Ai - Edge Of Excellence Essays - Artificial Intelligence

Ai - Edge Of Excellence Essays - Artificial Intelligence Ai - Edge Of Excellence Running head: The Edge of Excellence The Edge of Excellence Kathleen P. Munn Community College of Philadelphia Recently, the media has spent an increasing amount of broadcast time on new technology. The focus of high-tech media has been aimed at the flurry of advances concerning artificial intelligence (AI). What is artificial intelligence and what is the media talking about? Are these technologies beneficial to our society or mere novelties among business and marketing professionals? Medical facilities, police departments, and manufacturing plants have all been changed by AI but how? These questions and many others are the concern of the general public brought about by the lack of education concerning rapidly advancing computer technology. Artificial intelligence is defined as the ability of a machine to think for itself. Scientists and theorists continue to debate if computers will actually be able to think for themselves at one point (Patterson 7). The generally accepted theory is that computers do and will think more in the future. AI has grown rapidly in the last ten years chiefly because of the advances in computer architecture. The term artificial intelligence was actually coined in 1956 by a group of scientists having their first meeting on the topic (Patterson 6). Early attempts at AI were neural networks modeled after the ones in the human brain. Success was minimal at best because of the lack of computer technology needed to calculate such large equations. AI is achieved using a number of different methods. The more popular implementations comprise neural networks, chaos engineering, fuzzy logic, knowledge based systems, and expert systems. Using any one of the aforementioned design structures requires a specialized computer system. For example, Anderson Consulting applies a knowledge based system to commercial loan officers using multimedia (Hedburg 121). Their system requires a fast IBM desktop computer. Other systems may require even more horsepower using exotic computers or workstations. Even more exotic is the software that is used. Since there are very few applications that are pre-written using AI, each company has to write it's own software for the solution to the problem. An easier way around this obstacle is to design an add-on. Neural networks have entered the spotlight with surprisingly successful results. A neural network is a type of information processing system whose architecture is similar to the structure of biological neural systems (Butler and Caudill 5). The neural network tries to mimic the way a brain and nervous system work by analyzing sensory inputs and calculating an outcome. Before it can be used a neural network must be trained. Some can learn by themselves, some require training by doing, and others learn by trial and error. A computer learns by naturally associating items the computer is taught and grouping them together physically. Additionally, a computer can retrieve stored information from incomplete or partially incorrect clues. Neural networks are able to generalize categories based on specifics of the contents. Lastly, it is highly fault tolerant. This means that the network can sustain a large amount of damage and still function. This type of system is inherently an excellent des ign for any application that requires little human intervention and that must learn on the go. Created by Lotfi Zadeh almost thirty years ago, fuzzy logic is a mathematical system that deals with imprecise descriptions, such as new, nice, or large (Schmuller 14). This concept was also inspired from biological roots. The inherent vagueness in everyday life motivates fuzzy logic systems (Schmuller 8). In contrast to the usual yes and no answers, this type of system can distinguish the shades in-between. This system provides a smart light that can decide whether a traffic light should be changed more often or remain green longer. In order for these smart lights to work the system assigns a value to an input and analyzes all the inputs at once. Those inputs that have the highest value get the highest amount of attention. Another promising arena of AI is chaos engineering. The chaos theory is the cutting-edge mathematical discipline aimed at making sense of the ineffable and finding order among seemingly random events (Weiss 138). The theory came to life in 1963 at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Edward Lorenz, who was frustrated with

Capitonyms Are Separate Cases

Capitonyms Are Separate Cases Capitonyms Are Separate Cases Capitonyms Are Separate Cases By Mark Nichol Some words, in a class called capitonyms, have distinct meanings or senses when they are capitalized as opposed to generic senses. Writers should take care to render these words as appropriate to the context. Among capitonyms are several words denoting astronomical bodies. For example, one writes that Earth is orbited by the Moon and in turn orbits the Sun. However, when we refer to the surface soil of that planet, or employ an idiom such as â€Å"down to earth,† the proper form is earth. Likewise, if we write about the planet’s satellite or the star around which our world orbits, but from the terrestrial perspective, we generally lowercase the names for example, â€Å"The moon is full tonight† and â€Å"The sun passed behind the clouds.† (References to moons and suns beyond our solar system are also lowercased.) Geographical capitonyms include arctic, often capitalized in reference to Earth’s northern regions but generic when referring to cold temperature or mood (Antarctic, by contrast, is generally styled as a proper noun), and alpine, which is capitalized only in reference to the Alps, in Europe. In politics, such words as democratic, republican, conservative, liberal, socialist, and communist, generic references to concepts of political thought that serve as nouns and adjectives, are capitalized when referring to a political organization or a member of such an organization. The treatment of god depends on whether one refers to a deity in general or to that of the Abrahamic religions (Christianity, Islam, and Judaism). In philosophical or religious contexts, words for qualities such as truth and beauty are often capitalized to signal the significance of the conceptual connotation. Another religious term that may or may not be capitalized is mass, referring to a religious ceremony. It is often capitalized when referring to a specific religious ceremony (for example, â€Å"High Mass†) but is lowercased in generic references to such events (â€Å"He performed several masses†), as is the word when it refers to the unrelated meaning of physical phenomena. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Spelling category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:25 Subordinating Conjunctions"Owing to" vs "Due to"Shore It Up

Economic Article Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Economic Article Analysis - Essay Example Formerly, most of the economic analysts opined that crude oil stock might fall by 600,000 barrels over the last week of August 2009. But eventually it dropped by 200,000 barrels less than the expected level1. In a sharp contrast the gasoline inventories experienced an alarming decline of 3 million barrels. However the recession ridden US economy, which were experiencing a falling fuel demand over the past one-year, breathed a shy of relief in terms of a marginal increase for the same. It is obvious when crude oil stock fell to a less than expected level and gasoline stock fell to a more than expected standard, therefore in reverse terms, crude oil draw would be less than that of gasoline. This fact has been rightly pointed out by Phil Flynn, analyst for PFGBest Research in Chicago, the Energy Information Administration (EIA). He further observed that a bullish demand for gasoline neutralizes a bearish crude oil demand. We have observed over the last one-year what immense effect a fal l in effective demand for a commodity can have on its price level. For instance, in less than 6 months (from July 2008 to December, 2008) crude oil price experienced almost 78 percent drop. Thoughtfully an expected fight back of the economy from the abyss of recession perhaps generated some kind of positive demand boost for fuel in general (although slower than expected)2 and thereafter (December, 2008 onwards) might have made some positive price adjustments. The relation between recession and dampening price of fuel might be logically illustrated as follows – recession implies declining production, falling economic activities, that is, industrial, tertiary and primary sector related activities. All these activities use fuel as a source of energy and decline in such activities leads to decline in fuel consumption, resulting in less demand and hence fall in price3. However on one

Reflection Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 8

Reflection Paper - Essay Example Not only the form of the art, but also the way art is expressed, tells us a lot about the country’s history and culture. Through art, we come to know about the societal life of the country. The way art is portrayed, the actors, the kind of humor or seriousness the art holds, everything contains in it a certain message that the person takes with him on his way to home. For example, film is one form of art. For example, American films talk about a lot of different cultural aspects of the country. Hollywood movies talk about racism, which shows that the society of USA is affected by the harmful aspect of racism. Films, like â€Å"Crash† by Paul Haggis portray the issues of race and gender. Hollywood films are also famous for their action-adventure and catastrophe movies like â€Å"2012† which shows that the American culture focuses on the artistic use of science, history and archeology, to produce an amazing work of

