully-packed house that would surely cost them money. Other amenities present (or lacking) in some of the houses in various cities which could have affected their prices includes access to shopping areas/markets, nearby elementary or high schools, parks and recreation areas, and the type and quality of the house itself. With all these, the price the housing offered in the various cities is greatly varying. References: Duca, J. V. (2005, September/October 2005). Making Sense of Elevated Housing Prices. Southwest Economy Retrieved May 5, 2007, from http://www. dallasfed. org/research/swe/2005/swe0505b. html Nelson, A. C. (2000 ). Effects of Urban Containment on Housing Prices and Landowner Behavior. Land Lines, Volume 12(Number 3). Realtor. com. (2007). Find A Home. Retrieved May 5, 2007, from http://www. realtor. com/Default. aspx

Augusta and Ncwo Essay Example for Free

Augusta and Ncwo Essay This report analyses the case study about â€Å"Augusta National Golf Club and NCWO battle for admitting female membership†. Mainly, this report will examine and identify the communication traits and flaws that can be found in this case study and will provide solutions and what should be done rather than taking a stand on who is right and wrong. Therefore, all the communications between Augusta’s Chairman, Mr. Johnson, NCWO’s Chairwoman, Ms. Burk, the CEOs of Sponsor companies, the Augusta members and the media were researched and studied. Furthermore, this report mainly uses secondary data such as newspaper articles and journals to support the arguments and ideas. Moreover, the core purposes of this report is to evaluate the interactions and point out some communication management factors and flaws from this dispute, set it as an example and provide solutions to be improved in the future business communication. Main body Augusta, the private golf club Augusta is the private golf club which its culture and membership are mainly reflected on its prestige and exclusiveness. Moreover, members of Augusta join the club to satisfy mutual interests and to fulfil the social needs and the need for self-esteem such as being a part of the highly regarded golf club in the country. Because it is a private club, it holds its legal rights to choose its own members. (Peraino, 2002). Furthermore, the club clearly specified the club (team) norms (obligation, preference and prohibition) such as â€Å"members are required to sign an agreement not to speak about the club† and have to withhold the membership information to the outsiders. Saporito). Therefore, Augusta organizational control can be identified as a bureaucratic control system where the Chairman, Mr. Johnson has the ultimate power to dominate the club’s affairs. NCWO On the other hand, the NCWO’s sole purpose is to promote women rights and members join the committee to achieve security and satisfy their mutual interests. As you can see from the case, Ms. Burk, the chair of NCWO usually do the decision making for the committee. Although the decision making criteria are not formally discussed in the case or in the media (newspaper articles), we can assume that NCWO lacks the rational decision making process in groups such as orientation, discussion, decision making and implementation. Also, in his article Munching (2002) states that â€Å"she (Burk) forgot to ask herself one question: What women want to do? † which clarify the lack of communication between members of the group and its chair. The dispute The offensive approach and the vulgar feedback It can be seen in the case that without deeply analysing the situation, Ms. Burk took an offensive approach demanding and insisting on female membership, base mainly on the speech about â€Å"inclusion of women in Augusta† by Mr. Lloyd Ward. Moreover, Augusta’s Chair, Mr. Johnson also gave a vulgar feedback to this demand which sparks into a dispute of gender issue. Moreover, negative impressions between them were formed on limited information and stereotyping where Burk is seems as the trouble maker and Johnson as the rigid discriminator. Therefore, this miscommunication and poor transaction of messages led to unnecessary conflicts and egotism of the two corresponding Chairs. The Sponsors, members and Burk When the direct demand fails, Burk took the indirect persuasion and argumentation approach through the Augusta’s sponsors for its prime event, the Masters. She appealed to CEOs of sponsor companies like Citigroup, IBM, Coca-cola, Cadillac and CBS using generalisation and cause-effect relationship methods of arguments to boycott the Masters. For example, she praised their stance in gender discrimination within their firm and point out the possible public opinion in the involvement with the Masters. However, only Citigroup and Coca-cola agreed to help her and these decisions can be seen as corporate social responsibility to raise their public images. On the other hand, others remain neutral to avoid uncertainties involving in the dispute. Moreover, she turns to persuade the members of Augusta, who are highly regarded CEOs of the corporate world. However, with them she used the illegitimate methods of arguments such as appeal to the masses and â€Å"ad hominem† whereby she threatens them and their organization by claiming to reveal the membership list and the â€Å"daily anecdotes of gender discriminations in their (members’) companies†. (2005). For instance, it is noted in Peraino’s (2002) article that â€Å"she told Newsweek that â€Å"Weve already done quite a bit on the public-embarrassment front†Ã¢â‚¬ . In addition, she even tried to convince Tiger Wood not to participate in the Masters but he too was â€Å"criticized for suggesting that Augusta has a right to its exclusionary policies† (Gutner, 2002). Therefore, one can clearly see from the case study that Burk used many deductive logics and generalisations in influencing and communicating with the sponsors, the members and the players. Burk