buy custom Technology and Patient Safety essay

buy custom Technology and Patient Safety essay Using a national representative and large sample of Medicare patient data, the authors of this article sought to link implementation of health IT to the clinical outcomes, which allowed them to apply a difference-in-differences method to measure adjustments in patient safety with adjustments in health IT investments. Data spanning four years (1999-2000) was observed for each hospital that was examined. Three health IT applications were analyzed and these included picture archiving and communications systems (PACS), electronic medical records (EMRs), and nurse charts applications. The outcome measures of the study included three patient safety indicators and these were: post-operative hematoma or haemorrhage, infection as a result of the medical care, postoperative deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism. The authors selected these indicators after consulting with the health care professionals to get the outcomes that were likely to be influenced by health IT. Patient charact eristics such as sex, race, and age among others were controlled. Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between the patient safety indicators and a group of health IT indicators, patient controls, as well as interactions between time and health IT applications. The authors also included a complete set of hospital, as well as time fixed effects which allowed for estimation of changes in patient safety outcomes following the adoption of health IT. The stud found EMRs to be the only health IT application having a distinct and statistically significant effect on patient safety. EMRs use was particularly associated with significant reductions in infections due to medical care. However, nurse charts and PACs were found to have no systematic association with any indicator. This study contributes to the inconclusive literature that exists about the issue of technology/informatics in promoting the patients safety. Kilbridge, P.M. Classen, D.C. (2008). The Informatics opportunities at the intersection of patient safety and clinical informatics. J AM Med Inform Assoc, 15: 397-407. This position paper addresses obstacles that prevent the use of health informatics in improving patient safety. The authors of the article note that while health informatics has been demonstrated to promote patient safety, various challenges make it quite difficult to improve it. The article aims at offering recommendations on ways of dealing with these challenges. The authors provide recommendations on how health informatics can be effectively used to promote and improve patient safety. Some of the recommendations include adequate health staff training on the use of available informatics, conduction of more research addressing health informatics and patient safety, and encouragement of hospitals to adopt electronic health records. The authors believe that once the arising challenges of the use of health informatics are addresssed, the greater improvement in patient safety will be achieved. IOM (2011). Health IT and Patient Safety: Building Safer Systems for Better Care. Consensus Report, Institute of Medicine. Realizing the widespread use of IT in medical care, IOM was directed by the Department of Health and Human Services to compile this report which is basically an evaluation of health safety issues arising from the use of health IT and recommendations on how these issues can be addressed at both the governmental and private sector levels. According to the report, an effective use of health IT depends on many factors including patients and healthcare professionals. The report found that the safety concerns of health IT should not be addressed from a single cause perspective, but from a much wider perspective involving the whole care system, in order to come up with an intervention to improve the safety of the system. According to the report, all stakeholders including patients, health professionals, private sector, and the government have distinct roles to play. In the report, the IOM makes certain recommendations, which include promotion of sharing of safety data, improving measures, s tandards, and criteria for the safe use, and finally promoting accountability and transparency. It is important to note that these recommendations are not similar to the ones found in Kilbridge and Classen study cited above. Buy custom Technology and Patient Safety essay

Act One of Bruce Norriss Play Clybourne Park

Act One of Bruce Norris's Play Clybourne Park The play Clybourne Park by Bruce Norris is set in a modest three-bedroom bungalow in central Chicago. Clybourne Park is a fictional neighborhood, first mentioned in Lorraine Hansberrys A Raisin in the Sun.   At the end of A Raisin in the Sun, a white man named Mr. Lindner tries to convince  a black couple not to move into Clybourne Park. He even offers them a substantial sum to purchase back the new home so that the white, working-class community can maintain its status quo. It isnt mandatory to know the story of A Raisin in the Sun to appreciate Clybourne Park, but it certainly enriches the experience. You can read a detailed, scene by scene summary of A Raisin in the Sun to enhance your comprehension of this play. Setting the Stage Act One of Clybourne Park takes place in 1959, in the home of Bev and Russ, a middle-aged couple who are preparing to move to a new neighborhood. They bicker (sometimes playfully, sometimes with underlying hostility) about various national capitals and the  origin of Neapolitan ice cream. Tensions mount when Jim, the local minister, stops by for a chat. Jim hopes for a chance to discuss Russ feelings. We learn that their adult son committed suicide after returning from the Korean War. Other people arrive, including Albert (husband of Francine, Bevs maid) and Karl and Betsy Lindner. Albert arrives to take his wife home, but the couple becomes involved in the conversation and the packing process, despite Francines attempts to leave. During the conversation, Karl drops the bombshell: the family that plans to move into Bev and Russ home is colored. Karl Doesnt Want Change Karl tries to convince the others that the arrival of a black family will negatively affect the neighborhood. He claims that housing prices will go down, neighbors will move away, and non-white, lower-income families will move in. He even tries to obtain the approval and understanding of Albert and Francine, asking them if they would want to live in a neighborhood like Clybourne Park. (They decline to comment  and do their best to stay out of the conversation.) Bev, on the other hand, believes that the new family could be wonderful people, no matter the color of their skin. Karl is the most overtly racist character in the play. He makes several outrageous statements, and yet in his mind, he is presenting logical arguments. For example, while trying to illustrate a point about racial preferences, he recounts his observations on a ski vacation: KARL: I can tell you, in all the time Ive been there, I have not once seen a colored family on those slopes. Now, what accounts for that? Certainly not any deficit in ability, so what I have to conclude is that for some reason, there is just something about the pastime of skiing that doesnt appeal to the Negro community. And feel free to prove me wrong†¦ But youll have to show me where to find the skiing Negroes. Despite such small-minded sentiments, Karl believes himself to be progressive. After all, he supports the Jewish-owned grocery store in the neighborhood. Not to mention, his wife, Betsy, is deaf - and yet despite her differences, and despite the opinions of others, he married her. Unfortunately, his core motivation is economic. He believes that when non-white families move into an all-white neighborhood, the financial value decreases, and investments are ruined. Russ Gets Mad As Act One continues, tempers boil. Russ doesnt care who is moving into the house. He is extremely disappointed and angry at his community. After being discharged because of disgraceful conduct (it is implied that he killed civilians during the Korean War), Russ son could not find work. The neighborhood shunned him. Russ and Bev received no sympathy or compassion from the community. They felt abandoned by their neighbors. And so, Russ turns his back on Karl and the others. After Russ caustic monologue in which he claims I dont care if a hundred Ubangi tribesman with a bone through the nose overrun this goddamn place (Norris 92), Jim the minister responds by saying Maybe we should bow our heads for a second (Norris 92). Russ snaps and wants to punch Jim in the face. To calm things down, Albert places his hand on Russ shoulder. Russ whirls toward Albert and says: Putting your hands on me? No sir. Not in my house you dont (Norris 93). Before this moment, Russ seems apathetic about the issue of race. In the scene mentioned above, however, it seems Russ reveals his prejudice. Is he so upset because someone is touching his shoulder? Or is he outraged that a black man has dared to put hands on Russ, a white man? Bev Is Sad Act One ends after everyone (except Bev and Russ) leaves the house, all with various feelings of disappointment. Bev tries to give away a chafing dish to Albert and Francine, but Albert firmly yet politely explains, Maam, we dont want your things. Please. We got our own things. Once Bev and Russ are alone, their conversation feebly returns to small talk. Now that her son is dead and she will be leaving behind her old neighborhood, Bev wonders what she will do with all of the empty time. Russ suggests that she fill the time up with projects. The lights go down, and Act One reaches its somber conclusion.