Case study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 103

Case Study Example While Genzyme’s focus on orphan drugs can be questioned, on the face of it, this decision was a pragmatic one as is also substantiated by the tangible success of the company. Owing to its production of drugs for rare diseases it was easier for the company to target its markets, although essentially smaller than those for the widely-needed drugs, more systematically and sustainably. Moreover its focus on orphan drugs also made it possible for the company to accrue full benefits of tax breaks and market exclusivity contained in the Orphan Drug Act introduced by FDA in 1983 thus multiplying the chances of Genzyme’s domination of the already-limited orphan drugs’ market. As far as the strategic intent of Genzyme is concerned the company it’s a long term one as is being depicted by the company’s diversification of the drugs it produces. In addition to its focus on orphan drugs it is also producing common drugs so as to secure its share of the bigger markets too which can ensure accruing continued profit by the company and hence further cement its position in the pharmaceutical industry. Although Genzyme is actively pursuing diversification of its market through production of common drugs too the company should retain its focus on orphan drugs as the incidence of rare diseases such as certain kidney disorders and forms of cancer, whose cure is offered by the orphan drugs, is continually on the rise. Moreover, as the company’s exemplary success testifies to the latent practicality of its decision of focusing on orphan drugs it should take steps towards further specialized areas of medicine and medical technology so as to sustain its distinct position in the industry rather than plunging into the arena of common medicine characterized by fierce competition. Moreover if the company works towards integration of modern medical technology with its products it can add to the breadth of its market further. In

