Circuit Soldering Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Circuit Soldering Assignment - Essay Example They can also be covered (Linsley 46). Methods through which circuit soldering is achieved include manual soldering whereby, a skilled person uses his hand to solder joints that have flaws and to solder connections. In this method, it is vital to limit the time of contact of the soldering iron. Another method is reflow soldering where, solder is put at the joints before actual soldering. It is put at the joints as a paste or a preform. The solder is then melted through heating with gas, or through resistance (Linsley 48). There are various tools used in circuit soldering. They include an electric soldering iron, and a soldering gun. A soldering gun is a trigger- controlled soldering iron. On being triggered, it takes just 10 seconds for the bit to attain 3150C. The soldering gun bits can be changed and are supposed to be tinned. Hence, it can be said that a soldering gun is a type of a soldering iron. Soldering irons themselves are made up of a handle that is insulated from heat. The handle holds a heating component of 15 to 25 Watts. It is in this component that the bit is slotted in. The bits come in various kinds like the copper ones that are easy to clean using a file. There also are the ironclad bits. These bits are not supposed to be cleaned as the copper bits. They are cleaned by rubbing under high temperature using a damp sponge (Linsley 47). Tinning has been mentioned, the question is, how is it done? Tinning is done through cleaning the bit, the soldering iron is then inserted and heated, cored solder is then applied with the excess been wiped off using a wet sponge (Linsley

Cycles of Reflection in Nursing

Cycles of Reflection in Nursing Introduction Oelofsen (2012) defines reflective practice as the process in which an individual makes sense of situations, events and actions that occur in the workplace (Natius, 2012). In the light of nursing practice, the concept of reflection plays a critical role by enabling practitioners (nurses) to, competently manage the impactful and precarious nature of care giving (Natius, 2012). According to Keeling and Somerville (2004), reflective practice facilitates the understanding and development of self-awareness, inter-personal skills and also the ability to influence positive change in others (David June, 2004). These skills are key to nurses in mapping out the most appropriate action plans to take in any given situation. Comparative examination of four models of reflection as applied in the context of nursing Gibbs model of reflection is commonly employed in the Health profession because of its clarity and precision (Brock, 2014). It allows for easy description, analysis and evaluation of experiences and thus helps the reflective practitioner (nurse) to, clearly make sense of her experiences as well as examine her nursing practice (Holland Roberts, 2013). Unlike the Gibbs model, the other models, for example, Kolb’s model 1980 and Goodman model 1984 are relatively complex. These models require, to a greater extent, some degree of experience (McKee Eraut, 2012). The Kolb’s reflective model, for instance, is basically hinged on experiential learning that covers four stages (McKee Eraut, 2012). And since experienced nurses have enough experience, they can easily relate to the model and apply it in practice. Model that is best suited for nursing practice John’s model of reflection 1994 is best suited as a tool for the nursing profession. Its structured nature serves as a good platform for a complete assessment of the nursing practice (Rideout, 2001). The questions are excellent cues in prompting particular actions (Driscoll, 2007). This approach is also wholesome in the sense that it explores all the areas of the nursing practice. It examines the practitioner’s experiences, her reflection on the experiences, actions taken by the practitioner and impact of the actions on self (practitioner) and the patient (Mohanna et al., 2011). It also looks at the aspect of the academic sources that may have influenced the decisions made as well as the possible angles to how the situation could have been dealt with differently and how it can be handled in the future (Moon, 2013). Importance of the choice of framework of reflection in encouraging and supporting reflection A desirable framework of reflection is helpful to nurses as it provides a structured process that guides the act of reflecting (Jasper, 2003). The choice of a particular framework of reflection is important because students face different experiences, and so is the need for an appropriate framework to offer the necessary support and encouragement throughout their learning process (Schon, 2008). Critical analysis of all the four models with respect to what is good and bad about them The four models of reflection examined above, all have their strengths and weakness in their application. Below is a table summarizing their strengths and weaknesses. Reflective practice and its use to medical education The ability to reflect plays a critical role in medical education. Reflective practice enables learners in the medical field to clearly understand and develop self-awareness, interpersonal skills and analytical skills (Jack Mezirow, 2011). These skills will come in handy in practice as medical students will be able to handle people (patients) in frontline settings such as a hospital scenario. The importance of students developing a habit of assessing their own learning needs Through self-assessment with regard to learning needs, students are able to constantly identify areas of weakness and improve on them (Earl, 2004). The fact that students are actively engaged in the process serves as a motivation for them and subsequently translates to better outcomes (Bonnie Beyer, 2014). References

Target Markets for Different Companies Essay -- Corn Flakes, Disney Wo

Identify possible target markets for the following products: A. Kellogg’s Corn Flakes C. Disney World B. Wilsons Tennis Rackets D. Diet Pepsi A. Kellogg’s Corn Flakes: When I think about Kellogg’s target market for their classic corn flakes to me the marketing is simple. A wholesome product for your family, a breakfast staple for many homes for many years. In recent years Kellogg has marketed corn flakes to the average American family of 4 or more with middle and upper middle class income, and a busy lifestyle. A big opportunity for them has been the fact that this generation of US consumers are concerned more than ever about healthy food, we also have very hectic lives. So touting corn flakes as a healthy breakfast that is quick is a perfect way to appeal to a variety of families. In 2012 they launched a campaign geared towards reminding consumers about the simplicity of the ingredients in their oldest brands, one of them corn flakes with only 4 ingredients. Jogging the memories of consumers that they have always been a healthy, easy delicious choice for breakfast. Reiterating that this is not a new concept for Kellogg’s, but one th ey have been valuing for 100 years. Communicating to families that they know the modern family has a busy life and not much time for a healthy breakfast, corn flakes satisfies that need. The colors they use on their corn flakes box even accentuate this idea. The three colors green, red and yellow all represent different things to consumers. Green represents the environment, nature and organics. Red indicates energy, and a sense of urgency. Lastly, yellow signifies sunshine energy and happiness (Coffin, 2011). They also subtly target children with these three bright colors in a simple almos... ... a cola option that is â€Å"guilt free†. They also push the fact that it tastes the same as regular Pepsi telling them they don’t have to sacrifice taste for lower calories like most diet products. The target women is in her 20’s and 30’s single, dating age so she watches her weight. Diet Pepsi is a great option for her at the bar as well. She is middle class to upper middle class in a city, and she has no children. She dates a lot and is outgoing, she drinks and eats diet products because like all women her age she wants to look good and dreads going up a pants size. â€Æ' Works Cited AECOM. (2013). Theme Park Attendance Report for 2012. Wikipedia. Coffin, D. (2011, November 14). Color Psychology and Online Marketing. Retrieved from www.practicalecommmerce.com: http://www.practicalecommerce.com/articles/3166-Color-Psychology-and-Online-Marketing