and Johnson From the start, Mr. Johnson strongly showed his assertiveness as well as his aggressiveness for his club and its membership rules. However, one can recognize the cognitive dissonances from Mr. Johnson’s feedbacks and replies where he imposed denials and unwillingness to change the traditional rules and culture. Moreover, this effect can also be found in Saporito’s article, as â€Å"he booted the Masters sponsorsCitigroup, Coca-Cola and IBMso the companies wouldnt face criticism by association† and adopted the commercial free move. In addition, Johnson and Burk took hold of some perceptual biases against each other and some of these are selective perception where both of them ignored each other’s rational reasons. Furthermore, stereotyping can clearly be seen between them where they posed each other as threats and arch enemies. Conclusion and results In conclusion, one can identify more communication flaws than the benefits in his case. This is mainly because the poor usage of appropriate communication features and the channels used to communicate, for example, Burk main communication channel with her advocates and opponents is through letters. Moreover, narcissism and egotism also got involved later in the dispute where both of the Chairs started to address and confront each other comments and feedback harshly rather than solving the dispute. (Munching, 2002). As a result, Johnson acquired victory by reasoning through generalization and analogy among private clubs and sororities claiming its legal rights to choose its own members. The dispute between Mr. Johnson (Augusta Golf Club) and Ms. Burk (NCWO) is very phenomenal in indicating miscommunications between two unfriendly organizations. As for the recommendations for this case, since the start, both parties should use more subtle and civil approaches to address the problem to each other and discuss in person how to compromise the situation. For example, Shiflett (2003) implies in his article that Augusta never meant to discriminate and it is only following its highly constructed social role as an all male-club. Moreover, they should utilize more â€Å"lateral thinking†, avoid what is right and wrong and conclude to the best possible solution. In addition, Burk should change her persuasion techniques towards more â€Å"features-benefits mix† and should drop her deductive logic on women rights and organizations. Furthermore, both of them should leave out their egotisms and stereotypical perceptions when dealing with the gender issue. On the other hand, while confronting with the members she should shows cause-effect relationships of their inaction and argues upon their specific reasoning. Munching, 2002). As for Mr. Johnson reactions, he should be more aware on the public images of the club and its members. Moreover, Augusta’s individual orientation of culture should swap with a more collective one where all stakeholders can give out their opinions. Last but not least, the channels used for communication in this case should be changed into more personal and face to face l ike personal meetings or through telephone. This was even suggested by Tiger Wood that â€Å"they’d sit down together and all would be resolved†. (Munching, 2002).

Analysis of Mobile Telecommunications Industry

Analysis of Mobile Telecommunications Industry Contents Market Analysis and Research Plan (Word Count: 912) Marketing Research Plan Competitors Market trends STEP Analysis Strategic Analysis and Recommendations (Word Count: 1117) 2.1 SWOT 2.2 Portfolio analysis 2.3 Growth Strategy Recommendations Market Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning Bibliography Appendices Marketing Analysis and Research Plan Marketing research plan The brief is to conduct an analytical survey into the Mobile telecommunications industry as a service/network provider in order to judge feasibility. After recent developments of Tescos entering the Mobile phone industry as a service/network provider, Asda are also keen to explore and keep up with Tescos in this respect also. Using secondary research we will first look into the Mobile telecommunications industry. This information will then be analysed from a company perspective, followed by recommendations. 1.2 Competitors Information cited in this section has been adapted from MarketLine (2005). In appendix 1 (section 6), I have elaborated on the information given in this section. O2 O2 is a mobile communications service provider operating in the UK, Ireland and Europe. O2 have 19 million customers within some of the biggest consumer markets for mobile services. SWOT analysis Strengths Strong presence in the UK market. Weaknesses Small scale European operations competitors are better placed. Over reliance on UK market. Opportunities Well placed for 3G expansion. Threats Declining penetration and saturation of voice services. Overexposure to UK market adverse effect of unforeseen market challenges. Impact of regulation. O2 operates in highly regulated markets. Hutchinson (3G) UK 3G is a mobile multimedia company focused mainly on the providing 3G (third-generation) mobile communication services in the UK. Strengths First mover advantage. Alliance with key brands. Parent company support. Weaknesses Low presence in the wireless market. Low average revenues per user. Opportunities Focus on content. Booming mobile gaming market. Improving 3G market. Threats Rapid technological change. Increasing competition. Threat from other technological products. Orange Orange is a mobile telecoms service provider with over 44 million customers in 22 countries worldwide. Orange is one of the worlds, and is UKs, largest mobile communications companies. Strengths Global brand strength. Launch of OrangeWorld/Signature phones. Large subscriber base and strong subscription growth. Weaknesses Reliant on data for growth. France Telecom buyout. Cost cutting could damage reputation. Opportunities WAP capability Investment in new technology. 