Safe as houses?

Hey kids, I'm Gavin and I want to talk to you today about safety around the house. How many of you here have younger brothers or sisters? [Response] Over half of you, that's quite a lot. I'll bet they get quite annoying sometimes, don't they? I wouldn't know because I am the younger brother. Even though they do get quite annoying sometimes, I'm sure that deep down inside, you really do love your younger brothers and sisters, and that you would never want anything bad happening to them. This is why it is important to keep them save and out of trouble. How many of you here don't have a helper? [Response] Well, that's a large number of you. I bet every time your parents are out, you have to look after your baby brother or sister right? It's pretty hard sometimes isn't it? Well here are a few suggestions which might make it easier for you. Firstly, never let your brother or sister near the kitchen on their own. Stay away from the kitchen unless you are getting snacks to eat and drinks. The kitchen is a dangerous, unsafe and bad place to play. Your brother or sister could easily burn, scald or hurt themselves with hot or boiling water, clothes irons or hot oven doors. There are some yucky chemicals kept in the kitchen which aren't very healthy for you if you drink or inhale it. Don't forget there's also a chance your baby sibling could slip and fall over. The kitchen is out of bounds. If your younger sibling needs to go to the toilet or take a bath, make sure that you go and help them. It is very important, and it will make you look more grown-up too, doing important things around the house. When they are taking a bath, make sure the water is not too hot or they could get hurt ands scalded. Also, be sure to hold them up because it is very easy for them to drown, so don't play around during bath-time. Finally, never ever let your baby brother or sister go peeking down the toilet incase they fall in. It would be unsafe, unhygienic and very yucky. Moving away from the toilet issues, the next thing you have to be careful of are the doors. Slamming doors in your brother or sister's face is a big no-no. Their fingers could get caught and it would be extremely painful. If any of you have a staircase in the house, you will probably know how dangerous they are, especially for kids under two. The best thing to avoid accidents to keep them away from the stairs and remove any toys or objects blocking the stairs. If not, you or your little brother or sister could turn into Humpty Dumpty and break into many pieces Talking about taking big falls, it is also a good idea to close any low windows your sibling could climb out of, or remove anything they could climb on to in order to get to the opening. Did you know that the biggest cause of accidents in homes are from playing with matches? If you have ever tried it and thought it cool, take some advice from the big kids, it's not cool. You could easily kill yourself and your little baby brother or sister, so remember, keep tem away from those matches and remember the words of Smokey Bear; â€Å"Only YOU can stop [house hold] fires!† Don't forget to keep them away from the medicine cabinet, and remind them often that it ISN'T candy. Finally, if you are playing outside the house, keep those little kids away from the garage or tool shed, which have a lot of dangerous tools and chemicals. (P.T.O.) Now you can go and tell your friends how cool you are and your parents how grown up you are because you know how to look after your baby brother or sister, and yourself.

Facebook, Strategic Management Analysis

An environmental scanning refers to the process that systematically uses information about trends, patterns and relationships within an organization’s internal and external environment to determine the future direction of the organization. Through an understanding of the nature and speed of changes in that particular environment, an environmental scan is likely to help identify possible ventures, challenges, and developments that are important to the organization. An organization that could benefit tremendously from strategic planning and especially environmental scanning is Facebook. Facebook is a social network organization that is considered the largest online network in the world (Piskorski, Eisenmann, and Smith, 2013). According to these researchers Facebook reported $1 billion profit in revenue, with 85% of this revenue coming from advertising. However since we are living in an era where technology is constantly upgrading and competition is fierce, it is vital that the managers of Facebook stay abreast of the competition by conducting environmental scanning to determine the trend and weaknesses of the organization to prevent strategic surprises. As competition increases in a particular industry, changes become swifter in the external environment; consequently, information from the external environment contributes important elements to the effectiveness of the long-term plans. In an external analysis of Facebook, three correlated environments are relevant: Natural Physical Environment According to Wheelen and Hunger (2012) the natural environment includes physical resources, wildlife, and climate that are a fundamental part of life on earth. It is obvious that in recent years the regularity and severity of storms, tornados, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events have increased in the United States and worldwide, and this trend is likely to continue. Pine (2011) informed us that increase in natural hazards and the rising of sea-level are expected along the coastal areas, therefore it is necessary to understand the nature of coastal natural, social, and economic environments and their interactions in guaranteeing a sustainable future. In the case of Facebook, extreme weather events could result in loss of Internet service, breakdown in telecommunication infrastructure, lifestyle changes, and regional shift in population. Although the loss of Internet service and breakdown in telecommunication infrastructure due to inclement weather may be perceived as threats to the organization; lifestyle changes and regional shift in population may reveal opportunities for Facebook. A scan of the external environment may lead to the creating of more modern system that is in-tune with the needs of the population. With the movement of people, Facebook media may be used to locate missing relatives and friends. A shift in population could result in an increase in the younger more tech-savy generation who view Facebook as a way of keeping in touch with others. Since mobile phone reception system may experience overcrowding during this time, Facebook could capitalize on this situation to use its â€Å"friends and family† network to keep others informed of storms and inclement weather events. Through an environmental scan, the managers may realize that planning is needed to extend their network to accommodate the movement of the population. A scan may also reveal weaknesses in infrastructure that could be modified ahead of weather-related crises to minimize the length of time consumers are out of service where weather situations are predicted but cannot be prevented. Although these factors may present threats to the stability of the organization, there are areas that may be presented as opportunities. Societal Environment The societal environment according to Wheelen and Hunger (2012) is the social system of human that makes up those general forces that do not directly affect the short-term activities of the organization, but can, and frequently do influence its long-term decision. Wheelen et al. (2012) mentioned that the number of possible strategic factors is very high because each country can be represented by its own exclusive sets of societal forces. Some well-known strategic forces includes: economic forces, sociocultural forces, and political-legal forces. 1 The Economic Forces. The Economic Forces of the environment alludes to the combination of economic systems of the country, the structural framework of economic policies of the government and the organization of the capital market, the type of endowment, business cycles, and the socio-economic infrastructure of the organization. A drift in the economic area can have effect on social media like Facebook. For example, in 2011 Facebook reported $1 billion profit with 85% coming from advertisement. A weak economy will lead to less sales and subsequently advertising. Equally, a drop in interest rate will mean sales of electronic products and services. The economic development of countries like Brazil, Russia, India, and China is having huge effect on the rest of the world, especially in areas of computer software and telecommunications. An increase in income will also likely to lead to an increase in spending for electronic products and investments in social media services. These factors should present opportunities for Facebook. 2 Sociocultural Forces Sociocultural forces encompass a number of variables such as demographic trends. In the United States, the demographic bulge known as the â€Å"baby boomers† has affected the demands of the market in many industries. This group of people according to Wheelen et al. is now in their 50s and 60s but is the largest group in all developed countries. Wheelen et al. contended that sociological variables such as customs and conventions, cost, cultural heritage, and movement of labor have severe effects on the business. The nature of goods and services is determined by the demand of the people which in turn affect the way the business operates. In the case of Facebook, several transformations are needed to attract the baby boomers who are the largest users of advertisements on the web. Since senior are normally worried about their privacy and security, it is important that Facebook institute an environmental scan that ensure the preservation of privacy of senior Facebook page, the failure of which would be a severe threat to the stability of the company. The desire for companionship with baby boomers whose children have already grown and have left the nest have increased so Facebook could provide the type of interaction some of these seniors need. However, there is the need to make the sire more attractive and senior-friendly by step-by-step tutorial for setting up a page and navigating the network. In addition, remembering passwords have become a tremendous burden for some members of the baby boom generation. In order to continue a viable operation, Facebook should institute a system that helps baby boomers to log on to their page by correctly answering a series of questions. This system would present opportunities for the company. 3 Political-Legal Forces According to Wheelen et al. (2012) the political-legal forces are the forces that distribute power and provide constraining and protecting laws and regulations. It may also include the decision made by the courts. The political environment of a country is swayed by the philosophy of political parties, ideology of government or the ruling party; stability of the political system, foreign policy, Defense and military policy, and the image the country and its leaders project outside the country. Some of the more well-known political-legal variables include, antitrust regulation, environmental protection laws, immigration laws, tax laws, Foreign sweat shops, foreign trade regulation and stability of the government. Trends in the political-legal area have important business repercussions, not only on the level of competition within the industry but also on which strategies might be successful. Many business leaders think that there are too much stringent regulations governing businesses in order to conform to society’s environmental concerns. On the other hand, many businesses would like to see more aggressive approach to enforcing anti-trust laws. A number of research and environmental scanning has been done by Facebook to explore the dynamics of its network. An online article by Weigel (2012) described Facebook as a vehicle for organizing and expressing dissent, and one that has been proven to be an effective tool in many protests, causes, uprisings, and conflicts, but they also lead to the possibility of monitoring by the government and exposing activists to surveillance and punishment. According to Streitfeld and Hardy (2013) the Internet was established as a tool of liberation and knowledge but recently a bleak vision emerged when it was revealed that the United States government is using it as a monitoring and tracking device. In addition, threats by Federal Reserve Commission to impose greater supervision on how personal data was being used online resulted in the formation in 1998 of the Online Privacy Alliance (Streitfeld & Hardy). However, except for this factor, political technology have very little impact on the stability of Facebook. 4 Technological Forces Technological forces are described by Wheelen et al. as those forces that generate problem-solving inventions. Changes in technology can also have tremendous impact on businesses since they all depend on technology to operate. Technological environment affects the business in relations to investment in technology, regular application of technology and the effects of technology on markets. Technology is constantly providing new method for communication; therefore the use of technology in our lives is always expanding. Facebook is at the center of technology advancement because as technology advanced so will the methods we use for communicating. The birth of Facebook brought in another era of communication in our lives, and it is obvious that the society will continue to develop new ways to pass on messages to each other. Facebook’s $1 billion profit in 2011 is an indication that technology will continue to advance; therefore this advancement in technology presents opportunities for the organization. The Task (Industry) Environment The task environment according to Wheelen et al. (2012) includes those elements or groups that directly affect a corporation and, consequently are affected by it; these include governments, local communities, suppliers, competitors, customers, creditors, employees/labor unions, special interest groups, and trade associations. In doing an external environmental scan the business manager must assess various industry forces. Wheelen et al. used the Porter’s 5-Forces model to illustrate the forces that make up the Industry environment. The Porter’s 5-forces model is a tool used by corporations to provide an analysis of their competition and to help determine strategy. This five-forces model examines the strength of five specific competitive forces which work together to determine long-term profit and competition within an industry. However, Wheelen et al. (2012) mentioned that a sixth forces has been added to reflect the power of other groups, and the government over the activities of industries. In a scan of an industry, a corporation must examine the importance of each of the six forces to the success of the company: threat of new entrants, rivalry among existing firms, threat of substitute products or services, bargaining power of buyers, bargaining power of suppliers, and bargaining power of other stakeholders. 1. Threat of New Entrants It is clear that new entrant to any industry bring new capacity, competition, and aspiration to gain a position of status in that industry. Therefore new entrants are threats to organizations that are already in the industry. A new entrant to an industry is able to learn from the mistakes of his competitors and improve upon these weaknesses. In the case of Facebook, new entrants will always be considered a threat since technology by nature is subjected to metamorphosis. The position of Facebook in the industry is strong; therefore the barriers to new entrants are high based on the following: (a) Economies of scales: Even though the start-up cost incurred by Zuckerberg was small at the inception, a new entrant to the industry would not be able to enter the market on a small scale and compete against a company like Facebook, and if they enter on a large scale, there is the possibility of reaction from Facebook who would be better equipped to contend against competitors in the industry. This prevents new companies from breaking into this industry quickly. In addition, the investment of large capital presents a significant amount of risk to a new company. (b) Switching cost: Facebook is an established organization, individual have spent a significant amount of time learning to use this network, so they would be somewhat reluctant to change for another media. (c) Government policy: There are already privacy issues arising from the use of social media so the government may be reluctant to give license to another such organization. (d) Access to distribution channels: A new entrant would have to establish its distribution channel in an industry that is already captured by Facebook. According to Piskorski, Eisenmann, and Smith (2013) 85% of Facebook’s revenue came from advertising. (e) Cost disadvantages independent of size: Facebook is already established in the industry, they have access to the expertise, technology, notoriety, and government approval to keep the organization functioning. (f) Product differentiation: Facebook is well-known, and this medium has a strong customer support. In October 2012 Facebook registered its billionth user, becoming the largest online social network in the world (Piskorski, Eisenmann, and Smith, 2013). Recently, the acquisition of Instagram has solidified Facebook in the industry. Essentially, with this force it is not easy for an organization to enter the industry. 2. Threat of Substitute Products or Services Substitute products naturally present competition in the industry because as more substitutes come on the market the demand becomes more flexible since customers have more alternative. In the case of social networking medium, MySpace has been able continue operation as a type of social networking medium but has not been have to hold a position of dominance in the social networking media because Facebook is more advanced and provides more options. Therefore, this substitute does not present a threat to Facebook. According to Piskorski, Eisenmann, and Smith (2013) LinkedIn has become the leader in professional networking; again this is a professional site and not a social networking site, and the site has not been used as a substitute for Facebook. The threat from substitute services is low in this case. 3. Rivalry Among Existing Firms Competition is likely to be high if entry to the industry is easy. Since entry to the social networking industry presents many barriers, it is unlikely that there will be much rivalry in this industry. However, Piskorski, Eisenmann, and Smith (2013) contended that Twitter and Google came into existence as rivals to Facebook although they have not been able to maintain any position of dominance since Facebook has been able to present more features than the other, thus there is a large differentiation between Facebook and its competitors, their strategies are different, and the rate of growth is vastly dissimilar since Facebook has been able to maintain its market position, and has potential for greater gain than its competitors. The strength of this force is also low. 4. Bargaining Power of Buyers In the social networking industry the bargaining power of buyers is important because if users are not inspired they will lose interest. Facebook has ensured the stability of its position in the industry by creating innovative and stimulating programs to keep users enthused. However, there is a vast difference in the service provided by Facebook and its competitors, so substitution is not easily found. This force does not present a threat to Facebook. 5. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Suppliers can influence an industry significantly as they determine price increases. In the case of Facebook, its suppliers include advertisers, game developers like Zynga, Spotify, Netflix, Hulu and the networks it uses to deliver its services. However, since these products are important to the maintenance of Facebook in the position of dominance in the industry, as they offer diversity to a site that could otherwise have been uninter esting. The bargaining power of suppliers in this case is medium.

