Oil Companies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Oil Companies - Essay Example According to the report, titled, Hot Profits and Global Warming: How Oil Companies Hurt Consumers and the Environment, the soaring prices are not dampening demand because most families have little leeway to alter their driving habits. Federal government statistics show this summer's gasoline demand up between 1.6 and 1.9 percent from 2005. The increased prices of gasoline have translated into record oil company profits. In the first six months of 2006, the five largest US oil companies posted $59.4 billion in profits. These companies have spent $112 billion since 2005 to buy back their own stock and pay dividends rather than invest in infrastructure or alternative energy sources, according to analysis done by Public Citizen. (Raymond J. Learsy. The Blog Eat The Press Becoming Fearless. The Huffington Post). In this regard, the American government summoned British Petroleum before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for clarification. It is alleged that the company allowed its Alaska pipelines to deteriorate despite such large profit margins, causing a partial shutdown of oil production in the US's largest oilfield and temporarily driving up global oil prices. Surprisingly it was reported that the officials of British Petroleum responded that the profits and saving secured were adjusted with the losses the company suffered due to the fluctuation of oil prices. The company was able to convince the panel easily, however the later reports indicated that the company in actual manipulated the accounts, and invested the money for the purchases of physical equipments which were off the record. British Petroleum has claimed itself to be renewable energy leader; it invested only $800 million a year in solar, wind, natural gas and hydrogen energy, less than 2 percent of the total amount the company posted in profits, stock buybacks, dividend payments and cash reserves in 2005. "Under the current market framework, oil companies aren't making investments in ways to break our addiction to oil and apparently have no intention of doing so," said Tyson Slocum, director of Public Citizen's energy program and the report's author. "With $1 trillion in assets tied up in extracting, refining and marketing oil, their business model will squeeze the last cent of profit out of that spent capital for as long as possible." (Johnston, 2005) IMPORTANCE OF RESERVES (Why reserves value are so important) It is understandable that fraction of the profits stem from the international rise in the prices of petroleum, the report has mentioned that, large oil company mergers have squelched competition and has created negative impact on US consumers. Recent mergers between giant oil companies such as Exxon and Mobil, Chevron and Texaco, and Conoco and Phillips have resulted in just a few companies controlling a significant amount of gasoline in the US. Since 2005, the largest five control 55 percent of the refining market, and the largest 10 dominate 81.4 percent. The purpose of these exercises was to increase the amount of reserves produced and refined by the merged company. These exercises are further responsible for giving a strong image to the company, on the basis of their production activity. It is to be mentioned that the company's total

Teenage Pregnancy Term Paper Essay Example for Free

Teenage Pregnancy Term Paper Essay Introduction: This Term Paper aims to discuss the effects of rising early pregnancy cases and how it affects our country. Teenage pregnancy refers to pregnancy in a female under the age of 20. It is one of the major factors that affect the population growth in our country, Philippines. It is considered to be the major problems of the government is facing today. According to the government statistics records, teenage pregnancy cases rise more than 70% over a decade. These alarming cases caught the attention of some lawmakers. The only solution that the government made was the so-called Reproduction Health Bill (RH Bill). This bill aims to free access of use of contraceptives, fertility control, sexual education, and maternal care. The government conceived this as the solution to the said problem. Others may see it as helpful, but some also disagree about it. Teenage pregnancy is continously growing and affects our economic growth. Basically, teenage pregnancy occurs due to the following reasons: General rebelliousness, peer pressure and lack of self-esteem. Causes of Teenage Pregnancy: Rebelliousness -There is rebelliousness of parents and of rules of adults. During the teenage stage, there is a burst of sudden and unknown emotions. Teens feel a natural sense of rebelling against the set norms and rules. Coupled with a sudden sense of fresh-found liberation and sexuality, results in giving vent to their feelings through sexual experiences. Peer Pressure -Peer pressure is another early stage of pregnancies. This pressure causes sexual intimacy for the opposite sex. If a child hangs out with a group who  are sexually active, then there are possibilities that 9 out of 10 that teenager is sexually active. Most of the teenagers often to have sexual intercourse because they need to fit in with their circle of friends. They’re only way to be accepted by that so called circle of friends is to have sexual intercourse with the opposite sex and have sexual relations. Lack of Self-Esteem -It is among the causes of teen pregnancy. Children who are not shown love and affection from parents will seek it out with their circle of friends (peer group). Many teenagers report feeling pressured by their peers to have sexual intercourse before they are ready. Media: â€Å"The 16 and Pregnant is an American reality television series that debuted June 11, 2009 on MTV. It follows the stories of pregnant teenage girls in High School dealing with the hardships of teenage pregnancy. Each episode features a different teenage girl, with the episode typically beginning when she is 4 and a half to 8 months into her pregnancy. The episode typically ends when the baby is a few months old. The series is produced in a documentary format, with an animation on notebook paper showing highlights during each episode preceding the commercial breaks. â€Å" (Reference from wikipedia) MTV is criticized for creating an acceptance of teen pregnancy. By creating a show about pregnant teens, the show’s creators may be sending the message to teens that it isn’t a big deal if they become pregnant. It is proven that teens are often influenced by TV. Actually, according to a study conducted by The National Campaign â€Å"most teens (79% of girls and 67% of boys) say that when a TV show or character they like deals with teen pregnancy, it makes them think more about their own risk of getting pregnant or causing a pregnancy and how to avoid it† (â€Å"Teen Pregnancy†). Parents feel that the popularity of â€Å"16 and Pregnant† will allow teens to think that teen pregnancy is acceptable. The National Campaign states that â€Å"research has found that the sexual content in media can influence teens’ attitudes about sex and contraception and may also influence their sexual behavior† (â€Å"The National Campaign†). It is because of this statistic that MTV is teaming up  with the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy to create viewing guides on 16 and Pregnant. The 16 and Pregnant viewing guides will hopefully allow parents and educators to start discussions with teens encouraging them to make the right decisions when dealing with their sexual health. Why teen pregnancy is a cause for concern? The issue of teenage pregnancies is a cause for concern, and it is necessary that we draw the attention of the authorities to it’s diverse effects. According to statistics compiled in February 2004 by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, 34% of teenage girls get pregnant at least once before they turn 20 (which is about 820,000 per year). Despite the fact that teen pregnancy rates are declining in the United States, this data illustrates the fact that the United States has the highest pregnancy rate in the industrialized world. Teen pregnancy has negative affects on teen parents, their children, and society in general. Negative Affects on Teen Parents Teen mothers are statistically less likely to continue their education through high school and college. In fact, only about 1/3 of teen mothers ever earn a high school diploma, and only 1.5% of teen mothers receive a college degree by the time they are 30 years of age. In addition to the decline of education prospects, teen mothers also have increased health risks. In fact, more than a quarter of pregnant teens report physical abuse in their relationships. Other health risks include disorders such as: anemia, hypertension, obesity, and sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s). Anemia- Anemia is a disease where the number of red blood cells falls below normal and the body gets less oxygen as a result. Therefore, the body has less energy than it needs to function correctly. When the number of red blood cells decreases, the heart has to work harder, which means that it has to pump more blood in order to distribute oxygen throughout the body. As a result, one can develop a rapid heartbeat or another serious condition that enlarges the heart muscle, which can cause heart failure. Hypertension- When someone has hypertension (also known as high blood pressure), the force of the blood against ones artery walls are too strong. Over time, this excessive pressure can damage your arteries as well as your heart and kidneys. Hypertension is rather dangerous, for there are no warning signs or symptoms unless the problem is severe. Hypertension can lead to strokes, and other deadly afflictions. Obesity- While we all need some fat tissues in our bodies, having too much body fat is known as obesity. Obesity is a serious medical disease that affects about 14% of adolescents in the United States, and is the second leading cause of preventable death. STD’s- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s) are diseases that are contracted and spread by having sex with someone who has one of the diseases. Sexual activity can include contact with the mouth, anus, vagina and penis (all of which are capable of giving as well as receiving STD’s). These can be serious illnesses and require immediate attention. Some STD’s, such as AIDS, are deadly and have no cure, therefore it is important to learn ways to protect yourself from STD’s such as: genital herpes, hepatitis B, chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV/AIDS. Negative Affects on Children Children born from teen mothers have a higher chance of experiencing health problems. In fact, children born to teen mothers have a 20% higher chance of being born with low birth weight, which is one of the most common complications found in children of teens. Low birth weight can lead to blindness, deafness, respiratory problems, as well as mental illness, cerebral palsy, and even death. Not only do children born to teen mothers have a higher chance of experiencing health complications, but they also typically receive less medical care and treatment than other children, born to older mothers. On another note, teen parents are young, inexperienced, and for the most part, lack a completed education. This has been known to lead to inadequate parenting, for one is too young to appropriately provide the kind of environment that children need to develop and mature properly. Eventually this will affect the children’s performance in school, for  children of teenage mothers score lower than average on standardized tests, and are about twice as likely to repeat a grade at some point in their education. Children born to teen mothers are also twice as likely to be victims of abuse and neglect. Negative Affects on Society Because teen pregnancy rates are so high in the US. 34% of all females get pregnant at least once before the age of 20. This can cost our society billions of dollars each year, as the majority of teen mothers are single parents, lack a complete education, and end up on welfare. About $40 billion are spent by the federal government alone to help these families. References: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-03-24/an-number-of-teenage-pregnancies-doubled-in-philippines-in-last/5341334?pfm=ms https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2013/09/26/1238116/root-causes-adolescenct-pregnancy?nomobile=1 https://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2011/07/04/low-self-esteem-a-factor-of-teenage-pregnancy-research/ https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/11556441/

The Mind and Motivation of a Serial Killer Essay -- essays research pa

The mind and motivation of a serial killer Serial killers tend to be white heterosexual males in their twenties and thirties, who are sexually dysfunctional and have low self-esteem. Serial killers generally murder strangers with cooling off periods in between each murder. Serial killers are twisted in nature. Some return to the place the murder happened or the gravesite to fantasize about their deeds. Serial killers have made many excuses for their killings and behavior such as: Henry Lucas blamed his upbringing, Jeffrey Dahmer claims he was born with a à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“partà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? of him missing, Ted Bundy said porno made him do it and John Wayne Gacy turned the blame around and said the victims deserved to die. Many killers blame their families for their behavior, seeking sympathy. Forensic psychiatrists and FBI agents have tried to get inside the killerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s mind for many years. Traditional explanations include childhood abuse, genetics, chemical imbalances, brain injuries and exposure to traumatic events. In true psychopathic fashion, serial killers are blaming someone else for their actions. If their bad childhood is the primary reason for their homicidal tendencies, then why don't their siblings also become serial killers? Are serial killers insane? Not by legal standards. Always looking to manipulate, serial killers will do just about anything to convince the authorities of their insanity. Being declared "legally insane" means avoiding death row...

