Thursday, November 28, 2019

AP and Hills Like White Elephants

The choice of a narrative mode shapes the way in which readers perceive the actions of the main characters. This paper will include an analysis of two short stories, namely Hills Like White Elephants by Ernest Hemingway and AP by John Updike. These literary works exemplify different story-telling techniques which enable the writers to achieve various goals. Overall, it is possible to say that these authors are able to choose an approach that best fits their purposes. This is the main point that should be discussed more closely.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on AP and Hills Like White Elephants specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More First, it should be mentioned that these writers use different story-telling techniques. In particular, Updike relies on the first-person narration. The readers are prompted to look through the eyes of a teenage clerk, Sammy, who works at an AP supermarket. The main advantage of this approach is that the writer can throw light on the inner world of this character. For instance, this story-teller seems to be a cynical person. At first glance, one can say that he despises other people who he regards as slaves. Nevertheless, it is possible to argue that this first impression is very delusive. For instance, the narrative indicates that the protagonist desperately wants to produce a favorable impression on the girls who enter the AP store. Moreover, it becomes evident that Sammy is a romantic or even naà ¯ve individual. One can say that the first-person narration helps the writer to illustrate the conflicting motives that drive the behavior of the protagonist. Additionally, this character represents a wide group of young people who chose to rebel against the consumer culture. In his turn, Ernest Hemingway takes a different approach to story-telling. He relies on the third-person objective narration which means that the writer does not speak about the thoughts, emotions, or attitudes of the character. To a great extent, readers are prompted to reach their own conclusions about the plot and characters. Hills Like White Elephants can be viewed as a good example of this technique. In this case, the text of the short-story is mostly a dialogue between the two characters. The author does not try to evaluation the actions or arguments made by the protagonists. Additionally, the readers can only make conjectures about the subject which the characters discuss. For instance, one can suppose that the man tries to persuade the girl to undergo some form of surgery, probably abortion. However, one cannot say it for sure. The main detail is that Hemingway refuses to make any comments about the relations between these characters. This use of third-person objective narration enables the writer to intrigue the readers and arrest their attention. The main advantage of this method is that it helps the writer to pose thought-provoking questions to the audience. For exampl e, one can reflect on the future relations between the two characters. This is why the use of the third-person objective narration is quite justified.Advertising Looking for essay on american literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Thus, these examples show how different narrative modes can be applied. In particular, John Updike’s use of the first-person narration is critical for describing the inner world of an adolescent who cannot adjust to the consumer culture. In turn, Ernest Hemingway’s approach is critical for engaging the readers who are prompted to think about the motives that underlie the words or actions of the main characters. These are the main issues that can be identified. This essay on AP and Hills Like White Elephants was written and submitted by user Braylin Michael to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Monday, November 25, 2019

The History of Candy Canes

The History of Candy Canes Almost everyone alive grew up familiar with the hard red-and-white candy with the curved end known as a candy cane, but few people realize just how long this popular treat has been in existence. Believe it or not, the origin of the candy cane actually goes back hundreds of years to a time when candy-makers, both professional and amateur, were making hard sugar sticks as a favorite confection. It was around the beginning of the 17th century that Christians in Europe began to adopt the use of Christmas trees as part of their Christmas celebrations. The  trees were often decorated using foods such as cookies and sometimes sugar-stick candies. The original Christmas tree candy was a straight stick and completely white in color. Cane Shape The first historical reference to the familiar cane shape though goes back to 1670. The choirmaster at the Cologne Cathedral in Germany first bent the sugar-sticks into the shape of canes to represent a shepherds staff. The all-white candy canes were then given out to children during the long-winded nativity services. The clergymens custom of handing out candy canes during Christmas services would eventually spread throughout Europe and later to America. At the time, the canes were still white, but sometimes the candy-makers would add sugar-roses to further decorate the canes. In, 1847, the first historical reference to the candy cane in America appeared when a German immigrant named August Imgard decorated the Christmas tree in his Wooster, Ohio home with candy canes. Stripes About 50 years later, the first red-and-white-striped candy canes appeared. No one knows who exactly invented the stripes, but  based on historical Christmas cards, we know that no striped candy canes appeared prior to the year 1900. Illustrations of striped candy canes didnt even show up until the beginning of the 20th century. Around that time, candy-makers began adding peppermint and wintergreen flavors to their candy canes and those flavors would soon become accepted as the traditional favorites. In 1919, a candymaker named Bob McCormack began making candy canes.  And by the middle of the century, his company, Bobs Candies, became widely famous for their candy canes. Initially, the  canes  had to bent by hand to make the J shape. That changed with the help of his brother-in-law, Gregory Keller, who invented  a machine  to automate candy cane production. Legends and Myths There are many  other legends and religious beliefs surrounding the humble candy cane. Many of them depict the candy cane as a secret symbol for Christianity during a time when Christians were living under more oppressive circumstances. It has been claimed that the cane was shaped like a J for Jesus and that the red-and-white stripes represented Christs blood and purity. The three red stripes were also said to symbolize the Holy Trinity and the hardness of the candy represented the Churchs foundation on solid rock. As for the candy canes peppermint flavor, it represented the use of hyssop, an herb referred to in the Old Testament. However, no historical evidence exists to support these claims, although some will find them pleasant to contemplate. As noted earlier, candy canes werent even around until the 17th century, which makes some of these claims improbable.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Contrasting Codified Constitutions Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Contrasting Codified Constitutions - Case Study Example The second part of the discussion relates to the amendments and the procedures related to the amendments of the two constitutions. Certain specific aspects of these constitutions as well as the safeguards incorporated or even the different forms of knowledge that could be use to interpret constitutional principles including the social and legal aspects are the main focus of this essay (Bogdanor and Rudden, 1995). The first part thus discusses main constitutional principles and separation of powers in the country in its constitutional forms. The second part of the essay discusses the amendments of a constitution and the different procedures for amending the constitutions of the two countries chosen. 2. The State shall secure that the operation of the legal system promotes justice, on a basis of equal opportunity, and shall, in particular, provide free legal aid, by suitable legislation or schemes or in any other way, to ensure that opportunities for securing justice are not denied to any citizen by reason of economic or other disabilities. (Constitution of India, 2007) In the matter of separating the judiciary from the executive, the Constitution states that -'The State shall take steps to separate the judiciary from the executive in the public services of the State'. b. ... (Constitution of India, 2007) In the matter of separating the judiciary from the executive, the Constitution states that -'The State shall take steps to separate the judiciary from the executive in the public services of the State'. In this context the roles and structure of the Executive could be given. The Executive consists of the President of India and the Vice President. The constitution states that - a. There shall be a President of India. b. The executive power of the Union shall be vested in the President and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers sub-ordinate to him in accordance with this Constitution.(Constitution of India, retrieved 2007) The extent of the Executive Power of the Union is given by the following clauses - Extent of executive power of the Union.- (1) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the executive power of the Union shall extend- (a) to the matters with respect to which Parliament has power to make laws; and (b) to the exercise of such rights, authority and jurisdiction as are exercisable by the Government of India by virtue of any treaty or agreement: Provided that the executive power referred to in sub-clause (a) shall not, save as expressly provided in this Constitution or in any law made by Parliament, extend in any State to matters with respect to which the Legislature of the State has also power to make laws. (2) Until otherwise provided by Parliament, a State and any officer or authority of a State may, notwithstanding anything in this article, continue to exercise in matters with respect to which Parliament has power to make laws for that State such executive power or functions as the State or officer or authority thereof could exercise immediately before

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Millstream Hotel and Restaurant Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Millstream Hotel and Restaurant - Article Example The elegant sitting room, with its comfortable and luxurious, grand piano, sprinkled with freshly cut flowers and peaceful ambiance, is the ideal place to chat up with friends over afternoon tea or an aperitif. Bosham is an ideal center from which to discover this area of spectacular natural beauty and historical interest.   This beautiful hotel has 35 rooms out of which three are suites and each room is decorated in a uniquely elegant fashion with all the necessary amenities for a luxurious and comfortable stay. The hotel is located close to some good recreational facilities like golf, sailing, squash, riding and water sports which can be easily accessed. The popular restaurant is open all through the year and serves some of the most excellent delicacies in that part of town. There are a few famous historical attractions for the holidaymakers like Chichester Festival Theatre, Fishbourne Roman Palace, and West Dean Gardens. On a sunny day, the lawns can be inviting where you can relax under the shade and enjoy the ducks in the nearby lake. You can enjoy a pleasant evening in the beautiful and well-kept gardens along with your friends and family over a cup of tea and delicious snacks. A well maintained and luxurious spa can add a lot of value to the residents who can relax and enjoy a good massage or get pampered in style. The spa is the latest trend in the hotel industry around the world. You can add on a spa facility or take on a branded spa on the franchise which can boost your hotels' facility outlook to a great extent. Most of the clients now expect a spa in the hotel as they look for a complete relaxation package when checking into a hotel. The wellness tourism has caught on in a big way where health and wellness spas are frequented by tourists who are becoming health and beauty conscious. A well-equipped spa can provide guests with Jacuzzi, steam, sauna, exotic massages and various other treatments that would add on to the luxury of the hotel.  

