Saturday, August 31, 2019

Human Observation Paper: Handwashing in Public Restrooms Essay

Quite recently, the World Health Organization has already declared AH1N1 Flu as a Pandemic, with the rating of Classified Level 6 Alert (World Health Organization, 2009) that has to date, affected 33 countries and thousands of deaths. Cross-contamination, which is the transfer of bacteria from one source to food which is high-risk (Three Rivers District Council, 2009) has resulted to 2.4 million healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) and 30,000 deaths per year (American Society for Microbiology Survey, 2009). Surprisingly, these diseases or infections that have ended lives may be prevented not only by costly medicine or treatment using sophisticated, state-of-the-art technology but something as basic and simple as this: Hand-washing. With medical experts worldwide concurring on the immense benefits and the necessity of handwashing in the promotion of people’s health, there has been a clamor to increase awareness for people to make handwashing a part of their daily routine. This study aims to provide information on hand-washing behavior of people in public restrooms and the factors that may or may not influence frequency of hand-washing. Baseline Information I. Statement of the Problem Everyone knows the benefits of being clean as in hand-washing. However, there are still some who do not wash their hands after using the restroom. Are factors that may influence or may be linked with the human behavior of handwashing? If so, what are they? Do these factors induce or preclude handwashing behavior? II. Theory Statement In Smith’s study, she used Observation as one of the variables due to the Theory of Self-Awareness that states that self-awareness increases adherence to social norms. Thus, self-awareness of the people due to their knowledge of others watching them drives them to adhere to the social norm of hand-washing. There is also a link between Gender and Ethnic differences to health-related beliefs and behaviors (Courtenay, McCreary and Merighi, 2002). There is a higher likelihood for men to engage in riskier health-related behaviors and fewer preventive behaviors in health (Courtenay, McCreary and Merighi, 2002). The Theory of Planned Behavior, which believes that corresponding attitudes toward behavior, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control, coupled with personal responsibility may predict intention, in effect, the behavior of people, is used in justifying the Smith’s choice of Location as a variable in assessing the likelihood of handwashing. In a hospital setting, wherein people’s attitudes are focused on the maintenance of sanitary conditions as expected in hospitals, people become more conscious in being more responsible in following expected norms of sanitary habits in the hospital. In such as setting, behavior control in the people to wash their hands is greater then as compared to other places. III. Hypothesis There are some variables that affect the frequency of handwashing (Smith 2005). These may be observation, gender and location. There is a higher incidence of hand-washing among participants that know their behavior is being observed, are females and are in a hospital-setting (versus other locations such as schools and the workplace, for example). IV. Procedure or Methodology Female and male observers, respectively, were situated in both women’s and men’s restrooms in the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (USCCS) campus and hospital, to record the pre-determined participant behaviors and conditions, including handwashing (yes/no), whether the participant could see the observer (observed/not observed), gender (male/female), and location (college campus/hospital) of 179 participants. These were tallied and results were generated. V. Results No significant differences were found in participants who knew that they were being observed and those who did not have the said knowledge. There were also no significant differences between handwashing behavior of males and females, as well as between those who are in the school or hospital setting. VI. Discussion None of the hypotheses were supported by the study. Observation, Gender and Location do not play a role in handwashing behavior as there were no significant differences between participants that were found in studying the above-mentioned variables. Behavior Change VII. Statement of the Problem May Observation and the Presence of Signages reminding people to wash their hands influence people to do so? What is the effect of people knowing that they are watched after they have read the signage recommending that they wash their hands after using the restroom? VIII. Theory Statement of Relationship or cause and Effect The study of Jenner et al. (2002) on predictive behaviors in hand hygiene or washing of hands in hospital health care workers state concludes that reminders such as signages are correlated to the higher tendency of people to wash their hands after they used the rest rooms. With the spreading of various diseases, there is also an increase in public service announcements by the media, and reminders in all types of institutions to wash their hands. This norm of washing hands as acceptable behavior after using the restroom is displayed with the observers showing approval upon seeing that a person washed his or her hands, and disapproval when such is   not done due to people’s belief in its importance. Such is largely due to efforts by media, the government and various institutions in the communities reminding people of the benefits of washing their hands. IX. Hypothesis This study, presupposes that observation may influence the frequency of hand-washing, as in Smith’s study. Also, the presence of a signage posted in the public restroom reminding people to wash their hands before they leave the restroom will also be examined as a factor affecting the incidence of hand-washing. This study will then not only support Smith’s contention that there may be factors that explains Handwashing behavior in humans, but will also extend the point that these variables even work together, influencing people to wash their hands. X. Procedure or Methodology Observers were situated at a public restroom of a coffee shop right smack in the middle of a shopping mall. The rest room is for both men and women, with a small space that housed a couch and a handwashing station prior to the door leading to the rest room. In the lunch time hours, the first ten people who entered the rest room during this time, 7 women and 3 men were randomly selected to be participants in the study. The observers noted handwashing behavior upon participants’ reading of the huge signage reminding people to wash their hands. Such signage was conveniently placed in front of the door which they see upon exiting the rest room and after seeing that there is another person with them in the room observing their actions. Results were then tabulated on the participant’s washing of hands (yes/no) as reactions to reading the signage and noticing that they are under observation by another person in the room. XI.  Results 6 out of 10 participants washed their hands immediately washed their hands upon reading the signage and upon noting the presence of another person in the area. 3 participants barely noted the presence of the observer (they did not even as much as glance at the observer in the area), but washed their hands after reading the signage. Only one participant left the rest room without washing his hands, even if he has read the signage and knew of the presence of the observer (he had eye contact with the observer prior to leaving the area). The aforesaid participant appeared to be in a hurry. XII.  Discussion Observation and the signage reminding people to wash their hands- that are conveniently placed in rest rooms may have an effect on people to wash their hands. Not only do the signage serve as reminders and the presence of an observer provide â€Å"pressure† for a person to wash their hands, the two in combination have effected handwashing behavior in a manner that the person washes his or her hands due to his or her possible avoidance of a situation wherein he will receive disapproval, not just because he failed to wash his hands, but because he did not do so after he had already seen the sign telling him of its benefits. This gives the finding that the compulsion to handwashing may not only come from the person knowing and is being reminded of its importance- a community or societal belief, moreover, it is done out of the person’s fear of being perceived in a bad light- an idiot, or someone who blatantly defies commonly held belief. A person herein does not only wash his or her hand not only because he or she believes of its benefits to health, but because he or she did not want to be labeled as the person, who after reading the sign, still does not wash his or her hands- an unintelligent and/or openly defiant person who does not seem to understand the importance of handwashing even after he has been amply told. Conclusion The goal of many professionals who in their studies, have proved the benefits of handwashing, is to encourage people to do so after they use the rest rooms. Knowing the factors and understanding how they interrelate would provide the key to formulating solutions to make handwashing become widely practiced so as that they will become the necessary part of the routine of the people. Such must be done because however handwashing would seem basic and simple, doing such has a tremendous effect- it can even save lives.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Jessica’s Silence Within the Merchant of Venice

Jessica’s Silence Within Shakespeare’s tragic comedy, The Merchant of Venice, one is exposed to yet another one of his works that has an intensely packed storyline full of different characters with their own complex subplots that contribute to the main plot. One of the main characters, Jessica, is daughter of Shylock, who is a wealthy Jewish moneylender in Venice. Shylock is characterized as a villainous type of character within the play, partly because of being a Jew and partly because of his rude and mean exterior.Within the subplot of Jessica and Shylock’s relationship, it is clearly visable by Shylock’s treatment of his daughter that she has become resentful of not only being his daughter, but also of being a Jew. When Jessica decides to rob her father of quite a bit of his money and property through an arranged setup with Lorenzo, the man she plans to elope after the robbery, she takes not only many things worth a great value, but also the ring that h er father had bought her mother.When Shylock learns of his daughter not only deserting him and robbing him, but taking such invaluable and prized possession as the ring, he is utterly heartbroken. After trading the ring for a monkey and marrying Lorenzo, Jessica is faced with a deep moral guilt in Act 5, Scene 1 when exposed to how Portia feels after tricking Bassiano to give the ring away while she was disguised. In Act 5, Scene 1, Jessica is completely silent after Portia and the others enter and they begin to discuss all of the disguise and trickery that had happened.When the men are told that Portia and Nerissa were in disguise and tricked the men of their rings, rings that the men had swore to keep for eternity, Jessica is exposed to how much love and emotion was attached to those rings. One would think that it must have been a shameful kick in the stomach to see past the fog that her love for Lorenzo has caused and realize that the hurt that these women are experiencing is the same pain that her father must have felt when realizing that Jessica, his only flesh and blood, the only person he could possibly love in this world, took one of his most sentimental treasures and traded it for a damn monkey.

