Usability Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Usability Study - Essay Example Despite the slimness, Ipad 2 has a wide screen that makes it possible to view large images. Interestingly, Ipad 2 has only four press buttons. The touch screen technology makes it possible for users to command the Ipad 2 by touching the screen. Additionally, the machine has an inbuilt accelerometer technology that allows images to be viewed in portrait or landscape view. This means that, when the Ipad is rotated in different orientations, images remain upright. Ipad 2 is one of the quickest and fastest mobile application machines. This is made possible by the dedicated dual-core A5 microchip. Ipad 2 is therefore, able to multitask, provide high performance graphics, surf, and perform other multiple functions with exemplary speeds. Notably, the Ipad has two miniature cameras, one at the front and the other at the back. Although they are small, they are very powerful. The camera at the front is used for face time video calling. This means that the Ipad can be used for real time video conferencing. The other camera is used for taking photos and videos. It is worth noting that the hundreds of applications that are supported by Ipad 2 are made possible by its operating system. Ipad 2 uses the most advanced mobile operating system called iOS. The iOS operating system supports various mobile technologies such as the accelerometer, touch screen technology, iCloud among others. One of the most interesting applications features in Ipad 2 is iCloud. The iCloud technology enables the users to move files and data from the Ipad to other electronic devices without having to use a connecting device. The iCloud is a communication platform in which different electronic devices can communicate wirelessly with the Ipad. The Ipad 2 comes with a Wi-Fi and 3G connection technology, which can support UMTS, HSDPA, HSUPA internet connections. This means that the device can connect to high-speed internet connection ports fast and seamlessly.

