Identity- Men And Women Essays - Identity, Gender, Gender Identity

Identity- Men And Women Identity-Men and Women What influences a persons identity? Is it their homes, parents, siblings, or possibly where they live? When do they get one? Do they get it when they understand right from wrong, or when they can read, or are they born with it? Everyone has one and nobody has the same, is there a point in everyones life when they get one? A persons identity is their own, nobody put it there and nobody can take it out. Everyone in this world has a different identity because they all make their own over the course of their life. A persons identity also causes a person to have masculine and feminine traits. There is no one thing that gives a person their identity, there are however, many different factors that contribute to ones identity. What is someones identity? To me someones identity is a part of their being. Nobody will ever hold it, touch it, or even see it, but it is there. Everybody has one, it guilds your decision making, your thoughts, ideas, and dreams. You may think something is terrible while someone else does not even care and yet another person may laugh, why? The answer is simple, everyone has his own identity and personality. Everyone feels, acts, thinks, and dreams differently. People may have some of these things in common with one another, but they will not be totally the same, it is like a fingerprint, unique. There are many origins to a persons identity, their family, friends, home life, religion, environment and others. A persons identity is developed over many years and put together by the person themselves. It comes from the individuals ability to think, reason and form an opinion. Nobody has the same mind, or the same or the same conscious, so how could anyone have the same identity as another. A persons identity is developed over many years from the time they become aware of their surroundings, to the time they decide if they are going to college, and even as they grow old there identity will change with them. As peoples dreams are dreamed and goals are accomplished their identities will change with the individual. Their aspirations and values will change, causing their identities to change with it. It may be a slight alteration or a major overhaul but there identity will adjust to the person. Gender is a major cause for a persons identity. A person might act a certain way because of the gender that is given to them. It is often referred that a person might act a certain way because it is in their nature. A persons nature is a major reason that causes a persons identity. A person might be mentally sick and just go crazy on people. This is part of the persons nature, he is going to do what his nature compels him to. A persons nature might also influence a person to act like a man or a woman. A man might be a man but have feminine traits. This is the nature of his mind. Nature and identity also characterize how the person acts. The nature of someone might make someone act stronger in their own sex. Identity can be seen in even the youngest of children as soon a child is ready to make their own decision, no matter how trivial the decision might be, the child is starting to create his or her own identity and define their own nature. This nature can be seen in children too. One childs nature might make a little girl act like a boy, also called a tomboy. This means that the girl just like to play with boys and do boy things. While another girl, with a different mentality, might play with Barbie dolls and dress in a pink dress. Siblings grow up together, they play together, and they have fun together. But, eventually they will get their own friends and make their own decisions. This also leads to a persons identity. Not all people like all the same things or people. Joe may be friends with Larry, and Larry may like Bob, but Joe may not like Bob. There is no reason to hate each other, they just do not mix. Friends also play a part in a persons developing an identity, they are also a good indicator of ones identity. Whether you hang around wall street all day or you

Excessive accumulation of body fat Essay Example

Excessive accumulation of body fat Essay Example Excessive accumulation of body fat Essay Excessive accumulation of body fat Essay Introduction Fleshiness may be defined as a status in which there is an inordinate accretion of organic structure fat to province in which the wellness of the patient is compromised. It consequences from an instability between energy consumption and energy outgo. Assorted factors such as environmental and familial factors can lend to fleshiness. Environmental factors comprises of handiness of high Calorie diet or sedentary life style, whereas familial factors comprises of constituents such as household history of obesity.1 Fleshiness is associated with a big figure of wellness jobs, both independently and in association with other diseases such as type 2 diabetes, CHD. Besides that, it besides causes an increased incidence of certain signifiers of malignant neoplastic disease, clogging slumber apnoea and osteoarthritis.2 The organic structure mass index ( BMI ) gives a step of comparative weight and is normally used for placing persons at increased hazard of morbidity and mortality from fleshiness ( Table 1 ) . The anatomical distribution of organic structure fat, with cardinal ( splanchnic ) adiposeness transporting a greater wellness hazard than peripheral. For this ground, the measuring of the waist perimeter in centimeters ( Table 2 ) can be a utile method for placing clinical hazards associated with obesity.1 With an increased figure of people being corpulent, the authorities s Foresight programme shows that over half of the UK grownup population could be obese by 2050. Besides fleshiness s deduction on wellness job, its economical deductions are besides significant. The NHS costs attributable to overweight and fleshiness are projected to duplicate to A ; lb ; 10 billion per twelvemonth by 2050. The wider costs to society and concern are estimated to make amp ; lb ; 49.9 billion per twelvemonth ( at today s monetary values ) . 3 Owing to its increasing prevalence in both development and developed states, associated morbidity and mortality, and the tremendous health care costs, fleshiness has become a major concern, therefore it has been a curative and research end for pharmaceutical companies to develop schemes to cut down the fleshiness epidemic every bit good as to develop safe and effectual antiobesity drugs. In this essay, we shall reexamine the current province of antiobesity drugs and their safety concerns, every bit good as highlight new curative marks and mechanisms by understanding the pathology / physiology of fleshiness. 1. Orlistat Orlistat ( Xenical ® ) has been licensed in the UK since September 1998 as an anti-obesity drug, and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in April 1999. Orlistat inhibits gastric and pancreatic lipases every bit good as the hydrolysis of dietetic triglycerides, ensuing in limited soaking up of monoglycerides and free fatty acids. The compound is a partially hydrated endogenous lipstatin produced by Streptomyces toxytricini. 