Bam Bamphysics free essay sample

Explain why the antibodies allow scientists to target and identify specific disease agents. The antibodies are specific to the antigen they destroy. 2. Why is the secondary antibody used in the ELISA test conjugated with an enzyme? What happens when this enzyme meets up with its substrate? The enzyme catalyzes the oxidation of the substrate and turns the solution blue. 3. Disease samples from two patients are collected and subjected to serial dilutions before running an ELISA.What does it mean if a disease can be detected in samples from one person at a dilution of 1/5 and in another patient at a dilution of 1/100? One patient has a higher concentration of antigens. 4. Describe a situation that illustrates why it is a good idea to complete the ELISA assay in triplicate? Repetition allows better precision of results. 5. Why do you think college students living in dorms are often populations who see the meningitis outbreaks? It spreads due to the dense population of dorms on campus. We will write a custom essay sample on Bam Bamphysics or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page 6. How did the ELISA data allow you to track the path of the infection at the college?Using test results from patients, ELISA’s database allows you to confirm the spreading of the infection. 7. Discuss the limitations of using the antigen concentration to deduce the path of the infection. Be sure to refer to the workings of the human immune system. Overusing the antigen concentration can shut down your immune system and make your current state worse because of the virus. Your immune system may reject the antigen concentration and that won’t be good at all! 8. Using the information about how you completed this ELISA experiment, outline a procedure for testing for antibodies in the blood.Provide blood samples into separate wells. Inject a protein base into the wells. Add a primary antibody and provide a wash. Add the secondary antibody, then wash. Finally input an enzyme and extract observations whether it oxidizes. If it does, then the sample is positive for that antibody, linked to a specific disease. 9. Explain why in the sudden outbreaks, it may be better to test for disease antigens rather than for antibodies. Antigens are specific markers that initiate the antibodies. Therefore, antigens will have a higher initiative for marking the disease.

Why I like Rimowa suitcases Essays

Why I like Rimowa suitcases Essays Why I like Rimowa suitcases Paper Why I like Rimowa suitcases Paper Many people love traveling, and there are many fabulous moments in their travel. When you go traveling, you must bring your luggage or suitcase. The suitcase will be your best friend to protect your things and to share the memories from your trips. I think that one of best suitcase brands for me is Rimowa. The reason why this brand became so popular is not because many people were using Rimowa, or many magazines showed photos about famous celebrities using Rimowa. In my opinion, the reasons are because of Rimowa’s fabulous design, practicality, and good warranty. As with most of famous brands, Rimowa has a long history. Rimowa has over 100 years of experience in making suitcases. Rimowa’s first suitcase was made by Paul Morszeck in Germany, and it was made from wood. In 1950, Rimowa created the main feature of the ribbing style. Even now over seventy years later, it’s still the classic design. In other words, Rimowa knows how to make good baggage. Why is the experience so important? I believe people are dedicated to work for a long time, and they will learn how to become a professional in their careers. Rimowa has focused on making luggage for over one century. They know what their customers need and how to make suitcases for superior do the competition. For example, my uncle has been a Chinese cook for thirty years, and all of his family members have been cooks back to his grandfather, so he knows how to cook Chinese food very well. People have different tastes, but my uncle can satisfy them. Not only is his food is tasty but also healthy. Those are some reasons why everyone likes to go to his restaurant. This is the same for Rimowa. People who travel a lot have to put everything they need into a suitcase. This company knows customers need good-looking luggage that is also practical. Rimowa’s suitcases are light, stable, waterproof, cold-resistant, and heat-resistant. The weight of Rimowa suitcases are very light so you can put more item, and they are also sturdy. In 1937, Richard Morszeck created the first aluminum suitcase. At first, aluminum was used to build German airplanes. This material makes suitcases lighter and more rugged. We can carry many more things and dont need to worry about damaged suitcases. The new Rimowa suitcases are made of new materials such as polycarbonate and aluminum-magnesium alloy. Some features of the two materials they are lightweight, stable, high tolerance for temperature and are waterproof. Wherever you go traveling, you just need Rimowa luggage. You dont need to worry about your suitcases getting wet on a rainy day, airport staff throwing around it, and the temperature changing too fast. For instance, my dad has to go on business trips many times a year. He doesnt have time to leave his suitcases at the hotel, so he just visits his clients with them. He went to Thailand last time, and it was the rainy season. His business partner’s suitcases were totally wet, and their clothes in the suitcases were also wet. How about my dad? His Rimowa suitcase protected his stuff, so he didn’t get in any trouble. Although Rimowa suitcases have many advantages that make it better than other luggage brands, the best advantage is that Rimowa gives customers a five year warranty. Many other labels just give a two year warranty. The first thing I consider before I purchase items is warranty. I am a terrible and unlucky person because I always buy the defective product and I dont know it at the time of purchase. A good warranty for me is necessary. My suitcases’ job is to protect my stuff and my job is to keep my travel items in good condition. Sometimes it is unavoidable that able a suitcase breaks, so who knows what will happen? In conclusion, Rimowa makes a fashion suitcase that also can bear cold, heat, bumps, and water. Some people may say Rimowa is just a suitcase, but it’s not only a suitcase for me. It’s a suitcase with a long history that can carry my memories about with high technology, fashion, and usefulness. As Rimowa’s slogan says, â€Å"Every case tells a story†. My case tells my own story. Citation http://newdesignmethod.blogspot.com/2011/02/b9830003rimowa.html

HSBC Bank (employee mistakes) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

HSBC Bank (employee mistakes) - Research Paper Example Major flaws of the employees that have to do with customer relations were examined. For instance the research tested the various ways in which the availability of training facilities would help in equipping the employee with up-to-date knowledge on how to relate to the customer in a manner that would motivate the customer to come back for more services (Heppner, Kivlighan, Jr., & Wampold, 1999). The effect of employee stress on the rate of delivery and general productivity rate to meet the demands of customers were also examined as well as the role of organizational systems in ensuring that the right platforms are created to check the conduct and behave of employees to towards customers. By and large, it was concluded that HSBC is currently faced with avoidable losses as a result of common mistakes committed by employees and these mistakes come about as a result of low training for employees and high levels of stress. The company is however in a position to changing the trend by incr easing motivation and training for employees. 1.0 Introduction 1.1 Background Officially, the company that is commonly referred to as HSBC is known and registered as HSBC Holdings plc. HSBC Holdings plc is a British company with headquarters in London; whose major line of business is channeled at banking and financial service provision. This means that HSBC Holdings Plc is a financial organization who has other major companies in the same industry of finance as competitors. The company is touted as an international company with branches spread across the globe. There is a heavy representation of the company in major global economic destinations including Hong Kong, The United States of America, Mexico, Brazil and France. With such branches the company is known to offer prudent financial assistance to â€Å"over 50 million people worldwide to manage and save for their futures with a complete range of personal financial products† (HSBC, 2012). One of the highly commendable stan ds that the company has made over the years is that it has taken advantage of the globalization phenomenon to reach out to even more people who do not have the presence of the company in their countries. With such services such as online banking and online transfer services attached to the regular banking operations, HSBC was rated as the second largest banking and financial service company in the world (Kerlinger, 2006). It was also said that HSBC was the second largest company in public service delivery (LaFountain & Bartos, 2002). All these have been made possible by the 7,200 offices owned by the company in 85 countries with major listing on the London Stock Exchange and secondary listing in the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, New York Stock Exchange and the Bermuda Stock Exchange. On the London Stock Exchange alone, the official 2011 market capital of the company was quoted as ?87.4 billion (Rosenthal & Rosnow, 1991). This such a performance, there remains one thing left for the comp any to do and this is to maintain its statuesque or even think of making it better. 1.2 Problem Statement As the world continues to experience very huge competition in the financial sector with a strive to make good of the recovery of the present global economic recession, this research is seeking to examine the effect of training facilities, employee stress and organizational systems on the number of mistakes made by employees of HSBC and