Disadvantages Of Balance Scorecard Accounting Essay

Robert Kaplan and Norton came up with balance scorecard in 1990s.The balanced scorecard consists strategically oriented set of ends which are grouped into four different positions which includes fiscal, internal procedures, client, larning and growing. It is known to be a model for public presentation measuring that added strategic non-financial public presentation steps to traditional fiscal prosodies to give directors and executives a more ‘balanced ‘ position of organisational public presentation. ( Balance scorecard insititute ) The BSC is a theoretical account that integrates fiscal and non-financial strategic steps. Bing a high profile theoretical account BSC has attracted attending from practicians and faculty members. BSC relies on the scheme construct developed by Porter where he argues sing the kernel of explicating a competitory scheme lies in associating a company to the assorted competitory forces in the industry. Kaplan and Norton emphasize that non-financial strategic aims should non dwell of an random aggregation of steps but they should consist balanced representation of both fiscal and non-financial information. ( The Economist )Advantages of balanced scorecardImproved creativeness along with unannounced Ideas. It besides helps aline cardinal public presentation steps with scheme at different degrees of an administration and provides the direction a comprehensive image of the concern operations. Balanced scorecard facilitates effectual communicating and apprehension of concern ends and schemes of an administration. Transformation of scheme into action. This construct provides strategic feedback and acquisition. Reduced time-frame and improved competitory advantage Improved determination, procedures and better solutions. Enterprises are often measured and evaluated against the industry criterions. ( Balance scorecard Australia ) The empirical survey conducted by Sun blare, Granlund and Brown ( 2010 ) concluded that the balance scorecard is eligible to make a balance in multiple aims and the survey highlighted to hold balanced both in footings of procedure and results. In instance of Philips Medical Systems North American ( PMSNA ) the company used balanced scorecard in order to upturn answerability for consequences. Through the execution of world-wide scorecard system Philips has realized its important benefits and has besides succeeded in concentrating the company on diverse set of concern steps. ( SCRC articles )Disadvantages of balance scorecardIt is merely considered as a list of prosodies which does non supply bottom line mark with clear recommendations. The tonss obtained are non based on any fiscal or economic theory in other words the procedure is subjective. Critics have besides claimed that the positive feedback from the balance scorecard users may be due to the placebo consequence as there is are no ascertained surveies related to the usage of balance scorecard to improved determination devising or better fiscal public presentation of companies. Resistance towards equilibrate scorecard from employees or even higher degree directors. It is clip devouring to accommodate to equilibrate scorecard strategic system. High execution cost is involved at the initial phase. ( Vector survey )Criticisms and options of BSCMany options have emerged to equilibrate scorecard such as public presentation prism, consequences Based Management and Applied Information Economics. In 2000, the Federal CIO Council commissioned a survey to compare the two methods AIE and BSC by funding surveies in side-by-side undertakings in two different bureaus. The Dept. of Veterans Affairs used AIE and the US Dept. of Agriculture used Balanced Scorecards. The consequence in study revealed that while AIE was much more sophisticated, AIE really took somewhat less clip to use. AIE was besides more likely to bring forth findings that were newsworthy to the organisation, while the users of balance scorecard felt it merely documented their inputs and presented no other specific penetration. Neely ( 2002 ) argued that the most ambitious job of balance scorecard is that it lacks legion of import involvement groups in its construction such as providers, co-operation spouses and close neighbors. Neely besides recommends that it would be executable to utilize a public presentation prism method as a possible beginning for adding new involvement groups to the model of balance scorecard whereas Simons references that it might be reasonable to add a elaborate characteristic where specific undertaking force or a certain individual will be assigned in every administration who is straight responsible for roll uping information about external chances and menaces. Pandey ( 2005 ) after critically analyzing the balance scorecard argued that he had no uncertainty sing the public presentation betterment procedure being a critical portion of strategic planning but he raised a inquiry that whether the balance scorecard linked with the scheme leads to break public presentation and communicating as claimed by the advocates. In 2008 Othman suggested that there must be a nexus in the balance scorecard and scenario planning mentioning to the strategic planning that is robust to different external conditions and this will guarantee that balance scorecard is non merely representation of present state of affairs. Kaplan, Norton and Rugelsjeon ( 2010 ) answered to the unfavorable judgment sing the external orientation. They answered how the administrations can be saved from failures of confederation jobs and the writers claimed that the confederations can be better managed through balanced scorecard due to its strategic orientation. ( World applied science diary )DecisionMany international research studies have revealed that the balance scorecard construct is a extremely widespread tool around the universe. Despite legion success narratives at that place have been besides several unfavorable judgments and instances where the execution failed. The 2005 study conducted by Brains and company shows that 57 % of th e universe & A ; acirc ; ˆâ„ ¢s houses use balanced scorecard as their public presentation direction system. A study conducted by the 2GC in 2011 the study consequences show that the primary function of the Balanced scorecard is still strategic direction. The figure of participants who view the Balanced Scorecard as a really or highly valuable direction tool consist of 75 % . From the above statistics we can reason that broad figure of administrations utilizing balance scorecard to better their organizational public presentation. ( 2GC active direction ) It can be concluded that balance scorecard is an effectual public presentation tool but the suggested betterments have to be undertaken in order to increase positive consequences. Some of the recommendations can be given in order to better the balance scorecard public presentation measuring: The focal point should be future oriented non simply consist of the past and current state of affairs prevailing in the administration. Common steps of balance scorecard should be adopted by all SBU & A ; acirc ; ˆâ„ ¢s in order to guarantee uniformity in public presentation rating. Supportive civilization should be predominating in the administration in order to guarantee successful execution of balance scorecard. Balance scorecard should non merely be utilised for high public presentation but besides organizational invention and merchandise development. Responsiveness to different external state of affairss in the concern environment.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Not Just Entertainment Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Not Just Entertainment - Assignment Example A main topic of colonization seemed to be a dominant issue in several of the films. Female oppression and gender categorization was another situation discussed in several of the films. Cultural traditions and beliefs were intertwined throughout many of the films as each group practiced traditions in various ways from Western culture and traditions. Some cultural traditions have made their way into Western society as people have immigrated to Europe, America, Canada, and South America. Traditions that seemed acceptable by the mainstream society were openly practiced, while others were kept confidential because of their unacceptable practices (WHO, 1996). The film Keita carried the issue of education by the government to be the most important part of a young person’s life (Kouyate, 1995). In comparison to mainstream cinema, Brooks (1955) depicted how education is handled in an inner city all boys school in the film titled Blackboard Jungle. In La Bataille d’Alger the rule s the government were placing on the people were portrayed as the only acceptable way of life, even though the people of Algiers had their own traditions and beliefs that they had been practicing for generations (Pontecorvo, 1966). The comparison to how the Indians were treated by the government in the film titled Dances with Wolves is not much different. One group is trying to coerce the other group into something that is not wanted (Costner, 1990). The traditions in the film Moolaade that had been carried out for generations were being questioned and dismissed by some, while completely supported by other members of the community (Sembene, 2004). The oppression of women was depicted in a similar fashion, but not to the extreme in the film Maid in Manhattan (Wang, 2002). In each of these films, one group was trying to force another group to accept something that was different from the other group or individual’s belief. The similarities and differences can be determined in th e opinion of the viewer. Many mainstream films are created for and considered entertainment, while African cinema seemed to expose oppression, injustices, and real world experiences that may have remained hidden knowledge from the rest of the world. The function and art of the traditional griot portrayed in the film Keita was the teaching of the youth of the community through stories passed down through generations (Kouyate, 1995). It was the griot’s responsibility to make sure that everyone learned the history and origin of their family and community. A comparison between the African filmmakers and the griot could be that both have a job to disseminate the truth about the history and traditions of a community according to the culture and beliefs of that people. The difference between the filmmakers and the griot is that the filmmakers try to provide different opinions of the situation and allow for the view to decide how to interpret the outcome of the film. A griot taught t he story from knowledge passed down from generations and allowed the person being told the story to choose their own beliefs, without providing any other scenarios or versions of the story (Kouyate, 1995). A good example of the opposing views of a story from a filmmaker is provided in La Bataille d’Alger. In this film, the police were shown as one way and the script was written to

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Considering Pakistan as a Country Attracting the Tourists, Developing Research Paper - 1

Considering Pakistan as a Country Attracting the Tourists, Developing Strategies - Research Paper Example The strategy that we think suits Pakistan the best is to attract tourists on the basis of the adventurous spots. This is because there are many out there in Pakistan and all they need is a bit of development and proper marketing techniques. Now once the potential market has been explored it is important to decide will it be mass marketing or niche marketing. As far as this industry is concerned it will be widespread marketing but niche in the way that only for those who have the wish to indulge in adventurous activities. However, the struggle does not end here and a perfect marketing strategy including the most suitable marketing mix should be formed in order to carry out the plan successfully. This means deciding on the seven Ps of marketing. Once the various spots of adventures have been selected the whole package should be determined as to what all facilities will the tourists receive once they come and visit. After this promotion and education are important to answer when and how and all similar questions that can arise in the minds of prospective visitors. Apart from this in every service that is provided there are individuals involved who are representative of the company and interact directly with the consumers. They play a crucial role and thus it is important to determine a strategy related to them even. The right combination of all the factors can bring about a package that would be attractive to all and will increase the flow of tourists in the country which will, in turn, bring several benefits to the overall economy. Tourism is an industry through which a country can earn fortunes and do wonders for the economy.  

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Introduction outline Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Introduction outline - Essay Example the country to withstand negative influences of the Western culture and protect it people against the danger of same-sex marriages, abortion, and drug abuse. Chinese is a religious nation and values their culture and their way of life which has enabled the country to increase its economic, social and political stability (Overview of Chinese Culture). The Chinese government monitors and censure internet access to protect against infiltration of global influence to its citizens. However, despite all the measure to protect it culture, Chinese people have abandoned some of their culture and embraced the trend in trade, commerce and economic integration among nations. Therefore, globalization have taken root and the country is now open to trade with any nation in the world. Globalization has not only increased the economic growth of China, but has ensured the transfer of knowledge in science, medicine and architecture from Africa and other Western countries (Pagel). Therefore, globalizati on has done more good to the Chinese than destroying their

Monday, August 26, 2019

Green Chemistry Principles in 2020 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Green Chemistry Principles in 2020 - Essay Example The progress of human civilization, especially in the post Industrial Revolution era, witnessed a dynamic shift of the human race from agriculturalist approach to urbanization for the purpose of Industrial expansion. In order to secure increasing amount of place for establishing industries, more torture over environment commenced - starting from random deforestation to use of natural fuel resources in the industrial sectors, capable of emitting harmful gases and biohazards and created negative impact on the global environmental balance. During the Post World War II period, while capitalism and industrial domination became major resources for the powerful nations across the globe for their respective prosperity, the situation of environmental crisis took even more critical turn due to abundant use of nuclear elements for creating electricity (Krech, McNeill, and Merchant, 2004). In addition to this situation, most of the ruling nations of the world, in their quest to show their respec tive supremacy over one another, started experimental blasting of nuclear bombs and missiles, which amounted to massive destruction of natural resources, leading to one of the greatest threats against progress of the modern civilization, global warming. Once the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union was over during the 80s and the world revived from the impending threat of witnessing a nuclear war, consequently, humanistic part of the scientific activism also witnessed that human arbitrariness over experimenting with nature has extended to such an extent that immediate measures, if are not adopted, then there is always a great risk that the entire human race will be exterminated due to negative effects of natural imbalance (Buell, 2003). Thus, since the later part of the 80s â€Å"several environmentally conscious terms entered the chemical arena, e.g. clean chemistry, environmental chemistry, green chemistry, benign chemistry and sustainable chemistry† (Lin thorst, 2009). However, compared to other variations of environmental conscious terms in the field of chemistry, â€Å"green chemistry† received a great deal of appreciation and has become more familiar among students and aspiring scientists and one of the main reasons behind such wide acceptance of the term can be interpreted in the way that it explained the purpose of science and scientific experimentations by encompassing the ideology of environment friendly scientific approach, consequently, receiving wide range of support among various scientists and scientific associations (Linthorst, 2009). Adequate scholarly proposals have also been made to include green chemistry as a part of school curriculum. This paper will examine green chemistry principles in light of the sustainability issues of 2020. It will try to find out what kinds of changes are required to meet the sustainability challenges of 2020. it is first necessary to talk about the environmental issues and threat o f 2020. Then, it will move on discussing the green chemistry principles in light of sustainability issues of 2020. Environmental issues and threats of 2020: As human race is proceeding forward, there are many thing making up the trail to our destruction as the tropical forest turning to deserts, dry wastelands and choking cities, untimely weathers and oceans heaving with oil and other non-degradable

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Environmental Health Historical Prespective Research Paper

Environmental Health Historical Prespective - Research Paper Example Chemicals are the most critical factors that policy makers need to address because consumers may not control their intake. The lack of control results from the fact that consumers are hardly aware of the chemicals they consume from commercially produced products. Consumption of high levels of chemicals may cause diseases such as breast cancer, which have not found a cure since the evolution of mankind. Rachel Carson, an environmentalist was the first woman to create awareness of the negative effects of environmental factors such as chemicals. Rachel was concerned with the relationship between health and environment because she was a victim of breast cancer that is caused by consumption of chemicals (Carson, 2012). Environmental pollution that results from spraying of insecticides, and pesticide is one of the major factors that produces negative effects on health. This is proven by the study conducted by Silent Spring to find out the effects of pollution on health. The study found out that when human beings inhale air that contains chemicals, they are likely to contract cancerous diseases such as prostate and breast cancer. The institution compared the spread of breast cancer among women of Cape Cod, an area that grows cranberries with other regions in Massachusetts. The regions were chosen because growers of cranberries in Cape Cod often spray their farms to prevent pests from destroying their crops; while the rest of Massachusetts does not practice farming, hence consumers in these regions inhale uncontaminated air (Carson, 2012). The research found out that the rate of spread of breast cancer in Cape Cod is fifteen percent higher than that of other regions. The breast cancer results from estrogen compounds that lead to the growth of tumors in the human body. Human beings do not have the capability to control consumption of chemicals in the environment thus, the government should take measures to control air pollution because this reduces the negative conseque nces of the act (Van Holle, Deforche, Van Cauwegan, Goubert, Maes, Van, & De Bourdeaudhuji, 2012). The chemical products that affect the health of human beings may also be found in consumer products such as food and cosmetics (Schakowsky, & Markey, 2013). The products are made of various components, and some of them may disrupt the hormonal balance of the human body leading to cancer. Satura is an example of a cosmetic product that was developed in 1956, and it contains an estrogen compounds that causes breast cancer. Tobacco is another product that harms anyone who comes into contact with the smoke together with the direct consumer. The smoke from this product leads to discomfort on persons who inhale it, and it causes lung cancer. Consumers may prevent the negative consequences of these products by avoiding their intake; however, some manufacturers do not disclose all the chemical composition of their products (Harlid, Butt, Ivarsson, Eyfjord, Lenner, Manjer, & Carlson, 2012). Thi s means that the government should intervene through policies that ban the sale of chemicals that are harmful to the human body. The reduction of consumption of chemical products leads to improvement in the health of a nation’s population (Geoffrey, & Cockerham, 2010). This phenomenon has been proven by a research conducted by the United States center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The institution conducted several researches