Internal Curing Concrete Essay Example for Free

Internal Curing Concrete Essay Early-age cracking, autogenous shrinkage and self-desiccation are almost inevitable problems for concrete, especially for mass high performance concrete, for the permeability of which is too low for external curing water to get in and fully hydrate the cement paste inside. The better hydration of the cement paste, the less and smaller cracks the concrete have, and the better durability and reliability the concrete structures do. In order to solve this problem, scientists have consider an unconventional methods to cure the concrete from the inside out so a better hydration can be achieved. As early as 1957, Paul Klieger[1] have mentioned how helpful the saturated lightweight aggregates would be to supply internal curing water and improve the long-term strength in his report. Nowadays, this method as internal curing has been fully developed and widely used to get low-cracking high-performance concrete with better hydration by replacing part of natural fine aggregates with saturated lightweight aggregates. The goal is clear and simple, but the ways to achieve the same purpose is various and have different advantages and disadvantages. In this report, several techniques and materials with different properties that could be used in internal curing, such as expanded shale clay or slate(ESCS)[2] and Superabsorbent polymers(SAP)[3], would be introduced and comment. Internal curing has a good performance especially in fields like mass concrete, or high performance concrete with low permeability. The properties why internal curing is a practical consideration for these instance s would be discussed in this report. 1 Introduction 1.1 Background Concrete has many good properties as modern building material. It has high compression strength, fire proof, and cheap to produce. Since the using of concrete has a long history, the techniques of concrete structure construction may be fully developed. However, there still are some problems that almost inevitable for concrete, such as self-desiccation, autogenous shrinkage and chemical shrinkage. All of these issues may lead to cracking of concrete, and the chloride may penetrate through the cracks easily and cause corrosion of the reinforcement. As we all know, most of the failures of concrete structures are due to the corrosion of the reinforcement. Hence, concrete with less cracks or later to have cracks may contribute to a longer service life of a concrete structure. What’s more, most of these unwanted cracks develop at the early-age of concrete placing. That’s why proper curing, which limits the early shrinkage and lowers the chance of early-age cracking, is so important to ensure the concrete develop the required properties and durability to reach their designed service life. Conventional curing uses methods to provide additional water to keep high relative humidity on the concrete surface, such as ponding and misting, or uses curing compounds, plastic membrane and evaporation retarder to slow evaporation. No matter water adding or moisture loss avoiding work mostly on the upper part of concrete, since the permeability of concrete is limited, the deeper inside concrete, the harder for water to penetrate. On the other hand, self-desiccation (the reduction of the internal relative humidity in the concrete due to hydration reaction) will lead to autogenous shrinkage (concrete volume change occurring without moisture transfer to the environment) even without external moisture loss. Concrete shrinkage over time , will induce cracking that can reduce the service life expectation of concrete structure severely. In short, even proper conventional external concrete curing cannot provide perfect environment for concrete to develop its durability efficiently. Since 1980’s, the production of high-performance concrete(HPC) became more common, and to achieve their much higher strength and durability properties, lower water cement ratio and lower permeability is required. The self-desiccation and autogenous shrinkage problem became even more severe a situation for HPC than for normal portland cement, because external curing water would be more difficult to penetrate deeply into the low permeable concrete to supply the loss water due to hydration and evaporation. When shrinkage happens, cracking is almost inevitable. Concerning a long time situation, internal relative humidity has a strong relationship with free autogenous shrinkage. 1.2 Internal curing Is there any solution that can settle down this problem? Or is there a way that can cure concrete more efficiently so can limit the cracks? The answer is yes. Since curing concrete from outside in has its limit, deeper part inside the concrete cannot be cured properly, how about cure concrete from inside out? As early as 1957, Paul Klieger [1] have mentioned how helpful the saturated lightweight aggregates would be to supply internal curing water and improve the long-term strength in his report. In 1991, Philleo [2] suggested incorporating saturated lightweight fine aggregate into the concrete mixture to provide an internal source of water to replace that consumed by chemical shrinkage during hydration of the paste. Nowadays, this method that use water-containing materials , replacing with normal aggregates to cure concrete, has been well developed and been named as internal curing. Such water-containing material could be saturated lightweight fine aggregates, sup erabsorbent polymers, or saturated wood fibers. Internal curing has been defined by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) as â€Å"supplying water throughout a fleshly placed cementitious mixture using reservoirs, via pre-wetted lightweight aggregates, that readily release water as needed for hydration or to replace moisture lost through evaporation or self-desiccation† 2 Benefits of internal curing Internal curing distributes the extra curing water throughout the 3-D concrete microstructure so that it is more readily available to maintain saturation of the cement paste during hydration, avoiding self-desiccation in the paste and reducing autogenous shrinkage. Along with this process, the main benefits bring about by internal curing may be concluded as below: 2.1 Reducing cracks due to shrinkage Concrete is susceptible to plastic shrinkage cracking at early age, especially when the evaporation rate is high. Right after placing, the concrete paste is still in a fluid state. The aggregates and cement particles tend to settle down due to gravity, while internal water is likely to bleed out onto the surface. Such layer of water will keep the evaporation of the concrete surface in a relatively constant rate. But this situation won’t last for a long time after the cement particles contact each other and start to develop strength. The rate of settlement will highly reduce along with much less water bleeding. During this period, highly tensile stress occur inside the concrete due to surface tension of drying out internal water. Because at this time, concrete is under a plastic state but having develop enough strength to resist this tensile stress, cracks will occur. For internal curing concrete, the pre-wetted aggregates will provide water to replenish the evaporation from the surface of concrete. It makes the pores within the hydrating cement pastes fluid filled and thus helps to reduce the tensile stress. Shrinkage will be much less sever and cracks will less likely to happen. Besides limiting the happening of cracking, internal curing also contributes to delaying the age of cracking. As the volume of pre-wetted aggregates increases, the age of cracking is delayed, until an asymptote appears to be reached when sufficient pre-wetted aggregates has been added according to the research done by Schlitter et al (2010).[3] 2.2 Long-term strength gaining Cement particles inside concrete finish most of hydration in the first 28 days, but the cement particles have not been completely hydrated after 28 days. Some unhydrated cement remain in the concrete and takes time to continue hydration. That’s the reason why as time goes by, the strength of concrete will increase even after a long period of time. For lower water cement ratio concrete, the required time to be fully hydration is longer. As to very low water cement ratio concrete, it may even be impossible for it to be fully hydrated. The hydration will stop when there is no longer capillary water available. In conventional curing, the capillary water inside the concrete will soon run out after early hydration, and the external water is not easy to penetrate into the concrete to hydrate the unhydrated cement particles. By using internal curing method, after most of the capillary water been used, the internal relative humidity drops, and the pre-wet ted aggregates will provide water for cement to keep hydrating steadily for a longer time. As for the using of light-weight aggregates to provide internal curing, the reduction strength due to the light-weight aggregates can be compensate by this long-term strength gaining. 2.3 Reduction of permeability The principal contribution of internal curing results in the reduction of permeability due to a significant extension in the time of curing. It was shown that extending the time of curing increased the volume of cementitious products formed which caused the capillaries to become segmented and discontinuous.Reducing permeability leads to less penetration of aggressive agents that accelerate corrosion of embedded reinforcement. This decrease in permeability results from internal curing could obviously enhance the durability of concrete structures. 2.4 Working well with SCM Environment problem have been paid more and more attention by people today. In order to lower carbon footprint for using concrete, replacing cement with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs i.e., silica fume, fly ash, metokaolin, calcined shales, clays and slates) is suggested as a way to use substantially less clinker. SCMs (except for silica fume) take longer time to hydrate, therefore requiring water to be present for a longer time. While more than one research has shown both internal curing and SCMs improve long term durability performance. Luckily, recent work has shown that internal curing works particularly well with SCMs. Internal curing enables the SCMs in these mixtures to react for a longer time, since the higher water content needed to support the reaction of the SCMs can be maintained. 2.5 Improving behavior of the contact zone Contact Zone refers to two distinctly different phenomena: (1) the mechanical adhesion of the cementitious matrix to the surface of the aggregate; (2) the variation of physical and chemical characteristics of the transition layer of the cementitious matrix close to the aggregate particle (ASTM STP 169 D [2006] Chapter # 46 Holm Ries). In the contact zone, the C-S-H is not evenly distributed in the outer product, and porosity is greater at aggregate surface within 15-50 µm. What’s more, the obvious elastic difference between aggregate and the surrounding cementitious matrix make the transfer of stress from bulk cement paste to stiffer aggregate causes ‘softening’(microcracking) in interfacial transition zone. High incidence of interfacial cracking or aggregate debonding will have a serious effect on durability if these cracks fill with water and subsequently freeze. All of these factors make the contact zone a weaker location in the concrete. By using internal curing, more internal water can be provide around the aggregates and lead to a better hydration at the interfacial transition zone, which decrease the porosity and increase the strength. The lower permeability also contributes to the difficulty for the chloride to penetrate. What’s more, the lower modulus of the light weight aggregate and the improved transition zone around the light weight aggregate particles due to their generally vesicular surface, helped reduce stress concentrations between the paste and the aggregate and those reductions subsequently reduced the amount of early-age cracking in the concrete. 3 Material and methods for internal curing As long as the principle is the same, different ways can be applied to achieve internal curing. Besides of light weight aggregates, the properties of other techniques and materials will be presented in this chapter. And their advantages and disadvantages will be commented. 3.1 Bentonite clay Bentonite is an absorbent aluminium phyllosilicate. It has a high specific surface, most of which more than 100 m2/g, and this property enables them to adsorb several molecular layers of water between their platelet structures [10]. The absorbed water is held by secondary chemical bonds and the bentonite may swell up to 14 times as its original volume as a result of the water absorption. If the relative humidity in the surroundings is lowered, this water is reversibly released. Potentially, bentonite or other layered clay minerals may be used as a water reservoir for internal water curing. However, there still one important problem remain to be solved for the application of bentonite. In high ionic media, such as in cementitious materials, these clays agglomerate and form a compact structure instead of spreading out evenly [11]. And whether inducing same charge into bentonite as water reducer do to make the bentonite particles repel from each other could solve this problem remain to be investigated. Figure 3.2 Superabsorbent polymers A superabsorbent polymer, SAP, is a polymeric material which is able to absorb a significant amount of liquid from the surroundings and to retain the liquid within its structure without dissolving [12], SAPs are principally used for absorbing water and aqueous solutions. With the present polymer types the theoretical maximum water absorption is approx. 5000 times their own weight. However, the absorbency of commercially produced SAPs is around 50 g/g in dilute salt solutions such as urine, and in high ionic solutions such as cement paste pore fluid the absorbency may be below 20 g/g [13]. The absorption of water in the SAP is based on secondary chemical bonds, and the water is so loosely held that all of it essentially can be considered bulk water. Most SAPs are cross-linked polyelectrolytes. Because of their ionic nature and interconnected structure, they absorb large quantities of water and other aqueous solutions without dissolving. SAPs have found a wi despread use as a high-tech material e.g. for contact lenses, breast implants, fire fighting, drug delivery, in baby diapers and as soil conditioners. Today’s world production exceeds 500,000 tons per year of which about 85% is used for baby diapers [14]. Figure 5.1: Superabsorbent polymers are swellable substances which can absorb many times their own weight of liquids by forming a gel. The absorbed liquid is not released even under moderate pressure [12]. The picture shows a dry, collapsed and a swollen suspension polymerized SAP particle. A description of the use of SAP for internal water curing can be found in the literature [2,13,15]. Compared with lightweight aggregate SAP has some peculiarities. SAP can be used as a dry concrete admixture since it takes up water during the mixing process. Furthermore, the use of SAP permits free design of the pore shape and the pore size distribution of the hardening concrete, however, the pores introduced by the SAP in the concrete may preferably be selected in the range 50-300  µm. 3.3 Crushed Returned Concrete Aggregates Recycled aggregate consists of stone particles with mortar from the original concrete attached to them. The volume fraction of this mortar may amount to 20 to 60%, and results in a significantly higher water absorption of recycled concrete aggregates compared to conventional aggregates [8]. The relatively high water absorption of recycled aggregate, however, may be difficult to utilize for internal water curing. The cement paste fraction of recycled aggregate will, typically, have a fine and tight pore structure which cannot supply water to the coarse pore structure of a hydrating cement paste at early ages. For this reason, recycled aggregate may be less useful than normal aggregate for internal water curing. However, some experiments have shown promising results for recycled aggregate. By blending the crushed returned concrete aggregates with an appropriate lightweight aggregate sand, a substantial reduction in autogenous shrinkage will be a chieved, with minimal reduction in long term compressive strength. The mortars based on light weight aggregate sand substitutions alone provided the highest compressive strengths and the greatest reductions in autogenous shrinkage. But, blending the crushed returned concrete aggregates with the light weight aggregate sand may provide the optimum mixture in terms of material costs and sustainable development.[ICwCCA] 3.4 Artificial LWA Expanded Shale, Clay and Slate Lightweight Aggregate The Earth has been producing LWA from volcanoes since the beginning of time. This natural material, however, is inconsistent and very little is suitable for making concrete. ESCS is specially made for concrete and has been manufactured from surface†mined raw shale, clay or slate for nearly 100 years. (ESCS raw materials typically do not have any other conventional purpose in the construction industry because they are too soft.) The raw materials for ESCS production are placed into a rotary kiln at approx. 1200 °C until it turns into a strong consistent material which is called expanded shale, clay or lightweight aggregate or just ESCS for short. ESCS is a uniform, high quality, ceramic aggregate that’s about 1/2 the weight of natural aggregates. Pores are created in ESCS during the manufacturing process as gases escape due to the application of heat. The newly created pores are ideally suited to accommodate the absorption of water, much like a sponge. ESCS’s greatest contribution is its ability to desorb water. Unlike a sponge, it does not have to be squeezed for the water to be released. This characteristic naturally permits water to egress or be desorbed from the pores of pre-wetted ESCS when the cement demands more water during the hydration process. The physical ability of the pores to manage water movement is the key to internal curing. However, the manufacturing heating process of ESCS is relatively expensive. Moreover, compared with other lightweight aggregate, ESCS has a relatively fine and less continuous pore system, a large part of the pores are closed. Some of the pore water is held down to at least RH=70%. Consequently only a part of the water held in ESCS will be useful for internal curing [6]. 3.5 Natural LWA – Perlite and Pumice Perlite is a naturally occurring silicious, glassy rock which contains 2-6% combined water. When quickly heated to above 900 °C, the crude rock expands 4-20 times its original volume as the combined water vaporizes and creates countless tiny bubbles. This results in a bulk density in the range 30-400 kg/m3, and a water absorption of 200-600%. Perlite has found multiple uses such as for filtration, as an abrasive and within horticulture to provide aeration and moisture retention. However, perlite is primarily used within the construction area for example as concrete aggregate and as a cavity-filling insulation. Disintegration of perlite particles has been observed during mixing due to their high porosity and consequently low strength [18]. This may have adverse effects on the concrete. Fully saturated, the water content of perlite may be 4.5 kg/kg [18]. Pumice is a porous volcanic rock which resembles a sponge, see Figure 5.2. The porous s tructure is formed by dissolved gases which are precipitated during the cooling as the lava hurtles through the air. All types of magma may form pumice. The connectivity of the pore structure may range from completely closed to completely open. A representative value for the absorption of pumice is 0.27 kg/kg [18].

Another Holiday for the Prince Essay -- Literary Analysis, Elizabeth

In â€Å"Another Holiday for the Prince† by Elizabeth Jolley the author draws upon many themes, one in particular that Jolley illustrates is how poverty influences changes in the individual lives within one family. To begin with the head of the family; a father is never mentioned in the story, not even once. But by not having a father figure in the story the reader can understand a lot. In society the man is the one who earns the money and provides all the essentials for his family, however this story is presented in a society were the mother has to be the man of the family. Ones self-esteem can be diminished as a result of poverty, alienation; destructive effects of a week personality or society on the individual. The author effectively conveys this theme through the use of characterization, symbolism and contrast. Jolley uses characterization to individualize each character in a poverty stricken family. The son is referred to as a prince by his mother several times throughout the story even though he is a high school dropout. â€Å"Mother always called him Prince; she worried about him all the time. I couldn’t think why. He was only my brother and a drop out at that† (117). The author portrays the son to be someone with low self-esteem because he is poor and a drop out he lives a miserable life. His mother tries to provide him with as much, but is unable to do this because of her social status is society. â€Å"‘Sleeps the best thing he can have. I wish he’d eat!’ She watched me as I took bread and spread the butter thick, she was never mean about butter, when we didn’t have other things we always had plenty of butter† (117). Through this passage the author convincingly demonstrates that they are poor and cannot afford an assortment of thing... ...eral topic of school. The sister strives to graduate and go to school even though she is poor while her brother blames the school for him dropping out and not graduating. â€Å"I got out my social studies. Hot legs has this idea of a test every Wednesday† (118). This demonstrates that she is driven to study for class and get good grades while her brother tries to convince her that school is worth nothing and that there is no point in attending. â€Å"‘Why don’t you get out before they chuck you out. That’s all crap,’ he said, knocking the books across the floor. ‘You’ll only fail your exam and they don’t want failures, spoils their bloody numbers. They’ll ask you to leave, see if they don’t’† (118). The brother tries to convince his sister that school is not a necessity and that living the way he does, being a drop out living in a poverty stricken family is the best thing.