Changing the Requiring for Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Research Paper

Changing the Requiring for Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy - Research Paper Example Sometimes it is enough to push a person to the brink of financial disaster. At one time a person could seek Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection and discharge the debt they could not afford to pay, but it is not so easy any more. When a person files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection, s/he acknowledges that s/he is unable to pay some or all of his/her creditors. Prior to 2005, people with jobs who just overextended themselves could file Chapter 7 bankruptcy and be free of credit card or other debt such as medical bills, without relinquishing much of their property as long as they continued to make payments on the property on which they still owed money. Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as liquidation, â€Å"contemplates an orderly, court-supervised procedure by which a trustee takes over the assets of the debtor's estate, reduces them to cash, and makes distributions to creditors, subject to the debtor's right to retain certain exempt property and the rights of secured creditors† (Office of the U.S. Courts, 2011). Often times, the debtor has no assets—that is s/he does not own a house, car, or other valuable goods, or, if the debtor does own them, s/he owes so much debt on them, they are foreclosed or repossessed, or, before 2005, as long as the debtor was not in arrears, creditors could not repossess or foreclose on assets of those who filed Chapter 7 as long as their payments on those assets were current. Before 2005, people who declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy often walked away from their debts with a stain on their credit history that, after a few years, no longer affected them in an adverse way. Some of these people got into trouble because they lacked the ability or desire to budget properly. Others experienced some sort of financial setback like a catastrophic illness or injury. Some went on to rack up insurmountable debt again, only to have it discharged again through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, in 2005 the law regarding Chapter 7 bankruptcy f ilings changed so that deadbeat debtors could not file Chapter 7 bankruptcy so easily, and if they did file, the penalties were much greater. In 2005, the bankruptcy laws changed from one that favored the debtor to one that favored the creditor. People now cannot get into debt over their heads and then just file Chapter 7 bankruptcy to alleviate the debt they cannot afford. â€Å"The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 [BAPCPA] require the application of a ‘means test’ to determine whether individual consumer debtors qualify for relief under chapter 7. If such a debtor's income is in excess of certain thresholds, the debtor may not be eligible for chapter 7 relief† (Office of the U.S. Courts, 2011). In other words, if the debtor has a job, s/he may not be eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The â€Å"means test† requires that petitioners for Chapter 7 bankruptcy â€Å"complete Official Bankruptcy Form B22A, entitled "Statement o f Current Monthly Income and Means Test Calculation - For Use in Chapter 7." This then â€Å"determine[s] whether a presumption of abuse arises† (Office of the U.S. Courts, 2011). Form B22A consists of eight pages similar to a federal tax form that examines every source of income and debt a person has, allows for exemptions of some, and sets a limit of debts between $7025 and $11,725 and a limit of greater than 25% disposable income over five years to be eligible for Chapter 7. The Golden Gate University Law Review offers a hypothetical case of a couple with $28,000 of

OES SPS an Innovation in Repair and Conversion for the Offshore Essay

OES SPS an Innovation in Repair and Conversion for the Offshore Industry - Essay Example Rob Duffin presented a number of issues ranging from the significance of SPS in the transformation of FPSO’s which includes reduction of operational costs, life extensions and easier repair of the current station assets without disruption or operational effects. Another issue presented in the meeting was the compliance of the new technology to anti-piracy measures. I will report each of the issues separately as presented by Rob. The Director of the Institution of Civil Engineers introduced the presenter. Sandwich Plate System (SPS) overview Rob described the SPS is a structural complex consisting of two metal plates joined together using a polyurethane elastomer laminate a definition he got from Lehmann and Egge book published in 2009. Rob asserted that SPS is easier and tougher compared to hardened steel plate and is not as heavy to use as the strengthened concrete. SPS has found various applications in several areas such as structural flooring, pitch and field terraces, fixi ng and construction of ships of ships, and construction of bridges. SPS the Global Perspective Rob derived the global perspective of SPS technology from Kennedy and Ferro’s book published in 2007. Rob reported that all the Global stakeholders have acknowledged SPS as beneficial in the construction industry particularly concerning enhancing performance, sustainability and safety. In the maritime constructions, SPS has replaced the usually hardened steel used in making components such as hulls and bulkheads of ship. SPS reduces the stiffening problem and makes the components less prone to rust and fatigue. SPS is used in the construction of bridge supports and structure floors in replacement of the conventional strengthened concrete. SPS eliminates the problems of fatigue and rust associated with the use of strengthened concrete and steel. SPS place are easier to design and customize to the required dimensions. Some of the benefits of SPS plates include reduction of stiffness i n structures, ease of application and enhancement of designs in deeper-water construction. FPSO conversions –compact Double Hull Just as mentioned by McDermotte in his article Tanker Structural Analysis for Minor Collisions published in the Journal SNAME Vol. 102Technical Note FPSO P-57, typical SPS Overlays in the FPSO conversions entail the cleaning of the existing plate, fusing solid steel perimeter bars to create boundary functions. Rob pointed out that some of the advantages of the SPS Overlay include quicker repair schedules, reduced labor and minimized downtime. The overlay provides permanent upgrading at minimized repair expenses, lessened operating expenses and enhanced revenue potential. Offshore Life Extension According to Rob, McDermott in his article also emphasized the significance of offshore life extensions. SPS Overlay is a quicker and efficient method of reinstating and intensifying offshore crafts and structures. The Overlay thus strengthens the structures and prolongs their lifespan by offering permanent solutions to the previous short-lifespan projects. SPS Overlay allows for construction of high quality vertical and horizontal supports that possess strong impact resistance, lessened fatigue and controlled crack propagation. An advantage with the SPS Overlay application is that is employs the pre-existing or damaged plating to construct parts of the steel laminate panel. This is a cost-saving process while still increasing the

