Saturday, August 31, 2019

Pseudomonas Aeruginosa and Nosocomial Infections

Bielecki et al. Research Paper Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacteria, particularly known for causing nosocomial infections (1). As a pathogen, it effectively causes disease by acquiring resistance to antibiotics that would otherwise inhibit growth (2). Reported rates of infection range from 0. 6 to 32% across various clinical environments because Pseudomonas aeruginosa has gained multi-drug resistance (2). Certain strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa treated with gamma rays can break down the hydrocarbons in crude oil and are thus useful in cleaning up oil spills (3).The genome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is 6. 3 million base pairs long, which is the largest bacterial genome to be sequenced (4). It contains about 5,570 open reading frames (4). Argyrin is a naturally synthesized antibiotic peptide extracted from myxobacteria (1). It has cytotoxic properties, suppresses the immune system, and is a highly active antibiotic used against Pseudomonas strains (1). Figure 1. Argyrin A structure. Bielecki et al chose to isolate these resistant clones in order to observe the mechanisms by which the P. eruoginosa acquires resistance to Argyrin A within the fusA1 gene (1). They isolated these clones by growing Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains on agar that contained Argyrin A (1). After incubation, the colonies that formed were able to grow in the presence of argyrin; these colonies were then streaked onto plates with Argyrin A again to ensure accuracy of obtaining resistant strains (1). A point mutation is an alteration of one base pair within a DNA sequence (5). The point mutations, which caused changes in the amino acid sequence within the fusA1 gene, were different among the six isolates (1).They might have conferred resistance because the mutations caused the same impact on the resulting protein (1). The gene was identified by sequencing the whole genome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains with the bacterial target of Argyrin A, which showed mutations within fusA1 that encode for the elongation factor EF-G in resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1). The diagram below illustrates the process of elongation during the translational phase in EF-G along with EF-Tu (12). Figure 2. Elongation during ribosome-catalyzed translation (12). Bielecki et al confirmed the identity of the gene by using genetic maps. This required sequencing the resistant strain a second time to make a reference strain to compare the genes at a specific loci (1). Adding a mutation into the sensitive Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain demonstrated a resistance phenotype (1). Surface plasmon resonance is a lab technique that involves aiming a beam of light at a thin metal sheet, which catalyzes a reaction by causing movement in the molecules behind the metal sheet (6).SPR was useful in this experiment because it confirmed that fusA1 is the target gene for Argyrin A, rather than fusidic acid, the antibiotic previously recognized (1). A heterologous protein, or a heterologue, is a protein that differs in structure and function relative to a given protein; not all proteins with different amino acid sequence necessarily differ in function (7). N-terminal His6-tags were fused to the fusA1 genes before undergoing the SPR experiments, causing the production of heterologous proteins in relation to the original fusA1 (1).According to Bielecki et al, the SPR procedures supported that Argyrin A binds to fusA1 by the resulting KD value (1). This shows that Argyrin A has a target on the heterologous protein (1). It is important to compare the variations made in the mutations because the other bacteria may have a different sequence that can still achieve resistance (1). It cannot be assumed that all bacterial strains will be identically resistant or sensitive because they all contain differences in their genomes (1). By mapping the mutated genes, the authors found the locations of the mutations in different domains (1).They deduced that the mutations exhibiting resi stance to Argyrin A in Pseudomonas aeruginosa are found on opposite sides of the domain, despite the fact that most mutations involving fusidic acid and Argyrin A are located on the same side of the domain (1). This shows that the binding sites for fusidic acid and Argyrin A must be independent of each other (1). Both fusA1 and the second gene, fusA2, encode for the elongation factor EF-G (1). The fusA2 gene was expressed 30 times less in the strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa than in the fusA1 gene, as shown by RNA sequencing (1).Homology modeling uses the model of a target protein to produce an estimated structure of a homologous template protein (8). After creating a homology model of Argyrin A’s protein structure, Bielecki et al concluded that it â€Å"most likely binds to a site distinct from that of fusidic acid, indicating a new mode of protein biosynthesis inhibition by Argyrin A† (11). Multi-drug resistant pathogens pose a very big risk on the world because the y can easily mutate their genomes to adopt resistance to a given antibiotic and persist in causing harmful diseases (1).The authors used MDR clinic isolates in order to observe the mechanisms by which these pathogens mutate to build resistance to Argyrin. The fact that eleven of the twelve isolates showed sensitivity to Argyrin suggests that Argyrin is a useful antibiotic in preventing infections by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1). There are other factors besides the uptake and export of Argyrin that affect Pseudomonas aeruginosa’s sensitivity to Argyrin, such as efflux pumps (1); however, the uptake and export of Argyrin in other bacteria does play a role in its sensitivity (9).A proteasome is a hollow protein complex with active sites that break down proteins by proteolysis (10). The degraded peptides that are produced can be used for other functions in the cell (10). Argyrin A is a factor used to inhibit proteasome function, yet there is no distinct evidence that Argyrin A bind s to the site on the proteasome (1). This paper is important because it analyzes the resistance and sensitivity to Argyrin A in various strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.This bacteria has been a leading cause in nosocomial infections, so it is important to determine which antibiotics best work to stop the spread of disease (1). About ten percent of patients in hospitals across the United States obtain a significant nosocomial infection (13). Although there are effective methods to prevent the spread of pathogens in clinical environments (13), it is important to study how bacteria acquire resistance, so that scientists can develop ways to inhibit the spread of nosocomial infections by multi-drug resistant pathogens.Bibliography Bielecki, P. , Lukat, P. , Husecken, K. , Dotsch, A. , Steinmetz, H. , Hartmann, R. W. , Muller, R. , and Houssler, S. (2012) Mutation in elongation factor G confers resistance to the antibiotic Argyrin in the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Che mbiochem. 13, 2339-2345. Obritsch, M. D. , Fish, D. N. , MacLaren, R. , and Jung, R. (2005) Nosocomial infections due to multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: epidemiology and treatment options. Pharmacotherapy. 25, 1353-1364. Iqbal, S. , Khalid, Z. M. and Malik, K.A. (1995) Enhanced biodegradation and emulsification of crude oil and hyperproduction of biosurfactants by a gamma ray-induced mutant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Lett. Appl. Microbiol. 21,  176–179. C. K. Stover, X. Q. Pham, A. L. Erwin, S. D. Mizoguchi, P. Warrener, M. J. Hickey, F. S. L. Brinkman, W. O. Hufnagle, D. J. Kowalik, et al. (2000) Complete genome sequence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, and opportunistic pathogen. Nature. 406, 959-964. Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Point mutation. Accessed 17 Oct. 2012 http://www. britannica. om/EBchecked/topic/54744/point-mutation Manfield, I. (2009) Biacore surface plasmon resonance. Univ. of Leeds, Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology. Accessed 1 8 Oct. 2012 http://www. astbury. leeds. ac. uk/facil/SPR/spr_intro2004. htm Jackson, J. H. (1999) Terminologies for gene and protein similarity. Michigan State Univ. , Dept. of Microbiology. Accessed 19 Oct. 2012 https://www. msu. edu/~jhjacksn/Reports/similarity. htm Bevan, D. R. (2003) Homology modeling. Virginia Tech, Dept. of Biochemistry. Accessed on 19 Oct. 012 http://www. biochem. vt. edu/modeling/homology. html Sasse, F. , Steinmetz, H. , Schupp, T. , Petersen, F. , Memmert, K. , Hofmann, H. , Heusser, C. , Brinkmann, V. , von Matt, P. , Hofle, G. , and Reichenbach, H. (2002) Argyrins, immunosuppressive cyclic peptides from myxobacteria. I. Production, isolation, physico-chemical and biological properties. J. Antiobiot. 55, 543-551. Rape, M. , and Jentsch, S. (2002) Taking a bite: proteasomal protein processing. Nat. Cell Biol. 4, 113-116. Bielecki, P. , Lukat, P. , Husecken, K. , Dotsch, A. Steinmetz, H. , Hartmann, R. W. , Muller, R. , and Houssler, S. (2012) Mutation in e longation factor G confers resistance to the antibiotic Argyrin in the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Chembiochem. 13, 2340. Simonovic, M. and Steitz, T. A. (2009) A structural view on the mechanism of the ribosome-catalyzed peptide bond formation. BBA Gene Reg. Mech. 1789, 612-623. Abedon, S. T. (2009) Nosocomial infections. Ohio State University. Accessed on 27 Oct. 2012 http://www. mansfield. ohio-state. edu/~sabedon/biol2053. htm

