Assessment Of Selected Resorts In Cavite Province Biology Essay

Assessment Of Selected Resorts In Cavite Province Biology Essay Resorts in the province of Cavite are recognized for its reputable recreational waters. These resorts are intended to provide prospective customers with an atmosphere of amusement, entertainment and relaxation. The most common types are beach resorts, swimming pool, and even lakes and rivers which are designed to accommodate individuals, group of peers and family members (Bago and Linantud 2004). Also recreational waters offer activities that are beneficial and substantial to overall health. Recreational waters can be contaminated and polluted by bacteria, viruses and protozoan parasites (Bitton 1999), although the recreational water is normally treated physically and chemically using filtration and chlorination to prevent growth and infection of some bacteria (Montano and Abear 2000). However there are was an increasing number of cases of acute gastroenteritis during this summer and one group of microbes leading to their disease are enteric bacteria. Bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Pseudomonass aeruginosa that are resistant and tolerant to chlorine and were known to cause human misery (Mann 2005). Enteric Bacteria are said to be notorious and dangerous because they cause recreational water illness like acute gastroenteritis, cholera, pneumonia, typoid fever, diarrhea, urinary infection, pneumonia, dermatitis, salmonellosis and otitis external these disease leads to outbreaks (Yoder 2008). Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are among those bacteria that can thrive in recreational waters and transmitted from swallowing and inhaling contaminated water before the microorganisms can be destroyed by pool water disinfectant (Barwicks et al. 1999). Also their resiliency to grow in some disinfectants like chlorine because they are capsulated bacteria and they possess a versatile metabolic activity, which makes gives them the resistance to a variety of physical conditions (Cappuccino 2005). The presence of these organisms in dicates contamination by pathogenic microorganism. Most waterborne diseases are related to pollution of water resources sources and thus pose an unacceptable health risk for swimmers (Schets et al. 2010). Therefore the need to examine water samples in a microbiological water aspect is essential to ensure safety to swimmers. This study is conducted to support if the selected resorts in Cavite whether chlorinated and non-chlorinate is contaminated with pathogenic microorganism that can lead to potential waterborne diseases. 1.2 Conceptual Framework The water districts ensure the potability of drinking water by increasing the concentration of Chlorine (Yoder 2008). This potable drinking water were also used in resorts. Monthly sampling of water samples in pools render negative in enteric bacteria. However there is an increasing cases of gastroenteritis for the past year. The paradigm of the present study is as follows : Microbial Status in Chlorinated and non- chlorinated waters from selected resorts Water samples from resorts (pools, streams, rivers and beaches) ed The objective of this study is to gather different water samples obtained from selected resorts and determine the microbial status regardless of its chlorine concentration levels. 1.3 Statement of the Problem This study will aim to determine the microbial status in selected resorts in Cavite. To determine specifically the following objectives: 1. What is the microbial status jpresent in chlorinated and non -chlorinated water in selected resorts in Cavite? 2. Is there a significant difference in the total count of enteric bacteria and total bacteria among chlorinated and non-chlorinated waters in selected resorts in Cavite? 3. Is there a correlation between chlorine concentration in the resorts and water samples in lakes, rivers and beaches? 1.4 Scope and Delimitation The study will determine microbial status in selected resorts in Cavite, Province. Water samples will be taken from these selected resorts and chlorine content concentration will be determined using chlorine test kits. It is not the aim of the study to apply antibacterial agent in enteric bacteria recovered from water analysis. 1.5 Significance of the Study This study is designed to find out the microbial status on the selected resorts in Cavite, Philippines. This research hopes to benefit the following concerned population: Resort clientele to be more concerned to the areas that they went to and be prepared since traditional vaccines are not reliable in killing these bacteria because they are risky and are only effective after several years. Resort Administrators and Maintenance personnel for the enhancement of facilities of the swimming pool to promote the preventive measures against proliferation of microorganism which are recognized to be health risk problems and compliance to the water quality standards. Academe who may use this as preliminary information for their future research endeavors and information in survival of bacteria in different environmental conditions. 1.6 Definition of Terms Microbial status this refers to the bacteria present in chlorinated and non-chlorinated waters from selected resorts. Prevalence the number of samples that rendered positive in culture method over the total number of samples. Enteric Bacteria these are large group of gram-negative bacteria that are known to produce disease in the alimentary tract. Enteric bacteria that survived in chlorinated waters of resorts. Resorts it is considered to be swimming pools, streams, river, lakes and beaches with chlorine. Microbial Density- The population or the measurement of the growth of the bacteria. Microbial Plating- This refers technique used to isolate a pure  strain  from a single species of microorganism plating method that will be performed in laboratory. Total Bacteria bacteria other than enteric bacteria. API Kit- This refers to the biochemical test that will determine the isolated bacteria from water samples. Chlorination- this is a water purification method to make water safe to humans and a disinfecting agent that prevents the spread the spread of waterborne diseases Chlorine test kit- This refers to the chemical test that will determine the chlorine concentration level of water. Chromogenic Media This refers to the culturing media that will