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Retailer Relationships Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Retailer Relationships - Research Paper Example The British American Tobacco is a leading retailer within the region. They have established retailers to help ensure that their consumers can access their products in an effective way. The retailers ensure that the supply of goods is reliable, and therefore this enables consumers to buy what they need, wherever they are and whenever the need arises at quality prices. Proper relations between the retailer and consumer ensure that one pays reasonable prices for the commodities they buy (Newman & Cullen, 2002). The British American Tobacco targets a certain range of consumers in the market, and therefore to make it to their target goals, there are ways of marketing their products. They create adverts or conduct consumer awareness campaigns to help the consumer understand what goods are in the market and thus choose the best suitable for their needs. These retailers take into consideration the need to maintain their environments clean and the need to release user-friendly products in the market. Therefore, they usually pack their products in environment friendly packages, and in case of dangerous emissions, they treat them before releasing to the human environment. To ensure that the youth do not smoke, they have put restrictions to the sellers and suppliers on who the products should be sold to. Their commodities are under restriction for individuals below the age of 19. To ensure that sellers stick by the policy, they put adverts in televisions, signboards, and even campaigns against underage smoking. The BAT Company want to ensure that they fill every gap in the market; they even conduct research to identify whether they serve the needs of their customers. This helps access the type of services provided. They compare their products to those of their competitors, and therefore strive to improve the quality of goods offered. The quality may vary due to the distribution of their commodities; failure to engage customer opinions in their activities or even the overal l quality of products may be poor (Jones et al, 2002). However, research conducted recently showed that the British American Tobacco is one among the best retailer marketing institutions. Competitors have released substitute products to the markets that are of low quality and that cause more harm to the human body. The British American tobacco should put all the necessary efforts to ensure that consumers have the knowledge on the need to consume legitimate products. These contrabands only aim at making profits and do not care about consumer safety (Madaan, 2009). Since these illicit products cannot be altogether kicked out of the market, they need to establish their authentication to at least ensure that consumers are not at serious risks. With the changing times, British American Tobacco has managed to enhance its supply in different continents. Through this, it is easier to achieve growth because access to new markets increases sales, and later on, increasing the profits attained. With more branches, it is more likely to expand the company’s profile, and therefore this even creates more jobs for people all over the world, and more suppliers enabling distribution of commodities are able to earn themselves incomes and enhance interactions between consumers and retailers at grass roots level. Diversity in markets explored increases connections, but this is only possible using effective managerial personnel and creating

Friday, August 23, 2019

Role of Women in Math, Science and Engineering Essay

Role of Women in Math, Science and Engineering - Essay Example However, in spite of these challenges, few women have made an impression in these disciplines, discrediting the myth about the gender’s weakness in the subjects. This paper discusses the role of women in the academic disciplines, related to math, science and engineering. In particular, the paper focuses on the contribution of women in United States in the 19th century and compares the conditions that existed then with the current years. In the recent times, the number of prominent women scientists, mathematicians and engineers pales in comparison to liberal artists, authors, dramatists and dancers in the American society (Clough, 2004). In the 19th century, Berger(1987, p73) noted that the number of women in math, science and engineering disciplines was far much less in a society that was making transition from the agrarian to an industrial driven economy. According to Berger(1987, p89), the role of women in the now developed United States was restricted to home chores, a fact or that greatly undermined their early involvement not only in pursuit of their studies, but also in the choice of their careers. In the highly multicultural American society, the academic progress of women especially from the minority groups was an enormous challenge. However, regardless of the racial and economic background of women, their involvement in science, math and engineering was very low. The 19 century was characterized by many groundbreaking and scientific innovations from which most of the current technologies are founded and a number of women played an active role in the United States. Their role was not only limited to studying sciences, math and engineering disciplines to higher levels but were also involved in innovation of new technologies from those disciplines. At the time, United States was undergoing economic and social changes that demanded invention to solve the problems afflicting the society including diseases, more efficient machines to cope with the mass production demands in addition to enhancing the agricultural production in order to meet the food demands of the increasing population Berger, (Berger, 1987, p 102) Some of the most prominent American women scientists in the 19th century included physicians such Elizabeth Blackwell, Annie Elizabeth, a dentist, Maria Mitchell, an American astronomer, Richard Ellen Swallow, a renowned chemist and ecologist in addition to Amelia Earhart, a popular aviatrix. Other women included Rebecca Cole, the first African American woman to earn a doctorate in Physics, Marie Curie a renowned chemists and among the pioneers of radioactivity. In medical and nursing profession, some of the most prominent women included the Beatrice Hinkle, a psychiatrist, Helena Deustch, a psychoanalyst, and Lillian Carter, who was a prominent nurse. Though these women made remarkable contribution in their scientific and engineering disciplines, Clough (2004) notes that their numbers was very small compared to America n men in the respective areas. Although their marginal involvement in math, engineering and science has been attributed to the then a hugely male dominated society, the current role of women in these disciplines is still very low compared to men. This is in spite of the highly liberalized and more equitable society that provides equal opportunities to both sexes. According to Clough (2004), women are under

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Socialism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Socialism - Essay Example    America is perceived as an exceptional country by many of the political thinkers. In fact the term American exceptionalism is generally used when people try to compare American societies with other societies. â€Å"There is no questioning the fact that, from the last quarter of the nineteenth century on, the most developed country has been the United States† (LIPSET & MARKS). In other words, the conditions of the working class was comparatively better in United States than in any other country in the world from the latter half of 19 th century onwards. So, American workers never thought about forming a political party to safeguard their interests as it happened in Europe and other parts of the world. Engels attributed the political backwardness of American workers to the absence of a feudal past. Thus, he wrote in 1890 that Americans "are born conservatives—just because America is so purely bourgeois, so entirely without a feudal past and therefore proud of its pur ely bourgeois organization" (LIPSET & MARKS). Unlike many other societies in Europe and other parts of the world, feudalism had not much roots in America societies. In other words, the working class never experienced much trouble from the dominant wealthy community even though American economy was a capitalist economy.

The atmospheres of Sonnet 43 Essay Example for Free

The atmospheres of Sonnet 43 Essay Love’s many contradicting forms are portrayed in two dramatically different sonnets, Sonnet 43 and Sonnet 29. Though both poems are written in Petrarchan sonnet form, Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Edna St. Vincent Millay chronicle two contrasting marriages and their distinct attitudes towards love. Millay’s pessimistic Sonnet 29 depicts unrequited love as a passive force causing her disillusionment. On the other hand, Sonnet 43 attempts to quantify Browning’s endless and divine love for her spouse, Robert Browning. Through their respective poems, the writers convey outpours of emotion and how their personal experiences with love have changed both their lives. Common themes explored in the two poems consist of marriage, love and loyalty. Elements of the poems that enable this include their atmospheres, diction, tones and various poetic techniques. The atmospheres of Sonnet 43 and Sonnet 29 allude to Browning and Millay’s outlooks on their respective marriages. Sonnet 29 exposes a woman’s grief for her deteriorating marriage and her husband, who â€Å"no longer looks with love on me (the poet)†. Readers are overwhelmed by an anger-filled, threatening opening atmosphere in which the poet imposes on them to â€Å"pity me not† for the â€Å"light of day [that]†¦no longer walks the sky†. Millay’s despair is seen through the metaphor of her happiness and spirit as a diminished â€Å"light†, repressed by the turmoil of her relationship. A sense of helpless sympathy is thus evoked by the melancholic, oppressive imagery and bitterly ironic diction. In contrast to Sonnet 29, Elizabeth Barrett Browning begins with a grand portrayal of her love using numerous hyperboles, thus creating a majestic atmosphere. The poet loves her husband â€Å"to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach†¦for the ends of Being and ideal Grace†. Enjambment is employed to represent the ceaseless flow of love in Browning’s marriage. However, the sonnet concludes with a darkly ambiguous atmosphere that contrasts greatly to its optimistic introduction. The poet confesses that she shall â€Å"but love thee (Robert Browning) better after death†. In addition to its implications of Browning’s eternal love, this reference to her marriage vows also has forbidding connotations of marriage causing her ultimate death. Consequently, it may be seen that the poet’s marriage and reliance on her husband is detrimental to her fragile character. From being bitterly resentful to miserably conscious of a love that is â€Å"no more†, Millay’s emotions are depicted by the developing atmosphere of Sonnet 29. Similarly, Sonnet 43 alludes to Browning’s inner thoughts beyond the divinity and grandeur of her marriage through the dismal change in its atmosphere. Religious diction is applied in Sonnet 43 where Browning expresses a spiritual bond that transcends her religion and beliefs. Her pious worship for her husband has replaced a love for her â€Å"lost saints†, as illustrated by the reverential tone extending through the sonnet. Furthermore, it is the poet’s marriage that compels her to persevere, guiding her when she is â€Å"feeling out of sight†. From the â€Å"ends of Being and ideal Grace† to the contradicting subtleness of â€Å"everyday’s most quiet need†, Browning’s compassion is as unwavering as it is strong. When its is revealed that she loves her husband â€Å"with the passion put to use in [her] old grief’s†, readers are given implications of the poet’s possibly troubled past, which becomes irrelevant in the face of her marriage. Moreover, Browning’s love appears to defy the acts of God, as she claims to love her husband â€Å"better after death†. This sense of an immortal love is further compounded by the repetition of â€Å"I love thee†, creating a constant flow in the sonnet and giving it an intimate, personal touch. Contrastingly, Sonnet 29 directly confronts Millay’s husband using spiteful diction to convey her deep resentment for the state of her marriage. Rather than reciting, â€Å"I love thee† like Browning in her Sonnet 43, Millay repeats, â€Å"Pity me not† for the grievances in her marriage, thus evoking sympathy from readers. In comparison to Browning’s theory of love being an eternal, resilient force, Millay describes a relationship that is susceptible to external forces that surround it. â€Å"As the year goes by†, the â€Å"beauties† of her marriage have been overcome by a â€Å"man’s desire†¦hushed so soon†. Her husband’s â€Å"waning† loyalty and fickleness is exposed by the comparison of their relationship to an â€Å"ebbing tide [that] goes out to sea† and never returns. Such negative diction alludes to the passive nature of Millay’s unrequited love as opposed to Browning’s prosperous, active affection for her husband.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Restorative Justice: Process and Outcomes

