Carnival Corporation Case Study Essay

Carnival Corporation as the largest cruise line in the world is being a leader and innovator in the cruise line industry. Many of the onboard activities and services were introduced to strengthen the competencies between competitors. The challenges of the Carnival were being overcome by the management with creative and innovative strategies. As a corporate entity, Carnival did not refuse to withdraw money to settle the ocean pollution charged by public. The expansions of cruise line market via acquisition of a few subsidiaries dominate the cruise line in the world. 1. Strengths (internal factors) First, the largest cruise line in the world, as the leader and innovator in the cruise industry (growth from two converted ocean liners into an organization with multiples cruise lines). Second, the belief of management and Board of Directors that the company will grows better. It motivates the employees to work hard. Third, internal grow in term of vessels that approximately ten vessels are under construction. Fourth, employees loyalty (the longest period employees remain in this organization is around eight years) because Carnival management treating well to their employees in terms of wages). Fifth, creative and innovative corporate officers that is ready to face challenges. Sixth, Carnival has operational experience and economic of scales that causing them to have lowest break even point in the same industry. Weaknesses First, in 1972, the speed of ship was slow. Second, the long-term debt within 1999 and 2001 is increased (the payback of debt may lower the revenue and thus decreasing the dividend payment for shareholders). Third, the expand market (business) of Carnival causing the difficulty in managing the business. Fourth, reducing on net income in 2001 is because of higher costs and expenses. 2. Opportunities (external factors) First, the expansion through acquisition can reduce the competitors in same industry and has the ability to compete with other competitors (lower advertising costs). Second, collaboration with travel agents can promote cruises. Third, the industry is expected to have bright future in passengers, consolidation through mergers, buyout, and smaller cruise operator failure, and the expansion of the industry worldwide. Fourth, expand of target customers from older people to younger people. Fifth, expand of onboard activities (casino, disco, and nightclub). Threats First, terrorist events that were happen in 11 September 2001. Second, negative publicity in 2002 where Carnival subjected by the ocean pollution charges and â€Å"Norwalk-like† virus that affect the cruise industry. Third, the increased of fuel costs and airline costs that affect the industry. Fourth, the failure of Carnival discontinued operations of Fiesta marina Lines that affect the company image. Fifth, Persian Gulf War that was increased competitors in the cruise industry especially in Caribbean area. Sixth, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines had institute a major shipbuilding program that challenges Carnival. The emergence of Walt Disney Company in the cruise market; and the prospect of new ships on the horizon give impact to the â€Å"family† cruise vacation segment. 3. Core competencies Yes, Carnival has core competencies because it is the competency crosses divisional boundaries, Carnival can do exceedingly well, and must continuously reinvest in it: i) Adding diversion onboard – such as disco, nightclubs, casino, and others. Carnival also tries to attract younger cruisers by providing vacation package that included airfare to the port of embarkation and home after the cruise. ii) Product positioning – Carnival believes that cruise market comprised to three segments (contemporary, premium, luxury) with different passenger demographics, characteristics, and growth requirements. iii) Travel agents – collaborate with travel agents to promote cruises. Carnival also training travel agents from nonaffiliated travel firm to sell cruises. 4. Distinctive competencies Yes, Carnival has distinctive competencies because distinctive competency is the superior to those of the competitions and difficult for competitors to compete with Carnival: i) Investment in new ships – Carnival is expanding its internal growth by investing in new ships. The ships under constructions are around 10 vessels. It is difficult for other competitors to invest in these large numbers of ships in same period but Carnival can do. ii) External expansion through acquisitions – Carnival has five subsidiaries that control the major cruise lines in different countries. This causing Carnival becomes as the largest cruise line in the world. 5. What trends are emerging in cruise industry?  i) The adding diversion onboard such as planned activities, disco, nightclubs, casino, and other forms of entertainment activities (different kinds of activities that suitable for different ages of target customers). ii) Moderate priced vacation for younger cruisers that included airfare to the port of embarkation and home after the cruise. iii) All inclusive packages that began with bags were tagged for the ship at the airport, air-conditioned bus, meals, onboard activities, house keeping service, until passengers were transported back to airport. iv) Love story movie such as â€Å"Titanic† and â€Å"Love boat† that promote the romance onboard encouraging couples to join cruise. 6. Marketing strategy i) Price – moderate price (vacation packages) that middle-class clients afford to pay. Prices for different levels of rooms are charged according to the customers needs. ii) Product – vacation package that suitable for the clients aged. Other onboard activities such as casino and disco. The service from picking up the clients at airport to board and dropping clients again at airport. iii) Place – Caribbean ports and other destination such as Walt Disney World, Holland, and Costa, as long as the clients want to go. iv) Promotion – some of the promotions are done by travel agents. The â€Å"Fun Ship† cruise that with designated shipboard party and everyone is welcomed by Carnival is another success promotion. 7. The importance of travel agents The travel agents will help Carnival to promote the cruises as an alternative to Disney or European vacation. For people who never take a cruise in their life, or afraid of taking a flight to the destinations will be attracted. Thus, it shows that the important role of travel agents to Carnival. Besides that, not only attracting clients to take a cruise as the core business, selling cruise is also part of the Carnival business. Thus, Carnival is training travel agents from nonaffiliated travel firms to sell cruise. Because of the attractive benefit in term of money provided by Carnival, in year 2000, Carnival took reservations from about 29000 travel agencies to promote the business. And, it proves that this strategy in promoting cruises either to attract clients boarding the cruise or selling the cruise is succeed. 8. Flight or cruise? We will choose cruise because we have not travel yet to some where by cruise before. i) In our opinion, although the price for a cruise might be higher a bit than to take a flight to Caribbean island that we can afford to pay. By choosing a package for the cruising is worth because there will be variety of services that suitable for us as active younger cruisers rather than just to sit in the flight and we have nothing to do. ii) Even though cruise may take a longer time to reach Caribbean island, the final destination that we will reach is Caribbean island no matter we take a cruise or flight. Thus, we can enjoy the onboard facilities that we have paid for. Disco, nightclubs, gym room, cinema, and casino are the places that we seldom go for but we can enjoy if we take a cruise for this vacation. iii) Cruise is a place that we can relax ourselves since the purpose of travel is to relax our mind. The sea view from a ship can make us happy and reduce our stress. On the other hand, we c an also meet some new friends through this trip. iv) Besides, we can experience some exotic destinations when the cruise will sail in the ports. The cruisers can come down from the vessel and visit some famous spots. Adversely, if we take flight, we can’t visit anywhere except just transit in airport. 9. Evaluation of Carnival’s targeting to specific target market i) Contemporary segment – served by Carnival ships, featured a casual ambiance. ii) Premium segment — served by Holland America, for longer market and appealed to more affluent consumers iii) Luxury segment – served by Seabourn and Cunard, catered to experience cruisers. The above are the target market for Carnival. Each segment has different types of costs to be charged to consumers. For the contemporary segment, it is more suitable for family and people who need relaxing during a short period of holidays. The price is cheaper than premium or luxury segment. For the premium segment, it is more suitable for affluent consumers, who need a longer period to relax. It normally targets an older people to board because the facilities in the ship are more suitable for their ages. This segment of cruise will have more cabin or public space per person. In term of price, it is the most expensive and little people can afford to pay. The price for this segment is higher than contemporary segment. Not everyone will prefer this segment of cruise because they need to consider the available time for taking the cruise. The luxury segment targets for extremely rich consumers where they were served as â€Å"king† and â€Å"queen† in the ship. The consumers who taking this segment of cruise can show that they have a higher social status and prestige is the main consider by consumers. 10. Strategic management in Carnival Carnival has a very unique and successful strategic management in cruise industry. During terrorist events in 2001, the world cruise industry was negatively impact by it. However, to overcome this problem, Carnival offered a deep discount to lure back the passengers. In year 2002, Carnival was subjected to the ocean pollution charges. The company was withdrawing $18 million to overcome this issue. This strategy is not only to overcome the issue ethically but also to maintain the company image. Carnival is doing well in pricing strategy where they offer different kinds of packages with moderate price for different kinds of customers. To improve the core competency of the company, Carnival tried to increase the services onboard and adding diversions onboard. Even though other cruise company can imitate this strategy but Carnival is the first to invent the same strategy that succeeds to gain revenue from it. Carnival tried to introduce new strategy to make more convenience to consumers such as the â€Å"all-inclusive package†. The main purpose of this strategy is to maximize the satisfaction of consumers on Carnival services. Finally, to reduce the competition in cruise industry and to compete with other competitors in the same industry, Carnival did acquisition on many cruise lines as subsidiaries. The expansion of Carnival in cruise line market through acquisition can tighten the status of Carnival in cruise industry. 11. The advantage of being a CFC The individuals (foreigners or locals) who held the stocks of Carnival under the CFC status are incorporation exempt shipping operations of United States persons from income tax. Carnival with all of its income (except of United State source of income from transportation, hotel and tour business of Holland America) would be exempt from United State federal income taxes at the corporate level. This exemption not only can increase the revenue of Carnival, it also allows the company to have more funds (liquidation assets) to run more projects or activities for the company. The reason of government to give exemption to Carnival is because to encourage this industry to growth and attract more passengers boarding on ship, especially the ship with casino. It will increase the government sources of money. 12. How to maintain low costs, high level of service? i) Vertical integration or outsourcing – Carnival can try to produce in-house or outsource the products or services in related industries such as shipbuilding, meal preparation industry, and transportation (bus). This is because either vertical integration or outsourcing, which contributes the lowest cost, will be the choice of Carnival to either produce in-house or to outsource the needs. The good relation with suppliers can guarantee the best quality of the products or services. The in-house produce (vertical integration) can guarantee for the high level of products and services quality. ii) Maintain employees – Experienced employees can be the senior for the new comers. They can train and guide the new workers while doing a task rather than the company to send them for training course. Thus, maintaining experienced employees can save the labor cost and maintain the service quality to passengers. iii) Maintain crui se standard (such as sanitary standard) by periodically checking to avoid break down during cruising and it may need higher cost to repair and bring inconvenience to passengers. Conclusion The success of Carnival is depends on the innovative Board of Directors and management. The growth of cruise market becomes more significant because of the low fares high quality of service. Carnival is dominating the cruise line market but they still do investment in improving the services so that to avoid the core competencies become the weaknesses of the company. Even though the net profit of year 2001 is decreased but it did not mean that they have weak internal control. External factors such as increased in fuel cost also are considered the factor in the declining profit. Finally, Carnival has the potential to grow in cruise line market because they already gained the experience in cruise line and they have strong financial to support many cruise activities.