History of Marriage Essay

Marriage is a social institution recognized by custom and law. It is a relation that exists between one or more men to one or more women. Custom or law gives recognitions of the duties and rights of the parties involved in such an institution. The union may result to children being born in it. In general, the societal expectation is one where there is sexual gratification between a husband and wife. There are legal issues that may arise as a result of adultery, which may force one partner to dissolve the marriage. This relation is at some point regarded as an economic institution in which a husband is fully responsible for the needs of the wife and children. With the current women empowerment in the society they are also able to provide for their families. A father has a general control and power over his family but for the children his powers are for a limited time. This comes as a result of the need for children to practice decision making and show responsibility especially at adulthood. Marriage is in accordance to the laid down custom or law and the consent of each parties involved must be considered. Parents for example may ask for a bride price and after this is settled a marriage takes place. These are important steps especially where the conditions stipulated by custom or by law are complied with. The origin of marriage is seen to be a habitual practice from the medieval period. A man and woman would live together, have sexual relations and from this union children would come forth. The father would play their role as a protector and supporter of his family while his wife nurses and cares for the family. As time passed it was accepted by custom and by law and it became legal social institution. Marriage is therefore seen to be an intimate relationship which the society, the government and religion recognizes. Marriage has many forms but the major one constitutes a man and a woman. Marriage is the basis of a family unit in which procreation takes place. Through a marriage setup children can grown, be protected and shown love through provision of food, shelter, clothing, education among others. There are a variety of intentions that one has in mind while planning to enter into marriage. Some of the major reasons may include need for legal stability, social and/or economic stability. Through marriage, there is a provider, protector and the union is legally bound. Marriage can be witnessed in a wedding celebration and this marks the beginning of individual obligation to each other and to the society at large. There have been changes in the understanding and approach of marriage from the older days. In the United States marriage for example was a consideration of status as well as an oversight on the future economic stability and prosperity of the person. It was therefore an economic arrangement in which one would choose their potential spouse and so they would plan to marry . Marriage ceremonies between same sexes were done in the 5th-14th centuries by the Roman Catholic Church. Many issues about marriage caught the interest of many leaders and Pope Alexander II in 1975, prohibited marriages between couples who were closely related and especially with no more than 6 cousins related to a person. In the 16th century, only with the permission of local political authorities, servants and day laborers would be free to marry in Bavaria and Austria. In1921 this order was fully abolished. Public wife selling was witnessed in the 1960s-1870s where a divorced wife was tied with a rope around her neck and sold in public. Until 1686, marriage was rather a civil ceremony for the puritans in Massachusetts Bay. In the British colonies, there was no penalty given for interracial marriages until 1662 when Virginia doubled fornication fines for interracial couples. Maryland banned interracial marriages in 1664 and subsequently, in 1750 interracial marriages had been outlawed in all southern colonies. Married women, until mid 19th century, had no legal standing under the English common law in all American states. It was until 1848 that women had the right to own property while married, through the Married Women Act. http://www. lulu. com/content/247174 At the age of 10 years, consent for sexual intercourse was allowed in most American states while in Delaware it was at the age of 7 years only. With parental consent young boys of 14 and girls of 12 would marry, as late as 1930. In 1940, married women could not make legal contract in twelve states. Anti-Miscegenation laws were declared unconstitutional in Virginia and other states such as Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas among others. Fourteen states had in the fifteen years prior to the decision, repealed their anti miscegenation laws. This included Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, Nevada, and Oregon among others. Ten states had by 1990, outlawed rape in marriage. This was after New York outlawed rape in marriage in 1978. Rape in marriage was seen as a crime in thirty-six states and this was only in certain circumstances. It was surprising that in four states, rape in marriage was never a crime. Marriage has had lots of controversies but the initial union in the religious world was the social union that benefited the society. It is seen as the union of one man and one woman blessed and united by a religious leader as seen in Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhists and Hindu. The privileges enjoyed in marriages are of benefit while particular concerns were raised on homosexual couples. The commitment of traditional couples which constituted a man and woman could be seen as that of same-sex couples and so they have continued to fight for their rights and the legalization of their marriage. The sacred value of marriage should not be changed despite the fact that advocates are aggressive on the issue that it should be redefined to suit gay marriage. When the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court made a ruling in 2004, and said that civil union was not enough, this raised national debate. A number of people wanted the definition of one man-to- one woman to stand and others wanted it to separate same-sex institutions, with others against it. In 2004, California and New York mayors were authorizing same sex marriages while defying law and these marriages were said not to be legally binding. Nancy 2001) http://www. lulu. com/content/247174 In 1619, Virginia enacted a law in which if a bond married a Negro, Mulatto or Indian, they would be banished in the woods so that they are cast out of the colony. Later on, in 1724, there was introduction Louisiana after the slaves were freed. Laws that were known as black codes were used to control and even forbid marriages constituted by slaves while the slave master was not consented. In 1769, the English common law showed that husband and wife were one. A constitution was written in 1787 and was adopted the following year. It was effective in 1789 and replaced the articles of federation, which was the government document of the USA. It remains to be the basic law of central government. In 1839, Mississippi granted the women a right to hold, with their respective husband’s permission, property in their own name. This saw many states legalizing this grant to women so that they would have control over property and earnings. This was in 1900. In the Missouri vs. Celia case of 1855, the case was used to show that enslaved women had no right or legal recourse if they were raped by their masters. This meant that black women had no right to defend themselves after an act of rape by the master. When the Mississippi black code was passed, it was an attempt to control slaves and ensure social inequality. This prohibited blacks, in 1865, from marrying whites and in this case, it was punishable as was seen through life imprisonment. http://www. lulu. com/content/247174 More was to come and in the United States, an immigration act of 1917 banned immigration of Asians and those with abnormal sexual instincts and until 1990, lesbians and gay immigrants were excluded from coming into the United States. (Nancy 2001) In a case of New York v. Sanger, doctors would advice married couples on use of birth control pills for health purposes. The law was still enforced but was overturned in 1965 on all state laws that prohibited the use of contraceptives. In 1948, in Perez v Sharp case, there was a ban on interracial marriage in the California Supreme Court. This was the first state high court to declare it unconstitutional but later on in 1967; the U. S Supreme Court declared that there was freedom to marry allowing for interracial marriages on all Americans. This was evidenced in the case of Loving v. Virginia. The immigration act in 1965 admitted different races and nationalities and emphasized on family reunification with great concern. The act defined a family to be strictly on hetero sexual and nuclear ties and banned on lesbian and gay deviates. In 1969, California adopted a divorce law that allowed divorce by mutual consent and especially where one party simply wants it. The major challenge in this was that one party can refuse to sign the separation agreement. In 1981, there was an over turn of events when the states laws described a husband as a head and master and having control of property which is jointly owned with his wife. Nancy 2001) . http://family. jrank. org/pages/1118/Marriage-Ceremonies. html Articles were published and they advocated for legalization of same-sex couples and this was especially because these authors were gay and wanted to pursue their demand. In 1990, the congress repealed ban on gay and lesbian immigration. Homosexuals were disqualified as foreigners and were not allowed to come in to the United States. It was in 1993 that Hawaii Supreme Court said that the ban on same-sex couples from marrying must be justified and in 1998, it was amended to allow strict marriage to men and women only . In 1994, gays and lesbians sought to be part of the humanitarian law as a social group rather than an immigration group. A Person Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act explicitly promoted marriage and formation of heterosexual families. The federal law supported two parent families and in the same year, 1996, the Defense of Marriage Act defined marriage as exclusively between one man and a woman. It was evident that this act did not recognize same sex marriage at all. In 1998, there was a covenant marriage legislation in which couples promised to stay together for life and that they would denounce the no-default divorce. In the same year, May 1998, Alaska ruled that it was a fundamental right to choose a marital partner. The following year, the Vermont Supreme Court allowed for same-sex marriage to occur and that they have all rights and benefits of marriage but no marriage licenses. A governor in Oklahoma in March 2000 announced a $10 million plan that encouraged marriage than divorce and in 2001 gay and lesbian couples in Massachusetts filed law suits seeking a right to marry. This followed with other New Jersey lesbian and gay couples suing the state court for denial of their right to marry. In 2003, the US Supreme Court struck down the remaining anti-gay sodomy laws which were in Texas and in other states. http://family. jrank. org/pages/1118/Marriage-Ceremonies. html In 2003-2004, the Federal Marriage Amendment was proposed but was defeated in congress. The amendment ought to have denied marriage rights to same-sex couples by indicating that marriage would only exist between a man and a woman. The divorce rate in 1980 was 22. 6% per 1000 married women and currently it is rated at 17. 7 percent.  Other observations and statistics show that the rate of marriage has declined from 76. 5 to 39. 9 percent per 1000 unmarried women. This has been a 50 percent drop and it is attributed to cohabitation rather than marriage. These posses a great risk on the children as it affects the family stability. Breakup rates for cohabitating couples are twice as that of married couples and in 40% of such couples children are born in this rather unstable and shaky relationship. The United States is found to have the weakest families in the western world. This is attributed to the high divorce rates as well as the increase in solo parenting. The divorce rate has generally been going up more recently with about 20 divorces for every 1000 women over the age of 15. (Nancy 2001) The divorces rate has had significant factors that have led to the rise in the United States. One of them has been that men and women are economically stable and so there is less need for each other in terms of economical survival. The rate has also been on the higher side because of birth control programs that allow men and women to separate sexual activity from bearing children.

