Marketing Plan For A Transport Llc - 984 Words

VICORO TRANSPORT Marketing plan Rafael Gomez July 15, 2015 Mrs. Harriss LeTourneau University VICORO TRANSPORT MISSION STATEMENT â€Å"YOU HAVE IT†¦WE HAUL IT† VICORO TRANSPORT LLC, is a family owned Hot Shot company located in the surrounding Houston area. We specialize in oilfield, construction material and general commodities up to 40’ long and 15,000 lbs. We strive to lead in the industry by providing an excellent customer service, competitive pricing, and quality of work you can count on that is driven to provide safe, courteous, on-time delivery of your transportation needs by using current best practices. SWOT ANALYSIS STRENGTHS: †¢ Family owned company †¢ Customer loyalty- main account was with Seaboard Wellhead which was†¦show more content†¦Each truck will do at least a minimum of 3 local loads per day, 5 days a week to reach $10,000 monthly goal. We will market the major well head companies to build the relationship with and earn the business. Seaboard Wellhead being my major vendor will provide 5-7 loads daily. These loads will be either locally or anywhere in the state of Texas that it will make up the difference in revenue if the total of 9 daily loads per truck is not met. VICORO TRANSPORT LLC will meet this goal within six months of business. By the end of the first fiscal year of business we should have increased business by 30% by increasing business with other vendors besides Seaboard Wellhead. Business Competitive Advantage Analysis VICORO TRANSPORT, LLC has an opportunity to establish its competitive position in local transportation in the Texas market by selectively focusing its target market in the oil industry. The company has already experienced servicing this type of clientele and I believe that there is a growing demand for reliable, same-day Hot Shot transportation solutions in this customer base. VICORO TRANSPORT, LLC provides our customers with courteous, prompt and dependable transportation service. Our major competitive advantage is the enormous industry experience and solid reputation. The

High Remarks for Hybrid Cars Free Essays

QUESTION: Describe the different types of hybrid cars and how they are improving fuel efficiency. What are other pros and cons of driving a hybrid? —————————————————————————————————- High Remarks for Hybrid Cars It is no secret that one of the most popular trends in today’s society is â€Å"going green† to help the economy, save the world, and so on. It is also no secret that gasoline prices have steadily increased over the years, and four dollars a gallon does not exactly agree with our wallets. We will write a custom essay sample on High Remarks for Hybrid Cars or any similar topic only for you Order Now In an effort to â€Å"go green† and save money on gasoline, hybrid cars have recently become a great option for those interested in getting high gas mileage and saving lots of money†¦ or so they think. Although hybrid cars have high gas mileage and extend the time between visits to the pump, reviewing the raw facts about hybrid cars while asking the question â€Å"Do hybrid cars seem like a money-saving solution? † is a wise decision. While there are many different kinds of hybrid cars, they all share one common trait: a traditional, gasoline-powered motor and a new electric, battery-powered motor are both found within the vehicles. These vehicles use both motors at different times when on the go: the electric motor powers the vehicle when going less than 40 miles per hour, while the gas motor powers the vehicle at speeds greater than 40 miles per hour. While the functions of both motors may seem unimportant to some, consider stop-and-go rush hour traffic. Not only does the electric motor reduce smog levels due to its exhaust-free trait, but it also helps to save gasoline that is wasted when frequently pressing the accelerator. Another plausible scenario to consider is living in a small town where the speed limit rarely exceeds 40 miles per hour; traveling through these towns on electric energy can save gallons of gas, giving our wallets time to become more plump between each visit to the pump. The efficiency of hybrids are found in the vehicles’ aero dynamics, weight reduction, and less powerful gas engine, making hybrid cars the most gasoline efficient vehicles on the market; these vehicles get an outstanding average of 48 to 60 miles per gallon. Although hybrid cars seem like the most logical way to go, a closer look at the cons of these vehicles can make anyone think twice. Because hybrids have both a gasoline-powered motor and a battery-powered motor, they are more likely to break down or malfunction due to the complexity of the system as a whole. These malfunctions can easily put the vehicle in an auto shop, causing an inconvenience on our schedules and our wallets. While hybrid cars do save gas when caught in stop-and-go traffic or driving through low-speed areas, the total savings aren’t exactly tremendous. Comparing a Honda Insight (hybrid car) and a Honda Civic (regular car), the annual difference between the fuel bills is only $230. While this may seem like a decent amount to save each year, take a closer look at the price of the two cars. Because hybrid cars are new, popular, and â€Å"money savers† (such as the Honda Insight), they costs a significant amount more than the standard cars equipped for saving gas (such as the Honda Civic); hybrid cars range from about $19,000 to $25,000, while gas-saving cars range from $14,000 to $17,000. People purchase these cars because the companies who sell them claim to save the consumers a fortune in gasoline expenses, however this doesn’t seem to be the case when closely looking at these numbers. Over a ten year time period, a hybrid car would save approximately $2,300 in fuel expenses, but this amount of money fails to cover the payment difference for the car itself as opposed to a regular, strictly gasoline car (the difference between the cars being anywhere from $5,000 to $8,000). Hybrid cars also claim to get anywhere from 48 to 60 miles per gallon, which is a plus. However, this gas mileage is only about 20% to 35% better than a gas saving vehicle; gas saving vehicles, such as the Honda Civic, still get a decent average of 36 miles per gallon. After reviewing the price difference between the hybrid and a gas saving vehicle, the inability of the hybrid to replenish the money difference between itself and gas saving vehicles, the small amount of savings the hybrid annually provides at the pump, and the minuscule difference between gas mileage, an answer shouldn’t be difficult to reach: Do hybrid cars seem like a money-saving solution? How to cite High Remarks for Hybrid Cars, Essay examples

Currents(2015) by Tame Impala free essay sample

Tame Impala is a synth/indie rock band that includes progressive influences as well. So far this project has three albums and have a very psychedelic feel to it as well. Kevin Parker(not to be confused with South Park creator Trey Parker) is the main man of this project and have influences that rival even Steven Wilson, Im not kidding. As for this album, lets see what he has got in store for us here. Currents is what most fans think is considerably his weakest album when compared to something like Lonerism. Though I was introduced to this project from this so whether or not its a good first impression is for me to ultimately decide(besides, Forgotten Tomb failed at that big time so I dont want another giant flopwait). Anyway this combines elements of progressive rock, synth rock/pop, and indie rock to create something that could also for party or club music, it would be a miracle to see this played in one of my school dances too, which comes with its unusual matchup. We will write a custom essay sample on Currents(2015) by Tame Impala or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Is it going to be a classic? Hopefully so but well have to see. Containing a total of 13 tracks at around 51 minutes total, you got yourself a journey to go through. Tracks like Cause Im A Man, Disciple and the single(I forgot and I cant check) are some great examples of the diversity that these powerful synths can do. Yeah its fairly synth heavy but to what degree will it it get boring? Ok some but most of the time they provide some powerful emotions that can only be beaten by few others. No true words I can use are able to describe the beauty in this. Its not perfect though. But despite its flaws, I can find some value in this by its self. I give this an 8.5/10. I am the Grim Reaper, signing off.

Mat 201 Module 1 Essay Example

Mat 201 Module 1 Essay TUI THOMAS J. COBB MAT 201 Module 1 – Case Assignment Dr. Alfred Basta Mat 201 Module 1-Case Assignment Thomas J. Cobb 1. Suppose you have 4 nickels, 6 dimes, and 4 quarters in your pocket. If you draw a coin randomly from your pocket, what is the probability that: a. You will draw a nickel? The probability of someone drawing a dime would be 4/11 or 36%. b. You will draw a dime? The probability of some drawing a nickel would be 6/11 or 54% c. You will draw a quarter? The probability of someone drawing a quarter would be 4/11 or 36% 2. You are rolling a pair of dice, one red and one green. What is the probability of the following outcomes: a. The sum of the two numbers you roll from the dice is 11. There are 2 possible outcomes. 5,6/6,5 b. The sum of the two numbers you roll is 6. There are 5 possible outcomes. 1,5/5,1/ 3,3/4,2/2,4 c. The sum of the two numbers you roll is 5. There are 4 possible outcomes. ,4/4,1 /3,2/2,3 3. A glass jar contains 6 red, 5 green, 8 blue, and 3 yellow marbles. If a single marble is chosen at random from the jar, what is the probability of choosing a red marble? a green marble? a blue marble? a yellow marble? a. The red marble would have a 6/22 or 27% chance of being drawn. b. The green marble would have a 5/22 or 23% chance of being drawn. c. The blue marble would have an 8/22 or 36% chance of being drawn. d. The yellow marble would have a 3/22 or 14% chance of being drawn. We will write a custom essay sample on Mat 201 Module 1 specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Mat 201 Module 1 specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Mat 201 Module 1 specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer

The mega and task environments are external influencers to an organisation Essays

