Consumer Behaviour Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Consumer Behaviour - Essay Example Phil Kotler defines â€Å"Atmospherics† as â€Å"the effort to design buying environments to produce specific emotional effects in the buyer that enhance his or her purchase probability.† The majority of the American public is unaware that they are spending more or less time in stores, moving slower or faster through the aisles, and purchasing items that have no concrete value to them because their unconscious is being told to make decisions contrary to that which they desire. Atmospherics create an illusion that stores try to sustain throughout the consumer’s shopping experience. In â€Å"Marketing of the Mind†, the authors argue that people visit a mall solely for its disorientating effect; they call it a â€Å"vacation from the senses, much like drinking alcohol.† (Walsh, Brown. â€Å"Media Literacy for the Unconscious Mind†. The Journal of New Media & Culture. Winter 2002, Vol.1, No.1). Storeowners attempt to influence consumers by creating an innovative store layout. Victor Gruen is accredited with conceiving an ideal environment for a shopping mall. Departmental stores, which were the main impetus to go to malls, are placed at opposite ends of the interior walkway – the logic being that consumers must pass all of the smaller shops when traversing between them. Along with climatic control, a lack of clocks, and centrally controlled lighting, the consumer loses all sense of direction, time of day and duration of his or her stay; the consumer’s eye literally becomes glazed over, and he or she loses the ability to make economically realistic decisions. Parking is often located underneath the store’s premises, so consumers cannot determine where in the store they are making their entrance, which adds to their disorientation. The shopping environment is thus transformed from a relatively neutral place to one that harbors numerous stimuli that urge

The Key Roles of the Central Bank in an Economy Assignment

The Key Roles of the Central Bank in an Economy - Assignment Example The supervision factor impelled the expansion of the official control and assessment of banks (Masciandaro, 2005). Recently, the oversight function has been changed to other agencies from the central bank. The following explains the roles of Central Bank of different countries. It is the defining characteristics of the central bank. The central banks undertake decision –making and implementation of monetary policies. However, different nations have different extensive and the responsibility assigned to the independent central bank (Schinasi, 2003). The central bank role of setting monetary policies is critically autonomous though not completely autonomous as it undertakes the implementation and decision-making stages of the monetary policy function (Al-Sabah, 1997). Therefore, the national government contributes in a certain process of monetary policy. In respect to monetary policy, the central bank is the only body that has the instrument autonomy. The Eurosystem, central ban ks governors from different nations participate in an ex officio ability in the monetary policy process. The countries central banks jointly make a decision regarding monetary policy, therefore, national central banks do not make independent decisions (Al-Sabah, 1997). As compared to the monetary policy the central bank has complete autonomy concerning the implementation of exchange rate policy (Al-Sabah, 1997). Criteria used in decision-making sometimes political direction. Since exchange controls were built principally as exchange rate devices, these instruments have been allocated to the central bank although it could be done by tax authorities. Responsibilities regarding financial stability are considered an essential role of the central bank. The central bank is considered to have a full responsibility for ensuring financial stability and acts as financial system oversight body (Johnson, 1997).

Music Production

Music Production Music Production: 1.What are the issues concerning file formats, size and quality when exporting a finished track from Logic/Cubase? There are several issues to consider when exporting a finished track from a DAW, the major one being the destination of a piece of music. Be it CD, Vinyl or I Tunes they all have their own format issues. To store digital audio the audio voltage is sampled which, on playback, corresponds to a certain levels of signal in an individual channel, with the resolution (sample rate) you chose to use. This data can then be stored uncompressed or compressed to reduce the size, naturally even though a huge 94khz 32 bit file would sound amazing, it would be huge and for stuff like websites or for people to store on their I tunes the size needs to be compressed. DAWs like Logic or Cubase have options when you export as to which format you want. For mastering for vinyl there are many issues, lets start with the basics. The volume of your record is directly linked to the total time of each side. This means if you intend to have it played in clubs by DJs, the most time per side should be around 12-13 minutes for 12† records. When the side length is less than 9 minutes, the loudness will be at the maximum for 33 1/3 rpm cuts. However for every minute over 13 minutes per side, you lose about 1 db in volume on the side in most cases. This is noticeable when a vinyl is pressed with two tracks on each side therefore comprising on volume and you also get the so-called â€Å"S† distortion (sibilance). When the master has too much high frequency on vocal â€Å"S†, â€Å"T†, and â€Å"F† sounds, it will end up overloading on playback, causing noticeable distortion. This also happens when hi-hats, cymbals, and any high frequency sounds that are in your mixes are too hot. This can also mean the louder yo ur record is cut, the worse the problem will be. The same applies for bass and if you have a track with heavy sub bass that has been mastered badly the bass can eat up all the headroom in the mix and also heavy bass cuts a bigger groove into the vinyl taking up more space. So you can have all the fun you want for compact disc mixing. But for vinyl mixes, its suggested by mastering companies to not add compression or any digital processing, leave the mix for vinyl production as untouched as possible. For CD the issues are that you need stereo 16 bit 44.1 kHz files (the format for CD audio) they require about 5 MB of disk space per channel per minute. So for example, 2 minutes of CD audio requires 20 MB of disk space. 2 channels times 5 MB times 2 minutes = 20 MB. Using a greater bit rate or sample rate will increase the disk space required, and will also increase demands on the computers hard drive and processor. CD mastering engineers recommend they will need a mix that peaks at -3dB. The whole mix should not be compressed, unless by a very experienced engineer using a very good compressor. Too many mixes are submitted to that have been over-compressed using a cheap plug-in. This cannot be removed. As far as archiving and storing your completed project safely and properly, first of all back up your project on to external hard drives being sure to collect all the samples and consolidate each time you save. As far as which file format to use there is one major uncompressed audio format, PCM, which is usually stored as a â€Å".wav† on Windows or as â€Å".aiff† on Mac OS. WAV and AIFF are flexible file formats designed to store more or less any combination of sampling rates or bitrates. This makes them suitable file formats for storing and archiving an original recording. By storing your project in this format you can load it up again and export a compressed or mastered version for different destinations. References: http://www.wikirecording.org/File_formats#Audio http://www.urpressing.com/advice.php http://www.littlebazaar.co.uk/pages/digital-audio-cd-mastering.php 2.Use an imaginary budget of  £3000 for each, put together an equipment list for two possible computer based recording setups: a permanent PC based studio/home setup for an artist/producer working largely alone, and a mobile Mac based setup for recording bands. Evaluate the software and hardware options for each, and the specifications and performance of the desktop/laptop you choose. Portable I have gone for the cheapest macbook in the â€Å"pro† range as it offers better performance and room to upgrade, (the basic macbook doesnt even come with firewire!) I chose the Focusrite soundcard as I know there stable from my research and there reasonably priced. For software I chose Logic Pro as it goes hand in hand with the macbook and offers many recording features and easily handles recording multiple channels and can be used to mix a track without the need for a desk. For microphones I have chosen the best for the money and tried to cover all recording needs. I have also selected some good quality budget headphones for the engineer and the band as well as all the necessary leads I could think of and still come under  £3000. 1 x 13-inch Macbook Pro: 2.26GHz =  £918 Intel Core 2 Duo 2GB Memory 160GB hard drive SD card slot Built-in 7-hour battery NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics card. 1 x Focusrite Saphire Pro 24 Firewire Soundcard =  £250 FireWire Interface Excellent routing flexibility and rock-solid driver stability. Two award-winning Focusrite pre-amps JetPLLâ„ ¢ jitter elimination technology I/O options: Two additional analogue inputs, six analogue outputs, ADAT inputs (for expanding the interface with, for example, Focusrites OctoPre), stereo SPDIF I/O and 2 virtual ‘loopback inputs Front panel 5-LED metering Zero-latency 18 x 8 DSP Mixer/Router software provided with Saffire PRO 24 Software: Logic Pro =  £150 Mics: 1 x AKG D112 =  £115 (The D 112 can handle high sound pressure levels making it perfect for Kick Drum recording) 2 x Shure SM58 =  £192 (classic industry standard used for all sorts of situations) 1 x Rhode NTK =  £379 (Valve Condenser Microphone for high-end recording applications, great for vocals) 1 x AKG C414 =  £525 (quality mic especially used for accurate, beautifully-detailed pickup of any acoustic instrument) Headphones: 1 x Sennheiser HD 25 Mk2headphones (for the producer/engineer) =  £150 â€Å" probably the most popular Pro headphones on the market. The HD25 Mk2 headphones have high quality closed cups help reproduce a superb all round sound. Features detatchable lead and comfortable headband† decks.co.uk 3 x AKG K99 =  £105 (less expensive so there are plenty to go around for band members etc.) Leads: 10 x XLR to XLR Microphone Lead. XLR male connector to XLR female connector. Two core screen cable 6mm diameter. Length 6M =  £8.12 each Top of Form 5 x XLR Jack Mic lead with XLR and 6.35mm jack connections. 10.0m length =  £9.45 each Bottom of Form Total =  £2912.45p References www.dv247.com www.akg.com www.store.apple.com/uk-storehttp://tweakheadz.com/ Permanent PC Based Studio/home setup for an artist/producer working largely alone For this setup I have focused on the idea that if the artist/producer was largely working alone at home, the best solution would be the sort of deal they offer at â€Å"Sonica Labs† one of the biggest retailers of high end custom built PCs designed to the best specifications (money permitting). If I had  £3000 to spend on a setup for home that would sound superb and enable me to do professional quality mixes and tracks I would go for this which is the cheapest option of this model from the Sonica Labs website, I know a lot of big producers use these and coupled with the RME Firewire soundcard, the UAD plugins card and Pro Tools you would have more than enough to keep you going. Although the  £3000 didnt allow for any monitors which if your serious can cost another  £3000 so I didnt even go there which I appreciate might be wrong but I really feel this deal would be the one to go for in the circumstances. 1 x Sonica Labs 19† Rack Mount HUSH-QXR / XLR8 Workstation (including all the components listed below) Intel Quad Core / Core i7 920 2.66GHz 6GB DDR3 triple channel (3 x 2gig) Seagate 500GB, 32MB cache, 7200 RPM, SATA II 2 x Seagate 1000GB, 32MB cache, 7200 RPM, SATA II Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit (or 32bit) Blu-ray disc burner HD DVD-ROM / DVDRW / CDRW RME Fireface 400 Firewire Soundcard Universal Audio UAD-2 Solo plug in card Protools M-POWERED 8 for M-AUDIO music systems Total =  £3004 References www.shop-sonica.com 3.Research and write an analysis of how networking practices can impact on the process of music production? The creation of networks has been a massive development in the process of music production. It has meant the use of small networks in studios or offices where computers on a network can all access a server where they can have shared hard drives. This sort of networking is extremely useful in such situations like in an audio for media editing studio where a whole group of people working with a huge library of sounds that would never fit on one computer can all access it with optical leads and run the samples from the networked hard drive. However, the topic of networks also covers the biggest network in the world, which is the Internet. Since its creation, which was originally an idea by the American military to transfer secret information and later for some universities in America to have a way to share information between separate universities, the Internet has boomed to say the least. It now means that networks our part of all of our day to day lives. The Internet is a hot topic in the music industry and the idea of everyone with an Internet connection being able to access files and share information with everyone in the world and cover more territories than an old record label or shop could ever of dreamed of has caused the sale of physical mediums like CD and Vinyl to drop, and meant a lot of independent record shops and big chains having to shut down, alongside I tunes announcing in April 2008 that; â€Å"The iTunes ® Store (www.itunes.com) surpassed Wal-Mart to become the number one music retailer in the US, based on the latest data from the NPD Group*. With over 50 million customers, iTunes has sold over four billion songs and features the worlds largest music catalog of over six million songs.† Along with this in 2010 they announced the 10 Billionth download! It is clear to see that the Internet isnt going to go away and the thing that scares the record companies when it comes to illegal downloads is that its so hard to police, it is now the case that people will use file sharing networks online to share files that can include illegal content such as musicians albums, singles and even vocal accapellas. It can even be a case of an artist completing an album that has taken years to produce only to have it leaked a month before the official release. It can mean huge problems for artists and they will employ people to search the Internet for these very leaks. I think the future for me and my independent label is bright and that has a lot to do with the internet as we hold the view that if we release our stuff digitally for free then bring out select tracks that people like to mix on vinyl we can focus on getting income from the live shows we get booked for, it is nice to have a physical CD but the idea of digital and using social networking a nd forums along with our own website to promote and get our music out there is the best way for us. References http://www.apple.com http://www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au/resources/guides/g2/s2.htm

