Drones Essay

At one point in everyone’s life they have felt that they were being watched. Now that feeling may not be just a feeling anymore. The government uses aircraft drones to video and take pictures of other countries to spy on them. Although, the government has started using these drones and other spying devices to watch the United States as well. One day, you may observe a miniature helicopter with cameras or a small plane looking upon the houses of this country’s citizens houses. There is a very good use for these drones as well, â€Å"Police departments in Texas, Florida and Minnesota have already expressed interest in the technology’s potential to detect fugitives on rooftops or to track them at night by using the robotic aircraft’s heat-seeking cameras† (Reporter). The police have already started using helicopter drones to help search for suspects and criminals. The use of drones in residential areas needs to be limited to the use of police to find c riminals that have been sited or thought to have been in that area. The fact that using these drones is helping the police find criminals is good, but spying on the innocent people of the suburbs is an invasion of privacy and unneeded. During the event that the government starts spying on residence for no reason is when these drones become misused. â€Å"FBI director Robert Mueller told congress the agency owns several drones but has not yet formed policies or guidelines on their use. Confirmation that the U.S. is using the surveillance equipment to monitor its own citizens comes after the NSA phone tracking scandal rocked trust in the government† (Jerreat). The head of the FBI has admitted using drones to spy on U.S. citizens very solemnly but after the NSA tracking citizens cell phones without any kind of permission makes it very hard for people to trust anything that the government says. Drones being used violates the fourth amendment because of search and seizure. There is also a chance that these drones could be hacked and taken over. The United States could become a Communist Country if the government continues â€Å"watching† the people of this country with these drones. The government should not be able to spy on United States citizens because these actions violate the people’s rights as individuals. The Fourth Amendment is being violated if drones start flying around watching those who haven’t done anything. Core values such as privacy and protection from the government are always within its sweep. A continuing question, though, is how the demands of its protection apply to an ever-changing  society in which new and pervasive forms of technology are increasingly common.† President Obama signed an FAA bill into law that provides for the integration of â€Å"drones,† or more properly into the nation’s airspace. This has generated legitimate concerns that UAVs could be used by the government in ways that infringe privacy rights†(Villasenor) Although there are many rules and exceptions throughout the Supreme Court’s Fourth Amendment. In short, the Fourth Amendment regulates when, where, and how the government can conduct searches and seizures. The Supreme Court held that police wiretaps of the defendant’s home telephone did not constitute a Fourth Amendment search because the police did not trespass onto a persons property to intercept his or her conversation. One of the modern Fourth Amendment tests relied upon by courts in assessing whether government monitoring constitutes a search. The Court’s thinking at the time was that if the person’s home, property, or papers were not physically invaded, then no search in the constitutional sense occurred. It considers whether the person has a subjective expectation of privacy in the area to be searched and whether s ociety is prepared to deem that expectation reasonable. The technology used by UAVs may be a decisive factor considered by courts in determining whether individuals have an expectation of privacy in the object or area of the drone search. The question, is whether drones have the potential to be significantly more invasive than traditional surveillance technologies such as manned aircraft or low-powered cameras technologies in which have been upheld in previous cases. Some have asked whether using sophisticated digitized platforms on a drone is any different from attaching the same instrument to a lamppost or another traditional aircraft. Technological developments make it increasingly easy to share and acquire personal information about others, oftentimes without their direct knowledge or consent. â€Å"As the American Civil Liberties Union explained in its December 2011 report, the machines potentially could be used to spy on American citizens. The drones’ presence in our skies threatens to eradicate existing practical limits on aerial monitoring and allow for pervasive surveillance, police fishing expeditions, and abusive use of these tools in a way that could eventually eliminate the privacy Americans have traditionally enjoyed in their movements and activities† (Franceschi-Bicchierai). Currently, many states and municipalities employ automatic license plate readers, which are  usually mounted on police vehicles or stationary objects along the streets, to take a snapshot of a license plate as a car drives by, and store this information in a large database for possible later use by law enforcement. It is alleged that these devices can be used to track a person’s movements when police aggregate the data from a multitude of ALPR stations. A majority of the reviewing federal circuit courts have held that a person has no reasonable expectation of privacy in his license plate number. However, it appears th at no federal court has addressed the constitutionality of the use of ALPRs, as opposed to plate numbers collected by a human observer. Nonetheless, the question remains whether attaching an ALP, or any similar sophisticated technology to a drone would alter the constitutionality of its use by law enforcement. Some say yes, arguing that the sophistication of drone technology in and of itself is a unique threat to privacy. Drones are smaller, can fly longer, and can be built more cheaply than traditional aircraft. some drones could theoretically stay in the air forever. Unlike a stationary license plate tracker or video camera, drones can lock on a target’s every move for days, and possibly weeks and months. This ability to closely monitor an individual’s movements with pinpoint accuracy may raise more significant constitutional concerns than some other types of surveillance technology. With this increasing presence and usage of drones, a major concern is developing. Many people consider this advancement in technology as quite controversial. Many people believe that with drone technology in the governmen t’s hand, we will begin to lose our privacy. â€Å"A report on the military’s growing arsenal of unmanned aerial vehicles indicates that approximately 31% of all US military aircraft are now drones† (Boyle). if all of these drones that the military is using were hacked then who knows what might happen. With no restrictions on drones, governments have the power to monitor its citizens invading their privacy. Without any restrictions on drone technology, it can be expected that you will no longer have any privacy. Along with these privacy concerns, there are also great areas of concern in the subject of security and drones. Drones run the risk of becoming hacked therefore making them possible security risks. In a recent talk on National Public Radio, the topic of hacking of drones was brought up. The method called â€Å"spoofing† has been used to take control of helicopter drones flying over ones head.. Spoofing  is basically matching the signal of the actual controller and then increasing the strength of your signal allowing you to gain control. â€Å"Serial hacker Samy Kamkar turned up in an Arstechnica article yesterday with a pretty interesting hack. He’s put together a system of hardware and software that can be put together to build a drone. From there, that drone finds other drones out and about in operation, hacks the drone and then controls them. It is one of the most innovative drone hacks to ever come out, and it may have many people concerned about the potential malice that could be played out with such a capability† (Casaretto). The fact that it is easy for hackers to take control of these drones and use them for themselves and even take footage from them can be a very dangerous situation. this hacker could find out where you live, who your friends are, and who your family is. The increasing presence of drone technology in today’s society is quite evident. We hear on the news quite frequently of a drone bombing or spying on someone in the war. Not only do we hear about what drones do, we experience the benefits that they provide for us. When we listen to the weather there is a possibly the information is received from an actual drone. Despite the many different types of benefits drones present, drones still present a very serious security and privacy risk. Drone use violates the fourth amendment if used to spy on civilians without actual reason. If the person has an expectation of privacy then that person should have their privacy. The United States people will lose all of their privacy in a matter of years if we allow drone research to continue. One must decide whether the privacy and security risks outweigh the benefits. Works Cited Casaretto, John. â€Å"Drones That Hack Drones.† SiliconANGLE. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2013. Jerreat, Jessica. â€Å"FBI Director Admits Using Domestic Drones to Spy on US Citizens and Says Agency Has No Guidelines for Their Use.† Mail Online. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2013. Reporter, Daily Mail. â€Å"U.S. Government to Use ‘drones the Size of GOLF BALLS to Spy on AMERICAN Citizens'† Mail Online. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2013 Sifton, John. â€Å"A Brief History of Drones | The Nation.† A Brief History of Drones. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Dec. 2013. Villasenor, John. â€Å"Will â€Å"Drones† Outflank the Fourth Amendment?† Web log post. Forbes. Forbes Magazine, 20 Sept. 2012. Web. 13 Dec. 20 Boyle, Ashley. â€Å"Drone Information Sources : Annotated Bibliography.† ASP RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2013.