The mega and task environments are external influencers to an organisation Essays The mega and task environments are external influencers to an organisation Paper The mega and task environments are external influencers to an organisation Paper Essay Topic: Kindred 1. Introduction The mega and task environments are external influencers to an organisation and need to be recognised, analysed and managed for the business to experience sustained success and competitive advantage in the market. These external stimuli include factors such as technological, economic and legal-political elements and customers, competitors, suppliers and employees (Bartol et al, 2003).. Organisations must look outside of their behaviour product markets only and include political and social factors, labour training and employment norms and legislation as well as culture and values when making sound business decisions (North, 1990). The elements made up in the mega and task environments are explored in this discussion as they relate to SecurityMail, an organisation specialising in the direct marketing industry. Tony Revell, the Sales Business Solutions Manager at SecurityMail, was interviewed to gain an understanding of the external factors influencing business sales operations at SecurityMail. This discussion aims to analyse the mega and task environmental elements that effect the organisation and whether all the elements are identified as being important. 2. SecurityMail SecurityMail was founded in 1980 in response to a demand for a secure mailing house and is the third largest mail house in Australia. SecurityMail has grown into a sophisticated information systems management business with an annual turnover of $120 million. They employ 700 people at operations in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane and their core business activity is defined as data and document management (SecurityMail National Employee Handbook, 2002). SecurityMail has created a niche in the market by providing a personalised service, tailored to meet the individual needs of their customers. They recognise that many clients have specific requirements that may be unique to them or their industry. SecurityMail also recognises that in order to be able to meet the requirements of their client base they must also seek and foster a responsive and co-operative approach from their suppliers (SecurityMail Company Profile, 2001). Tony Revell, the General Manager, Victoria Sales Business Solutions is well placed to observe and comment on SecurityMails relationship with its external environment. Tony joined SecurityMail in April 2001 having come from within the mail processing and fulfilment industry. He has over 24 years management and sales experience in the direct mailing and chemical and scientific industries and also has an MBA and a Bachelor of Business majoring in Economics and Marketing. At Security Mail Tony Revell manages the Sales and Business Development activities and also the Project Management arm of the operations in Victoria (refer to Appendix 1.1 for SecurityMails Organisational Chart). He is in constant contact with the external environment and is required to manage the effects and influences of both the mega and task environments and talked in depth about the effects these environments have on SecurityMails operations. 3 Mega and Task Environments 3.1 Mega Environment The term mega environment refers to the external environment that reflects conditions and trends in the society that an organisation operates within. There are five major elements to the mega environment; technological, economic, legal-political, sociocultural and international. These elements are often external to the span of control of the organisation and as such are often unable to be influenced directly (Bartol et al, 2003). 3.1.1 Technological Element SecurityMails emphasis is on harnessing technology to get information moved intelligently, reliably, quickly and securely. It is therefore paramount that management stay abreast of changes in technology. They do this through memberships on industry groups, journals, suppliers and through information extracted from the market by the sales team and by attendance at overseas trade shows. Continual re-investment of capital into technology and equipment has been essential for the organisation to remain competitive. This re-investment has ensured that SecurityMails products and services are meeting or exceeding the demands of their clients. Many of these new technologies are at the forefront in the market in which it operates. SecurityMail has invested in new equipment harnessing the latest in technology to process client work faster and more efficient than ever before. 3.1.2 Economic Element Tony Revell concluded during his discussions that the economic element does have an important impact on the operations of SecurityMail. The importance extended to national issues such as inflation and interest rates. This effect was felt recently on market forces impacting the financial services segment. Declining share prices of some of their major clients impacted the clients marketing dollar and as such SecurityMail experienced reduced marketing campaign work, a factor of which they could not exert control over. 3.1.3 Legal-political Element The organisation functions under the required legislation governing the operation of companies within Australia. This does not have a huge impact on the operations of the organisation but does still play a factor in its business decisions and application of corporate governance. The new privacy legislation that became effective in December 2001 impacts the ways in which SecurityMail can store, transfer and use the data it collects from its clients. The impact felt was relative to new processes of operation it had to adopt to comply with the legislation but has now just become part of the way the company does business. Positive legal and political impacts have been felt through the deregulation of the financial, telecommunications and utilities markets. Changes impacting SecurityMails clients through political and legal changes has created additional growth opportunities for SecurityMail. Client legislative requirements can impact the operations of SecurityMail such as legal mailings advising customers of a bank rate change. This form of communication is legislated and equates to penalties being imposed to the financial institution if mail is not received by customers by a pre-determined date. The legal environment experienced by its clients is therefore transferred to SecurityMail. The organisation recognises that it must keep abreast of legal and political changes in the external environment to ensure it complies with relevant legislation and reacts to identified business opportunities. It also must keep abreast of the legal and political factors experienced by its clients to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty and the avoidance of penalties. 3.1.4 Sociocultural Element The sociocultural element focuses on the attitudes, norms, values, beliefs and behaviours of the demographic region in which an organisation operates (Bartol et al, 2003). As SecurityMail only operates within Australia the impact is not seen as having a major influence on SecurityMails operations. When questioned further Tony Revell elaborated on regional sociocultural elements impacting the organisation: * The adoption of flexible work practices to accommodate demands in society for family friendly employers. * Recognition of language barriers and systems for overcoming these for the unskilled manufacturing labour force. * Challenges in the future with the introduction of new technology. Additional training resources will be required by the organisation to skill up its blue-collar workers. * New technology will also require labour with higher skills sets which will be harder to draw upon in the local area. * Occupational Health Safety issues with an ageing mostly female blue-collar workforce. 3.1.5 International Element This element was not seen as having a major impact on SecurityMail. The only international dealings relate to information seeking regarding new technologies and equipment. There is no move at this stage for SecurityMail to enter the international arena. 3.2 Task Environment The second external environment segment impacting on organisations is the task environment. The task environment encompasses the elements an organisation must deal with when interfacing during the course of conducting its business. Elements included in this segment are customers and clients, competitors, suppliers, employees and government bodies. As organisations confront these elements during the course of its operations the organisation is more likely to have an impact on these elements rather than those in the mega environment (Bartol et al, 2003). 3.2.1 Customers and Clients SecurityMail has a diverse client base interacting with blue-chip companies in the financial services, telecommunications, utilities and advertising sectors. Since SecurityMails inception it has been their aim to provide a customer oriented service that meets the changing needs of their clients and to create a total solution that is integrated, flexible and cost effective. They have created a niche in the market by providing a personalised service, tailored to meet the individual needs of their customers. SecurityMail works closely with their clients to ensure that requirements are understood and met and that service level agreements are both reflective of the needs of the client but also the resourcing and capacity levels at SecurityMail. Regular work in progress and client meetings are held to discuss the progress of campaigns and redevelopment work and also to address quickly any issues that require resolution. The organisation also conducts regular customer satisfaction surveys and has implemented a corrective action system to ensure any client complaints and non-conformances are communicated to senior management and are acted upon in a timely manner to achieve the best outcome for both the client and SecurityMail. Each client in excess of $50,000 has a dedicated Account Manager to service their needs and add value to their operations thereby cementing further the relationship with SecurityMail. SecurityMail manages many customer relationship programs for their clients and therefore has the opportunity to observe and adopt best practice in terms of customer relationship management principles practiced by blue-chip Australian companies. The relationship between SecurityMail and its clients is seen as having the utmost importance to the sustained success of the organisation. 3.2.2 Competitors There are many players in the mail processing industry but only five organisations who compete in SecurityMails market space and competition is fierce for new work. The market is not boyant with most work available being already won by various mail houses. New opportunities are obtained via official tender processes when contracts expire, outsourcing (of which there are not many companies who have not outsourced their direct mail needs), and company acquisitions. Competitive advantage in most cases comes down to price and service. Customer retention is a quality and customer satisfaction issue. There is little technological differentiation in the industry with no new major players surfacing for several years due to the high capital required because of the costs of technology and equipment. The mail processing industry is highly competitive and new initiatives do not remain secret for too long. Industry gossip is rife. Information on competitors is sourced predominately from personal contacts but also from the market, industry journals and publications, published materials such as annual reports, stock market reports and market research. SecurityMail is aware of the activities of their competitors and conducts various benchmarking, pricing, efficiency and customer satisfaction exercises to obtain a competitive advantage. 3.2.3 Suppliers SecurityMail is always looking to strengthen its portfolio of offerings through strategic relations with key suppliers and partners. Partnerships with suppliers exist across all aspects of the service offerings of SecurityMail. Suppliers provide service and maintenance agreements on all equipment and also provide letterhead and envelopes and printed marketing material and receive outsourced work that SecurityMail is not able to process in-house. It is imperative that these relationships are nurtured as the service provided by their suppliers impacts on the ability of the organisation to meet service level agreements with their clients. The performance of all suppliers is monitored and preferred supplier agreements are set up to ensure that the organisation receives the most cost effective, efficient and reliable service possible from their suppliers. Clients are encouraged to allow SecurityMail to source items for them such as letterhead which it does through their preferred supplier s. This ensures that SecurityMail not only makes margin on the purchase but also allows SecurityMail to control the process. 3.2.4 Labour supply and the importance of managing diversity The attraction and retention of skilled personnel is of high importance to SecurityMail. One of the organisations aims is to become an employer of choice. Career development and mentoring programs, competitive remuneration, training and development opportunities and employee benefit packages have been developed to both attract and retain staff. The mail processing industry is highly specialised and as such it is difficult to source experienced staff. The aim is to retain experienced staff and develop the skills of less experienced staff. As the organisation adopts new technologies more highly skilled staff will be required. Sourcing initiatives will need to be developed to attract potential staff from outside the local area due to a lack of the skill base available in the community within which SecurityMail operates. SecurityMail enjoys harmonious relations with the AMWU (Automaotive, Food, Metals, Engineering, Printing and Kindred Industries Union). This relationship is of high importance to the success of the organisation and will continue to be developed and fostered to promote opportunities for labour force flexibility such as weekend shift work and twelve hour shifts. 3.2.5 Government Agencies SecurityMail interacts with various government agencies such as employer organisations, WorkCover and the Australian Tax Office. Interactions with these bodies are seen as being a necessary activity in the operations of SecurityMail but is not seen as being a concern in the sales process. 4 The Importance of the Mega and Task Environments Tony Revell recognises the important part each external factor has to play in the operations of SecurityMail. The only factors not viewed as being important to the sales process were government agencies and the international element. Interactions with government agencies were viewed as being a Finance function and not related to the sales process. The organization still views the element as being important but it does not impact upon Tony Revell and his team. The international element is not relevant to SecurityMail as the company only operates within Australia. Mr Revell conceded however that if operations moved off-shore then this element would become an important consideration for SecurityMail. The ability to grow and prosper in the external environment is recognised as not being the documenting of a list of policies or institutional structures but rather an ability to incorporate external stimuli into coherent internal systems (West, 2001). SecurityMail has adopted this practice and incorporates the threats and opportunities of all of the relevant factors of the external environment into their operations. 5 Conclusion Since SecurityMails inception it has been their aim to provide a customer oriented service that meets the changing needs of their clients. They have to continually respond to the increasingly complex demands of the markets in which they operate. The increasing trend during recent years to out-source non-core activities together with technological advancements has seen those demands become more time critical and sophisticated in their application. All aspects of the external environment need to be monitored for any business to experience sustained success and competitive advantage in the market. This is recognised by SecurityMail and the success of this approach has resulted in them enjoying continued growth and expansion. Monitoring the external environment has also enabled them to keep abreast of changes and opportunities within their industry and to continue to expand and improve upon their product and service base.