6 It is usually indicated for patients with a BMI of = 30 kg/m2, or a BMI of = 28 kg/m2 in the presence of other hazard factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or lipemia. Orlistat is contraindicated in patients with chronic malabsorption syndrome or acholia, in gestation or piece breastfeeding every bit good as in patients with known hypersensitivity to orlistat.7 I. Efficacy in clinical tests In a recent published Cochrane reappraisal on the long term effects of sanctioned antiobesity medicines in clinical tests of at least one twelvemonth continuance, 16 orlistat surveies ( n = 10,631 ) , patients were either given orlistat 60 milligram, 120 milligram and placebo. Compared to placebo, orlistat reduced weight by 2.9 kilograms ( 95 % assurance interval ( Cl ) 2.5 to 3.2 kilogram ) was achieved. Active drug therapy showed patients were more likely to accomplish a 5 % and 10 % weight loss thresholds to that of placebo controlled weight losingss which were much lower in diabetic patients. Orlistat reduced diabetes incidence from 9.0 % to 6.2 % ( hazard ratio 0.63, 95 % CI 0.46 to 0.86 ) in the XENDOS test every bit good as improved entire cholesterin, LDL-cholesterol, blood force per unit area 1.5 millimeter Hg ( 95 % CI 0.9 to 2.2 millimeters Hg ; in 13 surveies ) and diastolic blood force per unit area decreases of 1.4 millimeters Hg ( 95 % CI 0.7 to 2.0 millimeters Hg ; in 12 surveies ) . , and glycaemic control in patients.8 II. Adverse effects Orlistat therapy was associated with GI ( GI ) events which were the most common side effects. In this reappraisal, the classification of the results and item of those who reported GI inauspicious side effects varied between tests. Over 80 % of orlistat treated patients were reported to hold experienced at least one GI side consequence, absolute frequence that was 24 % ( 95 % CI 20 % to 29 % ; 14 surveies ) higher than patients on placebo. The most normally reported GI events were fatty/oily stool, fecal urgency and oily staining, which occurred at frequence rate of 15 % to 30 % in most surveies. Approximately 5 % of these patients discontinued therapy due to GI side effects, which was 2 % ( 95 % CI 1 % to 3 % ; 12 surveies ) higher than patients taking placebo.8 2. Sibutramine Sibutramine ( Reductil ® ) is a centrally moving inhibitor of norepinephrine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and to a lesser grade, Dopastat re-uptake, which was originally developed as an antidepressant nevertheless alternatively of it bettering temper, it led to weight loss. It acts chiefly as an appetency suppressant and it may besides increase energy outgo ensuing in weight loss during chronic intervention which usually occurs during the first six months. However farther intervention does non do farther weight loss but helps to keep organic structure weight. Due to chair consequence, the drug was approved by the FDA and introduced into the US market in 1997 and in the European Union in 1999.9 Sibutramine is indicated in patients with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or more ( and no associated co-morbidity ) , or in those with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or more in the presence of other hazard factors such as type-2 diabetes or hypercholesterolaemia. It is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure, CHD, congestive bosom failure or shot. 7 I. Efficacy in clinical tests In a recent published Cochrane reappraisal on the long term effects of sanctioned antiobesity medicines in clinical tests of at least one twelvemonth continuance, 10 sibutramine surveies ( n = 2,623 ) , patients were either given dosage of sibutramine ranged between 10 to 20 milligrams, with the most common dosage being 15 milligram. In footings of weight loss, patients on sibutramine therapy lost 4.2 kilogram ( 95 % CI 3.6 to 4.7 kilograms ; 8 surveies ) or 4.3 % ( 95 % CI 3.7 % to 5.0 % ; 10 surveies ) more weight than those taking placebo.8 In patients with diabetes, sibutramine reduced weight by 5.0 % ( 95 % CI 3.8 to 6.2 % ; 3 surveies ) or 4.9 kilograms ( 95 % CI 3.6 kilogram to 6.2 kilograms ; 3 surveies ) compared to placebo therapy.10 Overall, alterations in glycaemic parametric quantities were inconsistent and were non significantly different from placebo in any survey even in patients with diabetes when reported. Sibutramine was besides found to increase HDL cholesterin degrees by 0.04 mmol/L ( 95 % CI 0.01 to 0.08 mmol/L ; 5 surveies ) and cut down triglyceride degrees by 0.18 mmol/L ( 95 % CI 0.07 to 0.30 mmol/L ; 4 surveies ) compared to placebo-treated patients.8 II. Adverse effects Common side effects observed during sibutramine intervention are concern, dry oral cavity, irregularity, and insomnia. It besides causes a dose-related addition in blood force per unit area. The average addition in blood force per unit area was found to be about 2mm Hg systolic and diastolic at the 15 milligram dosage. Although the consequence is modest, it has been estimated that a 2mm Hg alteration in diastolic blood force per unit area can increase the hazard of coronary bosom disease by 6 % and the hazard of shot by 15 % .11 In the same Cochrane reappraisal as above, sibutramine was found to hold increased systolic blood force per unit area by 1.7mmHg ( 95 % CI 0.1 to 3.3 millimeters Hg ; 7 surveies ) , diastolic blood force per unit area by 2.4 millimeters Hg ( 95 % CI 1.5 to 3.3 millimeters Hg ; 7 surveies ) and pulse rate by 4.5 beats/min ( 95 % CI 3.5 to 5.6 beats/min ; 7 surveies ) compared to placebo. 8 Recently the European Medicines Agency ( EMA ) completed a reappraisal on sibutramine on a big clinical test to see whether the cardiovascular hazards of sibutramine outweigh its benefits. The SCOUT test carried out was a randomized, dual blind, placebo controlled survey in which about 10,000 corpulent and fleshy patients with cardiovascular disease and/or type 2 diabetes were treated for over 6 old ages. Consequences showed that patients had a 16 % increased hazard of cardiovascular inauspicious events such as myocardial infarction and shot compared with placebo treated patients ( hazard ratio 1 ·161 [ 95 % CI 1 ·029-1 ·311 ] ; p=0 ·016 ) . Furthermore, silbutramine decreased organic structure weight by about 2 4 kilogram more than placebo which may non be maintained after halting. Therefore this test concluded that the benefit of sibutramine as a weight loss assistance does non outweigh the cardiovascular hazards doing sibutramine to be SUSPENDED from the market until farther tests have been carried out.12 Although surveies in this Cochrane reappraisal showed a positive intervention consequence, morbidity and mortality end points is considered to be an of import step, as a favorable benefit/risk ratio of antiobesity drugs which cause weight loss may non better results for long term intervention of obesity.8 FUTURE PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT Current available antiobesity drugs are modestly effectual, nevertheless they may be associated with unacceptable and life endangering inauspicious effects. As a consequence there is a turning demand for pharmaceutical companies to happen effectual, safe and good tolerated antiobesity drugs. In this subdivision we will look at the possible molecular marks for antiobesity drugs in assorted phases of the presymptomatic and clinical development. As discussed above, fleshiness arises as a consequence of how the organic structure regulates energy intake/absorption, energy outgo and energy storage. The size of organic structure fat shops hence is determined by the net balance between energy consumption and outgo over an drawn-out period of clip. The energy consumption and energy outgo can be used as an attack to develop new antiobesity drugs. ( Table 