Skin Stem Cells - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 673 Downloads: 3 Date added: 2019/06/13 Category Biology Essay Level High school Tags: Stem Cell Essay Did you like this example? Adult stem cells are the undifferentiated cells that are involved in the maintenance, renewal, and repair of various tissues and organs. These stem cells are found in particular niche in a tissue or an organ where they remain undifferentiated and are activated to undergo division and differentiation to maintain the tissue or when activated by disease or disruption. Skin undergoes constant renewal and it is crucial to study the dynamic pathways and key regulators involved at the transcriptional level in proliferation and differentiation of adult stem cells. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Skin Stem Cells" essay for you Create order In Skin, there are different adult stem cells are located in various locations and can be isolated based on their unique cell surface marker expression. Like epithelium, hair follicles also undergo constant regeneration and have a niche for adult stem cells in the bulge region. Bulge stem cells have shown to regenerate various cell types of the epidermis and when grown in vitro to have shown high proliferation and large colony formation in vitro [1]. The keratinocytes isolated also have shown to be accumulating mutations to form malignant cancers. Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in United States with around 5 million people being diagnosed and an average of 8 billion dollars is spent on the treatment for skin cancer annually. The statistics on the financial burden on skin cancer and the increasing cases of melanoma and non-melanoma cases detected each year shows the need for research and understanding the underlying mechanisms to prevent skin cancer [2]. As these adult stem cells have such unique characteristics, it is important to know about the key regulators involved in the cell proliferation, cell differentiation, immunity and pathways that lead the cells to become cancerous. Apart from the above tissue specific properties there is also a huge interest in trying to understand universal adult stem cells property and their involvement in cancer. With advances in high throughput sequencing, we are now able to study differential gene expression across various cells and tissues. Deeper sequencing techniques have enabled to sequence the major chunk of the genome which is non-coding transcriptome. RNA-sequencing has made it easy to compare gene expression profiles across samples and in-between two cell types from the same tissue and gives an insight into gene expression, tissue pattern or cell specificity of both protein coding genes and non-coding genes. Having this data will help us understand the key regulators which participate in s tem cell proliferation, differentiation and in our study, genes involved in high colony formation. By isolating specific stem cells from mouse model, it will help us design an experimental model which will allow us to compare the data with publicly available data bases to understand the roles and functions of key regulators involved. Among the non-coding RNAs, long non-coding (lncRNA) RNAs have shown to be involved in regulation, stem cell differentiation and tumor promotion. With increasing evidences of lncRNAs involvement in gene regulation, we decided to look into them and how they are differentially expressed and affect the nearby protein coding genes in our cells of interest from the C57BL6 mouse. LncRNAs are more than 200 bp in length and are involved in gene regulation at transcriptional and post-translational level. They bind with proteins, transcription factors and by binding with other ncRNA alter gene expression. It is also known that lncRNA are tissue specific and are differentially expressed in higher numbers compared with protein-coding genes [3]. In databases like Gencode, they have reported a total of 28468 lncRNA genes in human and 17855 lncRNA genes in mouse [4]. Most of the functions of lncRNAs are still unknown. Identifying differentially expressed genes will be the first step to look into imp ortant genes and pathways that regulate the stem cell characteristics of hair bulge cells compared to the nearby non-stem cell population. To understand better how Long non-coding and mRNA work in the skin we are including parameters like the location of lncRNA and gene expression pattern of selected lncRNA-mRNA across different cancer types to know the function and possible regulatory mechanism of lncRNA on nearby protein-coding genes. Keratinocyte stem cells and cancer

Dispositional Essay example - 1154 Words