Anti-Obesity

Department of Science and Technology showed (Ambulates, 2010). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1. Billion adults, 20 and older, were overweight in 2008. Of these, over 200 million men and nearly 300 million women were obese. Studies showed that 65% of the worlds population live in countries where overweight and obesity kills more people than underweight (World Health Organization, 2012). Obesity is one of the greatest banes of our technology centered lives. This problem is evident not only in adults, but also in kids who are spending more time in front of the computer, television or video-game console instead of playing games outside. Since todays busy families have fewer free moments to prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals, the rapid increase of fast food Haines in the country should not come off as surprising. The modern person, though, has started to become aware of this problem. On top of image issues, obesity also poses a number of health-related problems which cannot be taken lightly. The increasing number of weight loss pills, herbal dietary supplements or teas and the fact that Samba has become extremely popular in Zebu, is proof of that (Sun. Star Zebu Newspaper, 2012). These have not yet been completely effective in eliminating the problem, though. Obesity has definitely become a growing problem, but a lot of anti-obesity educations, with fen-peen as the best example, have proven to have very damaging side-effects like lung hypertension and heart valve condition (Fen Peen, 2010). Royalist is also associated with a number of unpleasant intestinal side effects such as loose stools or an urgent need to go to the bathroom and the inability to control bowel movements. It is generally only prescribed as a last resort for weight loss (WebMD, 2013). The researchers have decided to Join in developing ways to eliminate obesity by studying the weight loss potential of Snow Pea pods extract. This, if proven effective, could be a natural way of treating obesity. Snow peas are popularly known as chicory or sisters in the Philippines. They are the most common type of peas found in the country. Peas are low in calories and are good source of fiber, vitamin C, iron, potassium and magnesium (Department of Primary Industries, November 2009). According to a chart provided by the George Maternal Foundation, a cup of green peas contains 30. 3% fiber and 14. 8% protein. Few foods provide us with such substantial amounts of protein and fiber as peas. Dietary fiber, which is found in snow peas, is undoubtedly one of the most talked about nutrients for health promotion and disease prevention (The George Maternal Foundation, Dietary fibers promote beneficial physiological detects including location, bal cholesterol attenuation and blood glucose attenuation or a combination of the three effects. (American Association of Cereal Chemists, 2001). Diets higher in protein and moderate in scars are often thought by experts to reduce blood fats. It also helps maintain lean tissue while burning fat for fuel. And this happens without dieters being sidetracked with constant hunger. Researchers have yet to figure out how protein works to reduce appetite, but it is speculated that it may be because protein causes the brain to receive lower levels of appetite-stimulating hormones (WebMD, 2012). With these information, the researchers hope that snow peas would prove to have significant anti-obesity effects. Objectives of the Study The purpose of the study is to find out the effectiveness of Snow peas Pious stadium vary. Saccharins pod extract as an anti-obesity agent on male albino mice. The study specifically aims to: 1 . Determine the weight loss or weight gained of each mouse and the difference in he weight of each mouse from day 31 to day 45. 2. Determine the percent anti- obesity activity of the test plant extract based on weight loss. 3. Determine the number of times each mouse stands or paws during the five minute locomotors test. 4. Monitor the quality of fecal activity of each mouse t o test the laxative property of Snow peas and check for the presence of fats and oils in the feces through spot test. 5. Determine the constituents present in snow peas pod extract using test tube reaction method. Significance of the Study If proven effective, the research study can serve as one of the basis for future searches, since not much anti-obesity agents were studied by the students of the Department of Pharmacy of the University of San Carols, Zebu City. The study would be a good step in the isolation and formulation of pharmaceutical products using Philippines rich nature, since it considers the potential therapeutic importance of a plant available in the Philippines. The study would promote the planting of Snow peas in the Philippines. Peas are one of the easiest of all vegetables to propagate and grow, giving rather rapid gratification. They will grow satisfactorily in most garden soils. Snow peas are one of the most satisfying vegetables to grow even in small spaces and are ideal as a plant for balconies and courtyards as they could and should be harvested every couple of days. As well as the pods you can also harvest the tender young shoots for salads and stir fried meals. They can be grown just as well in a pot as they can in the ground Just as long as they have a support to climb on to. The study would help minimize, if not eliminate, the problems concerning obesity and excessive fat intake from our diets. This will be made possible by encouraging people to include snow peas in their daily diet. Being overweight or obese puts a person at risk for many health problems. The more body fat a person has and the more a person weighs, the more likely for the person to develop diseases such as coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, gallstones, breathing problems, and CE retain cancers. Witt the help to modern technology, the study can help improve the quality of life of many people. The study will be beneficial not only to the Filipinos, but also to people outside the country. It will encourage people to eat vegetables, which contain a lot of nutrients. Snow peas have important role inside human nutrients. This plant contains protein, energy, fiber, vitamins and minerals which enhance metabolism. They provide a high dose of pectin, a soluble fiber that makes you feel full which may reduce your appetite. Also, it lowers OLD cholesterol reducing the risk of heart disease, regulates blood sugar which may reduce the onset risk or symptoms of metabolic syndrome and diabetes, and may reduce the risk of collateral cancer, and help manage diarrhea. They provide a good dose of thiamine, also known as vitamin 81, vitamin hat plays a role in energy metabolism, helps maintain normal digestion, appetite, and proper nerve function. Protein of snow peas has good source of amino acid. The study also helps discover the incredible weight loss benefits of Snow peas and how much a person should eat to get maximum benefit from these peas. This research can promote awareness for everyone to pay attention to their lifestyle and food choice. Scope and Delimitation The research study will only focus on the potential anti-obesity property of Snow pea pod extract on male albino mice. The Snow peas pod will undergo ethanol extraction then dried in an oven to obtain its extract. The mice will be grouped into eight, with one mouse per group. Groups one to four will be receiving normal diet, while groups five to eight will be receiving high fat diet for a length of one month before testing. Two doses of extracts (500 MGM/ 20 g mouse and 1000 MGM/ 20 g mouse) will be used for the experiment and Royalist will be used for the positive control. Three trials will be conducted for this study. Anti-obesity activity will be determined with the use of body weight, locomotors activity test, and examination of fecal quality. The extraction process, confirmatory test, and photochemical testing will take place during the first semester of S. Y. 2013-2014 at the Department of Pharmacy, Father Robert Hopper Building, University of San Carols, Taliban Campus, Zebu City, Philippines. Definition of Terms Anti-obesity Agent. Substance with possible weight reducing effect administered to the albino mice. Extract. Substance obtained after ethanol extraction, filtration and evaporation of Snow peas pod. Locomotors Activity Test. The mobility test used to determine the capacity of mouse to stand on its rear paws within five minutes. Obesity. A condition characterized by the abnormal or excessive accumulation and storage of fat in the body that presents a risk to health. The test animal is said to be obese if its weight increases by twenty percent of its original weight. Spot Test. A test used to detect the presence of lipids. Lipids leave translucent spots (grease spots) on filter paper. Weight Gain. Increase in body weight of test animals which results from the intake of more calories than needed by the body. Weight Loss. Decrease in body weight resulting trot intake to weight-reducing agent, as weighing. CHAPTER 2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES Peas, Pious stadium determine deed by consistent Peas are a member of the Effaceable or legume family, which includes plants that bear pods enclosing fleshy seeds. There are two main kinds of peas: green and edible-pod. Snow peas (See Plate 1) belong to edible pods. Most edible-pod peas have seeds that are not yet fully developed (Calories, 2011). The legume family (Leguminous) takes its name from the Latin legume, or pod. Thesis a two-valve fruit with seeds attached to the edge of the upper margin. The payday be straight, coiled, mounded, flattened, winged, woody, flesh, smooth or hairy. When ripe, they may split open along with the margin or sometimes break into seeded segments. Many seeds are pea- or bean-shaped; all have two cotyledons and an embryo, and can often retain the capacity to germinate for many years. Pods of different species can display a number of interesting features (Millet, 2004). Snow Peas Pious stadium vary. Saccharins or snow pea is a variety of pea eaten whole in its pod while still unripe. In French, snow peas are called mange tout, which meaner eat all, since both the peas and the pods are edible. It is one of the earliest-known cultivated plants, with evidence of having been cultivated in a region that is now along the Thailand-Burma border, 12,000 years ago. Like all legumes, snow peas host beneficial bacteria, rhizome, that fix nitrogen in the soil, which is considered a naturalistic relationship, and are therefore a useful companion plant, especially useful to grow intercepted with green, leafy vegetables that benefit from high nitrogen content in their soil. The snow peas grow up to three inches long (7. 5 CM) with flat, bright green pods that are pointed at both ends. The peas sprout from a blossom that becomes a green leaflet at the stem-end of pods as the peas mature. The pods also have strings along their edges that are usually removed before cooking. The tendrils the vines produce for climbing are also edible and are often used in fine cuisine (Research, 2010). Plate 1. Habit of Growth of Snow Pea Plant Pious stadium vary. Saccharins (Rasa, 2009) ones A: Lead and I F rower (HAD Directory, B Pods (Burped, Snow peas are rich in nutritional value. They are high in dietary fiber, protein and vitamin C. They are very low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium. They are also a good source of Riboflavin, Vitamin 86, Pentatonic Acid, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Potassium, and a very good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Thiamin, Foliate, Iron and Manganese. (The Tucker Patch, 2012) The texture and sweetness of snow peas are at their best when eaten immediately after harvesting. They will also keep for several days in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or container. Snow peas may also be frozen and do not need to be thawed before being added to a dish. Fresh snow peas may be eaten raw as a snack or used as a salad ingredient. They also lend themselves nicely o quick blanching, which enhances their crisp texture and vibrant green color. Snow peas may be added to Asian stir-fry dishes, soups, and pasta. They require very little cooking time and should be added toward the end of the cooking process for optimal texture and color (Helter, 2 The extracts trot the seeds to snow peas nave been shown to have antibacterial properties that may help protect infants and children against certain infections from bacteria such as H. Pylori. Studies also shows that a substance contained in snow peas called glycogen-A has been effective to help overcome one cause of male infertility. Snow peas were proven to increase fertility in some men that are currently considered infertile (Liberating, 2011). Obesity A recent article by Galatea defined obesity as a result of the accumulation of excess fat on the body. It is considered a chronic disease, with many serious long- term consequences on an individuals health. Along with tobacco use and high blood pressure, it is leading cause of preventable deaths (Galatea, 2012). Department of Science and Technology Food and Nutrition Research Institute conducted a study last 2008 which showed that there were about 20 out of 100 Filipino adults of both exes who were overweight in 1998. The figures have then increased to 24 and 27 out of 100 in 2003 and 2008, respectively (Ambulates, 2010). Obesity is normally perceived as something adults would suffer. But according to Philip Chug, obesity in children has doubled the past couple of decades and tripled the past 30 years. Today, among the affluent people around the world, including those in developing nations, obesity afflicts about 20 percent of children aged 6 to 1 1, and more alarmingly, about 