Fetal Humanity and Brain Function Essay

Baruch Brody begins his argument by making assumptions that a fetus, being a human being must acquire all the essential properties of a human being, such that the loss of any would lead to out of existence or death. Thus, the essential property of a human being is the property whereby the loss would result in the death of the human being. From the Brain-Death theory, death is defined as an irreparable cessation of brain function. Therefore, it follows that a fetus becomes a human being when it possesses the essential property of a human being that is, having a brain that has not suffered irreparable cessation of function. To reinforce this conviction, he added that by the sixth week of conception, when the fetus possesses a functioning brain, all the other properties that are required for being human are also present. However, when the fetus acquires all the necessary properties by the sixth week, the fetal brain is still not developed to support spontaneous motion until the third month. Some may argue that the fetus does not comes into humanity until the point of spontaneous movement, so it would be precise to say that fetus becomes a human being at some time between the sixth and twelfth week after its conception. According to Ramsey’s theory of death, human being goes out of existence or dies only when all the essential properties of being human- that is, the possession of the brain, heart and lung- suffer irreparable cessation of function. And the fetus becomes a human when it acquires any one of the properties. The fetal heart is developed at the second week, prior to the brain and lung. Thus, based on the theory of essentialism, the fetus becomes a human being at week two. However, as there are progressive developments in the functioning of the fetal heart, it would be more accurate to conclude that the fetus becomes a human being some time between the second and twelfth week of conception. Between the second and twelfth week after conception, the fetus becomes a human being and right to life should prevail. Since it is morally impermissible to intentionally kill a human being, abortion is immoral unless in unusual circumstances. Therefore, it is concluded that moral opposition to abortions is based on human-rights. Evaluation of the argument Baruch Brody attempted to prove that abortion is morally impermissible by showing that a fetus is actually a human being and holds the right to life. Using the brain-death theory and Ramsey’s theory of death, he argues that the fetus becomes a human being not at the moment of conception or at the moment of birth, whereas it is some time between the second week and twelfth week of conception. This is period when the fetus develops its heart, brain and lungs. Once one of these organs starts functioning, it becomes a human being and the right to life should prevail. First, consider the assumption Brody made. It is reasonable to believe that the loss of the essential property of a human being would entail the human being’s death. Then, based on the Brain-Death theory, he associated the property necessary for being a human with having a functioning brain. However, this creates a fallacy. The Brain-Death theory states that â€Å"as long as there has not been an irreparable cessation of brain function, the person continues to exist†, does not equate to the person die if there has been an irreparable cessation of his brain. Hence, the conclusion is not true although the given premises are true. Next, Brody invalidated the claims that other properties such as movement, being perceivable to others and viability are essential properties of human beings. The analogies he presented convinced us that these claims are not necessary properties of being a human. He further explained that when the brain operates, all other properties essential for being human are already acquired. Therefore, it can be deduced that the main required property of being a human is having a functioning brain. Finally, as there are progressive stages in the physical development and function of the brain, the fetal brain can only support spontaneous motion in the third month after conception. Brody concluded that the fetus becomes a human being at some time between the end of the sixth week twelfth week after its development. There seemed to have an inconsistency with this conclusion and the proposed claim that the possession of a functioning brain is the only property essential to humanity. Baruch Brody also adopted the Ramsey’s theory of death stating that human being goes out of existence when all the essential properties of being human- that is, the possession of the brain, heart and lung- suffer irreparable cessation of function. This premise is very convincing to prove that the loss of all the essential properties of a human being would entail the human being’s death. The claim that the fetus becomes a human when it acquires any one of the properties is ambiguous and does not seem to be valid. Since the heart is a vital organ for living, it is true that the fetus becomes a human being when it develops a heart. And in all cases, the fetal heart would develop first followed by the brain and lungs. However, it is not right to assume that the fetus becomes a human being when it possesses any one of the properties. Suppose the lungs develop first, the body of the fetus is not able to operate without the functioning of the heart. Hence, it is only right to conclude that the fetus becomes a human being when the essential property of a functioning heart is acquired. The fetal heart starts operating at week two and since there is no precise period of time the fetus becomes a human being, following the theory of essentialism, it is concluded that the fetus becomes a human being with the right to life some time between the second and twelfth week after conception. In order not to provide false premises as there is no specific time, this inference is acceptable. With that, Brody summed up his argument stating that after that point, the fetus is a human being with the right to life. Thus, abortion is morally impermissible except in rather unusual circumstances. Brody proved that a fetus becomes a human being and should be entitled to the right to life. It follows that abortion is immoral seeing intentionally terminating a human’s life is immoral. Even though Brody did not consider theological terms in this argument, there are some missing premises. He did not explicitly define the term â€Å"unusual circumstances†. And since Brody proved that the fetus has the right to life and killing a life is immoral, abortion should be morally impermissible in any case.

Digging Essay

Nidhi Ranjalkar English 10 Block E Ms. Wilkins 30/08/2012 DIGGING The poem ‘digging’ is the first in poet Seamus Heaney’s collection ‘Death of a Naturalist’ (1966). This poem has a free structure, which allows the poet to express his feelings of pride and the value of his as well as his ancestors’ work.The poet may not be following his father and grandfather’s footsteps in the area of work which is potato farming but that doesn’t mean he does not respect, value and take pride in the work that they did. This poem clearly reflects the complex feelings of a son who has chosen to break away from the family tradition and forge a new path for himself. The author talks about the family’s potato farm. Through this poem he shows respect and pride towards their work. He succeeds by painting a scene using different types of imagery.He uses visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile imageries to paint a picture. This technique makes reade rs feel present as if they had just stepped into the moist potato field. The title ‘Digging’ refers to the act of hard labour. The reader can immediately picture a scene of a man hard at work digging the ground. Seamus Heaney is not a farmer. He does not dig the ground for potatoes nor does he work in the hot fields every day. He is an author who uses his pen to dig deep into his surroundings, deep into the emotions and convey them through his writing.Heaney starts off the poem by comparing his pen to a gun. He uses this image to convey the idea of ‘the pen is mightier than the sword. ’ He uses this visual imagery to tell his readers that he uses his pen, as his ancestors’ used their spade, to make a living. Also by the line â€Å"The squat pen rests, as snug as a gun,† we get a feeling that Heaney likes his work and doesn’t mind earning his living by writing. Digging in the hot fields is no easy task. It is tiring, frustrating and toug h.Heaney understands this and to show it he uses words like ‘gravely ground’ and ‘straining rump ‘where he emphasizes on the adjectives like ‘gravely’ and ‘staining’. When he says â€Å"Till his straining rump among the flowerbeds, Bends low† we can visualize an old man with a heavy spade in his hand, sweating, bending low, straining his back, digging. He uses that line to explain how hard his father worked and this line also reflects a bit of his pride for his father who worked tirelessly in the farms every day.Heaney also uses olfactory imagery to give the readers a feeling of the scene. â€Å"The cold smell of potato mould, the squelch and slap of soggy peat†¦Ã¢â‚¬  emanates an odor of potato mould, soggy peat and it helps imagine the scene to understand the poem. By doing this Heaney manages to bring the scene alive and the reader feels as if he is standing near the potato field can smell these odors and the reader ’s face immediately scrunches up in disgust.Heaney also uses tactile imagery to give us a sense of touch which helps us to make a connection. â€Å"Loving their cool hardness in our hands† shows the readers that he and his ancestors’ are satisfied with their work and take pleasure in doing it. The poet talks about loving the cool hardness of the potatoes in his hands. It also shows us the sense of happiness and satisfaction experienced by the father and the grandfather after their work has been done and successfully completed. Digging’ by Seamus Heaney is a poem based on the different work line between the past and the present generations and the value of hard work and determination for all work whether it is ours or not. The poet uses all these imageries to paint a clear scene in our minds which makes us appreciate the poem better. It also gives us a better understanding of what the poet is trying to say. Through his use of imagery, Heaney communicates h is ancestors’ determination, the advantages of hard work and the importance of loyalty to one’s family.

International Marketing Essay

1. What are the basic goals of marketing? Are these goals relevant to global marketing? Marketing activities represent an organization’s efforts to satisfy customer wants and needs by offering products and services that create value. These goals are relevant in virtually every part of the world; however, when an organization pursues market opportunities outside of its home country (domestic) market, managers need an understanding of additional conceptual tools and guidelines. 2. Identify and briefly describe some of the forces that have resulted in increased global integration and the growing importance of global marketing. The dynamic involving driving and restraining forces is shown diagrammatically in Figure 1-2. Driving forces include regional economic agreements such as NAFTA, converging market needs and wants, technology advances such as the Internet and global TV networks, transportation improvements, the need to recoup high product development costs in global markets, the need to improve quality through R&D investment, world economic trends such as privatization and finally, opportunities to use leverage, corporate culture, and the continuing presence of national controls that create trade barriers. 3. Describe the difference between ethnocentric, polycentric, regiocentric, and geocentric management orientations. The premise of an ethnocentric orientation is that home country products and management processes are superior. An ethnocentric company that neither sources inputs from, nor seeks market opportunities in the world outside the home country may be classified as an international company. A company that does business abroad while still presuming the superiority of the home country may be classified as an international company. Such a company would rely on an extension strategy whereby it would export, without adaptation, products designed for the domestic market. The polycentric orientation that predominates at a multinational company leads to a view of the world in which each country markets is different from the others. Local country managers operating with a high degree of autonomy adapt the marketing mix in a polycentric, multinational company. Managers who are regiocentric or geocentric in their orientations recognize both similarities and differences in world markets. Market opportunities are pursued using both extension and adaptation strategies. The regiocentric and geocentric orientations are characteristic of global transnational companies.

