Sunday, September 22, 2019

Quality management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Quality management - Essay Example There existed a number of Gurus who implemented different strategies, which improved performance (Kemp, 2006, 34). Edward Deming is not a new name in quality management. He came up with smart strategy, which he has, used to achieve continuous organization success. Deming came up with fourteen philosophical strategies (Kemp, 2006, 34). Deming believed that by having appropriate principles, anyone could improve quality and at the same time reduce costs of operation. He started by defining an objective purpose of what he wanted to achieve. This entails organizations setting aside resources for a long time planning and research. He then developed a new philosophy that reflected on his objectives (Hoyle, 2006, 67). For firms to excel they must ensure any obstacles and issues contradicting their mission are done away with (Kemp, 2006, 34). Deming further emphasized that transformation in policies was necessary to ease dependence on mass inspection (Deming, 2000, 254). Long-term supply chain and healthy relationships with supplier are encouraged. This is necessary to ensure the production process is co ntinuous (Kemp, 2006, 34). Employees ought to be made part of the research and development process. They are required to thoroughly search for the best ways to improve the quality. Deming also dictated for institute training at all levels in an organization. Managers ought to play their roles well and supervise not lead (Kemp, 2006, 34). Employees are more productive when they feel respected. In addition, elements of fear and barriers in communications must be eliminated. Numerical quotas are a major hindrance to good performance (Hoyle, 2006, 67). This is because, with the quota systems, people may even produce defective goods for the purpose of meeting the set limits (Kemp, 2006, 34). Individual reviews and evaluations are to be done way with as they discourage the pride of achievement (Deming, 2000, 254). Deming

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Intergrated Project Deliver at Autodesk, Inc. Essay Example for Free

Intergrated Project Deliver at Autodesk, Inc. Essay When working at any company or organization, communication is the key issue in starting up a project. Whenever you being a project, the first step would how to communicate with the team member you will be working with. Bernstein and his team have completed an important project within the budget, timeline, and scope. In this paper, I will discuss the vision statement, and briefly discuss the following: * Generated for the project scope. * Examine how Phil Bernstein foster high levels of performance for the project * Illustrates the unsuccessful tactics to inspire the team to greater heights * Create my own approach to managing this project. Phil Bernstein is the project leader for IPD, and the construction project at AEC headquarters. Bernstein and his team shall develop, and implementing a shared vision that will help motivate, and inspire the team to work hard to make the project a success. The vision needs to include AEC’s communication for the workplace to demonstrating the importance of creativity and innovation. When starting the vision statement it should be simple, and expresses the aspirations and goals of a company or organization. When developing a vision statement this gives the members of the organization or project team the chance to come together to look at areas of expertise, and decide on the future of the project. The project is to use the Autodesk Inc. that produces software for architecture, engineering, and construction, to create a non-traditional office building using 3D technology. The project is to use the conduction of the new headquarters as an opportunity for its Solutions Division to combine the latest software capabilities into building information modeling with an emerging paradigm called integrated project delivery (Edmondson Rashid, 2009). The project will use the  IPD method to foster communication among all stakeholders during the early stages of the project. To foster higher levels of performance, Bernstein will ensure the project design qualities stayed supported with the project goals and budget constraints. This particular project is critical that no team member lag behind in providing the desired output. In the case study, it was demonstrated when the project management team has to make the choice to terminate a vendor who was working on the Customer Briefing Center ceiling. The vendor was initially hired because of the building information model capabilities and experience working on the bench mark projects. The team later learned that the vendor would not be able to build nor install the ceiling within the budget that was given for that portion of the project. The team came together and decided the issue and came to a conclusion to relieve the vendor of his duties. The team decided to hire another vendor to perform the duties. The vendor that the team hired lacked the technical skills that the previous one attained, but the new vendor would be able to deliver the project on time and within the budget. Being able to deliver on time and within budget is the ideal for majority of project done. Another example of fostering higher level performance is when the team members are able to communicate and set goals to meet the objectives of integrated project delivery. The managers should empower other team members with decision making responsibilities. It is not noted throughout the case that there are critical decision that must be made. The executives should feel confident that they hired the right people to make decisions and not be afraid to take the necessary risk to ensure the project stays on track. To ensure that integrated project delivery works effectively the project implementation team must have the right mind set. Illustrate his unsuccessful tactics to inspire the team to greater heights Bernstein illustrated unsuccessful tactics when there appeared to be trouble with