Discuss the economic and demographic arguments for and against new Essay

Discuss the economic and demographic arguments for and against new labour migration - Essay Example Population characteristics of UK and its economic implications UK is among the developed western continents. Majority of the people in UK are old aged as the lifespan is longer, but this reduces the population growth rate because the aged are not within the productive age brackets. Economically, these people are not strong enough to provide workforce needed in economic building (Borjas 2000; Kupiszewski, 2012). Additionally, due to their age, there is no possibility of young generation to replace them in the work environment (Lisiankova and Wright, 2005). This population structure poses a threat to both population structure and economic condition of the country. To address this condition, several procedures have been formulated. One of the measures includes encouraging labor immigration. Need for immigration Given the scenario of UK population challenges, analysts and economists would raise question to find out whether UK requires immigrants or there are other options that can be fol lowed. By understanding the need for immigrants, it will be easier to formulate appropriate policies to be used (Borjas 2000). Currently, UK migration is characterized by the two types, international and domestic migration. Labor immigration has great effects in the UK’s economy and population. ... This is to ensure the adverse effects of immigration are addressed now and in future (Borjas 2000; Great Britain, 2012). UK countries need to remain pro active in policy making in regard to immigration and future labor market situation. In economics, philosophers have concluded that through migration everybody benefits. The countries receiving employees benefit through reducing the labor shortage and produce low cost products. Countries, from which the people come from, reduce the rate of unemployment while the workers in the foreign land benefit. From the above theory, it can be noted that it is true, but these benefits are only in the short run; in long run, migration cost is huge. Countries getting foreign workers endanger their citizen job security. The native employees in firms may be fired to recruit cheap workers from foreign countries. This is so in nations with labor market which inflexible (Borjas 2000). It is therefore important to check on the flexibility of labor market before formulating policies that encourage immigration. Immigrants find themselves trading off their rights for wealth creation in other countries. The immigrants are exposed to high chances of being exploited in the foreign countries. Merits of Immigration Creation mobility of job - Immigration leads to establishment of new jobs because of economic growth and enhancement of job mobility. In 18th to 20th century, over one third of UK’s population growth, moved to other countries, but this was not sustained for long. In 21st century, largest increase in population is due to immigration. It is important for any country to control the movement of people across the borders. Migration has effects on both demographics and economic performance of a country. Demographics

Brand Journal Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Brand Journal - Research Paper Example This paper identifies the companies that my brand would like to partner with, and how it fits into the culture of these companies, and their brand positions. Evolution of the Brand: The first step in the evolution process is the determination of the brands core values and principles. For example, the brand managers of Hazwan must identify the various core values and principles of the company. For instance, the company believes in honesty, transparency and integrity while dealing with its customers. This is an aspect referred to as brand definition. Brand definition does not just involve the identification of the values and principles of the company; it also involves the identification of the products of the company. This is because brand managers cannot create a logo without identifying what the company produces. It is important to denote that logos represent the identity of a particular brand. Brand managers therefore must create logos that depict some aspects of transparency, integ rity and honesty. For instance, they can use the picture of a dove in their logo. A dove normally symbolizes purity, and these values of the company are elements of purity. Once the company has a logo, the next step is to introduce the logo to the partners of the business. This includes employees and its customers. The best method to use is the social media. The social media has millions and millions of users in a day. Posting the logo on the internet, and receiving feedbacks on its design is a sure way of building the brand name of the organization (Ferrara, 2012). This is because people will identify with the logo, and what it represents, as a result, identify with the company. Brand managers can also use the print media and the television to advertise their new logo. The print media has the capability of reaching a wide audience, and as such, the prospective customers of the organization might learn of its existence. Finally, the next procedure is to build relationships with the target market of its products. The brand managers will have to market the software product of Hazwan, and it can do this through the social media, the print media, televisions, and posters. Creating a relationship with the target market will also involve explaining how the software will satisfy the various needs of the organization. For example, Hazwan software’s enhance the speed of computers. It is important to denote that users are always motivated by the speed of the computers that they use. A computer which is fast will generate higher sales. On this basis, it is the interest of companies to generate high profits by increasing their market share. On this note, Hazwan software’s will satisfy such kind of need. The brand managers will therefore use this capability of the software, to create a positive relationship with its target customers. Short Term Achievements: One of the short term goals of the Hazwan brand is to attract highly talented computer programmers and software developers to work in the organization. The company aims to achieve this objective by offering high remuneration packages, amongst other benefits. This benefit includes housing allowances, transportation allowance, and an option to develop further their skills by improving on their academic and professional qualification (Ferrara, 2012). These measures will not only attract some of the best computer

Cognitive And Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Borderline Personality Disorder Nursing Essay