10 percent of those aged 2 to 5 are obese. Among those between ages 12 and 19, 18 percent are also obese. The more obese the child, the greater the risk of developing a cluster of health problems and their complications early in life, which includes type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases. Obesity, in children or in adult, is a significant health danger (Chug, 2012). Obesity and overweight have many causes, including genetic, metabolic, behavioral and environmental. The rapid increase in prevalence suggests that behavioral and environmental influences predominate, rather than biological changes. Direct associations between obesity and several diseases, including aviates mellitus, hypertension, displacement and shamanic heart disease, are well recognized. Despite this, the relationship between body weight and all-cause mortality is more controversial. A very high degree of obesity (IBM > 35 keg/mm) seems to be linked to higher mortality rates (Mailing and Knobble, 2006). Despite the rapidly increasing cases of obesity worldwide, weight-loss medications should only be considered as an adjunct for patients who are at substantial medical risk because of their obesity and in whom non-pharmacological treatments have not resulted in sufficient weight loss to improve health or to prevent regain. The safety and efficacy of weight-loss medications beyond two years of use have not been established (Winooski and Winooski, 2002). Health Risks of Obesity (Abram, et al. , 2009) Cancer. Obesity is associated with a higher prevalence of breast, colon, and endometrial cancers. With breast cancer, risks increase in postmenopausal women with increasing body weight. Women who gain more than Bibb from age 18 to midlife nave double the risk to breast cancer compared Witt women who maintain a stable weight during this period of their life. In addition, obesity apparently increases the risk f breast cancer independent of overall obesity. In women with central obesity, this additional risk factor may be related to an excess of estrogen and a deficiency of sex- hormone-binding globulin to combine with the estrogen. Colon cancer seems to be more common in obese man and women. In addition, a high IBM may be a risk factor for a higher mortality rate with colon cancer. Endometrial cancer is clearly more common in obese women, with adult weight gain again increasing risk. Cardiovascular Diseases. Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disorders and increased mortality from cardiovascular disease. Studies have confirmed the relationship between obesity and increased risk of coronary heart disease and stroke in both men and women. In addition, obesity during adolescence is associated with higher rates and greater severity of cardiovascular disease as adults. Obesity increases risks by aggravating other risks factors such as hypertension, insulin resistance, low HAD cholesterol, and hyperthyroidisms. In addition, obesity seems to be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disorders, and obesity may be more important than IBM as a risk factor for death from cardiovascular disease. The increased mortality rate is seen even with modest excess body weight. Hypertension, dyspepsia, insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance are known cardiac risk factors that tend to cluster in obese individuals. Hypertension often occurs in obese persons and is thought to play a major role in the increased incidence of cardiovascular disease and stroke observed in patients with obesity. Metabolic abnormalities that occur with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (e. G. , insulin resistance and the resultant hypersensitiveness) aggravate hypertension and increase cardiovascular risks. The combination of obesity and hypertension is associated with cardiac changes (e. G. , thickening of the ventricular wall, schemas, and increased heart volume) that lead to heart failure more rapidly. Weight loss of as little as 4. 5 keg (10 lb) can decrease blood pressure and cardiovascular risk in many people with obesity and hypertension. Diabetes Mellitus. Obesity is strongly associated with impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and diabetes mellitus. In addition, obesity during adolescence is associated with high rates of diabetes as adults as well as more severe complications f diabetes at younger ages. Dyspepsias. Obesity strongly contributes to abnormal and undesirable changes in lipid metabolism (e. G. Increased triglycerides and OLD cholesterol; decreased HAD cholesterol) that increase risks of cardiovascular disease and other health problems. Gallstones. Obesity apparently increases the risk for developing gallstones by altering production and metabolism of cholesterol and bile. The risk is higher in women, especially those who have had multiple pregnancies or who are taking oral contraceptives. However, rapid weight loss with very low-calorie diets is also as sociated with gallstones. The reason for this may be that rapid weight loss appears to decrease the gallbladders ability to contract bile. But, it is unclear whether very low-calorie diets directly cause gallstones or whether the amount of weight loss is responsible for the formation of gallstones. Metabolic Syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors and chronic conditions that coco together and greatly increase the risks to diabetes mellitus, serious cardiovascular disease, and death. The syndrome is thought to be highly prevalent in the United States. Major characteristics include many of the health robbers associated with obesity (e. G. Dyspepsias, hypertension, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, central obesity). Osteoarthritis. Society is associated with osteoarthritis of both weight-bearing joints, such as the hip and knee, and non-weight bearing Joints. Extra weight can stress affected bones and Joints, contract muscles that abnormally stabilize Joints, and may alter the metabolism of cartilage, collagen, and bone. In general, obese people develop osteoarthritis of the knees at earlier a ge and are more likely than non-obese people to require knee replacement surgery. Sleep pane. Sleep pane commonly occurs in obese persons. A possible explanation is enlargement of soft tissue in the upper airways that leads to collapse of the upper airways with inspiration during sleep. The obstructed breathing leads to pane with hyperemia, HyperCard, and a stress response. Sleep pane is associated with increased risks of hypertension, possible right heart failure, and sudden death. Weight loss leads to improvement in sleep pane. Miscellaneous Effects. Obesity is associated with numerous difficulties in addition to those described above. These may include Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is being increasingly recognized and which may lead to liver failure Poor wound healing Poor antibody response to hepatitis B vaccine A negative perception of people who are obese that affects their education, socioeconomic, and employment status High costs associated with treatment of the medical conditions caused or aggravated by obesity as well as the costs associated with weight-loss efforts In women, obesity is associated with menstrual irregularities, difficulty in becoming pregnant, and increased complications of pregnancy In men, obesity is associated with infertility In children and adolescents, obesity increases risk of bone fractures and muscle and Joint pain. Knee pain is commonly reported, and changes in the knee Joint make movement and exercise more difficult. Ann-obesity Drugs Anti-obesity drugs or weight loss drugs include all pharmacological treatments intended to reduce or control weight. The two main categories of anti-obesity drugs are: (1) Anti-obesity drugs that act on the gastrointestinal system (pancreatic lipase inhibitors) and (2) Anti-obesity drugs that act on the central nervous system mainly to suppress appetite. Royalist is an example of the first kind of anti-obesity drug that inhibits pancreatic and gastric lipase, which reduces dietary fat absorption and in turn leads to weight loss. Submarine is the example of second kind of anti-obesity drug that promotes a sense of satiety. It is an anorectic or appetite suppressant that reduces the desire to eat. Remonstrant is a recently developed anti-obesity drug. It also acts centrally on the brain and decreases appetite. There are many anti- obesity drugs but some of them have severe or life-threatening side effects. Therefore, they are recommended to be taken only under medical supervision. Prescription weight loss drugs are approved only tort those Witt a B above, or 27 and above if they have other risk factors, such as high blood pressure or diabetes (Pharmaceutical Drug Manufacturers, 2012). Royalist Royalist (See Figure 2) is (S)-2-formulation-4-methyl-pentatonic acid (S)-l AS)-3-hexed-4-ox-2-external] methyl]-decoded ester. Its empirical formula is C29H53N05, and its molecular weight is 495. 7. It is a single discriminate molecule that contains four choral centers, with a negative optical rotation in ethanol at 529 NM (Genetic, 2010). Figure 1 . Chemical Structure of Royalist Royalist is a white to off-white crystalline powder. Royalist is practically insoluble in water, freely soluble in chloroform and very soluble in methanol and ethanol. Royalist is not capable of ionizing within the physiological pH range (Ruche, 2012). Royalist is used together with a reduced-calorie diet to help a person lose weight and to help keep the lost weight from returning. It is also used in overweight people who may also have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease. This medicine is available both over-the-counter (ETC) and with doctors prescription. This product is available in capsule (Kenny, 2012). Royalist works by blocking chemicals (enzymes) such as pancreatic and gastric lipase in the gut which digest fat. Nearly a third of the fat that one ingested is blocked by royalist. The undigested fat is not absorbed into the body, and is passed out with the stools. The normal dose is one capsule 120 MGM, three times a day with each meal. However, it is not needed to take one if there is no fat in the meal or if one misses a meal (AIMS, 2012). Royalist can also interfere with the absorption of various medicines and vitamins bind to fat vitamins A, D, E and beta- carotene) and affect the way that they work. Its most notable drug-to-drug interactions happen when it is taken together with a cyclotrons, carbons, emendation, and warring. It is also possible with a contraceptive pill. Therefore, if a person takes royalist he must take a multivitamin supplement at bedtime a time when he will not be taking royalist to help ensure adequate vitamin intake. If a person takes the contraceptive pill and have severe diarrhea en should use other met nods to contraception in addition to the pill to example, condoms. One must tell his doctor or pharmacist about other medicines that they take, before starting on royalist (Kenny, 2012). The common side effects of royalist includes: bladder pain, diarrhea, fever, general feeling of discomfort or illness, loss of appetite, muscle aches and pains, nasal congestion, nausea, sweating, unusual tiredness or weakness, abdominal or stomach pain or discomfort, back pain, difficulty with moving, gas with leaky bowel movements, inability to hold bowel movement, increases in bowel movements, loss of bowel control, oily bowel movements, and oily spotting of underclothes (Micrometer, 2012). Male Albino Mice Most of the mice used in laboratories are white albino house mice (See Figure 3). The mouse has been used in biomedical research since the early 20th century. Several characteristics have made the mouse an appealing research subject. These include the mouses genetic similarity to humans (at least 80% of DNA in mice is identical to that of humans), small size, short lifespan and reproductive cycle, low maintenance in captivity, and mild manner. For these reasons, house mice constitute the majority of mammals used in research, testing, and education. Over ten million mice are used each year in U. S. Laboratories alone, in tests of new procedures and drugs as well as in research involved in the production of biological products such as vaccines (Animal Liberation Front). The average lifespan of a wild mouse is typically one to two years, while mice kept as pets usually live about three years and have survived up to six years. Mice reach sexual maturity at between five and six weeks of age and have tremendous reproductive potential. They breed throughout the year and may produce as many as eight litters in a single year, with the average litter consisting of four to seven pups. Animal Liberation Front). [pick] Figure 2. Male Albino Mouse (Cheerleaders, 2013) Mice should be kept in rooms with the temperature set at about 21. 1 co and humidity at 50%. Lights should not be too bright since most white mice are albinos and too much light hurts their eyes. They are diurnal. Their bedding should not be wood shaving since some wood emits toxic fumes to mice. They should have fresh mouse or rat food and water available at all times. Their bedding should be changed 2 or 3 times a week to prevent the buildup of urea (Florida Atlantic University, 2012). Mice in research facilities are generally fed a polluted rodent diet ad labium. Maintenance diets generally contain 4-5% fat and 14% protein. An adult mouse will consume about 1 5 grams of feed per 100 grams of body weight per day (Subscriber, 2007). The majority of laboratory rodents are albinos, due to a common mutation in Tyrosine gene in all albino laboratory rat strains and in at least some of the albino mouse strains. Tyrosine is the rate-limiting enzyme in the production of melanin pigment. The prevalence of albinism among laboratory rodents is because many of