Harley Davidson, Inc.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. – 2009 Case Notes Prepared by: Dr. Mernoush Banton Case Authors: Carol Pope and Joanne Mack A. Case Abstract Harley-Davidson, Inc. (www. harley-davidson. com) is a comprehensive strategic management case that includes the company’s calendar December 31, 2008 financial statements, competitor information and more. The case time setting is the year 2009. Sufficient internal and external data are provided to enable students to evaluate current strategies and recommend a three-year strategic plan for the company. Headquartered in Milwaukee, WI, Harley-Davidson, Inc. s traded on the New York Stock Exchange under ticker symbol HOG. B. Vision Statement (Actual) Harley-Davidson is an action-oriented, international company, a leader in its commitment to continuously improve its mutually beneficial relationships with stakeholders (customers, suppliers, employees, shareholders, government, and society). Harley-Davidson believes the key to success is to balance stakeholders’ interests through the empowerment of all employees to focus on value-added activities. Vision Statement (Proposed) We want to make your motorcycle ride a safe and a lifetime experience. C.Mission Statement (Actual) We fulfill dreams through the experiences of motorcycling, by providing to motorcyclists and to the general public an expanding line of motorcycles, branded products and services in selected market segments. Mission Statement (Proposed) Harley-Davidson is committed to providing the highest quality products and financial services to men and women worldwide (1, 3). The Harley name stands for customer satisfaction (7) and we would like all Harley customers to relay their satisfaction to all motorcycle dreamers. Harley-Davidson uses advanced technology to produce the superior motorcycles (4).Our philosophy is to conduct business with utmost integrity while serving our customers, employees, and shareholders (6). We appreciate the hard work of our employee s (9). We push excellence though our Harley-Davidson bar and shield logo and the Harley Owners Group (HOG) (7). We continue to do our part in supporting all environmental laws in every country we do business (8). Harley-Davidson intends to stay committed and determined. 1. Customer 2. Products or services 3. Markets 4. Technology 5. Concern for survival, profitability, growth 6. Philosophy 7. Self-concept 8.Concern for public image 9. Concern for employees D. External Audit CPM – Competitive Profile Matrix |   |Harley-Davidson |Honda |Yamaha | |Critical Success Factors |Weight |Rating |Weighted Score|Rating |Weighted Score|Rating |Weighted Score| |Advertising |0. 08 |4 |0. 32 |2 |0. 16 |3 |0. 24 | |Top Management |0. 05 |2 |0. 0 |2 |0. 10 |3 |0. 15 | |Customer Service |0. 10 |4 |0. 40 |3 |0. 30 |2 |0. 20 | |Technological Advances |0. 09 |3 |0. 27 |1 |0. 09 |2 |0. 18 | |International Market Sales |0. 07 |3 |0. 21 |4 |0. 28 |2 |0. 14 | |Global Expansion |0. 06 |2 |0. 12 |4 | 0. 4 |3 |0. 18 | |Financial Position |0. 07 |2 |0. 14 |4 |0. 28 |3 |0. 21 | |Customer Loyalty |0. 11 |4 |0. 44 |3 |0. 33 |2 |0. 22 | |Market Share |0. 09 |2 |0. 18 |4 |0. 36 |3 |0. 27 | |Product Quality |0. 10 |4 |0. 40 |3 |0. 30 |2 |0. 0 | |Marketing |0. 10 |2 |0. 20 |3 |0. 30 |1 |0. 10 | |Price Competitiveness |0. 08 |1 |0. 08 |3 |0. 24 |2 |0. 16 | |Total |1. 00 |   |2. 86 |   |2. 98 |   |2. 25 | Opportunities 1. Economy in Europe and other regions is growing at a better rate than United States 2. Gasoline price has been stabilized in 2009 3.Competition has reduced their production of motorcycle in 2009 4. Currently, Yamaha has seen decreasing motorcycle sales in Japan, the United States, and Europe, but is doing better in Southeast Asia and Latin America 5. Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki are more diversified than Harley in terms of product offerings 6. Female riders are on the rise 7. Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki focus on ATVs, scooters, and marine and watercraft in addition to vario us motorcycle product lines 8. Motorcycles typically are considered a good replacement for automobiles when gas prices are on the riseThreats 1. Unemployment is on the rise in the United States among middle class who could afford to buy a motorcycle 2. Competitors are reducing their prices so they can improve sales 3. Disposable income is falling among professionals between the age of 35 and 54 4. Competition is strong in markets outside the United States 5. Increase in fuel price could impact the industry sales 6. Rise in interest rate could impact the buyers from purchasing and financing high ticket items 7. Environmental protection laws could impact product design and cost 8.Shifts in buyers’ needs and tastes External Factor Evaluation (EFE) Matrix |Key External Factors |Weight |Rating |Weighted Score | |Opportunities |   |   |   | |Economy in Europe and other regions is growing at a better rate than United States|0. 08 |4 |0. 32 | |Gasoline price has been stabilized in 2009 |0. 6 |3 |0. 18 | |Competition has reduced their production of motorcycle in 2009 |0. 09 |3 |0. 27 | |Currently, Yamaha has seen decreasing motorcycle sales in Japan, the United |0. 05 |4 |0. 2 | |States, and Europe, but is doing better in Southeast Asia and Latin America | | | | |Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki are more diversified than Harley in terms of product |0. 5 |2 |0. 1 | |offerings | | | | |Female riders are on the rise |0. 04 |3 |0. 12 | |Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki focus on ATVs, scooters, and marine and watercraft in |0. 07 |3 |0. 1 | |addition to various motorcycle product lines | | | | |Motorcycles typically are considered a good replacement for automobiles when gas |0. 06 |4 |0. 24 | |prices are on the rise | | | | |Threats | | |   | |Unemployment is on the rise in the United States among middle class who could |0. 9 |2 |0. 18 | |afford to buy a motorcycle | | | | |Competitors are reducing their prices so they can improve sales |0. 07 |3 |0. 21 | |Disposable inc ome is falling among professionals between the age of 35 and 54 |0. 07 |2 |0. 14 | |Competition is strong in markets outside the United States |0. 06 |2 |0. 2 | |Increase in fuel price could impact the industry sales |0. 07 |1 |0. 07 | |Rise in interest rate could impact the buyers from purchasing and financing high |0. 05 |2 |0. 1 | |ticket items | | | | |Environmental protection laws could impact product design and cost |0. 05 |1 |0. 5 | |Shifts in buyers' needs and tastes |0. 04 |1 |0. 04 | |Total |1. 00 |   |2. 55 | Positioning Map [pic] E. Internal Audit Strengths 1. Additional job cuts has helped the company to improve its profit margin 2. Harley-Davidson motorcycles have led the industry in the United States for retail unit registrations of new heavyweight motorcycles 3.Harley-Davidson operates in two segments: (1) financial services and (2) motorcycles and related products. 4. Harley-Davidson has 5 divisions: (1) Parts & Accessories (P); (2) General Merchandise; (3) Lice nsing; and (4) Motorcycles 5. The Company offers a wide range of families of motorcycles: (1) Touring, (2) Dyna, (3) Softail, (4) Sportster, and (5) VRSC 6. In terms of non-U. S. distribution, Harley-Davidson has 71 full service dealerships in Canada, 383 in Europe, 201 in Asia Pacific, and 32 in Latin America 7. Strong brand recognition and customer loyalty . International retail sales were up 10. 3 percent as compared to 2007 9. Total current asset increased by $1. 9 billion dollars from 2007 to 2008 10. Harley offers financing of its bikes through HDFS Weaknesses 1. The Harley-Davidson motorcycle share of the heavyweight market was 45. 5 percent and 48. 7 percent in 2008 and 2007, respectively 2. Only 12 percent of U. S. retail motorcycle sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles are to female buyers 3. A typical buyer of Harley bike has an average of median household income of approximately $87,000 4.For the full year 2009, Harley-Davidson plans to ship between 264,000 and 273,00 0 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles, a 10 to 13 percent reduction from 2008 5. Total worldwide retail sales dropped by 7. 15 in 2008 from previous year 6. International retail sales growth slowed to 0. 7 percent during the fourth quarter of 2008 as a result of deteriorating economic conditions outside the United States 7. In the United States, retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2008 were down 13. 0 percent 8. Total operating income dropped by about $400 million from 2007 to 2008Financial Ratio Analysis (December 2009) |Growth Rates % |Harley-Davidson |Industry |S 500 | |Sales (Qtr vs year ago qtr) |-18. 00 |-13. 00 |-4. 80 | |Net Income (YTD vs YTD) |-71. 60 |15. 80 |-6. 00 | |Net Income (Qtr vs year ago qtr) |-84. 10 |6. 40 |26. 80 | |Sales (5-Year Annual Avg. ) |4. 2 |0. 78 |12. 99 | |Net Income (5-Year Annual Avg. ) |-2. 96 |-7. 50 |12. 69 | |Dividends (5-Year Annual Avg. ) |45. 92 |34. 93 |11. 83 | | | |Price Ratios |Harley-Davidson |Industry |S 500 | |Current P/E R atio |24. 3 |25. 6 |26. | |P/E Ratio 5-Year High |21. 9 |4. 3 |68. 0 | |P/E Ratio 5-Year Low |3. 0 |0. 8 |9. 9 | |Price/Sales Ratio |1. 12 |1. 12 |2. 25 | |Price/Book Value |2. 58 |3. 36 |3. 48 | |Price/Cash Flow Ratio |11. 90 |15. 0 |13. 70 | | | |Profit Margins % |Harley-Davidson |Industry |S 500 | |Gross Margin |29. 1 |23. 1 |38. 9 | |Pre-Tax Margin |9. 2 |6. 0 |10. 3 | |Net Profit Margin |4. |2. 4 |7. 1 | |5Yr Gross Margin (5-Year Avg. ) |37. 9 |29. 4 |38. 6 | |5Yr PreTax Margin (5-Year Avg. ) |23. 8 |17. 4 |16. 6 | |5Yr Net Profit Margin (5-Year Avg. ) |15. 3 |11. 2 |11. 5 | | | |Financial Condition |Harley-Davidson |Industry |S 500 |Debt/Equity Ratio |2. 26 |1. 53 |1. 09 | |Current Ratio |1. 4 |1. 8 |1. 5 | |Quick Ratio |1. 3 |1. 4 |1. 3 | |Interest Coverage |46. 2 |27. 4 |23. 7 | |Leverage Ratio |4. 1 |3. 5 |3. | |Book Value/Share |9. 77 |9. 22 |21. 63 | Adapted from www. moneycentral. msn. com |   |Avg P/E |Price/ Sales |Price/ Book |Net Profit Margin (%) | |12/0 8 |12. 20 |0. 67 |1. 87 |11. 0 | |12/07 |15. 50 |1. 90 |4. 69 |15. 2 | |12/06 |14. 0 |3. 02 |6. 60 |16. 9 | |12/05 |15. 50 |2. 55 |4. 58 |16. 9 | |12/04 |19. 00 |3. 39 |5. 56 |16. 7 | |12/03 |17. 80 |2. 95 |4. 85 |15. 5 | |12/02 |26. 80 |3. 28 |6. 6 |13. 5 | |12/01 |32. 10 |4. 64 |9. 36 |12. 2 | |12/00 |36. 40 |3. 96 |8. 54 |11. 3 | |12/08 |12. 20 |0. 67 |1. 87 |11. 0 | |   |Book Value/ Share |Debt/ Equity |Return on Equity (%) |Return on Assets (%) |Interest Coverage | |12/08 |$9. 9 |1. 86 |30. 9 |8. 4 |226. 6 | |12/07 |$9. 96 |0. 90 |39. 3 |16. 5 |NA | |12/06 |$10. 68 |0. 62 |37. 8 |18. 9 |NA | |12/05 |$11. 25 |0. 39 |31. 1 |18. 3 |NA | |12/04 |$10. 94 |0. 40 |27. 6 |16. |NA | |12/03 |$9. 81 |0. 34 |25. 7 |15. 5 |NA | |12/02 |$7. 38 |0. 34 |26. 0 |15. 0 |NA | |12/01 |$5. 80 |0. 34 |24. 9 |14. 0 |NA | |12/00 |$4. 65 |0. 32 |24. 7 |14. 3 |NA | |12/08 |$9. 9 |1. 86 |30. 9 |8. 4 |226. 6 | Adapted from www. moneycentral. msn. com Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) Matrix |Key Internal Factors |Weight |Rating |Weighted Score | |Strengths |   |   |   | |Additional job cuts has helped the company to improve its profit margin |0. 05 |3 |0. 5 | |Harley-Davidson motorcycles have led the industry in the United States for retail |0. 08 |4 |0. 32 | |unit registrations of new heavyweight motorcycles | | | | |Harley-Davidson operates in two segments: (1) financial services and (2) |0. 05 |3 |0. 15 | |motorcycles and related products. | | | | |Harley-Davidson has 5 divisions: (1) Parts & Accessories (P); (2) General |0. 3 |4 |0. 12 | |Merchandise; (3) Licensing; and (4) Motorcycles | | | | |The Company offers a wide range of families of motorcycles: (1) Touring, (2) Dyna,|0. 06 |3 |0. 18 | |(3) Softail, (4) Sportster, and (5) VRSC | | | | |In terms of non-U. S. distribution, Harley-Davidson has 71 full service dealerships|0. 5 |3 |0. 15 | |in Canada, 383 in Europe, 201 in Asia Pacific, and 32 in Latin America | | | | |Strong brand recognition and customer loyalty |0. 07 |4 |0. 28 | |International retail sales were up 10. 3 percent as compared to 2007 |0. 07 |3 |0. 21 | |Total current asset increased by $1. billion dollars from 2007 to 2008 |0. 06 |3 |0. 18 | |Harley offers financing of its bikes through HDFS |0. 06 |3 |0. 18 | |Weaknesses | | |   | |The Harley-Davidson motorcycle share of the heavyweight market was 45. 5 percent |0. 07 |1 |0. 07 | |and 48. percent in 2008 and 2007, respectively | | | | |Only 12 percent of U. S. retail motorcycle sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles|0. 05 |1 |0. 05 | |are to female buyers | | | | |A typical buyer of Harley bike has an average of median household income of |0. 05 |1 |0. 5 | |approximately $87,000 | | | | |For the full year 2009, Harley-Davidson plans to ship between 264,000 and 273,000 |0. 05 |1 |0. 05 | |new Harley-Davidson motorcycles, a 10 to 13 percent reduction from 2008 | | | | |Total worldwide retail sales dropped by 7. 15 in 2008 from previous year |0. 06 |2 |0. 12 | |International retail sales growth slowed to 0. percent during the fourth quarter |0. 03 |2 |0. 06 | |of 2008 as a result of deteriorating economic conditions outside the United States| | | | |In the United States, retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2008 were |0. 05 |1 |0. 05 | |down 13. 0 percent | | | | |Total operating income dropped by about $400 million from 2007 to 2008 |0. 06 |1 |0. 6 | |Total |1. 00 |   |2. 