College and First Year Students Essay

â€Å"One of the few rights America does not proclaim is the right to fail†. William Zinsser speaks shades truth when addressing the college student and the pressures imposed upon them. In our modern day and age, college students are mounted with problems: finance, respect, insecurity, and competition, are just a few. Modifications must be made in regards to relieving the high levels of stress students tend to inquire, opportunities to explore a variation of career types, and a general understanding from both teachers and students that the majority of freshmen have no clue what they want to do. It is for these reasons that I strongly lobby students not to decide on a major entering their first year of college. However, not everyone would agree. It is ideal for students to compromise to a course and take the necessary steps in the completion and mastery of a particular profession. Because admission nowadays is exceedingly selective, it is important to know what you want in the beginning to keep you on track. â€Å"You don’t want to pay for college twice†, says Will McGuiness, editor of the Huffington Post. For students investing both their time and money into these institutions of higher learning, it seems practical to just get a degree that will pay the mortgage. According to the Georgetown University Center on Education, in 2012 college graduates faced an unemployment rate of 8.3, well above the national average of 7.7. Although these bold facts are intimidating enough to have every freshman running for the hills, they fail to add the human components of learning and growth that most instrumental in excelling through college. Now that we have considered the factors that edge students in rushing into a major, let’s explore the reasons to stay abstinent. Giving a first year student the option of not having to make a career choice is a stress relief in and of itself. Unfortunately for college students, stress is nothing new; in fact, 37 percent of all college freshmen are above the average levels of stress and anxiety (Tamar Lewin, 1). These numbers should not be taken lightly, especially when shown that people under constant levels of stress live 10 years shorter than those who are not (â€Å"PSY Science†, 148). The pressures of achievement, acceptance, and competition are all intertwined with ones performance at a progressive level. Because tension in a stressful environment naturally creates a bigger learning curve, it is important to give these pupils breathing room with a year free of any grave decisions. Not only will this benefit the student’s health, but will show in test scores, communication, and most importantly learning. By eliminating the perceived need to commit to a major students are unsure of, will lead to a reduction of stress. Another reason for a first year hold out is the opportunity to explore. A year of exploration through a variety of different courses is vital to a student’s growth. At 18, it is safe to say that we have not been properly exposed to the world and even our own abilities. So to make us pick a career that we might dedicate the rest of our professional lives to seems absurd. Students exploring a wide range of subjects learn new things and develop interests they may never have known they had. Whereas choosing a specific major right from the start binds them to a narrow path. Occupations students once thought they were destined for fade into the horizon as their true passions are discovered. Additionally, a student knowledgeable in polarizing fields is a well-rounded one more effective in the workforce. As William Zinsser points out, â€Å"I would employ graduates who have this range and curiosity rather than those who narrowly pursue safe subjects† (â€Å"College Pressures†, 2). Which leads me to my last reason, if not the most important, the overlooked fact that we just don’t know. First year college students simply do not know what they want to be for the next 50 years of their life. The exception would be the hand full of students that have known their career path since the age of 5, leaving the rest of us in the dark with envy. The human brain does not fully develop until the age of 25, so deciding a career wouldn’t necessarily be a thoroughly calculated decision. Incidentally, most college students change their major an average of 3 or 4 times (â€Å"Off to college†, 18). Every semester councilors confront these timid, unfamiliar faces that stumble into their office and ask them for their major, while handing them a long list of credits needed for whatever choice they made. The blank stares the councilors receive from the students should be a clear enough indicator that these kids are as clueless as a dim light bulb and need help. Teachers and faculties need to emphasize the notion that it is okay not to know, that they have the right to fail. This leads me back to my hammering question at hand, what is the point of compromising to a major in freshman year? Through much comparison, calculation, and critical thinking, I have concluded it only logical not to decide on a major being the new kid on the block. While it is time and money saving to make a commitment sooner than later, it is not practical in the long run. Stress is not necessary, can affect academic performance and even pose a long term health risk. An exploratory student is progressive one that reflects the importance of a year to sample different career opportunities. Finally, awareness that most freshmen students do not know what educational path to take leads to a better understanding support group in teachers and faculty. Students are the driving force of our future, and must be encouraged, not disillusioned. A year of free trial and error without the loom of hefty decisions can be the difference between a learning environment and a hostile one. One of my favorite quotes, from the United Negro Fund, that I believe should be displayed in every school is, â€Å"A mind is a terrible thing to waste†.

Short Essay on Racism

t ein the film and begins the movies â€Å"depiction of Arab culture with a decidedly racist tone† (Giroux, 104). An Arab merchant sings the lyrics: â€Å"Oh I come from a land/From a faraway place/Where the caravan camels roam. /Where they cut off your ears/If they don’t like your face. /It’s barbaric, but hey, its home† (Giroux, 104). The message that is given right at the beginning of the film is that the Middle East is a desolate wasteland where the justice system runs on a simple limb-removal policy. These words caused an uproar in Arab countries and the lyrics were later changed to: â€Å"Where it’s flat and immense/ And the heat is intense† which replaced the original verse, â€Å"Where they cut of your ear/ If they don’t like your face† (Giroux, 105). Not only were these lyrics violent but they were truly an example of the worst kind of racism. Aladdin depicts the Arabic world and its people as exotic, humorous, and violent. The American cartoon portrays all Arab men as either street thugs,†¦ n the film and begins the movies â€Å"depiction of Arab culture with a decidedly racist tone† (Giroux, 104). An Arab merchant sings the lyrics: â€Å"Oh I come from a land/From a faraway place/Where the caravan camels roam. /Where they cut off your ears/If they don’t like your face. /It’s barbaric, but hey, its home† (Giroux, 104). The message that is given right at the beginning of the film is that the Middle East is a desolat e wasteland where the justice system runs on a simple limb-removal policy. These words caused an uproar in Arab countries and the lyrics were later changed to: â€Å"Where it’s flat and immense/ And the heat is intense† which replaced the original verse, â€Å"Where they cut of your ear/ If they don’t like your face† (Giroux, 105). Not only were these lyrics violent but they were truly an example of the worst kind of racism. Aladdin depicts the Arabic world and its people as exotic, humorous, and violent. The American cartoon portrays all Arab men as either street thugs,†¦

Lack of staff training Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Lack of staff training - Essay Example The training and development of staff is predominantly based on the fact that staff skills bear direct relation with the growth of the organization and the requirement to grow the skill is to make the organization grow. Training is regarded as a systematic way of developing knowledge, attitudes and skills of employees to help them perform to the best of their abilities in their respective job roles. The new recruits in organizations have many different skills and may be specialised in a variety of specializations. However, the skills may not be as per the organizational needs and requirements. This is where the need for training and development finds importance in the organizational context. It helps the staff in taking the organization towards its goals and destinations. This project aims to address the issues which might arise due to the lack of staff training in organizations (Olaniyan & Ojo, 2008, p.326). Training, both socially, physically, mentally and intellectually are consid ered to be extremely important for facilitating the productivity of the organization and also for development of the personnel in the organization. ... The organization chosen for the purpose is the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) which has decided to make investments in the training and development of its staff (WHICH, 2011). The literature review brings forth the supportive and contradicting arguments for the topic. The study also makes a primary research on the topic. This is done by using the method of questionnaire. Finally the data collected is analysed and based on the analysis the project makes suitable recommendations for the same (Olaniyan & Ojo, 2008, p.326). Chapter 1: Literature Review The demand of the marketplace for quality, speed, customization, punctuality, and variety or services and products has been responsible for dramatically changing the landscape for conducting business across the world. Technology usage, the relentless speed with which technology has been changing and upgrading it, skills which the workplaces demand have completely changed the corporate scenario. The increased pressure which has been coming fr om these factors is acting as the driving force behind the constant search for improved and better performance. This is applicable for the smallest and simplest of tasks to the most complex corporate strategies in organizations today. The nature of this dynamic learning and performance of individuals especially at the management levels have been responsible for converting it into a rat race which does not have a finish line. The broader perspective shows that the individual learning and performance acts as the prime factor which keeps organizations ahead or behind their competitors (Kunneman, Key & Sleezer, 2000, p.40). In the year 1998, a study was conducted by the Training Magazine in US reported that organizations in the nation had been

Medicare Fraud Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Medicare Fraud - Essay Example As a problem of major concern, Medicare fraud needs a qualitative and quantitative investigation approach. Thus, a mixed method study will effectively evaluate the extent of Medicare fraud and the factors that contribute to Medicare fraud. This draft proposal outlines strategies that can be used to evaluate the problem and possible solutions through a mixed method approach. Problem Statement Medicare fraud is one of the overarching problems in the healthcare industry resulting in losses of billions of dollars each year. It is actually claimed, â€Å"Medicare fraud costs the U.S. government approximately $80 billion a year (Stefanacci, 2010). Through quantitative approach, the researcher will be required to estimate the loss of revenue through Medicare fraud. Secondly, the researcher will be required to establish variation of involvement in Medicare fraud across different societies. The quantitative aspect of the study will establish the reasons or the social factors that contribute to Medicare fraud. Patterns of fraud cases across different population settings will also be interesting aspect of the research. Finally, the study will require establishing how medical and legal professionals contribute to Medicare fraud and d the factors that contribute to the involvement. ... What are the views of the people concerning the criminalization of Medicare fraud? (a) Do people consider Medicare fraud as a criminal activity? (b) Do people blame the authority for their misfortunes? 5. What is the role of medical and legal professionals in Medicare Fraud? Research Design The study will be conducted through a mixed method approach whereby the researcher will be interested in quantifying and interpreting different parameters related to Medicare fraud (Creswell, 2008). Choice for mixed methods was inspired by the nature of the problem and the expectations of the audience. For instance, the audience is interested in determining the extent of the problem and the factors that contribute to the problem. In addition, the researcher will be required to develop an explicit mathematical model that defines the relationship between various research parameters such as level of income and Medicare fraud. The qualitative aspect of the study will involve observing the problem and finding relevant literature that correspond to the research problem (Creswell, 2008). On the other hand, the quantitative approach will enable the researcher to quantify different research parameters. Population and Participants From an ideal point of view, healthcare industry needs a near-perfect system of tracking Medicare fraud for there to be meaningful results. Fraud in healthcare industry affects all taxpayers. The problem has also affected other sectors of the economy making it an overall economical problem. The problem becomes even more complicated due to lack of harmonized reimbursement formulas and implementation of information in the healthcare sector (Krause, 2010). The study will attract two sets of population. Firstly, the