Fasting: Body Cleansing or Starving Essay -- Health Religion Papers

Fasting: Body Cleansing or Starving The Purpose of Fasting Fasting is a body cleansing procedure during which food is restricted and only liquids are consumed. Strictly water fasts are the most brutal; herbal teas and juices made from fresh fruits and vegetables are consumed during a more liberal fast. Juice fasting is the preferred method amongst many doctors and European fasting clinics, perhaps because it is less harsh than other treatment plans. Today in the Western Hemisphere, many chronic health problems result from bad eating habits. There are a mix of people who are over-nourished, malnourished, or both. We eat chemically altered, high-fat toxic foods that do not provide a sufficient amount of essential vitamins and minerals to our bodies. Clogging of the eliminative systems with excess mucous is thought to sustain congestive diseases. Ineffective digestion and poor nourishment result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies. A well-balanced diet can overcome this health crisis. A diet of raw foods and fluids helps cleanse the body, and fasting takes the cleansing a step further. Every fasting method, suited individually to a person’s needs, cleanses toxins from the person’s body. The nutrients in fresh juice provide energy and support to the body while stimulating the detoxification process by clearing waste from its systems. This detoxification process is an important corrective process in our nutritional cycle. We allow our body to breathe and naturally cleanse itself. (Haas) The Ancient Practice of Fasting The history of fasting goes back thousands of years. Many religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Eastern religions used and still use fasting as a healing process for spiritual purifica... ...an Anti-Aging Strategy- Is it Still Safe? Found at www.healthy.net/library/articles/chaitow/fasting.htm. Chaitow, L. Fasting, Mono-diets and Raw Food Days.Found at www.healthy.net/library/books/chaitow/chap13.htm. Haas, E. Fasting. Found at www.healthy.net/hwlibrarybooks/haas/detox/fasting.htm. Kernt, P. et al, ‘Fasting: the history, pathophysiology, and complications" Western Journal of Medicine (1982) 137:379-99 Kjeldsen-Kragh, J. et al, ‘Controlled trial of fasting and one-year vegetarian diet in Rheumatoid Arthritis’ Lancet (1991) 899-904. NaturalDoc: Fasting and Health Vacations. Found at www.naturaldoc.com/. Protein and Nitrogen Homeostasis. Found at http://medtstgo.ucdavis.edu/endo/lecture/metProNit.htm True, G.N. How Fasting Can Slow You Down. Found at www.netasia.net/users/truehealth/Fasting.htm.

AMUL – A case study on IT in SCM

AMUL – A case study on IT in SCM A live case of Use of IT Amul is a leading food brand in India. It offers a wide range of products like milk, milk powder, butter, ghee, cheese, chocolates, Shrikhand, ice cream and many more. The brand name AMUL is derived from the Sanskrit word â€Å"Amoolya†, meaning priceless. The first products with the Amul brand name were launched in 1955. Since then, they have been in use in millions of homes in all parts of India, and beyond.Today Amul is a symbol of many things: Of high quality products sold at reasonable prices, of availability, of service. Amul has been accredited with ISO 9001 and HACCP Certification by QAS, Australia-the first food company in Asia to receive the HACCP Certification â€Å"Amul† is a well-acknowledged and live example of making a strong use of IT Formed in the year 1946, Amul initiated the dairy co-operative movement in India and formed an apex co-operative organization called the Gujarat Cooperative M ilk Marketing Federation (GCMMF).Today, this movement is being replicated in 70,000 villages in over 200 districts in India, transforming the rural landscape. This co-operative revolution has made India the largest producer of milk in the world today. Amul is also one of the largest and most celebrated food brands in India. GCMMF markets its products through 50 sales offices throughout India; and distribution is done through a network of 4,000 stockists who, in turn, supply 500,000 retail outlets.The complexity of logistics can be visualized in terms of: millions of litres of milk to be collected from millions of village members. Interestingly, milk is a perishable commodity; hence a strong coordination function is required in storing, processing and distributing the milk in required time. The case of Amul's supply chain is noteworthy simply because the movement has not only lead to efficient collection of milk but, more importantly, has used IT to create higher profits for milk pro ducers. Role of Information Technology IT has played a critical role in the development of the Amul brand.The logistics behind the coordination of approximately six million liters of milk per day from numerous village co-operative societies throughout Gujarat, and storing, processing and producing of milk products at various district dairy societies, is carried out with clock-precision. In these, IT plays a critical role. The installation of over 3,000 Automatic Milk Collection System Units (AMCUS) at village societies to capture member information, milk fat content volume collected, and amount payable to each member, has proved invaluable in ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the entire organization.GCMMF is an apex co-operative organization that comprises affiliated member dairies/district milk unions, each having its own manufacturing unit. These member dairies in turn collect milk from members who supply milk twice a day to the respective village co-operative societie s. To meet the challenge of growing business, IT was decided as the thrust area that would streamline the production and collection process and the processing of milk products. This is where the installation of AMCUS made the entire operation look simple.As milk is a highly perishable commodity in the supply chain, the AMCUS initiative is vital for the operations. More importantly, this initiative has increased the trust and transparency for IT in rural areas'. On an average, around thousand farmers come to sell milk at their local cooperative milk collection center. Each farmer is given a plastic card for identification, at the milk collection counter, the farmer drops the card into a box and the identification number is transmitted to a personal computer attached to the machine.The milk is then weighed and the fat content of the milk measured by an electronic fat testing machine. Both these details are recorded in the PC. The computer then calculates the amount 1 AMUL – A c ase study on IT in SCM due to the farmer on the basis of the fat content. The value of the milk is then printed out on a slip and handed over to the farmer, who collects the payment at the adjacent window. With the help of IT the farmers receive their payments within a matter of minutes.Each member preserves the milk in the cold storage, processing it and producing several products, sold under the Amul brand name. As all products have a limited shelf life, the organization's ability to conduct its operations in a smooth way is much more praiseworthy-especially when one considers the scale of the operations. Amul makes about 10 million payment transactions daily. On the logistics side, more than 5,000 trucks move the milk from the villages to 200 dairy processing plants twice a day, according to a carefully planned schedule.Amul took a strategic decision to redesign and re-organize the existing software applications in 1994 to meet the challenges of growing business. Accordingly, Amu l assigned the ERP software development project named as Enterprise wide integrated application system (EIAS) which covers a plethora of operations like market planning, advertising and promotion, distribution network planning, stock control, sales and accounting, budgetary control, quality control management and co-operative service management.Each of Amul's offices is connected by e-mail and all of them send a daily report on sales and inventory to the main system at Anand. Also, sales offices, C&F points and wholesale distributors of GCMMF have been connected through the Internet for timely exchange of information. Amul is also in the process of Web-enabling the entire supply chain so that it can capture key information at the source and use the same for decision-making. This would include the likes of transporters, member manufacturing units, oil packing stations, suppliers, depots and the ntire field force. A web site (http://www. amul. com) has been constructed featuring sport s information, recipes and quizzes (to stimulate buyer interest and to establish national brand recognition) and business-to- consumer order placement. Amul has a customer feedback channel which uses e-mail addresses like [email  protected] com for cheese products and [email  protected] com for butter products. E-competency has been established at the supply and distribution ends of AMUL's business.At the supply end, a computerized database has been established of all suppliers and their cattle. Computerized equipment measures and records qualities and quantities collected. Computers have been set up at member unions and village cooperatives. At the distribution end, stockists have been provided with basic training and computers. AMUL experts assist stockists and retailers to build promotional web pages. AMUL cyber stores have been set up at various locations in India, the USA, Singapore and Dubai.Each visit to the Indian cyber store sites results in considerable purchases. A st rong e-mail database of more than 10,000 customers has also been developed. In addition to the EIAS, Amul has also been using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to plot zone/depot boundary as well as a pointer for zone, depot and distributor locations, which are superimposed by product-wise sales data. Going forward, there are plans to introduce features like Internet banking services and ATMs which will enable milk societies to credit payments directly to the seller's bank account.In line with this vision, officials at Amul are looking at upgrading the plastic cards, which are being currently used only for identification purposes, to smart cards which can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs. Amul has radically altered the complexion of the supply chain-by eliminating the middleman and bringing the producer closer to the consumer-resulting in benefits for both. Amul has also linked distributors to the network and also incorporated Web pages of top retailers in their web site (www. amul. com) as part of B2B initiatives.Distributors can place their orders on the website, amulb2b. com, especially meant for accepting orders from stockists and promoting Amul's products via 2 AMUL – A case study on IT in SCM E-commerce. A big achievement of IT in Amul has been the automation of the complex supply and delivery chain. The automated supply chain seamlessly integrates the manufacturing dairy units for production, planning and raw material procurement. It handles distribution of milk from surplus unions to deficit unions.It is a live example of practicing Just in time supply chain management with six sigma accuracy! Amul's success in leveraging IT to its advantage lies in the simple fact that the organization has a clear IT vision and has made full use of the potential of IT for managing its supply chain. In 2003, GCMMF won the prestigious international CIO 100 award from IDG's CIO Magazine, USA. The 2003 CIO 100 award recognizes organizations around the world th at excel in positive business performance through resourceful IT management and best practices.GCMMF, whose IT initiatives have been driven by the philosophy of being an IT company in food business, has inspired all its employees to sustain the challenges as a â€Å"change agent† by excelling their IT skills in order to transform the people around them towards IT integration on both the ends of supply chain (village dairy farmer to end-consumer), GCMMF has also won the prestigious Ramkrishna Bajaj National Quality Award for the year 2003.GCMMF has bagged this award for adopting noteworthy quality management practices for logistics and procurement. Over the years, it has established an efficient supply chain that penetrates even the remotest corners of the country. In summary, Amul has developed world-class expertise in the physical distribution of short-life produce. Already advanced in physical logistics, Amul has innovatively explored ways to use IT to enhance its supply ch ain. (Source: amul. com, ExpressComputers(16 Sept 2002: article by Srikanth R P), and other sources)GCMMF: An Overview Members No. of Producer Members No. of Village Societies Milk collection (Total – 2002-03) Milk collection (Daily Average 2002-03) Milk Drying Capacity Sales Turnover (2002-2003) 12 district cooperative milk producers' Union. 2. 28 million. 11,132. 1. 86 billion litres. 5. 08 million litres. 510 metric Tons per day. Rs 27457 Million. IT Enablers used by Amul †¢ Uses automated milk collection system units for collection of milk. †¢ Implemented a customized ERP system which is used in conjunction with GIS. Uses data analysis software for forecasting milk production and increasing productivity. †¢ Has connected all zonal, regional and member dairies through VSAT. †¢ One of the first five Indian organizations to have a Web presence. †¢ Geographic information system for sales and distribution planning. †¢ Data Information System Kiosk for data analysis and decision support to help in improving milk collection. †¢ Web enabled customer feedback channels. †¢ Strong initiatives in e-commerce. 3