Non Parametric Test

Non Parametric Test is a kind of statistical test that was discovered by Wolfowitz. This test covers a variety of categories and these are the independent samples, dependent samples and the variables relationship with co- variables. To contrast and differentiate measurements is a hard thing to do, one can choose parametric and nonparametric. Non parametric test are those tests that has no postulates about arrangement of population. There a number of nonparametric tests and these includes the Mann- Whitney Test, Wilcoxon and the Kruskal- Wallis test. Mann- Whitney Test is comparing two independent random samples. It has its postulates or assumptions and these are the taking of spontaneous segment of populations, autonomy within data’s gathered and its common independence, its scale is ordinal. The Wilcoxon test or the Wilcoxon signed- rank test is the test that which serves as a replacement of Student’s T test. This was discovered by Frank Wilcoxon. This is comparing a dissimilar measurement that is why it is needed to measure data’s at a gap of measurement. Kruskal- Wallis test, a one way analysis of variance and is used for small samples, it compares unpaired groups. Prism is being used in performing this test. These non parametric tests are usually used in ranking order such as movie reviews. But due to lesser postulates, these non parametric tests are full of vigor or vital. Non parametric tests are easy to use and is much simple than the parametric test. This test can be use on determining the population of those depressed people, emotionally disturbed and mentally ill and it can also be used to know the level or the rank of the most significant reasons why people get emotionally unstable and eventually get depressed.

Henri Fayol five rules of management Essay

Fayol’s first â€Å"rule† is foresight. Coca-Cola â€Å"complete[d] a plan of action for the future† (37) by planning to find a leader that could help â€Å"Coke recapture its previous growth pace and stock value without Goizueta’s legendary leadership.† (W-7) Fayol’s second rule is organization. Coca-Cola took care of this rule of management by being â€Å"very sensitive to local market conditions.† (W-7) They used bottlers that were local or one’s not entirely owned by the Coca-Cola Company. This allocation of local bottle companies â€Å"provide[d] and mobilize[d] resources to implement [Coca-Cola’s] plan.† (37) The next of Fayol’s rules is command. Coke implemented this rule by selecting Douglas Daft to take over as chairman and CEO in 2000 for Douglas Ivester. After being appointed CEO, Daft constructed a new executive management team consisting of just ten persons. This made management of the company more efficient since there were fewer jobs to worry about and fewer resources needed to do these jobs. The fourth rule of Fayol’s model is coordination. Coke had a major problem after introducing New Coke. They solved this problem by refraining to put out new products until they were certain that it would prosper. They resisted the temptation to follow the latest trend and used the motto â€Å"If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.† When Coca-Cola finally felt ready to put out a new product they introduced Vanilla Coke and non-carbonated beverages to appeal to a broader range of consumers. Finally, Fayol’s last rule of management was control. To keep the company on track with the plan, Daft appointed twenty-four division and operations presidents to make sure the aims of the company were being upheld and attained. 2. Consider the following quote from Coca-Cola’s statement on diversity: â€Å"We embrace our commitment to diversity in all its forms at The Coca-Cola Company as a core value. Diversity – of race, gender, sexual orientation, ideas, ways of living, cultures and business practices – provides the creativity and innovation essential to our economic well-being. Equally important is a highly motivated, healthy and productive workforce that achieves business success through superior execution and superb customer satisfaction.† This quote can be related to the Coke case by the way that Coca-Cola selects its type of advertisement based on the target location. Another way they embrace their commitment to diversity is by their release of new products such as Vanilla Coke and non-carbonated beverages to meet the diverse needs of consumers. The quote can be related to the behavioral approaches to management by Daft’s decision to make the company a more entrepreneurial organization and slimming down on the number of executive managers. 3. How does Coca-Cola score on the eight attributes of performance excellence? On the eight attribute of performance excellence, Coca-Cola scores very well. The eight attributes can clearly be seen in the company: Bias toward action by making a decision to appoint Daft as the new CEO because they feel he will get things done better than Ivester. Closeness to the customers by using local companies to bottle and distribute Coke products so that the community is getting back from the products they purchase. Autonomy and entrepreneurship by coming out with new products like Vanilla Coke, Diet Vanilla Coke, Diet Coke with lemon, and non-carbonated beverages. Productivity through people by giving responsibility for implementing the company’s six strategic priorities to Coca-Cola employees. Hands-on and value-driven by seeking to reach the status the company had  under Roberto Goizueta. Sticking to the knitting by not producing new products after the failure of New Coke and sticking with the original product that got them their success until they were truly ready to release new products. Simple form and lean staff by Daft cutting his executive management team to just ten people.   Simultaneous loose-tight properties by broadening their beverages and creative service while maintaining the same image and standards the company conveys. 4. Do you think Douglas Daft will be successful in regaining the growth and value experienced under Roberto Goizueta? I do not think Douglas Daft will be successful in regaining the growth and value experienced under Roberto Goizueta because there is so much more competition today among carbonated beverages and Pepsi is coming up in status. Another factor is the fact that people are becoming healthier and drinking less carbonated drinks and switching to a healthier choice in water and sports drinks like Gatorade.

Strategic Planning For Tourism and Leisure Case Study

Strategic Planning For Tourism and Leisure - Case Study Example Although these figures seem significantly smaller than for domestic tourism in the same year, the average spending per trip was 160 for domestic tourism, and 489 for overseas visitors (www.staruk.org, visited 27/06/2007). The reasons for the difference can be explained by the cost of travel (e.g. flights) and accommodation (the average length of stay was over 8 nights by overseas visitors). Recently released figures have shown a 36% increase in overseas visitors to 24.2 million in 2002, as well as a growth in spending to 11.8 billion (www.britishtouristauthority.org, released, 27/06/2007). This shows the re-growth of this part of the industry after the sharp fall in 2001 as a result of the events of September 11th. The size of these figures show how important tourism is to the UK in general, but it also seems appropriate to look at its impact on various areas within Britain. The South West Tourist Board deals with the seven counties in the area. It contains two National Parks, covering 1.6 square kilometres of land. Tourism is high not only due to these national parks but because of various other attractions, including the Jurassic Coast of Dorset/East Dorset that was given World Heritage Site status in December 2001. (Lickorish, 2002, 66-70) The attraction is proved by the 2001 figures that show the South West to attract: 14% of all domestic trips and 8% of overseas visits; 18% of all domestic night stays and 7% equivalent for overseas visitors; and the area received 16% of all the domestic tourism expenditure and took 5% of overseas visitors' money (www.westpart.wctb.co.uk, visited 27/06/2007). The final figure is of most economic significance to the area, and shows that the local economy benefits greatly from domestic tourism. In fact, total tourism to the area generated 3.275 million for the local economy. (May, 2001, 112-18) In Greater Glasgow & Clyde Valley the aim is 'to increase visitors and provide quality information services'. One way of promoting the area is to use the fact that it is the home of eight of the top twenty Scottish attractions. Supply for tourists to the area is also enhanced through the two airports it holds. These provide easy access to the area for not only overseas visitors, but also those from other countries in the UK. In fact, overseas tourists totalled 400,000 visits in 2001, spending 165 million in 1998 (www.touristboard.seeglasgow.com, visited 27/06/2007). In contrast to figures shown earlier, this amount is very similar to the domestic tourism expenditure of 183 million in the same year, showing that overseas visitors contribute almost as much as UK residents. We can see by these figures that the demand for tourism is high, and therefore it is necessary that the government has organisations to advise it on key policy issues affecting the industry. (Krippendorf, 2005, 78-83 ) Nature and Scope of Government Involvement Before April 2003, the British Tourist Authority was the main governing body for tourism in the UK, and was funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). The DCMS has the role within tourism of 'encouraging and helping the industry improve facilities and promote a positive image abroad'