3 ) 13 Appetite or repletion are usually influenced by peripheral signal by direct effects on certain countries of the encephalon or by indirect effects via the pneumogastric nervus, or both. The signals usually originate from the adipose tissue ( adiposeness signals ) or the GI piece of land ( repletion signals ) . Leptin which is an adiposity signal is chiefly responsible for the long-run ordinance of energy balance whereas repletion signals are usually involved in the short-run ordinance from GI piece of land. The different signals are integrated in the hypothalamus and can besides modulate each other s efficaciousness and sensitivity.14 Leptin being the most of import adiposeness signal Acts of the Apostless on specific receptors in the hypothalamus and the rhombencephalon. In the hypothalamus, leptin receptor activation leads to the stimulation of nerve cells incorporating pro-opiomelanocortin and cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript every bit good as the suppression of nerve cells bring forthing neuropeptide Y ( NPY ) and Agouti-related protein. The downstream pathways besides plays an of import function in the ordinance of energy balance. Activation of hypothalamic melanocortin-4 receptors leads to appetite suppression. Amongst other GI endocrines, ghrelin, which is produced from the tummy, is the lone appetite-stimulating peptide. Ghrelin acts straight on NPY nerve cells in the hypothalamus but besides through the pneumogastric sensory nerves. Several enteric peptides such as cholecystokinin ( CCK ) , pancreatic polypeptide ( PP ) and glucagon-like peptide 1 ( GLP-1 ) are known to increase repletion during and after a repast. 14 Besides that, peptide YY and oxyntomodulin are besides thought to act upon repletion by chiefly moving on the hypothalamus. POTENTIAL FUTURE THERAPY FOR OBESITY 1. Cardinal targets/ hypothalamic Mediators. I. Leptin Leptin is a endocrine which is released from the adipocytes that conveys message of energy handiness to the hypothalamus. Leptin lack leads to severe fleshiness. It acts by agencies of its receptor to trip a Janus kinase/ signal transduction and interlingual rendition ( JAK/STAT ) system, which finally leads to the reduced look of neuropeptide Y ( NPY ) , a powerful appetency stimulation, and increased look of anorectic neuropeptides.15 Leptin generated a batch of intense involvement as a possible therapy nevertheless no agonists of leptin receptors are presently in clinical development since it has shown dissatisfactory consequences in certain tests carried out in corpulent patients which is thought to be caused by leptin opposition found in most of these patients.16 However, mechanisms involved in the development of leptin opposition could go possible mark for future drug development. II. Neuropeptide Y ( NPY ) After the failure of in obesity drug development, the tracts downstream of leptin e.g. NPY and melanocortins became a focal point in the drug find. Decreased encephalon leptin/insulin activity may excite NPY/AgRP axis and conversely decrease POMC/CART axis, therefore taking to an addition in feeding and lessening in energy outgo therefore advancing weight addition. However, farther development of NPY adversaries decreased after several surveies carried out in smasher mice. Surveies showed neither the riddance of NPY nor that of its of import receptor subtypes, NPY 1 or NPY 5, resulted in a thin phenotype.17 These observations concluded NPY adversaries as an uneffective curative attack to fleshiness. III. Melanocortins Surveies and clinical tests showed that melanocortin system plays an of import function in the ordinance of energy balance. Break of melanocortin system in genetically modified mice either by extinguishing the endogenous agonist a-MSH, by over showing its endogenous adversary AgRP, or by strike harding out the MC-4 receptor, resulted in obesity.18 Mutation of the MC-4 receptor in worlds led to the most frequent signifier of fleshiness which was accounted for up to 5 % of all terrible cases.19 Besides its consequence in decrease of nutrient consumption, MC-4 receptor agonists besides increased blood force per unit area and bosom rate, and these effects can non be separated from that of appetency reduction.20 Recent surveies have shown that signalling tracts appear to diverge downstream of the MC-4 receptor, therefore these tracts could be attractive mark for selective pharmacological effects. 2.Central targets/ Gut Hormones. I. Peptide YY ( PYY ) PYY decreases nutrient consumption which is thought to move at NPY Y2 receptors in the encephalon. Unlike leptin, PYY degrees are lower in corpulent patients ( i.e. no opposition ) hence could be an attractive mark. PYY-36 which is release in response to a repast in the big bowel, is considered to be the chief circulating signifier of PYY.21 This endocrine can non be administered orally because of its proteinaceousnature. Currently, Phase II tests have been carried out at Nastech to prove its suitableness for intranasal bringing, nevertheless its appetite-lowering efficaciousness in patients is still doubted. II. Ghrelin Ghrelin is produced in the tummy, bowel, pituitary and perchance hypothalamus and may trip the growing endocrine secretagogue receptor. Ghrelin secernment increased during starvation additions nutrient consumption. Adversaries or reverse agonists of ghrelin receptors can be of import marks to cut down the frequence of meals.22 Ghrelin antagonist GHS- R1a is presently in development and is orally available. Clinical tests are being carried out to demo whether it causes weight loss. III. GLP -1 GLP-1 is known to increase insulin secernment while diminishing glucagon secernment. It besides delays stomachic voidance and reduces nutrient intake ensuing in an betterment in diabetic patient s blood glucose degrees. Therefore GLP -1 parallel like exenatide is another utile agent for patients with fleshiness. However GLP-1 is quickly inactivated by the enzyme dipeptidyl protease IV ( DPP IV ) hence inhibitors of DPP IV like vildagliptin may be usage in fleshy patients, nevertheless the extent to which weight loss is achieved with DPP-IV remains ill-defined compared to GLP -1 injectable parallels. 23 3.Peripheral targets/ Energy Expenditure. Increasing energy outgo through physical activity or by diminishing energy consumption is of import in accomplishing weight decrease in corpulent patients. ? 3 Adrenergic agonists may increase heat production by increasing the look of decoupling protein 1 ( UCP 1 ) through effects on fat cell chondriosomes and therefore cut downing organic structure fat.24 Early on clinical tests have suggested hapless selectivity of A ; szlig ; 3 receptor agonists therefore exciting other amp ; szlig ; receptors including A ; szlig ; 1 receptors in the bosom ensuing in increased bosom rate. No drug so far has progressed beyond stage II tests, nevertheless surveies are still being carried on to seek for selective agents that can increase fatty acerb oxidization in adipose tissue while avoiding cardiovascular side effects.24 Decision With a high increasing figure of clinical tests carried out, the limited compounds in the market shows that the hunt for antiobesity agent is really hard. Presently most of the research concentrates on the development of drugs which cut down energy consumption by aiming appetite suppression or diminishing enteric lipid soaking up. As the attempt to increase energy outgo does non look to be effectual, the following possible purpose is to diminish energy storage by straight aiming adipose tissue. Presently, long term weight decrease can merely be achieved by lifestyle alterations every bit good as increase physical activity and dietetic steps. Although it is really hard for patients to keep it, it is the best manner in the long tally as it reduces hazard of morbidity and mortality from fleshiness related diseases. 25