The War On Drugs Essays - Drug Control Law, War On Drugs

The War On Drugs Essays - Drug Control Law, War On Drugs The War On Drugs War On Drugs In todays society, the war on drugs has become a major issue in our cities and the business community. Many cities have started programs to make the situation better, but some have failed and the situation has become worse. The root of all the problems discussed in this case study, can be linked to drugs. There are many organizations and volunteer community groups as well as law enforcement, that are continuously trying to make our cities safe. This struggle is know globally as the War on Drugs. Drugs and Children The war on drugs is a very big part of our society. We face difficult decisions everyday dealing with drugs and how they affect our cities. Our children play a big role in that society, and they are a major factor on the war against drugs. We try to keep children away from the drug situation, but you cannot isolate them forever. Children will have to face the issue as they get older, or even while they are young. We must teach our children about the issues on drugs and make sure they are aware of the dealings that go on. Most children cannot speak to their parents about drugs, and those are the children who are usually doing drugs. If children cannot be open with their parents, they will find some other means of dealing with drug issues. History Nearly thirty years ago, the Nixon administration was the first administration to declare the war on drugs. President Nixon is credited with setting up the first methadone centers and abstinence programs cross the country. At the time these programs received two-thirds of the federal drug budget and the results were: crime rates fell and fewer people died of overdose. The Just Say No movement (led by first lady Nancy Reagan) was coupled with rigorous law enforcement and produced solid results. By 1992, for example, marijuana use by high school students had dropped significantly (http://ehostvgw15.epnet.com). The Controlled Substances Act (CSA), Title II of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, is the legal foundation of the government's fight against the abuse of drugs and other substances. This law is a consolidation of numerous laws regulating the manufacture and distribution of narcotics, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, anabolic steroids, and chemicals used in the illicit production of controlled substances. (usdoj.gov/dea/briefingbook/page9.htm) Drug Enforcement Agency The mission of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States and bring to the criminal and civil justice system of the United States, or any other competent jurisdiction, those organizations and principal members of organizations, involved in the growing, manufacture, or distribution of controlled substances appearing in or destined for illicit traffic in the United States; and to recommend and support non-enforcement programs aimed at reducing the availability of illicit controlled substances on the domestic and international markets. (usdoj.gov/dea/briefingbook/page2.htm). The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was formed as a specialized branch of the justice department in 1973. This specialized bureau is on the front lines of the War on Drugs every day. The DEA is not only concerned with assisting local law enforcement, but a global policing as well. Drugs in the Workplace Many chambers of commerce throughout the nation have put Drug-Free Workplace programs into effect. The drug-free workplace program addresses not only issues in the business community, but the society as well. Statistics show that 70 percent of illegal drug users are employed, and 44 percent of drug users sell drugs to co-workers (http://ehostvgw6.epnet.com). The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that drug use in the workplace costs employers $75 billion to $100 billion annually in lost time. Sixty-five percent of all accidents on the job are directly related to drugs. Substance abusers are absent three times more often and use 16 times as many health care benefits as non-abusers (http://ehastvgw6.epnet.com). Many companies are aware of the drug problems within the office and are taking action to fix the situation. There are companies that have drug-screening test to employees to make sure that they are not using drug substances. The company must have a suspicion of that employee of using the drugs before giving the drug test. In the

Free Essays on Globalization Is Not Effective For The US

Globalization is not Effective for the US Globalization, according to the International Monetary Fund, is the â€Å"increasingly close international integration of markets both for goods and services and for capital† (Kegley Jr. and Wittkopf, 2004, p.267). Ten years ago, the U.S. signed the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which eliminated trade tariffs between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada. The basis for this agreement was to stimulate the status of the economies of all three nations. Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) is an extension of NAFTA to create the globe’s largest barrier-free trade zone, extending from Canada to Argentina. With the globalization of technology, anyone with a computer and the World Wide Web (WWW) can access information or buy goods from other countries in a matter of seconds. If the FTAA becomes a reality, businesses would be able to bring their products into more countries at a more affordable rate to the consumer, similar to the person on the WWW buying or selling products globally. With technology improving rapidly and becoming more and more available, globalization follows, becoming a permanent economic concept for countries and businesses to rely on. Globalization may not be a permanent phenomenon because if the U.S. continues to open its borders to free trade with many third-world partners, a U.S. dependent on imports will result. Economically, for the most part, we live in a borderless world with other democratic countries. Globalization is a negative approach for the U.S. to take economically because of the effects it has on the U.S. economy. The scenario is fairly true to the life that most blue collar Americans have been experiencing in the last ten years after the passing of NAFTA. The lives of more than eight-hundred-thousand workers have been affected NAFTA (Iuspa-Abbott, 2003, p.1). That number is of workers in the United States alone who have lost their jobs due to the ... Free Essays on Globalization Is Not Effective For The US Free Essays on Globalization Is Not Effective For The US Globalization is not Effective for the US Globalization, according to the International Monetary Fund, is the â€Å"increasingly close international integration of markets both for goods and services and for capital† (Kegley Jr. and Wittkopf, 2004, p.267). Ten years ago, the U.S. signed the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which eliminated trade tariffs between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada. The basis for this agreement was to stimulate the status of the economies of all three nations. Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) is an extension of NAFTA to create the globe’s largest barrier-free trade zone, extending from Canada to Argentina. With the globalization of technology, anyone with a computer and the World Wide Web (WWW) can access information or buy goods from other countries in a matter of seconds. If the FTAA becomes a reality, businesses would be able to bring their products into more countries at a more affordable rate to the consumer, similar to the person on the WWW buying or selling products globally. With technology improving rapidly and becoming more and more available, globalization follows, becoming a permanent economic concept for countries and businesses to rely on. Globalization may not be a permanent phenomenon because if the U.S. continues to open its borders to free trade with many third-world partners, a U.S. dependent on imports will result. Economically, for the most part, we live in a borderless world with other democratic countries. Globalization is a negative approach for the U.S. to take economically because of the effects it has on the U.S. economy. The scenario is fairly true to the life that most blue collar Americans have been experiencing in the last ten years after the passing of NAFTA. The lives of more than eight-hundred-thousand workers have been affected NAFTA (Iuspa-Abbott, 2003, p.1). That number is of workers in the United States alone who have lost their jobs due to the ...