determine the present bacteria in water. CHAPTER 2 REVIEW LITERATURES 2.1 Conceptual Literatures Recreational water Recreational waters can be classified as fresh water swimming pools, whirlpools and naturally occurring fresh marine surface waters. Infectious disease which can be transmitted by recreational water includes skin, eye and ear infections and gastroenteritis. Consequently the level of microorganism in recreational water are important for indexing their health hazard associated with swimming and since the recreation classification includes bathing, swimming etc. any organism transmitted to humans can be regulated. The best indicators in the assessment of the safety of swimming pool water is to become aware of the types of hazard (microbiological, chemical and physical) that can impact a bathing area. Some researchers emphasize that the microbiological quality of swimming pools are best measure by identifying the bacteria present in that recreational water such as fecal coliform and enterococci, while others consider that the disease and symptoms it brought to the bathers rather than fec al contamination (Martin et al. 1995). (Montano and Abear 2000) cited that the bacteria suggested as indicators of recreational water quality include a wide variety of pathogenic bacteria and non-pathogenic microorganism such as coliform groups, species of Pseudomonas, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus and in rare case Legionella. The presence of single coliform organism is not a ground for condemning water as a unit for human consumption. It is the relative abundance of these organisms, which is important. According to Papadopoulou et al. (2007) cited that non-fecal human shedding (e.g. from vomit, mucus, saliva or skin) in the swimming pool is also a potential source of pathogenic organism. Bathers who are already infected can directly contaminate pool waters with pathogen which may affect other bathers, who come in contact with the contaminated water. Opportunistic pathogens (mainly bacteria) can also be shed from user and transmitted via contaminated water. Also certain free living aquatic bacteria and amoebae can possibly grow not just in pool waters but also with pool components or facilities or on other wet surfaces within the facility which may cause infections or disease. Therefore swimming pools are often associated with outbreaks or incidents of waterborne infection. Murdoch(1975) as cited by Amador and Amante (2001) mentioned that disease contracted from water kill some 25million people, most of them children each year, while many millions more are debilitated by waterborne diseases. Fecal contamination of water can introduce a variety pathogens into water waste, including bacteria, viruses, protozoans and parasitic worms. Waterborne related diseases have been recognized by Classes. Class 1, refers to the true waterborne disease contracted by drinking water. Class 2 are diseases associated with lack of personal hygiene which can be reduced by providing adequate amount of water for bathing and washing. To control such diseases, people should be provided with sufficient water of reasonable quality; achieving a high bacteriological quality is a secondary consideration. Enteric bacteria A large, heterogenous group in the family Enterobacteriaceae, include several closely related genera of short and spore forming, gram-negative rods, facultative anaerobic, that inhabit or produce disease in the alimentary tract of warm-blooded animal. This family are notorious as causes of urinary tract infection and are recovered from a variety of clinical specimens taken from diseased foci other than in the gastrointestinal tract. The enterobacteria are probably responsible for more human misery than any other group.(Smith 2008) Escherichia coli It is a gram negative rod shaped bacterium. It was originally known as bacterium coli. It is widely distributed in the intestine of humans and warm- blooded animals and is the predominant facultative anaerobe in the bowel part of the essential intestinal flora that maintains the physiology of the healthy host. The presence of E.coli is associated with bather-associated illness, but its absence cannot be equated with the lack of risk of illness (Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality available at http://www.ecy.wa.gov1992). Pathogenicity performs coliform bacilli usually do no penetrate intestinal wall to produce disease unless (1) the intestinal wall becomes diseased, (2) resistance of the host is lowered, or (3) virulence of the organism is greatly increased. Under one of these conditions of coliforms may pass to abdominal cavity or enter into the bloodstream. Once outside the intestinal canal and in the tissues of the body their virulence is remarkably enhanced. Among the diseases that they cause are pyelonephritis, cystitis, cholecystitis, abscesses, peritonitis, and meningitis. They may play a part in the formation of gallstones and are found in the cores of such stones. In peritonitis complicating intestinal perforation the coliform group is joined by such organisms as streptococci and staphylococci. From any focus of inflammation coliform organism may enter the bloodstream to produce a septicaemia. (Smith 2008) Shigella Dysentery caused by the Shiga bacillus (Shigella dysenteriae) is much more severe than that from the other organisms, since this bacillus produces a powerful exotoxin- like substance in addition to an endotoxin. The exotoxin- like substance seems to be liberated by bacterial disintegration, and as a neurotoxin, It acts on the nervous system to paralyze the host. The endotoxin irritates the intestinal canal. The dysentery bacilli are gram negative, nonsporebearing rods that grow on all ordinary media at temperatures from 10 ° to 42 ° C. but best at 37 ° C they are aerobic and facultative anaerobic. Unlike most other members most other member of the enteric group, they are non-motile. In terms of pathogenicity dysentery is a human disease and natural infections of the lower animals do not occur. The incubation period is 1 to 7 days. Epidemic dysentery is primarily an intestinal infection. Unlike typhoid bacilli, the organisms do no invade the bloodstream and are seldom if ever found in the internal organs or excreted in the urine. They are excreted in the feces. Compared to that for other enteric pathogen, the number of ingested shigellas for infection