Social Loafing free essay sample

Working in groups is essential in the business world and in general many of the tasks that humans face cannot be accomplished alone. Although group projects are essential, they can harbor difficulties in communication, time management, coordination and other aspects. One phenomenon that can occur while working in groups is called social loafing. It is the conscious or unconscious decrease in exerted effort in group settings due to the decrease in social awareness. These individuals may exert much more effort when working by themselves but when in a group setting they feel less of a need to do so. Social loafing is a complex physiological subject that is very prevalent in group settings. Social loafing is caused by task interdependence, task visibility, and group size. Although it can be detrimental to the group, there are different tactics to help prevent and cure social loafing. Social loafing is the tendency to reduce individual effort when working in groups compared to the individual effort used when working alone. We will write a custom essay sample on Social Loafing or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page It is similar to ‘free riding’, a concept in which an individual does not bear a proportional amounts of work but shares all of the benefits of the group. Many studies conclude that individuals frequently exert less effort on collective tasks. An early example done in 1913 by a German researcher tested the size of a team verses the effort expended. He had teams do a rope pulling experiment and noted that was the number of group members increased, there was a decrease in overall performance. Social loafing is caused by a few different psychological tendencies. The first is called task interdependence. This is the degree of task-driven interaction among group members. If individuals perceive their tasks as more interdependent, they may find it difficult to feel a sense of personal achievement in their work. They may withhold their effort when conditions do now allow them to exhibit their accomplishments. With high task interdependence, individuals may feel that their efforts are indistinguishable from their coworkers. The second tendency is called task visibility. It is an individual belief that a supervisor is aware of their efforts. When tacks are not highly visible by others, they may not want to exert a high level of effort because there is no punishment from exerting low effort. Lastly, the size of the group can have an effect on social loafing. As a group size increases in size, individuals feel more anonymous and therefore contribute less consciously or unconsciously. It may also be more difficult to assess each group member’s contribution to projects when there are lots of members. The issue of social loafing is easily remedied if a few precautions are taken for group projects. It is important to articulate a role to each individual in the group and how that role plays a part in the completion of the group goal. Within each of the roles given to members, they should have specific, short-term, deliverable and measurable goals that can be tied directly to that individual. Evaluate each person based on these individual goals and reward those that meet and surpass their goals. Lastly, keeping the groups at a reasonable size for the task can prevent social loafing. If everyone in the group has a task, they will be less likely to cause social loafing. In conclusion, Bibliography http://www. radford. edu/~jaspelme/_private/gradsoc_articles/social%20loafing/Individual%20differences2. pdf http://comm. colorado. edu/~kuhnt/1600/liden. pdf http://www. joshuakennon. com/mental-model-social-loafing/

20 Environment Project Topics on Waste Management

20 Environment Project Topics on Waste Management Welcome to the second article in the three part series covering the subject matter of waste management. This article will discuss the meaning of waste management; provide 20 environment project topics and a sample article on how to go about drafting any of the topics for your own particular project. Waste management are all the processes involved with managing waste- both solid and liquid- from its inception to its final disposal. The problem of efficiently managing waste is a global one which means it is up to every individual to discuss the need for efficiency in a bid to raise awareness on its effect on earth’s ecosystem. To simplify the task of handling a project on waste management, 20 environment projects will be outlined below which you can chose from if any difficulties arise in coming up with your own. The support doesn’t end there, for a sample written project will also be included in the concluding parts of this article to provide you with an excellent example on how to proceed with yours. As expected, all educational projects are scored for their originality and lack of plagiarism. So it is expected that you use this article as a guideline to provide the needed directions as you progress with your project. So here are the 20 topics on waste management: The Importance of Waste Management to Environmental Sanitation Evaluating the Problems of Solid Waste Management on the Global Stage The Need for Effective Waste Management Policies The Environmental and Health Effects of Waste Management The Importance of Recycling to Waste Management Environmental Impact of Waste Disposal How to Develop an Effective Waste Management and Disposal Strategy Why the Reuse and Recycling of Plastics Are Essential to Waste Management How Paper, Metal, Wood, Glass and Plastics Are Recycled The 3Rs of Managing Solid Waste: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle The Impact of Recycling in Preserving the Environment Integrating Economic Incentives to Promote Recycling in Waste Management Discussing the Waste Management Expectations of the Future How Creating Recyclable Products Support Effective Waste Management The Impact of Inefficient Waste Management to Oceans Managing Electronic Waste to Ensure Green Computing Recycling and Reuse: Alternatives to Waste Management The Effects of Solid Waste to Business Environments Landfill Emissions and Their Impact on the Environment Waste Management and its Effects on Economic Growth These 20 topics should be viewed as environment project topics on waste management and they were provided to aid you in your choice of coming up with a topic for your personal project. Therefore, you can either pick a topic directly from this list or modify one to fit your writing needs. If you’d like to gather more info on the subject, we have a set facts on waste management for an environmental project and a separate project guideline piece should you need one. Also take note that below is a sample project written using a topic from this list as its inspiration. Sample Environmental Project: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle or the 3Rs of Managing Solid Waste This project was written as a means to introduce the ‘3Rs’ of waste management to the public’s awareness. Although most people are now familiar with the term recycling, which is a part of the 3Rs, knowledge on the remaining two which makes up this trinity are still obscure to a large subset of our population. The R’s in the trinity of the 3Rs are acronyms for the term Reduce, Reuse and Recycle as can be seen in the topic heading of my project. And the meaning and the role they play on solid waste management will be discussed in the following paragraphs. Globally, humans of the world are currently producing more garbage or solid waste that now test the capacity of our landfills and studies have shown that the traditional methods of waste disposal such as the use of incinerators and burying garbage could affect the environment and our health negatively. These negative effects are due to gas emissions from incinerators and noxious smells which is why it is very important for there to be more eco-friendly alternatives to manage waste. This need has in part been met by the 3Rs- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle- which in terms of waste management mean: Reduce- as individuals we should buy only what we require thereby reducing the household waste we produce. Reuse- if we need to acquire goods, purchasing used ones or eco-friendly substitutes is encouraged or we can reuse our old packages in creative ways. Recycle- when discarding waste, we must consider ways of recycling or reusing them before taking the last option which is to discard. Applying the 3Rs in Everyday Conduct Many nations have begun to integrate the 3Rs into their official waste management policies, some examples include the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) in Ireland and Mexico’s Solid Waste Act which were put into place to drastically reduce how waste was produced and managed in these countries. The 3Rs can be applied in line with government policies in the following ways: Reduce: manufacturing companies are tasked with reducing the amount of raw materials used in making products from scratch. Then individuals should consider not purchasing products that can be replaced by technology or the reuse of other items. An example is opting out of your local phonebook or TV guide subscription lists which are now easily accessed online. The average person in the United States throws away 600 times the size of his or her body weight in garbage and reducing what we buy will drastically affect these numbers. Reuse: unlike recycling, the alternative to reuse items is yet to catch on in consumer societies but individuals can take the first step reusing containers, giving outgrown clothes to friends or charity as well as donating electrical appliances or furniture to people in need. A reuse policy can also be initiated by the government thereby reducing the approximately 50 million tons of electronic waste produced globally. Recycling: manufacturing and purchase of recyclable products have been given a lot of media exposure in the past as well as currently and this has improved the waste management practices on the global scale. Countries such as Switzerland, Germany and Holland currently recycle 60% of the total waste its citizen’s produce and if this could be adopted by more nations, the earth’s ecosystem will definitely be healthier for all. The 3R are procedures every one of us can implement in his or her household without incurring any extra expenses. So what stops you from reusing that old can, donating to Salvation Army or using the recycle bins at work? References: Jean, B. (2013). Waste Management. https://www.ipcc.ch/pdf/assessment-report/ar4/wg3/ar4-wg3-chapter10.pdf Galle, J. Samuelsson, B. (2001). Measurements of methane emissions from landfills. Hoornweg, D. (1999). What a waste: solid waste management in Asia Huang, Q. Wang, L. (2006). The current situation of solid waste management in China. Johannessen, M. Boyer, G. (1999). Observations of solid waste landfills in developing countries: Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Monhanty, C. (2011). Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (the 3Rs) and Resource Efficiency as the basis for Sustainable Waste Management https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/dsd/csd/csd_pdfs/csd-19/learningcentre/presentations/May%209%20am/1%20-%20Learning_Centre_9May_ppt_Mohanty.pdf Rhonda, S. (2014). How Your Business Can Cut Costs by Reducing Waste. https://www.bae.ncsu.edu/topic/vermicomposting/pubs/ag473-10-bus-cut-costs.html