State of the Union Address Review Essays - United States, Politics

State of the Union Address Review Essays - United States, Politics State of the Union Address Review Professor Morris State of the Union Address Review 27 January 2015 On Tuesday January 20, 2015, president Barack Obama delivered his annual State of the Union Address. At the beginning of the speech Obama mentions the progress of the united states such as our economy growing and more employment, more kids graduating, more people being insured, free from the grip o foreign oil as weve been in almost 30 years, and the combat mission in Afghanistan being over. Even though the United Sates have made progress there is still some work left to do on the economy to where its fair for people who actually work hard to get ahead. He plans to veto and pledged to veto seven bills regarding the pipeline already. Using human genome to cure diseases like cancer. Balancing civil liberties with aggressive surveillance methods. He is committed to the rest of his presidency to make sure there is an opportunity and a better bargain for the working middle class such as simplifying the tax codes for business ( lower tax rates for manufacturers or cut taxes for small businesses) or creating better jobs ( raising minimum wage or strengthen job training at community colleges ( which he wants to be free for low income people).) Restoring security to homeownership is one his top economic priorities. He listed out his ideas to strengthen the housing market and to ensure that middle class families have affordable mortgages and refinancing by having a rock solid foundation for financing homeownership with a bigger role for the private sector, where tax payers arent on the hook for the irresponsible behavior or bad decisions of financial institution. He wants congress to help him make things happen such as access to affordable, quality childcare, paid sick leave, minimum wage increase, two free years of community college, reducing student loan payments, infrastructure, trade promotion authority, ending embargo against Cuba, etc. Since Congress is a majority republican seat now whereas Obama is a democrat so anyone would assume there is going to be many disagreements. Republicans intend to take the country in the new direction they campaigned on last year, despite the extensive list of liberal priorities the president laid out. The Iowa Republican Earnest said Obama gave us political talking points, not serious solutions. Others said they welcomed the bipartisan sounding tone Obama used for much his speech though they found it hard to square with the white houses confrontational actions on issues like immigration. Kevin McCarthy stated that he was going to wait for more detail but he was willing to work with anyone is willing to work with him. Obama ends his speech in a very inspirational encouraging way. He points out that even though us Americans have been through some hard times, we managed to pick ourselves up and began again to remaking America.

The power of pull Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

The power of pull - Essay Example to goods and services that is different from yester years, indeed the 21st century organization is sitting on â€Å"melting iceberg†, oblivious of the urgency needed to make changes to the new business model that would ensure their survival. Hagel, Brown, and Davison (2010) have analyzed the paradigm shift that has been occurring in the world of business over the past decades, especially the past two decades. Indeed, the current business environment is characterized with endless stream of knowledge, interconnected workforce, blurred borders with increased global movement of knowledge, talent and capital, and a shift in power balance, where the power has moved from corporations to the consumers, and employees have also have power without necessarily being in trade unions. All these changes have mainly been due to changes in technology and liberalization of the business world. Organizations are increasing finding newer ways to attract, retain and develop talent, even as employees’ priorities and motivations change with changes in generations. It is only in this new business environment that you find employees working as a virtual team or a big percentage of an organizations employees working from home. It is in thi s business environment that sales made online for a given business may by far exceed offline sales. However, despite these quite clearly notable changes, most organizations, especially those that have existed for a long time, are still focused on doing things the way they have always done. They still hold on to the old culture oblivious of the changing business landscape. Like the penguins in Kotter and Rathgeber (2005) work, the organizations are complacent in the way things have always been done, and are unaware that their iceberg is melting. Newer emerging 21st century organizations are coming up and taking advantage of the shift and surpassing older established organizations in business performance. Such include the Amazon which in only a few years

The concept of power Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

The concept of power - Essay Example Mistrust among nations, fear of attack by other nations, breaking of international agreements by some nations and urge to establish supremacy over other countries had continued unabated even after the Second World War leading to cold war among nations. The most unwanted result of this mad military race among nations was the diversion of public welfare funds to create nuclear weapons. Now, the concept of power had crossed all boundaries and reached the ultimate to convey the special meaning of an irrepressible nuclear power. More power means nature that is more destructive. All most all countries are afraid of USA. Why The answer lies in the naked truth that this country possesses most of the world's nuclear bombs and weapons indicating that it is more destructive than any other country. Unfortunately, the concept of power had also taken away the discretionary powers of these nuclear powers due to their "Power is something of which I am convinced there is no innocence this side of the womb," says Nadine Gordimer, South Africa's well-acclaimed novelist (Internet, quotations). Russian socialist theoretician Mikhail Bakunin comes out very strong on the concept of power: "The instinct to command others, in its primitive essence, is a carnivorous, altogether bestial and savage instinct. Under the influence of the mental development of man, it takes on a somewhat more ideal form and becomes somewhat ennobled, presenting itself as the instrument of reason and the devoted servant of that abstraction, or political fiction, which is called the public good. But in its essence it remains just as baneful, and it becomes even more so when, with the application of science, it extends its scope and intensifies the power of its action. If there is a devil in history, it is this power principle" (Internet, Mikhail ). People normally talk about the concept of power in terms of theoretical sense. Practically speaking, power is nothing but a state of commanding others to do certain things, though the methods of commanding vary from person to person and from country to country. When it comes to international relations, the meaning of power assumes serious dimensions. In the international arena, power is interpreted as the capacity of a country to dictate terms to other 3 countries. The Great Britain used its power once and ruled most of the world for more than two centuries. Now USA has been using its power to dominate and control most of the world. The great Mahabharata war occurred centuries ago because of the power struggle among Pandava and Kaurava brothers. Nowadays, in most of the third world countries, joint families are breaking up due to power struggle between brothers for controlling the family properties. The break up of the Ambani family controlling India's number one industrial empire, known as the Reliance Group, is the most recent example of a power struggle. The source for any power struggle normally generates in the people's urge to dominate others and control things at their will and pleasure. When you extend this analogy to countries in international relations, the comparison throws up innumerable similarities. A country

Structured decision making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Structured decision making - Essay Example Disagreements, if any, are made transparent, thus enabling the stakeholders to use new perspectives or knowledge for re-evaluation. The process also helps come up with decisions that are of higher quality, transparent, informed and respond to the values of stakeholders involved. It also evaluates and identifies alternative options for resource management through the engagement of experts, stakeholders and decision-makers in the process while addressing the uncertainty in management of resources in a transparent and proactive manner. The scholars note that the results from associated technical, social and economic analyses that should predict the performance of a particular solution make more relevance when measured in regard to what makes the most sense according to the stakeholders. This makes it easier, over time, to make responses to changes within a system of management. This tool would be best used where there is difficulty in making a decision regarding a resource management, for instance improving water quality, the main end objective being the restoration of ecosystem health. The decision makers involved would explore other objectives such as the traditionally scientific like the maintenance of environmental health and the value based like creating recreational opportunities before coming up with the ultimate decision (Wilson & Arvai, 2011). Other objectives would include restoration of vegetation and also provision of habitat for

Suffering Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Suffering - Essay Example Inc, 2009)At a time where comfort and convenience are common market commodities, with things such as instant food, instant shopping and even instant help so prevalent, the society has lost the appreciation of sacrifice and self-denial. As a result, we have become accustomed to labelling small comfort and convenience disruptions as sufferings. There are, of course those who are inevitably suffering pain, those with terminal illness or emotional burdens, coping with a loss or bearing bodily pains. At these times, when, no material thing can bring about healing, no words, no touch are enough to console, will there really be someone who can bring comfort If someone has authored or at least allowed sufferings, will He also be there to appease The issue of suffering can be viewed from different views and fields. It can be studied philosophically, can also be of examined by mere reasons and most of all, and most prominently, it can be scrutinized in view of faith. Indeed many people have tried to explain sufferings, both those who believe and those who do not believe in the existence of God. An article of Arthur Schopenhauer says that "unless suffering is the direct and immediate object of life, our existence must entirely fail of its aim. It is absurd to look upon the enormous amount of pain that abounds everywhere in the world, and originates in needs and necessities inseparable from life itself, as serving no purpose at all and the result of mere chance (Schopenhauer). Even the great philosopher believes that it is futile to consider suffering as no purpose at all. He associated it with our needs which ordinarily come with life. An academician from the East, who happened to be an Islam, also had a slice of view on suffering on a lecture that he has conducted in one of the premier universities. According to him, suffering is not necessarily negative. It is unavoidable because our world is far from perfect and that what matters most is our view of it. It is negative to those who see it as a stumbling block and positive to those who approach it as a stepping stone toward his perfection and spiritual growth (Espiritu, 2006). Michael Martin has evalutead william Craig's oral debates about the concept of suffering. The latter saying that sufferings increases acceptance of God and Christian evangelism such as what happened in the country of El Salvador (Martin, 1997). He has dismissed this argument however as according to him, it runs in contrast to rationality. Bob and Gretchen Passantino tried to answer the question, "If God is good, why is there too much suffering in the world" The article says that, suffering is the consequence of wrong choices specifically of sins (Bob Passantino, 1997). God has given us the freewill so that when we reap the consequences of our choice. He added further that, although God allows people to make wrong choices, as He has not created us to be robots, He works in the midst of suffering for our favor. God has the assurance that He will elimitane suffering in the last time, through the suffering that Jesus Christ Himself has underwent, and that's the greatest comfort that we can receive. Another article posted online by the United Church of God asks, "Is God indifferent to Human Suffering". When we label catstrophes such as hurricane, thypoons ans earthquakes that claim thousands of lives to be "acts of God", we tend to look at God as indifferent and heartless (United Church of Go