Retail Market Analysis Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Retail Market Analysis - Coursework Example It has been observed that the retail industry of the United Kingdom is going to expand in size by around 15% in the coming 5 years. A value of around 312 billion pounds may be attained by the United Kingdom. Source: www.cbi.org.uk/.../10%2007%2026%20DTS%20NACE%20note%20final. pdf The retail sector of the United Kingdom has a value of 8% of the total gross domestic product of the country. The different retail industries in the United Kingdom have developed immensely in all areas such as home wear, health and beauty retail industry, electrical goods, garments industry, e-retail, furniture and floor coverings and other such types of retail sectors. Northern Ireland is one of the regions where tremendous amount of retail growth has been observed. Vancouver Trading Incorporated is planning to start its retail operations in the United Kingdom in the industry of white goods. This report is an overall analysis and advice of the level of retail of white goods in the United Kingdom. ... ng to invest their purchases on white goods, the consumer behavior aspects are also discussed and following this the advice is given to Vancouver Trading Incorporated for making their investments in the United Kingdom retail market of white goods. Retail trends over recent years In the white goods retail industry, the home appliances and the dishwashers are the main products that have a high share and high value of the total market of the white goods industry. The economical and social state of the United Kingdom is extremely important factors as they may directly impact the white goods retail industry in the market. The demand for white goods is directly related to the housing market of the United Kingdom. The more the consumers plan to shift in houses the more the market will increase for the white goods as many household appliances are needed for doing different chores of the house. The housing market and economical state affect the consumer purchasing power of white goods. If cus tomer’s purchasing power is low then they may opt for cheaper goods and also the white good products will be bought more if there are more people moving into the houses where there is a requirement for white goods. Moving in houses tend to trigger the need and requirement for different types of household products and appliances. The movement into houses can include the category of moving into a house the first time or by replacing the houses and therefore would require a replacement in the white goods products. If the value in growth becomes difficult to achieve then it may highly difficult to attain growth in volume of white goods products. The potential growth areas of the white goods retail industry is in the Central Europe and the Eastern Europe. The population in these areas is above

Analyze the Stage 3-4 transition from the perspective of Kohlberg's Essay

Analyze the Stage 3-4 transition from the perspective of Kohlberg's and Gilligan's alternative perspectives - Essay Example When one is in this stage of moral development one learns to make deals, such as when one breaks the rules, one makes a deal with the rule keeper. This stage is a more important step in moral development than the previous stage. During this stage one learns about lying, and the affects of lying, and rule breaking. One learns that just because something seems wrong, does not necessarily make it wrong. During the third stage of moral development one will learn how to be considerate, and how to assist someone when someone is in need. During this stage of moral development one should not necessarily assist someone for gratification. More that someone should receive gratification in the mere act of assisting someone else who was in need. During this stage of moral development one learns how to be considerate of someone else’s feelings, and how to respect each other, and how to live, and work with one another. This stage of moral development is important, because if one does not lea rn to respect each other, and how to work, and live near one another, one cannot possibly have accomplished the first two stages of moral development. ... When one develops social cohesion, one develops more of a sense of being. This person is much better off than someone who has only developed the first three stages of moral development. Kohlberg thinks that if one does not develop social cohesion then one is only mindful, respectful, and considerate of only those in one’s clique. During the fifth stage of moral development on develops a sense of one’s social obligations, and individual rights. During this stage of moral development one learns what one need to do, what one’s place in society is. Everyone has a place in society, and everyone has obligations to make of society. Society expects certain things of certain people, and if one does not oblige by what society expects of them, one is considered to be abnormal. Abnormal citizens are considered to be amoral-citizen. Someone who acts only the way one expects one should act, and does not do as society expects one is considered amoral, to do only what one wants to do, not what is best to do. This may be the best for the person making this decision, however, it is not necessarily right for society. Gilligan challenged Kohlberg’s philosophies that stage four of moral development was not the most imperative stage of moral development. Gilligan used an all female sample, and conducted qualitative research on what women’s views were on abortion. Gilligan analyzed the qualitative research on abortion, and applied it to the four stages of moral development, developed by Kohlberg. In applying the five stages of Kohlberg’s moral development, Gilligan decided that stage four was not better than stage three in Kohlberg’s moral development stages. Gilligan’s research could not develop a clearer understanding of

Islamic law Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Islamic law - Coursework Example Islamic law is derived from four sources which are Quran, hadith, ijma, and qiyas. The Quran is the main scripture of Islam which is the main source of law. The hadith are the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad which comprise the second principle of law. Ijma and Qiyas are used to determine and obtain conclusions regarding issues which are not addressed in the Quran and hadith directly. Ijma is usually the collective opinion of a group of scholars while qiyas is the use of individual reasoning to apply Islamic principles for new issues faced by society (Dien, 145). Islamic law provides guidelines and principles regarding business, commerce, trade, society, politics, ethics, personal life, and criminal justice. Islamic principles have been implemented as criminal codes in certain countries like Pakistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan. Certain practices like alcohol consumption by Muslims are punished in Saudi Arabia and Iran. The Quran provides injunctions regarding the punishment of five crimes which are adultery, theft, murder, alcohol consumption, and banditry. Murder and banditry can be punishable by death while theft leads to the amputation of hands. Fornication and alcohol consumption can be punished by flogging. In cases of married people committing adultery, the sentence can be death by stoning. Despite the harsh nature of these punishments, the Quran actually places high standards of evidence which are essential for the prosecution of the crime (Bakhtiar, 178). Many countries also do not impose these punishments because of a set of legal procedures that make them difficult to prosecute. American laws are based upon the separation of church and state as the government does not favor any religion. The American legal system also provides complete freedom of speech, association, religion, bear arms, right to assemble, and prevent the federal government from interfering in the individual rights (Weaver, 35). The American system is based upon legislation as it