Restorative Justice: Process and Outcomes Should restorative justice be defined as a process or a set of outcomes? Restorative Justice rather than relying on judges to sentence offenders, places great emphasis on the importance of reparation and gives a role to the victim of the crime and the wider community. (Newburn, T 2013:768) When it comes to the debate of how restorative justice should be defined, either as a process or a set of outcomes it could be said that while they both have legitimacy, restorative justice can only be defined as one or the other. There is a great disagreement among critics on whether the emphasis should be placed on the outcome or the process. A definition of restorative justice that highlights the importance of both restorative processes and outcomes is, restorative justice is a theory of justice that emphasizes repairing the harm caused or revealed by criminal behaviour. It is best accomplished through cooperative processes that include all stakeholders. (Van Ness and Heetderks Strong, 2006:43) Marshall (1996:37) whos definition is most frequently quoted said that restorative justice is a process whereby parties with a stake in a particular offence come together to resolve collectively how to deal with the aftermath of the offence and its implications for the future. Within this definition 3 core elements of restorative justice are identified. Zehr (2003) stated that the first element is that harm must be healed, restorative justice views crime as harm done to people and communities. It seeks to repair the harm caused by offenders. The second being that violations create obligations, offenders must understand their wrongdoing and restorative justice wants offenders to accept responsibility for their actions. The third element being engagement or participation, relationships are the focus, it is the crime that violates these relationships and restorative justice needs to repair them. The main aim is to mend, restore and build. Dignan (2005, cited in Newburn 2013:771) suggests that Marshalls definition is of very little value for several different reasons, one being it characterises restorative justice as a particular type of process but fails to focus on outcomes, in doing so raises the possibility that undue attention will be paid to questions of equality and fairness. It also fails to consider outcomes by diverting attention away from those cases where restorative justice processes may be inappropriate but where its values and aims may still apply. the process based definition of restorative justice is at best incomplete, because it has nothing to say on the subject of restorative outcomes (Walgrave, 2002:174) this is because there is no direct involvement from the victim needed therefore there is nothing restorative it is just an outcome. Restorative outcomes may include, restitution, reparation and reintegration. It can be argued that a restorative process may not necessarily result in a restorative ou tcome. For example, within restorative conferencing where a direct victim is not present or participating, decisions on outcomes may be left to state regulators. Walgrave argues for an outcome-based definition of restorative justice for example as an option for doing justice in the aftermath of crime that focuses on repairing the harm and suffering caused by the crime rather than preserving an abstract legal order. (Newburn, 2013:772) The victim is seen to be a central stakeholder, who holds an important role in shaping both the process and outcomes of restorative justice. Victims want information about the processing and outcome of their cases, answers to their questions, empowerment and vindication. The process of restorative justice is to meet the needs of crime victims that are not being adequately met by the criminal justice system. Victims may feel ignored or neglected by the justice process. Victims need answers to questions they have about the offense, why has this happened to them? Victims often feel like control has been taken away from them by the offense. Involvement in their own case can be an important way to return a sense of empowerment to them. Restitution by offenders is often important to victims this may come in the form of an apology. (Zehr 2003:18-20). However there are potential dangers when it comes to the victim they may simply become a mere prop used in a process rather than being an empo wered participant. The community is another stakeholder that is considered to be vital to restorative justice. There is a risk of domination, authoritarianism and vigilantism. In N Ireland a restorative justice process was set up in order to stop paramilitary punishments that were being carried out. Braithwaite (1996 as cited in Newburn, 2013) said there are 3 levels at which it is possible to conceptualise the process of restoring community through restorative justice practices. At a micro level it involves those who are close to both the victim and the offender. At a meso level restorative justice helps to foster a sense of community within institutions such as schools, churches and so on. Lastly at a macro level it helps to focus attention on designing institutions of deliberate democracy. Communities need from justice, attention to their concerns as victims. Opportunities to build a sense of community and mutual accountability. Encouragement to take on their obligations for the welfare of their mem bers, including victims and offenders, and for the conditions that promote healthy communities. Community also want assurance of not to repeat the same and preventive actions. (Zehr, 2003:22) The offender is the third stakeholder that is consider to be of value in the restorative justice process. offenders need the opportunity to take responsibility for the harm caused by their behaviour towards victims. Offenders need to take away from the restorative justice process, accountability that addresses the resulting harms, encourages empathy and responsibility, and transforms shame. Encouragement to personal transformation, including healing for the harms that contributed to offending behaviour, opportunities for treatment for addictions and/or other problems, and enhancement of personal competencies. Also encouragement and support for integration into the community (Zehr, 2003:21). Restorative justice aims to help prevent the offender from reoffending again in the future. Being able to face their victims in a restorative justice process provides a chance to also develop empathy and remorse while also having input into the process. Offenders can complete this process threw co mmunity service or by issuing an apology to the victim. Crawford and Newburn (2003, cited in Newburn 2013) stated that in order for there to be a restorative process, stakeholders involved rely on four forms of restorative justice practice. These practices are victim-offender mediation, conferencing, sentencing circles and community boards. This group of practices has in common a process where the offender, victim and other members of the community meet together to consider the impact of a crime or harm on victims and communities and try to develop a plan to repair this harm that meets the needs of those affected. In Northern Ireland, diversionary youth conferences are used as a form of restorative justice. If the offender admits their guilt, then the Public Prosecution Service decides that there must be a conference involving the victim and the offender. Participation in conferences are voluntary. The offender is given the opportunity to discuss the offence and what he/she is prepared to do to repair the harm caused to the victim. The victim is given the opportunity to tell the offender of the impact the offence has had and what they feel should be done to repair the harm. This may for example include an apology or reparation to the victim or community. (Public Prosecution Service N.I. 2008). Youth Conferences provide an effective, fair, proportionate and restorative response to those offending which provides satisfactory outcomes for victims. The aims of a youth conference are about repairing relationships, making amends and to be able to reintegrate back into society. To conclude it could be argued that when it comes to defining restorative justice as a process or outcome it can cause disagreement amongst critics. Gavrielides (2007) stated that those who agree with a process-based definition, tend to limit the scope of restorative programmes to cases that are considered appropriate for a restorative justice intervention or to those in which both parties are willing to participate and abide by the ground rules. However, restorative programmes may appear in different shapes and forms. By adhering, therefore, to a definition that understands restorative justice as a process, we risk excluding the mostly restorative and partially restorative programmes. And this is only one of the limitations of this approach. On the other hand, those who agree with the definition of outcome-based definitions risk stretching the concept to include programmes for example community service, which although may in the end result with restorative outcomes, they might not b e carried out respecting central restorative rules.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Association of Lipid Profile in Pregnancy with Pre-eclampsia