Compare and Contrast the Ideas about What Happens after Death in Research Paper

Compare and Contrast the Ideas about What Happens after Death in Buddhism and Christianity - Research Paper Example Death is one entity which causes the cessation of these duties. There are many definitions of death in different scriptures and religions. The scientific world describes death as a mode when there is a permanent termination of all biological functions needed to sustain a living body. The journey does not end here as there is a mention of a life after death or the beginning of the afterlife across various religions of the world. According to the second law of thermodynamics, all energetic states in nature strive to attain the most probable state thus the more disordered and the highly undifferentiated state (Koslowski 4). As such, resurrection or gaining eternal life or Nirvana would not be possible in a world that is subject to the laws of thermodynamics. It would be possible only in a world that is free from such physical laws. The theories on bodily resurrection or eternal life are based on the assumptions of ontological transformation of the dead or the matter. Eternal life â€⠀œ its depiction across religions There are many ways by which the theories regarding after life or life after death is explained. No single belief or faith can provide an accurate concise explanation to the same. Christianity and Islam speak about the existence of the heaven and the hell as places where the dead transcend after death. Sikhism and Hinduism also believe in the concept of reincarnation and heaven and hell. According to these religions, one’s life after death or his journey in the afterlife depend on the deeds he performs in his biological life. Good deeds lead to heaven while wrong deeds lead to hell (Ellis and White, 83). Christianity, Judaism and Islam acknowledge the apocalyptic transformation of matter and thus a realization of the afterlife (Koslowski, 4). Buddhism advocated the presence of life after death. But it does not mention the existence of heaven or hell in its religion. According to the Buddhist doctrines, human life is a cycle that consists of b irth, death and rebirth. The process is a continuous one and is known as the Dharma chakra or the Samsara (Prasad, 4). According to it, living life forms a continuum of life after death that begins immediately after a person is dead. Buddhism lays great emphasis on the karma of a person. According to it, a person leaves behind his karma and his character. The force generated out of his karma brings in an entity that would be influenced by it and bear the same disposition as the dead (Prasad, 4). Afterlife as in Buddhism and Christianity Buddhism began with the teachings of Gautama Buddha to address the suffering that exists in the world. Buddhism accepts the religious philosophies of Hindu doctrines which believed in reincarnation and karma. It believes that the ultimate goal of any religious life is to attain liberation from the cycle of life, death and rebirth. Buddha said that desire and cravings for materialistic things keeps one bound to the cycle of life, death and after death . When one liberates himself completely from such material pleasures he liberates himself from the cycle and enters the state of Nirvana. Buddhism however was not focused on ultimate salvation or attaining Nirvana as the sole motive in the life of an individual. Little is said about Nirvana in the Buddhist scriptures as Buddha felt the importance of attachment, pain and sufferings. The people were encouraged to give alms to the needy, donation of goods and services, to chant or copy sutras and engage in activities to gain merit. This would lead them to think

Economic opinion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Economic opinion - Essay Example In the book it is concluded that owners of private equity reduce more jobs than the other firms, however, the net impact is minimal and following a private company taking over a firm, it their people who take over as directors who fare bad in terms of retention of jobs. Also according to the book, research shows that wages decrease in a span of two years following the private-equity buyouts even though there is an increase in productivity. This proposes that financial profits from high output are being changed into returns for owners instead of salary hits for the workers. Also, whereas some private-equity companies market themselves to be union friendly, some are unfriendly and still others are opposed (Weber 1). According to the authors of the book cited in the article, there are a number of things that distinguish the private-equity companies from those that are traded publicly. One is that such companies have great amounts of debts. Approximately, privately equity companies run with approximately 70 percent debt and 30 percent equity. This ratio is basically reversed by the public firms which has approximately 30 percent of to their capital from bonds, as well as other liabilities (Weber 1). The article also states that whereas the inventors in the public companies are mostly distinct from those who manage the company, the private-equity owners are the ones who manage the companies despite being the investors. This builds incentives for the owners manage the operational decisions for the short-term profits to the owners. Partly owing to this, the private-equity companies are most expected to file for liquidation as compared to the public companies, which result to notable loss of jobs at the individual firms (Weber 1). Private equity as a type of organization has its basis in venture capital. The type that is most common is the leveraged buyout (LBO) and this is the one that is under challenge. The