Cross-cultural management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Cross-cultural management - Essay Example Then and only then the cultural importance demanded a better understanding of the market forces. Another factor that contributed to nonchalance was the fact that the markets really lay elsewhere. The real market was always back at home for which the trading primarily took place. Obvious examples are the markets in Great Britain and Europe for whom the Eastern delicacies and materials were procured and either sold or manufactured for mostly local consumption. Here the targeted segment of the market was the affluent British or the Europeans populations. Hence the need to develop management practices for the overseas suppliers like India was never really felt or needed. India was basically considered a supplier of resources which were needed elsewhere and in those days this supply chain needed no managerial input except to get hold of materials at the lowest possible cost. All management skills of marketing and competition were practiced in UK and Europe. That is not to say that back then there was no market in India. While it is true that the products manufactured in UK were in demand in India, yet the market was highly concentrated with only the rich who could afford these goods and they lapped it all up with need to market the same as these were rarities for them and their dominated minds were already in favour of these products over local wares. Little or no management skills were required to organise this effort. Times however changed. Countries like India grew in affluence and capabilities, they out grew the Worldwide Empire and local Maharaja Modes and became independent and largely democratic. The local population became more educated and aware of themselves as well as the world around them. Above all, they became consumers and large enough to deserve attention resulting in need for better management practices by the same western companies who earlier felt no need for the same. As a result

Suffering Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Suffering - Essay Example Inc, 2009)At a time where comfort and convenience are common market commodities, with things such as instant food, instant shopping and even instant help so prevalent, the society has lost the appreciation of sacrifice and self-denial. As a result, we have become accustomed to labelling small comfort and convenience disruptions as sufferings. There are, of course those who are inevitably suffering pain, those with terminal illness or emotional burdens, coping with a loss or bearing bodily pains. At these times, when, no material thing can bring about healing, no words, no touch are enough to console, will there really be someone who can bring comfort If someone has authored or at least allowed sufferings, will He also be there to appease The issue of suffering can be viewed from different views and fields. It can be studied philosophically, can also be of examined by mere reasons and most of all, and most prominently, it can be scrutinized in view of faith. Indeed many people have tried to explain sufferings, both those who believe and those who do not believe in the existence of God. An article of Arthur Schopenhauer says that "unless suffering is the direct and immediate object of life, our existence must entirely fail of its aim. It is absurd to look upon the enormous amount of pain that abounds everywhere in the world, and originates in needs and necessities inseparable from life itself, as serving no purpose at all and the result of mere chance (Schopenhauer). Even the great philosopher believes that it is futile to consider suffering as no purpose at all. He associated it with our needs which ordinarily come with life. An academician from the East, who happened to be an Islam, also had a slice of view on suffering on a lecture that he has conducted in one of the premier universities. According to him, suffering is not necessarily negative. It is unavoidable because our world is far from perfect and that what matters most is our view of it. It is negative to those who see it as a stumbling block and positive to those who approach it as a stepping stone toward his perfection and spiritual growth (Espiritu, 2006). Michael Martin has evalutead william Craig's oral debates about the concept of suffering. The latter saying that sufferings increases acceptance of God and Christian evangelism such as what happened in the country of El Salvador (Martin, 1997). He has dismissed this argument however as according to him, it runs in contrast to rationality. Bob and Gretchen Passantino tried to answer the question, "If God is good, why is there too much suffering in the world" The article says that, suffering is the consequence of wrong choices specifically of sins (Bob Passantino, 1997). God has given us the freewill so that when we reap the consequences of our choice. He added further that, although God allows people to make wrong choices, as He has not created us to be robots, He works in the midst of suffering for our favor. God has the assurance that He will elimitane suffering in the last time, through the suffering that Jesus Christ Himself has underwent, and that's the greatest comfort that we can receive. Another article posted online by the United Church of God asks, "Is God indifferent to Human Suffering". When we label catstrophes such as hurricane, thypoons ans earthquakes that claim thousands of lives to be "acts of God", we tend to look at God as indifferent and heartless (United Church of Go

Short Story Analysis Sheet Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Short Story Analysis Sheet - Coursework Example Hazel is hell bent on continuing her winning streak at an annual race event held on May Day (Bambara 1-2). However, she has to juggle caring for her brother Raymond and race preparations while simultaneously dealing with insensitive remarks about Raymond’s mental handicap. At the story’s conclusion, Hazel emerges victorious and finds new respect for Gretchen and Raymond’s Down syndrome (Bambara 4). The author uses flashbacks throughout the story. For example, Hazel remembers taking Mary Louise under her wing when the latter was new to the neighborhood. In addition, she recounts her distaste for Cynthia Procter’s pretentiousness when she remembers the latter’s lie about not adequately preparing for a spelling bee event (Bambara 2). Bambara’s description of events is believable because she addresses challenges that face children in real-life; for example, jealousy and rivalry between young girls, as they strive to prove their superiority. The kind of conflict, central to the Raymond’s Run, is a sort of inner conflict of the protagonist. From the first glance it may seem that the whole story is about confrontation of two athletes, Squeky and Gretchen, but things are much more complicated, and the existing conflict between girls is an external one. Upon the deeper reflection the reader recognizes that twenty year old Squeky struggles to find her place in life, as she strives to do more than just watch Raymond. This girl uses running as a tool to construct another identity of the more confident and successful individual. However, her passion in running does not meet parental expectations, as they find Squeky’s hobby impair her girlishness. A vivid example of that conflict is Squeky’s refusal to take part in maypole dancing with such an argumentation: â€Å"a poor Black girl who really can’t afford to buy shoes and a new dress you only wear once.† (Bambara 1). Hazel Deborah Parker, or Squeky,

The U.S. Mixed Economy and the Economic Role of Government Essay Example for Free

The U.S. Mixed Economy and the Economic Role of Government Essay In all economies scarcity (TOC1) is a real problem. This means compared to our unlimited wants the production factors (TOC 1) are scarce. As a result of this as a society we need to economize the use of resources in an efficient manner. Any Economic system has to address the fundamental questions of what to produce, how to produce, when to produce and for whom to produce. This entails an economic system. These economic issues can be addressed by different economic systems. These systems can be a capitalist economic system or socialist economic system. In a mixed market economy like the US economy the demand and supply allocate resources and private ownership of property is protected and the major motive for production is profit and it is based on the assumption of rational self-interest. (TOC 1) This means on the assumptions that people will behave to maximize their benefit minimize cost. As well competition is the cornerstone in the efficient allocation of resources to meet consumer demand and the source of technological advancement on a continuous basis so that the economy grow in a more dynamic manner. In US Government regulates the economy to encourage competition, provide public goods such as military forces, public schools welfare programs and also formulate fiscal and monetary policy to dampen trade cycles in the US economy particularly after the great depression in the 1930’s. Contrast to this in an economic system, which, is closer to a command economy, or socialist economic system the government intervenes heavily in resolving economic issues and the market plays a minor role. In a Socialist system the government mostly determines what to produce, how to produce, when to produce and for whom to produce. As well competition is not encouraged and private property is curtailed in a command economy. (U.S. Department of States Bureau of International Information Programs, http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/market/mktec8.htm) As discussed above it is obvious that the command economy does well in income distribution compared to capitalist systems. However they are not dynamic and may stagnate and produce shortages because of wrong central plan priorities no incentives and rigidities of the system to respond to changing circumstances and it is undemocratic in essence. In this respect capitalist system is more efficient. That is market economy allocates resources efficiently than command economy. It is also a fact Capitalist system is prone to shocks and may produce inflation as well it also is prone to trade cycles like boom and bust. For example in US economic history after the great depression 1930.s the economist agreed it is necessary to regulate the economy by fiscal and monetary policy and by micro economic reform and gave birth to the mixed a economy rather than pure capitalist system. (U.S. Department of States Bureau of International Information Programs, http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/market/mktec8.htm)Â   There fore one can conclude that all economic system evolve all the time and capitalist and socialist economic systems have strengths and weaknesses. Bibliography U.S. Department of States Bureau of International Information Programs. GOVERNMENT IN A MARKET ECONOMY. Retrieved on October 2, 2006, From INTERNATIONAL INFORMATION PROGRAM USINFO.STATE.GOV Web Site: http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/market/mktec8.htm.