Impact of the Recession on Construction Contractors Essay Example for Free

Impact of the Recession on Construction Contractors Essay The current crisis in the world’s financial system has left the construction industry facing its toughest challenges for a generation. Salaries are falling; job cuts are predicted to reach 400,000 in England alone; and the impacts look set to get much worse before they get better. No country is immune from the impact of this and the UK, and much of the rest of the world, is already in, or about to enter a recession. Even buoyant construction markets such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are starting to feel the effect, with construction growth rate expected to slow from 20% to 15% in 2009 (Al Mal Capital). The United Nations (UN) predicts world economic output will shrink by as much as 0.4% in 2009 (UNs World Economic Situation and Prospects Report, 2009). These are serious times, however, the industry needs to be prepared to contribute to the recovery by retraining workers, maintaining the highest of standards of quality and supporting innovation. Construction professionals must not lose sight of their commitment to issues of sustainability, health and safety, ethical business practices and improved building standards. These will future-proof the industry and allow it to grow after the economy recovers. Companies seeking to find an extra edge in an increasingly competitive marketplace are likely to employ greater innovation as they look to become more efficient. This could have far reaching benefits for the industry in the future, where innovation has never been more vital. Construction Output It is clear that construction is in for a period of deflation. Forecasts suggest that there will be a 7% decline in output over the next three years, however, this figure is heavily contingent on Government spending coming through as planned (Construction Products Association). In the second quarter of 2008 new order figures were at their lowest level since 2004; 14% below the average last year. Housing orders were down 30%, private industrial orders by 36% and commercial orders by more than  £1bn from 2007 (Construction Products Association). A rapid decline in private work has been partly propped up by more public sector spending, however the outlook for the private sector over the next few quarters is set to get worse. The Olympics will prop up the industry to a certain extent but the cessation of office development will have a much greater effect. Overall, even if all public sector funding was spent next year, the construction industry in 2009 would still see the largest percentage of fall in output since the early nineties, when over 500,000 left the industry. This has been brought about by the sharp fall in private sector investment in construction – offices, retail, entertainment, as well as private house building. Public Sector Spending The Government’s decision to bring forward  £3bn of capital spending on infrastructure was cautiously welcomed by the construction industry (Pre-budget statement, November 2008). Given the extremely high levels of borrowing that the Treasury is expecting over the next few years, there is a risk that Government will fund later debt repayments with cuts in capital spending on construction further down the track. There is also a risk that delays in the Government’s existing build programmes will lead to increased under-spend. Programmes such as the Building Schools for the Future Programme have already fallen behind schedule, and reports suggest that this is as a result of bureaucracy rather than lack of funding. Business Finance and Loss of Confidence According to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), more than half of British firms have seen a decline in the ease of access to capital since the onset of the credit crunch; 30% of businesses have been, or expect to be refused new credit; and 78% expect business conditions to be worse next year. The Government must urgently take steps to unblock the financial markets and improve the flow of capital to business. The fiscal mitigation measures that were recently announced by the Chancellor (Pre-budget statement, November 2008) were not sufficient to address the underlying loss of confidence facing all UK businesses (and people). More innovative ways could be investigated by Government to help the industry survive, such as providing credit insurance; relaxing bonding requirements on public projects; setting up project bank accounts; and providing tax breaks/concessions for sustainable construction RD. At present, the latter has effectively ground to a halt largely as a result of the deeply entrenched uncertainty that abound. Jobs Loss of Skills Almost 400,000 jobs in the construction sector in England could be lost over the next two years (assuming GDP shrinks by 2.2% in 2009 and rises by 0.75% in 2010). It is predicted that the worst affected area will be London, where 23% of workers are expected to be made redundant (Public and Corporate Economic Consultants for the Local Government Association). On the other hand, Eastern Europeans are responding to the downturn in the market by returning home, and this has eased the severity of the job situation in many instances. Given the forecasts for construction output in 2009, it could be assumed that jobs in the public sector may offer more security than those in the private sector. This reinforces the need for Government to establish how an accelerated public spending package will be implemented. It is essential that the government makes sure timetables don’t slip, and that it does what it can to speed up deal flows and bidding times. Through no fault of its own, the Construction Industry, in particular the house-building Industry, is having to dramatically re-structure and down-size merely to survive. The loss of technical resource and therefore expertise has been considerable and there are already signs that an upturn in the fortunes of the UK economy will not see these people return. This is a real concern, particularly as the science and technology that underpins UK sustainable construction is becoming even more complex and at a time when we need experienced people if we are to meet our sustainability objectives. Furthermore, it is not something that can be addressed overnight by short-term training and/or education. Procurement It has been reported that the credit crunch is likely to reverse the industry’s trend towards negotiated contracts and partnering. Instead, there could be a swing back towards single-stage, lowest bid tenders aimed at achieving the lowest possible outturn cost. While single-stage tendering may be seen as a quick fix during the economic downturn, this does not take the long-term view, nor adequately consider best value for money. It does however provide a more risky financial environment which is likely to become a fertile breading ground for claims and liquidations as contractors cut their profits to secure work in a decreasing market. Partnering has proved itself as the most efficient way of undertaking all kinds of construction work including new buildings and infrastructure, alterations, refurbishment and maintenance. Indeed the figures show that that in the four years from 2001 to 2005,  £700m of public money was saved, and the potential for two and a half billion in savings, would have been feasible had best practice been adopted across the board. When times are hard, best practice is at its most crucial to successful business. Fraud An unexpected knock-on effect of the credit crunch has been a dramatic rise in worldwide construction fraud. Evidence suggests that the average construction companys loss to fraud has increased by 69% in the last year (Kroll Global Fraud Report), driven largely by tough economic conditions. A total of 890 senior executives participated in the worldwide survey, which covered 10 industries, with just over one-quarter based in Europe. More than 95% of the construction companies surveyed said they had suffered from corporate fraud in the past three years up by 77% from last years survey. Most frequent types of fraud occurring in the construction industry include theft of physical assets or stock, financial mismanagement, management conflict of interest, and corruption and bribery. Companies will need to be even more vigilant than usual to reduce fraud in the construction industry. Sustainability Opinion is divided about the impact of the credit crunch on the sustainability agenda. A recent survey from the UK Green Building Council (UK GBC) suggests that while the conventional building industry suffers, the sustainable building sector is experiencing growth. Asked whether the financial crisis has impacted on their organisation in tackling sustainability, 56% of UK GBC members said sustainability had become a bigger focus. Only 18% said the credit crunch has had an adverse effect on efforts to address sustainability. On the other hand, a survey of small-medium sized contractors suggests that tough government targets on sustainable construction are being missed, as buildings fail to achieve the standards set by the Code for Sustainable Homes (National Federation of Builders). The survey revealed that contractors appeared to be quite knowledgeable about the driving issues and regulations for sustainability, but in over half (53%) of projects tendered for, sustainability was not a client requirement. Either way, it is important that new buildings, not least those procured by government, are of the highest possible environmental standards. Green building can be at the heart of a low-carbon economic recovery, boosting growth and creating green collar jobs. This is particularly true in existing homes and buildings, where we need a massive programme of refurbishment to cut carbon, reduce energy bills and produce more comfortable places to live and work. By continuing to build using sustainable technologies the built environment will be preserved for future generations, and a proven record in sustainable design will be invaluable in gaining new contracts in the growing sustainable market. Education and Training The future success of the construction industry depends on the availability of skilled professionals. The credit crisis poses a significant threat to the number of students enrolling in graduate construction courses. Students may be apprehensive about pursuing a career in construction in this unstable climate. This would result in a loss of specialist skills, which in turn would hinder the recovery and future development of the industry. Sandwich courses could be at particular risk because of the lack of available placements available. Many companies are reducing the number of placements they have for students or not taking on any at all. This could result in a reduction in the number of places available on the courses because they can not guarantee work experience placements. Apprenticeships in the UK house-building industry have also suffered as a direct result of the credit crunch. However, opportunities still exist in the bigger public sector infrastructure projects such as schools, hospitals, railways and roads. As a result of these risks the Government is working with Construction Skills to try and secure as many positions as possible for students. A new taskforce is being created to ensure that construction training is as effective as possible, and apprenticeship funding will also be increased to over  £1 billion to try and prevent skill shortages (Department for innovation, Universities Skills). For professionals already within the industry, there is research to suggest that individuals with specialist skills or training could potentially gain a competitive advantage in the current economic climate (Chartered Institute of Management). The research predicts that professional qualifications could result in an additional  £152,000 in lifetime earnings. It also suggests that a working knowledge of sustainable building and other innovative methods will be a particular advantage, with major projects on the horizon requiring an extensive skilled workforce in these areas. It is important for employers to train and encourage further development if they want to secure the future of the construction industry. This will ensure that their workforce is properly trained in up-to-date techniques and will put them in a stronger and more competitive position to win new contracts when market conditions improve. Although it may be inevitable for some to make financial cuts to survive, it is crucial to maintain a constant number of new innovative minds that will allow the industry to recovery and continue to grow.

Nature Imagery and the Life Cycle in Robert Frost’s The Wind and the Ra

Nature Imagery and the Life Cycle in Robert Frost’s The Wind and the Rain In his poem â€Å"The Wind and the Rain,† Robert Frost develops a central theme, presenting a man’s reflection upon his life. As the man ages, he realizes that he spent much of his life worrying about his inevitable death instead of living his life to the fullest. The man expresses his desire to renew life at all costs; he would rather die living than spend the rest of his life concerning himself with death. Robert Frost’s theme in â€Å"The Wind and the Rain,† therefore, is that life should be lived, and one should not worry about his inevitable death, for he does not have the power to control death, only the way he lives his life. Frost uses images of nature throughout the poem to support his central theme. In part I of â€Å"The Wind and the Rain,† the speaker discusses the fact that he is aging, and his death is undeniable. He realizes that he has â€Å"let [his focus on death] drive [him] deathward,† yet he has done little to change his focus. The man regrets that he spent much of his life â€Å"[singing] of death,† wishi...