If the text had been written in a different time or place or language Essay

If the text had been written in a different time or place or language or for a different audience, how and why might it differ - Essay Example One of the ways Solzhenitsyn’s work deviates from the conventions of movie genres of the 1950s is the manner in which stylistic devices have been used. Particularly, the author of the movie goes against the grains of the time to use suspense. At the time, it is obvious that the movie industry had begun using suspense, but this suspense had been forward-looking. Contrary to this approach, Solzhenitsyn’s suspense is forward-looking. Particularly, in the opening of the movie, the plotline is set running straight onwards, without the provision of any background information. For instance, the movie begins with the sounding of a wake-up call in a Stalinist labor camp, on a chilly winter morning, in 1951. Because of this, the audience is compelled to concentrate on the details being provided in the movie, in order to make meaning out of the movie’s sudden and unexplained beginning. This stylistic device sets One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich apart from its contempo raries. ... This serves as a point of departure between Solzhenitsyn’s work and others’. Other literary works had not had the solid resolve as Solzhenitsyn’s, to depict the excesses of autocratic regimes. The excesses of Stalinism are exemplified in the lives of the prisoners. For instance, most of the prisoners have been incarcerated, mainly on grounds of suspicion. Shukhov is sentenced to a life of imprisonment and cruel punishment in this Soviet gulag system for acts of espionage, though he is innocent. In like manner, Alyoshka is a devout Baptist, full of faith but is imprisoned, all the same. The heartlessness of Stalinism in this camp is attested by: scarcity of food and food rationing and the compelling of prisoners to work in freezing temperature, as long as this temperature does not fall below -42oC. Overall, there is lucidity in observing that Solzhenitsyn’s work is not dedicated to withstanding the highhandedness of Stalinism, but to reveal to the world, th e inhuman excesses of Stalinism. The import of this is that One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich is different from other film genres since it surpasses the common role of entertainment to take on a moral cause (Solzhenitsyn, 1988, 125). The themes and motifs that Solzhenitsyn’s work advances presents a point of conformance with other works of art. Some of the themes that Solzhenitsyn presents for discussion include the struggle for human dignity (the depiction of harsh life in the prison camp invites this), the immorality of unjust punishment (the inhuman condemnation to a harsh life on false basis underscores this), and the need for faith (as is presented by the resilient nature of

Criterion Referenced Tests and the Norm Referenced Tests Research Paper

Criterion Referenced Tests and the Norm Referenced Tests - Research Paper Example This essay highlights that  the criterion-referenced tests are intended to measure a person understands of a specific concept or skills that were required and are usually used in job evaluations and also in acquiring licenses. Under the CRT the tests are either a pass or a fail for a particular test since it tests if one has conceptualized a given concept or skill or not. The norm-referenced tests on the other hand are used to compare a given examinee with the other examinees. Under the norm-standard tests the examinees are given a similar test and they are compared against the results of each other that are put on a graph where the normal distribution is analyzed and the other extremes on either side of the curve are also characterized.  This discussion stresses that  the norm-referenced tests are usually used in schools and in grading students to understand the students that can make it to the next level as they are used to test their capability in the specific subjects and h ow they relate to their development educationally. As opposed to the CRT where there are no ranks but only a pass or a fail the ranking system is the most important aspect of the NRT system since the students that will pass and those that have failed need to be known to the teacher or practitioner.  The NRTs use criteria where the student is compared with other students in the classroom to gauge their capability in comparison to their peers.

Article summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 5

Article summary - Essay Example However, some senators and presidential candidates have been opposing this approach of the government by suggesting that revenues should be increased by restricting the deductions in the income tax. According to the, this approach will definitely help the government collect more taxes in such a way that it will not put burden on the middle class. The author of the article believes that Obama is likely to consider both suggestions, which include increasing tax rates and limiting income tax deductions. Republicans are in favor of lowered tax rates because it will help the government in increasing the level of growth. They believe that higher taxes would lead the country away from the pro-growth tax reform. Republicans also seem to be opposing other steps of the government, such as, premium support proposal for Medicare, school-choice programs, and vouchers. Summing it up, the article seems to be written in opposition to the steps likely to be taken by the American government for improving the economy of the country. Will, George. A Fiscal Cliff of the Democrats’ Own Choosing. Azstarnet.com, 29 Nov. 2012. Web. 04 Dec. 2012.

Public Policy Issue Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Public Policy Issue - Research Paper Example It is essential for organization to embrace the virtue of â€Å"Corporate Social Responsibility† and this will enable them to comprehend the incentives that are crucial to the employees and locals. Part A: Issue Description Coca cola is a multinational that is aggressive in its objective of dominating the beverage production and dissemination market. Coca Cola is proceeding with its take over of competitive brands that are threatening its successful domination of the market. Evidently, the Coca Cola products are predominant in the beverage market in numerous countries including the US. The Coca Cola Corporation (US) is insistent on improving the healthcare arrangement to become inexpensive to employees (Geisel 1). Numerous organizations are dependent on the contribution of their employees in enhancing the productivity of their companies. The US authorities are pressurizing corporations to enhance the medical standards that govern the health procedures of individuals (O’ Connell 1). Some institutions are reluctant to integrate these policies in their programs citing it will increase their expenses and this will eat into their earnings. In addition, several institutions are instigating plans to structure health plans that will subsidize the medical expense of their employees. It is probable that this law can injure the profit margins of the institutions and this debate has been soaring with several institutions advocating for its revocation. However, it is vital to consider the tribulations that employees undergo in carrying on their duties and initiate policies that can mitigate the health hazards that will occur (O’Connell 1). Part B: Business Political Strategies Stakeholders Primary Coca cola Management Coca Cola Employees (US Branch) Secondary US Government US Citizens And Workforce I. Financial Strategy a. Political Consulting Our organization, the Coca Cola Corporation (US), will commence initiatives that will encompass the governments request for corporations to create affordable health packages for their employees. It is imperative for our organization to facilitate the formulation of tactics that will assist in the enhancement of healthcare (Geisel 1). This program will entail the intervention of the Governmental authorities to explain the financial structure of this health reform. Our responsibility is to impact positive elements in the dissemination of inexpensive health to individuals. This paper is discussing the influence of public guidelines and strategies that Coca Cola can adopt to ensure its organization is in cohesion with the requirement of the Public Policy Authorities. Our company acknowledges there has to be initiatives that will assist incorporation of the healthcare improvements. It is debated that reforming the employees health insurance is coherent and is representative of the privileges of staff (O’Connell 1). We will present our analysis of reforms that will be beneficial to the organ ization employees and illustrate the welfare prospects of our corporation. b. Economic Leverage The Coca Cola Corporation will liaise with a particular health provider that can offer favorable rates for the corporation’s employees (Geisel 1). This will diminish the expense of the cooperation in medical affairs since the hospitals will consider the special

A New Begining Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

A New Begining - Research Paper Example A group of 10 is a good sized group and will be able to be managed within a short amount of time. We will have the initial screening through doctors, but we will also provide a short questionnaire for anyone who is interested in the group. The questionnaire will ask about their attitude towards weight loss, what they have tried in the past, how often they have tried to lose weight, and what results they had in the past. The questionnaire will also ask screening questions that will pertain to whether an individual has problems with eating disorders. In order for someone to be successful in weight loss, they will need to make a variety of changes with not only their eating habits but with their mental ideas about food. In order to lose weight, they may need to undergo a complete change in their lifestyle. This is one of the reason why it will be important to define those people who actually have a mindset that will promote their moving forward. Each person in the group will also need t o go through one individual therapy session with one of the group members. This will create a psychological profile for each person so that we know what we are dealing with when people come into the group. According to Berg, Landreth and Fall (2006) we should screen participants so that the members of the group have similar goals and needs for weight loss, and they would be people who would not stop the progress of the group. When thinking about this criteria, we would want to make sure that the members of the group were mentally healthy (they do not have psychological disorders that would stop the progress of the group), and who were at a similar level of needing to loose weight. In other words, we would like to have people in the group who are serious about weight loss and who will do what is required. Some of this would be done in the prescreening which would include an interview with each individual who was interested in the group, the questionnaire, and a conversation with thei r doctor (with a written permission from the person wanting to join the group). Since Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is supposed to be brief therapy, we will limit the group to 12 sessions of 45 minutes each and we will meet at the treatment center. Rationale for CBT CBT has been used to assist many people in stopping smoking, turning away from alcohol and drugs, as well as stopping many mood disorders. Using CBT for weight loss is relatively new, according to St. Clair (n.d.). Losing weight involves not only a physical change, but individuals must also change their thinking. CBT is able to help them make new decisions about the way they look, about weight loss in general and they learn to think thin (St. Clair, n.d.). Arhart-Treichel (2007) reports on a study done by the Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research in which ten women were a part of a weight loss group. The results of the study showed that the women lost a pound a month to a pound a week and were able to keep it off. A Swedish randomized clinical trial done in 2005 studied 62 obese people who lost an average of 17 pounds after the 10 weeks program and another five pounds by the follow-up date 18 months later (Arhart-Treichel, 2007). Clearly, CBT is slowly showing an effective way