Association of Lipid Profile in Pregnancy with Pre-eclampsia Association of Lipid Profile in Pregnancy with Pre-eclampsia, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Preterm delivery Babita Ghodke*,1, Raghuram Puskuru2, Varshil Mehta3, Kunal Bhuta4 1Associate Professor, 2Senior Resident, 3Intern, 4Junior Resident Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College, Navi Mumbai, India. Abstract Introduction: During last two trimesters of pregnancy, glucose is spared (for the foetus) while the concentration of fatty acids in plasma increases which can create complications like Preeclampsia, Gestational diabetes mellitus and preterm delivery. Aim: To study the association of serum lipid levels during second and third trimester with the development of pregnancy associated diseases like preeclampsia, GDM and preterm. Methods and Materials: The present study was carried out at MGM Hospital, Navi Mumbai, India.   200 antenatal cases from October, 2012 to October 2014 were enrolled after taking an informed consent. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. All reported p-values are two-tailed, and confidence intervals were calculated at the 95% level. Results: In pre-eclamptic patients, the mean Systolic Blood Pressure was 151.40 mm/Hg and mean diastolic blood pressure was 74.03 mm/Hg in third trimester. In pre-eclamptic patients, the mean serum triglyceride levels in second trimester was 204.00 mg/dl while 243.20 md/dl in third trimester. In Gestational Diabetes Mellitus patients, the mean serum triglyceride was 214.33 mg/dl in second trimester while 230.50 mg/dl in third trimester. In patients with preterm, the mean triglycerides levels 212.83 mg/dl and 240.16 mg/dl in second and third trimester respectively. In pre-eclamptic patients the mean serum cholesterol levels in second trimester was 210 mg/dl, while in third trimester, it was 243.60 mg/dl. In GDM patients, the mean serum cholesterol was 223.50 mg/dl and 242.83 mg/dl in second and third trimester respectively. 213.33 mg/dl and 243.66 mg/dl were the means cholesterol levels in second and third trimester respectively in patients with preterm. Out of total 200 patients 168 had no complications, while 20 {10%} had preeclampsia, 6 {3%} had Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and 6 {3%} had preterm deliveries. Conclusion:An association between maternal early pregnancy triglyceridaemia, and the subsequent risk of pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and preterm deliveries was observed. Occurrence of Preeclampsia, Gestational Diabetes and Preterm deliveries cannot be predicted based on the values of Serum Cholesterol, HDL-Cholesterol, LDL-Cholesterol and VLDL-Cholesterol. Hence estimation of lipid profile is strongly recommended during pregnancy to prevent deleterious effect of hyperlipidaemia associated with pregnancy. Keywords: Lipid Profile, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Preterm, Preeclampsia, Pregnancy related disease. 1. Introduction Pregnancy is a physiological process which causes profound changes in the body. It leads to an increase in demands for metabolic fuels and also causes alteration in hormonal levels which may cause few changes in lipid profile during pregnancy [1]. During last two trimesters, glucose is spared (for the foetus) while the concentration of fatty acids in plasma increases which leads to Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and Gestational Hypertension (GHTN) respectively. Freinkel had described this process as accelerated starvation, and facilitated anabolism [2]. GDM and GHTN can lead to peri and postpartum complications. Pregnancy is often also complicated with diseases which can hamper Cardio-Vascular System. GDM and GHTN are few of them which can develop type 2 diabetes and systemic hypertension in later part of life [3,4]. In our previous study, we showed that total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol increases in last two trimesters. The increase is even greater in third trimester, when compared to the second. However, HDL-Cholesterol levels are decreased in third trimester when compared to that of second. The study concluded that the estimation of lipid profile is highly recommended during pregnancy due to its association with high levels of triglycerides which may lead to Pre-eclampsia, GDM and preterm delivery [5]. The present study is a continuation of our previous study and here, it evaluates the clinical significance of the lipid profile level in pregnancy and its effect on the development of pregnancy induced diseases like GDM, pre-eclampsia and preterm. 2. Aim To study the association of serum lipid levels during second and third trimester with the development of pregnancy associated diseases like preeclampsia, GDM and preterm. 3. Material, Methods, Ethics, Statistical Analysis, Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria The present study is a continuation of our previous study and the material, methods, ethics, inclusion and exclusion criteria could be obtained from our previous study [5]. In brief, the present study was conducted at Mahatma Gandhi Mission Hospital, Navi Mumbai, India. A total of 200 pregnant local women were enrolled from October 2012 to 2014. Out of the 200 subjects, 10 developed GHTN in late third trimester which was detected after 32nd week during follow-up which were also included. The venous blood sample was collected from all subjects for measurement of lipid profile in the 16th week and 32nd week of gestation for analysis. All pregnant women with a singleton pregnancy with a gestational age of 13-28 weeks, irrespective of parity and gravida were included. Pregnant women in whom hypertension (HTN) was detected before 14 weeks and those with diseases or complications like chronic HTN, Diabetes, Renal Disorders and Thyroid Disorders, Obstetric and Foetal Complications (Hydrops foetalis, congenital foetal anomalies) were excluded. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0. All reported P values are two-tailed, and confidence intervals were calculated at the 95% level. The data was presented using frequencies, percentages, descriptive statistics followed by charts and graphs. Level of significance was set at 5%. All p-values less than 0.05 were treated as significant. 4. Results The mean age of patients was 24.87 years with a SD of 2.7 years. The minimum age was 18 years and the maximum age was 30 years. 4.1 Blood Pressure The mean Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) in second trimester was 117.03 mm/Hg with a SD of 10.33 mm/Hg. In third trimester, it was increased to 120.77 with a SD of 14.675. In pre-eclamptic patients, the mean SBP was 151.40 with a SD 6.05. (p =0.00) in third trimester. There was a highly significant statistical difference in the mean blood pressure values among normal and pre-eclamptic women in third trimester. The mean Diastolic Blood Pressure in our study in third trimester was 72.11 mm/Hg with a SD of 6.88 mm/Hg. In third trimester, the mean SBP was increased to 74.03 with a SD of 8.616. In pre-eclamptic patients the mean was 92.00 with a SD 2.59 (p =0.00). There was a highly significant statistical difference in the mean blood pressure values among normal and pre-eclamptic women in third trimester. Out of total 200 patients 168 had no complications, while 20 had preeclampsia, 6 had GDM and 6 had preterm deliveries. 4.2 Association of Triglycerides with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm The below table (figure 1) indicates the 95% confidence interval for triglyceride levels for patients with outcomes of Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm. The mean triglyceride level in second trimester was 188.68 mg/dl with a standard deviation of 20.88 mg/dl. In third trimester, the mean triglyceride (TG) level was increased to 216.78 mg/dl with a standard deviation of 20.09 mg/dl [5]. In pre-eclamptic patients, the mean serum triglyceride levels in second trimester was 204.00 with a SD 18.904 (p =0.00), while in third trimester, the mean was 243.20 with a SD of 15.58 (p =0.00). There was significant statistical significance observed between serum triglyceride levels and pre-eclampsia in both second and third trimesters (figure 1). Outcome Trimester Mean N SD SEM 95 % CI Lower Bound Upper Bound Preeclampsia Second Trimester 204.00 20 18.90 4.23 195.71 212.29 Third Trimester 243.20 20 15.58 3.48 236.37 250.03 GDM Second Trimester 214.33 6 18.64 7.61 199.42 229.25 Third Trimester 230.50 6 17.03 6.95 216.88 244.12 Preterm Second Trimester 212.83 6 11.99 4.90 203.24 222.43 Third Trimester 240.17 6 7.73 3.16 233.98 246.35 Figure 1. Association of Triglycerides with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm 4.3 Association of Cholesterol with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm The below table (figure 2) indicates the 95% confidence interval for cholesterol levels for patients with outcomes of Eclampsia, GDM and Preterm. In pre eclamptic patients the mean serum cholesterol levels in second trimester was 210.75 with a SD 24.248 (p =0.320), in third trimester, the mean was 243.60 with a SD of 25.84 (p =0.826). There was no statistical significance observed between serum cholesterol and pre-eclampsia in both second and third trimesters. Compared to the normal value of 200mg/dl, cholesterol level is raised in normal pregnancy. In pre- eclamptic women cholesterol level is raised more than the values in normal pregnancy. Outcome Trimester N Mean SD SEM 95% CI Lower Bound Upper Bound Preeclampsia 2nd Trimester 20 210.75 24.25 5.42 199.401 222.10 3rd Trimester 20 243.60 25.85 5.78 231.50 255.69 GDM 2nd Trimester 6 223.50 25.16 10.27 197.09 249.90 3rd Trimester 6 242.83 27.14 11.08 214.35 271.31 Preterm 2nd Trimester 6 213.33 20.23 8.25 192.10 234.55 3rd Trimester 6 243.66 27.200 11.10 215.12 272.21 Figure 2. Association of Cholesterol with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm 4.4 Association of HDL Cholesterol with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm The below table (figure 3) indicates the 95% confidence interval for HDL cholesterol levels for patients with outcomes of Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm. In third trimester, the mean serum HDL Cholesterol (HDL-C) level in normal patients was 42.78 with a SD of 4.31, in pre eclamptic patients the mean was 45.60 with a SD 4.12 Compared to the normal value of 40-60 mg/dl, HDL-Cholesterol level is within normal range in normal pregnancy. In pre-eclamptic women HDL-C level was higher than normal pregnancy but within normal range. In pre eclamptic patients the mean serum HDL Cholesterol levels in second trimester was 51.8 with a SD 5.8 (p =0.040), in third trimester, the mean was 45.60 with a SD of 4.1 (p =0.006). There was significant statistical significance observed between serum HDL -Cholesterol and pre-eclampsia in both second and third trimesters. Outcome Trimester N Mean SD SEM 95% CI Lower Bound Upper Bound Preeclampsia 2nd Trimester 20 51.80 5.84 1.30 49.06 54.53 3rd Trimester 20 45.60 4.12 .92 43.67 47.52 GDM 2nd Trimester 6 52.00 7.07 2.88 44.57 59.42 3rd Trimester 6 41.16 7.27 2.97 33.52 48.80 Preterm 2nd Trimester 6 49.00 6.13 2.50 42.56 55.43 3rd Trimester 6 45.50 4.03 1.64 41.26 49.73 Figure 3. Association of HDL Cholesterol with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm 4.5 Association of LDL Cholesterol with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm The below table (figure 4) indicates the 95% confidence interval for LDL cholesterol levels for patients with outcomes of Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm. In third trimester, the mean serum LDL-Cholesterol level in normal patients was 137.80 with a SD of 13.67, in preeclamptic patients the mean was 137.80 with a SD 11.5.   Compared to the normal value of 130 mg/dl [5], triglyceride level is raised in normal pregnancy. In preeclamptic women LDL-C level was same as in normal pregnancy (figure 4). In preeclamptic patients the mean serum LDL-C levels in second trimester was 92.7 with a SD 18.2 (p =0.943), in third trimester, the mean was 137.8 with a SD of 11.5 (p =0.996). There was no significant statistical significance observed between serum LDL-C levels and pre-eclampsia in both second and third trimesters. Outcome Trimester N Mean SD SEM 95% CI Lower Bound Upper Bound Preeclampsia 2nd Trimester 20 92.70 18.22 4.07 84.17 101.23 3rd Trimester 20 137.80 11.59 2.59 132.37 143.22 GDM 2nd Trimester 6 96.83 31.39 12.81 63.89 129.77 3rd Trimester 6 150.16 9.88 4.03 139.79 160.54 Preterm 2nd Trimester 6 84.50 6.12 2.50 78.07 90.92 3rd Trimester 6 127.83 10.64 4.34 116.66 139.00 Figure 4. Association of LDL Cholesterol with Preeclampsia, GDM and Preterm 4.6 Association of VLDL Cholesterol with Eclampsia, GDM and Preterm The below table (figure 5) indicates the 95% confidence interval for VLDL cholesterol levels for patients with outcomes of Eclampsia, GDM and Preterm. In third trimester, the mean serum VLDL-Cholesterol (VLDL-C) level in normal patients was 35.88 with a SD of 6.5, in pre eclamptic patients the mean was 39.7 with a SD 7.1.   Compared to the normal value of 35 mg/dl [5], VLDL-C level is raised in normal pregnancy. In pre- eclamptic women VLDL-C level was increased more than that in normal pregnancy. In pre eclamptic patients the mean serum VLDL-C levels in second trimester was 30.9 with a SD 7.9 (p =0.93), in third trimester, the mean was 39.7 with a SD of 7.1 (p =0.016). There was no significant statistical significance observed between serum VLDL-C levels and pre-eclampsia in second trimester but significance was found in third trimesters. Outcome Trimester N Mean SD SEM 95% CI Lower Bound Upper Bound Eclampsia 2nd Trimester 20 30.95 7.93 1.77 27.23 34.66 3rd Trimester 20 39.70 7.11 1.59 36.36 43.03 GDM 2nd Trimester 6 27.16 6.01 2.45 20.85 33.47 3rd Trimester 6 34.00 5.65 2.30 28.06 39.93 Preterm 2nd Trimester 6 25.66 3.98 1.62 21.48 29.84 3rd Trimester 6 36.83 6.96 2.84 29.52 44.14 Figure 5. Association of VLDL Cholesterol with Eclampsia, GDM and Preterm 4.7 Mean values of lipid parameters with outcome in 2nd and 3rd trimester The mean values of Serum cholesterol, Serum TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, VLDL-C are given in figures 6 and 7. Trimester Outcome Serum Cholesterol {mg/dl} Serum Triglycerides {mg/dl} HDL-CHOLESTEROL {mg/dl} LDL-CHOLESTEROL {mg/dl} VLDL-CHOLESTEROL {mg/dl} Second Trimester Preeclampsia 210.75 204.00 51.80 92.70 30.95 GDM 223.50 214.33 52.00 96.83 27.16 Preterm 213.33 212.83 49.00 84.50 25.66 Third Trimester Preeclampsia 243.60 243.20 45.60 137.80 39.70 GDM 242.83 230.50 41.16 150.16 34.00 Preterm 243.66 240.16 45.50 127.83 36.83 Figure 6. Mean values of lipid parameters with outcome in 2nd and 3rd trimester Figure 7. Comparison of Lipid parameters between second and third trimester 4.9 Complications outcome distribution Out of total 200 patients 168 had no complications, while 20 {10%} had preeclampsia, 6 {3%} had Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and 6 {3%} had preterm deliveries (Figure 8). Complication No of Cases Percentage No Complication 168 84% Pre-eclampsia 20 10% GDM 6 3% Preterm 6 3% Total 200 100% Figure 8. Distribution according to Complications 5. Discussion Hypercholesterolemia is known to cause excessive lipid peroxidation and coexistent diminution in antioxidant activity which may result in an imbalance between peroxidases and antioxidants, leading to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress and elevated atherogenic index may lead to atherogenicity in Pre-eclampsia [6]. 5.1 Triglycerides In a study conducted by Arnon Wiznitzer et. al., to prove the association of lipid levels during gestation with preeclampsia and GDM in 9911 pregnant women, they observed that the composite endpoint (GDM or preeclampsia) occurred in 1209 women (12.2%). During the index pregnancy, GDM was diagnosed in 638 women (6.4%) while Preeclampsia was diagnosed in 625 pregnancies (6.3%) [7]. In a study by Lorentzen et al., it was observed that the mean triglyceride concentrations of pre-eclampsia patients were higher than normal pregnant women at 16-18 weeks [8]. Later, a large prospective cohort study conducted in Norway by Clausen et al. (2001) also demonstrated that women with triglycerides above 212 mg/dL (2.4 mmol/L) had a five-fold increased risk (95% CI 1.1-23.1) of early onset pre-eclampsia (onset before 34 weeks) compared with those with triglycerides levels 133 mg/dL [9]. A study done by S. Niromanesh et. al., to compare the outcomes of forty five pregnant women who had high TG levels (>195 mg/dl) with 135 pregnant women having TG levels [10]. In a study done by Kandimalla et. al., comprising 156 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic visits were included prior to 20 weeks and were analysed for lipid levels. 102 participants were followed until delivery and were monitored for pre-eclampsia. They reported that mean triglyceride levels were found significantly higher in the pre-eclampsia group. Women with triglycerides above 130 mg/dL had increased risk of pre-eclampsia compared with those with triglycerides levels of 91 mg/dL or less [11]. In the present study, compared to the normal value of 150 mg/dl [12], during second trimester, the 95% CI for triglyceride level with Preeclampsia was between 195.71 and 212.29, the 95% CI for triglyceride level with outcome GDM was between 199.42 and 229.25; while the 95 % CI for triglyceride with preterm outcome was between 203.24 and 222.43. Hence, we can conclude that triglyceride level of more than 195 mg/dl during second trimester can lead to complications like Preeclampsia, and triglycerides greater than 199.42mg/dl lead to GDM and levels above 203.24mg/dl lead to Preterm delivery. During third trimester, the 95% CI for triglyceride level with Preeclampsia was between 236.37 250.03, the 95% CI for triglyceride level with outcome GDM was between 216.88 244.12 and the 95 % CI for triglyceride with preterm outcome was between 233.98 and 246.35. Hence, we can conclude that triglyceride level of more than 236 mg/dl during second trimester can lead to complications like Preeclamps ia, triglyceride level of more than 216.88 mg/dl leads to GDM and triglyceride level of more than 233.98mg/dl leads to Preterm delivery (figure 1). Our findings correlate with the findings of a study done by Kandimalla et. al [11]. 5.2 Cholesterol

Monday, August 19, 2019

Character Analysis of John Proctor from The Crucible Essay -- The Cruc

Character Analysis of John Proctor from The Crucible The consequences of shirking accountability for ones actions are depicted through the tribulations John Proctor faced, in Arthur Miller's, The Crucible. Although John reluctantly became involved in the Salem witch trials, his initial silence proved to be the downfall of not only himself, but of his fellow townspeople as well. John Proctor remained silent for one reason, and that was to protect himself. As a result of his self-serving desires to avoid the consequences of his actions, innocent citizens were put to death. Survival is one of the primal instincts of human nature. It is programmed into human beings at birth, and cannot be easily masked. No matter how morally wrong the dilemma is, the primal instinct of survival challeng...