Overview Of Trocar Insertion Procedure Health And Social Care Essay

2.1 Introduction: This subdivision introduces the trocar interpolation process to the reader. The apprehension of the mechanics of this process is critical for in depth research into assorted parametric quantities involved in the interpolation procedure. There are chiefly two constituents involved in this process viz. trocar or cannula placed on top of patient and the implicit in unrecorded tissue. Due to peculiar nature of the interpolation procedure, chiefly two types of organic structure forces are applied on trocar organic structure i.e. interpolation force in longitudinal way and jumping torsion for incursion. This action can be thought to be similar to a drill being alternately rotated while perforating a stuff block. However, there are other boundary conditions and initial analysis parametric quantities introduced. 2.2 Description of the process: Minimally invasive surgical processs are frequently named based on the type of sing range used to see the country of the organic structure which is the operative site. For illustration, laparoscopic processs use a laparoscope to see the operative site and are performed in the inside of the venters through a little scratch. A gas such as CO2 is introduced in the tummy pit to set up pneumoperitoneum wherein the peritoneal pit is sufficiently inflated for the interpolation of trocars into the venters. Pneumoperitoneum is established through the usage of a usage insufflation acerate leaf, called a Veress acerate leaf, utilizing a spring-loaded obturator that slides over the crisp tip of the needle every bit shortly as the needle enters the peritoneal pit. This acerate leaf is inserted through the facia and through the peritoneum. The sawbones entirely depends on tactile feedback generated at the fingertips to find the proper arrangement of the acerate leaf. After set uping pneumoperitoneum, the following measure in laparoscopic surgery involves the interpolation of trocar/obturator assembly into the abdominal pit. Based on the type of surgery, there may be one or more trocar interpolations to entree the interior organic structure volume related to surgery. A simple conventional diagram for description of the process is given below Figure 1. Schematics of trocar interpolation process [ Ref Web [ 1 ] ] Degree centigrades: Documents and SettingsYongMy DocumentsMy Pictures rocar rocar6.jpg Figure. Trocar being inserted into abdominal pit [ Ref 24 ] Above figures depict the assorted forces and torsions involved in a regular trocar interpolation operation. Trocar is held with one manus for proper arrangement of trocar on the abdominal part. The other manus is used for using torsion every bit good as for uni directional force application. The magnitude of applied force with regard to clip and figure of bends applied while tissue incursion are of import parametric quantities for imitating this process realistically. There are different methods for cannula interpolation: by puting a trocar under direct vision into the peritoneal pit ( Hasson technique ) [ Ref 22 ] or â€Å" blindly † with a bladed trocar with the venters desufflated direct puncture and direct puncture with visual image through an optical trocar. Alternatively, a needle system could be used to entree the peritoneum to at the same time insufflate the venters and present a sheath through which a blunt trocar could be placed [ Ref 23 ] . Harmonizing to the port a rrangement guidelines, there are by and large multiple interpolations of trocars into abdominal part in order to handily entree different surgical sites with coveted tools. Some tools are used for catching and review of the tissue while others are used for cutting or suturing intents. There is a cardinal scratch through which a camera is inserted into the abdominal pit in order to project the surgery being performed on a picture screen for ocular mention intents. The full process is carried out under general anaesthesia. 2.3 Description of trocars and design parametric quantities: There are a figure of types of trocars that are available for interpolation, depending on the application. Choice of trocars by and large depends on several factors such as the type of entree site, debut of tools of proper size at the site including stapling machines, cartridge holder applicants and retractors. Harmonizing to the rule of cutting, there are cutting trocars and distending trocars. Cuting trocars integrate some signifier of blade at the site of cutting while the dilating trocars try to press and distend the tissue without cutting it first [ Ref 4 ] . Earlier trocars integrated conelike or pyramidic terminals in order to consequence interpolation, while the newer version incorporates safety shields and blunter plastic blades. Trocars are available in both metal tip and plastic assortments. A hollow or solid conelike plastic tip is a preferable design. Newer version of trocars attempts to unite design characteristics of both cutting and blunt type trocars to cut down the opportunities of hurt and for less applied force demands [ Ref 4, 25 ] . Five different types of trocars were compared in a publication and perforations were performed on the porcine tissue. A figure of different parametric quantities such as defect size, interpolation force and removal force were measured under standardised clinical conditions for 12 mm entree trocars [ Ref 4 ] . The trocars used were shown in figure below which involve a individual blade cutting type trocar, a blunt and radically distending trocar, plastic blade which is really common, triangular cutting blade type and the most modern design i.e. intercrossed distending type trocar. Figure 12-mm entree systems used in the survey. ( A ) Single blade film editing ; ( B ) blunt-radial dilating ; ( C ) plastic blade ; ( D ) trigon blade film editing ; ( E ) hybrid distending [ Ref 4 ] Figure. a ) Pyramidal blade reusable B ) Pyramidal blade disposable trocar [ Ref 25 ] Figure. a ) Flat blade trocar B ) Non bladed trocar 1 degree Celsius ) Non bladed trocar 2 [ Ref 25 ] It was found that radially distending and intercrossed types are similar in footings of perforations while removal force was more or less similar in each instance [ Ref 4 ] . This survey nevertheless underlines that characteristics of cannula design i.e. ridges, togss and textures are responsible factors for minimising remotion forces. While new designs cut down the interpolation forces, they do n't lend towards drastically improved interpolation consequences over the traditional bladed trocar design [ Ref 4 ] . Besides it has been found that there are differences in defect sizes and lesion parametric quantities associated with trocar geometry and type [ Ref 25 ] . It is desirable that we cut down the affected country of the lesion and herniation of facia caused by the remotion of trocar at the site ; nevertheless it is difficult to document all the design factors impacting different lesion parametric quantities. A more matter-of-fact attack can be to prove the trocar on latest FEM p ackage for failure analysis of the environing tissue membrane and secret plan different emphasis affected zones next to the interpolation site. 2.4 Modeling of trocar interpolation process: The research work proposed in this thesis uses two different methodological analysiss to near the job of realistic mold of the trocar interpolation process 1 ) Interactive Haptic simulator for patterning force feedback interaction 2 ) Finite element mold of trocar interpolation process 1 ) Interactive Haptic simulator for patterning force feedback interaction: This process is a premier campaigner for practical world simulation based trainers for sawboness to derive valuable simulation experience before they pattern existent trocar interpolation on patients. There have been several efforts to develop a needle interpolation based simulator for sawbones preparation undertakings, the outstanding amongst them uses an synergistic user interface based system, which gives the expert sawbones, a freedom to tune different mechanical tissue parametric quantities in order to leave different kinaesthetic esthesiss to the user [ Ref 3 ] . It is really difficult to reproduce the exact tissue behaviour experienced during surgery in a feasible Haptic simulator. Hence this closed cringle method provides a benchmarking expression to set up tissue belongingss in a Haptic sense. Figure. Block diagram exemplifying minimally invasive surgery [ Ref 26 ] Above figure gives an thought about the closed cringle schematic for minimally invasive surgery which is applicable to trocar interpolation process as good. However, trocar interpolation process in itself is non a surgical process but a precursor to the existent minimally invasive surgery process. As shown in above figure, the sawbones has a limited position of the surgical site and force, place, speed and torsion are the active applied inputs on trocar, which are so transmitted bit by bit to patient abdominal tissue. During the full process, the sawbones receives distorted kinaesthetic feedback. The feedback is discontinuous since every bit shortly as equilibrium between applied and reaction force is established momently, there is no feedback force. The opposition to incursion is chiefly determined by the implicit in local tissue belongingss and trocar geometry and stuffs used. Figure. Block diagram exemplifying Virtual world preparation with force feedback for minimally invasive surgery [ Ref 26 ] Above figure illustrates the closed cringle system integrating a Haptic based practical world preparation simulator which involves a practical instrument interface. The interface transmits applied force, place, and speed and torsion vector information many times every 2nd to tactile environment underlying the simulator to calculate the hit sensing with practical tissue and update the force feedback vector. Trainee sawbones feels the fake force feedback through the practical instrument interface which uses commercially available tactile devices such as Phantom Omni or usage built Haptic devices. Simulated ocular feedback is provided through either 2 dimensional show on computing machine proctors or two-channel vision [ Ref 26 ] . One of the jobs faced while constructing a trocar interpolation simulator, is imitating proper tissue behaviour at the point of braking through tissue beds, i.e. the feeling of sudden giving off of the tissue when trocar brakes through the rectus abdominis part. For the finding of proper force profile for this simulator, a through literature reappraisal was carried out to garner informations about assorted tissue parametric quantities, braking force values for different tissue beds and existent secret plans of force profile informations, found in old documents. We have determined that, there are two attacks for obtaining the force profile – plotting of the reaction force experienced by sawboness with regard to clip and with regard to distortion distance. Rendering process utilizing tactile devices has been explored antecedently in a figure of surgery simulations. There are assorted attacks to turn to the job of visio tactile simulation of deformable objects based on spring mass based systems. There are many finite component based fluctuations for spring mass based simulations such as