Friday, August 30, 2019

Communication and relationship building Essay

Explain why effective communication is important in developing positive relationships with children, young people and adults. Children need to feel safe, secure and comfortable to make separation from their parents easier. When they are emotionally secure they will be more confident and involved in the play and activities around them. Likewise, parents need to feel that their children are happy and cared for according to their needs. People will feel valued as individuals if they think their views and opinions matter. If we know their interests and listen to them they are more likely to initiate conversations themselves, thereby improving their language development. Conversations and research build language skills which are vital to learning, and also developing social skills, as social interaction is essential to our wellbeing If people feel a sense of belonging and inclusion they will flourish, if they feel supported and understood they are more likely to trust you, be open with you and tell you how they feel. Children are less likely to behave in an unwanted manner if we are able to effectively understan d individual’s development needs and expectations, thereby being able to plan more accurately to meet these needs. Children need to feel safe, secure and comfortable to make separation from their parents easier. When they are emotionally secure they will be more confident and involved in the play and activities around them. Likewise, parents need to feel that their children are happy and cared for according to their needs. People will feel valued as individuals if they think their views and opinions matter. If we know their interests and listen to them they are more likely to initiate conversations themselves, thereby improving their language development. Conversations and research build language skills which are vital to learning, and also developing social skills, as social interaction is essential to our wellbeing If people feel a sense of belonging and inclusion they will flourish, if they feel supported and understood they are more likely to trust you, be open with you and tell you how they feel. Children are less likely to behave in an unwanted manner if we are able to effectively understan d individual’s  development needs and expectations, thereby being able to plan more accurately to meet these needs. 2.1. Explain the skills needed to communicate with children and young people. Empathic listening – being able to see things from another person’s point of view and understand how they may feel Patience – allowing people time, especially children, to find the words to express themselves, without interrupting them Concentration – giving your full attention to the individual so they know you are interested in them and what they have to say Observation – Body language, facial expressions and tone of voice can help to identify how people are feeling Consideration – consider the other person’s needs such as speech and language disorders, earring aids Enthusiasm – give the impression that you are excited to talk to them, that they are important to you Reflection – Paraphrasing and restating the feelings and words of the individual Positive body language – Especially if talking to younger children, come down to their level to avoid coming across as intimidating and maintaining eye contact Honesty â €“ Always be truthful with responses, but appropriate to age and stage of child, never make promises, as you may not be able to keep them 00Empathic listening – being able to see things from another person’s point of view and understand how they may feel Patience – allowing people time, especially children, to find the words to express themselves, without interrupting them Concentration – giving your full attention to the individual so they know you are interested in them and what they have to say Observation – Body language, facial expressions and tone of voice can help to identify how people are feeling Consideration – consider the other person’s needs such as speech and language disorders, earring aids Enthusiasm – give the impression that you are excited to talk to them, that they are important to you Reflection – Paraphrasing and restating the feelings and words of the individual Positive body language – Especially if talking to younger children, come down to their level to avoid coming across as intimidating and maintaining eye contact Honesty – Always be truthful with responses, but appropriate to age and stage of child, never make promises, as you may not be able to keep them 2.2. Explain how to adapt communication with children and young people for: †¢Ã‚  the age of the child or young person Keep language simple, appropriate to age and developmental stage Make sure children understand what is expected of them Remain formal, to ensure there is no misunderstanding as to your role as carer †¢ the context of the communication During playtime or lunchtime you can talk to the children in a more social tone, but still maintaining the professional carer to child relationship. Children will often ask me my â€Å"real name†, to which I reply â€Å"but Mrs Bell is my real name†. During classroom activities children need to be focused and distractions need to be dealt with swiftly and efficiently before the interrupt the other children. †¢ communication differences. Consider the needs of the individual, ie if they are hearing impaired, face them and maintain eye contact so that lip reading is possible. They may have speech and hearing difficulties in which case you may need additional training for example in sign language. 2.3. Explain the main differences between communicating with adults and communicating with children and young people. -129600146195When communicating with children it is important to keep the relationship formal whilst at school, they need to see you as a carer. Children need to be communicated with very clearly and precisely, so there can be no double meaning. It is also vital to make sure that children understand exactly what we mean. The vocabulary and facial expressions you use need to be appropriate to the age and stage of development of the child/ren you are talking to. When dealing with children you should never offer physical contact towards them, which can prove hard as younger children will often want to hold your ha nd or cuddle When communicating with children it is important to keep the relationship formal whilst at school, they need to see you as a carer. Children need to be communicated with very clearly and precisely, so there can be no double meaning. It is also vital to make sure that children understand exactly what we mean. The vocabulary and facial expressions you use need to be appropriate to the age and stage of development of the child/ren you are talking to. When dealing with children you should never offer physical contact towards them, which can prove hard as younger children will often want to hold your hand or cuddle you. 2.4. Explain how to adapt communication to meet different communication needs of adults. -12960046000You may have to deal with adults for whom English is a second language, in which case you may need to have translator present, especially if the information may be difficult to explain. Some adults you encounter may have difficulty communicating due to dysfluency (stutter), you will need to show patience and understanding, giving them time and not interrupting or finishing words sentences for them. Some adults you encounter may have hearing difficulties, you may find that you have to maintain eye contact to enable them to lip read. 0You may have to deal with adults for whom English is a second language, in which case you may need to have translator present, especially if the information may be difficult to explain. Some adults you encounter may have difficulty communicating due to dysfluency (stutter), you will need to show patience and understanding, giving them time and not interrup ting or finishing words sentences for them. Some adults you encounter may have hearing difficulties, you may find that you have to maintain eye contact to enable them to lip read. 2.5. Explain how to manage disagreements with children, young people and When dealing with disagreements between children it is important to get both sides of the story and try to get the children to listen to how the other is feeling. You should try to help the children to think about ways to resolve the issue themselves, rather than laying down the law, so that they can use these skills again in the future. If a problem occurs with a parent you should find a more private area for discussions regarding the issue. Remain friendly and approachable, speak clearly with good eye contact, and ensure that you listen and be sympathetic to their views and feelings. Always be respectful of religious and cultural beliefs. It may be necessary for you to explain why certain behaviours are not acceptable within a school environment even though the child may be able to do this at home. When dealing with disagreements between children it is important to get both sides of the story and try to get the children to listen to how the other is feeling. You should try to help the children to think about ways to resolve the issue themselves, rather than laying down the law, so that they can use these skills again in the future. If a   occurs with a parent you should find a more private area for discussions regarding the issue. Remain friendly and approachable, speak clearly with good eye contact, and ensure that you listen and be sympathetic to their views and feelings. Always be respectful of religious and cultural beliefs. It may be necessary for you to explain why certain behaviours are not acceptable within a school environment even though the child may be able to do this at home. Explain the principles of relationship building with children, young people and adults. Principles of relationship building with children, young people and adults Your explanation or example of how the principle promotes relationship building: Communicate effectively Make sure there are no distractions when speaking with people, this will put them at easy and help to make them feel important. Get your thoughts together before hand so that you are sure of what you want to say. Speak clearly and appropriately for the age/developmental stage of the individual concerned. Being fair and consistent We must listen to what is being said, not jump to conclusions, just because someone has previous behaved in a particular way, does not mean they will always do so. We have to be consistent in the way that we behave too, if we are excitable one day and withdrawn the next, nobody will know what is expected of them on a day to day basis. Showing respect and courtesy If we are courteous and show respect, they will learn to treat us and others with the same respect and courtesy. If we use manners and our voices tones are warm and courteous children and young people will develop positive relationships with us and others. We all need to feel that we are of equal importance. Valuing and respecting individuality We all have individual strengths, talents and attitudes, and will excel in different areas, we need to show that we are comfortable with everybody’s individuality, accepting people for who they are and not who we expect them to be. Interests should be acknowledged and built upon. Confidentiality as appropriate Personal information will be passed on to you via other professionals or through parents to enable to best care for the child during their time with you, it is important to maintain confidentiality in these cases to maintain the trust between yourself and individuals concerned. No parents wants their child to be a source for gossip or bullying. Explain how different social, professional and cultural contexts may affect relationships and the way people communicate. -29045108585Depending upon the context in which you are working will determine how you should adapt your communication. If you are in a meeting with other professional bodies your language and behave should be more formal than it would be during your normal daily routine. In the today’s world of technology communication is becoming more impersonal, by e-mail or text, this can be detrimental to relationships as tone of voice and body language are key elements to effective communication. The way we respond to others ie the speed in which we respond to emails or phone messages and also how attentive we seem when speaking to someone can also affect the building of a relationship. Culturally our views and opinions of other people’s behaviour can affect relationships, this can be purely down to a lack of understanding and acceptance of each other’s background and cultural differences. In our society it is concerned rude or shows a lack of confidence not to maintain eye contact whilst communicating with others, although in other countries it is socially unacceptable to look another person in the eye when speaking to them. Likewise in some countries women are not permitted to speak to any other man than their husbands, you may find this socially unacceptable, but you would need to be mindful of other people life styles, otherwise relations could breakdown. Depending upon the context in which you are working will determine how you should adapt your communication. If you are in a meeting with other professional bodies your language and behave should be more formal than it would be during your normal daily routine. In the today’s world of technology communication is becoming more impersonal, by e-mail or text, this can be detrimental to relationships as tone of voice and body language are key elements to effective communication. The way we respond to others ie the speed in which we respond to emails or phone messages and also how attentive we seem   speaking to someone can also affect the building of a relationship. Culturally our views and opinions of other people’s behaviour can affect relationships, this can be purely down to a lack of understanding and acceptance of each other’s background and cultural differences. In our society it is concerned rude or shows a lack of confidence not to maintain eye contact whilst communicating with others, although in other countries it is socially unacceptable to look another person in the eye when speaking to them. Likewise in some countries women are not permitted to speak to any other man than their husbands, you may find this socially unacceptable, but you would need to be mindful of other people life styles, otherwise relations could breakdown. 3.1. Summarise the main points of legislation and procedures covering confidentiality, data protection and the disclosure of information. -15120016105Current legislation is important as it affects the practices that schools operate under. It is important to acknowledge the individualism of every child and their basis human rights. Data Protection Act 1998 – Aims to prevent the disclosure of personal and confidential information without the consent of the person involved, or the parents if the person is under 16 years of age. The Children Act 2004 – Lays down guidelines for all who are involved in looking after children with 5 basic outcomes; to be healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve, make a positive contribution and achieve economic well-being. Every Child Matters – green paper that came into effect after the case of Victoria Climbie which highlights the need for professional services involved with children to share information with each other. All information must be: processed fairly and lawfully, used only for the purpose for which it was gathered, adequate, relevant and not excessive, accurate and kept up to date where necessary, kept for no longer than necessary, processed in line with the individual’s rights, kept secure and not transferred outside the European Union without adequate protection. 0Current legislation is important as it affects the practices that schools operate under. It is important to acknowledge the individualism of every child and their basis human rights. Data Protection Act 1998 – Aims to prevent the disclosure of personal and confidential information without the consent of the person involved, or the parents if  the person is under 16 years of age. The Children Act 2004 – Lays down guidelines for all who are involved in looking after children with 5 basic outcomes; to be healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve, make a positive contribution and achieve economic well-being. Ev ery Child Matters – green paper that came into effect after the case of Victoria Climbie which highlights the need for professional services involved with children to share information with each other. All information must be: processed fairly and lawfully, used only for the purpose for which it was gathered, adequate, relevant and not excessive, accurate and kept up to date where necessary, kept for no longer than necessary, processed in line with the individual’s rights, kept secure and not transferred outside the European Union without adequate protection. 3.2. Explain the importance of reassuring children, young people and adults of the confidentiality of shared information and the limits of this. To assure children that they will not be put at risk of being teased or bullied by other pupils because of personal information being divulged unnecessarily.Grown-ups need to know that their children will be safe from playground gossip and their home details will be kept safe. Parents need to know that the school is giving the best care and support possible to their child and that any medical/developmental issues are only shared with the people who need to know. You may attend meetings and be told confidential information, you may need to inform others of your obligations, for example if another parent asks questions about a particular child. Parental consent is need to disclose information to other professionals, although schools have a duty of care and legal obligation to disclose information if the child is at risk or injury or harm. The parents or child should be kept information as to how, what, why and with whom the information will be shared. To assure children that they will not be put at risk of being teased or bullied by other pupils because of personal information being divulged unnecessarily.Grown-ups need to know that their children will be safe from playground gossip and their home details will be kept safe. Parents need to know that the school is giving the best care and support possible to their child and that any medical/developmental issues are only shared with the people who need to know. You may attend meetings  and be told confidential information, you may need to inform others of your obligations, for example if another parent asks questions about a particular child. Parental consent is need to disclose information to other professionals, although schools have a duty of care and legal obligation to disclose information if the child is at risk or injury or harm. The parents or child should be kept information as to how, what, why and with whom the information will be shared. Personal information must not be shared without the consent of the parents of a child under the age of 16. You could, however, be put into a position where someone confides personal information to you when it is necessary for you to share this information. If you believe that the child or young person could come to harm if the information is not shared you do not need to seek consent. Information must be shared if failure to do so may result in a crime being committed or not detected and will also include if consent were sort it may lead to interference with a potential investigation.You must also share information if there is a statutory duty or Court Order in force. Personal information must not be shared without the consent of the parents of a child under the age of 16. You could, however, be put into a position where someone confides personal information to you when it is necessary for you to share this information. If you believe that the child or young person could come to harm if the information is not shared you do not need to seek consent. Information must be shared if failure to do so may result in a crime being committed or not detected and will also include if consent were sort it may lead to interference with a potential investigation.You must also share information if there is a statutory duty or Court Order in force.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