The Department of Psychology at State University Essay -- academic dis

The psychology department of State University is considered an academic discourse community. They have a stated purpose, requirements for membership, and exercise intercommunication techniques. Furthermore, they have shared common knowledge that they use to advance their discipline and attract new members. Eleanor Kutz, a leading expert in the field of language and literacy, argues that academic discourse communities differ from informal ones in the critical area of assumed shared knowledge. She states, â€Å"building on the assumed shared knowledge...affects how people participate in academic communities, including introductory ones† (Kutz 344). In other words, professors introduce basic concepts when students enter the community. These concepts are the foundation that will eventually give rise to greater functionality within the desired academic discipline. The purpose of the academic discourse community is to foster development of novice members and therefore, assurin g that the community has the resources to sustain itself. The purpose of my research stems from this concept of shared knowledge and how it relates to membership and survival. John Swales theorizes, â€Å"survival of the community depends on a reasonable ratio between novices and experts† (Swales 27). Building upon this notion, I aim to show how freshmen to professors are dependent upon one another and how this community achieves their purpose of shared common knowledge. I will do so by focusing on their modes of academic advancement, intercommunication techniques, and shared public goals. Additionally, my research also reveals insight on how a bachelor’s degree in psychology translates into employment. Methodology: Experiences, Observation, and Documen... ... feedback† (Swales 26). This function lends evidence to the idea that within any academic discourse community, there must be ways to pass on knowledge and feedback. This is the action that maintains life within the community. The exercise of passing on shared information allows the Department of Psychology to expand, stay relevant, attract new members, help the community, and function with unity to accomplish their stated purpose and goals. Works Cited Kutz, Eleanor. Exploring Literacy: A Guide to Reading, Writing, and Research. New York: Pearson/Longman, 2004. Print. "Many Opportunities for Psychology Students at Akron." The University of Akron : Psychology. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2014. . Swales, John M. Genre Analysis: English in Academic and Research Settings. Cambridge: Cambridge United Press, 1990. Print.

Multiple causes downed the challenger

The United States has always been proud of its space exploration endeavors.   NASA’s programs have always led the world in technology and performance.   In 1970, NASA began its Shuttle program which was meant to create reusable space shuttles rather than one-use shuttles.   They were successful in producing four models:   Columbia, Challenger, Discovery and Atlantis.   All was going well for NASA and its space shuttle program until January of 1986 when the Challenger exploded 73 seconds into the flight, killing all the crew. Since then, the shuttle program has been besieged by controversy, much of it stemming over the causes of the Challenger explosion.   Basically, reports and research now indicates that the explosion was caused by a deadly combination of mechanical failure and human miscalculation and poor decision-making. The Challenger liftoff was plagued with foreboding problems long before it actually was launched.   Initially, liftoff was scheduled for 3:43 pm on January 22, 1986.   However, delays in both scheduling and weather forecasts forced it back nearly a week.   During the last day of delays, a small closing fixture was malfunction, so it was replaced.   Additionally, a module which detects fire was found to be malfunctioning; the crew fixed it as well before the shuttle finally lifted off into space, and then exploded (Green 2007). Officially, the investigative report pointed to a faulty â€Å"O-ring† seal in the solid-fuel rocket.   This faulty seal combined with the very cold weather to allow hot gas to leak into the hole.   Rocket flames were then able to penetrate the fuel tank and catch fire causing the booster rocket to break off of the shuttle and pierce the fuel tank.   The liquid hydrogen and oxygen then ignited, causing the Challenger to explode (Green 2007). A nation stood in horror as media broadcasts replayed the chilling scene over and over again. However, this mechanical failure did not receive the weight of the blame.   As the Reagan-ordered investigation continued, several human factors were uncovered in this tragedy.   For years, NASA’s programs had, like many other agencies, been forced to cut manpower and money from its programs. One researcher, James Sigler of the U.S. Naval Institute, noted that at the height of the shuttles missions, â€Å"NASA's leaders were emphasizing the importance of safety, while their personnel cutbacks sent other signals† and cites NASA’s motto –   faster, better, cheaper – as meaning that â€Å"cost efficiency goals [became] elevated to the level of†¦ safety goals† (Sigler, 2007). Fewer men and less money meant more work for those that did remain with fewer resources.   In fact, â€Å"the accident investigations in the wake of the Challenger disaster decried the paucity of resources allocated to support NASA's objectives† (Sigler, 2007).   Clearly, there was too much work and not enough manpower, resources, parts, or money to meet all of the objectives. Yet, despite these conditions, some engineers did warn NASA officials about the fateful launch.   Many engineers voiced concerns about the extremely cold temperatures and the possibility that the equipment could fail.   Apparently, two NASA officials were told of these concerns well before the flight: Joseph Kilminster had overruled five of his own engineers when they argued on a telephone conference call the night before the launch that the conditions were unsafe. The subfreezing temperatures at Cape Canaveral, the engineers told Kilminster, could cause a failure in the O-rings that protect the joints of Thiokol's solid rocket motors, which could lead to an explosion. The concerns were also rejected by NASA manager Lawrence Mulloy, who was in charge of the solid rocket boosters and was listening in on the debate   (Vartabedian, 2003). Sadly, this is exactly what happened.   Both officials are now retired from NASA. Of course, this sad occurrence goes beyond the doubtful opinions of two men.   It seemed that the entire attitude of NASA had suffered a bit of egoism. According to investigators, NASA, at that time, seemed to be â€Å"blinded by its ‘Can-Do' attitude, a cultural artifact†¦ that was inappropriate in a †¦ program so strapped by schedule pressures and shortages that spare parts had to be cannibalized from one vehicle to launch another† (Sigler, 2003).   James Oberg, a former NASA engineer, agrees:   â€Å"NASA managers made a bad call for the launch decision, and engineers who had qualms about the O-rings were bullied or bamboozled into acquiescence† (2006).   The men who knew the truth were asked to remain silent to preserve NASA’s reputation. It is rare that one cause can be attributed to a disaster as horrible as the Challenger explosion.   Here, investigators did find a mechanical failure, but soon learned that this failure had been detected.   Instead, the decision-makers chose to ignore the advice of engineers in an effort to preserve the already late launch date.   As a result, the explosion set up a new level of safety for NASA. â€Å"The entire space shuttle program was grounded during the Space Shuttle Challenger Commission's investigation and did not resume flying until shuttle designers made several technical modifications and NASA management implemented stricter regulations regarding quality control and safety† (Green, 2007).   On September 28, 1988, the shuttle missions started again with the flight of the shuttle Discovery.   Sadly, the entire tragedy had to be revisited with the 2003 explosion of the shuttle Columbia.   Hopefully, the lessons learned can be applied to future decisions in the NASA shuttle program. REFERENCES Greene, N. (2007). Challenger Disaster – A NASA Tragedy.   About.com.   Retrieved 12 December 2007 from http://space.about.com/cs/challenger/a/challenger.htm   Oberg, J. (2006).   7 Myths about the Challenger shuttle disaster. MSNBC.   January 27. Retrieved 11 December 2007 from http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11031097/ Sigler, J. (2007). Repeating NASA’s Deadly Mistakes. U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings 133.9: 48-52 Vartabedian, R. (2003). The Nation; Forgotten Lessons of Challenger Seen as Haunting NASA; Retired space officials say today's managers must, as a first step, take blame for Columbia loss. Los Angeles Times. Jul 28, 2003: A.1      