3G and Push to talk. Increase average annual revenue per user. Threats Strong competition. Health risks and government legislation. Market saturation in Europe. T-Mobile T-Mobile is a market leader in mobile communication technology operating largely in Europe and US. The company is now realizing large profits, and at the end of year end of 2004 achieved record revenue of E25 billion. Strengths Strong backing of parent company. Strong alliances. Strong financial growth. Weaknesses Decreasing average revenue per user. Lack of presence in high growth markets. Opportunities Most of T-Mobiles opportunities lye global markets, such as the growth in worldwide mobile subscriptions and the freemove alliance. Rise in demand for 3G/UMTS technology. Threats Slowdown in the UK economy Growing consolidation and competition. Vodafone Vodafone is a communications company with business interests in 42 countries worldwide. The company made a net loss of  £7,540 million during fiscal year 2005, compared to  £9,015 million net loss in 2004. Strengths Leadership position. Global brand strength. Growth of Vodafone Live! Weaknesses High debt. Opportunities Growth through 3G. Increase ARPU. Threats Increased competition. Market saturation in Europe. Health risks and government legislation. 1.3 Market Trends All the information cited below, unless mentioned otherwise, has been taken from Datamonitor, Wireless Telecommunications Services in the United Kingdom, July 2005. Market Value UKs wireless communications market reached a value of  £9.8 billion in 2004. Although the value of the market has increased, the growth of the market hasnt been so capitalizing on the previous years. I think this is due to the highly competitive nature of the market, and saturation. Also, this high market value is on the back of some very strong economic performance by the UK. Market Volume The market exudes high market penetration. Linking this to the Market Value, it can be seen that Market Value fell in 2003 and 2004 due to fewer subscribers. One striking thing about this statistic is that the UKs population is 59.2 million (Mintel; Telecommunications Retailing UK May 2004). This indicates that most of the UK population already subscribe to mobile services. Hence a near fully saturated market. Market Segmentation Market Share by Network In order to view the above table more clearly, I have extrapolated the information into a pie chart below: The industry is extremely competitive. The market share (by volume) is very equal. It seems that the market is at an equilibrium. Market share by Value Call revenues (consumer expenditure on calls etc) by mobile network, 2003 Source: Mintel; Telecommunications Retailing UK May 2004 Again, the whole industry is at more or less at an equilibrium albeit very competitive. 1.4 STEP analysis of Mobile telecommunications industry Social According to Mintel, Telecommunications Retailing UK May 2004 research, overall population of 15-24 year olds is set to reduce. This means that the scope of potential new customers is extremely low. Focus will have to be mainly on customer retention, and prizing customers away from competitors. However the younger consumer does now see a mobile phone as essential in every day life. Technological 3G technology is the main source of change in this market. The younger market does however seem to embrace new technologies. It is now hoped that new technologies will further stimulate demand. Economic Due to the recent boom economy, Mintel reports that the population as a whole is becoming more affluent and more affluent phone users spend more on mobile phone services. The below table illustrates this: UK socio-economic groupings of adults, 1998, 2003 and 2007 (proj) 1998 2003 2007 (proj) % change 000 % 000 % 000 % 1998-2007 AB 9,773 20.8 11,883 24.6 13,370 27.1 +36.8 C1 12,990 27.6 13,371 27.7 14,062 28.5 +8.2 C2 10,305 21.9 9,849 20.4 9,241 18.7 -10.3 D 8,437 17.9 8,365 17.3 8,280 16.8 -1.9 E 5,504 11.7 4,791 9.9 4,344 8.8 -21.1 Total 47,010 100.0 48,260 100.0 49,297 100.0 +4.9 SOURCE: National Statistics/Mintel UK has been on in an economic boom period since 1998 with low inflation and interest rates. This has meant that mortgage and loan costs will be cheap, hence consumers have higher disposable income. The economy now however seems to be slowing down, this means that new services and technologies being offered to consumers will be less accepted. Political/legal Mobile handsets give off radiation and various electronic/micro waves. The health implications of this is not quite clear. The mobile phone and service providers have strict international guidelines to adhere to because of this. There are also concerns in regards to mobile phone masts being erected close to residential areas, as the effects of these to locals and the environment is also not clear. These issues and the market being very competitive, saturated and an oligopoly, may lead to further regulation and government involvement in the future. Strategic Analysis and recommendations SWOT Analysis Strengths Despite picking up sales in the past 4 years, Asda have faced slower sales in 2005. Nevertheless, Asda enjoys a firm customer base that has seen Asda overtake Sainsburys in the ranking of leading supermarkets in the U.K. Asda in essence is a multinational company through Wal-marts ventures in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Canada. As one of the first businesses to recognise the importance of cutting edge systems and economies of scale, which have allowed them to keep prices low, from which consumers have gained greatly. However, Asda has managed to keep its distinct identity separate from its parent company. Asda have been gradually expanding their stores demonstrating their plans to provide consumers with the biggest choice of goods ranging from everyday groceries, to non-food products such as clothing, and