Monday, November 18, 2019

Reserch proposal Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Reserch proposal - Dissertation Example Recently Saudi airlines have been criticized to be losing its customers due to their inferior customer service quality and poor price strategy. Customer is the heart and soul of any business organization, and if they are not pleased with the service or end product, then the business is doomed to failure. Any business needs to be revolving around the key concepts of customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. If customers are satisfied about a product or service, they keep coming back for more and also can attracts more customers from the potential market. Big airline companies like Saudi airlines, need to keep monitoring their quality of service in order to be top in the airline industry. They should make best use of the CRM programs to enhance their customer relation as well as profitability. According to (Avidian Technologies,2004) â€Å"Good CRM allows all of the information obtained to be shared among both the sales force and the entire company. The right CRM software should com bine all the elements of Customer Relationship Management, Sales Force Automation (SFA), and Contact Management†. Research Context I)Aim and Objective of the study The aim of this research is to assess the importance of the quality of service in improving customer service and loyalty in an airline service company. ... 2) To identify the research questions needed to be put forward in order to establish the research study. 3) Prepare a research design and data collection method. Specifically the questions which will be put forward in the research proposal will be as follows. 1. To what extend is the customers of Saudi Airlines satisfied with the customer service delivered by them? 2. Are the customers of the Saudi Airlines at the risk of leaving the airline? II) Relationship of service quality with customer satisfaction and loyalty Customer satisfaction is a very important criterion in any airline service, as this is the factor which helps in building the loyalty and the goodwill for the company. An unsatisfied customer is the root cause for the degradation of any service based industry. A good customer service is not just about profitability, but it is about how much value a business gives to its customer needs and requirements. Customer service definitely has to have access to the customer marketi ng database. Saudi Airlines being a top listed airline did not give much attention on the needs of the customer but took them for granted. It is seen that many complaints occur from customer as to flight delays, low service from cabin crew, inferior seating arrangements and poor welcoming services A customer is paying for a quality travel and if the airline is not considering on the quality of service, then they will lose the current customers as well as the potential future ones too. They have to know what each customer has bought in the past, and what they would expect in future. They have to have a record of past complaints and compliments. Customer is the soul of a business firm, and if they are treated well, then