Master Budget Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Master Budget - Essay Example The first and foremost step in developing the master budget is the sales forecast in terms of quantities and values of products. After considering the opening and closing inventory levels, the production quantities are determined which is known as the production budget. The production budget is further divided into the direct materials purchases and usage, direct labor and factory overhead budgets. Likewise the indirect material and labor, other factory overheads, cost of manufacturing, cost of goods sold, ending inventory of finished goods, selling, administrative and operating expenses are budgeted. Finally, the cash budget is prepared in which cash receipts and disbursements are determined. The process ends with the completion of the Pro Forma Income Statement, Pro Forma Statement of Cash flows and Pro Forma Balance Sheet. Zero based budgeting is a method of budgeting where all expenditures are justified and every department function is reviewed comprehensively rather than only gauging the increases. The reasons for adopting a zero based budget are that it results in efficient allocation of resources, it helps detecting inflating budgets, cost effective ways to improve operations are determined, it increases the staff motivation and provides an initiative for decision making, it is highly useful for departments where the output is not identifiable, it identifies outsourcing opportunities, removes wastage and outdated operations, communication and coordination within the organization becomes more efficient, and the task of cost centers and their relationship to the overall goals are identified. Question 2 Usually a budget also contains non-financial information. This information is used to explain the financial information, qualify it and divide the financial information into sub information. Types of Non-Financial Information Information like the quality of the resources, quantity of the resource required, procedure for calculation and the mechanism is generally included. In some cases the workload on the employees and the human resources required to do the job is often included. This information is used injunction with the financial details and helps to clarify the budget. Calculation of Financial Information using Non-Financial Information Non-Financial information is used commonly to calculate the financial information. For example the quality of a certain product can be divided into 4 classes and each class is allocated a weightage. The price of the product will be multiplied with the weighted average of the product to give the actual total price. Another example can be the quantity of wood required to manufacture 1000 units of chairs. This will be calculated by first finding the number of planks of wood a truck of tree gives. Then the quality of wood will be quantified to manufacture one unit of chair and finally the total cost will be found out. Thus non-financial information is usually necessary to calculate financial information. Advantages of Including Non-Financial Information in Budgets The benefit of using non-financial information in the budgets is that it makes the employees aware of the goals and objectives expected. These goals are set by using the non-financial inf

Network Infrastructure Planning Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Network Infrastructure Planning - Research Paper Example In a bid to reduce the cost of setting up new systems for each of the satellite branches, the company can opt to use New Technology File system (NTFS) permissions or Active Directory (AD) permissions (Abel, 2009). Whereas both permission systems would provide considerably reliable control of access of the files at the head office server, there are principle differences in their best use capabilities and modes of authentication control. Active Directory is a domain controller that authorizes and authenticates all computers and users in Windows domain type internetwork. It assigns and enforces security policies for computers and installs or updates software on remote computers from the server. For example, a user logs into a computer in the satellite branches that is part of the Windows domain, the Active Directory examines the passwords and usernames submitted to discern whether the user is a normal user or system administrator. Active Directory employs the use of LDAP-Lightweight Dir ectory Access Protocol (Computer Architecture Association, 2011). On the other hand, NTFS is a product of Microsoft Company that can be set to allow or deny users access to a particular data domain. Using NTFS, users have the capacity to add, move, delete, and modify files and their associated directories. They can as well Read & Execute, Read and Write. NTFS includes Traverse Folder/Execute File gives users permission to navigate through folders and files to gain access to files and other folders. Traverse Folder Permission only takes place when user or group lacks Bypass Traverse Checking right in the Group Policy snap-in (Bruce & Smith, 2011). NTFS has Everyone Group that has permission for Bypass Checking user right. These permission levels will enable the IT department at the head office of the fashion-ware company grant different degrees of access to computers and groups of various satellite branches. Computers and users identified to be of administrative role will have extens ive permission to perform delete, modify and add functions in their respective files and folders stored in the main office servers. The main need of the company is to operate in different countries from a central office. It needs to keep a good record of sales transactions for its fashion-ware all over its expanse market. The company will need to put in place application servers (servers designed and dedicated to running particular applications). The IT department will most specifically take great care in deciding which application server to consume the larger portion of ROM and RAM depending on its significance to the company. Windows Application Server and Appaserver are the application servers that are recommended for the use in the company (Bruce & Smith, 2011). These servers have an advantage of data and code security. Integrity of codes and data is imperative given the company centralizes all its business logic on small number of server machines or one server at the head offic e to serve the entire global market. The application servers also enable the company to centralize its configurations (Fredrich, 2011). The use of Windows server and Appserver would enable the company to monitor the security of its data as all the data is stored centrally. The total cost of ownership of the company becomes less as the company does not have to install hardware infrastructure all over the satellite branches to run its businesses. The major disadvantage with Windows application server

Job analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Job analysis - Essay Example He or she will be required comprise files, respond to phone calls, process and review forms for alterations, maintain personal files, help the employees and clients, scrutinize payroll items and staff time, execute all personnel administrative functions, manage director’s calendar, type as required, deal with office mail, and any other assigned duties. The recruitment is from all areas because this will help identify the best candidate for the job. The recruitment will last for one month. This short period will only attract applicants who are qualified, competitive, and dedicated (Brannick & Levine, 2002). First, all applicants should be eligible to work in the country. The selection methods will include interviews and presentations. Interviews will provide the company with knowledge and first hand information about the suitability of the applicants. The applicants’ goals, philosophies and ambitions, should match the company’s. Interviews will give accurate and essential information on the applicants. Presentations will provide deep information on the applicants, as opposed to the materials like CVs. Presentations illustrate how the applicant will act in a work situation. It also gives an applicant a chance to display his or her ability (Torrington & Hall, 2005).   Cathy is thorough, competent, neat, and accurate. She ensures that all duties pertaining to the human resource department are accomplished in considerable time and can be accessed. She uses her time well and meets deadlines. She comprises files, responds to phone calls, processes and reviews forms for alterations, maintains personal files, helps the employees and clients, and performs any other assigned duties. Moreover, she understands the job concerns and procedures. Cathy is also cooperative and can work efficiently without supervision (Muchinsky, 2006). It is essential to invest in a job position that matches its own needs. A recruitment plan can be devised from ideas derived from similar

Nostalgia in Amitava Kumar's BombayLondonNew York Essay

Nostalgia in Amitava Kumar's BombayLondonNew York - Essay Example Said emerges not just as an intellectual giant, but also a deeply passionate man. The requirement f leaving one's place f orign and move from the periphery towards the centre, combined with the compulsion to look back and travel; homewards n a bid to understand one's history, is the force that drives much f recent Indian writing n English. The name Kumar has selected for his book signifies the journey that both he and his fellow writers have made, the distances they have traversed and the literary signposts they have passed. It happens often that compositions f exemplary character and intuition do not receive the desired attention from their creators. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wrote Sherlock Holmes mysteries on a lark but tired f his detective, had him killed n a story, only to refresh him agan after a public outrage. A similar overlooking f one's own talents occurs n this Kumar's entertaining book. While the title may be reminiscent f a travel brochure, the book is an exhaustive thorough survey f Indian authors writing n English, living n both India and abroad. But, sifting through the literary ore, we find charming nuggets f Kumar's own life, gleaming like gold. Kumar's personal musings cover perhaps a fourth f his book but have an impact far beyond their length. The slender volume f his personal odyssey has enough pathos to overcome his intermittently interesting but mostly descriptive treatise on the Indian contribution to English literature. Similar to his an earlier excellent piece f writing, Passport Photos, this one is a multi-genre celebration f the fascinating literary journey that Kumar has undertaken as a reader and critic f Indian fiction. His own fiction and poetry, along with personal accounts, make this an imaginative exercise that explores many f the impulses that have helped create contemporary Indian fiction n English. The world literature has slowly awakened to the realization that Salman Rushdie, V.S. Naipaul and Arundhati Roy are not restricted to the ethnic press anymore; they are internationally renowned writers with considerable influence n the world f ideas. It is therefore particularly apt that there be a reassessment f Indian-English contribution to English literature and Kumar does this admirably through the prism f his own understanding. n Bombay-London-New York, Kumar highlights at the very beginning that his pages are to be read merely as "marginal entries n a book written by others." He quotes generously from novels and short stories, newspaper articles, reviews and interviews, and uses photographs to convey a sense f contemporary India and the Indian writer's experience. Kumar's canvas is as enormous ahis "reading practice" which he claims to have recorded for the purpose f this book. The issues he deals with are, likewise, numerous. Kumar does not incarcerate his survey to immigrant writing. We are taken to Pankaj Mishra's Butter chicken n Ludhiana: Travels n Small Town India , where an Indian born American kid asks a perplexed hotel manager "May I have a boddle f Bisleri Wadder." He ruminates on the nuclear bomb with Arundhati Roy (The End f Imagination), relives London's Bloomsbury circle with Mulk Raj Anand ( Conversations n Bloomsbury), revels n the celebration f Hanif Kureishi's sexually charged writing (My Beautiful Launderette, Sammie and Rosie Get Laid) and discusses Akhil Sharma's An Obedient