A Social Reminder

Later on, their children, Romina Montano and Julius Capule, engage in a love affair which worsens the cold connection between the two conflicting families. The couple strives hard to save their relationship, until they finally decided to abscond and marry each other giving birth to a child who became the key to solve the long existing clash the two families had. The actors that portrayed the characters in the movie like Sharmaine Buencamino, Nonie Buencamino, Isay Alvarez, Robert Sena, Eda Nolan and Dominic Roco showcased their magnificent acting prowess and delivery in their unconventional lines with humor and emotions. Its effective plot is also admirable because it gives extensive interest to its viewers. Behind this promotion, it tackles some of our country’s great social predicaments. In the movie, competition for money greatly influences a person’s every action and way of living. Commonly, it is the reason that crashes the important relationships and friendships we have. The case of eloping couples is one of the most common problems we hear that events to unplanned families and financial problems. It also illustrates disobedience to parents which may lead to distorted futures and broken families. Generally, the movie tells us that arguing because of money is a waste of time. Friendships should not be destroyed because of small problems. Instead, it should become stronger by these obstacles we face. There is nothing better than to be love and feel peace when you’re with your friends, neighbors and family. For me, this movie deserves a high mark for showing a total package short film and excellent cinematography. Furthermore, I would like to give this movie a credit in putting on a wonderful story in a short length film. A Social Reminder Later on, their children, Romina Montano and Julius Capule, engage in a love affair which worsens the cold connection between the two conflicting families. The couple strives hard to save their relationship, until they finally decided to abscond and marry each other giving birth to a child who became the key to solve the long existing clash the two families had. The actors that portrayed the characters in the movie like Sharmaine Buencamino, Nonie Buencamino, Isay Alvarez, Robert Sena, Eda Nolan and Dominic Roco showcased their magnificent acting prowess and delivery in their unconventional lines with humor and emotions. Its effective plot is also admirable because it gives extensive interest to its viewers. Behind this promotion, it tackles some of our country’s great social predicaments. In the movie, competition for money greatly influences a person’s every action and way of living. Commonly, it is the reason that crashes the important relationships and friendships we have. The case of eloping couples is one of the most common problems we hear that events to unplanned families and financial problems. It also illustrates disobedience to parents which may lead to distorted futures and broken families. Generally, the movie tells us that arguing because of money is a waste of time. Friendships should not be destroyed because of small problems. Instead, it should become stronger by these obstacles we face. There is nothing better than to be love and feel peace when you’re with your friends, neighbors and family. For me, this movie deserves a high mark for showing a total package short film and excellent cinematography. Furthermore, I would like to give this movie a credit in putting on a wonderful story in a short length film.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

IT utsurcing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

IT utsurcing - Essay Example Th rsrch bjctivs r t msur th incidnc f utsurcing mng ustrlin firms, idntify th functins utsurcd, th rsns why mngrs cnsidrd utsurcing, th csts nd bnfits f utsurcing, pssibl chngs in mds f nd mtivtins fr utsurcing nd fctrs tht r sscitd with succssful utsurcing rrngmnts. Th ppr is structurd s tht bth thrticl pprch twrd IT utsurcing nd its bnfits nd prcticl implictin nd rcmmndtins fr ustrlin IT utsurcing prtins wr xplrd. Th trms utsurcing nd insurcing d nt cptur th cmplxity f surcing ptins vilbl n th mrkt plc. Thr r svrl txnmis f surcing dcisins tht hv bn dptd. ur rsrch distinguishs mng thr: Ttl utsurcing: th dcisin t trnsfr IS ssts, lss, stff, nd mngmnt rspnsibility fr dlivry f IS srvics frm n intrnl IS functin t singl third prty vndr which rprsnts mr thn 80 pr cnt f th IS budgt; Ttl Insurcing: th dcisin t rtin th mngmnt nd prvisin f mr thn 80 pr cnt f th IS budgt intrnlly ftr vluting th IS srvics mrkt; Slctiv Surcing: th dcisin t surc slctd IS functins frm xtrnl prvidr(s) whil still prviding btwn 20 pr cnt nd 80 pr cnt f th IS budgt intrnlly. This strtgy my includ singl r multipl vndrs (mbrsi, 2001). Trnsitinl utsurcing invlvs th migrtin frm n tchnlgicl pltfrm t nthr. Such trnsitinl utsurcing hs thr phss: ( ) mngmnt f th lgcy systms; ( b ) trnsitin t th nw tchnlgy/systm; nd ( c ) stbilistin nd mngmnt f th nw pltfrm. ny n r ll f ths thr phss culd b turnd vr t third prty prvidr. Businss prcss utsurcing i... ny n r ll f ths thr phss culd b turnd vr t third prty prvidr. Businss prcss utsurcing is rltivly nw utsurcing rrngmnt. It rfrs t n utsurcing rltinship whr third prty prvidr is rspnsibl fr prfrming n ntir businss functin fr th clint rgnistin. ccrding t Millr (1994), numbr f industris r cnsidring businss prcssing utsurcing; in prticulr, gvrnmnt, finncil srvics (bnks nd insurnc cmpnis), hlth cr, trnsprttin, nd lgistics. Trgtd srvics includ htlins, hlp dsks, cll cntrs, clims mngmnt, nd dcumnt prcssing. Businss bnfit cntrcting is ls rltivly rcnt phnmnn. It rfrs t 'cntrctul grmnt tht dfins th vndr's cntributin t th clint in trms f spcific bnfits t th businss nd dfins th pymnt th custmr will mk bsd upn th vndr's bility t dlivr ths bnfits. Th gl is t mtch ctul csts with ctul bnfits nd t shr th risks.' Givn th risks sscitd with trditinl utsurcing, thr is cnsidrbl intrst in this frm f utsurcing. Millr nts, hwvr, tht whil businss bnfit cntrcting is frquntly usd in th mrkting f utsurcing srvics by third prty prvidrs, it typiclly is nt ctully dptd bcus f th difficulty sscitd with msuring bnfits. Bnchmrking in this r is prticulrly prblmtic. Bcus vndr rvnu nd mrgin ptntil r dirctly tid t th bnchmrks, it is nt surprising tht gtting grmnt by bth prtis n th bnchmrks prvs spcilly thrny. In ustrli, ppulr discussin f th grwing mrkt in utsurcing infrmtin tchnlgy (IT) hs bn spurrd by dcisins f svrl lrg cmpnis nd th ustrlin gvrnmnt t utsurc IT prtins. Th srvics in ustrlin IT utsurcing mk up t 38 prcnt f th ttl IT mrkt. Rsrch grup Grtnr rprtd tht th ustrlin IT srvics mrkt is wrth US$5.5 billin (Hubr, 2002). Th utsurcing in th cuntry is still ky drivr f th IT srvics sctr s wll s mngd srvics in rs

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Parking Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Parking Economics - Essay Example Each of the firms produces goods or services that do not have any unique characteristics when compared to the other firms. In perfect competition, each firm takes the price that is in the market. Not a single firm can set or determine the price of the goods, and they must take the equilibrium price. The output of each firm is usually a perfect substitute of the other firms’ output. The demand for the firm’s output is thus perfectly elastic. The market supply and demand, determine the market price that a firm must take. All firms can sell any quantity of goods at the market price. The marginal revenue is equal to the price. The demand curve for the products is horizontal ant the market price (Parkin 12). The demand that is associated with the products of a firm is perfectly elastic; because a sweetener for one firm is a perfect substitute for the sweetener of the other firm. The market demand can thus not be perfectly elastic since the sweetener is a substitute for other goods. In perfect competition, the goal of any firm is to maximize profits given the constraints that the firm will face. The firm must then decide on how to reduce production costs, what quantity of goods to produce and when the firm should enter or exit the market (Parkin 35). In a perfectly competitive firm, the output that maximizes the economic profit is chosen. The firm looks at the total revenue and the total cost curves to find the profit-maximizing output, the difference between the total revenue and the total cost is the economic profit. At the low output levels, a firm will incur an economic loss and with this the firm cannot recover the fixed costs. At the intermediate level, the firm makes some economic profit (Parkin 36). The firm can also use marginal analysis to determine the profit-maximizing output. Marginal revenue is constant, and the marginal cost increases as the output increases, with this, the

Monday, August 26, 2019

Boeotian black figure tripod kothon Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Boeotian black figure tripod kothon - Essay Example The komos is a parade of masked men costumed as satyrs and an occasion of feasting, joyous drinking and dancing.1 According to Maurice Emmanuel, representations of komos was much affected by the painters of vases and the fashion spread over the whole of Hellenistic world, to Boeotia and its kothons.2 The homosexual theme painted on the kothon served its purpose because; the kothon was the preferred drinking-vessel by soldiers taken on campaigns because it is easily carried in a knapsack. Greek men are known to practice pederasty and soldiers were known to fight with their lovers in battle. In the Constitution of the Lacedaemonians, Critias wrote about the vessel: â€Å"The reason why it is so well adapted to military use is that it is often necessary to drink water that is not pure. It is first of all useful because the liquid to be drunk cannot be seen with any clarity.†3 The Boeotian black figure tripod kothon further demonstrates this with its inward turning edges which wou ld inevitably catch a residue of the impurities inside its lip. One man, in dancing depiction, stretches an inviting reach toward the other dancing figures chin in the depiction of hopeful gesture for a romantic response. It appears that the dances are part of Dionysian rites with its revelry and wine-involved dances. Dionysius or his representation, however, is not depicted in the painting. According to Csapo and Miller, it is difficult to establish a connection to Dionysius on the basis of available iconography because the kothon paintings only show general associations such as the use of wine in the ritual and the masked satyrs.4 In the previously cited kothon artifact housed in Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, there is a more detailed depiction of the komos in the Boeotian kothon (see the picture below). In this case, the komos is collocated with a sacrifice ceremony, involving wine-poring, piper playing and