Discuss the nature of Enterpreneurship in StreetShine case. What are Essay

Discuss the nature of Enterpreneurship in StreetShine case. What are the outcomes and how do they differ from those that might be achieved by philanthropy - Essay Example In general, the level of commitment is greater in a social organization than a commercial organization. A number of scholars and experts define a social enterprise as a business whose principal business purpose is the well being of the society (Chapman, Forbes and Brown, 2007; Darby and Jenkins, 2006). These establishments use various types of methods and disciplines of business coupled with the power of the marketplace for the purpose of advancing the environmental, social and human justice agendas (Black, 2002; Vega and Kidwell, 2007). This essay seeks to throw light on the nature of entrepreneurship in StreetShine case. Furthermore, the essay will also discuss different types of factors related to a social enterprise. However, prior to getting deeper into the analysis portion, the study will at first carry out an in-depth analysis of the case. The case begins with the introduction of StreetShine, a social enterprise operating in the UK. The venture was initiated by Nick Grant in the year 2004 and operates from London. The organization is operating in association with the homeless charity, Thames Reach Bondway. StreetShine specializes in employment and training opportunities for the individuals who are in the process of rebuilding their lives or have experienced homelessness. Furthermore, the organization also runs a professional shoeshine service in hotels and city offices of London. The aim of the organization is to offer the shoe shiners to earn guaranteed income opportunity and along with that gain transferable and valuable skills. The notion of social enterprises came into existence in the mid of the 20th century for the prime purpose of addressing the needs of those segments of the society that has not been dealt properly by the government or the corporate sector (Chapman, Forbes and Brown, 2007; Vega and Kidwell, 2007). Despite the presence of non-profit organizations, since the mid of 1800s in various forms,

Easy Proposal Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Easy - Thesis Proposal Example Interviews and questionnaires will be used to obtain primary data, while financial statements will be used to obtain secondary data. The increased collapse of companies led to an increase in the number of legislation passed to protect businesses and the interests of shareholders (AICPA 6). This has led to an increase in creative accounting, which is the manipulation of financial statements by accountants using their knowledge, in a way that is within the legal restrictions (Beidleman 655). Without rotation of auditors, and with accountants being under the command of managers, they can manipulate them to produce financial statements that do not portray the true and fair view of a firm’s financial performance (Hanno 135). There are various reasons advanced to explain why firms engage in creative accounting. These include a company trying to hide its poor performance in a particular year, or when it is avoiding takeovers (DeZoort, Hermanson and Houston 179). Accounting standards have been revised to try curbing unethical issues in financial statement preparation and improving their integrity. However, managers and accountants have found ways of navigating this regulation; remain within the confines of the law, and produce financial statement that do not reflect the actual position of a company. This has led to such companies experiencing financial strain and others collapsing. The purpose of this study is to find out the impacts that creative accounting has on a company’s financial health. The study will give an insight on the consequences of creative accounting and the negative effects the practice may have on a company’s on-going and future performance. Various scholars have studied different aspects of creative accounting. According to Beasley, creative accounting is used to influence market expectations and increase consumers’ and investors’ confidence in a firm (450).

Moraxella catarrhalis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Moraxella catarrhalis - Assignment Example The infection is most common as a nosocomial infection or in children with weakened immune system and immunocompromised adults. Moraxella catarrhalis has a beta-lactamase positive strain that is highly resistance to antibiotic activity. Further, the bacteria has outer membrane surface proteins such as CopB, OMP CD, OMP E, uspA1 and uspA2 that limit the extent to which the normal protective mechanisms of the body and drugs affect the proliferation and existence of the bacteria in the system. The possibility of the bacteria, to cross the placental barrier and cause infections in-utero, has not been established. However, the high prevalence of otitis media caused by the bacteria is suggestive of a close relationship. Morphology: Moraxella catarrhalis is a non-motile single-celled bacterium which is oxidase positive and nonsaccharolytic. It is a gram-negative diplococcic bacterium that is non-sporeforming and catalase positive. It occurs as spherical organisms appearing in pairs or in linear clusters. Staining, sensitivity and treatment: The bacteria is negative on gram stain. The bacteria is not sensitive to common antibiotics that cannot break the beta-lactam ring. The most effective treatment involves fluoroquinolones, second- and third-generation cephalosporins, erythromycin, and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid antibiotics. At risk population, prevention and precaution: Children with weak immune system, pre-existing respiratory conditions and immunocompromised individuals are at high risk. There is no known vaccine against Moraxella catarrhalis. However, control measures include personal protective equipment in the hospital setting, such as gloves, face masks and hand washing to prevent contamination. In the hospital setting, the patients should be isolated in special rooms and anybody with weak immune status or children must not come into

What are the strengths and limitations of the methods of 'political Essay

What are the strengths and limitations of the methods of 'political economy' in offering us insights into the operation of t - Essay Example Studies depict that the media units reach the reader through catchy information that propels the purchases and drives out competition. However, the act is often a tricky affair as the media may employ propaganda to enrich the information and reach the reader with the desired degree of perception (Skinner, 2005, p. 2). The context documents the theories and theorists on the limitations and strengths of the media in relevance to the political economy method and the general environment. The Political Economy Method Media channels release news to the environment meant to convey information on the actual outcome of events that affect the lives of individuals. In the competitive media industry, the channels shift concerns towards profitability rather than practice the right approaches to the environment through abiding by the code of conduct. For example, the readers do not expect that the information conveyed to them could be ill yet interesting, but on the other hand, it is a criterion a pproach that only catchy information would sale to the readers profitably (Mcchesney, 2008, p. 45). The practice implies a conflicting situation to the ethical code of conduct and the prevailing cultural values and the extent upon which the media practices further contrast with the will to deliver information and that of amassing profits (Plappert, 2010, p. 3). The media practices of the political economy method meant to derive the following set of views. The media industry depicted a continuous overflow in the market that threatened concentration, as this would normally implicate negative returns on revenues. The media depicted that globalization pursued the industry and based on the decreased diversity, chances were that the international audience would tend to react towards information in a similar manner (Wasko, Murdock and Sousa, 2011, p. 24). Prospects were that the method would hinder any negative influence from the opposition and other groups that would perceive a chance to indict charges towards the media practices. According to the team on political economy, Raymond established that the media and the public established different interests, but the extent to which the public would affect the media, was dependent on private interests of the media stakeholders (Winseck and Jin, 2011, p. 76). The Problem Approach of the ‘Political Economy’ Method in Relation to the Media The method of political economy in relation to the actual consciousness of the society through media communication raised a heated debate in the 1970s. The theorists of the political economy approach outlined the importance of the method and that it enhanced the welfare of the individual society members negatively. In a way, the media would articulate communicative programs to monetary related objectives and ensure that the public felt the salient role of the information in the society (Wasko, Murdock and Sousa, 2011, p. 28). The media would evolve accordingly through the pr ocesses and programs that related inversely to the economic propulsion but ethnically contrasted with societal beliefs and norms. The theory of ‘political economy,’ as initially indicated by Marx and Engels, targeted to realize ethics alongside economic values. This would further imply the aspect of consciousness towards the society. The contrast is that towards the end of implementation of the theory, the result was a positive economic approach to the business culture with less relation to the societal welfare, thus

State of current US Economy Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

State of current US Economy - Term Paper Example The rise in growth is primarily due to the contribution of positive factors such as increase consumption, increased volumes of exports and growing in domestic investments. The increase in imports was also registered in the second quarter. This increase was likely influenced by the stronger dollar. The real GDP and the potential GDP were closely compatible in the years that preceeded the great recession. However, the real GDP shrunk dramatically during the recession. This contraction continued for some time until in 2009 when a slight improvement was registered. Despite the increase, the contraction of the real GDP is still evident since the output gap in the second quarter of 2014 stood at $655000.2 The stronger GDP figures have also been tied to stronger job reports. For example, the growth between January and October was registered due to 200000 additional jobs on monthly. The low-skilled and low paying sectors of the economy also played a crucial role in resuscitating the economy. These sectors include retail and drinking places. The lowest unemployment rate was recorded and it stood at 5.8%. The unemployment is said to be the lowest since 2008. Thus, it indicates that the US economy is on a positive trajectory. Even though there was a lower rate of unemployment, the rates remain high. Some people are employed on part time in the United States and account for 7 million of the employed class. 2.2 million People are marginally attached hence indicates the existence of weak labor participation in the job markets. There has been reduced labor participation since 2009. This rate has been less than 66%. The implication of the low labor participation is that United States economy underutilizes its labor resources.3 Under normal economic circumstances, the economy should be able to encourage a high participation of the labor resources. People with various skills and talents should be willing to take part in the recruitment process to enable them

Homeschooling Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Homeschooling - Essay Example Critics of homeschooling usually point out the lack of socialization skills learned at public schools which is a valid concern but quality time with parents is important as well and is also productive time for the student. Parents are in control of the subject material and control the topics. This is a definite advantage for the homeschooled child. Homeschooling is a growing in popularity because it is the most effective way to educate children. The best teachers are those who possess a passion to convey knowledge with a sense of purpose. Parents motivated with a passionate spiritual conviction have a sustained energy for teaching their child more so than a relative stranger of unknown conviction at public school. These parents generate an infectious enthusiasm about whatever subject they are teaching, a virtue that motivates kids. Homeschooling allows a parent to weave their spiritual convictions into every facet of their curriculum. Nothing is more important to the heart of people’s motivation than their personal beliefs. Everyone has convictions of some description; something that has alters their lives in a positive way, something that is etched in deep in their soul. Some people can express it, some cannot find words for it, but everyone has it. When that intangible something is employed, put to use, people demonstrate a passion and direction that can be explained. For many this describes their religious convict ions, a way of life for some. People who have these convictions people make excellent home-school teachers. Their sense of passion and purpose help them keep going throughout the rough times in life. This passion motivates them to continue reaching for higher goals, for themselves and their children. The homeschooled child benefits from socialization skills that are community-based rather than socialization based

