Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Sliding Filament Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Sliding Filament Theory - Essay Example Surrounding the whole muscle is a layer of connective tissue, epimysium that encloses the individual fascicules together. The individual muscle fibers are made up of filamentous bundles that run along the length of the fiber. Most of the interior of the fibre consists of the protein filaments which constitute the contractile apparatus, grouped together in bundles called myofibrils. Each myofibril consists of a repeating unit, known as a sarcomere. The alignment of the sarcomeres between adjacent muscle fibers is responsible for the characteristic striations in the striated skeletal muscle fibers. The sarcomere is the fundamental contractile unit of the skeletal muscles. When a muscle fiber is viewed by polarized light, the sarcomeres are seen as alternating dark and light zones. Some regions appear dark because they refract the polarized light. This property is called anisotropy, and the corresponding band is known as an A band. The light regions do not refract polarized light and ar e called isotropic and are denoted as I bands. Each I band is divided by a characteristic line known as a Z line, and the unit between successive Z lines is the sarcomere [1]. Under electron microscopic examination with high magnification, the A bands are seen to be composed of thick filaments arranged in a regular order. The I bands consist of thin filaments. When the muscle is in the resting state, that is, when there is no shortening of the fibers due to contraction, a pale area can be seen in the center of the A band. This is known as the H zone, and it corresponds to the region where the thick and thin filaments do not overlap, which otherwise is the case throughout the muscle fiber architecture. In the center of each H zone, there is a line called M line. It is in this line, links are formed between adjacent thick filaments. The principal protein of the A bands is myosin, while that of I bands is actin. The interaction between these proteins is fundamental to the contractile process in the skeletal muscle at the ultrastructural and molecular levels. There are two types of actin filaments. One is globular in shape, known as globular or G actin subuni ts, and the other is filamentous of F actin. The actin filaments of the I band are made by joining many G actin subunits together by polymerization to form F actin. The F actin, in turn, is stabilized by binding to the Z line. The thick filaments are made up of an assembly of myosin molecules together. Each myosin molecule consists of two heavy chains. Each of these heavy chains has two light chains associated with a head region that is globular. The junction between the head region and the long tail contains a hinge. This hinge allows the myosin to generate the force required for muscle contraction. The tail regions of the myosin molecules associate together to form the thick filaments. Each thick filament consists of several hundred myosin molecules [2]. The sliding filament theory explains muscle contraction, and the structure of skeletal muscle provides important clues to the mechanism of contraction. The width of the A bands or thick filament areas in striated muscle remains constant, regardless of the length of the entire muscle fiber, while the width of the I bands or the thin-filament areas varies

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Treatment for Digoxin Overdose

Treatment for Digoxin Overdose B. Trimble Digoxin Overdose Digoxin is derived from the leaves of a digitalis plant (foxglove). Some plants have chemicals that can cause symptoms similar to digoxin if eaten, such as lily of the valley and oleander. Digoxin is a substrate of P-glycoprotein. Drugs that induce or inhibit P-glycoprotein in the intestines or the kidneys have the potential to alter digoxin pharmacokinetics (Katzung, Mastes, Trevor, 2012). Digoxin increases the strength of heart contractions by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme ATPase. ATPase controls the movement of calcium, sodium, and potassium into the heart muscle. ATPase increases the amount of calcium in heart muscle, which increases the force of contractions. Digoxin slows the electrical conduction between the atrium and ventricles of the heart and slows ventricular contractions. Digoxin is eliminated through the kidneys and should be reduced in dosage in patients with kidney dysfunction (Katzung, Mastes, Trevor, 2012). Medications such as verapamil, quinidine, Amiodarone, indomethacin, spironolactone, Alprazolam and itraconazole can increase drug levels and the risk of toxicity of digoxin. Furosemide and other diuretics that reduce blood potassium or magnesium levels may predispose patients to drug induced abnormal heart rhythms. Saquinvard and ritonavir increase the amount of digoxin in the body and may cause toxicity (PubMed, 2013). Assessment of the severity of toxicity and etiology (accidental, unintentional, or deliberate overdose) altered drug metabolism due to decreased renal function or interaction with other drugs is necessary. Consideration of factors that influence treatment include age, medical history, chronicity of digoxin intoxication, severity of heart disease, and/or renal insufficiency and ECG changes (Katzung, Mastes, Trevor, 2012). Symptoms of digoxin toxicity include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, visual changes, cardiac arrhythmias (1st degree, 2nd degree â€Å"Wenckebach†, or 3rd degree heart block), atrial tachycardia with AV block, AV dissociation, accelerated junctional, unifocal or multifocal premature ventricular contractions, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation (Patel, 2011). Toxicity is usually associated with levels greater than 2 mg/ml. Low body weight, advanced age, impaired renal function, hyperkalemia, hyper-calcemia, or hypo-magnesium may cause d igoxin toxicity. Other symptoms may include decreased consciousness, decreased urine output, difficulty breathing, and overall swelling (Brunton, Chabner, Knollman, 2011). Treatment will consist of emergency protocol if outside the hospital; this includes calling emergency medical services and CPR. Once the patient is in medical care, the treatment will depend upon the severity of symptoms and levels of digoxin in the body. Laboratory testing will include serum electrolytes, digoxin levels, and thyroid function tests. The patient will be placed on continuous cardiac monitoring with a 12 lead ECG obtained (Brunton, Chabner, Knollman, 2011). The primary focus is to correct electrolyte levels; if hypokalemic administer potassium to reach a level of 4.0 to 5.5 mmol/L. Activated charcoal will be administered either orally or per nasogastric tube in order to bind undigested digoxin. If bradycardic and symptomatic, atropine may be given intravenously. Peak cardiac effects of digoxin occur 3 to 6 hours after ingestion. Gastrointestinal symptoms precede cardiac manifestation. Neurological symptoms like fatigue and malaise are common. Visual disturbances occur with aberration in color vision, mostly yellow-green. Activated charcoal binds to the digoxin and prevents recirculation to the enterohepatic circulation. Cholestyramine may be used for chronic toxicity in patients with renal insufficiency. Continuous hemodynamic monitoring includes the ECG and 12 lead EKG (Brunton, Chabner, Knollman, 2011). Prompt measurement of electrolyte levels (potassium, calcium, digoxin, BUN, creatinine, and CMP). Sodium bicarbonate may be administered to correct metabolic acidosis along with glucose and insulin to enhance potassium uptake by the cells (Brunton, Chabner, Knollman, 2011). Magnesium may serve as a temporary antiarrthymic until digifab is available. Hypomagnesium increases myocardial digoxin uptake and decreases cellular sodium/potassium ATPase activity. Digibind (digifab or digoxin immune Fab) is an immunoglobulin fragment that binds with digoxin. In acute intentional overdose digibind (40 mg reconstituted with 4 ml sterile water) is administ ered 4 to 6 vials as a loading dose over 30 minutes as an emergent IV bolus. The bolus is followed by 0.5 mg/minute for 8 hours and then 0.1 mg/ minute for 6 hours (Patel, 2011). For patients with chronic toxicity that are dependent on digoxin, the initial dose is twice the bolus. This avoids complete reversal of clinical effects of digoxin. Response is typically within 20 to 30 minutes after infusion, elimination half- life is around 16 hours. Digoxin levels are unreliable for one to two weeks after therapy. Complications in long-term digoxin users, who receive digibind treatment administration are that it may precipitate worsening of heart failure as reversing the beneficial inotropic agent of digoxin causes hypokalemia and atrial arrhythmias with rapid ventricular response (Katzung, Mastes, Trevor, 2012). Hypokalemia has occurred in patients treated with standard therapy as well as with Fab fragments. Clinically adverse phenomena have occurs in patients with immunotherapy. Other untoward effects of Fab include anaphylaxis and serum sickness, this is because it is a sheep protein, but this is uncommon. Recrudescence of digoxin toxicity is possible within 7 to 14 days because Fab is eliminated more rapidly than digoxin released from tissue binary sites. Plasmapheresis may be performed or the agent reinstituted in such cases (Patel, 2011). If hemodynamically stable, bradycardia and supraventricular arrhythmias may be treated with observation and supportive measures. Ensuring hydration to optimize renal clearance, administering gastrointestinal binding agents may be used. For patients with rate related ischemia or neurological unstable digiFab is the treatment of choice (PubMed, 2013). In unstable premature ventricular contractions, lidocaine may be effective. In ventricular tachycardia the best response is to digiFab, but phenytoin and lidocaine are useful if Fab is ineffective or unavailable (Brunton, Chabner, Knollman, 2011). They depress the enhanced ventricular automaticity without significant slowing of AV conduction. Phenytoin may reverse digoxin induced prolongation of AV nodal conduction. Phenytoin has been shown to dissociate the inotropic and dysrhythmia actions of digoxin, suppressing digoxin tachycardia without diminishing the contractile affect and can terminate SVT induced by digoxin. Doses for lidocaine are 100 mg bolus with an infusion of 1 to 4 mg/minute. Phenytoin dosage is 100 mg every 5 to 10 minutes up to a loading dose of 15 mg/kg. Magnesium sulfate dosage is 2 gram over 5 minutes followed by an infusion of 1 to 2 g/hour, with magnesium levels drawn every one to two hours. Atropine may be given for bradycardia to improve sinus and AV node conduction by inhibiting vagal activity (Brunton, Chabner, Knollman, 2011). Phenytoin may reverse digoxin induced prolongation of the action potential in myocardial cells and may suspend tachycardia, prolongs effective refractory period, and depresses spontaneous depolarization in ventricular tissue. Lidocaine is a class IB antiarrthymic that increases the electrical stimulation threshold of the ventricles, suppressing the automaticity of conduction through the tissue. It combines with sodium channels and inhibits recovery after repolarization, resulting in decreased myocardial excitability and conduction velocity (Brunton, Chabner, Knol lman, 2011). Magnesium sulfate possesses properties that slow the rate of sinoatrial node impulse formation and prolong conduction times (Brunton, Chabner, Knollman, 2011). Prevention of unintentional overdose (accidental overdose, interaction with other medications, or the altered metabolism due to renal insufficiency) is mostly through patient education. Instructing the patient in the correct dosage of the medication; that blood tests will be necessary to ensure appropriate dosage; suggesting daily recording of heart rate and blood pressure. Advise the patient that many drugs interact with digoxin, and to inform the physician and pharmacist of all medications, including over the counter and herbal medications, and if started on a new prescription. Advising the patient to report any sign/symptoms associated with digoxin toxicity. Review signs and symptoms of toxicity with the patient. If the overdose were intentional, the patient would need the same consults as any other patient undergoing treatment (cardiologist, nephrologist, medical toxicologist, regional poison control center) as well as psychiatric consult. Follow up appointments with the patient to monitor drug and electrolyte levels. Reference Brunton, L., Chabner, B., Knollman, B. (2011). Goodman Gilmans:The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (12 ed.). McGraw-Hill. Katzung, B., Mastes, S., Trevor, A. (2012). Basic Clinical Pharmacology (12 ed.). McGraw-Hill. Patel, V. (2011). Digitalis toxicity. Retrieved from Medscape: http://www.emedicine.medscape.com/article/154336-overview PubMed. (2013, Janurary). Digitalis toxicity. Retrieved from PubMed.gov: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001218