Is the american dream achievable? Essay

The American Dream: the image of a white picket fence house with a perfect family, two educated children, one girl and one boy and the mother and father both working without worrying about financials concerns. This is the typical example of the American Dream; it is called the stereotypical dream. The Oxford dictionary states that the American Dream is, â€Å"The traditional social ideals of the US, such as equality, democracy and material prosperity.† However, I firmly believe the American Dream is to be accepted, to be free and to be equal; overall the dream is to pursue personal happiness. I strongly believe that the American Dream was not attainable in the past, is not attainable in the present day and will not be attainable in the future. Immigration is a prime reason why the American Dream is unachievable. I feel that poorer individuals appreciate and make the most of the little things they have and this would suggest that their money worries does not affect their ‘dream’. I also believe, despite the fact they are struggling financially, they still put others before themselves, ensuring their children have the opportunity to lead a ‘better’ life, the chance they themselves never had. Immigrants strive to fit in with the US ‘crowd’ as they don’t want to be seen as different. Immigrants flock to America so that they too can grab a piece of the exciting, spectacular dream that they perceive that America offers. Individuals arrive in the USA expecting every day to be like the fourth of July. The harsh reality is far from it. In 2012, overall crime rates rose to roughly 10.2 million; America ‘the land of opportunity’ is home to nothing but crime. They then realised the world they had stepped into involved a lot of hard work with little rewards as the median household income is $50,502. [3: http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/American_Dream][4: http://www.disastercenter.com/crime/uscrime.htm][5: http://www.mybudget360.com/how-much-do-americans-earn-what-is-the-average-us-income/] The idea of the American Dream is that a person, no matter their race, class  or background has equal opportunity to succeed as they would stand or fall by their capability and accomplishments. I strongly believe equal opportunity in reality is non-existent as discrimination is widespread in the US. Both sexes compete against one another for power and command in the workplace; however, men are usually seen as the powerful gender as they are given the higher positions. Education is another issue within discrimination- the quality and quantity. Education has a long term impact on an individual as poor educational success impacts directly on employment prospects, poverty and limited ability to contribute to American society. Students from impoverished homes who attend racially segregated schools are often given exposure to the better standards of education and opportunities to forge good social networks, of the type that is usually enjoyed by students in weather predominately white schools. The wealthiest ten percent of US school boards spend almost ten times more than the poorest ten percent, demonstrating that not all schools have equal school resources. Unequal academic opportunities also occur; Blacks and Latino students scoring the same results as whites and Asians are less likely to be placed in fast track courses. I believe this evidence indicates that discrimination still exists in America today. Real equality means not judging a book by its cover, treating it differently because of what may look like or where it came from, none of that is important; it’s about the quality of the story within. For some the American Dream is having a successful job which brings financial security and a comfortable life. However, employment is a major concern in America as a significant number of Americans have given up job hunting or are only working part time. The number of unemployed Americans is currently 22.7 million; 12.3 million are unemployed and want work but have stopped the search, 2.4 million are working part time and 8 million can’t find full time employment. Roughly a quarter of Americans between the ages of eighteen to thirty are still living at home relying on their parents. The majority of Americans are on the brink of poverty because there aren’t enough jobs to go around. I passionately believe the American Dream will only remain a dream since having, or not having, money is a controlling factor. The final, compelling reason to why the American Dream is not achievable is the expensive health care system. America does not have an NHS system as is available to the UK citizens and they must ensure against  possible ill health- many simply can’t afford to do this. Therefore US national lives are in constant threat of increasing cost of health insurance. This is a worrying issue for the US government too; the latest statics from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that health care costs in America were around $147 billion to cover health complications from obesity alone. Being obese costs $6,454 per year. In twenty years experts predict that over half of American adults and the majority of children will become super-sized. In conclusion, I passionately believe the American Dream is not achievable due to the four key points which have been explored throughout the context; immigration, lack of equal opportunities, unemployment and health care. The Ame rican Dream emphasises being perfect, but perfection is not humanly possible and neither is this so called dream. Jasmine Chalk [6: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/inequality_in_a_workplace#cite_note-Devey-2][7: http://www.aecf.org/upload/publicationfiles/fact_sheet3.pdf][8: http://www.aecf.org/upload/publicationfiles/fact_sheet3.pdf][9: http://www.aecf.org/upload/publicationfiles/fact_sheet3.pdf][10: http://www.rpc.senate.gov/policy-papers/january-2013-unemployment-report][11: Young U.S. Adults Flock to Parents’ Homes Amid EconomyBy Kathy Warbelow & Frank Bass – Sep 25, 2012 5:01 AM GMT http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-09-25/young-adults-flock-to-parents-homes-amid-sour-economy.html][12: ‘Real Cost of Living’: Price tag for obesity is $6,454 a yearby Carmen Wong Ulrich (Perigee Trade, 2010) http://www.today.com/id/40844081/ns/today-today_books/t/real-cost-living-price-tag-obesity-year/#.UhZXwpJJOAg][13: ‘Real Cost of Living’: Price tag for obesity is $6,454 a yearby Carmen Wong Ulrich (Perigee Trade, 2010)http://www.today.com/id/40844081/ns/today-today_boo ks/t/real-cost-living-price-tag-obesity-year/#.UhZXwpJJOAg][14: ‘Real Cost of Living’: Price tag for obesity is $6,454 a yearby Carmen Wong Ulrich (Perigee Trade, 2010)http://www.today.com/id/40844081/ns/today-today_books/t/real-cost-living-price-tag-obesity-year/#.UhZXwpJJOAg]

Hindu Creation Myth

Hindu Creation Myth According to Hindu Creation Myth, Brahma is the divine creator of the world, as well as other things in the universe. However, different views on how actually the creation process occurred. The most famous one is recounted in the Vedas. The sacred book runs, â€Å"all living creatures were made from the ghee (purified buter) that came from Purusha† (Gibson and Wootten 48). Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Hindu Creation Myth specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Thus, parts of Purusha’s body were used to create different objects of the universe. Navel was used to create the earth’s atmosphere, the head was used to create the havens, the earth was made up of his feet and the sky was made up of his ears. Purusha was also responsible for creating the four varnas of Indivian society – the Brahmis, which came from Purusha’s mouth, the Kshatriyas coming from his arms, the Vaishyas that came fr om his thighs, and, finally, Shudras coming from Purusha’s feet. The story of Hindu creation myths differs from Ancient Greek creation myths in a number of facts, including the beginning of the world, and some elements of the creation of the living creatures. The divinity creation also has certain tangible discrepancies. As per the beginning of the world, the Hindu world creation starts with the God Brahma who initiated the beginning of the universe: â€Å"Hindus believe that God, in the form of Brahma, is the creator of the universe and everything in it† (Gibson and Wootten 48). Unlike the Indian version, the Greek world begins with â€Å"an emptiness called Chaos – the yawning gap† (Martin 23). With regard to these creation myths, significant difference lies in using nothingness as the beginning in Greek myths, which is absent in the Indian legends. In contrast, Indians focus on the divine origins of the world which produced all creatures whereas Gree ks refer to emptiness which created divinity. In Hinduism, there was one creature that gave life to all living beings on earth. It has been torn apart to form water, earth, atmosphere, and various social layers of people. In such a way, Hindu myths prove the divine origin of all people, including all varnas. Unlike Hindu, Greek mythology provides an account of creating divine and mythological creations where there is no place for human beings: â€Å"Earth brought forth Ouranos, the Sky, to be her cover and protector and a place for the blessed gods† (Martin 23). Advertising Looking for essay on comparative literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In Greek mythology, however, includes humans at the end of creation, which underlines the emergent hierarchy with gods at the top and humans in the bottom. However, both myths prove the divine origin of all human beings on the planet. There are different concepts of evil origins on Earth with regard to Greek and Hindu mythology. In particulars, Greek myths show â€Å"†¦there is not principle of evil †¦ but Greek tales acknowledge that there are all sorts of bad influences and misfortunes in the world, including the shortness of human life† (Martin 21). In Hinduism, evil is presented as an opposition to good: â€Å"Hindus believe that Vishni is the preserver of the universe and protects the world from evil† (Gibson and Wootten 16). In conclusion, despite the divergence in creation mythology represented by Greeks and Hindus, there are certain similar points which provide a solid basis to explore the origins of the world. This is of particular concern to the analysis of divinity creation, human beings creation, and conception of evil in ancient world. Gibson, Lynne, and Pat Wootten. Hinduism. US: Heinenmann, 2002, Print. Martin, Richard. Myths of Ancient Greeks. US: New American Library, 2003. Print.

The Biosphere Essays - Superorganisms, Biological Systems

The Biosphere Essays - Superorganisms, Biological Systems The Biosphere The Biosphere: The biosphere is part of the earth in which life exists. It is 20 km thick from the bottom of the ocean to the lower atmosphere. It consists of three layers: the lithosphere, which is the land on the surface of the earth; the hydrosphere, which comprises of the water on the earth as well as water vapor in the air; and the atmosphere, which is made up of the air that surrounds the earth. The living organisms in the biosphere interact and affect each other in many ways. This is called a biotic factor. Similarly, there are nons of abiotic factors are air, temperature, water, soil, light, and minerals. In a biosphere, organisms live in special groupings. For instance, a population consists of all individuals of a species living in a general area. A community is a population located in a certain area living among different species. An ecosystem is yet a larger conglomeration of a population, a community, and abiotic factors. Ecosystems can be aquatic or terrestrial. The earth's aquatic ecosystem makes up about 75% of the earth's surface. This aquatic environment is divided into marine and freshwater environments. The earth's terrestrial ecosystem is mainly made up of forests and deserts, which make up for 25% of the earth's surface. The role or function of an organism in a community is that organism's niche. An organism's niche is an area picked by that organism based on physical factors such as temperature, light, oxygen and carbon dioxide content and biological factors such as food, competition for