finite component method ( FEM ) [ Ref 27 ] and boundary component method ( BEM ) [ Ref 28 ] . Current research job nevertheless offers a alone challenge since it involves tissue distortion simulation and in writing rendition of tissue cutting during the procedure of trocar interpolation. For the simplification of our research job, during the first stage we concentrated our attending on tissue distortion and non on tissue cutting simulation since it ‘s a separate research job. Trocar interpolation chiefly involves tissue distortion, opposition force to weave distortion, braking force and frictional opposition to torquing gesture [ Ref 2, Ref 5 ] . T here is no literature available on torque measuring and word picture of tactile belongingss for opposition to rotatory gesture of trocar. The literature that is straight related with this topic is slightly obscure in nature such as the torsion measuring and word picture while managing of machine tools and rotary motion of prison guard driver [ Ref ] . Another research paper which is more relevant trades with measuring of torque interactions while managing laparoscopic tools [ Ref 29 ] . Hence we needed to trust on ergonomic mentions for approximative calculation of torque feedback magnitude and nature of torque interaction. For simplifying the tactile theoretical account, it is proposed that there are two primary mechanisms or provinces for grip force and torque interaction of trocar with regard to abdominal tissue. These two provinces are described in the figures below. In these figures, the transverse plane in which trocar geometry resides is termed as cutaneal plane and the angle between this plane and y-axis is termed as I ± , the angle between omega axis and cutaneal plane is termed as I? ( tilt ) and the rotary motion of the trocar around the trocar axis is defined in footings of angle I? ( tortuosity ) . 1. Mechanism for first province: First phase consists of gradual addition in distortion forces in a way analogue to the axis of trocar. As applied force additions, the reaction force reaches a maximal threshold value called braking force after which, trocar interruptions through facia and so through the peritoneum. There is by and large really small clip slowdown between these two incursion phases therefore, it is difficult to separate between the centripetal feeling for these extremums. Please refer to calculate below. We see that there is a gradual addition in applied force ( on applied force V clip graph ) after which there is a plateau part when farther really small addition in force causes the applied force to transcend the braking force value. Depending on local tissue belongingss, there can be several extremums after the first tableland part is reached, and so sudden lessening in force is experienced. This generalised nature of the force profile is verified through several mentions. If we observe the force pr ofile in Ref 6, we see that for 12 millimeter bladeless trocar, the extremum force value reached is about 70 N, while for 5 millimeter bladeless trocar, the recorded extremum force value is about 35.84 N [ Ref 6 ] . However, this research work was carried out utilizing unreal tissue under tenseness, without expert accomplishment. Another research paper that trades with existent extremum force measuring, on human tissue, utilizing piezoelectric detector mounted between sawbones ‘s manus and trocar, has produced a spike natured force profile [ Ref 1 ] . The maximal peak force recorded utilizing a detector in this instance is tantamount to 5 millimeter of HG force per unit area at the trocar reaching surface country [ Ref 1 ] . It is to be noted that the interpolation clip for trocar, in this instance is really short since the expert sawboness have right centripetal standardization which allows them to infix the trocar utilizing fewer figure of bends and with lesser force magnitu de [ Ref 2 ] . However, we observe that after extremum force value is reached, in all force profile instances, there is a sudden lessening in opposition force since the material failure standard is reached. 2. Mechanism for 2nd province: After tissue incursion, 2nd phase prevails during which trocar wall surface is in direct contact with environing penetrated tissue. It is difficult to depict the nature of destroyed tissue and the local coefficient of torsional every bit good as skiding clash. These forces are of import because, during the backdown stage, sawbones has to carefully abjure the trocar in such a manner that there is no injury to internal variety meats. The easiness with which trocar is withdrawn is a direct consequence of these forces and trocar geometry. The magnitudes and the nature of the force profile ( force V clip secret plans ) are discussed in following few subdivisions. Figure. Four grades of freedom of trocar while interpolation, applied and reaction forces during tissue distortion province Figure. Frictional peripheral force along the walls and Torsional frictional twosome at the fringe, after tissue incursion 2.5 Force and torque parametric quantities: Force Data Different techniques are available to obtain realistic mean extremum entry force informations plotted against clip or distortion. One of the direct techniques involve, mounting a force or force per unit area detector on existent trocar while the process of minimally invasive surgery is carried out. Another technique involves measuring of incursion force based on porcine tissue incursion utilizing a research lab device. However there are a figure of variables involved and it is really difficult to set up a aureate criterion or a scope of values for a peculiar instance. Body aggregate index of the patient, age, degree of exercising are some of the factors that affect the force profile informations. One of the documents reported utilizing existent piezoelectric transducer fond regard mounted between trocar surface and sawbones ‘s manus to obtain specific force profile informations for each patient with regard to clip [ Ref 6 ] ; nevertheless upon observation of the force profile, we see that the force profile informations does n't give us an thought about gradual addition in trocar force opposition. This force profile represents a spike in footings of reaction force experienced, which is unequal to imitate a complete trocar interpolation, since it does n't enter gradual alterations in force profile happening merely before incursion. However, the magnitude of braking force for each instance is noted down and we can utilize this statistical information to construct a simulator which allows for different braking force values based on correlativity between patient ‘s age and average extremum entry force [ Ref 6 ] . A old experiment to mensurate the entry force utilizing laboratory experiment uses a mechano chemical examiner which tests the incursion of a stretched alternate tissue, to plot a force versus incursion distance informations. This trial uses changeless velocity of incursion for the trocar and does n't pay attending to application of torsion while infixing trocar, as in existent process [ Ref 5 ] . Another paper related to old work, for imitating trocar interpolation uses a parametric theoretical account to imitate three separate parts for a force profile informations utilizing multinomial fit [ Ref 1 ] . We found that this attack is really utile for readily incorporating a given force profile into tactile simulator, for experimentation intents. However the usage of any such force profile is arbitrary, till it has been verified by adept sawboness to be as close an experience to the existent undertaking of trocar interpolation. Table I clip in s Force in N clip in s Force in N 0 0 1.25 20 0.2 8 1.4 30 0.5 7 1.5 35 0.7 5 1.6 40 1 10.1 1.7 50 Time in seconds Force in N Force in N Time in seconds Figure ( a ) Rough secret plan of Force profile [ Ref 1 ] , ( B ) Force profile after re-parameterization and curve adjustment Figure ( a ) Typical spike force profiles obtained from 5mm and 10 millimeter diameter trocar interpolations [ Ref 6 ] Another important research work performed utilizing instrumented trocar systems against 20 swine theoretical accounts was reported in one of the recent documents by Paserotti et Al. [ Ref 29 ] . The full experimental process was repeated for two bladed non retractile trocars and four bladed retractile trocars. Table II [ Ref 29 ] Fd, entire thrust force ( Newton ) ; Ff, force needed to travel through facia ( Newtons ) ; Fp, force needed to travel through peritoneal liner ( Newtons ) ; Fl, loss of drive force after come ining the peritoneum ( Newtons ) ; Ld, the sum of tissue distortion ( centimeter ) ; Lt, the length of trocar exposed in the venters after the peritoneum retracts ( centimeter ) ; NA ; non applicable ; Td, clip to drive the trocar into the venters ( sec ) ; Tr, continuance of blade exposed unprotected ( sec ) [ Ref 29 ] The characteristic nature of force profile obtained in this research, confirms the fact that there are multiple extremums encountered during incursion for get the better ofing different tissue beds ( facia and peritoneum beds severally ) . After the braking force magnitude is reached, a sudden loss of opposition or giving off of the tissue is experienced which should be efficaciously simulated with the lowering of Haptic opposition during the simulation. Torque Data: Measurement of torsion informations for trocar interpolation procedure, is a complex undertaking since interpolation normally involves 2 to 5 bends in clockwise and anticlockwise waies [ Ref 2 ] . The clasp features and the mode in which torsion is applied is non unvarying for all the instances, besides some sawboness use small to no torquing when it comes to interpolation. Hence, we have to trust on informations from old research work in order to acquire an thought about the torsion magnitude. There are other ergonomic mentions from which we can mention to the industrial class torquing attempts in assorted types of clasps such as power clasp, cardinal pinch and tip pinch clasps etc. There are two major classs of clasps viz. prehensile and non prehensile clasp [ Ref 31 ] . The clasp used for catching trocar organic structure is a prehensile type of clasp ( specifically cylindrical ) and based on the carpus rotary motion and gripping force, variable sum of torsion can be transmitted a t the interpolation point. For the screwdriver interpolation gesture which is about tantamount to the trocar interpolation gesture in some ways, the maximal torsion that can be exerted is about 5 Nm for a feed force of about 60 N [ Ref 30 ] . However a more dependable projection for torque measuring is found in another mention [ Ref 31 ] , for both instrument to organ interaction during laparoscopic surgery and trocar abdominal wall interaction during interpolation procedure. There are a scope values that have been documented in this mention, which suggest that rotational gesture in the clasp produces approximately 0 to 0.7 Nm of torsion at the interface. Besides, the frictional force opposing the rotary motion is found to be about 3 N in magnitude at the interface. A major guideline for design of Haptic simulator is stated in this mention that Haptic esthesis is greatest at the low value of translational or interpolation speed and at the smallest angles of tilt I? [ Ref 31 ] .