Friday, October 25, 2019

Essay example --

When the 20th century came around America faced many challenges such as immigration, urbanization, and industrialization. To respond to these challenges the populist ask for more government intervention to fix these problems. Imagine your favorite team losing by three touchdowns going into the 4th quarter. The only way to get back into the game is by throwing the ball. By throwing the ball more makes you try to score quicker and get back in the game faster. Government was becoming more progressive domestically and internationally. Progressivism was the reform movement that ran from the late 19th century through the first decades of the 20th century. During the movement leading intellectuals and social reformers addressed the economic and political questions that had arisen. These rapid changes brought with the Industrial Revolution and the growth of modern capitalism in America. U.S. government became increasingly activists in both domestic and foreign policy. Progressives sought to extend their vision of a just and rational order to all areas of society and some, indeed, to all reaches of the globe. For example, Upton Sinclair’s graphic description of the meatpacking industry in his novel The Jungle so deeply disgusted the American people. In response, Congress passed legislation that same year, hoping to clean up the industry and protect American consumers. All this influence of more government intervention started during the Reconstruction Era. This Era was one of the most turbulent eras in American history. It witnessed America's first experiment in mass democracy. Reconstruction remains relevant today because the issues central to it the role of the federal government in protecting citizens' rights. This entailed a dramati... ...cturing economy, propelling America's rise to become the leading power in the world. Business and industrialization centered on the cities. The building of factories and a need for labor convinced people in rural areas to move to the city. This shifted America’s demographics dramatically. The United States transformed from an agrarian to an urban nation. In response to the challenges of the 20th century, America needed a progressive movement that was directed at solving the problems created by the Rapid industrialization. It was a time of enormous changes in American life. The movement help fuel the United States become an international power and help secure its economic strength. It brought about laws aimed at relieving these problems and improving society. Even though it resulted in increased government regulation, the regulation was needed to modernize America.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Deutche Bank