List of Fashion Designers and Brands

List of Fashion Designers and Brands Alexander McQueen Alexander McQueen has made his mark as one of the most respected designers in the world. The stamp of his creations lies in his integration of contrasting elements: fragility and strength, tradition and modernity, fluidity and severity. This love to create blends was extended to his perfume range as well. Angel Schlesser Spanish fashion designer Angel Schlesser has an extensive range in his brand which started with clothing for urban women and grew to carpet designs, perfumes, jewellery and even wine label designing. In the late 90s the brand launched its perfume and bath line for women which received instant approval in local and international market. Anna Sui International designer Anna Suis love for fashion started in early childhood. She designed her own clothes and clipped fashion magazine pages to serve as inspirations. In 1999, Sui launched her signature fragrance and cosmetic line. In October 1997, Anna Sui signed a fragrance licensing deal with Wella AG of Germany to develop a signature fragrance. Banana Republic Banana Republic is an American lifestyle brand. The brand is all about individualistic, classic style with a modern twist of unexpected details and surprising elements. Quality and authenticity stretches to every aspect of the brand, from its clothing to its perfume. Banana Republic fragrances are heavily influenced by the intrigue and mysticism of exploration and travel. Bench Bench, british urban lifestyle brand, originated in the 80s as a niche tee shirt brand creating pieces inspired by BMX biking and the world of skate boarding. The Bench fragrances look sleek and timeless but still encapsulate the urban spirit of the brand. Bench for Her and Bench for Him are the signature fragrances. Benetton Benetton is amongst the most popular brands in the world. It has a wide range to offer in terms of clothing, accessories and perfumes. Benetton has a casual feel about itself. On the same lines, its perfumes are soothing and smooth, making those best suited for everyday wear. Boucheron The group of Boucheron belongs to the Italian family of gold and silversmiths. Founded in 1858 by Andrea Boucheron, the famed jewelry company entered the world of perfume in 1988. With perfume, as with jewels, Boucheron reveals in bringing out hidden treasures of nature and highlight their unique elements to create masterpieces. Britney Spears Britney Jean Spears is a singer/actor born in 1981. She released her debut album titled Baby One More Time. Super success of the album made her a pop icon. She took forward her star status by endorsing her brand of perfumes. She launched her first perfume (Curious) in 2004 in alliance with Elizabeth Arden. Bugatti Bugatti means supremacy in terms of perfection, luxury and refinement. It is an Italian automobiles brand which stays true to its name. The brand thrilled its lovers by launching a range of mens perfumes along with the launch of Bugatti Veyron 16.4. The fragrance range offers unique but strong men perfumes in contemporary sculpted bottles. Bulgari The name Bulgari has been derived from the Italian bvlgari. For over a century, Bulgari has been the face of Italian style in jewelry. Bulgari has introduced many fascinating fragrances for both men women. Its fragrances carry its signature polish class. The aroma is the representation of the Brands style and charisma. Burberry In 1856 Thomas Burberry designed his first garments for the sportsmen of Basingstoke, England. Over a period of time, the brand has stayed true to its tradition of luxury. It extends this theme to Burberry fragrances that carry its classic and stylish British aura. The fragrance range is available for both men women. Cacharel The brand was started by Jean Bousquet as a fashion house and shot to fame after its creations found place on cover of Elle magazine. After launch of its mens, womens and childrens collections, Cacharel diversified activities and launched fragrances (with AnaÃÆ' ¯s AnaÃÆ' ¯s) and other product ranges including glasses and sunglasses, lingerie, stationary, swimwear, etc. Calvin Klein Calvin Klein Inc. is a fashion brand (better known as CK) founded in 1968 by Calvin Klein. Calvin Klein brings the brands style and spirit into each of its fragrances. The fragrance range consists of the sophisticated smooth names like Obsession, Eternity, Escape, and Contradiction along with the contemporary offerings like cK One and cK Be. Canali In 1934 brothers Giovanni and Giacomo Canali established an artisan workshop in Triuggio, Brianza, to produce high quality clothing. In the nineteen fifties the second generation of the family took over, consolidating its presence on the Italian market. Canali later introduced other fashion brands like Canali perfumes which have found a strong name for itself world over. Carolina Herrera American designer Carolina Herrera is a living example of the mantra its never too late. She launched her luxury clothing company when she was 40 years old, in 1980. Her brands first perfume was 212 launched in 1998. The collection has steadily grown with 212 men, Chic, 212 sexy, and 212 sexy Men. Caron Caron was founded in 1904 by Ernest Daltroff. The brand has a rich heritage in perfumery and is still considered a true fragrance house, a distinction very few companies hold.   Perfumes Caron has earned international recognition for its unique blends of pure essences encased in the most luxurious flacons. It offers perfumes for both men and women. Cartier Cartier is a French luxury jeweler and watch manufacturer. Prince of Wales honored Cartier with the title of Joaillier des Rois, Roi des Joailliers (Jeweller to Kings, King of Jewellers). Cartier is also a known name in fragrance industry. Originated in 1991, Cartier fragrances are made in association with perfumers Jean-Claude Ellena, Christine Nagel, Alberto Morillas, Mathilde Laurent etc. Carven Created in 1945, Carven fashion house has always promoted a democratic vision of fashion. Madame Carven was the first to offer accessible luxury and to capture the spirit of the moment through her simple and refined designs. Carven has large variety of perfumes. Carven fragrances are made in collaboration with perfumers Jean Carles and Edouard Hache. Cerruti The house of Cerruti was founded in 1881 by Antonio Cerruti. In 1999, Cerrutis flagship store was opened at Madison Avenue in New York. Cerruti offers a range of perfume lines sportswear. Cerruti launched its first perfume called 1881 and has since then made regular additions to the brand. Chevignon Founded in 1979, Chevignon targets urban men and offers a modern and relaxed lifestyle. Chevignons focus is always on integrating the latest fashion and trends with the values inherited from its past and prepare its new creation. The perfume range of the brand also stays true to the brands mantra and delivers latest yet authentic fragrances. Christian Audigier Christian Audigier is a French fashion designer and entrepreneur. He gained international fame for creating the Ed Hardy tattoo clothing apparel brand in the year 2004. Christian Audigier fragrances are made with perfumers Marrypierre Julien, Caroline Sabas, Olivier Gillotin etc. Designer, Christian Audigier launched 10 perfumes in the first two years. Clarins The brand was started by Courtin Clarins and initially focused on esthetic treatments. Over a period of time, the group added cosmetic and beauty products into its range. One of these product lines is fragrances which has become an important part of its portfolio. Clarins fragrances come in various ranges and styles and suit every age and emotion. Clean Aptly named, Clean, is a simple freshness fragrance making it unique in its own right. The brand was created by Randi Shinder. She created a fragrance that was reminiscent of pure soap, which replicated the feel of out of shower freshness. Soon the fragrance was a hit with the world. Cliff Richard Sir Cliff Richar is an English singer, musician, performer, actor, entrepreneur and philanthropist, who has sold over 260 million records worldwide. His brand name of perfumes is a huge hit amongst his fans, especially the ones that share names with his famous songs like devil woman. The fragrances are suited for every environment and every mood. Clinique Clinique was introduced as a dermatologists-developed cosmetics brand. It soon expanded into the complete cosmetic and fragrances brand. Clinique fragrances are made in association with perfumers Bernard Chant, Trudy Lauren etc. Clinique offers fragrances for both men and women. The most popular Clinique fragrance is Happy which carries a mix of floral citrus smell. Coty Coty, Inc. is the worlds largest fragrance company. It is known for its collaboration with celebrities like Victoria David Beckham, Beyonce Knowles, Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Shania Twain etc. Coty has gifted the perfume industry with some of the most popular perfumes. Each celebrity perfume is created by keeping in mind their unique personality. Davidoff Davidoff is a Swiss luxury goods brand, which carries an interesting range of products with most popular products being perfumes and cigars cigarettes. Davidoff has wonderful and luxurious perfumes to offer via its perfumery suiting all occasions and both the sexes. Being a luxury brand, every perfume of this brand signifies royalty. Diesel Diesel was launched by Renzo Rosso in the year 1978. The product range under the brand includes denims, perfumes, casual apparel, eyewear, watches and jewelry. The perfume range of diesel is contemporary and strong. It is a more of a statement product than a pleasing fragrance. The range includes products for both sexes. Dior Christian Dior is known to offer some of the most revolutionary, trendy, and fashion defining products to the world. The brands products are not only influenced general public, but also attracted celebrities like actors supermodels. The brand has always given a touch of emotions in its perfumes and developed a number of soothing fragrances. Disney Disney scents have been created to let the world of animation hang out in the real world. With its large variety of perfumes Disney has a gift for lovers of all its characters. Like the cartoon characters of Walt Disney, these scent are fun and peppy, making them perfect everyday wear. Dolce Gabbana Dolce Gabbana is a luxury fashion house with Italian origins. It is better known by its DG logo. Along with clothing range, it offers perfumes, sunglasses etc. as well. The brand has many verities of fragrance under their belt to offer for both men women. The luxury feel of DG can be felt in its perfumes also. Donna Karen Donna Karan brand is named after the American fashion designer who created the Donna Karan New York and DKNY clothing labels. She expanded her brand by offering perfumes accessories. Donna Karan fragrances are made in association with Rodrigo Flores-Roux, Jean-Marc Chaillan, IFF, Maurice Roucel, Olivier Gillotin, Pierre Negrin, Calice Becker, Alberto Morillas, Harry Fremont etc. DSquared Dsquared is an up market fashion label created by identical twin brothers Dean and Dan Caten. Perfumes are major contributors to the product range of the brand. The perfumes bring about a luxury feel and are targeted primarily high society. The brands perfumes are popular amongst other designers as well. Elizabeth Arden In 1916, Elizabeth Arden launched her brand by opening her first salon on fashionable Fifth Avenue. Elizabeth Arden is a renowned designer in the perfume world, known for delivering consistent variety of exotic scents. The brand has been able to make its own group of loyalists. It has more than 30 perfumes to offer. Elizabeth Taylor Dame Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor is known as one of the worlds most beautiful women and actors. She was the epitome of luxury and class. The same elements are carried forward to her perfumes. Her perfumes reflect her Egyptian predecessors interest in scents. A woman of no moderation, Elizabeth Taylor wants her perfumes to be like her beautiful and beloved. Emanuel Ungaro Named after the famous designer, brand Emanuel Ungaro has an existence in the perfume world since 1977 and has 23 perfumes to offer in its range. Emanuel Ungaro fragrances are made in association with perfumers Francoise Caron, Francis Kurkdjian, Olivier Polge, Domitille Michalon, Jacques Polge, Max Gavarry, Marc Chaillant, Loc Dong etc. Escada Escada is an international luxury fashion group in womens designer fashion. In thirty years, Escada has become a leading name in womens fashion, and is often worn to red carpet events by celebrities. The brands stand for premium materials, exclusivity, high-quality workmanship and wearing comfort as well as color and femininity. Estee Lauder Estee Lauder is a US based brand that has a large product basket which comprises of skin care, cosmetics, perfumes, and hair care products. The company has its headquarters in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The fragrances of this fashion house are famous and widely used all over the world. FCUK French Connection is a UK based retail group which started in the year 1972. It is popularly known as FCUK. The brand has its stores all over the world. With time, the brand added various accessories and perfumes to its range. FCUK connect is the most well known perfume offered by the brand. Giorgio Armani Giorgio Armani is one of the most famous names in the fashion industry. Since 1975, Armani has overseen the launch of Giorgio Armani Junior, Underwear, Swimwear, Accessories and Perfumes. Capitalizing on the cachet of his more exclusive label, he opened the first of a series of stores selling his cheaper diffusion lines Emporio Armani and Armani Jeans. Giorgio Beverly Hills The journey of Giorgio Beverly Hills began in1961. The brand carries a sense of luxury and style and boosts of designing for various celebrities. The brand has maintained a synergy between fashion and fragrance. Giorgio Beverly Hills fragrances are made in association with perfumers Alain Astori, Bob Aliano, Harry Fremont, Annick Menardo, Alberto Morillas, Francoise Caron etc. Givenchy Givenchy is a well known French brand of clothing, accessories, perfumes and cosmetic. In the year 1952 it was founded by the designer Hubert de Givenchy. John Galliano succeeded him as designer, but he was later replaced by Alexander McQueen. The brands perfumes bring out the class smoothness associated it. Gloria Vanderbilt Gloria Vanderbilt was an American actress and a noted socialite. Her brand logo of swan has a distinctive identification. The perfume range offered as a part of the brand has lighter notes and has a universal appeal. Gloria herself contributed to getting the right smell to the products and promoted them with keen interest. Gres Gres was a French fashion house launched in Paris in 1942. Although, Gres fashion house was shut down, but its perfume division still continuous to operate out of Switzerland. Gionres has 29 perfumes in perfume indutry. Gres fragrances are made in association with perfumers Max Gavarry, Domitille Michalon, Jean-Claude Delville, Jean-Pierre Bethouart, Michel Almairac, Pierre Bourdon etc. Gucci Gucci is an Italian fashion (especially leather goods) house. It later entered into perfume