Immunizations are safe for children Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Immunizations are safe for children - Essay Example Going by the first definition of safety, there is no immunization that is safe. According to Baggs, Gee, Lewis et al. (2011), in vaccines are generally safe and effective even though they may be associated with rare and long term adverse effects. Apart from these potential long term effects, a majority of them cause pain, tenderness or even redness during injection. For instant the pertussis (or whooping cough) vaccine can cause persistent, inconsolable crying, high fever or seizures connected to fever. Though some of these side effects can be severe, they are not permanent (Offit 2013). In real sense, no activity in this world is 100 percent safe, and most of the things considered safe do possess hidden danger. For instance in the United States, 350 people die from shower or bathroom related accidents, 200 people get killed due to food getting stuck in the wind pipe and 100 people die due to lightening strikes every year (Offit 2013). Despite these risks, very few people consider taking a bath, eating food or walking outside in the rain as dangerous activities (Offit 2013). The other definition of safety is hinged upon preserving from real danger. Going by this definition, the danger (infection or disease) is leads to a graver consequence as compared to the protective measure (vaccine) against the danger. In other words, the benefits of having an immunization are clearly greater than the risks of not having one (Offit 2013). Baggs, Gee, Lewis et al. (2011) note that the safety of vaccines is assured by the rigorous assessments they are subjected to during their pre -licensing clinical trials. To better examine the safety of immunization for children, benefits of immunization must be looked into. One of the best ways to protect children is through immunization as this has the ability to protect their lives against ailments that are associated

Critically discuss the business case for diversity and inclusion by Essay

Critically discuss the business case for diversity and inclusion by drawing on academic theories, research evidence and practice - Essay Example In addition, the business rationale behind embracing a diverse workforce will be also underlined. Finally the popularity and benefits that an organization draws for having diverse and inclusive workforce will be portrayed. The discussion section will illustrate the effect of diversity and inclusion on the factors such as -corporate success, profit, innovation, risk, creativity, individuality, experience and personality of employee. Also some of other aspects of diversity an inclusion will be underpinned. The management of diversity at the micro level, macro level and meso level will be also discussed. Furthermore, challenges pertaining to the implementation of diversity will be also examined. Based on the findings from different sources, a conclusion will be drawn that will mark the importance and benefits of a having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Finally some suggestions for managing and encouraging diversity in an organization will be provided. Background There will be only fe w people in this world who will disagree with the fact that positive relationship with colleagues and having respect for each other promotes better working environment and results in higher productivity. A number of organizations around the world proudly exhibit their espoused values like teamwork, individual dignity, integrity and respect among the employees (Bailne, 2007, p.2). They also have a sense of harmony throughout the organization. However there are also organizations which face several complexities in maintaining the workforce and internal harmony. The employees of those organizations are faced with large number of obstacles in carrying out their day to day activities. These issues do not arises for less qualification or low performance levels, rather it generates for some group membership activities. Several scholars stresses on the fact that the only way to curb such occurrences is implementation of workforce diversity and creating an inclusive workforce. Organizations should try their level best to embrace diversity in their human resources. Thus considering the present business environment there is a need for a shift in paradigm for the way organizations look towards the subject of creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. Defining Diversity Diversity is a broader aspect. From the perspective of human resource of an organization, diversity signifies having employees from different segments of the society. It is therefore defined as the element or aspect which is being used by the organizations to differentiate people and group from each other. This comes in the form of national origin, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, education and disability. Nevertheless diversity in an organization does not remain constrained with those elements only. It also takes into account life style, working experience and culture. Hence diversity is considered as a ‘big idea’ or a ‘big thing’ in a society as well as in a business venture. Moreover, it help organizations to embrace large variety of people within the system (Gatrell and Swan, 2008, p.3). Defining Inclusion Inclusion is the

Response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 21

Response - Essay Example On the backs of the working poor Americas CEOs are raping the world economy. And on the other side, the military industrial complex is draining the blood and treasure from Americas economy. Why is it that Corporate keptocrats from Wall Street are able to keep their obscene bonuses, when ordinary hard working people are losing their homes because American businesses refuse to pay them a living wage. Repeatedly the subjects of the documentary were asked if they felt like failures. I should like to emphatically assure them that it is America that has failed them† (Moyers). This documentary depicts the true American face. The picture of successful and flourishing America that government uses to portray in front of the world is simply a disguise. Not only the migrants suffer from the inappropriate economic infrastructure of the country, but the local citizens of America also suffer from the same deprivation. The documentary clearly shows that both families were dedicated, hardworking and legally following government rules, but still they failed to make it in the end. The flaw was not with their efforts but the monetary infrastructure, economic downturn and government policies that are making rich richer and the poor poorer. As the commentator states, the world economy is completely occupied by America and the entire focus of American fiscal strategies is to spend on military ventures which result in shedding blood and wasting millions of lives. Thus, the American government policies and infrastructure is not intended to bring betterment in the lives of citizens, but only to enhance its power and authority. but we cant continue with the fiction that this is enough. We need to teach young people to 1) stay in school, 2) actually learn something, and 3) know something about financial literacy early in their lives. I wish Bill Moyers had just said this somewhere in this documentary. Only one of the children from these two families,

Reasons for Quarrels between Friends Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Reasons for Quarrels between Friends - Essay Example .. severe and demonstrate a lack of trust and respect. In these cases, a firm break up may be the right answer. â€Å"She goes on to explain the reasons as to why friends could end up arguing and what the end result of that action brings for the parties concerned. As we grow up, we come to realize that we may have a lot of friends, but only one whom we feel deeply close and connected to. That person is termed as a best friend. A best friend is someone whom we share our inner most thoughts and feelings with. That friend is the physical representation of the trust that we have learned to share with other people. Then something happens, your best friend betrays you for some reason. The betrayal could be something as petty as telling your parents about the day that you skipped school to go see a movie or something major (as in the case of adults) that resulted in the breaking of the trust because your best friend told someone else about your secret or, in some cases, started some gossip about you based upon the secrets that you told her. Whatever the reason, the trust you gave that person was broken. The betrayal you feel can be so severe that arguing with your friend does not produce a healthy solution to the situation. Sometimes the only logical path for your relationship to take with that person is to end the friendship since the sense of betrayal is sometimes overwhelming. Other times the reason for the break-up or quarrel in a friendship stems from the lack of support from people whom you expected to have your back during rough patches of your life. Say for example you move to a new school but still live in the same neighborhood. Your classmates used to be the same kids who lived on the same block. Now, you have a totally new set of classmates whom you have to adjust to because the new school standards and social set up is a far cry from your old one. When you get home, you expect to see your neighbors, whom you consider to be friends, and spend time with the m. Sharing your thoughts and feelings and just letting them know how hard it is to adjust to your new set up. However, instead of lending you an ear and offering you a shoulder to cry on, your friend or friends choose instead to make a joke out of your situation and make you feel like an outsider within a group of people whom you thought were your friends. This lack of support can often be a major cause of friction between friends that could also lead to the breakup of friendships if the problem is not resolved in time. Oftentimes such cases of lack of friend support are just a minor reason for arguments between friends and, if caught in time, the friendship can actually still be mended. Let's not forget, arguments between friends can also be caused by petty jealousy over things as simple as who looked better in an outfit, or who got the higher grade in a test. This feeling of inferiority between friends often results in the jealous friend acting all unreasonable and mean towards th e other friend who is deemed to have gotten the better result in a given situation. This failure to be happy for the success of other friends is a major cause of arguments between friends but can usually be ironed out in the end with a simple explanation. Jealousy does not often result in the end of

Week 7 DQ Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Week 7 DQ - Essay Example ‘Risk free rate of interest is the rate of interest on a debt instrument with no default, maturity or liquidity risk.’ (Melicher & Norton, 2011) By definition the portfolio of government bond has liquidity and interest rate risk due to the length of its maturity period but for long-term investments the Treasury bond reflects as a more logical default free holding period return for longer term investments. Treasury bill is the closet example of the riskless securities as they hold zero or very minimal liquidity and maturity risk. The $250,000 portfolio of Treasury bills is more risk free as compared to the Treasury bind portfolio of 30 years maturity. However, government these days have also defaulted in various parts of the world therefore, there is no complete risk free security in the practical sense. Securities other than the government bonds and treasury bills that are close to the riskless concept are the fixed accounts, certificates of deposits, inflation protected securities and indexed bonds

International Relations in Future Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

International Relations in Future - Essay Example Yet, it is projected, that the basic construct of the international relations will have the same foundations, as it has today. Concepts of realism, liberalism and constructivism are among the most popular in the world of politics today. Understanding the future of the world in line of the same concepts would seem apposite, henceforth. Viewing the world in 2031, the first thing that may come to mind would be the national interest of the countries. Although the total number of countries may well have changed drastically, yet the basic reason why they keep forming and breaking would be the same - the primary interest of each and every one of them. The power struggle would nonetheless still be there, although in quite a different from. Countries would probably take form as 'cyber-states', wherein the interest of the countries would not be till the geographical/political borders, but actually to every nook and corner of the universe till where their electronic influence is involved. This would involve the extensive use of satellite warfare, and even wars over the territory in space! Not gold, not uranium, but the silicon chip will be the most sought after resource, and instead of weapons of mass destructions, a fatal electronic bug would be able to wipe out the entire defenses of the enemy. The concept of liberalism would also be very much in vogue. ... Though people would still have the right to express themselves, the great fear would be not to implore into the domain of the other person. With everyone having a diverse array of personal options available at hand, the exact paradigm of individual preference would be very difficult to determine, and hence the political leaders of every country would have a very difficult time to control the people according to the interest of the country. Constructivism would also have its say 25 years down the line. Establishing goals, ideals and ambitions in conformity with the rest of thee world would be an impossible task. Every person would be a potential friend and a probable terrorist. Transformation in such a time would be very difficult. Political reform would hence only be a consequence of scientific reform. People would only follow what has been conclusively ordained by the wise, and not the mighty. Religious theologies would still grow further apart, with death and destruction happening basically at the onset of intolerance. The political line of reasoning for the present time may seem old-fashioned or even too ambitious for the future - the exact combination of political theories may never be known. However, the reality is that even in Caesar's time, the primary constructs of politics were derived from realism, liberalism and constructivism. Therefore, there is every probability that in the next 25 years as well, the drastic changes in international relations will not be able to change the very foundations upon which the politics are played. Technology cannot change a politician's mind, only interests can. Hence, the changing time will provide changing

Respond to classmates-Sexuality Around the World Essay

Respond to classmates-Sexuality Around the World - Essay Example For example, homosexuality is openly condemned in many African countries and viewed as an act against African customs. Specifically, a Sub-Saharan country, Uganda, has been pushing for a legislative action against homosexuals dubbed â€Å"Kill the Gays Bill† by the media (Sharlet, 2010). This high criminalization of an aspect of sexuality instills fear and degrades sense of belonging when homosexuals have to leave their countries for fear of being incarcerated or killed so to speak. Societies and governments can essentially play a vital role in reducing sexual dysfunctions. They need to consider individual differences in sexual orientation, personality, character, sexual needs, and sexual interests. Expecting all persons to exhibit the same sexual behavior is ignorant to the actual environment within which people are brought up. Sexuality freedom should be upheld. Countries around the world approach sexuality from diverse and dynamic points of view. Your focus on Indonesia is very informative and country-specific, thus highlighting sexuality in an intensive and extensive approach. The highlights you have presented about Indonesia are shared by many other countries worldwide. For instance, in many Middle East and African countries, women are there to be seen and not heard. Ultimately, their self-esteem is highly affected subject to sexuality and sexual performance. Beading of girls is a common practice among the Samburu people of the Kenyan communities in East Africa (Parkinson, Phillips, & Gourlay, 2006). Young girls engage in sexual activities with older men, resulting in the belief that their sexual behavior is best designed for the older males in the community. Notably, underage marriages are common alongside female genital mutilation (Parkinson, Phillips, & Gourlay, 2006). These practices often result in sexual desire and arousal implications relative to what the young girls are made to believe and