Analysis of Healthcare Models

Analysis of Healthcare Models The biomedical and social model for health The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion VicHealth and VicHealth funded projects Many models of health exist thorough out the world. When a government or organisations is determining the most appropriate model to implement factors such as cost, ability to achieve desired outcomes and feasibility must be considered. The models of healthcare that play the largest role in the health of Australians are the biomedical and social models of health. The biomedical model of health The biomedical model of health focusses on optimum physical health for individuals. This model focusses on diagnosis and treatment of health conditions, with the goal of returning people to their pre-condition healthy state. This model relies heavily on hospitals, pharmaceuticals and medical technology to achieve this goal and is an expensive model. The biomedical model is widely accepted and forms the basis of health care throughout the western world. Advantages and disadvantages of the biomedical model of health Advantages Increases populations life expectancy as treatments advance Effective at treating common problems and returning people to a healthy state Can lead to advances in medical technology Can improve the quality of life for people with chronic conditions via medications etc. Disadvantages Use of advanced medical technology and the health system to diagnose and treat conditions is costly for governments Does not address factors that lead to the development of particular health conditions Not all health conditions can be cured, however they can often be managed via behaviour modification which this model does not consider Paying for medications and treatment via the biomedical approach can be expensive for individuals The social model of health The social model of health focusses on influences that can lead to poor health. It aims to improve health and wellbeing by directing efforts towards addressing social, economic and environmental determinants of health. Instead of an individual approach, this model focusses more broadly on communities and populations in an attempt to promote optimal health. There are five key principles to the social model of health: Addresses the broader determinants of health Factors such as gender, socioeconomic status, culture, physical environment, education and ethnicity can influence the health of people. The social model of health looks beyond the biological determinants and focuses on how health and wellbeing can be influenced by such broader determinants. Acts to reduce social inequities Quality of healthcare, access and use of healthcare should be equal across all groups in the community. The social model of health acts to ensure socioeconomic status, gender, race, locality or physical environment do not reduce equity. Empowers individuals and communities When people gain increased control over decisions and actions influencing their health they become empowered. The social model of health acts to empower and this may occur through increased health knowledge and can happen on an individual basis or collectively as a community. Acts to enable access to healthcare Health care and health information should be accessible and affordable to meet peoples needs. Social determinants that can influence this access include socioeconomic status, cultural barriers and education levels. The social model assists to lower such barriers to enable access to health care. Involves intersectorial collaboration The government, non-government organisations and the private sector should work in a partnership to address the broader determinants that influence individuals health. Greater community health has positive implications for all sectors and collaboration should be sought between such groups. Acronyms are often a handy way to remember much of the knowledge covered in the HHD course. The acronym AREAS or IDEAR may be used to remember the principles of the social model of health. AREAS Addresses Reduce Empowers Acts interSectorial IDEAR Intersectorial Determinants Empowers Access Reduce Closing the gap campaign demonstrating the principles of the social model of health. Since 2006, Australias peak Indigenous and non-Indigenous health bodies, NGOs and human rights organisations have worked together to achieve health and life expectation equality for Australias Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This is known as the Close the Gap Campaign. The Close the Gap Campaign partners have developed targets to support the achievement of Indigenous health equality over many areas. Key targets include those to support: significant reductions in the rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander death and illness from diseases and chronic conditions; the delivery of the necessary primary health care services for health equality to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, particularly by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services; big improvements to housing (so that it supports good health) in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities; a dramatic increase in the availability of fresh and healthy food supplies in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities; and significant reductions in the rate of smoking among Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders. The Closing the gap campaign reflects the principles of the social model of health in the following ways: Addresses the broader determinants of health: The program is attempting to address determinants such as behavioural practices, such as healthy food consumption, and social influences, such as housing, that impact on the health of indigenous people. Acts to reduce social inequities: Social inequalities such as access to healthcare are being addressed in this program. Empowers individuals and the community: Providing an increase in the availability of fresh and healthy food supplies, allows individuals and communities the choice to engage in health behaviour. In conjunction with education regarding the benefits of these foods, this program will attempt to empower people so they feel they have control over their health. Acts to enable access to healthcare: Increasing access to primary healthcare services, including delivery of these services by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders where possible, reduces barriers that may prevent indigenous people from achieving optimal levels of health.- Involves intersectorial collaboration: In this campaign government and non-government organisations are working together and therefore there is the ability to influence a broad range of social factors that influence indigenous health. Other programs that are based on the social model of health include the Swap it, Dont stop it initiative, the Quit campaign and the SunSmart program. A progressive society, such as Australias, does not choose to use either the biomedical model of health or the social model of health, but incorporate both approaches to strive for optimal levels of health within their population. The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion One of the most significant contributions to the evolution of Public Health occurred at the First International Conference on Health Promotion held in Ottawa, Canada in 1986. Stemming from the social model of health this conference saw the development of The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion. The Ottawa Charter is a framework to assist governments and organisations around the world when developing health promotion strategies. The Ottawa Charter recognises that in order for health gains to occur the following basic conditions and resources must be available: Peace Shelter Education Food Income A stable eco-system Sustainable resources Social justice and equity The Ottawa Charter also outlines that the following three basic prerequisites are the foundation for health promotion: Advocate Political, economic, social, cultural, environmental, behavioural and biological factors can all favour health or be harmful to it. Health promotion action aims at making these conditions favourable through advocacy for health. Enable Health promotion focuses on achieving equity in health. Health promotion action aims at reducing differences in current health status and ensuring equal opportunities and resources to enable all people to achieve their fullest health potential. Mediate Health promotion demands coordinated action by all concerned: by governments, by health and other social and economic sectors, by nongovernmental and voluntary organization, by local authorities, by industry and by the media. Professional and social groups and health personnel have a major responsibility to mediate between differing interests in society for the pursuit of health. Priority / Action Areas of the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion When health promotion strategies and programs are devised by governments or organisations there is the intent to achieve various health outcomes. The following priority or action areas are recommended for use by The Ottawa Charter for creating a health promotion program. Not all areas need be addressed in every strategy. Build Healthy Public Policy This action area asks governments and organisational policy makers to be aware of the health consequences of their decisions and to accept their responsibilities for health. Policies that involve taxation and legislation can influence the behaviours of individuals, leading to either positive or negative influences on health. For example a legislation that prevents people from smoking indoors at a restaurant, can then make it easy for a family to decide to go out for dinner and not put the health of their family members at risk. Health promotion encourages health to be on the agenda for policy makers in all sectors and all levels. Create Supportive Environments This action area recognises the link between health and our societal and natural environment. Changing patterns of life, work and leisure have a significant impact on health. Work and leisure should be a source of health for people. The way society organises work should help create a healthy society. Health promotion generates living and working conditions that are safe, stimulating, satisfying and enjoyable. Protecting natural and built environments and conserving natural resources is an important part of health promotion given the influence they can have on maintaining health. For example, work places that have natural lighting and fresh air support the health of their staff. Strengthen Community Actions This action area recognises that community participation in setting priorities and making decision on the direction of health matters can lead to empowerment. When a community feels like its voice is being heard this can lead to increased participation and engagement in health promotion activities. For the community to draw on its human and material resources to promote good health it requires access to information, learning opportunities and funding support. Develop Personal Skills To increase options for people to exercise more control over their health personal and social development needs to occur. Providing information, education and opportunities for skill development whether that be at school, home, work or in the community will allow for learning and development of personal skills to occur. Reorient Health Services This action area recognises the need for the health promotion message to be shared amongst more than doctors and hospitals it needs to be shared among individuals, community groups and governments also. For example, if new medical knowledge exists regarding limiting the prevalence of childhood obesity, medical staff should be encouraged to share this information at community forums and via school visits. SunSmart program demonstrating the Ottawa Charter priority / action areas. Cancer Council Victoria  and the  Victorian Health Promotion Foundation  first funded SunSmart in 1988 in Victoria.Since inception the program has prevented more than 100,000 skin cancers and saved thousands of lives making it one of the most successful programs in Australia. Today  SunSmart is a multi-faceted program recognised for providing leadership and innovation in ultraviolet radiation (UV) protection. Programs operate in each state and territory of Australia by respective Cancer Councils, all using common principals but tailored to jurisdictional priorities.  The sun protection message is currently  Slip! Slop! Slap! Seek! Slide! SunSmart seeks to influence individual sun protection behaviours, those with responsibilities for protecting others and broader environmental change. SunSmart also aims to promote and improve the awareness of a balanced approach to UV exposure and the link with  vitamin D. Building Health Public Policy: The program is an advocate for change and implementation of SunSmart recommendations in schools , workplaces and local government areas. Create Supportive Environment: Encouraging schools, workplaces and governments to provide shaded areas for people when they are outdooea creates an environment that supports the SunSmart approach. Strengthen Community Actions:By working with various groups in the community, such as early childhood centres and sporting clubs, to reduce UV exposure the program is reducing the risk of skin cancer. Develop Personal Skills: The Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide advertising campaign is teaching people strategies to decrease their risk of developing skin cancer. Reorient Health Services: Working with a variety of groups and individuals across the health sector improves knowledge and skills that people have for reducing UV exposure. Other programs that incorporate the Ottawa Charter priority / action areas include the Swap it, Dont stop it initiative, the Quit campaign and the Closing the gap campaign. An acronym to assist remembering the first word of each Ottawa Charter action area is Bad Cats Smell Dead Ratsà ¢. VicHealth The Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, more commonly referred to as VicHealth was established in 1987 and works in partnership with organisations, communities and individuals to make health a central part of daily living. The focus of VicHealth is primarily on health promotion and prevention of health conditions for Victorians. VicHealth does not implement programs but advocates and financially support health promotion initiatives. The mission of VicHealth is to build the capabilities of organisations, communities and individuals in ways that: change social, economic, cultural and physical environments to improve health for all Victorians; strengthen the understanding and the skills of individuals in ways that support their efforts to achieve and maintain health. The mission of VicHealth guides the selection of the organisations strategic priorities, which reflect the Tobacco Act 1987 and are founded on principles of equity. The priorities for focus in the VicHealth strategic framework are: Reducing smoking Improving nutrition Reducing harm from alcohol Increasing physical activity Increasing social and economic participation Reducing harm from UV exposure. VicHealth reflects the social model of health by participating in business activities that draw on the Ottawa Charter. Health promotion actions that VicHealth are involved in are activities that: Create and use knowledge acquired through research and evaluation. Create environments that foster good health. Encourage the development of systems that support and sustain health. Communicate about priority health issues. Develop communities which are inclusive, accessible, equitable and safe. Support organisations to plan, implement and evaluate health promotion activity. Facilitate participation and skill development. Contribute to, and advocate for, healthy public policy and regulation. VicHealth also reflects the social model of health via its Key Result Areas (KRA). These are the targets they have set for the organisation over a particular period. VicHealth Key Result Areas KRA 1 Health inequalities 1.1 Improve the physical and mental health of those experiencing social, economic or geographic disadvantage. 1.2 Contribute to closing the health gap between Indigenous and non- Indigenous Victorians. KRA 2 Participation 2.1 Increase participation in physical activity. 2.2 Increase opportunities for social connection. 2.3 Reduce race-based discrimination and promote diversity. 2.4 Prevent violence against women by increasing participation in respectful relationships. 2.5 Build knowledge to increase access to economic resources. KRA 3 Nutrition, tobacco, alcohol and UV 3.1 Create environments that improve health. 3.2 Increase optimal nutrition. 3.3 Reduce tobacco use. 3.4 Reduce harm from alcohol. 3.5 Reduce harmful UV exposure. KRA 4 Knowledge 4.1 Produce, synthesise and translate practical health promotion knowledge. 4.2 Evaluate health promotion practice. KRA 5 Communications 5.1 Develop, implement and evaluate marketing and communications approaches to improve health. 5.2 Develop evidence on effective social marketing. 5.3 Provide accurate, credible and timely information to stakeholders on health promotion issues. KRA 6 Business operations 6.1 Ensure effective business and risk processes and systems. 6.2 Develop high-performing people in a healthy and sustainable work environment. 6.3 Operate transparently and with accountability. VicHealth funded projects VicHealths programs and projects focus on improving the health of all people in Victoria, including addressing differences in health status between population groups. Programs are guided by the latest evidence and there is an attempt to invest in a range of activities in sectors as diverse as sport and active recreation, the arts, education, planning and built environment, community and local government. These programs promote changes in policy and practice that can influence peoples ability to sustain a healthy lifestyle. Activities supported since the Foundations establishment in 1987 have contributed significantly to public health improvements in Victoria. The reduction of smoking prevalence among adults is one of the success stories in the effectiveness of comprehensive, well-funded and sustained programs for improving health. Two VicHealth funded programs are outlined below, accompanied by potential health outcomes of each project and how they reflect the social model of health: VicHealths Arts About Us program encourages dialogue about the benefits of cultural diversity and the harm caused by race-based discrimination. Arts About Us currently provides three-year funding to 16 community and arts organisations that have partnered with VicHealth. Each project is working with various organisations to create and showcase art that strengthens cultural understanding, celebrates cultural diversity and generates discussion about the effects of race-based discrimination. Potential health outcomes of this program include; Breaking down the social isolation that people involved in the program may have experienced, thus leading to improvements in peoples social health. Building social connectedness for community groups and individuals that come together in such a program is positive for social health. Building the self-esteem of people whose art may be displayed is positive for social health. Raising community awareness of race-based discrimination may possibly lead to less discrimination and therefore has associated mental health benefits. Economic benefits may stem from people whose art skills are recognised. Resulting employment may have associated health benefits for these people. How this program reflects the principles of the social model of health; Strengthening cultural understanding and raising awareness of issues such as race-based discrimination aims to reduce social inequalities. Celebrating diversity aims to empower individuals and communities so they have the confidence to participate in the community. Culture is a broad determinant of health that is being targeted in this program. As of  November 1, 2011, it is now against the law in Victoria to serve alcohol in a private home to anyone under 18, unless their parent or guardian has given permission. The teen drinking law web resource launched by VicHealth, the Australian Drug Foundation and the Victorian Government is aimed at parents, adults and young people  and gives practical information about the new law change. The website encourages parents and children to discuss alcohol consumption, provides information on short term and long term harm that may result from alcohol and how to reduce these risks. Potential health outcomes of this initiative include; Raising community awareness of the new law may reduce the degree of underage alcohol consumption with associated health benefits. Social health benefits may result when parents and their children communicate about alcohol consumptions and the associated risks. Physical health benefits may result when young people are educated on safe consumption of alcohol. Mental health benefits may result when parents are reassured that there is a law protecting their children from accessing alcohol from other adults. How this program reflects the principles of the social model of health; Teaching young people and adults about alcohol consumption addresses the broader determinants of health, particularly education. When young people are educated about alcohol and its effects they are empowered to take control over the decisions that they make in their lives. For further practice on how VicHealth reflects the principles of the Social model of health, head to the VicHealth website. Here you will find examples of many VicHealth funded programs. Identify several programs and make connections with the principles of the Social model of health. Get your teacher to read over your responses. Glossary Biomedical model of health Focuses on the physical or biological aspects of disease and illness. It is a medical model of care practised by doctors and/or health professional and is associated with the diagnosis, cure and treatment of disease. Mission A statement defines what an organization is, why it exists, its reason for being. Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion Developed by the World Health Organization this approach attempts to reduce inequalities in health. The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion was developed from the social model of health. It considers health promotion as the process of enabling people to increase control over, and to improve, their health. The Ottawa Charter identifies three basic strategies for health promotion which are enabling, mediating, and advocacy. Social model of health A model that attempts to achieve improvements in health and wellbeing by directing effort towards addressing the social, economic and environmental determinants of health. VicHealth Is a Victorian government body that works with organisations, communities and individuals to promote health and prevent illness according to its priorities. Revision check checklist Can you explain the biomedical model of health? Can you explain the social model of health including the five principles? Can you explain the Ottawa Charter including the five priority action areas? Do you know VicHealths mission and strategic priorities? Do you know the potential health outcomes of a VicHealth funded project and how this project reflects the social model of Health? Revision Questions List three examples that represent a biomedical approach to health? Outline two features of the biomedical model of health? The QUIT campaign attempts to reduce the prevalence of smoking through assisting smokers to quit and not resume smoking. Describe how the QUIT campaign reflects two of the action areas of the Ottawa Charter? Explain the role of VicHealth in promoting health? VicHealth supports the Darebin Northern Interfaith Respectful Relationships Project. This project engages faith leaders and communities in Melbournes north to raise awareness of the problem of violence against women. The project helps faith and community leaders build their capacity to undertake primary prevention work. It incorporates a range of activities, including using scripture and teachings to promote respectful relationships, White Ribbon Day initiatives, interfaith declarations and peer mentoring programs. Explain, using evidence, two principles of the social model of health that are reflected in this program.