9-205-059 REV: APRIL 26, 2005 GEORGE CHACKO PETER HECHT VINCENT DESSAIN ANDERS SJOMAN Deutsche Bank: Finding Relative-Value Trades It was the third week of August 2003, and Jamil Baz, head of Deutsche Bank’s Fixed Income Research Group, gathered his research group for a morning meeting. â€Å"So, what are the markets telling us today? † he asked the group. â€Å"Are there any trends or news for new trade ideas? † The Fixed Income Research Group that Baz led was Deutsche Bank’s internal research and development (R&D) department for fixed income instruments.Their mandate was to look for untapped value across bond markets and interest rate derivatives. Long-term-oriented research findings were presented to clients, whereas immediate opportunities were suggested as trades to internal traders as well as clients. The success of the group was in part measured by how many of their trade suggestions actually turned into successful trades. So far, they had achieved an impressive 75% success rate. A natural place to start looking for new trades was the latest prices on various U.S. Treasury bonds (see Exhibit 1 for data from August 15, 2003). The group’s members consistently went through that data set, looking for possible trades to recommend. Typically relative-value trades took both long and short positions across different parts of the yield curve. Baz’s standard weekly question just emphasized what they all knew: that it was time to scour through the numbers one more time to see if any such positions were available. The Deutsche Bank Fixed Income Research GroupHeadquartered in Deutsche Bank’s London office, the company’s Fixed Income Research Group consisted of about 50 analysts and strategists. (An additional 10 were located in the bank’s New York offices. ) Global head of Fixed Income Research and in charge of the group was Baz, a managing director with Deutsche Bank since 2001. Previously at Lehman Brot hers in London, Baz also held an M. S. in management from MIT and a Ph. D. in business economics from Harvard University. As a part of a large financial institution, the research group was under constant pressure to monetize the ideas that they generated.The group presented its findings both internally to the ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Professors George Chacko and Peter Hecht, Executive Director of the HBS Europe Research Center Vincent Dessain, and Research Associate Anders Sjoman prepared this case. This case deals with trade-specific advice activities of a research department and draws heavily from â€Å"Deutsche Bank: Discussing the Equity Risk Premium,â€Å" HBS Case No. 205-040, by the same authors. Case No. 205-040 deals with macro-level advice from the same research department.Some names and data have been disguised for confidentiality. HBS cases are developed solely as the basis for clas s discussion. Cases are not intended to serve as endorsements, sources of primary data, or illustrations of effective or ineffective management. This case is not intended as financial advice, and it should not be used as the basis for any investment decision, in whole or in part. Copyright  © 2004 President and Fellows of Harvard College. To order copies or request permission to reproduce materials, call 1-800-545-7685, write Harvard Business School Publishing, Boston, MA 02163, or go to http://www. bsp. harvard. edu. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, used in a spreadsheet, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise—without the permission of Harvard Business School. 205-059 Deutsche Bank: Finding Relative-Value Trades Deutsche Bank traders, as well as externally to Deutsche Bank clients at the CEO, CFO, and Treasury level. Baz explained how the ideas were pitched: The final goal is to create a franchise with fixed income clients.So, for clients on the asset side, such as mutual funds, hedge funds, insurance companies, and pension plans, we help them generate high returns on their assets. We give specific ideas to be executed by the clients—hopefully with us, although that is never certain. However, even if we don’t get a trade out of our recommendation, it is important enough that we maintain Deutsche Bank’s presence at the client. Sometimes we also do bespoke—or customized—work, where we analyze their balance sheet and asset-liability mismatches for them, almost like technical financial consulting.In general, research alone will not give us clients, but research combined with pricing are the keys to building long-lasting relationships with external clients. Overall, we strive to push the frontiers of analytical finance when it comes to modeling interest rates, volatilities, and spreads. Owing to data avail ability and an intimate exposure to institutional market realities, we are often pushed to reach results ahead of academic finance journals. On a group level, Deutsche Bank organized its fixed income activities in the global markets around three main pillars: investor coverage, issuer coverage, and research.The trading desks dealing in these areas were in turn divided into two groups: credit (with credit trading/credit derivatives, new issue syndicate, asset securitization, and emerging markets) and rates (with foreign exchange, money markets, fixed income, and interest rate derivatives). The research efforts of the group were set up to match these organizational divisions. The Fixed Income Research Group was one of several research groups (as shown in Exhibit 2). All these groups were run under the banner of Global Markets Research.Research as a whole was headed by David Folkerts-Landau. Demand for direct meetings with Deutsche Bank’s research groups had grown over the past few years, taken internally as a sign of increased respect for the bank’s research output. In the last year, Baz’s group alone had logged over 1,500 client meetings. All clients had access to the Deutsche Bank research in papers and newsletters that were available online. Internal traders also benefited from the research, which was a major influence behind much of the bank’s proprietary—or â€Å"prop†Ã¢â‚¬â€trading.Most members of the research group shared their time between external clients and traders, with more senior staff members working more with external clients and less with the trading floor. In the end, measuring the research group’s value to the organization was still difficult. Said Baz: Putting a value on the work we do, and the effect we have on the bank, is very hard. In fact, if you were to really measure it by attributing sales and trades back to us, the trading floor would be more reluctant to work with us. Instead, we are mostly evaluated by top management on three other factors.Firstly, overall market direction, which is how much of rate and spread moves did we catch in our advice. Secondly, the relative-value trades we originated. Thirdly, any customized business we have brought in from our client meetings. Compensation to the members of the group was tied to the evaluation of the group as a whole. Individual bonuses were then given at the discretion of Baz as the group’s manager, based on his qualitative impression of each member’s contribution. 2 Deutsche Bank: Finding Relative-Value Trades 205-059 Strategic Advice and Relative-Value ActivitiesThe group’s activities were normally broken down into strategic advice on macro trends and relative value. The strategic advice activities built on long-term discussions with clients, where the group presented Deutsche Bank’s view on macroeconomic trends to external clients. In these discussions, George Cooper, the group’ s global fixed income strategist, typically did not expect a quick monetary return. Cooper, a Ph. D. graduate in engineering at Durham University with experience from both Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan, explained: This type of activity does not generate a lot of money from a trade perspective.It generates brand value, though, and is especially appealing to insurance companies or asset-liability people, who appreciate the long-term view. We believe it serves more of an educational purpose. It gets the fund managers thinking. They are not looking for prescriptive research, where we tell them to â€Å"do this trade,† but they look for interesting ideas. Of course, they then weigh our ideas against whatever Goldman Sachs or Morgan Stanley are saying. Our role is to come up with hopefully insightful but also informative new ways to look at things.By contrast, the relative-value activities looked for more immediate opportunities by comparing different instruments and then recommendin g various trading strategies to clients and internal traders. Head of Relative Value Research for Europe was Jean Dumas, an engineer from ESME SUDRIA in France with a specialization in finance, who had worked with Relative Value Research for Deutsche Bank in Paris, Frankfurt, and Sydney before moving to London. Dumas explained his work: We come up with different types of trades all the time.The trade opportunities may be there for a week or two, sometimes longer. I look at different spreadsheets, listen to what traders are saying, watch the news, study different models. . . . Then I try to put everything together—and suddenly there is a trade opportunity. Our job is really grabbing things that don’t seem to be related at first and see if there is a trade to be done. The trade opportunities that the research group identified were published weekly in the newsletter â€Å"Deutsche Bank Fixed Income Weekly,† which was distributed to Deutsche Bank traders as well as to clients.A frequent contributor to the newsletter was Dr. Nikan B. Firoozye, head of Global Quantitative Strategies and a Ph. D. graduate in mathematics from Courant Institute at New York University with experience from Alliance Capital, Sanford C. Bernstein, and Lehman Brothers. Firoozye explained: I write a piece on Euroland strategy every week where we suggest trades. Some of these are big trades that we don’t change very often, such as curve-steepening trades. We can have the same trade off and on for a full year. We also summarize economic data as it impacts the bond markets.For instance, how structured trades could be influenced by the move in dollar versus yen, and how you should position for that. In his role as head of Euroland Strategy, Firoozye also oversaw all strategic investments in Euroland bond markets. He was also involved in all modeling issues and wrote stand-alone papers on quantitative strategy. Looking for a Relative-Value Trade For the research group, one way to find relative-value trades was to compare the prices of traded securities against the prices that the group thought the securities should trade at. This subjective view 205-059 Deutsche Bank: Finding Relative-Value Trades was based on a proprietary model developed at Deutsche Bank. (Most banks used proprietary models as a base from which to evaluate the prices of traded securities. ) The models were built on the fact that the returns offered by fixed income instruments could be characterized by the yields that they offered. The yield was roughly seen as compensation for the risk borne by the holder of that security. There were many sources of risk in fixed income securities, such as interest rate risk, credit risk, and prepayment risk.Also, the yield of an instrument could be broken down into components. The components could be thought of as compensation for the different sources of risk. So, for example, the yield on a corporate bond could be thought of as being compose d of a risk-free yield plus a credit spread. The risk-free yield represented compensation for interest rate risk in the bond, while the credit spread represented compensation for default risk in the bond. 1 To understand the compensation for the interest rate risk alone, banks typically constructed â€Å"yield-curve models. These were models for the yields on zero-coupon Treasury securities, since Treasury instruments typically contained only interest rate risk. Models for the yield curve could be then used to compare the current and expected prices of U. S. Treasury instruments. 2 The research group at Deutsche Bank had developed their own proprietary yield-curve model, a so-called three-factor affine model (see Exhibit 3 for a conceptual description of the model). Firoozye explained the fundaments of the model: We have three factors driving the yield curve that we see as analogous to the economy.In an economy, there is inflation, output gaps, and short rates. So first among our f actors is a long rate, which is analogous to inflation. It is the slowest mean reverting of our three factors. In the fifties inflation was low, in the seventies it was extremely high, and now it is back down again. It takes 20 years to go through its cycle. It is very slow, very persistent, whereas the business cycle is much, much faster. You go through a business cycle in about seven years. So slope, our second factor, is then the measure of output gap. Slope mean reverts much more quickly than inflation.The third factor is the short rate, which mean reverts the fastest. After estimating the variables of the three-factor model, the team calibrated the model to price the one-month, two-year, and 10-year zero-coupon bond. After Baz’s request at the weekly meeting, the analysts now used the latest numbers on various U. S. Treasury bonds to update and calibrate the model (see Exhibit 4 for the resulting output from Deutsche Bank’s model). The idea was to then compare the actual zero-coupon yield curve against the predicted ones coming out of the model and see if any trade ideas presented themselves.In fact, several trades seemed to come out of that comparison. Baz and the team now had to pick the trades with the highest profit potential. 1 It should be noted that the notion of compensation here is approximate. The yield on a zero-coupon corporate bond is not the expected return of that bond. It is simply the promised return of that bond, or the return an investor would get if the bond did not default. Starting with this promised return and then factoring in the probability of default and a default risk premium leads to the expected return for that bond. More generally, yield-curve models could be used to price any interest rate-sensitive security. For example, the pricing of interest rate options starts with a yield-curve model. 4 Deutsche Bank: Finding Relative-Value Trades 205-059 Exhibit 1 Prices and Coupon Rates of Various U. S. Treasury Bonds on August 15, 2003 Coupon Rate (%) 3 2. 125 1. 5 6. 5 5. 625 2. 375 6. 25 3. 25 3 3. 25 5. 5 6 6. 5 5. 75 5 5 4. 875 4. 375 3. 875 4. 25 13. 25 12. 5 11. 25 10. 625 9. 25 7. 5 8. 75 8. 875 9. 125 9 8. 875 8. 125 8. 5 8. 75 7. 875 8. 25 8 7. 25 7. 125 6. 25 7. 5 7. 5 7. 625 6. 875 6 6. 75 6. 625 6. 375 6. 125 5. 5 5. 25 6. 125 Maturity Date 2/15/2004 8/15/2004 2/15/2005 8/15/2005 2/15/2006 8/15/2006 2/15/2007 8/15/2007 2/15/2008 8/15/2008 2/15/2009 8/15/2009 2/15/2010 8/15/2010 2/15/2011 8/15/2011 2/15/2012 8/15/2012 2/15/2013 8/15/2013 2/15/2014 8/15/2014 2/15/2015 8/15/2015 2/15/2016 8/15/2016 2/15/2017 8/15/2017 2/15/2018 8/15/2018 2/15/2019 8/15/2019 2/15/2020 8/15/2020 2/15/2021 8/15/2021 2/15/2022 8/15/2022 2/15/2023 8/15/2023 2/15/2024 8/15/2024 2/15/2025 /15/2025 2/15/2026 8/15/2026 2/15/2027 8/15/2027 2/15/2028 8/15/2028 2/15/2029 8/15/2029 Current Price 101. 0544 100. 9254 99. 8942 109. 0934 108. 438 99. 7848 111. 7184 101. 0841 99. 1692 99. 271 109. 7707 112. 145 114. 9084 110. 3894 105. 2934 104. 7607 103. 4391 99. 2806 95. 0288 97. 7693 174. 3251 168. 9389 157. 0552 152. 4222 140. 0135 123. 3044 136. 0598 137. 504 140. 792 139. 9079 138. 7431 130. 7162 135. 2938 138. 3466 128. 4995 131. 7341 130. 4736 121. 58 120. 1744 109. 4538 125. 46 125. 4466 127. 1477 117. 5509 106. 3626 116. 1986 114. 7086 111. 036 108. 0391 99. 633 96. 2876 108. 4062 Source: Adapted by casewriter from Datastream. 5 205-059 Deutsche Bank: Finding Relative-Value Trades Exhibit 2 Deutsche Bank Global Markets Research Organization Global Head COO and Co-Head Global Economics Global Strategist Foreign Exchange Securitization Index Development Regional Heads – Asia/ Pacific – Germany Strategy – Fixed Income/ Relative Value Research – Emerging Markets – Credit Credit (High Grade Credit Research) Economics – Global – US – Europe – Emerging Markets Source: Deutsche Bank. Exhibit 3 †¢ †¢ †¢Deutsche Bank†™s Zero-Coupon Yield Model Key variables: Short rate, slope, and long rate (or short rate, output gap, and inflation) Model specified by a system of equations (in Q measure) Long rate mean reverts slowly (possibly to nonzero mean) dX t= (  µ X ? k X X t) dt + ? X dWt X †¢ Slope mean reverts faster (to zero) dYt = ? kY Yt dt + ? Y dWt Y †¢ X t + Yt ? rt = 0 †¢ In equilibrium short rate, rt, follows the target Xt+Yt (an analogue of the Taylor rule) Short rate mean reverts fast in order to restore the equilibrium drt = k r ( X t + Yt ? rt ) dt + ? r dWt rSource: Adapted by casewriter from â€Å"Quantitative Models for Fixed Income,† Deutsche Bank presentation, October 2003. 6 Deutsche Bank: Finding Relative-Value Trades 205-059 Exhibit 4 Output from Deutsche Bank’s Zero-Coupon Yield Model Model Prediction (BEY) 1. 2443% 1. 8727% 2. 4110% 2. 9665% 3. 4454% 3. 8557% 4. 1996% 4. 4677% 4. 6528% 4. 7107% 5. 7160% 5. 9517% 5. 9315% Maturity (years) 1y 2y 3y 4 y 5y 6y 7y 8y 9y 10y 15y 20y 25y Source: Note: Adapted by casewriters from Deutsche Bank information. The yields in this table are bond equivalent yields (BEY), that is, the semiannual yield multiplied by two. 7