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Is dissociative identity disorder, formerly known as multiple Essay

Is dissociative identity disorder, formerly known as multiple personalities, real or a modern-day scam - Essay Example This is a defense method used to overcome severe emotional or physical pain or anxious anticipation of such circumstances. Through the dissociative process, feelings, memories, thoughts and perceptions of traumatic circumstance are separated from the person psychologicall, and enables the person to live as if the circumstances never occurred (Dissociative Identity Disorder 2003). Dissociative identity disorder or multiple personality disorder is considered from a sociocognitive perspective as a socially constructed disorder. The disorder is goal oriented, context bounded and the social behavior is evolved to meet the expectation of others significant to a circumstance and the characteristics o the behavior changes according to changes in circumstances (Spanos, N. P. 1994). Though multiple personality disorder has gained acceptance in the medical perspectives, there are several reasons that point out that this is not a disorder because it does not meet specific criteria to be recognized as a disease. Piper and Merskey (2004) notes that even close relative often do not recognize multiple personalities before patients begin therapy. In certain cases, relatives of the patients are given explanations, and the changes in behavior are specifically pointed out to understand multiple personalities because it was not evident before. Experts who advocate DID have not been able to strategically point out symptoms of the disorder since there is no specific personality state, identity, behavioral changes or other criteria that qualify the existence of the disorder. There is no definition for one personality taking control of the other or the methods to differentiate the changes in personality (Piper, A. & H. Merskey 2004 p.679). It may be concluded that from a sociocognitive perspective, dissociative identity disorder seems to exist in individuals in extreme circumstances. However, considering practical symptoms and

Retail business Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Retail business - Dissertation Example Due to recession, many retail organizations have reduced their workforce, and the employees feel uncertainty in their jobs. 3. People are likely to lose their jobs, especially men and young employees. The effect of global crisis have been felt by people in different ways, depending on the places they live, industry in which they are employed, occupation, and their personal characteristics. This is an indicator for understanding that, recruitment is an expensive process. It means that retail firms will increase the number of employees only if necessary, and they will only recruit when there is any authentic business case. As an alternative, most firms will go for their existing employees working harder, until the situation come under their control. 4. Unemployment rate is greater for males than females (Figure 1) – The unemployment rate to an extent will affect men more because they are more employed in the retail sectors, and so have the chance to experience job losses. 5. Com pared to other sectors in UK, executive salary in the retail sector is so high. In reality, a significant portion of the revenues of UK retail companies are being spent for schemes of employees’ pension and salaries. 6. Unemployment rate increases largely for younger people- The maximum increase in the unemployment rate, was for the population of age group between 18 and 24, as shown in Figure 2 below. Males in this age category have borne the impact of job losses. This will result in unemployment in later life, and they are supposed to earn less in future also. Fig.2: Male and female unemployment rate Fig.3: Increase in unemployment rate by age (Lee et al. n.d.). 7. The global crisis has been reflected in the present patterns of economic slowdown: maximum job losses have been found in ex-industrial areas of UK. 8. One of the main reasons for job losses is the low skill levels of the workforce in UK. Places of population with highly skilled people have experienced less amount of increase in unemployment, and populations with low skill levels have experienced the highest rate of increase in unemployment. 9. Places which depend on financial services employment have not performed well during the time of recession. This is because of the high job losses in retail banking sector, and it tends to be situated outside the capital of UK. 10. Lower Disposable Income- The decrease in the distribution of disposable income was a main challenge for the purchasing activities of the consumers. Decrease in the disposable income has taught the consumer to be more careful in making any purchase. 11. Lower Level of Savings- Inability of the consumers to maintain a sustainable level of savings, have made them focus on two distinct alternatives; one is to continue the same level of consumption pattern by low priced product purchase, or to purchase quality products without cutting the consumption level. 12. Risk of Opportunity Costs- The risk of opportunity costs have made th e consumers more conscious in making their purchase decisions. Purchase decision strategy often depends on the individual preferences of the consumers. 13. Retail banking industry is another area which has faced problems on account of recession. Retail banking carries on banking operations which directly deal with the individuals relatively than other banks or corporations. As the UK retail banking is not controlled by any centralized authority, they are occupied in business practices which are risky to continue in the market. 14. In

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Investigating the relationship between personality and Leadership Essay - 1

Investigating the relationship between personality and Leadership - Essay Example For example, Theory X and Y of management may be used within the same company in different departments depending on the nature of the work involved. Theory X of management assumes that most people have personalities that dislike work and must be controlled by strong means if they are to remain productive. Further, people need direction as well as control and not independence while they work (NetMBA, 2005). Theory Y is the complete opposite of this since it suggests that people are naturally inclined towards work as they are towards play and rest. Additionally, people find satisfaction in work and will use imagination, creativity and their personal skills to solve work related problems if they are allowed to work as they please (NetMBA, 2005). A manager who has a personality which is a good fit for managing with Theory X would find it difficult to create productivity in a department which should be governed with Theory Y. In such situations, personality itself can be defined as the collective emotional, thinking, and action patterns which are exhibited by an individual which are more or less consistent over a period of time (Miner & Dachler, 1973). Psychologists and those who study human personality have defined types of personalities and presented theories which help in placing individuals on certain scales of personality (Joy, 2004). The idea of personality as a set of individual levels of certain traits is fully supported by Cattell (Statt, 2004). It is also suggested that there are quite a few elements which affect human personality and the interaction of these traits as well as the reactions they produce to various stimuli result in a fully formed personality (Plucker, 2007). The work done by Cattell is important for the study of personality and productivity since it lets us gauge an individual’s personality and then connect it to their performance at a given position in the company. At the same time, we have

Friday, August 23, 2019

IMC Strategy Development for JB Hi Fi company Essay

IMC Strategy Development for JB Hi Fi company - Essay Example 1.1 Current Message Strategy JB’s current message strategy is based on the perception that it has to engage the appeal of its target demographics by taking an energetic approach which is both friendly and accommodating. The end goal is customer satisfaction and appeal. This is accomplished by making the high street stores attractive to its demographic target. JB’s online shopping facilities are also set up to reveal appealing product placement photographs and competitive pricing. In both the online shopping facilities and high street stores, the products are arranged by category for ease of reference and colour differentiation by virtue of the colour yellow and a distinctive logo are used to distinguish JB from its competitors. Thus, the current message strategy is designed to ensure that JB’s target demographic market is aware of the range and price of JB’s products. This is obtained by gaining attention (the one-way push) and then by making it easy for t he consumer to browse either in the virtual store or in the actual store (the two-way push). The two-way push is exemplified by the demonstrative play of products in-store with a view to gaining attention. The prices are reasonable and the volume high so that customers are enticed not only by the product’s appeal but its availability and are encouraged to return as a result of the shopping experience. The tagline however, is limited to pricing and availability advertising which is primarily left to online and in-store visits. 1.2 Message Effectiveness Critique The customer-friendly, energetic and appealing atmosphere is insufficient as it tends to focus on product availability rather than product value. Pricing is a marketing strategy that can very easily be mimicked by competitors (Kurtz, MacKenzie and Snow 2009, p. 584). A more effective IMC would focus more intently on increasing and improving customer awareness of the product. The approach should be to use an IMC strategy that increases the customers’ awareness of the products and this should include a promotional strategy (Chaston 2005, p. 143). Some guidance can be had by looking at JB’s major rivals’ strategies. These strategies include the use of the print media for advertising as well as the electronic media. Other strategies include point of sale communications and website communications and brochures all aimed at reaching their targeted consumers. Another competitor also uses social networks to facilitate communication with its customers. In today’s world of diversity it is best that JB use a diverse range of promotional strategies, similar to those used by its competitors (Blakeman 2007, p. 2). 1.3. Proposed Message Strategy Adjustments JB is required to improve its pull strategies. This means focusing on communicating directly with its customers (Hughes and Fill 2007, p. 146). This can be accomplished by creating a social networking service where JB moderates an open forum for full and frank disclosure relative to its products on an online forum. Push strategies which capitalize on intermediaries and other channels for communication should be improved (Lamb, Hair and McDaniel 2008, p. 413). This means taking the opportunity to increase the range of promotions and advertisement by virtue of the print and electronic media. 2.0 Channel Review 2.1 Channel Integration

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Evaluate the idea that gender and sexuality are socially constructed Essay Example for Free