Obeserving bacteris and blood Essay Example for Free

Obeserving bacteris and blood Essay Objectives: There were two major goals of the â€Å"Observing Bacteria and Blood† experiment. The first was to establish a familiarity with the proper techniques for using a microscope. The experiment focused on both the basic components of a microscope (i.e. how to adjust the knobs and levers for the desired result) as well as how do decide the proper objective to use for observing a specimen. The second goal major goal of this experiment was to practice observing live specimens (yogurt and blood). Procedures: Exercise 1: Observation of prepared slides using the microscope. The observation of the 8 prepared slides was performed by making adjustments to the microscope (focus, condenser, light) in order to establish a clear image of the specimen. The slide was viewed through the 10x, 40x, and 100x objectives and all observations were recorded in the tables below. Exercise 23: Observationof yogurt and blood. The yogurt and blood slides were prepared as described in the Labpaq manual. The slides were observed using the 10x, 40x, and 100x objectives and all observations were recorded in the tables below. Observations/Results: Exercise 1 SampleObservations Part 1Part 2 150x600x1500x (Oil Immersion) Amoeba proteus Anabaena Ascaris Eggs â€Å"e† slide Paramecium Penicillium w/conidia Yeast Yogurt bacteria Exercise 2 3 SampleObservations 150X600x1500x Ex 2: Fresh Yogurt Ex 3: Blood Smear Photos/Drawings: (Insert and label images here. If image file (JPEG or GIF) sizes are too large they may be uploaded separately.) Analysis/Interpretation: Based on the observations detailed above, it can be concluded that the microscope is a powerful tool in the observation of organisms that are small in size. It was important to have a number of objectives of different magnifying power in order to be able to discern the level of magnification needed to best study a sample. In addition, the examination of the yogurt sample allowed for the observation of the varying shapes and arrangement of bacterial cells. The use of a microscope to observe the blood smear highlighted the many important components of human blood that are not evident by the naked eye. Application: In performing this experiment I have learned many important aspects of microbiology that apply to healthcare. First, there is plenty of information that can be discovered by looking at a sample under the microscope †¦ size, arrangement, number of organism. For example, this information can be utilized in making an initial identification on a patient sample in a hospital laboratory. Second, some microorganisms can be  beneficial such as those bacteria that can be cultured from yogurt. Furthermore, these microorganisms can also be used to build back a healthy population of intestinal bacteria in patients who have recently been taking antibiotics. Answers to the LabPaq Questions 1) Questions A. Identifythe following parts of the microscope and describe the functionof each. a. Ocular- eyepiece transmits and magnifies the image form the objective lens to the eye. b.Body/tube-holds the eyepiece at proper distance from the objective lens and blocks light. c.Nosepiece- rotating mount that hold objective lens. d.Objective Lens- gathers light for the specimen. e.Mechanical Stage- holds the specimen. f.Apeture diaphragm control/disc- alters the amount of light that reaches the condenser. g.Lamp- produces the light. h.Coarse focus knob-brings objects into focal point of the objective lens. i.Fine focus knob- makes fine adjustments to focus the image. j.Arm-holds all of the optical parts at a distance and aligns them. k.Clips-hold the specimen still on the stage. l.Base- supports the weight of all the microscope parts. Define the following microscopy terms: Focus: positions the objective lens at the proper distance from the specimen. Resolution: Ability for the lens to show fine details of the object being observed. Contrast: The darkness of the back ground relative to the specimen. B. What is the purpose of immersion oil? To direct the light from the microscope directly to the slide and stop it from refracting. It creats a finer resolution and brightness. Exercise 2: Observing Bacteria Cultures in Yogurt Questions A. Describe your observations of the fresh yogurt slide. B. Were there observable differences between your fresh yogurt slide and the prepared yogurt slide? If so, explain. C. Describe the four main bacterial shapes. Cocci – oval or spherical shaped. Bacillus – are rod shaped. Spirillum – are thick, rigid spirals. Vibrio – are curved or a comma shaped rod. D. What are the common arrangements of bacteria? Diplo – oval shaped, found in pairs. Strepto – are cocci that arange into chains. Staphylo – are cocci that are arranged into irregular clusters, similar to grapes. E. Were you able to identify specific bacterial morphologies on either yogurt slide? If so, which types? Exercise 3: Preparing andObservingaBloodSlide Questions A. Describe the cells you were able to see in the blood smear. B. Are the cells you observed in your blood smear different than the bacterial cells you have observed? Why or why not?