Dispositional, Biological, and Evolutionary Psychology University of Phoenix Dispositional, Biological, and Evolutionary Psychology Personality theory has come a long way since its beginning in psychology. Many theorists have based their work on theorists before them, but made changes that indicate that the characteristics of the individual affects the ideas behind their work (Feist, Feist, amp; Roberts, 2013). Comparing dispositional, biological, and evolutionary theories indicates the similarities and differences between the theories; as well as their strengths and weaknesses. The use of these theories has led to research and tests, such as the big five test, that help indicate personality characteristics of individuals (Feist, et†¦show more content†¦Focusing on how our mind works, is designed, and how our mind interacts to our environment evolutionary psychology sees behavior as an adaptation (Feist, Feist, amp; Roberts, 2013). Evolutionary psychology, once again looks at humans not just from a psychoanalytical perspective, not just a biological perspective, but from both as well as an environmental perspective (Feist, et al, 2013). It is broad in its application without denying theories of others. What will you find common among all of the theories mentioned above is the use of drives to motivate human behavior. Dispositional theories assert that humans look to the future for motivation (Wilderdom.com, 2005). These theories look at current events and goals, as opposed to the past, to establish their behavior. Biological psychology does not attribute humans much free will (Wilderdom.com, 2005). It focuses on what has been predetermined for the person based on biology through genetics, or structure, for example. Evolutionary psychology views behavior as a product of evolutionary drives for power and sex (Wilderdom.com, 2005). This outlook is similar to Freudian views on sex and aggression, but instead of being based subconscious thought it is now based on an evolutionary need to adapt and overcome. Critiques on Theories The challenge for any of these theories is to be scientifically tested. Dispositional theories have done a lot to expand the field of personality and have been very useful at initiatingShow MoreRelatedEssay on Dispositional Optimism2953 Words   |  12 Pagesconditioning, this new type of learning tells us that we learn best through the consequences of our behaviors (p. 277). Dispositional optimism is my choice of behavior for this assignment because it mirrors my personal perspective, motivating me to investigate further on why I engage in this action frequently, and the possible outcomes of this behavior. Dispositional optimism by definition is a general expectation that more good things than bad will occur. Optimistic behavior can give peopleRead MoreDispositional, Evolutionary And Evolutionary Theory1283 Words   |  6 Pages Dispositional, and Evolutionary Theory Nicholas DeRico PSY/405 August 24, 2015 Dispositional, Biological and Evolutionary Theory Abstract There are many theories that attempt to clarify the structures that influence personality, for example dispositional, and Evolutionary theory. This paper will discuss the differences that are among dispositional and evolutionary personality theories, as well as, strengths and limitations of dispositional and evolutionary and biological personalityRead MoreDispositional Vs Biological Theory Essay990 Words   |  4 Pagesï » ¿ Dispositional vs. Biological Theory Sarah Quincey PSY 405 September 15, 2014 Leslie Binnix Dispositional vs. Biological Theory Dispositional personality theories are quite different from biological personality theories. The two will be compared and dissected in this article. The Big Five Personality Test will also be analyzed and how it is used to study personality will be examined. Dispositional personality theories contend that each person per certain stable, long lasting dispositions.Read MoreCorrelation Between Higher Dispositional Mindfulness1134 Words   |  5 Pagesbeginners (Brewer Garrison, 2014). Further studies point to changes in the amygdala and caudate volumes. Studying MRI images, Taren, Creswell, and Gianaros (2013) conducted a volumetric analysis which revealed a correlation between higher dispositional mindfulness and decreased gray matter volume in the right amygdala and the left caudate. Since amygdala is known to regulate central stress responses, the decrease in its volume in mindful individuals could signify the effect of such interventionRead MorePsychometric Evaluation Of A New Measure Of Dispositional Optimism936 Words   |  4 PagesPsychometric Evaluation of a New Measure of Dispositional Optimism Dispositional optimism (DO) is a psychological construct defined as the tendency to have positive expectations about the future [CITE]. DO is considered a relatively stable trait, and is based upon the expectancy-value theory of motivation [CITE fishbein]. The theory suggests that an individual’s confidence in their ability to succeed (expectancy) and the predicted benefits of completing a task (value) determine the strength of theirRead MoreGeological and Dispositional History of the Starved Rocks, Illinois800 Words   |  4 PagesGeological and Dispositional History of the Starved Rocks, Illinois Describe the clastic and carbonate facies you have discovered. Starved Rock State covers about 200 miles and some 470 million years, from Ordovician sandstones to Pleistocene glacial till. The Ordovician St. Peter Formation sandstone was deposited across the midcontinent during the second major marine transgression of the Paleozoic Era. The first transgression deposited Upper Cambrian to Lower Ordovician clastics and carbonatesRead MorePsychometric Evaluation Of A New Measure Of Dispositional Optimism1549 Words   |  7 PagesPsychometric