43 | F. SWOT Strategies | |Strengths |Weaknesses | | |Additional job cuts has helped the company to |The Harley-Davidson motorcycle share of the | | |improve its profit margin |heavyweight market was 45. percent and 48. 7 | | |Harley-Davidson motorcycles have led the |percent in 2008 and 2007, respectively | | |industry in the United States for retail unit |Only 12 percent of U. S. etail motorcycle sales| | |registrations of new heavyweight motorcycles |of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles are to | | |Harley-Davidson operates in two segments: (1) |female buyers | | |financ ial services and (2) motorcycles and |A typical buyer of Harley bike has an average | | |related products. |of median household income of approximately | | Harley-Davidson has 5 divisions: (1) Parts & |$87,000 | | |Accessories (P); (2) General Merchandise; (3)|For the full year 2009, Harley-Davidson plans | | |Licensing; and (4) Motorcycles |to ship between 264,000 and 273,000 new | | |The Company offers a wide range of families of |Harley-Davidson motorcycles, a 10 to 13 percent| | |motorcycles: (1) Touring, (2) Dyna, (3) |reduction from 2008 | | |Softail, (4) Sportster, and (5) VRSC |Total worldwide retail sales dropped by 7. 15 in| | |In terms of non-U. S. distribution, |2008 from previous year | | |Harley-Davidson has 71 full service dealerships|International retail sales growth slowed to 0. | | |in Canada, 383 in Europe, 201 in Asia Pacific, |percent during the fourth quarter of 2008 as a | | |and 32 in Latin America |result of deteriorating economic conditions | | |Strong bran d recognition and customer loyalty |outside the United States | | |International retail sales were up 10. 3 percent|In the United States, retail sales of | | |as compared to 2007 |Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2008 were down | | |Total current asset increased by $1. 9 billion |13. percent | | |dollars from 2007 to 2008 |Total operating income dropped by about $400 | | |Harley offers financing of its bikes through |million from 2007 to 2008 | | |HDFS | | |Opportunities |S-O Strategies |W-O Strategies | |Economy in Europe and other regions is growing |Develop a lower price / light weight bike, |1. Offer a better discount for retailers to | |at a better rate than United States |efficient in fuel consumption for individuals |sell / promote Harley merchandise such as | |Gasoline price has been stabilized in 2009 |who are interested in riding a bike but can’t |clothes, mugs, etc. (W5, W6, O) | |Competition has reduced their production of |afford or ride the current models (S3, S4, S5, |2.Offer better financing rate to new / first | |motorcycle in 2009 |S6, S7, S8, S8, S9, S10, O1, O2, O5, O6, O8) |time buyers (W1, W3, W5, W7, O3, O4) | |Currently, Yamaha has seen decreasing |Create a new line for female riders to be | | |motorcycle sales in Japan, the United States, |promoted in US and foreign markets (S5, S7, O8,| | |and Europe, but is doing better in Southeast |S9, S10, O1, O4, O6) | | |Asia and Latin America | | | |Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki are more diversified | | | |than Harley in terms of product offerings | | | |Female riders are on the rise | | | |Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki focus on ATVs, | | | |scooters, and marine and watercraft in addition| | | |to various motorcycle product lines | | | |Motorcycles typically are considered a good | | | |replacement for automobiles when gas prices are| | | |on the rise | | | |Threats |S-T Strategies |W-T Strategies | |Unemployment is on the rise in the United |Increase current promotional campaign (product |Introduce a new product line – Harley2 suitable| |States among middle class who could afford to |placement, advertising, Online newsgroup / |for female riders, light weight and priced | |buy a motorcycle |press releases, media ads, etc. ) both in the |lower to be marketed to a new segment (W2, W3, | |Competitors are reducing their prices so they |U. S. nd abroad (S1, S2, SS7, S9, S10, T3, T8) |W4, W5, T1, T2, T3, T5, T6, T7) | |can improve sales | | | |Disposable income is falling among | | | |professionals between the age of 35 and 54 | | | |Competition is strong in markets outside the | | | |United States | | | |Increase in fuel price could impact the | | | |industry sales | | | |Rise in interest rate could impact the buyers | | | |from purchasing and financing high ticket items| | | | | | | |Environmental protection laws could impact | | | |product design and cost | | | |Shifts in buyers’ needs and tastes | | | G. SPACE Matrix [pic] Financial Stability (FS) | |Environmental Stability (ES) | | |Return on Investment |6 |Unemployment |-5 | |Leverage |5 |Technological Changes |-2 | |Liquidity |4 |Price Elasticity of Demand |-1 | |Working Capital |4 |Competitive Pressure |-4 | |Cash Flow |4 |Barriers to Entry |-5 | | | | | | |Financial Stability (FS) Average |4. 6 |Environmental Stability (ES) Average |-3. | | | | | | |Competitive Stability (CS) | |Industry Stability (IS) | | |Market Share |-2 |Growth Potential |5 | |Product Quality |-1 |Financial Stability |1 | |Customer Loyalty |-1 |Ease of Market Entry |5 | |Competition’s Capacity Utilization |-3 |Resource Utilization |4 | |Technological Know-How |-2 |Profit Potential |3 | | | | | | |Competitive Stability (CS Average |-1. |Industry Stability (IS) Average |3. 6 | Y-axis: FS + ES = 4. 6 + (-3. 4) = 1. 2 X-axis: CS + IS = (-1. 8) + (3. 6) = 1. 8 H. Grand Strategy Matrix [pic] 1. Market development 2. Market penetration 3. Product development 4. Forward integration 5. Backward integration 6. Horizontal integration 7. Related diversification I. The Internal-External (IE) Matrix The IFE Total Weighted Score | |Strong |Average |Weak | | |3. 0 to 4. 0 |2. 0 to 2. 99 |1. 0 to 1. 9 | |High |I |II |III | |3. 0 to 3. 99 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |IV |IV |VI | | | | | | | | | | |Medium | | | | |2. 0 to 2. 99 | |Harley-Davidson | | |Low |VII |VIII |IX | |1. 0 to 1. 99 | | | | J. QSPM    |   |Develop a lower price /|Offer better financing| | | |light weight bike, |rate to new / first | | | |efficient in fuel |time buyers | | | |consumption for | | | | |individuals who are | | | | |interested in riding a | | | | |bike but can’t afford | | | | |or ride the current | | | | |models | | |Key Factors |Weight |AS |TAS |AS |TAS | |Opportunities |   |   |   |   |   | |Economy in Europe and other regions is growing at a better rate than |0. 08 |4 |0. 32 |2 |0. 16 | |United States | | | | | | |Gasoline price has been stabilized in 2009 |0. 06 |4 |0. 24 | 1 |0. 06 | |Competition has reduced their production of motorcycle in 2009 |0. 09 |4 |0. 36 |3 |0. 27 | |Currently, Yamaha has seen decreasing motorcycle sales in Japan, the |0. 5 |— |— |— |— | |United States, and Europe, but is doing better in Southeast Asia and Latin| | | | | | |America | | | | | | |Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki are more diversified than Harley in terms of |0. 05 |— |— |— |— | |product offerings | | | | | | |Female riders are on the rise |0. 04 |3 |0. 12 |1 |0. 04 | |Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki focus on ATVs, scooters, and marine and |0. 7 |— |— |— |— | |watercraft in addition to various motorcycle product lines | | | | | | |Motorcycles typically are considered a good replacement for automobiles |0. 06 |4 |0. 24 |2 |0. 12 | |when gas prices are on the rise | | | | | | |Threats | |   |   | |Unemployment is on the rise in the United States among middle class who |0. 09 |2 |0. 18 |4 |0. 6 | |could afford to buy a motorcycle | | | | | | |Competitors are reducing their prices so they can improve sales |0. 07 |3 |0. 21 |1 |0. 07 | |Disposable income is falling among professionals between the age of 35 and|0. 07 |3 |0. 21 |1 |0. 07 | |54 | | | | | | |Competition is strong in markets outside the United States |0. 06 |3 |0. 18 |2 |0. 12 | |Increase in fuel price could impact the industry sales |0. 07 |4 |0. 28 |2 |0. 4 | |Rise in interest rate could impact the buyers from purchasing and |0. 05 |4 |0. 20 |3 |0. 15 | |financing high ticket items | | | | | | |Environmental protection laws could impact product design and cost |0. 05 |— |— |— |— | |Shifts in buyers' needs and tastes |0. 04 |— |— |— |— | |TOTAL |1. 00 |   |2. 54 |   |1. 6 | |Strengths |   |   |   | |Additional job cuts has helped the company to improve its profit margin |0. 05 |— |— |— |— | |Harley-Davidson motorcycle s have led the industry in the United States for|0. 08 |3 |0. 24 |1 |0. 08 | |retail unit registrations of new heavyweight motorcycles | | | | | | |Harley-Davidson operates in two segments: (1) financial services and (2) |0. 05 |— |— |— |— | |motorcycles and related products. | | | | | |Harley-Davidson has 5 divisions: (1) Parts & Accessories (P&A); (2) |0. 03 |— |— |— |— | |General Merchandise; (3) Licensing; and (4) Motorcycles | | | | | | |The Company offers a wide range of families of motorcycles: (1) Touring, |0. 06 |— |— |— |— | |(2) Dyna, (3) Softail, (4) Sportster, and (5) VRSC | | | | | | |In terms of non-U. S. distribution, Harley-Davidson has 71 full service |0. 05 |2 |0. 1 |3 |0. 5 | |dealerships in Canada, 383 in Europe, 201 in Asia Pacific, and 32 in Latin| | | | | | |America | | | | | | |Strong brand recognition and customer loyalty |0. 07 |3 |0. 21 |2 |0. 14 | |International retail sa les were up 10. 3 percent as compared to 2007 |0. 07 |3 |0. 21 |2 |0. 14 | |Total current asset increased by $1. 9 billion dollars from 2007 to 2008 |0. 06 |— |— |— |— | |Harley offers financing of its bikes through HDFS |0. 06 |1 |0. 06 |4 |0. 4 | |Weaknesses | |   |   |   | |The Harley-Davidson motorcycle share of the heavyweight market was 45. 5 |0. 07 |— |— |— |— | |percent and 48. 7 percent in 2008 and 2007, respectively | | | | | | |Only 12 percent of U. S. retail motorcycle sales of new Harley-Davidson |0. 05 |3 |0. 15 |1 |0. 05 | |motorcycles are to female buyers | | | | | | |A typical buyer of Harley bike has an average of median household income |0. 05 |1 |0. 05 |3 |0. 5 | |of approximately $87,000 | | | | | | |For the full year 2009, Harley-Davidson plans to ship between 264,000 and |0. 05 |— |— |— |— | |273,000 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles, a 10 to 13 percent reduction from| | | | | | |2008 | | | | | | |Total worldwide retail sales dropped by 7. 15 in 2008 from previous year |0. 06 |1 |0. 06 |3 |0. 18 | |International retail sales growth slowed to 0. 7 percent during the fourth |0. 3 |— |— |— |— | |quarter of 2008 as a result of deteriorating economic conditions outside | | | | | | |the United States | | | | | | |In the United States, retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2008 |0. 05 |1 |0. 05 |4 |0. 2 | |were down 13. 0 percent | | | | | | |Total operating income dropped by about $400 million from 2007 to 2008 |0. 06 |1 |0. 06 |3 |0. 8 | |SUBTOTAL |1. 00 |   |1. 19 |   |1. 51 | |SUM TOTAL ATTRACTIVENESS SCORE |   |   |3. 73 |   |3. 07 | K. Recommendations Develop a product line with 3 to 5 bikes that are light weight, fuel efficient, lower than average Harley motorcycles, compliance with EPA and other regulatory agencies to be marketed to 25 to 45 age group with income level of $65,000 or higher. The brand s hould be promoted for substitute to automobile for short distances. L. EPS/EBIT Analysis Amount Needed: $150 million Stock Price: $25. 20 Tax Rate: 36. 7% Interest Rate: 6. 97% # Shares Outstanding: 234. 4 Million |   |Common Stock Financing |Debt Financing | |   |Recession |Normal |Boom |Recession |Normal |Boom | |70 Percent Stock – 30 Percent Debt |   |   |70 Percent Debt – 30 Percent Stock |   |   | |   |Recession |Normal |Boom |Recession |Normal |Boom | |EBIT |$1,000,000,000 |$1,500,000,000 |$1,800,000,000 |$1,000,000,000 $1,500,000,000 |$1,800,000,000 | |Interest |8,364,000 |8,364,000 |8,364,000 |2,091,000 |2,091,000 |2,091,000 | |EBT |991,636,000 |1,491,636,000 |1,791,636,000 |997,909,000 |1,497,909,000 |1,797,909,000 | |Taxes |36,393,041,200 |54,743,041,200 |65,753,041,200 |36,623,260,300 |54,973,260,300 |65,983,260,300 | |EAT |35,401,405,200 |53,251,405,200 |63,961,405,200 |35,625,351,300 |53,475,351,300 |64,185,351,300 | |# Shares |238,566,667 |2 38,566,667 |238,566,667 |236,185,714 |236,185,714 |236,185,714 | |EPS |148. 39 |223. 21 |268. 11 |150. 84 |226. 41 |271. 76 | | M. Epilogue Harley-Davidson is extending the deadline for some its competitive bike exchange trade-in program so customers would have more time to take advantage of the promotion. The company has been trying to stimulate its sales and financing program due to weak economy and low sales results. They also announced that the Board of Directors approved a cash dividend of $0. 10 per share for the first quarter of 2010. This decision will reduce their cash flow by approximately $23. 7 million. Harley-Davidson still is suffering from borrowing of $600 million three years ago at a rate of 15%.The interest of this loan is approximately $90 million a year which is impacting the company’s bottom line. For 2009, the company announced 27% down from 2008 and ended up with a $55 million loss – its first loss since 1993. ————â₠¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Brand Loyalty (High) Brand Loyalty (Low) Price (High) Price (Low) Harley-Davidson, Inc. Honda BMW -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 7 -6 -1 -7 -5 -4 -3 -2 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Defensive Competitive Aggressive Conservative 1 2 3 4 5 6 IS Weak Competitive Position Quadrant II Quadrant I Quadrant IV Quadrant III Strong Competitive Position Rapid Market Growth Slow Market Growth The EFE Total Weighted Score ES CS FS Yamaha