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Cultural Relativism

|Cultural Moral Relativism. Do We All Agree? | |Essay #1 Pratheep | |Sivabaalan 100266114 | |11/18/2009 | |James Connelly | I find Rachel’s arguments against the view of Cultural Moral Relativism persuasive and very convincing. Believers of Cultural Relativism have influenced the notion that cultural moral codes are culture bound. After explicating and assessing Cultural Relativism views and Rachels arguments, it is clear that there are discrepancies and inconsistencies in the views that favor Cultural Relativism. Rachels introduces a number of considerations that reject Cultural Relativism. Cultural Relativism tells us that there is no such thing as universal truth in ethics, and what does exist is the customs of different societies. Furthermore, we cannot judge a custom of another society or our own as right or wrong. Cultural Relativism simplifies its facts by employing an argument, known as the ‘Cultural Differences’ argument. ) Different cultures have different moral codes 2) Therefore, there is no objective â€Å"truth† in morality. Right and wrong are only matters of opinion, and opinions vary from culture to culture (Rachels, p18) Rachels identifies that argument as being unsound, thus an invalid argument altogether. Rachels explains that the conclusion does not follow the premise. Rachels explains that the argument’s premise concerns what people believe, and the conclusion concerns what really is the case. I agree with Rachels reasoning on the argument, the premise is motivated by observations, and not the facts and the conclusion suggests what is true. Therefore, the argument cannot be considered as a strong view for cultural relativism since the conclusion does not logically follow the premise; an unsound argument. Rachels attempts to provide stronger claims to reject Cultural Relativism through a method known as reduction ad absurbum. One of the main points that Cultural Relativism stresses is that â€Å"We can no longer say that customs of other societies are morally inferior to our own†. Rachels disagrees with this notion in contrast with less compassionate practices in other societies. Rachels brings up examples, such as the oppression of the Chinese Government upon its citizens. Cultural Relativism denies us to condemn such actions because we cannot judge practices in another society to our own. I believe Rachel has a good point on how far is too far, when it comes to customs in other societies. Situations and practices like excursion, slavery, stoning and etc raises questions on how tolerate can people be on inhuman practices. Another proposition that Cultural Relativism brings up is that â€Å"We could no longer criticize the code of our own society†. Rachel criticizes this statement by suggesting that people do not believe our society’s code is perfect, but Cultural Relativism disallows us to think of ways why our society can be better. I agree that our society’s moral code is not prefect and there are a number of reasons that suggests this. For example, animal testing and killings of specific dog breeds are questionable in our society’s moral codes. Furthermore, in our society we have different views on the topic of abortion, where people feel it is right and wrong. Like many societies and our own, we are prone to question our own moral codes and customs. Lastly, â€Å"The idea of moral progress would be called into doubt†, is the last statement Cultural Relativism conveys. The statement contradicts many of Cultural Relativism views it expressed. Rachels example of women rights can be seen as progress, yet it also means that the old ways, before the movement, are now being replace by new and improved ways. Cultural Relativism does view women rights changes as progress; however it forbids us from thinking that this is making our society better. Thus, cultural relativism views on progress makes this argument contradictory. The five tenets of Cultural Relativism undergo further explication as Rachel notes further criticism. The first claim, â€Å"different societies have different moral codes†, holds some truth, however fails to explain that there are universal values that all societies do share. Values such as truth telling, prohibition of murder and caring for the young are conceived by all societies. The only difference is the factual beliefs, not their values. I agree with Rachel, that there are some values that cultures do share. The second tenet, â€Å"The moral code of a society determines what is right within that society; that is, if the moral code of a society says that a certain action is right, then that action is right, at within that society†. Rachel assesses and explains that there is a vast difference in what a society believes and what is really true. Practices, like excision, can be very wrong and suggests does it really promote or hinder human well being. I believe it hinders a human well being, excision is a painful procedure that abolishes sexual pleasure for the individual. Scarring and tendencies to contract disease(s) are most probable in the long run. Cultural relativism believes that society’s morals of a culture can never be wrong. However, Rachels believes that we can see that societies are in need of moral improvement. I agree with Rachels statements, there is room for societies to understand and learn that mistakes can be made even in cultural customs. The third tenet, â€Å"There is no objective standard that can be used to judge one society’s code as better than another’s. There are no moral truths that hold for all people at all times†. Rachels strongly disagrees with this tenet in cases of stoning, slavery and excision. Rachels says, â€Å"it always matters whether a practice promotes or hinder the welfare of the people affected by it†(Rachels, p28). People affected by such barbaric practices do not seem to improve the quality of their lives nor their happiness. The forth tenet, â€Å"The moral code of our own society has no special status; it is but one among many†. Rachels points out that Cultural Relativism says, â€Å"it is merely one among many†(Rachels, p28) which directs an ‘open question’. A code in particular can be one of the best or one of the worse. This opens up an entirely new discussion that there are customs that are questioned to being right or wrong. The fifth tenet, â€Å"It is arrogant for us to judge other cultures. We should always be tolerate of them†. Rachels raises truth in this statement, we are often arrogant when we criticize other cultures, and tolerance is a good thing. Nevertheless, Rachels notes, we shouldn’t tolerate everything, human societies have done horrible things. Tolerance can only go so far, to a point where intervention is crucial. This claim is inconsistent with the second claim, ‘that right and wrong are determined by the norms of a society’. There are instants that norms of a society favor intolerance, for example the Nazi army invading Poland. Cultural Relativism teaches us not to criticize the Nazis for being intolerant if all they’re doing is following their own moral codes. However, cultural relativism also tells us that the norms of a culture are bound within the culture itself. Since the norms are bound in Polish society, invasion and manslaughter are not part of their norms. Work Cited: Rachels, James and Stuart Rachels. (2009). The Elements of Moral Philosophy. 6th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Ocean Sunfish Facts

Ocean Sunfish Facts The ocean sunfish (Mola mola) is certainly one of the more unusual-appearing fish in the oceans. This bony fish, also known as the common mola, is famous for its enormous bulk, striking appearance, high fertility, and free moving lifestyle. Fast Facts: Ocean Sunfish Scientific Name: Mola molaCommon Name(s): Ocean sunfish, common mola, common sunfishBasic Animal Group: FishSize: 6–10 feetWeight: 2,000 poundsLifespan: 22–23 yearsDiet:  CarnivoreHabitat: Pacific, Indian, Atlantic oceans, Mediterranean and North SeasPopulation: UnknownConservation Status: Vulnerable Description The ocean sunfish is a bony fish- it has a skeleton of bone, which distinguishes it from cartilaginous fish, whose skeletons are made of cartilage. The fish doesnt have a normal-looking tail; instead, it has a lumpy appendage called a clavus, which evolved through the fusion of the fishs dorsal and anal fin rays. Despite its lack of a powerful tail, the ocean sunfish is an active and graceful swimmer, using its dorsal and anal fins to perform rapid changes in direction and horizontal movements independent of the prevailing current. It can also leap out of the water. Ocean sunfish vary in color from brown to gray to white. Some even have spots. On average, ocean sunfish weighs about 2,000 pounds and range between 6 and 10 feet across, making them the largest  bony fish  species. Female sunfish are larger than the males- all sunfish larger than 8 feet long are females. The largest ocean sunfish ever measured was nearly 11 feet across  and weighed over 5,000 pounds.   Rodrigo Friscione/Getty Images Species The word mola in its scientific name is Latin for millstone- a large  round stone used to grind grain- and the fishs name is a reference to its disc-like shape. Ocean sunfish are often referred to as common molas or simply molas. The ocean sunfish is also known as the common sunfish, as there are three other species of sunfish that live in the ocean- the slender mola (Ranzania laevis), the sharp-tailed mola (Masturus lanceolatus), and the southern ocean sunfish (Mola alexandrini). The sunfish group gets its name for the fishs characteristic behavior of lying on its side at the sea surface, seemingly basking in the sun. Habitat and Range Ocean sunfish live in tropical and temperate waters, and they can be found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans as well as inlets such as the Mediterranean and North seas. They generally stay within 60–125 miles of the coastline, and they apparently migrate within their ranges. They spend the summers at higher latitudes and their winters relatively closer to the equator; their ranges typically are along about 300 miles of coastline, although one sunfish off the coast of California was mapped at traveling over 400 miles. They move during the day horizontally at rate of about 16 miles a day. They also move vertically through the day, traveling between the surface and up to 2,600 feet below, moving up and down the water column during the day and night to chase food and regulate body heat. To see an ocean sunfish, though, youll likely have to find one in the wild, because they are difficult to keep in captivity. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is the only aquarium in the U.S. to have live ocean sunfish, and the fish  are kept at only a few other aquaria, such as the Lisbon Oceanarium in Portugal and the Kaiyukan Aquarium in Japan. Diet and Behavior Ocean sunfish like to eat jellyfish and siphonophores (relatives of jellyfish); in fact, they are among the most abundant of the worlds jellyfish eaters. They also eat salps, small fish, plankton, algae, mollusks, and  brittle stars. If youre lucky enough to see an ocean sunfish in the wild, it may look like its dead. Thats because ocean sunfish are often seen lying on their sides near the ocean surface, sometimes flapping their dorsal fins. There are a few theories about why sunfish do this; they often undertake long, deep dives in cold water in search of their favorite prey,  and may use the warm sun at the surface to re-heat themselves and aid digestion. The fish may also use the warm, oxygen-rich surface water to recharge their oxygen stores. And they may visit the surface to attract seabirds from above or cleaner fish from below to clean their skin of parasites. Some sources suggest that the fish wave their fins to attract birds. From 2005 to 2008, scientists tagged 31 ocean sunfish in the North Atlantic in the first study of its kind. The tagged sunfish spent more time near the ocean surface during the night than during the day, and they spent more time in the deep when they were in warmer waters such as  the  Gulf Stream  and the  Gulf of Mexico. BarrettMacKay BarrettMacKay/Getty Images   Reproduction and Offspring Ocean sunfish in Japanese waters spawn in late summer through October and likely multiple times. Age at sexual maturity is inferred at 5–7 years of age, and they spawn an enormous number of eggs. An ocean sunfish was once found with an estimated 300 million eggs in her ovary- more than scientists have ever found in any  vertebrate  species. Although sunfish produce many eggs, the eggs are tiny and essentially scattered into the water, making their chances of survival relatively small. Once an egg is fertilized, the embryo grows into tiny spiked larvae with a tail. After hatching, the spikes and tail disappear and the baby sunfish resembles a small adult. The lifespan of an ocean sunfish is up to 23 years. Conservation Status The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the ocean sunfish as Vulnerable. Currently, sunfish are not targeted for human consumption, but they are endangered by bycatch. Reported estimates in California are that 14 percent to 61 percent of the fish caught by people seeking swordfish is sunfish; in South Africa, they make up 29 to 79 percent of the catch intended for horse mackerel, and in the Mediterranean, an astounding 70 to 95 percent of the total catch for swordfish is, in fact, ocean sunfish. The global population of sunfish is difficult to determine, since they spend so much time in deep water, although tagging has become more common. Sunfish may be a crucial part of the planets changing ecosystem under climate change: They are among the worlds most abundant eaters of jellyfish, and global warming appears to be resulting in an upsurge of jellyfish numbers. The biggest natural predators of ocean sunfish are  orcas  and  sea lions. Ocean Sunfish and Humans Despite their enormous size, ocean sunfish are harmless to humans. They move slowly and are likely more frightened of us than we are of them. Because they are not considered a good food fish in most places, their biggest threats are likely being hit by boats and being caught as bycatch in fishing gear.   Franco Banfi/Getty Images Sources Dewar, H., et al. Satellite Tracking the Worlds Largest Jelly Predator, the Ocean Sunfish, Mola Mola, in the Western Pacific. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 393.1 (2010): 32–42. Print.Liu, J., et al. Mola mola (errata version published in 2016). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species: e.T190422A97667070, 2015.  Potter, Inga F., and W. Huntting Howell. Vertical Movement and Behavior of the Ocean Sunfish, Mola Mola, in the Northwest Atlantic. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 396.2 (2011): 138–46. Print.Sims, David W., et al. Satellite Tracking of the Worlds Largest Bony Fish, the Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola L.) in the North East Atlantic. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 370.1 (2009): 127–33. Print.Thys, Tierney M., et al. Ecology of the Ocean Sunfish, Mola Mola, in the Southern California Current System. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 471 (2015): 64–76. Print.