Sunday, August 18, 2019

The Natural :: Essays Papers

The Natural Iris vs. Memo, the everlasting battle of Good and Evil, Good Angel vs. Bad Angel. In The Natural the Angels take the form of women that interact with Roy. Iris the â€Å"Good Angel† has nothing but a positive influence on Roy and cares about him deeply. The exact opposite of Iris is the â€Å"Bad Angel† Memo who cares just about what she can get her hands on except poverty. To her nothing or nobody matters. The reason Memo’s able to sneak in with Roy so easy is that she uses her body, her looks. She makes Roy a â€Å"toy† to her. She wants money so badly, that’s why she’s always with people like Gus or the Judge, because they are the rich people who like to spend a lot of money. Memo has always been mean to Roy: She hadn’t treated him right. For a while things had looked so good†¦ but no sooner has he gone into a slump when she began again to avoid him. Had she been nice to him instead, he’d have got out of trouble sooner (165). Iris is really â€Å"laid back† when it comes to Roy. Iris isn’t as attractive as Memo, but she looks past the dollars and sees what she likes. Each â€Å"Angel† has a different effect on Roy both being on and off the field. Roy goes out with Memo ignoring Pop’s warning â€Å"†¦She is unlucky and always has been and I think that there is some kind of whammy in her that carries her luck to other people† (136). Roy goes into a bad slump. Everything he does fails until one game in Detroit. The lady in the stands hesitantly rose†¦ She was an attractive woman, around 30, maybe more, and built solid but not too big†¦ A reporter approached her and asked her name but she wouldn’t give it to him, nor would she, blushing, say why she was standing now (159). The woman standing is Iris and she is standing because she believes in Roy, and wants him to regain his confidence by showing her support.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Robi Intern Report