market as well. Guccis products are considered as a status symbol. It offers a varied perfume range for both men women. Some of the famous Gucci fragrances include Gucci by Gucci (for both men women), Flora (for women) etc. Guerlain In 1828, Pierre-Francoise-Pascal Guerlain opened the first Guerlain boutique in Paris. The brand is known for introducing beauty and luxury to fashion and fragrance. Jean-Paul Guerlain, the successor of Pierre-Francoise-Pascal, continues to carry forward the same innovativeness and passion in all Guerlain perfumes, cosmetic and fashion products along with blending modernity into them. Guess Guess is an Amreican fashion house which offers luxury clothing line. It also offers fashion accessories like perfumes, watches etc. Guess works in association with the designers such as Barbara Zoebelein, Maurice Roucel, Claudette Belnavis, and Steve Demercado etc. This fashion house has introduced many vivacious fragrances with its self titled Guess Perfume being the most popular product. Gwen Stefani Gwen as a brand stretches beyond fashion and perfumes. It is the representation of its creator. It works in association with designer Firmenich. The first fragrance, L.A.M.B. from this brand was launched in 2003 and tasted great success. Other popular Gwen Stefani perfume is the Harajuku Lovers Sunshine Cuties series. Hanae Mori Hanae Mori is one of the leading fashion designers in Japan. Functioning since 1951 it has grown to be a multimillion company in 1990s. This fashion house o haffers a wide range of fragrances suiting all occasions and ages. Although the brand has seen many product changes, it hasnt lost its signature style in fashion and perfumes. Hugo Boss Based in Germany, since 1923, Hugo Boss designs casual wear for men and women. The brand is also well known for its perfumery. Hugo boss is named after the founder and is a very famous fashion house, defining fashion statements for years now. Hugo Boss perfumes are liked by youth adults alike. Iceberg Iceberg is a famous sports fashion brand which started in Italy. The brand has expanded to additionally offer perfumes, watches, sunglasses etc. The earliest perfumes were introduced in 1989. Iceberg fragrances are made in association with the perfumers like Sophie Labbe, Quest, Christophe Raynaud, Nathalie, Gracia-Cetto etc. The fragrances of Iceberg sooths and suits every environment and occasion. Issey Miyake Issey Miyake is a Japanese fashion designer who was born on 22 April 1938. He is known for his technology-driven clothing designs and exhibitions. He has a great range to offer via his perfumery that matches his designing styles. The perfume by name of a scent is the most popular product offered by the brand. Jean Charles Brosseau Designer Jean Charles Brosseau started his label in 1955. He worked on the concept of ready to wear clothes. Soon his brand became one of the most loved ones. Later he had perfumes to his portfolio and kept them everyday use. Jean Charles Brosseau fragrances are made in association with perfumers Pierre Bourdon, Nathalie Lorson and Francoise Caron.   Jean Paul Gaultier Jean Paul Gaultier, born in 1952, is a famous French designer. Jean Paul Gaultier fragrances are made in association with perfumers Jacques Cavallier, Francis Kurkdjian and Aurelien Guichard. The first perfume of the Gaultier house was launched in 1993; it was the famous Jean Paul Gaultier EDP for women, whose name was subsequently changed to Classique.   Jennifer Lopez Jennifer Lopez is a famous celebrity singer actress. She is married to Spanish singer Mark Anthony. She has a range of perfume and clothing line to her credit. The fragrances from her label as made while keeping in minds Jennnifers personality.  Glow and Still are two of the latest fragrances from her label. Jesus del Pozo Jesus Del Pozo is a Spanish fashion designer. His designs were extremely popular in the 90s and continue to enthrall the global audiences. Jesus Del Pozo fragrances are made in association with perfumers Pierre Wargnye, Marie Salamagne, Olivier Cresp, Alberto Morillas, Max Gavarry, Christophe Raynaud, Christine Nagel, Francis Kurkdjian, Vioaline David and Christopher Sheldrake.   Jilsander Heidemarie Jiline Sander (popularly known as Jil Sander) born in 1943 is German fashion designer. Her signature style that she liked to call New look gained her a lots of attention in the industry and otherwise. Her fragrances are contemporary like her and grown in number and popularity over the years. Joop! Joop is a brand rooted in Berlin, Germany. It was started by Wolfgang Joop in 1981. A variety of faces and emotions are typical characteristic of this dynamic metropolis. Contrasts, sometimes contradictory, as if belonging to different worlds, yet forming a perfect synthesis, are Joops designs. The perfume range from the brand is as dynamic as its designs. Kenzo Kenzo Takada, the man behind the brand, was born in Hemeji Japan in 1939. He studied fashion in Europe. When he launched his own label, he created a unique mix of Japanese tradition and European style. The brand also has a wide range to offer in perfumes segment. His most popular fragrance is Flower. Kylie Minogue Kylie Minoque is an Australia based musical artist with universal appeal. Her sexy and vivacious personality, along with her songs, makes her a hot favorite especially amongst men. Kylies perfume label has a variety of perfumes to offer, with each one being a reference to her personality. Lacoste Lacoste is a French brand functioning since 1933. Lacoste is a multi product brand and deals in clothes, footwear, perfume, leather goods, watches and eyewear. The products from this fashion house symbolize the latest fashion trends. Lacoste perfumes are trendy and stylish. These perfumes are available for men as well as women. Lagerfeld Karl Lagerfeld is a German fashion designer. Besides, owning the Lagerfeld brand, hes also at helm with the Fendi and Chanel. Besides, fashion, Lagerfels brand also offers Perfumes and other accessories. This fashion house is associated with the perfumers Emilie (Bevierre) Coppermann, Mark Buxton, Olivier Cresp, Firmenich, Ron Winnegrade, Chiristine Nagel etc.   Lancaster Originating out of the country of Monaco, Lancaster is a famous cosmetics brand. The parent company behind the brand is Coty. It carries the complete range of cosmetic products. The brand is well known its perfumes range as well. Fragrances of Lancaster are made with the perfumers Emilie (Bevierre) Coppermann and Francis Kurkdjian.   Lanvin Lanvin is a well known high fashion house created by Jeanne Lanvin. The design house is known for ladies outfits and his modern approach to the fashion industry. The most significant move of the brand was when it launched its perfume range in 1924. The fragrance My sin is till date considered as one of the most unique fragrances. Liz Claiborne Liz Claiborne is a fashion company working since 1976. Situated in New York, Liz Claiborne is well known for is apparels. This company is also a reputed marketer of fragrances for women and men and offers various accessories as well. Liz Claiborne Inc.s brands include Axcess, Bora Bora, Candies, Claiborne etc. Lolita Lempicka Lolita Lempicka is a French fashion designer working with her own brand name Lolita Biz. The brand is well known for its suit designs. It has been manufacturing perfumes since the last two decades for men and women. Lolita Lempicka Forbidden Flower is one of the best selling perfumes from the brand. Mariah Carey Mariah Carey is a famous American singer and performer. She created her first fragrance M in 2007 in association with Elizabeth Arden. Working since 2007, in an association with perfumers like Olivier Gillotin, Carlos Benaim and Loc Dong she has contributed many successful fragrances to the global perfumery till date.   Mont Blanc Mont Blanc is a renowned luxury brand that offers writing instruments, perfumes, watches, jewelry etc. It is a true international brand which functions in more than 70 different countries all over the world. All Mont Blanc reflects the quality design, tradition and master craftsmanship.  Its perfume range is classy and elegant. Moschino Moschino was an italian french designer. He is most remembered for his unusual designs. He founded his own company Moonshadow in 1983 and only designed casualwear and jeans. However, he later started to make lingerie, eveningwear, shoes, menswear and perfumes.  The perfume range from Moschino carries his signature uniqueness and has found many loyalists over the period of time. Naomi Campbell Campbell was born in Streatham, London, England. She was the top British model and also starred in Michael Jacksons music videos. Since 1997, Campbell has been involved in charity work mainly focused on the children and people and also boycotted unethical treatment of animals.  Her perfume range is a part of her celebrity product linage. Nina Ricci Nina Ricci is popularly known as the Queen of fashion. Her fashion house was established in 1949 and created some globally popular clotheslines. The brands fragrances which were launched later became popular all over the world. Her most popular fragrance Nina is amongst the best selling fragrance of its time. Oscar De La Renta While living in Spain, Oscar de la Renta became interested in the world of design and began sketching for leading Spanish fashion houses. In 1963, Oscar de la Renta came to New York to design the couture collection for Elizabeth Arden and later started his fashion house and his own line of perfumes.   Paco Rabanne Paco Rabanne started his own fashion house in 1966 and became famous for using quite unconventional materials such as metal, paper and plastic for his unique and modern designs. He also worked with brands like Dior, Givenchy and Balenciaga. Paco Rabanne perfumes have gained a lot of popularity in recent past. Paloma Picasso Paloma Picasso was born in Paris on April 19, 1949. She started her career as a theatrical costumer and stylist for a Paris theatre production company. Later she added jewelery perfumes to her portfolio. She seeks to represent herself through her bold and dynamic designs, which makes her designs unique. Paris Hilton Paris Hilton is a singer / performer celebrity from USA. Her first perfume suitably called Paris Hilton is described by many fans as the best one of all of Paris Hilton perfumes. Jean-Claude Delville, Mane USA, Steve Demercado, Jean-Louis Grauby, James Krivda, Honorine Blanc and Steve De Mercado are the designers associated with her brand.   Prada Born nearly a century ago, The House of Prada is recognized worldwide for its simple and elegant creations. Prada with different brand names also deal in leather products and clothing. Prada is currently one of the most famous fashion house and big brand in fashion industry, having popular perfumes, clothing line and other accessories.   Prince Matchabelli Prince Georges V. Matchabelli, an amateur chemist, started the perfume brand of Prince Matchabelli. The first three perfumes were Princess Norina, Queen of Georgia and Ave Maria. It is not only famous for its fragrances but also for the designs of its bottles. Prince Matchabelli considered as the representative of perfumes of royal times. Quiksilver Quiksilver is a brand representative of the beach and the sport of surfing, its logo carries the concept of active sports and excellence. The brand offers a range of products like clothing, accessories and perfumes. Antoine Lie and Antoine Maisondieu are the perfumers who are in association with this brand. Ralph Lauren Ralph Lauren, the man behind the brand, was born in 1939 in New York. He is responsible for introduction of the concept of lifestyle living. This fashion house is a popular and mostly for its Polo Ralph Lauren clothing brand.  All his products, including perfumes, are a high end sophisticated ones. Revlon Revlon is a leading brand in cosmetics, skin care, fragrance and personal care and works with a vision to provide glamour, excitement and innovation through quality products at affordable prices. To do this effectively the company emphasizes on maintaining quality standards and following the right marketing strategies.  Perfumes range by Revlon is casual and everyday wear. Roberto Cavalli Roberto Cavalli is named amongst the most revolutionary designers. He caught everybodys attention with his animal print designs. His brand offers signature perfumes as well. Olivier Polge, Olivier Cresp, Jean-Charles Niel, Nathalie Lorson, Karine Dubreuil, Mathilde Bijaoui, Alberto Morillas, Maurice Roucel and Jacques Cavallier are the perfume designers associated with this fashion house.   Rochas Launched in the year 1925, Rochas fashion house is a symbol of elegance in the modern era. The perfumes from Rochas are seductive stylish. They combine modernity with tradition. The brand has grown famous day by day and its perfumes gained popularity largely because of its signature perfume Femme.   Sarah Jessica Parker Sarah Jessica Parker is a famous celebrity, most recognized for her roles in Sex and the city television show and movies. She is passionate about her brand of perfumes and makes her contributions to all the fragrances. Some of her brands fragrances include Dawn, Endless, Twilight, Lovely etc.   Sean John Sean John label is jointly owned by Sean Combs and Ron Burkle. The brand is primarily into sales of clothing and perfumes. R a period of time, the brand has gained enormous success and critical acclaim and has promptly drafted a journey from an urban label to an international brand. Sergio Tacchini Sergio Tacchini, born in 1938, is an Italian fashion designer. He is basically a sports designer and has had sponsorship association with leading tennis players of 70s and 80s. His perfume range is also sporty and youthful. The perfumer which is associated with Sergio Tacchini fragrances is Karine Dubreuil.   Stella McCartney Stella McCartney comes from a musical royalty, but she has made her mark as a successful designer. The brand portfolio includes luxury ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, fragrances, eyewear, accessories, organic skin care range and performance range with Adidas. The nose which worked on Stella McCartney fragrances is Jacques Cavallier.   Ted Lapidus Edmond Lapidus was born in Patris, France in 1929, he designed a pleasant neckline and tiered skirt and it gave him instant popularity all over the world. Following the success of its clotheslines, the brand introduced perfumes and accessories. These new additions also got the expected success amongst the brand loyalists around the world. Thierry Mugler Thiery Mugler is a fashion designer, photographer and creator of a fashion house named after him. He designed clothes which were ready to wear spreading the Italian fashion all over the world. His perfume line is also a successful product in his portfolio. His perfumes are regarded as a status symbol.   Tommy Hilfiger Tommy Hilfiger is a well known brand in fashion industry for its unique and fresh approach. This fashion house has a signature style which it maintains all across, be it cardigans, T shirts, underwear or perfumes. It is known for offering perfume line which is for young and trendy with a touch of elegance.    Tous Tous, originally from Spain, started out as jewelry and fashion designing company. It later gre