is small, only 10 to 100. (Smith 2008) Salmonella Among the large number of pathogenic microorganisms causing foodborne disease, Salmonella plays an important role. An analysis of Salmonella surveillance data from the World Health Organization (WHO) showed that the reported number of cases increased in 22 out of 49 countries examined. Although the reason for the global increase is not yet clear, investigations in individual countries suggest that it is related to consumption of eggs and poultry that harbour the organism. Besides control measures there is a need for rapid and sensitive methods for the detection of Salmonella (Beumer et. al, 1991). Salmonella is a ubiquitous enteric pathogen with a worldwide distribution that comprises large number of serovars characterized by different host specificity and distribution. This microorganism is one of the leading causes of intestinal illness through the world as well as the etiological agent of more severe systemic diseases such as typhoid and paratyphoid fever. Zoonotic salmonellae are commonly described as foodborne pathogens however; drinking water as well as natural waters is known to be an important source for the transmission of these enteric microorganisms. Salmonella, just like other enteric bacteria, is spread by the fecal-oral route of contamination. This microorganism can enter the aquatic environment directly with feces of infected humans or animals or indirectly, e.g., via sewage discharge or agricultural land run off. Overall Salmonella spp. and subspecies can be found in a large variety of vertebrates. Beside humans, animal sources of Salmonella include pets, farm animals and wild animals; calves, poultry, pigs, sheep as well as wild bird (pigeon) and reptiles can all be reservoirs of Salmonella. Plants, insects and algae were also found capable of harboring Salmonella and might be implicated in the transmission of this enteric pathogen. Taxonomically the genus Salmonella comprises two species namely S. bongori and S. enterica. The species S. enterica is further differentiated in to six subspecies (enterica, salamae, arizonae, diarizonae, indica and houtenae) among which the S. enterica subspecies enterica is mainly associated to human and other warm blooded vertebrates. Enteric fevers, typhoid and paratyphoid fever are severe, contagious systemic diseases caused by the infection of the serovars typhi and Paratyphi. Differently from other Salmonella serovars, typhi and Paratyphi are host adapted and can only infect humans; stools of infected persons are therefore the original source of contaminations for these pathogens. Water contaminated with feces of human cases and carriers is one of the main vehicles of typhoid fever infections. Literature data related to water-borne salmonellae in developing countries relate mostly the typhoid Salmonella serovars. In the less industrialized area of the world, in particular in the Indian subcontinent and South East Asia, typhoid and paratyphoid fevers occur both in epidemic and endemic form, and remain a major public health problem. The burden of typhoid fever worldwide is further compounded by the spread of multiple drug resistant S. typhi. Most of the recent publications on typhoid and paratyphoid fever water-borne infections in developing countries are from the Asian continent. Differently from typhoidal Salmonella strains, non-typhoidal salmonellae, the ubiquitous subtypes found in a number of animal species, are more frequently associated to foodborne than to water-borne transmission. These zoonotic Salmonella serovars tend to cause acute but usually self-limiting gastroenteritis (Levantesi et al, 2011). According to (Smith 2008)The pathogenicity of salmonella is called salmonellosis, the major site of which the lining of the intestinal tract. Because of their toxic properties every known strain of salmonella can cause anyone three types of salmonellosis: (1) acute gastroenteritis of the food type infection.(2) septicemia or acute sepsis with localized complications similar to pyogenic infections, and (3) enteric fever such as typhoid or paratyphoid fevers. Salmonella typhi A short motile nonencapsulated bacillus, S.typhi grows luxuriantly on all ordinary media. It grows best under aerobic conditions bit may grow anaerobically. The temperature range growth is from 4 ° to 40 °C., the optimum, 37 °C. typhoid bacilli can survive outside the body, living about 1 week in sewage contaminated water and not only living but multiplying in milk. They may be viable in fecal matter for 1 or 2 months. They are pathogenic because of their endotoxins. Their pathogenicity causes typhoid fever is an acute infectious disease with continuous fever, skin eruptions, bowel disturbances, and profound toxemia. Except in the first few days, leukopenia is always present in uncomplicated cases, probably because typhoid bacilli depress the bone marrow, where normal production of white blood cells occurs. Leukocytosis in the course of the disease signals complication. (Smith 2008) 2.2 Related Studies According to Brown (2009), gram-negative intestinal pathogens have a diverse population of bacteria of which two of the enteric intestinal pathogens that are of prime medical concern are the salmonella and shigella. The salmonella and shigella are both pathogenic bacteria that cause typhoid fever and human dysentery, respectively. Since the gram-negative intestinal pathogens has a such diverse population it has many genera of species like the Escherichia, Proteus, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, and Clostridium that exists on large numbers, hence it is necessary to use media that are differential and selective to favor the growth of the pathogens since all of the species can be divided into lactose fermenting and non-lactose fermenting bacteria. Hiriart et al. (2001) worked on the Helicobacter pylori and Other Enteric Bacteria in Freshwater Environments in Mexico City. They observed that all samples analyzed showed the presence of enteric bacteria with or without the presence of H. pylori, indicating that water from these sources is a potential health risk for gastrointestinal diseases. The major positivity of H. pylori coincides with the major positivity of indicator and other enteric bacteria, which are both associated with contaminated water. In another study Marion et al. (2010) worked on the association gastrointestinal illness and recreational water exposure at an inland U.S beach. Relationships between water quality indicators and reported adverse health outcomes among users of a beach at an inland U.S lake was observed to be a significant risk factor for GI illness. . Papadopoulo et al.