Friday, November 15, 2019

Steps in the Process of Fertilization

Steps in the Process of Fertilization Fertilization is an essential process in sexual reproduction which involves the union of two specialized cells called the gametes to form a zygote. This then develops to form the new organism. During the process of fertilization innumerable number of sperms hit the surface of the eggs. But only one sperm succeeds in fertilizing it and the rest are repelled from the surface of the egg. This is done by the modification of cell envelope extracellular matrix besides altering the metabolic activity of the zygote or embryo. Various metabolic changes occur after the zygote is formed. This includes the respiratory burst hydrogen peroxide production activation of oxidases peroxidase alterations in the redox status changes in the activity of redox-sensitive transcription factors etc. Besides these an embryo-derived paf (1-o-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-gylcero-3-phosphocholine) is synthesized and its release involves the binding to extracellular albumin which protects its enzymatic degradation (ONeill C , 1985). The change in the redox state affects the activity of redox-sensitive transcription factors that may alter gene expression patterns. Besides, this change in the metabolic status also, is responsible for the spatial differences in cell activity especially after compaction and major embryonic events such as fertilization genome activation and cellular differentiation (AJ Harvey et al, 2002). Multiple variations that occurs during this stage are found throughout phylogeny (Wessel G.M.et al., 2001; Shapiro B.M. et al, 1989). Three discrete steps are involved with the formation of extracellular barrier during the post-fertilisation stage (i.e. after zygote formation): Following cortical granule exocytosis an autoactivating serine protease separates plasma membrane attachments to the eggs vitelline layer facilitating the separation of this matrix from the egg surface (Haley S.A. and Wessel G.M., 1999). The structural components of the fertilization envelope (FE) primarily derived from the cortical granules (Wessel G.M. et al, 2001) self assemble into the vitelline layer network and form a distinct pattern of cytoskeleton like structures. (Chandler D.E. Heuser J. 1980). The cortical granule-derived enzyme ovoperoxidase is targeted to the FE by the tethering protein proteoliaisin (Somers C.E. et al, 1989). The structural proteins self-polymerise into fibers. This is followed by an increase in the ovoperoxidase activity in response to alkalization (Deits T.L. and Shapiro B.M., 1986) and an increase in the synthesis of hydrogen peroxide (Foerder C.A. et al 1978; Heinecke J.W. Shapiro B.M., 1989). Studies on nutrient uptake during fertilization have been done in various species(Leese Barton, 1984, Leese, 1991, Rieger, 1992, Rieger et al., 1992, Rieger Loskutoff, 1994, Gardner, 1999, Gopichandran Leese, 2003). However uptake of O2 is the major parameter that provides the required indication of overall metabolic status of a single zygote (Leese, 2003) as the production of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation a reaction in which O2 plays a major role (Thompson et al., 1996 Thompson, 2000 Leese, 2003). Furthermore the respiratory rates of single embryos is directly in correlation with quality (Abe Hoshi, 2003) and with survival following its transfer (Overstrà ¶m, 1992). When the production of the harmful reacting species eg., destructive oxygen species supersedes the bodys handling capacity through antioxidants, cellular damage occurs. This type of damage is the usual reason for most of the pathological states in animals, especially in nearly half of the infertile men. ROS bring their damage through various routes; the membrane of the sperm is damaged, which causes the motility rate of sperm to reduce and subsequently its inability to fuse with the egg during the fertilization process. ROS also alter the DNA of the sperm, leading to the improper genetic material getting transferred to the next generation. In spite of this, there is an inverse correlelation between the spermsa ability to produce ROS and their maturation. In the middle of the process of spermatogenesis, the cytoplasm of the sperm is lost due to its compaction (condensation) which is required for the elongation of sperm. This is witness from the study that immature teratozoospermic spe rms are featured by the presence of increased residues in cytoplasm in the mid-piece. Besides the cytotoxic damage caused by the levels of ROS in spermatozoa, hazardous oxygen metabolites produced by the leucocytes present in the ejaculate also damages it. This damage is more significant in the assisted conception therapy, where the contamination of the sperms washed, is presumed to the predominant factor determining the success rate of the fertilization, invitro. The so called reactive oxygen species ROS viz. H2O2 O2- · OH · etc affect the gametes and early reproductive events. ROS, produced by the peroxidation of the lipids, affects and changes the mitochondrial metabolism, besides producing more ROS. ROS are mainly known for their deleterious effects on spermatozoa and hence on male infertility (de Lamirande E et al, 1997, Sharma, RK Agarwal A, 1996, Shen, H Ong, C, 2000). Increased production of ROS has been associated with defects in the morphology of sperm (Aziz N et al 2004) inhibition of sperm motility (Armstrong JS et al, 1999, Parinaud J et al, 1997) fragmentation of sperm DNA (Donnelly ET et al, 1999) and premature capacitation (Villegas J et al, 2003). Further ROS also decreases the capacity for sperm-oocyte fusion efficiency and greatly inhibit the in vitro development of the embryo (Johnson MH et al, 1994, Guerin P et al, 2001, Mammoto A et al, 1996). More than six decades ago, it was discovered that the oxygen radicals (ROS) may have involved in the reproduction of human, especially men. (MacLeod, 1943). But the same was not studied to that extent in the case of female reproductive function, with only little works on pathological and physiological processes. Paszkowski observed that the selenium dependent glutathione peroxidase (SeGPx) was decreased in follicular fluids of women with no record of infertility (Paszkowski et al., 1995; Paszowski and Clarke, 1996). He also demonstrated that the levels of SeGPx were higher in those follicles which yielded oocytes that were successfully fertilized, compared to those follicles which yielded oocytes that failed to fertilize. Increased levels of hydrogen peroxide was found in the unfertilized oocytes also in fragmented embryos ( Yang et al., 1998). Whereas an increase in the antioxidant consumption was reported by Paszkowski and Clarke (1996) revealing an increase in the ROS activity, w hen poor quality embryos were incubated. Attaran et al (2000) observed a beneficial role of ROS, with its levels were high in the follicular fluid in IVF conception cycles compared to that of non-conception. Besides acting on sperm or oocytes separately, ROS were also reported to have its deleterious effect on sperm-oocyte fusion also. Studies reporting the fact the decrease in the levels of enzymes like catalase resulting in the loss of sperm motility. Many other studies produced a conclusive evidence for the production of ROS by human spermatozoa and showed that there was indeed an increase in the activity of ROS, in infertile men. If conventional method of invitro fertilization procedures were employed, even the spermatozoa whose DNA is damaged due to ROS, was able to fertilize the oocytes. Velocity measurements in the sperm motility studied under the impact of the ROS (generated by incubation with hydrogen peroxide) showed that the quality of sperm movement was significantly aff ected, but were motile, extremely; only the percentage motility was affected. Increased reactive oxygen species production was observed at 7 h and then at 24 h after IVF just before the first cleavage of the embryo. Increased oxidative activity and redox changes at the time of fertilization have been suggested to signal Ca2+ flux after the penetration of sperm. H2O2 besides being the substrate for ovoperoxidase is produced by a calcium-depending mechanism involving the reduction of one molecule of oxygen and the oxidation of two proton donors. Contrarily low levels of ROS has a positive effect on sperm functions (Bilodeau JF et al, 2000, de Lamirande E et al, 2003) binding of sperm to zona pellucida (Aitken RJ et al, 1989) and the development of embryo in bovine and other mammals (Harvey AJ et al, 2002 Guo Y et al, 2004, Harvey AJ et al, 2004). The concentration of ROS in both intracellular and extracellular are carefully regulated by enzymatic and nonenzymatic mechanisms and also by the presence of a detailed antioxidant defense mechanism in bovine oviductal tissues and fluids (Lapointe J et al 2003). Antioxidant genes especially a few glutathione peroxidases like GPx-1 Gpx-2 and Gpx-3 were differentially expressed along the oviduct. The major enzymes that are capable of metabolizing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) belong to the family of GPx as well as the oviductal-catalase (Lapointe S et al, 1998, Brigelius-Flohe R, 1999). The concentration of oxygen that has to be utilized during the culture of embryos, influences the development and quality of the embryos. When the concentration of oxygen was reduced in the culture of mouse embryos, it altered the embryonic gene expression during the post-compaction stage. This has severe consequences on the fetal development of the mouse. (Deanne Feil, 2006). Furthermore blastocysts cultured under decreased O2 tension correlate more closely with in-vivo-recovered blastocysts than in vitro blastocysts cultured under normal O2 tension (Dumoulin JCet al, 1999; Yuan YQ et al, 2003; Johnson MH et al, 1994; Guerin P et al, 2001). The driving force for changes in the metabolic status of the zygote is the secretion of the cortical granules at least in sea urchins. The sea urchin embryo generates large amounts of H2O2 at the beginning of development of zygote and its levels are meticulously regulated to prevent any possible toxic effect. Because of this the sea urchin system provides greater insights into the control of reactive oxidants in biological systems. ROS can either positively or negatively affect the reproductive events in vitro. In the fertilization process the oviducts are the site of important processes that occur prior to implantation such as the maturation of oocyte in the initial stages of embryonic development (Harvey AJ et al 2002). They regulate the ROS levels to provide a proper environment for the gametes followed by their fertilization and the subsequent stages in the development of embryo. Vitamin E protects against the loss of the motility of the sperm through the peroxidation of lipids. Hence, supplementation of the same improved the motility of the sperm and enhanced the possibility of fertilization in asthenospermic invidicuals, even when the original sperm motility measured was only 20%. Spermatozoa exposed to PUFA showed an increase in its oxidative stress (Aitken, RJ, 2006). In particular, the oxidation of DHA- docosahexaenoic acid bound to phospholipid was shown to be one of the predominant factors that controls the mobility of the sperm in vitro. There is a marked cell to cell differences in the life span of sperm samples, which reflects in their susceptibility to lipid peroxidation. It is a well established fact that when a spermatozoa is subjected to oxidative stress, its membrane and the DNA is damaged through the membrane lipid peroxidation. The probability of this type of damaged spermatozoa will be able to fertilise the egg depends on the rate at which the functions of the sperm is lost. Till date, the research evidence shows that the motility of the sperm, its capacity to enter into acrosome reaction, its ability to integrate with vitelline membrane of the oocytes are all is prone to get affected by the oxidative stress. Of all the ROS, it is the superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide that causes the deleterious damage to sperm capacitation and hence are the key mediators. The former contributes to the hyperactivated motility of the sperm, while the later is found to be associated with the tyrosine phosphorylation events in sperm capacitation. Current research have shown that the spermatozoa that are subjected to extreme oxidative stress using the method d escribed by Aitken RJ etal (1998) i.e, exposure to hydrogen peroxide and NADPH, have the capacity to reach the normal rate of fertilization with ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). The original postulate of the free radical hypothesis was that the ROS led to non specific modification of various biomolecules, such as proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. This is responsible for the etiology of the pathological condition that arises after that. The existence of oxidase activity was first documented while measuring oxygen consumption following fertilization (Warburg O., 1908). The increase in the oxygen consumption upon fertilization of sea urchin eggs is cyanide insensitive and produces H2O2 as the substrate for ovoperoxidase which crosslink the protective FE (Foerder C.A. et al, 1978). The assembly of ovoperoxidase into the fertilization envelope and the cross linking reaction are carefully regulated events that take place in ten minutes following gamete fusion (Weidman P.J. et al 1985). High oxygen concentrations are deleterious to early mammalian embryonic development (Thompson JG et al., 1990). Heinecke Shapiro have characterized an oxidase from unfertilized Stronglylocentrolus purpuratus eggs and had demonstrated its role as respiratory burst oxidase of fertilization. Their oxidase appears to be regulated by a protein kinase. It produces H2O2 when stimulated with Ca2+ and ATP and utilizes NADPH but not NADH as a source of reducing equivalents (Jay.W.Heinecke Bennett M. Shapiro, 1989; Li J Foote RH., 1993; Dumoulin JC et al., 1999). Some of the transcription factors including PEBP2 AP-1 p53 and NF-ÃŽÂ ºB are known to be regulated by the changes in the redox status and this regulation has been shown to occur through conserved cysteine residues in the DNA-binding regions of these proteins (Hirota K et al, 1997; Hirota K et al, 1999; Ueno M et al., 1999; Akamatsu Y et al., 1997). Role of à Ã¢â‚¬ °-3 fatty acids in fertilization Fatty acids are classified as: saturated monounsaturated and polyunsaturated (PUFA). There are two main classes of PUFA: n-3 (omega-3) and n-6 (omega-6); distinguished by the location of the first double bond i,e.,from the three or six carbon from the CH3 (methyl) end of the fatty acid. à Ã¢â‚¬ °-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids. Examples include ÃŽÂ ±-linolenic acid (ALA) eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The n-3 PUFAs are generated from ALA, found mostly in the chloroplasts of green plants and grass. These essential fatty acids can be converted to longer chain PUFAs, in liver, by desaturation and elongation enzymes, that is common to both. Fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) is rate limiting (Gurr MI et al, 2002). The human cannot synthesize this, because they do not possess the required fatty acid desaturase enzymes and therefore have to be supplemented through diet. When the gene expression of this FADS2 enzyme is deleted the first step in the PUFA biosynthesis is stopped. This lack of PUFAs and eicosanoids did not interefere with viability or lifespan of female and male fads2-l mice, but resulted in sterility. Wilhelm S. etal (2008) demonstrated that phospholipids substituted with PUFA have a significant role in Sertolic cell polarity and blood-testis barrier, besides the gap junction network between the ovarian follicles granulose cells. They are implicated in various process in human, including reproduction, vision, neural development and growth (Gurr MI et al, 2002). For over a long period, these FAs have been implicated in the different stages of vertebrate fertilization. Either of n-6 or n-3 or both influence the reproductive processes through a heterogenous mechanisms, ranging from the providing the precursors for prostaglandin synthesis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, regulating the transcription factors involved. In ruminants, the pregnancy is established through the ovulation of the eligible oocytes, insemination at the right time and an adequate dosage of estradion and progesterone, during the luteal and follicular stages of the estrous cycle. Oocytes of cattle, when exposed to methyl palmoxirate to prevent the FA oxidation displayed low level of capcity to form blastocysts after fertilization. Moreover, the embryo have to develop completely to prevent luteolysis, which may occur by the interfereons production to inhibit up-regulation of the endometrial oxytocin receptors. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are also reported to modulate the function of the certain transcription factors that controls the gene expression and thus have a effect on the IC concentrations of the enzymes involved in the regulation of PG and steroid hormones synthesis. In bovine endometrial stromal cells and in lutenised granulose cells, both the omega-3 and 6 PUFAs are found to activate the protein kinase C, which activa tes the phosphodiesterase by phosphorylation. All these processes are affected by the dietary supplementationof PUFAs. Therefore changes in the PUFA sources subsequently reflects in the omega-3 and omega-6 content of the sperm. And these PUFAs are more susceptible to attack by the ROS as reported by various researchers. A schematic diagram showing a proposed mechanism in which the PUFAs generating the oxidative stress in human spermatozoa. High levels of poly unsaturated fatty acids in the spermatozoa of infertile human triggers the production of the ROS from a non mitochondrial source, (may be throughthe NADPH oxidase, NOX 5, influenzed by the calcium). Increased reactive oxygen species, ROS, then induces the peroxidation of lipids, which in turn shoots out the phospholipase A2, culminating in the release of more polysaturated fatty acids with subsequent generation of more ROS to perpetuate the oxidative stress. Dietary supplementation of n-3 PUFAs influence various aspects of fertility starting from conception and throughout the duration of pregnancy. (ESHRE Capri Workshop Group, 2006, Kind KL, et al, 2006). These n-3 PUFAs are incorporated in the phospholipids of the cell membrane and have their effects on membrane composition function, (Hong MY, 2002), ROS production (Hong MY, 2002 ,Watkins SM, 1998), membrane lipid peroxidation (Hawkins RA etal, 1998), regulators of transcription translation (Narayana BA et al 2001, Davidson LA2004), production of eicosanoids (Chapkins RS, 1991) and IC signal transduction (Ma D, 2004). Lupton JR (2004) had observed that these mentioned actions facilitate the n-3 PUFA-induced suppression of colon cancer. Similarly, alterations in the PG synthesis (mediated through the manipulation of the n-3 PUFAs) has profound effect on fertility, since PGs affect many aspects of fertilization, e.g., ovulation). Dietary supplementation of varying PUFA content to female cattle and to other mammals have found to alter the size and the number of ovarian follicles, the ovulation rate, the production of progesterone hormone by corpus luteum, the length of gestation and luteolysis timings. In male mammals, dietary PUFAs has demonstrated effect on sperm membrane PL composition and on the ability to fertilize (Abayasekara Wathes, 1999). For instance, sheep fed with diets containing high PUFAs delayed parturition (Baguma-Nibasheka et al. 1999). They also increased the incidence of placenta getting retained in cattle (Barnouin Chassagne 1991). High supplementation of ALA in diet, during the post partum period improved pregnancy rate in cattle (Kassa et al. 2002). Embryonic mortality was reduced through the suppression of uterine synthesis of prostaglandin F2alpha in cattle was brought about by altering the FA profile in their diets. This strategy of altering the FA profile in the diets, may be used to improve animal productivity by integrating the nutrit ion and reproductive management (Mattos R etal 2000). The fatty acid composition of both oocytes and sperm are responsible for the various observations in the study of the fertilization process in animals. The FA composition of the oocytes is specific for a given species both in terms of their abundance and their utilization. Among them, EPA, DHA and ARA have been associated in several stages of reproduction (Wathes DC etal 2007). Mature zebrafish oocytes fortify with ARA, indicating their capacity to synthesize eicosanoids for ovulation and follicular maturation. ARA along with LA was the most predominant PUFAs in oocytes of pig, sheep and cattle. (McEvoy etal 2000). Decreased ARA:EPA ratio in eggs and ovaries of fish have been reported as the reason for poor productivity in the captive broodstock (Pickova J, 2007, Cejas JR et al 2003). DHA along with EPA inhibited the gonadotrophin-mediated steroid hormone synthesis in cold and warm water fishes. These two highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) act as regulator molecules in the maturat ion of those fish ovary (Mercure F et al 1995). Kim et al (2001) had observed that the quality of oocytes was influenced by the dietary FAs which changes the composition of granulose cells and oocytes. Based on those quality, the oocytes were divided in to grade1, 2, 3 etc. Kim also observed that there were differences in the FA composition between those grades of sheeps oocytes, which affected the oocytes competence, resulting in alterations in fertilization rate and developmental potential. Sheep fed with PUFAs had altered FA composition in their membrane PLs of cumulus cells, resulting in the alteration of the oocytes membrane properties (Zeron et al., 2002). Supplementation of n-6 and n-3 showed different reponses in reproduction (Wonnacot KE et al, 2010). Ewes fed with n-3 PUFAs prior to ovarian stimulation and follicular aspiration showed no changes in the follicle number and size. But follicular-fluid levels of progesterone were found to be greater and all the blastocycts (both treated and untreated with the stipulated diet ) contained increased levels of PUFAs, mostly ALA. Moreover, dietary supplementation of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) to early-lactation dairy cows showed an improvement in their reproductive performance (MJ de Veth 2009). Cows fed with 18:3 FAs rich diets had a prolonged preovulatory follicle at insemination and larger volume of corpus luteum compared to those fed with MUFAs (Bilby TR, 2006). The deficiency of essential fatty acids affects the energy and fat metabolism, biosynthesis of PUFA, structure of cell membrane and signaling pathways in lipid resulting in incompatible life (Cunnane, 2003). Studies on fads2-/- mouse model had thrown light on the various effects of the deficiency of PUFAs, invididually,( ie, omega-3, omega-6 etc) and combined. In that study, FADS2 deficiency caused hypogonadism and sterility of male (azoospermia) female mice. Spermatogenesis is stopped in male fads2-/- mice occurred at the stage of round spermatids, leading to azoospermia. This is often caused by a damaged blood testis barrier BTB. BTB is formed by TJ and AJ protein complexes that are restricted to basolateral compartment of the more polarized sertoli cells (Fanning et al, 1998; Chapin et al, 2001; Ebnet et al, 2003). Similarly Thangavelu G etal (2007) have shown that the development of embryo was increased in Holstein cows that are fed with unsaturated fatty acids compared to those with saturated fatty acids. This shows that a diet rich in ÃŽÂ ±-linoleic acid facilitates the development of embryo when compared to that of linoleic or saturated fatty acids. Another observation which showed that, enriching the semen diluents with DHAs containing egg yolk prior to freezing did not enhance the sperm quality following thawing. In both human and in domestic animals, levels of the breakdown products of lipid peroxidation, such as malondialdehyde and 4-OHalkenal, had no correlation with the semen quality. But, studies on chickens showed that dietary supplementation with more PUFAs, decreased the antioxidant status and semen quality (i.e, sperm concentration and volume). In this context, the significance of the role of the non-enzymic antioxidant, vitamin-E (a chain breaking antioxidant), which reverses the negative effects caused by the PUFA supplementation is to be noted. Besides all the sources that had been mentioned in this introduction, the final source of oxidative stress is the sperm itself. Defective human sperms produce ROS, which is directly proportional to the extent of the impairment of the sperm function (Deluliis 2006). Another reason for sperm being a source for ROS is that some authors believe that they contain more amounts of unsaturated fatty acids, mainly DHA and AA (Ollero M, 2000). Their study demonstrated that exposing the human spermatozoa to various PUFAs resulted in the accelerated production of free radicals, subsequent to peroxidation of lipids and DNA damage. There is an abnormal retention of remnants of cytoplasm and a presence of increased levels of unsaturated fatty acids in the immature or defective human spermatozoa, which generated high levels of reactive oxygen species. PLA2 gets activated due to this peroxidation of lipid, which enhances the production of more free poly unsaturated fatty acid from the phospholipid fu rther increasing the production of ROS. In this situation, the fertilizing potential of spermatozoa under increased oxidative stress with concomitant low antioxidant status and more ROs production, will decrease dramatically as observed various researchers and in various species. Dietary n-3 PUFA affects reproductive processes including ovulation oocyte development and sperm levels motility. The in vivo morphology of oocytes is improved through a high supplementation of n-3 PUFA (zeron Y, 2002). PUFAs stimulate the generation of in vitro ROS (Aitken RJ et al 2006). In males the fatty acid composition of the sperm membrane influences their fertility and fertile men have much higher sperm levels of omega-3 FAs as compared to infertile men. Infertility and premature birth are two womens health issues where omega-3 levels are implicated. omega-3 supplementation decreased the clotting in the endometrial cells of the uterus and improved the implantation rates of fertilized eggs. Lower concentrations of spermatozoon DHA in asthenozoospermic men are not due to diet but to some type of metabolic difference (Conquer JA). Fouladi et al (2010) have shown that the ovary regulates the effects of alterations in plasma n-3 and n-6 FAs, resulting in only small effects on th eir developmental potential. The cessation of growth and some health problems in growing rats fed with low PUFAs were reversed after feeding the same with high PUFA sources rich in 18:3 ALA (Burr and Burr 1930). Reproduction in cattle is influenced more by the type of fats (ie. PUFA or MUFA) than with just fats as it is, reveals the importance of PUFAs in reproductive processes. This is more highlighted because ruminants extensively hydrogenate PUFAs, thereby limiting their supply for absorption in small intestine. Eicosanoids-independent mechanisms such as modulation of intracellular signaling pathways transcription factor activity and altered gene expression (Das UN., 2000; Dentin R et al, 2005; Simopoulos AP. et al, 2002). Fatty acids in the oocytes are utilized during its maturation and are incorporated into its cytoplasm (Ferguson EM et al, 2006; Kim JY et al, 2001). Changes in the n-3 PUFA levels in the diet alter the fatty acid composition of the oocytes and its surrounding environment affecting the oocytes maturation; modulate the development of follicles, ovulation, embryo development and developmental competence such as its ability to involve in fertilization. The changes in the diet profile for the n-3 PUFAs also had altered mitochondrial properties and increased the ROS levels in oocytes, suggesting a role for mitochondria in the impaired embryo development. Sarah et al (2008) studied the effect of diet supplementation of n-3 PUFA on the zygotes. Exposing the reproductive tract for a period of 22h (post hCG) found to increase the number of zygotes which are morphologically poor, especially when females were given a diet rich in n-3 PUFA. The in vivo-derived zygotes (which were morphologically normal) which were subjected to n-3 PUFA treatment failed to cleave and their development was delayed (Sarah et al, 2008). This was due to the impaired mitochondrial metabolism. Low and high levels of omega-3 concentrations in the blood have been implicated in various conditions. Hong et al. (2002) have observed n-3 FAs increase apoptosis in colonocytes when coincubated with butyrate. Eicosopentanoicacid increases oxidative stress leading to lipid peroxidation in Walker 256 rat tumor cells besides decreasing the mitochondrial membrane potential (Colquhoun A et al 2001.). in oocytes this change in mitochondrial membrane potential is observed to be a consequence of metabolic inhibitors (Van Blerkom J et al 2003) and have been correlated with developmental arrest in mouse two-cell embryo increased fragmentation (Acton BM et al 2004) and the rate of embryo development in the human (Wilding M et al 2001). Low omega-3 FA in blood leads to increase in menstrual pain. Lipids of the Oocyte are crucial for the energy requirement of the preimplantation zygote. They also participate in fertilization and in the subsequent cell differentiation (Amri et al., 1994). Oocytes that are oxidatively damaged have a low levels of PUFA and are unable to undergo fertilization (TarÄ ±Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ´n et al., 1996). The levels of arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid as well as lipid peroxidation in blood and seminal plasma of normozoospermic males from infertile couples compared with that of fertile volunteers indicate that systemic oxidative stress resulting in increased lipid peroxidation and an alteration in the fatty acid profile which may be responsible for infertility in men (Oborna I et al, 2009). The omega-6 or -3 fatty acids are the precursors for various metabolites produced in sperm and ovum which are necessary for fertilization. The precursors from omega-3 are less potent in generating ROS than omega-6. Therefore the gametes will be less affected by the effects of ROS under this condition. An imbalance in the omega-6-to-omega-3 ratio has been linked to various complications; like polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOS low sperm count etc. Treatment of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) with ALA significantly increased the percentage of oocytes at the metaphase II an increase in the percentage of cleaved embryos the blastocyst rate and better -quality embryo compared with untreated controls while higher doses of it were detrimental (Waleed F et al, 2009). Thus the omega-3 FAs and the Redox regulators have multifarious roles before during and after the fertilization process. The role of the polyunsaturated fatty acids is important in both the physiology of sperm and ovum. This is highlighted by their key role in the maintaining the fluidity of the membrane of the sperm, which is needed for fertilization. Further, they are also a important part of the specific class of fucosylated slycosphigolipids, which are important for the male fertility. Besides these, they are also sources of alkoxyl and peroxyl radicals, to help these cells in the event of damages arising due to oxidative stress.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

