Case Study Lois Quam Essay

1. How does Lois Quam use emotions and moods in her speeches to covey her viewpoint? Cite examples to support your statements. What is emotion and mood? Emotions are a strong set of positive or negative feelings directed towards someone or something. Moods depict positive or negative feelings; moreover, a state of mind. In Lois’s quest for green economy it is quite clear that she is a buoyed, by a positive approach as well as a passionate compulsion of finding solutions to the issues of green economy. This is inferred several times in her dialogue with her audience. The idea that she left her well buttressed, cushy job at a leading investment firm to assumed the leadership of a newly formed company that deals with global problems of green economy indicates she is not only passionate, but she is driven by positive responses and emotional influences. This can be inferred when she openly states â€Å"I am an optimist about our future †¦ which is why I stated Tysvar, the challenges we face from climate change are immense, but so are our capabilities and the rewards and benefits to humanity are even greater in the new green economy† 2. Based on what you have learned about Lois Quam, create hypotheses about the attitudes of her colleagues at Tysvar while using the three basic components of attitudes in your theories. Visionary, professional, informational these three components comprise attitude. Obviously to be a part of Ms. Quam’s team one must be a visionary, as indicated in her bio, Lois left Piper Jaffray to become the founder and CEO of Tysvar LLC in short she took a chance with her vison of stainable new green economy and diversified health care reform and made it all the way to becoming appointed  by President Barrak Obama as the executive director with emphasis on women, children, and new born for the entire country. Therefore, the attitudes of her college must be considered with her drive passion and attitude. Professionally being a CEO of a company she founded Lois; ensured that strict professional attitude was maintained in her Minnesota based company. This is evident when she gave a speech at the University of St. Thomas; on emerging opportunities within the NGE she said then â€Å"I enjoyed sharing how we all can use these key capabilities as platform for doing something you love. Imagine helping to build the NGE with a purposeful passion. It doesn’t it get much better than that.† Conversely one can derive that information is also a key component to attitudinal change and development with in a company that was diverse and being fast track into becoming a s successful fortune five hundred company. 3. Take a moment to research the Global Health Initiative. Why do you believe Lois Quam was chosen to lead this program? Louis Quam was named in 2006 by fortune magazine, one of America 50 most powerful women. Her portfolio indicated that she worked as the head of strategic investment, green economy and health at Pipper Jaffrey a leading international investment bank, including stints as president and CEO of the public, and senior market segment. As well as serving on the Minnesota health care commission taking on industry giants, and bringing insurance to tens of thousands of Minnesotan’s. If that is not an impeccable curriculum vitae then what is? Having come from Norwegian immigrants Lois story must be told and in so doing her vison, her perceptiveness, and passion can be combined to equalize her being chosen to lead this program. 4. Research question: Search news reports, Web sites, and blogs to find out more information on Tysvar. How is the company faring in its quest to make the world cleaner and safer for future generations? What implications might that have on Tysvar’s employees, their attitudes, and job satisfaction? Despite many challenges and unforeseen deterrence’s Tyvsar continues to be a formidable driving force in NGE. Ms. Quan’s vision continues to be the leading force; as well as, a collective positive influence from her entire  team of employees and management making Tysvar a global new green economy force to reckoned with. The company has adapted new measures and is now attached to the Norwegian global initiative. There have been expansion within the global new green economy since Ms,Quam’s recognition by President Obama. The operation at NGE continues to flourish. The company is using AquaFence, a Norwegian manufacturer of transportable flood protection barriers. Quam also announced she will be installing a new CEO of Tysvar early next year. Which brings us back home to our company, Tysvar, and our three areas of focus? †¢ Scaling the New Green Economy. †¢ Staffing the NGE with the best and brightest people anywhere. †¢ Contributing to a successful and on-going Norwegian-American NGE collaborative.

Human Resources Policies Essay

Armstrong, (2006) defined Human Resource policies as continuing guidelines on the approach the organization intends to adopt in managing its people. In addition, it can also be defined as the philosophies and values of the organization on how people should be treated, and from these are derived the principles upon which managers are expected to act when dealing with Human Resource matters. Human Resource policies therefore serve as reference points when employment practices are being developed, and when decisions are being made about people. Mullins, (2005) highlighted that Human Resource Management must be committed to creating a working environment free from discrimination and where all employees are treated equally with dignity, courtesy and respect. This can be done by putting into place Human Resource policies that shows how people should be treated, and from these are derived the principles upon which managers are expected to act when dealing with Human Resource matters. The most common areas in which specific Human Resource policies exist are HIV and AIDS, discipline, employee development, employee relations, recruitment and selection, equal opportunity, grievances, health and safety, managing diversity, promotion, redundancy, reward, sexual harassment, substance abuse and work life balance and e-mails and the internet. Cole (1997) argued that this employment equity policy helps in preventing discrimination and promoting equality in the workplace. The equal opportunity policy should spell out the organization’s determination to give equal opportunities to all, irrespective of sex, race, creed, disability, age or marital status. The policy should also deal with the extent to which the organization wants to take affirmative action to redress imbalances between numbers employed according to sex or race, or to differences in the levels of qualifications and skills they have achieved. According to the Labour Act (Chapter 28:01),Section 5 states that no employer shall discriminate any employee or prospective employee on grounds of race, tribe, place of origin, political opinion, colour, creed, gender, pregnancy, HIV/AIDS status or subject to the Disabled Persons Act (Chapter 17:01). Every manager must take steps to promote equal opportunity in the workplace by eliminating unfair discrimination in any employment policy or practice within their sphere of authority. All forms of unfair discrimination, whether direct or indirect, are prohibited and it is the responsibility of all employees to inform themselves about and refrain from perpetrating unfair discrimination. The sexual harassment policy is another policy which aims at preventing and managing sexual harassment in the workplace. Sexual harassment is unwanted and unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment; or is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such an individual. The company must prohibit inappropriate conduct that is sexual in nature at work, on company business, or at company sponsored events. This can be done by prohibiting comments, jokes, or degrading language or behavior that is sexual in nature, sexually suggestive objects, books, magazines, photographs, cartoons, pictures, calendars, posters or electronic communications and unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, or any sexual touching this is according to Armstrong (2006). Sexual harassment is prohibited whether it’s between members of the opposite sex or members of the same sex. All managers have a key responsibility in establishing and maintaining a workplace free from personal harassment and they are directly responsible for the conduct of their staff. Sexual harassment is regarded as gross industrial misconduct and if proved makes the individual liable for instant dismissal. Less severe penalties may be reserved for minor cases but there will always be a warning that repetition will result in dismissal. Therefore all employees are expected to comply with this policy and that it is the pers onal responsibility of each employee to ensure that inappropriate conduct does not occur, as stated by Armstrong (2010). Safety policies should reflect the employers commitment to safety and health at work and should indicate what standards of behavior are to be aimed for in safety and health welfare matters. The policy statement should be drawn to the attention of all employees. In practice this is achieved by issuing a safety policy document to all employees via their pay packets, or by issuing company handbooks which include details of the policy. The important point is that the employer should be able to show that he has done more than just pin up a notice in various parts of his premises, this is postulated by Mullins (2005). The HIV/Aids policy is also used and its purpose is to provide guidance on managing departmental responses to HIV/AIDS in a manner that complies with the National Aids Policy and applicable laws, eliminates unfair discrimination and enables the harnessing of each person’s full potential. Employees who know that they are infected with HIV will not be obliged to disclose the fact to the company, but if they do, the fact will remain completely confidential. There must be no discrimination against anyone with or at risk of acquiring AIDS. In addition, employees infected by HIV or suffering from AIDS must be treated no differently from anyone else suffering a severe illness. All human resources processes and practices should promote an affirming non-discriminatory environment that fosters respect for the dignity of all while ensuring the maximum productivity of each employee regardless of HIV/AIDS status. This will be done through a regular review of all human resources practices and processes to eliminate existing or potential direct and indirect discrimination on the ground of HIV/AIDS. A prospective employee will not be required to disclose his or her HIV/AIDS status, there shall be no pre-employment HIV/AIDS testing in respect of a prospective employee and both permanent and contract employees are not obliged to disclose their HIV/AIDS status, as subject to Labour Relations Act (chapter 28:01). Recruitment and selection policies are also used to ensure a work environment that is anti discriminatory, democratic, respectful of rights, mindful of dignity and legally sound or legitimate. The Human resource department must be committed to utilise recruitment and selection practices that are based on merit, equity, objectivity, fairness and the need to redress the imbalances of the past so as to achieve a department that is broadly representative. According to Storey (1995), the recruitment process should reflect the department’s employment equity values and goals. Moreover, all phases of the recruitment process must support the recruitment of suitably qualified men and women from diverse racial and other backgrounds with a view to giving them an opportunity to serve all the people with excellence and responsiveness. Considerations of affirmative action will inform the entire recruitment process. The policy on age and employment should take into account that age is a poor predictor of job performance. It is misleading to equate physical and mental ability with age. More of the population are living active, healthy lives as they get older. Therefore the policy should define the approach the organization adopts to engaging, promoting and training older employees. It should emphasize that the only criterion for selection or promotion should be ability to do the job; and for training, the belief that the employee will benefit, irrespective of age. The policy should also state that age requirements should not be set out in external or internal job advertisements. Armstrong (2006). Diversity management policy is a concept that recognizes the benefits to be gained from differences. A policy on managing diversity recognizes that there are differences among employees and that these differences, if properly managed, will enable work to be done more efficiently and effectively. This concept does not focus exclusively on issues of discrimination but instead concentrates on recognizing the differences between people. Maund (2001) express it, the concept of managing diversity is founded on the premise that harnessing these differences will create a productive environment in which everyone will feel valued, where their talents are fully utilized and in which organizational goals are met. The diversity management policy must acknowledge cultural and individual differences in the workplace, state that the organization values the different qualities that people bring to their jobs, emphasize the need to eliminate bias in such areas as selection, promotion, performance asse ssment, pay and learning opportunities and focus attention on individual differences rather than group differences. Mathis, (2003) is of the view that the disciplinary policy should state that employees have the right to know what is expected of them and what could happen if they infringe the organization’s rules. It would also make the point that, in handling disciplinary cases, the organization will treat employees in accordance with the principles of natural justice. It must be the policy of the company that employees should be given a fair hearing by their immediate supervisor or manager concerning any grievances they may wish to raise, have the right to appeal to a more senior manager against a decision made by their immediate supervisor or manager and have the right to be accompanied by a representative of their own choice when raising a grievance or appealing against a decision. Cole, (1997) highlighted that the reward policy must cover matters as providing an equitable pay system, equal pay for work of equal value, paying for performance, competence, skill or contribution, sharing in the success of the organization and the relationship between levels of pay in the organization and market rates. There must not be discrimination of employees in pay levels. This will encourage the optimum productivity from employees and ensures high level of quality output. A performance management system must be put in place so as to pay employees according to their performance and efforts. Armstrong (2006) is of the opinion that job evaluation must also be done in a fairly and equitable manner so as to have a free work environment. In conclusion, companies must be committed to providing a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. Human Resource policies must prohibit discrimination and harassment in the workplace, whether committed by or against managers, co-workers, customers, vendors, or visitors. Employees must work and develop in an environment that is anti-discriminatory, democratic, respectful of rights, mindful of dignity, legally sound and productive. Workplace discrimination or harassment based on an employee’s race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age status, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or any other basis prohibited by law, must not be tolerated. REFERENCES Armstrong, M. (2006) Strategic Human Resource Management, (3rd Ed), London: Kogan. Armstrong, M. (2006) A Handbook of Human Resource Management Practice, (10th Ed), London: Kogan. Cole G.A. (1997), Personnel Management, Theory and Practice, London: Continuum. Labour Relations Act Regulations (1998), HIV and AIDS, Government Printers: Zimbabwe. Maund, L. (2001), An Introduction to Human Resource Management Theory And Practice, New York: Palgrave. Mullins, L. J. (2005), Management and Organizational Behavior, England: Prentice Hall. Storey, J.(1995), Human Resource Management: A critical text, London: Routledge.