Explain the theory of Virtue Ethics Essay

Aristotle originally introduced virtue Ethics to society in ancient Greek times. Virtue Ethics tells us that we should look at the character of the person instead of the actions or duties a person performs. Instead of concentrating on what is the right thing to do, virtue ethics asks how you can be a better person. Aristotle claims that leading a virtuous life is easy, and those who do, do so to be happy. Happiness is the ultimate goal for everyone in life. To become a better person, you must practice virtuous acts regularly. After a while, these acts will become routine and so the virtuous acts will be nothing more than everyday life and the person a virtuous person. Aristotle said that although virtues should become a habit we must never forget that we behave in such a way because it is right. For example, if a singer practices singing everyday, they will become better at it and used to doing it. This is the same as people who practice their virtues and soon automatically act in the right way, by practicing our skills we improve them, becoming happier. Virtues should not be an effort, but simply a part of everyone’s personality. Aristotle says that virtue is something that we acquire and are not just born with, people are not inherently good or bad, but become good or bad according to the habits they develop. Aristotle said that a virtue was a ‘Golden Mean’ in between to vices. These ‘Vices’ are two extremes of a scale at opposite ends, one of excess and one of deficiency. For example the vices would be shamelessness and shyness, and the virtue modesty. Another example of this would be rudeness and a sense of humour as the two vices and the virtue as wittiness. Such virtues must be cultivated, we must learn when to use certain virtues and to what extent, for example we must not ever use humour in excess to act like a fool, but at the same time we must also not pass into rudeness. Two philosophers, Anscombe and MacIntyre say that there has been a mistake in how virtues have been portrayed. The majority of people look at the actions a person does to judge whether they are virtuous or not. The way in which we behave provides an opportunity for others to judge our virtues and vices. This however is not right. People should look at the character within and  look at what the person believes is right and how they think they should help people instead of what they do to help. A famous example of a virtuous person is Mother Theresa. She helped millions of suffering people across the world and for this became well known as a virtuous person. There are hundreds of other virtuous people who would have liked to have helped but were unable to do so in such a huge way who are not considered as virtuous, but these people are just as virtuous but not recognised for it. Aristotle tells us that we are most likely to learn virtuous behaviour from watching others. If we experience others being kind to us and see the happiness it creates we are more likely to practice it then if we were just told to do it. For example, if we were told to be courageous we may occasionally stand up for small things that we disagree with, but if we see someone telling others off for not doing the right thing then we are more likely to not allow bad behaviour towards ourselves. Aristotle said that the best way of becoming virtuous was to follow in the footsteps of a virtuous person, e.g. Mother Theresa and do what they do. Virtue Ethics is relative; Aristotle recognised that virtues in one country may not be the same as virtues in another. He believed that there was no absolute platonic good beyond our world. As virtues have evolved through habits of society it is probable that different societies would deem different actions good or bad. However there is no difference between the virtues of a community and individuals within that community, the supreme happiness that Aristotle talks about is one for the community, and not just and individual. MacIntyre suggests that philosophy is too far removed from ordinary life and said that it is not good enough that philosophers spend their time debating the nature of ethical language or forming reasoned theories of morality in a way that is far removed from real people and real life. All actions are done in order to reach an aim. A successive series of actions are also for an aim, for example getting up in to morning to go to work, is to make money, is to feed our families is to go on nice holidays is to but them nice things etc. all ultimate aims is to make people happy, everything is subordinate to the supreme good, which is happiness. Everyone has  different ideas of what happiness is and different things all make different people happy, and Aristotle called this feeling of all round well being eudemonia. Therefore, Virtue Ethics concentrates on what a person is then what a person does. Its aim is to achieve something, which people genuinely want rather then being based on arguably incoherent ideas about the after-life. It is a system, which can be easily applied and understood by all. It fits into a variety of philosophies, and religions, which both do and don’t include God. However, there are a few problems with Virtue Ethics. Ones of these which has been pointed out by MacIntyre is that although a virtue is the ‘golden mean’ between two vices it cannot be applied to all virtues. Virtues such as promise keeping, loyalty, and compassion do not fall between any two vices and so Aristotle’s theory of this does not really work. Another problem with this theory is that it is of little help to people faced with a moral dilemma. It does not help them make a decision like other theories such a natural law or utilitarianism.