Cognitive And Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Borderline Personality Disorder Nursing Essay AIM: To give a brief history of Borderline Personality Disorder and research the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. Method: A review of the literature and review of controlled trials and uncontrolled trials. Conclusion: In the management of Borderline Personality Disorder, there are many problems to consider, out of these problems self-harm and suicidal tendencies are considered the most important to treat. Chapter 1 Introduction 1.0 Despite the many treatment options for people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), many professionals in mental health services continue to believe that personality disorders are untreatable. This essay provides evidence the effectiveness of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) with Borderline Personality Disorder. Background To understand BPD, I will attempt to give a historical overview of BPD. Philippe Pinel in the 1800s, first described people who engage in deviant behaviour, but with no signs of thought disorder such as hallucinations or delusions as mania without delirium or in French manie sans delire (Friedel, 2004). Although the meaning of the term has changed through many writings on the subject over time, the writing of Cleckley and his use of the label psychopath in The Mask of Sanity brought the term into accepted usage (Meloy, 1998). The Mask of Sanity is a book written by Hervey Cleckley first published in 1941; he gave the most significant clinical description of psychopathy in the 20th century. An expanded edition of the book was published in 1982, when the name was changed from psychopathy to Personality Disorder. In 1972, newer editions of the book reflected a closer alliance with Kernbergss (1984) borderline level of personality organization, in particular defining the structural criteria of the psychopaths identity integration, defensive operations and re ality testing. The diagnosis borderline was introduced in the 1930s to label patients with problems that seemed to fall somewhere in between neurosis and psychosis (Stern, 1938). Adolph Stern a psychoanalyst described the symptoms, which are now considered to be the criteria of BPD. He suggested the possible causes and what he thought the most successful psychotherapy treatments were. He renamed the disorder, by referring to patients with symptoms as the borderline group (Friedel, 2004). In 1940, the psychoanalyst Robert Knight introduced his explanation theory of borderline disorder. Ego or sense of self psychology deals with mental function, which allows us to effectively combine our thoughts and to develop helpful responses to our life around us. He stated that people with BPD have impairments in a lot of of these functions, and he referred to them as borderline states (Friedel 2004). The next important input was made by the psychoanalyst Otto Kernberg (1967); he introduced the term borderline personality organisation. He proposed that mental disorders were determined by three distinctive personality organisations: psychotic, neurotic and borderline personality. Kernberg has been a strong promoter of modified psychoanalytic therapy for patients with borderline disorder (Friedel 2004). The first research on BPD was published by Roy Grinker in 1968, which he called Borderline Syndrome (Friedel 2004). The next major article was published in 1975 by Gunderson and Singer. They defined the major characteristics of BPD. Gunderson then went on to publish a research instrument to enable an accurate diagnosis. Internationally researchers were then able to verify the validity and integrity of BPD (Friedel, 2004). This followed with BPD becoming a genuine psychiatric diagnosis and appeared in the DSM-111 in 1980. Personality disorder categories are not firmly grounded in theory, nor are they empirically based (Livesley, 1998). Some critics say that personality disorder categories are so flawed that the best option is to abolish them and start afresh, but most pragmatists recognise that so much has been invested in them that they are very likely here to stay (Blackburn 2000a; Livesley, 1998). The Nice Guidelines for Personality Disorder (2009) state that borderline personality disorder is associated with significant impairment, especially in relation to the capacity to sustain stable relationships as a result of personal and emotional instability (NICE 2009). The severity of the symptoms, are related to the severity of the individuals personal/social situations. Stone (1993) argues that some people with BPD can still function at high levels in their lives and careers. Paris (1994) stated that about one-third of patients with BPD reported severe abuse involving an incestuous perpetrator; about one-third reported milder forms of abuse; and about one-third do not report abuse. Personality disorders are common conditions; studies indicate prevalence of 10-13% of the adult population in the community and are more common among younger age groups (24-44 yrs) and equally distributed between males and females. However, the sex ratio for specific types of personality disorder is variable e.g. antisocial personality disorder is more common among males, and borderline personality disorder more common amongst females (DOH 2003). Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) can be seen as an umbrella term for many different therapies that share some common elements. The earliest form of Cognitive Behavior Therapy was developed by Albert Ellis in the early 1950s. Aaron T.Beck independently developed another CBT approach, called Cognitive Therapy, in the 1960s. Cognitive Therapy rapidly became a favorite intervention to study in psychotherapy research in academic settings. In initial studies, it was often contrasted with behavioral treatments to see which was most effective. However, in recent years, cognitive and behavioral techniques have often been combined into cognitive behavioral treatment. This is arguably the primary type of psychological treatment being studied in research today. One specific form of cognitive-behavioural therapy is dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), a broad-based, cognitive-behavioural programme developed specifically to reduce self-harm in women with borderline personality disorders (Linehan, 1993a; Linehan 1993b). Recent research has shown that dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is one of the first therapies that have demonstrated to be effective for treating borderline personality disorder as well as being effective in treating people who display varied symptoms and behaviours associated with mood disorders, including self-harm. DBT combines standard cognitive-behavioural techniques for emotion regulation and reality-testing with concepts of mindful-awareness, distress tolerance, and acceptance. 1.2 Rationale As a mental health nurse coming from a forensic background, I have experience of working with clients with personality disorder. I feel that by getting more of an understanding of CBT interventions, it will make a huge difference to my future practice in the future. McKenna et al (1999) state that it is unacceptable for health care not to be based on sound evidence of its effectiveness, and back up their practice with research-based evidence (NMC, 2008) to ensure effective clinical practice. Often nurses find it frustrating working with disorders of personality. These clients can be manipulative, socially inappropriate and difficult, for these reasons, such clients need all the patience and skills nurses have to offer. But despite this service in the NHS, services have been varied and inconsistent (DoH, 2003). Besides functional impairment and emotional distress, borderline personality disorder is also associated with significant financial costs to the healthcare system, social servi ces and the wider society (NICE 2009). 1.3 Aims and objectives The aims and objectives of this project are to review the evidence on the efficacy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy with people who have Borderline Personality. 1.4 Methodology and parameters This literature review was conducted using the following resources Electronic databases: Cochrane library, CINHAL, Medline, Psychinfo, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences and Academic Search Premier Key journals were hand searched: British Journal of Psychiatry, Journal of Personality Disorders, Mental Health Practice, Journal of Personality and Mental Health University and Trust libraries Google Google scholar The following types of literature were sought and reviewed where available Randomised control trials Systematic and structured review Quantitative and Qualitative research studies Position statements/guidelines from professional bodies Government policies (NICE (2009), NSF (1999) Text Books Inclusion and exclusion criteria Eligibility for this review was determined by the following criteria: à ¢-  Participants: adults with BPD (diagnosed according to DSM-III/DSM-III-R, DSM-IV, DSM-IV-TR or ICD-10 criteria for BPD), with or without co-morbidity. à ¢-  Intervention: psychological therapies, including CBT, DBT à ¢-  Comparators: CBT/DBT or treatment as usual à ¢-  Outcomes: self-harm, suicide, interpersonal and social functioning à ¢-  Study type: published papers were assessed according to the accepted hierarchy of evidence, whereby systematic reviews of RCTs are taken to be the most authoritative forms of evidence, with uncontrolled observational studies the least authoritative. à ¢-  Exclusion criteria: papers on personality disorder without separate BPD subgroup analyses. The studies were obtained through a number of sources, as above. Searches were performed by entering the key words Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive behaviour therapy into several databases, which yielded many secondary references of current best evidence. Search filters developed consisted of a combination of subject headings. The topic-specific filters were combined with appropriate research design filters developed for systematic reviews, RCTs and other appropriate research designs. These articles were selected after careful reading of the title and abstract to identify the most useful. I then limited my search to full articles which made my search a lot easier. The definitive text that will be used to aid my search will be NICE Clinical Guidelines for Personality disorder 78. This