Evaluate the idea that gender and sexuality are socially constructed Essay In recent years sociologists have been studying the great extent to which gender roles are learned. Many behaviors that have traditionally been thought to be genetically determined male or female behaviors turn out to be learned behaviors and therefore subject to change in future generations. In a summary of gender role socialization studies, David Shaffer (1979) points out that by the age of two, children have generally learned to recognize â€Å"maleness† and â€Å"femaleness† on the basis of clothing and hair styles. By the age of three, children usually have learned to prefer sex-typed toys and recognize that girls become â€Å"mommies† and boys become â€Å"daddies†. By school-age, children realized that they are expected to engage in appropriate gender behavior and if they do not, they will meet with disapproval from other children and adults. Many sociologists have personally questioned the value of such early gender-role learning and raised questions about how this learning can inhibit later opportunities in terms of education and career selection (Howe, 1979). To understand how gender and sexuality are socially constructed we must look at the adaptive and functional nature of socialization. One can look at the content of socialization as adaptive for the individual and functional for the society. As adaptive for the individual, the content of socialization involves knowledge necessary for individual to adapt to the changing situation of their daily lives, while, as a function for society, the content of socialization involves the knowledge necessary for its members to maintain a society as an ongoing entity. Knowledge of social rules, appropriate emotional behavior, social situations, technical knowledge, one’s self-identity, and communicative abilities give individuals an ability to adjust their behaviors to one another in the different groups and situations in which they encounter each other. Such adjustments are necessary for the ongoing existence of a society. Only people know how to adjust their behaviors to each other can the group activities and relationships which make up a society be maintained. Only with a socialized adult population can anything such as a society be said to exist. The particular content of socialization becomes highly important in terms of the make-up of the society that one is observing. If the content of socialization were to change, people’s activities and motivations would change, and clearly the society would change. So, on a sociological quest the content of socialization is something to which the sociologist should and must pay attention (O’Brien, 2001). Charles H. Cooley (1964), a pioneer of American socialization studies, referred to an individual’s self-concept as a â€Å"looking-glass self†. Cooley implied that our self-conceptions reflect our interpretation of the relations to our behavior of those around us with whom we interact. According to Cooley, we not how others respond to our actions, which produces in us a feeling about ourselves, which influences how we perceive ourselves. For instance a person who drops something and overhears another’s remark about how clumsy he is, may come to think of himself as a clumsy individual. We come to think of ourselves in terms of our understanding of how others think about us. It is through interaction that we come to apply to ourselves such labels as â€Å"kind† or â€Å"mean†, â€Å"awkward† or â€Å"graceful†. To see oneself as beautiful is to interact with persons who see you as meeting the criteria of beauty. Whether one sees oneself as an ugly duckling or a beautiful swan depends upon the flock with which one swims. As a naturalistic and empirical quest for understanding the various aspects of social reality is that everyone both influences and is influenced by society, sociology is ultimately a quest for self understanding. Humans beings are not isolated entities; we are not hermits who live apart uninfluenced by one another. Rather, we are social beings who can only be fully understood when the social context of our actions are taken into account and carefully studied. In order to carry out the quest for sociological knowledge it is necessary to have an understanding of the types, uses and limitations of the various sociological tools or methods. The sociological quest can be the appropriate sociological map or theory (Shaffer, 1979). Now I want to look at social life as a process and structure in the social construction of gender and sexuality. Social life involves processes of socialization, culture, and deviance. Learning how to act in society via socialization, developing and sharing of orientations toward social life via culture, and the negative sanctioning of inappropriate behaviors via the labeling process of deviance are universal processes, which are necessary to social life, and found in all societies. Although their particular make-up will vary from society to society, these three processes exist in all human societies. But, in addition to these processes, there also exists in all societies some relatively permanent patterns of organized social life that sociologists refer to as social structures. It is within and through social structures that the processes of socialization, culture and deviance take place. Just as the processes of human life take place in the structure of the human body so, too, the processes of society take place within and are influenced by social structures (Macionis, 1997). The most basic social structure around and through which social life takes place are groups; groups range in size from relatively small informal groups such as families, to large bureaucracies and formal organizations such as businesses and governmental agencies. All groups are composed of members who have met certain criteria for membership, who play certain understood roles in the group, and who have a sense of group belonging, which is sometimes termed a â€Å"we-feeling† or a â€Å"consciousness-of –kind†. Groups, related to one another in terms of their performing similar social activities, together from the social structures called social institutions. For example all the groups primarily involved in educational activities together form a society’s educational institution. It is through and in groups, and the institutions that they compose that the basic social processes of a society take place. It is in social groups that the learning of socialization takes place that cultural roles are shared and acted upon, and that deviance is ascertained and punished. People know how to perform roles in groups because they have knowledge of how to act which they developed in the process of socialization, because they share cultural understandings with other group members with whom they interact, because they have an understanding of what is considered deviant and unacceptable behavior in the various groups to which they belong (O’Brien, 2001). When we consider how females and males differ, the first thing that usually comes to mind is sex, the biological characteristics that distinguish males and females. Primary sex characteristics consist of a vagina or a penis and other organs related to reproduction, secondary sex characteristics are the physical distinctions between males and females that are not directly connected with reproduction. Secondary sex characteristics become clearly evident at puberty, when males develop more muscles, a lower voice, and more hair and height while females form more fatty tissue, broader hips, and larger breasts. Gender is a social and not a biological characteristic. Gender consists of whatever traits a group considers proper for its males and females. This is what makes gender vary from one society to another. Sex refers to male or female, gender refers to masculinity or femininity, so sex you inherit and you learn your gender as you are socialized into specific behaviors and attitudes (Gilmore, 1990). The sociological significance of gender is that it is a device by which society controls its members. Gender sorts us on the basis of sex, into different life experiences. It open and closes doors to power, property, and even prestige. Like social class, gender is a structural feature of society. Biology plays a significant role in our lives. Each of us begins as a fertilized egg. The egg, or ovum, is contributed by our mother, the sperm that fertilizes the egg by our father. At the very moment the egg is fertilized, our sex is determined. Each of us receives twenty-three pairs of chromosomes from the ovum and twenty-three from the sperm. The egg has an X chromosome. If the sperm that fertilized the egg also has an X chromosome, we become female. If the sperm has a Y chromosome we become male. That’s the biology. Now the sociological question is, does this biological difference control our behavior? Does it make females more nurturing and submissive and males more aggressive and domineering? (Macionis, 1997) Almost all sociologists take the side of â€Å"nurture† in this â€Å"nature vs. nurture† controversy. The dominant sociological position is represented by the symbolic interactionists. They stress that the visible differences of sex do not come with meanings built into them. Rather each human group determines what these physical differences mean for them and on that basis assigns males and females to separate groups. It is here that people learn what is expected of them and are given different access to their society’s privileges. Most sociologists find compelling argument that if biology were the principal factor in human behavior all around the world we would find women to be one sort of person and men another. In fact, ideals of gender vary greatly from one culture to another and as a result, so do male-female behaviors. For example the Tahitians in the South Pacific show a remarkable contrast to our usual expectations of gender. They don’t give their children names that are identifiable as male or female, and they don’t divide their labor on the basis of gender. They expect both men and women to be passive, yielding and to ignore slights. Neither male nor females are competitive in trying to attain material possessions (Gilmore, 1990). Society also channels our behavior through gender socialization. By expecting different attitudes and behaviors from us because we are male or female, the human group nudges boys and girls in separate directions in life. This foundation of contrasting attitudes and behaviors is so thorough that, as adults most of us think, act and even feel according to our culture’s guidelines of what is appropriate for our sex. Our parents are the first significant others who teaches us our part in this symbolic division of the world. Their own gender orientations are so firmly established that they do much of this teaching without even being aware of what they are doing. This is illustrated by a classic study done by psychologists Susan Goldberg and Michael Lewis (1969). They asked mothers to bring their 6 month old infants into their laboratory to supposedly observe the infant’s development. Secretly these researchers also observed the mothers. They found that the mothers kept their daughters closer to them. They also touch and spoke more to their daughters. By the time the children were 13 months old, the girls stayed closer to their mothers during play, and they returned to them sooner and more often than did the boys. When they set up barriers to separate the children from their mothers, who were hiding toys, the girls were more likely to cry and motion for help, the boys ere likely to try to climb over the barrier. Goldberg and Lewis (1969) were able to conclude that in our society mothers unconsciously reward their daughters for being passive and dependent, their sons for being active and independent. These lessons continue throughout childhood. On the basis of their sex, children are given different kinds of toys. Preschool boys are allowed to roam farther from home than their preschool sisters, and they are subtly encouraged to participate in more rough and tumble play. Even get dirtier and to me more defiant. Such experiences in socialization lie at the heart of the sociological explanation of male/female differences (O’Brien, 2001). In today’s society mass media plays a vital role in gender and sexuality roles. Sociologist stress how this sorting process that begins in the family is reinforced as the child is exposed to other aspects of society. Especially important today are the mass media, forms of communication that are directed to large audiences. Powerful images of both sexes on television, music and the internet reinforce society’s expectation of gender. Television reinforces stereotypes of the sexes. On prime time television, male characters outnumber female characters by two to one. They also are more likely to be portrayed in higher status positions. Viewers get the message, for the more television that people watch; the more they tend to have restrictive ideas about women’s role in society. The expectations to the stereotypes are notable and a sign of changing times. Video games have some youths spending countless hours playing games. Even college students, especially males, relieve stress by escaping into video games. But more studies into the affect of these games on the ideas of gender are needed. Because the games are the cutting edge of society, they sometimes also reflect cutting edge changes in sex roles (Macionis, 1997). As women change their roles in society, the mass media reflects those changes. Although media images of women are passive, subordinate, or as mere background objects remain and still predominate, a new image has broken through. Exaggerating changes in society, this new image nonetheless reflects a changing role of women, from passive to active in life outside the home, from acquiescent to dominate in social relations. Books, magazines, DVD’s and video games are made available to a mass audience. And with new digital advances they have crossed the line form what we traditionally think of as games to something that more closely resembles interactive movies. Sociologically, what is significant is that the content of video games socializes their users. Gamers are exposed not only to action, but also to ideas as they play. Especially significant are gender images that communicate powerful messages, just as they do in other forms of mass media (O’Brien, 2001). Lara Croft, an adventure seeking archeologist and star of Tomb Raider and Tomb Raider 2, is the essence of the new gender image. Lara is smart, strong, and able to utterly vanquish foes. With both guns blazing, she is the cowboy of the twenty-first century, the term cowboy being purposely chosen, as Lara breaks gender roles and assumes what previously was the domain of men. The old remains powerfully encapsulated in the new. Lara is a fantasy girl for young men of the digital generation. No matter her foe, no matter her predicament, Lara always is outfitted in form fitting outfits, which reflect the mental images of the men who created this digital character. Their efforts have been so successful that boys and young men have bombarded corporate headquarters with questions about Lara’s personal life. Lara had caught young men’s fancy to such an extent that more than 100 web sites are devoted to her. The final reward of the game is to see Lara in a nightie one can question that regardless of tough girl images just how far stereotypes have been left behind (Macionis, 1997). Gender stratification gives males and females unequal access to power and prestige and property on the basis of sex. It is closely associated with class and caste stratification and is a related phenomenon of gender stratification. Some but not all societies have men and women as unequal with the latter being more seen. Sexual in equality is characteristic of societies that are stratified in other ways as well. Women have historically occupied a position of inferiority to men in the class structured societies of the Western world. Sexual inequality may sometimes be seen in societies that are not otherwise stratified, in such instances men and women are always physically as well as conceptually separated from one another. The rise of gender stratification often seems to be associated with the development of strongly centralized states. Because social stratification of any kind tends to make life oppressive for large segments of a population, the lower classes are usually placated by means of religion, which promises them a better existence in the hereafter. Gender inequality is not some accident; instead it is the institutions of each society that work together to maintain the group’s particular forms of inequality. Customs throughout history both justify and maintain these arrangements. Although men have resisted sharing their privileged positions with women, change has come (O’Brien, 2001). By playing a fuller role in the decision making processes of our social institutions, women are going against the stereotypes and role models that lock males into exclusively male activities and push females into roles that re considered feminine. As structural barriers fall and more activities are engendered, both males and females will be free to pursue activities that are more compatible with their abilities and desires as individuals. As they develop a new consciousness of themselves and their own potential, relationships between females and males will change. Certainly distinctions between the sexes will not disappear. There is no reason for biological differences to be translated into social inequalities. The reasonable goal is appreciation of sexual differences coupled with equality of opportunity which may lead to a transformed society.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Impact of Gst on Fmcg Sector Essay Example for Free