The Complete College Application Process Expert Guide

The Complete College Application Process Expert Guide SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips If you want to successfully complete the college application process and make yourself as competitive for college admission as possible, you’ll be directly or indirectly working on your college applications well before the deadlines approach. In fact, if you have any intention of applying to selective colleges, this process can really begin as early as your freshman year. In this article, I’ll describe all of the tasks you should complete to maximize your chances of getting into the best possible college. Furthermore, I’ll let you know when you should be completing these tasks so that you’re able to stay on top of the process. Feature image source: Scott Savage/Flickr Overview of the College Application Process The major components of your application that will be evaluated are your transcript, your standardized test scores, your recommendations, your personal essay, and your extracurricular activities. I'll walk you through all the steps you need to take to strengthen each component of your application. If you follow my advice and timeline, you'll make yourself an extremely strong candidate for any college. Read on to learn the specific things you should be doing and when to do them. Take the Right Classes When to start: Before freshman year Colleges will evaluate you based on the classes you’ve taken. The most selective schools want to admit students who have challenged themselves and are willing to push themselves academically. You don’t have to take every single honors and AP course that’s offered at your school, but if you want to get into a top college, you should be able to demonstrate that you can excel in some of the hardest courses that are available to you. Also, it's best to take the most difficult classes in the subjects related to your academic strengths or your intended major. You should begin thinking about whichclasses totake before your freshman year of high school. In many schools, the math or foreign language class you take during your freshman year will determine what level you’re able to reach when you’re a senior in high school. Spend ample time considering which classes to takeand whether those classes will allow you to pursue your academic interests and reach your college goals. Specifically, consider whichscience, math, history, foreign language, English, elective, and AP classes you should take. Challenging yourself makes you stronger. Get Good Grades When to start: Freshman year I think this is pretty obvious, but your grades matter to colleges. The majority of colleges will focus on your sophomore and junior year grades, but schoolswill also look at your freshman and senior year grades. Also, your high school GPA is typically calculated from your grades from all four years of high school. You should try to maintain the mentality that every semester counts, and do as well as you can each year of high school. For inspiration and useful information, check out our article on how to get a 4.0 GPA and better grades. Excel in Extracurriculars When to start: Freshman year Other than your grades and test scores, your extracurricular activities probably have the biggest influence on the quality of your college application. Colleges, especially the most selective ones, want their students to have exceptional achievements outside of the classroom, and they’re looking for individuals who use their leisure time to pursue their passions. You should participate in extracurricular activities throughout high school. Colleges prefer to see a sustained commitment to your activities; it’s more impressive to do one activity for four years and continue to show growth in that activity than it is to do four activities for one year each. Some students believe they need to be well-rounded and do a ton of extracurriculars; however, for college admissions, it may be more advantageous for you to develop a â€Å"spike† and exhibit excellence in a particular activity or field. Instead of playing every sport, writing for the school newspaper, participating in speech and debate, and joining student government, you may be better served to focus your extracurricularefforts on becoming a superstar field hockey player. Or, if you're passionate about science, you may want to spend your free time creating an award-winning project for science fair or competing in Science Olympiad. If you have multiple interests, it's perfectly acceptable to explore all of them; just keep in mind that you don't have to do every possible extracurricular to get into a great college, and, generally, reaching the highest level in a given activity requires such an incredible time commitment that you won't have time to participate in many other activities outside of school. Learn what to do if you’re struggling to find extracurriculars. Also, when you’re filling out your college applications, know how to write about your extracurriculars. Maybe the marching band is a good extracurricular for you. Image source:Utah Department of Transportation/Flickr Rock Your Standardized Tests When to start: Sophomore year Even though some colleges have minimized the importance of standardized tests in admissions, your standardized test scores are still a crucial component of your application to most colleges. I advise starting your studying for the SAT/ACT during your sophomore year. Also, you may want to take the PSAT or PreACT during your sophomore year to familiarize yourself with standardized tests. To give yourself the best chance of reaching your target score and to decrease your stress level, we recommend first taking your SAT/ACT in the fall of your junior year. If you don’t reach your target score on your first attempt, you can do more studying and retake the test in the spring of your junior year. If you achieve the score you’re hoping for by the end of your junior year, you’ll have more time duringyour senior year to focus on your schoolwork, extracurriculars, and college applications. If you’re still unsatisfied with your score at the end of your junior year, you have more time to study over the summer and retake the test in the fall. Make sure you know when is the last time you can take the SAT/ACT. Your deadline for taking the SAT/ACT is dependent upon the specific schools you apply to and whether or not you apply early. For most schools, for early decision, you have to take the SAT/ACT by October or November of your senior year, and for regular decision, you have to take the SAT/ACT by December of your senior year. However, there are a few colleges that will accept the January SAT or the February ACT. If you’re considering applying to a school that requires SAT Subject Tests, I also recommend taking those by the end of your junior year. Research Colleges When to start: Junior year Before you apply to college, you need to know which colleges to apply to. You can start learning about colleges as early as your freshman year, especially if you want to get an idea of what you need to do to be a competitive applicant, but you should actively research colleges starting in your junior year at the latest. Use college search websites, finders, guidebooks, and ranking lists to help find colleges that would be a good fit for you. You can also use college fairs and tours to gain more exposure to different colleges and get a better idea of what you’re looking for in a school. By the start of your senior year of high school, you should have a list of colleges to apply to. I recommend applying to reach schools, target schools, and at least a couple of safety schools. College Fair fun. Image source:Patrick Giblin/Flickr Get Superb Recommendations When to start: Spring of junior year Recommendations are also an important part of your college applications. Colleges want assessments from others on your abilities as a student and your character. Be aware of what constitutes a good recommendation and how to ask for a letter of recommendation. It’s best to initially ask teachers to write your recommendations in the spring of your junior year. By asking early, you’ll be able to get your teachers to agree before they become inundated with requests during your senior year, and they’ll have more time to think about what they’re going to write. Make sure you know whom to ask to write your letters. At the beginning of your senior year, you can submit formal requests for your recommendation letters. Also, for your reference, check out these recommendation letters that got a student admitted to Harvard and other Ivy League schools. Write Outstanding College Essays When to start: Summer before senior year Writing your college essays is the most challenging and time-consuming part of the actual application process. Learn everything you need to know about the college essay and how to come up with great college essay ideas.I recommend starting to work on your college essays during the summer before your senior year. The absolute latest you'd want to wait isthe beginning of your senior year, as soon as you’ve finalized thelist of colleges you’re applying to. Even though college essays aren’t particularly long, in my experience, they do take much longer than you’d anticipate, and you’re less likely to be able to write good essays if you wait until the last minute to start. Give yourself enough time to have a trusted teacher or counselor proofread your essays. And you’ll also need time to revise them. Obviously, the essays have to be completed before you submit your applications. If you’re applying early, most deadlines are in mid-November. If you’re applying regular decision, most deadlines are around January 1st. Make sure you keep track of deadlines forthe schools you’re applying to because deadlines will vary. For example, the application deadline for University of California schools is November 30th. Final Thoughts and Additional Steps For most students, the steps listed above are the major components of the college application process. However, some of you may have to do extra work depending on your situation and the colleges you apply to. For example, if you're an aspiring college athlete, you may participate in the athletic recruiting process. If you're applying to an art school or program, you may have to make an art portfolio. Also, some colleges recommend or require interviews. If you interview, know what questions to ask and prepare for. For those of you seeking financial aid, you’ll have to go through the financial aid process, and you may want to apply for scholarships. You should find out the status of earlyapplications in mid-December and regular applications by late March. Then, you may find yourself with multiple options and have to face the task ofchoosing a college. While the application process can feel overwhelming and incredibly stressful, you can minimize your stress by having a plan and avoiding procrastination. Don’t worry too much. Regardless of what you do, there’s no absolute guarantee that you’ll get into the most selective colleges, but if you try hard and follow our advice, you’ll get into a good college and develop the attributes that will enable your future success. What's Next? If you're looking for an example of what you need to do to get into the best colleges, check out this successful Harvard application. Perhaps you've heard people reference Ivy League schools, but you're not exactly sure what they are. Learn about Ivy League colleges and read our article ranking the Ivy League schools. Finally, figure out where in the country you should go to college. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Why Animal Rights Activist Are Against the AKC