Ethics Simulation Essay

Ethical dilemmas are a constant in the business world. In order for an individual to be adaptive to the ever changing rolls of their jobs it is in their best interest to research their company’s standard operating procedures as well as being informed on new company policies that are being implemented. In doing this research however, the individual will notice that specific problems are not always documented or covered in these manuals. In the area of ethics, people who are given authority must use various lenses to ensure that the company is meeting the expectations of its employees to guarantee their rights and fair treatment. Developing these virtuous attributes is geared at developing cohesion amongst employees, efficiency, and developing a positive reputation. Although there are many ways to resolve an intercompany dispute, the most ethically sound decision comes from people in positions of power being informed of the issue and setting their sights on ensuring fairness and ruling in favor of the option that creates the greatest overall good. This paper will examine the two Ethics Game examples and follow the worksheet format for answering questions. The issue presented in dilemma number one arises from an employee named Aaron Webb who posted sensitive company information. His posting was not derogatory in nature however the information is considered private. Many companies guard their information and keeping their core competencies sacred in order to remain competitive. Another employee named Jamal Moore sent an anonymous message revealing through hacking into Webb’s computer that Webb has many of these sensitive files loaded on his personal computer. The issue arises of how to respect the personal views of employees outside of the workplace. The primary stakeholders for this issue are the shareholders, the General Counselor, the Director of IT, the VP of HR, Jamal Moore, and Aaron Webb. Some of the duties that the company makes clear are allowing the employee the right to voice their opinion, as guaranteed by the first amendment to the constitution. However, an employer may legally limit this right if the information is considered private and proprietary. Management has the duty to make sure that its information isn’t leaked for the sake of all other stakeholders. There is a duty to address concerns about the company. By allowing this type of communication, problems are clarified and avoided. Employees should be happy when their rights to privacy are protected, their concerns are heard, and important information is guarded. In this dilemma, shareholders have a medium impact. How the company is viewed and evaluated by the public may decrease shareholder confidence and decrease its value. The CLO has a medium impact because his or her judgment may be called into play and reflect their decision making abilities. The VP of HR and the Director of Safety and Security have low impact when it comes to this problem as long as they have both fulfilled their obligations with informing the ultimate decision makers of the problem. Jamal Moore and Aaron Webb have high impact on this decision because this dilemma could potentially end their employment abilities or lead to punishment. My core values of the situation are embodied by recognizing loyalty. Although these employees may be misguided, more information given to them on the issue at hand could serve to make them better employees and avoid litigation. All members of the company must come to a deeper understanding that sensitive materials should be handled with care. As long as the integrity of the department is secured, the company can still benefit. In the second dilemma, there is a need for a security policy that provides for the safety of employees and also accommodates special needs, such as for Aisha Mullah, who is muslim and religiously not allowed to uncover her face in the work environment. The stakeholders in this situation are the company shareholders, the VP of HR, the Associate Director of Operations, other employees, the Training Manager, and Aisha Mullah. As an employee, you should be guaranteed that processes be followed. The right to be informed about security policies and exceptions should also be guaranteed. Arguably the most important, the right to express one’s opinion about policies and their impact should be guaranteed as well. The option that best suits this situation is to implement a photo I. D.  security system and to make accomodations for individuals with special needs. This will have a positive effect on the stakeholders, demonstrating the company’s ability to adapt to the needs of various individuals and be progressive in a diverse world. This decision reflects my core values by not excluding anyone on the basis of religion. Managing diversity means providing the climate for a productive workplace and seeking out qualified employees who should not be the subject of judgment or overlooked due to their race, creed, disability, sex, or place of origin. Other employees see this fairness and view it as attractive. A harsh, less understanding work environment drives employees away. By giving timely feedback to Aisha, treating her fairly, and upholding the company values, the company is strengthened. As a person of power, self development is a continual process and allows an individual to prepare for difficult decisions such as these. On the first simulation, a score of 1 out of 5 was achieved which demonstrates a relatively low risk. On the second simulation a score of 0 out of 5 was achieved which shows virtually no risk. Overall points earned were 25,600 out of 29,000. Important rights to remember for this project are the first amendment to the Constitution, and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. People of the United States are guaranteed the right to freedom of speech, and expression. People of the United States are also guaranteed that employers will not discriminate on the basis of religious beliefs. By using the ethical lenses which were demonstrated through this simulation, future leaders of America can be more informed on how to best handle intercompany issues while providing for the best option to all the stakeholders involved. We must be aware of the four lenses and know how to identify the key factors. By being informed and choosing the most virtuous choice available, companies will poise themselves to achieve high praises from their communities, their shareholders, and the stakeholders, down to the individual whose liberties and rights were defended.

AN ANALYSIS OF THE UK SUPERMARKET RETAIL SECTOR Case Study

AN ANALYSIS OF THE UK SUPERMARKET RETAIL SECTOR - Case Study Example The industry is structured in a way that the supply chain is well defined. However major players in the sector who control its operation are the consumers, suppliers, distributors. However the retailers dominate this chain of supply in the industry. The main structural feature of the retail sector in the UK is the centralized production and a defined distribution chain. (Griffith and Harmgart, 2008) Sources of supply Due to the diverse nature of products that are sold in the retail industry in the UK, there are also various sources of raw material for the industry. These sources are both national sources and international sources. This depends on the nature of the products that are being sold in the industry. There are those raw materials which can be sourced from within the nation but there are others that will have to be important. Although some raw materials can be sourced within the UK, the supply does not equal the demand and hence the industry is forced to import from other countries. Most of the manufactured products are sourced from within the local industry. There are various industries in the UK which produced at a competitive rate in the market. However other sectors like the food sector imports most of its raw material since the UK is not endowed in some of the agricultural products. Most of the agricultural products that are produced in the tropical region are imported into the retail market in the UK which forms another supply chain. Agricultural products like tea, flowers, coffee, and other horticultural products and not produced in the UK and are imported from countries like India, Kenya, and from other countries. The service sector in the UK has been seeking services of professionals...As a result there has been increased demand for goods at the retail level. One of the peculiar characteristics that have been witnessed in the UK retail industry is the change in loyalty that customers had earlier held to certain brands of commodity. Apparently, there is a change in the way customers are buying goods and the increased entrance of many players in the retail market has affected the way retail traders conduct their business. Increased competition has seen increased innovation in the industry with shops struggling to hold customers. Customers to the retail industry include those coming from the middle class. Apparently the middle class has been described as the driver of economies since it takes less measures in the way it consumers. Improved economy has seen increased income in the middle class which ahs continued to change with the changing global culture. Like in all other countries, the tide of globalization has brought a change in the culture of the people and more and more people are becoming conscious of what the market can offer. The global culture has also changed towards a spending culture and more and more people are spending in the market. Apparently there has been increased demand in some product while there is decreasing demand of other products.

Toyota Motor Corporation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Toyota Motor Corporation - Essay Example Capital is one of the key aspects examined here. The company profitability in 2011 has gone down and capital funding reduced. It has a large capital reserve .the first quarter has experienced a decrease of 17.2% in sales. This indicates future drops and forecast with the economic times. Debt to equity ratio is 0.69. This indicates that the company is more funded with equity than debts. Current ratio of is 1.0 in the past one year. This indicates that the company has liquidity value overall. There have not been significant changes in its shareholders equity within the first quarter. This indicates that the shareholders have not forsaken their duties in this company. Character is analyzed in terms of the willingness to repay the loan. A credit report is generated on Toyota’s borrowings, tax remittances, any court proceedings on default, past loaners, and overall honoring the debts. The length of the present debt is analyzed as well as the amount owed. Toyota is current paying a fine of $16.4 million for a recall suit. This has jeopardized the power leadership in the automobile industry. FICO scores of 300-800 are used and it is said, the higher the score the better the customer is worth. Collateral is the asset or guarantee placed that can be seized by the company in case the customer default in repayments. At Toyota, current assets and fixed assets stands at 28 387 556 yen a drop from last year’s value of 29 million yen.