The Genealogy of Jesus Christ Essay -- New Testament, Matthew 1:2-17

The New Testament includes four Gospels that encompass a variety of narrative accounts relating to Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew; is sequentially placed as the first book within the New Testament. Furthermore, it is a canonical account of the life of Jesus, and is recognized as one of the synoptic Gospels. These accounts are divided into twenty eight chapters that appear in the form of a parable, proverb, law, or miracle story found within modern day poetry, letters, or literary tracts. Moreover, each narrative account possesses influential and intellectual material that attracts readers to examine it further. However, out of the four Gospels, Matthew’s is the one that encompasses the most amount of text that bestows an array of narrative accounts of Jesus to observe. In Matthew’s scriptures he takes Jesus’ fulfillments of the Jewish prophecies into consideration and uses it to refute the Jewish belief that Jesus of Nazareth is not the Messiah. This paper will explore the pericope found in Matthew 1:2-17 that illustrates the genealogy of Jesus Christ. The purpose of the passage is to demonstrate that Jesus is indeed the Messiah, which is a dominant theme throughout this particular Gospel. The above passage was chosen to obtain a greater perspective on the genealogy of Jesus Christ, through further examining Matthew’s tactic of incorporating Jesus into various Jewish traditions and prophecies. This passage is particularly interesting because Matthew functions as a bridge between the two Testaments, by showing how prophetic â€Å"fulfillment citations† from the Hebrew Bible were fulfilled, in the person of Jesus therefore proving he is the Messiah .The book of Matthew is a complicated Gospel; as a result, it is vital for its ... ...s view Jesus as the Messiah and continue to worship him as the foundation of Christianity. As a result, it is evident that Christianity and Judaism possess different beliefs. Perhaps over time the two faiths will fuse together and allow the people to become unified and share the same beliefs towards the true Messiah. Bibliography Batten Alicia, Introduction to the New Testament. Sudbury: University of Sudbury, 2011. David S.Ariel â€Å"The Messiah† from What Do Jews Believe. New York: Schocken Books, 1996. Coogan, Michael D. The New Oxford Annotated Bible. New York: Oxford, 2007. Filson ,V. Floyd The Gospel According to St. Matthew. London: A. and C. Black Limited, 1960. Keener, Craig S. A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew. Grand Rapids, MI: W.B. Eerdmans Pub., 1999. Print. Saldarini, Anthony Commentary On The Bible. Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans: 2003. The Genealogy of Jesus Christ Essay -- New Testament, Matthew 1:2-17 The New Testament includes four Gospels that encompass a variety of narrative accounts relating to Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew; is sequentially placed as the first book within the New Testament. Furthermore, it is a canonical account of the life of Jesus, and is recognized as one of the synoptic Gospels. These accounts are divided into twenty eight chapters that appear in the form of a parable, proverb, law, or miracle story found within modern day poetry, letters, or literary tracts. Moreover, each narrative account possesses influential and intellectual material that attracts readers to examine it further. However, out of the four Gospels, Matthew’s is the one that encompasses the most amount of text that bestows an array of narrative accounts of Jesus to observe. In Matthew’s scriptures he takes Jesus’ fulfillments of the Jewish prophecies into consideration and uses it to refute the Jewish belief that Jesus of Nazareth is not the Messiah. This paper will explore the pericope found in Matthew 1:2-17 that illustrates the genealogy of Jesus Christ. The purpose of the passage is to demonstrate that Jesus is indeed the Messiah, which is a dominant theme throughout this particular Gospel. The above passage was chosen to obtain a greater perspective on the genealogy of Jesus Christ, through further examining Matthew’s tactic of incorporating Jesus into various Jewish traditions and prophecies. This passage is particularly interesting because Matthew functions as a bridge between the two Testaments, by showing how prophetic â€Å"fulfillment citations† from the Hebrew Bible were fulfilled, in the person of Jesus therefore proving he is the Messiah .The book of Matthew is a complicated Gospel; as a result, it is vital for its ... ...s view Jesus as the Messiah and continue to worship him as the foundation of Christianity. As a result, it is evident that Christianity and Judaism possess different beliefs. Perhaps over time the two faiths will fuse together and allow the people to become unified and share the same beliefs towards the true Messiah. Bibliography Batten Alicia, Introduction to the New Testament. Sudbury: University of Sudbury, 2011. David S.Ariel â€Å"The Messiah† from What Do Jews Believe. New York: Schocken Books, 1996. Coogan, Michael D. The New Oxford Annotated Bible. New York: Oxford, 2007. Filson ,V. Floyd The Gospel According to St. Matthew. London: A. and C. Black Limited, 1960. Keener, Craig S. A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew. Grand Rapids, MI: W.B. Eerdmans Pub., 1999. Print. Saldarini, Anthony Commentary On The Bible. Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans: 2003.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Supply Chain and Risk Management