(2008) worked on the microbial quality of indoor and outdoor swimming pools in greece. They found out that three indoor swimming pools and two outdoor swimming are present with bacteria, protozoa and fungi Such as Multi-resistant Pseudomonas alcaligenes, Leuconostoc, and staphyloccus aureus( isolated from teaching pool), Staphylococcus werneri. Chryseobacterium indologenes and Ochrobactrum anthropic (isolated from completion pools) Pseudomonas aeruginosa, P. fluorescens, Aeromonas hydrophila, Enterbacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumonia and S. aureus (isolated from the hydrotherapy pool and A. hydrophilla (isolated from the hotel pool) were related to water outbreaks. Schets et al. (2010) worked on the exposure assessments for swimmers in bathing waters and swimming pools. they found out that the swallowed volume or water appears different for men, women, and children, but also in fresh water, seawater and swimming pools also the frequency and duration of swimming do also differ for men, women, and children and in different water types, and provide a basis for the identification of high risk population under specific circumstances, e.g. due to their extended water contact and frequent head submersions, children may be more prone to contract otitis external due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. Certainly a waterborne infection depends on the total bacterial counts, the immune status of the subjects, and polluted waters. The results of the past studies demonstrate the variability of the recreational water quality and the need for continuous monitoring. Chapter 3 METHODOLOGY Research Design This study will use descriptive study design that involves in the identification of enteric bacteria in selected resorts in the Cavite province. There will be 20 sampling sites, 10 from swimming pools, 5 from rivers or lakes and 5 from beaches. In every sampling site there will be a total of 1 sample that will be gathered and it will be replicated into three and a total of 60 sterilized bottles with cover will be used for the 4-month period of experiment that will be done during the summer season and the rainy season. Research Setting The entire study will be conducted for 12 weeks. The identification of total bacteria and enteric bacteria will be done in Biology Research Laboratory of DLSU-D. Research Procedure Water Sample Collection (MicroMed Environmental, 2010) Sterilized 300ml wide-mouthed glass will be used in the collection of samples. Water samples will be obtained from recreational waters. The sterile containers will be plunge into the water surface until 1 foot below. Then open the bottle towards the direction of the current to allow the container to fill. Afterwards, it will be immediately sealed tightly and placed on a cooler to maintain the temperature. The samples will be obtained during the months of april and june of 2012. The chlorine concentration will also be measured using Hach Test Kit for chlorine. Chromogenic Media for Bacteria Undiluted samples will be used in the determination of total bacteria. Briefly one milliliter of sample will be spread plated onto Plate Count Agar. The plates will be incubated at 37 °C for 24 hours. Colonies that will grow will be converted into colony forming units and will be correlated to chlorine concentration and compared to enteric bacteria. For the detection of enteric bacteria the samples will be enriched in buffered peptone water for 24 hours. After 24 hours the enriched samples will be spread plated onto Salmonella-Shigella Agar and Eosin Methylene Blue Agar. Colonies resembling to enteric bacteria will be purified and confirmed using API 20E kit. Determination of the Microbial Count (BioMà ©rieux, 2002) Preparation of incubation box and inoculum will be done for the strip. In the inoculation of the strip, filling both tube and cupule of tests CIT, VP and GEL with bacterial suspension as for the remaining tests fill only the tube and not the cupule. In creating anaerobiosis ADH, LDC, ODC, H2S and URE should be overlay with mineral oil. The incubation box will be incubated for 37 °C for 24 hours. Certain color reactions will happen for the indication of positive or negative result. Data Gathering Colonies in the EMBA and PCA will be characterized using colonial characterization which includes size, form, margin, elevation, consistency, surface and pigmentation (Tabo, 2005). Biochemical test include ONPG, ADH, LDC, ODC, CIT, H2S, URE, TDA, IND, VP, GEL, GLU, MAN, INO, SOR, RHA, SAC, MEL, AMY, ARA, OX. The chlorine concentration will be measured in 0-600 mg/L. Statistical Treatment To determine the correlation between chlorine concentration and total bacteria and enteric bacteria, a simple correlation will be used. All statistical analysis will be conducted in STATA 9.0 with 0.05 as level of significance. APPENDIX A GANTT CHART APPENDIX B BUDGET PROPOSAL Item Volume/Mass Estimated Price (PhP) Quantity Expense (PhP) EQUIPMENTS AND KITS Biomerieux Inc Biomerieux API 20E KIT 100g Pack of 100 20160 13000.00 1 13000.00 Hachs Chlorine Test Strips, 0-600mg/L Pack of 2890200 876.31 1 876.31 AGARS Salmonella-Shigella Agar 50 g 500.00 1 500.00 Eosin Methylene Blue Agar 50 g 500.00 1 500.00 Plate Count Agar 500.00 1 500.00 TOTAL 15376.31 APPENDIX C LETTER TO THE HOSPITAL March 13, 2012 Ms. Teresita E. Guevarra Medical Records Head De La Salle University Medical Center Dear Ms. Guevarra: Greetings in the name of St. John Baptist De La Salle! We are writing to ask permission from you in getting information that we will need for our thesis defense on the upcoming December 2012. We are Human Biology major students from De La Salle University-Dasmarià ±as and we are going to conduct a study regarding the possible prevalence of enteric bacteria in selected resorts in Dasmarià ±as, Cavite. Regarding this, we would like to request for the following information: Reported cases of salmonellosis and acute gastroenteritis in this hospital for the last two years (2010 and 2011) We are hoping for your positive response towards our request. If ever the information we need will not be available today, you may contact us at 