guideline makes recommendations for the treatment and management of borderline personality disorder in adults and young people (under the age of 18) who meet criteria for the diagnosis in prim ary, secondary and tertiary care (NICE, 2009). BPD is present in 1% of the population, and is most frequent in early adulthood. Women present to services more often than men. BPD is not often formally diagnosed before the age of 18, but the features of the disorder can be identified earlier. Its path is changeable but many people do recover (NICE 2009). This search will comprise both British and international articles. When choosing which articles were going to be relevant, I found it impossible to ignore the amount of articles I had on DBT and as DBT was evolved from CBT and made specifically for BPD, I decided to bring it into my research project. The articles are mixed quantitative and qualitative research. The qualitative means of gathering subjective data is centred on an individuals experience, beliefs, empowerment and quality of care and does not solely concentrate on clinical outcomes for the individual. One could argue that this is the most appropriate aspect of research for mental health nurses as mental illness is individual for each person involved in the process and although BPD is not a mental illness. The National Service Framework for adult mental health sets out our responsibilities to offer evidence based, effective services for all those with severe mental illness, including people with personality disorder who experience significant distress or difficulty (NIMH 2003). While these can be misconceived as an easy option form of research, qualitative research offers rich, reflective and exhaustive data that is invaluable and has a profound contribution to make to take to practice. The qualitative evidence was lim ited with regards to the treatments reviewed, with an emphasis on DBT. Quantitative research is a formal, objective, and rigorous statistical process for generating information about the world (Burns Grove 1999), whereby the researcher would gather a range of numerical data in order to answer the research question, or prove, disprove a hypothesis (Parahoo 2006). Philosophies or schools of thought in research are called paradigms (Parahoo 2006). One such paradigm is positivism. Parahoo (2006) asserts that positivism relies on observations by the human senses to create fact (empiricism), and believe in the unity of science, and the notion of cause and effect (determinism). The positivist researcher will endeavour to test a hypothesis or theory using the deductive process of a course of experiments. This paradigm utilises a quantitative approach in its research methods. For the positivists, quantitative research is believed to provide hard evidence and objective fact that can provide knowledge on which to base best practice (Parahoo 2006). Efficacy studies focus on the usefulness of a specific helping methodology for a particular kind of problem. Comparisons are made between the methodology in question and some other methodology between clients with some disorder who do receive the treatment and those who do not or between two different methodologies for treating the same disorder. These studies are carried out under controlled conditions. Many of the studies are well designed and demonstrate efficacy. In a healthcare context, efficacy indicates the capacity for beneficial change (or therapeutic effect) of a given intervention. Chapter 2 The Literature Review Having undertaken a critical review of the literature, I have come to explore a number of issues which I feel necessary to consider, key themes emerging from this literature review are the impact of CBT DBT on suicidal behaviours, the impact of CBT DBT on self-harming behaviours, and the impact of CBT DBT on engagement. This chapter sets out to explore these themes in more detail. On the whole the most suitable research design to answer this is the Randomised Controlled Trials (RCT); hence the evidence base reviewed include accessible RCTs undertaken in those with a diagnosis of BPD (NICE, 2009). The causes of BPD are complicated and remain uncertain. Contributing factors may include an inherited vulnerability, a particular temperament, early life experiences and, in subtle neurological or hormonal disturbances (NICE 2009). NICE (2009) state that the history of specific psychological interventions designed to help people with borderline personality disorder is intertwined with changing conceptions of the nature of the disorder itself. Swartz (1990) wrote that BPD is more common among drug and alcohol users. And within these dependents there will be more women diagnosed than men. Zanarini (1998) also adds that the disorder is more common in those with eating disorders, and also among people with self-harming behaviours (Linehan et al., 1991) 2.1 Defining Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy NICE (2009) define CBT as a structured psychological treatment that focuses on helping a person make connections between their thoughts, feelings and behaviour. Originally CBT was used as a treatment for depression which has now been modified to treat BPD. CBT focuses on altering the thoughts, emotions, and behaviours of patients by teaching them skills to challenge and modify beliefs, to engage in experimental reality testing, and to develop better coping strategies. The goals of these interventions are to reduce the delusional beliefs, and consequently their severity, and to encourage effective coping and decreasing distress. This essay will attempt to assess the contribution of CBT and the disorder by discussing reviews on effectiveness. CBT for BPD was developed with the idea that people with BPD have learned distorted beliefs and thoughts overtime. Distressing emotional responses and behaviours develop as a result. Beck Freeman (1990) outlined such beliefs, relating to dependen cy, distrust, and rigid perceptions. The distorted thoughts are modified by monitoring,  analysis and questioning.   Davidson (2000), adds that particular attention should be paid to the problems that can disrupt therapy, and so disrupt the therapeutic relationship (NICE, 2009), such as non-engagement, loss of structure, losing focus and lack of compliance. CBT for BPD attempts to create change by improving the attitude of the patient toward treatment, the enhancement of specific skills, and the reduction of hopelessness (Friedel, 2004). The therapist and patient will construct a list of problem areas. A set of tasks will be developed that will generate and reinforce new attitudes and behaviours, which will replace the old attitudes and behaviors that have caused problems in the past. Within the past 15 years, another, newer psychosocial treatment termed Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) was developed. DBT joins standard cognitive behavioural techniques with acceptance based strategies, as well as strategies designed to keep the therapy balanced between change and acceptance (dialectical strategies). Marsha M. Linehan, a psychologist from the University of Washington in Seattle, developed DBT specifically for people with BPD, especially those who engage in self-destructive and self-injurious behaviours. DBT is based on the belief that the symptoms of BPD result from organic impairments in the brain that control emotional responses. The early behavioural effects of this impairment are exaggerated, as the person with this biological risk factor interacts with people who do not validate their emotional pain and dont help them learn effective coping skills. DBT has gained significant support in the treatment of BPD because of the results it has achieved in several r esearch studies. It has been shown that DBT can be taught to and used by many, but not all, mental health professionals. For the time being this seriously restricts the use of this helpful treatment approach. DBT seeks to validate feelings and problems, but it balances this acceptance by gently pushing to make productive changes. DBT also deals with other opposing or dialectical tensions or conflicts that arise, such as the patients perceived need for a high level of dependence on the therapists, and the fear and guilt aroused by such extreme dependency. DBT combines both cognitive and behavioural techniques and designed specifically to treat BPD. It is a combination of individual psychotherapy and psychosocial skills training that has been shown via controlled clinical trial to be effective in treating individuals with BPD (Linehan, 1993b). One of the most limiting factors of treating and delivering therapies is that there is not enough staff in the NHS trained to a high standard ( NICE 2009). Cunningham (2004) interviewed fourteen women with BPD to discover why and how DBT is effective. The women were provided with tools to help them deal with their problems and so enabled them to to see the disorder as a controllable part of themselves rather than something that controlled them (NICE, 2009). Cunningham (2004) found that although their problems did not disappear, they became more manageable. It also seemed to have encouraging results on their relationship interactions, and, in addition DBT instilled hope and an ability to try to live independently (NICE, 2009) 2.2 Suicidal acts NICE (2009) define suicidal acts as, deliberate; life threatening; resulted in medical attention; medical assessment consistent with suicide attempt. The main problem staff face in managing BPD is suicidal behaviour (Paris Zweig-Frank, 2001). There is also an association between BPD and depression (Skodol et al., 1999; Zanarini et al, 1998), and Solof (2000) adds that the combination of the two disorders increases the number of suicide attempts. People with BPD possibly will take part in a number of negative and reckless behaviours including self-harm, eating disorders and substance misuse. Self-harming in BPD has different meanings to each individual, including relief from feelings and distress, such anger, or to reconnect with feelings after episodes of emptiness (NICE, 2009). Because of the high occurrence of self-harm, the risk of suicide is higher (Cheng et al, 1997), with 60-70% of patients with BPD making suicide attempts at some point in their lives (Oldham, 2006), however, unsuccessful attempts are far more common and the actual rate of completed suicides is estimated at between 8-10%. A specific therapy for BPD, DBT tak es a behavioural approach to self-harm and