Irony in Tim O’Brien’s How to Tell a True War Story Essay -- How to Te

Irony in Tim O’Brien’s â€Å"How to Tell a True War Story† â€Å"This is true.† (O’Brien, 420) – with this simple statement which also represents a first, three-word introductory paragraph to Tim O’Brien’s short story, â€Å"How to Tell a True War Story†, the author reveals the main problem of what will follow. â€Å"Truth† – when looked up in a dictionary, we would probably find definitions similar to sincerity and honesty on the one hand, and correctness, accuracy or reality on the other hand. When looking at these definitions, one can make out two groups of meaning: While sincerity and honesty are very subjective, correctness or accuracy are supposed to be objective by nature. One can be sincere and still not report the truth, due to the simple fact that one does not know any better. Accuracy, however, is supposed to represent facts, bits and pieces of information that paint a picture of an event, untouched by opinion or attitude. In his short story, O’Brien unravels step by step the irony in the double meaning of truth, implied in this first statement, â€Å"This is true†, to the reader which is then woven through the entire story. By trying to characterize what constitutes a true war story, but never really achieving this goal, the true irony of his short story is revealed. Even though in some instances giving away his opinion explicitly, the sheer contradiction of honesty and reality becomes even more visible in an implicit way by following O’Brien’s explanations throughout the story while he deconstructs his first statement. The incongruity between his first statement and what is actually shown in his examples does not need any explicit statements to drive home his message. An interesting combination of recalled events and editorial commentary, the story is not set up like a traditional short story. One of the most interesting, and perhaps troubling, aspects of the construction of â€Å"How to Tell a True War Story† is O’Brien’s choice to create a fictional, first-person narrator who might just as well be the author himself. Because â€Å"How to Tell a True War Story† is told from a first-person perspective and O’Brien is an actual Vietnam veteran, a certain authenticity to this story is added. He, as the â€Å"expert† of war leads the reader through the story. Since O’Brien has experienced the actual war from a soldier’s point of view, he should be able to present the truth about war... ...r because it seems impossible to reconstruct an event from this objective point of view. Maybe the point of telling stories is not trying to recreate the reality of a past event, but it is the message that matters because that might be in the end the only thing that does not necessarily depend on single details of the story, but on the overall picture of an event. That is why to O’Brien another important component of a war story is the fact that a war story will never pin down the definite truth and that is why a true war story â€Å"never seems to end† (O’Brien, 425). O’Brien moves the reader from the short and simple statement â€Å"This is the truth† to the conclusion that, â€Å"In war you lose your sense of the definite, hence your sense of truth itself and therefore it’s safe to say that in a true war story nohting much is ever very true† (O’Brien, 428). These two statements frame the entire irony of the story, from it s beginning to its end. Almost like the popular saying â€Å"A wise man admits that he knows nothing.† Works Cited O’Brien, Tim. â€Å"How To Tell a True War Story.† The Compact Bedford Introduction to Literature. Ed. Michael Meyer. Boston: Bedford St. Martins, 2003. p. 420-429.