Why Animal Rights Activist Are Against the AKC The Purina Dog Food Company lists two major dog shows on their website: The Westminster Dog Show and The National Dog Show. In addition to these shows, The American Kennel Club, the AKC, also lists conformation events under their supervision. These shows are about finding a member of each pure breed who conforms to the AKC standard of what they consider the perfect specimen of a breed. Animal rights activists don’t discriminate against the animals they seek to protect.  Their clarion call has always been that they don’t only fight for the rights of the cute and fluffy, but any animal of any species because they believe all animals have a right to exist unimpaired and unencumbered by humans. So why then, would animal rights activists target the AKC? This organization appears to care deeply for the welfare of dogs. For one, the AKC issues â€Å"papers† on any purebred dog, which is a big problem for animal rights activists seeking to stop the sale of puppies from puppy mills. When the retailer shrieks about how their puppies are all â€Å"AKC Purebreds† it makes it difficult to convince consumers that any puppy, no matter where s/he was born, will get an AKC pedigree. That doesnt make the puppy any healthier or more desirable, especially if the puppy is purchased at a pet store. What is a Dog Show? Dog shows are organized around the world by various clubs. In the United States, the most prestigious dog shows are organized by the American Kennel Club. At an AKC dog show, dogs are judged by a set of criteria called  a standard  that is unique to each recognized breed. A dog can be disqualified completely for certain deviations from the standard. For example, the standard for an Afghan Hound includes a height requirement of â€Å"27 inches, plus or minus one inch; bitches, 25 inches, plus or minus one inch, and a weight requirement of â€Å"About 60 pounds; bitches, about 50 pounds. There are also precise requirements for their gait, coat, and the size and shape of the head, tail, and body. As for temperament, an Afghan Hound found with â€Å"sharpness or shyness† is faulted and loses points because they should be â€Å"aloof and dignified, yet gay.† The dog does not even have the liberty to choose his own personality. Some standards even require certain breeds to be mutilated in order to compete. Their tails must be docked and their ear carriage surgically reconstructed. Ribbons, trophies, and points are awarded to the dogs who most closely match the standard for their breed. As dogs  accumulate  points, they can attain champion status and qualify for higher level shows, culminating in the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Only purebred, intact (not spayed or neutered) dogs are allowed to compete. The purpose of these points and shows is to ensure that only the finest specimens of the breeds be allowed to procreate, thereby bettering the breed with each new generation.   The Breeding Problem The most obvious problem with dog shows is that they encourage breeding, both directly and indirectly. As explained on the American Kennel Clubs  website, Spayed or neutered dogs are not eligible to compete in conformation classes at a dog show, because the purpose of a dog show is to evaluate breeding stock. The shows create a culture based on breeding, showing and selling dogs, in the pursuit of a champion. With  three to four million  cats and dogs killed in shelters every year, the last thing we need is more breeding. The more reputable or responsible breeders will take back any dog the purchaser does not want, at any time during the dogs life, and some argue that they do not contribute to overpopulation because all of their dogs are wanted. To animal rights activists, a responsible breeder is a contradiction because anyone breeding is not responsible enough to help keep the population in check and is, in fact, responsible for the births and deaths of unwanted dogs. If  fewer people bred their dogs, there would be fewer dogs for sale and more people would adopt from shelters. Breeders also create a demand for the dogs and their breed through advertising and by simply by putting them on the market. Furthermore, not everyone who wants to surrender a purebred dog will return to the breeder. Approximately  25 percent of shelter dogs are purebred. The AKC website listing breed rescue groups  is not about adopting or rescuing a dog, but about information about the purebred rescue. Nothing on the page promotes adopting or rescuing dogs. Instead of encouraging adoption and rescue, their page on rescue groups tries to redirect the public to their breeder search page, breeder referral page, and online breeder classifieds. Every dog purchased from a breeder or pet store is a vote for more breeding and a death sentence for a dog in a shelter. While dog show participants care about the welfare of their dogs, they seem to care little about the millions of dogs who are not theirs. As one AKC judge stated, â€Å"If it’s not a purebred dog, it’s a mutt, and mutts are worthless.† Purebred Dogs Animal rights activists object to promoting purebred dogs, not only  because it encourages breeding and inbreeding, but also because it implies these dogs are more desirable than others. Without dog shows, there would be less of a demand for dogs who have a certain pedigree or conform to an artificial set of physical specifications that are considered ideal for each breed. As breeders strive to meet the standard for their breed, inbreeding is common and expected. Breeders know that if a certain desirable trait runs through a bloodline, breeding two blood relatives who have that trait will bring out that trait. However, inbreeding also amplifies other traits, including health problems. One study suggests that mutts are considered the healthiest of all. Purebreds, however,  are known to have  health issues, either due to inbreeding or due to the very standards of the breed. Brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs cannot mate or give birth naturally because of breathing issues. Female bulldogs must be artificially inseminated and give birth via C-section. Flat-Coated Retrievers are prone to cancer, and half of all Cavalier King Charles Spaniels suffer from mitral valve disease. Because of their breed standards and the need to categorize dogs into different breeds and groups, dog shows give the impression that purebred dogs are more desirable than mixed-breed dogs. Even the word pure in purebred implies something disturbing, and some activists have equated breed standards with racism and  eugenics  in humans. Animal rights activists believe that every dog, no matter their breed or health issues, should be valued and cared for. No animal is worthless. All animals have worth. This article was updated and re-written in part by Animal Rights Expert, Michelle A. Rivera.

Bauhaus Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Bauhaus - Research Paper Example Bauhaus was a significant school of art started in the modern time. The school had a significant influence in Europe and the United States and even beyond. The designer wanted to rejuvenate the lost glory in the field of art. Furthermore, Walter wanted to show the relationship between society and technology that was advancing at a higher rate. It is the art and craft movement that that shaped the idea of Walter because he wanted to draw a divide between fine arts and applied arts so as to help in bridging the gap between innovation and manufacturing. Further to the above, the key driver towards the creation of Bauhaus was Walter’s fear that the work of art would die and lose its meaning in the society. In addition, in the construction of the Bauhaus, most of the old ways of creation of art was abandoned but it encouraged the curiosity in the pursuit of knowledge. That was the only way that they could maintain the glory of the work of art in the society. The excellent work of B auhaus targeted the upcoming artist I the 20th century. Bauhaus placed a lot of emphasis on the on the work of experimentation. For that case, therefore, testing and solving of the problem-solving bridging the gap between the fine art and the visual and being considered as a standard entity. Furthermore, the philosophical teaching of the teachers at Bauhaus-influenced the younger generation and even shaped their ideas. The book addresses the major reasons as to why the building existed and the events that followed the inception of the idea.

Describe a model project to upgrade security at YOUR facility (or a Research Paper

Describe a model project to upgrade security at YOUR facility (or a fictional facility) using the process identified in the three part Security Architecture and Engineering series - Research Paper Example Security is based on three aspects that are enacting preventive obstructions purposed at deterring potential invaders, using surveillance measures to notify intrusions and methods to be used in apprehending the intruders. Upgrading of a security mechanism is essential in the sense that it averts the possibility of the incident of the risk protected against by creating the security measures stern thus reducing the incidence of the danger. This is a gauge that follows a comprehensive study of the safety system to make sure whether the system requires upgrading or substitution depending on the susceptibility of the system to be undermined (Atlas, 2005). This is aimed at protecting the asset from theft or any other risk that the owner of the asset needs security against .This is a research paper that involves a description of model project to upgrade security at a facility. The reader would be able to understand the importance of security upgrade after going through this paper (Fennelly, 2013). A successful security concept for safeguarding facilities nowadays emphasizes a growing alertness of technological advancements and emphasizes the incorporation of architectural perspectives, security systems and manpower and procedures so that they can be more efficient. Crimes comprising terrorist activities are the artifact of intentions other than means. Technology assists facilities detect the means interlopers use but not their objectives. The human part of the security force must establish the purposes and take actions to counteract them. The key expression describing risk control in todays world is incorporation (Atlas, 2005). Facilities require security upgrade to ensure the dynamic threat types are put at bay at all time and systems upgraded to counterbalance security measures. Computer security ideas and systems are measures employed in countering security threats within a facility. Concepts and