Diverse Effects Of Smoking Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Diverse Effects Of Smoking - Research Paper Example The administration has undertaken research on the sound mechanism to convince the students of the benefits of quitting or abstaining from smoking. Critical evaluation of costs associated with smoking in the wider society shows the significant loss. SCSU shows concern for the welfare of the society by taking the lead in addressing such contentious health issue. The student community is considered influential in boosting the campaign due to their high rate of interaction and potential to initiate the revolution. It is in the interest of the students to promote the campaign against the vice and enhance the functionality of the ban. Besides banning, the smokers can be made to see sense through insightful debate among students. The institution has factual evidence in support of its decision to effect a ban on smoking. The learning institutions should be at the center of championing for better health. In this respect, smoking in the school poses a significant health risk to the smokers and the non-smokers. These consequences are multidimensional. The resultant health conditions from smoking are an additional medical cost to the society. Besides, there is the likelihood of deterioration in physical and mental health which translates to poor performance in school. The central concern of the university for imposing the ban revolves around saving. The cost of cigarettes is high and affects the students’ financial positions significantly. SCSU has set a schedule on how to effect the ban and wrap it up with the intensive anti-smoking campaign in school. The schedule takes spectrum plan which will involve first, second, third and last to fine-tune the entire work.

Case_2_-_Al_Dar-done-X Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Case_2_-_Al_Dar-done-X - Case Study Example For example, the company’s revenue for the year ended December 31, 2009 was AED 1,979.3 million compared to AED 4,978.3 million for the previous year (year 2008). That was a decrease of about 60.2%. In addition, the profit for that year was AED 1,006.9 million compared to AED 3,446.7 million in the previous year. Second, the reduction in the company’s profitability levels minimized its ability to handle debt obligations promptly. In addition, the property crash had left the market with just a few private players with the capacity to and the will to buy the assets. Therefore, the mentioned reasons landed the company in liquidity deficit situation, thus, the inability to handle the debt. Third, the cost reduction strategy of the company involving the layoff of 105 employees sparked worries among the employees. Most of them were unsure of their job security in the business thus, the genesis of the reduction in morale. The UAE’s real estate industry is deeply affected by the global debt crisis. The foreign investors reduced the level of investment in the property. The residents’ purchasing power was also reduced by the inflation effect. For that reason, the demand for housing products is low leading to a reduction in rental prices. The following economic factors have affected the company’s performance: first, the unification of the individual states to form the Union, which prompted widespread infrastructural development, which boosted the company’s performance. Second, the oil boom in the 1970s up to 1990s provided the capital necessary for economic growth and development, which increased the company’s performance. Last, the 2007-2010 credit crunch led to a reduction in the enterprise’s performance. Yes, the economy, the industry, and the company were shaken. Since the demand for real estate products and the level of foreign investments reduced, the profitability of the industry declined. The

Teacher and School Essay Example for Free

Teacher and School Essay Discipline is what enables us to follow through our daily actions and behaviors. We know that if we go anywhere around the world we have to be disciplined. Discipline is the only way to keep us physically as well as mentally fit. The most important discipline of a person is to be honest, ethical and confident in both home and in respective premises. Discipline at school: * We have to come regular in the school. * We must come to school on time. * We should show respect to others and ourselves. * We should follow the rules and regulations of the school and should take responsibilities of our action. * We must not bring anything in school that can be harmful or not allowed. * We must obey our teachers. * We must bring our identity card regularly and must not keep any classwork incomplete. * If we do not understand any lesson we must ask the teachers to help us once again. * We should help others with their own works when asked. * We should keep our school uniform neat and clean. * We must do our homework regularly. * We must arrange the chairs and switch off the fans and lights at the end of the day of school. * In classroom we must listen to what our teachers say and stop them who disturbs in the class. * We also should help the teachers with their task whenever asked. * We must not disturb the teachers or anyone in the class. * In school we must not quarrel or fight about anything in the class or anywhere in school. If anything happens in the class or school even with a small issue, we should discuss it with the teacher. * If by mistake anyone else’s copy or other stuff comes with us and we know that it is others’ copy we must politely return it back. * If we have done any mistake then we should apologize for the mistake to the teacher. Last but not the least, we should always be polite and show dissents to the elders, youngers and to our classmates. Disciplines at home: Home is the only place where we get to learn about the self-discipline and basic morals. In home we also have some responsibilities to fulfill. Those are: * The first duty which must be maintained at home is to respect our parents and elders. * It is our responsibility to keep our house neat and clean. * We must take care of our grandparents and everyone in our home and serve them to whatever they need. * We should try to do our works by ourselves. * We must maintain peace by cooperating with each other without quarrelling or fighting. * At home we must dust the house gear. * We also should garden the plants and trees regularly in the garden. * We must pick up the unused things and keep them in the proper place. * We should help our mother to do the household impositions. * We must wash our own cloths properly. * We must help the others with their work whenever asked. * We must clean up what we drop after eating. * If we make our room dirty and untidy, it is our concern to keep it clean. * Also we should save water, electricity, gas and other natural reserves as much as we can. To enjoy good health, to bring true happiness to ones family, to bring peace to all, one must first discipline and control ones own mind. If a man can control his mind he can find the way to instruction, and all wisdom and virtue will naturally come to him. We know that in home we represent our school and in school we represent our home. So it is important to be disciplined everywhere. Discipline at school and at home Name: Tasnim Ferdous. Class: ViiRoll no: 24Sec: Blue.

Success Story: Subway Restaurants Essay -- Business Marketing Franchis

Success Story: Subway Restaurants Subway Restaurants, the franchised based sandwich shops, has surpassed McDonald’s as the largest restaurant chain in the country. The â€Å"Healthy Choice† promoted chain surpassed the Big Mac of fast food by 148 locations. Subway opened 904 new locations last year, to McDonald’s 295 opened (www.Subway.com). The sandwich franchise began during the summer of 1965. Seventeen year old Fred DeLuca received a loan from a family friend for one thousand dollars, and opened the first Subway in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The store name was not Subway but Pete’s Super Submarines named after the family friend that gave Fred DeLuca the loan (www.entrepreneur.com). Pete’s Super Submarines was changed to the current name of Subway in 1974 (www.entrepreneur.com). Fred DeLuca wanted to expand and open more locations, he had a set goal of opening 32 shops with in ten years. By 1974 DeLuca owned and operated sixteen locations around Connecticut. DeLuca was just at the halfway point of his goal of 32 shops in ten years. Time was running short with just less than two years to achieve his targeted goal. DeLuca turned to franchising as an option to increase locations (www.Subway.com). A Friend of DeLuca was the first franchisee. Brian Dixon bought the Wallington, Connecticut location (www.Subway.com). In 2003 Subway is ranked number one in the franchise 500, they have held this title for three years in a row. Subway has also been ...

Gender Identity Essay

There are a couple factors that determine gender identity; like genetic factors, environmental situations, psychosocial factors, and even sexual hormones. â€Å"Gender identity is almost always consistent with chromosomal sex. † (Rathus, S. A. , Nevid, J. S. , and Fichner-Rathus, L. 2005). From the moment sperm fertilized an ovum, our destiny to be a girl or a boy is chosen. Usually at this point; 23 chromosomes from the male donor and 23 from the female come together and combine to make a â€Å"zygote†. Starting about six weeks into the pregnancy, our bodies began to form and create into what they are meant to be, and after the seventh week, our genetic code (XY or XX) begins to really assert itself. Gender identity is not always a term referring to a person’s anatomic sex, â€Å"sex assignment† is now the correct term to ask a person their anatomic sex that occurred at birth. It is said that by 36 months old, most children are said to have a firm sense of their gender identity. Our genes play an important role in determining our gender identity. The SRY gene (which is the gene that determines the Y male gene) will bind to DNA and distort, and alter it, creating the testes. The gene called Sox 9 is the gene that regulates the expression of SRY. If Sox 9 did not get to regulate the SRY gene; it would turn into a male fetus. We without help from the SRY gene, female reproductive organs would form instead of male organs. Recent research suggests that as many as one in every hundred individuals may have some intersex characteristics. † (Domurat, 1998). Some people do not believe that their gender identity corresponds with their biological sex (mainly transgender people, but also including; transsexuals and inter-sexed individuals as well. ) Difficulties can begin because society maintains that a person must accept a manner of social gender roles, which is based on their sex, and the person may feel that it is not consistent with their gender identity. This is known as â€Å"gender identity disorder†, and by definition means that the individual is uncomfortable with their anatomic gender, and presents themselves or act like a member of the opposite sex. Masculinity and femininity are terms that we hear every day in our lives. For example, we hear that Shawn is so secure in his masculinity that he is comfortable being a house-husband or that Wendy’s mastectomy is threatening her sense of femininity. Even though most people think of masculinity and femininity on opposite ends of one continuum, it does not make it true. Just because an individual may possess some traits of both categories does not make them too masculine or feminine. Where a person should be placed on the masculinity and femininity continuum, all depends on the degree to which the show or report specific gender-linked qualities, and behaviors. The midpoint on this hypothetical continuum is known as the zero point, and if a person has failed to develop gender-role identification, or they have transcended it, then they would be placed at this point of the line. Those who show strong sex-role identifications would go at either one end or the other of the hypothetical continuum. One of the factors in my life that have helped determine my gender identity is; by nature I am a female because I have the sexual reproduction system of a female. That is not what makes me a female though. What makes me a female is how I carry myself in everyday life. I am secure in my womanhood, and have never felt like I should have been a male instead. I like to dress like a woman, talk like a woman, and even use manners that are considered â€Å"womanly†. I chose to keep long, pretty, unpolished fingernails, and I wear make-up on special occasions, but since I do not wear it all the time that does not make me masculine. I was raised in an environment that my parents, teachers, and any other important figures in my life treated me like a female; therefore, I act like a typical societal female. I even grew up with toys that were specifically designed for female use like; dolls and make-up, and cooking toys. The masculine and feminine traits that I attribute to myself using the hypothetical continuum are kind of split in some ways. I can identify with both points of view regarding females and males. My mother thought it best to teach me things that most of the time need a man. She taught me these â€Å"manly† activities because she believes that women should be independent and never need a man for anything. Women are just as good as men (she used to tell me), and women should never be made to feel differently on the subject. I whole-heartedly agree. In conclusion, gender identity and gender roles can cause some conflicts in some people within their daily lives. These disputes can be lessened when the individual is able to develop a secure masculine or feminine gender identity about how they perceive themselves. There are rites of passages that help young female into womanhood, or a young male into manhood, depending on the culture around you as to what the rite of passage may include. Once an individual has figured out what identifies them as either masculine or feminine, they will be able to progress their own positive feelings about masculinity and femininity.