The movie was made in 1997 Essay Example for Free

The movie was made in 1997 Essay During this essay I will look and analyse the opening scene from the movie Romeo and Juliet, the movie was made directed by Baz Lurhmann. The movie was made in 1997. I will discuss the camera usage, music, lights, events, settings and costume. The movie is cultural representation of the time with extensive special effects and expensive budgeting being used. Baz Lurhmann produced Romeo and Juliet in a never seen way of representing Shakespeare, he uses a very clear, modern day Hollywood film and he conquers modern day issues such as age and gender (newsreader being black female with coloured people being discriminated against in Shakespeares time) to show a representation of the time, he develops Shakespeare in a way that could never be imagined. The events of the opening scene show the cultural objective, first the movie starts with a television coming closer towards the viewers, the newsreader is a black female, when the TV switches on the newsreader reads the prologue. Once the prologue has been read there are quick flash shots of Verona including the Montague and Capulet buildings, then the prologue is herd again. After this the prologue is in newspaper form in the form of headlines, following this we meet the main characters of the movie this is done to remind us that the characters play roles and are not real. After we meet the characters the prologue flashes for the final time and finally at the end of the prologue the title of Romeo and Juliet comes on screen. After the opening prologue has been said the camera takes us to the first scene it starts with the Montague boys in a car joking and laughing about the Capulets, we see the car with the number plate of the Montague family. They go into a petrol station and a short time later the Capulets enter the petrol station, then the two families notice each other and a after some teasing a fight breaks out with guns. The scene is largely over exaggerated using special effects and camera trickery. At the end of the fight the petrol ignites and the whole petrol station is on fire. After the fight and unrest the Chief police officer describes the fight as a civil brawl and ends with a threat that next time the peace is broken the cost will be their lives. The opening scene end with Romeo reminiscing about his life and realising from a news broadcast there was another brawl between the Montagues and Capulets. The music used in the opening scenes is largely diverse and this helps to create a deeper effect of the scene and another effective dimension to the pictures. The music used in the opening prologue is fast operatic, dramatic, loud and orchestral as it combines many instruments. The effect of this is to enhance effect of the prologue and attract the attention of the viewer, also the fast music is used to combine with the quick flashes of Verona that are used in the opening prologue. The first noticeable point in the movie is that the families are swoped round with the viewers being introduced to the Montagues first, this is done because the families are better suited in this way which enhances effect. When we meet the Montagues the music changes and being played is rock music giving an image of hard boys this is shown by the main line of the music being the boys, which signifies the character of the boys as we are introduced to them. The rock music used is modern popular music and gives an image that the Montague boys are childish and nai ve. When we meet the Capulets the music played is a cowboy and western style and this implies they are bad, powerful, sophisticated and quick. These two diverse music styles highlight the difference in styles and deepen the meaning to the viewer. When the fighting starts the music changes again and becomes fast again which indicates the quickness of the shooting and gunshots, also to enhance the power of each gunshot. After the fighting scene is over when the Prince is talking to the two fathers of each family there is no music to highlight the serious mood and consequences of the brawl. When we meet the Romeos parents the music is by Radiohead and is softer and thought provoking. Another very diverse factor between the two families is the costume, when we are introduced to the Montagues they are wearing colourful and vibrant clothes. They are wearing beach style modern clothes, which are popular and common. The Capulets are wearing much darker and smart clothes with cowboy style shoes the clothes are of a Mediterranean, shark look and the Montagues is a casual American style. Also another noticeable change is the Prince changing costume to a police officer this sis because a police officer has more control and authority in modern times and also shows another modern adaptation that the prince becomes a police officer. The lighting used in the opening scenes is bright as it is during the day and is sunny. This makes the light natural and more effective and realistic, this shows another change as Shakespeare implies theatrics but Baz Lurhmann wanted to use a Hollywood style movie instead of a play in theatre. The use of natural light makes the audience forget that the film is a Shakespeare play. The camera usage and angles in the film are used to great effect and are used to enhance effect and meaning of the opening scenes. There are many quick edits in the opening scenes these are used when there are quick flashes of Verona. Also the camera uses zoom to go closer to the characters and further out and this enhances effect and the image and power of the character. Also the character speeds up and slows down this coordinated with speed of the scene, during gunshot battle the camera speeds up as the firing is quick. Close ups of the camera are used to enhance the image of the character. The close-ups are used on a Capulets boots, to characters faces, to buildings and to the petrol station. Also there are many close-ups of a sign in the petrol station, which said add more fuel to fire which highlights the meaning of the brawl as more hatred was added between the two families. Other camera devices used are freezes for characters, which is used to remind us they are characters. Another way the camera is used is the camera panning; this is used to pan over characters, the city of Verona and the petrol station. This is used to focus different things on the same scene. Another camera usage device used is low angles and this is done to show the viewers where the power is this is highlighted when the camera first shows the Capulets boot first and this shows the Capulets are powerful. Also another very revolutionary camera trick as the viewer is put in the eyes of different characters. The quick edits in the play coincides with the quick music and the camera panning coincides with softer music. The effect of different camera shots is it draws in the viewer and seeks their attention.

Money Laundering Impact on Mauritius Economy

Money Laundering Impact on Mauritius Economy The purpose of the study concerned the impact of money laundering and its effects on the local economic and method of laundering technique in Mauritius. Money Laundering is very vast in nature; it consists of various steps, technique and approach of undertaking such unlawful activity. The research analyzes the economic effects of Money laundering in the Mauritian Economic. The research work will attempt to examine the money laundering activities and the usefulness of prevention and detection techniques by local companies. The method that is to be used is mainly studying available research papers so that we get a maximum of information. The purpose of this study is to provide the general public a broad idea on money laundering with some existed solutions. The research will be in the main interest of financial institution, Government and General Public. 2.0 Literature Review 2.1 What is Money Laundering? Money laundering is the process by which money is obtained illegally. Various types of frauds corruption, cooking the books, involve money which has been preceded by several criminal acts. Individual or groups make illegal gains by carrying out these criminal acts and often swindle high amounts. Money laundering makes it possible to legitimate ill-gotten gains through computer crimes, insider trading, and bribery where these produce large amounts of profits. Money laundering takes place within all types of profit-motivated crime, such as embezzlement, fraud, misappropriation, corruption, robbery, distribution of narcotic drugs, and trafficking in human beings (ÃÆ'ËÅ"kokrim, 2008). 2.2 Characteristics of Money Laundering Money Laundering consists of a series of various transactions used to change the source of financial assets so as these assets can be used without compromising the criminals offences. These transactions involve 3 stages (Billy Steel, Money Laundering Stages of the Process): 2.2.1 Placement The first stage refers to the physical distribution of financial assets. It is the most dangerous one for the perpetuators as the money from illicit activities are introduces into the financial system. Money laundering is a cash intensive business generating huge amount of cash from unlawful activities (for example street drug dealing, where payment are made in cash). The proceeds are then place into financial institutions, in the retail economy or deposits out of the country. The principal aim of the launder is to deliberately remove the cash from the location of acquisition and to convert it into other assets so as to prevent detection from authorities. 2.2.2 Layering Layering involves creating complex layers of financial transaction designed to cover audit tails and provide secrecy. The first attempt is to disguise the origin and ownership of the funds by creating complex layers of transaction. The idea of the transaction is to disassociate the illegal funds to the source of the offence. Layering is the second stage, in which the funds are moved so as to veil or remove any whatsoever link from the crime committed to obtain the money. During the layering process, a number of accounts, financial institutions, companies, funds as well as the use of professionals such as brokers, lawyers and consultants as intermediaries could be involved   as this is where the money will be channeled. Assets that are bought through unlawful funds can be resold locally or abroad and as a result, the assets become more difficult to map out and seize. 2.2.3 Integration The final stage consists of the integration of the money in the legitimate economic and financial institution. Integration is the stage whereby takes place the creation of a legitimate basis for the asset origin. The launder make the money appear legally earned and cleaned. At this stage it is very difficult to distinguish by authorities the difference between legal and illegal wealth. The money is viewed as being legal, and the criminal can use it for any purpose. Illicit money is often removed from its country of origin to be cycled through the international payment system so as to blur any audit trait (Joyce, 2005). There are different ways in which the third stage of money laundering is done. For example, a credit card might be handed out by offshore banks, casino à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“winningà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? can be cashed out, capital gains on option, and stock trading might follow, and real estate sale might lead to profit. The proceeds of criminal acts could be generated from organized crime such as drug trafficking, people smuggling, people trafficking, proceeds from robberies or money acquired by embezzlement, tax evasion, fraud, abuse of company structures, insider trading, or corruption. Popular Methods of the launders at this part of the game is Sending fake import à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" export invoices and overvaluing the price of the goods. Consequently in allows the launders to more the funds from one company or country to another with the invoices serving as source of the capital place with financial companies. A simpler technique is to shift the money (via EFT) to a rightful bank from a bank owned by the launderers, as off the shelf banks are easily purchased in many tax havens. The establishment of unspecified company in countries where the right to concealment is guaranteed. In such case the launderer is in a position to grant loans from banks to undertake certain future legal transaction. In addition launders can claim tax relief on loan repayments and interest on loan so as to increase their profits. Most criminal acts are motivated by profit, argues Financial Intelligence Unit (2008). When substantial profits are generated from crime, perpetrators have to devise a means to control the assets in such a way that they do not attract attention to themselves or the crime committed. Thus, the money laundering process is crucial in order to enjoy the profit without arousing suspicion. 2.3 Problem statement: 2.3.1 Banking Secrecy: A major drawback of money laundering Banking secrecy is a professional obligation, meaning that financial institutions shall not expose a customers financial information and they even have the right to resist any third partys enquiries in order to protect the customers wellbeing. Secrecy laws have served to safeguard persons from financial failure in countries plagued by unsteadiness, fragile currency and run-away inflation rate. Wealthy individuals and political agents are also protected by allowing them to hide their possessions to avoid the risk of persecution (Savona, E.U, 1997). In some countries, for example in Switzerland, the revelation of secret banking information is punishable by law, whether it is intentional or unintentional (Corrado, M.G, 1988). In the world we are presently living, nobody can deny the fact that banking secrecy is the most significant weapon for money launderers. Some countries like Hong Kong, Switzerland, Panama are even known as notorious banking secrecy heavens. These jurisdictions really make the crime of money laundering more severe and out of control. For instance in Hong Kong, a new regulation was introduced in 2000 which requires banks to report suspicious transactions. This resulted in 6,100 suspicious transactions being reported in 2000 and 95% of them were from banks (www.hongkong.org/press/ny-021400.htm, 15th Aug 2001) 2.4 Combating Money Laundering: The Lifting of Banking Secrecy Despite being an important part of individual privacy, banking secrecy has to be lifted in some cases as it is equally important to fight against money laundering in order to guarantee a protected and safe society. The lifting of bank secrecy has already been embodied in the most vital international documents. Each party should authorize the court or other authority to order that financial or business reports should be made accessible or be seized under the 1988 Vienna UN Convention, the 1990 Strasbourg Convention and the 2000 Palermo US Convention specifically (United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, Art.5(3), 1990 Council of Europe Convention on Laundering, Search, Seizure and Confiscation of the Proceeds from Crime, Art.4(1), United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, Art.12(6)). The FATF recommended that financial institutions should concentrate on all unusual or large transactions, which have no evident economic or lawful purpose. Such transactions should be examined, written and be made available to supervisors, auditors and law enforcement agencies. If financial institutions doubt that proceeds come from a criminal activity, they are required to account for their suspicions to the expert authorities without delay (The FATF Recommendations on Money Laundering, 1996 Art 14, 15). These measures are innovative, modern and extremely different from the conventional banking system. In early times, the relationship between financial institutions and customers were founded on trust and confidence: neither the banker asked questions nor the customers made disclosures. The situation has now changed. Along with that, the way of thinking and attitude of bank directors, staff and that of management authorities have changed (Galvao G, 1997). 3.0 Research Methodology 3.1 Aims and Objective of the research The aim of the research is to identify evidence of banking secrecy and their effectiveness in combating money laundering. Cases of money laundering in Mauritius will be studied and analysed. Key principles from the anti-money laundering act and from regulations imposed by bank regulators (e.g. Financial Services Commission and the Bank of Mauritius) will be outlined. The study will then research on the measures taken by banks to fight against potential cases of money laundering in order to guarantee a protected and safe banking service. The lifting of bank secrecy has already been embodied in the most vital international documents. The objectives of this research are to: 3.2 Research Method A survey with a self-administered questionnaire will be the data collection technique used. The questionnaires will be sent to the senior managers, executives and branch managers of the identified banks in Mauritius. Visits to the company/meeting with the relevant person will be carried out where necessary to ensure maximum response and that questionnaire is being filled up by the addressee. Also, secondary data will be taken from company websites, reports and financial statement to supplement research. 3.3 Statistical Analysis of data After the questionnaire, the response will be input as data so as to make use of specific statistical technique. Thus SPSS statistical package will be used to analyze data for the findings of the research. 3.4 Benefits of the Research The research will be beneficial to: Companies Government Future Research Dissertations 3.4.1 Companies Combating money laundering will have a positive impact on companies: Through integrated management of financial crime operational efficiencies will improve The risk of corruption, identity crime and other criminal crimes will reduced considerably Reduced financial risk, reputational risk and legal risk Bad debts and fraud losses due to customer comprehensiveness 3.4.2 Government Money laundering has a negative effect on the economy, such as loss of control on the economical policy, economic distortion and instability. Moreover, government loss revenue as tax collection becomes more complicated and confusing. Therefore, the research will help to reduce these drawbacks. 3.4.3 Further Research Research will assist other researchers to make further research in the topic. Ghantt Chart Task/activity Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Choose topic à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Literature search à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Developing framework à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Design questionnaire à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Survey à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Data Input à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Analysis à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Writing up à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ·Ãƒ ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Submit à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ · Budget Analysis Expenditures Rs Consultants and contracts 1400 Travel 400 Supplies and materials 400 Communications (Telephone, postage, etc.) 150 Equipment (Purchase) 700 Other (Equipment rental, etc.) 400 Total 3450