the contingency. Bernstein decided that for all future projects he will not include any savings from the contingency as part of the compensation structure. According to the case study, it appeared that contingency was a bad idea, because it is not in sync with the integrated project delivery (Harvard Business School, p.70). Integrated project delivery is emerging as the way to organize project teams to achieve a lean construction at a time when the industry is searching for ways to eliminate  waste, cut costs, improve productivity, and create positive outcomes (Carbasho, 2008). The reason Bernstein wants to use this practice, because it generally fosters collaboration amongst the team by integrating all the stakeholders regardless of the levels. Bernstein understands that developing rapport early in the project will enhance the outcome. Bernstein also recognized that there was a problem with the contingency idea because the team wanted to ensure that if the project saved money they wanted to include it in the contingency compensation. The team wanted to include the money in the compensation package because at the end of the project the money can potentially be used as incentives, and could be divided among the team player. Bernstein decided that maintaining contingency within the compensation package was not worth the trouble, some members agreed with Bernstein while other believed if the scope of the contract was defined more accurately the contingency issue may not be problematic. Bernstein decision to keep the two funds separate created some conflict among the team. This type of decision and tension of maintaining a separate contingency was not favorable with the integrated project delivery approach to foster, nor promote open sharing of information. One member believed that having the members of the team mutually accountable is worth a whole lot more than the cost of sharing a few dollars (Edmondson Rashid, 2009). The approach that would be used to manage this project would be similar to the current approach. The integrated project delivery method would appear to be the most logical and cost effective. The idea of integrating all stakeholders at one time does not appear to be anything new that project managers have not used previously. Although there were barriers along the way, this approach seemed to work. The project finished on time and was recognized for its efforts by the American Institute of Architects (Edmondson Rashid, 2009). As a project manager the first collaboration and task amongst the team members would be to establish a vision statement, which involves creating a view of the desired results of your projects, which is normally shared by all stakeholders. Without a vision it would be difficult to continue on with the project of this size. The integrated approach focuses on what is commonly known as the core group of the project such as: the owner, contractor and architect/designer this type of approach can be applied well beyond three main stakeholders aforementioned. The use of the  major stakeholders is a reasonable approach however this approach will also include other important team members who will be as important to ensure the project’s success. By continuing to use the IPD approach shall allow the owners to openly share the project information. It will also streamline the project communication which allows them to effectively balance the project options to meet their business enterprise goals. By using the integrated delivery approach it will strengthen the project teams, and understanding the owner’s desired outcome. The IPD approach will include the contractors, one of the core members that will allow them to contribute their expertise in construction techniques early in the design process resulting in improving project quality and financial performance during the construction phrase. By using the contractors during the designing phase will help with pre-construction planning and understanding the design. As a project manager, one would realize that understanding the design is crucial for this project, because if something goes wrong it could be very costly. Using the architectures or designers as part of the process is another one of those early benefits such as accurate budget estimates to make informed design decision and the pre-construction resolution of design related issues resulting in improved quality and financial performance. They usually bring some of the same qualities as the contractor but from a different perspective. The IPD approach is the desired method that should be used because it’s known to be built on trust and early involvement by more parties. As we all have learned throughout this course, developing trust among the team members encourage people to focus on project outcomes versus individual goals. The project lifecycle will be included with the IPD approach as part of the standard procedures. Reference Carbasho, T. (2008). Integrated Project Delivery Improves Efficiency streamlines construction. Retrieved from htt://www.tradelineinc.com/reports/0A03D1C0-2B3B-B5252-85702EDF900F61 Edmondson, A.C. Rashid, F.(2009) Integrated Project Delivery at Autodesk, Inc. Boston: Boston, MA: Harvard Business Publishing. Lewis, J. (2003). Project leadership: Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill

Friday, September 20, 2019

Recurrent Airway Obstruction in Horse: Case Study Report

