Abstract This paper explains that the beta in an investment scenario, which is a measure of the magnitude of the systematic risk involved in an investment, is either positive or negative depending on the positive or reverse movement of the return of the investment in relation to the market trends, taken on an average. The author points out that negative beta stocks are rarely found in the real world markets since they are seen to go against the trend of the market; however, one possible sector, which has negative beta stocks is the gold industry that normally goes against the trend shown by equity markets. The paper relates that, in consonance with the capital assets pricing model (CAPM), the market-driven price of a security would vary in accordance with the variation in its beta. The paper includes a formula and table.
From the Paper "But during the last few years, it is quite evident that amidst political uncertainty that has risen in the world that the price of gold has shown material gains when equity markets have indicated recorded sharp decline. Similarly, another commodity that has performed quite well is the oil. As with gold, the oil prices have suffered over most of the past two decades, while the equity prices evidenced a rapid growth. It is only during the recent years that the oil prices have indicated a recovery. The present political uncertainty has made the situation extremely problematic for investors."
Abstract Beta thalassemia is the more severe of the two main types of thalassemia, an inherited blood disease resulting from defective production of hemoglobin. This paper discusses how the disease develops, the types of beta thalassemia, how it is inherited, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
From the Paper "Hemoglobin, the protein that transports oxygen in the blood, is made up of four chains of amino acids: two identical alpha chains and two identical beta chains. Thalassemia is the result of an imbalance in the production of beta chains that is caused by a mutation in the genes that direct their production. A mutation to the beta genes decreases the production of beta chains, resulting in beta thalassemia."
Abstract The paper focuses on Safeway, Choice Hotels and Dell Computer as
representatives of a national grocery chain, a hotel chain and a electronics producer and provides a brief overview of these companies. The paper explains the ideal capital structure and the asset beta for these companies.
From the Paper "Safeway (NYSE: SWY) is representative of a national supermarket chain. They operate in select markets coast-to-coast, and have stores in Canada and Mexico as well. Safeway has over 1700 stores. Safeway's beta is 0.99. The grocery business is non-cyclical due to the demand inelasticity for grocery items. In their regions of operation (west coast, Texas, Chicagoland and the Mid-Atlantic) their customer base is very broad, covering most consumer groups."
Tags: grocery, hotel, electronics, debt, ratio, risk, balance, sheets, income
Abstract HMB (beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate) is a patented amino acid metabolite that was discovered at Iowa State University. Supplemental HMB increases lean muscle mass, strength, and VO2 Max, while increasing fat loss. This paper examines the scholarly and peer-reviewed literature and relevant online sources to determine just what HMB is, how it works, and who should or should not use it. A summary of the research and salient findings are provided in the conclusion. The paper includes an appendix, "Comparison of Daily Costs of Various Nutrition Supplements Used by Athletes," which is not included in the word count
From the Paper "HMB is produced naturally by the human body and can also be found in foods like catfish and grapefruit; however, it may not be practical or advantageous for athletes to consume these foods on a regular basis (Armsey & Green, June 1997, 9). HMB is used in order to boost strength levels, enhance muscle gains in size and prevent muscle tissue breakdown which can occur during periods of intensive exercising because scientists believe that HMB aids in the body's attempt to minimize protein breakdown. By minimizing the breakdown, HMB helps the body recover faster from exercise and leads to quicker strength and muscle gains. In sports and body building circles, HMB is known for its ability to promote fat loss and enhance muscle growth. HMB appears to upgrade the body's natural potential to build muscle and burn body fat by minimizing the muscle tissue breakdown that occurs after intense exercise sessions."
Abstract Corporate investing programs allow firms to maximize their profits by utilizing excess cash reserves and strategically investing in vehicles with potential for high returns while incurring the lowest possible risk. This paper discusses such programs, as well as the concept of ?beta,? which is a method for calculating the risk of an investment and how beta can be calculated.
From the Paper "The most prevalent form of corporate investing is when larger companies invest in smaller companies with huge potential. Passive investment funds also exist, as an alternative or complimentary investment option. Corporate investing programs may be loosely organized programs affiliated with the existing companies business developments or may be self-contained entities with a strategic charter and mission to make investments congruent with the parents company strategic mission. Stuart Read, vice president of marketing at AvantGo states ?with cash in the bank, big companies are looking for ways to leverage that asset, and if there is a good investment, they'll take it.? Firms encounter different implications when investing than individuals, firms face a different set of rules and regulations to in which they must abide, firms have differing tax consequences, they also face a different set of risks."