Ethical and Legal Aspects of Healthcare Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Ethical and Legal Aspects of Healthcare - Essay Example Additionally, the procedure, if widely available, would lessen the urgency to make available new medicines designed to extend life. Those who are against the procedure on religious grounds contend that it is ‘playing God’ consequently sinful. Health care professionals refer to the Hippocratic Oath which prohibits them from performing this procedure. This discussion will examine the moral and legal concerns surrounding euthanasia, explain the meaning of the term, give arguments for the practice and end with a recommendation to solve the issue. Euthanasia describes a circumstance in which an incurably ill patient is given a mortal dose of medication, is detached from a life-support system or is basically allowed to die without active involvement for example by resuscitation. A physician’s involvement in the procedure could be to either intravenously insert a needle into the terminal patient who themselves activate a switch that delivers the fatal dose or to order a lethal dose of drugs with the express intention of ending a life. (Naji et al, 2005). Euthanasia by doctors as well as non-physicians has been lawful in Switzerland since WWII. Additionally, three organizations within the nation have been formed to help terminally ill patients. They supply patient counseling in addition to the medications for use in the procedure. Lethal injections, however, are not permissible. The atypical situation in Switzerland holds that euthanasia is allowed as long as a doctor is not involved in the process (Hurst & Mauron, 2003). Euthanasia has been legally permissible in Belgium since 2002. Each circumstance must be reviewed by two doctors prior to the procedure being performed by either injection or ingestion. In The Netherlands, euthanasia has been legal for seven years but has been tolerated for a quarter century. The directive for physicians stipulated by the government include; â€Å"the patient must be suffering unbearably and have no hope of improv ement, must ask to die and the patient must clearly understand the condition and prognosis (and) a second doctor must agree with the decision to help the patient die† (â€Å"The Fight†, 2004). Advocates of euthanasia are concerned with people suffering. Many diseases such as cancer often result in a protracted and excruciatingly agonizing death. Witnessing a loved one as they slowly wither away from the malady eating away at their bodily organs is rough enough for their family members, but to see them in severe pain even when drugs are given is unbearable not to mention the agony the patient must endure. This physically and emotionally torturous circumstance occurs in every hospital, every day of the year yet serves no good purpose. To many people, it is unthinkable to allow anyone, for instance, a sweet grandmother who has spent her entire adult life caring for other people, to spend the last months of their life suffering from continuous pain, incapable of controlling bodily functions, coughing, vomiting, convulsing, etc. The emotional pain for both the patient and family is unimaginably horrendous as well. If grandma were an animal most all regardless of ideology would agree that the only compassionate choice would be to ‘put her to sleep.’ American citizens are guaranteed certain inalienable rights but not the right to ‘

Images of Organizations at Four Seasons Hotels Assignment

Images of Organizations at Four Seasons Hotels - Assignment Example This section describes how the Four Seasons Hotel can be viewed from the perspective of the eight metaphors developed by Morgan (1989). These include organizations as instruments of domination, flux, organisms, brains, machines, cultures, psychic prisons and political systems and transformation.The machine metaphor can be seen at work in the Four Seasons Hotel. The machine metaphor implies concepts such as efficiency of the operations and reduction of waste. Taylor’s principles of scientific management reflect the metaphor of organizations as machines. At the Four Seasons Hotel, the scheduling of various activities such as housekeeping and maintenance of inventory levels can be interpreted through the image of machines. Schedules of housekeeping, preparation of different meals throughout the day and maintenance of standardized service are all examples of the machine metaphor at work. The Four Seasons Hotel can also be viewed as an organism. This image is based on the perceptio n of the hotel as undergoing a process of evolution to ensure its survival. The responses of the management to the environmental changes can be interpreted as the response of a living organism to its natural environment. An example of the metaphor at work would be the changes in room rates throughout the year depending on the busy or slow season. Karmin (2013) explains that high earnings by competitors may motivate the owners of the Four Seasons Hotel to become a public limited company by issuing shares.  

Quality assessment at bank call centre Research Paper

Quality assessment at bank call centre - Research Paper Example is a need to decrease variation so that proper attention can be given to continuous improvement in what is provided to the customers as is demanded by the customers. Another philosophy which needs to be established as a central part of the organization is the crucial need to implement correct controls along with proper techniques so that improvement can be made whenever it is required and is possible. As a student, it is very important for us to properly understand and realize the importance quality holds for organizations, specially the service sector which constantly is informing its employee’s importance of quality to make them an important customer segment. After a lot of research, finally we were able to find a bank which is providing proper service to its customers which is ICICI bank.     At ICICI Bank, all the banking and also financial products are offered to the corporate and also retail customers , they are using a variety of delivery channels and also through their subsidiaries which are specialized in life and also non-life insurance, investment banking also also asset management and venture capital. The bank is operating in India, Russia, Canada, Hong Kong, China and also United Kingdom.ICICI equity shares are basically listed in India on National Stock Exchange of India Limited and also Bombay Stock Exchange. American depositary Receipts are basically listed on New York Stock Exchange. Company was basically promoted during the year 1994 and was by ICICI limited which is an Indian Financial Institution and was also wholly owned through subsidiary. ICICI has board comprising of eminent individuals who are wealthy and also have international business experience related to financial services, banking and also management consulting. ICICI is providing innovati on in banking services which are liked and recognized all over the world. They have properly managed idea along with innovative products and also launches. Bank is also involved in engaging