Evaluation of a New Measure of Dispositional Optimism Dispositional optimism (DO) is a psychological construct defined as the tendency to have positive expectations about the future (Carver Scheier, 2014). DO is considered a relatively stable trait, and is based upon the expectancy-value theory of motivation. The theory suggests that an individual’s confidence in their ability to succeed (expectancy) and the predicted benefits of completing a task (value) determine the strength ofRead MoreAttribution theory Essay1168 Words   |  5 Pagesmany studies aimed at explaining the main errors people make when making inferences about people’s behaviour and whether culture has an effect on how we make attributions. There are two types of attributions, internal attributions, also known as dispositional attributions, are when we attribute behaviour to person’s disposition (mental state, personality, emotions, characteristics, etc.). External attributions (also known as situational attributions) can be explained as attributing behaviour to theRead MoreErrors in Attribution1404 Words   |  6 Pagesmore significantly portrayed than others. There are two types of attribution biases. The first is dispositional, which blames personal characteristics, and the second is situational, which blames the situation itself. An example of an attributional bias is the fundamental attribution error. The fundamental attribution error (FAE) is an error in which people tend to overestimate internal, dispositional factors (blaming personal characteristics) and underestimate external, situational factors (blamingRead MoreSocial Attribution : A Reflection Of Personality, Beliefs, And Attitudes720 Words   |  3 Pagestwo types of social attribution that serve as an explanation for the soldiers’ actions: dispositional attribution and situational attribution. One of the attributions, referred to as a dispositional attribution, illustrates that ones’ internal thoughts are the premises for behavior. Meaning that ones’ behavior is a reflection of personality, beliefs, and attitudes (Lecture 9/10/15). An example of a dispositional attribution, is that the soldiers abused prisoners due to preexisting prejudices against

Determinants of Bank Profitability in Nigeria Free Essays

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1. 0BACKGROUND INFORMATION TO THE STUDY The study of profits is important not only because of the information it provides about the health of the economy in any given year, but also because profits are a key determinant of growth and employment in the medium-term. Changes in profitability are an important contributor to economic progress via the influence profits have on the investment and savings decisions of companies. We will write a custom essay sample on Determinants of Bank Profitability in Nigeria or any similar topic only for you Order Now This is because a rise in profits improves the cash flow position of companies and offers greater flexibility in the source of finance for corporate investment (i. . through retained earnings). Easier access to finance facilitates greater investment which boosts productivity, productive capacity, competitiveness and employment. The existence, growth and survival of a business organization mostly depend upon the profit which an organization is able to earn. It is true that when Profitability increases the value of shareholders may increase to considerable extent. The term profitability refers to the ability of the business organization to maintain its profit year after year. The profitability of the organization will definitely contribute to the economic development of the nation by way of providing additional employment and tax revenue to government exchequer. Moreover, it will contribute the income of the investors by having a higher dividend and thereby improve the standard of living of the people. In order for a business entity (whether public or privately owned) to continue to prosper, there is need for its earnings to be relatively stable for its expansion and growth over time. In addition to its level of earnings, its external environment must also be carefully understood and reliably anticipated (Burns and Mitchell, 1946). Earnings and business environments are so serious issues that a business must study and understand in order to face its opportunities and threats with vigor and determination. Where for instance, the business does not recognize the effects of changes in external environment which may necessitate changes in business earnings, it may suffer some losses consequently. This perhaps explains why there has been continuing search by modern businesses to improve their methods of production necessary to cut down costs, and to develop new attributes or products, which may have wider appeal and satisfaction to their customers. On the other hand, the environmental and cyclical conditions are usually volatile and Dynamic (Sabo, 2003). This underscores the need for business firms to be able to reliably conduct forecast not only for their future demands or sales for their goods and services but also other variables that affect them directly such as their personnel and future profits. The volatility of the changes in the variables