Red Bull and Beverage Industry Essay

What are the underlying drivers of change and how might those forces individually or collectively make the industry more or less attractive? Now energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced is evolving. Energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced in the beverage market, external and internal environment under pressure, causing it to change. The energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced from 2009 began to develop, to grow from $1. 58 trillion in 2009 to nearly $1. 78 trillion in 2014. Market is very rapid. I feel the market underlying drivers the following: 1. The influence of Globalization: the global beverage industry was project to grow from $1. 58 trillion in 2009 to nearly $1. 78 trillion in 2014 as beverage producers entered new geographic markets, development new types of beverages and continued to create demand fir popular drink . These new products to market has generated new creativity and new applications, so as to increase the intensity of competition in the market, the beverage market is booming. Because globalization, lead to product innovation development, Each enterprise according to new market policy undertook a series of adjustment. . Buyers demand increases, resulting in the beverage industry development: Now many of the buyers to pay attention to nutritional balance and complement, so energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced have a more broad market. 4. What  does  your  strategic  group  map  of  the  energy  drink,  sports  drink,  and  vitamin-enhanced  beverage  industry  look  like? Which  strategic  groups  do  you  think  are  in  the  best  positions? The  worst  positions? The  Red  bull  energy  drinks  was  created  in  1966. It  became  the  one  of  the  first  energy  drinks  in  the  world. In the fast moving consumer goods, beverage industry belongs to the keen industry, but the huge demand, walk quantity is the most effective way to enlarge its profit, â€Å"small profits but quick turnover† is also the retailers general technique, so the enterprise sales also often in several hundred million, billions of above, but the investment funds is very big, so the new industry enterprise also often be some big corporations. Marketing force, marketing force, it refers to the marketing strategy and the marketing ability of organization. For example in china, , want to stand out in many products, must be competitive marketing strategy and a good marketing organization system. Channel force, it refers to the channel management ability, in the fast pin product, channel for the king, even if you have good products, put a great amount of expenses to do publicity without to channel intensive cultivation, or do bad market, can not reach walk quantity task, meager profit but high turnover â€Å"pin† link will break chain, will give enterprise to bring the serious loss. . What recommendations would you make to Coca-Cola to improve its competitiveness in the global alternative beverage industry? To PepsiCo? To Red Bull GmbH 1 internal Strengthen control of quality and learn more information about requirements for energy beverage in different nation. And I saw that lots of news about Red bull which include illegal composition in recent years. In 2009, Germany check out Red Bull Cola (Red Bull Cola) contains 0. PPM of co caine 30 may 2009, Taiwan police check out Austria import red bull energy drinks contain extremely trace level of drug cocaine 1 June 2009 Hong Kong, 11 February 2012 China, Negative news would significant impacted a company or industry, especially Drinking and food industry. Everything about eating. In addition, there are lots of new beverage brand in the world. If Negative news led to lose market, company would very hard to get market back

Handmaid’s Tale †the character of Offred Essay

Margaret Atwood’s novel The Handmaid’s Tale houses a very authentic range of characters, in a complex world. Set in the Republic of Gilead, a totalitarian and theocratic state, where a reproduction rate is rapidly decreasing, some women are labeled as handmaids and assigned to elite couples that have difficulty conceiving. The personality of one character in particular, however, may seem hasty and misunderstood at first glance. But given the circumstances, she proves to hold the values of humanity: she has her own set of opinions, flaws, and habits; has regrets; and a balance of courage and fear. Furthermore, the setting this character must survive in is not much different from today’s society. The government is deemed corrupt, fear of punishment is instilled, and the leaders ensure that the citizens adhere to the law. Finally, the aid and support that she receives, the faith and hope she has, and the development of friendships she makes also has a likeness to ordinary relationships in our world. Hence, the novel’s protagonist, Offred is a relatively relatable individual, especially in terms of her character, her surroundings and her supporting roles. Offred conveys a sense of reality in her personality as she is not perfect and has her own set of opinions, flaws, and habits. For instance, Offred has many moments and flashbacks where she reminisces about her past. This implies that she has regrets and obstacles in her life, just as every human being does. When Offred describes her appearance, albeit briefly, it signifies the insecurities that she keeps bottled up inside â€Å"I am thirty-three years old. I have brown hair. I stand five seven without shoes. I have trouble remembering what I used to look like. I have viable ovaries. I have one more chance† (Atwood, 143). Had she been proud of what she looked like, she most likely would have gone into more detail, but the lack of words plainly states that she thinks nothing special about herself. At one point that she mentions that she does not like to look at herself in the mirror. This shows that she does not look at her self as superior and she is also self-conscious of her own appearance. She also possesses a certain attributes that any person would possess; she is rebellious and disobedient in constricting situations. This is what makes her more interesting and what sets her apart from the rest. Although Moira, Offred’s best friend, was an even more revolutionary character, she seemed too daring to be true. A real life person would not be likely to pull off stunts that Moira had accomplished, for example escaping from the Red Centre â€Å"She had both hands on the lid when she felt something hard and sharp possible metallic jab into her ribs from behind. Don’t move, said Moira, or I’ll stick it all the way in, I know where, I’ll puncture your lung†, â€Å"I couldn’t believe how easy it was to get out of the Center. In that brown outfit I just walked right through. I kept going as if I knew where I was heading, till I was out of sight† (Atwood, 130, 244). Offred had just enough courage and just enough fear to seem realistic. Keeping these points in mind, it is clear that Offred could have been an ordinary character in our society. The Republic of Gilead, as strange as it may seem, actually has some similarities to the modern day and this is primarily seen by Offred’s response to its laws and regulations that they instill. To her, the government appears as corrupt as most governments in this world, and dictators still thrive, just as they do in Offred‘s society. Offred responds to this by doing nothing, which would be the decision of most people if forced to live under these conditions. The leaders of Gilead, after all, employ obedient enforcers to make sure that citizens abide by their laws. She mentions this in the book when she retells how the changes in her nation started. She describes in full length that she, along with all women in the U. S. , were forced from their jobs by men in uniform carrying machine guns â€Å"Not fired, he said. Let go. You can’t work here anymore, it’s the law† (Atwood, 176). The fear of punishment is instilled, akin to the terrors of being imprisoned or given a death sentence in our world. Penalties are dreaded so much in Gilead, for most of the time they are unjustly given out and they vary from hanging to ‘Salvaging’; which is being beaten to death â€Å" The three bodies hang there, even with the white sacks over their heads looking curiously stretched, like chickens strung up by the necks in a meat shop window; like births with their wings clipped, like flightless births, wrecked angels† (Atwood, 277). Offred ultimately responds passively, on account of this fear, and because liberal ways are shunned in Gilead. Margaret Atwood was right in not giving Offred any extraordinary abilities to surpass or overthrow the tyrants that ruled over her life as it would result in a loss of Offred’s relatable self. Relationships with other people are a necessity of life that defines human existence. As Offred progresses with day-to-day life, she develops these friendships, which ensure that she exists. The friends and allies that she made were essential for keeping her sanity intact because without any shoulders to lean on in times of sorrow, a person’s mental capacity could break. Amongst her friends were Cora, whom Offred was not very close with but did not have any tension with, Ofglen, Moira, her best friend, and Nick, the Commander’s chauffeur that Offred opens up to and confides in towards the closure of the story. Offred frequently finds herself seeking support and knowledge in people who share the same beliefs and opinions as her, most significantly from Ofglen and Moira. This portrays the doubts about her world that she holds: another human quality. From Ofglen, she realizes that she is not alone in thinking that their country is corrupt and that something must be done to change things â€Å"At last Ofglen speaks. â€Å"’Do you think God listens,’ she says, ‘to these machines? ’ She is whispering: our habit at the Center†(Atwood, 168). However from Moira, Offred finds out that escaping from their strict nation is not as easy as she had thought, as Moira could not even arrive at such a courageous feat. Without her supporting roles, Offred could have been an ignorant citizen in Gilead that was brainwashed into believing every word that the government fed them. If that were the case, Offred’s connection to the readers would have been lost. Furthermore, Offred turns to hope and faith to console her and help her to move on with life. Just as her friends helped her, these virtues aided in protecting her wellbeing; though forced, since she had nothing else to look to. The hope that Offred’s husband is still alive is very similar to the feelings of families in modern day society that pray for the safe return of their lost, loved one from war or other degrees of separation. Faith is introduced to Offred when she acknowledges the pillow in her room with the word ‘faith’ printed on it â€Å"There’s a hard cushion on it, with a petit point cover: FAITH, in square print surrounded by a wealth of lilies† (Atwood, 57). The fact that it is something she can read implies that there is still hope, as not everything has been taken away from her. This knowledge strengthens her belief that change will come, though subconsciously since Offred never mentions it. The faith that she puts into the Commander also ties into the trust she gives him when playing games, reading magazines and when he brings her to Jezebel’s â€Å"He wanted me to play Scrabble with him†, â€Å"He sits me down, and sits himself down beside me. He puts an arm around my shoulder† (Atwood, 144, 236). Trust is a very common issue that people have trouble giving out. But in examining these elements it is clear Offred’s confidantes have impacted her life and how they make her into a real character. The Handmaid’s Tale is appealing due to its main character, Offred, who shows a great deal of realism in a world of impossibilities. Her character itself is strong-willed, but moderate, and is the perfect mix of what it is to be human. Through her, many of the readers can see a bit of themselves in Offred. She is an excellent example of how a regular person would behave if they were thrust into the world of The Handmaid’s Tale.