Marketing Mix: Tactical Components To Promote Sales

Marketing Mix: Tactical Components To Promote Sales Carlsberg is also one of the largest brewers in Europe. Moreover, Carlsberg is headquartered in Valby in Copenhagen, Denmark. Carlsberg beer portfolio includes more than 500 brands and they are varies significantly in term of volume, price, target audience and geographic penetration. The companys main brand is Carlsberg Beer but it also brews Tuborg as well too. In January 2001, Carlsberg breweries decided to merge with the Norwegian brewery group Orkla ASA and later Carlsberg has become the fifth largest brewery group in the world. Currently, Povl Krogsgaar-Larsen is the Chairman of the Executive Board of Carlsberg Foundation while Jess Soderberg is the Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of Carlsberg Foundation. Meanwhile, Flemming Besenbacher is one of the members of the Executive Board of Carlsberg Foundation from 2005 until today. 1.1 History Background Carlsberg was constituted in 1847 by J.C. Jacobsen on a hill at Valby. In order to expand the brand name of Carlsberg, it decided to start its exportation in the year 1868. In 1870, Carlsberg had started to become a very successful brewery and the founder, J.C. Jacobsen wanted to share his business with his country. In 1875, the Carlsberg Research Centre was established to research on scientific problem related to brewing and pioneered the very latest brewing technology and techniques. There are more than 1000 scientists devoted to the art of quality beer manufacturing currently. J.C. Jacobson established the Carlsberg Foundation in 1876. In the year 1906, the Old Carlsberg and New Carlsberg have merged and changed the name to Carlsberg breweries due to the division of production was not viable in the long term. As for today, Carlsberg is the beer for modern young people who speak one language in the world with no boundaries. As for information, the Carlsberg brand also provides support to various contests in the world, such as golf tournaments in Asia and English Liverpool Football Club. Carlsberg has it owns organization target, mission and vision. The mission of Carlsberg Company is to be a dynamic provider of quality beers and its also bring its exciting brand, innovative culture and committed teams which will brings people together and add more enjoyment in life. Furthermore, their companys vision is probably the leading the beer company among the world in order to become the first choice of the consumers, customers and employees and also by fully understanding their needs and proactively driving market development. 2.0 What is Marketing Mix? Marketing mix is a combination of tactical components to promote the sales of a product or service (MarketingTeacher, 2010). The firm can control the marketing mix in order to achieve specific goals within a dynamic marketing environment. Basically, the major marketing decision can be divided into four categories which are known as product, price, promotion and place (also known as 4Ps). Product Product is a complex combination of tangible and intangible attributes that provide satisfaction and benefits to the society such as the good, service and idea (Prentice Hall, 2008). When marketing a product, entrepreneurs need to consider and decide the factors which are quality, design, features, variety, utility, branding, packaging and labeling of a particular product. Carlsberg decided to carry out line extensions to extend its brand names to new forms, colors, sizes, ingredients or flavor of its existing product categories (Prentice Hall, 2008). Carlsberg has produced various types of beers in the market throughout the globe and they also try to launch different flavors of beers as they know that individual has different taste and preference for the beer products. By doing this, Carlsberg can be able to satisfy the consumers needs and wants. These are the popular types of beers of Carlsberg: Carlsberg Elephant Carlsberg Lager Tabor Gold Special Brew Tabor Green Danish Royal Stout Ginseng Carlsberg is made from pale lager malt, bittering hops, aroma hops and Carlsberg bottom fermenting yeast. However, Carlsberg has launched different types of beer which can match with various types of dishes, such as seafood, vegetarian, cheese and others (CarlsbergGroup, 2010). Carlsbergs beer products are considered as the convenience goods in consumer product due to the beer products is considered as an inexpensive item which consumers buy frequently and do not do much comparison with other substitute beer products. So, Carlsberg company will differentiate their beer products, produce quality beers, create nice style and design, wrap with unique packaging and labels in order to distinguish itself with its competitors in the global market, such as Heineken and Tiger. Besides, the raw materials that used to produce the beers are the malted barley, hops, yeast, gluten and water. The quality level is different with its competitors in the market because the type of the raw materials that Carlsberg used is not the same. For example, the ways they planted the hops which is one of the raw ingredients are different, so it will end up with different kind of taste. There are also some safety policies in Carlsberg, each of every branch that brews Carlsberg under license, they need to send every type of beers of its sample for once a month for the tasting panel to test in order to ensure the quality of the products (CarlsbergGroup, 2010). So, Carlsberg can consistently deliver the quality that customers pay for. However, one of the Carlsbergs competitors, Heineken, the company produced Buckler which is one of their beer products that is non-alcoholic. So, Heineken can target those young adults and all the religions in the world to buy its non-alcoholic products. Carlsberg did not produce any non-alcohol drink and it might lose its sales because Heineken targets all the consumers irregardless their religion in order to boost up their sale and competed with Carlsberg. Therefore, Carlsberg should also produce non-alcohol drink in order to compete with its tough competitors, Heineken. 3.1 Packaging In the packaging aspect, Carlsberg company uses aluminium cans and glass bottle which can be recycled. The purpose of the packaging is to protect the product from damage and assist retailers in attracting attention to the product (Prentice Hall, 2008). The diagram below shows the difference between the packaging designs of the Carlsberg Lager. BEFORE AFTER Changes of the packaging design of Carlsberg Lager. By doing this, Carlsberg can create instant consumer recognition of the company or brand. Moreover, by making the packaging design unique, Carlsberg can competes with its competitors and its products packaging can also catch the attention of the consumers even if its products are on the same retail store shelves with other substitute beers. For example, Carlsberg started to use environmentally responsible packaging materials and packaging the Carlsberg lager into a unique style glass bottle and less used of papers on it. However, some elderly customers might not be able to see the words that are curved on the Carlsberg Lagers bottle and end up buying other substitute beers that the words can be see clearly. So, Carlsberg should also pay attention on the minority consumers and improve its packaging to look more outstanding than the other beer brands in the market. 3.2 Labeling Labels can be ranged from simple tags attached to products to complex graphics that are part of the package (Prentice Hall, 2008). Moreover, Carlsberg labels its products might also help to promote its products and also support its positioning. As for information, majority of the consumers will look at the percentage of the alcohol of the beer products and they prefer to buy those beer products contain with high percentage of alcohol. Carlsberg labels their beer products in detail: Carlsberg Special Brew It contains 12kcal of calories, 1.1g of carbohydrates, and 2.6g of alcohol. Carlsberg Lager It contains 12kcl of calories, 1.1g of carbohydrates, and 1.1g of alcohol. Tabor It contains 12kcl of calories, 1.1g of carbohydrates, and 1.4g of alcohol. Carlsberg Elephant It contains 13.75kcl of calories, 1.3g of carbohydrates, and 2.9 g of alcohol. Danish Royal Stout Ginseng It contains 15kcl of calories, 1.1g of carbohydrates, and 0.1g of alcohol. Tabor Gold It contains 12kc of calories, 1.1g of carbohydrates, and 2.3g alcohol. Besides that, Carlsberg ensures that their labels contain all the required information and also stated on its products that young adults who are below the age of 18 could not consume its beer products. 3.3 Branding Branding is important to the company because branding can add value to a product. Consumers prefer to buy goods by viewing the brand of the particular goods in the market. Since 1904, Carlsberg has a strong and well-known brand name in the beer industry. The slogan of Carlsberg is Probably the best lager in the world. Previously, Carlsbergs original logos include the swastika and an elephant. However, the world famous Carlsberg logo was introduced by Thorvald Bindesbell in the year 1904, for the launch of Carlsberg pilsner (Logo Design, 2010). The crown on the logo stands for the companys association with the Royal Danish Court. Pricing Price is the amount of money charged for a product or service (Prentice Hall, 2008). It is important to set a price for a product to create and capture customer values in the market. In Malaysia, the government has an authority to set the price for Carlsbergs products which is banned from Muslim. Several country like Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Malaysia have implemented piecemeal legislation such as banning the advertising on TV for any alcoholic beverages but the alcohol companies still have the right and freedom to promote their products. In addition to duties and excise tax, the government levies a sales tax of 20 per cent on the Carlsbergs beer product. As Carlsberg consumption is consider as price-sensitive, major changes in taxes may have an impact on demand. In Russia, an extreme 200% increase in excise duties on beer was implemented in January 2010, and in July 2009 the Ukraine implemented a significant increase of 94% in beer excise duty (Bloomberg, 2010). Carlsberg has carry out thorough scenario planning for 2010 and subsequent years based on already known and anticipated increases in beer excise duty levels. The scenarios include evaluation of prices, packaging and product mix, regional and national market positions and microeconomic factors such as changes in supply and demand for various input costs. Price list of Carlsberg Products The tables above show the price list of the product of both company according to the types of beers and the size volume of the beers. We have converted the price of each product from the United State Dollar ($) to Ringgit Malaysia (RM). 4.1 Internal and external considerations Every country has different pricing for Carlsbergs beer products. For example, Malaysia is an Islamic country. So, malays are not allowed to consume alcoholic drinks. The price of Carlsberg in Malaysia supposedly to be charged in a lower price compared to non-Islamic country. There are some areas in Malaysia which have duty-free for Carlsberg such as Pulau Langkawi. 