Recurrent Airway Obstruction in Horse: Case Study Report A 12-year-old Thoroughbred gelding was examined for a cough whilst being stabled over the winter. There was limited available turnout so the horse remained stabled on shavings in a stable barn. The horse was fed dry hay. There was no previous history of coughing. The clinical examination was unremarkable. The owner described an intermittent dry cough occurring at rest and exercise. At this time the owner was advised to introduce environmental changes to reduce dust exposure. The horse was moved to a stable away from the hay store and started on soaked hay. An inflammatory blood profile was taken which revealed no abnormalities. Despite implementation of environmental changes the cough persisted. The horse was re-examined two months later at the clinic. On this occasion the horse presented with a bilateral mucopurulent nasal discharge and persistent cough. The horse was tachypneic (25 breaths per minute) with increased abdominal effort; the remainder of the clinical examination was unremarkable. A re-breathing examination was performed to aid auscultation of abnormal lung sounds; there were no adventitious sounds and the trachea was normal on auscultation. Problem list Intermittent cough at exercise and at rest Mucopurulent nasal discharge Recurrent episodes Tachypneic Differential Diagnosis List Recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) Inflammatory airway disease Viral infection Bronchopneumonia Pulmonary neoplasia Lungworm The signalment and history alongside the clinical signs of coughing, nasal discharge, laboured respiratory effort and exercise intolerance in the absence of pyrexia, suggested RAO. An endoscopic examination of the upper and lower airways to assess tracheal secretions and to obtain a fluid sample for a tracheal wash was performed. Endoscopy revealed inflammation of the pharyngeal recess, mild lymphoid hyperplasia, erythema of the trachea and a thickened carina. The tracheal wash (TW) sample was mucoid. The cytology report from the TW indicated chronic irritation and inflammation however the cell populations were unable to indicate a specific underlying aetiology. Neutrophillic inflammation was not a strong feature; however low-moderate levels of macrophages and Curschman spirals were present, both of which can be associated with RAO. Bacterial culture yielded a scant growth of Enterobacter spp and Pasteurella spp sensitive to trimethoprim sulphonamides; treatment for a possible bacterial tracheitis was initiated alongside a mucolytic for the mucus present in the airway. Dembrexine hydrochloride (Sputolosin, Boerhinger Ingleheim) (0.3mg/kg q12h PO) and trimethoprim sulfadiazine (Trimediazine Plain, Vetquinol) (30mg/kg q12h PO) were administered for 10days followed by re-examination. A Broncho alveolar lavage (BAL) was advised in order to determine the presence of lower airway inflammation specifically; however the horse was improving and the client declined at this time. Improvement was seen initially however after 5months following initial presentation the cough and nasal discharge resumed. The clinical examination was again unremarkable. A thick muco-purulent TW sample was obtained which revealed marked neutrophilic inflammation >95% of the nucleated cells and a negative bacterial culture. These results were consistent with RAO and as a result treatment for RAO was initiated. Inhaled salbutamol (400ug q12h) followed 5minutes later by beclomethasone (3000ug q12h) for 6weeks. This was administered using a MDI and an AeroHippus, Equine Aerosol Chamber (Trundell Medical). A decision was made to perform a BAL 6weeks later to assess response to treatment. On re-examination the nasal discharge had ceased with a residual cough only at exercise. The BAL sample at this time revealed A residual cough persisted despite being on continuous treatment. As a result a Flexineb nebuliser was trialled. Dexamethasone was used as the inhaled agent; 0.5ml sterile water with 0.5ml dexamethasone (Dexadresson, Intervet) once daily for two weeks and then every other day for two weeks. Discussion RAO is a common disease of older usually stabled horses. Hotchkiss et al, 2007 reported an estimated disease prevalence of 14% in the UK (Hotchkiss et al, 2007). The history, signalment and clinical signs presented in this case supported a diagnosis of RAO (Leclere et al, 2011). The clinical signs most likely represent hypersensitivity/exaggerated response to inhaled pro-inflammatory agents such as hay dust, moulds, spores, forage mites, endotoxins and inorganic components which cause significant distal airway inflammation in susceptible horses (Robinson and Chairperson, 2001). The relative importance of these allergens in the aetiopathogenesis of RAO is difficult to determine; it’s likely all contribute through an additive and/or synergistic mechanism (Pirie et al, 2003). Endoscopic examination revealed excess mucus as a result of neutrophilic inflammation and a blunted carina due to oedema and remodelling (Koblinger et al, 2011). Changes within the airway result from mucus metaplasia, smooth muscle hypertrophy and fibrosis. Bronchospasm of the airway alongside mucus and neutrophil accumulation leads to obstruction (Robinson et al, 2000). The initial treatment with a mucolytic, dembrexine hydrochloride (Sputolosin, Boerhinger Ingleheim) initially provided improvement in clinical signs by fragmenting the sputum fibre network so reducing mucus viscoelasticity (Matthews, Hackett and Lawton, 1988). The owner was reluctant to perform a BAL initially due to the increased stress to the horse. The initial TW cytology couldn’t confirm a diagnosis despite the presence of Curschmann’s spirals which can indicate RAO (Reed and Bayly, 1998). Although it’s important to interpret culture results in light of cytology and clinical signs, paying less attention to scanty mixed growths of bacteria, the culture results were used to direct initial treatment for a possible bacterial tracheitis (McGorum, 2007). In this case where the clinical signs and signalment supported RAO a BAL alongside the TW would have provided a more reliable diagnosis. A BAL is more representative of the lower airways as it allows elucidation of the cellular response to lung injury (Derksen et al, 1989). Macrophages and lymphocytes are the predominant cell populations in BAL in normal horses whereas RAO is characterised by a non-septic inflammatory reaction, >25% neutrophils of the total nucleated cel l count (Robinson, 2001). Management of this disease involves three principles; environmental control to reduce allergens, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and bronchodilators to relieve respiratory distress (Durham, 2001). It can be difficult to persuade owners that environmental