Abstract This paper examines Alzheimer?s; it's aetiology and symptoms, in order to question the orthodox and alternative treatments available. It discusses the considered main causes that include zinc, copper, iron and aluminium, as well as including a brief overview of the accepted commonest risk factors. It is concluded by considering and suggesting, that ginkgo biloba is the main contender as the alternative to orthodox medicine in treating and preventing, Alzheimer's disease.
Outline
Abstract
Introduction
Chapter 1
An Overview of Alzheimer's Disease ? Definition, Aetiology and Risk Factors
Associated Structural Abnormalities of AD
Beta Amyloid Plaques (BAPs)
Neurofibrillary Tangles
Risk Factors of AD
Chapter 2 ? The Biometals
The "Normal" role of Zinc
The Paradoxical Role of Zinc
Iron
Copper
Aluminium
Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress
The Cholesterol Theory
Chapter Three ? Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba as an Antioxidant and Preventative
Vitamin ?E? and Other Free Radical Scavengers
Chapter Four - The Role of Orthodox Treatments
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), One of the Neurotrophic Factors
Selegiline
Oestrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT)
Metal Chelation Therapy
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Chapter Five ? Conclusion
From the Paper "Copper is another essential trace mineral in the human body; it is a constituent of many enzymes and takes part in the absorption of iron and in melanin formation. Lack of copper may result in anaemia and bone changes. Estimated safe and adequate dietary intake is 1.5-3.0 mg/day for adults, and 0.4-0.6 mg/day for infants (Tortora and Grabowski, 2000). Copper plays a crucial role, with cholesterol, in nutrition and normal brain function. Recent evidence indicates that copper and cholesterol may both be important factors in the aetiology of AD. Sparks et al (2003) explains how trace amounts of copper (0.12 ppm) added to water and given to cholesterol-fed rabbits induced BAP accumulation, including senile plaque-like structures in the hippocampus and temporal lobe."
Abstract This paper analyzes the relationship between immunobiology and HIV. It analyzes the research in an attempt to understand the mechanisms involved in HIV infection and in the operation of various related biological effects. The paper then addresses the role of the chemokine MIP-1 beta, among others, in T cell mediated suppression of HIV replication.
From the Paper "Patke, Green, and Shearer examine the role of beta-chemokines and their chemokine receptor on HIV B lymphocyte function. To test this interaction, the researchers used highly purified normal human B cells from seronegative donors, isolating them by adherence to CD19-coated beads. They then treated IL-4 plus anti-CD40-activated B cells with recombinant gp120 (10 ng/ml) before exposure to beta chemokines or receptor. At that stage, cyclic nucleotide generation was assessed at six hr, DNA synthesis at day threem and IgM production on day seven. Also, cell surface marker expression was determined by flow cytometric analysis using the Coulter EPICS-XL. What the researchers found was that there ia a role for MIP-1 beta and RANTES on the early B cell events of proliferation, cyclic nucleotide generation, and cell surface marker receptor modulation in opposition to the beta chemokine receptor, CCR5. the researchers also note that the ability to regulate early B cell events might be a targeted area in the development of novel designer molecule therapeutic approaches to AIDS, though further research is needed finally to demonstrate this possibility."
Tags: MIP-1 beta, lymphocyte generation DNA, T cell
Abstract This paper discusses radiological dispersion devices (RDDs) and analyzes how easy they are to access and to construct. The paper then discusses which nations are likely to have access to RDDs. In addition, the paper analyzes the effects that can be expected for those who are exposed to an explosion of RDD and the damage that they cause in the form of gamma, beta and alpha emitters.
From the Paper "One other nation that comes to mind is Iran. This country's harboring of terrorist organizations (just the sort of organizations that are most likely to utilize RDD weaponry) is commonly-known but what is arguably less-appreciated (at least by the general public) is its close historic relationship to the aforementioned Russia. To wit, Russia has historically made many contributions to Iran's nuclear weapons program and is generally perceived as a nation that enjoys a substantial diplomatic relationship with Iran (Orlov & Vinnikov, 2005). As a result, it is quite easy to see terrorist organizations residing within Iran - and looking for low-tech and cost-effective weapons to unleash upon the west - using Iranian contacts within Russia to secure RDDs. At the very least, radioactive material such as Strontium-90 can find its way within Iran's borders from Russia with troubling ease."