4.2 Pricing Strategies Price-Adjustment Strategies Segmented pricing: Segmented pricing is to adjust the price to allow for differences in customers, products or locations (Prentice hall, 2008). Carlsberg company uses location pricing, so the price of Carlsberg can be adjusted and flexible but it depends on different country and even in restaurants. Carlsberg focus their sales in pub, restaurants or clubbing place. For instance, comparing the price of Carlsberg between pub and mini market, it seems obviously that the price of Carlsberg in pub would be relatively higher than mini market because people who go to pub are found to be able to afford it and the area of the pub is considered as high class. Carlsberg implements Everyday low pricing (EDLP) which involves charging a constant everyday low price with few or no temporary price discounts. It usually will have some discounts during the festival seasons like Chinese New Year and Christmas. Besides that, Carlsberg use pricing at or near which is one of the pricing strategies. There are few substitute beer products in the market, so the price of the Carlsbergs products will be the same or slightly different with the other substitute beer products. Thus, it can prevent the happening of the price war between Carlsberg and other beer brands. As for information, the price of Carlsbergs products are cheaper compared to the price of Heinekens product but it is slightly lower than the price of Heinekens product. However, the price of Carlsberg and Tiger are the same regardless the size of the beer or packaging. This will be tough for Carlsberg to boost up its sales due to the price for Carlsberg and Tiger are the same in the market. Carlsberg can increase its sales by improving the quality of the beers and give out free gift whenever consumers purchase a carton of Carlbergs beer products. By giving out free gift or limited edition stuff, it will attract the consumers to buy Carlsbergs beer products rather than buying other substitute beer brands in the market. 5.0 Promotion: Carlsberg is well-known in 105 countries such as Japan, Australia, Africa, China, India, and Malaysia, etc and sold in more than 150 markets. Besides that, Carlsberg has adopted some aggressive promotions around the world to pursuit people consume and aware it. In order to compete with its competitors, promotion must be done in order to increase the reputation, generate sales and profits. There are few strong beer brand eager to compete with Carlsberg since Carlsberg is an international business which have branches all around the world, such as Asia, Europe, and other countries. Promotion tactics for Carlsberg are advertising, public relations, sale promotion and personal selling. Moreover, Carlsberg is creating brand awareness in the public. Its public relations is Carlsberg Hue Zing Education Fund (CEF) which give out Studies Loan to all Malaysian citizens who are enrolled in local or foreign institutions of higher learning hold certificate in UEC, SPM or STPM, or any higher certificate. In the Year 2009, the Carlsberg Hue Zing Education Fund had allocated about RM450, 000 which had aided 31 students in need of financial assistance. By doing this, Malaysia citizens will have a good impression on Carlsberg and tend to consume its beer products due to other beer brands never adopt this strategy to create awareness for their products. Carlsberg was crowned the Grand Prize winner of the 11 annual Chinese New Year greeting advertisement award organized by China Press and Nan yang Siang Pau. It cleverly illustrates the transformation of the Chinese character from Ox to Life by adding the iconic Carlsberg swoosh. Furthermore, Carlsberg also have produced their own bottle opener which had their brand name on stated on it. The Glass Beer which label with the logo and Carlsberg Pilsner is also one of the promotion for Carlsberg in Malaysia. 5.1 Advertising Case 1 The contest open to all non-Muslim residents of Malaysia ONLY. Join the Carlsberg Monaco Promotion Contest now and you could win yourself an all expenses paid holiday on private yacht in Monaco. Buy the Carlberg beers that carry a scratch-to-win sticker , scratch it to get the code and submit the code complete with a slogan I am inspired à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. (in 20 words or less) using SMS or via the website. For more informations, terms and conditions , please visit the contests site. Prizes : Grand Prize: 7D/6N all expenses paid holiday on private yacht in Monaco for 4 person Special Prize: 11 x 3D/2N paid holiday and yacht experience in Langkawi for 2 persons Weekly Prize: 15 x iPOD Shuffle (1GB) Contest End : On 25th May 2007 Posted: April 30, 2007 by ContestStation.net in Buy Win Contests As the case 1 above, we can see that in order to increase their sales, Carlsberg create a campaign, which provide scratch-to-win sticker to some Carlsberg beer and the participants are required to provide a slogan with the requirement, free traveling is available if they win in the competition. Meanwhile, Carlsberg can also get some inspiration of Slogan from customers and knows more about their consumers. This will create a win-win situation which both the consumers and Carlsberg gain benefit too. In this case, Carlsberg shows that they take importance on the political environment on Malaysia. Malaysia is an Islamic country and alcoholic drinks is illegal in the past, after few years, the government allowed alcoholic drinks to be imported into Malaysia but with the condition that Islamic people are not allowed to purchased or consumed alcoholic drinks. So, Carlsberg only opened this competition for non-Muslim which they are allowed to purchase alcoholic drinks. This shows that Carlsberg did a research before they conduct this activity in Malaysia. Assuming if Carlsberg ignore the rule and regulations, the government will take action on them, or even banned them from importing the alcoholic drinks to Malaysia. 5.2 Direct Mail Direct Mail is a method of advertising to increase the awareness of what promotion does the company had. It is now being claimed that is the fastest and the most saving cost in order to advertise. Carlsberg company spends money on buying the database to record the customers information, such as income level, race, age, taste and preference. By doing this, mailing to the right consumers to promote Carlsbergs beer products will be much more effective than mailing to those consumers who are not interested in alcoholic drinks. So, Carlsberg can send promotion via email to the customers to inform them about their new beer products and contest. However, one of the problems being faced by Carlsberg is that their name was being used by illegal organization which used their company address to scam people money. As shown in below, one of the consumers received the email which was send by the scammer and the email stated that she won a lottery which up to 650,000.00 Pounds from Carlsberg Beer Carlsberg Malta Company. When she attempted to called the contact number that was provided in the mail, she was shocked to find out that the people ask her to pay a few thousand pounds for the bank transfer fees before she can get the rewards. Date: Sun, 29 Jun 2008 03:27:09 -0600 (MDT) From: Carlsberg Company Promotion [emailprotected] Reply-To: [emailprotected] Subject: You Won 650.000.00 Pounds Sterlings: File For Clam now Carlsberg UK Ltd, Jacobsen House 140 Bridge Street, Northampton, NN1 1PZ ***PROMOTION NOTIFICATION*** Dear Winner, This is to inform you of the Award of Six Hundred and Fifty Thousand Pounds (650,000.00 Pounds) from Carlsberg Beer Carlsberg Malta Company.This Promotion Award is to raise the profile of Carlsberg Beer Carlsberg Malta Products consumers males / females in rural and urban Areas. The online promotions email lists were generated from the World Wide Web. This promotion takes place annually to challenge and to take market share from the popular Dutch import beer. The tactics included live events, local campaigns and general buzz to establish the brand one neighborhood at a time in major urban / rural Areas.Your Email Ref Number falls within our European booklet representatives office in United Kingdom . In view of this, your Award of Six Hundred and Fifty Thousand Pounds Sterlings (650,000.00 Pounds Sterlings) will be released to you by will commence the process to facilitate the release of your funds as soon as you contact him, find below the contact details Mr. Edward Phil Processing Director. Email: [emailprotected] Tel: +44 70457 24289 He will brief you on steps to be taken for due processing and remittance of your prize money. File in for your Claims by Furnishing your Fiduciary Agent the information below. VERIFICATION AND FUNDS RELEASE FORM 1. FULL NAMES:________________ 2. ADDRESS:_________City_________State________Postcode_______Country_____ 3. SEX:________________ 4. AGE:________________ 5. OCCUPATION:________________ 6. TELEPHONE NUMBER:________________ 7. NATIONALITY:____________________ Mode Of Transfer: (Bank to Bank online Transfer) From the management of Carlsberg Company UK we would like to say a big congratulation to you Sincerely, Mrs. Dianne Thompson Online Coordinator, Carlsberg Beer Malta Breweries In this case, Carlsberg should be aware of scam organization in the world and it should start to take actions to solve the serious scamming problems which will harm the company brand name in the future. Carlsberg can publishes through newspaper or via Email that they would never organize any contest which will need the customers to bank in a certain amount of money in order to win prizes. The promotion mix of Carlsberg is not very efficient because it is lacked of public relation. Therefore, if the consumers give any comments or suggestions, Carlsberg can make any adjustment to fulfill the consumer wants and improve their beer products quality in the future. 