How to Make a Volcano Using Pop Rocks

How to Make a Volcano Using Pop Rocks The classic homemade chemical volcano relies on a reaction between baking soda and vinegar to produce an eruption of foamy lava, but you can make a volcano even if you dont have these ingredients. One easy way is to use Pop Rocks candy and carbonated soda. The reaction between these two ingredients gave rise to the false notion that drinking cola and eating Pop Rocks would cause your stomach to explode. Its true the two ingredients combine to produce a lot of gas, but if you eat them, you burp out the bubbles. In a homemade volcano, you can make a cool eruption. Heres what you do: Pop Rocks Volcano Materials 20-oz bottle of any soda or other carbonate beveragepacket of Pop Rocks candy (red or orange colored flavors look most like lava)model volcano If you dont have a model volcano, you can use homemade dough to form the shape of a volcano around the unopened soda bottle. If you like, paint or decorate the dough so it looks like a volcano. How To Make the Volcano Erupt The eruption can be messy, much like the Mentos and soda reaction, so its a good idea to set up your volcano outdoors, on a kitchen counter, or in a bathtub. Otherwise, place a plastic tablecloth around the volcano to make clean-up easier.Dont open the soda until you are ready for the eruption. When its time, carefully uncap the bottle. Disturb it as little as possible, to help prevent gas from escaping.Pour in the Pop Rocks candies. One way to get all the candy into the volcano at once is to roll up a sheet of paper into a tube. Put your finger on the end of the tube to close it off and pour in the Pop Rocks. Release the candies over the mouth of the bottle. Move away quickly or youll get sprayed with lava! How the Volcano Works Pop Rocks contain pressurized carbon dioxide gas that is trapped inside a candy coating. When you eat them, your saliva dissolves the sugar, releasing the gas. The sudden release of pressure makes the popping and cracking sound  since ​the  pressure of the gas breaks out of the candy once it gets thin enough. The volcano works much the same way, except its the soda that dissolves the candy shell to release the gas. The eruption is made more forceful by the sudden release of carbon dioxide in the soda. The bits of candy provide surface area for the dissolve carbon dioxide in the soda to collect and form bubbles, which push their way out of the narrow mouth of the bottle. Things To Try If you want lava that overflows the volcano, try adding a squirt of dishwashing soda to the soda before you add the Pop Rocks. For more colorful lava, add a few drops of red or orange food coloring to the soda or else use a red-colored soda, like Big Red, or a brown soda, like Dr. Pepper or any brand of root beer. Some energy drinks are also lava-colored. At that matters is that the drink is carbonated.

Management and Leadership Paper

Management and Leadership Paper Introduction McDonald’s Corporation is one of the leading companies in the world, having been in the field of fast foods for years. The company prides on its customer base around the world and has established companies in more than 100 countries around the world. It has 30,000 local restaurants and supplies its products to more than fifty million customers daily (McDonald’s 2011).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Management and Leadership Paper specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In order for McDonald’s Corporation to remain relevant and have sustainable competitive advantage, the company has embarked on sound management and leadership. This paper evaluates McDonald’s management and leadership style, the role of managers in creating and maintaining a healthy organizational culture and recommends on how McDonald’s can create and maintain its culture. Management and leadership at McDonald ’s In evaluating leadership and management approaches at McDonald’s, it is quite significant to understand its work culture how it is continuously maintained to promote a sustainable growth throughout its operations around the world. McDonald’s work culture requires the efforts of individual line managers in charge of various sections of management. Through delegation of duties, managers at McDonald’s are able to supervise operations and mingle with employees (Goldman, Santos Tully, 2008). As role models, managers at the company take lead in demonstrating how business is supposed to be done. Senior management at McDonald’s has concern for its employees and has developed strong relationships. Every line manager focuses on motivating employees which is important in bringing out the best out of every person including low-skills workers. McDonald’s Corporation further believes in training of leaders at all levels within the management structure . This objective is made possible by partnering with Hamburger University which impacts employees with skills and knowledge necessary for better service delivery. As a result, the company has invested in nurturing professional talents in order to meet the needs of the company (Goldman, Santos Tully, 2008). It therefore follows that the company does not only train its executives and managers but also appreciates the need to have empowered employees through reinforcement of its culture. As such, McDonald’s identifies employees as main pillars who have to be valued in terms of their remuneration and working benefits. Although all managers at McDonald’s have played significant roles in promoting the performance of the company, its CEO has demonstrated exceptional qualities and leadership styles. Jim Skinner has worked for the company for more than thirty years, having served in several positions before rising to the helm of McDonald’s management.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More As a charismatic and transformational manager, many successes which have been realized by the company are attributed to his management through redefining the company’s vision and business direction (Goldman, Santos Tully, 2008). Having had immense experience with the company, his election as the CEO allowed the company to experience global corporation. He has played key roles in streamlining communication between employees and managers, focusing on the need to satisfy their needs. He appreciates the work played by employees through open promotions which are advertised in order to eliminate the â€Å"McJob† stigma which had haunted the company for years (Goldman, Santos Tully, 2008). According to his philosophy, McDonald’s has given higher priority to customers as compared to its expansion interests. As the head of management, Ji m believes in creativity among all employees without departing from the primary objectives which drive the company’s operations (McDonald’s 2011). The management at McDonald’s also recognizes the need to have professional values in doing business around the world. In addressing the problem of obesity, Jim provided a solution rather than letting other managers to carry the blame which the company was facing. He therefore represents moral leadership which embraces the spirit of doing what is right for better performance. It can be summarized that management and leadership of McDonald’s Corporation focuses on customer satisfaction, employee motivation and ethical approaches in driving the company’s agenda. Role of managers and leaders Managers and leaders play a pivotal role in promoting a healthy culture which allows growth and good performance. While managers believe that culture is an essential requirement, the question has always remained on worka ble ways of promoting organizational culture. Likewise, McDonald’s Corporation has ensured that it has a healthy culture through a wide range of approaches. Led by Mr. Jim, the company’s management appreciates the need of having skilled employees who understand the mission and direction of the company. To achieve this, its workers are empowered through training and workshops (Goldman, Santos Tully, 2008).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Management and Leadership Paper specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This allows employees to feel valued and motivated while performing their responsibilities at the company. Training further allows employees to master the mission and vision of the company as their main driving principles. Additionally, the company is able to nurture future leaders through inculcating company values and ethics. By absorbing talented leaders into leadership, McDonald’s Corporation h as continuously appreciated the need for succession leadership which promotes continuity. Another way in which managers promote healthy organizational culture is through involvement of employees in problem solving. By the fact that every company experiences unique problems and challenges, it is important for managers to involve junior employees as a holistic approach of management (Schein, 2010). Besides this, delegation of duties plays a major role in enhancing organizational culture. It allows people to serve in different capacities as their talents and professional capabilities are tested. When managers delegate duties, other employees feel valued by the company, a concept which has been widely accepted as a motivating factor not only for employees at McDonald’s Corporation but also in other companies around the world. Lastly, McDonald’s Corporation has always created the best atmosphere for its culture to flourish through consistency in its operations and managemen t. This allows the alignment of the company’s structure, values, mission statement and philosophies. Consistency further ensures that the company is anchored on unwavering principles of management which promotes trustworthiness, empowerment of employees and trust (Bateman Snell, 2009). Recommendations As a company that believes in ensuring sustainable competitive advantage, there is every need for McDonald’s Corporation to focus on other ways of creating and maintaining a healthy organizational culture. For instance, mentorship of employees is essential in helping new employees to adapt to a new environment without difficulty. Mentorship bridges the gap between previous work station and the current position (Bateman Snell, 2009). It further clears the anxiety which preoccupies employees when they take up new roles in an organization.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Through such programs, new recruits at McDonald’s Corporation would find it easier to master their roles in a new organizational culture. It would also eliminate ethnocentrism where some employees may feel superior or inferior depending of how their culture is perceived. As a global company, it would be paramount for McDonald’s Corporation to engage in exchange programs which would allow integration of myriad business cultures before adopting particular values. Through such events, managers and employees would able to perform their duties with an open mindset that appreciates cultural diversities around the world. Conclusion Good leadership and management have significantly contributed to the success of McDonald’s making it the leading fast food company in the world. By emphasizing customer satisfaction and employee motivation, the company prides on a stable customer base and a sustainable competitive advantage. References Bateman, T. S., Snell, S. A. (2009). M anagement: Leading collaborating in a competitive world. Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill Irwin. Goldman, E., Santos, T., Tully, S. (2008). Observation of Leadership Organizational Behavior at McDonald’s. Eric Goldman. Web. McDonald’s. (2011). Our Company. McDonald’s. Web. Schein, E. (2010). Organizational Culture and Leadership. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons.