Black Fly Beverage Company Essay Example for Free

Black Fly Beverage Company Essay Black Fly Beverage Company is a small beverage company based in London Ontario. The company has achieved recent success in the selling and promoting of their first alcoholic beverage, the cranberry/blueberry vodka cooler. The immediate success of this product presents two critical issues that the company must address. These critical issues are: †¢Black fly must expand its product mix in order to capture a larger market share in order to compete with larger established brands within the market place †¢Black Fly must also address capacity issues that will arise with an increase in demand or introduction of a new flavor Analysis. Current Situation Black Fly’s cranberry-blueberry vodka cooler has been well received by consumers due to its natural tasting ingredients and no chemical sweeteners producing a premium product different than existing similar beverages. The company now must take this opportunity to give their consumers another product to further explore the brand. Attempting to penetrate deeper within their current product will not allow its customers to further explore their favorite brand of vodka cooler. This will cause Black Fly to begin to lose their customers to other competing companies that offer multiple products and flavors (see exhibit 9). Black Fly also must also address the company’s capacity issues in order to allow them to meet the LCBO’s average order lead-time of seven days. At full capacity Black Fly is meeting the required lead time with minimal margin of error to account for delays, however, during the holiday season, which will occur as early as next month, the company will not be able to keep up with the increase in demand and will fail fulfill the LCBO’s order in time (see exhibit 7). Options The first option available to Black Fly would be to expand its product mix with the addition of a new flavor to compliment their existing cooler. The company will be able to take advantage of economies of scale through the current production; therefore a minimal cost of $30,000 will only be needed to cover development and merchandising fees. To cover this initial cost Black Fly will have to sell an additional 127 cases a month to break even, an increase of 10. 58% (see exhibit 2). It has been projected that adding another flavor to the product line could increase sales by 50 to 75 percent. This projected increase in sales would produce an annual expected ROI of 373% and 609% respectively (see exhibit 5). If however sales increased by only 10% due to the risk of cannibalization of their original recipe then the expected ROI would be -5% (see exhibit 5). This increase in sales however will put additional strain on the company’s current capacity (see exhibit 8). A second option to Black Fly would be the addition of a new specialty spirit-based product called â€Å"Spiked Ice†. This packaged ready to freeze cooler would be a non-competing product to the already successful cranberry-blueberry vodka. An advantage to this product is that there is no other product similar to it out in the marketplace. The LCBO has also committed to sell 8,000 cases of the product over the four summer months, which would produce revenues of $277,200 (see exhibit 3). Over this four month period this option will produce an ROI of 15% (see exhibit 6). To produce â€Å"Spiked Ice† the company however will have to purchase expensive machinery costing $500,000 and spend an additional $40,000 on merchandising and product development. To cover these costs Black Fly would have to sell an additional 7,585 cases of â€Å"Spiked Ice† (see exhibit 4). This may prove difficult as this new product is very seasonal producing higher sales in the summer months and potentially smaller sales in the fall and winter months, a time in which the LCBO has not committed to sell this product at this time. Another disadvantage to this option is the space that this new machinery would occupy in the already small warehouse. Black Fly’s current facilities cannot produce â€Å"Spiked Ice† and the original vodka simultaneously which would result in Black Fly loosing monthly revenues of $23,641 (see exhibit 1). Recommendation It is apparent that Black Fly must attempt to offer a variety of products to enhance its product mix and to keep current customers from trying other flavors offered by other competitors. At this time the best way to proceed with this will be to launch a new flavored vodka to compliment the already successful cranberry-blueberry vodka. The low initial costs and economies of scale gained through this option will allow Black Fly to introduce this new flavor quickly and efficiently to capitalize sales during the upcoming holiday season. To help address the concern of future capacity issues it would be recommended that Black Fly hire two more part-time workers and to run the production process seven days a week. This will be possible due to the expected high ROI associated with this option. This increase in production will allow the company to complete six full runs amounting to 3000 cases within the seven day lead time required by the LCBO ( see exhibit 10). In the future it will become necessary to upgrade to a larger facility and at that time it would be beneficial to begin producing â€Å"Spiked Ice†, however at this current time, given the company’s limited time in the market, it is suggested that Black Fly only pursue the launching of a new flavor. After the company has received sales from the holiday season the company will then be able to better address the possibility of relocating to a new warehouse and address their plans for â€Å"Spiked Ice† for the upcoming summer months. Black Fly Beverage Company. (2017, Feb 27).

Network security Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Network security - Essay Example As far as the computer hardware compatibility list (HCL) is concerned the peripherals must be compatible with the operating systems. The HCL may be centrally controlled and user driven. An official HCL should be available on the website of the operating system. The Linux operating system provides the best HCLs (http://www.linuxquestions.org/hcl). Microsoft windows provide the HCL access to average users also due to their market dominance (http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/hcl/) However network security policies aim at the protection of network and related accessible resources from unauthorized users. The administrators ensure the continuous monitoring and effective implementation of the security measures. In order to have a checklist in mind for fool proof security stem in the networking an example of defense of a house from thieves can help. The network attached storage helps the interconnected PCs from hacking and viruses. In this way the attacks at entry level are prevented when the alerts go through the whole network. The computer host security network is not dependable as the hackers can have access and can purchase the hosts rather more easily. The net work security checklist includes the authorization and authentication of the user, creation of firewall for filtering the allowed services to the user, provision of the intrusion prevention system, monitoring for suspected traffics, and denial of unauthorized service (Duane DeCapite, Cisco Press, and Sep. 8, 2006). Depending on the size of the users, software for Antivirus likes Norton or McAfee etc are used. The bigger businesses use the security analyzers in addition to firewalls. And physical security checks against viruses and security fencing. In the UNIX operating environment the script files are created by using screen capture commands. This means that the user is trying to capture the interaction between the text file and UNIX operating system. Such a text file is called a

Identification and Recommendation of Alternative Strategies for Research Paper

Identification and Recommendation of Alternative Strategies for McDonalds - Research Paper Example The fast-food culture is fast expanding into the developing nations, as more and more people are attracted towards the taste, quick service, consistency and cheap prices. Out of the total restaurant revenues of the developed nations, the fast food outlets account for almost half. "It is no longer enough to just fill someone's stomach - you have to do it better and faster than others do. Product innovation, customer satisfaction, and differentiated promotions are of utmost importance - now more than ever" (Shekeb Naim, 2008) The industry has nearly matured in the developed countries but in countries like India, the fast food industry is growing at a rate of over 40% per annum. The growth of the IT and IT enables services in India were the bulk of urban youth are working with big pay packets and little time to cook are driving the growth. Growing concerns over the fat and salt content of some fast foods have led to severe criticism of eating fast food and have prompted the industry to offer an increasing range of "healthy" fast foods. A typical fast food outlet carries high overheads in terms of rents, rates, labor costs and bank interest charges. The market is labor intensive and involves considerable start-up and ongoing capital investment. The fast-food industry has a lot to thank McDonald's for. Especially the supply chain management of this company is highly regarded as one of the best in any industry and fast food companies try to emulate the McDonald way of operations.

Born to Dance-Ballet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Born to Dance-Ballet - Essay Example Mr. Carreno won the 1987 New_York International Ballet_Competition and the International_Ballet Competion’s Grand Prix contest. In terms of dance uniqueness and high_point, Carreno mastered the classical ballet dance style. The style includes pas de_bourree, pas couru, and coupe movements. The style incorporates the pieds and echappe jumps. The dance style includes both croisee and efface body_poses (Vaganova, Basic Principles of Classical Ballet). In 2004, Carreno received the prominent Dance_Magazine Award (Roca 187). At 43 years of age, Carreno retired from the American_Ballet Company during 2011(Sulcas 1). In terms of big events performed, Carreno was the principal classical ballet_dancer during the 1990’s prestigious English_National Ballet theatre, the Royal_Ballet theatre during 1993, and the American_Ballet theatre from 1995 until 2011 (Singer 1). Carreno was the principal dancer in the Diana and Action without a shirt (Fuhrer 1). Xiamara Reyes played the leading Ballerina in the dance routine (Sulcas, Theater Pulls out the Showstoppers 1). In terms of biography, Carreno is Cuba’s top ballet dancer, coming from a family of ballet enthusiast. After seriously taking up education at the Cuban_National Ballet_School, Carreno won the Gold_Medal award in the New York Ballet_competition (1987 and the Gran_Prix award in the Jackson,_Mississippi International_Ballet Contest (Singer 1). In terms of what made Corella important, Spain’s Angel_Corella is one of the best ballet dancers of his time. Corella received countless awards for his excellent delivery of the ballet steps. Corella won the Concours International_de Danse de_Danse de Paris as well as the Gold Medal. The two awards led to Corella’s acceptance into the American Ballet Theatre (Jacobs 1). As to high point, Corella became a welcome artist in several prestigious ballet entities. The ballet

Discuss the Commonalities and Differences Between Communist Economy Essay

Discuss the Commonalities and Differences Between Communist Economy 1976 and Social Market Economy after 1976 in China - Essay Example Under this system government approved the private ownership of means of production. As means of production are handled by the government before 1976, there was always the intervention of government in whatever is done. But with the emergence of socialist market economy, the role of the government shrank into making laws. Under communist economy people were reluctant to work as they were deprived of owning property and the developments that the country received under such a system was too little. When people were allowed to have private property, the made the best use of the resources and this period witnessed the thriving of the Chinese economy. In the communist economy, it was the government that controlled the market mechanism but under social market economy the market forces such as supply and demand took the place of government. When the communist economy tried to bring everything under the control of the government without any consideration to its citizen, the social market econ omy envisages at the formation of a welfare state in which individuals are given priority in all the aspects. Communist economy was upheld only by a simple majority of China, but social market economy has been welcomed by all category of the society. 3. How did China become an industrialised economy with in the last four decades? An economy becomes industrialised only when an agrarian society turns into industrial society with social change and economic development. The endeavour China made to reach its destination of a developed economy has been in its culmination for the last couple of decades. In all the areas, the performance of China was spectacular. The first and foremost factor that can be attributed to the success of China in this arena is the rapid expansion of international trade. International trade was accelerated as a result of gradual and incremental trade reforms and opening up of the economy for international trade. As a result, the Foreign Direct Investment increase d. China being a vast country had resources in abundant. Moreover the labour also was cheaper as compared to other developing countries. The decision to use the resources properly helped the development of domestic industries. China’s factory outputs vary from cotton textiles to railway locomotives, jet planes and computers. As the largest economy in terms of population, there is greater demand for commodities in China. In one hand it is a good market for foreign companies and on the other a good supplier as well. The amount china spend in the area of education is huge. The well educated works being more productive contribute towards the industrialisation of the country. The amount China invests for research and development is really note worthy. Advanced technologies help it to produce commodities cost efficiently. Chinese products has got good demand world wide as these products are competent to the products of other industrialised countries. However, it is the decision of the government to open up the economy for foreign countries that helped the fast industrialization. 4. Write a critical note on China’s SOE reforms. The state owned enterprises in China were capable of producing a wide range of consumer goods domestically. The commodities so produced were capable of satisfying the local demands sufficiently. However it had more drawbacks than these advantages. The persons who were at the top of the party were the ones who controlled these enterprises. Since most of them were

Tax Cuts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Tax Cuts - Essay Example Using the economic terms tackled in class, ways in which tax cuts could help revive the U.S. economy will be thoroughly explained. The concept of aggregate supply and demand allows us to have a better understanding of macroeconomic condition and the impact of implementing government decisions through fiscal policy. Specifically under the supply-side of economics, it is believed that implementing a significant increase in taxes could affect the entire economy by reducing the possible trading practices among the economic participants within a nation. Because of the sudden increase in government tax collection, the local people will be left with little money to spend on basic consumer goods. As a result of decreased trading practices between the people and businesses, potential investors are discouraged from investing more money. Therefore, reviving the U.S. economy through increased in government tax collection is not possible. In times of serious economic crisis, implementing a temporary tax cut through the use of a fiscal policy will empower the people to have more money to spend on basic commodities. This particular economic strategy is effective in terms of increasing the aggregate demand for locally made goods and services. Even though the country is going through a serious economic condition, the fact that people are encouraged to continuously spend their savings to purchase locally made goods and services will somehow improve the overall economic situation. Rather than borrowing large amount of money from international sources, implementing tax cuts is not a bad choice since the government will still be able to collect huge amount of tax collection from the business sectors. Basically, the tax multiplier effects of implementing tax cuts is the key behind enabling a country revive a slow growth economic condition. In the long run, there is a stronger possibility that the economic condition of a country will gradually recover from a poor