from the external environment in specific ways to the immediate factory level and to the remote industry and task environments can sometimes be very significant. These calls for managers’ ability to appreciate and apply formal forecasting techniques to assist their banks achieve this veritable task. The determinants of profitability are empirically well explored although the definition of profitability varies among studies. Disregarding the profitability measures, most of the banking studies have noticed that the capital ratio, loan-loss provisions and expense control are important drivers of high profitability. In this study, the drivers that would be considered are in two categories namely endogenous (internal) and exogenous (external) drivers or factors of Profitability. Internal drivers of bank performance or profitability can be defined as factors that are influenced by a bank’s management decisions. Such management effects will definitely affect the operating results of banks. Although a quality management leads to a good bank performance, it is difficult, if not impossible, to assess management quality directly. In fact, it is implicitly assumed that such a quality will be reflected in the operating performance. As such, it is not uncommon to examine a bank’s performance in terms of those financial variables found in financial statements, such as the balance sheet and income statement (Krakah and Ameyaw, 2010). External determinants of bank profitability are factors that are beyond the control of a bank‘s management. They represent events outside the influence of the bank. However, the management can anticipate changes in the external environment and try to position the institution to take advantage of anticipated developments. The two major components of the external determinants are macroeconomic factors and financial structure factors (Krakah and Ameyaw, 2010). In summary, it appears previous empirical research has suggested a possible connection between bank profitability and various internal and external determinants like Bank Assets, Loan-Loss Provisions, Total Deposit and Inflation, but is far from definitive as ifferent authors have made use of the inclusion and exclusion of different variables in their studies. Hence, our study will try to shed more light on this controversial issue by reviewing more empirical literatures on opposing sides of the topic and finally drawing conclusions from our findings from the mode of data analysis we intend to carry out. 1. 1STATEMENT OF THE RESEARCH PROBLEM The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Central B ank of Nigeria (CBN) have perennially sought permanent measures that would enhance the profitability and stability of banks operating in the Nigerian banking industry. Unfortunately, they have never completely succeeded in achieving this feat. For instance, from 1987 – 1991 financial sector reforms (intended to enhance competition in the sector, mobilize savings and lead to a more efficient allocation of resources) were implemented, encompassing elements of liberalization (such as the decontrolling of interest rates) and measures to enhance prudential regulation and tackle bank distress (Oluranti, 1991). Also, between 1990 and 2004, bank regulators increased the minimum share capital requirement for banks operating in Nigeria five times, namely in 1991, 1997, 2000, 2001 and 2004 (Aburime and Uche, 2006). However, these measures were unsuccessful in curtailing the spate of bank distress and failures in the1990s and beyond (Oluranti, 1991; Beck et al. , 2005 and Brownbridge, 2005). Currently, a set of banking sector reforms have also been introduced to ensure inter alia a strong and reliable banking sector (Okagbue and Aliko, 2005). Unfortunately, if the historical antecedents of financial sector reforms in Nigeria are anything to go by, the current reforms may also not help to improve bank profitability and stability in Nigeria. Another major factor, which has often not been given appropriate attention, is the issue of strategic planning through forecasting and prediction of future performance indices of commercial banks (deposit money banks). To achieve this task, a bank must recognize and anticipate the important Variable affecting its profit determination. The works of Stevens (1999), Blyther (2000) and Naceur (2003) established the inability of the business firms to adequately anticipate and forecast several operating variables in them as a very critical factor in explaining their non-performance. They argued that it is dangerous for a firm to fail to anticipate its cash flow sales, profits and production under whatever situation it finds itself. Given the efforts stated above banks need to appreciate the role of other indicators in enhancing the profitability or performance for that matter. Indeed examining the determinants of corporate profits in the banking sector in Nigeria is crucial, if these banks are going to remain competitive, efficient, and viable taking into cognizance the challenges that befall competition in the industry. 1. 