small electricals. Unlike many other supermarket brands, Asda have focused their efforts in stand-alone non-food formats. At group level, Wal-Marts performance over the past five years has been consistently outstanding. With sales growing by 46.8% over the period. , The growth comes on the back of 19.9% increase in store numbers, suggesting healthy underlying performance. The companys price-competitiveness has undoubtedly been driving sales. Another important factor, highlighted by Asda in 2004 is the expansion to non-foods, including the well-received clothing label George. Weaknesses Asda has seen an unusually high number of changes at the top management level. This has caused uncertainty over how the company is run which in turn has had an effect on its sales. However, it should be noted that in the case of Asda, most of the top men had been with the company for a number of years before taking the lead, which should have helped the transition. The companys much publicised price promise has not helped the companys revenues. Increased competition has created downward pressure on the supermarket industry. The price war between Tesco and Asda has impacted heavily on both companies, however, it would appear Asda have felt the effects of this much more than Tesco. In more recent times, and perhaps more seriously, the company have failed to meet sales expectation in the three-month period ending in October, when its market share had also failed to improve. Opportunities The company has faced criticism for its destructive seafood policies of all the UK supermarkets. Report published by Greenpeace states thats Asda sells 13 species of threatened fish. This does not help the companys image in todays environment, where consumers are more environmentally conscious and healthy lifestyle society. In terms of the mobile industry and the possibility of entering the mobile telecommunications market, the spare capacity that has resulted from huge infrastructure investment has created opportunities for companies wishing to set up as virtual network operators (MVNOs). The market leading operators can sell their spare capacity to MVNOs, whom maybe in a better position to win over certain customer sectors. It is better for an operator to lose customers to MVNO that is using its network than to a market-leading rival. The wide range of content and service made possible by 3G technology and converging technologies has created excellent opportunities for operators to put together compelling propositions tailored for different customer sectors, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all approach. Threats Rise in demand for organically grown produce has resulted in loss of revenues for all of the supermarkets, losing their custom to smaller independent grocers and farm shops. Wireless fidelity (WiFi) and its successor WiMax pose dangers for 3G operators as they are able to capture a significant part of the wireless broadband market by enabling users to download data at faster speeds and provide a much cheaper service than existing products. Going into an industry, which has yet to settle, would be a risk that has to be taken under consideration. As the market has become more saturated it has become more difficult for the main operators to achieve revenue growth from voice calls. Increased competition and the additional capacity created by the 3G networks have raised the prospect of a damaging price war on voice minutes. Operators must attract new customers to 3G however, this will lead to alienating users of 2G mobile phones, and cutting revenue obtained from this. The MVNOs that are differentiating themselves on price and offering a no-frills service are vulnerable when the major operators cut the cost of voice calls in order to gain market share in the 3G environment. Portfolio Analysis Much of Asdas estate development is concentrated towards expanding in the non-foods offer. The company introduced optician centres, pharmacies photo centres and jewellery departments in its stores as recorded in march 2005. Asda clothing range George currently has 6 stand-alone stores, which have been introduced since 2003. A full-service Asda Superstore typically carries some 30,000 products. Of these some 60% are food items. In addition to the usual branded goods, Asda stocks a strong own-brand offer. However, sales of organic food are booming and shoppers are increasingly spurning supermarkets to buy produce directly from growers and independent retailers. The company has also introduced a finance service in order diversify into other industries. The services include home, motor and pet insurance, along with trust funds and credit card facility also available. BCG matrix for the food industry 10 * Non-foods * Organic foods Market growth * Asda living * Store Clothing range Financial Services * 0 2.0 0 Relative market share Growth Strategy and Recommendations Ansoffs Matrix Product Present New Present Organic foods Market New Non-foods Mobile communications operator From the BCG matrix, we can see that there are 2 groups of products, which have room to be developed in order to generate more revenues. With the increase in demand for organic foods, Asda is in a position to be able to introduce a larger selection of organic foods. Much greater promotion of organic needs to take place if the company is to bring back lost consumers from local and independent food producers. Asda can also promote its non-foods range to a greater extent, however, it maybe possible for the company to promote its non-food products to a different market, perhaps to rival Ikea in the home products market. In light of Tescos entry in to the mobile communications market, diversifying to a different market may also help improve Asda revenue. With Asdas main focus on its non-foods range, moving into the mobile communications market maybe more suited to Asda policy of expanding its non-food section. Asda