Exploring the Psychological and Emotional Issues as Relates to a Known Essay

Exploring the Psychological and Emotional Issues as Relates to a Known Stillbirth - Essay Example Pregnancies that reach 38 weeks of gestation normally don't result in the fetus being still born but occasionally this does take place. When it does the midwife and other medical professionals have to be prepared and willing to help the mother cope and seek professional help to get through the devastating tragedy she has to deal with (Geller & Neugebauer 2001, p. 432). The problematic situations that take place are of high concern and the grieving process in itself is just as complicated as attempting to understand the stillbirth of the baby. What makes the grieving process so difficult is the fact that the mother has not had the opportunity to bond with her baby so there are no memories there to comfort the parent at all. This is medically termed, 'the token of remembrance' and leads to high anxiety levels for many of these mothers due to the facts that they never had the opportunity to dress, caress, hold, or even speak with their babies (Radestad et al 1996, pg. 1505). Often the m other falls into a deep depression and goes through a series of psychological phases, some having been briefly mentioned. The traumatization is one very important factor that presents itself in cases such as this one. Some of these are self-blame, and guilt even though there might not exist a medical explanation for the loss whatsoever (Frost 1996, p. 54). As the research will show, psychoanalytical theory, although utilized in the past for assessments following stillbirths was popular in decades past it is now considered unreliable and does not provide relevant information that correlates with the emotional state of women who suffer from such a loss. Stillbirth is now considered to be an event that creates intense feelings of sorrow and depression which can turn to more serious psychological problems, far exceeding the regular baby blue syndrome that women have following a normal delivery of a live baby. Ultimately from having had personal experience with this young woman I can strongly say that I believe the psychosocial factors are what are of the highest concern in ensuring her well-being following this loss. The support that she needs from her spouse, a woman's support network, and her own relatives will definitely affect how she will appraise her loss and cope with it. These also will have a part in how well she manages the various emotional stages that she will indeed have to endure and how her level of distress will have to be managed as well. As was mentioned, depression and high levels of anxiety are the two most common psychological influences following such a tragic occurrence for women. The Case Study The case study shows a woman that was physically fit and took care of herself following the full 38 weeks of her pregnancy. There is no mention of cigarette smoking or alcohol abuse that could be tied in with the untimely death of her fetus in utero. Often these concurrent problems are what medical experts have found that can cause still-births and other related problems with a fetus while still in utero (Lester et al 2004, pg. 1477). However, as was stated, in this case there was no known

Ku Klux Klans Effect on America Essay Example for Free

Ku Klux Klans Effect on America Essay The first Klan had first started around the year of 1860s. The first klan had lead up to the effects of the 1920s. The KKK had a tumultious start, and it had a major effect on America in the 1920s. The first klan began in Tennessee, by six Confederate Army Officers, in the winter of 1865. Ku klux Klan rose about four million and spread from the South into the Midwest region and Northern states and even into Canada. The name of the Ku Klux Klan is â€Å"derived from the Grrek word kyklos, meaning circle† (Wikimedia Foundation). ‘Klan was added for the purpose of alliteration† (â€Å"Ku Klux Klan†). The infamous burning-cross icon became a symbol of the KKK in the 1920’s, which was one of many tactics used for intimidation. Perhaps the most distinguishing characteristic of Klan members were the white robes they wore along with cone shaped hats that covered their faces. These costumes accomplished their goal of making them look more outlandish and terrifying, and for the intimidation of their victims (Smith). The Klan was pretty selective in accepting members, only WASPs (White Anglo-Saxon Protestants) could become members. These members possessed the ideology of white supremacy to all other races and ethnic divisions, similar to the concept of Neo-Nazism, however they claim to have based their beliefs on Christian values and nativism. It is often thought that the KKK only hated African-Americans, but many other groups acquired hatred from the Klan, such as Jews, Catholics , homosexuals and various immigrant groups. Anti-Defamination League). Even though the stock started to gain their stocks and shares didnt stop the Great Depression from happening (Kelly). Many people wonder why any group of people would posses such a hatred Dubbs 3 for certain groups of people. While there is no legitimate justification, one factor contributing to their hate was the rapid economic progression in the North, and the stagnant economy of the South. This may have been what angered the white southerners so much that they put blame onto the black population, along with leftover racial disputes from the times of slavery (Trueman). People of today also wonder how society could permit such destruction of life, and also support it. Back then, the Klan had many sources of income including membership fees, funds acquired from various events and sales of Klan propaganda, as well as free will donations. â€Å"This income made the Klan’s many forms of media and strategy possible, such as mass mailings, pamphlets and public events and protests. They also did community service projects such as ‘adopt a highway’ programs to make themselves look good in the eyes of their communities† (Anti-Defamanation League). The members of the Ku Klux Klan did everything in their power to prevent the black community from exercising their newly acquired rights, which was often done during massive events. During a typical KKK event, they dressed in robes symbolizing their rank, then went on nighttime raids, during which they would whip and murder blacks and any of their supporters (â€Å"Ku Klux Klan†). These events, unfortunately, were extremely effective. This lack of a political presence is what allowed the Klan to exist for such a long period of time. KKK existed from the initial founding until around 1870, â€Å"when congress passed the KKK act which allowed authorities to end such activities by force and penalize anyone who affiliated with terrorist organizations† (â€Å"Ku Klux Klan†). At this time, blacks were the only targets of the KKK, for the most part.

Immunological Responses to Malaria

Immunological Responses to Malaria Our immune system is comprised of many specialised components, which work collectively to defend the body from harmful foreign bodies. Knowledge of the immune response elicited during malarial infections mainly comes from research using small animal models such as rodents; Plasmodium berghei and Plasmodium yoelii are species of rodent malaria commonly used in studies. Although an immune response is elicited against malaria, in many individuals the parasite is not effectively eliminated, allowing the parasite to multiply and induce clinical symptoms. Due to the morphological transformations occurring, a different group of immune components will be stimulated at different stages of the life cycle. Pre-erythrocytic stage Following immunisation of irradiated sporozoites, sterile protective immunity against malaria can be induced in all models studied, including humans (Nussenzweig et  al., 1967; Edelman et al., 1993; Doolan Hoffman, 2000). Rodent models have implicated antibodies as mediators of this protective immunity; Potocnjak et al. found that monoclonal antibodies against plasmodium berghei sporozoite proteins neutralised the parasite, blocking hepatocyte invasion and protecting mice from subsequent infection (Potocnjak et al., 1980). However, as discussed by Good Doolan, parasite elimination in humans by antibodies is unlikely, as high levels of pre-circulating specific antibody would be required at sporozoite inoculation to prevent hepatocyte infection (Good Doolan, 1999). In addition, studies have demonstrated that antibodies do not mediate protection and instead cell mediated responses are involved (Belnoue et al., 2004). Schofield et al. highlighted the significance of a group of T lymphocytes called cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and the cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-ÃŽÂ ³). Mice immunised with attenuated sporozoites were not protected from malarial infection when depleted of CD8+ T cells, and when IFN-ÃŽÂ ³ was neutralised mice were no longer immune (Schofield et al, 1987). Other studies have reported similar conclusions, suggesting CD8+ T cells and IFN-ÃŽÂ ³ are important mediators of an immune response against pre-erythrocytic stages, as reviewed by Doolan Martinez-Alier (Doolan Martinez-Alier, 2006). However little is known of the activation or mechanism of CD8+ T cells in malarial infection. Rodent models have suggested naà ¯ve CD8+ T cells in the lymph nodes near the site of inoculation or in the liver become activated through coming into contact with antigen presenting cells called dendritic cells (DCs), which prime CD8+ T cells through cross presenting sporozoite antigens such as CSP. D Cs internalise, process and present antigens in association with MHC class I molecules to CD8+ T cells. After specific interaction and co-stimulatory molecule signals, CD8+ T cells become activated and migrate to, or stay in the liver, where they can eliminate parasitised hepatocytes (Jung et al, 2002; Amino et al., 2006). Usually CD8+ T cells kill via cytotoxic mechanisms; however immunity to P. berghei sporozoites in mice was found to be independent of cytotoxicity molecules fas and perforin, which suggests the cytokine secretion of CD8+ T cells, eliminates parasites (Renglli et al., 1997). Evidence also indicates IL-12 and natural killer (NK) cells are important for CD8+ T cells to carry out effector functions (Doolan Hoffman, 1999). CD4+ T cells are essential for CD8+ T cell effector responses and optimal functioning; IL-4 secreting CD4+ T cells are crucial (Carvalho et al., 2002; Doolan Martinez-Alier, 2006). Furthermore, CD4+ T cells have anti-parasitic functions; CD4+ T cells clones derived from mice immunised with irradiated sporozoites, provided protection against sporozoite infection in malaria-naà ¯ve mice (Tsuji et al., 1990). Belnoue et al. proved both CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells were important to eliminate pre-erythrocytic P. yoelii in mice; protection was mediated by IFN-ÃŽÂ ³ production and dependent upon nitric oxide (NO) (Belnoue et al., 2004). The toxic effects of NO, suggest it is a critical mediator of effectively eliminating malaria. The mechanisms remain undefined; studies have implicated many different immune components, which can singularly or collectively confer protection in rodent models, with parallel studies identifying different critical mediators. Erythrocytic stage Passive transfer studies provide evidence that antibodies are important in eliminating parasites; antibodies from malaria-immune individuals successfully treat individuals with malaria (Cohen S et al, 1961). Furthermore immunity in individuals living in malaria endemic areas may be mediated by high concentrations of antibody specific for a variety of erythrocyte stage parasitic antigens (Osier et al, 2008). As reviewed by Beeson et al., antibodies play a role and are likely to target merozoite proteins, such as MSP-1, to prevent erythrocyte invasion. Antibodies may also target parasitic ligands on the surface of PRBCs such as PfEMP-1. Antibody mechanisms may include inhibition of parasitic development or assist cell mediated destruction of PRBCs or merozoites through opsonisation or via the complement system (Beeson et al., 2008). As discussed by Engwerda, the spleen is a primary site of cell mediated immune responses against erythrocytic parasites (Engwerda et al., 2005). Murine models have highlighted the significance of CD4+ T cells in eliminating malaria and suggest they are important for gamma-delta T cell (ÃŽÂ ³ÃƒÅ½Ã‚ ´ T cell) expansion in the spleen during infection (van der Heyde et al.,1993). Research suggests that DCs internalise parasites, mature and migrate to the spleen, where they can present parasitic antigens in association with MHC class I molecules to naà ¯ve CD4+ T cells. The subsequent differentiation of CD4+ T cells, through IL-12 secretion from DCs, mediates protective immunity against erythrocytic malarial parasites. Th1 cells activate macrophages through the secretion of IFN-ÃŽÂ ³ and Th2 cells assist B cell maturation for the production of antibodies through IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 secretion (Taylor-Robinson, 1998; Good Doolan 2010). The production of IL-12 is also believed to ac tivate natural killer (NK) cells, which secrete IFN-ÃŽÂ ³. Cytokine secretions from activated cells simulate a positive feedback loop, amplifying the immune response. Using mice, Couper et al. demonstrated that monocytes/macrophages are crucial to eliminate malaria; the infection got worse in mice depleted of these cells. Evidence suggested there are other pathways of activating macrophages other than T cells and IFN-ÃŽÂ ³ (Couper et al., 2007). Activated macrophages secrete TNF-ÃŽÂ ±, a mediator of inflammation, which is believed to participate in the pathogenesis of malaria. Macrophages destroy some PRBCs through phagocytosis and by the release of toxic free radicals such as NO (Good Doolan, 2010). Therefore antibodies, T cells, cytokines, macrophages and free radicals are likely to all play a role in the immune response against the symptomatic stage of the malaria life cycle.