Present Simple Worksheets for ESL Students

Present Simple Worksheets for ESL Students The present simple takes the following forms: Present Simple Positive Form Review Subject present simple form of verb objects Examples: Alison often watches TV after dinner.They play golf on Saturdays. Present Simple Negative Form Subject do/does not verb objects Examples: Jack doesnt spend much time on reading.They dont eat meat on Fridays. Present Simple Question Form (Question Word) do/does subject verb? Examples: What do you do after work?How often do you eat out? Important Notes The verb to be does not take the auxiliary verb do in the question or negative form. Examples: She is a teacher.I am from Seattle.Are you married? Time Expressions With Present Simple Adverbs of Frequency The following adverbs of frequency are often used with the present simple to express how often someone does something habitually. Remember that present simple is used to express daily routines and habits. These adverbs of frequency are listed from most frequent to least frequent. Adverbs of frequency are placed directly before the main verb. alwaysusuallyoftensometimesoccasionallyrarelynever Days of the Week and Times of the Day Days of the week are often used with s to indicate that someone does something regularly on a specific day of the week. Times of the day are used to express when someone usually does something. Notice that at is used with night, but in with other periods during the day. Finally, at is used with specific times during the day. Examples: I play golf on Saturdays.She gets up early in the morning.Tom catches the bus at 7.30 a.m. Present Simple Worksheet 1 Conjugate the verb in parentheses  using the form  indicated. In the case of questions, use the indicated subject as well. I usually _____ (get up) at six oclock.How often _____ (she go) to the gym to workout?They _____ (be) from Holland.Jack _____ (not work) in the city.Where _____ (he live)?Alison _____ (visit) her friends on Saturdays.They _____ (not eat) meat on Fridays._____ (you play) tennis?Susan often _____ (drive) to the beach when the weather is nice.Eric _____ (not read) in Japanese.When _____ (she have) dinner?I _____ (take) a shower before I leave for work.How _____ (you start) this machine?He _____ (not work) on Sundays.Sharon rarely _____ (watch) TV.We occasionally _____ (take) the train to Seattle.Peter _____ (not like) buying food in supermarkets.Why _____ (they leave) work so late on Fridays?You sometimes _____ (do) housework._____ (she speak) Russian? Present Simple Worksheet 2 Choose the correct time expression used with the  present simple tense. I sleep in late on (Saturday / Saturdays).How (much / often) do you visit your friends in Chicago?Jennifer doesnt catch the bus (in/at) 8 in the morning.Henry enjoys playing golf (in/at) the afternoon.Do they eat fish (in/on) Fridays?I usually have my meetings (on/at) 10 am.Susan doesnt like going out (at/on) Fridays.Our class (usually/usual) takes tests on Tuesdays.The teacher gives us notes (after/while) class.Sharon doesnt go to be before 11 pm (in/at) night.Where do they usually hold meetings (at/in) the morning?Tom (rare/rarely) gets up early on Sundays.We dont enjoy eating breakfast before six (at/in) the morning.Our parents (occasion/occasionally) catch a train to the city.She doesnt use a computer (at/in) night.Alexander has lunch (on/at) noon.David doesnt work (at/on) Tuesdays.They listen to classical music (in/at) the afternoon.Mary answers her e-mail on (Friday/Fridays).How often do you travel (in/on) Tuesdays? Answer Keys Present Simple Worksheet 1 I usually  get up  at six oclock.How often  does she go  to the gym to workout?They  are  from Holland.Jack  doesnt work  in the city.Where  does he live?Alison  visits  her friends on Saturdays.They  dont eat  meat on Fridays.Do you play  tennis?Susan often  drives  to the beach when the weather is nice.Eric  doesnt read  in Japanese.When  does she have  dinner?I  take  a shower before I leave for work.How  do you start  this machine?He  doesnt work  on Sundays.Sharon rarely  watches  TV.We occasionally  take  the train to Seattle.Peter  doesnt like  buying food in supermarkets.Why  do they leave  work so late on Fridays?You sometimes  do  housework.Does she speak  Russian? Present Simple Worksheet 2 I sleep in late on  Saturdays.How  often  do you visit your friends in Chicago?Jennifer doesnt catch the bus  at  8 in the morning.Henry enjoys playing golf  in  the afternoon.Do they eat fish  on  Fridays?I usually have my meetings  at  10 am.Susan doesnt like going out  on  Fridays.Our class  usually  takes tests on Tuesdays.The teacher gives us notes  after  class.Sharon doesnt go to be before 11 pm  at  night.Where do they usually hold meetings  in  the morning?Tom  rarely  gets up early on Sundays.We dont enjoy eating breakfast before six  in  the morning.Our parents  occasionally  catch a train to the city.She doesnt use a computer  at  night.Alexander has lunch  at  noon.David doesnt work  on  Tuesdays.They listen to classical music  in  the afternoon.Mary answers her e-mail on  Fridays.How often do you travel  on  Tuesdays?

Geothermal Energy †How a Power Plant Works

Geothermal Energy – How a Power Plant Works Free Online Research Papers Generating electricity through the use of geothermal heat is called geothermal power. Geothermal energy is captured by tapping into sources where cooler water from the surface has seeped down into Earth’s crust. As the water goes deeper it heats up because the Earth’s center is very hot. As the water heats up it becomes hot enough to start rising to the surface. By drilling into these sources, it opens a route to the surface for the pressurized water. The geothermal power plants are built over these areas so that they can use the heated water rising to the surface. Today, there are three types of methods to utilize the heated water. All methods use the heated water drawn from the surface. The water is then forced back down into the Earth to prolong the life of the heat source. Geothermal power is generally thought of as a renewable resource. If the water wasn’t forced back down into the Earth then the source would eventually be depleted. In the â€Å"dry steam† method, where steam is rising to the surface, the rising steam simply goes directly through a turbine and then into an area where the steam is condensed back to liquid water. In the â€Å"flash steam† method, where hot water is rising to the surface, extra machinery depressurizes or â€Å"flashes† the water into steam, which is then used to drive a turbine. The last method, the â€Å"binary† method, the hot water passes through a device called a heat exchanger. The heat from the water is transferred to a liquid that usually has a lower boiling temperatu re than water. The other liquid boils at a lower temperature than water, so it is easier to convert into steam to drive the turbine. This other liquid is kept in a closed loop, so it is not lost. Geothermal power plants use the steam to drive turbines. As the steam is turning the turbine, the steam is doing work. The mechanical energy of the working steam is transferred into the rotation of the turbine. An electric generator converts the mechanical rotational energy of the turbine into electricity. The resulting electric current then runs into the power grid and is part of the electricity sent to power homes, etc. There are currently not enough geothermal power plants to provide the energy need to power a city like Las Vegas, but the plants spread across our country contribute to the powering nearly three million homes. In the process of drawing the steam or hot water to the surface, geothermal heat is lost to the surrounding material, though not in big enough amounts to heavily effect the operation. Throughout the entire process heat is lost to the air and to the materials enclosing the liquids and the steam. The turbine is not 100% efficient at capturing and transferring energy to the electricity generator. Over all, the plant may lose potential energy because the source of heat may cool. This can be a result of the cooler water that’s being injected back into the Earth. The cooler water may reduce the temperature of the source over time. But, not injecting water back into the source would lose more potential energy because the source’s supply of water would run out. So the good and bad of injecting the water back into the water may offset each other. Building and using geothermal power plants is very low impact. A few acres of land may be used, with some minor industrial looking buildings built on the area. Geothermal power plants generally do not expel pollutants into the air and they don’t dump the extracted water somewhere on the surface. Only â€Å"open† systems expel gases into the air and these include Hydrogen sulfide, trace amounts of arsenic and other minerals. Hydrogen sulfide is toxic and is recognizable by its rotten egg smell. This would be bad if it was expelled from all of our cars, but the amount is very little and is not a major concern. This is only a concern with a part of the geothermal power plants, not the plants using â€Å"closed† systems. Generally the water drawn from the Earth is injected back down to resupply the source. The water usually consists of salts and minerals that would possibly interfere with the ecosystem of the surrounding area, but the water is usually injected back down. If it’s not injected, then the water wouldn’t be harmful the environment. Geothermal power plants are very low impact compared to the other forms of power production. The plants do however, cost around $100 million dollars to build, so companies don’t usually want to invest unless it’s clear that the plant will produce enough energy to be a profit. Plants that are built can produce electricity for between 4.5 and 7.3 cents per kilowatt-hour, putting them on a level of production close to that of new conventional fossil fuel power plants. Geothermal power plants are efficient and have a low environmental impact, making them good investments in the long run. Powering the entire world with geothermal power pl ants would greatly cut down on the production of green house gases and waste products. The planet Earth has enough geothermal sources that if tapped into with advanced technologies, we really could power the world. Page Brown, Warren (1994). Alternate Sources of Energy. U.S.: Chelsea House Publishers (2007). Wikipedia:Geothermal Power. Retrieved March 1, 2007, from Wikipedia Web site: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geothermal_power Herda, D.J., Madden, M. (1991). Energy Resources:Towards a renewable future.U.S.: D.J. Herda and Margaret L. Madden. (2006). How Geothermal Energy Works. Retrieved March 1, 2007, from Union of Concerned Scientists Web site: ucsusa.org/clean_energy/renewable_energy_basics/offmen-how-geothermal-energy-works.html (2006). Geothermal Power. Retrieved March 1, 2007, from ArticleWorld Web site: articleworld.org/Geothermal_power Research Papers on Geothermal Energy - How a Power Plant WorksAnalysis Of A Cosmetics AdvertisementThe Effects of Illegal ImmigrationMind TravelBionic Assembly System: A New Concept of SelfThe Spring and AutumnPETSTEL analysis of IndiaThe Hockey GameRiordan Manufacturing Production PlanHip-Hop is ArtTwilight of the UAW