Monday, October 21, 2019

Drug Addition essays

Drug Addition essays Historically, alcohol and drug dependency was viewed as a sin or a disease. In recent decades, it has been thought to be a maladaptive behavior patterns (Thombs, 1999). I believe that its a combination of three things: A disease in which people learn to act in immoral ways (Thombs, 1999). A drug is any chemical agent that affects biological function (Thombs, 1999). Some act in the brain, others in organs, and some in several parts of the body at the same time. A psychotropic drug is one that acts in the brain to alter mood, thought process, or behavior. Addictive drugs are defined by the fact that they are self-administered, without medical prescription: repeatedly, compulsively, and even self-destructively (Cohen 1989). Drugs have been classified into seven different families and each affects a different part of the brain. In the past, drug addiction was viewed as a morally reprehensive behavior that addicts could control if only they made the effort. Today, it is argued that drug a ddictions are in many ways like infectious diseases; some people are infected, but not everyone (camh.net). There are differing degrees of immunity. Susceptibility depends typically on a complex set of genetic and environmental factors, ethnicity, degree of crowding lack of sanitation, and primarily new users transmit the behavior to their peers. Millions of Americans have been trapped by a vicious, biologic phenomenon called addiction. No sane person ever started out intending to become an addict, yet millions of our neighbors are either addicted to chemicals today or may have spent years trying to free themselves from this insidious cycle. Addiction is neither bad nor good. Addiction is a complex disease that involves both biology and behavior (Goldstein 1992). This high-low trap involves the relationship between stimulation and sedation (Cohen 1989). Stimulants and sedatives t ...

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Champion Is a Transitive Verb

Champion Is a Transitive Verb Champion Is a Transitive Verb Champion Is a Transitive Verb By Maeve Maddox I read the following sentence in a newspaper article: He often champions for the rights of many individuals. As a noun, champion can be followed by the preposition for: â€Å"She is a champion for gender equality.† But as a verb, champion is transitive; it takes a direct object: â€Å"She champions gender equality.† The noun champion is first documented in the 13th century with the meaning â€Å"a brave fighting man.† Because trial by combat was still part of the English legal system, by the 14th century, champion could also mean â€Å"one who fights on behalf of another.† Note: Until the 16th century, it was possible to settle a legal dispute in England by fighting a duel. A litigant unsuited for combat could arrange for someone else- a champion- to fight in his place. In the novel Ivanhoe, the knight Wilfred of Ivanhoe volunteers to be Rebecca’s champion. Apart from its use in the context of competitive sports, the noun champion refers to a person who protects and defends the defenseless or who fights for a worthy cause. For example: Two Champions of Children Are Given Nobel Peace Prize We cannot be both the worlds leading  champion of peace  and the worlds leading supplier of the weapons of war.   World welcomes Pope Francis as humble champion of poor As a verb, to champion is â€Å"to maintain the cause of, stand up for, uphold, support, back, defend, advocate.† Here are examples of champion correctly used as a transitive verb: Now that youve reclaimed your wounded inner child, you need to champion him.   James Brady became a symbol of the fight for  gun control,  championing  tighter regulations. People living with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) will pay tribute later this year to the woman who, for decades,  championed their  cause. Patricia Arquette Champions Gender Equality in Nights Best Oscar Speech Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Style category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Fly, Flew, (has) FlownFlied?50 Nautical Terms in General Use20 Names of Body Parts and Elements and Their Figurative Meanings

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Business and Society Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Business and Society - Research Paper Example ement on products and services being made by Apple Inc has made them to segment the market, position themselves in the market, and attract the customer loyalty (Mohr,  Sengupta, & Slater, 2010). Therefore, the target market is always eager to purchase the company’s products. The structure of Apple Inc products differ depending on the interests of the market. For instance, the company produces iphones, Macs, and other products of different sizes in order to meet the varying needs of the market. This has made it possible for the company to penetrate the global market and remain competitive in the market. Apple Inc designs, manufactures, and markets mobile and media devices, personal computers, and portable digital music players. It also sells different software, services, peripherals, and different networking solutions. Some of the products include iPad, Mac, iPod, and Apple TV. Others include applications such as iOS, OS X, etc. (Groucutt, 2005). One of the key factors in the external environment that can affect the success of Apple Inc is competition. Over the past few years Apple Company has made tremendous effort to segment the global market. However, there is stiff competition from Samsung, Sony, and Google Inc. These companies have invested in electronic sector. In addition, they have diversified their operations in order to reduce the risks and uncertainties associated with focusing on a single product, service, and market. Therefore, they have accumulated huge amounts of money. They use their financial base as a barrier of entry to any interested investors. Furthermore, they have been introducing new products that target the young generation which forms the largest market segment. This has been hindering the success of the Apple Company in the global market. Therefore, if the company does not change its competitive strategies, it revenues might shrink over the years. For instance, Apple Inc has been trying to penetrat e the Chinese market. However, local

Friday, October 18, 2019

Concept of Equality and Social Equity Assignment

Concept of Equality and Social Equity - Assignment Example These are important issues which are backed by the international government, NGOs and international agencies across the world. Â  Fleurbaey (2008) asserts that political philosophy and normative economics highlight egalitarian justice that defines social justice in terms of distributive compensation based on responsibility and talent. This is inherently linked to inequity across society but promotes social equity based on a hierarchy of roles within the work environment. This is an important perspective that is visible in the compensation package of the employees. The roles and responsibilities of the public administrators become pertinent issues which require stringent mechanisms of promoting social equity across gender, race, culture, and class. The concepts of equity and equitable distribution of resources based on social equity within and outside public administration, therefore, have emerged as key issues in the current environment of rapid globalization and multicultural societies across the globe. Â  Public policies are essential ingredients of administrative processes that address the issues of public concern and civil liberties. The key objective of the public policy is to enhance social equity that impacts the quality of life and promotes equality across people. In recent times, public administration in American political system has raised critical issue of public liberty. McKelvey (2011) says the civil liberty of people is compromised as the due processes for targeted killing are obscure with unclear law and protocols. Indeed, while the threat of terrorism is real, unsubstantiated accusations of target killing of Americans is not only unwarranted but is also indicative of power play of administration that endangers the freedom of citizens.

Design Thinking Process its Influences and Critiques Essay

Design Thinking Process its Influences and Critiques - Essay Example Value creation techniques have shifted from manufacturing intense approaches to knowledge based designs which mean that companies have to adjust adequately to fit the market requirements. Innovation requires more than one approach in coming up with a complete recognizable product. Thus, companies have to amalgamate their resources to achieve quality innovation techniques. Despite the need for coherence in the market many industries have failed to implement this, competition has worsened the situation making each company rely on its own resources. However, this may not be an ideal platform for design thinking methodology. In this paper, I depict the roles and applications of design thinking in different scenarios, in the society. I draw up cases from a number of resources to depict the importance and how design thinking process can be attained with maximum benefits in the long run. Design thinking enhances the process of interoperability of the strategic and operational mindsets of individuals towards the set work environment. Design thinking is used in the derivation of human, technological and business sources and their interplay. Secondly it is influenced by socio-cultural and process based patterns (Lockwood, 23). Recent discussions evolving around knowledge usage have stressed the importance of utilization of distributed knowledge in innovation. It is illustrated that exploitable knowledge lies outside the organization that wants to undertake a new product development, this means that such an organization has to consider different components which may include and not limited to consumers, suppliers, and competitors and among other stakeholders in the business environment. The principle has an immense effect on management who are supposed to be open-minded and allow views from the external environment. By doing so, these managers will be allowing necessary skills to

Vocation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Vocation - Essay Example I believe that this overemphasis on money on the things that we do is one of the causes of many problems that we have right now. On the other hand, if we think too much about others, such as our community, family, we may forget our responsibility with our self. Thinking about others in choosing what we should do is good but just not excessively. The ideal way on how to choose with what to do with our lives is to strike a balance between ourselves and others. That is, determining what we really would like to do that will make us happy and balancing it with economic consideration if it could provide for our responsibilities in life. Equally important is for us also to ask if our choice could also benefit our, community, society, family, country and humanity in general. Such that when we do it, we make everybody happy, first is our â€Å"self†, then our community, our country and then mankind in general. As a guide on how to best choose with what to do with our lives, it is best to ask first â€Å"what will makes us happy?†, or â€Å"what is the thing that we would like to passionately?† This requires soul searching but when we have determined what it is that we would really like to do, the rest will follow. That includes the economic aspect because we would excel with what we do and thus, gets paid handsomely for it. In the process of determining what we would like to do, we should also consider the greater good of everybody because what good will an endeavor do if it does not do good to others except for one’s self? This is important because not all that we would like to do are appropriate or even legal which is why we have to ask if it will do good to our community and society. Thus, it goes without saying in selecting what we would like to do, we should also consider existing laws, our morals and social norm. If we have satisfied all these guidance in choosing what we would like to do, we did not only make