Evolution of Medical Practice Essay Example for Free

Evolution of Medical Practice Essay 1) Great Cases in Bioethics, compiled edited by Paul A. Lombardo (2005) [available at the law school copy center] 2) Limits: The Role of Law in Bioethical Decisionmaking, by Roger B. Dworkin (Indiana, 1996) Strangers at the Bedside: A History of How Law and Bioethics Transformed the Practice of Medicine, by David J. Rothman (Harper-Collins, 1991). [These are available for background material.on reserve at the Law Library the Center for Bioethics] The field of Bioethics has developed over the past thirty years as a product of several shifts in American cultural consciousness. The pervasive use of rights-based rhetoric borrowed from the civil rights movement contributed to the evolution in the role of physicians as they relate to patients. An ongoing conversation about the impact of law in shaping medical practice also influenced the current complexion of Bioethics as an area of study. A number of legal cases stand as signposts for critical moments in the history of Bioethics. They mark the changing public perception of the intersection of science, medicine, personal values and law. This seminar explores those cases. The first two weeks of the seminar will include a course orientation and exploration of two cases by the instructor. Each week thereafter will feature a presentation on one or more seminal cases, prepared by one or more students. The second hour of the seminar will be a discussion period that focuses on the cultural impact, legal significance and ethical issues raised by the cases. In addition to a class case presentation and involvement in seminar discussions, each law student will be required to complete a research paper building on material presented during the case presentation. Students should be prepared to choose a topic and presentation date at the first seminar meeting. Guidelines for Class Presentations and papers Each student is required to choose a case and make a class presentation that explores the historical, legal, and ethical context of the case. The rest of the students will prepare for the class by reading the case opinion(s). In the first hour, students should: Present the case in its historical setting, budgeting time to entertain questions during or at the end of the hour. The presentation should highlight critical facts of the case, with particular attention to both facts and arguments that have engendered ethical debate. Describe the responses of commentators (ethicists and other) to the case when it was decided; Note the prevailing norms of that period with reference to the ethical and legal issues in the case—this will require a search of the literature of the period; Be prepared to answer the question: Why is this a paradigm case (or set of cases) in the history of bioethics, in other words, why does this case have enduring significance in ethical and legal debate? Students should plan their seminar presentation by meeting with the Professor well in advance of the scheduled presentation date. Resources: A variety of resources may be used, including journal articles from the legal and medical literature, other cases that preceded and followed it, and contemporary media coverage that will explain the social/cultural reaction to the case. Audio visual aids, including video/audio tapes, slides or overheads may be used to elucidate elements of the case. Depending on the time at which the case occurred and the amount of commentary (of various kinds) it may have generated, each student may use different types of resource material, and may choose a different disciplinary perspective from which to present the case. Research for the presentation should range from popular professional books and articles that elucidate the case and its impact to information found on the Internet. Students will be expected, as part of the class session, to provide other seminar participants with copies of a detailed outline of their presentation. A bibliograpy (1-2 pages) of sources must accompany the materials. The second hour will involve A discussion with assistance from other students and the Professor, to place the case in the current ethical and legal context. What are the contemporary ethical issues with which the case is now associated? What current cases need to be examined in reference to the â€Å"Great Case?† Where does the debate stand today? What is at stake ethically in the debate and what is your position on the issues? Seminar Paper Each student will be required to write a research paper of significant size and substance on a topic that expands on or relates to the case presented in class. The paper will provide an in-depth exploration of issues raised during the class discussion or in conference with the Professor, and will incorporate reference material discovered during research. The paper should be no less than 25 pages, and should demonstrate familiarity with the scholarly literature in the relevant areas.

Healthcare Rationing Debate

Healthcare Rationing Debate Commentary on â€Å"The Rationing Debate†, Rationing health care by age Covering Statement: This paper aims to comment on Alan Williams’s article of â€Å"The rationing debate1† published in BMJ, 15th March 1997 volume 314. In this commentary I will try to explain different points of argument he raises in his article with the comments on each under the same heading. For the better perception and reflection I will try to suggest an alternative model to his main proposition of this article. The main position of my commentary is favoring the position of Alan about â€Å"Age the criterion to benefit people† I will try to critique him in different aspects of his argument with the induction of my own suggested model and will try to figure out in order to remove the dependency on age for calculating benefit we have to intervene5 differently with some different aspect. Rationing debate: This article is all about the criteria for the priority setting in health care specifically focused on â€Å"Age1† which he mentioned is only the predictor for any health related issue not the cause; he also argued about the main context on benefits extract out of health care in relation with age. In the initial part of his article he tries to figure out the relation between adaptation and adjustment of human body in response to â€Å"diseases†. Here, I want to use more true meaning of this word â€Å"disease† which means not normal, instead of any pathology. He also explains the increased level of risks with increase ages along with more supportive and rehabilitative therapy needed in later ages. Being an â€Å"Old Age Person† he contextualized his argument in contrast with young age and compares why recoveries are fast in young age and that also the importance of recoveries in young ages. Up to my level of understanding, his use of ‘age’ explaining about the different aspects of wellness is more towards own contextualization, being a middle age man I can argue the whole concept of his article in a different aspect and that is level of degenerative changes in human body. Before I explain further I would like to explain a bit about medical notion of generative and degenerative part of Human body. Broadly, our life consists of two major cycles of structural formation i.e. generative and degenerative. Initially we all spent life for the generation of a proper structure of our body including physical and mental construction and then after that we spent rest of our life on that structure, which we can call degenerative part of life. Degenerative part is mainly relying on how well organized generative structure is formed. Up to 30 years of age is considered as a part of generative phase while after that it is all degenerative. Now I can argue, or suggest Mr. Allan an alternative ground to his concept of Age1, which is we will evaluate generative and degenerative health issues to his concept of benefits in comparison of his age based model of benefits. So contextualizing this alternative, infections or acquired disease can be treated as the reflection of body, like in generative phase the estimation of benefits can be different than the degenerative one similarly the developmental disorders. This alternative context can be applicable to public or individuals on the same way like the Age based one; the reflection of body to any external effects. Desire of Living: Alan uses a term of â€Å"vain pursuit of immortality1†, desire of living forever which indeed become more important in later ages of life. So as he explains how the outcomes of smaller health related issue considered more in old-aged and why the expectation get higher in this age. He points out the curability or treatability of any health related issue is not the only option in this age groups, there are so many other ways to work in this issue even out of the parameters of health services (like beyond NHS-UK). Considering the above argument in context with the alternative idea, there won’t be any expectation issues because for degenerative un-wellness expectations will be low. The terms of curability and rehabilitation will not be in competition with each other for instance. Ethically it will be easier to justify the alternative one as both the components of this idea are of equal span which will be focusing more on consequences and outcomes; I would not like to say that this will be the maximizing welfare concept or true utilitarian4 based model except within the degenerative based group benefits of health care issues. Quality of Life: Other important aspects of his article he suggests about the shift of context from the term of â€Å"cure† to â€Å"quality of life†. He also supports this argument of his by relating it with the values of persons own self-care. Though he stresses that by focusing on quality of life the contemporary approach on new interventions5 (especially at life threatening levels) will be restricted but still he argues â€Å"Quality of Life1† is less costly. The above argument of Alan is basically the further explanation of our context of alternative idea in which regenerative phase is more focused for the cure with individual choice and distributive to maximal liberty of the individual. Quality of life is only focused to the improvement of degenerative part of health care benefits according to the needs and burdens equalizing resources4 (egalitarian4). So the alternative way can be the modified egalitarian view of health care setting. Being the part of egalitarian nature it can be assume that priority will be set for the high tech innovations in medical sciences which will benefit both the generative as well as degenerative on the same grounds and quality. Limits: In second portion of his article he tries to explain another aspect of defining limits for the health care benefits, he explains that keeping an eye on this divine principle of â€Å"every soul will taste death2† it is better to keep a limit before any stress full situation encounters and those limits should be justified on humane grounds according to age, expectations should also be considered according to age. He means to say that age can be considered for benefits though it is not a criterion. In explanation of above argument to alternative context, expectation will be different for different phases; fulfillment of that expectation would be more justified or in equitable manner. I do agree with this divine principle of life and the relation of its context in our life and building capacity to the alternative way will not effects any change on overall morality4 of priority health care setting. For this argument I would like to second the thoughts of Alan, health care model should have the parameters for defining the limits in advance, so that the issues like social utility4 or medical utility4 could not be raised. The extent of limits can differ in our alternative context of design. Health of the nation: In the further explanation of his own proposition of benefit related health care objectives when talk about broader view like â€Å"health of the nation1†, he counter argues that this favors against the old age because priorities should be given to those who will benefit more, so the young will get more and also in old age benefits are more diminished and that this is morally unjust that smaller benefits of older should be preferred on larger benefits of young. In support of his argument he explains that older can be considered more beyond the benefit because they have paid more taxes in their lives, but contrarily he replied that usually health care systems are social insurance kind of system in which lucky one gets more. He also supports this argument that elders value more to their small improvements while young focus more to different aspects if talk about their benefits in that case the rationale of health care settings as a social insurance setup wi ll be in jeopardy and private entities will be focus more. When we deal with the civic virtues and solidarity or community values than the paradigm of priority setting for health care become difficult up to one model application. There are different references points to be deal at this level like, effectiveness, efficiency, legitimacy and distributive justification. If we change the notion of health of nation to the context of alternative idea of this paper than it will be easier to measure effectiveness as regenerative will be given priority. Economically7, the degenerative phase will consume more and it will justify the social insurance based argument of Alan that any person who pays in his regenerative phase will get in his degenerative part. Politically, there will be marked difference in both the scenarios. For example, instead of spending major share on long term care facility government have to build community rehabilitation services centers which will be utilized by all age groups. There won’t be any much difference of values of benefits of elders and young, though there will be difference in values of benefits but that will be equitable to widen age groups. Fair Innings: In later part of the article he explains his proposition as a â€Å"fair innings1 7†, in which he tries to explains that any person who lives his lifelong is kind of a fair cricket innings where he plays his innings saving his wicket throughout his life and (using resources of health care for life) build it up till old age (threescore ten is 70 years3), while the one who gets out in young age or live a painful kind of life is an unfortunate one and who has been denied opportunities. So the quality of life should be more focused whatever age it is and how many years of life are left. This argument is almost similar for the alternative context of this paper where someone who spend his regenerative phase of life well and get some tragic death will considered unlucky. So quality of life does not depends on health facilities available, age spans, exposure of the person, economic situations and so many other variant and non-related factors can be considered. In the end: Concluding his whole proposition, Alan explains that Age is important in determining the benefits and ultimately explains the disadvantages7 of being elder and low value benefits. As the age increase the value of your benefits decreases. He admits in his conclusion that he would have been preferring younger person benefits6 over his. Similarly, age matters a little bit in our alternative model but not as much that it can change the decisions. If our health care system is based on the suggested model of this paper, the criterion for determining the values of benefits would have been very different. Some preference could have been involved due to age but within the rationale of main phase either generative or degenerative. Conclusion: In this commentary I try my best to reflect my understanding of Alan’s debate, although he counters argue his own position many times but within the connotation of Age as criterion to determine health benefits. Reflexivity of his theme can appear to my suggested model of health care setting, where I am trying my best to create a parallel theme to Alan’s argument in order to get more grasp on his ideas. Concept of suggested model for health care setting based on generative and degenerative treatments, divine references about death and limits of life is my personal conception and believes. Within the explanation I have tried to create a parallel context for comparison. References: Williams, A (1997). The rationing debate. Rationing health care by age. BMJ: British Medical Journal, 314(7083), 820. The Holy Quran. The Holy Bible. T. L. Beauchamp, J. F. Childress. (2013) Principles of biomedical ethics, (7th ed.). New York: Oxford University Press. Rivlin, M. M. (1995). Protecting elderly people: flaws in ageist arguments. BMJ: British Medical Journal, 310(6988), 1179. Hunt, R. W. (1993). A critique of using age to ration health care. Journal of medical ethics, 19(1), 19-27. Evans, J. G. (1997). The rationing debate. Rationing health care by age. BMJ: British Medical Journal, 314(7083), 822.