How Lactose Free Milk Is Made

How Lactose Free Milk Is Made If you avoid regular dairy products because of lactose intolerance, you can turn to lactose-free milk and other dairy products. Have you ever wondered what being lactose intolerant means or how the chemical is removed from milk? Lactose Intolerance Basics Lactose intolerance isnt an allergy to milk. What it means is that the body lacks insufficient amounts of the digestive enzyme, lactase, needed to break down lactose or milk sugar. So, if you suffer lactose intolerance and ingest regular milk, the lactose passes through your gastrointestinal tract unaltered. While your body cant digest the lactose, gut bacteria can utilize it, releasing lactic acid and gas as products of the reaction, which lead to bloating and uncomfortable cramping. Ways Lactose Is Removed from Milk There are a few different ways to remove lactose from milk. As youd guess, the more involved the process, the more the milk costs at the store. A common method is to simply add the enzyme lactase to milk, essentially pre-digesting the sugar into glucose and galactose. The resulting milk still contains the enzyme, so the milk is ultra-pasteurized to deactivate the enzyme and extend the shelf life of the milk.Another method is to pass milk over lactase that is bound to a carrier. Using this procedure, the milk still contains the sugars glucose and galactose, but not the enzyme.Membrane fractionation and other ultrafiltration techniques may be used to mechanically separate lactose from milk. These methods completely remove the sugar, better preserving the normal flavor of milk. Why Lactose-Free Milk Tastes Different If lactase is added to milk, the lactose breaks into glucose and galactose. There isnt more sugar in the milk than before, but it tastes a lot sweeter because taste receptors perceive glucose and galactose as sweeter than lactose. In addition to tasting sweeter, milk that is ultra-pasteurized tastes different because of the extra heat applied during its preparation. How To Make Lactose-Free Milk at Home Lactose-free milk costs a lot more than regular milk because of the additional steps required to make it. However, you can save most of the expense if you turn regular milk into lactose-free milk yourself. The easiest way to do this is to add lactase to the milk. Lactase drops are available at many stores or online from stores, such as Amazon. The amount of lactose removed from the milk depends on how much lactase you add and how long you give the enzyme to react (usually 24 hours for full activity). If you are less sensitive to the effects of lactose, you dont need to wait as long or you can save more money and add less lactase. Aside from saving money, one advantage to making your own lactose-free milk is that you wont get that cooked flavor of ultrapasteurized milk. Reference: Membrane fractionation processes for removing 90% to 95% of the lactose and sodium from skim milk and for preparing lactose and sodium-reduced skim milk. Morr CV and Brandon SC. J. Food Sci. 2008 Nov: 73(9).

Health Issue of Aboriginal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Health Issue of Aboriginal - Essay Example The government has also stared improving some of the social services contributing to some illnesses including homelessness by providing rental programs on cheaper houses. The other programs include residential aged care programs, disability programs as well as those on maternal and child care (Eckerman, et al. 2010). The aboriginals are still being faced with racism and discrimination and this puts them at a disadvantage for health programs as they are left behind. Their health problems have therefore constantly failed to be mainstreamed with of other ethnic groups. As a result of them being discriminated, they have minimal health services within their reach and the few present are not accessible as these people are located in remote parts of the country and access becomes difficult at all times (Dudgeon, Milroy & Walker, 2013). In a bid to improve cross-cultural understanding, it is the work of the government and the relevant private sectors to start public recognition of the aborig inals. This will contribute towards ending the discrimination and prejudice that has surrounded these people and hence start improving their chances of getting quality and accessible health care. Education should be encouraged through different programs which will foster gaining of knowledge on the general issues but specifically concentrate on nutrition, prevention medicine among other health care issues. Lastly, integration of the aboriginals into other government programs other than just the welfare programs will foster equality.

Critically discuss the extent to which 'globalisation' is an Essay

Critically discuss the extent to which 'globalisation' is an opportunity or threat to international business - Essay Example A fundamental dynamic of our epoch driving the change processes of the 21st century, globalization is promoted and resisted in equal measure, with its management touted as the most satisfying and morally upright compromise (McGrew, 2000, p. ix). From the perspective of the radical right reaching other continents with mutually beneficial effects to the more adaptive strategies that has found favor in the mainstream politics of the Third World, the writing, which may seem obscure, is on the wall; the weight of the concept is felt in both the extremes. Indeed, as the confused ideals of globalization become more pronounced with opportunities that more than break into the hitherto insulated environments for certain ventures, the multifold risks in the enlarged business environment are increasingly taking ventures even closer to complete elimination. Put into perspective, it is most revealing that even in the face of fierce criticisms, notwithstanding how both sides of the divide conceives or rationalizes the concept, it is firmly accepted that globalization is but a reality on course (Held, et  al, 1999). ... Held, et  al, (2000) define globalization as â€Å"a set of transformative processes reorienting the spatial organization of social relations and transactions- in terms of intensity, velocity and impact- to generate transcontinental flows [networks of activity] that by and large result in the creation and the subsequent exercise of power in conformance with the new transactional model [emphasis added].† Petras and Veltmeyer (2001, p.11), echoes the same in their definition that more than captures the widening scope of the international flows that combines not only the exchange of capital, but also of technology and information within a single integrated market; a representational shift that Teeple (2000, p. 9) notes has diffused capital accumulation from single production units to integrated venues situated in different parts of the world. Observably, global flows, as Ohmae (1995, p.15) points out, are without a doubt, the basic elements of globalization found in the differe nt definitions that distinguishes our moment in history. It is clear that the new globalizing logic of the market and capital is at the epicenter of the different angles taken by the scholars already sampled. To be sure, globalization is viewed as a process that not only reconstitutes national economies, but one that restructures international engagements through building and/or the destruction of the existing relations in order to integrate the global economy into a single system. That is to say, its integrative aspect in effect involves homogenous interconnections across and within boundaries, with cooperation driving the interdependence among independent states/regions (Hurrell and Wood, 1995, pp.447-448). Noteworthy, the singularization of the global

CASE 11.2 Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

11.2 - Case Study Example It is therefore evident that any acne patient who comes across proactiv and gets to see the results is more than thankful for the product. Using infomercials was the best decision for the marketing of proactiv for various reasons as Dr. Rodan and Dr. Kathy came to understand. First, Acne was an embarrassing issue therefore selling the product openly would not produce positive results, as patient turnout would be very low. Second, people need to be educated on how to treat their acne something that could not just work in a 30-60 second advert. Thirdly, infomercial audience was a good target as it consisted of women between their 20s to their 40s who would do anything to get rid of the acne problem therefore providing a good market segment. Through infomercials, the product has the opportunity to air testimonials from people who have experienced positive results. It is clear that Rodan and Kathy were ready to throw in the towel after unsuccessfully seeking for investment capital with no success. The deal with Guthy-Renker was their key to success and if it had not happened then proactive would have had very low chances of existing in the market today. Infomercials were a better choice for Proactiv than print and media advertising because it was necessary to educate people on the product rather than just advertise (Agree and Martin). Infomercials offered more time to make this possible as compared to advertising through media and print where not many people would pay attention and most probably would assume it not to work as the ones already in the market. Proactiv’s positioning strategy has made it to be a success in the market as these strategies were able to distinguish it from the other products that were already in the market. Categorizing their product under skin care product rather than acne products enabled them to tap into a more attractive and larger market share. Coming up with the name Proactiv also played a major role for the product

Collaborative Knowledge Management Tools Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Collaborative Knowledge Management Tools - Essay Example For instance, a construction project management faced with an increasing case of problems and pressure such as costs, quantity, quality, labor among others, need proper project and design managers who would be analyzing large number of data when making crucial decision. It also focusses on integration, creation and dispersals of knowledge into the concerned society, where solution created is put forward by these collaborative techniques arising from proper management of technical knowhow or rather creativity (Dean, et al., 2010). Inter-connected problems which come from creative collaborative knowledge processes are captured and shared in such a way that they are managed sufficiently to achieve the desired aims and objectives. This means generally that whatever the objective of an operational firm, clinic or project, proper management of their used skills in a collaborative manner is no doubt necessary to ensure these objectives are achieved optimally (Antonino & Ronaldo, 2010). The management of a firm should embrace collaborative knowledge management tools in all levels of administration. This ensures that time and cost of decision making within the firm is saved and thus increases its profitability. It also enables easy flow of communication and skills among employees which results to improved productivity and work

Commerce Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Commerce Education - Essay Example I think that Commerce assist form the foundations youthful people need to make sound decisions on monetary, commerce, legal and service issues because it supply practical knowledge, skills, sympathetic and values. Having information regarding these concepts and how to apply them is helpful for young adults to study early. "With changing times, the need to give young people a grip on money management has increased... More than a third of school students' work, and two-thirds of 15 to 19-year-olds earn up to $200 a week. Not all know how to handle that income" (Russell, 2004; Age). Furthermore, Commerce offers students with "and understanding of the relations between consumers, trade and governments in the in general economy" (Board of Studies, NSW, 2003). These are subjects that they may not unavoidably think regarding, even though they previously earning and spending currency. If we analyzed then we come to know that Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) conducted investigation last year to find out how customer education is taught in Australia and abroad in order to assist design a program to get better financial literacy amongst teenagers. "Young Australians stand for a $4 billion a year profitable market. Through more spending power then preceding generations, youthful children and adolescents are increasingly the target group for different forms of marketing practices and commercial pressures" (CAV, 2004). It is significant that adolescent adults are conscious of their rights and farm duties as consumers because they are previously purchasing products such as mobile phones and cars that frequently comprise multifaceted contracts. A key finding from the research was that lots of students do not take delivery of consumer education at school. I feel that Commerce education is generally delivering the right kind of educational experiences for the current generation. I do although agree that young adults would most definitely benefit if the curriculum added a more in-depth unit on financial literacy and consumer education. We are living in a constantly changing world and society must provide our children with education that will prepare them for a life of revelation. No doubt, this literature suggests that in the prospect "the curriculum will be justified in terms of its capacity to help children acquire skills for work and life" (Collins, 2002, pg 45). So the financial system and society of the future have to be taken into account when developing commerce prospectus. The main concepts urbanized in the Economy and society thread include: Civics and communal organization, Citizenship, Economic organization and decision-making, Employment,