Analysis Of Using Podded Propulsors

Analysis Of Using Podded Propulsors Over the past few decades the concept of podded propulsion in merchant ships has gained significant acceptance in the merchant marine industry. Mostly due to the fact that podded propulsion systems offer several advantages in contrast to the conventional, shaft drive arrangement systems. The benefits we will refer to are mostly maneuverability, lower noise generation and more available space for cargo in merchant vessels. However before discussing the advantages and disadvantages of a podded propulsion system we must first explain what is meant by podded propulsion by briefly analyzing its mechanical components and how they interact with the vessels water resistance and thrust efficiency. Nonetheless in order to fully realize the benefits provided by a podded propulsion system, we also need to briefly examine several aspects of conventional propulsion systems such as conventional single and double screw propulsion systems, systems using fixed pitch propellers, contra-rotating propell ers, overlapping propellers and controllable pitch propellers which are most commonly used today in the propulsion of merchant and navy vessels. Podded Propulsion Systems A podded propulsion system refers to a gondola shaped pod located at the stern of the vessel mounted on a leg which is capable of rotating in a 360 degrees angle. Inside the pod there is an electrical motor capable of producing thrust by using a fixed-pitch propeller. The entire system is azimuth since there is no need for a rudder or any other steering arrangements (Appendix 1,2). This type of propulsion system was created in the late 1980s by the Kvaerner Masa-Yards in cooperation with the ABB Stromberg Drives and the Finnish Maritime Administration. The first podded propulsion system was mounted onboard icebreakers such as the 16.000dwt M/T Uikku and M/T Lunni tankers. These type of vessels used the podded propulsion system in order to navigate through the North-East Passage in extremely harsh conditions by moving backwards with the propeller first, thus breaking the ice with a considerably higher efficiency than before. Today there are several types of podded propulsion systems available, some of the most commonly used are the Mermaid unit (Appendix 3) constructed by Kamewa and Cegelec, the Dolphin unit (Appendix 4) which was produced by John Crane Lips as well as STN and the SSP Thruster (Appendix 5) which is a product of Siemens and Schottel companies. The Mermaid unit uses a low emissions gas turbine in order to power the propeller which acts as a tractor unit located in front of the pod, this type of propulsion configuration allows an optimum undisturbed water inflow to the propeller thus increasing propulsion efficiency and decreasing vibration and noise. The Dolphin unit operates by integrating a powerful electric drive into a hydro-dynamically optimized pod below the stern of the vessel resulting in a directly driven propeller. The pod is capable of rotating 360 degrees thus ensuring maximum maneuverability while the power of this unit ranges from 3 MW to more than 19 MW, thus this type of pr opulsion configuration is suitable for a wide variety of commercial merchant vessels. The SSP Thruster uses two twin propellers one in front of the unit and one in the stern, rotating in the same direction powered by a permanent magnet motor. The propeller located at the stern of the pod uses the rotational energy produced in order to provide thrust by using a pair of hydrofoil fins angled away from the pod thus increasing efficiency of the unit while allowing the same maneuverability as the other pod units since the whole system is capable of rotating in a 360 degrees angle. Conventional Propulsion Systems Since the beginning of the development of merchant vessels, for the transportation of different types of products the propulsion systems created played a significant roll in the advancement of the maritime industry. Over the past two centuries many propulsion designs were created in order to further improve the speed, fuel consumption and efficiency of merchant and navy vessels. Today the most conventional design propulsion systems for merchant vessels consist from a shaft, which directly drives different types of propellers while it is connected to a gearbox. Power is generated mostly from a high torque diesel engine while a rudder usually located in front of the propeller at the stern of the vessel provides the steering. Research has shown that the use of different types of propellers can produce different results depending on the type of the vessel they are used. Fixed pitch propellers (Appendix 6) created the basis of propeller production in either its mono-block or build-up form. Mono-block propellers are most commonly used today while they cover a broad spectrum of design types and sizes. They can range from those weighing only a few kilograms to those, which can weight around 130 tonnes. Their designs can vary since the blade number of the propeller can be anywhere between two and seven blades. These kinds of propellers are used to provide propulsion for container vessel, bulk carriers and even high-speed patrol crafts. They offer several advantages in order to solve a variety of propulsion problems such as cavitation effects and excessive noise regeneration. In contrast to the fixed pitch propellers the controllable pitch propellers provide an extra degree of freedom since they can change the blade pitch. Even thought this type of propulsion system configuration is sensitive to cavitation problems it can provide significant advantages of maneuverability since fine thrust control can be achieved without the need to accelerate the propulsion machinery. Controllable pitch propellers are mostly used in passenger ships, ferries and general cargo vessels, which require frequent berthing maneuvers. Furthermore to the propulsion configurations we discuss above the use of contra rotating propellers (Appendix 7) can provide several advantages to the merchant marine industry. Contra rotating propellers compromise two coaxial propellers sited one behind the other while they rotate in the opposite direction. The contra rotating propulsion system provides the hydrodynamic advantage of recovering a part of the slipstream rotational energy, which would otherwise be lost. Additionally contra rotating propellers are able to balance the torque reaction from the propulsor. This kind of propulsion configuration is most commonly used in small high-speed outboard units while the use of this kind of propulsion system is not efficient for large merchant vessels since large vessels equip a large shaft line. Finally the last conventional propulsion system we will discuss involves the use of overlapping propellers (Appendix 8). This system uses again two propellers although in this case the propellers are not mounted coaxially but are each located on separate shaft line systems with the distance between the shaft centerlines being less than the diameters of the propellers. The advantage gained from this type of configurations is to increase propulsion efficiency by achieving as mush benefit as possible from the low-velocity portion of the wake field. Despite the fact of improved propulsion efficiency this kind of configuration may increase the levels of fluctuating thrust and torque thus more research and development must be done before it can be used on large merchant vessels. Advantages and Disadvantages of using Podded Propulsion Since we have briefly examined the mechanical characteristics behind podded propulsion and conventional propulsion systems it is time to discuss several advantages and disadvantages of using podded propulsion in the operations of merchant vessels. As yet, studies have not shown whether pods are more efficient than conventional shaft lines. There has been much research on the subject, but most studies have been aimed at a specific aspect of pod performance instead of an overall efficiency review. Several advantages have been attributed to pod propulsion systems, such as: reduced emissions, lower noise and vibration levels, improved steering maneuvering, and braking capabilities. The reduced number of component parts also allows for more flexibility in arranging system machinery, more efficient construction and improved shipyard logistics. On the opposite end of the argument, pods require a greater capital investment, have a 30MW power limitation (per screw), and have been known to suffer losses in power due to the electric propulsion. Specifically by using podded propulsion merchant vessels gain a significant advantage due to the fact that they can achieve an increased space capacity in order to fit more cargo mainly because the engine can be allocated more freely thus decreasing the size of the engine room. This advantage plays a crucial role for todays shipping companies, which depend mainly in increasing their deadweight tonnage in order to reduce their costs by achieving economies of scale. Moreover another crucial advantage of using podded propulsion seems to be the environmental benefits realized not only from reduced gas emissions but also due to the decreased fuel consumption thought good hydrodynamic efficiency. Since fuel consumption is a significant factor when calculating the vessels costs, it is of high importance that the vessel is capable of covering great distances at competitive speeds with as less fuel as possible. Even though today most berthing terminals and major ports invest in increasing the size of their facilities in order to accommodate the larger merchant vessels, maneuverability plays an important role in order to avoid delays and unnecessary costs due to the use of tug assistance. Research has shown that using podded propulsion can significantly increase the maneuverability of even the largest vessels, since the pod is able to rotate in a 360 degrees angle and thus provide thrust in every direction. Despite the advantages we mention above podded propulsion suffers from several disadvantages. The most crucial disadvantage seems to be that the capital costs associated with the production and use of pods, are a lot higher than the capital costs associated with the use of conventional propulsion configuration. This is one of the main reasons most merchant vessels are not equipped with podded propulsion. Furthermore another important disadvantage seems to be associated with the power production of podded propulsors. Due to the fact that pods have a 30MW power limitation and they depend on electric propulsion, sufficient speed may not be achieved while power losses due to the electric propulsion may be experienced. Finally it is not easy to realistically judge the suitability of pod propulsion for different ship types based on these advantages, disadvantages and limitations. However if we examine more closely reports based on the efficiency of podded propulsion we can derive that pods would be more efficient, fitted in cruise and liner vessels using twin screw configurations and even some small bulk carriers and general cargo vessels, while on the other hand they would not be suitable for large container vessels and tankers which require high power outputs. Conclusion In this essay we provided the reader with a comprehensive analysis of podded propulsion systems as well as conventional propulsion configurations. We examined several benefits created from the use of both types of propulsion systems, while we furthered analyzed the podded propulsion configuration by also providing several disadvantages experienced in merchant vessels, in order to conclude whether or not podded propulsion systems will be well suited in the operations of todays merchant ships. Finally reports has shown that even thought there is still a lot of research and development to be done on podded propulsion systems their use on merchant vessels would be more extensive in the future. Appendix Appendix 1 Source: Azipod ® XO The new generation Azipod ® takes podded propulsion to a new level www05.abb.com/global/scot/scot293.nsf//azipod%20xo_2010.pdf Appendix 2 Source: Electrical systems in pod propulsion, Master of Science Thesis of Electric Power Engineering, Lena Bergh Ulrika Helldà ©n,Department of Energy and Environment, Division of Electric Power Engineering, CHALMERS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Gà ¶teborg, Sweden, 2007 Appendix 3 Source: Electrical systems in pod propulsion, Master of Science Thesis of Electric Power Engineering, Lena Bergh Ulrika Helldà ©n,Department of Energy and Environment, Division of Electric Power Engineering, CHALMERS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Gà ¶teborg, Sweden, 2007 Appendix 4 Source: Podded propulsion drive for cruise liner Seven Seas Voyager www.sam-electronics.de/dateien/pad/broschueren/1.083.pdf Appendix 5 Source: Electrical systems in pod propulsion, Master of Science Thesis of Electric Power Engineering, Lena Bergh Ulrika Helldà ©n,Department of Energy and Environment, Division of Electric Power Engineering, CHALMERS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Gà ¶teborg, Sweden, 2007 Appendix 6 Source: Marine Propellers and Propulsion, John Carlton, second edition 2007, Published by Elsevier Ltd Appendix 7 Source: Marine Propellers and Propulsion, John Carlton, second edition 2007, Published by Elsevier Ltd Appendix 8 Source: Marine Propellers and Propulsion, John Carlton, second edition 2007, Published by Elsevier Ltd

Travel Restrictions to Cuba :: essays research papers

The US travel policy restricts Cuban-Americans to travel to Cuba once every three years. Some agree that this attacks Family Values. Others agree with the travel restriction. Many feel its the only way to stop funding the Communist Dictatorship. Recently a policy is the US travel restrictions to Cuba. The policy has many restrictions, But the most controversial states that Cuban American citizens may visit Cuba only once every three years( Farley and Thale, pg.1 ). The Policy represent a tightening o f the US embargo against Cuba( Farley and Thale, pg.1 ). This policy stops aiding the Cuban Economy and bans Americans from buying fine cigars and cheap sugar, on top of other things at the cost of our national honor, but when it comes to family issues, the policy is really effective in a wrong way. The new policy goes against family values.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Through the History , The United State citizens have indirectly supported the Cuban economy ( Sullivan, pg. 1 ). This policy stops the flow of money into the Cuban Economy. In effective does damage to the relationships between Cuban-Americans and their families in Cuba. But the policy effectively stops giving money to Castro, and his terrorist and murderous ways( Farley and Thale, pg.1 ). The policy claims it stops efforts to influence conditions in Cuba. Stopped conditions of aiding Castro, basically stopping the flow of information and abridging the rights of ordinary American( Sullivan, pg. 2 ).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Through the years the policy has gone through many revisions. New amendments have been added adds new restrictions and has left previous part of the policy in place. The New policy rules are claimed to attack family values. While some strongly argue that new revision are necessary order to stop funding a communist dictatorship( Farley and Thale, pg.2 ). The policy has gone through a very recent and controversial change. The policy Now only allow Cuban - Americans to visit Cuba only once ever Three years, as oppose to when ever you wanted. Basically before recent revisions, you had the freedom to come and go to Cuba as you pleased.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The policy over has gone through very effective revisions. Cuban-Americans are the ones who are most effected by the policy. Basically those who have Cuban- American family in US with family in Cuba. The policy effects the families in Cuba because the policy limits the amount of humanitarian assistance that Cuban-American families can give to their family.