Introduction Like economies and financial markets, as supply chains grow more global and interconnected, they get more exposed to disruptions and risks. Moreover, the supply chain speed exacerbates the problem. Even minor miscalculations can have major consequences as the impact spreads like viruses throughout the complex supply chain networks. Hence, it is vital to build smarter supply chains and address the issues that pose a challenge to this objective. These risk factors can effect productivity, economy and band image of the company so it is very important to identify and manage these problems on right time. Risk is a set of unexpected or unpredictable event that directly or indirectly affects the efficient working of an organization. † So to avoid this situation there should be a effective risk management process which can help the company to work efficiently and effectively Risk management can be defined as Risk management is an important function in business industry. It is an entrepreneurial need which caters all the solution which are needed for the efficient working of an organization to achieve is goals. It helps the management to understand the root cause of the problem and all possible ways by which it can be solved.Risk management process About The Company Cipla is one of the pioneer’s in the Indian Pharmaceutical Industry. The company was first started in 1935 and throughout its long journey of 75years has introduced many life-changing and innovative drugs to serve humanity while supporting, improving and enriching millions of lives worldwide. Cipla has 50 manufacturing plants with its headquarters situated in Mumbai, India. Its current stable has over 1200 products in current production which can cure almost every illness known to man.Cipla boasts the world’s largest range of respiratory medicines, dosage forms and devices for the management of asthma and other respiratory illnesses. The company is well known for providing co nsistently high quality of medical updates and patient education material to help patients as well as doctors in their respective environments. The company had also setup a dedicated center which carried on research and education on respiration named the Chest Research Foundation (CRF) in Pune, India. The company has also pioneered revolutionary medicines for treatment of cancer, AIDS, hepatitis A, B and C. ardiovascular disease, arthritis, diabetes, weight control, depression and many other health conditions, distributing its product to almost every country. Recently the company had researched and created a medicine called QVIR that can cure AIDS and can be used for both first and second line treatment of HIV-AIDS. Currently, 40% of the worlds HIV patients undergoing anti AIDS therapy are taking Cipla Drugs. Pain Points with QVIR Cipla is well known for is innovations in the field of pharmaceutical but not so for its supply chain and impeccable delivery.This was also the case with the recently launched QVIR which had not been effectively distributed or consumed at the right time. Every year around 5 -7 % of the patients failed their first line treatment because the dose was unavailable and wasn’t there at the stipulated treatment time. For a drug priced at a paltry sum of $ 3 and the life changing benefits of containing four drugs in one single strip, it never served its intended purpose. From our qualitative data collection method we understood that the pain points facing Cipla in the delivery of QVIR were as follows: * Inventory levels are too high and/or misplaced Spending is too high, either indirect or direct categories * Cash-to-cash cycles are too long * Lean manufacturing and quality goals are not being met – potentially accompanied by excess waste generated or scarce resources used Cipla’s Supply Chain Cipla has over 180 manufacturing plant across the world out of which 50 manufacturing plants manufacture QVIR. Cipla also manufac turing some of its own raw material in three of its own factors situated in Mumbai, Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka states of India.For some of the raw materials of QVIR, Cipla also conducts import/export trade with some of its local and international suppliers located in India, Germany, USA, UK, Italy, France, Australian, South Africa and South Korea Chine and Japan. Cipla has its export market in 180 countries of which its main customers are USA, Germany, South Africa, New-Zealand, Australia, China, Sri Lanka, Singapore and Japan. The transportation is carried out internationally via ship and air and domestically either by road or rail. Value Stream Mapping for QVIRThe Top challenges of Cipla’s Supply Chain for QVIR After conducting our initial investigation, assessment and analysis we were able to group the top challenges of Cipla’s supply chain into 3 major components: * Supply Chain Visibility * Increasing Customer Demands * Globalization Supply Chain Visibility Th ere is an inherent lack of willingness to share information and collaborate effectively. Inhibitive organization silos are widespread across Cipla where individuals are too busy to share within the organization and among supply chain networks.This leads to misaligned performance measures, ineffective integration and collaboration not viewed as important. Namita Kelwa, Partner Management director who is also a champion of change within Cipla says, â€Å"When we talk about supply chain visibility, it does not simply mean visibility into your own supply chain and your own shipments. It means visibility among partners, which enables collaborative decision making closer to the customer. This is both a science (managing the technology) and an art (using the information and metrics for competitive advantage). Partial and experimental adoption is widespread in visibility, but extensive adoption is still very low. Increasing Customer Demands Customers are almost always last on the list for synchronizing supply & demand. Cipla as an organization has forgotten to identify that customers continue to have aggressive demands for differentiated products & services, while their own product lifecycles have been shortening. According to Garima Singh, vice president of consumer products, â€Å"We must combine SCM with CRM†¦ get supply chain staff thinking in terms of a commercial customer mindset.Bringing the customer perspective into all facets of SCM will push us to further supply chain excellence† Remaining competitive in developing a new product or service also has the following challenges such as cross function cooperation, product/service innovation and proper allocation of resources. There should be a further integration of customer demands from inception to delivery – the entire Cipla global supply chain network focused on the end customer. Globalization Globalization for many businesses including Cipla is the complexities of interconnectivity.The imp act of global sourcing has led Cipla to experience delivery issues in the form of unreliable commitments especially in the case of the QVIR drugs. It has also resulted in larger than anticipated lead times and quality issues. While looking for lower cost sourcing options, Cipla should pave the way for constantly updated and differentiated business models and distribution strategies. Identifying Risk factors Supplier Risks In the supply chain management of the pharmaceutical industry the selection of supplier should be done very carefully because the raw material can directly affect the finished drug.In CIPLA API Plants the ingredient are manufactured as per Regulatory requirements like USFDA, WHO, MHRA, and TGA and but these API plants are not enough for 50 manufacturing plant so they need external suppliers to provide other ingredients such as Diluants, binding agents, colorant, lubricant and granulating agents. 1. Imports The major risk associated with the import is the availabili ty of the raw material at right time. Some of the delay includes: * Delay in movement of cargo * Custom handling * Delay in processing documents due to system error at Seaport/Airport. Continuous holidays, strike by laborers customs may delay clearances. 2. Inferior Quality of supply Quality is very important in case of any pharmaceutical manufacturing as it directly deals with the life of the people therefore it is governed by many regulations. The inferior Quality of the raw material can increases the risk of waste in the final steps of manufacturing. Some of the adverse effects would be * Breaking and rusting of tables * Short shelf life * Less potency * Side effect to patents * Batch rejection * Market complain Packaging RisksPackaging material for QVIR is one of the important concerns which can not be compromised on the terms of availability and quality, a special packing is needed for the QVIR since it is a four in one drug packing which contain a kit of Tenofovir, Emtricitabi ne, Atazanavir and Ritonavir. If the packaging material is not available in that situation * The raw material shelf life will increase ( as kept in stores) * Productivity will decrease * Unable to fulfill order on time * Holding of batch can increase the reanalysis cost Production Risks 1. Malfunctioning of MachineryIn CIPLA entire process of manufacturing is automated. So efficient working of the machines is essential in that manufacturing process any malfunctioning of machine can lead to increase the production time and cost. 2. Human error Although in the company most of the production process is automated, there is still chance of human error due to negligence of the employee who operates the machines. This can lead to serious problem not only to the company but to the employee himself some of the common human errors are: * Improver gowning * Negligence in handling of material * Improper documentation * Negligence in following SOPs Negligence in maintain personal hygiene * Negli gence in clearing the apparatuses * Negligence during handling chemicals * Negligence during operating machines The human error can led up to some serious problems such as * can cause damage to the life of others * wastage of material * wastage of time * can damage the machine * can lead to batch failure 3. Quality Risks Quality of the QVIR is an important concern for CIPLA pharmaceutical because it directly deals with the life of the customers moreover the industry is highly regulated so it is extremely necessary to produce products with high quality.The inferior quality of drug can cause * Batch rejection * Market complain * Economic lose * Lose of company reputation * As the industry is highly regulated by government law inferior quality can lead to close done of organization Storage Risks Improper storage of the drug special QVIR can lead to serious problems not only to the manufacturer but also to there customers. Some of the common storage risks are * Drug contamination * Drug deterioration * Batch rejection * Market complain * Reduce the self life of drug etc Demand Side Risks 1. Forecasting ErrorsForecasting errors can lead to serious problems related to the long lead times, over production, demand analysis, short life cycle, and order placement in the value chain which lead to bullwhip effect. Forecast error can affect the whole supply chain from the beginning till the end affecting the entire resources in inventory, facilities, transportation, sourcing, pricing and information management so there should be a proper forecast analysis. 2. Transportation Risk The main risk factors involved after the batch is moved out of factor is the transportation risk. The major problem during the transportation process is Tracking the shipment * Delay of the shipment * Product contamination * Stock clearness 3. Information Sharing Risks Information sharing is the foundation on which supply chain processes work. Without information sharing manager cannot indentify th e demand related to the product and the amount to be produced. Information systems will help the manager to know how the inventory is flowing in the supply chain and how the stocks are maintained. Moreover in the production process the flow of information help to minimize the risk and maintain the quality of the product. Risk AnalysisRoot Cause Analysis The root cause analysis can help CIPLA mangers to identify and correct the root causes which may lead to the identified risks Below Fish Bone diagram is used to perform the root cause analysis for Cipla – After conducting the root cause, we were able to establish certain glaring problems in the supply & demand of QVIR such as supplier selection, non-availability of resources, machinery problems, improper management SCM Specific Brainstorming A periodic ‘All Hands’ session has to be conducted with the entire supply chain team of QVIR at Cipla.These sessions could be either fortnightly or monthly basis. During these sessions, members of the team are encouraged to ask several sets of questions related to improvement and transformation of a SMARTER Supply Chain. Some possible questions include: * Do you have real time visibility into the cost & performance of your supply chain both inside and across organizational boundaries? * Are you able to collaborate with your upstream and downstream trading partners on changing supply and demand conditions? Have you exploited rapid ROI opportunities relating to inventory optimization, demand forecasting, network design, and procurement spend? * What are your inventory levels vs. peers, your cash-to cycle time vs. peers? * Is your business able to quickly and directly make changes to supply chain processes and policies based on identified savings opportunities? * Have you balanced your cost reduction initiatives against customer requirements and supply chain risk including those related to sustainability issues? * Would cost reduction quick wins allow inves ting in future necessary SC capabilities?By predicting the risk components while brainstorming and doing the root cause analysis, there are also other risks during production which is more human error and packaging error. As part of the analysis for this assignment, we’ve also assessed the risks during production and how that risk can be controlled Risk Mitigation Supplier Risk Mitigation To overcome all the relative problems with the supplier Cilpa management needs to:- 1. Planning 2. Supplier selection 3. Supplier evaluation 4. Performance measurement 5. Feedback and communication Production Risk MitigationMalfunctioning of the machinery Malfunctioning of machinery in the production process can be overcome by- * Regularly checking and maintaining the working of the machines. The machines should be checked after each batch production. * Special engineers should be hired for the maintenance job with deep knowledge * The checking and maintenance process should be added into th e standard operating process and proper validation process should be conducted for the clearing process for each machine. * There should be a proper training process for the employees who are operating the machines.This will not only prevent the risk in the production process but also help in maintaining the quality of the product. Human error risk The human error can be minimized by providing proper – * training to the employee * maintaining proper standard operating procedures * automating the process where possible * providing proper documentation Packaging Risk Mitigation To minimize the risk in the packing and packaging process Cipla has to move out from the traditional model to more technological side. * Photo scanning system * Ratio frequency identification system and ePedigrees technologyPhoto scanning system is a modern way of minimizing risk in the packaging line by using photo scanning system. Cipla can eliminate the risk on cross labeling, miss printing and over p rinting of the labels this will minimize the risk of batch rejection by the customer in different country Advantage of using Photo Scanner System 1. Minimize the risk cross labeling 2. Minimize the risk of miss print related with date of expire, date of manufacturing and dose to be taken 3. Minimize the waste 4. Safe time 5. Increases the efficacy of the production line.Radio Frequency identification system (RFID) and ePedigees technology is a modern way of thinking in supply chain of Pharmaceutical industry. RFID is a better solution to minimize the risk associated with packaging and delivering, inventory management forecasting, monitoring and collecting data. In this process the RFID tag is attached to the product and than it can be tracked any where in the entire supply chain. The tag transfer electronic information through radio frequency electromagnetic ways that can be read from several meters away.Unlike the traditional bar code system there is no need of aligning the product in front of the reader. There is no chance of data error with this system In this system the electronic documents know as ePedigree are generated. These E pedigee have all the historical information regarding the product movement in the supply chain which makes it easy to monitor the product and remove optical in the supply chain. Advantages of using RFID * Improve Forecasting and Planning * Reduce Out-Of-Stock Conditions * eliminate excess and missing inventory as well as reduce losses and write * Improves Decision-Making Improve Customer Experience. * Reduce Theft * Increase Efficiency of production process * Improves Asset Utilization and Visibility Quality and storage risk mitigation Quality management play most crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry so a systemic monitoring and evaluation of quality in the production process is necessary to reduce the risk associated with the quality of the product This can only be achieved by following strict quality protocols at each st age. The Quality assurance team and the Quality control term should monitor – * The quality of the raw material purchase Storage condition of the raw material and the finished product * The standard operating procedure of the production process * Proper cleaning of the machines as per validation * Quality of the packaging material * SOP for labeling and packaging * Proper storage of the finished good with correct labeling At each step of quality management data should be collected and reports should be generated to identify where the problem is occurring in the supply chain and how to mitigate those problems simultaneously. Demand Side Risk Mitigation Transportation risk mitigation To minimize the risk related to the transportation there should be a proper selection of the transporter as per GMP requirement * There should be a proper procedure to select the logistic supplier * Proper communication * Regular inspection Information flow risk Technology plays an important role t o minimize the risk factor in the information flow. Use of certain ERP tools such as SAP and ORACLE can help CIPLA minimize the risk. Moreover using RFID the electronic documents – epidgees make the flow of information quite easier and quicker.Recommendation The supply chain of the future for Cipla would be Smarter. It would be Instrumented, Interconnected & Intelligent. Flexibility will be the watchword for cost containment, Visibility will become vital, Risk would be managed systematically, and customer input would permeate the supply chain. The smart map of this new supply chain for Cipla would help in the following: * Integrated real-time transactions (ERP) with business intelligence * Multi-partner collaboration platform * Dynamic supply & demand balancing Predictive sense-and-respond event detection & resolution * Probability-based risk management * Supply chain risk analysis & mitigation models * Risk-adjusted inventory optimization * Environmental strategies & policie s with sustainability models for usage impact analysis: Carbon. Energy, Water, Waste * Customer-segmented product lifecycle management * Real-time consumption & replenishment programs * Optimized pipeline inventory * Variable cost structures that fluctuate with market demand * Outsourcing non-differentiating functions Global â€Å"centers of excellence† to optimize capability and delivery * Asset management strategy & global execution Conclusion By employing the risk mitigating factors for this supply chain and leveraging on the data collected, deep supply chain management expertise, methods and analytical tools Cipla can quickly assess current inventory situations for inventory optimization realizing 30-50% inventory reduction, significantly improve demand forecasting accuracy 10-30% and provide direction to reduce spend 5-20%.With the futuristic instrumented, interconnected and intelligent smarter supply chain, smart devices, sensors and actuators can capture real-time data including: shelf-level replenishment, forecasts and orders, pipeline inventory and shipment lifecycle status. Advanced instrumentation will â€Å"sense-and-respond† demand and supply signal notification with thresholds to determine corrective actions from disturbances and there would be more â€Å"self-correcting†, â€Å"self-actuating† transactions.With the new smarter supply chain model and future integration of sustainability principles our desire with this assignment is to have the supply chain emerge as a major business tool that can help control costs, manage risks and make profit in a fully responsible manner. Much of the opportunity to address related energy, water and waste management costs rests on the supply chain.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Veterans Day Quotes to Moisten Every Patriots Eyes