Hemingway :: ESSAYS

Hemingway In one of the chapters in the book entitled â€Å"Hemingway† the author Leo Lania tries to explain Hemingway and his work. He explains that a key to understanding Hemingway can be found in the characters of his heroes and in their beliefs. The leading character â€Å"appears in various guises in the different novels and short stories but basically he is always the same type†(Lania8).Whether ordinary soldier or general, smuggler or gambler, Negro or journalist he is a man scarred by experience. He has always been gravely wounded, physically or mentally, either during the war, in the sports arena, during childhood, in fight for existence. At some time or other something terrible has happened to him and the memory persecutes him. Lania also explains that Hemmingway’s principal character is almost always an American from the Middle West. He is â€Å"no intellectual but his primitiveness is only a mask for his sensitivity. In order to master life he needs a moral code he can follow, a believe in certain rules by which to measure his behavior†(11). Neither books, reason nor religion can supply him with this belief. He needs to practical experience. Hemingway’s’ world is at war, â€Å"war either in the literal sense or the ruthless, brutal fight for existence†(11). In short stories Hemingway sums up his philosophy of life in one sentence: ‘A man can be destroyed but not defeated’ â€Å"the speaker is an old bullfighter who although overcomes, does not surrender and therefore proves the victor†(11). In another story a champion boxer provides a similar example. In his latest work, The Old Man and the Sea, the old Cuban fisherman triumphs through tenacity of his fight with the great fish, although in the end the sharks eat away his catch and deprive him of the reward for his indescribable sacrifice. This theme runs continuous through all of Hemingway’s works. â€Å"His outlook may be limited and incomplete, his conception of honor and heroes primitive, even childish†(12). The part played by women in Hemingway’s work is significant. That he handles sex without sentimentality that only strict moralists would hold against him. This was no t only part of his poetic license but also an important contribution to our knowledge us. Hemingway’s lovers â€Å"have nothing in common either spiritually or intellectually, nor do they seek it†(14). They are not partners they are not even enemies. Their relationship is therefore neither exalted nor tragic.

Assess whether you believe that representations of women in mens magazines such as Loaded and FHM are offensive and in poor taste. :: essays research papers fc

For those who have not taken the time to read a selection of men’s magazines they may associate them with pornography or sport. Since the mid-90s, a crop of very successful magazines aimed at young men has emerged, spearheaded by the controversial Loaded. It is important for me to establish early on in this essay that men’s magazines such as loaded and FHM, are general lifestyle magazines; the modern men's magazine is about sports and cars as well as sex, fashion, women, and humour. This essay will consider whether the sexual nature of these magazines is insulting and tasteless. One must bear in mind that taste depends on the individual; it is a personal judgement. What some people find in good humour others may find vulgar. As the notion of what is acceptable in our society varies over time so clearly it varies from one person to another. Men’s magazines, such as Loaded and FHM, could be looked at as offensive to both men and women as they reinforce stereotypical images of macho men and sexist attitudes to there readers. Feminist, Robin Morgan made some very bold statements when she wrote about pornography, she said that it encouraged sexual violence and rape against women: â€Å"Pornography is the theory, rape is the practice† She refers to pornography as humiliating women â€Å"Women are hurt and economically and sexually exploited in the production of pornography.† (1) Yet isn’t it a brazen statement to refer to these magazines as pornography? David Gauntlett argues: â€Å"Men’s magazines are purely for entertainment, they are not seriously on a crusade to return to a pre feminist ideal or harm anyone in an attempt to provide entertainment.† (2) This is a common opinion where most readers are concerned. I feel there is an important difference where sexist attitudes come into play, between lifestyle magazines and magazines such as Top Gear or other car magazines which have half naked females draped across the body, for no apparent reason – as she isn’t an accessory to the car! Lifestyle magazines generally do portray women in a sexual way; they conjure up a shallow and unrealistic view. Some argue that the emergence of such magazines is an attempt to regain male dominance. Lacey suggests that it is the diminishing of men's power that has resulted in publications like FHM and Loaded, he says that the celebration of 'laddishness' is a desperate attempt to grasp what is left of traditional male identity.

Siddhartha Essays: Form, Style, and Content -- Hesse Siddhartha Essays

Form, Style, and Content in Siddhartha   Ã‚  Ã‚   Joseph Mileck asserts in Hermann Hesse: Life and Art that Siddhartha is a perfect exemplification of what he calls, "conscious craftsmanship". For Mileck, Hesse consciously synchronized form and substance in Siddhartha to best illustrate a feeling of unity and the journey through the mind, body, and soul. In Siddhartha, Hesse consciously crafted a piece that is unified in form, style, and content, and created an atmosphere in which each one of these elements is perfectly complementary with the others.    In order to communicate most accurately the inner journey of Siddhartha through the three stages of experience, Hesse maintains appropriate rhythm and form throughout the novel. In terms of structure, Siddhartha is comprised of twelve chapters broken down into three groups of three chapters, in which each group is subsequently followed by an interlude. The interlude serves the function of dissipating and refocusing the energy which is built in the preceding three chapters. For example, the first three chapters describe Siddhartha's experiences in the land of the spirit, and ends with the interlude, "Awakening", in which Siddhartha is awakened with the idea that he is spiritually unattached and must seek a new path.    In the next three chapters, Siddhartha experiences the land of the senses and of corporal pleasure. This second group of three chapters is followed by the interlude, "By the River",which serves "to consolidate the experiences just past and prepare Siddhartha for those to come." The final three chapters are concerned with working towards a synthesis of the spiritual and the sensual, which is achieved in the final chapter, "Om". Siddhartha is completed wit... ...t the novel imparts a systematic, methodical tone to Siddhartha, and together with the consciously created form unifies the experiences of Siddhartha, permitting a feeling of closure and meditation on the thoughts and ideas presented therein. There is certainly a unique rhythm to Siddhartha which is skillfully communicated both consciously and subconsciously. One can appreciate the conscious craftmanship" of the novel's structure and style, while at the same time allowing the rhythm, feelings, and experiences to sift into one's mind on a deeper, more subconscious level. Works Cited: Farquharson, Robert. An Outline of the Works of Hermann Hesse. London: Forum House Publishing Company, 1973. Hesse, Herman. Siddhartha. Dover Publications, 1998. Mileck, Joseph. Hermann Hesse: Life and Art. Los Angeles: University of California Press, 1978.   

Engendered Mass Media Essay

Mass media is a powerful socializing two-way tool wherein one engages in an inter-play: man views the world as reflected by the medium; in the process the medium gazes back with a modified reflection of what has been sent by the viewer. The process of gazing and reflecting creates a reality satiated with meanings ready to be read and given form by both the viewer and the medium. How this process is presented will be analyzed in this paper using one of the online hubs of Regent Entertainment Media Incorporated, Out.com, an ezine that showcases most of the contents of its print counterpart: Out Magazine, a print medium dedicated for articles related to the third sex. This medium has been considered for the analysis for several reasons: 1) the third sex as a topic for magazines is quite touchy and absorbing since more readers would opt to consider looking at other gender-specific and topic-specific magazines; 2) magazines such as Out. com provides a foresight on gay culture presented using a less informal approach (easy to read, short articles); and 3) this serves as an eye-opener on the extent of how mass media has been an effective tool that unavoidably forced society to accept the gay population as a bona-fide member of the society as members of the third sex have progressively come out of their closets. In Out. com’s site, one would see the following sections: home, blogs, video, style, galleries, extras, model citizen, travel and subscription— sections which are commonly seen in other online magazines. The design, however may be considered a full contrast (traditional with its still-old-fashioned though compelling black and white presentation that projects a sense of balance) to the lurid, more show-of-the-skin presentations found in other popular magazines such as Cosmopolitan, GQ, and Maxim. Engendered Media Out. com is just one of the online hubs of Regent Entertainment Media, Inc. (for other sites just hover and click on the links found at the lower end of the homepage) though. This site, however, seems to be more provocative and out-of-the-box (stereotypical) presentation than the rest (perhaps to cater to all the possible reading requirements of its target audience). What is unusual in the presentation of the third sex, however, is how they are dressed up: not as one would suspect them to be seen on the streets or anywhere else. Instead they are pictured being dressed up as how one sees a female or a male in current times are dressed up. What changes is the role that they portray however. Consider for example a feature story titled, â€Å"The Gay Agenda,† which describes an upcoming event titled billed as â€Å"Stripped Stories Teases Chicago† (Out. com, April 2009). A snapshot of Giulia Rozzi and Margot Leitman spending an intimate time in the tub (though both are dressed in lingerie, wearing make-up and nail polish, one may deduce what specific role each character (male or female) is portraying from the posture they are displaying in the photo. Guilia Rozzi is pictured clinging onto Margot Leitman’s legs, giving the latter more authority in terms of the space occupied in the photo, and the accompanying meaning it translates that somewhat points to the masculine role that Leitman is projecting. Most of the photos and articles found in the site depict the third sex being celebrated and focus on the positive reflections concerning this population. Even the digital image of the magazine’s current issue with an outline of the contents of the magazine focuses mainly on the positive hence criticisms and ill treatment that society usually bestows them are kept veiled. Engendered Media A grim reality that the magazine might have kept from the intended readers for them to have some time to consider the brighter side of life even when dark clouds keep looming from above. Reference: Out. com. May 2009 Issue. Retrieved April 27, 2009 from Out. com Website: http://www. out. com/current_issue. asp â€Å"The Gay Agenda. † (May 27, 2009). Retrieved from Out. com Website: http://www. out. com/gay_agenda. asp? id=25145