Battle of Ashdown in the Viking-Saxon Wars

Battle of Ashdown in the Viking-Saxon Wars Battle of Ashdown - Conflict Date: The Battle of Ashdown was fought January 8, 871, and was part of the Viking-Saxon Wars. Armies Commanders: Saxons Prince Alfred of Wessexapprox. 1,000 men Danes King BagsecgKing Halfdan Ragnarssonapprox. 800 men Battle of Ashdown - Background: In 870, the Danes embarked on an invasion of the Saxon kingdom of Wessex. Having conquered East Anglia in 865, they sailed up the Thames and came ashore at Maidenhead. Moving inland, they swiftly captured the Royal Villa at Reading and began fortifying the site as their base. As work progressed, the Danish commanders, Kings Bagsecg and Halfdan Ragnarsson, dispatched raiding parties towards Aldermaston. At Englefield, these raiders were met and defeated by Aethelwulf, the Ealdorman of Berkshire. Reinforced by King Ethelred and Prince Alfred, Aethelwulf and the Saxons were able to force the Danes back to Reading. Battle of Ashdown - The Vikings Strike: Seeking to follow up on Aethelwulfs victory, Ethelred planned an assault on the fortified camp at Reading. Attacking with his army, Ethelred was unable to break through the defenses and was driven from the field by the Danes. Falling back from Reading, the Saxon army escaped from their pursuers in the Whistley marshes and made camp across the Berkshire Downs. Seeing an opportunity to crush the Saxons, Bagsecg and Halfdan rode out from Reading with the bulk of their army and made for the downs. Spotting the Danish advance, 21-year old Prince Alfred, rushed to rally his brothers forces. Riding to the top of Blowingstone Hill (Kingstone Lisle), Alfred made use of an ancient perforated sarsen stone. Known as the Blowing Stone, it was capable of producing a loud, booming sound when blown into correctly. With the signal sent out across the downs, he rode to a hill-fort near Ashdown House to gather his men, while Ethelreds men rallied at nearby Hardwell Camp. Uniting their forces, Ethelred and Alfred learned that the Danes had encamped at nearby Uffington Castle. On the morning of January 8, 871, both forces marched out and formed for battle on the plain of Ashdown. Battle of Ashdown - The Armies Collide: Though both armies were in place, neither appeared eager to open the battle. It was during this lull that Ethelred, against Alfreds wishes, departed the field to attend church services at nearby Aston. Unwilling to return until the service was finished, he left Alfred in command. Assessing the situation, Alfred realized that the Danes had occupied a superior position on higher ground. Seeing that they would have to attack first or be defeated, Alfred ordered the Saxons forward. Charging, the Saxon shield wall collided with the Danes and battle commenced. Clashing near a lone, gnarled thorn tree, the two sides inflicted heavy casualties in the melee that ensued. Among those struck down was Bagsecg as well as five of his earls. With their losses mounting and one of their kings dead, the Danes fled the field and returned to Reading. Battle of Ashdown - Aftermath: While the casualties for the Battle of Ashdown are not known, the chronicles of the day report them as being heavy on both sides. Though an enemy, the body of King Bagsecg was buried at Waylands Smithy with full honors while the bodies of his earls were interred at Seven Barrows near Lambourn. While Ashdown was a triumph for Wessex, the victory proved pyrrhic as the Danes defeated Ethelred and Alfred two weeks later at Basing, then again at Merton. At the latter, Ethelred was mortally wounded and Alfred became king. In 872, after a string of defeats, Alfred made peace with the Danes. Selected Sources Berkshire History: The Legends of King AlfredBattle of AshdownBBC: King Alfred

Personal statement for applying to the University for a masters

For applying to the University for a masters program - Personal Statement Example Business, despite being about give and take, when you trim away all the extra bits, follows certain rules of conduct. This may be dictated by social, cultural, political or geographical influences, or by the nature and type of business itself. My first and foremost priority is to familiarize myself with the different ways of conducting business around the globe. My application to the Masters in International Business program, here at Hult University, is me putting that plan into action. I enjoy interacting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds as well as learning about their customs and practices. I have observed that good people skills alone cannot open the doors to financial success for my business. There is a need for a solid educational foundation alongside a good repertoire with people for a business to be run successfully. The knowledge gained from Hult University, coupled with my people skills, should equip me with the tools needed to excel at international business. O nce the program is over I wish to gain a couple of years’ experience to put into practice what I have learned. The practical experience is probably what my family lacked in expanding and diversifying our business. With the practical experience I gain after the program, I shall be able to increase my insight as to how businesses are run effectively and successfully.

LNG as Fuel for Aircraft Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

LNG as Fuel for Aircraft - Essay Example Conceptual Configuration 1.1 Liquefaction Cycle Liquefaction allows gas to be stored economically. Propane Precooled Multi-Component Refrigerant Cycle (Carson’s Report, pg 221) will be used to create the LNG from the natural gas feed. This process also known as the C3-MR system is used widely in today’s LNG industries. This system uses a multi-component refrigerant, usually nitrogen, methane, propane, butane, ethane and pentane to condense and evaporate natural gas in one cycle over a wide range of temperatures.( http://books.google.com.au/books?id=b14hnWUAOPYC&pg=PA115&lpg=PA115&dq=propane-precooled+multi-component+refrigerant+cycle&source=bl&ots=NyBe3x3X2H&sig=lGG5YDOJ9TkF_ntOmXjcG2Es2Fc&hl=en#v=onepage&q=propane-precooled%20multi-component%20refrigerant%20cycle&f=false) 1.2 Storage Facility In this section we will show our storage facility by calculating the storage capacity needed (table 1.2.1), studying the current LNG storage tanks and their capacity and choosing the appropriate facility for our project. Storage Capacity                Number of Flights per day    14                      Usage per Flight          LNG Density (kg/m^3)    455 Weight (kg)    26043.97 Volume(m^3)    57.23949                      Usage per Day          LNG Density (kg/m^3)    455 Weight (kg)    364615.6 Volume(m^3)    801.3529                   Needed storage capacity per day (m^3)                LNG 801.3529             Annual Storage Capacity (m^3)                LNG 292493.8    Table 1.2.1 Storage Capacity Calculation LNG is a cryogenic liquid. The term â€Å"cryogenic† means low temperature, generally below -73 °C. LNG is a clear liquid, with a density of about 45% that of water. The LNG is typically stored in double-walled tanks at atmospheric pressure. The storage tank is actually a tank within a tank. The annular space between the two tank wal ls is filled with insulation. The inner tank, in contact with the LNG, is made of 9% nickel steel, suitable for cryogenic service and structural loading of LNG. The outer tank is generally made of carbon steel or prestressed concrete. 1.3 Processing Facility This stage includes the requirements to sub-cool LNG prior to the loading into the aircraft fuel pods. Lng needs to be sub cooled to -161 degrees Celsius for it to remain in the liquid form. 1.4 Distribution Facility Our distribution facility will include pipings, pumps and hydrants required to deliver LNG from the storage tanks to the aircraft. Pipeline System As the liquefaction and storage facilities are within the airport boundary, the pipeline costs will be lesser than that of distribution and transportation through trucks. Sizing requirements to meet the distance from the storage tanks to the aircraft. To be able to simultaneously fill 2 aircrafts at one time. Under the ground (trench covered by open grating) to prevent he at penetration. Pipeline insulation by thick polyurethane to prevent heat infiltration. 2. Ground Systems Operating Procedure The primary operations that will be considered in this section: Receipt of gas for liquefaction Liquefaction Storage Delivery of LNG In our project, we will be receiving liquefied natural gas, which will eliminate the process of liquefaction. The reason for such an arrangement would be that the amount of LNG usage for our operation does not require a facility to produce LNG with a natural gas feed. Also, costs are not feasible to create a natural gas feed at the airports. With this, we move on to the

Organizational change and research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Organizational change and research - Essay Example Another method that nurses can get involved in research projects is by providing them with adequate access to information technology (Munroe, Duffy & Fisher 2008). Equipping nurses with information technology skills helps them get involved in the evidence based practice projects that are scientific in nature. Use of electronic medical records can bring a positive impact in the way tasks are handled in the clinical and healthcare sectors. Its use brings about electronic infrastructure in the way activities are conducted by the physicians. It is important that physicians be convinced to use the electronic medical records. One of the ways that the physicians are encouraged to use the electronic media records is by involving them in evaluation and demonstration projects. By involving them in demonstration projects they get to know how the electronic media record is used. Moreover, involving them in evaluation projects gives them positive attitude about the use of electronic medical records because they get to know its advantages and the positive effects it brings in their activities as physicians. Some of its advantages in of electronic medical records are ease of viewing the patients’ records and also ease in documentation, analysis and reporting about a patient (Miller, Sim, and New man 2003) Relationship building is important for both the physicians and the patients. Good relationship between the physicians and the patients helps in decision-making. Moreover, good relationship among the physicians is important because they deliver quality health care services to the patients. According to Press Ganey Associates (2009), good relationship between the patients and practitioners help patients to identify the best mode of treatment to their health problems. They also get to know alternative modes of treatment and also to know the consequences of failing to get treated. Good relationship