Rabbit Proof Fence †Help to Study Essay

While watching the movie, take notes and think about the following questions: 1. What is the history and context of the film? When is it set? In what genre is it? Is it based on a true story, a book? Is it fictional? True story. 2. How did the cameraman use specific angles, lighting and music in the film to indicate different moods? What did you notice about the camera angels as the girls became more threatened, for example? What happened to the music when the girls were trying to escape? The music is trying to sound like native music but with a modern feature. 3. What is the fence designed for? How does the fence function as a symbol? Why is the film titled rabbit-proof fence? 4. Very early on in the film, we see the eagle, Molly’s totem, her spirit bird. Her mother tells her the eagle will look after her. When does the bird appear again in the film and why? 5. Discuss Mr. Neville’s theory of eugenics. What were his policies and official duties? Is he a villain or is he a misguided idealist? Why are half-caste children seen as a problem? Think about Neville’s attitude toward the girls? Does it change over the course of the film? Give examples of words and actions that indicate this change. 6. The three children are not experienced actors. Do you find them convincing? Give your reasons. 7. What do you think are some of the film’s key themes and issues? Are these issues/themes effectively communicated through the film? 8. Finally, did you enjoy the movie? Either way, find examples and use descriptions to state your opinion.

construction grammar - definition and discussion

construction grammar - definition and discussion In linguistics, construction grammar  refers to any of the various approaches to language study that emphasize the role of grammatical constructionsthat is, conventional pairings of form and meaning. Some of the different versions of construction grammar are considered below. Construction grammar is a theory of linguistic knowledge. Instead of assuming a clear-cut division of lexicon and syntax, note Hoffmann and Trousdale, Construction Grammarians consider all constructions to be part of a lexicon-syntax continuum (a construction). Examples and Observations James R. HurfordThere are several different versions of Construction Grammar, and my account . . . will describe, quite informally, what they have in common. The common idea is that a speakers knowledge of his language consists of a very large inventory of constructions, where a construction is understood to be of any size and abstractness, from a single word to some grammatical aspect of a sentence, such as its Subject-Predicate structure. Construction Grammar emphasizes that there is a lexicon-syntax continuum, contrary to traditional views in which the lexicon and the syntactic rules are held to be separate components of a grammar. The central motive of Construction Grammar theorists is to account for the extraordinary productivity of human languages, while at the same time recognizing the huge amount of idiosyncratic grammatical data that humans acquire and store. The constructionist approach to grammar offers a way out of the lumper/splitter dilemma (Goldberg 2006, p. 45). The k ey point is that storage of idiosyncratic facts is compatible with deploying these facts productively to generate novel expressions. R.L. TraskCrucially, construction grammars are not derivational. So for example, the active and passive forms of a sentence are regarded as having different conceptual structures rather than one being a transformation of the other. Since construction grammars depend on the conceptual meaning in context, they can be seen as approaches to linguistics that collapse the classical distinctions between semantics, syntax, and pragmatics. The construction is the unit of language, which cuts across these other aspects. So, for example, in They laughed him out of the room, the normally intransitive verb receives a transitive reading and the situation can be interpreted on the basis of the X cause Y to move construction rather than the sytanctic deviance alone. As a result, construction grammars are proving most useful in understanding language acquisition and are being used for second-language teaching, since it is the meaningfulness of the situation which is of primary importance, and syntax and semantics are treated holistically. William Croft and D. Alan CruseAny grammatical theory can be described as offering models of representation of the structure of an utterance, and models of organization of the relationship between utterance structures (presumably, in a speakers mind). The latter are sometimes described in terms of levels of representation, linked by derivational rules. But construction grammar is a nonderivational model (like, for instance, Head-driven Phrase Structure Grammar), and so a more general description of this aspect of grammatical theory is organization.Different versions of construction grammar will be briefly outlined . . .. We survey four variants of construction grammar found in cognitive linguisticsConstruction Grammar (in capital letters; Kay and Fillmore 1999; Kay et al. in prep.), the construction grammar of Lakoff (1987) and Goldberg (1995), Cognitive Grammar (Langacker 1987, 1991) and Radical Construction Grammar (Croft 2001)and focus on the distinctive characteristics of each th eory. . . .It should be noted that the different theories tend to focus on different issues, representing their distinctive positions vis––vis the other theories. For example, Construction Grammar explores syntactic relations and inheritance in detail; the Lakoff/Goldberg model focuses more on categorization relations between constructions; Cognitive Grammar focuses on semantic categories and relations; and Radical Construction Grammar focuses on syntactic categories and typological universals. Finally, the last three theories all endorse the usage-based model... Thomas Hoffmann and Graeme TrousdaleOne of the central concepts of linguistics is the Saussurean notion of the linguistic sign as an arbitrary and conventional pairing of form (or sound pattern/signifiant) and meaning (or mental concept/signife; cf., e.g., de Saussure [1916] 2006: 65-70). Under this view, the German sign Apfel and its Hungarian equivalent alma have the same underlying meaning apple, but different associated conventional forms . . .. Over 70 years after Saussures death, several linguists then explicitly started to explore the idea that arbitrary form-meaning pairings might not only be a useful concept for describing words or morphemes but that perhaps all levels of grammatical description involve such conventionalized form-meaning pairings. This extended notion of the Saussurean sign has become known as construction (which includes morphemes, words, idioms, and abstract phrasal patterns) and the various linguistic approaches exploring this idea were labeled Constructi on Grammar. Jan-Ola Ãâ€"stman and Mirjam Fried[One] precursor to Construction Grammar is a model that was also developed at the University of California at Berkeley in the late 1970s, within the tradition of Generative Semantics. This was the work of George Lakoff and informally known as Gestalt Grammar (Lakoff 1977). Lakoffs experiential approach to syntax was based on the view that the grammatical function of a sentence constituent holds only in relation to a particular sentence type as a whole. Specific constellations of relations such as Subject and Object thus constituted complex patterns, or gestalts. . . . Lakoffs (1977: 246-247) list of 15 characteristics of linguistic gestalts contains many of the features that have become definitional criteria of constructions in Construction Grammar, including, for example, the formulation that Gestalts are at once holistic and analyzable. They have parts, but the wholes are not reducible to the parts.

Economies, Markets and Strategic Decisions Coursework

Economies, Markets and Strategic Decisions - Coursework Example The area of the corporation includes trade agreements, taxation policies, tariffs and duties among other areas. The report seeks to examine one of the countries in the G7 industrial economies carefully (G20, 2015). Although the G7 industrial economies are of countries that have been perennial economic powerhouses, there have been emerging economies that have sprung out rapidly. Some of the economies that have grown rapidly in the recent years include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The countries are as BRICSA or tiger countries. Over the last decades, the BRICSA countries have grown rapidly causing ripples to some of the developed nations. Among the drivers that have led to the emergence of the countries includes innovation in the technological sector. The report carefully examines economic factors that have spurred the growth of the economies are also carefully considered (G20,2015). Finally, the report also features macroeconomic performance, international trade and international trade and investment over the last five years of one of the open economies. The free economy is not part of the G7 group neither is part of the BRICSA countries. The open economy consists several countries that include Argentina, Australia, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia among other countries (G20,2015). The U.S. economic was among the economies that worst hit by the recent global financial meltdown. Most of the world economies were stagnated following the eruption of the global financial crisis that adversely affected most countries. Over the last five years, significant economic changes have been made following the adoption of workable economic policies. The systems have seen the economy recovery from its shackles. Although proper measure have been put ensure full economic recovery issues such high unemployment rates

Strategic Management Outline Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Strategic Management - Outline Example Barriers against International Trade Critics believe that factors that influence international trade undermine globalisation (Haberberg and Rieple, 2007:8). The factors include tariffs, licenses, embargos, and investment and exchange control with a view of protecting trade in the international market. The above factors influence the entry behaviour into the international market. Economic analysts have identified reasons behind the resistance to globalisation. These reasons are environmental influences that emanate due to international trade, employment abuses, and perceived inequality of benefits derived from globalisation. Many countries show concern about the treatment that their citizens get whenever they operate in the international scene. Conflicts that arise due to poor treatment may justify resistance to efforts towards globalisation. Benefits derived from the global market are very crucial to globalisation. The players in the international scene bring low-income countries and the developed countries. The transactions between these two groups usually differ. Economists have demonstrated that the benefits that developed nations acquire in the international market are higher when compared to low income countries. This situation tends to justify rejection of globalisation. The international Environment The trade in the international market usually take place within and between Europe, USA, and Japan. This trade depend on political and legal issues, which influence the relationship between these countries, cultural and social issues; shapes the products consumed by these nations, and the infrastructure within these countries. Infrastructure is very crucial because it dictates the operation of factors, which influence the international scene. For instance, transport network and communication determines the ability to deliver products in the international market. The international politics define the environment within which the international players would pre sent their items. The political system dictates policies, which influence globalisation. The legal system of a country would derive its policies from the nation’s political system. These policies would influence the economic climate because they regulate business operations in the international scene. Critics believe that political intervention may affect taxes levied against products in the international market. The interventional by various political systems are evident through inflation and currency rate control. Social and cultural issues are very instrumental to globalisation. The beliefs and values in the international environment would influence practices such as consumer behaviour, expectation of the employees. The understanding of dynamism in the international culture would influence the approach applied by firms in the international market. Critics believe that cultural attributes observed in the international market depend on infrastructural development in a countr y (Haberberg and Rieple, 2007:12). For instance, employee’s skill would depend on education system of that country. On the other hand, telephone, electricity or transport system would dictate the behaviour adopted by various firms. Organisation Location in the International Environment The decision to introduce a product in the internatio