Impact of Gst on Fmcg Sector Essay Initially envisaged to be in place by April 1, 2010 the GST would result in a major rationalization and simplification of the consumption tax structure at both the centre and state levels by replacing all central and state level indirect taxes such as value added tax (VAT), excise duty, service tax, entertainment tax among others bring relief to the common man. GST: An Executive Summary GST is the most ambitious indirect tax reform in India ever attempted and aims to create one â€Å"borderless domestic market†. It will tax consumption as against â€Å"production† which is the current norm. A uniform rate will be imposed on a product only once, at the point of its supply, thus reducing the cost for consumers. Key benefits: If GST is implemented without many exemptions and with a single rate, the following benefits will accrue: * Macro: Successful pan-India implementation will add 1-1. 7 % to the GDP and boost the tax/GDP ratio. * Micro: Incidence of tax will come down in case of manufactured goods. However, in case of services the incidence and coverage of tax may rise resulting in higher prices. Industry: Volume growth will accrue as incidence of taxation is minimized. Also, supply chain efficiencies will accrue as there will be no need for multiple depots and warehouses. Driven by growing consumption in rural and semi-urban areas, the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) market is expected to double from $14. 7 billion in 2008-09 to $30 billion in 2012, according to a study titled â€Å"Prospects in the FMCG sector†, released by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham). The Indian FMCG sector is the fourth largest sector in the economy with a market size in excess of $14. 7 billion. A well-established distribution network, intense competition between the organized and unorganized segments characterize the sector. GST is a tax on consumption, and since FMCGs form the core of the consumption basket, the sector would be watch closely on the heels of its implementation. The sector is bound to witness many gainers and closers, depending crucially on the base and rates of the GST. Currently both centre and state tax rates vary- central value added tax (CENVAT) duty varies from 0-14 % (reduced to 8% under the fiscal stimulus package) and the state VAT varies between 0% and 12. 5%. Indications are that the combined centre and state GST on FMCGs could range between 12% and 14%, if applied at a single rate. At this rate, the total burden on FMCG’s should remain approximately the same as under the current structure. However, it would lead to simplication in the tax structure and would mitigate the disputes relating to classification of goods into various tax rate categories and determination of factory price for application of CENVAT. However, if food and other basic necessities were to be exempted or made taxable at a lower rate, then the standard rate for other goods and services could be pushed up to 18% or more. This could lead to disputes on classification of goods to the two rate categories. Leaving aside the issue of rates, many benefits are to be realized with respect to simplification of the supply chain which are summarized thus: Impact of GST on the FMCG Supply Chain: The introduction of GST is expected to build best-in-class capability in supply chain as well as people capability and enhance India’s cost leadership position by eliminating inefficiencies in supply chain and taxation: * Multiple Route-to-market models: Upto 35% reduction possible in time-to-market. Simplification of Supply Chain: With the elimination of central sales tax, manufacturers could implement a centralized warehousing and distribution centre and need not set up distribution depots in individual states and make inter-state sales via consignment agents. * Elimination of Tax Cascading: Currently, FMCG dealers cannot claim a credit for the service tax paid on their inputs. Restrictions also apply on claimin g credits for VAT on inputs other than goods for resale. Reduction in Inventory Costs: Currently, the CENVAT is included in inventory costs, because of which the dealers costs increase. Under the new structure, the GST paid on inventory would be fully recoverable as input tax credit, reducing the inventory financing costs. * Cash Flow benefit from tax: The dealers would be collecting GST from their customers as they make sales, but would be required to remit it to the government only at the end of the month or the quarter, when they file their returns. This extra cash float would be like a recurring interest-free loan from the government each quarter. These benefits would be then passed on to the customer in the form of Potential Price Reduction which are depicted below: ( Under two scenarios of 14% and 16% Excise Duty) Direct Impact on Logistics with trickle down benefits for FMCG: The cost of logistics in India is about 13% of the GDP, among the highest in the world. This higher logistics spend in India is attributed to the inefficiencies in the system which are expected to be done away with the new taxation regime. The previous regime has resulted in an unorganized and fragmented warehousing industry necessitating streamline of the logistics industry processes. The GST would impact the Logistics sector as under: * Consolidation outsourcing in warehousing: Achievable due to inherent advantages of low fixed costs, low employment of manpower and administrative effort. * Reduction in number of Distribution Centres (DC’s): Post GST, state specific distribution centres are expected to change to regional DCs. The outcome of this would be fewer DCs of larger size, more value inventory and a higher number of trasactions. Improvement in Quality of Services: Costs savings can be used to improve the quality of services and the usage of larger line haul vehicles, larger loads and cross docking. * Alleviation of complexities in documentation and inter State barriers: Through a uniform and seamless application of CGST SGST irrecoverable taxes such as Central Sales Tax (CST), complex documentation of inter State movement of goods, entry barriers at state borders resulting in long transportation times and imposition of local levies such as entry taxes and octroi upon physical entry of goods into designated areas can be done away with. Analysis: In order to satisfy the set of customer needs through its products and services, the firms operating in the FMCG space need to achieve a consistency between their Business Strategy, Product Development Strategy, Marketing Sales Strategy and Supply Chain Strategy. As identified earlier, the supply chain strategy which revolves around Operations, Distribution and Service is geared towards cost leadership by the implementation of GST, all while improving quality of service. In the FMCG sector, there is a need for an efficient supply chain as consumer goods typically depict predictable demand, explaining their low margins. GST helps us achieve thus by alleviating complexities inherent in the existing tax system. Facility Network Design Considerations: Increase in the number of facilities increase costs associated with inventory, setting up of additional facilities and transportation. As discussed earlier, the elimination of the Central Sales Tax can help the industry work towards consolidation of warehouses and distribution centres, reducing the number of facilities and thereby the overall logistics costs. Same has a direct impact on response time, and the savings realized by facility reduction along with the multiple route-to-market models that have opened up, could lead to a 35% reduction in time-to-market. Recommendations: Based on the secondary data collected, and the subsequent analysis of the FMCG sector the following recommendations have been tabulated for the benefit of the policy makers: * Extended date of implementation: Setting of the deadline as October, 2010 as opposed to April 1, 2010 would help the Centre solve any and all disputes related to its implementation with the States leading to a flawless roll-out. Removal of classification between goods and services: To ensure there are no classification disputes, leading to more complications and delays. * Removal of existing area based exemptions: the existing area based exemptions in respect of CENVAT should be discontinued and if need be a direct investment linked cash subsidy may be provided to support the industry, for b alanced regional development. The idea is to not break the GST chain with regard to both CGST SGST. Some of the options around re-engineering the supply chain would relate to decisions on indigenous supplies vis-a-vis imports; Intra-State vis-a-vis Inter-State procurement manufacturing service/warehousing stocking locations, in-house v/s contract manufacturing, direct sales v/s stock transfers etc.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Chinese Values in Entrepreneurial Attitude