suicidal acts that include skills training in emotional regulation and validation of client experience (NICE, 2009). Cognitive-behavioural therapy along the lines of Beck, Freeman, Associates (1990) has been investigated in at least two uncontrolled trials. Brown, Newman, Charlesworth, and Chrits-Cristoph (2003) found significant decreases on suicide ideation, hopelessness, depression, number of BPD symptoms, and dysfunctional beliefs after 1 year of cognitive-behavioural therapy for suicidal or self-mutilating patients with BPD. Results were maintained at a 6 months follow-up. Effect sizes were moderate (0.22-0.55). Dropout rate was 9.4%. Arntz (1999a) found positive effects of long-lasting cognitive-behavioural therapy in a mixed sample of personality disorders, including 6 patients with BPD. Two patients with BPD dropped out prematurely, but the other four attained good results. Linehan et al (1991) conducted a randomised controlled trial using 44 chronically parasuicidal women with BPD to assess the effectiveness of DBT. Among the two groups, there was very little difference between measures of depression, hopelessness and suicidal ideation. Overall the group which received DBT had an average of 8.46 inpatient days compared to the controlled group which had 38.86 days. A naturalistic follow up review was conducted on 39 on the women one year later, to determine the effects of DBT. The women that had completed the DBT course had fewer parasuicidal episodes, but after 18-24 months there were no significant differences between the two groups, although psychiatric inpatient days were still lower for the DBT group. Rathus et al. (2002) went on to conduct a study with a group of 111 suicidal teenagers. 29 were assigned to DBT, while the other 82 had treatment as usual (TAU). It is worth mentioning that the DBT group had far more severe symptoms pre-treatment. The study therefore was not randomised. During the 12 week treatment, the DBT group had fewer inpatient hospitalisations, although the number of suicide attempts made during the treatment did not differ between the groups, but, the attendance and completion was higher in the DBT group. A smaller case study was conducted by Hengeveld et al (1996); he reported of 9 female patients who were given a 10 week course of CBT, they had all attempted suicide at least twice. Of the 9 women, four of those were diagnosed with BPD. Following up the women 10 months later, by phone or examining medical records, all four BPD patients had reports of further suicide attempts (NICE, 2009). Linehan et al. (2006) conducted a one-year randomized controlled trial with one year of post-treatment follow up. The objective was to evaluate the hypothesis that unique aspects of DBT are more efficacious compared to treatment offered by non-behavioural psychotherapy experts. The study included 101 female participants with recent suicidal and self-injurious behaviours that met DSM-IV criteria. The subjects who received DBT were half as likely to make a suicide attempt. 2.3 Self-harm NICE guidelines (2009) use the definition that self-harm is self-poisoning or self-injury, irrespective of the apparent purpose of the act. Self-harm BPD is connected with a range of diverse meanings for the individual, including release from distress and feelings, such as emptiness and anger, and to reconnect with feelings after an episode of dissociation (NICE, 2009). There have been positive attitudes from patients about DBT, as it has helped improve their ability to control their emotions, improves their relationships and significantly reduces the occurrence of self-harm (NICE, 2009). In a large sample, Tyrer et al (2003) found that CBT was equivalent to TAU for the treatment of recurrent self-harm and noted that this method was less effective for patients with BPD. In an uncontrolled study by Brown (2004), patients with BPD with self-harming tendencies received CBT over 12 months; they then stayed in contact with them by phone over the next 6 months. Therapists were on call to emergency phone calls throughout. A randomised controlled study by Verheul et al (2003) was carried out to compare DBT with TAU for patients with BPD, 58 women received treatment for a year were randomised to DBT or TAU. The results: the 12 month attrition rate (37%) for DBT was substantially lower, compared to TAU (77%); DBT treatment also resulted in a large reduction of self-harming behaviours than TAU. A follow up review of this study was carried out by Van den Bosch et al (2005), to ascertain whether the previous results were continued over the following 6 months. It was discovered that the benefits of DBT after the treatment were sustained, and levels of self-harm were lower. It must be said, however, that the definitions of self-harm were all slightly different in each of the RCTs, this can make it very difficult to compare results (NICE, 2009). Another case study series by Alper (2001), presents data on 15 women in a forensic setting, with a diagnosis of BPD. Nurses in the hospital carried out the DBT, and over 4 weeks there was a significant reduction in the occurrence of self-harm. Alper (2001) also carried out qualitative interviews with the nurses to describe how they felt about the treatment, they were all very positive. Bateman Tryer (2004) state that the extensive implementation of DBT is a acknowledgment of its founder, Marsha Linehan, with its mixture of acceptance and change, skills training, manualisation, and an opinion that is willing to embrace this comprehensive approach (NICE, 2009). The evidence strength though, is not justified, however (Tyrer, 2002b), and answers about the long-term success of this therapy as a treatment for BPD are premature. In view of the fact that the original trial, which was handicapped by many methodological limitations, there has only been one study that supports the findings clearly, which was that of Verheul et al (2003) (NICE, 2009). 2.4 Non-engagement For effective treatment, commitment to therapy is required, and research shows that fewer people drop out of DBT than other therapies (Verheul et al 2003) Haigh (2003) interviewed service users and according to them the services could be improved if staff recognised and accepted that BPD can be treated; they felt a more positive experience at their preliminary referral would aid further engagement with services; therapeutic relationship endings were dealt with effectively; and when signs of improvement are observed, services should not be removed immediately, as this tends to raise anxiety and discourage future progression (NICE, 2009). Hodgetts et al (2007) studied five people with BPD. The participants were told that DBT was the only treatment for BPD. This raised expectations and anxieties in the service users. Some preferred the structure of DBT, but others would have preferred a more flexible treatment that is adjusted to each individuals needs. Service users each felt differently about individual therapy and group therapy. One participant dropped out of therapy as she found the challenges too much to deal with. The same lady reported that she was turned away from the crisis team as she was already involved in the DBT group; this was another reason for her departure. All of the participants in this study found that the therapeutic relationship is essential, also they appreciated the importance of collaborative working and sharing their experiences (NICE, 2009). Other studies have reported quite high drop out rates from CBT, for example up to 37% (Verheul et al, 2003). It is probable that some patients did not engage because they did not find the therapy useful, but ratings from patients who had at least five sessions of CBT suggest that both the patients and therapists view the experience of therapy to have been a positive one. Even so, some patients simply did not attend. Chapter 3 Discussion and Conclusion This research project has tried to look at research evidence on the efficacy CBT and DBT in the management of Borderline Personality Disorder. This work has been done using the NICE Guideline (2009) as the definitive text. This is because this guideline is main reference document in clinical practice. Borderline Personality Disorder is one of the most challenging entities for todays therapist; in fact, this category originated as a repository for patients who fail to improve with ordinary treatment methods and whose particular pathology is most likely to provoke a negative emotional reaction in the therapist. Comfort and effectiveness in the treatment of BPD implies mastery both of ones own emotions and of therapeutic techniques in general. It is not realistic to expect success in every case, and successful treatments are usually long and stormy. Because the BPD diagnosis have common characteristics with schizophrenia, psychoses, anxiety and depression, Gunderson (2001) believes it to be a wastebasket diagnosis, which lacks diagnostic accuracy and strength, and so would only be useful to service users that did not fall into other diagnostic types. It is thought that BPD has responded badly to the treatments, and a lot of health professionals also unfortunately, believe this to be true (Friedel 2004). It seems that overall the non-RCT outcomes suggest that individual therapies are more suitable to people with BPD. Positive outcomes were shown generally, these need to be compared to the RCTs before definite conclusions can be made (NICE, 2009). It seems that the evidence base is fairly poor for therapies of BPD, the studies are minimal, the number of patients are low and the outcomes too numerous, with very little commonalities between studies (NICE, 2009) Giesen-Bloo et al (2006) are critical of DBT, stating that it fails to reduce core symptoms related to deeper personality change. The most difficult problem is that DBT is resource-intensive and expensive. Where it is available, there are usually long waiting lists. However, DBT is the treatment of choice for individuals experiencing severe impulse and self-harming behaviours. 3.1 Strengths and limitations of the review Having never done a substantial piece of work before, I did not realise the amount of work required to achieve it. I was aware of how to narrow down a search, which was needed due to vast amount of information available, but the confusion came as I particularly wanted to look at standard CBT for BPD, which very little research has been done. There was far more research for DBT, and so I decided I would explore this t