Born to Dance-Ballet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Born to Dance-Ballet - Essay Example Mr. Carreno won the 1987 New_York International Ballet_Competition and the International_Ballet Competion’s Grand Prix contest. In terms of dance uniqueness and high_point, Carreno mastered the classical ballet dance style. The style includes pas de_bourree, pas couru, and coupe movements. The style incorporates the pieds and echappe jumps. The dance style includes both croisee and efface body_poses (Vaganova, Basic Principles of Classical Ballet). In 2004, Carreno received the prominent Dance_Magazine Award (Roca 187). At 43 years of age, Carreno retired from the American_Ballet Company during 2011(Sulcas 1). In terms of big events performed, Carreno was the principal classical ballet_dancer during the 1990’s prestigious English_National Ballet theatre, the Royal_Ballet theatre during 1993, and the American_Ballet theatre from 1995 until 2011 (Singer 1). Carreno was the principal dancer in the Diana and Action without a shirt (Fuhrer 1). Xiamara Reyes played the leading Ballerina in the dance routine (Sulcas, Theater Pulls out the Showstoppers 1). In terms of biography, Carreno is Cuba’s top ballet dancer, coming from a family of ballet enthusiast. After seriously taking up education at the Cuban_National Ballet_School, Carreno won the Gold_Medal award in the New York Ballet_competition (1987 and the Gran_Prix award in the Jackson,_Mississippi International_Ballet Contest (Singer 1). In terms of what made Corella important, Spain’s Angel_Corella is one of the best ballet dancers of his time. Corella received countless awards for his excellent delivery of the ballet steps. Corella won the Concours International_de Danse de_Danse de Paris as well as the Gold Medal. The two awards led to Corella’s acceptance into the American Ballet Theatre (Jacobs 1). As to high point, Corella became a welcome artist in several prestigious ballet entities. The ballet

Tax Cuts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Tax Cuts - Essay Example Using the economic terms tackled in class, ways in which tax cuts could help revive the U.S. economy will be thoroughly explained. The concept of aggregate supply and demand allows us to have a better understanding of macroeconomic condition and the impact of implementing government decisions through fiscal policy. Specifically under the supply-side of economics, it is believed that implementing a significant increase in taxes could affect the entire economy by reducing the possible trading practices among the economic participants within a nation. Because of the sudden increase in government tax collection, the local people will be left with little money to spend on basic consumer goods. As a result of decreased trading practices between the people and businesses, potential investors are discouraged from investing more money. Therefore, reviving the U.S. economy through increased in government tax collection is not possible. In times of serious economic crisis, implementing a temporary tax cut through the use of a fiscal policy will empower the people to have more money to spend on basic commodities. This particular economic strategy is effective in terms of increasing the aggregate demand for locally made goods and services. Even though the country is going through a serious economic condition, the fact that people are encouraged to continuously spend their savings to purchase locally made goods and services will somehow improve the overall economic situation. Rather than borrowing large amount of money from international sources, implementing tax cuts is not a bad choice since the government will still be able to collect huge amount of tax collection from the business sectors. Basically, the tax multiplier effects of implementing tax cuts is the key behind enabling a country revive a slow growth economic condition. In the long run, there is a stronger possibility that the economic condition of a country will gradually recover from a poor

Policy Priority Issue Essay Example for Free

Policy Priority Issue Essay While most things in life come with an instruction manual, children do not. Parenting is a difficult job. While your child is growing, you must know the best, most up to date resources to assist you in providing the best for him/her. Success by 6 is an initiative to make sure that â€Å"every child in North Central Florida enters school healthy and prepared to learn by the age of 6† (Chun, 2005). It also assists families to be prepared to have a child in school. The greatest challenges facing our country can only be met by focusing on the development of all our children, beginning at birth. Early childhood programs are the most cost-effective way to ensure the healthy development of children in poverty and offer the greatest returns to society. In evidence-based home visiting programs, â€Å"professionals connect families to medical, dental, mental-health, and other support systems† (Daro, D., 2014). The time period from birth through age six is a critical one for â€Å"establishing the solid foundations essential for children’s long-term health, well-being, and learning† (Clothier, S., 2014). Background The Success by 6 was initiated in North Central Florida in 2005. It was initially expected â€Å"to reach 2,500 children with health and developmental screenings, child care provider training, parent education, mentoring, a community center, abuse and neglect prevention, home visitation, program evaluation and family referral programs† (Chun, 2006). This number was reached in its second year and continues to grow annually. As we look to improve and add state policies that lead to good health, learning, and family outcomes, like Success by 6, it is imperative to ensure that policies capitalize on both health and learning.