Thursday, October 17, 2019

MANAGING HUMAN RESOURCES DISCUSS THE ROLE OF PROCEDURE IN MANAGING Essay

MANAGING HUMAN RESOURCES DISCUSS THE ROLE OF PROCEDURE IN MANAGING BOTH INDIVIDUAL AND COLLECTIVE CONFLICT IN ORGANISATION - Essay Example These are common problems in smaller and bigger organisations with varying degrees of significance; but they could never be ignored. Very few organisations could overlook the need of human resource management today. When a group of people are working for the better part of the day, every day, day after day, together, at the same place, dealing with the same issues, it is not surprising that individual and collective conflicts take place in the world sphere. It becomes part of the daily management to deal with these kind of unpleasant skirmishes; nevertheless, it is also important to manage them correctly so that the managing itself should not leave a residue that would create further problems for not only the individual workers, but also for the organisation itself. Every organisation has realised how important it is to have pleasant situations at the working place and how imperative it is to please the worker. Workers too have understood that never-ending conflicts can bring unpleas antness, mental turmoil, continuous annoyance, loss of efficiency and job and hence, opportunities. So, when both the sides are more understanding, it is not very difficult to adapt some procedures that would deal with any eventuality. We have heard a lot about the Japanese way of treating their workers and the effective procedures they adapt to solve the conflicts at work place. Perhaps it is always necessary for the western society to take a leaf from their in managing their own people. PURPOSE It is necessary to know more about the various dimensions and variables of human resource management and how it should deal with the conflict management. In every organisation conflict management procedure is absolutely necessary, because if conflict management is not effective or is not according to the style and perspective of the company's work, the small problems could branch out into bigger issues and shake the very structure of the organisation. Hence, a study on human resources conflict management is necessary from all the points of view. METHODOLOGY This study depends on the secondary sources like connected books, journals, reports, case studies and sources from the internet. There will not be any primary research in the shape of personal and face to face interviews. This also could be called the limitations of the project. DISCUSSION "Conflict persists at all levels of contemporary corporate life, including the top. Yet conflict rarely escapes the boundaries of executive contexts to escalate into large-scale public disputes or firings the kinds of events that receive widespread media attention," Morrill (1995, p.1). Resolving conflict situations is definitely not an easy task and needs patience, understanding, kindness and more than that, a set of procedures. It is imperative that the person should be a skilled communicator, who can create an open communication environment, where both the parties feel comfortable and ready to discuss the matter. Listening to the complaints of both the sides is the first procedure in solving any complaint. It is also important to keep an open mind while listening or discussing. It is necessary to venture into discussion only after the complete matter and the diverse viewpoints are totally understood by the negotiator. It is necessary for

Campus Culture, Vision, Conflict Resolution, or Campus Improvement Essay

Campus Culture, Vision, Conflict Resolution, or Campus Improvement - Essay Example The key points in the article â€Å"Conflict Ð ¡oaching: Conflict management strategies and skills for the individual† are the two methods of solving problems which are the coercive and the noncoercive methods. It enhances the fact that, most of the conflicts come up as a result of institutions or organizations having individuals from different cultures and working towards the same goal or vision. Biasness is what causes conflicts and can either lead to improved campuses with the best vision. It brings out the notion that solving conflicts through noncoercive method is the best method. As a leader, the researcher is called to solve different conflicts that occur on campuses. Therefore, the knowledge on different types of conflicts and how to resolve them is an added advantage for my leadership skills. No biases can be involved in the process of conflict resolution. The researcher would recommend this article to all the leaders who do not know how to handle conflicting issues since it gives guidelines on how to manage a conflict through different stages and gives accurately the possible outcomes of each step carried out. The article â€Å"Continuous school improvement† talks about administration qualities which can lead to enhancing the vision of campuses. It gives direction on how to integrate different scenario in the effort of achieving the vision of an institution. The key point from the article is that all the proposed ideas must be integrated to fit into the vision of an institution. All factors must be considered for a vision to be achieved in the right manner, hence the need for integrated systems. The researcher would recommend this article to all the administrators who need tips on how to work towards a vision and achieve it. This is because; most of the ideas brought out are very handy for administrators as they look into the qualities of a good administrator and the ways administrators should handle different situations in order to ach ieve a particular goal. The article â€Å"Building the academic deanship: Strategies for success† has new ideas that campuses have not yet discovered especially in offering the best academic practices in more practical ways. The practical way of learning is the best form of getting more skilled personnel in the professional industries and work sector.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

MANAGING HUMAN RESOURCES DISCUSS THE ROLE OF PROCEDURE IN MANAGING Essay

MANAGING HUMAN RESOURCES DISCUSS THE ROLE OF PROCEDURE IN MANAGING BOTH INDIVIDUAL AND COLLECTIVE CONFLICT IN ORGANISATION - Essay Example These are common problems in smaller and bigger organisations with varying degrees of significance; but they could never be ignored. Very few organisations could overlook the need of human resource management today. When a group of people are working for the better part of the day, every day, day after day, together, at the same place, dealing with the same issues, it is not surprising that individual and collective conflicts take place in the world sphere. It becomes part of the daily management to deal with these kind of unpleasant skirmishes; nevertheless, it is also important to manage them correctly so that the managing itself should not leave a residue that would create further problems for not only the individual workers, but also for the organisation itself. Every organisation has realised how important it is to have pleasant situations at the working place and how imperative it is to please the worker. Workers too have understood that never-ending conflicts can bring unpleas antness, mental turmoil, continuous annoyance, loss of efficiency and job and hence, opportunities. So, when both the sides are more understanding, it is not very difficult to adapt some procedures that would deal with any eventuality. We have heard a lot about the Japanese way of treating their workers and the effective procedures they adapt to solve the conflicts at work place. Perhaps it is always necessary for the western society to take a leaf from their in managing their own people. PURPOSE It is necessary to know more about the various dimensions and variables of human resource management and how it should deal with the conflict management. In every organisation conflict management procedure is absolutely necessary, because if conflict management is not effective or is not according to the style and perspective of the company's work, the small problems could branch out into bigger issues and shake the very structure of the organisation. Hence, a study on human resources conflict management is necessary from all the points of view. METHODOLOGY This study depends on the secondary sources like connected books, journals, reports, case studies and sources from the internet. There will not be any primary research in the shape of personal and face to face interviews. This also could be called the limitations of the project. DISCUSSION "Conflict persists at all levels of contemporary corporate life, including the top. Yet conflict rarely escapes the boundaries of executive contexts to escalate into large-scale public disputes or firings the kinds of events that receive widespread media attention," Morrill (1995, p.1). Resolving conflict situations is definitely not an easy task and needs patience, understanding, kindness and more than that, a set of procedures. It is imperative that the person should be a skilled communicator, who can create an open communication environment, where both the parties feel comfortable and ready to discuss the matter. Listening to the complaints of both the sides is the first procedure in solving any complaint. It is also important to keep an open mind while listening or discussing. It is necessary to venture into discussion only after the complete matter and the diverse viewpoints are totally understood by the negotiator. It is necessary for

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

I can't believe that this was once a syllabus Essay

I can't believe that this was once a syllabus - Essay Example This system was firmly rooted on the belief that, for a successful learning and teaching to be aptly upheld, scientific study methods must be put into consideration. Through the application of these scientific methods by Tyler on students in various primary, college and tertiary levels, he singled out the critical evaluation of these students’ behaviours. The principles of the curriculum and instruction was later portrayed as the most appropriate and effective way of educational achievement and failure within students. This was brought into existence by this great qualitative and quantitative researcher after as well into appraisals and records of the students’ performance. This research paper explains the basic principles of curriculum and instruction by Ralph W. Tyler. It also illustrates the new knowledge, validity of his research as well as the application of the recommendations of this syllabus in the contemporary American social settings. The settings are in relat ion to the macro-society based on the educational institutions new knowledge in regard to Ralph syllabus. The new knowledge in the contemporary world, while considering Tyler’s principles and instructions provides a valid evidenced based research by students. It as well enhances effectiveness regarding the progress of students towards educational objectives appropriately and in a well organised manner. The American history of curriculum though started from a primitive syllabus has over the years developed into a more complex one. The curriculum in the contemporary America has developed various considerations into the education system where all the students express their views in terms of what they feel is good for them career wise. This is one of the education techniques Tyler advocates for in his principles of curriculum and instructions. He believes every student is entitled to the profession of his/her choice, therefore, argues that the selection of an evaluation technique should be made in relation to the suitability and not inappropriateness of the technique or the kind of behaviour in the appraisal system. The learning techniques major determinant in the new knowledge generation in the United States is majorly students’ behaviour and attitude towards a subject or even the entire system of education. This was the initial belief of Tyler while putting down his research work on the basic principles of curriculum and instructions for the primary, secondary and tertiary education systems in the United States. In the contemporary American society, the education system is objective based. This is where the students are given freedom by the curriculum based on the selection of their subjects’ career wise. This is one of the greatest milestones covered towards the implementations of Ralph’s curriculum and instructions in the American education system. The new knowledge in America, in continuation, is of the following basic principles b rought into existence by Ralph: the principle of establishment of a useful learning experience and the principle of defining effective and appropriate learning objectives. The other principle includes the evaluation of the curriculum and revising the aspects of the syllabus that have not been effective throughout the whole academic year. Lastly the principle of the organisation of the learning skills to be in line with at least a maximum cumulative effectiveness is among