6.0 Place: Carlsberg company distributes its products throughtout the world. Carlsberg has divided their market into four groups which are Afica and Middle East, Americas, Asia and Europe. There are about 45,000 people are working for Carlsberg Group. Besides that, Carlsbergs products are available in exactly 314 countries all over the world. Furthermore, Carlsberg also has the same distribution channel with Heineken (its competitor) such as the wholesale distribution and retail distribution to distribute their products to the customers. Carlsberg will deliver their products to a combination of convience store or hypermarkers like Tesco or Jusco. Carlsberg does not have any distrbution center like Heineken or Tiger because Carlsberg focus on the retail distribution to distribute their products. Some of the example of the retail distribution are the pubs, clubs or bars. Carlsberg will establish alliance with some of the retail distribution to increase their sales. The market of Carlsberg in Africa is categorized according to the geographical. They made the segmentation into West Africa, Central Africa, Southern Africa, Eastern Africa and also North Africa. The Carlsberg Group has been active in western Africa for many years. In central Africa, currently there are only four markets present in Central Africa which is Gabon, Congo, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. In Cameroon, Les Brasseries du Cameroun has been producing Tuborg Gold locally since 1979, along with the range of local brands. Cameroon is a very competitive market compared to the rest of the region, with the consumption of 25 liters per person per year. In December 1969, Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad began brewing with Carlsberg Green Label beer locally in 1972. The Carlsberg brand had become the part of daily life and it is now the undisputed market leader with more than a 50% share of the Malaysian beer market. Carlsberg Malaysia has aimed to be at the forefront of innovation and quality and always led the market with dynamic product launches and massive consumer campaigns. In 2008, Carlsberg Green Label received Malaysias Gold Most Trusted Brand Award for the ninth consecutive year in the Readers Digest consumer survey. In the same year, Carlsberg Malaysia was also announced as the winner of the 2008 Strongest Winning Culture Award amongst all the Carlsberg Group Company across the world. Furthermore, Carlsberg company plans to enter into the Germanys market. There are about 1300 breweries in Germany which is quite a lot of number compare to other small retails. The Germany beer is known as Carlsberg Deutschland. The Germany beer market has been rather sheltered from the rest of the world because of the German Reinheitsgebot regulation, which dated back to the year of 1516. In 2004, Carlsberg acquires a majority shareholding in Holsten-Brauerei. The market position of Carlsberg in Northern Germany is second, while at the whole Germany is the fifth. As for the distribution part, we suggest that Carlsberg should follow the steps of Heineken and Tiger (its competitors) to open several distribution center in many countries, so that the consumers can be able to consume Carlsbergs beer products at anytime and anywhere. Besides that, Carlsberg should also built some distribution center at the rural area, although the place was not well developed. By doing this, more and more people will start to know Carlsbergs brand name throughout the world regardless in the city or rural area. Stem Cells: History, Properties and Research Stem Cells: History, Properties and Research History Stem cells  are  cells  found in all multi cellular  organisms. They are characterized by the ability to renew themselves through  mitotic  cell division and  differentiate  into a diverse range of specialized cell types. Research in the stem cell field grew out of findings by  Ernest A. McCulloch  and James E. Till  at the  University of Toronto  in the 1960s The two broad types of mammalian stem cells are:  embryonic stem cells  that are isolated from the  inner cell mass  of  blastocysts, and  adult stem cells  that are found in adult tissues. In a developing  embryo, stem cells can differentiate into all of the specialized embryonic tissues. In adult  organisms, stem cells and  progenitor cells  act as a repair system for the body, replenishing specialized cells, but also maintain the normal turnover of regenerative organs, such as blood, skin, or intestinal tissues. Stem cells can now be grown and transformed into specialized cells with characteristics consistent with cells of various tissues such as muscles or nerves through  cell culture. Highly plastic adult stem cells from a variety of sources, including  umbilical cord blood  and  bone marrow, are routinely used in medical therapies. Embryonic  cell lines  and  autologous  embryonic stem cells generated through  therapeutic cloning  have also been proposed as promising candidates for future therapies Contents (Jump to) 1  Properties 1.1  Self-renewal 1.2  Potency definitions 1.3  Identification 2  Embryonic 3  Adult 4  Amniotic 5  Induced pluripotent 6  Lineage 7  Treatments 8  Research patents 9  Key research events 10  References Properties The classical definition of a stem cell requires that it possess two properties: Self-renewal   the ability to go through numerous  cycles  of  cell division  while maintaining the undifferentiated state. Potency   the capacity to  differentiate  into specialized cell types. In the strictest sense, this requires stem cells to be either  totipotent  or  pluripotent   to be able to give rise to any mature cell type, although  multipotent  or  unipotent  progenitor cells  are sometimes referred to as stem cells. Self-renewal Two mechanisms exist to ensure that the stem cell population is maintained: Obligatory asymmetric replication   a stem cell divides into one  daughter cell  that is identical to the original stem cell, and another daughter cell that is differentiated Stochastic differentiation   when one stem cell develops into two differentiated daughter cells, another stem cell undergoes  mitosis  and produces two stem cells identical to the original. Potency definitions Pluripotent, embryonic stem cells originate as inner mass cells within a blastocyst. The stem cells can become any tissue in the body, excluding a placenta. Only the morulas cells are totipotent, able to become all tissues and a placenta. Human  embryonic  stem cells A: Cell colonies that are not yet differentiated. B:  Nerve  cell Potency  specifies the differentiation potential (the potential to differentiate into different cell types) of the stem cell. Totipotent  (a.k.a  omnipotent) stem cells can differentiate into embryonic and extraembryonic cell types. Such cells can construct a complete, viable, organism.  These cells are produced from the fusion of an egg and sperm cell. Cells produced by the first few divisions of the fertilized egg are also totipotent. Pluripotent  stem cells are the descendants of totipotent cells and can differentiate into nearly all cells,  i.e. cells derived from any of the three  germ layers. Multipotent  stem cells can differentiate into a number of cells, but only those of a closely related family of cells. Oligopotent  stem cells can differentiate into only a few cells, such as lymphoid or myeloid stem cells. Unipotent  cells can produce only one cell type, their own,  but have the property of self-renewal which distinguishes them from non-stem cells (e.g. muscle stem cells). Identification The practical definition of a stem cell is the functional definition a cell that has the potential to regenerate tissue over a lifetime. For example, the gold standard test for a bone marrow or hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) is the ability to transplant one cell and save an individual without HSCs. In this case, a stem cell must be able to produce new blood cells and immune cells over a long term, demonstrating potency. It should also be possible to isolate stem cells from the transplanted individual, which can themselves be transplanted into another individual without HSCs, demonstrating that the stem cell was able to self-renew. Properties of stem cells can be illustrated  in vitro, using methods such as  clonogenic assays, where single cells are characterized by their ability to differentiate and self-renew.  As well, stem cells can be isolated based on a distinctive set of cell surface markers. However,  in vitro  culture conditions can alter the behavior of cells, making it unclear whether the cells will behave in a similar manner  in vivo. Considerable debate exists whether some proposed adult cell populations are truly stem cells. Embryonic Embryonic stem cell lines  (ES cell lines) are cultures of cells derived from the  epiblast  tissue of the  inner cell mass  (ICM) of a  blastocyst  or earliermorula  stage embryos.  A blastocyst is an early stage  embryo-approximately four to five days old in humans and consisting of 50-150 cells. ES cells are  pluripotent  and give rise during development to all derivatives of the three primary  germ layers: ectoderm, endoderm and mesoderm. In other words, they can develop into each of the more than 200 cell types of the adult  body  when given sufficient and necessary stimulation for a specific cell type. They do not contribute to the extra-embryonic membranes or the  placenta. Nearly all research to date has taken place using mouse embryonic stem cells (mES) or human embryonic stem cells (hES). Both have the essential stem cell characteristics, yet they require very different environments in order to maintain an undifferentiated state. Mouse ES cells are grown on a layer of gelatin and require the presence of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF). Human ES cells are grown on a feeder layer of mouse embryonic  fibroblasts(MEFs) and require the presence of basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF or FGF-2).  Without optimal culture conditions or genetic manipulation, embryonic stem cells will rapidly differentiate. A human embryonic stem cell is also defined by the presence of several transcription factors and cell surface proteins. The transcription factors  Oct-4,Nanog, and  Sox2  form the core regulatory network that ensures the suppression of genes that lead to differentiation and the maintenance of pluripotency.  The cell surface antigens most commonly used to identify hES cells are the glycolipids SSEA3 and SSEA4 and the keratan sulfate antigens Tra-1-60 and Tra-1-81. The molecular definition of a stem cell includes many more proteins and continues to be a topic of research. After nearly ten years of research,  there are no approved treatments using embryonic stem cells. The first human trial was approved by the US Food Drug Administration in January 2009.  However, as of August 2010, the first human trial had not yet been initiated. Although, The first human medical trial for embryonic stem cells started in Atlanta on October 13, 2010 for spinal injury victims. ES cells, being pluripotent cells, require specific signals for correct differentiation if injected directly into another body, ES cells will differentiate into many different types of cells, causing a  teratoma. Differentiating ES cells into usable cells while avoiding transplant rejection are just a few of the hurdles that embryonic stem cell researchers still face.  Many nations currently have  moratoria  on either ES cell research or the production of new ES cell lines. Because of their combined abilities of unlimited expansion and pluripotency, embryonic stem cells remain a the oretically potential source for  regenerative medicine  and tissue replacement after injury or disease. Adult Also known as  somatic stem cells and  germline  (giving rise to gametes) stem cells, they can be found in children, as well as adults. Stem cell division and differentiation.  A stem cell; B progenitor cell; C differentiated cell; 1 symmetric stem cell division; 2 asymmetric stem cell division; 3 progenitor division; 4 terminal differentiation Pluripotent adult stem cells are rare and generally small in number but can be found in a number of tissues including umbilical cord blood.  A great deal of adult stem cell research has focused on clarifying their capacity to divide or self-renew indefinitely and their differentiation potential.  In mice, pluripotent stem cells are directly generated from adult fibroblast cultures. Unfortunately, many mice dont live long with stem cell organs. Most adult stem cells are lineage-restricted (multipotent) and are generally referred to by their tissue origin (mesenchymal stem cell, adipose-derived stem cell,endothelial stem cell, etc.). Adult stem cell treatments have been successfully used for many years to treat leukemia and related bone/blood cancers through bone marrow transplants.  