already has experience in moving in to industry to which is not initially been related, as we have seen Asda clothing range George, has enjoyed relative success despite strong competition from more established high street retailers. The mobile communications market will however pose very different problem, as this is a fast moving industry, with technological innovations leading the way. In a saturated industry, it will be difficult for Asda to be competitive against the more established network operators, but network space available through virtual networks, now is likely to be the best time to enter the mobile communications industry. In addition, it maybe more viable for Asda, if more resources are concentrated on attracting consumers to a 3G service which will provide a more level playing field as the 3G services are still relatively new to the market. Market Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning Market segmentation, targeting and positioning Vodafone The Vodafone group has the largest share of the corporate mobile communications market with around 15 million customers. The company offers a wide range of voice and data communications. The Vodafone 2G/2.5G covers 99% of the population. Vodafone was the first mobile operator to introduce international roaming service. Key segments The mobile communications industry has two main types of customers. These are consumers and business users. The majority of the mobile phones costs are met by users themselves, mainly using the mobile phone service for personal calls. With the existence of a number of leading companies with in the market, the market place has become saturated. The trend now is to concentrate their efforts on retaining their most valued customers. Vodafone along with other leading operators, require consumers to spend more money on non-voice services and have become increasingly engrossed with levels of average revenue per user. There are several areas within the consumer group, which accounts for a large share of the revenue generated by Vodafone. Mintel have reported that the group of 15-24 year old mobile phone users are set to rise. Mobile phones are particularly popular among 15-24-year-olds, and Mintels consumer research section demonstrates that consumers in this age band are motivated by style. These younger consumers are familiar with mobile phone technology and are willing to adapt to new skills and habits as the new technology appears. Their social lives tend to be very active, making the mobile phone a necessity for them and they are also viewed as a necessary fashion accessory. The ownership of mobile phones demonstrates the areas in which Vodafone should be looking to concentrate their efforts in order to generate revenues from voice and data transmissions. Ownership of mobile phones, by gender and age, 7-19s, 2003  [1]   Base: youths aged 7-19 All Males Females 7 to 10 11 to 14 15 to 19 % % % % % % Own mobile 66 63 69 25 77 91 Shared mobile 4 4 4 7 4 1 None 30 34 27 68 20 8 Text messaging 66 63 70 26 77 91 Games 57 53 61 22 64 79 Taken from the TGI Youth survey of 5859 youths aged 7-19 Income generated from voice and data transmission services delivered to companies and other organisations is an increasingly vital revenue stream for Vodafone and most mobile operators in general. Vodafone has recognised that in present day climate of highly competitive business environment, efficient communication is a key factor, which must be developed in order for a mobile operator to gain a competitive edge over its rivals. The importance of business customers can be demonstrated by looking at the levels of expenditure on business advertising. In the year ending September 2004, around  £14.4m was spent  [2]  . Even though this is nothing when compared to the amount spent on consumer advertising, the big players such as Vodafone and O2 have gradually increased their spending to attract business customers while Orange and T-Mobile are slowly following suit. Targeting strategies Currently, the market leaders in the mobile communications are all competing for the same customers, employing similar tariffs and services so as not to fall behind its rivals. With the introduction of the 3G networks, many of the mobile operators have also introduced 3G tariffs on to their respective networks. Even though new technology is continuously being developed, the targets for each of the mobile operators remain as it is. In general, there are no specialist tariffs which concentrate on a particular area of the market with the exception of the business tariffs which are designed to provide efficient and reliable communication service to businesses. Some mobile operators provide tariffs, which can be considered, for a particular group, however, this is not an area, which can be considered as a specialist group. T-mobile for example have recently introduced the Best of Both Worlds tariff, and even though this may seem ideal for younger users of mobile phones, the tariff is appealing to many who desire more complete control over the cost of the service they use. Positioning With the majority of mobile phone operators providing a similar service with similar tariffs, it is reasonably difficult to evaluate the positioning of the respective brands in the market. Regardless of this, there are factors, which influence consumers when deciding which network to choose. A list of the factors influencing the choice of networks is shown below: Most important factors when choosing a mobile phone network (% of adults), 2004  [3]   Tariffs 31.9 Network Coverage 21.1 Reception 17.2 Personal experience 9.8 Special offers 8.3 Company reputation 7.5 Recommendation 6.6 Additional services offered 4.4 Advertising 0.8 Using the lowest price plan and the service available on that plan offered by each of the leading mobile operator companies, we are able to look at the brand positioning of the Vodafone in comparison