changes are as important as medical treatment. In many cases clinical remission can be achieved by moving horses to either pasture or an indoor low-airborne dust environment (Vandenput et al, 1998). Green pasture is the best option to reduce clinical signs and horses should remain outdoors at all times with a supplementary pelleted diet; this was not practicable in this case (Jackson et al, 2000). The limited available turnout during winter made management problematic. Bedding on rubber matting in conjunction with cardboard and shredded paper provides the lowest dust levels for a stabled horse (Tanner et al, 1998). In most horses with RAO the main source of dust is from hay and bedding; in this case the horse had originally be en stabled adjacent to the hay barn. Soaking hay reduces the dust challenge however not sufficiently to resolve symptoms of RAO (Clements and Pirie, 2007). Treatment is based around a combination of bronchodilators and corticosteroids. Bronchodilators aim to alleviate respiratory distress associated with bronchospasm. Clenbuterol a B2 adrenergic agonist is most commonly administered orally to effect (Erichsen et al, 1994). In addition to its bronchodilator effect, clenbuterol has also been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect (Lann et al, 2006). The efficacy of inhaled B2 adrenergic agonists has also been recognised, inducing a rapid, significant bronchodilation in horses demonstrating RAO (Bertin et al, 2011). Due to the effectiveness found with inhaled agents in human patients, this route was investigated in horses. By using bronchodilators prior to administration of corticosteroids a deeper penetration of inhaled drug can be achieved (Rush et al, 1998). The horse’s demeanour in this case made him suitable for inhaled medications and he tolerated treatment well. The advantage of inhaled corticosteroids is that a higher concentration of drug can be administered locally to the airways leading to a rapid onset of action, reducing the dose required and the subsequent side effects associated with corticosteroids (Duvvier et al, 1997). In severe cases systemic steroids are used initially to improve lung function as inhaled steroids require good pulmonary distribution to be effective (Ammann et al, 2008). MDI are not licensed for horses and therefore they were used with due consideration of the cascade and the owners informed consent for the use of off-label medications according to Section 4.17 of the Supporting Guidance to the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct (RCVS, 2014). They are most efficient and effective when used with a ‘spacer’ which directs flow of the drug through a one way valve which opens on inspiration. The AeroHippus EAC, (Trundell Medical) is designed to be used with a MDI. The presence of the Flow-Vu ® indicator enables owners to count the number of breaths the horse has taken through the chamber and ensures a satisfactory seal, both of which aid the correct and optimal delivery of the drug to the lungs (Trundell Medical International, 2015). Nebulisers can also be used to distribute aerosol medication. Nebulisation has been shown to improve drug concentration in the lungs while minimising systemic concentrations and potential toxicity (Sustronck et al, 1995). Fultz et al (2014) demonstrated that delivery via nebulization can increase the concentration of a drug in the pulmonary epithelial lining fluid (PELF) (Fultz et al, 2014). A Flexineb nebuliser was tried with this case due to its chronic nature and the clinical signs subsequently resolved. Although the mainstay of treatment is corticosteroids, recurrence of clinical signs will recur within 3days of treatment cessation if environment improvements are not made (Jackson et al, 2000). There is evidence of persistent chronic peripheral airway obstruction, in the absence of neutrophilic airway inflammation, even when RAO cases are maintained in a low dust environment. This supports the evidence for development of irreversible ultrastructural changes in the lung induced by prolonged repeated exacerbation, but also low grade airway inflammation (Miskovic et al, 2007). In these cases thoracic radiographs should be used to rule out irreversible lung pathology (Lavoie et al, 2004). Bibliography Ammann, V., Vrins, A. and Lavoie, J. (1998). Effects of inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate on respiratory function in horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Equine Veterinary Journal, 30(2), pp.152-157. Bertin, F., Ivester, K. And Couà «til, L. (2011). Comparative efficacy of inhaled albuterol between two hand-held delivery devices in horses with recurrent airway obstruction. Equine Veterinary Journal, 43(4), pp.393-398. Clements, J. and Pirie, R. (2007). Respirable dust concentrations in equine stables. Part 2: The benefits of soaking hay and optimising the environment in a neighbouring stable. Research in Veterinary Science, 83(2), pp.263-268. Derksen, F., Brown, C., Sonea, I., Darien, B. and Robinson, N. (1989). Comparison of transtracheal aspirate and bronchoalveolar lavage cytology in 50 horses with chronic lung disease. Equine Veterinary Journal, 21(1), pp.23-26. Durham, A. (2001). Update on therapeutics for obstructive pulmonary diseases in horses. In Practice, 23(8), pp.474-481. Duvivier, D., Votion, D., Vandenput, S. and Lekeux, P. (1997). Aerosol therapy in the equine species. The Veterinary Journal, 154(3), pp.189-202. Fairbairn, S., Lees, P., Page, C. and Cunningham, F. (1993). Duration of antigen-induced hyperresponsiveness in horses with allergic respiratory disease and possible links with early airway obstruction. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 16(4), pp.469-476. Fultz, L., Giguà ¨re, S., Berghaus, L., Grover, G. and Merritt, D. (2014). Pulmonary pharmacokinetics of desfuroylceftiofur acetamide after nebulisation or intramuscular administration of ceftiofur sodium to weanling foals. Equine Vet Journal, [article first published online 5 September 2014] Hotchkiss, J., Reid, S. and Christey, R. (2007). A survey of horse owners in Great Britain regarding horses in their care. Part 1: Horse demographic characteristics and management. Equine Veterinary Journal, 39(4), pp.294-300. Hoffman, A. (2008). Bronchoalveolar Lavage: Sampling Technique and Guidelines for Cytologic Preparation and Interpretation. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 24(2), pp.423-435. Gerber, V., King, M., Schneider, D. and Robinson, N. (2000). Tracheobronchial mucus viscoelasticity during environmental challenge in horses with recurrent airway obstruction. Equine Veterinary Journal, 32(5), pp.411-417. Jackson, C.A., Berney, C., Jefcoat, A.M. and Robinson, N.E. (2000). Environment and prednisone interactions in the treatment of recurrent airway obstruction (heaves). Equine Veterinary Journal. 32, pp432-438. Koblinger, K., Nicol, J., McDonald, K., Wasko, A., Logie, N., Weiss, M. and Là ©guillette, R. (2011). Endoscopic Assessment of Airway Inflammation in Horses. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 25(5), pp.1118-1126. Laan, T., Bull, S., Pirie, R. and Fink-Gremmels, J. (2006). The anti-inflammatory effects of IV administered clenbuterol in horses with recurrent airway obstruction. The Veterinary Journal, 171(3), pp.429-437. Lavoie, J., Dalle, S., Breton, L. and Hà ©lie, P. (2004). Bronchiectasis in Three Adult Horses with Heaves. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 18(5), pp.757-760. Leclere, M., Lavoie-Lamoureux, A. and Lavoie, J. (2011). Heaves, an asthma-like disease of horses. Respirology, 16(7), pp.1027-1046. Matthews, A., Hackett, I. and Lawton, W. (1988). The mucolytic effect of Sputolosin in horses with respiratory disease. Veterinary Record, 122(5), pp.106-108. McGorum, B. (2007). Equine respiratory medicine and surgery. Saunders Elsevier. (5) pp565-590 Miskovic, M., Couà «til, L. and Thompson, C. (2007). Lung Function and Airway Cytologic Profiles in Horses with Recurrent Airway Obstruction Maintained in Low-Dust Environments. Journal Veterinary Internal Medicine, 21(5), p.1060. Pirie, R., Collie, D., Dixon, P. and McGorum, B. (2003). Inhaled endotoxin and organic dust particulates have synergistic proinflammatory effects in equine heaves (organic dust-induced asthma). Clinical Experimental Allergy, 33(5), pp.676-683 Rcvs.org.uk, (2014). 4. Veterinary medicines RCVS. [online] Available at: http://www.rcvs.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/code-of-professional-conduct-for-veterinary-surgeons/supporting-guidance/veterinary-medicines/ [Accessed 18 Feb. 2015]. Reed, S. and Bayly, W. (1998). Equine internal medicine. Philadelphia: Saunders. Chapter 9, pp341 Robinson, N.E., Olszewski, M.A., Boehler, D., Berney, C., Hakala, J., Matson, C. and Derksen, F.J. (2000). Relationship between clinical signs and lung function in horses with recurrent airway obstruction (heaves) during a bronchodilator trial. Equine Veterinary Journal. 32, pp393-400. Robinson, N. and Chairperson, W. (2001). International Workshop on Equine Chronic Airway Disease Michigan State University 16-18 June 2000. Equine Veterinary Journal, 33(1), pp.5-19. Rush, B., Raub, E., Rhodes, W. S., et al. (1998). Pulmonary function in horses with recurrent airway obstruction after aerosol and parenteral administration of beclomethasone dipropionate and dexamethasone, respectively. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 59, pp1039-1043 Sustronck, B., Deprez, P., Muylle, E., Vermeersch, H., Vandenbossche, G. and Remon, J. (1995). Evaluation of the nebulisation of sodium ceftiofur in the treatment of experimental Pasteurella haemolytica bronchopneumonia in calves. Research in Veterinary Science, 59(3), pp.267-271. Tanner, M., Swinker, A., Traub-Dargatz, J., Stiffler, L., McCue, P., Vanderwall, D., Johnson, D. and Vap, L. (1998). Respiratory and environmental effects of recycled phone book paper versus sawdust as bedding for horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 18(7), pp.468-476. Trundell Medical International (2015) AeroHippus. http://www.trundellmed.com/animal-health/aerohippus [4 February 2015] Vandenput, S., Duvivier, D., Votion, D., Art, T. and Lekeux, P. (1998). Environmental control to maintain stabled COPD horses in clinical remission: effects on pulmonary function. Equine Veterinary Journal, 30(2), pp.93-96.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

U.S. Criminal Justice System Essay -- legal reform, social issues, cir

Before proposing a reform to the American criminal justice system, we must first examine the problems that plague the process of justice on all levels. American society plays an important role in shaping the criminal justice system. Their beliefs and values determine the type of deviants and the consequences of the crimes. Often their beliefs contradict each other. Americans believe that the more serious a crime is, the longer a person should spend in a prison. In reality it means that a law at discretion can sometimes just set a number of years that a person should spend in the jail, regardless of the situation. The time in the prison is often very long (Randall, Brown, Miller& Fritzler, p.216) because some states have definite sentence or mandatory sentences which leave little room for the judge to decide on the merits of the person. For example, California favors â€Å"Three Strikes and You’re Out†(Randall & et al., p.216) stance on the laws which means after third felony crime, a person must spend 25-year-to-life sentence in the prison. They believe that the deprivations of basic needs, isolation from the society, and in extreme cases, death are consequences of committing a crime. The process of the court in America values efficiency and tough punishments. Since there are a lot of arrests, the court is overburdened and pressed for time. The prisoners are processed through like animals for the slaughter, quickly and with no mercy. The inequality in the terms of power and money influences the court. People with deep pockets are able to bail out or negotiate for a lesser term than a person assigned to a free lawyer by the state. Those consequences Americans believe will serve as deterrence or warning to people to obey the law... ...not the answer to all of the problems that America is experiencing in the criminal justice system, but however it may take the pressure off the state to provide the help to people. The reduction and the reform in the prisons are strongly recommended before using this new model. Works Cited Shelden, R.G., Brown, W.B., Miller, K.S., & Fritzler, R.B. (2008). Crime and criminal justice in american society. Long Grove, Illinosis: Waveland Press, INC. Bohet, A.K. & Wadhwa, T. Beyond the prison walls: reforming through silence. Indian Psychology Institute. http://ipi.org.in/texts/nsip/nsip-full/toolika-tihar.html Doleschal, E. (1977). Rate and length of imprisonment: how does the united states compare with the netherlands, denmark , and sweden?. Crime & Delinquency, 23(1), p. 51 -56 http://cad.sagepub.com/content/23/1/51 doi: 10.117/001112877702300105