Hemoglobin Malaria Haemoglobinopathies

Hemoglobin Malaria Haemoglobinopathies Despite major advances in the understanding of the molecular pathophysiology and control and management of the inherited disorders of hemoglobin (haemoglobinopathies), thousands of infants and children with this disease are dying. As a result in heterozygote advantage against malaria the inherited hemoglobin disorders are the commonest monogenic disease. Population migrations have ensured that haemoglobinopathies are now encountered in most countries including the UK. Haemoglobinopathies have spread from areas in the Mediterranean, Africa and Asia and are now endemic throughout Europe, the Americas and Australia. This review examines the available literature to find out more about the prevalence of haemoglobinopathies in the UK. The data on the demographics and prevalence of the gene variants of haemoglobinopathies was extracted from books, journals, reference sources, online databases and published review articles from the WHO. Introduction It has been estimated that approximately 7% of the world population are carriers of such disorders and that 3000 000 4000 000 babies with severe forms of haemoglobinopathies. Haemoglobinopathy disorders occur at their highest frequency in tropical regions and population migrations have ensured that they are now encountered in most countries. Because of this, haemoglobinopathies have become a global endemic, so the World Health Organization published journals and reviews with recommendations on screening programmes and management of haemoglobinopathies. The programmes are tailored to specific socioeconomic and cultural contexts and aimed at reducing the incidence, morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases. www.who.int/en/ The WHO Executive Board wrote a review on haemoglobinopathies. In this article, the WHO Executive Board recognized that the prevalence of haemoglobinopathies varies between communities, and that insufficiency of relevant epidemiological data may hamper effective and equitable management of haemoglobinopathies. On this note England implemented the LIVE programmes. The Executive Board also recognizes that haemoglobinopathies are not yet officially recognized as priorities in Public Health Sector. This raised an issue about awareness of haemoglobinopathies. The WHO Executive Boards advice for prevention and management of haemoglobinopathies was to design, implement and reinforce in a systematic equitable and effective manner, comprehensive national, integrated programs for prevention and management of haemoglobinopathies, including surveillance, dissemination, such programs being tailored to specific socioeconomic and cultural contexts and aimed at reducing the incidence, morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases. www.who.int/en/ With immigration in the UK on its highest, the prevalence of haemoglobinopathies is expected to increase. The NHS has implemented programmes for individuals with haemoglobinopathies by implementation of LIVE program (NHS Plan, 2000). LIVE program is set-up to implement variant screening in the whole of UK by the year 2007. LIVE program started as early as January 2004 in high prevalence. The NHS Trusts involved are to offer variant screening by end of 2004/5 (NHS Plan, 2000). Low prevalence Trust are expected to have implemented the screening program by January 2008 and so far 86 out of 90 Trusts have successfully implemented the program. Antenatal and Newborn Screening programs have compiled a training pack to assist Low Prevalence Trusts with the implementation of haemoglobinopathies screening programmes. The NHS Plan (2000) made a commitment to implement effective and appropriate screening programs for women and children including a new national linked Antenatal and Newborn screen ing programs for haemoglobinopathies. The NHS Plan (2000) recommends that all pregnant women living in high prevalence areas are offered screening for haemoglobinopathies. All pregnant women living in low prevalence areas are offered screening for haemoglobinopathies. If a woman is identified as being at increased risk using the family origin questionnaire, she will then be offered screening for haemoglobinopathies (NHS Plan, 2000). The Low Prevalence Trust is where the fetal prevalence of sickle cell disease is less than 1.5 per 10 000 pregnancies. Low prevalence trusts are to offer screening for variants based on an assessment of risk determine by a question to women about their babys fathers family origin by the end of 2005/6 (NHS Plan, 2000). Background on Haemoglobinopathies Haemoglobin: is the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood and it is also a protein. Haem is iron containing pigment, while globin is made up of chains which are a globular tetrameric protein which accounts for 97.4% of the mass of the haemoglobin molecule (Tortora et.al., 2006) . The globin tetramer consists of four polypeptides which are two alpha (ÃŽ ±) chains and two non-alpha chains. The synthesis of ÃŽ ¶ and ÃŽ µ chains is done during the first 10 to 12 weeks of fetal life. Within the fourth to the fifth week of intrauterine life ÃŽ ± and ÃŽ ² chains are synthesized. The non-alpha is beta (ÃŽ ²), gamma (ÃŽ ³), delta (ÃŽ ´), epsilon (ÃŽ µ) zeta (ÃŽ ¶) chains. Haemoglobin transports oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body and it gives blood its red colour (Fleming, 1982) Haemoglobin synthesis Haem and globin synthesis occur separately but in a carefully coordinated fashion. Globin synthesis is under the genetic control of eight functional genes arranged in two clusters, the ÃŽ ± globin gene cluster on chromosome 16 and the ÃŽ ² globin gene cluster on chromosome 11. The major haemoglobin in the foetus is HbF (ÃŽ ±ÃŽ ²) 2 and in adults HbA (ÃŽ ±ÃŽ ²) 2 (Fleming, 1982). Haemoglobin Structure The primary structure of haemoglobin is made-up of amino acid sequence of globin. And the secondary structure comprise of nine non-helical sections joined by eight helices; tertiary structure describes globin chain folding to form a sphere and the quaternary structure of haemoglobin describes the tetrahedral arrangements of the four globin subunits ( Fleming, 1982). The external surface of each folded globin is hydrophilic and the inner surface is hydrophobic, this protects the haem from oxidation, which is also why each haem chain sits in a protective hydrophobic pocket. In haemoglobin A, ÃŽ ± ÃŽ ² dimmers are held together strongly at the ÃŽ ±1 ÃŽ ²1 or ÃŽ ±2ÃŽ ²2 junction. The tetramer is held together much less tightly at the ÃŽ ±1 ÃŽ ²2 and ÃŽ ±2 ÃŽ ²1 contact areas (Fleming, 1982). Haemoglobin function Each haemoglobin molecule can carry four oxygen molecules. Oxygenation and deoxygenation are accompanied by molecular expansion and contraction via haem haem interaction (Bienz, 2007). Under physiological conditions, blood in the aorta carries about 19.5ml of oxygen per 100ml of blood. Upon entering the tissues about 4.5ml of oxygen are donated per 100ml of blood. 2,3-DPG is an important modulator of haemoglobin A oxygen affinity in red cells (Fleming, 1982). Haemoglobin disorder (haemoglobinopathies) Haemoglobinopathies is a hematological disorder due to alteration of a genetically defect, that results in abnormal structure of one of the globin chains of the haemoglobin molecule (Bienz, 2007). Haemoglobinopathies are any of a group of diseases characterized by abnormalities, both quantitative and qualitative in the synthesis of haemoglobin (Hb) (Bienz, 2007). Qualitative affecting the quality of haemoglobin e.g. Sickle cell disorder and quantitative affecting the amount of haemoglobin produced e.g. Thalassaemias. Most of them are genetically inherited but occasionally they can be caused by a spontaneous mutation. Haemoglobinopathies are the worlds most common monogenic autonomic and recessive disease in humans (Anionwu et.al., 2001). 2.1Haemoglobinopathies fall into two main types; There are two categories of haemoglobinopathies. The two categories are: qualitative and quantitative; Qualitative affecting the quality of the haemoglobin e.g. Sickle cell disorder. In this disease the globin structure is abnormal. Quantitative the haemoglobin structure is normal but the amount of haemoglobin produced is affected. e.g. alpha and beta thalassaemias (Bienz, 2007). History of haemoglobinopathies In 1910 Herrick wrote an article in it he used the term â€Å"sickle† to describe the shape of the red blood cells of a 20 year old medical student from Grenada. This student had consulted Dr Herrick in 1994 complaining of a cough, fever and Feeling weak and dizzy. He constantly had anaemia episodes, jaundice, chest complications as well as recurring leg ulcers on both ankles. When his blood was examined, his red blood cells showed a large number of thin, elongated, sickle shaped and crescent- shaped forms (Herrick, 1990). The name thalassaemia was coined by the eminent haematologist George Whipple in 1936 as an alternative to the eponymous ‘Cooleys anaemia. He wanted a name that would convey the sense of an anaemia which is prevalent in the region of the Mediterranean Sea, since most of the early cases originated there. Thalassaemia is derived by contraction of thalassic anaemia (from the Greek thalassa -sea, an none and anemia blood) (Fleming,1982). Origins and Geographic distribution of haemoglobinopathies Carriers are found in all parts of the world: people from the North Mediterranean (South Europe) coast are 1-19% carriers. People of Arab origin are over 3% carriers. In Central Asia 4-10% and in South East Asia, the Indian subcontinent and China 1-40% carriers (the very high rates in this part of the world are due to HbE). In the Americas, North Europe, Australia and South Africa the local population has very low carrier rates but thalassaemia is still present because of the significant immigration from high prevalence area (Anionwu et.al.; 2001). Sickle cell and thalassaemia disorder mainly affect individual who are descended from families where one or more members originated from parts of the world where falciparum malaria was, or is still endemic. Population with such ancestry include those from many parts of Africa, the Caribbean the Mediterranean (including southern Italy, Northern Greece and Southern Turkey), Southeast Asia and thalassaemia gene is much wider now due to the hi storical movements of at-risk populations to North and South America, the Caribbean and Western Europe (Livingstone 1985). The geographic distribution of the thalassaemias overlaps with that of sickles cell disease. This is because carriage of these abnormal genes affords some protection against malaria. Thus, being heterozygous for one of these conditions offers a selective survival advantage and increases the opportunity for these genes to be passed on (Campbell et.al.,2004) 4Types and terminology of sickle cell and thalassaemia There are various types of sickle cell and thalassaemia disorders. The thalassaemia syndromes include alpha and beta thalassaemia major as well as beta thalassaemia intermedia. Sickle cell disorders (or Fickle cell disease include sickle cell anaemia (Hb SS), Sickle haemoglobin C disease (Hb SC) ÃŽ ² disease and E beta thalassaemia (www.sickle-thalassaemia.org/sickle.cel.htm) 4.1Sickle Cell Disorder: affects the normal oxygen carrying capacity of the red blood cells. The red blood cell forms a crescent or a sickled shape when it is deoxygenated. The ‘sickled cells are unable to pass freely through capillaries; the sickle cells also get stuck in blood vessels forming clusters which block the blood vessels and the blood flow. They dont last as long as normal, round red blood cells, which leads to anemia. This results in a lack of oxygen to the tissues in the affected area, resulting in hypoxia and pain (sickle cell crisis). Other symptoms include severe anaemia, damage to major organs and infection (NHS Antenatal and Newborn; 2006). There are several types of Sickle cell disease. The most common are: sickle cell anemia (SS), sickle hemoglobin C disease (SC), sickle beta plus thalassaemia and sickle beta zero thalassaemia. Each of these can cause pain episodes and complications. HbSS sickle is due to two sickle cell genes (â€Å"S†), one from each parent. This is commonly called sickle cell anemia. An individual with sickles cell anemia have a variation in the ÃŽ ²-chain gene, which then causes a change in the properties of hemoglobin which results in sickling of red blood cells (www.sickle-thalassaemia.org/sickle.cel.htm) HbSc inherited one sickle cell gene and one gene from an abnormal type of haemoglobin called â€Å"C†. It is due to the variation in the ÃŽ ²-chain gene. An individual with this variant suffers from mild chronic haemolytic anaemia. (NHS Antenatal and Newborn; 2006). HbS beta thalassaeamia: This form of sickle is due to inherited one sickle cell gene and one gene for beta. 4.2Thalassaemias: is a term used for the description of a globin gene disorders that results from a diminished rate of synthesis of one or more globin chains and a consequently reduced rate of synthesis of the haemoglobin or haemoglobins of which that chain constitutes a part ; ÃŽ ± thalassaemia indicates a reduced rate of synthesis of the ÃŽ ± globin chain, similarly, ÃŽ ², ÃŽ ´, ÃŽ ´ ÃŽ ² and ÃŽ µ ÃŽ ³ ÃŽ ´ ÃŽ ² thalassaemia indicate a reduced rate of synthesis of the h, ÃŽ ´, ÃŽ ´, +ÃŽ ² and ÃŽ µ + ÃŽ ³ + ÃŽ ´ + ÃŽ ² chains, respectively (Modell et.al, 2001). Thalassaemia is the most common single gene disorder known. It is autosomal recessive syndromes, which is divided into ÃŽ ±- and ÃŽ ² thalassaemia. Types of thalassaemia There are two types of thalassaemia: (i)Thalassaemia minor (thalassaemia trait) (ii)Thalassaemia major Thalassaemia minor is when a person inherits one thalassaemia gene, while thalassaemia major is a severe form of anaemia if a person inherits two thalassaemia genes, one from each parent (Bienz, 2007). Subtypes of thalassaemia Alpha (ÃŽ ±) thalassaemia results from inadequate production of ÃŽ ± chains, which are normally controlled by two pairs of chromosomes. If one or two are malfunctioning, then there is a healthy carrier state. If three are non- functional then anaemia results, known as HbH Disease, which can be quite severe but usually does not need blood transfusions and is compatible with a normal life span (Anionwu et al, 2001). If all four genes are non functional then the result is severe anaemia of the unborn child, leading to heart failure and death (miscarriage). This condition is known as hydrops felalis (Fleming, 1982). Beta (ÃŽ ²) Thalassaemia is caused by the bodys inability to produce normal haemoglobin, leading to a life threatening anaemia (Bienz, 2007). The severity of illness depends on whether one or both genes are affected and the nature of the abnormality. If both genes are affected, anemia can range from moderate to severe. Beta thalassaemia results from inadequate or lack of production of ÃŽ ² chains (Anionwu et.a.l, 2001). Homozygous, ÃŽ ² thalassaemia has two forms: major, in which the patient can survive only with regular transfusions of blood and intermedia in which the patient can survive with occasional or even with no transfusions at all. The condition requires frequent blood transfusions and treatment to prevent complications from iron overload, such as diabetes and other endocrine disorders (Anionwu et.a.l, 2001). Both of these conditions can restrict a child or adults ability to conduct their normal daily activities and can have profound psychological affects on individuals a nd their families This form of thalassaemia is the most important and constitutes a major public health