war on drugs :: essays research papers

A News Analysis By Terence T. Gorski (5-28-01) Tom Cohen of the Associated Press reported on May 28, 2001 that Canada's drug control policy is slowly but clearly shifting toward decriminalizing marijuana. This Canadian political movement is in opposition to current trends in US drug law and could influence future direction of drug policy in the United States toward a public health addiction policy that focuses upon prevention and treatment and away from a criminal justice drug policy that focuses upon punishment as a deterrent. Canada has historically been more tolerant of marijuana than the United States and arrest statistics show the disparity in the two nation's approaches. The Canadian Center on Substance Abuse said about 25,000 people were arrested in Canada for simple possession of marijuana in 1999. The U.S. figure for that year under the ``zero tolerance'' policy of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration was 24 times higher, exceeding 600,000, says the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws in Washington. The U.S. population is about eight times that of Canada's. Justice Minister Anne McLellan says the issue should be studied, and a new Parliament committee on drug matters will look at decriminalization. Conservative Party leader Joe Clark is urging the elimination of criminal penalties for possessing a small amount of pot. ``It's unjust to see someone, because of one decision one night in their youth, carry the stigma - to be barred from studying medicine, law, architecture or other fields where a criminal record could present an obstacle,'' Clark said last week. The government has proposed expanding medicinal use of marijuana, and the Canadian Medical Association Journal recently supported full decriminalization. Canada's Supreme Court will consider a case this year that contends criminal charges for the personal use of marijuana violate constitutional rights. Making possession and use of small amounts of marijuana a civil offense - akin to a traffic fine- instead of a criminal violation would move Canadian policy closer to attitudes in The Netherlands and away from the United States, its neighbor and biggest trade partner. U.S. anti-drug activists are worried that legalization of marijuana in Canada could depress prices in the United States making marijuana more available. Legalization in Canada would also boost the arguments of American advocates for easing U.S. drug laws. Joseph A. Califano Jr., president of the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, and a former U.S.