Collaborative Knowledge Management Tools Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Collaborative Knowledge Management Tools - Essay Example For instance, a construction project management faced with an increasing case of problems and pressure such as costs, quantity, quality, labor among others, need proper project and design managers who would be analyzing large number of data when making crucial decision. It also focusses on integration, creation and dispersals of knowledge into the concerned society, where solution created is put forward by these collaborative techniques arising from proper management of technical knowhow or rather creativity (Dean, et al., 2010). Inter-connected problems which come from creative collaborative knowledge processes are captured and shared in such a way that they are managed sufficiently to achieve the desired aims and objectives. This means generally that whatever the objective of an operational firm, clinic or project, proper management of their used skills in a collaborative manner is no doubt necessary to ensure these objectives are achieved optimally (Antonino & Ronaldo, 2010). The management of a firm should embrace collaborative knowledge management tools in all levels of administration. This ensures that time and cost of decision making within the firm is saved and thus increases its profitability. It also enables easy flow of communication and skills among employees which results to improved productivity and work

Is debt a bad thing. Discuss the impact of debt on the housing market Essay

Is debt a bad thing. Discuss the impact of debt on the housing market in the UK, with reference to; (a) Levels of pesonal debt (b) Rent Arrears (c) Housing Association - Essay Example The loan seeker might be badly in need of the money and will accept all the conditions of the lender. Western people generally and the UK people in particular have a have a habit of spending all the money they earned and they don’t bother much about the need of saving for the future. Whenever they are in need of a bulk amount for purchasing a home or car they will approach the banks or other financial institutions for loan. These financial institutions are ready to help everybody irrespective of their financial capabilities before the current global economic problems started. But at present most of the financial institutions have tightened the screws by enforcing strict rules and regulations for granting loans for individuals. Housing market is one of the most important sectors as far as the loan exercise is concerned. Some of the statistics available for the UK housing market in 2009 is given below. There were 6,200 first-time buyer loans for properties between the old threshold of  £125,000 and the temporary threshold of  £175,000, representing 32% of the 19,700 loans to first-time buyers in September. In addition, 7,800 first-time buyers (40%) bought properties valued below the  £125,000 original threshold. There were 7,300 home mover loans for properties between  £125,000 and  £175,000 which was 24% of the 31,000 loans to home movers in September (One third of first-time buyers make lucky stamp duty escape, 2009) It is evident from the table that the borrowing habits in the housing market go on increasing. Because of the current recession, the criteria for lending have been tightened by many financial institutions and even then the borrowing habits were not affected. House prices are skyrocketing year after year and the earnings of the ordinary people are not enough to meet even for their daily expenses. The current global financial crisis has come

Escape and Evade Training Essay Example for Free

Escape and Evade Training Essay The applications of military simulations can be categorized into three types: 1) those for research, development, and acquisition, 2) those for the study of advanced concepts and requirements and; 3) those for training, education and military operations. In the first group, simulation models provide insight into the cost and performance of military equipment, processes, or missions that are planned for the future. The second category allows the military to develop a doctrine of operations, create an internal organization, and select materials for acquisition. The third group of applications includes a simulation system involving specific military scenarios where soldiers and military personnel test doctrines, experiment with new ideas, and assess the usefulness of military concepts in a real warfare situation. The Vehicle Driving course familiarizes Soldiers with driving skills needed to traverse rough terrain. (from American Army) A simulated environment in military training most often consists of a virtual model of a three-dimensional representation of a system that is operating in a digital three-dimensional environment that includes military vehicles and humans that would appear on a battlefield. In this virtual model, individual soldiers are immersed in a system that generates visual, aural, and tactile stimuli that aims to train, test, or measure the ability of the human to respond in a desirable manner to the stimuli (Smith, 2007, p. 2). The US military also use constructive models where the user is not immersed in the virtual environment but is the one controlling the elements of the model. The constructive model is different from the virtual model lies in the method of human interaction, the lack of a three-dimensional representation of the object or system, and the number of objects being controlled by the user. In the constructive model, the user could control several objects or groups of objects. Computer technology has however developed constructive simulations known as Semi-Automated Forces (SAF) systems where the human user and intelligent models of human behavior embedded in the software both control the objects in the simulated system. The user maps out and directs the mission while the SAF supports the user by providing detailed control of activities like movement and engagement. The advantage of constructive models are that they allow a user to comprehend the operations of a much broader battlefield and to capture the behavior of a higher-level aggregate of objects, Also, constructive models could represent the organization, representation, and information that are used in the real military organizational hierarchy. (Smith, 2007, p. 4) Military simulations also consist of engineering models that represent properties of materials, liquids, aerodynamics, servomechanisms, and computer control of specific systems in an attempt to understand the physical capabilities of the system at a level that is accurate enough to be used to design the system. Through the use of advanced computer technologies and modeling techniques, the military could develop digital models of systems that are nearly as predictive as are live physical tests because sensor, communication, and recording equipment can be placed at the precise place and time of interest. Military engineering models also include interactions between two physical objects or between an object and its environment. The primary benefit of using simulated models is that learners are not limited to using just a few physical prototypes and could conduct experiments in infinite variations to collect data from all points in space and time around the event of interest. (Smith, 2007, p. 3). The American Army website features virtual games that provide players with the most authentic military experience available, from exploring the development of soldiers in individual and collective training to their deployment in simulated missions. The required training missions give the player an idea of what its like for real U. S. Army Soldiers to train for duty. The training games include Basic Combat Training (BCT), Advanced Individual Training (AIT), Advanced Marksmanship (Adv. Mkshp), Airborne School (Airborne), Medic Training (Medic), Special Forces Training (SFAS). Virtual simulation in healthcare and medical training Virtual simulation is now widely for medical instruction and study as it effectively links classroom learning with real-life clinical practice. Guided by their current medical knowledge, medical students are able to learn important clinical skills in simulated true-to-life medical settings before they work with real patients. Simulation-based techniques immerse medical students in real-life learning situations for various types of learning in terms of knowledge, tasks and skills, decision-making, and teamwork. It offers focused learning experiences that cannot be readily obtained using traditional techniques or in real patient care situations. Knowledge of facts, concepts, and the relationships between them such as the fundamental description of human biology and physiology, the applied description of the human body in health and disease, the conceptual and practical basis of therapy, evidence-based protocols that guide optimum therapy are more mastered through virtual simulation classroom techniques (Stanford School of Medicine). Unlike some other disciplines that utilize words, drawings, numbers, and spreadsheets, health care requires psychomotor skills of the clinician who lay hands on a patient and perform important procedures. Tasks and skills that encompass the practical and physical parts of medicine and health care could well be developed and honed through virtual simulation because these psychomotor skills can only be mastered hands-on training. Such skills include physical examination, blood drawing, invasive procedures (such as spinal tap or chest drainage) and complex surgical procedures (such as laparoscopic surgery or cardiac surgery) and catheter-based interventions (such as â€Å"cath-lab† procedures treating aortic aneurysm or carotid artery blockage). (Stanford School of Medicine)