problem in many parts of the world, because of the high frequency of carriers and the demanding treatment that must be followed (Fleming, 1985). Association of Haemoglobinopathies with Malaria Malariais a vector borne infectious disease caused by protozoan parasites. It is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of the Americans, Mediterranean, Asia and Africa. It causes diseases in approximately 515 million people and kills between one and three million people, the majority of whom are young children. Malaria parasites are transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes. The parasites multiply within red blood cells, causing symptoms that include symptoms of anemia (Campbell et al, 2004). Sickle cell developed as a by product of human defense mechanisms against malaria. The most severe form of malaria, falciparum malaria, leads to very high death rate in young infants. This is particularly a problem between the time immediately after birth, when they are protected by immunity from the mother, and the time when they are old enough to acquire their own immunity. Malaria is a parasite which lives within the red blood cells and feeds off the protein that is contained within those red cells, haemoglobin (Campbell et al, 2004). When the malarial parasite enters the blood stream through a mosquito bite, it penetrates the red blood cells by attaching to the outside membrane or envelope of the red blood cell and gaining entry (Franklin, 1990). Once in the red blood cell, the malarial parasites use the haemoglobin as a source of energy, so that they multiply within the red cells. The parasites multiple filling-up the red blood cells and once they are filled-up the red cells bur st, thereby releasing the multiple parasites in the blood. Each new young parasite enters a single cell again and multiplies again, thereby causing a disease or infection. Whenever the parasites burst out of the cells they cause illness and fever in patients. Malaria can be severe by causing death; death is believed to be caused by red cells not being able to pass through the narrow gaps in the smallest blood vessels and by blockage of tissues when so many parasites are in the red blood cell (Campbell et al, 2004). Over the years human genes developed ways to prevent malaria becoming serious and potentially lethal, the developments were to prevent malarial parasites from spreading and multiplying (Tortora et.al,2006). The most changes were changes (mutation) in the type of haemoglobin (haemoglobin S) within the red blood cell which would in turn slow down the multiplying of the parasite (Campbell et al, 2004). The individuals with haemoglobin S are known to have a sickle cell trait or being carriers of sickle cell haemoglobin. When sickle-cell haemoglobin has given up its oxygen in the cells, the red cells stick together to form crystalline groupings of haemoglobin known as polymers. The red blood cells become deformed into sickle shapes and the presence of these crystalline polymers within the red cells inhibits the growth of the malarial parasite (Beinz, 2007). Even though individuals with haemoglobin S stills suffer from malaria, they are protected from the most severe effects of malaria (Li vingstone, 1985). Diagnosis Diagnosis for sickle cell disease The most used diagnose test for sickle cell is the haemoglobin electrophoresis. HbS and HbC amino acid substitutions change the electrical charge of the protein, the migration pattern of the haemoglobin with electrophoresis or isoelectric focusing results in diagnostic patterns with each of the different haemoglobin variants. HbSBeta-thal requires careful evaluation of red blood cell count and mean corpuscular red cell volume (MCV) and specifically quantifying HbA, S, A2 and F. In emergency setting, the presence of HbS is detected using a five minute solubility test called sickledex. Sickledex test does not differentiate sickle syndromes from the benign carrier state (HbAS or a sickle trait (NHS Antenatal and Newborn; 2006). Diagnosis for thalassaemias When testing for thalassaemias, a blood test is the simplest and most effective test for diagnosis and also the use of a test called Haemoglobin Electrophoresis. The blood of individuals with thalassaemias tend to be microcytic (smaller in size) and hypochromic (paler in colour) (NHS Antenatal and Newborn; 2006). 7 Pathophysiology 7.1Sickle-cell Sickle-cell anemia is caused by changes (mutation) in the structure of the ÃŽ ² -globin chain of the haemoglobin replacing the amino acid glutamic acid with the less polar amino acid valine at the sixth position of the ÃŽ ² chain. When two wild type ÃŽ ±-globin subunits associate with two mutant ÃŽ ²-globin subunits forms hemoglobin S. Haemoglobin S polymerizes under low oxygen conditions, which causes distortion of red blood cells and also causes red blood cells to lose their elasticity, resulting in red blood cells forming an irreversible sickle shape (Fleming,1982). Very often a cycle occurs, as the cells sickle they cause a region of low oxygen concentration which causes more red blood cells to sickle. Repeated occurrence of sickling causes cells to not return to normal even when oxygen levels are normal. The deformation of cells makes it difficult for the cells to pass through capillaries resulting in vessel occlusion, severe anemia, ischemia and other problems (Beinz, 2007). 7.2Thalassaemias The pathophysiologic effects of the thalassaemias range from mild microcytosis to death in uterus. The anaemia manifestation of thalassaemia is microcytic hypochromic haemolytic anaemia (Belcher, 1993). The haemoglobin abnormality is caused by substitution of a single amino acid for another; or substitution of two amino acids, also amino acid deletion or fusion (point of mutation) and the synthesis of elongated chains. In alpha trait, one of the genes that form the alpha chain is defective (Beinz, 2007). In alpha-thalassaemia minor, two genes are defective and in haemoglobin H disorder, three genes are defective. Alpha-thalassaemia major is most fatal thalassaemia disorder; this is because four of the chains forming genes are defective. Without alpha chains, oxygen cannot be released to the tissues (Belcher, 1993). In beta-thalassaemia haemoglobin abnormality is due to the uncoupling of alpha and beta-chain synthesis. This causes a depression in beta-chain synthesis, resulting in er ythrocytes with a reduced amount of haemoglobin and accumulation of free alpha chains, which are unstable and easily precipitate the in cell (Bienz, 2007). 8.Causes Genetic control of haemoglobin synthesis The synthesis of structurally normal haemoglobin chains is determined by allelic genes situated on the autosomal chromosome (Beniz, 2007). Haemoglobinopathies occur due to an inheritance of one or more faulty copy of gene(s) that contain the information for the cells to make the globin chains. The gene may result in abnormality in the production or structure of the haemoglobin protein causing haemoglobinopathies (Franklin, 1990). Thalassaemia is an inherited autosomal recessive blood disorder. Genetic defects in Thalassaemia results in reduced synthesis of one of the globin chains which make up haemoglobin. Reduced synthesis of one of the globin chains causes the formation of abnormal haemoglobin molecules, which in turn causes anaemia. Anaemia is a symptom of the Thalassaemias. It is caused by under production of globin proteins, often through mutations in regulatory genes (Franklin, 1990). Inheritance of Haemoglobin Disorder Due to haemoglobin mutation, individuals who had haemoglobin trait had a resistance to dying from malaria, therefore passed on their haemoglobin trait gene to their children (Campbell et.al,2004). As time went on more individuals with the trait were born and eventually individuals who had haemoglobin trait had children together (Franklin, 1990). In that satiation (partnership), if both parents carry the trait gene, there is a one in four chance that any one child will receive the haemoglobin trait gene from one parent and also from the other, thereby having a haemoglobin disorder(Franklin, 1990) . Clinical Manifestations 9.1Thalassaemias clinical manifestations Individuals who inherited the alpha trait are usually asymptomatic, with possible mild microctyosis. Alpha- thalassaemia minor has signs and symptoms almost identical to those of beta-thalassaemia; mild microcytic hypochronic anemia, enlargement of the liver and spleen, and bone marrow hyperplasia (Belcher, 1993). Alpha- thalassaemia major cause hydrops fetalis and fulminana intrauterine congestive heart and liver, edema and massive ascites. The disorder usually is diagnosed post mortem (Bienz, 2007). Beta-thalassaemia minor causes mild to moderate microcytic-hypochronic anemia, mild splenomegaly, bronze coloring of the skin, and hyperplasia of the bone marrow. Skeletal changes depend on the degree of reticulocytosis, which in turn depends on the severity of the anaemia (Bienz, 2007). People who have beta-thalassaemia minor usually are asymptomatic, whereas those with beta- thalassaemia major the anemia is severe, resulting in a great cardiovascular burden, with high output congestive heart failure (Belcher, 1993). Blood transfusions can increase the persons life span by a decade or two. Individuals with beta-thalassaemia major have an enlarged liver and spleen, and growth and maturation are retarded (Belcher, 1993). A characteristic deformity develops on the face as the bones expand to accommodate hyperplastic marrow (Belcher, 1993). Both and beta thalassaemias major are life threatening. Children with thalassaemia major usually are week, fail to thrive, how poor development and experience cardiovascular compromise with high-output failure; if the condition goes untreated, these children die by 6 years of age (Modell et.al., 2001) Blood transfusions can return haemoglobin and hematocrit to normal levels, alleviating the anaemia induced cardiac failure. Iron overload and hemochromatosis, which are complications of transfusion therapy, are treated with chelating agents (Bienz, 2007). . 9.2.Sickle-cell clinical manifestations The severity of sickle cell disorder depends on the amount of haemoglobin S and the clinical manifestations, which are signs and symptoms of the individuals with sickle-cell (Belcher, 1993) . Manifestations of the sickling are those of hemolytic anemia; pallor, jaundice, fatigue and irritability. Extensive sickling can precipitate four types of crises: vaso-occlusive or thrombotic crises and a plastic crisis (Belcher, 1993). A vaso-occlusive crises begins with red blood cells sickling in the microcirculation. Vasospasm brings a log-jam effect causing blood flow to stop flowing in the vessels and this will lead to thrombosis (blood clot formation) and infarction of local tissue occur, resulting in ischemia, pain and organ damage (Modell et.al.,2001). Vaso-occlusive crisis is believed to be extremely painful and lasts an average of 4 to 6 days. This crisis may develop spontaneously or may be precipitated by localized hypoxemia (low PO2) exposure to cold, dehydration, acidosis (low pH), or infection. In infancy, sickle-cells first manifestation is the symmetric painful swelling of the hands (see Fig 3) and feet, but in older children and adults, the large joints and surrounding tissues become swollen and painful. Individuals with the sickle-cell disorder suffer from severe abdominal pain caused by infarction in abdominal structures (Belcher, 1993). Any cerebral vascular accidents may cause paralysis or othe r central nervous system deficits, and if penile veins are obstructed priapism may occur. Studies have shown that bone, especially weight- bearing bones, are also a common target of vaso-occlusive damage, this is due to bone ischemia (Bienz, 2007). The spleen of individuals with sickle-cell disorder is frequently affected due to its narrow vessels, functions in clearing defective red blood cells and this results in a sequestration crisis (Belcher,1993). A sequestration crises, is occurrence of large amounts of blood pool in the liver and spleen. It only occurs in young children and death results from cardiovascular collapse (NHS Antenatal and Newborn,2006). An aplastic crisis develops when a compensatory increase in erythropoiesis is compromised; this then results in profound anemia (Belcher,1993). A hyperhemolytic crisis is rare but may occur with certain drugs or infections. G-6-PD deficiency, when also present, contributes to this type of crisis (Belcher,1993). Clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease do not usually appear until an infant is at least 6 months old. The most cause of death in individuals with sickle-cell anemia is infections, but it is major problem at all ages. Infections are due to splenic dysfunction from sickle damage (Belcher,1993). This occurs from a few months of age especially with certain bacteria e.g. pneumococcal sepsis. Infection tends to rapidly overwhelm the immune system (NHS Antenatal and Newborn,2006) . Sickle-cell haemoglobin C is known to be milder, with symptoms related to vaso-occlusive crises resulting from higher hematocrit and blood viscosity. Obstructive crises cause sickle cell retinopathy is most common in older children, and this include renal necrosis, and aseptic necrosis of the femoral head (Belcher, 1993). The mildest of sickle-cell is the sickle-cell thalassaemia the individuals with this form of sickle-cell tend to be microcytic and hypochromic, which makes the cells less likely to clog the microcirculation even when sickling (Belcher, 1993). Severe hypoxia can be seen in individuals with the sickle cell trait and may cause vaso-occlusive episodes. The cells in these people form an ivy shape (Belcher, 1993). Recent studies have shown that stroke is co-exiting with Sickle cell disease. At least 1% of patients with sickle cell disorder suffer from stroke and those individuals result in physical disability, IQ reduction, Learning difficulties, TIAs and seizures (Beinz, 2007). Treatment of haemoglobinopathies. 10.1Treatment in Sickle-cell anemia. Febrile illness: Children with fever are screened (a full blood count, reticulocyte count and blood culture taken) for bacteremia. In young children the fever is treated with intravenous antibiotics, the children would be admitted at the hospital so that they can be monitored (Belcher, 1993).. But older children with reassuring white blood cell counts are managed at home with oral antibiotics, but if the older children have a history of bacteremia episodes, they get a hospital admission. (Modell et al, 2001) Zn administration: is when zinc is given to stabilize the cell membrane (Beinz, 2007). Painful (vaso-occlusive) crises: individuals with sickle cell disorder experiences painful episodes called vaso-occlusive crises. Vaso-occlusive crises is often treated symptomatically with analgesics (Beinz,2007). Pain management requires opioid administration at regular intervals until the crises has gone. The frequency, severity and duration of these crises episodes vary tremendously form episodes to episode or from person to person (Belcher,1993). Individuals who suffer from milder vaso-occlusive crises manage their pain on NSAIDs e.g. diclofenac or naproxen. And if the crises is severe, individuals require inpatient management, where intravenous opioids. Diphenhydramine is used to stop the itchiness associated with the opioids (Modell et al, 2001). Acute chest crises management is similar to vaso-occlusive crises treatment with the addition of antibiotics, oxygen supplementation for hypoxia, and close observation. If the pulmonary infiltrate worsen or the oxygen requirements increase,