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Red Convertible Essay -- essays research papers

Perceptions & Deceptions: Life before and after Vietnam for Henry   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Have you ever wanted to take the summer off from work and escape from reality in order to travel around the world without having any worries? Well this is what Henry and Lyman in the â€Å"Red Convertible† by Louise Erdrich decided to do one summer. Henry and Lyman are two brothers who grew up on the Indian reservation. They perceive life on the reservation as an ongoing circle with a harmonious atmosphere. During their trip to Montana and Alaska Henry and Lyman’s idea of a carefree life is only reinforced, but when Henry is sent to Vietnam this perception is surpassed by a new reality and changes Henry’s reactions to the surrounding circumstances.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Henry and Lyman grew up on the reservation where life was peaceful and harmonious. The two brothers had a very close relationship growing up together and were able to expand their adolescence and simplicity with the purchase of the red convertible. A red convertible was not the typical car you would expect to see on the reservation but Henry and Lyman saw the car and bought it on a whim. They traveled to many different places with the car. The red convertible only let the two brothers enjoy their summer by taking them to many comfortable and peaceful places other than the reservation. One of the places they traveled to was filled with willows. â€Å"I remember I laid under those trees and it was comfortable. ...

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Atticus As A Model Parent :: essays research papers

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee suggests that Atticus is a model parent. Atticus gives guidance to Jem and Scout, and he treats them with fairness and honesty. He tries to bring them up as best he can as a single parent. Atticus is always guiding Jem and Scout with advice so that they will become more compassionate people. Atticus sets a good example for the children when Mr Ewell confronts him. Even though he is provoked and insulted, Atticus simply has a â€Å"peaceful reaction†. This shows the children never to get into fights with people when they are upset about something. Atticus shows children about courage and all the forms it appears in. When Jem is told to read for Ms Dubose and she dies, Atticus explains to Jem about her morphine addiction, and how she died â€Å"free†. This shows Jem that courage isn’t always where you expect to find it, and that if you have some compassion, you see people for who they really are. The most important piece of advice he gives his children is that â€Å"you never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view†¦ until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.† This is important for the childre n to know, because it helps them to be more caring people, and they use this advice throughout the novel. Atticus treats everyone with fairness. He always hears both sides of the story. He does this after Scout has gotten into a fight with Francis Hancock. After a time Atticus hears Scout’s side of the story and realises that it wasn’t totally Scout’s fault. Scout also tells Uncle Jack that when she and Jem get into fights Atticus stops to hear both sides of the argument before placing the blame, if any. When he is confronted by awkward issues Atticus never tries to hide or cover up the truth. He tells Uncle Jack at Finches landing that when a child asks you something, â€Å"answer him, for goodness sake.† After Atticus is confronted by the mob outside the county jail, he doesn’t try to pretend that they weren’t there to hurt him. He admits that Mr Cunningham might have â€Å"hurt me a little.† When Scout asks Atticus if they are poor, the usual response would be to say no, so as not to scare Scout.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Gambling research essay Essay

Gambling refers to the play of any game where there is money, or something of value at stake. There are many different forms of gambling including horse races, lotteries, casinos, scratch cards, stock market betting, and even more recently internet gambling. Although these games are meant for recreational use, the thrill of gambling causes some people to become so involved in it that they become dependent on gambling. The effects of gambling can cause damage psychologically, be very harmful to one’s social life and can also cause many physical damages. Gambling addiction and pathological gambling is not always seen as dangerous as other addictions like substance abuse but it can in fact be a very damaging addiction to many aspects of life and should be considered a major health problem. Not everyone who gambles has a gambling addiction or even has the capability of being addicted to gambling. The majority of people who gamble do not have an addiction and simply do it for recreational purposes. But there is a small percentage of people who gamble who are considered problem gamblers or pathological gamblers. Pathological gamblers is described as, â€Å"Pathological gambling