Effects of Redbull on Performance of Male Athletes

Effects of Redbull on Performance of Male Athletes Executive Summary Consumption of supplements and energy drinks has become a norm among athletes now. However, there are different studies in support as well as against the energy drink consumption for athletes, on whether it has a positive effect on the performance or not. The aim of this research was to investigate the acute effects of an energy drink (Red Bull) on the performance difference levels in male athletes. Thirty male athletes were selected from different backgrounds to participate in this study.. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups; Group A (experimental) Group B (non-experimental). Measurements of their running times were taken and the average was calculated. In the second session, group A was given an intake of 250 ml of Red Bull energy drink, while all the members of group B were not given any energy drink. The experiment was carried out again. The differences between the teams as well as between the two sessions were taken into account. Introduction Although in recent years, athletes have improved their performance levels, they share  the same quest with their historical counterparts: success and victory at the Olympic  Games. So every time, very different methods were tried by athletes to achieve this aim. In this way, consumption of energy drinks by athletes has become increasingly popular. Athletes believe that energy drinks can be used to enhance their performance during  training and competition due to their potentially ergogenic ingredients such as carbohydrates, caffeine, sodium and taurine, among others. Background Energy drinks have become more and more popular since the late nineties. The manufactures claim that these drinks improve physical endurance, reaction speed and concentration. The main ingredients of energy drinks are caffeine, sugar, taurine and glucuronolactone. According to the manufacturers, the stimulating effects of these drinks are due to interaction between the various ingredients. Sport drink consumption is recommended for most sports and not all of the sport beverages are the same. They differ in type and concentration of carbohydrates, electrolytes, flavors and other constituents. Some simply replace carbohydrates and electrolytes; others provide added protein, specific amino acids, and even fat, while still others provide herbs, vitamins, and caffeine. Literature Review Energy or power drinks (e.g., Battery, B52, Dark Dog, Jess, Red Bat, Red Bull,  Rhinos) are beverages designed and consumed for purposes other than for improving  athletic performance: for instance, to reduce the depressant effects of alcohol on the central nervous system. On the other hand, sports and fluid-electrolyte replacement beverages (e.g., Gatorade, Powerade) are designed and consumed to enhance athletic performance or to reduce the deleterious effects of dehydration during athletic competitions (Carvajal- Sancho, Moncada- Jimà ©nez, 2005). It should be noted that, although energy drinks have been sold worldwide for more  than a decade, unfortunately only a few studies have apparently been published to test the  effectiveness of these beverages on the physical or cognitive performance in athletes (Alford, Cox, Wescott, 2001; Baum Weib, 2001; Carvajal- Sancho Moncada-Jimà ©nez, 2005). So far, no data is available in regard to the effectiveness these beverages on anaerobic power and the delay of blood lactate accumulation. Some scientific studies with similar topics will cited later on. Nevertheless, in most  cases, their topics were not directly related to anaerobic power or delaying blood lactate  accumulation. Alford et al. (2001) investigating the effects of an energy drink (Red Bull) on  psychomotor, anaerobic and aerobic performance (anaerobic performance was measured  by a 20s cycle ergometer test), reported that the Red Bull group improved aerobic and  anaerobic performance by 9% and 24%, respectively. Similarly, Carvajal- Sancho   Moncada- Jimà ©nez (2005) studied the acute effect of an energy drink on physical  performance (100 m sprint, hand dynamometer and standing long jump) and indicated no significant changes in physical and cognitive variables. In another research, the influence  of a multivitamin/mineral supplement on anaerobic exercise performance (a 30-second  cycle sprint test and one set of squat exercise) was studied by Fry et al. (2006) and a decreased rate of fatigue was noted for both exercise tests. In addition, Olson and Seifert (2004) carried out a study to determine if consumption of a carbohydrate-protein drink could improve skating performance. The results showed that, in the experimental group, speed performance improved by 8% and reaction time improved by 12%. Kipp et al.(2003) also investigated the influence of a carbohydrate/protein sports drink on soccer sprint performance (four speed trials with 5 min of rest in between). In the carb-protein group, speed was improved between the first and last sprints by 1.1 seconds, while the other group slowed down by 2.2 seconds. There are many types of energy drinks which can be purchased over the counter by  everyone and their producers have claimed a variety of benefits in their advertisements. In the case of an intensively working skeletal muscle, this means a delay in the fall in  intramuscular pH to the critical level at which glycolysis is inhibited (Oo ¨pik et al., 2003; MacDougall et al., 1991). On the other hand, with regard to controversial reports about the effects of alkalinizing agents in the case of acute administration (Stout Antonio, 2002; Aschenbach et al., 2000; Bishop et al., 2004; Marx et al., 2002; McNaughton et al., 1999; Ball and Maughan, 1997; Wilkes et al., 1983), it is unclear whether the consumption of energy drinks can have such effects. PROBLEM STATEMENT Does the intake of Red Bull (energy drink) effect athletic performance of male athletes or not? Energy drinks are believed and marketed in a way to show that they enhance mental and athletic performance. Therefore, the concern of our research has been to find out whether the ingredients of one of the most used energy drink (Red Bull) effect the metabolism of human body in such a way that there in an increase in the physical athletic performance or not. Theoretical Frame Work Dependant Variable: Athletic Performance Independent Variable Red Bull Intervening Variable Uneven tracks, diseases to the athletes. Uneven tracks can be a big factor which can be controlled by carefully selecting an even and smooth running track. While the intervening variable of diseases to the athletes can be taken care of in the athlete selection process. In the initial questionnaire results, the athletes with some serious health disorders can be filtered out. Hypothesis The researcher intends to test the following hypothesis using their research: Alternative Hypothesis (HA) There is a relation between the intake of Red Bull with the athletic performance of male athletes. Null Hypothesis (Ho) There is no relation between the intake of Red Bull with the athletic performance of male athletes. The Theoretical Framework Performance of Athletes/Players Intake of Red Bull Independent Variable Dependent Variable Uneven track Diseases Intervening Variables Methodology The name of the research methodology is non-manipulative as in our research we have control on our independent variables and it is a field experiment. Participants: In order to be eligible to participate in the study, subjects had to meet the following inclusion criteria which were obtained by means of a questionnaire: a) to train/play for at least four days per week (approximately 30 min in each session); b) not to be on medication or nutritional supplementation; and c) not to consume energy drinks regularly. Potential participants were excluded from the study if they: a) presented psychiatric or neurological diseases; b) were sensitive to any ingredient contained in the energy drink; c) were under any nutritional supplementation regimen that included either caffeine, sugar, taurine and glucuronolactone; e) had evident cardiac problems. Thirty regular male football players (age: 24.34 ±1.74years, height: 183.26 ±7.66 cm, weight: 81.37 ±6.85 kg) volunteered to participate in this study. The volunteers read and signed an informed consent form with a medical history questionnaire before beginning the study. Then, the nature of the study was explained to the subjects, and they were given an opportunity to ask questions about anything that was unclear. APPARATUS We used questionnaire as our research tool for the initial screening of athletes. While stethoscope and blood pressure sphingo-meter apparatus were used to measure the heartbeat and blood pressure respectively. A stop watch was used to note down the sprint timings. PROCEDURE Procedure: The aim of this research was to investigate the acute effects of an energy drink (Red Bull) on the performance difference levels in male athletes. Thirty regular male athletes (soccer players) (age: 25.34 ±1.74years, height: 182.26 ±7.66 cm, weight: 78.37 ±6.85 kg and BF%: 13.2 ±2.7%) were selected from different backgrounds to participate in this study. This research was conducted on two separate sessions with four days of rest in between. Two experimental conditions were tested: a) control (no drink); b) energy drink. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups; Group A (experimental) Group B (non-experimental). In the first session, both the groups were assigned to run on a 100m track without any liquid intake. Measurements of their running times were taken and the average was calculated. In the second session, group A was given an intake of 250 ml of Red Bull energy drink, while all the members of group B were not given any energy drink. The experiment was carried out again. The differences between the teams as well as between the two sessions were taken into account. One week before the data collection took place. The participants were instructed on how to perform the whole experiment and underwent a familiarization session. The subjects were instructed to avoid alcohol, nicotine and other stimulants and also avoid strenuous activities and sudden changes in food consumption (including any nutritional supplementation products) the day before the experiment. In addition, they were asked to maintain regular physical activities during the days prior to the experiment, as recommended by Carvajal-Sancho and Moncada-Jimà ©nez (2005). Moreover, they were asked to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and get an adequate amount of sleep (6 to 8 hours) the night before the test (Byars et al., 2006). The clothing, shoes, as well as all equipment used, were consistent for each subject and were recorded to establish controlled experimental conditions. APPARATUS VALIDITY Apparatuses used in our study were stethoscope, blood pressure apparatus (sphino-meter), stop-watch, pen and paper. The heartbeat rate (bpm) was measured with the help of stethoscope, blood pressure with the help of blood pressure apparatus and the running time were measured by the stop watch. The apparatus was duly checked by the hospital authorities and confirmed to be in valid functional conditions. RESULTS The results show that the group A, after the intake of Red Bull energy drink did show an almost negligible good performance, thus not supporting the hypothesis. The experiments, apart from giving out the main results also gave some very interesting facts. For example; Group A (experimental) showed increase in the time to exhaustion, which is ultimately related to the ingredients of Red Bull. Hence, we will select, HA(alternative): There is a relation between the intake of Red Bull with the athletic performance of male athletes. As it is clear to see the difference through the results. This proves that after the intake of Red Bull, the athletic performance increases. Discussion The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Red Bull energy drink on the performance of male athletes. Results of this study indicated that ingestion of Red Bull prior to exercise testing is effective on the athletes performance. In the present study it was observed that Red Bull energy drink caused an 11.78% decrease in the blood pressure and a 15.86% increase in the heartbeat rate (bpm). The 100m sprint performance time in the group A(experimental group) showed improvement, even after repetitive attempts. Potentially, caffeine could have a number of actions that affect skeletal and heart muscle. It can increase sympathetic activity, and has direct intracellular action. The increase in heartbeat rate (bpm) may be attributed to ingredients such as caffeine,taurine, glucuronolacton. Caffeine has been shown to have desirable effects for performing athletes fighting fatigue and increasing energy. The stimulant effect of caffeine could make it effective for increasing alertness while performing in a fatigued state. Taurine is also famous to aid in the contractile function of skeletal muscle and for providing increased ability of the muscle to contract, amplifying muscle force generation. In this study it was found that Red Bull energy drink caused up to 10.5% increase in time to exhaustion. However the previous researches and the current results, both support the fact that the ingestion of Red Bull energy drink does not have a significant enough impact on the performance of athletes, that it be strongly recommended to athletes for increased and better performance. No reports were identified of negative effects associated with the amount of taurine found in most energy drinks. Commonly reported adverse effects seen with caffeine in the quantities present in most energy drinks are insomnia, nervousness, headache, and tachycardia. Four documented case reports of caffeine-associated deaths were found, as well as four separate cases of seizures associated with the consumption of energy drinks. Acknowledgements First of all thanks to Allah Almighty who blessed me the strength and devotion to complete this research. I would thank my college fellow Adil Khan, who has helped me in the selection of the male athlete subjects. I would also like to thank Haider Behzad who helped me immensely with the research work. Moreover, I am also very thankful to all the people, who were part of the research and gave me their precious time. Without their help, it wouldnt have been possible to complete this research project. AND LAST BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, I would like to thank my instructor, my mentor for the course, Mr. Humair Hashmi for pushing me forward, motivating me with his masterly tactics and enabling me to carry out the research in a professional manner. Appendix The sample of the questionnaire is below; INSTRUCTIONS KINDLY ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS MARK ONLY ONE OPTION IN THE SEGMENT OF ANSWERS NAME:______________ AGE:_____________ Q1> How many days do you exercise in a week? 4days 5days 6days Q2> Do you use any kind of drugs? Yes No Q3> Your preference towards exercise/workout? Gym Swimming Soccer Running Q4> Do you carry any breathing disease or any major disease? Yes No Q5> Do you use any kind of supplements? Yes No