Abstract The paper discusses treatment for congestive heart failure that consists of lifestyle modifications and medications. The paper explores the medications that include diuretics, beta-blockers, Digitalis or Digoxin and ACE inhibitors. The paper outlines their beneficial effects as well as potential side effects.
Outline:
Introduction
Treatments
From the Paper "Congestive heart failure happens when the heart is unable to pump sufficient oxygen to the body in order to meet its needs (Kulick et al 2007, Drug Digest 2007). It can be caused by diseases, which weaken or stiffen the heart muscles or increase oxygen demand by any tissue in the body beyond what the heart can deliver. The right and left atria or upper chambers, which pump blood, can be weakened by a systolic dysfunction, such as a heart attack or myocarditis, an infection. The right and left ventricles or lower chambers are involved in relaxing the heart muscles. They can be affected by diastolic dysfunction, such as hemochromatosis, which stiffens the heart muscles. A high demand for oxygen may be due to conditions like hyperthyroidism and result in high-output heart failure (Kulick et al, Drug Digest)."
Abstract This paper explains that the goal of the project is to shift the focus from selling products only to raw material manufacturers to selling products directly to the end-users. The author points out that customer review and beta testing are very important for the success of the project because knowing customers' feelings about the company and its product will help the company establish a brand name. The paper relates that quantitative measures will be used to ensure that the project is completed on time and on schedule and will serve as the performance measurement system. Charts. Illustrations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Scope Statement
Goal Definition
Project Objective
Deliverables
Milestones
Technical Requirements
Limits and Exclusions
Customer Review
Reporting Structure of Team Members
High-Level Gantt Chart View
Risk Identification
Risk Analysis
Scope Definition
Legal Issues
Contract Conflicts
Lack of Infrastructure Availability
Vendor Delays/Problems
Equipment Installation
OSHA Findings
Loss Time Injury
Delays in Certification
Testing Problems
Beta Testing
Power Breakouts
Weather Problems
Risk Assessment
Risk Response
Contingency Plan
Vendor Delay/Problems
Loss Time Injury Contingency Plan
Risk Assessment Matrix
Communication Plan
Shareholders
Method for Updating the Communication Plan
Existing Systems
Escalation Process
Performance Measurement and Control Approach
Audit Process and Timetable
Impromptu Audits
Deliverable Audits
Individual Team Audits
Final Audit
Conclusion / Recommendation
From the Paper "Goal Definition: Currently our company holds the patent and all the legal rights to sell certain kind of polymers that are used through out the world by construction companies and other building development projects. The problem that we are facing is that our company sells these products to bigger manufacturers that only dilutes our products and sells it the end customer at higher margins. Plus being a big brand they are able to sell it at those prices and get good price quotes from us. Goal of the Redwood project is to manufacture the diluted product that is thoroughly tested and readily accepted by the end-user. The idea is to fully utilize the patents and technology that Chemical Highway already processes."
Abstract This paper defines multiple sclerosis (MS) as a common neurological disorder responsible for substantial neurological morbidity. MS is an autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system, the spine and the brain. This paper evaluates and analyzes various published medical articles and research studies related to the treatment of MS. This paper discusses the use of interferon-beta-1a also known as Avonex, for the treatment of MS. The company that manufactures Avonex notes that while MS is an unpredictable disease in regards to symptoms, using Avonex as a once-a-week therapy can help slow the progression of disability in relapsing forms of MS. This paper contains case study results of patients with MS who used Avonex as well as other treatments and therapies.
Table of Contents:
What is Intramuscular Interferon Beta 1a Therapy?
Multiple Sclerosis and its Treatments
What is Avonex?
MS Footnotes
Bibliography
From the Paper "Despite the setback experienced by Avonex and patient's preference for Comaxone, treatment of multiple sclerosis has come a long way. Before the investigation into interferons, physicians were only able to treat some of their MS patients with Prednisone or other immunosuppressives. The problem with Prednisone or Methotrexate (a drug used to treat cancer and also used to repress rejection of transplanted organs) were first they were not that effective and second they had long term side effects which included osteoporosis and high cholesterol for Prednisone and the possibility of catching an infection and dying with Methotrexate."