09164745448 and 09272546946. Thank you very much for your time. Sincerely, Ron Matthew A. Flores John Paul A. Flores Noted by: ____________________ _____________________ Mrs. Hazel Ann L. Tabo Dr. Carmelita C. Cervillon BSD Faculty, DLSU-D (Thesis Adviser) College Dean, DLSU-D _____________________ Ms Cherry Z. Cuevas, MS BSD Chair, DLSU-D APPENDIX D COLOR REACTION TESTS RESULTS (negative) + RESULTS (positive) ONPG colorless yellow ADH Yellow red/orange LDC Yellow red/orange ODC Yellow red/orange CIT pale green/yellow blue-green/blue H2S colorless/gray black deposit URE Yellow red/orange TDA Yellow brown-red IND Yellow red (2 min.) VP colorless pink/red (10 min.) GEL no diffusion of black black diffuse GLU blue/blue-green yellow MAN blue/blue-green yellow INO blue/blue-green yellow SOR blue/blue-green yellow RHA blue/blue-green yellow SAC blue/blue-green yellow MEL blue/blue-green yellow AMY blue/blue-green yellow ARA blue/blue-green yellow OX colorless/yellow violet LITERATURE CITED Amador RM, Amante PP. Detection and isolation of coliform bacteria in Laguna de Bay Brgy. Landayan San Pedro Laguna; 2001. p.67. Bago CEM, Linantud JF, Ortiz MP. Stability and Profitability of Resort Business in Dasmarinas, Cavite. 2004. P.1-2-ix-29. Barwicks RS., Levy DA., Craun GF., Beach MJ., Calderon RL. 2000. Surveillance for water borne-Disease Outbreaks-united-states ,1997-1998 CDC Brown, A. E. 2005. Bensons Microbiological Applications 9th Edition, McGraw Hill, New York. Beumer, R.R., et al., 1991. Enzyme-linked immunoassays for the detection of Salmonella spp.: a comparison with other methods, Elsevier Science Publisher, B.V. 0168-1605/91 Carteciano JA., 2004. Four Emerging Bacteria: So Tiny, So deadly. National Research Council of the Philippines. Hammer Sr. M, Hammer Jr. M. Water and waste water technology. New Jersey; 2004.p.140 Levantesi, C., et al., 2011.Salmonella in surface and drinking water: Occurrence and water-mediated transmission, Food Research International, doi:10.1016/j.foodres.2011.06.037; Mann, D. Beware of Recreational Water Illnesses, WebMD. [Internet]. 2005 [cited 2011 December 28]. Available from HYPERLINK http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/beware-of-recreational-water-illnesses Marion, J., et al., 2010.Association of Gastrointestinal illness and recreational water exposure at inland U.S beach, water research international; Martin, M., et al., 1995.Assessment of microbiology quality for swimming pools in South America. MicroMed Environmental, Inc. [Internet]. 2010 [cited 2012 March 25]. Available from HYPERLINK http://www.igmicromed.com/docs.html Montano JM, Abear R. 2000.Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in relation to microbial population of selected swimming pools in dasmarinas cavite. De la Salle University Dasmarinas. p.52. Schets F., et al., Exposure Assessment of swimmers in bathing water and swimming pools, water research. 2010. Tabo, Norbel A. 2005. Laboratory Manual in Microbiology, Rex Bookstore Inc, Manila. p. 63-67 Yoder JS., Hlavasa MC., Craun GF., Hill V., Roberts V., Yu PA., Hicks LA., Alexander NT., Calderon RL., Roy SL., and Beach MJ.2008. Surveillance for waterborne disease and outbreaks associated with recreational water use and other aquatic facility- associated health events-united states 2005-2006- CDC.

Black Holes Essay -- physics science black hole

When a star "dies" it can do many different things. It can form a neutron star, expand to a red giant and shrink into a white dwarf, or sometimes collapse upon itself to form a black hole. This is mostly dependent on the density of the star. When massive stars, those twenty times the mass of our Sun or more die, they must either exhaust all of their excess mass or implode upon themselves and form black holes. Gravity overwhelms even the nuclear forces. The gravitational force becomes so strong that nothing can escape it, even photons of light, hence the name "black" hole. It is believed that large black holes may exist at the center of our galaxy as well as others. The massive gravitational force that they exert would be enough to keep the body of the galaxy in orbit. A black hole consists of a few key things. The singularity is the center of the black hole, the point at which the matter is being compressed into a massive density. The event horizon is the point at which not even photons of light can escape the tremendous gravitational pull of the black hole. This makes it hard ...

Disadvantages of Iris Recognition

Subjects who are blind or have cataracts can also pose a challenge o iris recognition, as there is difficulty in reading the iris. The camera used in the process needs to have the correct amount of illumination. Without this, it is very difficult to capture an accurate image Of the iris. Along with illumination comes the problem with reflective surfaces within the range of the camera as well as any unusual lighting that may occur. All of these impact the ability of the camera to capture an accurate image. The system linked with the camera is currently only capturing images in a monochrome format.This results in problems with the limitations of grayscale making it difficult to distinguish the darker iris coloration from the pupil. Although there is minimal intrusiveness with iris recognition, there is still the need for co- operation from subjects to enroll in the system and undergo subsequent authentication scans. Enrolling a non-cooperative subject would prove very difficult indeed. Inadequate training of users at the initial enrolment period will cause problems both at the initial enrolment time and subsequent authentications.Frustrated users will not help make the system any easier to use and will not be accepted by users as a convenient authentication method. Communication with users plays a major part in introducing such a system successfully. B. The iris is harder to map as an image because it fluctuates based on the size of the pupil, and drug or medicinal use, and age. The retina stays constant throughout your life, unless you have glaucoma or diabetes. The iris is not fully shaped until about eight months of age, but after that age, it is commonly believed to be stable. C.One of the disadvantages with iris connection technology, being that it is a relatively new technology, is that the equipment is very expansive (it could cost almost as much as five times the cost of fingerprint scanning).