Analysis of Ford Motor Company’s Essay

Ford Motor Company (FMC) manufactures and sells vehicles worldwide. The company has two business segments that include automotive segment and financial services. Ford carries out operations in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Hence, the company has to ensure that its operations are working effectively to meet its organizational objectives. The company also has to ensure that its operations management strategies are adequate to provide maximum benefits to the company. Domestic car manufacturers are facing intense competition from foreign vehicle manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mercedes Benz, BMW and Audi just to name a few. There is thus the need to manage operations so as to improve efficiency, reduce costs and in the process achieve competitive advantage. Heizer and Render (2011), noted that operations management is a transformation process that occurs in companies producing goods and also in service organizations. Transformation process involves daily activities that focus on creating value for the organization. Operation processes are determined in terms of effectiveness (whether the process is able to attain company objectives) and efficiency (is the process using resources adequately). According to Davis and Heineke (2005), different types of transformation could be physical as in manufacturing, location as in transportation, storage as in warehousing, health care which is physiological, and informational which is telecommunication. Ford has numerous activities involving several areas that can lead to cost saving and translate into increased profitability for the company. By effectively implementing and executing operations management strategies, the company is able to deliver value to customers and generate more revenues and profits. Ford employs a wide range of operations strategies and one of these is product strategies. Product strategies employed by Ford includes having many vehicle platforms, brands, and models. As a result of their product strategy, the company is able to produce vehicles that are tailored to different customer requirements. The company’s manufacturing processes and product development carried out in one target region is different fro m another region (Kassab, 2011). Another strategy used by Ford is product pricing whereby its products are priced relatively low thus ensuring that as many people as possible can afford its products. Through this strategy the company is able to attract and retain customers which in turn lead to  increased sales. Ford has a wide range of product offering and is thus able to attract large number of customers. The wide range of products offered by the company allows it to maintain a balanced revenue stream Its product strategy is also an effective method in increasing market share as its numerous brands and models is able to attract a large number of diverse customers. Ford has shifted its product strategy towards new vehicle segments and this has proved to be profitable for the company (Automotives, 2011). Ford uses numerous production or manufacturing strategies that aims at promoting efficiency and effectiveness. Ford focuses on reducing time and material waste in production, increasing quality and reducing cycle times. All these strategies contribute to cost reduction by the company. In order for an organization to sustain growth in such a competitive market, it must be able to eliminate processes that waste resources, improve on product quality and achieve customer satisfaction. These factors enhance the company’s competitive advantage and its ability to remain in business. Ford previously utilized a total quality management (TQM) production strategy, however the company is currently shifting towards a six sigma approach. TQM was introduced in the company in the 1980’s to improve product quality resulting from intense competition from foreign manufacturers. TQM emphasizes on processes driven by quality and aim at achieving customer satisfaction. Implementing total quality management meant that processes within the company had to be adhered to strictly and continuously improved in order to meet customer satisfaction. TQM philosophy looks at developing a corporate culture that is customer focused, empowers employees and seeks continuous improvement. By focusing on the customer, Ford was able to provide value customers with product value and quality that ensured customer satisfaction. This in turn translated into revenue for the company due to repeat sales and first time customers. Essential components of effectively implementing TQM include a commitment from all stakeholders and a change in work culture. Managers at Ford demonstrate such commitment to quality by clearly initiating strategies and policies that aim at promoting quality enhancing activities. Ford’s workers at all levels are informed on steps that should be followed in order to achieve improved quality (Dahlgaard & Dahlgaard-Park, 2006). Total quality management reduces wastage in the production process and eliminates defects. The reductions in defects and  wastages assist in lowering production costs which can subsequently l ead to an increase in contribution margin. Lower costs can also facilitate the company’s lower pricing strategy to attract customers and gain competitive advantage. By implementing total quality management Ford was able to reduce amount of waste from production process and also improve on efficiency thus improving performance (Dahlgaard & Dahlgaard-Park, 2006). Ford has shifted towards a Six Sigma approach which aims to sustain company’s ability to manufacture quality products. The Society of Manufacturing Engineers magazine in 2011 noted that Ford’s reputation as a company that offers quality products was being tarnished as a result of a number of setbacks including recalls affecting several models and delays in introducing new ones to market. Customer surveys showed that customer satisfaction and quality of Ford cars had reduced and was behind competition thus the need for the company to shift to a new approach in order to improve on quality concerns. Six Sigma is more structured and profit oriented compared to total quality management. Ford shifted to this new approach in an attempt to improve on its processes and increase cost savings. The company also aims at establishing a consistent approach that can be used to solve quality related problems by improving organizational learning. Smith, (2003) in his article, â€Å"Six Sigma at Ford Revisited† noted that Ford saved $1.0 billion from elimination of waste 5 years after implementing Six Sigma and that internal customer satisfaction survey showed that customer satisfaction increased by 5%. This provides ample evidence that the company’s strategy has been effective in lowering costs and that customer satisfaction regarding the company’s products was heading in the right direction. One of the strategies being utilized in Ford’s production process is a â€Å"Global Product Development System† whereby the company has established a single template for designing, engineering and manufacturing its vehicles worldwide. One of Ford’s global product development systems is aimed at enabling the company to develop vehicles faster, improve its competitive ability and provide profitable growth. The system aligns the company’s technology and global product plans and car programs on characteristics that differentiate Ford vehicles in the market. The global product strategy establishes a standard that all Ford vehicles should conform to which leads to consistency in Ford products and also improves on brand recognition since products will have attributes that  differentiate Ford products from its competitors (Kassab, 2011). Since Ford manufacturing points are located across different regions, the global product strategy enables various production regions to produce products that have similar attributes. According to Kassab (2011), every time production centers are reinventing production processes the company losses time that could be utilized in developing new vehicles. Therefore one Ford global product development system is used in the production process to reduce time wastage and ensure consistency in production. Another strategy used in the Ford production process i s JIT in an effort to improve on the time it takes to produce a product. Ford decided to adopt this strategy due to inadequacies in material handling and inbound logistics. Using a just in time system enables the company to connect with suppliers and also assists in reducing production lead times and enhances the company’s capability to manage inventory, cost of transportation and storage costs. Just in time system involves delivering required production component when they are needed in the production process. In relation to logistics, Ford has established different solutions to ensure that supply and distribution is achieved. Ford has numerous â€Å"Order Dispatch Centers† where products are transported to and from the company (Penske, 2013). Order centers assist the company in centralizing its logistics network and reducing inventory levels. The company has uniform procedures, carrier requirements and technologies that streamlines supply, improve on performance and accountability (Penske, 2013). Ford utilizes logistics management technologies maintains and tracks information on delivery status and schedules applicable to routing. Through these technologies, the company is able to monitor its supply chain and ensure that all operations aspects of production are functioning appropriately. Ford also has in place capacity strategies where the company practices efficien t use of facilities and expansion facilities projects when required. By increasing capacity the company is able to increase output and generate more revenue. The company also has in places processes and systems to ensure efficient use of facilities. These processes involve being highly automated and strategically placing production points to ensure maximum achievement of efficiency. Ford has