Supply Chain Strategy At Somerset Furniture Commerce Essay

Supply Chain Strategy At Somerset Furniture Commerce Essay The main focus of this study lies on the business performance of Somerset Furniture. Consequently, this paper aims to assess the supply chain and logistic practices of Somerset Furniture. With regards to purposes, this paper also aims in exploring the Somerset Furnitures supply chain strategy, specifically its manufacturing plant establishment in the foreign country-China, has influenced its success. In this paper, the researcher assesses the current business strategy of Somerset Furniture in order to identify its effectiveness and determine how this strategy helps the business in attaining business success. Basically, there are numerous methods and styles that business may use in order to attain success, normally, this methods and strategies were used in determining the target market, encouraging the prospects buy their products with value and generate profit. In fact, this study recognises the importance and outcome of leadership, innovation and motivation to the progress and advan cement of Somerset Furniture. Introduction Organizations use the supply chain approaches to have control over the operations and reduce the costs, as much as possible. Supply chain strategy is often intertwined with the supply chain management but supply chain strategy is broader than the other which should be managed well in order to compete in the market. The implemented strategy is a kind of process that evaluates the cost and benefit that an organization can gain through its operation. Most of the business strategies are formulated with an aim to effective compete and at the same time, achieve the organizational goals. This idea is true with the implementation of supply chain strategy because it includes the analytic and decision making processes. Identify the Issues Actually, there are no specific steps regarding the development of a comprehensive supply chain strategy that can be effective in an organization. Every enterprise is uniquely founded and their environments are differs among the others. This is a challenge that the organization should identify. Before the development, the organization should first assess the existing supply chain management or the factors that might affect the creation of the effective supply chain strategy (Rosenfeld, et al., 2000). Commonly, the organization goes back into the basics of business. Through the identification of the essential offers (products or services), when to offer (timing, seasonal), and where to offer (market, retail) the organization can draw its own competitive plan of supply chain. Having a business strategy is a representation of the overview of the businesss future, and having a supply chain strategy can be mirrored through the actual operations. In the end, the supply chain can meet the objectives of the organization. The supply chain strategy is important towards the operations and execution of the activities. In the continuous practice, the efficiencies are maximized and remain competitive in the market. Having a supply chain strategy creates a strong relationship between the suppliers and customers. And an organization should remember that a well executed supply chain strategy creates a value for the organizations advantage. Basically, businesses like Somerset Furniture are considering now the advantage of transferring the manufacturing process to China in order to lessen their overhead costs. Actually, setting up manufacturing plants in other countries like China may reduce costs, principally due to the use of economical foreign labour in developing nations. Somerset Furniture can handle costs by transferring their production lines in global setting or in a foreign land that they wish to operate. However, Somerset Furniture practices grasps that they produce employment, generate affluence, and perk up expertise in nations that are in dreadful need of such growth. Censors, on the other hand, point to their unnecessary political anxiety, their operation of developing countries, and the job losses that result in the businesses home nations. In the case of Somerset Furniture, the business identified several issues in their supply chain as they considered China as part of their manufacturing processes. Table 1. List of Issues Logistics Duration days The company process order weekly or biweekly Weekly or biweekly 14 It takes 12 and 25 days for the company to develop a purchase order and release it to their Chinese suppliers 12 and 25 days to develop PO 25 This process includes developing a demand forecast, which may take from one week to two weeks; converting the forecast to an order fulfillment schedule; and then developing a purchase order. 1 week to 2 weeks for demand forecast 14 Once the purchase order is processed overseas by the Chinese manufacturer, which may take 10 to 20 days depending on the number of changes made, the manufacturing process requires approximately 60 days. 60 days 60 The foreign logistics process requires finished furniture items to be transported from the manufacturing plants to the Chinese ports, which can take up several weeks depending on trucking availability and schedules. Several Weeks ie. 3 weeks? 21 An additional 5 to 10 days is required to arrange for shipping containers and prepare the paperwork for shipping. 5 to 10 days 10 Shipments can then wait from one day to a week for enough available containers. 1 day to a week 7 It requires between three to six days to optimally loading the containers. 3 to 6 days 6 Since 9/11, random security checks of containers can delay shipment another one to three weeks 1 to 3 weeks 21 The trip overseas to Norfolk requires 28 days. 28 days 28 Once in port, one to two weeks are required for a shipment to clear customs 1 to 2 weeks 14 to be loaded onto trucks for transport to Somersets warehouse in Randolph County, which takes from one to three days 1 to 3 days 3 When a shipment arrives, it can take from one day up to a month to unload a trailer, depending on the urgency to fill store orders from the shipment. 