[pic] American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) INTERNSHIP REPORT ON â€Å"A Research on the Classification of Sales Channel: Robi Axiata Limited† Supervised By: Kazi Ahmed Farhan Lecturer School of Business American International University-Bangladesh AIUB Submitted by: Gazi Fahd Hussain ID NO: 07. 01. 02. 085 Major in Marketing School of Business â€Å"A Research on the Classification of Sales Channel: Robi Axiata Limited† LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL 31 March 2011 Kazi Ahmed Farhan Lecturer School of Business AHSANULLAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Subject: Submission of Research on the Classification of Sales Channel: Robi Axiata Limited.Dear Sir, According to your advice to prepare a research on the classification of sales channel I have prepared my report on â€Å"Robi Axiata Limited†, on of the telecommunication company of Bangladesh. In this research i have explained point of sales activities of Robi Axiata Limited in detail. I gathered the infor mation as much as possible. Much of our information is collected from primary sources (visiting retailers of Robi Axiata Limited & talking with the management of Robi Axiata Limited) & some other information was collected from the internet. I enjoyed working on this report and hope you will find it innovative.Sincerely yours, Gazi Fahd Hussain ID No: 07. 01. 02. 085 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT All praises for the Almighty Allah, the most merciful and beneficent, for giving me sufficient opportunity to study in B. B. A. program (American International University-Bangladesh). I am indebted to many people for providing us encouragement and support during my learning and working while making this research and we want to show our gratefulness to these people. I am very much grateful to KAZI AHMED FARHAN, my respected course instructor, who provided me the opportunity to do this report.It was not possible for me to prepare this research without his sincere permission, constant support and inspiration . I express my gratefulness to him. Thanks to the authority of Robi Axiata Limited for helping me in every possible way. My cordial thanks to ANM KHALED (Specialist, Consumer Sales & Services, Market Operation Division) & SABBIR SHOAIB (Specialist, Consumer Sales & Services, Market Operation Division) in particular for their enormous help and assistance, for providing me the required information about point of sales classification of Robi Axiata Limited.I would also like to thank my friends and peers for their encouragement, support, and suggestions which helped us to make this report a successful one. Letter of Endorsement The Internship Report entitled â€Å"Classification of Sales Channel: Robi Axiata Limited† has been submitted to the Office of Placement & Alumni, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Business Administration, Major in Marketing, Faculty of Business Administration on 31 March , 2011 by Gazi Fahd Hussain, Id No: 07-08740-2 The report has been accepted and may be presented to the Internship Defense Committee for evaluation. Any opinions, suggestions made in this report are entirely that of the author of the report. The University does not condone nor reject any of these opinions or suggestions). ______________________ â€Å"KAZI AHMED FARHAN† Internship Supervisor EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In this research paper, I have provided a quantitative and descriptive research on Classification of Sales Channel: Robi Axiata Limited, in Bangladesh. In this research paper, I have discussed & worked out with theoretical reviews of Point of sales (POS) classifications and alternation of decisions can make by the organization.More to say , that I have completed this research paper on long term broad objective and specific objectives to fulfill the information I have collected through primary & secondary data . Earlier, we have tried to review the company overviews and literature review on the purpose of the POS clas sification. At last, we have discussed & delivered some suggestions & recommendations to improve the conditions workout throughout the research for the respective organizations. The overall research is for the purpose of identifying point of sales classification and afterwards activities for the retailers in Mirpur areas, Dhaka city. ______TABLE OF CONTENTS_______ Title Page—————————————————————————i Letter of Transmittal————————————————————ii Acknowledgement————————————————————– iii Letter of Endorsement———à ¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€œ iv Executive Summary———————————————————– v Table of Content —————————————————————-vi 1. Introduction—————————————————————— 1 1. Background of the report—————————————————————–1 2. Objective of the study—————————à ¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€2 3. Scope of the report————————————————————————3 4. Limitations———————————————————————————-3 5. Statement of the problems—————————————————————-3 6.Literature Review————————————————————————–4 2. 0 Methodolog y———————————————————————–6 2. 1 Sources of Information———————————————————————6 2. 2 Methods of Data Collection —————————————————————6 2. 3 Data Analysis——————————————————————————–7 2. 4 Timeline of Activities———————————————â₠¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€-7 3. Company Overview———————————————————— 8 3. 1About Robi———————————————————————————–8 3. 2 Background of the company ————————————————————- 9 3. 3 Journey of the Country ——————————————————————–9 3. 4 Strategic Overview of Robi ———————— Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€-10 3. 5 Mission & Vision of Robi ————————————————————– 11 3. Division & Department of Robi———————————————————11 3. 7 Products & Services ———————————————————————-11 3. 8 Coverage ———————————————————————————- 13 3. 9 Organizational Structure ————†”————————————————–14 3. 10 Features of Robi ————————————————————————-14 4. 0 Finding & Analysis ———————————————————– 15 4. Key Findings of the Study ————————————————————– 31 5. 0 Recommendations ———————————————————————— 33 6. 0 Conclusion— Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€-34 7. 0 Appendix————————————————————————————— 35 1. 0 Introduction Telecommunication is the transmission of information, over significant distances, for the purpose of communication. Today the globe is a village and telecommunication has become a necessity to people’s life.Moreover, telecommunication has started introducing some diversified areas with the help of its mobile network. Nowadays, people can not think without mobile phone. Many people depend on it for their ultimate connectivity. It has become a part of people’s day to day life. Mobile technology is pr esently providing various cheap solutions in people’s daily life. Information technology enables telecom companies to provide economic solutions with a very cheap and easily available access, which was costly earlier and not accessible to some extent.Using a mobile phone has become a common measure of communication in our country. From a rickshaw puller to a higher official, everyone owns a mobile phone. The number of mobile phone users is increasing day by day. So our country has become an attractive market for mobile operators. Robi Axiata Ltd. is one of the leading mobile operators in our country who have seen this great potential. 1. 1 Background of the Report For BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) students of University of AIUB, internship program is mandatory for every student to complete the degree.Internships provide an opportunity for students to link theory with practice and further serve as a temporary labor pool for those organizations that have committed t o participate in the internship program. The internship program has following purposes: †¢ It provides a student with a practical real world experience in the public or nonprofit sector before entering into a job market. Such experience not only increases students’ job prospects, but also teaches what is expected in terms of professional behavior. †¢ It enables a student to develop important skills which cannot be taught in the classroom. It enables a student to compare theoretical ideas learned in the classroom within the world of work. †¢ It permits a student to apply the technical skills learned in the classroom to real world problems. I have prepared this report while working as an intern in Robi Axiata Ltd. This report is based on â€Å"Marketing of Robi Axiata Ltd†. I have also covered information regarding the organizational overview and what I did and learned everyday in Robi Axiata Ltd. 1. 2 Objectives of the Study There are two kinds of objecti ves of the report. They are: ? Broad Objective ? Specific ObjectiveBroad Objective: The main objective of the study is to know how Robi classify its business channels. From the study, I also want to acquire a sound knowledge of roles, activities and responsibilities of the Consumer Channel Development unit of an organization which I can apply in my future professional life. Specific Objectives: The specific objectives of this internship report are: ? To have a clear understanding of market dynamism. ? Categories as well as find out business opportunities and potential POS for sales penetration. ? To capitalize on market by increase trade loyalty. To find out POS wise sales and find out ways to penetrate sales in future which include KYC (Know Your Customer) as well. ? To capture the snapshot of market so that in future Robi can introduce POS wise campaign, channel loyalty program etc. ? Enhance the visibility of Robi at market level. ? Service at customer door steps through identify and expanding service point. 1. 3 Scope of the Study The organization chosen was a telecommunication; therefore, the focus of the report was mainly on the Point of Sales (POS) undertaken by the organization.I tried to focus on gathering knowledge about the POS classification activities & policies of Robi Axiata Limited in depth. As, the research was a combination of both field work & theoretical knowledge, I am able to understand from my research preparation in a much detailed & clear way. 1. 4 Limitations of the Study Three months of time for a research is really very low. It is really very difficult to find out every single issue within this limited period of time. Overall the limitations those I have faced are: ? Time Frame. It was difficult to access to more internal information. ? It was really difficult for me to accumulate confidential data. ? Some retailers didn’t give attention providing information. 1. 5 Statement of the Problem After completion of this study I can able to find out the perceptions of the company practicing POS classification about the retailers and the decisions which can be effective for that. 1. 6 Literature Review There are some strategies which a business organization always applies for achieving its objectives. Business classification is one of these strategies.In Bangladesh it is always seen that business organizations classified their products for generating some value in these. In telecommunication companies, it has seen the most. For example, grameenphone Ltd. classified their SIM cards in many classes: djuice, bondhu, apon, corporate etc. Robi Axiata Limited is also one of the leading telecommunication companies in Bangladesh. SIM card with a unique customer’s identity is its basic product. It also classified its products into many categories. But recently it has a plan to classify its business channels as well.Previously, in many times Robi used to classify its products in many ways. But it was the lack of m otivation of sales people; as a result Robi did not get the expected level of sales which it expected. So it is clear that, to get the expected sales level it is also important to motivate the sales people properly. Recently Robi takes the initiative to classify its Point of Sales (POS), from which basically the products spread to the customers. Robi basically plan to rearrange their POSs into three possible parts: Premium, Gold and Silver.As the part of this project Robi has done a detail questionnaire survey. By analyzing the survey report Robi has the plan to treat its POSs accordingly. Turning Of Aktel Into Robi And Their Market Challenge. Aktel, one of the country’s top mobile phone brands, took its new name—Robi—meaning the sun, with effect from the dawn of Sunday when it also unveiled a new logo for the company at a colourful ceremony at the capital’s Suhrawardi Uddyan. Aktel will henceforth be known as Robi, underlining the rich, vibrant culture a nd heritage of Bangladesh, executives of the popular cellphone company said. Robi brings the first gleam of light that shows us the day†¦ a symbol of harvest that brings smile on the faces of farmers,’ said Michael Kuehner, the Managing Director and CEO of Axiata (Bangladesh) Ltd. , the Malaysia-based mobile operator. He went on to point out that the word Robi is also very familiar to Bangla speaking people as it is the name of their pride poet, Rabindranath Tagore. ‘We aim to develop an emotional link with the culture and roots of this nation†¦ Therefore, we chose the Bangla word Robi to be our identity,’ he said.The mobile phone operator has also taken the logo of the Axiata Group Berhad, the parent company. Axiata (Bangladesh) Limited, formerly known as TM International (BD) Limited, is a joint venture between Axiata Group Berhad (70 per cent) and Japanese NTT DoCoMo (30 percent). One of the six mobile companies in Bangladesh, Robi is the third large st mobile phone operator in terms of revenue, having some 10. 31 million subscribers across the country. Earlier, the largest mobile phone operator in the country, Grameen Phone Ltd. , had also changed its logo assuming that of Telenor Group, the major shareholders of the GP. By changing the name to a Bengali word, the company aims at aligning its services to local culture and tradition. The word has been chosen as it carries a range of dominant meanings of emotional and cultural bondage of the people of this land,’ Kuehner told a press briefing at Suhrawardi Uddyan. Robi’s head of corporate affairs Segufta Yesmin Samad and chief commercial†¦ 2. 0 Methodology of the Report 2. 1Sources of Information Robi is one the major telecom service provider in Bangladesh. Its Head Office is situated in Nafi Tower, Gulshan-1, and Dhaka.The study will primarily focus on the Consumer Channel Development unit of Consumer Sales and Service (CSS) Department of Robi where I am doing my internship. However, relevant and necessary analysis of other events and circumstances pertaining to the study will be made. The following sources have been used for the purpose of gathering and collecting data as required. A. Primary sources: ? Observation ? Personal interview ? Through personal acquaintance with the people at Marketing Division B. Secondary sources: ? Information from web. ? Brochures. ? Newspapers Clips. ? Journals, and ? HR BooksBoth primary and secondary data sources will be used to generate this report. Primary data sources are scheduled survey, informal discussion with professionals and observation while working in different desks. The secondary data sources are different published reports, manuals, price updates and different publications of â€Å"ROBI†. 2. 2 Methods of Data Collection Relevant documents and data will be obtained from CSS Department, Robi. Further material will come from previous reports, studies, articles, news published on Natio nal Dailies etc. Literature concerning explanation and theories will be collected from Internet.A questionnaire will be prepared including both open-ended and close-ended questions to get feedback from the POSs that will be used in measuring the effectiveness of the classification. Observation on the activities of the colleagues, in-depth discussion with organizational supervisor and my practical knowledge on job will be helpful to know activities, duties and responsibilities of the Consumer Channel Development Unit. 2. 3 Data Analysis After surveying, questionnaire will be reviewed and edited to ensure the completeness, consistency and reliability of data as well as to facilitate the coding process.Then, the open-ended responses will be coded and finally data will be computerized. If required, recoding will be done to facilitate analysis. Analysis of data and the preparation of the report will be done by the Microsoft Office Program (MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint) in compute r. 2. 4 Timeline of Activities: The plan for this project is provided on the basis that it is a general guide to direction. Due to the nature of the research some information may be difficult to obtain on schedule and allowance for this needs to be made. This plan is also subject to change on re-evaluation.In every stage, strong communication with my supervisor will be maintained to get the best outcome of the report. Stage 1: Topic selection and proposal submission: 7th March, 2011. Stage 2: Gather information from secondary sources as well as obtain data from primary sources. Conduct and complete reviews of relevant literature within 24th March 2011. Stage 3: Make needed correction & Prepare draft report within 31st March 2011 and show my Internship Adviser. Stage 4: Make needed correction suggested my supervisor and prepare final report for final submission within 10th April 2011. 3. 0 Company Overview 3. 1 About Robi Axiata LimitedRobi Axiata Limited is a dynamic and leading cou ntrywide GSM communication solutions provider for Bangladesh, and is joint venture Company between Axiata Group Berhad, Malaysia and NTT DOCOMO INC, Japan. It was formerly known as Telekom Malaysia International (Bangladesh) which commenced operations in Bangladesh in 1997 with the brand name AKTEL. On 28th March 2010, the service name was rebranded as ‘Robi’ and the company came to be known as Robi Axiata Limited. Robi is truly a people-oriented brand of Bangladesh. Robi, the people's champion, is there for the people of Bangladesh, where they want and the way they want.Having the local tradition at its core, Robi marches ahead with innovation and creativity. To ensure leading-edge technology, Robi draws from the international expertise of Axiata and NTT DOCOMO INC. It supports 2G voice, CAMEL Phase II & III and GPRS/EDGE service with high speed internet connectivity. Its GSM service is based on a robust network architecture and cutting edge technology such as Intellig ent Network (IN), which provides peace-of-mind solutions in terms of voice clarity, extensive nationwide network coverage and multiple global partners for international roaming.It has the widest International Roaming coverage in Bangladesh connecting 600 operators across more than 200 countries. Its customer centric solution includes value added services (VAS), quality customer care, easy access call centers, digital network security and flexible tariff rates. By leveraging on Axiata's extensive expertise in the international communications implementation, Robi became the first mobile operator to connect Tetulia and Teknaf, which is the northern and southern most points of Bangladesh, and first to provide seamless coverage along the Dhaka-Chittagong highway.With a network covering all 64 districts of Bangladesh, coupled with the first Intelligent Network (IN) Prepaid Platform in the country, Robi is geared to provide a wide range of products and services to customers all over Bangla desh. 3. 2 Background of the Company Axiata Bangladesh Ltd. (Robi) was found as a joint company of the Axiata Group Berhad from Malaysia and the NTT DoCoMo Inc. from Japan. It operates as a Limited Liability Company, where a founder and a majority shareholder, the AXB- member of the Axiata Group Berhad owns 70% shares, while the minority shares of 30 % are being controlled by the NTT DoCoMo. . 3 Journey of the Country Robi is the dynamic and leading end-to-end countrywide GSM mobile communication solutions of TM International (Bangladesh) Limited. With a vision to be the leading service provider in the ICT sector in Bangladesh, it has contributed considerably to the improvement of tele-density of the country. This fact is apparent through Robi's presence throughout the reaches of Teknaf to Tetulia and the seamless network established along the Dhaka-Chittagong highway.Robi's investment in Bangladesh to date stands at a significant amount, which has contributed significantly towards the growth of the economy of the country while creating multifarious employment opportunities in many active areas. Among many products, Robi has launched its dynamic new service called Robi International Roaming Service, which allows Robi users to access over 550 global operators across more than 205 countries. With this robust service, Robi boasts to be the widest roaming operator in the country, far outweighing the current roaming service provider's coverage. New service and features area to be added) Robi also prides itself as a technology driven company. It has invested heavily into upgrading the systems with state of the art equipment with cutting edge technologies available today in the telecom sector such as its Short Message Service (SMS) and Voice Message Service (VMS) systems, and migration of the Pre-Paid network platform to Intelligent Network (IN), which was successfully implemented for the first time in Bangladesh.A reflection of these processes are the highly competi tive product packages and first ever services that had been offered to all Robi Customers throughout the year. It is strongly believed that Robi will be the pioneer service provider to be able to realize the long-felt needs of the customers from all walks of life by offering innumerable innovative products and value-for-money services throughout the years to come. In concert with the theme of undeniable customer appreciation, Robi celebrates the end of a remarkable year. 3. 