Edgar Allan Poe - A Complicated and Disturbing Author Essay -- Edgar A

Poe is a very complicated author. His literary works are perplexed, disturbing, and even grotesque. His frequent illnesses may have provoked his engrossment in such things. In 1842 Dr. John W. Francis diagnosed Poe with sympathetic heart trouble as well as brain congestion. He also noted Poe's inability to withstand stimulants such as drugs and alcohol (Phillips 1508). These factors may have motivated him to write The Tell-Tale-Heart, The Cask of Amontillado, and The Black Cat. All of these stories are written in or around 1843, shortly after Poe became afflicted. His writing helped him to cope with his troubles and explore new territory in literature. Poe's interest in the supernatural, retribution, and perverse cause them to be included in his burial motifs; therefore sustaining his interest. There is a common thread laced through each subject, but there is variation in degrees of the impact. The supernatural is the phenomena of the unexplained. With this comes an aura of mystery and arousal of fear. Death in itself is the supreme mystery. No living human being can be certain of what happens to the soul when one dies. It is because of this uncertainty that death is feared by many. These types of perplexing questions cause a reader to come to a point of indifference within one of Poe's burial motifs. One is uncertain of how the events can unfold, because a greater force dictates them. Reincarnation in The Black Cat is a supernatural force at work. There is some sort of orthodox witchcraft-taking place. The whole story revolves around the cat, Pluto, coming back to avenge its death. One can not be sure how Pluto's rebirth takes place, but it is certain that something of a greater force has taken hold. The cat's appearance is altered when the narrator comes across it the second time. There is a white spot on the chest "by slow degrees, degrees nearly imperceptible†¦it had, at length, assumed a rigorous distinct outline†¦of the GALLOWS" (Poe 4). Forete lling the narrator's fate a confinement tool appears on the cat's chest. This also foreshadows the cat's confinement in the tomb. It reappears like a disease to take vengeance on a man that has committed horrid crimes. "I was answered by a voice within the tomb! --By a cry, at first muffled and broken, like the sobbing of a child, and quickly swelling into one long, loud and continuous scream, utterly anomalous an... ... successful in incorporating the supernatural, perverse, and retribution into his work. He maintains his interest as well as the reader's by including subjects that are not prevalent. It is shocking, disturbing, and challenging to read. Some of Poe's literature has obvious relations to his own life, and how he coped with the problems that faced him. Having problems in ones life can escalate the soul to accomplish great things. Poe's lifestyle is very much a part of style. Works Cited Mankowitz, Wolf. The Extraordinary Mr. Poe and his Times. New York: Summit Books, 1978. Phillips, Mary E. Edgar Allan Poe-The Man, Volume II. Chicago, IL: The John C. Winston Co, 1912. Poe, Edgar Allan. The Black Cat. Online. Personal Computer. Simpatico. Internet. 18 March 1999. Available http://www.gothic.net/poe/works/black_cat.txt Poe, Edgar Allan. The Cask of Amontillado. Online. Personal Computer. Simpatico. Internet. 18 March 1999. Available http://www.literature.org/Works/Edgar-Allan-Poe/amontillado.html Poe, Edgar Allan. The Tell-Tale-Heart. Online. Personal Computer. Simpatico. Internet. 18 March 1999. Available http://www.gothic.net/poe/works/tell-tale_heart.txt

Cialis

1. Why was Viagra so successful? Viagra’s success was due to: * Viagra was the first orally taken drug that addressed ED. Other alternatives that had already existed in the market were: penile implants, vacuum pumps , ED injection and urethra suppository, none of them were really user friendly. * Viagra was the first affordable solution for ED, its retail price was $10/dose, whereas Caverject injection cost $25/dose, vacuum pumps $300 to $500, and the most expensive, penile implants ranged from $12,000 to $18,000. Pfizer employed advertising which reached out to all men. They featured celebrities in their ads, such as Bob Dole, Raphael Palmiero, Mark Martin. Seeing these celebrities publically confess to having ED, made men feel more comfortable in acknowledging their own ED issues and communicating it to their physicians. * Unlike injections, Viagra could be taken everyday. * Some people saw recreational usage to Viagra. * Viagra was approved by Medicaid in 11 states. * There was a huge market for ED drugs. In 1996 the number of ED prompted doctor visits was at the all time high of 1. 3 million visits. 2. Draw a perceptual map that summarizes the positioning strategies adopted by Viagra, Levitra and Cialis and evaluate those strategies. Viagra’s positioning strategy: Pfizer first started out by featuring older celebrities, like Bob Dole, trying to capture attention of their target market. Statistics showed that over 50% of Viagra’s customers were men over 50. Later, Pfizer changed its strategy and started featuring young celebrities, such as a baseball player, NASCAR driver. They wanted to show that even â€Å"manly mans† could have a problem and they also wanted to put out a message that Viagra is not only for older men but for men of all ages, who might even only have a slight problem. Basically, their message to men was â€Å"you’re not too young for Viagra†. I think this was the right move on Pfizer’s side since it expand their target market to men of all ages, at the same time maybe draw out men who didn’t feel comfortable with the subject. Levitra’s positioning strategy: Bayer and Glaxo positioned Levitra as a way of enhancing the sexual experience. It was not about the number of times a man could have sex, it was all about quality. They also wanted to educate the public about ED and about their solution to it. Their reps spent 50% more time talking to doctors about Levitra than Pfizer’s did about Viagra. This was a good positioning strategy for Bayer and Glaxo. With Levitra, coming to market after Viagra, they had to differentiate themselves somehow. And doing this from a quality angle, I believe they hit the right note with a lot of men. Cialis’ positioning strategy: Lilly Icos, after doing several years of research and seeing both, Viagra and Levitra’s performance in the market, decided to position Cialis as a stress-free, more spontaneous, fitting into an every-day lifestyle type of a solution to ED. Men didn’t have to feel stressed to perform because of the time constraints. They can live their normal lives, with Cialis kind of in the background. I believe it’s a really good strategy, given the characteristics of Cialis. People with ED want to put their problem out of their mind and not think about it. And Cialis would be the perfect solution – there’s no pressure to perform, they can have sex at their own convenience. No major changes would need to be made to their lives. 3. How can the product attributes of Cialis be translated into a successful positioning platform for the product’s launch? Cialis differentiated itself from the rest of the available ED treatments in the following ways: * Cialis took faster effect than Viagra and remained effective longer than Viagra (around 36 hours and the effect kicked in only when needed). This was a huge plus on Cialis’ side since it was so flexible. It had effect even after eating fatty foods. It could also be taken by patients who had high blood pressure, and it could be taken along with alpha blockers. The bottom line – it accommodated most everyone under most every circumstance. * Cialis had less physical side effects than its competitors, Viagra and Levitra. Outlined below are some of the different way s Lilly Icos could have positioned Cialis: * To men of any age and of any physical condition with any level of ED severity. * To men who love their routines and don’t want to change them. Emphasize on the fact that men’s partners don’t even have to know that they’re taking drugs for their condition. This might especially be important to men who start dating a new person; they might not want their partner to know about their condition, at least maybe not right away. * Can be taken before/after any type of activity: work, sports, romantic dinner out. * Can be taken by men of many different lifestyles (busy professionals, busy parents, retired, etc. ) * End benefit is that anyone with any sort of ED dysfunction can feel problem-free again! It works for any man, anywhere, anytime! Cialis They have DEED problems- which lead to feeling personal embarrassment; Question their role In their relationships; Sense of unfairness to their female partners; trained relationships; Self-identity problems; questioning role in all contexts of life; questioning place in the world. Where? From a local drugstore; directly from a Doctor; from a mail order drugstore; Not usual drug store; another party getting it; in other countries. How? They intake prescription to engage in intimacy with sexual partner. SOOT Analysis Strengths: 1 Eli Lily and CICS is a great source for product team.Eli Lilly have plenty experience to bring drugs to the market. CICS have strong technical competence with proven trench in clinical result. 2 Compared to Vicarage, Scalia can last up to 36 hours, unaffected by meals, rare visual Irregularities etc. 3 Good operationally and financially positioned to enter the market. Weakness: 1 Low compound Annual Growth Rates (CARR) In Germany (3. 6%) and France (14. 8%) Mu ch lower value than comparable countries such as the US. This may lead to low return in these markets. Brayer's likely positioning as a â€Å"niche† drug treating diabetes along with DEED, limits the strategies that Lilly CICS LLC can explore ND employ. 3 CICS have no marketing competence to date. How much control will they realistically have marketing decisions given their lack of experience? Will their lack of marketing competence slowdown elements of the launch/ complicate processes? Opportunity 1 . Promoting to couples (both married and living together) in a combined campaign. 2. The high dropout rates of Vicarage after first year offers potential targeting for Lilly CICS LLC.Threats: 1 . Little evidence of market research conducted in Brazil, Canada, Mexico and Australia. 2. Competitive reaction of Pfizer could prohibit Lilly CICS LLC Clans† compete with the advertising â€Å"blitz† that Pfizer have exercised? Marketing strategy suggestion Price Since Scalia is going to face to face compete with Vicarage, we highly recommend it launch at the same price with Vicarage. It is easy for customer to accept a safer and longer-lasting DEED drug at the original price. Distribution Channels & Management 1.Wholesalers: Lilly CICS LLC are in charge of manufacturing the drug, at which point they distribute he drug to wholesalers. Given the unattractiveness of the channel for wholesalers and the low margin that is obtained, a 5%increase may give Lilly CICS LLC more influence over the terms of the arrangement. This would also encourage the wholesaler to distribute more extensively and effortlessness more favorable terms such as buying back stock unsold. 2. Patients: Directly sell drugs to the patients who have DEED problem via doctors would be a very good way to reach target consumer. . Website: Sell drugs on Physician website or Patients and partner website. Promotion 1. Free sampling: Since Scalia is the direct competitor of Vicarage, send free sam pling to Vicarage user would be a very good way to reach target consumer. 2. Advertisement in hospital Scalia is a safer and longer-lasting DEED medicine, patient in hospital can get more advice from doctors after they saw the advertisement. 3. Website advertisement Physician website or Patients and partner website would be a very good way to add exposure of the new product. Cialis 1. Why was Viagra so successful? Viagra’s success was due to: * Viagra was the first orally taken drug that addressed ED. Other alternatives that had already existed in the market were: penile implants, vacuum pumps , ED injection and urethra suppository, none of them were really user friendly. * Viagra was the first affordable solution for ED, its retail price was $10/dose, whereas Caverject injection cost $25/dose, vacuum pumps $300 to $500, and the most expensive, penile implants ranged from $12,000 to $18,000. Pfizer employed advertising which reached out to all men. They featured celebrities in their ads, such as Bob Dole, Raphael Palmiero, Mark Martin. Seeing these celebrities publically confess to having ED, made men feel more comfortable in acknowledging their own ED issues and communicating it to their physicians. * Unlike injections, Viagra could be taken everyday. * Some people saw recreational usage to Viagra. * Viagra was approved by Medicaid in 11 states. * There was a huge market for ED drugs. In 1996 the number of ED prompted doctor visits was at the all time high of 1. 3 million visits. 2. Draw a perceptual map that summarizes the positioning strategies adopted by Viagra, Levitra and Cialis and evaluate those strategies. Viagra’s positioning strategy: Pfizer first started out by featuring older celebrities, like Bob Dole, trying to capture attention of their target market. Statistics showed that over 50% of Viagra’s customers were men over 50. Later, Pfizer changed its strategy and started featuring young celebrities, such as a baseball player, NASCAR driver. They wanted to show that even â€Å"manly mans† could have a problem and they also wanted to put out a message that Viagra is not only for older men but for men of all ages, who might even only have a slight problem. Basically, their message to men was â€Å"you’re not too young for Viagra†. I think this was the right move on Pfizer’s side since it expand their target market to men of all ages, at the same time maybe draw out men who didn’t feel comfortable with the subject. Levitra’s positioning strategy: Bayer and Glaxo positioned Levitra as a way of enhancing the sexual experience. It was not about the number of times a man could have sex, it was all about quality. They also wanted to educate the public about ED and about their solution to it. Their reps spent 50% more time talking to doctors about Levitra than Pfizer’s did about Viagra. This was a good positioning strategy for Bayer and Glaxo. With Levitra, coming to market after Viagra, they had to differentiate themselves somehow. And doing this from a quality angle, I believe they hit the right note with a lot of men. Cialis’ positioning strategy: Lilly Icos, after doing several years of research and seeing both, Viagra and Levitra’s performance in the market, decided to position Cialis as a stress-free, more spontaneous, fitting into an every-day lifestyle type of a solution to ED. Men didn’t have to feel stressed to perform because of the time constraints. They can live their normal lives, with Cialis kind of in the background. I believe it’s a really good strategy, given the characteristics of Cialis. People with ED want to put their problem out of their mind and not think about it. And Cialis would be the perfect solution – there’s no pressure to perform, they can have sex at their own convenience. No major changes would need to be made to their lives. 3. How can the product attributes of Cialis be translated into a successful positioning platform for the product’s launch? Cialis differentiated itself from the rest of the available ED treatments in the following ways: * Cialis took faster effect than Viagra and remained effective longer than Viagra (around 36 hours and the effect kicked in only when needed). This was a huge plus on Cialis’ side since it was so flexible. It had effect even after eating fatty foods. It could also be taken by patients who had high blood pressure, and it could be taken along with alpha blockers. The bottom line – it accommodated most everyone under most every circumstance. * Cialis had less physical side effects than its competitors, Viagra and Levitra. Outlined below are some of the different way s Lilly Icos could have positioned Cialis: * To men of any age and of any physical condition with any level of ED severity. * To men who love their routines and don’t want to change them. Emphasize on the fact that men’s partners don’t even have to know that they’re taking drugs for their condition. This might especially be important to men who start dating a new person; they might not want their partner to know about their condition, at least maybe not right away. * Can be taken before/after any type of activity: work, sports, romantic dinner out. * Can be taken by men of many different lifestyles (busy professionals, busy parents, retired, etc. ) * End benefit is that anyone with any sort of ED dysfunction can feel problem-free again! It works for any man, anywhere, anytime!