1 day to a month 31 254 Because of supply chain variability, shipments can be off schedule, (that is, delayed) by as much as 40%. Delay by 40% +3 Table 2. Other Issues Issues Category At the same time, keeping excess inventories on hand in its warehouses is very costly and since Somerset redesigns its product lines so frequently a real problem of produce obsolescence arises if products remain in inventory very long. Cost Somerset has also been experiencing quality problems. The Chinese suppliers employ quality auditors who rotate among plants every few weeks to perform quality control tests and monitor the manufacturing process for several days before visiting another plant. Store and individual customer complaints have forced Somerset to inspect virtually every piece of furniture it receives from overseas before forwarding it to stores. Quality In some instances, customers have complained that tables and chairs creak noisily during use. Somerset subsequently discovered that creaking was caused by humidity differences between the locations of the Chinese plants and the geographic areas in the United States where their furniture is sold Quality Replacement parts (like cabinet doors or table legs) are difficult to secure because the Chinese suppliers will only agree to provide replacement parts for the product lines currently in production Vendor Management Somerset provides a one year warranty on its furniture, which means that they often need parts for a product no longer being produced. Even when replacement parts were available, it took long to get them from the supplier in order to provide timely customer service Obsolete Products Strategic Solution There is no such thing as constant. Everything in this world evolves, even strategic performance measures. From the issues in the logistic and supply chain process of Somerset Furniture and in accordance to strategic solution, the business must be open to the idea that some measures changes over time. Somerset Furniture must research on different approaches to be at par with the changes on the systems. In Somerset Furniture, the business may want to incorporate e-commerce strategy in their supply chain management. Actually, this has been the primary role of most businesses, how to incorporate e-commerce strategy in the supply chain management that will help in reduce expenses in the supply chain and at the same time makes the supply chain more responsive and the flow of products or services faster for the benefits of each member of the chain. According to Jones (2001), SCM practices in business industry like Somerset Furniture integrates the key business processes, from suppliers through end-users that provide products, services, and information that add value for customers and stakeholders. It is also a network of facilities and distribution options that integrate the functions of demand planning and forecasting, procurement of materials, manufacturing, distribution, and return. Basically, in business industry the goal of SCM is to reduce inventory cost and to improve the coordination and collaboration with suppliers and distributors. In any type of businesses or even in Somerset Furniture, sales are an important part of any commercial transaction. The most common approach to personal selling in a traditional department store concerns to a organized procedure of incessant yet quantifiable techniques in which the one selling explains his offered products or services in such a way that the consumer will be able to envisage how to gain from the offered products or services in a cost-effective means. Selling is basically a part of the implementation procedures of marketing. It often forms a particular grouping within a corporate structure, employing independent specialist operatives known as salesmen (Jones, 2001). The continued interrogation in order to understand a consumers goal as well as the establishment of a set of feasible solutions by conveying the necessary information that convinces a buyer to achieve his goal at a reasonable cost is the main responsibility of the sales person. On the other hand, the main objective of professional sales in a traditional department store is to be able to know the needs and satisfy the wants of consumers effectively, and therefore convert possible customers into actual and reliable ones. On the other hand, electronic selling refers to the paid endorsement of commodities and services with the use of online trading known as the Internet. While marketing has the main goal to select marketplaces that have the capability to acquire a product, electronic selling, in contrast, is the paid communication through which pertinent data concerning the product is transmitted to latent consumers via the Internet (Carlton, 2001). In a general sense, electronic selling is being utilized to be able to impart to the consumers the availability of a particular product or service online. In a way, electronic selling is also able to give vital information concerning the product or service through the Internet. When an online selling campaign is attained efficiently, this can direct to an augmented demand for the merchandise. There are commonly three main objectives of electronic selling: (1) conveying relevant information regarding a particular product or service; (2) persuading clients to buy the promoted product; and, (3) keep the company under the watchful eyes of the public (Carlton, 2001). Most successful electronic selling campaigns typically blend the rudiments of all three objectives. Typically, newly well-known products are supported with informative and persuasive electronic selling ads, while sturdily recognized products make use of institutional and convincing electronic selling ads. In Somerset Furniture, amplified market rivalry classifies incessant modification and development in the assembly lines, outsourcing and supply chain managing of companies. Interdependence and contribution of suppliers and manufacturers in product plan, innovation, including research and development distinguish the present international business setting consequential to market instability (Sobrero Roberts, 2001 and Appleyard, 2003). These associations generally share proprietary shared information with peripheral suppliers and associates while guaranteeing utmost protection to improve competence transversely the product lifecycle by reorganization procurement, manufacture, completion, and allocation procedures (Katsikeas, Schlegelmilch Skarmeas, 2002) which necessitated in incorporation of purposes and information across various geographically discrete supply chain allies, including internal amalgamation with legacy systems (Katsikeas, Schlegelmilch Skarmeas, 2002 and Appleyard, 2 003). Tactical Solution In accordance to the tactical solution and with respect to the issues of logistic and supply chain in Somerset Furniture. The business may consider the implementation and integration of Information technology (IT) to their supply chain and logistic process. Basically, the information technology (IT), also commonly referred to as information and communication technology (ICT) can be applied to Somerset Furniture similar to other businesses discussed in McCue, (2006). In Somerset Furniture, IT may play a significant role in enhancing supply chain management (SCM) systems. For instance, a number of information technologies had been made available to owners of business organizations for this purpose, from less-sophisticated to more advanced systems (Reynolds, J, 2004). The supply chain operations of most businesses have been enhanced through information technology mainly when the concepts of business and consumers (B2C) and business partners (B2B) were introduced. In addition to tactical solution, internet technology may also lead to the development of SCM systems among business organisations. Through this innovation, product customization, information searches and online