4 Strategic Overview of RobiPrinciples of Robi: Employees of this company hold themselves accountable to the following guiding Principles for the organization- Emotional: Passionate, Creative, Respectful, and Open. Functional: Simple, Ethical, Transparent, Ownership. Passionate: We're passionate – it's in all of us. Whether visible or hidden within for whatever reason. Creative: Everything we do we should do in a creative innovative manner. Respectful: We are truly respectful to each other. Our subordinate s, peers, partners and customers. Open: We have no hidden agendas. We share information freely.Simple: Everything we do and say should be simple and easy to understand Ethical: We are moral, upright, honest, righteous, virtuous, honorable, keeping our promises in all we say and do. Transparent: A few key words and phrases sums this up: Honesty. Openness. Frankness. No lies. No deceit. No games. Easily understood. Ownership: Whilst working individually or collectively, we clearly demonstrate individual and collective ownership. 3. 5 Mission & Vision of Robi Vision To be a leader as a Telecommunication Service Provider in Bangladesh MissionROBI aims to achieve its vision through being number ‘one’ not only in terms of market share, but also by being an employer of choice with up-to-date knowledge and products geared to address the ever changing needs of our budding nation 3. 6 Division & Department of Robi ROBI is operating with following Divisions / Departments having it s establishment in different locations at Dhaka, Chittagong and other regions of Bangladesh. ROBI has following divisions and departments: ? Finance Division ? Commercial Division ? Information Technology Division ? Technical Division Human Resources Division ? Revenue Assurance Department ? Regulatory Affairs Department ? Internal Audit Department ? Corporate Affairs Department ? Corporate Strategy Department ? Supply Chain Management Department ? Credit Control Department ? Legal & Compliance Department ? Security & Safety Department ? MD’s/CEO’s Office 3. 7 Products & Services Robi's GSM service is based on a robust network architecture and cutting edge technology such as intelligent network (IN). The intelligent network (IN) provides peace-of-mind solutions in terms of voice clarity, wider nationwide etwork coverage, numerous international roaming global partners, and popular value added services (VASs), quality easy-access customer care, round the clock call cente r operations, ironclad digital network security, competitive tariff rates and precise billing. Robi provides standard mobile connections with NWD and ISO facilities. They also provide mobile-to-mobile, Mobile with T&T incoming and outgoing facilities. TMIB has an integrated and fully computerized Customer Care Billing System (CCBS), which supports virtually all subscriber-related functions with its 24-hour customer care service. . 7. 1 Product Portfolio The product line of Robi is divided into two types based on the subscription category for general subscribers – Prepaid and Post paid. 3. 7. 2 Pre-paid Packages Robi Prepaid offers a single package that delivers simplicity and flexibility at the same time. Robi Prepaid is continuously adding new features and plans to provide absolute freedom to the customers. Tariff plans are as follows- †¢ Ek second Tariff †¢ Simple tariff †¢ Normal tariff †¢ Super simple †¢ Extra simple 3. 7. 3 Post-paid Packages Dat a Packages:Robi offers flexible internet usage packages currently. There are 5 internet options available in Robi's product portfolio. ? Volume Based Pack ? Daily Browsing Pack ? 20/20 Internet Pack ? Monthly Unlimited Internet ? Pay-per-use Services ? Basic Services: Telephony & Data ? Supplementary Services: ? Calling Line Identification Presentation (CLIP) ? Call Waiting and Call Holding ? Call Forwarding ? Call Conferencing ? National Roaming – Both way ? International Roaming ? Itemized Billing ? Dedicated Customer Services 3. 7. 4 Value Added Services: †¢ SMS: Local & |†¢ Voice Chat |†¢ Kid Zone | |international |†¢ Easy Menu |†¢ Cricket Zone | |†¢ Robi GoonGoon |†¢ Instant News |†¢ Robi Internet | |†¢ Voice Mail |†¢ Robi Directory |†¢ MMS | |†¢ Balance Transfer |†¢ Stock Information |†¢ Robi SMS Chat | |†¢ Friends & Family (FnF) |†¢ Call Block |†¢ Job Portal | |†¢ Robi Radio |â₠¬ ¢ Missed Call Alert |†¢ mPay | |†¢ Song Dedication |†¢ Push Mail |†¢ Robi Bazar | |†¢ Robi Zone |†¢ Phone Backup |†¢ Islamic Info | |†¢ Voice Portal |†¢ BBC Janala | | Robi has the widest roaming facility among Bangladeshi mobile phone operators, with 550 operators across more than 205 countries in the world. Many more products are in line to be added to the existing array of Robi products and service the days to come. 8. Coverage Robi now Bangladesh covering all 64 districts with a robust network. With the permission from Bangladesh Govt. o cover the 3 districts of Chittagong Hill Tracts, the company is aiming to invest heavily on network development in this region. The quality of voice and invulnerable and secured service are the key strengths of Robi to expand its business and subscriber base. 3. 9 Organizational Structure The organization is headed by its Chief Executive designated as the Managing Director entrusted with overall re sponsibilities of business direction of the organization and leading dynamically towards the attainment of its Vision, Mission and Goal. In attaining the above mission, Chief strategic officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Marketing officer, Chief Technical Officer, Chief Human Resource Officer assists the Md. The organization organogram is in appendix page. 3. 0 Features of Robi †¢ Cellular Phone Service: †¢ Country-wide Coverage with Supreme Quality Network: †¢ Better Customer Service: †¢ Better Billing: †¢ Better Switching: 3. 10. 1 SIM-Card Identity Number: †¢ Consistent and High Quality Voice: †¢ Security: 3. 10. 2 Exciting Robi Value Added Services: †¢ Robi Itemized Billing: †¢ International Roaming: †¢ Choice of Handset: †¢ Competent Human Resource: 3. 10. 3 Customer Service †¢ SIM Change †¢ Scheme Migration (Postpaid) †¢ Re-initialization (Prepaid) †¢ Itemized Bill (Postpaid) †¢ Reconnection (P ostpaid) †¢ Activation of Value Added Services †¢ Ownership Change (Postpaid) †¢ Easy Load †¢ Address Change (Postpaid)As of June, 2010 there are 20 full-fledged customer care centers across different areas of Bangladesh – 6 in Dhaka, 3 in Chittagong, 1 in Narayangonj, 1 in Comilla, 1 in Feni, 1 in Cox's Bazar, 1 in Mymensingh, 1 in Jessore, 1 in Barisal, 1 in Rajshahi, 1 in Sylhet, 1 in Kushtia and 1 in Khulna. 4. 0 Findings & Analysis From the research, I have made in Mirpur Street, I was successfully tried to locate the light box. From the above depicted pie chart, we can easily understand that, most of the Light Boxes are displayed with Robi; about 42% of the respondents are using Light boxes attached with the Robi Axiata Company. They are highly promoted as the focused on Light Box because it is attracted to the customer/ subscribers at first sight. On the other hand, 30% of the shops are Airtel, another mobile operator that has recently acquired by B harti Airtel. And the other operators use limited in Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh.Shutter Branding is a common style in placing the small shops in the rural and urban From the above pie chart, we can see that, Most of the Shutter Branding is covered with the Banglalink Promotional Activities (71%). On the other hand, other operators do not focus much on the Shutter Branding as their activities. Painting in the shop reflects both outdoor and indoor outlook that brings out the lucrative presentation to be attracted by the subscriber. From the research in the location of Mirpur, we can see that, Banglalink, the 2nd Operator, leads the promotional activities by painting their retailer shops. In case of Robi, they are behind on this.From the pie diagram, we can understand that, maximum shops are in between 0-99 sqft space to operate their business as retailers. Because of lack of space, they are not able to keep more things in the shop. About 85% of the respondents make their shop within 10 0 sqft. As, it is a very narrow space, few of the retailers (about 15%) use their shop space about to 100-150 sqft. The Space of a shop is important in which the relevant variable is about the size of the customers / subscribers are coming for service at a time. Most of the shops are covered with the space for 1-3 persons at a time for receiving the services. It is relevant to the retailers, lack of capability of investing money for the comfortable shop space for the customers/ subscribers.The above depicted pie chart shows that, about 75% of the respondents are build a shop or rent a shop for 1-3 person service system at a time . On the other hands, few of the respondents have the capability to emerge the space of the space to 4-6 persons. From my survey, most of the retailers are involving in the mobile business (65%) because, it is the highest growth of business sectors now a day in our country. So, people are highly attracted to do business on this sector. Few of the respondent replied that they are doing business with Electronic shops (17%), few are computer shops (8%), and few are CDs shops (9%). They are considered as a second earning source in the business. [pic]From the research, I have found that, most of the people are investing about 5000-15000 taka / per day, as the business is the daily income process like Point of Sales of SIMs and other things that provided by the company. In which as the subject of the matter is about small medium enterprise, like mobile shop or other mobile accessories units, people are investing at their capability, about 58% respondents are doing business daily with the range of amount. About 39% are investing 15000 -30000 taka daily, for Point of Sales of different operators. From the graph, we can see that, Most of the Robi Retailers has the capability to invest 500-1000 Tk (75%) that placed in the inner city; others have the capability investing 1000- 3000 Tk placing their shops on the main road.Compare to Grameenphone c ustomers, retailers said that, they are not getting many customers of Robi in those areas, so they are providing low investment on Robi Easy Loads and SIMs. From the survey, I have found that, most of the retailers are able to sell all of the operators SIMs in an average amount of 25 SIMs in a week. On the other hand, and few retailers can sell more than 25 that range into 50 (32%). The amount of selling is very low because, the strictness of Government rules and regulation may be a constraint like – high price SIMs, SIM Tax, BTRC registration form to all operators. In this reason, customers are rarely encouraged to purchase a new SIM with connection.From the pie chart, we can see that, most of the weekly SIMs sales are Airtel Operators (78%) that represents the 1st position in the market in the current period. They are providing more facilities like ( Instant Bonus, Load Returns, New Sim Offers etc) that the other operators in the market. On the other hand, other operator li ke Robi (13%) is in 2nd position, because they are offering new packages in which those are attracted by the customers like the newly package â€Å"Robi Club†. From my Survey, I tried to identify, the market leader in Point of Sales as Daily Load Sales. From the chart, we can see that, Grameenphone is in 1st position in the market all over the country.Consequently, Banglalink is in 2nd Position. In some areas, Airtel & Robi are ahead in between of them. From the pie chart, most of the retailers are satisfied about the facilities of Robi provided to them (79%). Few of the respondent replied that they are getting more facilities as being a good seller (11%). Also their expectation can increase if they get proper services about retailers’ relationship. From the graph, most of the respondents are satisfied about Robi Distribution Commission System (83%). They have more expectation from Robi getting more amount of Commission as per sales of Easy Loads/SIMs. Few of them comp lained about the distribution system.From the pie chart, most of the retailers are not satisfied about the distribution of Robi SIMs that provided to them (89%) because they are not getting actual demand of SIMs in the market at the time. Sometimes they are delayed in reach to distribute there. They are getting very small amount of distribution of SIMs about to 5 -7 pieces. Few of the respondent replied that they are moderate about the facilities (8%). From my survey, most of the retailers are satisfied about the network status of Robi Axiata Limited. They are happy to see the network tower of Robi near to them . But some of them have complained about the network traffic in which the Easy Loads / SMS are not provided timely. It is really appreciated to the respondents, as they are highly satisfied about the sales representatives of Robi Axiata Limited.Because representatives are communicating with the retailer daily, as they are also happy to get anything what they want about the lo ads. 4. 1 Key Findings of the Study After evaluating the available data I got some findings. The data’s were totally related with each other . Every output I got has relation with the previous one or the next one. So the findings should be related with the created problem concern. ? As a promotional tools, Robi Axiata Limited more on Light Box in many retailers shop in Mirpur. Because , This is the first impression that attracted by the customers when they come for services in the retailers shop like – Easy Loads, Purchasing Sims, or come for knowing new packages and services.Light box is complied with LED Box which is transparent and bright. ? Robi is not concerned much as spotlighting Shutter Branding. Because, Robi doesn’t use this concept because of the peak hours time. Shutter is always open and the branding is not visible in the meantime. ? Most of the people are involved in the mobile business as their primary earning. Because it is the most high growth e conomic sectors in our country. So, people are eagerly interested involving in this business and gain profit. ? In this area, it has been a place of employment. Anyone can invest with a low capital and low risk. It doesn’t need to have very special skills to run the business. When a business is going to start for a retailer, the official processing is not much effective. Retailers often face hazardless. ? Low investment ability for Robi Axiata Limited by the retailer’s capability that severely depends on Sales results. Now –a –days, competitively, Robi is in 3rd place in customer subscriber in the market, so the retailers are investing more on others operators like Grameenphone & Banglalink. ? There is a huge demand of Robi SIMs, but there is much enough distribution system. There is a lack of distribution channel activities in Robi, it manages less SIMs distributions to the retailers, but in case of distribution, Robi is trying to increase the SIMs distr ibution, which is on process. Overall facilities are satisfactory to the retailer. The facilities are providing in case of Sales outcomes, which is given in Commission base to the retailers. In case Robi retailers, they are getting commission quickly than other operators. ? In this time, Robi network is satisfactory all over the areas. In this time, Robi spends a huge amount of money to set up more frequent network coverage all over the country. Comparing to the past situation, Robi hasn’t been faced problems in case of network facility. ? SIM distribution is very bad to the retailers for selling to the customers. This is a major problem in SIMs distribution for the retailers nd also the incompatible series of SIMs number which are chosen by the customers while purchasing. ? Retailers are not received satisfactory amount of SIMs distribution according to the demand in the market. ? Sales representatives are ought to be very active and is satisfactory to the retailers. Communi cation is utmost important increasing relationship level among retailers and customers. Robi has been managed it very successfully to them. ? Robi has no service desks compare to the other operators, which is hampering the effective service delivery to the customers. When customers are faced in any problem, they are not capable to come to share their problems to Robi Sheba because these are not nearly situated.Service desks in any retailers shop can solve this problem instantly. 5. 0 Recommendation Some of the recommendations we can deliver for the Robi Axiata Limited on Point –of – sales (POS) classification from preparing this research. Those are briefly written below in key points: ? Promotional Advertising in Branding Robi needs to be innovative and creative. ? Robi should focus on other advertising tools that have not been taken by the management. ? Robi should open a training center on POS to increase the knowledge and skills of the retailers. ? Robi should have a service desk in every retailer shops to increase the level of satisfaction of both retailers and customers. Robi should increase the SIMs sale availability to the respected high demand areas so that the retailers can sell the product of Robi to the customers easily. ? They should think about the highest sales retailers, and provide extra commission on their sales. ? To sustain in the market, Robi should focus on retailers needs and wants that need to identify. ? They must pay commission and provide facilities as much as quickly so that their expectations are fulfilled. ? They should think more in improvement of the relationship between the company and retailers. 6. 0 Conclusion Point of sales is a marketing tool to which has been in use to develop the business operation efficiency of companies. Robi from the year 2010 onwards is practicing Point of sales to increase the sales and revenue to gain profit.For Robi Axiata Limited to be profitable telecommunication company, there has t o an effective Point of Sales plan to be demonstrated clearly to the retailers A system of accountability and flow of information throughout the organization and also retailers need to be established so that the retailers have the trust to the company. All the decisions can be managed from the perspective of point of sales so that the company can classify the better retailers shop and provide good facilities to them. From this research the company can easily make decisions to them. 7. 0 Appendix Fig 01: Work plan of Robi Axiata Limited [pic] †¢ RSP= Robi Sheba Partner Figure 02 : Distribution Channel of Robi Axiata Limited Pos classification questionnaire survey Pos Name: ______________ Pos code: ________Pos address: ________________________________________________ Pos owner name: _______________________ Phone Number: _______ Visibility: 1. Light box: 2. Shutter branding: 3. Shop painting: 4. Space of the shop: a. 0-99 sqft b. 100-150 sqft c. 150-200 sqft d. 200-above 5. Custom er accommodation: a. 1-3 person b. 4-6 person c. 7-10 person d. 10 to above 6. Business type: a. Mobile phone b. Electronic c. Computer d. Cd e. Others 7. Investment ability in a day: (taka) a. 5000-15000 b. 15000-30000 c. 30000-50000 d. 50000 to above 8: Investment ability of Robi: (taka) a. 500-1000 b. 1000-3000 c. 000-5000 d. 5000 to above 9: weekly SIM sale all operators: a. 0-25 b. 25-50 c. 50-100 d. 1500 to above 10. Weekly SIM sale individual: GP BL ROBI AIR CT TELE 11. Daily load sale: GP Bl ROBI AIR CT TELE 12. The facilities of Robi a. Very good b. good c. moderate d. Bad. e. very bad 13. Distribution system of Robi: a. very good b. good c. moderate d. Bad. e. very bad 14. SIM distribution system of Robi: a.Very good b. good c. moderate d. Bad. e. very bad 15. Robi network status: a. very good b. good c. moderate d. Bad. e. very bad 16. Weekly SR visit: a. One tome b. two time c. three time d. four time e. daily 8. 0 Reference & Bibliograph ? Marketing RESEARCH: An Applied Orientation – Naresh K. Malhotra, 5 th EDITIONS, 2008, Prentice-HALL, USA. ? Anm Khaled (Specialist, Consumer Sales & Services, Market Operation Division ? Sabbir Shoaib (Specialist, Consumer Sales & Services, Market Operation Division) ? www. robi. com. bd ? www. google. com [pic] ———————– BL GP