Veterans Day Quotes to Moisten Every Patriots Eyes It takes courage for a soldier to risk life and limb for his country. The least we civilians can do is to honor these heroes. That is the basis of the Veterans Day celebration- to venerate these great men and women with words of appreciation. The edifice of our society stands on the martyrdom of these selfless souls. Here are some inspiring Veterans Day quotes. They remind the younger generation of their duty towards their country and inspire them to uphold the tradition of liberty, fraternity, and equality. Arthur Koestler The most persistent sound which reverberates through mens history is the beating of war drums. Sun Tzu Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys. Look on them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death! Allan Keller The only war is the war you fought in. Every veteran knows that. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit The more we sweat in peace the less we bleed in war. Publius Cornelius Tacitus In valor there is hope. James Baker If youre not gonna pull the trigger, dont point the gun. Abraham Lincoln Dont interfere with anything in the Constitution. That must be maintained, for it is the only safeguard of our liberties. Frederick the Great The most certain way of ensuring victory is to march briskly and in good order against the enemy, always endeavoring to gain ground. Francois de la Rochefoucauld Perfect valor is to behave, without witnesses, as one would act were all the world watching. Richard Watson Gilder Better than honor and glory, and Historys iron pen,Was the thought of duty done and the love of his fellow-men. Michel de Montaigne Valor is stability, not of legs and arms, but of courage and the soul. Oliver Wendell Holmes Lord, bid wars trumpet cease;Fold the whole earth in peace. Elmer Davis This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave. Thomas Dunn English But the freedom that they fought for, and the country grand they wrought for, Is their monument to-day, and for aye. Maya Angelou How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes! Andrew Bernstein The hero is the man dedicated to the creation and/or defense of reality-conforming, life-promoting values. John Fitzgerald Kennedy As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. Earlene Larson Jenks Have the courage to act instead of react. Sidney Sheldon My heroes are those who risk their lives every day to protect our world and make it a better place- police, firefighters, and members of our armed forces. Michel de Montaigne When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep? Dwight D. Eisenhower Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him. Mark Twain In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot. Jim Ramstad Americas veterans deserve the very best health care because theyve earned it. Ronald Reagan History teaches that war begins when governments believe the price of aggression is cheap. Steve Buyer Americas veterans embody the ideals upon which America was founded more than 229 years ago. Jennifer Granholm We cant equate spending on veterans with spending on defense. Our strength is not just in the size of our defense budget, but in the size of our hearts, in the size of our gratitude for their sacrifice. And thats not just measured in words or gestures. John Doolittle Americas Veterans have served their country with the belief that democracy and freedom are ideals to be upheld around the world. Buckminster Fuller Either war is obsolete or men are. Solomon Ortiz As a former veteran, I understand the needs of veterans, and have been clear- we will work together, stand together with the Administration, but we will also question their policies when they shortchange veterans and military retirees. Zack Wamp Thank you for the sacrifices you and your families are making. Our Vietnam Veterans have taught us that no matter what our positions may be on policy, as Americans and patriots, we must support all of our soldiers with our thoughts and our prayers. Gary Hart I think there is one higher office than president and I would call that patriot.