The structure of memory Essay -- Technology, Multi-store Model

Introduction Prior research into the structure of memory have suggested that memory is comprised up from three separate stores each performing a specific and relatively inflexible function (in Passer, Smith, Holt, Bremner, Sutherland, & Vliek, 2009). That is the multi-store model, developed by Atkinson & Shiffrin (1968 in Passer et al., 2009) who claim a sensory memory store, short-term memory store (STM) and a long-term memory store (LTM) (in Passer et al., 2009). Although to some, the multi store model provided an adequate explanation of memory processes, it was regarded as being too simplistic since short-term and long- term memories were far more complicated than originally thought (in Craik & Lockhart, 1972). In essence, the multi-store model stresses the importance of rehearsal to long term memory. While rehearsal is crucial as a means of transferring information from the STM to the LTM, this is not necessarily always the case (in Atkinson & Shiffrin, 1968 in Passer et al., 2009). To this , sceptics challenged the idea of information being transferred from the STM to the LTM by active rehearsal since subsequent research has indicated that information had the potential to be stored in the LTM without it being actively rehearsed (in Atkinson & Shiffrin, 1968). In response to the difficulties and weaknesses presented in the multi-store model, an alternative model attempting to explain memory processes in a more precise manner was developed by Craik & Lockhart (1972 in Craik & Lockhart, 1972). Their theory of levels of processing proposes that different methods of encoding information into the memory will subsequently have an effect on recollection of information (in Craik & Lockhart, 1972). According to the levels of process... ...rformance. For example, Craik & Lockhart (1972) found that individuals who processed information at a semantic level produced better recalls followed by acoustic processing and then visual processing being the least effective in terms of remembering. The results fundamentally imply that engaging in semantic processing tends to yield higher levels of memory performance compared to acoustic and visual processing thus reflecting the findings of Craik & Lockhart’s (1972) and that memory was enhanced more by depth of processing rather than how long information was rehearsed for as previously pointed out by the multi-store model. It also showed a greater amount of recall for deeply processed words than for shallowly processed words. In addition, the study also revealed that the effect appeared to be stronger for the ‘True’ responses that for the ‘False’ responses.

Segmentation of Music Industry

Music industry Segmentaion When attempting to segment a particular consumer base or population by personality or motivation, one must consider what personality traits the consumers posses. Of course there are serveral ways to group together personalities ex (fashionable, innovative, extroverted, etc). I have chosen to use Karen Horney’s theory of three personality groups for segmentation of the music consumer market. Karen Horney states that people can be grouped into three personalities; compliance, aggression and withdrawl.Since music consumers can be an almost entire population, it would be a good idea to segment this population into three broad groups. The first personality group, compliance, is can be defined as people who move toward others. This group has a need for affection and approval and a need to be liked by others. The complaint personality consumer would tend to veer toward popular current music or popular music within a certain genre. This is the consumer who w ould be listening to Justin Timberlake and Lady GaGa when they are at their peak.They would be drawn toward the â€Å"summer hits†, toward the songs that are played at clubs and they dance to with their friends. In terms of music consumers, they might be seen as between the ages of 10-40, and this is a very big market withing the music consumer industry. The second personality group, aggression, are considered those who go ahaist toher. This group has a need for power and for control over others. They have the need to be heard by others and fear of seeming stupid. This personality group would be the ones who view themselves as against the popular music, against very popular groups and singers.Maybe they would chose music with a bit more of an edge, harder rock, rap and hip hop music. Finally, the third personality group is knows as detached, and they move away from others. Consumers in this group have a need for self-sufficiency and independence and do not need to rely on any one. These are the consumers of many independent bands and singers, who see themselves as going against the grain and against society. Once the consumer base has been segmented into personality groups, it is easier to target each of these groups. Many artists and bands can be advertised in such a way that they can appeal to each of these groups.On the retail level, where consumers are in direct contact with the music industry, there are so many opportunities for consumption, ranging from digital/physical music and concert tickets to festival passes, ringtones, merchandise, clothing lines, band donations and nonprofit initiatives. For instance, when targeting the compliant personality consumer, would be easier to advertise towards since they are very conscious and respondent to others tastes. So, when promoting a new album of Adele toward this group, we would be very insistent with her new songs in all settings.Her songs would be played on all major radio stations, promoted in clubs and bars, and also promoted within social networking which has now become an extrememly important word-of-mouth marketing technique. Now, while reaching out to the detached personality consumer, we would use a different marketing approach. Since these consumers are the ones who are geared more toward indepndent music and anything that is specifically not main stream, there needs to be a careful marketing approach done so that they are unaware they are being advertised too. One idea could be promoting smaller, more intimate shows at local record stores.Also, encouraging these fans to support their local record stores instead of retail chains like Wal-Mart and Best Buy. Since music sales have shifted toward digital downloading mediums, they could reach this consuemer base throught there as well. Another possible tactic could be to create album covers that visual appeal to this consumer base, maybe a loan aritist or a band in darker shades or seperated from society somehow, to appeal d irectiy to this personality base. Finally, the third peronality consumer group is that of aggression. A more tactful approach must be taken when advertising to this market segment.

Free Essays on Shamanism

Within Native American groups, shamans are considered to be ritual specialists. The word shaman literally means, â€Å"one who is excited, moved or raised.† Shamans are intermediaries between the spirit and ordinary world. When Native Americans were first moved off of their lands and put into reservations, Europeans did not really want anything to do with their religious practices. Many were even banned by the Europeans. Now, however, with the rise in popularity of new age religions, many Americans are taking an interest in Native American religious practices without fully understanding their implications. The only real similarities between traditional Native American shamanism and the newfound plastic medicine man practices are the actions performed. The vision quests performed by both may be very similar, involving the same actions. This is the same with the sweat lodge ceremonies. The problem is that the new age interpretations of shamanism do not fully address all of the implications of the ceremonies. For example, at www.shamanicvisions.com, there is a page devoted to the songs used during ceremonies. The songs themselves should not be the focus of the ceremonies. As found with Native American shamanism, the ceremonies had less to do with the songs themselves, but more to do with their context and meaning. This website seems to focus more on the songs and instruments used, rather than their spiritual meaning when used during a ceremony. Another ridiculous section at www.shamanicvisions.com is the recognition of Winnie the Pooh having â€Å"shamanic undertones.† One example the author of the webpage uses to explain this was that Winnie the Pooh had a boat called â€Å"The Floating Bear.† I can easily see why this would offend Native Americans. Shamanism should not be treated so lightheartedly. I found www.shamanschool.com equally as offensive as the previous site. The first page contains a banner stating, â€Å"Need help with angry b... Free Essays on Shamanism Free Essays on Shamanism Within Native American groups, shamans are considered to be ritual specialists. The word shaman literally means, â€Å"one who is excited, moved or raised.† Shamans are intermediaries between the spirit and ordinary world. When Native Americans were first moved off of their lands and put into reservations, Europeans did not really want anything to do with their religious practices. Many were even banned by the Europeans. Now, however, with the rise in popularity of new age religions, many Americans are taking an interest in Native American religious practices without fully understanding their implications. The only real similarities between traditional Native American shamanism and the newfound plastic medicine man practices are the actions performed. The vision quests performed by both may be very similar, involving the same actions. This is the same with the sweat lodge ceremonies. The problem is that the new age interpretations of shamanism do not fully address all of the implications of the ceremonies. For example, at www.shamanicvisions.com, there is a page devoted to the songs used during ceremonies. The songs themselves should not be the focus of the ceremonies. As found with Native American shamanism, the ceremonies had less to do with the songs themselves, but more to do with their context and meaning. This website seems to focus more on the songs and instruments used, rather than their spiritual meaning when used during a ceremony. Another ridiculous section at www.shamanicvisions.com is the recognition of Winnie the Pooh having â€Å"shamanic undertones.† One example the author of the webpage uses to explain this was that Winnie the Pooh had a boat called â€Å"The Floating Bear.† I can easily see why this would offend Native Americans. Shamanism should not be treated so lightheartedly. I found www.shamanschool.com equally as offensive as the previous site. The first page contains a banner stating, â€Å"Need help with angry b...