Violence Against Women Essay -- Violent Violence Abuse Essays

Violence Against Women The articles that are going to be synthesized in this paper are â€Å"Ending Violence Against Women† and â€Å"Violence Against Women†. The authors of both pieces were not mentioned but the presumed to be someone who wants to prevent or help those who have been victimized by someone they know. The audiences for both pieces are any one who wants violence against women to stop and people who have and still are being victimized to know that there is help out there. The purpose for both pieces are the same as well, they are to inform people that violence against women is preventable, and that there is help for those who are or have been victimized by people. They both have logos, ethos, and pathos in every aspect of the articles. The logos in â€Å"Ending Violence Against Women† is one in three women have been victimized by someone they know. The logos in â€Å"Violence Against Women† are violence against women happens to one in four females in America. The ethos in â€Å"Ending Violence Against Women† and â€Å"Violence Against Women† is this should happen to no one no matter if they are male or female. The pathos in â€Å"Ending Violence Against Women† is the whole of the person no matter what kind of abuse it is. The pathos in â€Å"Violence Against Women† is it can devastate the whole of any women. Hence, violence against women should be stopped because the differences and similarities are equal to how bad things are for women and their inequalities. The article â€Å"Ending Violence Against Women† is about how violence towards the females of our species is getting out of hand. Gender based violence needs to be stopped because it has gotten out of hand women being beaten by someone she knows like a family member. It... ...nancy outcomes. Abuse has a major, although little recognized, impact on a woman’s reproductive health and sexual well being. Providers can reassure women that violence is unacceptable and that no women deserves to be beaten, sexually abused, or made to suffer emotionally. Therefore violence against women should be punishable to all those who choose to beat the special someone in their lives. Violence against women should be put to a stop because the differences and similarities are equal to how bad things are for women and their inequalities. The differences between them are both interesting and appalling at the same time. The similarities are very appalling but why a person would make someone else do what they wanted by beating the person they supposedly love. Why must women be the submissive type when men want to be just as submissive as women are?

Marcus Brutus as a Tragic Hero in Shakespeares Julius Caesar Essay

Marcus Brutus as a Tragic Hero in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar In the play Julius Caesar, the tragedy of the play was directed mainly at one specific character, Marcus Brutus. Brutus was the tragic hero of the play, because of his idealistic and pragmatic qualities. The mindset that Brutus possessed only allowed him to see the world and its people from one point of view. This point of view allowed him to make judgments that assumed only the best of people. This tragic weakness resulted in many errors throughout the play. The major incidences such as decisions made during the orchard soliloquy, the discussion with Cassius and the conspirators regarding decisions about Antony and the oath, his speech to the commoners after Caesar's assassination and finally the outward circumstance regarding Titinius and Cassius in act 5. Brutus was too idealistic and lived in fantasy world in which he made all his decisions simply by expecting that all were as honourable as himself. Brutus' idealism was displayed when he was reviewing his decision to kill Caesar while in his orchard. While evaluating his feelings towards Caesar, he stated, " I know little personal cause to spurn at him, But for the general". Brutus felt that Caesar had not done anything incorrect, but was afraid of what might occur. He compared Caesar to a snake, which has the ability to sting. Just as one might step on the snake and be stung, Caesar might defeat anyone who interfered with his course of action. Brutus thinks about what Caesar could become and do, if he was given the power of the crown. A very descriptive metaphor was used to illustrate Brutus' reasoning for killing: That lowliness is young ambition's ladder, Whereto the climber-upward turns his face... ...t. Shortly after, Brutus too realizes that he fighting a battle that can not be won. His honour forces himself to run upon his sword, rather than to be captured by Octavius. Brutus made errors because he was an idealist, who thought that all men, including Antony were honourable. Brutus was a tragic hero in this play, because he was too idealistic. He often fell into negative circumstances that were beyond his control. His decision making was often affected by this, because he made all his decisions by expecting that all were as honourable as himself. The tragedy can be well outlined by reviewing his orchard soliloquy, discussions made with the conspirators, the speech to the commoners and the outward circumstance in the conclusion of the play. Brutus died because of his idealism, and did so because others were not as honourable and trustworthy as he was.",,,,

The Probability of Landing on Different Properties in Monopoly :: Applied Statistics Essays

One of my favorite board games is Monopoly. I have noticed when I’ve played Monopoly that it seems like you always land on certain squares more than others. For instance, it seems like no one ever lands on Boardwalk, and players land on the pink and orange properties more often than they land on the others. The aim of this exploration is to find out if, over the course of a Monopoly game, a player will land on some squares more often than others and to use this information to figure out which properties are most profitable. This knowledge could help a player decide which properties to buy. The rules of Monopoly are fairly simple. In each turn, the player rolls two dice and moves the number of squares that is the total dice roll. The player then may buy the property he or she lands on if it is available, or if another player already owns it, the first player pays rent according to the instructions on the card associated with the property. If a player owns all the properties in a color group, he or she can increase the rent that other players pay when they land on a square by buying houses or hotels. There are some more complications in the game, but they are not important to this exploration. I decided that the most practical way to find out if a player will land on some squares more than others was to run a simulation. In order to do so, I needed to figure out how many times a player would roll the dice in a game of Monopoly, as that was the number of repetitions I would need to have in my simulation. To find that number, I played a game of Monopoly which I timed and counted the number of rolls in. It was 93 minutes long and the dice were rolled 201 times. I divided the time by the rolls to find the time per roll . The average game of Monopoly is 60 to 240 minutes long (Wikipedia) so I decided to use the middle value, 150. I divided the average length of a Monopoly game by the average time per roll to find the number of rolls in an average length Monopoly game . I decided to assume a four person game, so I divided 324 by 4 and got 81 rolls per person.