to its major rivals. Perceptual map for mobile operator market High price * Orange * O2 High service Low service * T-mobile * Vodafone Low price Although the position of Vodafone at a glance does not appear to be desirable, Vodafone boasts an extremely high level of network coverage, reception, and a level of customer service, which is rivalled only by Orange. Vodafone has a reputation as a global company, and is the worlds largest telecommunications company, which provide a whole range of services. Vodafone was the first of the four largest networks to launch its 3G consumer services in November 2004 and continues to be one of the leading innovators in terms of providing the latest products, which are accessible to a large sector of the market. The Vodafone brand is recognised through out the developed world and has since enjoyed a reputation for representing quality of product and service. The Vodafone shops all trade under the same corporate brand and logo. Its chain of some 350 stores has remained roughly the same size for the last two years, although many of the smaller shop units have been abandoned in favour of larger premises. The stores have a strong corporate identity, featuring the red and white livery of the brand. Vodafone has strong and consistent retail branding and in Mintels research Vodafone was mentioned by 8% of consumers as a source of their last mobile phone, placing them just behind Orange. Vodafone is the only retailer to achieve significantly higher penetration among 15-19s than for other age bands, probably connected to its high profile role in sports sponsorship. The companys long-standing in the market means that it is well used by a wide range of consumers from a broad spread of age and social groups. The Vodafone shops sell handsets that can only operate on Vodafone tariffs. Vodafone are in general up to date with the latest technology and handsets accompanied by a large range of accessories. Market Segments According to a market report on Mobile Phones by Key Notes in 2005, the Mobile telecommunications industry can be separated into two main sectors, which can be then further segmented; Type of revenue, and Type of customer. Type of Revenue This relates to how a customer uses a mobile phone. This can be calls and fixed charges, text and picture messaging, or interconnection fees (for when a call is made from one service provider to another). The below table illustrates the revenue of each segment. Mobile operators are now expanding and looking to earn more from the text and picture messaging sector in particular, with the advent of 3G. The UK Cellular Telecommunications Market by Revenue Source by value ( £m)    1999/2000 2000/2001 2001/2002 2002/2003 2003/2004 Value ( £m)                Retail Revenues                                  Calls and fixed Charges 5,049 6,253 7,041 7,991 9,185 Text and picture messaging 126 553 1,073 1,529 1,854 Connection fees 76 56 64 24 5                   Total retail revenues 5,251 6,862 8,178 9,544 11,044 Source: The UK Telecommunications industry Market Information, Office of Telecommunications (oftel)/ Key Note Mraket Report 2005, Mobile Phones Type of customer Customer type can be of 2 kinds; Business user or Consumer. Business users primarily use voice calls, and have to pay fixed charges. Consumers on the other hand are a lot more varied, they contribute to all 3 of the segments mentioned above. Buyer Behavior Survey by BMRB Internationals Target Group Index (TGI) 2004, suggests that Mobile phones are primarily owned by younger consumers, with more than 80% of under 55 year olds owning mobile phones. It is also reported that Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) is the more popular than pay-monthly or contract services, especially among the lower income earners (those below social grade C2). Males are more likely to have fixed monthly contract phones, and the reverse in true for PAYG. The below table indicates that the type, value or content of the tariff mainly affects consumers choice of network, followed by network coverage and signal/reception. 1st 2nd most important factors when chosing a Mobile Phone Network (% of adults), 2004    Most important 2nd Most important Addittional service offered 4.4 5.4 Advertising 0.8 5.3 Company reputation 7.5 6.7 Network coverage 21.1 10.8 Personal experience 9.8 6.8 Reception 17.2 13.5 Recommendation 6.6 8 Special offers 8.3 9 Tariffs 31.9 14.2 Source: Target Group Index (TGI), BMRB International Ltd, 2004 Again, BMRB Internationals Target Group Index (TGI) 2004, suggests that phones are mainly used for text messaging, and games. Competitor Strategy and Positioning of 02 (mm02 PLC) O2 O2 is a mobile communications service provider operating in the UK, Ireland and Europe, who generated  £4.8 billion of revenue in 2003. Business Description: O2 have 19 million customers within some of the biggest consumer markets for mobile services. 02 is now a well-established and profitable business. They are now looking to expand their product portfolio horizontally, exploiting existing distribution channels and new product opportunities. This could well prove to take investment and focus off/away from its main business which is the mobile services provider. Revenue analysis: O2s turnover increased by 22% from 2003 to 2004. The main reason for the increase was the overall rise in subscriber numbers and the increased usage of the Groups services by subscribers. Competitor Strategy O2 have reduced there employee base by 3000 to 12000 employees through restructuring. And achieved an increase of one million customers in the 2003/04 financial year. In 2004/05 O2 have developed and moved into 3G network services, which enables them to offer high-speed streaming of videos and other multi media. O2s strategy has focused on three key areas improved operating performance; managing businesses cohesively and leading in mobile data services. Within