Adult stem cells are also used in veterinary medicine to treat tendon and ligament injuries in horses. The use of adult stem cells in research and therapy is not as  controversial  as  embryonic stem cells, because the production of adult stem cells does not require the destruction of an  embryo. Additionally, because in some instances adult stem cells can be obtained from the intended recipient, (an  autograft) the risk of rejection is essentially non-existent in these situations. Consequently, more US government funding is being provided for adult stem cell research. An extremely rich source for adult mesenchymal stem cells is the developing tooth bud of the mandibular third molar. While considered multipotent they may prove to be pluripotent. The stem cells eventually form enamel (ectodrm), dentin,periodontal ligament, blood vessels, dental pulp, nervous tissues, including a minimum of 29 different unique end organs. Because of extreme ease in collection at 8-10 years of age before calcification and minimal to no morbidity will probably constitute a major source for personal banking, research and multiple therapies. These stem cells have been shown capable of producing hepatocytes. Amniotic Multipotent stem cells are also found in  amniotic fluid. These stem cells are very active, expand extensively without feeders and are not tumorigenic.  Amniotic stem cells  are multipotent and can differentiate in cells of adipogenic, osteogenic, myogenic, endothelial, hepatic and also neuronal lines.  All over the world, universities and research institutes are studying  amniotic fluid  to discover all the qualities of amniotic stem cells, and scientists such as  Anthony Atala  and  Giuseppe Simoni  have discovered important results. From an ethical point of view, stem cells from  amniotic fluid  can solve a lot of problems, because its possible to catch amniotic stem cells without destroying embryos. For example, the Vatican newspaper Osservatore Romano called amniotic stem cell the future of medicine. Its possible to collect amniotic stem cells for donors or for autologuous use: the first US amniotic stem cells bank   opened in Medford, MA, by  Biocell Center  Corporation  Ã‚  and collaborates with various hospitals and universities all over the world Induced pluripotent These are not adult stem cells, but rather reprogrammed cells (e.g. epithelial cells) given pluripotent capabilities. Using genetic reprogramming with protein  transcription factors, pluripotent stem cells equivalent to  embryonic stem cells  have been derived from human adult skin tissue.  Shinya Yamanaka  and his colleagues at  Kyoto University  used the transcription factors Oct3/4, Sox2, c-Myc, and Klf4  in their experiments on cells from human faces.  Junying Yu,  James Thomson, and their colleagues at the  University of Wisconsin-Madison  used a different set of factors, Oct4, Sox2, Nanog and Lin28,  and carried out their experiments using cells from human  foreskin. As a result of the success of these experiments,  Ian Wilmut, who helped create the first cloned animal  Dolly the Sheep, has announced that he will abandon  nuclear transfer  as an avenue of research. Frozen blood samples can be used as a source of induced pluripotent stem cells, opening a new avenue for obtaining the valued cells. Lineage They ensure self-renewal, stem cells undergo two types of cell division (see  Stem cell division and differentiation  diagram). Symmetric division gives rise to two identical daughter cells both endowed with stem cell properties. Asymmetric division, on the other hand, produces only one stem cell and a  progenitor cell  with limited self-renewal potential. Progenitors can go through several rounds of cell division before terminally  differentiating  into a mature cell. It is possible that the molecular distinction between symmetric and asymmetric divisions lies in differential segregation of cell membrane proteins (such as  receptors) between the daughter cells. An alternative theory is that stem cells remain undifferentiated due to environmental cues in their particular niche. Stem cells differentiate when they leave that niche or no longer receive those signals. Studies in  Drosophila  germarium have identified the signals dpp and adherens junctions that prevent germarium stem cells from differentiating. Main article:  Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell The signals that lead to reprogramming of cells to an embryonic-like state are also being investigated. These signal pathways include several  transcription factors  including the  oncogene  c-Myc. Initial studies indicate that transformation of mice cells with a combination of these anti-differentiation signals can reverse differentiation and may allow adult cells to become pluripotent. However, the need to transform these cells with an oncogene may prevent the use of this approach in therapy. Challenging the terminal nature of cellular differentiation and the integrity of lineage commitment, it was recently determined that the somatic expression of combined  transcription factors  can directly induce other defined somatic cell fates; researchers identified three neural-lineage-specific transcription factors that could directly convert mouse  fibroblasts  (skin cells) into fully-functional  neurons. This induced neurons (iN) cell research inspires the researchers to induce other cell types implies that  all  cells are  totipotent: with the proper tools, all cells may form all kinds of tissue. Treatments Medical researchers believe that stem cell therapy has the potential to dramatically change the treatment of human disease. A number of adult stem cell therapies already exist, particularly  bone marrow transplants  that are used to treat  leukemia.  In the future, medical researchers anticipate being able to use technologies derived from stem cell research to treat a wider variety of diseases including  cancer, Parkinsons disease,  spinal cord injuries,  Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,  multiple sclerosis, and  muscle  damage, amongst a number of other impairments and conditions.  However, there still exists a great deal of social and scientific uncertainty surrounding stem cell research, which could possibly be overcome through public debate and future research, and further education of the public. One concern of treatment is the possible risk that transplanted stem cells could form tumors and have the possibility of becoming cancerous if cell division continues uncontrollably. Stem cells, however, are already studied extensively. While some scientists are hesitant to associate the therapeutic potential of stem cells as the first goal of the research, they find the investigation of stem cells as a goal worthy in itself. Contrarily, supporters of embryonic stem cell research argue that such research should be pursued because the resultant treatments could have significant medical potential. It is also noted that excess embryos created for  in vitro fertilization  could be donated with consent and used for the research Diseases and conditions where stem cell treatment is promising or emerging.  Bone marrow transplantation is, as of 2009, the only established use of stem cells. Research patents The  patents  covering a lot of work on human embryonic stem cells are owned by the  Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation  (WARF). WARF does not charge academics to study human stem cells but does charge commercial users. WARF sold  Geron Corp.  exclusive rights to work on human stem cells but later sued Geron Corp. to recover some of the previously sold rights. The two sides agreed that Geron Corp. would keep the rights to only three cell types. In 2001, WARF came under public pressure to widen access to human stem-cell technology. These patents are now in doubt as a request for reviewing the  US Patent and Trademark Office  has been filed by non-profit patent-watchdogs  The Foundation for Taxpayer Consumer Rights, and the  Public Patent Foundation  as well as molecular biologist Jeanne Loring of the Burnham Institute. According to them, two of the patents granted to WARF are invalid because they cover a technique published in 1993 for which a patent had already been granted to an Australian researcher. Another part of the challenge states that these techniques, developed by  James A. Thomson, are rendered obvious by a 1990 paper and two textbooks. The outcome of this legal challenge is particularly relevant to the Geron Corp. as it can only license patents that are upheld. Key research events January 2008   Robert Lanza and colleagues at Advanced Cell Technology and UCSF create the first human embryonic stem cells without destruction of the embryo January 2008   Development of human cloned blastocysts following  somatic cell nuclear transfer  with adult fibroblasts. February 2008   Generation of pluripotent stem cells from adult mouse liver and stomach: these iPS cells seem to be more similar to embryonic stem cells than the previously developed iPS cells and not tumorigenic, moreover genes that are required for iPS cells do not need to be inserted into specific sites, which encourages the development of non-viral reprogramming techniques. March 2008 The first published study of successful cartilage regeneration in the human knee using autologous adult mesenchymal stem cells is published by clinicians from Regenerative Sciences. October 2008   Sabine Conrad and colleagues at Tà ¼bingen, Germany generate  pluripotent stem cells  from spermatogonial cells of adult human testis by culturing the cells in vitro under  leukemia inhibitory factor  (LIF) supplementation. 30 October 2008   Embryonic-like stem cells from a single human hair. 1 March 2009   Andras Nagy, Keisuke Kaji,  et al.  discover a way to produce embryonic-like stem cells from normal adult cells by using a novel wrapping procedure to deliver specific genes to adult cells to reprogram them into stem cells without the risks of using a virus to make the change. The use of  electroporation  is said to allow for the temporary insertion of genes into the cell. 28 May 2009  Kim  et al.  announced that they had devised a way to manipulate skin cells to create patient specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), claiming it to be the ultimate stem cell solution. 11 October 2010  First trial of embryonic stem cells in humans References Becker AJ, McCulloch EA, Till JE (1963). Cytological demonstration of the clonal nature of spleen colonies derived from transplanted mouse marrow cells.   Siminovitch L, McCulloch EA, Till JE (1963). The distribution of colony-forming cells among spleen colonies.  Journal of Cellular and Comparative Physiology. Tuch BE (2006). Stem cells-a clinical update.  Australian Family Physician. Hans R. Schà ¶ler (2007). The Potential of Stem Cells: An Inventory. In Nikolaus Knoepffler, Dagmar Schipanski, and Stefan Lorenz Sorgner.  Humanbiotechnology as Social Challenge. Ashgate Publishing, Ltd. Mitalipov S, Wolf D (2009).  HYPERLINK http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?tool=pmcentrezartid=2752493Totipotency, pluripotency and nuclear reprogrammingHYPERLINK http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?tool=pmcentrezartid=2752493.  Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol   Ulloa-Montoya F, Verfaillie CM, Hu WS (Jul 2005). Culture systems for pluripotent stem cells.  J Biosci Bioeng.   Friedenstein AJ, Deriglasova UF, Kulagina NN, Panasuk AF, Rudakowa SF, Luria EA, Ruadkow IA (1974). Precursors for fibroblasts in different populations of hematopoietic cells as detected by the  in vitro  colony assay method.  