Global Operation and Risks Management Study of Britvic Group Plc (Ro) Essay

Global Operation and Risks Management Study of Britvic Group Plc (Ro) - Essay Example With the strong position of the company in the beverage industry, this report assesses the financial position of the company and risk management systems employed by the Britvic. Comparative assessment of the performance of the company is gauged by developing comparative competitors’ analysis (Pinto, et al., 2010), and ratio based assessment (Fabozzi, and Peterson, 2013). The analysis of the leading competitors concluded that Britvic is comparatively small player as compared to the competitors: Above graphical presentation reflects that Britvic’s share is only 9% of the market but stands on second in a row and Nichols Plc dominate in terms of revenue. However, with respect to EPS performance SabMiller is leading the position and Britvic is pushed last position. Despite limited share as compared to the competitors, the company has improved its performance by controlling operating cost. The net income improved from  £61.9 m in 2013 to  £ 89.7m 2014 (Britivic, 2014c). Given below is the five years trend of the revenue: The revenue fluctuated due to the Fruite’ Enterprise, the recall of the acquisition of Fruit Shoot, and the impact of the recovery measures taken in the subsequent years (Daneshkhu, 2014; Britvic, 2013). In addition, rising operating and net profit is the impact of the cost control programs. The balance sheet has shown mixed trends implying that Britvic is inclined in maintaining the capital structure; except 2010 in which company performance could not offset the losses from retained earnings. Similar movement between the short term and the long term assets is reported as company does not excessively stick capital in any short or long term assets. Company has issued debt of  £105.8 million for the expansion of Fruit Shoot the USA and of operations in India. In addition to this investment of  £40m was done to for achieving costs saving of  £30m by the end of (2016 Britvic, 2013). Net Profit Margin: As the name implies, net

Discussion 2, ch 15 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussion 2, ch 15 - Assignment Example The reason for selecting the Washo people is due to how people from this tribe put in efforts in preserving their culture to the extent that even though the Washo language is generally regarded as extinct, there continues to be some elders in Califonia who speak the language today. Another of these tribes is Blackfoot, which is made up of three major groups namely the Piegan, the Kainah, and the Siksika people, and living at the Great Plains (Bruce, 2006). As part of the location of these people, their major occasion was buffalo hunting as the plains were rich in rain forest which supported buffalo ecosystem. This tribe was selected for its unique strength and most aggressive military powers which made them very resistive to oppressive forces that wanted to take their place. 2. Considering the environmental cost of mining described by the authors, which includes poisoning fresh water sources and destroying entire ecosystems, should we value precious metals for jewelry and adornment as much as we do? What does history teach us about the cost of mining? Write a 4-6 sentence paragraph supporting your answer. The authors clearly criticized the negative environmental impact of mining, which includes the poisoning of fresh water and pollution. This notwithstanding, the important role that precious metals play in society, including their use for jewelry and adornment cannot be totally ignored as being useful. This is particularly because of the important economic role of these precious minerals and the role they play in the preservation of the rich culture of indigenous people. Having said this, the lessons that history teach us about the cost of mining must not be ignored as any forms of excesses in practice can live highly consequential effects for the present generation and generations unborn. Having said this, it will be admonished that even if mining will continue to be part of the

Assessment & Special Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Assessment & Special Education - Essay Example According to the report findings Special Education is a multi-faceted domain and consists of a highly diverse population of both teachers and pupils. Teaching in the area of special education requires appropriate qualifications and experience as it can often prove challenging to engage with people having disabilities. As such, teachers often specialize in any particular category of special education or may instead gain experience in multiple disciplines based on the provisions of local legislation.From this study it is clear that the validity and significance of assessment in special education cannot be underestimated. Teaching children with disabilities requires a multi-faceted approach and depends on collaboration among a number of professionals in an appropriate environment. A typical assessment is thus undertaken by a multi-disciplinary team that examines a student from many different perspectives to identify the existence of any special needs and disabilities. The role of the te am is extremely important during an assessment as it helps evaluate the extent and progress of any identifiable disability and develop a suitable special education curriculum that can help the individual. As such, an evaluator must possess comprehensive, accurate and real-time knowledge on the evaluation in order to offer the best support to the student. These skills can only come with experience and must be supplemented with regular on-the-job learning. There are, however, some issues associated with current assessment methodologies. Critics like Giuliani (2009) have alleged that students identified as being at-risk (i.e., those not having any disability) are often pooled together with students having special needs (p. 34). They argue that combining students in this manner inhibits the progress of the latter group as they may not be able to develop the required confidence and motivation in the presence of other students with better learning capabilities. Pierangelo (2007) also blames curriculum

Poster & powerpoint for business environment Essay

Poster & powerpoint for business environment - Essay Example Interestingly, gold is among the few elements that cannot lose its lustre due to exposure to moisture or air. An element that tarnishes becomes less valuable. Additionally, in can conduct electricity and can also be modified into different shapes (Kettell, 2002). Gold has been used as jewellery for a very long time. A large quantity of gold mined is as for decoration purposes. It is that 78% of the gold that is mined in the world is used produce personal ornaments such as bracelets, rings and necklaces. One of the attributes that make gold an ideal element to manufacture ornaments is lustre. Gold is yellow in colour something that makes it more attractive for decorations. Consequently, is used to create durable ornaments. In addition, some communities have adopted the use of gold ornaments as part of their culture (Howard, 2009). Given that gold is highly valued, financial institutions use it as collateral. Banks and other financial institutions use gold a medium of exchange. The concept of using gold as a medium of exchange started more than 6000 years ago. In the ancient days, snippets of gold and silver were used as means of transaction (Hill, 1999). Additionally, gold is widely used in the manufacture of electronic equipment. It helps prevent electronic equipment from developing malfunctions that arises from corrosion of components used to produce electronic equipment (Uhaj, 2009).It has been established that electronic devices made from gold lasts longer than those designed using other elements. However, one of the challenges of using gold in the production of electronic devices is that the part is rapidly becoming depleted (Friedberg et al., 2009). Australia is among the largest gold producers in the whole world. In the year 2008, the country was ranked as the second largest gold producer globally. More than 75% of the gold produced from Australia comes from the Western side of the country. The 75% of gold from the region accounts for 4,500 tonnes

Strategic marketing management (examination) Term Paper

Strategic marketing management (examination) - Term Paper Example The culture of an organization may prove so hard to change when change facilitators think of a unitary culture for an organization. In real world, no company operates as a uniform whole, but various units of a company may display different culture, which make subcultures of an entire organization. Changing organizational culture demands a deep understanding of the existing culture and clear knowledge about what culture the management intends to inculcate in the company to replace the old culture. Therefore, planning should always be done based on existing corporate culture because employees are already familiar with what is expected of them and know what values the company embrace. For example, Google gives its employees the freedom to explore new ideas and staff members have easy access to co-founders as well as executives. If the company wanted to implement a culture that takes away the autonomy of employees in the way they work and create a barrier to founders and executive access , it is most likely that employees will rebel against the proposed change. Penetration pricing: under this pricing strategy the company decides to set artificially low prices for its products in order to attract more customers and establish loyalty among existing customers, thus expanding market share. For example, Apple can decide to set prices for it Smartphone lower than its competitors such as Samsung in order to regain its market share. The approach was utilized by France Telecom as well as Sky TV to widen their market share. Skimming pricing: Using this strategy, a company can set high initial price for its product and then gradually lowers the price of the product to gain more market share. For example, Apple Company may have set high price for its Smartphone then later reduced the price amidst competition so that it can make it available to low market end and increase the company’s market share. Franchising is a business

Land law coursework Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Land law coursework - Essay Example The law in general can take various forms like land law, property law, criminal law, constitutional law and administrative law among others. The rule of law, as is has been perceived, is always better for the society compared to the law of any individual. It is observed in the case that Teresa has won a huge sum in the lottery. She decides to make certain investment with the amount that she has own. With that intention, she purchases a Splendour House at the middle of the town. The house that Teresa has purchased was in the sole name of James. As it is said in the case that house was duly transferred to Teresa’s name in the month of August of 2009 and was also registered in her name. Therefore, as it applies from the course of events that it is a mere straight forward case in favour of the new owner, Teresa. But that is not the case. There are three different parties involved those have interest with the Splendour House and they claim to have certain rights upon the house. Roberta is the step mother of James. Though step mother, it seems from the case that she has stable relationship with James, the previous owner of the Splendour House. Roberta has been an independent and wealthy lady by herself. Her relationship with the house is that she often comes to the house to stay as and when she feels that she needs a break from her husband, Edward, as they are not having the best of the relations. Her interest of the house is also guided by the fact that she had contributed almost 25 % of the purchase price at the time of the purchase of the house by James. Also, it is clarified that an express trust was drawn up for her interest. Now the question is that whether Roberta still holds her right even after the house is sold to Teresa. Though, Roberta helped James while the purchase of the house but the fact is that the house was in the sole name of James. There is no legal document