Juvenile Offenders and Re-offending Rates Literature review

Juvenile Offenders and Re-offending Rates - Literature review Example There have been global trends in treatment of juvenile offenders. Until the 1970’s, juvenile offenders were punished for their crimes, but it was recognized that their age was to be considered. The 1980’s then witnessed a rise in punishment approach to juvenile offenders.4 Since 2000, risk factors have been used to determine which communities have a higher probability of producing juvenile offenders.5 These communities are then encouraged through central policymaking to eliminate these factors.6 However, recent approach implies elimination of crime rates and strict punishment of the committed crimes.7 It does not apply rehabilitation or concern with re – offending rates. Such system, inspired by the American system of policing, punishing and shaming juvenile offenders has been applied in the UK ever since the 1990’s.8 Globalization has been blamed for such a development. According to the critics, globalization has promoted neo – liberalism and indiv idual responsibility, which results in blaming the juvenile offender.9 As a result, juvenile incarceration rates are high in the UK relative to other countries. ... Scotland in Europe.12 One reason is lower age of criminal responsibility, which leads to more juveniles being prosecuted and awarded custodial sentence.13 There is a disconnection between the central government and local agents. In the UK, non – custodial sentence is preferred and promoted by the policymakers.14 Social Enquiry Reports (SER), which are written by social workers and stand at disposal to judges and sheriffs, promote the prescribed policy. However, the judges mostly misinterpret the recommendations, or decide to disregard them.15 The government on one hand aims to punish the crimes, but on the other hand prevent them. As a result, such action might also be misinterpreted by some judges. Local communities also affect the implementation of central government’s decisions. In South – West of the UK, one in ten sentences is custodial sentence, whereas in West Midlands one in five community sentences are custodial sentences.16 Such an approach by judges an d communities changes the impact of governmental policies and decisions.17 As a result, England and Wales experienced decreasing rates of juvenile re – offending, even though these decreases are slight. According to the Ministry of Justice report from 2010, Between April 2009 and March 2010, there were approximately 110,000 juvenile offenders. 18 Less than 38,000 of them were re – offenders. Thus, the re – offending rate was 33.3 per cent, and the average number of re – offences for these individuals was 2.79. 19 There was a 0.4 percentage point decrease in re – offending rate of juveniles since 2000, though risk assessment of the juvenile offenders indicates high probability of re – offending.20 In Australia, a mild system, re – offending rates are visibly lower for non – custodial

Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 5

Questions - Essay Example He was interested by the fact that the species were different. He concluded that the species were different because they dwelled in different environments The concept of natural selection explains how species evolves and genes are passed from generation to the next. Darwin argues that a species can develop a functional advantage in that the species grows wing and learn to fly. He asserts that the offspring will inherit that advantage and pass it on to the offsprings. On the other hand, those who are disadvantaged but members of the same species will gradually die and live the superior members of the same species. Species preserve the functional advantage and that help the species to compete in the harsh environment. Darwin’s explanation of the origin of species in 1859 was criticized by Christians because they believed in God’s creation for six days. The natural selection was received with hostility because his ideas were not with alignment with biblical descriptions on how Adam and Eve were created. In addition, after the arrival of Darwin’s theory, scientists conflicted and they did not support the idea of evolution. A vector is a vehicle that transfers genetic materials to a target cell. The significance of vectors is to pass on the genes to the intended cell. For evolution to take place there has to be passage of genetic materials from one species to the other. Hence the vector facilitates the movement of biological traits from one generation to the other. Equilibrium is a principle that explains that genes remain the same from one generation to the other without any disturbing factor. If the situation remains constant then there will be evolution stability. However this can be affected by forces such as mutations, natural selection, non random mating, genetic drift and gene flow. Isolation can promote genetic divergence through mechanisms such as mutation, genetic drift and natural selection. Allopathic speciation is a