George Bizek :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Georges Bizet, who is best known for his opera, Carmen, has remained somewhat of a mystery as far as his musical education, social life, and personal life. He is not like so many other composers and musicians of the Romantic Period who led a highly publicized life like Hector Berlioz, Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, or Johannes Brahms. He spent his short life devoted to music and he did not quite make it into the limelight like these other Romantic composers. The most believable explanation for his obscurity would be the lack of scandal in his life. He had a happy childhood, was well awarded with musical scholarships, and a happy marriage.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Georges Bizet grew up in a musical house. His father was a singing teacher and his mother was a well-known pianist who had attended the Paris Conservatory. His parents encouraged him in music. His father was confident that his son would become a great musician. His father was actually too supportive of his musical education. He had been known to hide young Georges' other school books so he would not be distracted from his musical studies. He received his first music lesson from his mother when he was just four years old. She was teaching him to read music at the same time she was teaching him his alphabet.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bizet was enrolled in the Paris Conservatory when he was nine years old. This was a special exception arranged by his uncle who taught at the Conservatory, since Bizet was still a year younger than the minimum age requirement. Here he studied piano, organ, singing, harp, strings, woodwinds, and composition. His instructors were the composers Charles Gounod, who is known for his opera Faust, and who is considered the greatest musical influence in Bizet's life. And Jacque Halevy, who wrote the opera LaJuive, is also considered an important musical influence. He had a unique, unstructured teaching style. Halevy would listen to and correct his students but he would never require them to do any specific types of composition. This was to affect Bizet throughout his life as he would be known to start and abandon work after work. This was blamed directly on Halevy's lack of discipline. At age fifteen, Halevy tried to convince Bizet to go and compete for the Prix de Rome. Bizet refused sighting his immaturity and need for additional background.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   During his time as a student he wrote Symphony in C Major (1855), which was not performed during Bizet's lifetime, but from it's first performance in 1935 it has become an established symphony in a standard repertoire. George Bizek :: essays research papers   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Georges Bizet, who is best known for his opera, Carmen, has remained somewhat of a mystery as far as his musical education, social life, and personal life. He is not like so many other composers and musicians of the Romantic Period who led a highly publicized life like Hector Berlioz, Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, or Johannes Brahms. He spent his short life devoted to music and he did not quite make it into the limelight like these other Romantic composers. The most believable explanation for his obscurity would be the lack of scandal in his life. He had a happy childhood, was well awarded with musical scholarships, and a happy marriage.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Georges Bizet grew up in a musical house. His father was a singing teacher and his mother was a well-known pianist who had attended the Paris Conservatory. His parents encouraged him in music. His father was confident that his son would become a great musician. His father was actually too supportive of his musical education. He had been known to hide young Georges' other school books so he would not be distracted from his musical studies. He received his first music lesson from his mother when he was just four years old. She was teaching him to read music at the same time she was teaching him his alphabet.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bizet was enrolled in the Paris Conservatory when he was nine years old. This was a special exception arranged by his uncle who taught at the Conservatory, since Bizet was still a year younger than the minimum age requirement. Here he studied piano, organ, singing, harp, strings, woodwinds, and composition. His instructors were the composers Charles Gounod, who is known for his opera Faust, and who is considered the greatest musical influence in Bizet's life. And Jacque Halevy, who wrote the opera LaJuive, is also considered an important musical influence. He had a unique, unstructured teaching style. Halevy would listen to and correct his students but he would never require them to do any specific types of composition. This was to affect Bizet throughout his life as he would be known to start and abandon work after work. This was blamed directly on Halevy's lack of discipline. At age fifteen, Halevy tried to convince Bizet to go and compete for the Prix de Rome. Bizet refused sighting his immaturity and need for additional background.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   During his time as a student he wrote Symphony in C Major (1855), which was not performed during Bizet's lifetime, but from it's first performance in 1935 it has become an established symphony in a standard repertoire.

Empowerment on Girl Child Essay

With sacrificing family resources to educate a girl child and a potential future leader still a big societal challenge, any effort to see the education of a girl is a huge boon. So when millions of dollars are poured into the effort, the impact cannot be overemphasised. The Campaign for Female Education (Camfed), introduced some few years back, has seen remarkable change of fortunes to many a rural folk. Now, a US$19 million bursary programme has been launched to benefit 24 000 girls from disadvantaged families in rural Guruve, Mashonaland Central. The launch was conducted at colourful ceremony at Chifamba Secondary School in the area recently. With testimonies of previous beneficiaries of the programme giving the clear picture of changed lives, more girls are set to change for the better. Already, lives have changed and tales are being told. More are coming, definitely. Twenty-five-year-old Bridget Moyo was born in the dusty village of Wedza in a polygamous family. Her mother sired six children and the other children under the genealogy of her father are incalculable. She needs to sit down and count them from her father’s first wife until the last. Being a girl on a polygamous family, she was not spared from challenges women as a whole face. From birth she was automatically rendered a future beggar. Her education was considered optional and it was the first thing to be sacrificed in a crisis. Her brothers, uncles and male cousins’ needs had to come first for the family. The family’s future was seen to be in their hands and blood, so it was to them that the family’s resources should be spent primarily. As if that was not enough, the family was so much immersed in poverty. School fees and levies were a luxury they could only dream of and there wasn’t enough for the family to eat. â€Å"I lost count of how many other people’s fields we worked in to make ends meet with my mother. It was not unusual for people to approach my mother and offer me a job as their housemaid,† Bridget said. She said it was very tragic in that some people had the audacity to exchange her labour services with a bucket of maize a month. â€Å"I am a proud member of the Johane Marange Apostolic Sect and my growing up in the church came with benefits and challenges. â€Å"I feel at home hen at church where I am accepted with expectations like other girls who have to get married at a tender age. † â€Å"In my teenage years, I was only supposed to dream about the kind of husband I was going to marry. Even if it meant dropping out of school, I did not drop out until I attained my university degree,† Bridget went on to narrate her ordeal. The turning point in Bridget’s life came after she got a bursary before attending secondary education. â€Å"In primary school I vividly remember being nominated a prefect before the school authorities reversed the decision because I did not have a school uniform. I never had a worry about the strategy to use to sneak back into classroom after being sent home on numerous occasions to collect the fees . Currently I am a holder of Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship,† she said. This is not the only sad tale about girls who rise from invisibility to visibility after attaining education. Another is Talent Tokoda, who grew up as an orphan and single child. Talent was born and bred in Chivhu, where her mother took care of all the family needs. â€Å"It was a nightmare getting shoes or having a proper uniform. I struggled through primary school to completion but fortunately I passed with five units which are a sharp contrast to the struggles I went through. † â€Å"Time to enrol for secondary education came and my hope was like a dim light at the far end of a tunnel which could turn off anytime. A week before I was supposed to go to secondary school, I neither had school fees nor secured a place at any school. † â€Å"I could spend the whole day in the garden with my mother. I got the surprise of my life when I was told that my fees were going to be paid for until I complete Advanced Level,† Talent said in front of the dumbfounded crowd. She passed Advanced Level and was enrolled at the University of Zimbabwe where she is doing her final year studying for a Bachelor in Medicine and Surgery. â€Å"I am proud that I proved to doomsayers that I can achieve any goal men can achieve. In August next year I will be a qualified medical doctor,† Talent said in front of the cheering crowd. This mirrors how the personality can be moulded to greatness. Guruve District’s pass rate is pegged at 25 percent with the national pass rate sitting at 21 percent. Assisting the girl child with resources will help improve the pass rate at rural schools. For example, at Chifamba Secondary School the pass rate for girls is pegged at 10 percent. Research revealed that in Sub-Saharan Africa, 24 million girls cannot afford to go to school and as a result a girl may marry as young as 13. Camfed executive director for Zimbabwe and Malawi, Ms Angeline Murimirwa said it is vital to improve educational access, progression and completion for marginalised secondary school girls. â€Å"The coverage of bursaries will span for four years in 28 rural districts including resettlement areas. The other money will provide a package of support to schools, training of school development committees and support for parents to enable children currently out of school to enrol,† she said. Ms Murimirwa said it is imperative to enhance participation of women in national activities from district level. â€Å"Most secondary school girls drop out of school opting to get married or as a result of lacking financial support. â€Å"Organisations need to cherish marginalised communities and the idea that women constitute a greater percentage to the national population,† she said.