Globalization and cultural diversity Essay Example for Free

Globalization and cultural diversity Essay The forces of globalization are actually encouraging creation and promotion of cultural diversity to avoid enclosing oneself in a boring single type of culture. Today the products of cultural diversity in the global world are universally enjoyed by all peope. The arguments given by prominent critics like Thomas Freidman shows that there is no dominant culture under global jurisdiction though the aspect of globalization is derived from the American culture. In economic sector firms in company have attempted to sell their products in abroad nations without necessarily affecting the culture in their homeland. In the process the countries involved benefit by buying of ideas and materials from each other and shape them to suite their culture. Cultural diversity has helped a lot in borrowing of good aspects which steer growth in the country engaged in trade. Globalization has led to cultural diversity where life is conceptualized as composed of four issues which include dedication to learning, contribution to the society and family, reflection on what has been learned and then conceptualize it spiritually. Globalization has been driven about by forces of trade and capitalization in pursuit and economic development in home country, which in turn yields good paying jobs or improved living standards. There is curiosity among young people who wishes to know more and more about life in the global world to accept and be accepted and to be informed more of what they really don’t know. In the process of globalization, it is also evident that our cultural ethnic and societal diversities are put to the extreme ends because we want to perceive a unipolar vision of the world around us (http://www. newint. org/issue172/keynote. htm). Background information about Unilever Company Unilever is a multinational corporation formed to offer the greatest percentage of consumer products in form of foods beverages cleaning agents and other personal care products. This company has created job opportunities to more than 180,000 people in the whole world. Although in each branch there is a manager, Unilever Company has the same directors and effectively operate as a single business. Currently the chairman of Unilever Company and affiliate companies is Michael treschow, with Patrick Cescan being the group chief executive. Its products are sold widely in the whole world and their shares are listed on the world’s stock exchange markets (http://www. amazon. co. uk/review/product/1403944539? showViewpoints=1). The creation of Unilever Company is traced back in the year 1930 through merging of two companies, that is, British soap maker lever brothers and Dutch margarine producer which became as a palm oil company and maintained the importation of both margarine and soaps in large quantities. Its new ventures were launched in Latin America. Unilever Company grew bigger and purchased many companies which were in the line with the products which they were purchasing. In the year 1996, Unilever bought Helen Curtis industries which gave it a high boost as a powerful company in United States shampoo and deodorant market. In 2000 the company absorbed American businesses, best foods hence strengthening their ties in the market in North America and extended its food brands. Today the company has opened many branches in different countries and has continued to grow widely in the market industry. Recently the company has started a five year vitality company initiative to improve the products in maturity stage which are declining in terms of their sale in the market. Today unilever has ventured in various fields including agricultural sector and tea products. In the year 2008 it was honored at 59th annual technology and engineering. Emmy awards for outstanding achievement in advanced media because of creative nature of giving interactive commercial advertising delivered through digital set up top boxes for its programs axes (http://www. newint. org/issue172/keynote. htm). Corporate governance Unilever has a body and chief executive headed by Patrick cescan which is supposed to steer the organization towards maximization of profit and improve the image of the company like any other profit making organization. Unilever Company is engaged in making sure that it operates at its lowest costs and earning the highest revenue. Unilever Company has got also a chairman who is the head of all the brands in the company. There are also other officers including managers in different brands. Still in its jurisdiction there are other staff officers who are concerned with the welfare of the company in larger community. Today the company owns about 400 brands which are found in local countries which fall in the category of food and beverages home and personal care which are almost found in the whole world. Cultural diversity in the unilever company Just like any other multinational company unilever company uses aggressive policies to market their goods which is reflected in the public image. It prefers to remain largely anonymous hiding behind the hundreds of brand names and products they sell. Unilever uses television and other prominent Medias to advertise their products so that people can get to know their presence. Unilever Company has element of destroying cultural diversity and make the world more uniform. The tactics used in making profits include centralization of production and sell the same products across the nation boundary. Regardless of whom you are whether an African American Indian unilever has greatly improved the world’s tastes and their goods are replacing the organization in different countries who find rough to compete with Unilever products. The effects of unilever company on the worlds economy are experienced in south ail London when it closed it closed its branches whereby many employees we’ve rendered jobless hence the is a tragic outcome Multicultural societies across the border face a formidable political task to turn racial religious and tribal differences into strength . even in the countries experiencing strong political wrangles and clashes that has been recorded a high rate of promotion and cultural diversity. Some of the multinational companies which have established good ties sin the economic sector like IBM, GE and unilever use cultural diversity as one of their key elements in success in business are aimed at finding means and ways of harmonizing it (http://www. kmtalk. net/article. php? story=20070103041059823). One of the most important aspect of globalization is ability to boost economy in third world countries by investors from developed countries investing in those developing ones. unilever companies has developed various packs in their products which are marketed in different countries. The marketing of these products helps the government in the state to earn revenue from the abroad countries. For instance unilever has developed a program called Trumbull tax abatements which has managed to pull off several major changes of its own in different countries. One of its major changes is to boost financial position in local services. The Trumbulls boost up the local property tax by bringing expansion in the continent city. Unilever has also put numerous knowledge management initiatives in place across the border. This is meant to identify new opportunities for investment by first considering the market structure and consumer needs in every state. Unilever Company has put in place a communication strategy in personal, informal and more structured in organizational level. For the purpose of ensuring community success Unilever Company through knowledge management group. (CMG) has put in place a more formal frame work to help ensure the effective and efficient operation of the firm’s communities of practice. The community framework in unilever advocates for certain principles within which the company coops operates in order to ensure added advantage to the business value. The principles under which it works can be classified into four. This includes deliverable people operations and leverage. To strike the difference between communities of practice is defined around knowledge domain and this is where the company laid its production basis strategy. The identified deliverables should contribute to the expected results. The deliverables can be knowledge wise, Such as improved insights, training program and good practice. While business deliverables can be specific innovations, safety improvements and the like in the business (http://www. amazon. co. uk/review/product/1403944539? showViewpoints=). The people pillar concerns about roles and responsibilities of the cop members to the communities. They are experts who are recognized as such both inside community. They should effectively represent both the geographical and local versus cooperate resources. There are also activists who are supposed to continually review the roles of community for the members to fill. The people pillars address the other stakeholders and sponsors apart from the community who are necessary to validate resources for the members. The operation pillar is centered on community functions. This forms a platform for free expression of members to effectively express themselves every group is free to set its rules itself. The organization has also developed guidelines for activist training. This training is aimed at creating awareness of the importance of the community in building understanding of cooperative activities. The training offers knowledge on communities practice and ways of sustaining these communities. Unilever organization has recognized the effects of its products on to people and the diversity in cultural background. They place people at the centre of the business and everything they do. The organization has also majored a lot in the area of environmental and society growth especially in agricultural sector nutritional hygiene and personal care on the production in creation which care of different tastes and preferences and also in the sector of science and technology in making their products. Having recognized customer income differences from different countries unilever has packaged their goods in different quantities to enable them reach all consumers in different income levels. Unilever has been also received critics from different countries due to harm caused by their production either through consummation or advertisement. For example in India unilever has been accused of climbing contaminated toxic mercury in tourist sites and the surrounding . protected nature reserve and pambar ,shola in timilnadu and southern India this spills from the industry leads to health hazards which inturn can cause a lot of health problems (http://www. newint. org/issue172/keynote. htm). In UK it has been accused of misleading advertisement on cholesterol lowering margarine and flora proactive. this has a lot of negative impacts on the linage of the company when it failed to do so. All in all unilever has got advanced communication channels and is always to change from the accusation put on it. Multicultural societies across the border face a formidable political task to turn racial religious and tribal differences into strength even in the countries experiencing strong political wrangles and clashes that has been recorded a high rate of promotion and cultural diversity. One of the most important aspect of globalization is ability to boost economy in third world countries by investors from developed countries investing in those developing ones.unilever companies has developed various packs in their products which are marketed in different countries. References Information on Unilever Company, available at: http://www. newint. org/issue172/keynote. htm, accessed on July 10, 2008 Cultural diversity in the Unilever Company available at: http://www. amazon. co. uk/review/product/1403944539? showViewpoints=1, accessed on July 10, 2008 Cultural diversity and success in business, available at: http://www. kmtalk. net/article. php? story=20070103041059823, accessed on July 10, 2008