Toy Business Plan Essay Example for Free

Toy Business Plan Essay 1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   executive summary This project proposal is being submitted in fair view of globalised businesses and the success it has achieved. Internet technology is enabling to the growth of SMEs apart from multinational businesses. There is greater scope for new opportunities with optimized skill and knowledge invested as the basic requisite to begin any venture. Times always change and so also generation of entrenpreneurs. There are many advancements in the present technology times, the present generation of people are much faster, quickly grasp and in possess potential abilities at a young age to start off businesses on ownership. On a single platform there is a rapid growth of business with the skills and expertise knowledge in a particular field. There are many developments, changes happening around the world and essentially among all financial independence is the most important in order to live well. With this view, after coming to an understanding, that people who possess excellent business skills and have adequate knowledge to run a business, this business plan of toy currency has been prepared with a motive to serve customers and to provide employment to other people as an income source. Toddlers are the precious customers who are going to making this business much bigger. Toddlers are most individualistic in perception, who do not permit others to involve in play time. Toy currency is being extended to children who are one year old or above who can learn and understand about currency coins, denominations and how it is counted and used. Although the idea of money is a big word for children who are one year old, pronunciation of dollar currency, learning about denominations, counting currency are some of the basics that are being promoted to children. Objective 1 Objective Time frame  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Dollar currency An excellent product.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Educational toy for children Business that can tap toy market.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Age group 1year and above Returns in a span of 6-12 months Objective 2 Objective Time frame  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To entertain and educate children.  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To market innovative and useful toy products 6-12 months  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To be a leader in toy industry 3-5 yrs. cash flow   graphic 2.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Introduction 2.1.  Ã‚   Purpose The purpose of this business plan is to start a dollar currency game for toddlers as a promotion of education.   The proposed education game is non-hazardous and extremely attractive for toddlers as a tool for pre-school learning at home.   This business plan requires minimum investment and minimum number of workers whereas its idea is to reach a large pool of customers on a global level. Although the business is not too motivated towards making quick profits, with the entrepreneurs experience and energy, this business would like to expand in future years on a consistent pace marking a reputation in the market. 2.2.  Ã‚   Description of the product/service Product distribution rights are freely available in retail chain and wholesale market apart from franchise outlets. However, the distributors and franchisees are expected to have a permit license to sell toys and also must abide by the legal terms and conditions that are provided by the company.   Further wholesalers and retailers are not authorized to claim any legal rights about the toy apart from distribution and sale. The entire ownership and copyrights of toys rest with the   manufacturing company. Further apart from consumer market, the toy would also be available for preparatory model schools, kindergarten and upper kindergarten schools. This is permitted in order to bring awareness among schools that such educational toys are also being promoted in order to make teaching skills much easier. 2.3.  Ã‚   Background The motive behind this business is to start an independent unit which is both useful and that sells all through the year without any halt. Both entrepreneurs have excellent business skills, one with a degree in MBA and the other with M.A (Child psychology) Both are of the view that launching an educational toy would be a massive success as this product is presently not available in the market and with this innovative idea, entrepreneurs are also of the opinion that the business would also provide employment to those who are jobless. Appendix I : Details of proprietors. Purchase of on-going concern is also a good idea, as most of the manufacturing equipment, office systems, and manpower are readily available for takeover whereas minimum operating expenses and start-up expenses are the only major expenses.   Another opinion is also stated here that a new set up of business is also a good idea whereas extra efforts and care is required until business takes its shape for start-off and take-off. 2.4.  Ã‚   Assumptions There are absolutely no assumptions that do not materialise or work in a practical manner.   This proposed business being a mathematical and educational toy/game for kids; there are no misconeptions about the acceptance and success of currency toy/game in the toy market. 2.5.  Ã‚   Definitions Toy dollar currency : This means that U.S currency in wood or plastic form is designed only for learning or for playing for little children. This currency carries no commercial value or resale value. Wholesaler : Wholesaler is a licensed toy seller   who is authorised to distribute toy dollar currency game to retail stores, schools, educational institutions or any other place where pre-school training or learning is provided. Franchisees : Franchisees are those who enter into contract with the entrepreneurs that no other product franchise would be undertaken within the contract period and carry exclusive rights to market toy dollar currency at a global pace with the medium of Internet or through any other effective marketing tool under the disclosure of owners of business. 3.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   GENERAL analysis 3.1.  Ã‚   Business Mission The mission of business is to promote healthy, innovative and knowledgeable products for growing generation. In this global arena, it is required that kids have to be in a learning environment which would shape kids in a better way in development of personalities.   Globalisation has evolved several global businesses wherein every business produces a new product, new idea, new promotion and motive is ultimately to make quick profits whereas our mission is far distant to such speedy money sources. Business   must extend a product that is useful to consumers and in return consumers take care of companies to grow and prosper which is the give-n-take policy of this   business.   In fact businesses must grow along with consumers which gives a complete satisfaction both to consumers as well to entrepreneurs. The purpose of this product is to assist kids to learn about dollar currency counting in the initial stages of learning.   Especially toddlers taste every toy and find out what it is meant for. That is the origin of child psychology. Whether it is a candy or a toy, toddler identifies only by tasting it.   Toddlers prefer exclusive premise for breakfast, lunch and dinner and so also for play time. At times, if there is a disturbance to privacy or interest, toddlers yell in order to tell how big and important the meal and play time is. In such instance, a think over plan is here to provide knowledge to toddler about dollar currency beginning from cents. This toy comes in a 30L x 15B box with a 3 steel/plastic rods fixed in it. Coins beginning from 1 cent to 100 cents are fixed to enable toddler to learn counting of cents.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The second rod contains coins beginning from 1 dollar to 100 dollars. The third rod contains coins beginning from 1 million to 100 million.   The rods cannot be removed and neither the coins. The toddler can only push from one end to the other by counting cents, dollars and millions.   Three colors are chosen for three rods and also for coins for easy identification of coins denomination.   There is a provision for learning addition, subtraction, multiplication and division (BODMAS) whereas it is not a must for toddlers. The market served would be entire domestic market and also depending on the marketing methods, export of sales to other countries are   expected. In the initial period of launch of product, the owners are expecting a good feedback from wholesalers and franchisees.   The pricing of toy would be reasonable costing $5.00 and after when sales pick up in a span of one year or more, there is a probability to increase the selling price by another $1.00. Primarily the owners would like to tap success in toy market by launching this product and also with the motive to satisfy customers who are looking for such educational promoting product.   Owners would like to consult parents, buyers and other distributors for feedback and also consider opinions about the product from time to time. Goal of business would be to run a self-sufficient business apart from offering employment to others, as jobs have become necessary particularly in a country like U.S where people are working 16-18 hrs per day doing two or more part/full time jobs, the owners believe that ‘live and let others also live’.   Owners are also of the fact that, money making in business is important   whereas customer satisfaction is equally important.  Ã‚   Many businesses in the past have proved this fact that ethics in business are very important in order to grow consistently and to stay in business market. Individuals who are educated and mastered the skills for doing excellent business can very well float a business independently instead of working elsewhere and as a matter of fact, there are many housewives and couples who have begun businesses in kitchen which have later grown to be multinationals which reiterates that skill, dedication and customer satisfaction are three variables that have to be looked into to enter business field. 3.2.  Ã‚   Business Structure and Management The proposed business would be a private limited company with two important entrepreneurs as the driving force behind the business plan.  Ã‚   The management considers the advice of business consultants, accountants and legal experts in order to incorporate a private limited company, establish manufacturing unit, and commence business with administrative staff viz., accountant, marketing manager, reception desk and skilled labor . While accountant would be taking care of complete financial system of company, marketing manager would be completely responsible for marketing the product and inform management on daily basis about the feedback and response from the market. Reception would be responding to enquiries for distributors, wholesalers, retailers and other educational institutions and provide complete information to management on every day basis. Workforce would be approximately less or equal to 10   individuals in order to manufacture plastic coins and rods, make carton boxes, arrange and pack and load into transport or deliver the product to the destination.  Ã‚   There should also be provision for trucks, drivers and   helping boys to load cartons from one place to another. Further company’s web site neatly designed providing a complete set of information about product, facility for online purchase, email, enquiry form should be made available in order to tap online sales for the product. 3.3.  Ã‚   Market Environment Management is confident that the product would be very well accepted in the market and would increase sales in the first month of its launch. The reason for this assessment is due to the fact that there is no other isolated currency toy in the market at present whereas other games include business as a concept for the age group of above 8yrs which are called as ‘monopoly’ . This game encourages children to count paper currency, buy hotels, resorts, which explain children that business and personal income can be earned in various forms and methods by doing buying and selling with the medium of currency. Similarly, a toddler hardly when one year old, when begins to learn alphabets and digits, a concept of currency counting helps child to gain knowledge about money and how it is counted and what are its forms.   This game faces absolutely no competition as it is the first ever toy that is being launched in market for this age group of one year and above especially when it is coming in educational promotion. This does not mean that educational toys are not available in the market. There are many for kindergarten for learning alphabets, maths, science and many other I.Q games and toys.   This particular model of toy is not available in the market and with this stance, when a discussion was held, many toy market experts were of the opinion that toy price being moderately low, there is absolutely no question as to why the product cannot tap success and above all, all group of consumers would evince interest in buying this product as it was revealed in a survey. 3.4.  Ã‚   Plant Equipment Plant and equipment required for starting this venture is no more than $50,000 which includes operating expenses. Machinery for manufacture of plastic coins, embossing of currency in various denominations, colouring, printing and steel rods manufacturing machinery and machinery for making 3015 plastic boxes.   This is the major equipment that is required in order to manufacture toy currency. 3.5.  Ã‚   Skills Assessment There is a consultant who is experienced and who is an expert in toy market especially in designing currency, who is hired by management until the commencement of business.   The guidance of expert is proving to be the most precious for the management in order to train the labor to perform and produce the desired quality of toy. One of the owners is an MBA graduate who completely acquainted with business skills to motivate labor, and maintain good HR practices with workers and employees. Apart from this capital budget, finance budget and forecast of sales is also an expertise field of this MBA graduate entrepreneur. The other owner who is M.A in psychology understands and has the ability to promote this educational toy to schools and educational institutions for bringing awareness about toy currency and its important in development of child psychology.   The importance of money can never be taken for granted and it is important for parents and society to train children as how to handle money matters and how a currency can be useful in day-to-day life. In a way, this can be described as teaching of money management for children. 3.6 Risk Analysis At present, owners do not foresee any risks in commencement of business.   