Customer Relationship Management and Flight Attendants

Essentials of MIS Additional Cases 1 BUSINESS PROBLEM-SOLVING CASE JetBlue Hits Turbulence In February 2000, JetBlue started flying daily to Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Buffalo, New York, promising top-notch customer service at budget prices. The airline featured new Airbus A320 planes with leather seats, each equipped with a personal TV screen, and average one-way fares of only $99 per passenger. JetBlue was able to provide this relatively luxurious flying experience by using information systems to automate key processes, such as ticket sales (online sales dominate) and baggage handling (electronic tags help track luggage).Jet Blue prided itself on its â€Å"paperless processes. † JetBlue’s investment in information technology enabled the airline to turn a profit by running its business at 70 percent of the cost of larger competitors. At the same time, JetBlue filled a higher percentage of its seats, employed non-union workers, and established enough good will to scor e an impressive customer retention rate of 50 percent. Initially, JetBlue flew only one type of plane from one vendor: the Airbus A320. This approach enabled the airline to standardize flight operations and maintenance procedures to a degree that resulted in considerable savings.CIO Jeff Cohen used the same simple-is-better strategy for JetBlue’s information systems. Cohen depended almost exclusively on Microsoft software products to design JetBlue’s extensive network of information systems. (JetBlue’s reservation system and systems for managing planes, crews, and scheduling are run by an outside contractor. ) Using a single vendor provided a technology framework in which Cohen could keep a small staff and favor in-house development of systems over outsourcing and relying on consultants. The benefit was stable and focused technology spending. JetBlue spent only 1. percent of its revenue on information technology, as opposed to the 5 percent spent by competitors. JetBlue’s technology strategy helped create a pleasing flying experience for passengers. As president and chief operating officer Dave Barger put it, â€Å"Some people say airlines are powered by fuel, but this airline is powered by its IT infrastructure. † JetBlue consistently found itself at the top of J. D. Power and Associates customer satisfaction surveys. JetBlue believed it had learned to work lean and smart. The big question was whether JetBlue would be able to maintain its strategy and its success as the airline grew.By the end of 2006, the company was operating 500 flights daily in 50 cities and had $2. 4 billion in annual revenue. Along the way, JetBlue committed to purchasing a new plane every five weeks through 2007, at a cost of $52 million each. Through all of this, JetBlue remained true to its formula for success and customers continued to return. February 14, 2007, was a wake-up call. A fierce ice storm struck the New York City area that day and set i n motion a string of events that threatened JetBlue’s sterling reputation and its stellar customer relationships.JetBlue made a fateful decision to maintain its schedule in the belief that the horrible weather would break. JetBlue typically avoided pre-canceling flights because passengers usually preferred to have a delayed arrival than to camp out at a terminal or check into a hotel. If the airline had guessed correctly, it would have kept its revenue streams intact and made the customers who were scheduled to fly that day very happy. Most other airlines began canceling flights early in the day, believing it was the prudent decision even though passengers would be inconvenienced and money would be lost.The other airlines were correct. Nine JetBlue planes left their gates at John F. Kennedy International Airport and were stranded on the tarmac for at least six hours. The planes were frozen in place or trapped by iced-over access roads, as was the equipment that would de-ice o r move the aircraft. Passengers were confined inside the planes for up to ten and one-half hours. Supplies of food and water on the planes ran low and toilets in the restrooms began to back up. JetBlue found itself in the middle of a massive dual crisis of customer and public relations.JetBlue waited too long to solicit help for the stranded passengers because the airline figured that the planes would be able to take off eventually. Meanwhile, the weather conditions and the delays or cancellations of other flights caused customers to flood JetBlue’s reservations system, which could not handle the onslaught. At the same time, many of the airline’s pilots and flight crews were also stranded and unable to get to locations where they could pick up the slack for crews that had just worked their maximum hours without rest, but did not actually go anywhere.Moreover, JetBlue did not have a system in place for the rested crews to call in and have their assignments rerouted. The glut of planes and displaced or tired crews forced JetBlue to cancel more flights the next day, a Thursday. And the cancellations continued daily for nearly a week, with the Presidents’ Day holiday week providing few opportunities for rebooking. On the sixth day, JetBlue cancelled 139 of 600 flights involving 11 other airports. 2 76 Part I: Information Systems in Hits Digital Age JetBlue the TurbulenceJetBlue’s eventual recovery was of little solace to passengers who were stranded at the airport for days and missed reservations for family vacations. Overall, more than 1,100 flights were cancelled, and JetBlue lost $30 million. The airline industry is marked by low profit margins and high fixed costs, which means that even short revenue droughts, such as a four-day shutdown, can have devastating consequences for a carrier’s financial stability. Throughout the debacle, JetBlue’s CEO David G. Neeleman was very visible and forthcoming with accountability and apologies.He was quoted many times, saying things such as, â€Å"We love our customers and we’re horrified by this. There’s going to be a lot of apologies. † Neeleman also admitted to the press that JetBlue’s management was not strong enough and its communications system was inadequate. The department responsible for allocating pilots and crews to flights was too small. Some flight attendants were unable to get in touch with anyone who could tell them what to do for three days. With the breakdown in communications, thousands of pilots sand flight attendants were out of position, and the staff could neither find them nor tell them where to go.JetBlue had grown too fast, and its low-cost IT infrastructure and systems could not keep up with the business. JetBlue was accustomed to saving money both from streamlined information systems and lean staffing. Under normal circumstances, the lean staff was sufficient to handle all operations, and the computer syste ms functioned well below their capacity. However, the ice storm exposed the fragility of the infrastructure as tasks such as rebooking passengers, handling baggage, and locating crew members became impossible. Although Neeleman asserted in a conference call hat JetBlue’s computer systems were not to blame for its meltdown, critics of the company pointed out that JetBlue lacked systems to keep track of off-duty flight crews and lost baggage. Its reservation system could not expand enough to meet the high customer call volume. Navitaire, headquartered in Minneapolis, hosts the reservation system for JetBlue as well as for a dozen other discount airlines. The Navitaire system was configured to accomodate up to 650 agents at one time, which was more than sufficient under normal circumstances.During the Valentine’s Day crisis, Navitaire was able to tweak the system to accomodate up to 950 agents simultaneously, but that was still not enough. Moreover, JetBlue could not find enough qualified employees to staff its phones. The company employs about 1,500 reservation agents who work primarily from their homes, linking to its Navitaire Open Skies reservation system using an Internet-based voice communications system. Many ticketholders were unable to determine the status of their flights because the phone lines were jammed.Some callers received a recording that directed them to JetBlue’s Web site. The Web site stopped responding because it could not handle the spike in visitors, leaving many passengers with no way of knowing whether they should make the trip to the airport. JetBlue lacked a computerized system for recording and tracking lost bags. It did have a system for storing information such as the number of bags checked in by a passenger and bag tag identification numbers. But the system could not record which bags had not been picked up or their location.There was no way for a JetBlue agent to use a computer to see if a lost bag for a partic ular passenger was among the heap of unclaimed bags at airports where JetBlue was stranded. In the past, JetBlue management did not feel there was a need for such a system because airport personnel were able to look up passenger records and figure out who owned leftover bags. When so many flights were canceled, the process became unmanageable. JetBlue uses several applications provided by outsourcing vendor Sabre Airline Solutions of Southlake, Texas to manage, schedule, and track planes and crews and to develop actual flight plans.Sabre’s FliteTrac application interfaces with the Navitaire reservation system to provide managers with information about flight status, fuel, passenger lists, and arrival times. Sabre’s CrewTrac application tracks crew assignments and provides pilots and flight attendants access to their schedules via a secure Web portal. JetBlue uses a Navitaire application called SkySolver to determine how to redeploy planes and crews to emerge from fligh t disruptions. However, JetBlue found out during the Valentine’s Day emergency that SkySolver was unable to transfer the information quickly to JetBlue’s Sabre applications.And even if these systems had worked properly together, JetBlue would have probably been unable to locate all of its flight crews to redirect them. It did not have a system to keep track of off-duty crew members. Overtaxed phone lines prevented crew members from calling into headquarters to give their locations and availability for work. JetBlue’s response to its humiliating experience was multifaceted. On the technology front, the airline deployed new software that sends recorded messages to pilots and flight attendants to inquire about their availability.When the employees return the calls, the information they supply is entered into a system that stores the data for access and analysis. From a staffing standpoint, Neeleman promised to train 100 employees from the airline’s corporate office to serve as backups for the departments that were stretched too thin by the effects of the storm. Chapter 2:of MIS AdditionalBusinesses Use Information Systems Essentials E-Business: How Cases 77 3 JetBlue attempted to address its customer relations and image problems by creating a customer bill of rights to enforce standards for customer treatment and airline behavior.JetBlue would be penalized when it failed to provide proper service, and customers who were subjected to poor service would be rewarded. JetBlue set the maximum time for holding passengers on a delayed plane at five hours. The company changed its operational philosophy to make more accomodation for inclement weather. An opportunity to test its changes arrived for JetBlue just one month after the incident that spurred the changes. Faced with another snow and ice storm in the northeast United States on March 16, 2007, JetBlue cancelled 215 flights, or about a third of its total daily slate.By canceling early, ma nagement hoped to ensure that its flight crews would be accessible and available when needed, and that airport gates would be kept clear in case flights that were already airborne had to return. In the wake of its winter struggles, JetBlue was left to hope that its customers would be forgiving and that its losses could be offset. Neeleman pointed out that only about 10,000 of JetBlue’s 30 million annual customers were inconvenienced by the airline’s weather-related breakdowns.On May 10, 2007, JetBlue’s Board of Directors removed Neeleman as CEO, placing him in the role of non-executive chairman. According to Liz Roche, managing partner at Customers Incorporated, a customer relationship management research and consulting firm, â€Å"JetBlue demonstrated that it’s an adolescent in the airline industry and that it has a lot of learning and growing up to do. † Sources: Doug Bartholomew and Mel Duvall, â€Å"What Really Happened at JetBlue,† Base line Magazine, April 1, 2007; â€Å"JetBlue Cancels Hundreds of Flights,† The Associated Press, accessed via www. nytimes. om, March 16, 2007; Susan Carey and Darren Everson, â€Å"Lessons on the Fly: JetBlue’s New Tactics,† The Wall Street Journal, February 27, 2007; Eric Chabrow, â€Å"JetBlue’s Management Meltdown,† CIO Insight, February 20, 2007; Jeff Bailey, â€Å"Chief ‘Mortified’ by JetBlue Crisis,† The New York Times, February 19, 2007 and â€Å"Long Delays Hurt Image of JetBlue,† The New York Times, February 17, 2007; Susan Carey and Paula Prada, â€Å"Course Change: Why JetBlue Shuffled Top Rank,† The Wall Street Journal, May 11, 2007; Coreen Bailor, JetBlue’s Service Flies South,† Customer Relationship Management, May 2007; Thomas Hoffman, â€Å"Out-of-the-Box Airline Carries Over Offbeat Approach to IT,† Computerworld, March 11, 2003; and Stephanie Overby, â€Å"JetBlue Skies Ahead, † CIO Magazine, July 1, 2002. Case Study Questions 1. What types of information systems and business functions are described in this case? 2. What is JetBlue’s business model? How do its information systems support this business model? 3.What was the problem experienced by JetBlue in this case? What people, organization, and technology factors were responsible for the problem? 4. Evaluate JetBlue’s response to the crisis. What solutions did the airline come up with? How were these solutions implemented? Do you think that JetBlue found the correct solutions and implemented them correctly? What other solutions can you think of that JetBlue hasn’t tried? 5. How well is JetBlue prepared for the future? Are the problems described in this case likely to be repeated? Which of JetBlue’s business processes are most vulnerable to breakdowns? How much will a customer bill of rights help?