Mcdonald’s in China

McDonald’s: Is China Lovin' it? Executive Summary This case studies McDonald’s’ business model as it develops to achieve success in the Chinese market. Issues addressed included how to retain McDonald’s’ image of cultural Americana, yet adapt to satisfy pallets and appeal to patrons in Chinese culture. 1. What is the purpose of conducting an external environmental analysis? What are the general environmental forces that could influence or have influenced McDonald’s development in China?The purpose of conducting an external environmental analysis is to obtain information on the forces outside of a company that will help to determine how the company will operate. A successful company cannot operate only in its internal environment and must be aware of the external factors that will further shape the business. Company strategies must take these factors into account in order to match their internal strengths and weaknesses with their external thr eats and opportunities. With McDonald’s expansion in China, external environmental factors did play a key role.One major environmental force came from American company KFC. KFC entered China in 1987 and it was important for McDonald’s to analyze the factors that had been successful and unsuccessful at KFC. Another environmental force that played a large role in McDonald’s growth in China was local Chinese quick service restaurants where customers could buy local cuisines such as noodles and dumplings. Other pertinent environmental factors that McDonald’s was forced to address in China were the effects of the growing middle class and a more affluent population.This lead to other types of local and foreign restaurants attempts to capitalize on this growing wealth, generating further competition. The external environment has also shown force by consumers demanding higher standards in the McDonald’s restaurants as well as resistance to the restaurantsà ¢â‚¬â„¢ high prices. Buyers’ desires also affected the external environment, which caused McDonald’s to increase operating hours to 24 hours, implement home delivery service and drive thrus in many location.Suppliers were integral elements of the external environment as well and McDonald’s grew to source 95% of their food from local growers and suppliers. 2. Based on the external environmental analysis, what are the opportunities and threats presented to McDonald’s operations in China? The external environmental analysis reveals several opportunities in China on which McDonald’s can capitalize. Annual per-capita disposable income has increased an average of 22. 18% for urban households and 64. 62% for rural households per year over the last 20 years.The general trend during this time has been movement from rural to urban population centers where disposable incomes are higher[i]. The increase in disposable incomes has helped contribute to the fast f ood industry boom. These trends promise to continue as the Chines economy evolves. Tier pricing can be leveraged to help McDonald’s reach customers of different income levels in locations at different levels of development. Additionally, as the Chinese economy continues to develop, improvements to local infrastructure may create opportunities for an improved supply chain.As of 2006, 95% of materials used by McDonald’s in China were locally sourced. McDonald’s will likely benefit as local suppliers employ more advanced technology and management processes. There are also untapped opportunities for franchising. China created the legal structure for foreign franchisors in 2004 and, as of February 2007, only one of the 879 McDonald’s restaurants in China was franchised while KFC, their largest competitor, franchised 37 of their 1700 restaurants. Increasing the number of franchisees will allow McDonald’s to expand to new locations while minimizing risk.I n addition to expanding their franchising operations, McDonald’s has opportunities to take advantage of changing Chinese preferences by expanding store innovations and local partnerships. Drive-thrus, 24-hour restaurants, delivery, and even more upscale casual dining restaurants may help the chain improve their appeal with young people as would further partnerships like that created with Taobao. com in 2007. Several threats were also revealed by the external analysis including intense competition in the Chinese fast food market from both foreign and local chains.McDonald’s was a relatively late entrant to the market allowing competitor KFC to enjoy first mover advantages. Because barriers to entry are relatively low several other foreign chains have expanded to China including Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut, and Japan’s Mo’s Burgers and Ajisen Ramen. Local chains including Malan Noodles, Hong Kong’s Cafe de Coral, and Taiwan’s Dicos contribu te to an intensely competitive market. The threat of new entrants remains and, as Chinese industries become more advanced and familiar with Western management and operations practices, is significant.McDonald’s operations in China may also be threatened by new trends in the casual dining industry and rising expectations of customers who may be less willing to pay luxury prices for what they are learning many Americans consider a downscale product. Finally, increasing social criticism over health, environmental, and wage concerns will also pose a threat to McDonald’s in the future. 3. Discuss the five forces of the industry environment of McDonald’s China and comment on the competitiveness of the company in relation to each of these forces.Michael Diamond’s Five Forces Model of Competition includes the following forces: Existing competitive rivalry between suppliers: There are many fast food options in China. McDonald’s is the second largest fast fo od provider and their primary rival is Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). Other competitors in China in the fast food industry include noodle and dumpling stalls. Local Chinese restaurants sell light and simple food such as noodles, dumplings, wantons, and steamed bread, which are all becoming part of the fast food culture in China. Rivalry is a strong competitive force.Threat of new market entrants: After numerous attempts in the 1990s by various local and regional Chinese fast food chains, some successful and some not so successful, many companies could not compete in this environment. In the mid-2000s, new market entrants into the Chinese fast food industry were U. S. -based Burger King, and Subway and Japan’s Mo’s Burger. Themed restaurants and Starbucks also entered the mix of new entrants. Although these new entrants offer a different experience, the growing middle class of China still wants McDonald’s to be a Western brand. The threat of new entrants is a mode rate competitive force.Bargaining power of buyers: Buyers do not have any switching costs. The buyers just simply go to a different fast food restaurant, a traditional Chinese meal served on communal plates, or cook at home. Buyers can purchase from several sellers. Buyers are a strong competitive force because they have a lot of leverage. McDonald’s has recognized this and has offered tiered pricing, altered their menu, trained their staff to ensure quality and consistency, and updated their decor. Power of suppliers: McDonald’s set up its own internal supply network to sell to both the domestic and export markets.Chinese partners created joint ventures with McDonald’s and strengthened McDonald’s supply chain. The supply chain created by McDonald’s has created 95% of the materials needed. It would be costly for McDonald’s to switch suppliers because of the joint venture that they entered into with their Chinese partners. This makes the supp liers a strong competitive force. Threat of Substitute Products: Many substitute products exist in the fast food arena. If you look at McDonald’s as a hamburger fast food restaurant, substitute products would be noodles, dumplings, sandwiches, chicken, and pizza.Traditional Chinese restaurants and home cooked meals are also substitutes to the McDonald’s hamburger. There is a vast array of substitute products available for the Chinese consumer. This makes substitute products a moderate competitive force. 4. What are the strategic groups in the fast-food industry in China? In which strategic group does McDonald’s China compete most in China. A strategic group as defined by Michael Porter is â€Å"a group of firms in an industry following the same or similar strategy along strategic dimensions†.In other words, a Strategic Group (SG) is a group of businesses that function in a similar way with respect to specialization and vertical integration. The strategic groups in the fast-food industry in China all have the following characteristics in common: fast food, efficient self-service, standardized servings and systems, less reliance on utensils, clean/comfortable atmosphere, and local menu additions. McDonald’s obviously excels at all of these characteristics world-wide and took it a step further by promoting the Western traditions by marketing the â€Å"Window to the West†.This particular type of western-influenced fast-food is the primary strategic group that McDonald’s competes in even today. Western-influenced fast food was not new when McDonald’s arrived on the scene as KFC arrived in 1987, a full five years ahead of McDonald’s. KFC did so well that their success lured McDonald’s and Pizza Hut to follow suit beginning in 1990. However, â€Å"fast-food† in China wasn’t new when KFC entered China as they had noodle and dumpling stalls. KFC, McDonald’s and Pizza Hut all want ed to capitalize on the rapidly-expanding middle-class economy in China with their new-found increasing disposable income.KFC was able to do this the best as their primary offering is chicken-based whereas both McDonald’s and Pizza Hut had to add local dishes to go along with their mostly-beef menu. All three of the western brands (KFC, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut) were considered luxury-type restaurants and as such were able to charge higher prices as well. Fast forward to present times, according to William Mellor of the Bloomberg Markets Magazine[ii] we see that Yum! Brands now has 3,200 KFC’s and 500 Pizza Hut’s in China whereas McDonald’s is striving to get to 2,200 stores by 2013.As you can see, KFC and Pizza Hut are well ahead of McDonald’s in terms of penetrating the Chinese market but that isn’t deterring McDonald’s from moving forward. ———————– [i] Ko, Stephen. McDonal d’s: Is China Lovin’ It? Asia Case Research Centre. The University of Hong Kong. December 2, 2008. [ii] Mellor, William. McDonald’s No Match for KFC in China as Colonel Rules Fast Food, Bloomberg Markets Magazine. January 26, 2011. Retrieved July 16, 2011 from http://www. bloomberg. com/news/2011-01-26/mcdonald-s-no-match-for-kfc-in-china-where-colonel-sanders-rules-fast-food. html.