Hedging Currency Risks at AIFS Essay

The American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) is offering cultural exchange programs for American students and High School pupils throughout the world. Their customers have the possibility to go abroad while the AIFS organises the whole trip for them. Due to their business model the revenues of the company are denominated only in USD, since the offer is for American students who pay in USD. Meanwhile the costs of the company is mostly denominated in foreign currency because AIFS has to pay the transport, the hotel and much more in the countries in which their customers are travelling, hence the firm has to pay in the local currency of these countries. In consequence of the fluctuating exchange rate of USD against foreign currencies and the fact that AIFS fixes the price for their services before the costs can be estimated, the firm faces an inevitable currency exposure. In order to limit or eliminate this risk, AIFS has to hedge their currency exposure. At the moment the company hedges 100% of their exposure using forward contracts and currency options. Now Becky Tabaczynski, CFO of one of the main divisions, is creating a model, including different scenarios, with the goal of identifying which proportion of the exposure should be hedged at all and in which proportion forward contracts and currency options should be used for hedging. Not hedging at all could have disastrous consequences for the whole company because in the case of a weak dollar the costs could rise drastically while the revenues remain fixed. Suppose the company has fixed the prices for the current season and now the costs in Europe are one million euros, while the exchange rate is at 1.20 USD/EUR. This means the firm’s costs are 1.2 million dollar. If the dollar weakens against the euro and the exchange rates rises to 1.32 USD/EUR, costs for AIFS would increase by 10%. Thus costs would increase by The higher the costs turn out, the higher this negative effect would be in nominal amount. The biggest stake of the costs are in euro and pound sterling, hence these two currencies are of major concern. In case of a strong dollar the company would profit the most without hedging but due to the downside trend of the dollar against euro and sterling simultaneously in short and medium term (Exhibit 6 & 7) there is  reasonable evidence that AIFS s hould be prepared to cover their currency exposure. If the company would use 100% forward contracts to hedge their costs, they would fix the costs, no matter what happens to the exchange rates of dollar to foreign currencies. An advantage of this strategy is that AIFS does not have to bear any costs entering the forward contracts, but on the other hand, it will neither make a profit in case the dollar strengthens nor will it suffer a loss in case the dollar weakens. A more flexible but meanwhile more expensive strategy to hedge is only using currency options. That means AIFS would have to pay the option premium in any case but this strategy allows to profit from unlimited favourable movements while limiting losses by the premium. So if the spot rate at expiry is higher than the strike price, AIFS can exercise their option and buy foreign currency for the lower strike price. And if the spot rate at expiry is less than the strike price, AIFS can forget about the option and buy for the lower spot rate. In any case the option premium has to be added to the costs. The possible outcomes in the two described strategies and a scenario with no hedge at all are summarized in the table below. % Cover 100% 100% 0% Contracts 0% 100% – Options 100% 0% – 1.01 -3,725,000 0 -5,250,000 1.22 1,525,000 0 0 1.48 1,525,000 0 6,500,000 The table is based on a sales volume of 25,000 and average cost of â‚ ¬1,000 per participant. That means, with the current spot rate of 1.22 USD/EUR the costs would be $30,500,000 (â‚ ¬25,000,000 * 1.22 USD/EUR). The option premium in this case is 5% of the USD notional value that is hedged and three scenarios are examined: The dollar strengthens (1.01 USD/EUR) The dollar remains stable (1.22 USD/EUR) The dollar weakens (1.48 USD/EUR) In the first column the proportion of the hedged amount is given and in the second and third column of the table the proportions of forward contracts and currency options used to hedge are listed respectively. The fourth fifth  and sixth column show the nominal effect on the costs in each scenario relative to the ‘zero impact’ scenario (exchange rate remains stable at 1.22 USD/EUR) while it is assumed that in each hedging strategy the strike price is the current spot rate of 1.22 USD/EUR. Comparing the results of the table shows the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy. If 100% of the currency exposure is hedged only using options, the costs rise by $1,525,000 (which is exactly the option premium $30,500,000 * 5%) both in the ‘zero impact’ scenario and in the scenario of 1.48 USD/EUR, since in both cases the option will be exercised. In the case of a strong dollar (1.01 USD/EUR) the option will not be exercised since euros can be bought to the lower spot rate but the premium is lost. In total the costs still sink by 3,725,000 because the effect of the lower spot rate compensates the premium. Using only forward contracts to hedge results into no impact on the costs in any case since the exchange rate is fixed no matter what happens and there is no initial cost entering the contract. In case AIFS does not hedge at all, the costs either decrease by $5,250,000 if the exchange rate is 1.01 USD/EUR, or remain unchanged in the ‘zero impact’ scenario or increase by $6,500,000 if the exchange rate is 1.48 USD/EUR. The impact on the cost if nothing is hedged arises merely from the difference in the spot rate and is much stronger than in the hedged case. Since the company is highly affected by news of war, terrorism and political instability, events which are impossible to predict, I would suggest to alter their hedging policy and use mainly options for hedging. In case of such terrible news the forecasted volume of 25 thousand could drop up to 60%. That means in the worst case of a 60% drop, the companies costs decrease by 15 million euros but AIFS would be obliged to buy this amount if they are only hedged with forwards. Options instead would give the company more flexibility, which is a major issue since not only the exchange rates fluctuate but also the volume of participants. In my opinion AIFS should use proportions of 75% options and 25% forward contracts. In this way AIFS would fix the costs for a quarter of their exposure and still be flexible enough to react to different market circumstances and unforeseen events. Moreover AIFS should keep covering 100% of their exposure because they have already experienced a loss of $700,000 in 1995 while they only hedged 80%. In addition the company should continue to deal with 6 different banks to reduce the counterpart risk. In the following table the impact on the costs in different scenarios are summarized using the same methodology as in the table above. In the worst case scenario with 10,000 participants and in the scenario with 30,000 participants the currency exposure decreases to â‚ ¬10 million and increases to â‚ ¬30 million respectively but the impact on the costs using different proportions of forward contracts and options remains the same relatively speaking. Instead of derivatives, an alternative possibility for AIFS to hedge their currency exposure would be to set up accounts abroad in foreign currency up to a certain amount. This would simplify the hedging approach and it would be reasonable the business model of AIFS forces them to keep foreign exchange every year.

Exploitation in Nigeria

â€Å"Nigeria’s oil production reached 2. 1 million barrels per day in 2010. † Nigeria is currently the sixth largest crude oil producer and it is the top oil producer in Africa. Similar to Bougainville Island, Nigeria is being exploited by many western countries and their multinational corporations because of their rich natural resource. Oil wasn’t the first thing that was exploited in Nigeria; in 1471 Portuguese traders landed near the Niger Delta, the southern tip of Nigeria, and started trading with the local king. The Portuguese travellers traded â€Å"coral beads; textile imports from India; European-manufactured articles, including tools and weapons; and manillas (brass and bronze bracelets that were used as currency and also were melted down for objects d'art)† for slaves. Slavery was extremely abundant and the one the best source of income for many Nigerians. Back wealth was measure by the size of your estate and the number of slaves. Because of the large number of slaves going through the ports of Nigeria, namely Badagry, many slaves were bought by many wealthy local Nigerians. Many slaves were also sold to America in the transatlantic slave trade where slaves were captured in Africa and sent to America to work on plantations and as servants in return for manufactured goods from developed European countries. Western countries exploited many countries in Africa, including Nigeria, for the abundant supply of slaves. These slaves were extremely useful for slave labor and as servants because of the low cost and the inhumane living conditions they could put them in. For hundreds of years, the people of Africa, including Nigeria, were exploited for slaves. In 1938 the Nigerian government at that time granted Shell, a multinational oil company, a concession to explore and drill for oil in Nigeria. For almost two decades, Shell didn’t take any action in Nigeria but in 1938, Shell surveyed the area near the Niger Delta and eventually found lots of extremely rich and abundant crude oil deposits.