The Health Risk Associated with a Missing Ingredient in Bottled Water E

The Health Risk Associated with a Missing Ingredient in Bottled Water Nothing in education is so astonishing as the amount of ignorance it accumulates in the form of inert facts. * Henry Adams "We can’t change the bottled water industry, but we can change our own ignorance." –Paul W. Mason You may think that drinking bottled water is healthier than drinking tap water. However, according to a recent Dateline NBC top story on the quality of bottled water, this healthy move is not so healthy after all. Recently, a bottled water company in California was found to be bottling its brand of Yosemite water from a well in Fullerton, right below the LA freeway system (Verhovek 2). While this is happening the American public remains unaware of the dangers of their "healthy" bottled water. This shouldn’t be happening, but due to lax Food and Drug Administration standards and our own ignorance, bottled water sales are up to an amazing sales of 4 billion dollars a year and our health risks are growing at an even faster rate! To further investigate this situation, we must understand the problems we face so that we can analyze the causes, in an attempt to solve for less than healthy water. In order to see the harm that bottled water has on the public, we need to define the problems with bottled water and investigate it’s impending health risks. To do this, we must clarify what defines bottled water. According to the International Bottled Water Association, "Water is classified as ‘bottled water’ or ‘drinking water’ if it meets all applicable federal and state standards, is sealed in a sanitary container and is sold for human consumption" (FAQ’s 1). Bottled water also cannot contain sweeteners or chemical additives and it... ...er." Current Research in Magnesium. John Libbey & Company Ltd.: London, 1996. Mason, Paul. "Calculations of deaths caused by magnesium-deficient bottled water in California." 17 June 1994. <http://www.execpc.com/~magnesium/bottled.html.> (29 September 1998) ---. "Citizens Petition For Mg Fortification." The Magnesium Website. 30 September 1995. <http://www.execpc.com/~magnesium.> (6 September 1998) ---. "Evaluate Your Bottled Water." 8 July 1997. <http://www.execpc.com/~cc/ccwaters.html> (8 September 1998) "Newsletter of the Healthy Bottled Water Association." <Healthy Water Association> (1 June 1997): 1-5 United States. District Court. Case No. C-97-20686 JF. 15 September 1998. Verhovek, Sam Howe. "It’s Wet. It’s Bottled. It Sort of Tastes Like Water." The New York Times Online. 1998. <http://search.nytimes.com> (8 September 1998)

Research critique part 2 Essay

Quantitative Research Critique This is a quantitative study research critique of the research study conducted by Lisa M Black PhD,RN,CNE, Tragedy into Policy: A Quantitative Study of Nurses Attitudes Toward Patient Advocacy Activities. The findings from this research study was used in the state of Nevada to protect nurses when reporting unsafe conditions in patient care practices, thus providing a safer work environment where nurses can feel safe when speaking out where patient safety is in jeopardy from unsafe care practices. Protection of Human Participants The benefits of this study were the creation of legal protection for whistleblowers in the state of Nevada. There were no risks to any participants’ safety for this study. Informed consent was not needed as retuning the completed survey was viewed as consent to be included. All participation in the study was viewed as voluntary. Approval of the survey tool was obtained from the University of Nevada, Reno prior to beginning data collection. (Black, 2011, p. 29) Data Collection The dependent variables in this study are the registered nurses licensed to practice in the state of Nevada; the independent variable was the Registered Nurses’ Workplace Support for Patient Advocacy Activities Study Questionnaire.(Black, 2011, p. 29) Data was collected through the developed questionnaire that was sent to 1725 registered nurses with active, current licensure and residing in the state of Nevada at the time of the survey.(Black, 2011, p. 29) The author provided no rationale for using the chosen data collection method, I would assume that this was the most cost effective and best way to maintain privacy for all respondents. The surveys were sent out using the United States Postal Service on September 8, 2008. (Black, 2011, p. 30) The respondents were asked to complete the survey by one of two methods, filling out, and returning the paper survey via US postal service or by completing it online. All responses were accepted through October 31, 2008. (Black, 2011, p. 30) After distribution of the questionnaire respondents were given the time period listed September 8, 2008 through October 31, 2008 to respond to the survey either written or online. (Black, 2011, p. 30) Data Management and Analysis A priori power analysis was performed and established that a minimum sample of â€Å"405 respondents would be required to detect a medium effect size.†(Black, 2011, p. 29) In order to determine if the study sample was â€Å"demographically representative† of nurses in Nevada, the demographic data was compared to the data from the 2004 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses from Nevada. (Black, 2011, p. 29) Reliability testing of the survey tool â€Å"demonstrated a high degree of internal consistency.† (Black, 2011, p. 30) No statistical software was mentioned in this study. Other than the reliability testing performed, the survey results were calculated with a total of 564 valid responses collected this represented 33% response rate. (Black, 2011, p. 30) Response number varied from item to item as most participants left one or more items blank. (Black, 2011, p. 30) I felt this study was a reliable source of information concerning legislation protecting whistleblowers from workplace retaliation. According to the priori power analysis the minimum sample necessary of 405 respondents was required; with 564 valid responses received the minimum sample size was met. (Black, 2011, p. 29) The limitations that are identified in this study were, the sample size was considered to be small, even with the randomly chosen sample there was a potential response bias, and due to the nurses who have negative work environments may be more likely to complete the questionnaire than those with a more positive one. (Black, 2011, p. 33) This created the potential for inflated representation of the frequency and severity of these experiences. (Black, 2011, p. 33) This is the reason for caution when applying the findings to nurses outside of this study. (Black, 2011, p. 33) The survey tool did not allow for differentiation of different types of unsafe situations or different levels of retaliation. (Black, 2011, p. 34) Interpretation of survey questions may vary from one respondent to another. (Black, 2011, p. 34) This research study was presented in a logical easily understood manner with explanation and definition of findings and limitations. The findings of this study to were used in the creation of a law protecting nurses reporting unsafe patient care practices in acute care facilities and free standing offices and clinics in Nevada. The creation of this legislation helps create an environment for nurses to carry out† their moral imperative to prevent harm to patients whenever possible and to report potential or actual causes of harm† to protect patients.(Black, 2011, p. 35) There were no suggestions for future research. There was suggestion for changes in workplace environments encouraging openness in communication and especially in cases where patient safety is a concern. (Black, 2011, p. 35)