the market, 02 are expected to continue to look to acquire and retain high value customers. Companies are forever trying to increase the ARPU (average revenue per user). This has led to heavier targeting and strategies, creating more services and getting consumers to use them, i.e. OrangeWorld and VodafoneLive! Positioning All the mobile phone networks look to offer a wide range of services, and position themselves in the market to cater for all. Companies need to maximize their revenue potential in a highly competitive and ever saturating market. The below tables will help me position the mobile phone companies in a perceptual map. 1st 2nd most important factors when chosing a Mobile Phone Network (% of adults), 2004    Most important 2nd Most important Addittional service offered 4.4 5.4 Advertising 0.8 5.3 Company reputation 7.5 6.7 Network coverage 21.1 10.8 Personal experience 9.8 6.8 Reception 17.2 13.5 Recommendation 6.6 8 Special offers 8.3 9 Tariffs 31.9 14.2 Source: Target Group Index (TGI), BMRB International Ltd, 2004 The above table shows what consumers look for in a network. Mobile phone users, year to April 1999-2003 and Q1 2004 Year to April 1999 2001 2003 Q1 2003/04 % change m % m % M % m % 1999-2004 Vodafone 7.9 32.9 13.2 28.0 12.1 2

The Adults Are Always Right? :: essays research papers

The Adults Are Always Right? "Clean your room! Don't do that! Stop watching that stupid television, don't you have a book to read? Didn't I tell you to clean your room, do you want to be a slob when you grow up? Go to school, don't you have school today? When I was a kid . . ." Welcome to the lives of almost every teenager in North America. To most parents, when the above words are spoken, they expect to see their teen rush at the opportunity to serve them. The above words mean something to them and they think it means something to us teens. They don't understand that the words go in through one ear and out through the other. Does a German understand the words of an Italian? No! Does a Chinese man understand the words of a Greek man? No! The reason, they are two completely different languages. Now although parents and their kids speak the same language, parents don't understand that we tune out of English when we want. If we know something is going to be asked of us and we don't want to do it, we turn our brains into "Nag Mode." To define Nag Mode, is simple. Every syllable that comes out of the mouth of an adult is heard as ‘ nag.' For example: Adults say: "clean your room! ." Kids hear: "nag nag nag!" Adults say: "Stop watching television." Kids hear: "nag nag nag nag nag nag nag." They think of us as being lazy, and irresponsible, selfish and useless. Some adults quiver when they hear how we will one day run this world. What makes us lazy, the fact that we watch an hour of television after a hard day at school, before eating dinner and doing our homework? Why are we irresponsible, because we don't have time to walk the dog due to us studying for our upcoming exam? We're selfish because we want peace and quite for when we study? And useless because we can't run any errands for them when we're taking that one hour out of our day to relax. They do, do a lot and I respect them and all, but give us some credit for a change. Is it our fault that almost every house has at least one television bigger than 22" and that basic cable comes with at least thirty channels? They keep telling us their stories about when they were kids, and it always has to do with something we can't help. "When I was a kid we had a 13" black and white television,

Shakespeare: The Lost Years :: European History Research

Shakespeare: The Lost Years On February 2, 1585, William Shakespeare's twins Hamnet and Judith were baptized in Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-Upon-Avon. In 1592 the poet Robert Greene alluded to Shakespeare in his pamphlet "A Groatsworth of Wit Bought With a Million of Repentance." The period between these two dates is known as the "Lost Years" or "The Dark Years" because of the total lack of hard evidence as to what William Shakespeare was doing during this time. Sometime during this period he left home, wife, and three children in Stratford and began his stage career in London. Scholars have long attempted to determine how and why this decision was made, and countless theories have been proposed. It is my hypothesis that Shakespeare, like countless other Englishmen, was caught up in the national crisis caused by the threat of the Spanish Armada during the summer of 1587 and was either drafted into the militia or volunteered for duty to protect his homeland from the threat of foreign invasion. In shor t, he became a soldier, was posted to the London area, and was discharged when the threat was ended. Once the boy had seen the big city, it is hard to send him back to the farm. Before supporting the hypothesis of Shakespeare's possible military activity, it would be useful to briefly look at some of the other theories which have been advanced to account for the lost years. One such is that he had been a schoolmaster during part of this time. The main evidence is based on a statement by a theatrical manager named William Beeston who was unquestionably associated with Shakespeare during his career in London. It is a reasonable and possible hypothesis which could account for part of the seven missing years. A less probable tradition has him as a runaway apprentice, but there is no solid, believable evidence to support this legend. Another widely believed tradition which is almost certainly false is that he left Stratford to avoid prosecution for deer poaching. This theory was broadly based on a rumor involving the Lucy family's deer park. The entire story falls apart because of the simple fact that the Lucys did not have a deer park during the time Shakespeare was in Stratford and indeed did not have one until late in the seventeenth century.