Continuing Differences Between US Essay

U. S. GAAP IFRS Convergence In January 2008, the U. S. SEC issued a final rule that adopted rules that allowed non U. S. -based issuers’ financial statements in accordance with the IRRS, as issued by IASB, without the need to reconcile with the U. S. GAAP (SEC, pp. 20, 2008). In its ruling, the SEC acknowledged that the convergence efforts between the IFRS and U. S. GAAP have made progress in eliminating many disparities. The SEC acknowledged that its prior complaints on lack of information or disclosure by foreign issuers on certain areas, and the manner of presentation of their financial statements have been resolved by the convergence efforts. The SEC, however, recognize that a number of difference still exist, with some accounting subjects that the IFRS has yet to fully address ( SEC, pp. 20, 1998). Continuing Differences Between US GAAP and IFRS According to the SEC, due to their sources, U. S. GAAP and IFRS will continue to have differences regardless of their convergence. The SEC said that these include (i) the effects of mergers, combinations and other legacy transactions that happened when the convergence was still initiated, and (ii) those arising as a result of accounting elections (for example, hedge accounting) that foreign issuers make under those standards (SEC, pp. 21, 2008). The International Accounting Standards Board in its 2005 report said that certain divergence issues has to be addressed in the long-term. These include (i) classification of debts on refinancing or default under credit agreements, (ii) differences in financial instruments’ accounting, (iii) post-employment benefits, and (iv) long-lived assets impairment and borrowing costs’ capitalization. AIFRS/Australian GAAP PricewaterhouseCoopers reviewed the the Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS) and gave recommendations to the Australian Accounting Standards Board. PwC pointed to divergences between Australian Standards (AIFRS) and IFRS: According to PWC, the implementation of AIRFS is expect to improve corporate governance and financial reporting in Australia. Ernst & Young Report Ernst & Young said the IRS differ significantly from those principles in use. Among other things, the IRS’ protocol on business combinations compel recognition of more intangible assets to be valued an recognized than practiced in local accounting rules. E&Y said that the IFRS will help companies improve their internal control as it requires more extensive reporting procedures, and will require greater transparency among firms as a common financial standard will be used. E&Y said in its report that the conversion to IFRS has a substantial impact on financial reporting which requires management and personnel to focus on improving strategy because: * financial statements’ presentation has been modified * measurement of assets and debts may result in increase in earnings and volatility in equity. * additional disclosures would be required. REFERENCES Final Rule: Acceptance From Foreign Private Issuers of Financial. January 9, 2008. Securities and Exchange Commission. http://www. sec. gov/rules/final/2007/33-8879. pdf International Convergence status. 15 June 2008. International Accounting Standards Board. http://72. 3. 243. 42/fasac/06-21-05_intl. pdf Padoa-Scioppa. 19 May 2006. Financial Times. retrieved 13 Aug. 2008. http://www. iasb. org/News/Announcements+and+Speeches/Work+on+converging+accounting+standards+must+go+on. htm PriceWaterhouseCoopers. 28 Jan. 2005. Submission to Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services. http://www. aph. gov. au/SENATE/committee/corporations_ctte/completed_inquiries/2004-07/aas/submissions/sub22. pdf

Image and Customer Satisfaction Essay

Select a restaurant where you have eaten recently. Analyze the atmosphere and physical environment of this service establishment. What image does the environment convey? Were you satisfied with the experience? Did it meet your expectations? Should the owner change anything to make the environment more appealing to customers? I recently ate at Alquimia Bistro Club at Gallery Plaza in Condado. The restaurant is a joint venture between the entrepreneur Tony Hernandez and singer Gilberto Santa Rosa. It is conveniently located on the ground floor of the building and you have the option of entering the restaurant through the main entrance or through the bar if you don’t want to enter the dining room. The dining room consists of an upper and lower level. There is a wine â€Å"cellar† which can be dined in and a room for private activities. Aside from the main dining room there is a small theater with a stage for performances. We sat in the upper level of the main dining room. The restaurant aims to provide a relaxed and comfortable yet sophisticated atmosphere. The lighting is relatively low and the music is soft and inviting. The tables are immaculately set. If all worked, had it not been for previous engagements we would have stayed well into the afternoon. The ambience was one that invited you to relax and get acquainted with friends. If satisfaction was based solely on the atmosphere then Alquimia would have been a hit, but in the end it isn’t. The food did not live up to expectations. You are led to believe that you will be taken on a journey of culinary alchemy but you are not. What you end up with are plates made up of ingredients that do not work well together. The satisfied members of the group were those that opted for the â€Å"criollo† dishes. One of my suggestions for Alquimia would be to tone down on the dishes, maybe just stick with the typical food and elaborate a bit not go off the deep end. Sometimes less is more! As for the environment the owners have the right idea. It is inviting and relaxing, you want to stay and continue to consume throughout the day with good drinks and good conversation.