Do a detailed critical analysis of the opening of Coetzee’s Foe

A successful analysis of an opening to any novel can not occur without taking into consideration what sort of journey the author is going to take their audience on. Openings can be deceiving and the point of close is needed to successfully determine the true meanings behind the foundations that the author lays at the start. This is definitely the case in Coetzee's Foe. Hindsight is the analysists greatest ally when looking in detail at the devices and subtext that Coetzee is employing to open this novel. In opening it appears to begin as an alternative story of Daniel Defoe's classic, Robinson Crusoe. However as the novel unfolds it becomes clear that it is an allegory for many pressing issues of today's society such as gender, race, politics and power. But not stopping there Coetzee has also created a piece of metafiction attacking the way in which fiction is created. It can also be seen as an attack on the claimed father of the novel Daniel Defoe. With hindsight all these issues can been seen in Coetzee's opening however I will begin by giving some ideas as to what Coetzee possibly wanted to achieve from the entire novel as it will help shed light upon the structure, devices and meanings that lie in the opening. Coetzee is questioning realism in novel writing, throughout he is proving that, just as Defoe did, he can create realistic characters and setting but he is showing that he too has the power to destroy them. As a piece of metafiction, Foe looks inwardly on its self as a novel and questions itself throughout. Coetzee creates things just to break them down. He is out to prove that Defoe and other authors are, as Paula Burnett described, â€Å"the giver of false witness† and in effect the enemy of reality thus the title and pun ‘Foe'. The attack is on Defoe, the so-called ‘father of the novel', perhaps because he tried to sell Robinson Crusoe off as a real life biography. Coetzee is trying to show that even if Crusoe was real the writer of the novel he would still hold the power to create and destroy what the want to, so fiction can never be taken as reality. The key central issues in the novel are the themes of gender and racial difference and power. Throughout the book there is a strong feeling that Friday represents a lot more than just the slave of Robinson Crusoe. It is through Friday and his treatment in the hands of his white masters that Coetzee is addressing the way the white people have handled there relations with the Negro race. Coetzee probably wrote this particularly with South Africa in mind as it is where he is from but it can be related to any time in history when the whites have tried to help or enslave the black race. Through Susan Barton he also addresses women and their struggles for equality and recognition. A feminist reading of the text would to claim that Coetzee in providing a narrator is showing that the novels has ‘mothers' as well as fathers such as Defoe and Fielding. Also, her struggle to establish herself as the main character of the story and the only true story teller can be seen to represent women's struggle to establish themselves as credible novelists in the early periods of novel writing. So with these underlying issues in mind the structure of the novel is also worth briefly looking at so the opening can be put into context. It must be taken into consideration the stylistically the opening chapter is very different from the rest of the novel. The first chapter is set on Crusoe's island and is a written account as to what occurred. The style is very realistic and detailed. The second chapter is slightly more removed and is written before our very eyes in a set of letters to Mr Foe. The writing style is still detailed and realistic however towards the end of the chapter a few questions are raised as to who Susan Barton is and who is the child following her around. The third part of the novel is set at Foes house and is again a first hand account but has a very different feel to the opening. It becomes slightly more surreal and raising many questions as to whether Foe exists or is a creation of Susan's or whether Susan is a creation of his. The final scene is set in a room and under water. It could not detach the reader any more as we lose who is narrating. We know its is not Susan as she appears to be dead. This is Coetzee destroying the realistic world he had created. Out of the four parts the opening is extremely significant as it crucial for creating the world in which Coetzee can put across the points that he is raising. So what is Coetzee beginning to create at the start of the novel? With his opening chapter he creates the foundations for his attacks on Defoe and the cultural and gender issues of today's society. However my use of the word attacks should not be taken too literally because directly no issues are addressed however it is clear in the subtext what points he wants to throw into debate. The main function of the opening is to throw Defoe's apparent true novel of Crusoe into debate and also to create a realistic foundation that can crumble in on itself as the novel develops. Anything self-critical has to reflect on itself inwardly and the opening sets Coetzee up to be able to do this. From the very opening it is clear that this is a vivid realistic account. â€Å"There I lay sprawled on the hot sand, my head filled with the orange blazing sun, my petticoat (which was all I had escaped with) baking dry upon me, tired, grateful like the saved. † ‘ It is clear immediately from this quotation that the narrator appears to physically feeling what she is describing. The opening few pages include many of these vivid descriptions which lay the setting for Defoe's attack on Crusoe's story. The reader can not doubt her version, as it appears so real. His first attack on Defoe's novel appears early on. † For readers reared on travellers' tales, the words desert isle may conjure up a place of soft sands and shady trees where brooks run to quench the castaways thirst†¦ But the island on which I was cast away was quite another place: a great rocky hill with a flat top†¦ There were ants scurrying everywhere, of the same kind we had in Bahia, and another pest too, living in the dunes: a tiny insect that hid between your toes and ate its way into your flesh. † ‘ This account is a great example of the realism used to put the whole of Defoe's work into question. This is a direct attack by Coetzee on how realistic Defoe's island really is. The reader will of course believe Susan Bartons account as it appeals through realism. It is a clever device used by Coetzee because he knows himself that what he is writing is not true. Another area that lays doubt upon Defoe's story is the figure Crusoe. His name is depleted to Cruso to show he is nothing like the man that Defoe creates. Not only is he a shadow of the main that Defoe created he is also unsure of his own history. ‘ † †¦ he stories he told me were so various, and so hard to reconcile one with another, that I was more and more driven to conclude that age and isolation had taken their toll on his memory, and he no longer knew for sure what was truth†¦ † ‘ This throws again Defoe's account into doubt and would make a reader believe Coetzee's version. Another example of Coetzee trying to strengthen Susan's account is her repetition of the line: â€Å"Then at last I could row no further. My hands were raw, my back was burned, my body ached. † This repetition of the same account to both the reader and Crusoe shows that she knows her story and uses the exact same wording both times she tells it. This is a clever device used by Coetzee to show that Crusoe's story is fragile and various where as Susan's is stabile and unchanging. The other main instrument used by Coetzee in the opening of the book to express his subtext is the use of Susan as the narrator and the way she perceives things. Through realism he sets up his attack on Defoe and novel writing but through the narrator he brings in the allegorical themes such as gender and race. From a feminist point of view Susan Barton is, as Patrick Corcoran stated, â€Å"a representative of her sex who has suffered at the hands of men and who struggles to assert herself in a male dominated society. † To expand upon this comment, she does definitely appear to represent the women of society and how even though she shared the island with Crusoe she always felt that she was not there † When I reflect upon my story I seem to exist only as the one who came, the one who witnessed†¦ † She feels that it is Crusoe's story despite the fact that she is as easily as active as Crusoe and manages to escape, which he does not. Upon arrival she assumes that she is his subject. â€Å"With these words I presented myself to Robinson Cruso, in the days when he still ruled over his island, and became his second, the first being his man servant Friday † She does not even question the fact that he is the master of the island she just excepts that Friday and herself are under his rule. This is put in by Coetzee to question the role of women in Defoe's novel. There is no place for women in Robinson Crusoe and Coetzee provides us with an idea of what Crusoe would have been like with a woman on the island. Also Coetzee leaves it to the audience to decide what type of woman Susan is. He gives us no social background so we expect nothing from her. Throughout the book it is unclear what she is, whether she is a lady, a whore or a gypsy. This uncertainty is thrown into confusion many times, as she seems very educated and full of ideas ‘ â€Å"You are mistaken! † I cried † I do not wish to dispute, but you have forgotten very much, and with every day that passes you forget more! † ‘ This extract shows that Susan Barton's type of language is not uneducated and her ability to speak up to and man and disagree shows strength. This may be a result of her life experience gained on her travels. However it is more likely that it is Coetzee toying with the idea of how putting a female on the island would effect Crusoe's power. These power battles are an important theme in the novel and Susan faces them throughout first chapter with Crusoe then Friday in the second and then Defoe in the third. The other major issue raised by Coetzee is the idea of slavery and race difference. Friday is a shadow that hangs over the story throughout and cannot be ignored, as his silence is perhaps the most telling and powerful factor in the novel. The majority of these issues are raised in the second and third chapters in Susan's handling of Friday. However they are present in the early stages of the novel in Crusoe's approach to Friday. ‘ â€Å"How many words of English does Friday know? † I asked â€Å"As many as he needs,† replied Cruso. â€Å"This is not England, we have no need of great stock of words†. ‘ Dispite Fridays disability this shows that Crusoe has no intention of making a companion of Friday and only wishes to treat him as an inhuman slave. Crusoe's views on Friday can be seen to represent the whites treatment of the African race in the early part of the nineteen hundreds. When Susan takes over the role of master she can be seen to represent the white liberals in South Africa who tried to help the Africans but only tried to help them by trying to make them like white men and by doing so enslaved them further. RM. Post's view on the political level of the novel is that Crusoe represents the stubborn and corrupt Afrikaner government, with Susan Barton the white sympathetic liberal and Friday the black people. He even goes as far as to compare Susan to Mother Africa as she is searching for a child who is searching for her. He justifies his claim that Foe is an allegory of contemporary South Africa by pointing out the crucial fact that Friday is of completely different race in Coetzee's Foe than he is in Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe. † The fact that the latter Friday is a black man helps us see Foe, set primarily in England in the eighteenth century, as an allegory of contemporary South Africa. † Defoe's Friday has olive skin with straight long hair; Coetzee s Friday is black with a â€Å"head of fuzzy wool. † There are other hints in the opening of the story to suggest some link with the treatment of the blacks in South Africa. The removal of Fridays tongue is perhaps one of the most obvious symbols in the book. He can be seen as having no voice like the Negro's in post colonial Africa. Susan and Crusoe's failure to communicate with Friday successfully is of course down to lack of understanding of his culture. However the fact that Crusoe manages to communicate with Friday better than Susan could be seen to flaw RM. Post's argument as could the fact that Friday was apparently happier on the island before Susan tried to free him. The opening to Coetzee's foe is a vital part of the novel. As discussed it lays the foundations for all of Coetzee's allegorical meanings. The opening is essential to understanding the race, gender and power struggles that are central themes in the novel. In terms of realism it sets Coetzee up to question the fundamentals of the novel and how far can an author go in terms of making a book appear an accurate reflection of real life. From this foundation he also highlights the author's ability to create and destroy there own work no matter how realistic it may appear to be.