deliveries are some common services that are now available to the customers. Manufacturers, suppliers and distributors on the other hand, benefit from internet utilization through well-coordinated information sharing. Online auctions are even made possible with this technological development (Emiliani 2000). In addition to internet technology, specific programs and systems such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) also became one of the most well-known strategies for applying IT within manufacturing enterprises, which helps in facilitating information exchange (Evans et al 1995 and Tesone, D, 2005). In addition to this, ERP also helps the business sector by improving various activities such as the monitoring of orders, materials, schedules and inventories as well as business process engineering. The Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is yet another IT strategy that is applied by business organizations, particularly in improving their SCM operations. Private wide-area networks or value-added networks (VAN) were conventionally used to implement EDI. This however made EDI too costly for small and medium sized companies. With the introduction of the internet-based EDI, these enterprises are now able to acquire the benefits of EDI application (Johnston Mark 2000). The business industry like the business of Somerset Furniture is also one of the business sectors that utilize various information technology strategies so as to enhance its operations. One of these strategies that they may consider was the application of Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS), which was first introduced during the late 1980s. With this strategy, retail companies are able to acquire virtual online information about their respective customers, particularly their demands. These data are derived from the scanned purchases at the checkout counters of retail stores (McCall Stone 2004). In this tactical solution, Somerset Furniture may able to acquire a large customer database that can more or less give a good representation of their total demand. Customer data basically include information such as consumer sales in terms of brand, product, outlet and region. Information about the customers such as names, frequency of their visit to a particular outlet and payment method can also be obtained and stored in the database. With these data, businesses are able to develop and make successful television campaigns based on the product sales obtained from a specific region (McCall Stone 2004). The information that is stored on the database is mainly derived from the bar code reader. With this system, the reader, which is an electronic data input device, collects information and transmit it to the central computer. Aside from stock control, this data-gathering technique is also used to conduct market basket analysis, which is mainly used for developing profiles of individual shoppers (Czerniawska Potter 1998 and Katsikeas, Schlegelmilch Skarmeas, 2002). The introduction of information technology to business application even made the development of a customer database even easier and more effective. The incorporation of IT to customer data then led to the construction of the EPOS strategy. With this added feature, businesses now can make the most of the data derived from their customers. In addition, the development of results from analyzing these data is now easier and faster than before. Data storage and classification are no longer a problem either. In organizations that observe regular office settings, IT application strategies had also been used. One of which is the use of information technologies in developing virtual teams. Business organizations have long been searching for mechanisms or systems that will make their operations work more efficiently (Bielski, 2004). In the past, industries had recognized the efficacy of creating teams from their workforce in achieving this objective (Bielski, 2004). Based on corporate experience, organizations have witnessed that team-based working environment is capable of drawing productivity and creativity out of their employees. Moreover, a dynamic business environment exemplified by work teams enables the member to overcome challenges better (Bielski, 2004). However, as teams are integrated into an organizations work operation, management had started to encounter several problems and dilemmas. For instance, some work assignments require frequent relocations. This then would call for expensive travel expenses to transfer a particular work team. Due to this, organizations are not able to maximize the use of team-based workforce as work teams tend to be constricted on small projects only. Furthermore, traveling causes much delay on work actions and decisions. Without the full and complete presence of the teams members in a common work site or location, no work progress is achieved. This has been the case until information technology was introduced. With new software programs, faster communication systems and more efficient processors, business sectors now have access to a useful technology known as virtual connectivity (Slack, Chambers, Johnston, 2004 and Celly, Kamauff Spekman, 1999). The access to these new technologies and innovations has allowed people all over the world to communicate even at great distances. This transition has given organizations the idea of creating virtual teams. Virtual teams are made up of organizational members whose main form of interaction is made via electronic communication means. Through the use of the telephone, fax machines, the internet or other computer-based media (Townsend, DeMarie Hendrickson 1996), team members are able to communicate without actually seeing one another and even without being in one work location. By means of these virtual communication systems, team members can easily decide or select which information system is appropriate for particular work tasks. For instance, in a work assignment that needs the exchange of information, lean technologies, such as electronic mailing or instant messaging, are used. Complicated work duties on the other hand, like conflict resolution or brainstorming, require more advance technologies such as video conferencing. Leonard (1998) noted that as the members of the virtual team are aware of the resources available to them for specific tasks, they are able to develop a refined sense of efficiency in communicating and conducting business operations as a team. Basically, supply chain management system helps the company to improve their ability to deliver products in more quickly and timely manner. It is now consider as one of the most important aspect of management as well as strategic operations that will help to ensure that companies will be competitive in each and every move that they will take. The said system also deals with the relationship that a certain company is involved at. Information flow, cash flow and product flow are important in any company and therefore should be taken care of by setting necessary measures that will ensure the communication link between different entities that are involved in any supply chain. The said system will help businesses to conceptualize the processes and information that will help them to manage the cooperation in the supply chain that are based on the holistic view of the entire system (Skjà ¸tt-Larsen Jespersen, 2005, p.10). Table 3 The IPO Chart (Input, Process, and Output) Input Process Output 1.Enquiry,Comments and suggestions 1. Analyzing the all the enquiry, comments and suggestion of the customer with regards to the performance of the company 1. Improved and developed service and performance 2. Sales of products 2.1Analyzing all the sales details of a certain products such as number of sold item in a given period of time as well as the range of ages that are buying those products. 