Coach Incorporated Security Analysis Paper Essay

Abstract Coach Incorporated is a company established in 1941in Manhattan. Coach is in the fashion industry and this accessories manufacturer is one of the best known brands in North America. Coach was bought out by the Sara Lee Corporation in 1985 and started being publicly traded in 2000 on the New York Stock Exchange. Coach Incorporated prides it selves off of being one of the most dependable, unique, desirable, and fashionable brands in their industry. Coach has a disadvantage with its competition, being the only one publicly traded. It does not have access to the others financial records. Coach Incorporated likes to stick to tradition, whether it is in their designs or their Executive officers. Coach has a very diverse and experienced Executive team. Coach also just started a litigation campaign in 2009 called â€Å"Operation turnlock† to try and help with the counterfeit problem. They were recently award a large sum of money from one of the lawsuits the campaign filled for online counterfeit merchandise. Coach recently just gave $2 million to the Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund to help rebuild the community where Coach got its own start. Coach’s financial records are in order and are continuing to grow steadily even through the rough economy. Coach Incorporated (Coach) is a company that designs and manufactures leather goods as well as other accessories. It was founded in a Manhattan loft in 1941 as a family-run workshop. This family used skill passed down from each generation to create a unique style that became quite desirable to consumers. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) In 1985 Coach was purchased by Sara Lee Corporation. Also, in 2000, Coach as Incorporated in the state of Maryland and listed on the New York Stock Exchange for approximately 68 million shares. Their mission statement is â€Å"Coach seeks to be the leading brand of quality lifestyle accessories offering classic, modern American styling.† In today’s world, Coach is large company that still retains high standards and craftsmanship for their leather goods. They manufacture items such as purses, suit cases, wallets, watches, accessories, shoes, jewelry, sunglasses and etc. Some of these items are manufactured through their licensing partners. Such as Estee Lauder Companies Incorporated is Coach’s fragrance licensing partner. (â€Å"Reuters: Profile, coach,† 2012) The Coach brand has ‘established a signature style and distinctive identity’ (â€Å"Coach Est. 1941,† 2010) that almost everyone can recognize, which is why their prices reflect more of the name than the quality of the items. Coach is in the fashion industry and enough people are willing to pay for the name brand of Coach to keep them in business and to keep the prices high. The market the Coach is in is the fashion market, and their customers are middle to upper class men and women. Because their prices are high the market for their items has to be to a household that has extra money to spend and even though they sell mostly women related items they do sell men’s’ as well. Their competition includes Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Gucci Incorperated, Dooney and Bourke Incorporated, Katie Spade LLC, and Michael Kors Incorporated which are all privately owned companies. (â€Å"Yahoo finance,† 2012) Coach operates in two different ways, direct to customers and indirect. Indirect is where Coach sells their products to other retail stores and direct to customers is selling out of their own stores. Coach has over 500 stores in the United States and Canada as of June 30, 2012. They also have over 300 locations in Japan, China, Singapore and Taiwan. They have recently acquired new locations in Malaysia and South Korea in July and August. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Coach not only has their own retail stores, but also sells their merchandise through department stores and specialty retailer locations. With these locations, Coach is also present in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. As of 1999 Coach launched their first on-line store available to customers in the United States, Canada, and Japan. They also have informational websites in twenty other countries. In the future, Coach plans to increase international distribution and target international consumers, especially in Asia. They also plan on staying one of the most popular name brand accessory companies in North America. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Coach also has very high standards for their brand. Coach states that â€Å"The Coach brand represents a unique synthesis of magic and logic that stands for quality, authenticity, value and a truly aspirational, distinctive American style.† (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) They hold accountability to their customers. They also guarantee great service and that their customers’ needs are always met. Coach seeks long term relationships with all their costumers by treating them this way. This is one reason Coach is still around and doing well as a company even with their high prices. They are dedicated to their honesty, trust, satisfaction, and fairness to their consumers, business, and community. They strive to increase consumer and shareholder value. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) They have a small number of executive officers with only seven. First on the list is Lew Frankfort the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Frankfort joined the Coach company is 1979 as Vice President of New Business Development. Mr. Frankfort has appointed President of Coach in 1985 and named Chairman and CEO in 1995. When Mr. Frankfort started at Coach, Coach’s sales were about $6 million. Today Coach’s sales are $4.8 billion. He has seen many changes with this company, such as seeing it go to a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange in 2000. Before joining Coach, Mr. Frankfort held positions in the public sector in New York City. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hunter College, and a MBA in Marketing from Columbia University. He also holds a spot on the Board of Overseers of Columbia’s Business School. Mr. Frankfort was recognized by Barron’s from 2005-2008 as one of 30 â€Å"Most Respected CEO’s† globally. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Having someone that has been in the same company for 33 years now running it, says wonders about Coach. Coach is a brand that sticks to what it knows and does not change something that is working for them. Just like their products, Coach’s president is what they seek in their mission of keeping everything classic. Next, is Reed Krakoff, the President, Executive Creative Director of Coach and has been employed at Coach since December 1996. He was initially hired as the Vice President and Executive Creative Director, but advanced to his current position just two and a half years later. Mr. Krakoff has a degree in Fashion Design from Parsons School of Design. Prior to Coach, Mr. Krakoff held various positions at Anne Klein, Ralph Lauren and other design houses. In 2007 Mr. Krakoff was elected vice president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, and in 2001and 2004 he was awarded the honor of Accessories Designer of the Year. To this day Mr. Krakoff styles and photographs the campaigns for Coach. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Having a man like Reed Krakoff on the Coach team ensures that they will have some of the most elegant designs in the industry today. His ability to create pieces that Coach would gladly put their name on ensures him a long career at Coach. Following is Jerry Stritzke, the President and Chief Operating Officer as of March 2008. Prior to Coach he joined Best, Sharp, Sheridan, & Shritzke in 1985 as a partner. In 1992 he practiced law at Stritzke Law Office. From 1993 to 1999 Mr. Stritzke was a consultant for Webb and Shirley. Lastly, Mr. Stritzke held several senior executive positions within limited Brand Incorporation, from 1999 to 2007. Jerry Stritzke has a Bachelors of Science from Oklahoma State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Next is Michael Tucci the President, Retail Division in North America. Mr. Tucci joined Coach in 2003 with over twenty years of experience. Before Coach, he was the Executive Vice President of Gap Incorporated and held various senior leadership positions from 1994-2002. Michael Tucci also held executive positions at R.H. Mary Corporations from 1982-1992. Mr. Tucci has a Bachelors of Arts in English from Trinity College. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Next, is Todd Kahn the Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since he joined Coach in 2008. Prior to joining Coach Todd Kahn held multiple positions for Calypso Christian Celle, Sean John, Accessory Network, InternetCash Corporation, Salant Corporation, Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver, and Jacobson. Mr. Todd has a Bachelors of Science from Touro College and a Juris Doctor from Boston University Law School. He also serves on the board of Directors of the Fashion Institute of Technology Educational Foundation the Fashion Delivers Charitable Foundation Incorporated, and the National Father’s Day Committee. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Next is Sarah Dunn the Executive Vice President, Human Recourses since 2008. Previously Ms. Dunn held several executive positions with Thomson Financial, including Executive Vice President, Human Resources and Organizational Development. Ms. Dunn is also a consulting Advisory Board member of Youth, I.N.C. She also has a Bachelors of Science Degree in Human Sciences from University College, London, U.K. and a Masters Degree in Information Science from City University, London. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Lastly, we have Jane Nielsen the executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 2011. Jane Nielsen joined Coach after working at PepsiCo, Incorporated and the Global Nutrition Group as their Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 2009. Prior to this Ms. Nielsen held senior positions in a financial role with PepsiCo, Incorporated, and Pepsi Bottling Group from 1996-2009. From 1990-1996 Ms. Nielsen worked for Marakon Associates and from 1986-1990 she worked at Credit Suisse First Boston. Ms. Nielsen has a BA in Economics from Smith College and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Coach has recently been awarded $257 million in a lawsuit against counterfeit Coach merchandise. Coach obtained a default judgment in Illinois Federal Court against individuals and businesses that operate websites selling counterfeit Coach merchandise. The judgment granted Coach 573 internet domain names from which the counterfeit merchandise was sold from. Coach started a litigation campaign called â€Å"Operation Turnlock† in May 2009. Since then, Coach has filed lawsuits to stop counterfeit items from being sold. From these lawsuits, Coach has gain a significant amount of monetary value from them. (Chaudhuri , 2012) Coach also just donated $2 million to the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. The gift was made to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund for rebuilding efforts in the Tri-State area. Coach as also made its employee matching program available, so however much its employees contribute to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund or to other qualified funds, Coach will match the donation Lew Frankfort made a public address saying â€Å"Our hearts go out to the countless number of people affected by the storm.† Since Coach was established in Manhattan, they feel they need to help rebuild their community where they started. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) In 2011 Coach’s Inventory broke down to 63% handbags, 27% accessories, and 10% all other products. This is just a little change from the previous year, where the only difference is 1% moved from accessories to all other products. Currently Coach pays quarterly cash dividends of $0.225 per share. Coach’s cash flow statement shows Net Income for 2011 to be $880,800,000 and the net cash flows provided by operating activities in 2011to be $1,033,271,000. Also, the cash flow statement shows the net cash used in investing activities to be -$59,631,000 and the net cash used in financing activities to be -$875,126,000 in 2011. For the Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 2011 were $699,782,000 with the cash paid for income taxes for 2011 to be $364,493,000 and cash paid for interest for 2011 to be $1,233,000. Lastly, the cash flow statement has for 2011 is the noncash investing activity-property and equipment obligations to be $23,173,000 and $0 for the noncash financing ac tivity-mortgage debt assumed.(â€Å"http://www.annualreports.com/company/2246 ,† 2011) Coach just reported its first quarter earnings per share in 2012 to be $0.77. Compared to the previous year, same quarter, the earnings per shares was $0.73. Their sales reported for 2012 first quarter, which ended September 29, 2012, was $1.16 billion. Compared to the previous year where Coach’s sales for the same quarter was only $1.05 billion. This is an 11% increase in sales in just one year. Coach also announced that its Board of Directors has just authorized the repurchase of up to $1.5 billion of its outstanding common stock by June 30,2015. This will make Coach’s earnings per share increase since there will be less outstanding stock. Since we now know the earning per share for Coach we can calculate the price earnings ratio. Coach’s current stock price $57.87. So, Coach’s price earnings ratio is 75.156. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) Stockholder’s equity is total assets minus total liabilities. For Coach, in 2011 the total assets are $2,635,116,000 and the total liabilities are $1,022,547,000. So, the total stockholder’s equity for the year ended July 2, 2011 is $1,612,569,000. For the total liabilities of Coach being $1,022,547,000 only $593,017,000 are current liabilities. Of the current liabilities $118,612,000 is accounts payable, $473,610,000 is accrued liabilities, and $795,000 is current portion of the long term debt. As for the rest of the liabilities $23,360,000 is long term debt and $406,170,000 is other liabilities. (â€Å"Coach est. 1941,† 2010) These numbers first mean that Coach is a continuously growing company that would be labeled at a value company. Which means it doesn’t grow fast, but instead it grows consistently. Also, since its assets and equities make up the majority of Coach’s finances the company appears to be in good standings. Coach is a company that has been around for over 70 years and has been traded publicly for 12 years now, and it seems to have all its finances in order and look like what you would expect for a high-end retail company. There is a bright future for Coach with its experienced executives leading the company to expand its market and try to bet out the competition. The volatility of Coach stock price is reasonable. Obviously people are willing to pay for Coach products even through hard times. Coach’s stock price continues to go up and from past records it has always steadily increased. Coach has a rich history and has been around for a long time so I do not see it crashing anytime in the near future, so I would say the stock price is valid and a good steady long term investment. References Coach est. 1941. (2010, February 3). Retrieved from http://www.coach.com/online/handbags/Home-10551-10051-en?isCollapse=true Reuters: Profile, coach inc.. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.reuters.com/finance/stocks/companyProfile?symbol=COH Yahoo finance. (2012). Retrieved from http://finance.yahoo.com/q/co?s=COH Competitors Chaudhuri , S. (2012, November 02). Coach gets $257 million, 573 domain names in counterfeiting lawsuits. Dow Jones Newswires. Retrieved from http://www.foxbusiness.com/news/2012/11/02/coach-gets-257-million-573-domain-names-in-counterfeiting-lawsuit/ http://www.annualreports.com/company/2246. (2011).