work design strategies whereby the company practices job enrichment and institutes motivation systems. Ford has a competency center that assists employees in planning their career,  enrolling in training and development programs, and assisting employees on how to balance professional and personal lifestyles (Hines et al, 2004). The company aims at developing an individual who in turn improves on overall organizational capability. By developing its employees, Ford is able to maintain high levels of motivation and morale which eventually leads to improved productivity. The American Psychological Association (2003) in an article â€Å"Occupational Stress and Employee Control† noted that Ford Motor Company has shifted virtually all of its manufacturing operations to a team-based approach in which employees have far greater control over their work. Instead of simply follow directions from supervisors, employees can talk directly to suppliers about parts quality, research better ways to run equipment, and take independent action to eliminate product defects. A pilot program, which began at Ford’s Romeo, Michigan engine plant in the early 1990s, raised productivity and quality along with job satisfaction so successfully that Ford expanded the approach, giving virtually all employees targets and allowing them to find ways to reach them. Ford encourages a self-management environment to boost and maintain employee morale. Employees are involved in problem solving groups and have a say on operational matters related to their jobs. Employees also participate in decision making processes within the organization. As a result of increased employee motivation, employees perform their job activities well which subsequently leads to increased productivity. By maintaining high motivation levels the company is able to retain high performing employees which benefit the organization in the long term. As a multinational company, a comprehensive location strategy is critical to a successful operations management execution. Ford has presence in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Africa where the company is involved in the production and sale of Ford vehicles. These markets are strategically targeted in an attempt to increase company growth. By having a global presence the company is able to penetrate into new markets and increase market share in the global arena. Ford is a well-known brand globally and its name recognition has assisted the company to penetrate new markets. An international presence assists the company in terms of product development, differentiation and distribution as vehicles are developed to meet customer requirements in specific regions and reduce distribution costs to various geographic regions. Operations management at  Ford Motor is influenced by factors such as competition. Competition plays a part in determining how a company does business. Ford therefore has to plan its operations to ensure it is able to gain competitive advantage and maximize revenues. Ford faces domestic and international competition from General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda and Nissan. In today’s environment, a car company does not have a great future unless they have a plan for increasing their sales globally. If an auto company is not a global automaker, it is not doing the job that it should. Ford therefore has to position itself to ensure that its operations are efficient, effective and are able to differentiate company products on a global scale. Another factor influencing operations management is customer requirements since this impact whether a company is profitable or not. Ford should ensure that its operations meet customer requirements in terms of quality, design, prices and spe ed of distribution. Success factors The first success factor in determining Ford’s successful achievement of its business objectives regarding its operations management strategies is financial. Operations management strategies employed in the company aim at ensuring efficient use of resources and reducing cost in the process. The main tools utilized by Ford to achieve success include Six Sigma, just in time inventory management, location and distribution strategies. Ford has successfully utilized the strategies to achieve its cost reduction strategy and this is evidenced by $1.0 billion cost saving after implementing Six Sigma. A just in time system contributes to the success by reducing costs incurred in transporting and storing raw materials and work in process inventory. The company’s distribution strategies include the use of order centers that improve on efficiency by reducing cost incurred in transporting final products to dealerships. Ford Media (2011) stated that the company’s sales increas ed by 19% in 2010 to $1.935 million compared to the previous year which is the largest increase of any full-line automaker. This achievement is indicative of the success of the operations management strategies implemented by the company. Another success factor in relation to operations management strategies in the organization is the social condition that exists within the company. Ford has different motivation methods that ensure that employees are highly motivated in their professional duties.  This is achieved by training and developing employees and also by ensuring that employees have control over their job activities. The American Psychological Association (2003) noted that increased employee control in job activities is an effective strategy in reducing occupational stress. Ford Motor position and market share in the industry provides measurable evidence on whether the company strategies have been successful. The company recorded mixed fortunes in its target market. Whereas the company increased market share in 2011 to 16.5% compared to 16,4% in 2010 and 15.3% in 2009, market share in Europe decreased to 8.3% compared to 8.4% in 2010 and 9.1% in 2009 (Sustainability Report, 2011/2012). This shows that the co mpany’s strategies were successful in its domestic market but unsuccessful in the European market. Despite these unflattering results, the company still maintains a strong international presence in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa. For 2012, Ford’s total U.S. market share was down 1.2 percentage points to 15.3%, while Ford’s U.S. retail share of the retail industry declined seven tenths of a percentage point. The declines largely came from the discontinuation of the Crown Victoria and Ranger, capacity constraints, and reduced availability associated with our Fusion and Escape changeovers. In Europe, market share declined 0.4 percentage points to 7.9% (Sustainability Report, 2012/2013). Quality is important to Ford in improving customer satisfaction and overall company performance. According to the 2012/2013 Sustainability Report, the results are mixed. In the U.S. first time buyers increased 0.5 percentage points to 10.6% in 2012 while customer loyalty decreased 0.9 percentage points to 47.7% in 2012. In Europe, first time buyers decreased 2.0 percentage points to 7% in 2012 while customer loyalty increased 1.0 percentage points to 52% in 2012. Ford has decentralized its operations to ensure that the company manufactures products that meet customer requirements by producing high quality vehicles. Ford Motor Company’s mission is one team, one plan and one goal. The mission is for the company to work together as a lean global enterprise measured by customer, employees, investor, supplier, dealer and union satisfaction. The company’s mission statement influenced its operations management strategies since the company’s one team and implemented strategies aim at achieving lean production where wastes are eliminated to reduce cost. The strategies also aim at improving customer satisfaction by providing quality products.  Ford strives to be a lean global enterprise by implementing strategies such as Six Sigma to achieve its objectives. The ultimate goal of all strategies implemented in the company is to increase profitable growth through increased customer and employee satisfaction and by reducing costs. References American Psychological Association. (2003). Occupational Stress and Employee Control. Retrieved On September 15, 2013 from http://www.Apa.Org/Research/Action/Control.Aspx Automotives Insight. (2011). New Product Strategy Pays Off For Ford. Retrieved On September 28, 2013 from http://www.Autosinsight.Com/File/96519/New-Product-Strategy-Pays-Off-For-Ford.Html Dahlgaard, J. J., & Dahlgaard-Park, S. M. (2006) Lean production, six sigma quality, TQM and company culture. The TQM Magazine, 18 (3), 263 – 281. Retrieved from EBSCO Host Database on September 21, 2013. Davis, M.M., & Heineke, J. (2005). Operations Management: Integrating Manufacturing and Services. (5th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw – Hill Irwin. Ford Media. (2011). Ford’s 2010 Sales Up 19 Percent – Largest Increase of Any Full Line Automaker: Foundation Set for Growth In 2011. Retrieved On September 28, 2013 from https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2011/01/04/ford_s-2010-sales-up-19-percent–largest-increase-of-any-full-li.html Heizer, J. & Render, B. (2001). Operations Management (10th ed.).Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. Hines, P., Holweg, M., & Rich, N. (2004). Learning to evolve: A review of contemporary lean thinking. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 24 (10), 994 – 1011. Retrieved from EBSCO Host Database on September 29, 2013. Kassab, C.R. (2011). Speedy Delivery – Global Product Development System Defines Ford. Ford Magazine. Ford Motors. Retrieved On September 28, 2013 from http:// corporate.ford.com/innovation/innovation-detail/fs-global-vehicle-product-development Penske. (2013). Ford Motor Company. Six Sigma Initiatives streamline operations. Retrieved On October 5, 2013 from http://www.penskelogistics.com/casestudies/ford2.html Smith, K. (2003). Six Sigma At Ford Revisited. Quality Digest, 23 (6), 28-32. Retrieved from EBSCO Host Database on October 2, 2013. Society of Manufacturing Engineers.