MITOCHONDRIAL DISEASES essays

MITOCHONDRIAL DISEASES essays The mitochondrion is the energy manufacturer of the cell. It is equivalent to the engine of a car. These tiny biological machines combine the food we eat with oxygen to produce energy to keep our bodies going. The energy produced by the mitochondria is stored in the form of a chemical called Adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The mitochondria is involved in making of steroid hormones and DNA. Each cell in the body contains an average of five hundred, to two thousand mitochondria. When they are dysfunctional, the body can develop energy crisis in the muscles, tissues, brain and the heart. Examples of the mitochondria diseases include: Autoimmune hepatitis is a type of chronic active hepatitis. It is caused by cellular immune reactions. A variety of circulating autoantibodies can be found in the blood og patients with chronic active hepatitis. Other autoimmune diseases are thyroiditis diabetes mellitus and ulcerative colitis. Its complications are liver cell failure, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and it is a disease rare in children. The symptoms for autoimmune hepatitis include dark urine, loss of appetite, fatigue, abdominal distention, and generalized itching and also absence of menstruation. Liver biopsy shows chronic active hepatitis. Prevention of this disorder may not be possible. Awareness of risk factors may allow early detection and treatment. Prednisone or other corticoseriods help reduce the inflammation. Azathioprine or mercaptopurines are drugs usually used to treat immune disorders. Activity should be modified according to the symptoms. In addition, a well balanced diet promotes healing. Parkinsons disease occurs when certain nerve cells or neurons in an area of the brain become impaired. It belongs to a group of conditions ...

Five Guys Burgers

Five Guys Burgers Company history and products offering The Five Guys Company was established in 1986 as a family-operated business in Arlington, Virginia. The initial focus of the company was to serve the best burgers around Washington, D.C. As the popularity of the company increased and business flourished, it expanded to other major cities in the United State and Canada.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Five Guys Burgers specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More At the same time, Five Guys expanded their products portfolio and included other fast food meals. This was intended to cater for the differing needs of the growing number of customers as well as enhancing the competitive advantage. Due to extensive franchising that had begun in 2002, the company presently operates over 900 franchise outlets in the United States and Canada. Across all the Five Guys locations, there are five common product lines that appear on the menus namely: bu rgers, dogs, sandwiches, fries and drinks. Each of these product lines may carry a range of three to eight product varieties. The burger product line is the oldest line and the major focus of the company as it reflects the quality trademark that is sold across the American market. Products offered under the burger product line include hamburger, cheeseburger, bacon burger, bacon cheeseburger, little hamburger, littler cheeseburger, little bacon burger and little bacon cheeseburger (Five Guys, 2010). Within this product line, the cheeseburger is the most popular product and comprises of about 90% of the total burger sales. Reasons for buying from Five Guys For a very long time, Five Guys brand has been commended on their aptitude to avoid being recognized as a fast food restaurant and promising that the customers are getting quality products all the time, at any restaurant. The quality control that they preach is evident in their preparation procedures. Indeed, the aptitude of the co mpany is available in all parts of the United States, no matter where the customers are, with any product they would like. Customers cannot get the double patty usually known as the New Yorker with all toppings offered for free at McDonalds. Yet, they can have it their own way at any of the Five Guys locations stacked with mushrooms, fried onions and steak source if they like. In addition, there are over 250,000 ways in which a customer can order a burger at the company. Customers can trust the company that quality will be maintained and the orders delivered contain foods that are never frozen but cooled.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The cheeseburger which is the core product of the company has specific features and benefits that echo in the minds of many customers around United States. Indeed, the launching of the cheeseburger in Houston caused a major loc al buzz as eager consumers tried the burger, with the First Lady stating publicly that the brand was her preferred burger treat (GRM TX, Inc., 2009). The cheeseburger contains 100% fresh beef with no fillers or preservatives, providing the greatest health advantage to the consumers. The burger is served with as many free toppings as a customer would wish to have. It also comes in different sizes which range from 265 grams for cheeseburger to 317 grams for bacon cheeseburger. While the little cheeseburger is served with one patty, the regular one is served with two. The necessary nutrition elements such as calories, fat, cholesterol, sodium, fiber and protein are maintained at an acceptable level. On average, there are about 840 calories in a single burger serving which is quite normal, but the high fat and sodium content could be a health issue for the company and a market disadvantage in future. Quality control procedure As noted earlier, maintaining the best quality is the priorit y and focus of Five Guys. The company has always preached quality control. Their burns are toasted on a grill. Indeed, a burn toaster is quicker and the toasts produced are more even, although, it does not provide the caramelized taste. The beef used for their cheeseburgers is 80 percent lean, never put in a freezer and all burgers are handmade. The quality of the production process as well as the final products is observed in all locations. At each site, food preparation is exactly the same in order for the customers to get dependable, high quality meals. For instance, all of the bread used in all locations is made from a particular recipe and ordered from the same supplier. Other raw materials such as potatoes and lettuce are also bought from the same farms. In addition, all the staffs are required to go through the same training in regard to food preparation before any assignment is disbursed. Through these manufacturing activities, Five Guys has been able to powerfully control t he quality of its products across all the 900 locations. In addition to that, quality control is ensured at the company through secret buyers who are sent by the management to all restaurants twice a week. These shoppers taste various products at different times noting down the extent to which the franchisees deviate from the rule.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Five Guys Burgers specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The brothers or founders also visit the locations frequently to ensure that quality is maintained. In case of severe cases regarding to poor quality and service, the franchisee may lose the contract. However, due to the strong brand name, all franchisees have maintained high quality standards which have led to good overall performance of the company. Analyzing the market share through a questionnaire Do you prefer Five Guys to other fast food restaurants? Why or Why not? According to you, is Five Guys the most popular fast food restaurant for the Americans? Why? Given a 5-point scale where 5 stand for best and 1 for worst in that order, where would you place Five Guys in regard to performance? In regard to age, which group do you think is best represented by Five Guys’ customers? Do men visit the Five Guys restaurants more frequently than women? Why or Why not? Do you think that these customers are there on their first time, second time or on one of their frequent visits? What do you think is the most attractive aspect of the company? Do you think their functions and products reflect what they claim to be? The Five Guys cheeseburger is the most popular products offered by the company. Do you agree with the statement or not? Why? Why would you go for Five Guys cheeseburger instead of the McDonald or other fast food chain? Do you think the cheeseburger offered in the company has the health benefits sort by consumers? Where did you learn about the burger or when did you hear about the product? Do you think the communication channel used by the company is effective? If no, which one would you suggest to be appropriate? Why? In general, do you think the cheeseburger sale is currently performing at its best or can be improved? Marketing strategies In essence, the marketing strategies for Five Guys have not concentrated much on advertising. The company has invested in a comprehensive secret shoppers program. In this program, the restaurant staffs receive generous rewards by getting information from secret shoppers. In fact, the firm budgeted for $8 million investment in secret shoppers program in 2009 (York, 2009). This marketing on shoppers’ bonuses has been the major barrier to adopt conventional advertisements. However, Five Guys engage in some form of advertising. For instance, they have been identified to use five prints adverts, interactive adverts for their website and fan boards for guerilla marketing reasons. These kinds of marketing strat egies are usually implemented in form of a marketing campaign. Sales trend Since 2002 when Five Guys entered the franchising business, their sales have grown tremendously. As more stores are opened in untapped markets, sales climb accordingly. In 2010, the company indicated the highest growth of 70.31% for its burger (Journalistic Inc., 2012). This was more than triple its closest competitor with 21% growth in sandwich sales. In 2011, the company sales rose by 34.7% according to a report by Techncomic, an industry consultant. Future sales are expected to increase as new restaurants are franchised and more product launches are implemented. Five Guys commercial analysis Most of the commercials created by Five Guys emphasize on the quality and uniqueness of their cheeseburger. In the commercial â€Å"Jeeves, I’m Hungry†, the concept of Five Guys is revealed. This commercial shows that price is not as important as the quality provided by the company. Five Guys cheeseburger is for those consumers who seek to remain healthy and active. The commercial is targeted for young upcoming consumers who are vulnerable to poor health conditions. It tends to show to consumers that many burgers are just at their doorsteps and what is important is to identify which is Five Guys’ cheeseburger and ultimately make a healthy living. Unfortunately, the setting of the commercial appeals to only those who can afford the plush living. It fails to demonstrate the restaurant experience that is more relevant to the company’s franchising business. Consumers do not only need the quality products, but a good service to accompany and fulfill the quality aspect.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Conclusion The analysis of Five Guys indicates that the company has been performing better than other competitors, yet the cheeseburger as the core product shows some weaknesses concerning health effects. The firm should reduce fat and sodium content to meet the 30% limit for healthy consumption. Since this idea of poor health state is widespread, the change must be communicated through various media channels such as internet, print, radio and television to accommodate all potential consumers. This is justified by the fact that Five Guys is expanding and different consumers with different preferences are being targeted by individual franchisees. If the company shows commitment to healthy living, then the threat posed by organic food providers will be neutralized. References Five Guys. (2010). Five Guys burgers and fries. Web. Global Reality and Management TX, Inc. (2009). Five Guys Burger and Fries to open Katy, Texas location in global reality’s Westgate marketplace. Web. Jo urnalistic Inc. (2012). The top 50 brands in the nation ranked by sales. Web. York, E. B. (2009). Five Guys: an America’s hottest brands case study. AdvertisingAge. Web.