Blastocystis Hominis and Colorectal Cancer

Blastocystis Hominis and Colorectal Cancer Blastocystis hominis (B.hominis) is the most common unicellular protozoan parasite that is found in the human gastrointestinal tract (Windsor et al. 2002). The prevalence of B. hominis in both developed and developing countries is reported to be up to 10% and 50% respectively (Wong et al. 2008; Stenzel and Boreham. 1996). On the other hand, B. hominis shows a diverse morphologies which include vacuolar, granular, amoeboid and cyst forms (Zierdt. 1988). Furthermore, B. hominis isolates from human and animals have been reported to exhibit an extensive genetic and karyotypic heterogeneity (Parkar et al. 2010; Stensvold et al. 2009; Tan et al. 2009; Dogruman-Al et al. 2009; Abe. 2004; Yoshikawa et al. 2004). Although many researchers have attempted to identify the pathogenesis of B. hominis in human hosts, however the pathogenic potential of B. hominis has remained controversial as it is present in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individual (Tan. 2008; Garcia. 2007; Tan et al. 2002). The gastrointestinal symptoms that are associated with B. hominis infection include diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, flatulence, abdominal discomfort and other associated non-specific symptoms. To date, experiments have shown that rats that are inoculated with human B. hominis isolate have demonstrated an elevation in oxidative damage (Chandramathi et al. 2009). Many studies have been done on the genetic and molecular characterization of B. hominis isolates derived from human as well as animal. Recent molecular characterization of Blastocystis isolates suggested that there are 13 subtypes (ST1-ST13) which have been isolated from mammalian, reptilian, avian and amphibian hosts (U. Parkar et al. 2010; Stensvold et al. 2007a; Noà «l et al. 2005, 2003; Yoshikawa et al. 2004b). Recently, many studies have been done to determine the pathogenic potential of different Blastocystis subtypes in human hosts by genotypic analysis as well as molecular characterization of B. hominis isolated from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals (Dominguez-Mà ¡rquez et al. 2009; Eroglu et al. 2009; Jones et al. 2009; Hussein et al. 2008; Tan et al. 2008). Nevertheless, only limited numbers of studies have shown correlation between the different B. hominis subtypes on the pathogenesis in human hosts (Hussein et al. 2008). Infectious agents such as bacteria, virus and parasites, often have an oncogenic potential. The International Agency on Research of Cancer (IARC) has estimated that 16% of cancer worldwide is caused by infection, including parasites. However, there has been no research done on the association between B. hominis infection and colorectal cancer. A recent study has suggested that B. hominis may possess the ability to induce the growth of colorectal cancer cell lines by inhibiting the apoptotic effect of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, the antigens that are isolated from B. hominis were postulated to be able to promote the proliferation of cancer cells via down-regulation of host immune cellular responses (Chandramathi et al. 2010). In general, inflammation is activated by a variety of stimuli such as trauma, bacterial/viral/parasitic infections, endotoxemia and heating (Ley, 2001; Hart, 2002). Inflammation caused by infectious agents such as parasites will cause an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide and superoxide as a consequence of cell mediated phagocyte dependent immune response (Rosen et al. 1995). A persistent and chronic inflammatory response can be detrimental to human host as it can produce a chronic damage by releasing a variety of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines which then leads to mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, neurodegenerative disorder, inflammatory bowel syndrome and atherosclerosis (Kà ¼hn et al. 1993; Perry et al. 1998; Ludewig et al. 2002; Shacter et al. 2002). Several studies have shown correlation between the inflammation that is caused by infectious agents such as parasites and the development of cancer in huma n (Fitzpatrick. 2001). Thus, it is important for us to evaluate the immunomodulation, cytopathic and cellular cytokines responses as a result of B. hominis infection especially in colorectal carcinomas. Since B. hominis is often present in most stool cultures, it is pertinent to investigate the association between B. hominis infection and the development of colorectal cancer in the gastrointestinal tract of infected host system. B. hominis isolated from an asymptomatic individual could facilitate the proliferation and growth of cancer cells and has the potential to down-regulate the host immune response (Chandramathi et al. 2010). However, only limited numbers of studies have shown the cytopathic effects and cellular cytokine responses of Blastocystis hominis infection (Puthia et al. 2008; Long et al. 2001; Walderich et al. 1998). These studies only investigated on Interleukin 8 and Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) which are pro-inflammatory cytokines. We hypothesized that B. hominis infection in human host system has a potential carcinogenic effect and could influence the growth of colorectal cancer cells especially in colorectal cancer patients and that the B. hominis subtypes may exert varying degree of pathogenecity. Therefore, in this study, the differences between the effects of solubilized antigen of B. hominis from both symptomatic and asymptomatic isolates on the cell viability in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs, which represent the immune cells) as well as colorectal cancer cell line was evaluated. Besides that, the gene expression of cytokine, apoptotic mediators, and nuclear transcriptional factors in response to the symptomatic and asymptomatic B. hominis antigen in both PBMCs and colorectal cancer cell was compared. The knowledge and understanding in the association between Blastocystis hominis infection and colorectal cancer as well as the role of various cytokines involved in the tumour progression may provide an insight into prevention and/or development of new immune-therapeutical strategies to combat colorectal cancer. OBJECTIVE The objectives of the present study are:- To study the effects of solubilized antigen of B. hominis from symptomatic and asymptomatic individual isolates on viability of both the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs, which represent the normal immune cells) as well as colorectal cancer cells (HCT 116, colorectal cancer cell line). To investigate the gene expression of cytokine, transcriptional factors and apoptotic mediators such as interleukin 6, interleukin 8, tumour necrosis factor-ÃŽ ±, interferon gamma, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells, cathepsin B, transforming growth factor-ÃŽ ², and protein 53 upon exposure to B. hominis antigen in both the PBMCs and colorectal cancer cells MATERIALS AND METHODS Sample collection and axenization of Blastocystis hominis B. hominis was isolated from stool samples of symptomatic as well as asymptomatic individuals. The B. hominis cysts were then isolated from feacal sample using the Ficoll-Paque Technique according to Zaman and Khan (1994). The harvested cysts of B. hominis from both the symptomatic and asymptomatic individual isolates were washed in sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). The washed harvested cysts were cultured in Jones medium, supplemented with 10% of heat-inactivated horse serum and incubated at 37 °C in CO2 incubator (Suresh and Smith. 2004). Axenization was conducted after the isolates have been incubated for 2 to 3 days. Isolation of solubilized antigen from symptomatic and asymptomatic cultures The axenic B. hominis species were collected using Ficoll-Paque density gradient centrifugation method and the harvested parasites were resuspended in basal Jones medium without the addition of heat-inactivated horse serum. Then, the harvested organisms were lysed by sonication method and the homogenate was incubated at 4 °C, overnight. The homogenate was centrifuged at 13000xg for 15 minutes at 4 °C after the overnight incubation. The supernatant which contains the solubilized antigen of B. hominis was filter-sterilized and the protein concentration of the antigen was determined using Bradford assay (Bio-Rad, USA). Subtyping of Blastocystis isolates from symptomatic and asymptomatic cultures Genomic DNA Extraction: The genomic DNA of symptomatic and asymptomatic isolates of Blastocystis hominis were extracted from the 3 to 4 days old culture with QIAmp DNA stool mini kit (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany) according to the manufacturers protocol. DNA Purity and Concentration: The genomic DNA yields were estimated using measurement of absorbance at 260nm and 280nm using a spectrophotometer. The ratio of absorbance at 260nm to 280nm determines the purity of the genomic DNA yielded. According to the manufacturers protocol, the ratio of 1.7-1.9 indicates that the DNA yields are pure. PCR Typing by STS Primers: The genotype of B. hominis was determined by using PCR amplification with subtype-specific sequence tagged site (STS) primers (SB83, SB155, SB227, SB332, SB340, SB336, and SB337). The PCR reaction mixtures (20  µl of total volume) consisted of PCR buffer, 2.5 U/ µl of Taq DNA polymerase (Fermantas, SB38), 1.5 mM MgCl2, 1.25  µM of dNTPs (Fermantas, RO191), 0.5 pmol of forward primer, 0.5 pmol of reverse primer, and 1.0  µl of the DNA samples. In addition, the PCR conditions were set as follows: one cycle denaturing at 94 °C for 3 min, 30 cycles including denaturing at 94 °C for 30 seconds, annealing at 56.3 °C for 30 seconds, extending at 72 °C for 60 s, , and additional cycle with a 10 min chain elongation at 72 °C. The PCR products obtained were then electrophoresed in 1.5% agarose gel with 1X Tris-boric-EDTA (TBE) buffer. The fragments of the DNA were visualized using UV illuminator under UV light. The fragment sizes of the genomic DNA were confirmed with bands of a DNA ladder (50-1,000 bp DNA markers, Fermentas). Cultivation and collection of HCT116 Human colorectal carcinoma cell line, HCT116, was cultured in 25 cm ³ culture flask containing 5 ml of RPMI 1640 growth medium, supplemented with 5% of FBS, 2mM L-glutamine, 100 U/ml penicillin-streptomycin, and 2.5 ÃŽ ¼g/ml fungizone. The HCT116 cell line was then incubated in a CO2 incubator set at 100% humidity, atmosphere containing 5% of CO2 and a temperature of 37 °C. Prior to the introduction of antigen from Blastocystis hominis isolates, the cells were harvested from the substratum of the culture flask by using 0.25% trypsin-EDTA. The harvested cells were then washed with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) thrice and resuspended in RPMI 1640 growth medium before introducing the solubilized antigen of Blastocystis hominis from symptomatic and asymptomatic isolates. Isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) PBMCs were collected from fresh human blood sample (12 ml) in sterile EDTA tubes. The PBMCs were then isolated from the blood sample by using Histopaque ®-1077 (Sigma-Aldrich, USA) according to the density gradient centrifugation method (Boyum. 1974). The isolated PBMCs were then washed with PBS thrice and resuspended in 5 ml of RPMI 1640 growth medium, supplemented with 10% of FBS, 2mM L-glutamine, 100 U/ml penicillin-streptomycin, and 2.5 ÃŽ ¼g/ml fungizone in a 25 cm ³ culture flask prior to the introduction of solubilized antigen of Blastocystis hominis isolates. Introduction of the solubilized symptomatic and asymptomatic derived Blasto antigen into PBMCs and colorectal cancer cell line, HCT116 Harvested HCT116 cells (1 x 103 cells per well) in 100 ÃŽ ¼l of RPMI growth medium with 5% FBS and freshly isolated PBMCs (5 x 104 cells per well) in 100 ÃŽ ¼l of RPMI growth medium with 10% FBS were seeded into 96 well plates. After the overnight incubation in a CO2 incubator containing 5% CO2 at 37 °C, Blasto-antigen of B. hominis from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals at final concentration ranging from 0.001 to 10ÃŽ ¼g/ml was added to each well containing the PBMCs and HCT116 cells and were further incubated for 48 hours. Then, the cell proliferation/viability was measured using the MTT assay (Mosmann. 