Chinese Values in Entrepreneurial Attitude Many countries have indicated successful entrepreneurship as a major component in a healthy market economy and important source of job creation (Hisrich Peter, 1988; Jackson Rodkey, 1994; Jennings, 1994; Kroon, 2002; North, 2002; Timmons, 1994; Van Aadrt Van Aardt, 1997). The presence of entrepreneurial thinking in existing organizations can lead the competitive advantage (Covin and Miles, 1990) and improved financial performance (Goosen, De Coning Smit, 2002) According to the research of Brock and Evans (1986) conclude that small businesses are contributed to the economic development. In Malaysia and many countries, small firms had played an important role for economic development. There has been minimal research conducted to examine why most of the companies that survive, grow and succeed are mostly Chinese owner-managers compared to Malay and Indian owner-managers. Several studies have revealed that Confucian culture has a significant and positive correlation with economic success. These cultural values have significantly influenced the Chinese way of life and personality (Wah, 2002). From the sociological point of view, the family is a basic unit of society for Chinese. In the Chinese Confucianism society, the family is the center of all relationships. Business ownership and management is normally retained within the circle of family members. It is common to find that the Chinese business is normally started by the first generation of the family with the intention to be passed down to the second generation or even third generation. Due to lack of research study on the reason in most of the companies that survive, grow and succeed are mostly Chinese owner-managers. This researches and studies give a way to have a depth understand about the Chinese Value towards Entrepreneurial Attitudes Orientation. 1.3 Research Objectives The purpose of this study is to find out the impact on Chinese value towards entrepreneurial attitudes orientation. To address the above mentioned problem the following objectives are derived: 1.3.1 General objective To identify how the four dimension of Chinese value (integration, human heartedness, Confucian work dynamism and moral discipline) determines the entrepreneurial attitudes orientation in Malaysia. 1.3.2 Specific objective To examine whether there is a significant relationship between integration and entrepreneurial attitude orientation. To examine whether there is a significant relationship between human heartedness and entrepreneurial attitude orientation. To examine whether there is a significant relationship between Confucian work dynamism and entrepreneurial attitude orientation. To examine whether there is a significant relationship between moral discipline and entrepreneurial attitude orientation. To examine whether the Integration, Human heartedness, Confucian work dynamism and Moral discipline is significant explain the variance in Entrepreneurial Attitudes Orientation. 1.4 Research questions Are there any relationship between integration and entrepreneurial attitudes orientation? Are there any relationship between human heartedness and entrepreneurial attitudes orientation? Are there any relationship between Confucian work dynamism and entrepreneurial attitudes orientation? Are there any relationship between moral discipline and entrepreneurial attitudes orientation? Are there Integration, Human heartedness, Confucian work dynamism and Moral discipline can be use to explain the variance in Entrepreneurial Attitudes Orientation. 1.5 Hypothesis of the study H1 : There is a significant relationship between Integration and Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation. H2 : There is a significant relationship between Confusion Work Dynamism and Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation. H3 : There is a significant relationship between Human-heartedness and Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation. H4 : There is a significant relationship between Moral Discipline and Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation. H5 : The independent variables will significantly explain the variance in Entrepreneurial attitudes orientation. 1.6 Significance of the study Nowadays, the role of Chinese entrepreneurs in small and medium enterprises has been increasing. Chinese are present in everywhere, businessman in international trade will often find themselves dealing with the Chinese customers. So, a comprehensive understanding of the Chinese value is worthy to all businessman. The importance of this study will explain the development and validation of the Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation (EAO), based on Chinese Value Survey (CVS) and specifically designed to predict entrepreneurship. The (CVS) are used to access whether an impact towards the entrepreneurs attitude orientation. Despite the importance of small firms in Malaysias economy, there has been minimal research conducted to examine why most of the companies that survive, grow and succeed are mostly Chinese owner-managers as compared to other owner-managers. 1.7 Chapter Layout In this research report, chapter 1 is the introductions that provide an overview on the background of the phenomena that being study. In general, this chapter will provide a clear understanding of the research topic. It introduces the research background, research objectives and significant of study is to explain the importance of the study. Chapter 2 will be the literature review that proposed the theoretical background of the research topic. This could help the researcher to better understanding of the important variables in this research report. It serves as a fundamental of the hypothesis to be tested. Literature review is the based on the empirical research which done by previously by researcher who has studied existing work and the field with insight. Next, is the chapter 3 research methodology that describes the collection method that is suitable for this research report which included the research design, data collection method, sampling design, operational definition of construct measurement scale and the data analysis technique use. By implementing the appropriate sampling method could help to minimize the errors that associated with the research. Following, chapter 4 will present the pattern of the result and the analyses of the result which obtain from the descriptive analyses, reliability test and inferential analyses to examine the reliability and the relationship of the variables. Furthermore, the research result that shows the result of the data analysis figures, chart, table and graph are used to present the findings. The last chapter in this research report would be discussion and conclusion that provides discussion of major findings and recommendations for future research. It will provide a whole summary of the whole research project and limitations that researcher faced during the research process. 1.8 Conclusion Proposed of chapter 1 is act as a foundation for this research project. It form a brief outlines in each chapter presented the chapter. In the following chapter, the variables will be further discussed in depth and the proposed conceptual framework will be illustrated. CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW 2.0 Introduction In previous chapter, research problem, research objectives, research questions and hypotheses of the study have been identified. In this chapter 2, provide a literature review which convey the knowledge and ideas that have been established on this research topic and related with the research objectives. It contains the discussions and evaluation of the research topic in this section. Through reviewing the relevant journals, it provides the foundation to develop a good theoretical framework for the research. Besides that, it allows the research project lead to further identified relationship among the dependent variables and the independent variables and hypotheses testing in order to reach the research objectives. 2.1 Review of literature We will adopt attitude theoretical approach (Robinson., P.B., Stimpson, D.V., Huefner, J.C., Hunt, H.K.. 1991a) explaining the development of Chinese entrepreneurs behavior. This is a method of investing entrepreneurial orientated individual. Five important entrepreneurial attitudes were identified from literature, achievement, self-esteem, personal control, innovation and opportunity recognition. This instrument is called Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation Scale (EAOS). Besides, we will obtain Chinese Value Survey (CVS) to measure and evaluate cultural values within the setting of a Chinese social value system that is derived from the Confucian ethos. In the CVS consideration is focussed on four dimensions such as Integration, human-heartedness, Confusion work dynamism and moral discipline. 2.2 Review of Relevant Theoretical Model After read through the relevant journals, few theoretical models are being found related to the research regarding Chinese values (CV) and Entrepreneurial attitudes orientation (EAO). 2.2.1 Chinese Culture values and development According to Williams (1968), Rokeach (1973), Rokeach, (1973) and Ball-Rokeach (1989), values provide potentially powerful explanations and influence on human behaviors because they serve as the standards or criteria of conduct tend to be limited in number and are remarkably stable over time (as cited in Fok, V. S. Chong, V.K., 1996). Values establish and reflect expected behaviour and also used to enforce sanctions such as blame and praise as well as social inclusion and exclusion (Anderson, 2000). Based upon psycho-sociological studies on the significance of cultural values as determinants of human behavior, the two things are related to each other (Hofstede, 1980). Hofstede (1991, p.5) describe culture as the collective programming of the mind that differentiates one group from another group. In early, Hofstedes study suggests that his classic model view as a traditional quantitative design with four dimension of culture. There are power distance, individualism-collectivism, uncertainty avoidance and masculinity-femininity. However, Hofstede added a fifth dimension named long term orientation in year 2001(as cited in Fontaine, R. Richardson, S., 2005). Hofstede and Bond (1988) derived that Confucian dynamism as one of the values that contribute to the economic growth in 22 countries during the period 1965 to 1985. Confucian values towards entrepreneurial development in Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Japan bring the name as four dragons at the same time they hold top five positions in economic growth. Mostly countries are within the Confucian influence circle and their economies have been driven to a large extent by entrepreneurship in the small and medium sized business sectors. Another model act as an improvement on Hofstede classic model (1980) is Schwartzs model (1994). It works out to replace Hofstedes dimension of Individualism by two dimensions (Autonomy versus Conversation and Hierarchy and Mastery at the cultural level). Furthermore, this model used to eliminate validity and reliability limitation on Hofstedes model as it has proved valid and reliable across cultures when research have taken Schwartzs theory and developed a different instrument. Later, Schwartzs SVS act as a measure instrument which comprises 57 values represent ten dimension at the individual level (power, achievement, hedonism, stimulating, self-direction, universalism, benevolence, tradition, conformity and security) and seven dimension at the cultural level (embeddedness, hierarchy, mastery, affective autonomy, intellectual autonomy, egalitarianism and harmony)(as cited in Fontaine, R. Richardson, S., 2005). Chinese cultural values are created from interpersonal relationships and social orientations. The works of Confucius is generally regarded as the pillars of Chinese cultural values Yang (1972). There are four major studies about Chinese value orientations and development of measuring scales. First study, Ways to Live Survey designed by Morris (1956) consisting of 13 alternative conceptions which included values advocated and defended in the several ethical and religious systems of human societies. Second study found that the younger generation showed a considerable change different from their parents who pursue on traditional practices, or be influence by friends and change across time. (Lin 1966). Continue study was Chinese Value Survey (CVS) developed by the Chinese Culture Connection (1987). It is an idiographic design which is recognized as more appropriate in cross cultural research and not based on Western social science but used 40-scale items which is the fundamental and basic values for Chinese people. Michael Bond and his colleagues conducted this research aim to develop a new questionnaire with the input from several Chinese social scientists in Hong Kong. CVS consist of four dimensions which are integration, Confucian work dynamism, human-heartedness and moral discipline respectively. This instrument that tapped concerns fundamental to the Chinese world view and identify an additional value indigenous to the Chinese people, which they termed Confucian work dynamism as the principle attributes reflect the teachings of Confucius and the social continuity of an extant civilization of over 2,500 years(as cited in Steven Ward, 2002). Latest study on Chinese values orientation was the Chinese Cultural Values Scale (CCVS) by Yau (1994). It is the only one scale developed for exploring the relationship between Chinese cultural values and consumer attitudes and behaviors. It is nothing related with entrepreneurial attitudes orientation. 2.2.2 Chinese Value (CV) Chinese Value is selected to be independent variables in this research. The Chinese Value Survey (referred to as the CVS) was developed by Bond and a group of research workers known collectively as the Chinese Culture Connection in response to their perceived need to measure and evaluate cultural values within the setting of a Chinese social value system that is derived from the Confucian ethos. The Confucian ethos has tended towards the formation of a dedicated and motivated as well as educated population which manifests a responsible and enhanced sense of commitment to its ideals and institutions as well as to the identity and moral fiber of its organization with the resultant establishment of desirable outcomes (Chang et al., 1997). Values are enduring belief of desired end-state of existence or modes of behaviour (Kluckholn, 1951). In psychology, values are operationalized as the guiding principles of a persons behaviour (Schwarts Bilsky, 1990). The values measured by Bond and his colleagues remain universal in nature, but they also include some values which are uniquely Confucian (Hofstede, 1991). Examples are respect for tradition, humility, filial piety, and protecting ones face. This is not to say such values do not exist in Western culture, but rather their implied importance is not as great as in Eastern culture. The study used 40-scale items which were identical to those in the study so as to find out different culture dimensions in valuing (Ng, 1982). There are four dimensions of (CVS) such as Integration, Human-heartedness, Confusion work dynamism and moral discipline. Integration dimension focuses upon social stability and can be characterized by having tolerance for others. Integration also places importance upon being trustworthy and enjoying a close friendship. It corresponds to Hofstedes power distance dimension which identifies the degree of power distance that is seen as appropriate between a superior and a subordinate. In the organizational context, it can be an indicator of the degree of centralization that is deemed appropriate. Secondly, human-heartedness dimension deals with an individuals level of social consciousness or awareness. It is a measure of ones compassion toward others. It is characterized by the need to be kind, forgiving and courteous. In the business setting, it may be viewed as presenting a contrast between the task-oriented and people-oriented styles of management. Human-heartedness also may be viewed as comparable to Hofstedes (1980) masculinity dimension. The third is the Confusion work dynamism, it reflects the teachings of Confucius that emphasize a social hierarchy or structure (Louie, 1980). It can be characterized by a respect for tradition with a strong desire to save face. It also implies a need to order relationships by status and to respect the order of that status. Confucian work dynamism fills a void in the content of Western instruments which, not too surprisingly, do not include Confucian values in their constructs (Hofstede Bond, 1988). Lastly, is the moral discipline. The focus of this dimension is upon keeping oneself under control in relation to others. It is characterized by the need to be moderate, prudent and adaptable. Following the high road is a part of moral discipline when compared with Hofstedes (1980) IBM research, three of the four CVS dimensions aligned closely with three of the four Hofstede dimensions (Hofstede Bond 1988). The four Hofstedes dimensions namely are 1), individualism 2), masculinity, 3) power distance, and 4) uncertainty avoidance. Although Hofstede did not specify the relationship between culture and entrepreneurial, his culture dimensions are useful in identifying the key elements of culture related to entrepreneurial orientation. All four indices were based on responses to questions framed by Western social scientists. 