The Capital Structure choice of Pepsico

The Capital Structure choice of Pepsico The collection of securities that the firm issues to raise capital from investors is the firms capital structure. Equity and debt are the most commonly used securities by firms. The amount of debt determines the firms leverage. The firm should always use a capital structure which will maximize the total value of the securities issued. In order to determine the capital structure of a firm, It is also necessary to determine the different ratios such as net debt ratio, fixed coverage ratio, interest ratio, long term debt ratio, cash flow ratio, etc, to evaluate the effects of the ratios on the on the firm. These ratios are useful for comparing analyzing with other competitor firms. Ratios help the firm to determine their position in terms of the market value, book value, market capitalization, debt value, revenues, etc. The  Modigliani-Miller theorem states that, the firms value is unaffected by the way it is financed in the absence of taxes, bankruptcy costs and asymmetric information in a perfect market.  It does not matter if the firms capital is raised by issuing  stock  or by selling debt. It does not matter what the firms  dividend  policy is. Therefore, the Modigliani-Miller theorem is also often called the  capital structure irrelevance principle. We will look at this theory in detail in capital structure. In this report we look at the different theories (pecking order theory, trade-off theory, asset substitution theory, modigliani-miller theory) capital structure choice of PepsiCo by determining various ratios, comparing PepsiCo with its competitors. Analysis of the results and recommendations provided. INTRODUCTION Pepsi was originally named as Brads Drink, after its creator, Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist from New Bern, North Carolina. Pepsi was created in 1893 and was later renamed as Pepsi Cola in 1898. Pepsi contained the digestive enzymes pepsin and kola nuts used in manufacturing Pepsi. Bradham had thought about creating a drink for people that was delicious and would help in digestion and boost energy. PepsiCo Inc. is an American Multinational Corporation headquartered in New York. The company manufactures markets sells a range of salty sweet grain based snacks. It also produces carbonated non-carbonated beverages and other food products. PepsiCo has approximately 285,000 employees working in over 200 countries. Pepsi Cola Company began in 1898, but it only became known as PepsiCo when it merged with Frito Lays in 1965. Until 1997 it also owned KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. In 1998 2001 PepsiCo bought Tropicana Quaker Oats. In 2005 PepsiCo surpassed Coca-Cola Company in market value for the first time in 112 years since both companies began to compete. Over the years PepsiCo has become a global beverage, snack foods company. PepsiCo owns 5 different billion dollar brands such as Pepsi, Tropicana, Frito Lay, Quaker Oats Gatorade. PepsiCo also owns other brands such as Diet Pepsi, 7UP, Mirinda, Ruffles Potato Chips, Aquafina Bottled Water, Pepsi Max, Mountain Dew, etc. Indra Krishnamurthy Nooyi has been the chief executive of PepsiCo since 2006. PepsiCo delivered some solid financial performance in 2009, Its Net revenue grew by 5%, Core division operating profit grew by 6%, Core earnings per share grew by 6%, Management operating cash flow excluding certain items reached $5.6 billion up by 16%, Annual Dividend raised by 6%. PepsiCo estimated worldwide retail sales of $108 billion through all the products. In 2009 PepsiCos Net Revenue was $43,232 million, mixed net revenues of 37% from food products and 63% from beverages. Net Revenues generated according to operations in US and outside US are 52% in US and 48% outside US. Net Revenues generated through PepsiCo and its subsidiary companies are 48% by PepsiCo Americas Foods, 23% by PepsiCo Americas Beverages, 29% by PepsiCo International. 2.1 PepsiCos Strategies for driving growth Expand the Global Leadership Position of Snacks Business Ensure sustainable profitable growth in global beverages. Continue to deliver environmental sustainability goals and commitments. Cherish associates and develop the leadership to sustain growth. 2.2 PepsiCos Competitive Advantage Strengths PepsiCos competitive advantage lies in their talented, dedicated and hard working work-force, that work on its huge brands, innovating producing differentiated products, using excellent marketing methodologies. PepsiCo also uses cost saving initiatives in operations. All these factors help them to sustain a competitive advantage in the market. PepsiCos strength lies in its brand name recognized all over the world, huge range of food and beverage products, marketing style in different regions according to the place culture segmentation, and huge marketing budget. CAPITAL STRUCTURE The most fundamental question of corporate finance is how a firm should raise capital from investors. A firm must determine the type of security it will issue to the investors. Capital structure refers to the way a firm finances its assets through some combination of equity, debt, or other securities. There are different theories to determine the capital structure of the company. (3.1) Pecking Order Theory (developed by Stewart Myers, 1984) states that the firms have a preferred structure for financing; the factor with a high preference uses internal financing such as retained earnings before opting for any external financing. External financing uses debts, convertible securities, preferred stock common stock. So the firm first uses its retained earnings for operations or investments or expansions and then if required they can opt for external financial resources. (3.2) Trade-Off Theory states that the firms are financed partly with equity and partly with debt. Debt financing is preferred here due to the tax benefits of debt. Debt financing also bears bankruptcy and non-bankruptcy costs. Further according to the theory marginal cost of the debts increases as the debt increases and marginal benefits decline as the debt decreases. (3.3) Agency Cost Theory states that there are 3 different agency costs related to a firms capital structure, they are asset substitution, cash flow underinvestment. Asset Substitution states that as the debt to equity ratio increases the firm gets more freedom to invest in new projects, this leads to the decline in the value of the firm which results into wealth being transferred from debt holders to shareholders. Underinvestment problems occur when debt appears to be more risky, in this scenario of the firm the returns from the investment in projects will be directed towards the debt holders rather than the shareholders. This may lead to the firm declining to start any new projects, and there is a potential to increase the firms value. Free Cash Flow states that free cash flow is also a problem for the firm if the cash is not returned to the investors. Doing so will disrupt the value of the firm. (3.4) Modigliani-Miller Theory (developed by Merton Miller Franco Modigliani) states that it is assumed that there are no transaction costs, no taxes and there is a perfect market condition. They also stated that the value of a firm is determined by adding up all the debts and equity of the firm. This can be viewed through an example Firm A Firm B Debt value 0 2,500,000 Interest on debt 0 5% Expenses on debt 0 125,000 Share 1,000,000 500,000 Price per share 5 5 Market value of equity 5,000,000 2,500,000 From the above table we can see the market value of Firm A is 5million (only equity), Firm A is only financed by shares, therefore the value of Firm A is 5million. Market value of Firm B is 5million (equity + debt), 50% financed by shares and 50% by debt, but Firm B has to pay interest on the debts which is 5% of the debt value which is 125,000. Therefore the returns on equity for Firm B will be its earnings minus the value of interest on debts. Returns per share for Firm B will be returns on equity divided by earnings. If Firm B would have sold its stock at a premium rate then it could have made arbitrage profits. Modigliani Miller theory states that the value of a firm in a perfect market is not affected by the way the company is financed but it is affected through the sort of capital structure the firm utilizes. PEPSICOS NET DEBT RATIO Debt ratio that indicates the proportion of debt a company has relative to its assets. The measure gives an idea to the leverage of the company along with the potential  risks  the company faces in terms of its debts. If debt ratio is higher than 1 then the firm has more debt than assets, if debt ratio is less than 1 then the firm has more assets than debts. The formula for calculating debt ratio is, Debt Ratio = total debt / total assets. Debt Ratio helps to measure the risk a bank or financial institution will take if they are financing a firm. Net Debt is the measure of a firms overall debt by taking the net value of debts and cash. Net Debt is calculated as, Net Debt = (long term debt + short term debt) cash cash equivalents. According to PepsiCo, they measure net debt ratio on market-value basis where net debt equals total debt. PepsiCos Net Debt Ratio (L*) = (D + PVOL CMS) / (NP + D + PVOL CMS). D is the market value of total debt (long term debt plus short term debt), PVOL is the present value of operating leases, CMS is the cash marketable securities, N is the number of common shares, P is the common stock price. From the assignment referring to exhibit 2 exhibit 4, all values in millions dollars except for the common stock price, D = 9215, PVOL = 479 * 5 = 2395, CMS = 1498 and reduce it by 25% for remitting to US therefore CMS = 1123.5, N = 788, P = 55.875. L *= [(9215+2395) 1123.5] / [((788*55.875)+9215+2395) 1123.5] L* = 19.2 % (PepsiCos Net Debt Ratio is 19.2%). Now to analyze this we can ask some questions as how much debt really exists? If we consider exhibit 2 in the assignment there are other factors like accounts payable, short term debt other current liabilities which constitute of total current liabilities plus long term debt other liabilities, all this together shows that the total liabilities are 18,119million dollars, which is a bit high according to the market situation. That is why this shows the Moodys rating of PepsiCo is A1/A. PepsiCo will have to reduce their liabilities in order to gain a rating of Aa3/AA of Coca-Cola. What kind of debt is it, long term or short term? Firstly let us talk about short term debt, if we talk about short term debts then we can assume it can be included in current debts, so according to the balance sheet in exhibit 2, total current liability is 5230million dollars, while total long term liability is 12889million dollars, so the total long term debt is very high compared to total current liabilities. PepsiCo will have to reduce its long term debts more effectively in order to increase its ratings and also increase its assets. Can the company afford the debts if  it runs into financial trouble? Let us calculate the debt ratio as explained above in the beginning, Debt ratio = total debt / total assets (both values are in million dollars) = 18119 / 25432 = 0.71. If the debt ratio is less than 1 it means that the firm has more assets than debts. So PepsiCo can afford to be debt financed at a certain level. Looking at the current assets if the company runs into financial trouble then it can clear all its debts by selling off its assets. RATIO COMPARISON ANALYSIS Table of calculated ratios referring to values given in exhibit 5 in assignment, RATIOS PEPSICO CADBURY SCHWEPPES COCA COLA COCA COLA ENTERPRISES MCDONALDS INTEREST COVERAGE 4.565 4.896 16.911 1.444 7.379 FIXED CHARGE COVERAGE 3.094 4.287 16.911 1.406 3.588 LONG-TERM DEBT 0.165 0.090 0.011 0.517 0.112 TOTAL DEBT TO TOTAL ADJUSTED CAPITALIZATION 0.176 0.146 0.016 0.521 0.125 CASH FLOW TO LONG TERM DEBT 0.427 0.569 2.730 0.155 0.539 CASH FLOW TO TOTAL DEBT 0.395 0.330 1.839 0.153 0.474 Lets look at each ratio one by one in detail and analyze it. (5.1) Interest coverage ratio is used to calculate the firms ability to pay interest on the debts. If the ratio is low the firm has huge debt expenses. If the ratio is less than 1 then it means that the firm is unable to generate revenues to incur the interest expenses. Interest coverage ratio = earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) / interest expense. According to the table above, we can see that interest coverage ratio of PepsiCo is 4.565 which is very higher than 1 and is considered as good. Comparing it with other companies in the table, we can see that Coco Cola has the highest ratio of 16.911 which is very impressive, but Coca Cola Enterprises has a ratio of 1.44 which is a caution alarm for its investors. To be on a safer side if the ratio is 1.5 or less then firms ability to meet its interest expenses can be questionable i.e. the is not able to generate sufficient returns to meet the interest expenses. (5.2) Fixed charge coverage ratio is used to calculate the firms ability to pay its fixed-charges such as rent and interest on debt without increasing the debts. If the ratio is less than 1 then the firm is not able to pay its fixed charges and vice versa. Fixed-charge coverage ratio = (EBIT  + fixed charges before tax) / (fixed charged before tax +  interest). According to the table above, we can see that PepsiCos fixed charge coverage ratio is 3.094 which is greater than 1. Comparing it with other companies in the table, Coca Cola has the highest ratio of 16.911 which is very impressive, but for Coca Cola Enterprises is 1.406 which is very less. PepsiCo should decrease its debts in order to reduce its fixed charges which will help to increase the value of the ratio. (5.3) Long term debt ratio is used to calculate the firms leverage. Higher the ratio, higher is the firms leverage. Firm with a high ratio is considered more risky for investors to invest because they have more liabilities than equity and vice versa. Long term debt ratio = long term debt / (long term debt + preferred stock + common stock). According to the table above, PepsiCos long term debt ratio is 0.165 which is less. Comparing to other companies in the table, Coca cola has a ratio of 0.011 which shows that it has more equity than liability, but Coca Cola Enterprises has a ratio of 0.517 which shows that it has almost 50% equity and 50% liability, so investing in Coca Cola Enterprises is more risky. (5.4) Total debt to total adjusted capitalisation ratio is used to calculate the firms leverage which includes long term and short term debts. Total debt to total adjusted capitalisation ratio = (long-term debt + short term debt) / [(long-term debt + short term debt) + preferred stock + common stock]. According to the table above, PepsiCos total debt to total adjusted capitalisation ratio is 0.176. Comparing to other companies in the table, Coca Cola has a ratio of 0.016 which shows it has more equity than liability, but Coco Cola Enterprises has a ratio of 0.521 which is again very risky. (5.5) Ratio of cash flow to long term debt is used to calculate the firms ability to generate cash in comparison with the long term debts. Ratio of cash flow to long term debt = cash flow / long term debt. According to the table above, PepsiCos ratio of cash flow to long term debt is 0.427 which is not good enough. Comparing it with other companies, Coca Colas ratio of cash flow to long term debt is 2.730, which is very impressive. PepsiCo has more long term debts than its annual cash flow while Coca Colas annual cash flow is 3 times the value of its long term debt. Firms with a high cash flow after interest and taxes are in a better position to distribute cash dividends. Firm with high cash flow can also use the cash to invest in other projects, buy assets, reduce debts etc. (5.6) Ratio of cash flow to total debt is used to calculate the firms ability to generate cash in comparison with its total debts. Ratio of cash flow to total debt = cash flow / total debt. According to the table above, PepsiCos ratio of cash flow to total debt is 0.395. Comparing it with other companies, Coca Colas ratio of cash flow to total debt is 1.839 which is very good. PepsiCos total debt is more than twice the value of its annual cash flow while Coca Colas annual cash flow is 2 times the value of its total debt. After considering all the ratios in the table, we can say that PepsiCo needs to reduce its debts by a huge margin and generate more cash so that it can use this cash to pay out more dividends to its investors, increase equity and reduce liability, invest in more products, buy assets, etc. Coca Cola is the largest competitor of PepsiCo, so PepsiCo needs to improve its equity in order to compete more effectively with Coca Cola. If company has less debts and liabilities people will invest more which will provide PepsiCo with a good rating as Coca Cola. PepsiCo can easily borrow money from the market for investments and also it can easily pay it back. Even in financial or economic crisis it will be the least affected company. Capital structure of PepsiCo has debt and equity. According to the net debt ratio we can say PepsiCo has about 20% 25% debt and 75% 80% equity. PEPSICOS RATING OBJECTIVE Ratings are given to companies depending on various factors such as its debt value, equity value, sources of finance, stock price, number of shares, profits, dividends, etc. Moody rated A as upper-medium grade, subject to low credit risk,  but that have elements present that suggest a susceptibility to impairment over the long term. PepsiCo has a rating of A1/A which places it in the upper medium grade category. A1 is the high quality rating given to PepsiCo, Aaa is the highest rating available. Coca Colas rating is Aa3/AA shows that it has much better ratings then PepsiCo. If PepsiCo wants to have a net debt ratio of 20% 25% then it will have to increase its debts and reduce equity, if this happens the Corporate Debt Rating of PepsiCo might fall to Baa which is lower medium grade. This will show a bad image of the company in the market, investors will find it risky to invest in PepsiCo. This means people will not buy shares of PepsiCo and it will not be able to raise funds through the issue of share to decrease its debts or to invest in the business. As a result of which they will have to borrow from the banks, Banks would also lend them funds to a certain limit where their assets are equal to liabilities, Banks would like to make sure that PepsiCo are able to pay back the funds with interest before lending them the funds. PepsiCo should reduce their net debt ratio to at least 15% instead of increasing it, due to this they will have more cash flow, reduced debts, can easily pay back dividends to investors, they can easily raise funds through issue of shares instead of borrowing from banks or other financial institutions. This will overall help PepsiCo to increase its ratings from A to Aa. CONCLUSION