2.2 Add to the out-flow of the products 2.1 Demand forecast 2.2 Updated Inventory 3. Pricing information from the distributor 3. Calculate those factors that will affect the price of a certain product such as the suggested price from the distributor and the needed amount to meet the target profit of the company. 3. The retail price for the customer 4. Delivered product from the distributor 4. Check if there is no damage or irregularities about the certain products. If there is any the product will be returned to the distributor 4. Updated Inventory 5. Return request from the customers 5. Ask for the proof of purchase and replace the product 5.1 Replaced product 5.2 Updated inventory 6. Money (Payment from the customer) 6. Information about the financial aspect especially the cash inflow will be saved to the database of the company for future references. 6. Profit The main focus of the supply management system is to maintain the relationship between the different entities in the entire supply chain such as the customer, the manufacturer, the distributor etc. Figure 1 shows the control of the overall system. The system is consists of four subsystems that are important to the overall operation of the said system. The first subsystem is the planning that focuses on the initial activities of the company such as the demand forecast, the marketing strategy, the process of pricing the product and the inventory management. It is shown in the figure 4 that the entire planning phase is related or connected to the sales activities. This is because the main focus of the first said subsystem is to ensure the loyalty of the previous customers as well as to catch the attention of other target customers. On the other hand, the customer relation is connected to the marketing strategy; this is because, if a company has their pleasant and good implementation pro duct, it will help to make the past customer to be loyal. The main sub systems here that affect the overall flow of the supply are the returns of the suppliers and the customers, delivery and procurement. This is the core operation since it will handle the inflow and outflow of the product to the company that will help to maintain the level of the inventory to prevent over and under stock. Figure 2. The Supply Chain Management System Avoiding Potential Pitfalls The organization should firstly look on the obvious and existing process that lies within their supply chain. All of the processes involved in the organization can effectively contribute in the successful creation of the supply chain strategy (UPS, 2005). Performance Management this is the process on controlling and execution or implementation of the appropriate processed that allows the organization to realize their goals. A well managed performance works with the organization and became the foundation of the supply chain strategy that is being supported and reinforced. Cost-Benefit Evaluation Process can be done periodically or annually depending on how complex the supply chain strategy is. This is the investigation regarding on what strategies, practices or methods, products, technologies, etc. can be implemented in the strategy. Within this process, the organization can also look on the new opportunities that can further position the organization towards its success. Keeping Communication with the Partners the supply chain strategy is basically deals with many different entities that can be both internally and externally. It very crucial for the organization to align the supply chain strategy along with the business strategy and both ideas are important to achieve the goals of the organization and foster the long-term success. By keeping the communication with the partners and customers creates an impact in rapid pace in realizing the goals because there is consistency in the process and communication. Having the strategy is not an assurance that the organization is strong enough to achieve the success. Most of the businesses fail because of the poor implementation of the strategy. The execution is the most important that contributes in the strategys success or failure and not on its strategic planning, changes and development. If a strategy is not delivered according to its commitments and decisions are not comprehensively done, the alignment of the supply chain strategy with the business strategy is meaningless. If the people created the strategy, there should be commitment and responsibilities to eliminate the consequences or challenges that can be the cause of its failure. Conclusion Developing an effective supply chain strategy does not end there, there should also include the appropriate efforts and approach to deliver its value. A supply chain strategy is the focus of the organization towards the suppliers and customers and maintaining the good relationship towards the operational excellence of the organization. It might involve risks, but the organization should bring the emphasis on the supply chain strategy to guide the organization, at least, to gain competitive advantage.

A Scream in the Night :: essays research papers

natasha Smith. A Scream in the Night. Chapter 1 Ahhhhhhhh†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ I jumped out of my bed and turned on the night. I slowly creaped over to my bedroom window, what I saw was petrifying. A humongous light came bursting in at me I was sure that it wasn’t the sun. It came closer each second, closer, closer and closer, bigger, bigger and bigger. But before I got to faint, Mum got up and the light dissapeared. Weird. Chapter 2 I put on my warm and cosy dressingown, slipped my foot into my bright and yellow slippers, and crept down the creaky stairs for breakfast, trying to act normal. When I got there I said,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å" Morning Mum, Morning Dad.†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å" Morning,† Replied Mum and Dad. I sat down and said nothing, Still wondering what weird thing could happened this morning. Chapter 3 I sat there thinking what could have happened?, what could it be?, how could it be? Mum noticed me being quiet, she asked, â€Å" Dear what is the matter? You look awfully pale.† At first I wasn’t listening, then she asked again,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å" Oh, Oh nothing mother†, trying to keep it to myself.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å" Look what ever it is you can tell me you know I wont bite! She explained.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å" Look mother, I’m ok, just abit tired that’s all.† I roared. I knew it wasn’t ok though. Just maybe I’ll tell her one day, but just maybe. Chapter 4 When I went to bed, I woke up again at midnight, I turned on my light, but when I turned around†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. Ahhhhhhhh†¦. Cried a voice coming from outside. I went to the window and looked in the sky, there was a man he was very red and looked half alive and half dead. Then he said nothing else, and just layed there, then he dissapeared. I ran into mums room and said â€Å" Mum, Mum wake up,† Mum said â€Å" Yes dear,†she mumbled.