This paper gives an overview of the symptoms and causes of multiple sclerosis. It includes illustrations of myelin sheathe damage, author's personal experiences with MS, and in-depth descriptions of three drugs commonly used to treat MS.
Abstract This is a concise paper explaining the symptoms of MS as well as the difficulty involved with diagnosing the disease. It explains the cases for some accepted potential causes and also examines the different types of MS. The three drugs used most commonly to treat MS - Avonex, Copaxone, and Beta-Seron - are compared and contrasted, and the pros and cons are duly noted. Paper written by an MS sufferer who also details her own experiences with the disease.
From the Paper "In normal human beings, the immune system will spot and attack threats to the human body, like viruses or harmful bacteria. In a person with MS, the immune system sees myelin as one of these threats. Immune system cells come into the central nervous system and start attacking the myelin sheath, creating an autoimmune response - when the human body attacks itself. On these demyelinated areas, lesions known as "plaque" develop. The plaques eventually turn into scar tissue, sclerosis, in many different locations, which is where the name "multiple sclerosis" comes from. Thus, people with MS are more or less walking around with scars on their nerves."
Abstract This paper examines some of the major forms of standardized testing used in the United States today and assesses them for both fairness and validity.
Contents:
Introduction;
An Overview of Testing and Some Basic Definitions;
History of Standardized Psychological Testing;
Functions of Tests and Testing;
Typology of Current Tests;
The Key to Psychological and IQ Tests: Who Interprets Them;
Conclusion: Do Any of These Tests Do What They Promise
From the Paper "The usefulness of psychological tests depends on their accuracy in predicting behavior. By providing information about the probability of a person's responses or performance, tests aid in making a variety of decisions. One of the sustained criticisms of psychological tests is how well in fact they are able to do precisely this ? predict future behavior. Many tests have the word "aptitude" in their titles to reassure us that they are in fact not simply testing the subject on how much he or she knows, what his or her mental state is at present, or what his or her experiences have been to date. And it is certainly true that to some extent tests do have a predictive value ? although of course the validity of this predictive value varies widely from test to test. But it is also true that one of the most important aspects of human nature (or the human psyche or human intelligence) is that we are capable of learning and changing. How much each one of us is capable of changing has remained a difficult aspect of human behavior to assess. And whether the particular circumstances that might cause someone to change will come about remain in the realm of crystal ball gazing (Nash 119)."
From the Paper "Mortality from a second myocardial infarction (MI) is considerably higher than that from a first, and beta-blockers have been shown to reduce the incidence of a second MI in many patients. Despite this fact, these medications are under prescribed for patients who have had a myocardial infarction. This paper will look at the use of beta-blockers in post-myocardial infarction patients, their effectiveness in preventing a second MI, and the consequences of not prescribing them for post-MI patients.
Beta-blockers are used to treat a variety of problems, including high blood pressure, arrhythmia, and angina, and they have been shown to reduce the risk of recurrent heart attacks and death in people who have already suffered a heart attack..."
Abstract The paper hypothesizes that Isoproterenol will increase the heart rate of a chick embryo heart, in which the chick was incubated for approximately 48 hours, when topically applied. The author of the paper shows that the reasoning for this hypothesis is that Isoproterenol acts as a sympathetic stimulant by stimulating the beta receptors found in the heart, and these kinds of stimulants (hence the name stimulant) tend to speed up actions. Especially since this chemical mimics norepinephrine's effects, I deduced that this would speed up the heart rate. An experiment was performed on 48-hour chick embryos and the results are discussed in the paper.
From the Paper "Description: An egg was incubated for approximately 48 hours. I am approximating 48-hours based on the comparison of my embryo to pictures of the different stages. Once removed from the incubator, I made an incision around the circumference of the egg and removed the roof, exposing the interior. The embryo with all structures still attached- in situ- (yolk, egg white, etc.) was poured into a dish of saline solution. The egg remained in the same position for a couple of hours, blunt-end up, so that the embryo conveniently lay on top. The temperature of the water was measured as 32?C and the normal heart rate of the chick was recorded as 76bpm."