is characterized by chronic and irresistible impulses to gamble, with consequent gambling compromises and disruptions to family, personal and vocational pursuits. † (Coman, Burrows & Evans, 1997) This addiction causes the gambler to gamble very frequently, often times they will begin to make bigger and bigger bets and receiving feelings of anxiety or depression when they are not gambling. Pathological gambling can also include gambling to recover losses from previous gambling episodes, lying to family members to try and hide their habits, committing criminal acts to obtain money for gambling and relying on others to provide money to relieve them from their financial situation. This is a very serious addiction and should be considered a major health problem because it can negatively affect many serious aspects of an individual’s life. There are many different influences and gateways that can lead to gambling and even a gambling addiction. Although things like scratch cards may not seem like much of a threat to becoming an addiction, they can intrigue the thought of winning money purely by chance which is a dangerous mindset to have. Another factor that can lead to a gambling addiction is the link between the proximity from the casino and gambling participation. Living close to a casino causes much more accessibility and can add to the possibility of gaining an addiction, â€Å"additional gambling opportunities due to the presence of a casino increase the prevalence of gambling-related problems for people who live close to a casino, as compared with people who live far from one. †(Sevigny, Ladouceur, Jacques & Cantinotti, 2008)People who live closer to the casino are much more likely to just â€Å"drop by† and play a few hands rather than people who live farther and have to make an evening of it. Accessibility can have a large impact on gaining an addiction to gambling. Also, the recent popularity of poker has a huge impact on the view of gambling for younger people. Poker has become very popular in our society today and is televised quite frequently showing these players not only making a living from this game of chance, but becoming millionaires. Some of these players are seen as celebrities who can cause some younger audiences to look up to them and strive to be like them. These aspects do not directly lead to a gambling problem but they can definitely help lead to one. Technology has become a large contributory factor to problem gambling. As stated earlier, accessibility can have a large impact on gaining an addiction to gambling and the technology of internet has brought accessibility of gambling to a whole new level. Gambling over the internet should be a major concern because the increase in gambling opportunities gives the potential for an increase in problem gamblers. Research evidence in other countries has clearly shown that: â€Å"where accessibility of gambling is increased there is an increase not only in the number of regular gamblers but also an increase in the number of problem gamblers. † (Griffiths, 1999) Internet gambling websites has dramatically increased this accessibility which will in turn increase the number of people gambling. Not everyone is susceptible to becoming a problem gambler, but the more people gambling, the more people who have the chance of becoming addicted. The popularity of internet gambling is on the rise with its easy accessibility and quickness. This popularity itself cannot lead to a gambling addiction but a number of the more popular poker players on television often promote different gambling websites where anyone of any age can play poker online. The websites allow someone to play in tournaments, play with friends and play with fake money or even real money. They are very appealing to people of all ages and easily accessible all the time which makes them a threat to contributing to problem gamblers and youth gambling. When someone suffers from problem gambling, it is not only that individual that is affected but their family, friends and community as well. There can be some positive aspects of gambling in terms of the social effects of gambling. Gambling can be seen as a recreation, a break from their problems of everyday life and a nice night out. Yet these positive effects only exist if gambling is done in moderation. Once gambling becomes a habit and a necessity is where the negative impacts arrive. Often, it’s those close to the pathological gambler that suffer the most. Constant gambling takes time away from family, friends and other activities. If gambling becomes a problem, it can cause loss of trust between individuals and family members which can lead to family related problems and even divorce. Generally, the social problems begin with borrowing of money to support their addiction. At this point, many friends and family may lose touch with the gambler. Being distanced from those who are closest can cause desperation which may lead to criminal activity. Pathological gambling can become so severe that they can resort to criminal activity in a last effort to support their financial needs. People are more likely to commit crime without thinking of the consequences when they are in a desperation mindset which is what can happen after a big loss due to gambling. Supporters for the spread of legalized gambling make claims about economic growth and more jobs but opponents have a strong case saying, â€Å"†¦ various forms of street crimes, such as robberies and automobile thefts, come with gambling, as well as problems with connections to organized crime†¦ The majority of Wisconsin problem gamblers in treatment that were interviewed in Thompson et al. (1999) admitted to crimes as a result of their gambling activity, primarily property crimes. † (Gazel, Rickman & Thompson, 2001) Pathological gamblers reach a point where there are no options left so they have to resort to illegal means to support themselves displaying the severity and control that a gambling addiction can have. Having a gambling addiction does not just affect someone economically or socially but it can deeply