The SWOT analysis reveals that a great strength and energy exists with owners with the fact that an innovative product is being launched with a motive to serve and educate customers. This concludes another fact that motives matter most in business and good businesses thrive on honest motives. Apart from this, MBA graduate is fully conversant with business laws, legal and corporate laws. M.A child psychology helps even better to launch more number of good toys in the market which is also another strength of the making this business plan a success. There are no possible weaknesses in the business with the fact that both the entrepreneurs have a mixed strength and good motives. Unless there is a massive unforeseen loss or event that hampers the production of business, there is no scope for any crop up of weaknesses. Opportunities are many in toy market. In fact toy market is never saturated unlike other industries. There is always something new and also there is no end for demand and supply. Threats in toy market are although at a moderate percentage, the proposed toy currency is free from any hazards as the children cannot dislocate coins and have to sit at one place and play as long as the interest goes on. Record the SWOT details in Appendix:II 4.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   operational plan 4.1.  Ã‚   Key Business Objectives Key business objectives in â€Å"SMART† system are as follows: S – Specific : To promote toy currency as a good product in toy market. The objective of the business is to promote educational products to children under the age of 5. Certainly the motive is not behind making quick money and rather serving customers useful products   and definitely making a new pattern of design and mark in business. Therefore, there is a professional code in starting this business which is why the objectives of business are very specific. M – Measurable : The performance of business is forecasted to do extremely well with toy currency entry into the market. Initial sales volume is expected to sell approximately 10000 toys in the first 5 months of launch and thereafter there is a proposal to increase 1000 nos by every month.   As this is only an assumption whereas when the product truly available in market, the sales are expected to rise above assumptions. In a span of three years, i.e. by 2010, the business is expected to be really doing well with a proportionate share of sale of product in the toy market. A – Achievable : The targets set before Achievable targets within the limitations of business. Depending on the orders that would be received from various distributors, the production would be made. Although, the start-up appears to be at a low pace, there is a guarantee that future targets would be quite achievable depending on the sales and order volumes recorded each year. R – Results oriented : This business is quite practical and extends knowledge and comfort to customers. There would be no difficulties or any problems that can occur with the usage of product. The product is absolutely result-oriented and there is a premonition that by the end of first month of production, there may be a requirement to double the production in order to meet the demand of product. T – From the very first day business , management is active working operations, collecting feedback, finding new customers, distributors, picking up of orders and paying more attention that quality of goods is perfect. Initially at the end of every month, there would be a trial balance, balance sheet for taking note of sales and profits. Once the financial statements are indicating good sales track and profits, quarterly PL and thereafter half-yearly and yearly.   For any business to mark success, time is the essence whereas for this project,   there are absolute guarantees for success with the fact that this is an innovative product being manufactured in the interest of future generation of children. Objective 1  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Objective Time frame  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Conduct a professional standard  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Run an efficient business 1-5 yrs  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Practice business ethics 4.1.1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Implementation Strategy In this stage of implementation, firstly the incorporation certificate is to be obtained that a private limited company is being incorporated with the name â€Å"Currency Point Pvt Ltd† The two directors would be Bill Joe and Charles who would be busy in commencement of business operations. A suitable location is to be selected for installing machinery to begin production. The premises would include both production and administrative office. Staff and workers have to attend regularly until orders are picked up. Advertisement through brochures, television, classified ads and websites would enable fast pick up of sales. Further designing of website and launching for marketing is also essential.   Preparation of monthly sales report, marketing report, Income and expenditure statement and targets for future months have to be recorded on a monthly basis.   Suitable guidance, training and advice must be provided to workers and employees in both administration and in production. It is also good to retain employees with the fact that frequent new appointments require excessive time in recruitment, training and guidance.   Appendix:IV Development Brief description rationale Cost 2008  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   First year of commencement of business. The objective is to market product and record sales as much as possible 10000 2009  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Market and sell the product and aim to record a higher sales volume. 20000 2010  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Increase business volume by exporting and also open RD centre for working on new educational toys for children. 30000 4.2   Marketing 4.2.1Market Research According to the market research conducted, toy currency is not available in the market which is designed especially for toddlers between the age group of 1 and 1 ½ years. 4.2.2  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Positioning in the Market There is zero competition from competitors as there are no companies which are manufacturing this product and in fact the management owns the complete credibility of the product from the groundwork till the launch of product into the market. 4.2.3  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Pricing Strategy Pricing of the product is fixed at an affordable rate keeping in the view of both poor and middle class families.   Toy currency is fixed at $5.00 as MRP price in the market. 4.2.4  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Target Market The market focus would be all through the United States and Europe and thereafter marketing would be shifted to Asia, Africa and other parts of the world.   Here at this, it is important to take note that if orders being booked for Europe, company management would consider the opinion of customers whether the toy currency should be indicated as ‘Euro’ for European buyers and so also for other parts of the world. It is true that toy is being manufactured in dollar currency, wheras if other global customers prefer regional currencies, a provision is included to manufacture according to the currency required.   However, this is only a provision and not mandatory to meet as an obligation in order increase order supplies. Toy currency is aimed at entertaining toddlers whereas if it is entertaining upper age group, this business appreciates the interest.   There are no limitations or no rules for customers to buy this product. It is displayed in retail stores for $5.00 and any number of volumes can be purchased with proper billing system. 4.2.5  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Distribution Licenced distributors for toys are permitted to distribute toy currency after signing a contract with the company. Depending on the orders, each distributor generates, fixed incentive would be paid.   E.g. 500 orders per month would give an incentive of 0.25 cents x 500 = $125.00.   This rate of incentive is also applicable for franchisees.   Further franchisees are not permitted to promote any other product other than toy currency. 4.2.6  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Promotional Strategy Visiting Montessori schools,   collecting data about distributors, franchisees, advertisement are some of promotional strategies. These efforts are made in order to market toy currency in various places.   The company would like to stay focused with this product at least for a period of 3 years until business is stabilised. Further company promises excellent customers service, packing and forwarding , apart from good methods of publicity through door-to-door campaign, brochures and schools. 4.2.7  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Sales Targets The first year of selling is targeted to be at least 10,000 nos. The second year of selling is targeted to be 50,000 nos and the third year of selling is targeted to be 100000 and above. One of the reason to target an increase by 100 fold is the pricing of toy currency is at an affordable rate and it can purchased by every parent. 4.3. Financial Plan. 4.3.1  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Start-up Capital Description Budget-Amt Incorporation expenses $   1,000 Premises for Rent $   4,000 Machinery $ 60,000 Installation $  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   500 Electricity and fixtures, fittings $  Ã‚   1,000 Raw materials $ 10,000 Miscellaneous $  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   500 Total $   77,000 Loan financing $ 100,000 Here there is a margin of $ 23000 as a safe mode of operation in order to meet other expenses if any occur at the time of production. 4.3.3 Assessment of Financial Viability of Proposed Business Owners are not investing any amount and financing of $100000 is sought from SBA or from other FIs and the repayment would be yearly $ 5000   which would take 20 months to refund entire loan amount. The cost of manufacturing of each toy currency box at production level would be $4.00 and with a profit of $1.00 the product would be marketed in consumer market.   This margin of profit if it is maintained, depending on the sales, the company can record huge volume of business even in the first year of business. For e.g. $ 5.00 x 10,000 = 50,000 (profit   = S.P – C.P, $ 50,000 $ 40,000 = $ 10,000)   If it is assumed that in the first 6 months on an average there is a sale of 10,000 nos the profit is $ 10,000 and this is after payment of salaries and expenses, which is reasonably good. Breakeven = Operating expenses / Gross profit margin Operating expenses Gross profit margin Breakeven 2008 $ 15,000   $   20,000 0.75 2009 $ 10,000 $ 120,000 0.83 2010 $ 12,000 $   220,000 0.054 4.3.4  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Cash Flow/Cash Position   Cash flow on monthly basis is expected to be moderately good. It can be further calculated as on an average if there is a sale of 200 nos per day 15 x $ 5.00 = $ 750 and monthly cash flow would be $ 750 x 26 (exclude Sundays) $ 19,500. If this is carried forward on for 12 months $ 19,500 x 12   = $ 234,000.   The proposed annual cash flow at the end of three years would be $ 234000 x 3 = $ 702,000. Out of the above, it is required to exclude salaries, tax payments and raw material expenses or any other expenses such as depreciation to machinery, rent and payment of electricity bills. 4.3.5  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Profit and Loss Depending on the sales, a forecast of profit is made approximately to $ 10,000 in the first year as $ 10,000   and for three years the profit would be $ 30,000. 4.3.6  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Balance Sheet The equity share capital which is invested to an extent of $ 100,000 is used in fixed assets and in commencement of business. 4.3.7 Ratio Calculations Profitability =   Earnings after Taxes / Sales I year : 12000/100,000 = 0.12 II year : 28000/200,000 = 0.14 III year: 192000/300,000 = 0.64 Return on Assets = Earnings after Assets / Total Assets APPENDIX I – CURRICULUM VITAE OF DIRECTORS Name : Bill Joe Age   Ã‚  Ã‚  : 26 yrs Education : M.B.A from Kelloggs school of business. Experience : 2 years as Business executive in Stand Still Toys Ltd., Los Angeles. Skills Category Grading of Skills Underdeveloped  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Well Developed List of relevant skill categories 1 2 3 4 5 Dynamic, energetic and potential abilities √ Excellent business and marketing skills √ Good and hardworking √ Name : Charles Age  Ã‚  Ã‚   : 26 yrs Education : M.A in Child psychology from St.Mary’s University, California Experience : 2 years as Schoolteacher in   St.Paul’s model school, Los Angeles. Skills Category Grading of Skills Underdeveloped  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Well Developed List of relevant skill categories 1 2 3 4 5 Dynamic, energetic and potential abilities √ Excellent educational skills √ Good and hardworking √ APPENDIX II – SWOT ANALYSIS STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Education and experience OPPORTUNITIES THREATS  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Great scope for developing new toys. APPENDIX III – TIMELINE OF GOALS OBJECTIVES First Year Operation Development Brief description rationale Cost First year-2008 Establishing business  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Production, marketing and selling. $ 100,000 Second year-2009 Pick up of sales  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Increase in sales volume $ 200,000 Third year-2010 Stabilise business  ·Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Domestic and export market $ 300,000 APPENDIX IV – MARKETING IMPLEMENTATION PLAN BUDGET    Marketing Plan Implementation Plan Budget for MI First year-2008 Establishing business and reach out for consumers Production and supply of product in domestic market. $ 100,000 Second year-2009 Identify new areas Increase in sales volume $ 200,000 Third year-2010 Stabilise business Domestic and export market $ 300,000 Appendix V Cash Flow Projections Cash flow statement Sources of funds 2008 2009 2010 Beginning cash 40,000 50,000 60,000 Sales / Income 100,000 200,000 300,000 Contributed capital 100,000 Available cash $140,000 $250,000 $360,000 Usage of funds Salaries 15,000 25,000 30,000 Operating expenses 15,000 10,000 12,000 Loan payments 0 5,000 5,000 5,000 Tax payments 2,000 2,000 2,000 Total cash out $27,000 $47,000 $49,000 Net cash flow $140,000 $250,000 $360,000 PROFIT AND LOSS Profit and Loss Account    2008 2009 2010 Total Sales 100,000 200,000 300,000 Cost of sales 80,000 160,000 240,000 Gross profit 20,000 40,000 60,000 Expenses Electricity, phone and internet 1,000 1,000 1,000 Travelling charges 1,000 500 500 Marketing 1,000 500 500 Raw material 5,000 10,000 20,000 Net profit $12,000 28,000 $38,000 BALANCE SHEET Balance Sheet 2008 2009 2010 Assets Cash and dues 40,000 35,000 30,000 Machinery 60,000 60,000 60,000 Total Assets Liabilities Loan 100,000 95,000 90,000 Total Assets 100,000 95,000 90,000 Total Liabilities 100,000 95,000 90,000 References The Business Plan is not Just a Plan, but Selling a Document Accessed January 11, 2008 http://www.1000ventures.com/business_guide/bp_startup_byvk.html Get the most out of your planning by setting smart objectives Accessed January 11, 2008 from http://www.smartmonkeymarketing.co.uk/news.php?a=20070612-1-SmartObjectives Three year projected income statement Accessed January 11, 2008 http://www.state.co.us/oed/sbdc/business/threeyear.pdf NxLeveLâ„ ¢Ã‚  Entrepreneur Business Plans Accessed January 11, 2008 http://www.nxlevel.org/download/123321_c_sU128881_s_i1591/e+bp+sum.doc