1983). Quantitative Real-time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (rtRT-PCR) Concentration of symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-antigen that yields the optimal proliferation and inhibition in the preliminary tests (MTT assay) was used to introduce into each culture flask containing PBMCs and HCT 116 cells respectively. For controls, PBS was introduced into both types of cells. After 48 hours of incubation, the RNA was isolated from the PBMCs and HCT 116 cells using Ambion RNAqueous Micro Kit (Ambion, CA, USA). The purified RNA obtained was then used to synthesize complementary DNA (cDNA) using High-Capacity RNA-to-cDNA kit (Applied Biosystems, USA) by the PCR method. Finally, Real-time reverse transcription PCR analysis was performed using inventoried primers (TaqMan ® Gene Expression Assays, Applied Biosystems). In this study, the genes of interest were IL-6, IL-8, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-ÃŽ ±), nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-ÃŽ ºB), interferon gamma (IFN-ÃŽ ³), protein 53 (p53), transforming growth factor be ta (TGF-ÃŽ ²), and cathepsin B (CTSB). The PCR reaction will be prepared according to the protocol that is generated by StepOneTM Software v2.0. Statistical Analysis In order to analyze the real-time RT-PCR gene expressions, the à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬  CT value of the treated samples with symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-antigen was compared against the non-treated sample (control with PBS) using the Students t test. A P value of 0.05 was considered to be the minimum threshold of significance. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS In the present study, the symptomatic and asymptomatic isolates were genotyped by PCR amplification using the well-known seven sets of STS primers. The extracted DNA of symptomatic isolate showed positive amplification with SB83 and thus determined as subtype 1 (Yoshikawa et al. 2004). Nevertheless, the extracted DNA of asymptomatic isolate did not show any positive amplification with all the seven sets of STS primers that was used in this study. Hence, it is postulated that the asymptomatic isolate may be subtype 8 to 13 which was not amplified by the STS primers used in this study (Dominguez-Mà ¡rquez et al. 2009; Eroglu et al. 2009; Jones et al. 2009; Hussein et al. 2008; Tan et al. 2008). Molecular phylogenetic analysis need to be carried out in order to further characterized the subtype of asymptomatic isolate used in this study (Noel et al. 2005; Stensvold et al. 2007; Yoshikawa et al. 2007). In this study, the Blasto-Ag isolated from both symptomatic as well as asymptomatic isolates have caused an inhibition of PBMC cells proliferation which leads to the speculation that the Blasto-Ag may have caused apoptosis in the immune cells to prevent the propagation of immune cells to combat with the Blastocystis infection. The symptomatic isolate has caused a greater inhibition of PBMCs as compare to asymptomatic isolates. However, the Blasto-Ag mediated PBMCs cell inhibition is contrast to our previous report (Chandramathi et al. 2010). Our previous study showed that Blasto-Ag caused stimulation of PBMCs cell proliferation (Chandramathi et al. 2010). However, the molecular genotyping of the B. hominis isolates used in that study was not carried out. Past studies have reported that there may be a correlation between different B. hominis subtypes on the pathogenesis in human hosts (Dominguez-Mà ¡rquez et al. 2009; Eroglu et al. 2009; Jones et al. 2009; Hussein et al. 2008; Tan et al. 2008). This contrasting result observed in the cell viability of PBMCs may suggest the different subtypes of B. hominis may give different effects on the immune cells. Hence, further investigation is required to investigate the potential pathogenesis of different B. hominis subtypes. In the current study, increase in cell proliferation has been observed in colorectal carcinoma cell line, HCT116 cells upon exposure to antigen from symptomatic as well as asymptomatic isolates. HCT116 cells have shown significantly higher increase in cell proliferation stimulated by symptomatic Blasto-Ag as compared to asymptomatic antigen. The increase in the cell proliferation may further suggest that Blastocystis infection could facilitate the growth of colorectal cancer cells (Chandramathi et al. 2010). It is evident from the present study that symptomatic Blasto-Ag is more pathogenic as compared to asymptomatic Blasto-Ag. Hence, it may be essential to treat the Blastocystis infection in symptomatic colorectal cancer patients for better prognosis. On the other hand, a diverse pattern of cytokine, nuclear transcription factor as well as apoptotic gene expressions were observed upon the stimulation of HCT116 cells and PBMCs by symptomatic and asymptomatic derived Blasto-Ag. In the present study a noticeable up-regulation of Th1 (IFN-ÃŽ ³ and TNF-ÃŽ ±) and Th2 (IL6, IL8 and TGF-ÃŽ ²) cytokines was observed in HCT116 following exposure to symptomatic Blasto-Ag may lead to the speculation that B. hominis has activated the cellular and humoral immune responses in clearing the Blastocystis infection. This is accordance to the previous study that extracellular parasites such as B. hominis would be more effective in counteracted by a combination of Th1 and Th2 cytokines (Daugelat et al. 1996). Nevertheless, a more significant up-regulation of Th2 cytokines as compared to Th1 cytokines observed in HCT116 upon exposure to symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-Ag may lead to the postulation that symptomatic Blasto-Ag may resulting in a Th2- dominated responses and has the potential in weakening the cellular immune response, allowing the progression and growth of an existing tumour cells. On the other hand, HCT116 exposed to symptomatic Blasto-Ag has resulted in a more noticeable up-regulation of Th2 cytokines then asymptomatic Blasto-Ag which may lead to the speculation that asymptomatic Blasto-Ag is less pathogenic than symptomatic derived Blasto-Ag. Furthermore, the up-regulation of TGF-ÃŽ ² in the colorectal cancer cells has the potential role of anti-inflammatory and resulting in host immunosuppression by inhibiting the cell mediated immune responses against the tumour cells (Zou, 2005; Seruga et al. 2008). In addition, it is widely-accepted that humoral immunity is activated by extracellular microbes such as bacteria (Romagnani, 1996). B. hominis, being an extracellular allergen, has triggered the activation of host humoral immune responses which is evident by the significant up-regulation of Th2 cytokines in the PBMCs upon exposure to symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-Ag. Moreover, this results can be supported by the recent finding which shown an elevation of IL6 and IL8 level in the monocytes of healthy volunteers exposed to Leishmania infection (Menezes et al. 2008). In spite of that, an interesting finding has been observed in PBMCs stimulated by symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-Ag, besides activating the humoral immune responses, PBMCs exposed by Blasto-Ag has also triggered the activation of cellular mediated immune response characterized by Th1 cytokines. As described earlier, extracellular parasites may be more effective counteracted by a combination of Th1 and Th2 cytoki nes mediated immune responses (Daugelat et al. 1996). However, the activation of cellular mediated immune responses which is reflected by a significant up-regulation of TNF-ÃŽ ± and IFN-ÃŽ ³ may lead to the speculation that Blasto-Ag isolated from symptomatic as well as asymptomatic individual has the ability in causing extensive inflammatory damage in the host tissue as a result of macrophage mediated responses towards the parasitic infections. In addition, an up-regulation of NF-ÃŽ ºB and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL6 and IL8 was observed in HCT116 stimulated by symptomatic Blasto-Ag. Furthermore, these findings were also observed in PBMCs stimulated by symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-Ag. Nevertheless, HCT116 exposed to asymptomatic Blasto-Ag has exhibited an insignificant down-regulation of NF-à Ã‚ ºB gene expression which then leads to a significant lower expression in IL6 and IL8 as compared to HCT116 stimulated by symptomatic Blasto-Ag. Although the previous reports by Chandramathi et al. 2010 has stated the potential role of asymptomatic Blasto-Ag in causing the up-regulation of NF-à Ã‚ ºB and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL6 and IL8, however, the similar trend was not observed in the current study. As described earlier, different Blastocystis subtypes may have different effects on HCT116 cells as well as causing different gene expression profile in HCT116. To further characterize the gene expression profiles a s well as pathogenic potential of each subtype on HCT116 and PBMCs, more samples on different subtypes need to be recruited for the future study. Apart from this, NF-à Ã‚ ºB is also related to the apoptotic mediator genes namely p53 and CTSB. NF-à Ã‚ ºB has been postulated to play a role in inhibiting the apoptosis; hence it is hypothesized that the down-regulation of NF-à Ã‚ ºB gene expression will lead to the up-regulation of p53 and vice versa (Baldwin, 2001; Chwieralski et al. 2006). Although the recent study has suggested that CTSB may contribute to the cell apoptosis, however the studies have only reported on CTSB-mediated apoptosis in breast cancer cells as well as hepatocytes apoptosis in fulminant hepatic failure (Sandes et al, 2007; Yan et al. 2009). Nevertheless, the possibility of CTSB participation in the apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells has not been investigated. Moreover, there are a number of studies have shown that over expression of CTSB mRNA and elevation of its protein activity have been associated with the invasive and metastasis properties of various cancers (Campo et al. 1994; Yan et al, 1998; Hirai et al. 1999; Sanjeeva et al. 2001). The similar findings were observed in the current study where the HCT116 cells stimulated by symptomatic as well as asymptomatic Blasto-Ag have caused a significant up-regulation of CTSB. The over expression of CTSB in HCT116 cells stimulated by symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-Ag may implicate the potential of Blasto-Ag in causing the invasive and metastasis of colorectal cancer (Campo et al. 1994; Yan et al. 1998; Dora et al. 2003). In the present study, the insignificant down-regulation of p53 gene expressions observed in PBMCs may indicates that the symptomatic and asymptomatic Blasto-Ag may have prevented the PBMC cells to undergo the apoptosis process. The observation of p53 gene expressions obtained was contrary to the expectation. This may be due to the latent effects of the host immunity to down-regulate the apoptotic mediator gene in order to combat with the invasive B. hominis as well as to prevent persistent inflammation which can lead to carcinogenesis. Although the down-regulation pattern was observed, it does not causing a significant effect (0.95 and 0.96 fold decrease respectively). In contrast to PBMCs, stimulation of symptomatic Blasto-Ag in HCT116 has insignificantly down-regulated the gene expressions of p53. The insignificant down-regulation observed in HCT116 stimulated by symptomatic Blasto-Ag may be explained that it could be the reason that HCT116 cells to have low level of NF-à Ã‚ ºB gene expression level (1.34 fold increase). Nevertheless, the down-regulation observed may further suggest that symptomatic Blasto-Ag may has enhance the proliferation and progression of existing tumour besides causing an extensive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. On the other hand, an interesting finding was observed in HCT116 exposed to asymptomatic Blasto-Ag, instead of causing down-regulation of p53 gene expression, asymptomatic Blasto-Ag has caused an up-regulation of p53 (1.09 fold increase) in HCT116. The findings and observations obtained from the current study are still far to characterize the mechanism of the potential pathogenic role of B. hominis in PBMCs as well as HCT116 cells. However, the current study was able to give an overview of the potential pathogenesis of symptomatic and asymptomatic derived Blasto-Ag in HCT116 and PBMCs. Moreover, the findings also suggest that symptomatic derived Blasto-Ag is more pathogenic as compare to asymptomatic Blasto-Ag. More studies still need to be done on the association of this emerging parasite on the association with the colorectal cancer. CONCLUSION The MTT cell proliferative assay and gene expression profile in this study has shown that the solubilized antigen isolated from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals, at a particular concentration, could facilitate the proliferation and growth of colorectal carcinoma while having the ability to induce apoptosis on PBMCs immune cells. Moreover, the cell proliferative assay also successfully reported that antigen isolated from symptomatic individual is more pathogenic as compare to asymptomatic isolates, as it causes a significantly higher increase in cell proliferation of HCT116 colorectal carcinoma cell lines and a significantly higher increase in inhibition of PBMCs immune cells. Moreover, symptomatic isolate of B. hominis has exhibited a more evident increase in the gene expression of Th1 and Th2 cyokines. Hence, there is a vital need to screen colorectal cancer patients for B. hominis infection.