affect them psychologically. Once a pathological gambler is down money, they will make bets to try and regain that money that they have lost. Instead of cutting their losses, they get deeper into debt, preoccupying themselves with gambling, determined to win big to repay their loans and solve all their problems (Griffiths, 2001). A very dangerous way of thinking is the â€Å"what if I win† mentality. This way of thinking is especially dangerous because then they are more prone to make bigger bets with money they may not have to lose so they can receive bigger rewards. A large factor for whether someone develops this addiction has a lot to do with their personality. The type of personality someone has can have on whether or not someone develops a gambling addiction or not. Gambling is characterized by an â€Å"unrealistic optimism by the gambler† (Griffiths, 2001). For the most part people believe that optimism is a good way to live life by always seeing the positive things instead of dwelling on the negatives. Optimists are known to be less likely to suffer from depression symptoms following a stressful event and seem to have more psychological benefits when compared to pessimists. Although in terms of gambling, optimism can be counterproductive, â€Å"Optimists may be especially susceptible to maintaining illusory gambling expectations. Because of their generalized expectations for success, optimists may approach gambling with the belief that they can win. † (Gibson & Sanbonmatsu, 2004) Optimists may also have a tendency to look at the positive aspects in a situation which may prolong their gambling thinking that they will win it all back. Also, people who are risk takers are more prone to gambling addiction than someone who is more conservative. Not everyone is susceptible to becoming a pathological gambler and a great deal of the matter has to do with their personality type and how they look at different negative situations. Having a gambling addiction not only affects one’s social life but it can have a great impact on your mind and even cause physical difficulties. Pathological gamblers often suffer from stress-related disorders such as depression, insomnia, intestinal disorders and migraines. Health problems do not only occur from the gambling itself but a significant amount of people suffer problems from the withdrawal, â€Å"Rosenthal and Lesieur (1992) found that at least 65 percent of pathological gamblers reported at least one physical side-effect during withdrawal including insomnia, headaches, upset stomach, loss of appetite, physical weakness, heart racing, muscle aches, breathing difficulty and/or chills. † (Griffiths, 2001) It was also found that pathological gamblers experienced more physical withdrawal effects when attempting to stop than substance abusers who are attempting to quit. This is quite astonishing and again proves why gambling addiction is a very serious matter and should be considered just as much of a health problem as addiction to alcohol or other substances. Pathological gambling can cause great psychological damage and can cause people to do irrational things after a big loss which can sometimes even lead to suicide. Pathological gambling and suicide have been known to have a link to each other. Suicidal attempts among pathological gamblers are much more frequent than among the general public. The American Psychiatric Association did a study that with these results, â€Å"Of individuals in treatment for Pathological Gambling, 20% are reported to have attempted suicide, (American Psychiatric Association (APA))† (Penfold, Hatcher, Sullivan & Collins, 2006) For many gamblers, coping with the negative emotions relating to their issues in their life can be overwhelming. Feelings of shame, hopelessness and failure may be hard to bear which sometimes makes suicide seem like the best solution for their problems. The damage to the mental aspects is one of the reasons that make pathological gambling so dangerous. The act of gambling and casinos is a very controversial topic. There are some positive aspects to the casino and gambling that include a source of jobs and economic development. Gambling is meant to be for recreational use on occasion but it can also be very dangerous. Certain people with certain personality types and lifestyles may be prone to becoming a pathological gambler. The effects of pathological gambling can cause a lot of harm psychologically, destroy someone’s social and family life, cause physical damage to themselves which can even lead to their death. Gambling addiction may not be seen as dangerous or likely to happen as other addictions but the results from being a pathological gambler can be just as harmful as other addictions and should be considered just as much as a serious health issue as everything else. References: Griffiths, M. (1999). Gambling Technologies: Prospects for Problem Gambling. Journal of Gambling Studies, vol.15, no. 3, p. 265-283. Griffiths, M. (2001). Gambling: An Emerging Area of Concern for Health Psychologists. Journal of Psychology, vol. 6, no. 5, p. 477-479. Gibson, B. , & Sanbonmatsu, D. (2004). Optimism, Pessimism, and Gambling: The Downside of Optimism. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, vol. 30, no. 2, pp. 149-160. Coman, J. , Burrows, G. , & Evans, B. (1997). Stress and Anxiety as Factors in the Onset of Problem Gambling: Implications for Treatment. Stress Medicine, Vol. 13, no. 4, p. 235-244. Sevigny, S. , Ladouceur, R. , Jacques, C. , & Cantinotti, M. (2008). Links between Casino Proximity and Gambling Participation, Expenditure, and Pathology. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, vol. 22, no. 2, p. 295-301. Penfold, A. , Hatcher, S. , Sullivan, S. , & Collins, N. (2006) Gambling Problems and Attempted Suicide. Part 1. High Prevalence amongst Hospital Admissions. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, vol. 4, no. 3, p. 265-272. Gazel, R. , Rickman, D. , & Thompson, W. (2001) Casino Gambling and Crime: a Panel Study of Wisconsin Counties. Managerial and Decision Economics, vol. 22, no. 1-3, p. 65-75.