Scandinavian Airlines and Lufthansa Essays

Scandinavian Airlines and Lufthansa Essays Scandinavian Airlines and Lufthansa Essay Scandinavian Airlines and Lufthansa Essay Lufthansa: Going Global, but How to Manage Complexity Strayer University Business Administration Capstone – BUS 499 #004016 September 5, 2010 Describe the type of international strategy the company has chosen. An international strategy is a strategy through which the firm sells its goods or services outside its domestic market (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson, 2009). Lufthansa tends to follow a transnational strategy that will help grow the company internationally and in their own country. Since the September 11 terrorist attacks airlines have been struggling to stay in business. The fear that passengers have is slowing diminishing but it is still affecting the airlines. Airlines have been forced to enforce many regulations and fees adding to their financial struggle. With any international strategy comes a risk. Lufthansa seems to have managed to survive many risks all while being one of three airlines where their debt is to the point of bankruptcy if they have not started it already. Since mergers are illegal across country boarders the response from Lufthansa was an alliance with Star Alliance (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson). Star Alliance is an alliance that is made up of a partnership amongst several airlines, in an effort to offset costs and create value. The alliance has been a constant balancing act. The alliance was done to help reduce Lufthansa’s debt but has come with many challenges in managing the alliance with Star Alliance. The plan was to increase the revenue side of Star Alliance by keeping passengers’ loyalty to fly with them. Since the late 1999, Lufthansa has been running according to the value –based management. The aim of the value-based management approach applies to all planning, steering and monitoring processes in order to achieve a purposeful, long-term and continuous increase in enterprise value in investor’ and lenders interest (Lufthansa Investor Relations). Explain what means the company has used to expand internationally The biggest move that Lufthansa has done to expand internationally and help reduce their debt and increase revenue was to join with Star Alliance. Star Alliance is a group alliance with Lufthansa and airlines like Air Canada, United and SAS Scandinavian Airlines, just to name a few. They are a good option for intercontinental business travel. The alliance helps to reduce costs by coordinated flight schedules, have common lounges and baggage handling. Lufthansa has a few more cost saving strategies in place. While it does affect their employees, they have a cost saving structure resulting from slightly lower wages, they have smaller planes adjusted to the traffic density a reduced services level, an operating base in second-tier airports, and point-to-point-services so that the on time in the air is greater for â€Å"network† airplanes (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson, 2009). They have also restored antique planes. Lufthansa has some of the newest built planes in their fleet but the rebuilt airplane is for the airplane enthusiast. Enthusiasts wait months and pay C259 ($400. 00) for a bumpy hour long ride on a 1936 Junkers-52 propeller plane (Lufthansa’s Labor of Love). To ensure safety of the passengers the planes are re-built every winter. Identify and describe the elements and objectives of Lufthansa’s cooperative strategy A cooperative strategy is a strategy in which firms work together to achieve a shared objective (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson, 2009). The alliance that Lufthansa has with Star Alliance is almost by definition a cooperative strategy. The airlines that are in the alliance are all working together to cut costs and develop and grow each of their own airlines. The alliance is a partnership that works for all involved to include the right to leave the alliance. Lufthansa is the leading member in the Star Alliance (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson). Lufthansa’s value-based management adds viable recognition of cooperative strategy. Lufthansa has a joint venture with Star Alliance that gives Lufthansa strength in its network in the transatlantic traffic. These networks have been used to gain the shared objectives of those in the alliance. Describe the uncertainties and challenges related to operating beyond the company’s national boundaries Having a stable airline is the key to a successful airline. If the airlines in the Star Alliance are not stable they will lose their place in the market. Many think of Lufthansa as the leader and integrator, because the biggest member, United Airlines, was preoccupied for more then three years with emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy procedures in the United States. With United Airlines otherwise occupied, Lufthansa was driving the revenue side thus implemented through â€Å"code sharing† leading to higher utilization of planes and infrastructure and sometimes economies of scale in purchasing and sales (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson). One of the biggest challenges that Lufthansa, actually all airlines, are dealing with is global warming. This is something that most businesses do not need to think about. Airlines claim 3 percent of carbon dioxide comes from the air traffic but because of the higher altitude of the planes they number is rapidly growing and by 2020 the emission from air traffic might increase by 20 percent (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson). Describe the potential risks of cooperative strategies The decision to be involved in a cooperative strategy is a risk in itself. You are trusting other firms to work with you in order to accomplish mutual goals of financial and organizational stability. One risk is the risk of trust. There is always a risk of one of the firms becoming involved in unethical practices for their own selfish gain. The firms have to trust that the alliance they have developed is based on productive and positive motives. The firms involved in the alliance have to be in it for the good times and bad. Another risk is the entrepreneurial risk. If any of the partners is not making available resources, that can not only bring down that company but it can bring down the value of the alliance. The purpose of the alliance was to develop services and products that would be productive to the alliance. Explain the use of organizational structure and controls to effectively support Lufthansa’s strategy. An organizational structure specifies the firm’s formal reporting relationships, procedures, controls and authority, and decision making processes and organizational controls guide the use of strategy, indicate how to compare actual results with expected results, and suggest corrective actions to take when difference is unacceptable (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson, 2009). In any business organizational structure and controls are important. Organizational structure develops a chain of command making everyone involved responsible. Lufthansa is no different. Lufthansa is part of the organizational structure of Star Alliance. The formal organization has the CEO who is in charge of legal, HR/Training and finance and strategy and then the corporate office who runs commercial, products and services, loyalty marketing and information technology (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson). Lufthansa at one point had an integrated corporation and now has six business lines. The business lines are related in the area of shared products and markets and help develop their economies of scale. Their executive board is responsible for managing the company and their goal is growth and adding value. Corporate Profile, 2009) Describe what strategic leadership actions should be recommended for developing human capital at Lufthansa. Human capital refers to the knowledge and skills of a firm’s entire workforce (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson, 2009). Human capital is the most important aspect in a business. Any business will essentially fail if t hey do not take time to invest time and energy into improving their employees. Lufthansa should continue to invest time in developing and training staff and the management teams to ensure that they have the highest knowledge and the best developed skills. This will not only help Lufthansa but it will help the alliance because of all the changes, additions of the partnerships and acquisitions. It is important for Lufthansa’s strategic leadership to create a positive culture for the continued training and development to build continued success. The investment of building development programs not only build knowledge and skills but it motives employees to want to learn, it can boost internal core values and morals and promotes Lufthansa vision and organizational goals. Lufthansa is operating in a very diverse area with being part of the Star Alliance. It is important for them to develop their employees to fit the needs of the alliance as well as Lufthansa. Describe what strategic leadership actions should be recommended for establishing an effective organizational culture at Lufthansa. Having a strong and positive organizational culture is important to any business. An Organizational culture consists of a complex set of ideologies, symbols, and core values that are shared throughout the firm and influence the way business is conducted (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson, 2009). Lufthansa used to be known for a strong culture based on pride, the positive image of the company in Germany, its reputation for engineering excellence and ongoing training and educational activities. However, in 2001 there was a pilots strike that showed the changes within the company and the unhappiness of the employees toward the company was not as good as they thought. The management teams should make sure they are fully aware of the diversity within the segments of the business. They need to make sure they are communicating any messages, training or even promotions to fit the different cultural diversities within Lufthansa. All the employees should be involved in solutions to problems, to include the discovery of them, within their core position. It is also necessary for the leadership to make sure they are leading by example not just in working but in ethical practices. It is the leadership’s responsibility to encourage all employees on all levels to follow their lead. Improving an organization’s culture will do nothing but increase the company’s value and the opinion of its employees; from simply an employee working for a paycheck, to an employee who feels they have worth. The employees then will want to invest time and energy into the company. Describe what strategic leadership actions should be recommended for promoting an entrepreneurial mind-set at Lufthansa. Lufthansa main goal, like any other business, is to maintain financial discipline and health. Because of the crisis from 2001-2004, the gearing increased from 36 percent in 2000 to 85. 4 percent in 2005 and because of that the operating goals are dominant and Lufthansa has learned to focus its cost cutting on the cash flow impact (Hitt, Ireland Hoskisson, 2009). Lufthansa should continue to lead by allowing its acquisitions to keep their identities and brand but operate with limited control. Investing in developing their training of their staff and managers will help in maintaining that financial discipline by having well rounded and educated employees who will limit the mistakes they could be making without the knowledge and training. It is important for Lufthansa to have an entrepreneurial mindset to gain the advantage over its competitors and even for keeping the lead within Star Alliance. With Lufthansa having an entrepreneurial mindset they are showing that they are a committed business that will focus on gaining financial growth and developing more and stronger value to the business. They should be involved in strategic entrepreneurship and focus on opportunities in the external environment of the business. They should make sure that all the segments have the means to grow innovatively and reward them when success is apparent. Lufthansa is one of the world’s largest airlines with 424 aircrafts and 39,500 employees. They transport approximately 55. 5 million passengers every year; they have sales revenue of 39. 1 billion dollars and have been a member of Star Alliance since May 1997 (Lufthansa a Star Alliance Member). This all shows the current success of Lufthansa and that their entrepreneurial mind set is going in the correct and positive direction. Describe what strategic leadership actions should be recommended for reducing complexity at Lufthansa. It is important for Lufthansa to have knowledge of all the segments in the division’s internal operations. Top management must stay well versed in global economics with the fluctuating prices of oil, the competition, and increasing no-frills airlines. Because of the alliance with Star Alliance they have pushed themselves into the center of the world of complexity. It will be important for them to keep a well rounded culture by having diversity in top management to include females in top positions. The top management team must have knowledge of their European counterparts in order to stay on top. Not only will top management have to deal with the complexity but they will have to work hard to remain a part of the world’s leading airline. The top management team can be used to make strategic decisions along with CEO and ensure that the decisions are followed not by just the employees but by members of top management. Maintaining the knowledge and training that Lufthansa had developed is a must. Because of the high priced competitive market, Lufthansa’s segments will need different cost structures and support financially. They will need to monitor the acquisitions, partnership and alliances to make sure that there are no unnecessary expenses and that no one is being non-productive. References Corporate Profile (2009), Retrieved September 3, 2010 from lufthansa- cargo. com/content. jsp? path=0,1,19142,91382,99001 Hitt, M. , Ireland, D. R. Hoskisson, R. E. 2009), Strategic Management: Competitiveness and Globalization, Concepts and Cases. Ohio: Cengage Learning. Lufthansa a Star Alliance Member (2010), Retrieved September 3, 2010 from staralliance. com/en/about/airlines/lufthansa/ Lufthansa Investor Relations (2009), Retrieved August 24, 2010 from http://investor- relations. lufthansa. com/en/fakten-zum-unternehmem/group-strategy. html Michaels, D. (2008). Lufthansa’s Labor of Love: Restoring Some Really Old Junkers, Retrieved August 25, 2010from http://online. wsj. com/article/SB121357457537975947. html? mod=hps_us_inside_today