Literature Review On Remote Sensing Environmental Sciences Essay

Literature Review On Remote Sensing Environmental Sciences Essay Remote sensing is the science or art of acquiring information about the Earths surface without actually being in contact with it. This is done by sensing and recording reflected or emitted energy and processing, analyzing, and applying that information. In much of remote sensing, the process involves an interaction between incident radiation and the targets of interest. (Dr. S. M. Rahman, 2001). Remote sensing makes it possible to collect data on dangerous or inaccessible areas. Remote sensing applications include monitoring deforestation  in areas such as the  Amazon Basin,  glacial  features in Arctic and Antarctic regions, and  depth sounding  of coastal and ocean depths. Military collection during the  Cold War  made use of stand-off collection of data about dangerous border areas. Remote sensing also replaces costly and slow data collection on the ground, ensuring in the process that areas or objects are not disturbed. Remote sensing exceedingly influences everyday life, ranging from  weather forecasts  to reports on  climate change  or  natural disasters. As an example, 80% of the German students use the services of  Google Earth. (Wikipedia, 2012) In recent time, with mans increasing interventions with the environment, the situation is aggravated. The quality of available data is extremely uneven. Land use planning based on unreliable data can lead to costly and gross errors. Soil erosion research is a capital-intensive and time-consuming exercise. Global extrapolation on the basis of few data collected by diverse and non-standardized methods can lead to gross errors and it can also lead to costly mistakes and misjudgements on critical policy issues. So, remote sensing provides convenient solution for this problem. Moreover, voluminous data gathered with the help of remote sensing techniques are batter handled and utilized with the help of Geographical Information System (GIS). (M. H. Mohamed Rinos, 2000) There are two different approaches that can be adopted for determining the characteristics of landslide from remote sensing data. The first approach determines more qualitative characteristics such as number, distribution, type and character of debris flow. This can be achieved with either satellite or air borne imagery collected in the visible and infrared regions of the spectrum. The next approach complements the qualitative characterization, estimating dimensions (e.g. length, width, thickness and local slope, motion, and debris distribution) along and across the mass movement. (V. Singhroy, 2004) Literature Review on Geographical Information System (GIS) Geographical Information System (GIS) is used to arrange the computer hardware, software, and geographic data. It helps the people interact, analyze, identify relationship and find the solutions to the problems. The system is designed to capture, store, update, manipulate, analyze, and display studied data and used to perform analyses (ESRI, 2005). Since 1970s, GIS has been used to analyze various environments. But the extensive application of GIS to hydrologic and hydraulic modeling and flood mapping and management begin from early 1990s. (Maidment, 2000). GIS has the ability to represent elevation in terms of topographic surfaces is central to geomorphological analyses and thus to the importance of representing topography using Digital Elevation Model (DEM). It is through the distribution of soil that the land surface changes over the long term and so the ability to link sediment transfer with DEM changes. (Schmidt, 2000) ArcView GIS desktop software provided the tools of map features that will affect a propertys value such as crime rates, environmental hazards, and the condition of surrounding neighborhoods and properties. ESRIs ArcGIS is a GIS which is working with maps and geographic information. ArcGIS software can be used for following functions: creating and using maps, compiling geographic data, analyzing mapped information, sharing and discovering geographic information, using maps and geographic information in a range of applications, and managing geographic information in database. (Wikipedia, ArcGIS, 2012). The ArcGIS provides tools for constructing maps and geographic information. Literature review on soil erosion Soil erosion is one form of soil degradation along with soil compaction, low organic matter, and loss of soil structure, poor internal drainage, salinization, and soil acidity problems (Wall, 2003). When the degradation of the soil is getting serious, it will contribute in accelerate the soil erosion. Soil erosion is a natural process; it usually does not cause any major problem to the environment. The soil is carried by the agents such as wind, water, ice, animals, and the use of tools by man. Soil erosion is a very slow process and even unnoticeable sometime, but it may occur at an alarming rate which causing the loss of topsoil. Farmers worldwide are losing about 24 billion tonnes of topsoil each year. In developing countries, because of the population pressure forces land to be more intensively farmed, the erosion rates per acre are twice as high as the standard. The soil erosion also will affect the productivity and growth. This is because when the soils are depleted and crops receive poor nourishment from the soil, the food provides poor nourishment to people. The rate of losses soil is faster than the creation of new soil. The difference between creation and loss represents an annual loss of 7.5 to 10 tonnes per acre worldwide. (DeHaan, 1992) The eroded soil that enters watercourse will reduce the water quality, reduces the efficiency of the particulars drainage system and also decreases the storage capacity of lakes. Sediment is the eroded soil that settles in the water systems. Accumulation of the sediment will reduce the capacity of a river or reservoirs to hold flood water. Thus, it requires a lot of money to clean the sediment often and manually. Sediment also can block the sunlight for aquatic plant and inhibit fish spawning. The water becomes not safe for drinking if there is runoff of chemical and nutrients from surrounding farmers fields. In Malaysia, soil erosion is a common natural occurrence. This is due to particular topography, soils and corresponding vegetation that predominate and the extensive rainfall that the country experiences. However, accelerated soil erosion is becoming a serious problem in Malaysia because of rapid land use developments. Various forms of erosion control have been proposed to develop the land in ways that are sensitive to its geography. (Abdullah, 2005) Literature review on Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation The development of Universal Soil Loss Equation (ULSE) initially was to assist soil conservationists in farm planning. They used ULSE to estimate the soil loss on specific slopes in specific fields. USLE was a guide for the conservationist and farmer to control the erosion if the estimated soil loss exceeded acceptable limits. Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) is a science tool that has been improved over the last several years. It is based on USLE and makes some improvement on the equation. The RULSE has improved the effects of soil roughness and the effect of local weather on the prediction of soil loss and sediment delivery. (Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, 2003). RUSLE can be used for site evaluation and planning purposes and to aid in the decision in selecting erosion control measure. The RUSLE provides numbers to substantiate the benefits of planned erosion control measures and also an estimate of severity of erosion. A = R.K.LS.C.P A is annual soil loss (tonnes/ha/year). R is rainfall erosivity factor. It is an erosion index for the given storm period (MJ.mm/ha/h) K is soil erodibility factor. It is the erosion rate for a specific soil continuous fallow condition on a 9% slope having a length of 22.1m (tonnes/ha/(MJ.mm/ha/h)) LS are topographic factor. It represents the slope length and the slope steepness. It represents the ratio of the soil loss from a specific site to that from a unit site (9% slope with slope length 22.1m) while other parameters are held constant. C is the cover management factor. It represents the protective coverage of canopy and organic material in direct contact with the ground. P is the support practice factor. It includes the soil conservation operations and other measure of control erosion. Literature review on USLE and RUSLE Table 2.1 Comparison of USLE and RUSLE (Renard, 1991) Factor USLE RUSLE R Based on long term average rainfall conditions for specific geographic areas Data from more weather stations and thus the value are more precise for any given location. RUSLE computes a correction to R. This is to reflect the effect of raindrop impact for flat slopes striking water ponded on the surface. K Based on soil texture, organic matter content, permeability, and other factors inherent to soil type. Adjusted to account for seasonal changes such as freezing and thawing, soil moisture, and soil consolidation. LS Based on length and steepness of slope, regardless of land use. Assigning new equations based on the ratio of rill to interrill erosion, and accommodates complex slopes. C Based on cropping sequence, surface residue, surface roughness, and canopy cover, with are weighted by the percentage. Lumps these factor into a table of soil loss ratios, by crop and tillage scheme. Sub factors (prior land use, canopy cover, surface cover, surface roughness, and soil moisture) are used. Dividing each year into rotation of 15 day intervals, then calculate the soil loss ratio for each period. The value need to recalculate if one of the sub factors change. RUSLE provides improved estimates of soil loss changes as they occur throughout the year, especially relating to surface and near surface residue and the effects of climate on residue decomposition. P Values change depending on the slope ranges with some distinction for various ridge heights. It is based on installation of practices that slow runoff and thus reduce soil movement. Values are based on hydrologic soil groups, slope, row grade, ridge height, and the 10 year single storm erosion index value. In RUSLE, it computes the effect of strip-cropping based on the transport capacity of flow in dense strips relative to the amount of sediment reaching the strip. The P factor for conservation planning considers the amount and location of deposition. Literature review on landslide Landslides are a type of soil erosion and major natural geological hazards. Each year, the landslide is responsible for enormous property damage which involves both direct and indirect costs. Malaysia experience frequent landslides. According to the local newspaper report in the years 2006-2009, along east coast highways in Peninsular Malaysia, in Sabah (East Malaysia) and in the island state of Penang, heavy rainfalls triggered landslides and mud flows. (Pradhan, 2009) Landslides happen when there are changes from a stable to an unstable condition in the stability of a slope. There are natural causes and human causes which contributing to a change in the stability of a slope. Natural causes of landslides include: Groundwater (pore water) pressure acting to destabilize the slope Loss or absence of vertical vegetative structure, soil nutrients and soil structure Erosion of the toe of a slope by rivers or ocean waves Weakening of a slope through saturation by snowmelt, glaciers melting, or heavy rains Earthquakes adding loads to barely table slope Earthquake-caused liquefaction destabilizing slopes Volcanic eruptions Landslides that are due to human causes are: Deforestation, cultivation and construction, which destabilize the already fragile slope Vibrations from machinery or traffic Blasting Earthwork which alters the shape of a slope, or which imposes new loads on existing slope In shallow soils, the removal of deep-rooted vegetation that bind colluvium to bedrock Construction, agricultural or forestry activities which change the amount of water which infiltrates the soil. (Wikipedia, 2012) Landslides in Malaysia are mainly triggered by tropical rainfall and flash floods. The rainfall and floods cause the rock to fail along fracture, joint and cleavage planes. The geology of Malaysia is quite stable but continuous development and urbanization lead to deforestation and erosion of the covering soil layers thus causing serious threats to the slopes (Pradhan, 2007). Abandoned project at hill sites for a certain period which affecting the maintenance of the slopes could causing the slopes to collapse. List of landslide events happened in Malaysia: 1 May 1961 A landslide occurred in  Ringlet,  Cameron Highlands,  Pahang. 