2.2.3 Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation and Development The previous research has found that various personality and attitudinal constructs in the field of entrepreneurship. Lumpkin and Dess (1996) have defined Entrepreneurial attitude orientation (EAO) as the processes, practices, decision-making activities that lead to new entry. Furthermore, Hornaday and Aboud (1971) has mentioned EAO is a set of personal psychological traits, values, attributes and attitudes strongly associated with a motivation to engage in entrepreneurial activities. The six major schools of thought on entrepreneurship were discovered by Barton and Lischeron (1991). These are Great Person School, The Psychological Characteristics School, Classical School, Management School, The Leadership School, and Intrapreneurship School. Each of these schools of thought can be according to its interests in studying personal characteristics, opportunities, management or need for adapting an existing venture. The Psychological Characteristics School has focuses on personality factors and believes that entrepreneurs have unique values and attitudes toward work and life. Beside, Lachman (1980) has suggested that entrepreneurs can differentiate from non-entrepreneurs by personality characteristics such as the people who possess the characteristics entrepreneurs will have higher potential to perform entrepreneurial acts than those who do not possess such characteristics. Based on the three personalities characteristic to distinguish and recognize entrepreneurs from non-entrepreneurs. First, the personal values such as honesty, duty, responsibility, ethical behavior. Second, risk-taking propensity. Last, the need for achievement (as cited in Barton and Lischeron, 1991). With further empirical supports personality traits contribute to entrepreneurial attitude orientation from McClelland (1961) and Collins, Hanges Locke (2004) asserted that need for achievement is a strong entrepreneurial trait, and Gasse (1985) and Hansemark (2003) found that entrepreneurs often possess a greater internal locus of control than the general population. Brockhous (1982) identified three attributes consistently associated with entrepreneurial behavior are need for achievement, internal locus of control, and a risk-taking propensity. Krueger Brazeal, 1994; Erickson, 2002; Frazier Niehm, 2006 have suggested the higher self-efficacy is associated with entrepreneurship and business creation. (as cited in Harris, M. Gibson, S., 2009). However, there are also background factors, which relate to individual personality such as gender (Buttner Rosen, (1989) and education (Storey, 1982) which is also linked to the attitude to establish a business (as cited in Mohammad Shariff , M. N., Basir Saud, M. 2009). According to Ajzen Fishbein (1977), they agreed that the personality theories frequently loss its effectiveness in measuring entrepreneurial attitudes. There are still founded some limitations with lacked predictive validity in groups of entrepreneurship and non- entrepreneurship (Sexton and Bowman 1986). It means certain characteristics have differed on variety of characteristics which are supposed to be stable across time and situation according to personality theory. The possible reasons to explain the limitation are the instruments lack adequate reliability and validity and people are change across time or situation. In order to deal with the limitation on personality mode entrepreneur research works out attitude model to correct inadequacy of psychological models based on personality. Olson and Bosserman (1984), Gasse (1986), Sexton (1987) have found that attitude in conjunction with entrepreneurship. The concept of attitude is a dynamic interactive way of relating to the environment in conjunction with a specific person, place, thing, event, activity, idea or lifestyle. The dynamic nature of the concept implies that it changes across time and from situation to situation (as cited in Robinson., P.B., Stimpson, D.V., Huefner, J.C., Keith Hunt, H., 1991a). . Ajzen (1982), Rosenberg and Hovland (1960) Shaver (1987) has stated that attitude is the predisposition to respond in a generally favorable or unfavorable manner with respect to the object of the attitude. In addition, Allport (1935), Breckler (1983 and 1984), Carlson (1985), Kothandapani (1970) and others categorized attitude as the triparti te model consisting of three types of reaction to everything: affect, cognition, and conation (as cited in Robinson., P.B., Stimpson, D.V., Huefner, J.C., Keith Hunt, H., 1991b). The following research conducted by Robinson, P.B., Stimppson, D.V., Heufner, J.C. Hunt, K.N. (1991), they has adopted this attitudinal theoretical approach explaining the behavioral tendencies of entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation Scale (EAOS) is one method of investigating entrepreneurial orientated individuals provide valid measurement based on attitude theory. Hence, this scale is used to distinguish entrepreneurs from non-entrepreneurs with the four important entrepreneurial attitudes included Achievement, Self-Esteem, Personal Control and Innovation. The four sub-scales described as Achievement in creating a business, Perceived self esteem as indication of self-evaluated competence in business affairs, Perception of personal control and influence over business incentives, and Innovation by acting upon business incentives. Each of the sub-scales is reported to be the product of the three theoretical attitudinal behavioural components of cognition (belief and th oughts), affection (positive or negative conviction) and conative Behaviour (intentions and actions). Furthermore, another model came out after the attitudinal approach called entrepreneurial opportunity recognition (EOR) by Covin Slevin, (1989). Both of the researchers have gave more attention to incorporate specific situational factors related to the emotions, cognition, behaviourial action germane to a specific environmental stimulus instead of attitudinal measures. The literature has developed a study that an association of opportunity recognition with the concept of entrepreneurship (as cited in McCline, R.L., Bhat, S. Baj, P., 2000). 2.2.4 Entrepreneurs Attitude Orientation (EAO) Entrepreneurial attitude orientation (EAO) is the dependent variable in our research project. Bygrave and Hofer (1991, p.14) define an entrepreneur as . . . someone who perceives an opportunity and creates an organization to pursue it. In formulating national policy recommendations, entrepreneurship act as the creation of new independent businesses (Vesper, 1983, p.1). Founder of a new business and started the business before others also can applied as an entrepreneurs (Gartner, 1985). The term has been used to define a wide range of activities such as creation, founding, adapting, and managing a venture. Entrepreneurship is not only associated with the formation of new firms, but also with entrepreneurial action in the sense of starting something new (Wennekers and Thurik, 1999). Attitude is known as a part of personality that is supported by belief and is able to arouse emotions that investigate specific behaviors (Oppenheim, 2000). There are some research revealed that attitude is an important factor of an individual success in entrepreneurship. This is because a successful entrepreneurs is said to be influenced and stimulated by the individual own attitude. In this research, the attitude approach is the best way to explain the success of an entrepreneur because it links the individual and the ever-changing attitudinal object (Kuratko and Hodgetts 2004; Robinson et al. 1991a). Attitudes can therefore also be changed purposely to be more favorable towards entrepreneurship. Attitude does not appear as a single aspect, but is connected to other aspects of an individual (Oppenheim, 2000). According to Oppenheim, an individual has several extraordinary characteristics that portray his or her personality. Therefore, a person need a true and positive attitude to choose and participated to become successful entrepreneurship (Mohd Salleh et al. 2005). Entrepreneurial attitude orientation is the studies of entrepreneurial personality characteristics. The work of Robinson, Stimpson, Huefner, and Hunt (1991) was one of the first to integrate an attitude scale to predict entrepreneurial activity. (Robinson et al., 1991b) adopted this theoretical approach to investigate entrepreneurial oriented individual by explaining the development of the behaviour. Robinson et al. (1991a) developed the Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation (EAO) model based on the four dimensions of achievement, innovation, personal control, and self esteem in business. The first dimension, need for achievement, is an important determining factor in choosing entrepreneurship as a career. The individual desire for appreciation corresponds to the needed motivation for becoming a successful entrepreneur is high (Davidson 1995; McClelland 1961; Moorman and Halloran 1993). The individual that possesses this need is said to be inclined in exploratory efforts and be able to become a very successful entrepreneur (McClelland, 1961). This is some characteristic such as, increases self-satisfaction, readiness in facing challenges, and the freedom to determine the amount of effort needed to succeed in the chosen field. The second dimension is internal locus of control. It is an individual attitude in handling his or her daily affairs influences his decisions and actions. Thus, ones internal locus of control is ones belief in ones ability to control ones future, self-confidence, commitment, and creativity, among many other things. Past research has down-played this attitude in determining individuals involvement level in entrepreneurship (Hisrich and Peters 1998). The characteristic of competitiveness is essential because it is able to provide confidence, commitment, and determination, thus enabling an individual to persevere with his or her choice of entrepreneurship (Mohd Salleh et al. 2005) The third dimensions is innovative behaviour, it is commonly view as the key to continuous entrepreneurship (Johnson, 1994), and has been presented as the main criterion for entrepreneur activity (Schumpter, 1983: Miller and Friesen, 1982). According to (Carland, 1984) the entrepreneurial individual is characterized principally by innovative behaviour. Innovation activity includes creating new products, methods, markets or a new organization. It relates to perceiving and acting upon business activities in new and unique ways (Drucker 1985). The forth dimensions is self-esteem which is associated with feelings about oneself. It is an important construct of personality for researches because perceptions of others about self esteem may influence individuals outcomes (Strauss 2005). Perceived self-esteem in business is pertaining to the self-confidence and perceived competency of an individual in conjunction with his or her business affairs. Self-esteem is associated with feelings about oneself (Hogg and Cooper, 2003) and self-efficacy (as part of self-esteem) is defined as belief in capability to perform the task (Chen et al., 1998). Entrepreneurship literature has also found that persons who believe that their skill and ability set is adequate for achieving success with a new venture are motivated to exert the necessary effort (Douglas and Shepherd, 2000). The fifth dimension is known as opportunity recognition. Venkatraman (1997) noted that it is one thing to be aware that entrepreneurial opportunities exist, but a significantly different matter to know how to exploit these opportunities. There must be something quite unique about the entrepreneurial individual that gives him or her the propensities to gain economically in the midst of the change, chaos and confusion that tend to foster the emergence of entrepreneurs (Schumpeter, 1976; Stevenson, 1983). Opportunity recognition can known as perceiving possibility for new profit through the founding and formation of a new venture or significant impromevent of an existing venture (Christensen, Madsen Peterson, 1989). 2.3 Proposed Theoretical/ Conceptual Framework In this section, the interrelationship among each variable will be discussed: Theoretical Framework: Factors that affect the Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation Need for achievement Locus of control Innovation Self esteem Opportunity Recognition Chinese Value Integration Human heartedness Confucian work dynamism Moral discipline Figure 2.1 Theoretical Framework 2.3.1 Relationship between Integration and Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation Integration is an index of the degree of tolerance, harmony and friendship a society endorses, at the expense of competitiveness, it has a broadly integrative, socially stabilizing emphasis (The Chinese Culture Connection, 1987). It has significant relationship with Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation. Integration refers to the compatibility of decision making among various departments in the organization. It includes the use of interdepartmental committees for joint decision making, task forces which are temporary bodies set up to facilitate interdepartmental collaboration on a specific project and liaison personnel whose specific job is to coordinate the efforts of several departments for purposes of specific product (Miller Danny, 1983). Integration assumes importance as in large firms there is a need for a coordinated effort to remain focused in pursuit of objectives of the firm. 2.3.2 Relationship between Confusion Work Dynamism and Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation Confucian dynamism is having a significant relationship with Entrepreneurial Attitude Orientation. The c