Difficult Patients and History Patients Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Difficult Patients and History Patients - Essay Example This lesson will teach students some strategies for dealing with patients who are unwilling or unable to cooperate when giving a family history. Furthermore, this lesson can include a swath of transferable skills that will be useful in other areas, thus providing a much greater benefit than its narrow focus would seem to suggest. However, the most important reason for this might be that this kind of lesson can force a nurse to be critical of the role that informal theory plays in their practice towards patients, to gain confidence as creators of informal theory, and to understand the interaction between formal and informal theory. Section 2: Learner outcomes for the lesson & Learning Objectives This experience will have several general learning outcomes a) allow nurses to be more proficient in such skills when they first experience them in a clinical setting b) give nurses an approximation of the kinds of experiences they could have c) provide transferable skills for patient interact ion for a variety of other situations that are not directly covered in and d) understand their role in forming informal theory, and the relationship between formal theory and informal theory. ... leave with a greater understanding for the real-world situation of patient interaction, a greater degree of comfort in dealing with issues that may arise, and a closer relationship with their classmates, hopefully furthering future learning outcomes. Learner Characteristics Nurses who have already achieved some knowledge of patient history. The goal of this lesson is not for nurses to take a history: they should already know this skill so that they will not have to focus on it throughout the lesson. Rather, they should have enough experience that taking a history will be second nature, and so they can focus on techniques of patient interaction that they employ. Learning Theory While nursing often uses the see one, do one, teach one model, this will differ significantly and focus rather on the development of difficult to define skills and subjective experiences though one-on-one interaction with fellow students. Based on self-authorship theory, this will attempt to both allow nurses t o develop their own skills and techniques that will work for them, hear widely used techniques (as provided by instructors) and techniques developed and used by peers, with the goal of critiquing each technique given. This will allow a great deal of exposure to different ideas without dictating what the right thing to do in a situation. This will hopefully allow nurses to acknowledge their role in developing theories of practice every time they interact with a patient, and note that they have and can develop authority as knowledge creators based on their personal experiences in patient interactions. Instructional methods used for delivery This lesson will rely heavily on role-playing, allowing the students to develop experience, try out different techniques, and form their own conclusion

Financing a Business Magazine Article Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Financing a Business Magazine Article - Essay Example Even though, in common instances, credit has been rendered to the small businesses of developing countries such as India, Brazil, China, and South African states among others, the small businesses sectors in developed nations including the US and the UK can also be noted as major constituents of economic growth (Mahembe, 2011). Source: (Mahembe, 2011) Enthusiastically, based on these statistical findings and economic affirmations, small businesses have been connoted as the â€Å"powerhouse† and even as â€Å"most powerful engines of growth and jobs† within an economy (Banks, 2012). It is certainly for this particular reason that authoritative bodies, in the global economy today, intends to render greater emphasis and strategic support to these sectors, helping them to grow, sustain and compete. However, in the realistic scenario, these ‘powerhouses’ often have to face various hazards which are mostly concerned with the availability of adequate resources req uired to sustain the business in the long-run. Finance is an important requirement for the formation of any business allowing it to explore and take advantages of opportunities with the purpose of expansion and support to the daily operations. Literally stating, finance is a lubricant for any business to sustain their functions successfully in highly dynamic modern business circumstances (INFLIBNET Centre, 2010). As a matter of fact, without adequate availability of finances, business cannot grow which eventually results in its failure. In the current business scenario, operating environment for small business has become quite challenging fundamentally owing to the increasing complexities influenced by the rapidly altering external environmental elements. In recent times, the government bodies and the financial institutions have realized the importance of small businesses in the development of national economy and thereby have been focusing on rendering support to the sector with a greater motive to augment economic prosperity in the global platform. Contextually, several sources have become available to small businesses today, through which they can meet their financial requirements effectively, e.g. bank lending, mortgages, credit facilities and others (The Economist Intelligence Unit Limited, 2009). However, procurement of finance from various sources itself requires some expenses (Department of Economic Development, Tourism and the Arts, 2011). Additionally, owing to the variances, raising finance for small scale businesses has become more sophisticated than it was earlier. Difficulties in Raising Finance for Small Scale Businesses There are various issues that contribute towards the challenges faced by the small businesses. In relation to this, one of the vital and common issues faced by the small businesses today has been their limited access to adequate finance (Soni, 2005). One of the potential explanations for apparent difficulties experienced by smal l businesses can be related with nominal credit risk management practiced by finance providers. It is completely rational for bank managers to take into account the various risk factors associated with pricing of loans. From the point of view of various banks, loans that have larger default risks or certain loans where borrowers are deemed to fail to meet interest payments have relatively lower chances to be approved. Even though, these requests are approved, lenders often attempt to mitigate such additional risks by issuing loans with shorter maturity period or by minimising the