Nuclear Proliferation Research Paper Example

Nuclear Proliferation Research Paper Example Nuclear Proliferation Paper Nuclear Proliferation Paper Nuclear weapons have not always been considered a problem in the United States. During WWII, which was a very long battle of evenly matched forces. Europe lay utterly devastated from continuous bombing, and the death toll was staggering. Pearl Harbor shocked the United States and crippled the Pacific Fleet. The success of the Manhattan Project and development of an atomic bomb was hardly seen as a problem. It was the answer to our prayers at the time, and brought a quick end to a world war. It catapulted the United States in a position of great power and out of a costly war; however, it also catapulted us into a Cold War. This is where these new weapons of unbelievable destruction become an issue to be dealt with. Nuclear weapons are a necessary weapon to remain a super power in todays international world. However there are many moral and practical issues with actually using these weapons. Morally, a countrys leadership must be willing to kill many civilians of the enemy. The bombs are so powerful they would take out entire cities, and it is impossible to perfectly aim them. There is no need to aim them carefully because there is no escaping their destruction. In addition, a decision to drop a bomb not only affects those alive now, but they punish that country for many years. Radiation hangs around and causes cancer and death for decades. Another moral dilemma that comes up is that there is no defense against a nuclear weapon. It takes the honor out of war and is almost unfair. A country must be willing to raise war to that next step in weaponry and scale, which is a huge moral dilemma. Generally speaking, nuclear bombs should result in a victory for the side that uses them. However there are many practical issues with using such weaponry. For one, the land you are using it on will be utterly worthless afterwards. It would be of no value to us, them, or anyone else. In addition, you must send your ground troops in to a secure an area where the air is poison. Once winning the war you must send more young men into radiation where they may day outside of combat. Also, using an atomic bomb may result in worse outcomes. It obviously means more death, but it may lead to other things. Other countries with nuclear weapons may get involved for instance. All these issues, practical and moral, must be considered before any decision about using a nuclear weapon is made. Nuclear weapons are a problem now because of many worries. For one, if other countries achieve nuclear technology, the threat of nuclear war increases. In addition, rogue nations or dictators with nuclear weapons are a scary and powerful threat to the entire world. Feuds between countries in the Middle East would jump to a whole new level with nuclear weapons are involved. Then allies and other countries get involved for personal interests and the situation spirals downward. The problem is it is hard to convince countries without the bomb to not get one when other countries continue to keep theirs. There are many different ideas on what United States policy should be with regards to nuclear proliferation. One theory is to negotiate with countries to have them not attain nuclear weapons. To some this is better than economic sanctions or using military force. This policy does allow for less chance of aggressive behavior between countries. A large benefit to negotiation is that it means less lives lost. However this policy has been shown in the past to not work. For example, under President Clintons administration they used a policy of negotiation with North Korea. North Korea demanded food and oil among other things, and in return they would not try to attain nuclear weapons. Unfortunately, they lied and did nothing they promised. Aside from the fact that it simply didnt work, negotiating with potential threats to America sets a very dangerous precedent. It tells the world that if you make demands of the United States they will agree to them to avoid war. It not only makes us a target for glorified pandering, but it also makes us look weak in the eyes of other countries. Another policy regarding nuclear proliferation is to keep as many as we can. This school of thought comes out of the idea of mutually assured destruction. The belief is that if we have so many nuclear weapons, no one will ever dare attack us. For if they dropped a bomb on us, while we may be devastated, we would in return destroy their country the same if not worse. This policy relies on the fact that peace will be kept due to absolute fear. It also encourages countries to deal with smaller issues diplomatically for fear of destruction, and what may happen if a war goes nuclear. In addition, high amounts of nukes means less troops. The sheer amount of our nuclear arsenal should be enough to scare anyone out of war; therefore, we would need less people to risk their lives in battle. Another benefit to having large numbers of nuclear weapons is that we can base them all over the country on land, in the sea, or in the air. This would prevent any enemies from being capable of destroying all our nuclear bombs. It allows the United States to have Second Strike Capability, which is an extremely important threat to have during a time of war. Enemies will not attack us do to fear of intense retaliation. An example of this policy in action occurred throughout the Cold War with the United States and Russia. The Bay of Pigs ended peacefully only because both leaders of both countries feared nuclear retaliation and destruction from each other. Although it worked with Russia and Cuba, the downfall to this policy is that everyone has a whole bunch of nuclear weapons. Although fear of retaliation is what keeps us safe, it is hard to believe that a world with less nuclear weaponry would be worse. Another policy, which is somewhat popular, is one of anti-proliferation, but not a completely nuclear free world. This is where the idea for the Non-Proliferation Treaty came from. The treaty stated that the big five countries would keep their nuclear weapons and eventually disarm. They would not be allowed to sell nuclear weapons to anyone. In addition, the treaty stated that the rest of the world would not be able to buy nuclear weapons, but they would be able to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. This is where the idea of UN weapons inspectors came from, so they could monitor that everything was being done for peaceful purposes. The benefit to having this treaty is that it stops the number of nukes in the world where it is. While it doesnt get rid of them, it finally puts a cap on them. Also, it was understood that the big five with nukes would protect the other, smaller countries from any threat of invasion if nuclear weapons were needed. The problem with this idea is that you must take everyones word that they wont make nuclear weapons. In addition, Israel, Pakistan, and India refused to sign the treaty. While this policy is a good idea, it relies too much on the good intentions of people. The ideas and theory sound great on paper, but realistically the treaty is in no way an answer to the problem of nuclear proliferation.