External Environment Analysis Kraft Foods Essay

In the every changing and expanding food industry it is imperative organizations conduct strategic marketing to remain on top of their industry and make better plans for their future. Strategic marketing drives organizations to their peak of success and draws customer loyalty. The Porter Five Analysis and PEST analysis are two of the tools utilized by strategist to enhance organizational success. The Porter Five model examines the internal workings of the organization as well as the industry letting organizations know about potential threats. The PEST analysis on the other hand examines the macro-environment, looking at potential political and social threats to industry. The utilization of these two models together will better equip organizations to face ever changing industries and see potential threats. Below the author will discuss the different aspect of each model as well as provide useful web links to gather additional information. Porter Five Forces Analysis The Porter Five Analysis was developed by Michael Porter as a tool utilized by organizations to help identify the structure and competitiveness within an industry (Porter, 2008). It encompasses five different forces that shape the industry; threat of new entrants, threat of substitute products, bargaining power of buyers, bargaining power of suppliers and rivalry among existing competitors (Porter). The ability to analyze and understand trends and threats within an industry is critical for â€Å"effective strategic planning† that will render organizational success (Porter). Below is an analysis of Kraft Foods utilizing the Porter Five analysis model. Buyer Power With so many different varieties of brands available to consumers it is essential that organizations research consumer needs and demands in order to remain successful. As competition increases within the industry,  organizations must â€Å"create new products that adapt to the changing lifestyles and preferences of consumers, which have shifted to a focus on health and wellness† (Hathaway, Mrak-Blumberg, Wexler-Beron, 2006). Consumers have no loyalty or obligation to stay with one brand and will easily switch as prices and nutritional labels fit their needs. Conducting analysis of competitor’s financial statements will also help paint a picture of consumer trends helping organizations to adjust their products. Below are several websites that provide different information on the power that consumers hold. 1. This website discusses some very important facts relating to the immense power that consumers possess in the food industry and how the demand for healthy food is increasing the price of raw materials resulting in organizations absorbing the overhead costs to keep prices low. It also provides some information of Kraft Foods biggest competitors. Analysis of competitors can help strategists determine future marketing strategies and how to establish brand loyalty. Monitoring competition allows for change and adaptability permitting one to stay on top of their industry by tailoring products to consumer needs/demands. 2. This website provides information that describes the growing demands of consumers and the growth of the healthy food craze. This website really demonstrates the power that consumers hold in the food industry. Consumers are mandating healthy food choices with no GMO labeling. This has caused organizations to generate new products that are healthy and cater to consumer needs if they are to stay successful. Analyzing consumer trends is extremely important as it will allow a business to better tailor their food products and draw in new consumers and maintain loyalty of old consumers. http://www.inspirationgreen.com/vote-yes-on-37.html Supplier Power Although there are only ten major suppliers for Kraft Foods they have extreme power over the food industry. Walmart is one of Kraft Foods largest clients with the most revenue generated and with so many competitors on the market Kraft Foods must absorb the additional costs of producing cheap food in order to stay competitive. An individual supplier must â€Å"offer something  special to stand out from the crowd, such as a lower price, faster delivery time, more flexible credit terms, higher product quality or volume discounts† (Sullivan, n.d.) 1. This article provides a thorough discussion and different view point on supplier power and monopoly in the food industry. It provides a discussion on how big organizations, such as Wal-Mart, exert their power over their suppliers. Different suppliers have monopolies at supermarkets and can pay for primary shelf space and promote their brands. This leads to smaller suppliers struggling in an industry dominated by large supply compani es and large retailers. http://documents.foodandwaterwatch.org/doc/RetailConcentration-web.pdf 2. Pratt provides a good discussion on how to analyze the bargaining power of suppliers. Understanding the questions he poses will enable an organization to potentially avoid competition and build quality relationships with suppliers thus enhancing chances of industry success. http://ezinearticles.com/?Understanding-the-Bargaining-Power-of-Your-Suppliers&id=4251948 3. This informative website provides a list of the Kraft Foods suppliers. Determining the number of suppliers in an industry can help strategist determine the bargaining power of the suppliers. In hard times suppliers can ration their products causing organizations to spend more money upfront and lose revenues. When an organization is able to differentiate their product from competitors it is easier for them to bargain with suppliers for fair pricing. http://www.dailytrader.com/ss-kraft-foods/suppliers.html Threats of Entrants When an industry is booming the threat of new entrants is high as everyone wants to make profits. The threat of new organizations creates competition among an industry and influences their ability to maintain profits (Wilkinson, 2013). Firms in this industry preserve market share through brand loyalty, diversification and the barriers placed within the industry to enter the market (Porter, 2008). It is therefore imperative that these brands maintain quality at a competitive price and drive off new competition. 1. The following website points out the current economy/industry sales for Kraft Foods and their top competitors. This is a good website as it will paint a picture for future companies as to the  market capital, net income, dividends, operating margin and growth revenue. All of which are great indicators as to expenses and revenue generated and allows them to determining if starting a business in this industry is worth the overhead, time and effort. It can also help determine how different products by different companies are comparing to each other. http://financials.morningstar.com/competitors/industry-peer.action?t=KRFT ®ion=usa&culture=en-US 2. This web page provides a table with Kraft Foods top competitors broken down by categories allowing easy access to different aspects of the business. This also allows potential companies to determine which industry they would have the most impact in to succeed. Additionally it provides revenue, income and market share. http://csimarket.com/stocks/competitionSEG2.php?code=KRFT 3. NASDAQ is a great reference for organizations looking at trends in the food industry as it provides information on the financial, size and growth trends as well as market cap. This information is essential to determine if an organization can compete in certain industries. http://www.nasdaq.com/symbol/krft/competitors 4. This informative document discusses current economic indicators and the growth of the food industry over the last 10 years. It talks about nature of the industry, market overview, demand and annual food spending at home. Additionally it provides a discussion on the issues affecting the industry. This resource will help paint a vivid picture of the economy of the industry and help determine if a new product will succeed. http://trade.gov/td/ocg/report08_processedfoods.pdf Threat of Substitutes The growing health trends have led many companies to adapt and change products to fit consumer demands. With a variety of brands available it is imperative organizations cater to consumers in order to avoid losing their loyalty to another company. â€Å"Consumers in the industry have minimal switching costs and there is never the guarantee of brand loyalty† (Hathaway, Mrak-Blumberg, Wexler-Beron, 2006). In order to keep loyal consumers organizations in this industry must offer new and innovative  products. 1. This document provides valuable information on consumer trends, healthy eating, industry dynamic, emerging products, and success factors. This valuable information helps organizations determine current trends and how they can adapt to remain successful and ahead of their competition within the industry. http://www.pwc.com/us/en/transaction-services/publications/assets/functional-foods.pdf 2. This is a very informative website that discusses current trends in the food industry while stating growth percentages specifically relating to the healthy snacking options. This is a good site to gain a better understanding and insight to healthy alternatives that competitors may be producing as well as market trends http://www.snackandbakery.com/articles/84475-snack-food-industry-trends 3. Organic Trade Association website provides information on industry statistics and projected growth trends which is can assist organizations in determining their future products based on consumer trends. http://www.ota.com/organic/mt/business.html Rivalry Among Existing Competitors In every industry there is rivalry amongst organizations to win over consumers. This can generate new and innovative products, intense sales promotions and pricing wars (Porter, 2008). On the outside this activities may appear to be beneficial but in reality it can lead to increased costs and decreased profits for organizations (Porter). 1. CSI Market online provides a nice graph detailing growth rates of the major competitors in the food industry. This is an extremely useful tool to help determine where you stand financially next to your competition. Utilizing this information may assist in determining if a new product should be launched and if new marketing tactics are needed. http://csimarket.com/stocks/competitionNO3.php?code=KRFT 2. If an organization is to remain successful and on top of their organization they must produce numerous products that cater to consumer demands, i.e healthy food choices. This innovative thinking keeps consumers coming back to the same brands and generates loyalty. http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/04/22/these-food-companies-are-the  -best-at-inspiring-bra.aspx PEST Analysis PEST analysis tool was developed by Francis Aguilar to help organization see the macro-environment of their business environment in order to make changes and maximize financial success (Mind Tools, n.d.). The ability to adapt and change business tactics to meet consumer demands can create new and improved products enhancing brand loyalty (Mind Tools). The PEST analysis focuses on political, economic, socio-cultural, and technological changes in the industry, helping organizations to determine different opportunities (Mind Tools). Political 1. This website provides information on regulations of the food industry, agricultural industry and federal regulations. Understanding the political implications and regulations of the food industry will assist with licensing and production of food products. It is imperative to know and understand these regulations in order to become and remain a successful and well respected brand. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs118 2. Harris provides a great article discussing government regulations for the food industry, to include agencies and their regulation methods. Knowing the correct process and FDA regulations will help bolster an organization while gain respect and trust from consumers. http://smallbusiness.chron.com/government-regulations-food-industry-76884.html 3. With the growing health trends the FDA has started enforcing stricter food labeling. This labeling ensures â€Å"stringent guidelines to maintain the integrity of the food label† (Philipson, 2005). Additionally this provides accurate information to consumers and allows them to make healthy educated decisions regarding the food they consume. http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/82/1/262S.full Economic 1. Yahoo Finance provides data on the economic conditions of the food industry as well as a forecast of the growth prospects. This information is valuable to organizations as it can assist in determining present and future growth trends, revenues and specific growth regions.  http://finance.yahoo.com/news/food-beverage-business-confidence-report-130100393.html 2. The FDA addresses the need for government involvement in food safety in order to strengthen consumer confidence thus enhancing food industry growth. It is also a tool that can be utilized to determine how globalization is affecting the economic environment (Mind Tools, n.d.). http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/FSMA/ucm326870.htm 3. Organic Trade Association provides a website with information on the economy of the growing organic food trend. The needs and demands of the consumers for healthier food options has driven many food industry organizations to reexamine their line of products and begin producing healthier food options. The demands of the consumers must be met in order for an organization to succeed. It is also important to consider the economic impact these changes can have on our environment and make sure we leave a positive footprint. http://www.ota.com/organic/mt/business.html Social 1. Over the last several years the food industry has had to adapt to the growing health conscious population and produce more healthy food alternatives. Understanding FDA regulations of labeling and marking and serving sizes on products will gain consumers trust that the products they are consumer are in line with a healthy life style. The social taboo of mislabeled or healthy food could potentially damage an organization. http://www.newsmaxhealth.com/Health-News/food-labels-fda-changes/2014/02/27/id/555199/ 2. Yahoo Finance provides an article discussing the importance of meeting the demands of the consumers in order to generate profits. Consumers are not only looking for healthy alternative in the grocery store but in restaurants too. There is an increased demand for nutritious organic fresh food in restaurants. Organizations must weigh the benefits between producing fresh products and providing affordable foods. http://finance.yahoo.com/news/health-wealth-food-beverage-industry-13 2935034.html Technological 1. Emerson discusses the evolution of technology in the food industry and how is has helped organizations to produce healthier and fresher food. Utilization of technology can allow organizations to produce large  quantities and variety of products thus catering to a larger consumer population and decreasing organizational costs. http://www.insidetechnology360.com/index.php/how-technology-has-affected-the-food-industry-22970/ 2. This website discusses the importance of evolving technology to running a successful business. Improved technology and software advances over the years have allowed for food industry organizations to make reordering of food and supplier easier and more convenient. These technologies can monitor refrigeration temperatures, energy usage helping to ensure the best food is available for the consumers. When consumers know that organizations go to extra measures to ensure product quality it generates brand loyalty and increased revenues. 3. Gould presents a very informative article regarding the importance of technology in the food industry. The use of technology assists with â€Å"decision making related to consumer insight, brand and product management and pricing† allowing organizations to maximize consumer needs and wants.   4. One new technology in the food industry is the utilization of biotechnology to increase efficiency of production and reduce environmental impact with increase production. This very informative slide show discusses the pros and cons of this innovative technology. In order to meet the growing health requirements by consumers it is beneficial for organizations to understand what technology their competitors are utilizing.   Conclusion If an organization is to succeed it is imperative a thorough analysis of the industry and environment is conducted. Utilization of the Porter Five Analysis will provide organizations with information on the internal and immediate threats to their organization. The PEST analysis on the other hand provides information on the marco-environment allowing organizations to focus on new opportunities for growth and success and see potential threats to the industry. Although both of these methods have different focuses,  when utilized together a significant amount of information in generated that will guide an organization on the path to a successful and profitable future. References Hathaway, J., Mrak-Blumberg, E., Wexler-Beron, E. (2006, April 4). Strategic Report for TheKraft Foods Corporation. Pandora Group Out of the Box Consulting. Retrieved July 23,2014 fromhttp://economicsfiles.pomona.edu/jlikens/SeniorSeminars/pandora/reports/kraft.pdf Mind Tools. (n.d.). PEST Analysis. Retrieved July 24, 2014 fromhttp://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTMC_09.htm Philipson, T. (2005). Government Perspective: Food Labeling 1,2,3. The American Journal ofClinical Nutrition, 82. Retrieved July 23, 2014 fromhttp://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/82/1/262S.full Porter, M. (2008, January). The Five Competitive Forces that Shape Strategy. Harvard BusinessReview. Retrieved July 23, 2014 from http://hbr.org/2008/01/the-five-competitive-forcesthat-shape-strategy/ar/1 Sullivan, D. (n.d.). Food Industry: The Bargaining Power of Suppliers. Chron Small Business.Retrieved July 24, 2014 from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/fast-food-industrybargaining-power-suppliers-78188.html