critical decision essays

critical decision essays I've chosen the topic: 'Global Warming' to analyse bacause it has become a major scientific and social issue during the past decade. Global Warming-the increase in greenhouse gasses- has captured broad public attention. It should be investigated because it would easily demage the nature and many soico-cultural aspects of life. In the following paragraps, I will introduce you some of the writers, such as Vaclav Smil, Ross Gelbspan ,John Bongaarts and Jennifer Mccullough and their approaches to this global problem. My starting point will be in giving you the issues mainly discussed by these writers. First of all, although these commentators differenciate in their approaches, they all agree that the green-house effect would have catastrophic consequences that can be easily observed on earth. They all chose to begin their articles by identifying what global warming is and the reasons for it. Then they all indicate possible solutions inorder to solve the problem or at least minimize the effects. Moreover, they emphasize on the governmental and international actions which have been taken to cope with this long crisis. All of them interprets through a crossinternational framework. That's because 'Global Warming' has been a world problem. However, the articles differ in many ways. The way they explain the issues are not the same. Vaclav Smil for example, discusses about the issue more generally, by giving some historical data and responses from people. On the other hand, jennifer McCullough only talks about one of the governmental actions: 'Kyoto agreement' and the responsibilities of an individual for decreasing the CO2 emmisions per year. So, Vaclav Smil follows a historical approach in expressing his ideas. On the other side, Stephen H. Schneider, in his article named:'Greenhouse Effect', emphasizes more on scientific and political studies on Global Warming. He points out the scientific issues surround ...

9 Tips for Handling a Difficult Coworker

9 Tips for Handling a Difficult Coworker No matter where you work, there always seems to be at least one coworker who is difficult to deal with. Sometimes, that coworker even turns into a bully, and that can affect your job performance and self-esteem when all you want to do it get along and get the job done. If you let it go, you can end up losing your temper, and that could adversely affect you both personally and professionally. However, there are some ways you can get along or defuse the situation to make life easier on the job. 1. Difficult CoworkersAll work situations have difficult coworkers from health care jobs to sales jobs. It may be the office gossip, the one who never seems to be able to get the job done without help or the serial dodger, who never seems to take responsibility and blames everyone else for his or her shortcomings. Then there is the nasty coworker, who never has anything nice to say about you, no matter what. Your first step in dealing with difficult coworkers is to identify who they are to ensur e you aren’t blaming the wrong person.2. Discuss the ProblemWith a workplace bully or backstabber, it may be necessary to confront the person instead of letting the behavior continue. Having a calm discussion about the problem may have a surprising response. Some people do not realize the adverse impact their statements and actions have on others and be genuinely surprised and taken aback. Try to talk reasonably and hold your temper, but let the person know that you will take the issue to a superior if the actions continue.3. Talk to a FriendA little unbiased opinion is never harmful, so talking over your coworker situation with a friend can be a good idea. It not only lets you vent your frustrations but can give you an unbiased opinion of what may be going on and how to handle the situation.4. Use Humor to Defuse a SituationWhile this type of tactic can work for some people, not everyone is able to make a humorous comment to defuse a situation spontaneously. A light bit of h umor might be the tactic for you if you have a funny side.5. Have an Exit StrategyHaving an excuse to get away from a difficult coworker can help. Whether inventing a phone call you have to make, work you have to do right away or another excuse, spend as little time with the toxic coworker as possible. When people realize they aren’t being listened to, they give up.6. Keep Your Co-Worker Problem PrivateYou don’t want your character questioned, so maintain your cool when faced with a problem co-worker. Complaining to others in the office might get you branded as a problem yourself, so keep any complaining down to those in your family or a close friend outside the office. Going public with grievances is always a bad idea.7. Be Bigger Than Your Co-WorkerYou know the old adage, â€Å"You can attract more flies with honey than with vinegar.† This applies to coworkers too. It doesn’t mean you have to come in every day with a new joke or be the person who organi zes birthday parties. However, just being pleasant, smiling and polite can improve another person’s attitude toward you.8. A Friend Can’t Be an EnemyWhile it doesn’t work in all cases, being friendly but not overly friendly to a difficult coworker can produce positive results. If the problem is gossip, having a friendly conversation can set things straight. If, on the other hand, the coworker is trying to take credit for work you have done, you can let your boss know beforehand that you are working on a certain aspect of a project, so you will get the credit.9 Go to Your BossNo one likes to do this, but sometimes there is no other choice if your requests to your toxic coworker have fallen on deaf ears. If you do decide to take the matter up with your supervisor, make sure to go armed with the information you need to make your case. Take notes on how this person’s actions are affecting your work and productivity on projects, and write down exactly what tha t person is doing to adversely affect your work.Whether working in a health care job or another field, there are ways to deal with toxic coworkers to make your job easier. Searching for a job can be easier too. TheJobNetwork lets you enter your job interests and qualifications and does the job search for you. All you have to do is enter your qualifications and interests in employment, and you will receive job alerts via email to choose which jobs interest you. To get started now, sign up with TheJobNetwork.

Importance of effective research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Importance of effective research - Essay Example relevant bits of data while not giving in to the temptation to ignore data that does not entirely support your hypothesis is the challenge of the modern researcher. But this research is at the very heart of the decision making process for educational entities (Marsh, 2006) business and governmental bodies. Data driven analysis is dependant on the research skills of professionals in all fields. But perhaps of equal importance is the ability to convey research results to others in writing. Good research can be made worthless by poor writing skills. Written communication is especially important in an age of e-mails. Being able to clearly convey the essence of your research will determine if the research is useful for decision making or if it is simply more confusing data that will ultimately be ignored. Information System Research† has several distinct advantages for all involved in the Work System. The stated goal of this means of evaluation is to view how objectives within the company are achieved by viewing processes in terms of a Work System and not as individual actors. The Work System includes IT and IS software in the same working group as automobiles or a massive drill press. All of the components of the system that produces a good for internal and external customers are evaluated as to how they relate to one another within the confines of the system (Alter 2002). This focus on internal and external customers is a strength of using a Work System approach to evaluate an Information System. The Work System analysis approach also has the strength of allowing the evaluator to view the Work System and the Information System as separate entities when a degree of overlap needs to be viewed. The article sites three examples of when this type of analysis would be useful. In each example, the amount of overlap between the Work System and the Information System determines the role of the Information System in the Work System. This is referred to as

Screening for novel peptides that block T-type calcium channels Essay

Screening for novel peptides that block T-type calcium channels - Essay Example Effects of Ca2+ are most drastic at G1 phase of the cell cycle, where there is an increased expression of calmodulin and Ca2+-calmodulin-sensitive Cyclin D/CDK4 (Kahl and Means, 2003). However, cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentrations must be regulated such that it is high only when it needs to be, because a vital part of calmodulin-dependent kinase function is in its regulated stimulation. Persistent stimulation can cause modifications in calmodulin sensitiyity, such that a persistent high intracellular Ca2+ will eventually make calmodulin less sensitive to calcium ions (Kahl and Means, 2003). In addition, if neuronal CaM-kinases II are constantly activated, catecholamines cannot serve as neurotransmitters because there is no catecholamine concentration potential that indicates transmitted signal. If glycogen synthesis is constantly inhibited, chemical energy cannot be stored by the body in the form of glycogen (Alberts, et al., 2007 ).One of the major ways through which cytoplasmic Ca2+ con centrations are regulated is through T-type calcium channels. T-type calcium channels are a group of low-voltage activated calcium channels. It has the characteristic six transmembrane alpha helices around a central pore. They open in response to even small membrane depolarization. Just like the enzymes it regulates, T-type calcium channels are also regulated. They are activated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), which is directed to the phosphorylation site by an adapter called A-kinase anchor protein (AKAP). It is also regulated by intracellular Ca2+ concentration through calmodulin. Aside from those, protein kinase C can also activate T-type calcium channels. However, the activity of protein kinase C is counteracted by G-protein coupled receptors (Felix, 2005). Because of the role of intracellular Ca2+ concentration to cell cycle, T-type calcium channels are associated with cell proliferation. Among normally differentiating cells which do not proliferate, expression of