2RESEARCH QUESTIONS The motivation behind this study stems from the fact that in the past decade or so, a lot of tremendeous changes has been witnessed in the Nigerian banking industry thereby leading to a number of reforms that has seen players in the banking industry transform from one level to another. Hence, this study will sought to answer the following research questions: 1. Is there a long run and short run relationship between bank profitability and its determinants? 2. To  what  extent  are  discrepancies  in  First Bank’s  profitability  due  to  variations in endogenous factors  Ã‚  under  Ã‚  the  Ã‚  control  Ã‚  of  Ã‚  bank  Ã‚  management as well as exogeneous factors under the control of the macroeconomy? 3. Given previous empirical studies on this topic, can it be deduced that First of Nigeria actually makes sustainable profits in the last three decades? . 3OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The sole objective of this study is to provide a framework to investigate the factors or indicators intrinsic in the bank’s asset structure that had impacted on their profitability, and performance for that matter, and make policy recommendation that could be used by bank managers in their policy decisions in the future. Specifically the study s eeks to achieve the following Objectives: 1. Examine  the  profitability  of  First  Bank Nigeria Plc during  the  last  three  decades. 2. Study  Ã‚  the  Ã‚  key  Ã‚  endogenous or company-level  value  Ã‚  drivers  Ã‚  of  Ã‚  performance  Ã‚  or profitability  Ã‚  of  Ã‚  the commercial  bank  in  Nigeria using FBN Plc 3. Study  Ã‚  the  Ã‚  key  Ã‚  exogenous  or macroeconomicvalue  Ã‚  drivers  Ã‚  of  Ã‚  performanceor profitability  Ã‚  of  Ã‚  the commercial  bank  in  Nigeria using FBN Plc 4. To find out if any long-run or short-run relationship exists between Profitability variables and its determinants using FBN Plc. 5. Make  policy  recommendations  regarding  the  key  drivers  of  profitability  at First Bank of Nigeria as well as other commercial  banks  in the country based on  the empirical  findings. 1. 4SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY Given the relation between the well-being of the banking sector and the growth of the economy (Rajan and Zingales, 1998; Levine, 1998), knowledge of the underlying factors that influence the financial sector’s profitability is therefore essential not only for the managers of the banks, but also for numerous stakeholders such as the central banks, bankers associations, governments, and other financial authorities. Knowledge of these factors would be useful in helping the regulatory authorities and bank managers formulate future policies aimed at improving the profitability of the Nigerian banking sector. Furthermore, at the present time, the type of analysis to be employed in this study is completely missing in the literature concerning profitability in the banking sector in Nigeria. 1. 5SCOPE OF THE STUDY Even though there is an existence of numerous empirical studies on the determinants of corporate profitability in the banking sector almost none exists regarding banks case studies in Nigeria, with one exception though in a study by Krakah and Ameyaw (2010) who found a significant correlations between Bank’s Financial Statement and Macroeconomic variables with Profitability given case studies of two banks in Ghana. However, since their study relied more on a cross-sectional approaches from two different banks, this study collects a broad array of profitability determinant indicators, specifically, using data solely from First Bank of Nigeria from 1980 to 2010, we will be examining different measures and linkages of endogenous and exogenous variables like total  assets, interest  income, total  overhead expenses, money  supply, annual  inflation  rate and Return on Assets (ROA). Furthermore, since the determinants of profitability are a complex and multi-faceted concept, as such no single measure will capture all aspects of the internal and external determinants in the Financial Statements of First Bank to be used in this study. 1. 6PLAN OF THE STUDY For the purpose of simplification and clarification, this study will be drafted in the following manner: Chapter one will begin with a brief introduction on the topic of our study assessing a few opinions on what some authors have to say relating to the topic of our study. This chapter continues by analyzing some of the problems in the Nigerian economy as it relates to the banking industry as a catalyst for economic growth, then followed by the research questions. The statement of objectives to the study follows afterwards then the significance of the study comes next. An historical overview detailing various facets of developments in the Nigerian banking industry from pre-independence to date is also examined in this chapter. This chapter will be concluded by giving the scope of study. Chapter two of this study, which is the Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, will begin with a brief introduction of what the chapter aims to achieve and how it will be structured. This will be followed by stating various theoretical frameworks to be used in the study. Furthermore, an empirical review of related literatures on the determinants of banking industry profitability as seen by different authors who have written widely on the topic