Two Step Extraction Of Pyrethrins From Pyrethrum

Two Step Extraction Of Pyrethrins From Pyrethrum The experimental determination of the concentration and yield of pyrethrins from chrysanthemum pyrethrum flower is usually carried out with chromatographic techniques; and accordingly, a lot of methods have been developed over the years [Wang et.al, (1997)]. These include high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) [Todd et.al, (2003); Essig and Zhao, (2001b)], gas chromatography (GC) [Essig and Zhao, (2001a)] and supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) [Wenclawiak and Otterbach, (1999)]. GC was chosen for convenience in this study. The first-step involves using n-hexane as solvent to extract the pyrethrins from the solid sample (grounded and unsieved with particles size of about 30 meshes), and then the second-step, a purification step involves the use of supercritical carbon dioxide as solvent to obtain the pyrethrins from the crude hexane extract (CHE). The hexane extractions (100g sample size), in a water bath at controlled temperatures and vigorous stirring, generated pyrethr ins concentrations varying from 69.85 95.50mg/ml and yields of 0.85 3.76% of the dry weight. Extraction efficiencies under several conditions were investigated and the optimum extraction condition was 400C in 4hrs. Compared with the product from the factory, several undesirable components exist in the CHE. The SFE was carried out with a self built unit (extraction vessel of 120ml) with a sample size of 40ml of CHE. Concentrations of 57.25 93.79mg/ml and yields (after the second extraction) of 0.99 2.15% were obtained; with the optimum condition being 350C at a pressure of 20MPa in 2hrs. Compared with the product from the factory, this sample contains two extra components (Tricosane and Tetracosane) also used in insect control. Key words: Solvent extraction; supercritical carbon dioxide; pyrethrins; two-step extraction; crude pyrethrins extract Introduction Pyrethrum flowers are from the Chrysanthemum genus and are known commercially as painted daisies, painted ladies, buhach, chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium, ofirmotox, insect powder, Dalmatian insect flowers, or parexan. It is believed to be recorded first in Dalmatia [Visiani, (1842-1852)]. However, others contend that its insecticidal activity was first proven by Antun Drobac (1810-1882) [Bakaric, (2005)]. Yet there are claims that it was first identified as having insecticidal properties around 1800 in Asia [Jeanne, (2009)]; and that the Crushed and powdered plants were used as insecticides by the Chinese as early as 1000 BC [Amrith, (2004)]. The flower contains about 1-2% pyrethrins by dry weight, but approximately 94% of the total yield is concentrated in the seeds [Casida and Quistad, (1995)]. The chemical structure of the active ingredients, pyrethrins I and pyrethrins II was identified in 1924 [Chandler, (1948); Coomber, (1948)]. Kenya is the worlds main producer today with more than 70% of the global supply [Jones, (1973)]. The natural active ingredients are referred to as Pyrethrins; consisting of cinerin I, jasmolin I, pyrethrin I, cinerin II, jasmolin II and pyrethrin II. The first three (chrysanthemic acid esters) are referred to as pyrethrins I (PYI), and the rest (pyrethric acid esters) as pyrethrins II (PYII) [Essig and Zhao, (2001a)]. Pyrethrins, though insoluble in water, are soluble in many organic solvents [WHO, (1975)]. They are non-volatile at ambient temperatures; non-toxic to mammals and other worm-blooded animals; highly unstable in light (photodegradable); biodegradable; but toxic to aquatic animals [Todd et.al, (2003); Chen and Casida, (1969); WHO, (1975)]. Their usage is mainly in biological crop protection; domestic insecticides [Gnadinger, (1936)]; and the formulations of synthetic pyrethroids [Todd et.al, (2003)]. Although pyrethrins are soluble in a number of organic solvents (benzene, hexane, petroleum ether, alcohol, acetone, meth anol, chlorinated hydrocarbons, etc) other considerations (practical, economic and environmental concerns) limit the usage. These considerations reduce the choices to just few. One of the qualities of Hexane in extracting pyrethrins is its ability to effectively dissolve the active ingredients minus contaminants. Another is that its removal from the concrete is achieved at lower temperatures; limiting degradation due to prolonged heating. Again, its low boiling point is a needed quality and it can be recycled, reducing the weight of the concrete. Above all, it is inexpensive, considered environmentally friendly, less toxic, non-corrosive, and non-reactive; traits which make it the dominant solvent adopted, especially for processing plant (biological) materials (products) which are often thermally labile, lipophilic, and non-volatile and are required to be kept and processed at around room temperatures. Carbon dioxide (CO2) has a critical temperature of 31oC which makes it particular ly an attractive medium for these kinds of tasks. Though other supercritical fluids (SCFs) show critical temperatures in this critical state and can be adapted as solvents, they are often difficult to handle and obtain in pure state, may be toxic, explosive or ecologically unsafe. Supercritical carbon dioxide (Sc-CO2) is by far, the most extensively used due to its non-toxic, inert and non-flammable nature. It is also natural, inexpensive, plentiful, non-toxic and inflammable and generally environmentally accepted [Schneider et.al, (1980)]. Its most important properties are enhanced density, viscosity, diffusivity, heat capacity and thermal conductivity. Higher densities contribute to greater dissolution of compounds while low viscosities enable easy penetration into samples and facilitation of flow of extracted (targeted) molecules from the source materials with fewer hindrances [Dunford et.al, (2003)]. Diffusivity offers easy and faster transport through samples; hence offers bett er extraction strengths; and dissolved ingredients are also easily separated from the supercritical solvent by drop in pressure [Fattori et.al, (1988)]. Sc-CO2, for the above and many reasons used as solvent in extraction saves both time and money while retaining overall extraction precision and accuracy with high purity and healthy products that are of excellent quality [Raventos et.al, (2002); Mohamed and Mansoori, (2002)]. Expectedly, a lot of research is now focused on the extractions of plant materials with supercritical carbon dioxide due primarily to the global growing solvent (organic) regulations and more importantly, the economic benefits (in terms of low operating temperatures; faster extractions and easier purifications, and of course better product quality). Stahl and Schutz [Stahl and Schutz, (1980)] extracted pyrethrins with CO2 and proposed that in the 20 °C to 40  Ã‚ °C temperature range decomposition (usually associated with pyrethrins extraction) does not occu r. Sims patented in the US, an extraction of pyrethrins using liquid carbon dioxide [Sims, (1981)] and Wynn and others patented using Sc-CO2 [Wynn et al. (1995)]. Wenclawiak and coworkers compared extracts obtained with ultrasonic (USE) and Soxhlet extractions (SEX); with hexane and Sc-CO2 extractions (SCE) and reported that direct extraction with SCE gave better pyrethrins content [Wenclawiak et.al, (1995)]. 2. 0. Experimental 2.1. Materials and Chemicals Grounded chrysanthemum (light green with a characteristic smell) sample and two pyrethrum concretes (yellow) were obtained from Yunnan Juxiang Natural Plant Products Company in China. The pyrethrins content of the concretes was claimed to be 50.0% (29.50% PYI and 20.50% PYII) and 85.15% (46.33% PYI and 38.82% PYII). Six individual standard solutions (using standard addition method) were prepared (from the 85.15% PY concrete-higher content, less impurities) for standardization of the analytical method. Analytical grade hexane (97.0%) and Ethanol (99.7%) were purchased from Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co. Ltd in China, and used directly without any pre-treatment. CO2 (99.0 %) gas was supplied by Xin Hongli Gas Company also in China. 2.2. Experiments Three different experiments were performed: To establish the standard/calibration curves for determining the components, To implement hexane extraction and determine the yield of total PY in the grounded sample, and To implement SFE and determine the yield of total PY in the CHE. 2.3. Establishing Standard Curves The GC (Agilent) conditions used for establishing the standard curves are as follows: split injector with 20:1 split ratio at 2500C; Nitrogen as carrier gas at 1.6mL/min  ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å¡ow rate; injection volume of 0.1  µL; temperature program started at 1800C, kept for 11 minutes, heated at 100C/ min to 2000C, kept for 8 minutes, heated to 210 0C at 100C/min, kept for 18 minutes, then heated to 2450C at 30 0C/min, maintained for 4 minutes; FID detector; HP-5 Column, 30 mm 0.32 mm id., 0.25  µm  ¬Ã‚ lm thickness. This column was chosen because it gives the best resolution, identi ¬Ã‚ cation and quanti ¬Ã‚ cation for products containing OH and C=O [Rosana, (2003)]. 2g (85.15% concrete obtained from the company) of the extract was transferred into a 100mL flask containing 10mL ethanol, and then made up to the final volume of with ethanol and mixed well. Six aliquots (1mL, 2mL, 4mL, 8mL, 16mL and 32mL) of this solution were transferred into a 50mL flask each and diluted with et hanol again to the mark. We then calculated the concentrations of the PY in each aliquot, considering the percentage of each group (PYI and PYII) in the sample provided (Table A1 in the Appendix), injected (with a micro syringe) 0.1 µL of each solution into the GC after filtering (0.45-ÃŽ ¼m membrane filter) and recorded the elution times and corresponding peak areas (Table A2); subsequently, established the standard curves to express the relationship between the areas produced by the GC and the concentrations (Figure 2). 2.4. Hexane Extraction We extracted pyrethrins (from 100g of grounded sample of particle size of about 30mesh) with hexane in a water bath (YUHUA, DF-101S) in batches at different temperatures (35oC, 40 oC, 45 oC, 50 oC, 60 oC and 70 oC) and times (3hrs, 4hrs, 5hrs, 6hrs and 7hrs) in a 1000mL round-bottom flask, installed with a condenser. Agitation was achieved by stirring vigorously with three big size magnetic stirrers at a speed of 20rpm. The hexane was then removed from the pyrethrin concrete with a rotary evapourator (YUHUA, RE-2000B) at a temperature of 35 oC at a speed of 185rpm to obtain concentrated Crude Hexane Extract (CHE). Each concentrated sample was thereafter, filtered (0.45 µm) and 0.1 µL analyzed (Tables A3). This method has the advantage that the solvent is repeatedly recycled and temperature can be controlled. It offers a light coloured product with high recovery rate of pyrethrins; however, not only the desired components are extracted (Figure 3). Other soluble and hydrophobic sub stances (waxes and pigments) are also extracted [Kiriamiti et al, (2003)]. The solvent is removed by vacuum at lower temperature and the waxy thick mass left is the concrete; composed of essential oils and other oil soluble (lipophilic) materials. 3.0. Results and Discussion 3.1. Extract The extracts (CHE) contain pigments, fixed oils and waxes whose colour is deep yellow with characteristic smell. It also contains several undesired components (Figure 3) compared with the pure sample from the factory (Figure 1). 