Daewoo Group and Financial Business Essay -- GCSE Business Marketing C

Daewoo Group and Financial Business Problem Definition Daewoo group started as a small textile company and in just 20 years developed into second largest Korean chaebol ( family owned conglomerate). It had over 250000 employers worldwide, over 30 domestic companies and 300 overseas subsidiaries, generating sales of more than 100 billion dollars annually. However, in 1999 it seemed that the ‘golden days’ of Daewoo were over as it was faced with over 50 billion dollars dept and had to decide to sell some of its business to carry on. Can Daewoo really survive and if yes, how? The roots of Daewoo’s crisis are in: a) Korean Economic System’s Structure, Chaebols and Asian Crisis b) Daewoo corporate structure, Kim Woo-Choong and his policies The main problem is that Korean economic system is ready for change and already changing, so does the government and its policies. However, the chaebols such as Daewoo are living in the past and find it difficult to adapt to changes. The question is whether there is any place in a changing Korea for chaebols at all or they will be soon replaced by smaller but more efficient companies? Problem Justification Korean Economic System, Chaebols and Asian crisis: South Korea’s mad rush economic growth was initiated by late dictator Park Chung-hee in the early 1970. Park saw export growth as the key for economic growth. He provided cheap loans and tax benefits to nurture Daewoo and other Korean business into conglomerates that mass produced for export markets( http://detnews.com/2001/ autos). Most of Chaebols were family owned and all of this families were connected to the government which would give them lots of support and get their loyalty. As a trouble would appear ,as in example of Daewoo problem in the 1980s when Daewoo shipbuilding made losses that threaten the collapse of the whole group, the government stepped in to save conglomerate and to provide emergency loans, chaebols could always count on the government to help. So they would continue to borrow money from government owned banks. The bank were forced to continue borrowing money to â€Å"Korean Losers† and never got paid back. It continued ... ...he best solution would be the government to come up with the plan of restructuring Daewoo ( force it to sell off most of its businesses and concentrate on the key once) and for Daewoo to accept the plan as soon as possible. Also government should push on the chaebols to restructure ( mainly to cut off their size and concentrate on the most important businesses) because there is no place for old-style conglomerates in changing Korea, if they stay the same they will face the same problem as Daewoo did and will also badly affect future economic development of Korea. Korean government did come up with the plan of restructuring Daewoo in cutting down its size by selling off its businesses, as an example selling Daewoo Motors to General Motors and etc., giving independence to some of its big divisions such as shipbuilding. But this plan came too late and Daewoo did not implement it until it really got bankrupt. There is not Daewoo group any more. Most of it was sold and what is left is now called Daewoo International and has its main businesses in International Trade, Information, Project Organising, Research Development and some other ( www.daewoo international.com).

The Best Day of their Life - Original Writing :: Papers

The Best Day of their Life - Original Writing The ground was set with fresh frost from the cool night before. Ice covered the once lively pond, with only the lone duck perched on the ice. Icicles hung from the church roof like the cold fingers of the dead, pointing at the floor, and the final destination of all. The headstones of all the patrons of the church lay scattered about the graveyard, all of them in a bad state of disrepair. Some had been vandalised, many had just fallen foul of time. Spray cans lay on the floor in random locations, although many of them were congregated near the crumbling stone walls of the church. The church itself was at least four hundred years old and stood towering above the surrounding houses, like a sleeping giant among the humans. Copper roofing which had long turned green covered the majestic hall of the church, covered in the leftovers of the birds that enjoyed their stay there. A crooked weathervane hung from an old Christmas light, dangling just below the window often church steeple. The steeple had only one room in it which was just below the belfry. One cracked pane of glass allowed light to enter the dusty room, with a small hole in the bottom of the window allowing the gun barrel to poke out, armed with a scope through which a man stared. He had been there watching the churchyard, composing himself since the early morning. The sun had risen from the east and had reached its peak as the man lay in wait. Squirrels had been going about their business all morning, foraging nuts from the surrounding trees and hiding them in the ground. The feeling in his legs had disappeared slowly and now they were completely numb, so he decided to check his escape route one last time, making sure that it was completely clear; nothing must prevent him from a clean break. Pre-job jitters began to kick in; his hand shook as he once again placed it on the handle of

Introduction to corporate social responsibility Essay

Corporate social responsibility is a figure of business self-regulation incorporated into a business model. CSR policy functions as a built-in, self-regulating mechanism whereby a business monitors and ensures its active compliance with the spirit of the law, ethical standards, and international norms. CSR is a process with the aim to embrace responsibility for the company’s actions and encourage a positive impact through its activities on the environment, consumers, employees, communities, stakeholders and all other members of the public sphere who may also be considered as stakeholders. There are four main parts to CSR fig 1: |Economic |Responsibility to earn profit for owners | |Legal |Responsibility to comply with the law | |Ethical |Not acting just for profit, but doing what is right, just and fair | |Voluntary and philanthropic |Promoting human welfare and goodwill | | |Being a good corporate citizen contributing to the community and quality of life | There are many substitute definitions of CSR. Examples of two are firstly An responsibility, beyond that mandatory by the law, for a business to follow long term objectives that are excellent for society. Secondly concerning how a business administer its business to create an overall constructive impact on the general public So in a brief social responsibly corporate involves †¢ Conducting business in an ethical way and in the interests of the wider community †¢ Responding positively to emerging societal priorities and expectations †¢ A compliance to take action ahead of regulatory confrontation †¢ Balancing shareholder interests against the interests of  the wider community †¢ Being a good citizen in the area

Current Trends in the War on Terror Essay

As the world is cowering in terror from the 9/11 attacks and the bombing incidents in Indonesia and other parts of the world, the world’s attention is shifted now to where the attacks may occur next and what can be done to address the situation. Some suggest that the answer lies in being able to suppress and perhaps eliminate all of the terrorist cells all over the world. The problem there, however, is that any attack that is targeted at eliminating terrorist cells would necessarily involve any host country where they may be located and in any Middle Eastern country, such an attack could prove disastrous (Campbell & Flourney 372). The more practical and ideal solution to this problem therefore lies at a more fundamental level; a more basic level wherein the country has more controls and no international liability (Kochler 37). The solution to this problem is by improving border security in order to prevent the occurrence of these terrorist attacks while the international community seeks for answers to address this problem at a global scale. At this point in time, domestic policies would be the best option in fighting the war against terror. This short discourse will therefore seek to shed light on the issue of terrorism and the crucial role that the border security plays in such. To gain a better understanding of the problem, it is important to first analyze the current trends that have been taken relative to border security to ensure the safety of the public from terrorist attacks. This will then be supplemented by an explanation on how border security can take an even larger role. The most crucial aspect in relation to border security and its role in the war against terror concerns the aviation industry. Since the 9/11 attacks, the public confidence with regard to air travel has greatly been shaken (Taylor 2). The attacks had the effect of sending a message that now, even airplanes could be used as missiles to target buildings regardless of whether there were people on board the aircraft of not. Every plane crash that is reported on the news is suspected to have been caused by a terrorist attack rather than just an equipment malfunction or a pilot error. In response to these attacks, security has been considerably increased in airports all over the world. Every passenger is now subject to a full body search and every hand carried and checked in item is thoroughly inspected for any suspicious objects that can either cause an explosion or aid a hijacker in gaining control over the aircraft (Campbell & Flourney 52). The impact has not been limited to airport security as even airplane manufacturers and airlines have resorted to installing devices and taking precautions with regard to what to do in case an airplane is hijacked. One of the safety measures that have been suggested and is highly debated is the issuing of arms for the pilots so that they may be able to defend themselves against any terrorist hijackers that are able to force themselves into the cockpits (Lott 1). The current controversy with regard to airline security concerns the proposal to equip the pilots of airplanes with weapons in order to protect themselves from any hijackers that manage to enter the cockpit (Taylor 2). This proposal is of course faced with a lot of opposition because of the implications of allowing pilots to be armed in aircrafts. There is a lot of concern with regard to the security of the other passengers on board just in case the armed pilots do decide to turn on the other co-pilots and hijack the aircraft themselves or hold passengers as hostages for whatever purpose. The proponents for arming the pilots argue that it is the best option because the pilots need to defend themselves against the terrorist hijackers (Keeler 151). The problem with this is that it negates the training of the pilots which is that in times such as hijackings they are not supposed to deal with the terrorists but instead secure the cockpit and land the plane as soon as possible (Will 1). The concern here is that the plane should be landed right away in order to protect not only the passengers but also the people on the ground who may become targets or victims as the 9/11 experience has shown. The duty of the pilot is not concern himself with whatever goes on in the cabin but instead make sure that the plane is safely on the ground where there are more units who can deal with the situation properly. Pilots are not adequately trained to deal with hijacking situations in terms of dealing directly with the terrorist hijackers (Will 1). Another argument for the arming of the pilots is that such a measure is only designed to protect the pilots from terrorist hijackers who succeed in gaining entry into the cockpit (3). While there as some merit to this precautionary measure, there is no guarantee that the armed pilots will do just that. There are instances when certain people, pilots included, enter a â€Å"cowboys or renegade† mode (Will 1). Most of the pilots have received a degree of military training as fighter pilots and there is some truth to the profiling of fighter pilots â€Å"live wires and risk-takers† (Will 1). The end result in these situations could be that instead of protecting the cockpit and landing the plane like they are supposed to, a number of these former fighter pilots could engage the terrorist hijackers.