Feedback Effects of Soil Carbon Cycling in Northern Ecosystems Essay

Feedback Effects of Soil Carbon Cycling in Northern Ecosystems Global warming will be greatest in mid-continental North America and Eurasia, where temperatures are predicted to increase 4 - 12_C during the winter and 2 - 6_ C in summer (Kasischke et. al, 1995). This warming will shift the boreal forest, bog, and tundra biomes that dominate these areas northward as much as 500 km in the first hundred years of warming (Toward...1988, qtd. in Varallyay, 1990). Alaskan studies indicate that these changes are already influencing ecosystem function and carbon balance in northern ecosystems (Grulke et al. 1990; Ochel and Billings 1992; Oechel et al. 1993; qtd. in Oechel et al. 1995). Alterations in carbon cycling in these soils are of particular concern, since soils of northern ecosystems store from 350-455 Pg of carbon, or from 22.5 to 29.4% of the world soil carbon pool (Billings, 1987; Post, et al., 1990: Oechel and Vourlitis, 1993; qtd. in Lal et al.1995). This sink is an important part of the global carbon cycle; soil carbon losses from changes in land use account for 40% of the increase in atmospheric CO2 to date (Tinker and Ineson 1990). Smith and Shugart (1993) have projected that the vegetation/soil system will eventually become a carbon sink when global warming occurs. However, the initial loss of soil organic matter and delayed response of ecosystems to range shifts are expected to cause an initial pulse of carbon to the atmosphere, representing a temporary positive feedback to climate change. The amount of organic carbon stored in the soil depends on the net primary productivity (NPP) of the ecosystem and the speed of humic decomposition. Rates of soil organic matter decay are partially temperature dependent; Jenkinson... ...niversity Press, 1995. Smith, T. M. and H. H. Shugart, 1993, The transient response of terrestrial carbon storage to a perturbed climate: Nature, 361, pp. 523-526. Stevenson, F. J. Cycles of Soil: Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulfur, Micronutrients.: New York, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1986. Tinker, P. B., and P. Ineson, 1990. Soil organic matter and biology in relation to climate change: in Soils on a Warmer Earth, H. W. Scharpenseel, M. Schomaker and A. Ayoub, eds.: New York, Elsevier, 1990. Varallyay, G. Y., 1990, Influence of climatic change on soil moisture regime, texture, structure and erosion: in Soils on a Warmer Earth, H. W. Scharpenseel, M. Schomaker and A. Ayoub, eds.: New York, Elsevier, 1990. Whalen, S. C., W. S. Reeburgh, and K. S. Kizer, 1991. Methane consumption and emission by taiga: Global Biogeochemical Cycles, 5(3), pp. 261-273.

Four Seasons Goes to Paris

Four Seasons Goes to Paris: 53 Properties, 24 Countries, 1 Philosophy Four Seasons is the world’s leading operator of luxury hotels and resorts. They are well known not only in the U. S. but they are a huge international hit. They have been successful over the last thirty years because of their strengths of diversity and originality. Four Seasons does not want to be a globalization of markets like McDonald’s, where everyone is the same. They are not a â€Å"cookie-cutter company. This is a great tactic to have because then you would not be such a high class hotel and resort. Also, when you go international you have to be in touch with all of the cultural changes which can make or break your business. They have done an exceptional job of adapting to the different cultures. When you walk into a four seasons hotel â€Å"it does not scream four seasons at you. † Another reason why they are so successful is because the top management have been around for over 25 year s. This means that they are extremely familiar with to the company and how everything works and they can easily train the new employees. Once trained then they become part of the family. â€Å"Both corporate and field managers often referred to the firm as a family, complete with rules, traditions, and tough love. † I believe this is a one of the main reasons why they are so successful. If your employees are happy to wake up and come to work in the morning knowing everyone is basically a family member makes them work a lot harder because you do not want to let down a family member. The workers made the guest feel so comfortable and at home that the guest wanted to buy the linens to remind them of the stay. The seven four seasons â€Å"service culture standards† rules make the guest always feel welcome in the hotel and make them always want to come back and tell people how well of a stay they had. The last and I think the most important reason why the four season have been successful for the past four years is because the emphasis on the golden rule. â€Å"one should treath others as one would wish to be treated. If you work in a people oriented business where you need to please your guests, this is the mindset you should be in for a successful business. â€Å"Despite the success of four seasons, approach and philosophy, management knew that entering France would be a challenge. † I feel that how they entered was perfect. They entered in a very powerful manner by deciding to manage the George V which is right in the middle of the French capital an d is the â€Å"highest possible quality asset in the best location. They basically came in and took over and told everyone how it is going to be run. They did respect a lot of the working hour rules, and the hours by a window rules and stuff like. I really liked the aspect that they kept the hotel running like it always has been even though in France they do things a lot differently with customer service. It was good that they hired depending on the attitude. â€Å"What we need is people who can adapt, either to guests from all over the world or to operating a variety of countries. I like this because it says that the workers need to adapt to the guests no matter where they are from because that is how the four seasons does it. If they would of came into this situation any different, I feel that they would have been pushed out and the hotel would of turned bad. They only bad thing I can come up with is that they did change a lot of the culture around because the French are differe nt on their customer service than Americans. They are polychromic people compared to how we operate as a monochromic people. If you are a firm entering a market you have to be very familiar with what the culture is your are dealing with. Some cultures are very religious and if you try to change their ways then it could be going against their religion. But in the lessons from this case I believe you can enter a market like they did but you have to be cautious of what you change because if it goes bad then your reputation could go under and then you are bankrupt in that market.