Marketing Prodcts Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Marketing Prodcts - Research Paper Example This paper seeks to discuss the farm product and the service component produced by Holden Trucking Services. Type of product Holden trucking services produces Barley. Barley is a healthy cereal grain high in fiber, protein, maltose and sugar that alternatively can be used for malt syrup sweetener. Fermented, barley makes the perfect ingredient for beer and various alcoholic beverages. It also has a nutlike flavor, chewy texture and is similar to wheat berries though its color it slightly lighter. Barley has varied functions; it can be used for nutritional purposes, as an ingredient in making beer and as feeds for farm animals. Barley has a robust nutritional benefit to consumers. According to research, barley’s soluble fiber lowers the risk of getting coronary heart diseases and reduces cholesterol levels; also it contains insoluble fiber responsible for minimizing the risk of diabetes type 2 and colon cancer. It grows to about 30 inches high in dry subtropical regions experie ncing cool growing and short seasons. The crop is resistant to diseases compared to other cereals; however, sometimes it is attacked by diseases like rust and virus diseases. Service components There are various reasons why addition of services enhances growth opportunities and high profit margins. Innovations and improvements in service normally results in more loyalty, and increased customer satisfaction eventually impacting in higher profits, cost of sales lowered and attracting potential customers. Documentation as a service is a language that goes with or accompanies a product. It often shows its design, development and marketing strategy in clear terms. Documentation will indicate how to improve products and reveal loop holes in sales funnel, which would have eluded the seller. It is also able to put the seller into contact with prospective customers and investors (Blythe, 2006). Another service is transportation/logistics. This is the process of getting products to its intend ed destination. There are many phases involved; there is transporting the product from the firm to the storage facilities the other getting the product to the customer. Luckily, Holden trucking services happens to be in the said service meaning that transportation costs will be lower compared to if the service was outsourced This will ensure that the produce will reach the intended customer on time (Grewal & Levy, 2010). Storage is another service equally important. It allows the seller to store product when it is not needed and helps to avail the items when demand is bigger than the immediate creation bearing in mind that it is a seasonal product. Barley is stored in refrigerated warehouses since it can easily go bad if left in normal warehouses. Packaging, blending and branding plays a crucial role in marketing a product. It not only attracts the customer to try out ones product but also protects the product from damage. Also, packaging assists in portraying information and direct ions about the product. Packaging again is used also to differentiate one brand from another (Blythe, 2006). Expansion to a product line This involves changing product into different forms to meet varied business opportunities and attract more customers. Barley can be used to produce different products thereby creating a product line. Barley has various uses some of them being nutritional as animal feeds and as an ingredient in making beer and alcoholic drinks. As a

What are the links between class and alienation according to Marx Essay

What are the links between class and alienation according to Marx - Essay Example the civilised epoch, namely, the idea that some time in the past people lived in harmony, and then there was some kind of rupture which left people feeling like foreigners in the world, but some time in the future this alienation would be overcome and humanity would again live in harmony with itself and Nature. Marx, a social philosopher developed his understanding of alienation in criticizing the work of Hegel where he found the existence of the experience in modern bourgeois society (Encyclopaedia of Marxism, 2004) (Paraphrasing Made). Encyclopaedia of Marxism (2004), said that Marx’s work, written in 1844, shows how alienation arises from private labour and from commodity production citing excerpt from Marx (1844) saying: â€Å"Let us review the various factors as seen in our supposition: My work would be a free manifestation of life, hence an enjoyment of life. Presupposing private property, my work is an alienation of life, for I work in order to live, in order to obtain for myself the means of life. My work is not my life.† Encyclopaedia of Marxism (2004) explained that Marx went on to show that the specific form of labour characteristic of bourgeois society, wage labour, corresponds to the most profound form of alienation. It argued that since wage workers sell their labour power to earn a living, and the capitalist owns the labour process, the product of the workers’ labour is in a very real sense alien to the worker. Moreover, it said that it is not her product but the product of the capitalist and that the worker makes a rod for her own back. (Paraphrasing Made). Encyclopaedia of Marxism (2004) said that once a product enters the market, no-one has any control of it, and it sets off on a course which appears to be governed by supra-human laws. It quoted Marx (2005), Capital Volume One saying: â€Å"... with commodities. ... It is a definite social relation between men that assumes, in their eyes, the fantastic form of a relation between things. In

New Zealand Early Childhood Education Learning Theories link with Essay

New Zealand Early Childhood Education Learning Theories link with Teaching - Essay Example Each story reflected the teachers’ chosen pedagogy. In â€Å"Learning From Very Young Children†, the teacher’s role was that of a co-learner. Muellar Tokunaga’s (2006) story illustrated a social constructivist pedagogy. Vygotsky (1978) believed that children’s intellectual development is influenced more by social context than by individual experiences. His theory places a great deal of emphasis on effective social interaction. Interactions are likely to go through a process called intersubjectivity. This is when two people are engaged in a task and begin from different understandings but with interaction, comes to an agreed, shared understanding. This is usually manifested when children initially debate opposite arguments but upon more understanding of the concept because of listening to each other’s opinions, will both end up seeing the concept in one direction. In Muellar Tokunaga’s story, she and the children eventually saw the same things in their imaginative play as it progressed to a smooth, seamless episode of a common experience. Because the play experience was so fulfilling and productive, Muellar Tokunaga, a relatively new teacher as of the time of writing gained inspiration in taking on a teaching philosophy that takes into account children’s ideas when planning the curriculum. ... 44). It is not easy letting go of the reins of control and passing it over to little children’s hands, however, Muellar Tokunaga (2006) found wisdom in it. She allowed herself to be enmeshed in the children’s world of imaginative play and saw for herself how rich an experience it was not only for the children but for her as well. Accepting their invitation to glance into their world was a privilege she gladly enjoyed, as she learned that much of what they play and think about is a reflection of their culture and daily life. Consideration of this culture reflects an Ecological pedagogy which is also very strong in the Te Whaariki curriculum. Muelluar Tokunaga gives much emphasis to the cultural orientation of her students as she believes in â€Å"the importance of an open mind and awareness of cultural influences and behaviours should not be overlooked† (p. 45). This is manifested in equitable dialogues and sharing of stories with each other. To her, the significa nce of such dialogues lies not only in fostering feelings of mutual respect, love, belonging and responsibility for each other but on the practical side, it helps in â€Å"negotiating daily curriculum content in early childhood education†. The teacher in Patterson, Fleet and Duffie’s (1996) story, â€Å"Lambs’ Tails† shares an opposite story. Her role in the story was that of an interviewer who kept trying to elicit stories from her student, Bernie. She would have wanted the same privilege granted to Muelluar Tokunaga when the children invited her into their world, but with Bernie, Patterson et al.’s teacher overwhelmed the boy with too much enthusiasm about his world that he did not let her in. It

What are the links between class and alienation according to Marx Essay

What are the links between class and alienation according to Marx - Essay Example the civilised epoch, namely, the idea that some time in the past people lived in harmony, and then there was some kind of rupture which left people feeling like foreigners in the world, but some time in the future this alienation would be overcome and humanity would again live in harmony with itself and Nature. Marx, a social philosopher developed his understanding of alienation in criticizing the work of Hegel where he found the existence of the experience in modern bourgeois society (Encyclopaedia of Marxism, 2004) (Paraphrasing Made). Encyclopaedia of Marxism (2004), said that Marx’s work, written in 1844, shows how alienation arises from private labour and from commodity production citing excerpt from Marx (1844) saying: â€Å"Let us review the various factors as seen in our supposition: My work would be a free manifestation of life, hence an enjoyment of life. Presupposing private property, my work is an alienation of life, for I work in order to live, in order to obtain for myself the means of life. My work is not my life.† Encyclopaedia of Marxism (2004) explained that Marx went on to show that the specific form of labour characteristic of bourgeois society, wage labour, corresponds to the most profound form of alienation. It argued that since wage workers sell their labour power to earn a living, and the capitalist owns the labour process, the product of the workers’ labour is in a very real sense alien to the worker. Moreover, it said that it is not her product but the product of the capitalist and that the worker makes a rod for her own back. (Paraphrasing Made). Encyclopaedia of Marxism (2004) said that once a product enters the market, no-one has any control of it, and it sets off on a course which appears to be governed by supra-human laws. It quoted Marx (2005), Capital Volume One saying: â€Å"... with commodities. ... It is a definite social relation between men that assumes, in their eyes, the fantastic form of a relation between things. In

My adult learning style Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

My adult learning style - Research Paper Example This is why it was highly important to take the learning styles inventory to understand what factors involved with learning are most effective at helping the individual to comprehend. The results of the study indicate that I tend to be an aural learner, scoring a 13 on the inventory. Closely behind was logical with a score of 12, physical scoring 11, and verbal learning with a nine score. Largely, based on the inventory, I am considered to be a balanced learner who is able to comprehend information from many different learning activities. As an aural learner, music and sound are often quality methods in the learning process. Aural learners learn by hearing information and the student fitting this profile would generally â€Å"like class lectures and small group discussions, listening in class more than taking notes† (Korybut, 2009, p.1). From a personal reflective standpoint, I have always found considerable value in classroom environments with teachers who are strong lecturers without really ever having a personal need for note-taking in order to be engaged with the teacher’s discussions. This type of presentational teaching helps me to stay focuse d on what is being taught orally where comprehension is simply a matter of recalling what has been heard. Further, having the balance between different learning styles would also give me the ability to explore many different learning methods to find which one is best-suited to long-term comprehension. For instance, logical learners â€Å"prefer using logic, reasoning and systems† (learning-styles-online.com, 2009, p.1). Though I have not always had a knack for statistics or the use of complicated systems, logic is a very large part of how I absorb information. For example, if a lecturer provides information which is not very relevant or seems to be stemming from opinion rather than experience, I find myself rejecting the information and can no longer focus on what is