Monday, October 14, 2019

Marketing strategies in different markets of ferrari

Marketing strategies in different markets of ferrari The sports car brand Ferrari when focused, I analyzed their success and marketing strategies in different markets, one the German and second Italian market and worldwide. For information I used business theories such as the product life cycle, marketing mix, analysis of positioning and segmentation. These two large economically stable countries are different; Ferrari does not make many differences in the way of selling cars. The company being recognized by its rearing- stallion logo is up to speed. The Italian Co. volume sales to build its status brand by producing 6,400 high-performance sports cars a year, with the initial price about $140,000. GT and sports model include models like Spider, Scaglietti and Ferrari California. The companys F1 model brings Ferrari drivers close to the racing experience. Since 1947, the exclusive cars have been manufactured in Maranello, Italy and sold through strategically selected dealerships. Fiat S.p.A group holds 85% stake in Ferrari , Piero Ferra ri, son of Ferraris founder, owns 10%. Throughout the history of the company it has been noted for its continuous participation in racing mainly on Formula 1 where they have achieved great success. For the growth the company has launched a Ferrari World Theme Park in Abu Dhabi in the year 2010 which is also leading them to gain profits as people are attracted towards it. The sales have been increasing at an increasing rate from 2004-2008, in 2008 they had performed above average with a record breaking sales of above 6587 cars in a year for the first time, as result their turnover increased by 16% while the profit has been increased by ravishing 75%. But due recession hitting in fall 2008, the sales volume drastically fell by 85% in November 2008 (the sales reduced to 92 cars from 600 cars a month). As a result in 2009 there has been a fall in sales, turnover and profit. INTRODUCTION The history of Ferrari is incomplete without mentioning that Enzo Ferrari worked for Alfa Romeo from 1920-1929, after which he raced for another 10years for Alfas. From the time he was 12 he knew he wanted to be a race driver, the dream which he achieved at Alfa and adopted the cavallino, or prancing horse, insignia for his Alfa race car. In 1929 Enzo left Alfa to start his privately owned Alfa Romeo racing team known as Scuderia Ferrari in Modena. Scuderia Ferrari did not race cars with the name Ferrari; the Ferrari shop built its first car in Modena in 1937 the Alfa Romeo 158 Grand Prix Racer. The first championship they got was in 1952-1953 season. Ferrari started making sports cars in order to finance his Grand Prix and Le Mans adventures. Ferrari headed the company until he stepped down in 1971 and died in his hometown of Modena. His name is the most famous in motor sports. In 1952 the emblem of the prancing horse was created which is still used today. THE MARKET ENVIORNMENT:- The geographical market: in todays market Ferrari is facing tough competitors like Lamborghini, Porsche, BMW and Aston Martin. To survive in the market the competitors try and make highly innovative designs and high quality performance. They are in an automotive industry and have a subsidiary type of business and it was started by Enzo Ferrari. The headquarters of Ferrari are located in Maranello, Italy. It had remarkable revenue à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1,921 million (2008). The owners of Ferrari are Fiat group 85%, Mubadala Development Company 5%. PEST-G analysis:- Political: the environmental protection laws in the company have come out with launching eco-friendly system in the car which will reduce pollution in the atmosphere, which politically will affect the taxation system as the consumers demand will increase. Economic: in the economic conditions Ferrari tries to be successful and profitable at any time because it affects its capital cost and demand. The timing and relative success of the company can be influenced by the economic conditions. The government decision plays an important role in the companys progress. Social: it depicts the demand and taste of the consumer demanded by the company which varies with the fashion and disposable income. Ferrari organization should be aware of the demographic changes such as the structure of the population by ages, affluence, regions and numbers working. Technology: the company tries to launch the latest technology for its automobiles as a competitive advantage for itself but it should keep in mind that technological breakthroughs can create new industries which might prove a treat to itself. On the other hand new technology could provide a useful input, in both manufacturing and service industries. THE COMPETITION The main competitors: in the market of Ferrari the competitors it faces are Lamborghini, BMW, Porsche and Aston Martin which has better performance and color and high quality maintenance Ferrari could face tough competition in the following. Sales and profit trend: The Middle Eastern and Far Asian sales of the competitive company has increased from 15.0-21.8% and also increased the unit sales from 2406-2430, which means the growth of 1%. The profit reports a decrease in worldwide sales for the first six months of the financial year 2009, in spite of which the company is still maintaining overall profitability among the major markets. Market Share: the company car tax efficiency, class-leading residual values and whole life costs have resulted in competitors winning a record share of the UK contract hire and leasing market. The competitors share of market has reached an all-time high of 8.8%-2.7% points up on the previous results. Target Markets: the competitors target market is upper-class people with high level of income. They focus on a person who mostly looks for luxury. In the future automobiles will have tough competition for selling the most environmental friendly vehicles. THE COMPANY Sales and profit trend: Ferrari announced a significant increase in both profits and sales for the second quarter of 2010, driven by the success of two new models, the California and 485, as well as demands for Ferrari 599 GTO. Revenue rose 8.6% year on year to EUR488m Euro and vehicle unit sales were 2.6% up at 1,615 units. Trading profit was up 10% to EUR77m. Market share: the companys total sales were 3,226 cars for customers around the world but it was 8% less compared to the year 2008. The market share price was up but was low on sales as the share increased by 10 to 32.8% in 2009. Business sector: the company was found in 1947 by Enzo Ferrari in Italy. They had highest sales was in the year 2008 despite seeing the period of recession. It has achieved one of the highest awards which were in the year 1997 (FCA) which was given in the annual meet, it also achieved the Platino Award for its reorganization. Project focus: the product of the company is an automobile, the brand name is Ferrari, it has launched models such as- Ferrari 308 GT4, Ferrari 550 Maranello, Ferrari 360 Modena Spider, Ferrari Challenge Stardale, Ferrari 430 Monza and many more. Their main segment is focused on F1 races. It mostly races in Italian and Australian Grand Prix. SWOT analysis :- STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES Extremely strong brand image Takes on new challenges on a constant basis Innovation Technology are key drivers behind the product Is looked upon as a status symbol. Ferraris business model, based around low volumes, removes the possibility of employing certain technological solutions Some models also limit their sales volumes even though a lot more demand is present in the market Due to their waiting list model, they lose out on customers to the competition A big challenge lying in wait is fuel efficiency emissions which are growing in importance every day, OPPERTUNITIES THREATS Growth in global market for high-performance super-cars due to growing economies developing nations Expansion of the brand through entering into new important automotive markets like India wherein competitors like Porsche have already set up base Enlargement of customer base maintaining Ferrari characteristics-performance, style and exclusivity. Development of technology has opened up new avenues to explore for their products. Tough competition from other iconic super car brands like Lamborghini Porsche. Automotive policies being pushed by countries continents all over the world which are being strictly enforced like the emission norms of 130g/km of CO2 are very difficult to keep up with due to the performance oriented nature of the engines built by Ferrari A competing brand like Porsche does not follow the same low volumes, high on exclusivity model which is followed by Ferrari hence sells a lot more of its products. THE COMPANYS MARKETING STRATEGY Segmentation:- demographic segmentation defines market accordingly White / Caucasian 89% Age 51.5 Married 83% Total in household- 2.94 Total of children 0.75 Education 79% Psychological Segmentation identifies market according to lifestyle characteristics Targeting: the identification of target markets based on the regional, urban, or rural locations of the customers. The company has different models of vehicles to help each individual accomplish a safe drive where ever they are coming from. Positioning: Ferrari is a car in the Super Luxury sub- category and is distinctly more expensive compared to the luxury cars such as BMW, Lexus and Mercedes. It is probably the only car maker that never worries at competition price its name is unmatchable. It is one of a kind automobile that doesnt need to be compared to other brands since it has a well-developed name in the cars market. The latest innovation is the 360 Modena, the 360 Modena combines Ferrari heritage with innovation. Differentiation/Low Cost Leadership/Focus: it is a unique automotive which painted in race red as this was the customary national racing color of Italy. The company is currently focusing on its own performance in Abu Dhabi. Growth strategy: the company opens an office in Dubai airport free zone, sales have been in double digits in the last couple of years. It is only natural to open a regional office in Dubai which is experiencing rapid economic growth along with the UAE and the entire Gulf region. THE MARKETING MIX Product:- Vehicles of high performance Carrazzeria Scagliette- program to allow clients to personalizing their cars A statement of class. Price: least expensive Ferrari: 360 Modena-$170,200 and most expensive Ferrari: Enzo- $700,000. Place:- 1 location in Vancouver 2 locations in Toronto 1 location in Montreal Location in Yorkville and Woodbridge Promotion:- F1 advertise through their use of F1 race car Brochure information about the different models. Reputation Relay on words of mouth, since the car meets a small amount of societies demand( cost)they expect customers who have interest to visit a dealership for more information Ferrari knows well of their clients. People, processes, physical evidence:- the 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia would be headline news from any car company since it is an attempt to bring forward the concept of an exotic sports car into an age more conscious of efficiency EVALUATION OF THE COMPANYS STATEGIES AND TACTICS Evaluation of the companys current position: currently the company has closed the quarter with a trading profit of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬39 million. The decline was attributable on one side, to a less favorable product mix and, on the other hand, to the fact that newly -released F458 Italia provided a limited contribution for the period. The success of 8- cylinder models continued in the first quarter of 2010, with numerous awards and recognitions being received by the California and the F458 Italia. Evidence of the companys success:- Ferrari SpA, the maker of the $228,000 California supercar, will increase profit by more than 10% this year , helped by a surge in demand in emerging markets, said Chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo. Ferraris earnings before interest, taxes and one-time gains / losses, or trading profit increased by 10% to 77 million Euros in second quarter as the revenues increased. China sales increased 20% in the first half. The company was also successful in launching the Ferrari Theme Park in Abu Dhabi. Prospects for future growth/success: the luxury car maker company plans to start selling in India in the beginning of the year.2012 Ferrari 458 Italia Spider is the future model to be launched although it hasnt been officially announced, an open-up version of the 458 Italia is on its way in 2011 and the 2013, the final addition to the Italia lineup will be the Scuderia track model, which will leave behind some luxury in return for less weight improved performance. BCG MATRIX The company is large enough to be organized into strategic business sector facing the challenge. Cash cows: Ferrari has a vast market share in a slow growing industry. Cash cows require investment and generate cash which can be used to invest in other business units. Star: the company is leading in the high growth markets. They are generating huge amount of cash from the F1 races and have also used cash for launching new projects. Question marks: the company did not achieve a dominant market position, and do not generate much cash. Due to growth of the market they use most of the cash. The company by launching new sports cars and taking part in races is a rapidly growing market. Dogs: comparing to the Ferrari company sports cars other company cars have little future as they gain less cash by virtue of their low market share. CONCLUSION By analyzing the above report I can conclude the company is doing good as its sales and profit are good even in this time of recession compared to other competitive companies (i.e Lamborghini, Porsche, Maserati etc). Also their future projects are interesting which will attract the young generation. Ferrari achieves most of its success from the Formula 1 races by wining many awards, and also they have been successful in their recent launch of the Theme Park and aiming to launch more in other countries APPENDICES

Sunday, October 13, 2019

Comparison Certified Nursing Assistants versus Licensed Practical Nurse

Comparison Why would anyone be in the healthcare field? First, there are different types of positions available. Second, this is a very rewarding career for those who enjoy caring for others. Although, most people think there are a lot of differences between certified nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses, they share the same type of work, working conditions and job outlook. The nature of the work is very similar for the C.N.A. and L.P.N. A C.N.A. work includes performing routine tasks under the supervision of nursing staff. They answer call bells, deliver messages, serve meals, make beds, and help patients eat, dress, and bathe. Aides also provide skin care to patients, take pulse, temperature, respiration, and blood pressure and help patients get in and out of bed and walk. They also escort patients to operating rooms, exam rooms, keep patient rooms neat, set up equipment, or store and move supplies. Aides observe patient’s physical, mental, and emotional condition and report any change to the R.N. Likewise the L.P.N. provides basic bedside care. They take vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, restorations, and pulse. They also treat bedsores, prepare and give injections and enemas, apply dressings, apply ice packs and insert catheters. L.P.N.’s observe patients and report adverse reactions to medications or treatments to the R .N. or the doctor. They help patients with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene, and care for their emotional needs. ...