Muslim Women in Medieval Spain Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 1

Muslim Women in Medieval Spain - Essay Example wholly foreign race professing a strongly hostile religion took over the country, a totally alien language became the official tongue, a completely novel culture was imposed on the population. Entire sections of the peasantry and the urban à ©lite deserted their Catholic faith and embraced Islam. By the tenth century the territory called Al-Andalus was a country with a solid Muslim majority, and had become the single most powerful and civilized state in western Europe. The Moorish state was never so integrated or unified that it crushed out the cultures that had preceded it (Collins 43). None the less, Islamic culture itself became so imbedded in the Hispanic mentality that it ceased to be alien and became an ineffaceable and authentic part of peninsular history. In Medieval Spain women obtained an important role and had more rights and freedoms in contrast to Christian women and their position in society. In Medieval Spain, the subjected Christian population was usually treated with the limited religious tolerance customary to Islam. Occasional persecution was matched by outbreaks of religious zeal on the part of the conquered. Those who held fast to their faith were called Mozarabs, Christian in belief but Arabized in culture and language. Their numbers, however, shrank, and their faith itself became diluted with novel beliefs and heresies. Many were attracted by the higher quality of Islamic culture. The principal episcopal see, Toledo, once the Visigothic capital, found itself isolated as the sees of the Christian north freed themselves from its jurisdiction. Despite these drawbacks, Mozarabism remained a vitally important phenomenon (Carr 64). It represented a profound dialogue between Muslim and Christian civilization, and retained enough of an identity to prepare the way for an eventual re, conversion of the lands which the Muslims had made their own. Dillard (1993): â€Å"The settlement charters, drawn up by king or count to attract settlers who would defend

Personal statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 22

Personal Statement Example I am registered for an accounting course and I plan to continue with the area of specialization. My desire for a high-level competence and my long-term passion for accounting motivate my application for the transfer. My uncle, who was a chief accounting officer, inspired my dreams to pursue accounting because of his financial and social success that I desired to have. The stories that he told us about the profession and its associated social status captured my interest into the subject. I have therefore had the passion for accounting and this has contributed to my desire for the transfer, into better qualifications. Completing a four-year program will also offer me a better opportunity for advancing my studies in the field. Reputation that your institution has, its qualified academic staff, its resources for research, and its favorable environment for studies are my main reasons for applying for a transfer to the University. These will help me to complete the program within the stipulated period. My application for a transfer to your institution is based on both intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors. This guarantees my success in the program, if granted the opportunity, and I look forward to your kind