Discrimination in Text and Discourse

Discussing about discourse is a linguistic term that views language in its social context as well as psycholinguistic; its approach is descriptive rather than prescriptive; as Michael Stubbs (1993, p. 10) noted, â€Å"it refers to attempts to study the organization of language †¦ and†¦ larger linguistic units such as conversational exchanges or written texts. † Primarily, it aims to investigate the language used in social interaction of two or more people in some given situations.Similarly, discourse studies have been defined by J.  Renkema (2004, p. 1) as â€Å"the discipline devoted to the investigation of the relationship between form and function in verbal communication† that are both context-based and situation-based. To explain further, the two discourse analyses, the descriptive and critical analysis differentiate types of discourses. Descriptive discourse analysis according to Patrick Doyle (2002, p. 625) â€Å"involves mention of characters and the ir actions;† this means, the action and the character of the person himself provide hint to the meaning of the message.Critical discourse on the other hand investigates the â€Å"effect of power and ideology in the production of meaning† (Wodak & Meyer, 2001, p. 3). Here, the analysis focuses on the â€Å"dominance† factor of a given culture that exhibits inequality in a society. These two approaches in discourse analysis are relevant for the explanation and interpretation of a text or verbal discourse and in the study of linguistic as a whole. Understanding of the meaning of a message may come in through the action of character of a person (descriptive and psycholinguistic), or through dominating/discriminating one or two social groups (critical/social context).Understanding of social context of language leads to understanding many discourses at schools, community, societies, and governments, in order to achieve the purpose of effective communication through the use of language. In the same manner, discourse analysis in the study of language through the use of different theories and model is a powerful tool towards achieving language competency. Kay O’Halloran (2006, p. 1) puts it, â€Å"Language studies are thus undergoing a major shift to account fully for meaning-making practices†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 

Self Realization Through Education

Self-Realization through Education Over the past 32 years of my life, I have been both directly and indirectly impacted by numerous social institutions. Without question, education has been the most influential by creating a positive change in my life. There are many benefits to pursuing an education. First, embarking on a rewarding career path has its own rewards such as a generous salary and social prestige. In addition, an individual’s relationships within the institutions of family and marriage are also affected by the presence of an educated head of household.Lastly, the impact of a good education on mental well-being is tremendous since most people feel a sense of accomplishment after earning a college degree. Above all, I believe that education, as a social institution, has helped to shape my mental attitudes towards society as well as mold my sense of identity. Beforehand, I would like to define the term social institution followed by my own interpretation. According t o Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, an institution is defined as â€Å"a significant practice, relationship, or organization in a society or culture† (Institution, 2010).I feel that social institutions in particular are systems which  require society to form social groups; these social groups work towards  their collective goal of attaining desired statuses  and roles within said society. Simply put, a social institution is a system that can be used to attain certain social goals that are predefined by its respective social group, governed by a set of social norms. By adhering to social norms of academia, I have been able to earn an Associate’s degree which aided me in securing a new career.By depending on the institution of education, I have been able to meet one of my social goals and achieve Federal employment status. Social institutions are necessary components within our society in order to maintain and provide individual stability based on institutional dependence. Social institutions such as economy and education can directly correlate with one another. Common sense in today’s society tells us that the more educated a person is, the greater the likelihood that person will acquire high salaried employment.This so-called common sense also entails that a measure of normative isomorphism, or organizational standard, exists in the form of a college degree in order to establish a common â€Å"best practice† (Carter & Clegg, 2007, para 3). Individuals who do not possess the established minimum qualifications for employment are unlikely candidates due to an accepted social perception that said individuals lack the desired aptitude.In effect, being financially secure and having a  successful career that requires a college degree grants a sense of stability in the household. Family is considered to be another social institution and is affected by other social institutions, specifically economy and education. The involvement of the two latter social institutions has a great impact on the quality of life and stability of any given household. Herbert Spencer referred to institutions by using the analogy of society as if it were an â€Å"organism† (Henning, 2007, para 3).Basically, institutions are compared to the organs of the body since they too properly function only with effective interdependence. With respect to family, I believe that children are likely to grow up to become responsible members of society if they are raised in a household with educated parents. Seeking higher learning only strengthens the institution of family through both tangible and intangible benefits. Stability in the household, both emotional and financial, is directly affected by the level of education held by the working person.Indeed, family members traditionally benefit from the financial rewards which are bestowed upon the college-educated provider within the household. However, there are a multitude of intangible be nefits conferred upon graduation from a college or university. Social prestige, self-confidence, time management skills, and the ability to think critically are the most notable benefits. Abraham Maslow, a noted psychologist and theorist, developed a theory on human motivation that is widely known as a hierarchy of needs.After a person meets their esteem needs, he or she will seek to fulfill their potential through a process of self-actualization (Myers, 2010, pp 446-47, 564-65). Throughout this process, I feel that education is a key component towards self-actualization. In conclusion, by utilizing the institution of education, I am learning valuable life skills necessary to become a productive and successful member of society, as well as realize my true potential. References Carter, C. & Clegg, S. 2007). New institutional theory. The Blackwell Encyclopedia of Sociology. G. Ritzer (Ed. ). Retrieved from http://www. blackwellreference. com Henning, C. (2007). Institution. The Blackw ell Encyclopedia of Sociology. G. Ritzer (Ed. ). Retrieved from http://www. blackwellreference. com Institution. (2010). In Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. Retrieved June 13, 2010 from http://www. merriam-webster. com/dictionary/institution Myers, D. G. (2010). Psychology (9th ed. ). New York, NY: Worth.

Mexican Beer Market Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Mexican Beer Market - Essay Example FEMSA is one of the most dominant breweries in Mexico. They were founded in 1890 in Monterrey. They continue to work to be a world class organization that generates value through a customer focused business system. Currently they have: 6 brewing facilities in Mexico 8 brewing facilities in Brazil Over 23,000 employees Served approximately 320,000 retail stores in Mexico Annual growth rate of approximately 1,000,000 people The largest beverage company in Latin America serving more than 184 million consumers FEMSA's beverage operations include: *Coca Cola FEMSA which is the largest Coca Cola bottler in Latin America and the 2nd largest in the world based on sales volume. Fanta, Sprite, and Ciel are a few of more than 70 brands offered *FEMSA Cerveza is one of Mexico's leading brewers and major exporter to the U.S. The flagship brands include Sol, Dos Equis, Tecate, and Bohemia. *Oxxo convenience stores are the largest retail network in Latin America with over 4,800 stores in Mexico FEMSA Financial Track Record for 2006: Total Revenue = $11,625 million Oxxo Stores 28% Beer 28% Soft Drinks 44% CAGR 16% Total Operating Income =$1,599 million Oxxo Stores 9% Beer 35% Soft Drinks 56% CAGR 15% FEMSA 1st and 2nd Quarter Reviews FEMSA has done pretty well for the 1st quarter of the year. They experienced a revenue growth 9%. The breakdown of growth is 7% Coca Cola sales, 3.6% beer sales, and 10.8% income from operations. International operations doubled from 2006 creating the strongest growth. The least amount of growth in the beer division was caused by several factors: Seasonal increases of expenses such as marketing and raw materials in Brazil; A softer demand environment in Mexico; and a weaker pricing environment. During the 2nd quarter of 2007, FEMSA experienced a slight decrease in financial gain with a 7% revenue growth. Coca Cola sales increased 5.9%, beer sales increased 2.7% and income from operations increased 10.5%. Once again the strongest growth comes from international operations. The revenue reports from the first two quarters of 2007 are very favorable to a steady overall growth rate. While FEMSA has had marginal increases in revenue, they are focused on long term results over short term results. Mexico is FEMSA's largest market by far when factoring sales and profits. Their consumer base is

Physical Security Principles Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Physical Security Principles Paper - Essay Example Physical security describes both measures that prevent or deter attackers from accessing a facility, resource, or information stored on physical media and guidance on how to design structures to resist various hostile acts. (Task Committee 1999) According to O’Sullivan (2003), security planning should encompass the following areas: (1) identification of assets; (2) exposing losses; (3) assignment of occurrence probability factors; (4) assessment of the impact of occurrence; and (5) selection of countermeasures. The WBDG Safe Committee averred that the countermeasures that must be implemented by security management in its role to safeguard the assets and resources of the organization would depend on the type of the building, on the risk levels, and on various factors influencing the assessment and evaluation of risk. Diverse classifications of risk are known to be more susceptible to buildings, to wit: forced entry, different kinds of threats (insider, explosive, ballistic), terrorist attacks through weapons of mass destruction, and technological breaches. From among the security measures necessary to address building, grounds and perimeter security, WBDG Safe Committee (2009) identified the following security countermeasures as the most effective: building or organizational access control, detection systems designed specifically to prevent intrusion by installation of fences and barriers, video and CCTV, and alarms. Specifically, the following methods are suggested to protect buildings, grounds and perimeters: (1) implementing stringent policies for access control through checking of proper identifications, (2) limiting and monitoring authority to access to highly safeguarded areas, (3) considering strengthening the foundation of buildings, grounds, and perimeters to ensure protection from collapse and fortuitous

The Chinese Knight Errant Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Chinese Knight Errant - Essay Example However, the material realm is inadequate to construct a more complete definition of what it means to be a Knight Errant, as many of the qualities are the abstract concepts that go hand in hand with morality. The Knight Errant is a principle. It is the principle of right and wrong that guides our decisions as we pursue our ethical objectives. When faced with a moral dilemma, a solution could be forthcoming by simply asking ourselves; What would a Knight Errant do In the answer we would find truth, honesty, compassion, obligation, sincerity, respect, and a wealth of human spirituality that makes us genuinely and uniquely a moral human being. The Knight Errant is selfless in their pursuit of justice in the name of righteousness. This is not a half-hearted endeavor to settle a score or seek revenge for a wrong committed against oneself or one's family. The Knight Errant serves righteousness as a subject serves a master. The only purpose of their actions is to remain true to their moral code that mandates doing the right thing without regards to personal cost, loss, or gain. In the story The Sung Founder Escorts Ching-Niang One Thousand Li translated by LS Lieu, the protagonist Chao K'uang-yin escorts a beautiful young lady through treacherous territory on a journey back to her home. The Knight Errant is a perfect gentleman and never pursues the lady from an aspect of lust. Her family questions the fact that any man could be so pure of heart. Chao is genuinely miffed that anyone would question his motives for helping the beautiful girl. When asked about it he flies into a rage and shouts, "I came here out of righteousness, but you've insulted me with such words. If I coveted her beauty, we'd have been married on the way" (74). This was not a false sense of being forced to do the right thing, it was a genuine display of righteousness that transcends our everyday decisions to behave and act in an acceptable manner. The Knight Errant was not simply following his social norms; he was being true to himself and his beliefs. The acts of a Knight Errant, and the core principle of righteousness, carry over across time and culture as we view it from the perspective of our own value system and look at it through the lens of our current social context. While many of the acts may seem violent and gruesome, their horror is diluted by the principle of justice. Just as the Knight Errant is not a man, the deeds they commit are not the acts. A Knight that kills another man is not a murderer, but an instrument of faith that is correcting a past injustice or a current threat. The deed of killing is not murder, but an act that rectifies past wrongs or eliminates present dangers. In addition, the character does not have to carry the label of Knight Errant to perform as one. The entity and its acts are merely the results of the motivation that drives the action. It is not a formalized or well-defined schema. In the story The Lady Knight Errant translated by LS Lieu, a young woman is asked what she is carrying in the lea ther bag by her side. She replies "The head of my enemy" (80). Her friend curiously looks inside the bag. "He saw a bearded head, all smashed and smeared with blood" (80). The woman continues to