Saturday, October 12, 2019

Effect of Multiple Plots in The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver :: essays research papers

The Bean Trees, written by Barbara Kingsolver, uses multiple plots throughout the novel. At the beginning, two plots are introduced. One involves Missy/ Taylor, the protagonist in the story, and the other involves Lou Ann. Kingsolver unites these two plot by having them move in together. Other minor plots describe the life of other characters such as Estevan and Esperanza, Edna and Virgie, and Mattie. Multiple plots in The Bean Trees increase suspense and depth in the story. The main characters in The Bean Trees are Taylor and Lou Ann. The first chapter is about Missy leaving Kentucky to find a better life. This chapter is written is 1st person, with Missy being the narrator. She is a person that is tired of her boring life, she changes her name to Taylor, and wants an adventure. She leaves home and goes on a road trip across America. Before Taylor began her trip, she stated, ?And so what I promised myself is that I would drive west until my car stopped running, and there I would stay? (Kingsolver 16). She later continued on Tucson, Arizona. On her trip, a baby girl is abandoned with her by a Native American woman. She decides to take care of Turtle as her road trip goes on. Taylor now has someone to talk to during her trip. Unfortunately for Turtle, her life has been ?Tempest-Tossed? (301). In other words, her life hasn?t been trouble-free and she?s gone through many things. It is possible to predict that the bruises on her body when she was abandoned with Taylor, was from being molested. Half her time with Taylor was on the road, and she was adjusting to a new life. The second chapter is about Lou Ann?s dilemma with her husband, Angel. This is written in omniscient limited point of view. Lou Ann and Angel have a young baby boy, Dwayne Ray. These two plots meet when Taylor responds to Lou Ann?s advertisement about a room mate, and they move in together. This gave the novel a unique introduction with two plots going on as the readers endure the suspense. The novel seems to be set in one tiny area in Tucson. Lou Ann is heading home and has just pasted the Jesus.Is.Lord?s and Fanny Heaven, when the narrator creates a clear picture of the area: ?She rounded the corner and stopped to do some grocery shopping at the Lee Sing Market, which faced the park directly across from where she and Angel lived?

Friday, October 11, 2019

Ethanol Production from Banana Peels Essay

Abstract: This study entitled â€Å"Ethanol Production from Waste Banana Peelings† aims to produce an alternative way in producing energy. Production of green energy from waste material has played an important role in recent days due to the depletion of non-renewable energy resources. Ethyl alcohol commonly called as Ethanol, is found useful widely as an alternative fuel for engines. In view of the growing demand of the ethanol, search of an alternative source for its production has also been increased. Banana is one of the most familar and widely used fruit. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, India is the largest banana producing nation. Many items like banana chips, juice, banana cue are made from banana. After the consumption of the flesh, the peelings are just thrown as garbage with no use. India is facing two major problems, energy crisis and proper waste disposal. So, we are here with an idea of using that waste peelings to produce ethanol to help for its increasing demand in the present situation. Method: The production of Ethanol from Banana peels involves two phases. i)Fermentation ii)Distillation The peels of nendran variety of bananas are taken as they are rich in cellulose and are kept in hot oven at 338K and dried sample is taken and is dissolved in hot water for starch extraction through soxhlet apparatus. This solution is treated with amylase enzyme for hydrolysis of starch to occur. It is the subjected to fermentation process by inoculation of S.cerevisiae for 3 days at 300K which results in the production of ethanol. Ethanol from the solution is extracted by the Steam distillation which is the most efficient of all the distillation processes. Steam is supplied from the top of the flask in which ethanol solution is present and the ethanol vapours are collected from another outlet and are cooled to obtain ethanol. Result: For 320 gm of dried sample, this yields 18.36% of the ethanol production. The main advantage of Ethanol is its organic origins. Ethanol does burn cleaner than gasoline and also doesnot contain significant amounts of toxic materials like lead and benzene.When Ethanol of 15% when blended with 75% of gasoline is used for vehicles, it emits less amount of toxic substances comparatively. Conclusion: This experiment finds an effective bio-waste that could be converted into ethanol to help relieve the dependency on oil and the environment. Banana peel is a wastage material by using it we can produce more ethanol because it has more sugar when compared to other household bio-wastages. This also meets the need of energy crisis as well as a solution for the disposal of waste materials. Bibliography: www.techtop.in/asset http://www.sciencedirect.com http://region3.dost.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=402:ethanol-production-from-waste-banana-peelings-&catid=15:chemistry&Itemid=45

Thursday, October 10, 2019

English Comentary on Macbeth Essay

How does Shakespeare create tension in scene two using language, themes and stage directions? In act two scenes two Shakespeare creates tension with Language, themes and stage direction. As the plot unravels both the audience and Macbeth and Lady Macbeth experience suspense. He can portray this suspense through language; he uses one syllable words and imperative verbs. Tension is very important in act two scene two because it portrays the full effect the murder has on Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. Shakespeare also uses Sounds and actions to amplify the suspense creating more tension. At the start of act two scene two Lady Macbeth uses lots of words with one syllable for example; â€Å"That which hath made them drunk hath made me bold† that’s is Lady Macbeth’s first line and all of those words are one syllable words and so on for the next two lines. Using these words it creates fear. In this section she also says ‘What hath quenched them hath given me fire.’ This quote gives us a different view on Lady Macbeth because before this Lady Macbeth was strong and was willing to kill Duncan for power, but this quote humanizes Lady Macbeth. This creates tension because we realize as a reader that Lady Macbeth is fearful and not confident for what is about to happen. Once Macbeth enters the room his first line is â€Å"I have done the deed. Didst thou not hear a noise?† this quote is the falling action because Macbeth has finally killed king Duncan. Fear is seen in Macbeth because he is worried if anyone heard him. Euphemism is used, again to alleviate the impact. Lady Macbeth then responds with â€Å"I heard the owl scream and the crickets cry.† At this point in time animals were seen as bad omens. So we fear that Lady Macbeth and Macbeth will be boundless. Shakespeare also uses stage directions to amplify the whole scene for example after Macbeth killed Duncan he looks at his hand and how they are covered in blood. This makes Macbeth look weak and he says it is a â€Å"foolish sight† as if what he had done was a mistake. Throughout the scene Lady Macbeth leaves the room to fix Macbeth’s mistake and there is a knocking within and then lady Macbeth enters. This is a very important part of the play because it is where Macbeth and Lady Macbeth ar joined as one. â€Å"My hands are of your colour† this quote emphasises their relationship. And again there is a knocking within and another and another. And finally on the last knock Macbeth says â€Å"Wake Duncan with thy knocking! I would thou couldst! â€Å"

Wednesday, October 9, 2019

Employee Benefit and Google Essay

Google, Inc. was ranked by Fortune magazine as the best place in the U.S. to work in 2009, and it has reached another zenith by becoming the most popular Web site. Google, Inc.’s goal of providing benefits and rewards is to â€Å"strip away everything that gets in our employees’ way† (Google, 2009). Google, Inc. provides a standard package of fringe benefits, but on top of that are first-class dining facilities, gyms, laundry rooms, massage rooms, haircuts, carwashes, dry cleaning, commuting buses – just about anything a hardworking employee might want. Schmitt states, â€Å"Let’s face it: programmers want to program, they don’t want to do their laundry. So we make it easy for them to do both† (Google, 2009). Google believes in providing both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards. They understand that many humans are not motivated by pay incentives alone. Google Inc. believes in administering rewards and that good company culture is vital to company success, therefore, Google hired a Culture Czar. Google, Inc.’s CCO, Chief Culture Czar, Stacy Sullivan, is devoted to one thing—make Googlers happy. One way of maintaining Google, Inc.’s culture and keeping employees happy is administering the best perks and rewards (Culture, 2009). Along with its compensation and traditional extrinsic benefits such as free health and dental benefits, flex spending accounts, 401K plans, insurance, tuition reimbursement, and vacation packages, they also have very unique benefits. These unique benefits include maternity benefits up to 18 weeks off at approximately 100% pay. In addition, new mothers and fathers get Take-Out Benefits to help make things easier. They are provided with expenses up to $500 for take-out meals during the first three months that they are home with their new baby. Additionally, Google, Inc. provides back-up child care and in the Gift Matching Program, Google, Inc. matches contributions of up to $3000 per year from eligible employees to non-profit organizations. With Adoption Assistance, Google, Inc. assists their employees by offering financial assistance in the adoption of a child. Google, Inc. will reimburse employees up to $5000 to use towards legal expenses. Free lunch and dinner from gourmet chefs create a wide variety of healthy and delicious meals every day. Got the munchies? Google, Inc. also offers snacks to help satisfy you in between meals. At Google headquarters in Mountain View, California employees have the convenience of seeing a doctor on-site. Google, Inc. is pleased to provide its Mountain View employees with free shuttles to several San Francisco, East Bay and South Bay locations. At Google headquarters in Mountain View, there is on-site oil change, car wash, dry cleaning, massage therapy, gym, hair stylist, fitness classes and bike repair. Google, Inc. will reimburse an employee for buying a hybrid car, up to $5000. Google, Inc. provides other benefits, too many to list, but one can assume that their full-time culture czar is not finished inventing new ways to reward employees (Google, 2009). More than the extrinsic rewards, people who choose to come to Google, Inc. come for other reasons besides just the outward perks and rewards. They come for freedom.