Free Essays on Alienation According To Marx

What does one mean by alienation? Alienation is said to be the misperceived separation of essence from the object that it characterizes.1 In 1844 Karl Marx wrote and published The Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts of 1844, better known as The Paris Manuscripts. This was Karl Marx’s first work, where he writes a study about alienation of workers. Alienation manifests itself in many different forms. Marx argues that; â€Å"One must understand, there are three types of alienation. The first type of alienation is alienation from oneself. The second type of alienation is alienation from his fellow human beings. The third type of alienation is alienation from the world as a whole. These three forms of alienation are interconnected.† This is the core of his approach to the problem of alienation. (Monthly Review, 2000, p.35) However, Alienation has also been associated with early theological writings to refer to the estrangement of a person from God as well.2 Therefore it is without question that Alienation can be extremely harmful as its principle action is to cause people to feel isolated and alone. The recognition of man as a â€Å"species† becomes important to the theory of Alienation, which is central to Marx’s work and vital in reiterating the human essence of man.3 Alienation for Marx was a consequence of the conditions within systems of mutual production, which caused man to lose his identity as a species being and fall into an alienated state through the production of capital.4 Subsequently, he became detached from his conscious life activity causing him to be detached from himself, from others and the product of his labor. Essentially man comes to lose all his traits that identify his recognition of himself as human, causing him to become de-humanized. In the Paris Manuscripts Marx identified four specific ways in which alienation pervades capitalist society. The product of labour: The worker is alienate... Free Essays on Alienation According To Marx Free Essays on Alienation According To Marx What does one mean by alienation? Alienation is said to be the misperceived separation of essence from the object that it characterizes.1 In 1844 Karl Marx wrote and published The Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts of 1844, better known as The Paris Manuscripts. This was Karl Marx’s first work, where he writes a study about alienation of workers. Alienation manifests itself in many different forms. Marx argues that; â€Å"One must understand, there are three types of alienation. The first type of alienation is alienation from oneself. The second type of alienation is alienation from his fellow human beings. The third type of alienation is alienation from the world as a whole. These three forms of alienation are interconnected.† This is the core of his approach to the problem of alienation. (Monthly Review, 2000, p.35) However, Alienation has also been associated with early theological writings to refer to the estrangement of a person from God as well.2 Therefore it is without question that Alienation can be extremely harmful as its principle action is to cause people to feel isolated and alone. The recognition of man as a â€Å"species† becomes important to the theory of Alienation, which is central to Marx’s work and vital in reiterating the human essence of man.3 Alienation for Marx was a consequence of the conditions within systems of mutual production, which caused man to lose his identity as a species being and fall into an alienated state through the production of capital.4 Subsequently, he became detached from his conscious life activity causing him to be detached from himself, from others and the product of his labor. Essentially man comes to lose all his traits that identify his recognition of himself as human, causing him to become de-humanized. In the Paris Manuscripts Marx identified four specific ways in which alienation pervades capitalist society. The product of labour: The worker is alienate...

Lumbini Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Lumbini - Essay Example It was in the month of May, 642 BC when Maya Devi on her way to Devadaha , her parents home gave birth to Lord Buddha while resting under a sal tree . The nativity scene of Lord Buddha was built by the Malla kings during their rule which lasted from the 11th to the 15th century in the Karnali zone of Nepal . This wonderful work of sculpture which was initiated by the kings of the Naga Dynasty is worshipped not only by the Buddhists but by the Hindus as well. When Lumbini was visited by Ashoka, the Emperor, in 249 BC, it was a prosperous village. The stone pillar with a horse on its top and the four stupas which we come across on our visit to Lumbini was built by him during this period . From the inscription on the Stone Pillar we can also derive the information that it was during this visit that taxes were reduced on the village and it was subjected to only eight parts. (Insoll, 66) However despite being one of the stalwarts in Indian History, Lumbini was subjected to negligence for several centuries till the time a famous German archeologist while traveling around the foothills of the Churiya range discovered the great pillar in the year 1895 . His name was Feuhrer. At a later stage the existence of a Brick temple and a sculpture of sandstone carrying images of Buddha’s birth was found. After further exploration it was found that the temple of Maya Devi was possibly built on one of the Ashokan stupa itself . On the south of this temple is a bathing pool named Puskarni which is considered to be sacred and the pages of history reveal that in this pool Maya Devi took a bath before giving birth