Investigating Alykl Hydoxylation in P450-can Using EVB

Investigating Alykl Hydoxylation in P450-can Using EVB Shen Ye Abstract Cytochrome P450s are a superfamily of haemoproteins1-3 which catalyse the oxidation of organic molecules4. One P450 enzyme studied for its hydroxylation mechanism is P450cam (CYP101) from the Pseudomonas putida bacteria, whose crystal structure (1DZ9) was solved by Schlichting et al.5. The active form of P450cam contains an oxyferryl species known as compound I(CPDI), where the iron has a formal oxidation state of Fe(V) 6, 7 in the plane of a porphyrin ring with a protruding oxygen atom. This oxygen atom is a tremendously potent oxidising agent and can readily abstract a hydrogen of a C-H bond from non-activated hydrocarbons with potentially high regioselectivity[REF]. Acknowledgements The author would like to thank: Patrick von Glehn Dr Richard Lonsdale Professor Adrian Mulholland Professor Jeremy Harvey Professor Neil Allan Table of Contents Abstract Acknowledgements Table of Contents Part I – Literature Review An introduction to haem oxygenases Cytochrome P450 enzymes P450 catalytic cycle P450cam An introduction to CHARMM and EVB Part II Methodology Part I – Literature Review An introduction to haem oxygenases After hydrogen and helium, oxygen is the third most abundant chemical element in the universe8 and makes up 20.9% of Earth’s atmosphere9. Oxygen accounts for 65% of the mass in humans8 as it is found in all biological systems including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and water. Oxygen occurs in the atmosphere as dioxygen, with a triple ground state where the two unpaired electrons are occupying two degenerate molecular orbitals10. This makes incorporating atmospheric oxygen into organic molecules (predominantly singlet species) extremely difficult as it would be a spin forbidden process. Haem oxygenases are enzymes containing a prosthetic haem cofactor, an iron atom held by a porphyrin ring. Haem B is the most common prosthetic haem group, consisting of a protoporphyrin IX ring bound to the iron. It is most commonly found in the human body inside haemoglobin and myoglobin11, playing a major role when it comes to binding atmospheric dioxygen. There are two groups of haem oxygenases, monooxygenases and dioxygenases, one reacts using a single oxygen atom and the other using both oxygen atoms. The haem B cofactor and the apoenzyme are synthesised separately in different parts of a cell and they are connected via ligation to the iron atom on the proximal face12. The protoporphyrin ring is a tetrapyrrole macrocycle synthesised from basic biological precursors including succinyl CoA and the most basic amino acid, glycine13. Ferrochelatase coordinates the iron atom to the protoporphyrin, producing haem B14. In cytochrome P450 enzyme the iron is ligated to a proximal cysteine residue via the sulphur atom15, however in some other oxygenases and other haemoproteins such as haemoglobin and myoglobin the iron is coordinated to a proximal histidine residue16. In monooxygenases one of the dioxygen atoms is converted to H2O and the other is commonly inserted into an aliphatic position of the substrate, producing a hydroxyl group by oxidation of reducing agents such as NADH and NAD(P)H17, 18. The most studied haem-containing monooxygenases are the superfamily of cytochrome P450 enzymes due to their large diversity and versatility19, 20. Cytochrome P450 enzymes Cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP) were first discovered by Axelrod21 and Brodie et al.22 in 1955 when they observed the oxidation of xenobiotic compounds in the endoplasmic reticulum of the liver, but the enzymes responsible were still unknown until 1962. Klingenberg23 and Garfinkel24 found a carbon monoxide binding pigment in the rat and pig livers, respectively, which had an absorption maximum at 450 nm. The CO molecule was bound to the centre of the haem and its 450 nm absorption maximum25 is prevalent in all CYPs26-28, an electron spin resonance spectrum identified this enzyme was a low spin haemoprotein29. This 450 nm Soret peak is the origin of the name P450. The superfamily of CYPs contain over a thousand haem monooxygenases30 and are present in nearly all living organisms and even viruses, a well-known exception is Escherichia coli4, 19 which is widely used to investigate CYPs by sequence insertion into plasmids and allow the E. coli to express the genes31, 32. CYPs typically con tain approximately 500 amino acids, the cysteine residue which ligates to the haem group is located near the carboxy-terminus and the amino-terminus region of CYPs are rich in hydrophobic residues and is believed to be responsible for binding the enzymes to the lipid bilayers of cells33. CYPs in mammals are a crucial part of catalysing the metabolism of organic compounds and the biosynthesis of steroid hormones34, such as oestrogen and testosterone, and are able to perform hydroxylation, epoxidations and other oxidation reactions at physiological temperatures35 extremely selectively. Such reactions when performed uncatalysed tend to require extremely high temperatures5. CYPs are tremendously versatile, they’re able to catalyse a wide range of foreign hydrophobic compounds, which helps to protect the organism if they have ingested potentially harmful substances including toxins and carcinogens36. This ability is often called â€Å"xenobiotic metabolism†37. There is a system for the nomenclature of P450 enzymes, which is â€Å"CYP† followed by a number, a latter and another number, e.g. CYP2J2. The first number relates to the family of the CYP, where all the CYPs in the family share a sequence identity of 40% or greater. The letter afterwards corresponds to the subfamily, where the CYPs in the subfamily share a sequence identity of 55% of greater. The final number is a label where all CYPs with this label share a sequence identity of 97% or greater38. CYPs with the same label are known as isoforms. Humans have 57 different CYP isoforms divided into 18 families and 42 subfamilies34. Most of the isoforms are found on membranes, including the inner membrane of mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum and the cell membrane. They all differ in roles but the processes they all catalyse are similar and a few are crucial for catalysing more than once process. For example CYP 17A1 is located in the endoplasmic reticulum and is shown to be both a hydrolase and lyase, a key enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway of steroids including oestrogens and progestins39. The most researched area of CYPs is the drug metabolising CYPs in the human hepatic system such as 3A440, 2C941, 2D642, 2E143, 1A2 and 2C1944. These CYPs are responsible for the xenobiotic metabolism against infested foreign compounds, breaking them down into more readily soluble products to aid excretion through the urinary system45. For this reason, a good understanding of the metabolic pathway of organic molecules inside the body al lows drug development to invent new methods of bioactivation of inert but bioavailable forms of an active compound, where the ingested compound is inactive but gets metabolised into the active form inside the body. The versatility of CYPs can sometimes cause unexpected side-effects in metabolising pharmaceutical drugs, for example some bioactive compounds in grapefruit juice have been found to inhibit CYP catalysed metabolism of certain cardiovascular drugs, causing an increased blood concentration of the bioactive drug, thus leaking to a risk of overdose46, 47. P450cam P450cam was the first CYP to have its three-dimensional structure determined. It displays a high region- and stereoselectivity when catalysing the hydroxylation of camphor, only the exo-hydroxyl at C5 position is produced. Despite the extensive research into P450s, there are still certain details of the mechanism which are not fully understood. References 1.T.K. D. R. Nelson, D. J. Waxman, F. P. Guengerich, R. W. Estabrook, R. Feyereisen, F. J. Gonzales, M. J. Coon, I. C. Gunsalus, O. Gotoh, K. Okuda and D. W. Nebert DNA Cell Biol, 1993. 12(1): p. 1-51. 2.C. Loannides and D. Parke, Drug metabolism reviews, 1990. 22(1): p. 1-85. 3.A. Altun, S. Shaik, and W. Thiel, Journal of the American Chemical Society, 2007. 129(29): p. 8978-8987. 4.P. Danielson, Current drug metabolism, 2002. 3(6): p. 561-597. 5.I. Schlichting, J. Berendzen, K. Chu, A.M. Stock, S.A. Maves, D.E. Benson, R.M. Sweet, D. Ringe, G.A. Petsko, and S.G. Sligar, Science, 2000. 287(5458): p. 1615-1622. 6.D. Dolphin, A. Forman, D. Borg, J. Fajer, and R. Felton, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 1971. 68(3): p. 614-618. 7.J.E. Penner-Hahn, K. Smith Eble, T.J. McMurry, M. Renner, A.L. Balch, J.T. Groves, J.H. Dawson, and K.O. 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Role of Women During the Time of Lysistrata :: Free Lysistrata Essays

The True Role of Women During the Time of Lysistrata  Ã‚     Ã‚   Aristophanes’ significant contributions in the development of the theater arts and his standing in the Athenian community are well documented. His hilarious comedy, Lysistrata, reflects the disgust with war prevalent at Athens after the disastrous expedition to Sicily. It is ripe with sexual innuendo and provides much insight into the timeliness of human sexuality, desire, and the war of the sexes, yet it was intended to make a political statement regarding the folly of Athenian military aggression. Aristophanes was not suggesting that a sex strike might be an effective means of ending the Peloponnesian War, more likely that the reasons for the war itself were suspect. Lysistrata’s scheme to force the men of Greece to the peace table could never have been successful. Property concerns, gender roles, and the sexuality of Athenian men prevented Athenian women from exerting the necessary political influence.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Logistically, it would have been quite difficult for Lysistrata to enlist the aid of the women of Athens in her scheme. Greek society imposed standards of decorum that restricted a woman’s freedom of movement and required her to be escorted by a slave woman or an elderly relative when in public (Gulick 54). These restrictions were designed primarily to limit a wife or daughter’s contact with men outside her family and served men’s goal of avoiding uncertainty about the paternity of children, however they did allow women friends and relatives to socialize freely in each other’s homes. Even the scene of Lysistrata waiting to meet with Kalonike, Myrrhine, and Lampito doesn’t seem particularly out of the ordinary. Still, the coordination required would necessitate that Lysistrata be of substantial means. Only the wealthiest of women could successfully deploy couriers across battle lines, initiate a relationship with a Spartian woman of sign ificant influence, and arrange for Lampito’s visit to Athens. Since, as Charles Gulick writes, "every woman of good family was under the guardianship of a man" (56), it seems unlikely that Lysistrata could managed such a feat.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Wives, in ancient Greece, were strategically selected for the purpose of producing legitimate heirs and maintaining control of property (Gulick 57). They were typically not the objects of their husband’s sexual desire. "Marriage was a matter of good family, good dowry, and good health. Given the differences in ages, education and experience, there were no real grounds for companionship. Role of Women During the Time of Lysistrata :: Free Lysistrata Essays The True Role of Women During the Time of Lysistrata  Ã‚     Ã‚   Aristophanes’ significant contributions in the development of the theater arts and his standing in the Athenian community are well documented. His hilarious comedy, Lysistrata, reflects the disgust with war prevalent at Athens after the disastrous expedition to Sicily. It is ripe with sexual innuendo and provides much insight into the timeliness of human sexuality, desire, and the war of the sexes, yet it was intended to make a political statement regarding the folly of Athenian military aggression. Aristophanes was not suggesting that a sex strike might be an effective means of ending the Peloponnesian War, more likely that the reasons for the war itself were suspect. Lysistrata’s scheme to force the men of Greece to the peace table could never have been successful. Property concerns, gender roles, and the sexuality of Athenian men prevented Athenian women from exerting the necessary political influence.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Logistically, it would have been quite difficult for Lysistrata to enlist the aid of the women of Athens in her scheme. Greek society imposed standards of decorum that restricted a woman’s freedom of movement and required her to be escorted by a slave woman or an elderly relative when in public (Gulick 54). These restrictions were designed primarily to limit a wife or daughter’s contact with men outside her family and served men’s goal of avoiding uncertainty about the paternity of children, however they did allow women friends and relatives to socialize freely in each other’s homes. Even the scene of Lysistrata waiting to meet with Kalonike, Myrrhine, and Lampito doesn’t seem particularly out of the ordinary. Still, the coordination required would necessitate that Lysistrata be of substantial means. Only the wealthiest of women could successfully deploy couriers across battle lines, initiate a relationship with a Spartian woman of sign ificant influence, and arrange for Lampito’s visit to Athens. Since, as Charles Gulick writes, "every woman of good family was under the guardianship of a man" (56), it seems unlikely that Lysistrata could managed such a feat.   Ã‚  Ã‚   Wives, in ancient Greece, were strategically selected for the purpose of producing legitimate heirs and maintaining control of property (Gulick 57). They were typically not the objects of their husband’s sexual desire. "Marriage was a matter of good family, good dowry, and good health. Given the differences in ages, education and experience, there were no real grounds for companionship.