My personal narrative Essay

My personal narrative is developed by using the questions posed by McGoldrick and Gerson (1985) in the chapter titled â€Å"Constructing Genograms† (pp. 32-7) as a guiding framework. I am the only child of Neil aged 57 and Dorothy aged 53. Because I am much closer to my father’s side of family, I will begin with his description and his family of origin. My father was born in 1946. He is the second child in the family of four children, starting with Eve who is 60 and followed by Rene and Toby who are 52 and 47 respectively. Because he is physically handicapped, my father has not worked for many years. He met my mother while she was working at a restaurant that he frequented in 1977 and they were married the following year. However, when I was eight years old, my parents were divorced in 1985 when my mother, who could not cope with her alcoholism, left my family permanently. Since then, my father has been a constant source of support for me. After my parents’ divorce, we moved in with my paternal grandmother, Ruth, who died in 1998 at the age of 82. At that time, my paternal grandfather who suffered from heart disease had been dead for four years. A wise, warm and loving grandmother, Ruth more than compensated for my mother’s unexpected departure from my life. Apart from my father who has supported me in all my endeavors, my grandmother was an influential person in my life who encouraged me to realize my ambitions, while cultivating my desire to help others.

Quality Management Virgin Atlantic Essay

Company overview: Since it was founded in 1984, Virgin Atlantic Airways has become Britain’s second largest carrier serving the world’s major cities. Now based at both London’s Gatwick and Heathrow airports, it operates long haul services to thirty destinations worldwide as far apart as Las Vegas and Shanghai. Virgin Atlantic has enjoyed huge popularity, winning top business, consumer and trade awards from around the world. The airline has pioneered a range of innovations setting new standards of service, which its competitors have subsequently sought to follow. Despite Virgin Atlantic’s growth the service still remains customer driven with an emphasis on value for money, quality, fun and innovation. Virgin Atlantic had carried around 53m passengers since it began operations and now employs almost 9000 people worldwide. ANALYSIS OF THE CASE STUDY: The Customer benefit package from Virgin airlines: The Tangibles: 1-Comfortable seats 2- Fairly spacious lounge for business and first class passengers 3- Overall tasty and exceptional option of food and beverages is served 4- Comfortable and cheerful atmosphere in the airplane. 5- Reasonable pricing for the guaranteed service 6- Well-organized design selection for the inside of the plane such as the separate seat and bed idea The Intangibles: 1- Caring and friendly flight attendants. 2-In flight Internet connection. 3-Highly advanced website with several checking choices such as the Check in, chill out in the Caribbean which allow customers to relax in their hotel. As the staff deliver the boarding passband, they take the luggage in a secure van to check it in the airport. 4- Several fair packages serving diverse customer demands. 5- Enable customers to book other related inquiries such as booking a car, a hotel 6- The website covers all the needed information from getting airport directions to inflight exercises. 7- Enable customers to exchange their money at different locations. 8- Cleanness and neatness of the airplanes. 9- Hip and trendy design for the logo. 10- Brand recognition. 11- Exceptional customer service such as personally calling customers before the flight time to check if they’re in need for help. 12- Involving customers in their objective which is â€Å"to grow a profitable airline, that people love to fly and where people love to work†. 13- Efficient customer complaints procedure even for non travelers. 14- Efficient baggage claims procedure even in incidents occurrence * What are the heads of Virgin’s product design? Virgin has three product heads which are the economy’s and Premium Economy’s classes design, the Upper Class and a head for Clubhouses. * What kind of structure does the organization apply? The organization has a flat structure. * What gave Virgin’s design a level of respect within the organization? Virgin’s design was granted respect by building relationships and communicating the value of design in the organization. * What is the benefit from the service design? The benefit is to ensure that the new designs of virgin’s services are improving and increasing customer’s satisfaction. *How does Virgin maintain a low staff turnover even though their promotions are limited? Virgin maintains a low staff turnover in their design by keeping employees motivated and satisfied. The organization assures this result by educating their design employees, involving them in training programs, applying a cross-functional share of ideas and teamwork. * What are the incentives of applying team works? Teamwork grants designers with the appropriate reward and grant managers the achievement of the negotiated goals. *What is the operational focus of Virgin? Virgin airlines focuses on differentiation in design. *How does Virgin Atlantic operate within its time and resource constraints? Virgin executes its projects and designs activities through a company of wide project management system. *How is the project design processed? The design process undergoes R&D, Design Development and implementation. *What are the stages of research and development of Virgin Atlantic? First, they start with product challenge in which the performance is monitored not to decrease or it’s raised. After that, the opportunity identifier stage begins where an idea is introduced into action by the group directors with the approved fundings. From the OI, Virgin develops the product brief. Then, the project design is discussed in a dialogue form between the employees responsible for the project and the design team. Finally, the approval of the board is requested with a detailed presentation in hand. *What are the risks of the OI stage? Budgets and timelines limitations are critical to OI. *What is the aim of creating a dialogue for the project design? Creating a dialogue is important for the stakeholders because it assures them that their interests will be delivered within the time and money limits. *What are the reasons behind the meetings of Design Development? 1) The ITCM is held to ensure that the project design is applicable. 2) The PDR is held so that the manufacturers demonstrate their understanding of the project and correct any misinterepretation . 3) The CDR is held so that the designers and manufacturers both agree on the final design. 4) The FAI is to ensure that the manufactured products are as planned. *How does Virgin Atlantic minimize the risks of implementation? Virgin minimizes the implementation’s risk by reducing the expensive aircraft downtime and by storing products six months before the roll out. *Does Virgin outsource and if so in which activity? Virgin uses external agencies to help with creating different designs. *How does Virgin manage the work of the internal and external design groups? Virgin manage the work between these parties by establishing weekly meetings and increasing those meetings when needed. Also, Virgin ensures that external groups reach their highest performance by giving them their space and keeping them separate from one another. *What are the methods used in improving Virgin service? Virgin collects information from internal customers, external customers, third parties. An example of internal customers are the senior mangers. Furthermore, Virgin provide customers with Xplane questionaries which are taken under consideration by the designers even in seat sizes. Virgin also uses benchmarking data to improve its design satisfaction. * How did Virgin reached success with its new upper class addition? At first, the design team discussed a number of flat beds’ layouts with the managers. Then, they prioritized the features to ensure that the important features are included in the layout. After that, the engineering department ensured that the layout is safe and undergoes the regulations. Then, the layout of separate seats and sleeping areas was passed to the development stage after the approval of the board of directors. In addition, the seat features were analyzed and tested to ensure its performance. * In which way did the upper class concept cover customer’s retention? The upper class concept didn’t only include a comfortable layout, it also included service factors such as limousine pick-up, in-flight massage, lightning specifications and dining options. Also, Virgin included customers in the assessment of its new service inquiry. In your opinion, how do you think Virgin airlines can improve their performance? I believe that Virgin have reached a high performance and established a brand image within the airlines sector. Thus, the best way to ensure their success is by benchmarking and seeking improvements even in the small missing aspects. In the end, there isn’t limit to the competing market. Primary problem: How will Virgin Atlantic airways segment and position their firm in the market in order for them to surpass their competitors and become market leader? Supporting details: Richard Banson (the founder of Virgin Atlantic) believes that knowing the needs and wants of all customers is the best core competence, the Virgin Atlantic believes that they need to accommodate all the customers who can afford to pay for the ticket, but Virgin Atlantic don’t practice the marketing segmentation. Secondary problem: How will the Virgin Atlantic Airways maintain their good reputation and their service? Supporting details: The Virgin Atlantic airways is known for its innovations, products, services, schedule, but the seats are tiny with no legroom in the premium economy class. Recommendations: Primary problem: virgin Atlantic airways need to identify their target market so they can serve and do their job effectively and efficiently Secondary problem: Virgin Atlantic should conduct a disciplinary action for their employees. Attendants should distribute a wish-list where passengers can write what they want freely either during the flight or after the flight, they can wish to buy presents instead of going to the duty free, by the wish-list the management will know the likes and dislikes of the passenger and this will result in avoiding complaints. REFERENCES http://www.designcouncil.org.uk/Case-studies/Virgin-Atlantic-Airways/Designing-the-Upper-Class-Suite/ Quality management manual Worldwide flights | Africa, Asia, Australia, Caribbean, UK and USA | Virgin Atlantic. (n.d.). Worldwide Flights | Africa, Asia, Australia, Caribbean, UK and USA | Virgin Atlantic. Retrieved from http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/gb/en.html http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/virginatlantic Research Methodology. (n.d.). Research Methodology. Retrieved from http://research-methodology.net/virgin-atlantic-airways/ Virgin Strategy1. (n.d.). Virgin Strategy1. Retrieved from http://fr.scribd.com/doc/60328463/Virgin-Strategy1 Virgin Atlantic Airways Fleet Details and History. (n.d.). – Planespotters.net Just Aviation. Retrieved from http://www.planespotters.net/Airline/Virgin-Atlantic http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/en/gb/careers/highlife/timeline/index.jsp Virgin Atlantic Limited. (n.d.). PrivCo. Retrieved from http://www.privco.com/private-company/virgin-atlantic-limited Virgin Atlantic Airways Passenger Reviews and Customer Trip Reports. (n.d.). Virgin Atlantic Airways Customer Reviews. Retrieved from http://www.airlinequality.com/Forum/vir_atl.htm AirlineMeals.net – Airline catering * the world’s largest website about airline catering. (n.d.). AirlineMeals.net – Airline Catering * the World’s Largest Website about Airline Catering. Retrieved from http://www.airlinemeals.net/browse.php?id=2325 https://www.virgin-atlantic.com/en/gb/manageyourflights/index.jsp The Economist. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.economist.com/blogs/gulliver/2012/12/virgin-atlantic

Two methods of determining ABO and Rh groups Essay

Two methods of determining ABO and Rh groups - Essay Example The paper tells that because of Rh and ABO, it is important to be able to chemically identify the different blood types. In the ABO blood group system there are two types of marker that are present on the blood cells. These are type A and type B. If an individual has neither of these markers then they are considered to be type O. Individuals can be of blood type A, B, O or AB, as they inherit one type of marker from each parent. The human body does not produce antibodies for the markers that it contains, but does so for the ones that are not present. This is because the immune system sees the foreign marker as an invader and consequently defends itself against it. Thus, a person with type AB blood does not have antibodies against either A or B markers, and can consequently receive blood from any blood type. However, they also cannot give to any other blood type. In contrast, someone with type O blood can donate blood to any blood type as no antibodies will be raised, and but can rece ive blood only from other type O donors. Another factor that is present in the blood of humans is known as the Rh or rhesus system. This was first discovered through immunization of rabbits with blood that had been obtained from rhesus monkeys. It was found that the antibodies in the rabbit caused the blood to cogulate. Although the Rh system contains around 50 different antigens, five of which are considered to be the most important (D, C, c, E and e), and of these the D antigen is the most relevant. It is often thought to be the most polymorphic blood group system in humans. ... Secondly, the study used antibody screening on two plasma samples to determine the presence of antibodies. Materials and Methods Tube Grouping: Rh (D) and ABO antigens in unknown samples Four agglutinin reagents were to used in this experiment, Anti-A, Anti-B, Anti-A,B and Anti-D Alpha. These reagents react directly with the antigens present in red blood by making the cells clump together. Thus, they could be used to determine the blood type of each of the four patients. Sixteen clean test tubes were taken and labelled with patient name (Patient 1, 2, 3 or 4) and one of the four reagents so that for each patient there was a total of four tubes, each labelled with the name of a different reagent. Two drops of the labelled reagent were added to each tube. For each of the four patients, the cell sample was inverted several times to ensure the cells were thoroughly mixed, and then one drop of cells was placed in each of four test tubes for that patient. The cells were incubated at room t emperature for 15 minutes and then examined for agglutination. Ortho ABD and Reverse Cassettes: Rh (D) and ABO antigens in unknown samples For this section of the experiment, the same four patient samples were used. The samples were inverted to mix them and then they were loaded into the cassettes. One cassette was used for each patient and these were labelled. Each cassette had four marked wells, A, B, D and control. In each well 10 Â µl of the respective patient sample was placed. The cassettes were then placed in the Ortho Centrifuge and spun for five minutes, and then the results read. Antibody Screening An Ortho Poly AHG cassette was provided. This had six wells that contained Poly Specific Anti – Human Globulin. Three antibody-screening cells