published their findings on this issue would be discussed. This chapter continues by reviewing the Nigerian banking industry performance over the year with a comparative analysis of all the major banks making up the industry. This will be achieved through the use of charts and graphs. Finally, this chapter will be rounded-off by the historical existence of First Bank of Nigeria Plc as well as the corporate profile of the bank. Chapter three, which is the research methodology chapter of this study, will also begin with a brief introduction to the chapter. This will be followed by the method of data collection section as well as method of data analysis section where we will explain the various methods of analysis like Multiple Correlation Matrix, Cointegration Regression Model as well as the Error Correction Mechanism of time series econometric analysis intended to analyze our data is explained. Also in this chapter, we shall state the various regression models to be estimated for this study as well as an explanation of the justification of the variables to be included in the model. This chapter will also explain the how the data gotten for this study will be formatted in Ratio forms to suit need of our intentions for this study. In addition, the statement of hypothesis and assumptions behind our model will be stated in this chapter and the various reasons behind the sampling procedure of arriving at FBN Plc for this study will be explained. Finally, this chapter will be concluded by explaining ‘A Priori’ Expectations of each variable within the model and the yardsticks in econometric measurement to be used in acceptance or rejection of the various hypothesis stated for this study. Chapter four, which is the data Presentation, Analysis and Interpretation chapter, will be introduced stating what should be expected as the chapter moves from section to section. Here, the data used for this study will be presented in a tabular format then followed by the analysis and estimation of the explicit model already stated in chapter three of this study. Finally, this chapter is concluded by interpreting the models estimated via different methods of econometric analysis. Chapter five is the Summary, Policy Recommendations and Conclusion chapter of this study. This chapter, like the previous ones before it also begins with an introduction of what to expect, this is followed by a summary of our study thus far. Hence, policy recommendations would be made under a different section and finally, the conclusions of our finding on the study as it relates to the analysis made in chapter four of the study would be highlighted in this study. How to cite Determinants of Bank Profitability in Nigeria, Essay examples

Humanistic Theory and Trait Theory free essay sample

Humanistic Theory and Trait Theory My research was comparing the Humanistic Theory and Trait Theory. Humanistic Theory is based on the ability for individuals to be able to uniquely diverse with our own prospective on life. It evaluates how an individual’s choice can affect their decision making and how the decisions can take a positive or negative effect to the conclusion of that choice. It also focuses on how we allow others to manipulate us into believing what our self worth is, if we are capable of achieving what we set out to become. Trait theory is based on an individual’s observation, and elements of their personality traits such as openness to new experiences, skill development, agreeableness, etc. and how that affects their choices. According to Tom Ato, psychologists believe that this trait stems from one basic group of characteristics which are biological in nature. Studies have concluded that is it not based on individualism but account for consistent behavior which are familiar in diverse situations. We will write a custom essay sample on Humanistic Theory and Trait Theory or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Both theories have a few similarities; however research revealed several differences between them. Their approach to personality traits differ because they go in different directions. Trait theory shows aspects of human personality can be stable and consistent in several cultures; it is not shaped by outside influences, where as Humanistic traits are. Trait theory is correct in its approach for many reasons; the success of the five-factor personality models, observers’ evaluations, the models withstood challenges that affects all cultures, the link between psychological disorders and personality traits, and the potential to predict what the individuals’ future may bring. The Humanistic trait has been criticized for being too subjective in its approach. Because it focuses on each individual’s potential and gives the fundamental belief that all individuals are good, makes it harder to explain why people commit crimes. We can not objectively tell is self actualized, we can only rely on the individual own assessment of their experiences. Both theories have valid merit on the personality traits, but they have different approaches on how to establish their findings. Both Humanistic and Trait Theories are in disagreement on what way is most effective however both view the individual’s personality as a whole.