3.2. Effect of Extraction Temperature Temperature has long been reported to be a crucial factor in the extraction of natural pyrethrins [Atkinson et.al, (2004)]. Pyrethrins are sensitive to temperature (thermo labile) and are therefore, unanimously reported to degrade above 40oC [Stahl and Schuzt, (1980); Gourdon and Romdhane, (2002); Wynn et al, (1994)]. We investigated the effect of different extraction temperatures (40oC, 50oC, 60oC and 70oC) in fixed extraction times (5 hr gave better results than 6hr and 7hr). Our results conform to the reports (refer to Figure 4 and Table A3); the best yield (1.42) and PYI: PYII ratio (4.75) is at 40oC (but the best PYII yield-0.33 is at 70oC). This suggests that targeted components are extracted effectively at this temperature (40oC), above which two problems occur (separately or simultaneously): one is the extraction of more undesirable components at the expense of pyrethrins and the other is the decomposition of pyrethrins to form iso-pyrethrins [Stahl and Schuzt, (1980); Stahl, (1998); Gourdon and Romdhane, (2002); Wynn et.al, (1994)] thereby reducing the yield as seen. 3.3. Effect of Stirring We compared the effect of two stirring methods on extraction yield: the first with one magnetic stirrer and the second with three magnetic stirrers. The results are shown in Table A4, confirming that stirring improves extraction yield by facilitating the dissolution of the active ingredients and the effective distribution of heat. The extractions (at 40oC in 5hr) were repeated severally to ensure reproducibility and accuracy. 3.4. Effect of Extraction Time We further investigated the effect of extraction time by fixing the extraction temperature at 40oC with three magnetic stirrers; to establish the optimum extraction time (our initial time parameters were 5hr, 6hr and 7hr in which 5hr was the best). From Figure 5, the extraction yield increases steadily from 3hr to a peak at 4hr (see data in Table A5). Within this range, more desired components are extracted but after 4hr the yield decreases indicating that with prolonged time, even at the safest extraction temperature (40oC), less and less desired components are extracted and/or they decompose resulting in the decrease in yield. The drop in yield is consistent from 4hr (3.76%) to 6hr (2.15%). This implies that the optimum time (within the times investigated) is not 5hr as initially expected but rather 4hr. However, the ratio of PYI: PYII is best in 6hr (5.14). From 3hr to 4hr, the yield for both PYI and PYII appreciated but the increment in PYI (0.74) is greater than that of PYII (0. 38) hence the drop in the ratio. Between 4hr and 5hr, there is decrease in both PYI and PYII yields. Again, the decrease in PYI (0.98) is greater than that of PYII (0.49) accounting for the drop in ratio. The same reason accounts for the drop in ratio from 5hr to 6hr. 3.5. Effect of Concentrating CHE The effect of concentrating the CHE, on both PYI and PYII yield was analyzed (Table A6). Even though the concentrating temperature (35oC) was below the temperature above which PY degrades (40oC), there was loss in PY yield indicating degradation. This in our view may be due to the exposure of the pyrethrins directly to heat. As more hexane is evapourated, pyrethrins which hitherto, were locked in the solid sample matrix; surrounded by hexane and as such shielded from direct heat, is now in direct contact with the heat; and since they are sensitive to heat, decomposition is inevitable. However, the decomposition is small and negligible (about 2.25mg/ml which is about 0.41% of the total yield) due to perhaps the short concentrating time (about 30 min). 4.0. Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE) The CHE is too thick (viscous) to be used directly, coupled with the presents of undesirable components (waxes and pigments). A further treatment, usually with another solvent that only dissolve the desired compounds from the concrete is necessary. Different from other works, this study carried out SFE on the CHE as a purification step. We looked at the effect of time (hr), temperature (0C) and pressure (MPa) on extraction quality and yield. We have not studied the effect of particle size and pre-treatment; for information on this area, see the works of Kiriamiti and others [Kiriamiti et al, (2002)]. 4.1. Sample We concentrated the CHE in a rotary evapourator (from 500ml to 40ml at 185rpm in 30 minutes) for the SFE. 4.2. Extraction Process At the beginning of the extraction (Figure 6), all the check valves are closed except valve #2. This allows the CO2 gas into the compressor #4 (OLSB by Zheng Zhou Co. LTD, China) to be compressed, and the pressure gauges are allowed to attain equilibrium at a set pressure (10, 15 and 20 MPa). Valve #5 is then opened and the compressed fluid (Sc-CO2) is fed into the bottom of the extraction vessel #7 (120ml capacity) for up flow extraction configuration, containing the CHE (40ml) and metal fillings to facilitate effective contacting (increase internal mass transfer); which had earlier been heated to a set temperature (350C, 370C and 390C) and allowed to attain constant temperature with the help of the water bath #6. An appreciable time is allowed (5-10mins) for the total and complete dissolution of the crude extract and then valve #8 is opened and maintained until the pressure is in equilibrium again. The pressure reducing valve #9 is opened finally to collect the pyrethrins in the fl ask #10. A mass flow meter helps to determine the flow rate (1.5L/min). The extraction process is run and stopped at set times (1hr, 2hr and 3hr) and the extracts analyzed with the results tabulated (Table A8). The Metal fillings after each run were washed (10ml or 5ml of Hexane) and collected as residues to check for complete extraction. 5.0. Results and Discussion 5.1. Extracts The extracts did not contain visible pigments as was seen in the CHE. The colour was also different; light yellow to orange but the smell was similar. It also contained two extra components (Figure 10) which was found (by GC mass spectrometry) to be Tricosane (Peak 6) and Tetracosane (Peak 7). This was as a result of comparison with the pure sample from the factory (Figure 1). We compared the yield of the extracts after solvent extraction, concentrating the CHE and the SFE and noted that there was difference. The yield from the SFE was less due possibly, to the relatively high pressures used. Separation of the Sc-CO2 and the product is achieved by a drop in pressure. These high pressures have the tendency of causing the products to remain in the BPR or along the pipe (between the BPR and the flask in Figure 6) due to clotting as a result of the pressure drop; in spite of our use of heating tapes to minimize this effect. This is confirmed by the value of the yield in the residue (0.05%) which is far less compared to the difference between the concentrated sample yield (3.30%) and that of the SFE (2.15%, see Table A10). 5.2. Effect of Pressure According to Kiriamiti and others, the quantity of pyrethrins extracted decreases with decreasing pressure due to (i) the effect of density on the solubility of pyrethrins, (ii) the slightly high density of CO2, (iii) the moderate variation in density with pressure, and (iv) the very low undesirable extracted products [Kiriamiti et al, (2002)]. Our results conclusively conform to this (Table A7). The best extraction pressure was at 20MPa (at 350C and 2hrs). The concentration of PY also increases within this pressure range (from 81.34mg/ml 93.79mg/ml). Similar phenomenon was observed for both 1hr and 3hrs, indicating that more pyrethrins were extracted than the undesirable components within this pressure range (Figure 7). 5.3. Effect of Extraction Time The quantity of pyrethrins extracted decreases with extraction time at higher temperatures (above 400C), explaining that either pyrethrins decompose at these elevated temperatures or more undesirables are extracted instead. From Table A8, the yield and concentration of PY increase from 1hr to a maximum in 2hr (1.35% 2.15% and 90.42mg/ml 93.79mg/ml at 350C and 20MPa). Both however decrease in 3hr (1.24% and 82.30mg/ml, Figure 8). This implies that pyrethrins were extracted faster than the undesirables from 1 to 2hr but as the extraction proceeds, more undesirables were then extracted at the expense of the pyrethrins or which decompose. Therefore, prolonged extraction time rather favours the extraction of undesirables or promotes decomposition of pyrethrins. 5.4. Effect of Temperature Pyrethrins are thermo labile and therefore require being processed at low temperatures. Therefore, high extraction temperature does not only degrade the pyrethrins but also favours the extraction of undesirables (Figure 9). Within the temperature range we investigated, the best yield was at 350C (Table A9). 6. 0. Conclusions Pyrethrins are usually purified with organic solvents (ethanol, methanol, acetone, acetonitrile, petroleum ether etc) or their mixtures [Kasaj et.al, (1999); Henry et.al, (1999); Duan et.al, (2006)] which are generally expensive, flammable and explosive and above all, face strict legislative controls [Patrick, (2003)]. Alternatively, carbon dioxide is used to refining and purification. Sims proposed the use of liquid carbon dioxide [Sims, (1981)]. Similar to our method, Kiriamiti and others reported the extraction of pyrethrins from crude hexane extract (CHE) from batch extraction experiment using carbon dioxide [Kiriamiti et.al, (2003)] but with different extracting conditions and analysis method (HPLC). It is worth noting that our set up is very simple and less expensive coupled with the fact that our sample, after the SFE, contains two extra components (Tricosane and Tetracosane) not reported so far as part of the purification step. These components are not hazardous [Directive 67 /548/EEC] and have similar characteristics (may cause respiratory and digestive irritations), uses (as insecticides and biopesticides) and effects (they may not be detrimental to the insects but they certainly disrupt their behaviuor patterns and flushes them out for the more deadly pyrethrins I) as pyrethrins II [Chemcas.org; Chemnet.com; PPDB, (2011); Wylie, (1972); Lewis et.al, (1975)]. We developed a simple but efficient two-step procedure for the extraction of pyrethrins from chrysanthemum (pyrethrum flowers) and investigated the effect of various operating parameters on concentration and extraction yield. Based on the experimental results, we conclude that the two-step extraction of pyrethrins (first with hexane in a water bath and second with SC-CO2 as a purification step) is feasible and effective; the optimum extraction condition for high pyrethrins yield (3.76%) for the n-hexane extraction was 400C in 4hr; that vigorous stirring facilitated this; and that it is possible to achieve extraction yield of 3% or even more envisaged by Casida and Quistad. To our knowledge, this is the first time such a high recovery of pyrethrins is reported. A number of reasons may be attributed to this high recovery: i) extraction procedure, ii) choice of solvent, iii) vigorous stirring and above all, vi) the type of sample used. We further conclude that for the SFE (2.15% and 93.79mg/ml) the optimum conditions were 350C, at pressure of 20MPa in 2hr. 7.0. References Amrith S. Gunasekara, (2004): Environmental Fate of Pyrethrins, Environmental Monitoring Branch, Department of Pesticide Regulation, 1001 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95812 Atkinson B. L, Blackman A. J, and Faber H, (2004): The degradation of the natural pyrethrins in crop storage, J. Agric. Food Chem. 52, 280-28 Bakaric P, (2005): BuhaÄ  prirodni insekticid, Gospodarski list 17: 41-45 Casida J. E and Quistad G. B, (1995): Pyrethrum Flowers: Production, Chemistry, Toxicology, and Uses, Oxford University Press, New York Chandler S. E, (1948): The Origin and Early History of the Production of Pyrethrum in Kenya, Pyrethrum Post 1 (1): 10-13 Chen Y-L, and Casida J. E, (1969): Photodecomposition of Pyrethrin I, Allethrin, Phthalthrin, and Dimethrin, J. Agr. Food Chem. 17: 208-215 Coomber H. 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