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Nation and Nation States

Nation and Nation States Characteristics of the Modern Nations of Nation-States include Albania, Bangladesh, Iceland and Hungary among others. In these Nation-States, over 90% of the inhabitants have common cultural attributes (White White, 2007). Modern Nation-State The concept of modern State is different from the traditional Nation-State in that it is a bit liberalized in terms of its cultural elements. As opposed to the traditional Nation-States like the ones mentioned above, the modern Nation-State is composed of people from diverse cultural backgrounds, but who share a territory and a central governs(s). A modern Nation-State is formulated in a manner which allows it to deliver a wide range of services to the citizens, either at one level or two levels. The modern Nation-State may however have a certain culture, which is typical of all the various people who live in the modern Nation-State. A good example of a modern Nation-State is the United States of America (White White, 2007).Advertising Looking for essay on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More How the United States Fits the Criteria Of and Functions as a Modern Nation-State The Criteria of Sovereignty The United States governance system is known as Federalism, which means that the National government and State governments share power in governing the country. The United States is composed of 52 States, which are partly autonomous and partly linked to the National (Federal) government. Each State has got its own government which is composed of the Judiciary, Legislature and Executive branches. The National government, also known as the Federal government is headed by the president of the United States and is composed of the Congress (Senate and House of Representatives), the Executive and the Judiciary. All these three arms are independent of each other, meaning there is a clear separation of powers between them (Anagnoson, Bonetto, DeLeon, Emrey, Ke lleher, Koch, 2011). The Criteria of Fixed Territory The United States as a country is composed of 52 states, which together form the entity (country) known as the United States of America. Each of the 52 states has got a fixed territorial boundary, but the Federal government has the power to create or merge states and draw the boundaries afresh, with the overall US territorial boundaries with its neighbors remaining fixed. The Criteria of Common Culture In terms of culture, the United States culture can be explained using the Hofstedes cultural dimensions for various countries in the world. According to Hofstede, a typical American is highly individualistic as well as less likely to form strong family relationships or ties. This is based on the ranking of the United States at 91% in individualism, which is the leading in the world in terms of the criterion of individualism (International business center, 2008). US Foreign Policy In terms of foreign policy, two US foreign policy ob jectives can be identified. They include the support of Israel in its debacle with Palestine and the creation and maintenance of a new world order. Support for Israel US foreign policy has always been influenced by its national interests, moral purpose (maintaining democracy and human rights), and security, economic and hegemonic interests (Saad 2011). Throughout and during the cold war, the United States national and strategic security interests were high in Middle East. Particularly, Israeli has been United States’ major interest in Middle East as well as a close ally. The United States benefits from close cooperation between its intelligence communities and those of Israel. However, many conflicts have ensued in Middle East with United States being overly criticized for its foreign policy inclination to Israel.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Nation and Nation States specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Creati on and maintenance of a new world order Another US foreign policy objective is to have what is popularly known as a new world order. The main idea of new world order is to come up with full-fledged global institutions which are responsible for the control and regulation of world’s affairs including politics, culture, economy, technology transfer, environment, security and to some extent religion. These regulations, according to the US would help the world to achieve universal culture of the world in which people of the world subscribe to universal rules, principles and regulations in almost all aspects of live (Slaughter, 2005). The European Union as a Transnational Entity The European Union is a union of 27 Nations mainly found in Europe. One of the historical events which led to the creation of the European Union is the world war one and two. After the world wars, the Nations in Europe saw the importance of coming together as a strategy of diffusing the extreme effects of N ationalism, which were largely seen to have contributed to the world wars (Archer, 2008). Another interest which contributed in to the creation of the European Union is the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). This was a sort of a Federal union which was aimed at bringing under one umbrella the countries in Europe, mainly to avert any tensions and rivalry between them. At its inception, the ECSE was composed of six member States. The ECSE gave birth to the European Economic Community (EEC) which was to later incorporate other States within Europe to form the European Union (Archer, 2008). The major institutions which comprise the EU include the European Council, the European Commission, and the Court of Justice of the European Union and Council of the European Union. The major Nations which comprise the EU include the United Kingdom, Denmark, Belgium, Sweden, Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Germany, Slovenia, Portugal and Netherlands (Archer, 2008). The contemporary function of t he EU is to ensure that there is a common stand among member States on issues of security. The EU is charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the member States participate in all ways to ensure that there is no threat of international terrorism. The EU is also concerned with the stabilization of the economies of the member States so as to put them in a good position to recover from the economic recession of 200-2009 (Archer, 2008). One example of foreign policy of the EU is to ensure that there are no restrictions in the movement of goods and people especially within the member States. This policy is aimed at boosting trade between the member States as well as opening the European markets to goods from other parts of the world. The other example of foreign policy for the EU is on defense, in which the EU has got its troops in the UN Security Council, which is charged with ensuring that the world is safe from terrorists (Archer, 2008).Advertising Looking for essay on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More How Nation-States and Transnational Entities Engage In Foreign Policy to Achieve Their Interests Nation-States like the United States and transnational entities like the EU engage in foreign policy to achieve their interests through coming up with policies which enhance their interests at the expense of the interests of the world in general. A good example is the new world order; whose main proponents are the United States and the EU. Through the new world order, the two (US and EU) aim to propagate their policies on security, economy, trade, environment and governance to the rest of the world. Those countries which do not comply are threatened with economic and trade sanctions (Slaughter, 2005). One of EUs foreign policy is the provision of humanitarian aid as well as the promotion of trade between it and countries in Africa, Caribbean and Pacific. One of EUs partner in Africa is Tanzania. As part of its foreign policy, the EU provides over â‚ ¬100 million as aid to Tanzania. Th is aid is used in funding various projects on good governance, prevention of HIV/AIDS, water supply, education and the environment. Tanzania also exports more than 50% of its goods to the EU duty free and imports over 20% of its goods from the EU. The consequences of this interaction for international politics The consequence of the interaction between the EU and the US is that world politics are greatly being shaped by their policies. For example, the recent revolutions in the Arab world (Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco and Libya) have been highly attributed to the involvement of the EU and the US in the politics of the Arab world, which is also a leading producer of oil. Many governments in the world have also been forced to embrace democracy instead of dictatorship. Those leaders who are dictatorial in their readership have been forced to quit office. Good examples include Libya, Iraq and Afghanistan. In these countries, the EU and the US were the major players. Their main interest is to have in place a leadership which can develop friendly policies on the exploitation of oil. References Archer, C.(2008). The European Union. Washington: Taylor Francis. Anagnoson, J.T., Bonetto, G., Buck, J.V., DeLeon, R.E., Emrey, J., Kelleher, J.J Koch, N. (2011).Governing California in the Twenty-First Century (3rd, ed.). New York, NY: W W Norton Co Inc. International business center, (2008)). Geert Hofstede Analysis. Retrieved from cyborlink.com/besite/india.htm Saad, A.(2011). A proposed Peace Strategy for the Arab-Israeli conflict. Web. Slaughter, A.M. (2005). A New World Order. Woodstock OX20 1TW: Princeton University Press. White, G.W., White, E.A.(2007). Nation, State, and Territory: Origins, Evolutions, and Relationships, Volume 1. Lanham, MD: Rowman Littlefield.

Monday, November 4, 2019

A nuclear family unit Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

A nuclear family unit - Essay Example One can describe the ages of this family unit as chronological in order. First, the father is 42 years, works as a carpenter, and appears healthy and strong. The mother is 36 years old, a truck driver, and smokes one packet of cigarettes per day. The girl is 12 years old, attends school as required, and no petty issues were noted except the fact that she appears a bit overweight for a girl of such age but no obesity as such to be reported. The boy is six years old and plays well, meaning he is physically fit. It would be accurate to describe this family’s social group as middle working class particularly with the ability to afford their children’s education, medical insurance, and a four bed-roomed house. Although the father did reach 11th grade, he did not manage to graduate while the mother has knowledge in attending heavy machinery. Thus, the educational background of this family is obsolete and this could be the reason they are seeking to have their children study h ard in order to break that chain of low levels of education (Doane & Varcoe, 2005). Generally, the family has a great deal of strengths given that the father was treated for alcoholism and resolved to become a responsible husband and a father while the mother was treated for a health issue that could affect her delivery system. Additionally, both parents are regular cigarette smokers but the children are doing great which leads to the conclusion that the whole family is physically fit (Doane & Varcoe, 2005). ... The setting of this home is intact and has the relevant requirements of such kind of a family. The house has four bedrooms and two bathrooms. It is also very clean and neat signifying that it is always tidy. Q2 As of this point, the family looks prepared both psychologically and physically since they have made tremendous progress regarding the incoming baby. Pertinently, the mother is looking forward to stop working when she is one month due to the speculated date of the actual birth. The father is working tirelessly and has an insurance cover against any health risks that may befall the family. Generally, the whole family is considering the presence of the unborn child as a blessing rather than a burden a factor that shows that it is ready for another member of the family (Doane & Varcoe, 2005). With comparison to the textbook, a fully prepared family both physically and psychologically is that which has almost all the necessary things that a pregnant woman needs as well as the esse ntial items that a born child requires. What was the topic that  stood  out Nutritional status Nutritional status This family’s nutrition status is incredible following the fact that they keep a healthy diet. Their breakfast composes of peanut toast with yoghurt and fruits as snack. They take nutritious lunch full of proteins and supper involves red meat, vegetables, and ice cream as snack. Hence, this family’s nutrition status stands out as the best topic of discussion during the interview. Bonding behaviors First, the relationship between the mother and father is healthy. Second, the children go to the same school and play together pointing out that they relate to each other well. Therefore, the research concluded that the overall family relationship is in the best

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Principles of Economics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Principles of Economics - Assignment Example Indeed, this article highlights critical economics points. First, Rampell (2013) appreciates that prices inversely relate to demand, and as such, increase in demand causes an increase in price of commodities. The author supports this with examples of price increase of airline tickets during Christmas, tickets for Major League Baseball during World Series and roses around Valentine’s Day. Even so, the article is more concerned with products that defy this postulate. Specifically, the author questions the decrease in prices of turkey during Thanksgiving when the increased demand dictates otherwise according to the principles of economics. The author cites government data that indicates a significant decrease in prices of turkey every November, the month of Thanksgiving when demand for turkey is high. The article raises two points to explain the observed phenomenon. First, the supply-side forces postulate argues that retailers sell â€Å"loss leaders† in anticipation that the commodities for which they sell at low prices, even at a loss, would attract customers who would then buy other commodities to compensate for the profits forfeited on such products (Rampell, 2013). Secondly, the author cites the demand-side forces argument noting that consumers tend to be more price-sensitive on commodities during peak seasons. 3. In the next three to five paragraphs, apply two of the following economic concepts (supply and demand, market structures, elasticity, and cost of production) to the key points that you highlighted in Question 2. The term demand in itself makes no sense unless qualified by price and the time during which it refers to. This explains the definition of demand by Mankiw (2014) as the quantity of goods that a consumer is willing and able to buy given the price, during a specified period of time. With regards to the case article, the period is