Evaluations and Assessments Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Evaluations and Assessments - Essay Example The purpose of these assessments is to ensure that students are acquiring the essential skills, concepts and subject knowledge in social studies; that they have the opportunity to engage in a broad range of social topics that include civics, economics, geography, history, and general social studies skills. The plan is to eventually these across the state by 2008-09 in order to measure student learning in social studies. 9 CBAs are targeted for elementary school. They are believed to be better able to assess the subject as compared to standardized multiple choice and short answer questions for instance as well as have other advantages. The main component of the CBA is the rubric page. This details how a student can reach proficiency for the particular assessment. Besides this, the CBA mentions support materials, provides a student checklist, suggested resources etc. Both formal and informal assessments are similar in that they seek to provide a measure of student performance, usually as a summative assessment of learning. However, formal assessments are conducted under stricter exam conditions because their scores are noted on the student records. On the other hand, informal assessments are typically used to provide students with practice for the real formal assessments and may not be conducted under such strict conditions. The CBA issued by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction are formal assessments. Any other student assessments conducted entirely by the teacher would be considered as informal. The Content and Regional Focus for GLEs for grade 1 is based as Families and the concepts of near and far, now and then; for grade 2 is based on Community and the same concepts. A simple example of a pre-assessment question is given below. Another question could test the student’s knowledge and understanding of a

Christian Faith Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Christian Faith - Essay Example In order to understand the faith of Christians, it is very important to identify and discuss some of the major components of Christianity that are followed and practiced by Christians around the globe. Nowadays, the world is suffering from tormented sufferings due to the different wars, poverty, unemployment, fraud, and a number of other factors that have anguished this globe at a very greater extent. Still, a huge number of inhabitants are strong in their faith on the Jesus Christ and other imperative components of the Christianity. Christianity Jesus of Nazareth has centered His teachings on life according to the New Testament, and a monotheistic religion was formed that is referred as Christianity. Old Testament has prophesied the Jesus as the Son of God, as well as, the Messiah for the world. According to the consensus of the year 2005, there were estimated 2.2 billion adherents, which made the Christianity as the largest religion with the highest number of followers around the world. (McGrath, 2006) Europe, America, Australia, and the Philippine Islands are some of the locations, where the religion is predominant as compared with the other locations. In addition, New Zealand, and Sub-Saharan Africa have also major number of the Christian believers in their region. Nowadays, Africa and Asia are also predominating in this religion rapidly. China and South Korea are the particular ones in this regard. A significant diversity of belief has always been observed within the Christianity. Certain core doctrines have been considered as the essential one by mainstream of the Christianity.

Management Assignment 2 Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Management Assignment 2 - Research Paper Example A car manufacturing plant can produce roughly around 10% of the automobile demand of the whole industry. But with this level of output, a company also needs high level of sales promotion and dealership. In order to fully sale the produced output, the Dassan Limited will need to start the advertising campaign on a very large scale. This strategy will decrease the cost per unit of automobile. Generally the buyers prefer to deal with large and reputable manufacturers and dealers. Such a big network of credible dealers requires a large amount of investment in the automobile industry. Dealers also want to deal with big names and companies have to make a considerable effort at the time of establishing a company. There are currently three big players in the Australian Automobile industry. Ford Australia, GM Holding Ltd and Toyota Motors Corporation Australia are the only three large scale automobile manufacturers in Australia. Ford Australia is one of the subsidiaries of the Ford Motor Company and established in Victoria in 1925. The company also operates Ford Performance Vehicles which is an in-house tuning division. In 1856, the GM holding was formed as a saddlery business but became a subsidiary of GM Motors later in 1931. Holden has offered many locally manufactured vehicles like Holden Commodore to the domestic market. Holden also operates an in-house tuning division known as Holden Special Vehicles. Toyota Motor Corporation Australia is a subsidiary of Japan based Toyota Motors Corporation. Toyota Australia promotes and manages their products in Australian market specially motorsport. The automobile manufacturing company needs high capital and labor to start up. As the Dassan Ltd is trying to establish itself in another country, it needs foreign exchange. Although geographically Australia is located near Korea but it is inaccessible through land so Dassan Ltd either can not utilize its previous expertise and resources or has to endure high

Research Methods in the Social Sciences Assignment - 2

Research Methods in the Social Sciences - Assignment Example The organization first gives the eligibility information. If eligible, one is required to submit an electronic proposal or download the required forms through the website address given (NCEE, nd). After submission of the proposals, the organization evaluates each eligible proposal. They are ranked by reviewers and submitted to the EPA Approving Official. Selected candidates are given instructions concerning submission of the final grant application. The proposals are ranked based on scores. The highest ranked applicant is selected for the award of the grant. The applicants may also be required to modify their work before giving final funding recommendations. They are notified about the evaluation decisions and possibilities of getting the grant via e-mail. Those recommended are required to give additional certifications and a revised project abstract in electronic form. Official announcement of the award is given by the Agency’s Grants and Interagency Agreement Management Division. The announcement is finally posted in the organization’s website. The deadline for submission of the proposal by the applicant is given. The date for award of the grant is also given. There are no opportunities at present

How Drugs and Receptors Interact Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

How Drugs and Receptors Interact - Essay Example GABAA receptors are also ligand-gated and ionotropic channels. Upon binding of the drug, such hormones are automatically triggered. Examples of drugs that bind through this mechanism include bicuculline, muscimol, and gaboxadol. b) Ligand-Regulated Transmembrane Enzymes Ligand-Regulated Transmembrane Enzymes are receptor molecules that mediate the early steps of signaling by insulin, growth factor, epidermal growth factor, platelet-derived, transforming growth factor, atrial natriuretic peptide, and many more trophic hormones. They are a type of receptors that are polypeptides in nature and comprise of extra-cellular-hormone-binding domains that bind to a cytoplasmic enzyme. The enzyme can be a tyrosine kinase, a guanylate cyclase or serine. In all these receptors, the two are linked by a polypeptide, a hydrophobic domain that cuts across the lipid layers. Upon binding of the drug (ligand) to the extracellular receptor, the receptor activates monomers to dimmers and the two receptor polypeptides bind strongly to the membrane. The cytoplasmic domains are then phosphorylated on tyrosine residues and their particular enzymatic activities or effects are activated. The tyrosine kinase receptor signaling pathway begins with binding of the drug or ligand to the external domain of the receptor. For example, monoclonal antibodies that act as antagonists of the tyrosine kinase receptors are effective in the management of breast cancer-related with over-expression of the growth factor receptor.

The people motivated Essay Example for Free

The people motivated Essay There are many different motivation theorists who each with there own theory as to the way people are motivated, but do people actually behave the way these theories tell us they do or are the people motivated by other things. Elton Mayo conducted some experiments in 1927-32 and found that better lighting equalled high productivity. He set up to groups of workers; these included a test group and also a control group. When he turned up the light in-group one, but not in the other productivity rose in both groups. While in further experiments he reduced the lighting to its original level and turned the lighting up in the other group productivity still rose in both groups. The experiments showed no correlation so Elton Mayo changed the variables within his experiment. Working with a group of women, the experimenters made a number of changes, rest breaks, no rest breaks, free meals, no free meals, more hours in the work-day / work-week, fewer hours in the work-day / work-week. Their productivity went up at each change. Finally the women were put back to their original hours and conditions, and they set a productivity record. The reason for this was that both groups were being consulted and workers developed cohesiveness as a social group. This was mainly due to workers sensing belonging and the UN-weighted desire for higher pay and the need for many to reach productivity targets. This showed that workers were motivated by the carrot and stick theory that people would be motivated by bonuses. An example of these ideas being used in business today is the Volvo plant in Uddevalla, opened in 1989, was designed to allow workers to work in teams of 8-10. Each team built a complete car and made decisions about production. It was found that the absenteeism rates at the Uddevalla averaged 8 per cent, compared to 25 per cent in their Gothenburg plant, which used a production line system. Proving that workers performed better when they felt belonging to a group. Frederick Taylor took a more scientific approach to the way he felt people were motivated, but just like many other theorists he believed people were motivated by money. He believed that if output could be linked to pay then output could rise. So piece rates were introduced, an idea that meant the higher your output the higher your wage would be. However at the time this wouldnt work as many businesses didnt have management and therefor the employees were not always sure of what to do, so Taylor recommended they should have managers to have control over the work of the employees and therefor make the business more efficient. This is also a carrot and stick but the workers would be motivated to get a greater wage.