21 October 1993 The man-made  Pantai Remis landslide  caused a new  cove  to be formed in the coastline. 11 December 1993 48 people were killed when a block of the  Highland Towers collapsed  at  Taman Hillview,  Ulu Klang,  Selangor. 30 June 1995 20 people were killed in the landslide at  Genting Highlands slip road  near  Karak Highway. 6 January 1996 A landslide in the  North-South Expressway  (NSE) near  Gua Tempurung,  Perak. 29 August 1996 A mudflow near Pos Dipang  Orang Asli  settlement in  Kampar,  Perak, 44 people were killed in this tragedy. 15 May 1999 A landslide near  Bukit Antarabangsa,  Ulu Klang,  Selangor. Most of the  Bukit Antarabangsa  civilians were trapped. 20 November 2002 The  bungalow  of the  Affin Bank  chairman General (RtD) Tan Sri Ismail Omar collapse causing landslide in  Taman Hillview,  Ulu Klang,  Selangor. December 2003 A rockfall in the  New Klang Valley Expressway  (NKVE) near the  Bukit Lanjan  interchange caused the expressway to close for more than six months. 31 May 2006 Four persons were killed in the  landslides  at Kampung Pasir, Ulu Klang, Selangor. 26 December 2007 Two villagers were buried alive in a major landslide, which destroyed nine wooden houses in Lorong 1, Kampung Baru Cina,  Kapit,  Sarawak. 12 February 2009 one contract worker was killed in a landslide at the construction site for a 43-storey condominium in  Bukit Ceylon,  Kuala Lumpur. 21 May 2011 16 people mostly 15 children and a caretaker of an orphanage were killed in a  landslide caused by heavy rains  at the Childrens Hidayah Madrasah Al-Taqwa orphanage in FELCRA Semungkis,  Hulu Langat,  Selangor. (Wikipedia, 2012) A scientific analyses of landslides need to be carry out to predict landslide-susceptible areas, and thus reduce landslide damages through proper preparation and mitigation. So, understanding landslides and preventing them is a serious challenge across worldwide. Literature review on past research and studies TITLE The application of GIS-based logistic regression for landslide susceptibility mapping in the Kakuda-Yahiko Mountains, Central Japan AUTHOR, YEAR Lulseged Ayalew, Hiromitsu Yamagishi, 2005 STUDY AREA Kakuda-Yahiko Mountains and their surroundings. OBJECTIVE / CONCEPT To study the landslide risk around the Kakuda-Yahiko Mountains. To study the use of logistic regression. To demonstrate the combination bivariate statistical analyses (BSA) to simplify the interpretation of the model. METHODOLOGY / METHOD Analytical approaches In LR or even in linear regression, it does little good to combine data with different measuring scales. Make sure that data have been normalized in a manner LR needs. Failure to do so generally leads to problems during the interpretation of the final results. Statistical results Overall model statistics of the regression conducted in this study using IDRISI. Coefficient positive indicating that they are positively related to the probability of landslide formation through the log transformation. Prediction probabilities and the construction of the susceptibility map In addition to the model statistics and coefficients, the final result of the regression process in IDRISI is a predicted map of probability defined by numbers that are constrained to fall between 0 and 1. The more these numbers are close to 1, the better they indicate the likelihood of finding the mapped landslides. Depending on the independent parameters considered, the landslide inventory map and the statistical approach used, the best predictor parameters and the predicted probability map of a logistic regression can vary considerably. OUTPUT / SUMMARY / RESULT Landslides are portrayed according to the types of movements namely slide, fall, flow, spread and topple. The principle of logistic regression (LR) rests on the analysis of a problem, in which a result measured with dichotomous variables such as 0 and 1 or true and false, is determined from one or more independent factors. TITLE Assessment of soil erosion and sediment delivery ratio using remote sensing and GIS AUTHOR, YEAR Weifeng ZHOU and Bingfang WU, 2008 STUDY AREA Upstream Chaobaihe River catchment, north China. OBJECTIVE / CONCEPT To develop monitoring of soil losses in the upstream Chaobaihe River Catchment. To develop a model by using Geographic Information System tools. To compute sediment delivery ratio (SDR) per hydrological unit. METHODOLOGY / METHOD Data Collection Remote sensing data, digital elevation model (DEM), and land use and land cover GIS data were used. Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) Simple empirical model, based on regression analyses of soil loss rates on erosion plots in the USA. The model is designed to estimate long-term annual erosion rates for agricultural fields. A = R ·K ·L ·S ·C A represents mean (annual) soil loss, R is the rainfall erosive factor, K is the soil erosibility factor, L is the slope factor, S is the slope length factor, and C is the cover management factor. OUTPUT / SUMMARY / RESULT The work indicated there are a number of advantages in using the modified USLE equation including the ability to combine it with a raster-based GIS to produce a cell-by-cell basis for mapping spatial patterns of soil erosion rates. The advantage of using a GIS raster based framework is that it allows one to quantify the impact of a single factor on the overall result and it can also easily be updated with improved datasets. TITLE Soil erosion hazard evaluation An integrated use of remote sensing, GIS and statistical approaches with biophysical parameters towards management strategies AUTHOR, YEAR Md. Rejaur Rahman, Z.H. Shi, Cai Chongfa, 2009 STUDY AREA Within the Danjiangkou County, with an area of 3115.58 km2 and located in the north-western part of Hubei province of China. OBJECTIVE / CONCEPT To develope numerical model for soil erosion hazard assessment Tto analyze soil erosion by attempting to estimate the volumes or masses of soil loss METHODOLOGY / METHOD Analysis of study area The selected area is within the Danjiangkou County, with an area of 3115.58 km2 and located in the north-western part of Hubei province of China. Sandy clay loam, silt loam and sandy loam on the study area play a dominant role in soil erosion by water. Data acquisition and preparation Prepare and analyze the different types of data in soil erosion prediction and hazard assessment as there are many factors that affect soil erosion status. Soil erosion estimation Models are needed to predict soil erosion rates under different resource and land-use conditions. Empirical erosion prediction models continue to play an important role in soil conservation planning and are widely used to predict soil erosion. OUTPUT / SUMMARY / RESULT The Z-score analysis with GIS and selected parameters, provided a hazard assessment of soil erosion of the area. The methodology of combining the Z-score with GIS provided an improved method for the synthetic evaluation of soil erosion hazard, which extended the GIS capability of spatial analysis and the Z-score capability of multi-layer analysis. TITLE Spatial Prediction of Landslide Hazard Using Discriminant Analysis AUTHOR, YEAR Peter V. Gorsevski, Paul Gessler, Randy B. Foltz, 2000 STUDY AREA Rocky Point, a small watershed of the Clearwater River Basin in central Idaho. OBJECTIVE / CONCEPT To study the concept of Discriminant Analysis and GIS. To analyze the landslide hazard area on Rocky Point. METHODOLOGY / METHOD Principal Component Analysis (PCA) Help to analyze the multivariate data set. Discriminant Analysis Classify presence and absence of landslides using principal component scores. Discriminant analysis is a multivariate technique that is used to build rules that can classify landslide hazard into appropriate class. Cross-validation Estimate the probabilities of misclassification. Cross-validation method removes each observation vector from the calibration data set at a time, forms the discriminant rule based on all the remaining data to classify the removed observation, and notes whether the observation is correctly classified. GIS provided a detailed basis for spatial prediction of landslide hazard. OUTPUT / SUMMARY / RESULT Hazard map generated. Graph of multivariate normal probability plot for the principal component scores. TITLE Remote sensing and GIS-based landslide hazard analysis and cross-validation using multivariate logistic regression model on three test areas in Malaysia. AUTHOR, YEAR Biswajeet Pradhan, 2010 STUDY AREA Penang, Cameron and Selangor. OBJECTIVE / CONCEPT To generate cross-validation of a multivariate logistic regression model using remote sensing and GIS for landslide hazard analysis. METHODOLOGY / METHOD Data and material Interpreting aerial photographs and satellite images (SPOT 5 and Landsat TM) of study area. These aerial photographs were taken during 1981-2006 and were acquired from Malaysian Remote Sensing Agency data archives. Data analysis using ARC/INFO GIS software package and a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was constructed. These data are related to the primary e ¬Ã¢â€š ¬ects (impact of debris or inclusion of a ¬Ã¢â€š ¬ected site from previously occurred landslides) of a wide variety of landslide types Model Approaching Traditional approach using a multivariate logistic regression model implemented in a GIS framework. The landslide hazard analysis is a function of a variety of variables that include slope, aspect, curvature, topography, distance from drainage, land cover, soil texture and types, geology and distance from lineament, rainfall precipitation, and the normalized di ¬Ã¢â€š ¬erence vegetation index (ndvi) The coefficient applied to the study area, for landslide hazard mapping. Multivariate logistic regression model Easier to use than discriminant analysis when have a mixture of numerical and categorical regressors , because it includes procedures for generating the necessary dummy variable automatically. Application of multivariate logistic regression model on landslide hazard mapping. Validation of the model. OUTPUT / SUMMARY / RESULT The validation results showed a satisfying agreement between the hazard maps and the landslide locations verified in the field. TITLE GIS Application in Landslide Hazard Analysis AUTHOR, YEAR Chyi-Tyi Lee, 2009 STUDY AREA Shihmen Reservoir Catchment Area in Northern Taiwan. OBJECTIVE / CONCEPT To analyze the landslide hazard area using GIS application. METHODOLOGY / METHOD Image and data collection The basic data utilized included a 5m x 5m grid DEM, SPOT5 images, 1/500 photo-based contour maps, 1/50000 geologic maps and hourly rainfall data. Establish of event-based landslide inventory To develop susceptibility model, only considered new landslides triggered by typhoons. Landslides triggered by Typhoon Aere were interpreted and delineated by comparing SPOT5 images taken before and after thetyphoon. Determination of causative factors and triggering factors These factors are then statistically tested and y effective factors selected for susceptibility analysis. 10 factors are selected: Lithology, slope gradient, NDVI, slope roughness, profile curvature, total slope height, relative slope height, topographic wetness index, distance to a fault, maximum rainfall intensity. Analysis Construction of model via logistic regression. Logistic regression to determine a linear function of factors for interpreting the landslide distribution from a set of training data. The linear function is used to calculate the landslide susceptibility index (LSI) for each cell. The LSI used to establish a probability of failure to LSI curve and determine the spatial probability of landslide occurrence at each cell. Landslide susceptibility mapping The landslide hazard area could be for the prediction of future landslides providing a scenario rainfall distribution is given. OUTPUT / SUMMARY / RESULT Successfully predict landslide location, area and volume in a drainage basin or catchment area using GIS.