Religious and Ethnic Diversity

| Religious and Ethnic Diversity| ETH125| | Lavetta Hayes| 3/24/2013| | The Mormons believe that there were Jews in America and that Jesus came to America and not the Middle Eastern holy land. They also believe that the founder of their religion learned this information and other founding values of the Mormon religion based off of some golden tablets that came down to him from heaven. Personally, I think that those particular beliefs are kind of crazy. However, one of the more interesting beliefs that the Mormons hold is that when they die and go to heaven.They will be reunited with all of their family, including past family members. Because of this particular belief, the Mormons keep very meticulous genealogical records of their families, so that when they do enter heaven they will know who their family members are. There is a genealogical library in every Mormon Church and followers of these churches will often spend hours at a time in these libraries researching their families. To my knowledge, no other mainstream Christian religion keeps such good track of all possible family ties. * The LDS (Latter-Day Saints) church has seen a lot of prejudice against their beliefs.Even from the beginnings of the religion, many societies have disagreed with their views. Because of this disagreement and over all fear and misunderstanding of the religion, the followers of the religion have been asked to leave many states. In one particular case, there was actually a war between the state of Missouri and the followers of the church. * Throughout history, only until the 20th century, most of what the Mormons experienced with other religions was ostracization and fear. Even after the war that had occurred in Missouri, they still found persecution to the places they emigrated to until they finally settled in Utah.Because of all of the mistreatment, this has caused Mormons to be a very tightly knit community that is very secretive to outsiders. Many Mormons keep their religion t o themselves and their church congregation. * One of the most recognizable things that the Mormons have brought us is their incredibly famous, and very talented Mormon Tabernacle Choir. This choir has won multiple awards including a Grammy and Emmy for their performances. They have performed for multiple presidents and even at the Olympics.They have released multiple albums of famous hymns and toured all over the world. This choir has played an important role in helping the overall image of the church. * The Latter Day Saints also boast one of the best genealogical libraries in the country, due to their beliefs about family, and are major supporters of The Boy Scouts of America. Many BSA troupes across America are funded by a local Mormon church and the National Church awards BSA money every year so that they may continue their efforts. The major genealogical libraries of the LDS churches are constantly growing.The Mormons are also known for building and maintaining extremely gorgeo us churches in major LDS communities, many of which are in Utah, but there are also large, glorious churches in Las Vegas, New Mexico, and various areas in Southern California. The Mormons have seen a lot of persecution in American history. When the religion was originally founded, most communities thought that they were strange and like other religions before them (Judaism in Germany, Paganism in the Dark Ages, and what some places in America are trying to do to Sharia Law), the religion was ostracized.This led to a great migration of the Mormon people to Utah, their Zion. They found peace there for many years, but as the times changed and society changed, people once again questioned the Mormons for their oddness. People today still think the Mormons are odd but on the grander scheme of things, they have not come in to light since the 70’s. The world has bigger things to be prejudice against today so there is no point in currently questioning a religion that, in the end, do es believe in Jesus.In the 60’s and 70’s the Mormon Church got a lot of attention because many people were not at ease with the Mormon Church’s view on marriage and polygamy. This caused a rift in the Mormon culture and created two sects of the church: The Fundamentalist LDS and the we know now as just Jesus Christ Church of Latter-Day Saints. The Fundamentalists were pressured to leave the traditional Mormon cities, and have since moved and founded their own communities across the Northern and Southern Sierra Nevada. No sources are entirely clear on why the Mormons have seen as much discrimination as they have.Though I believe that a basic understanding of human nature would show that the reason this religious group has seen so much persecution is because many people fear what they do not understand, and do not seek to understand what it is they fear. The Mormons have a some, even myself, would consider to be strange beliefs. Their original stance on polygamy, their strict health code, and their continual belief to dress and behave modestly. In today’s day in age the latter seems nearly impossible but they still manage to dress differently, which I am sure is a source of discrimination for those that venture outside of their communities.The Mormons have long been thought to be polygamists, in where one man has many wives known as â€Å"sister wives†. While this was true at one point, and in some cases still is, the majority of the churches no longer practice this. Still, this has permanently marred their public image. Devout Mormons, even today, still follow strict health practices. Many of them do not consume or drink sugar, caffeine, tobacco, or alcohol, and keep their food natural and free of modern chemicals. Learning about this religion was interesting, to say the least.I am one of the few people I know that knows my ancestral line so well, and that is because of my grandmother on my father's side. When I asked her why I know this, and why she knows this, she told me about the Mormon's belief of their families in heaven. And while I am a fan of natural foods, and live a relatively substance free life in terms of alcohol, caffeine and sugar, to think that I could not have them as a Mormon would make me sad, because I love chocolate. I cannot say that I fully understand the Mormon religion, or that I ever will, or that I ever want to.They are a peaceful people, and when they come to my door and I tell them that I am happy with the religion I am, they smile and tell me to have a nice day and move on. All that I am concerned about is that they are peaceful and do not hate me for being a different religion from them. Knowing that they are means that I can continue to think them a bit odd, but not hate or prosecute them for it. I will forever understand that they are different, and because of that I will not ever hold their religion against them because I am different, and in that way, we are the same.I might not ever understand more than that, but what is important is that there is peace for them and me. * The people we know as the â€Å"Asians† are many and varied, in looks, culture, and religion. The term of â€Å"Asian† refers to anyone that looks Japanese, Chinese, or, to put it more bluntly, has a rounder face and slanted eyes. Many people forget that India is a part of the Asian continent, as well as what we know as the â€Å"middle east,† the country made famous in the movie Borat, Kazakhstan, and my personal favorite, Russia!There are over 40 different recognized major languages in Asia, and this is not including smaller dialects and over 15 different recognized religions and spiritual beliefs, some of which we are familiar with, and some of which we are not. A few of these recognized languages are Russian, Vietnamese, Korean, and Arabic, among many others. We are familiar with the religions of Christianity, the views of Atheism, and Judaism. Another major religion in Asia, specifically Japan is Shinto. Confucianism is popular in Korea and Islam is the largest religion of Asia. * Many races from Asia have been greeted here in America with fear and disdain.Even though we are the â€Å"great melting pot,† each group of people that has immigrated here has seen their fair share, and sometimes more than their share, of hate, no matter what color their skin is or where they are from. In modern days it is easy for us to recognize the tenuous relationship that Americans have had with Muslim Americans. While the discrimination of the Muslim Americans is in the decline, there is still a lot of fear amongst the American people of this particular group at this time in history. * The country of Asia has been very war torn within their own borders as well.Many Jews within Russia are still prejudice against, the wars in the Middle East, the war and continued disdain between China and Japan, the North Korean and South Korean conflict, th e list goes on. America may be wary of immigrants throughout the years, but there has been and always will be conflict amongst countries within their own borders that will encourage them to come here or elsewhere for a better life. * One of the first things I thought of after reading this question in regards to the Asian people is Chinese New Year. It might sound racist, but I love the Chinese New Year so much.It is a fun and unique celebration that brings back great memories from my childhood, and I believe that many Americans enjoy that celebration as well. While it is something that is distinctly Chinese/Japanese, it has become part of American culture as well. I think that is only one example of the other holidays that have been brought over from Asia, and only one of the things that the Asian people have contributed to our culture. * I think more than just Holidays and fun languages, any group of people that has come to America has brought an overall understanding of their cult ure.While all immigrant groups in America have seen discrimination and prejudice, their persistence brings an understanding and eventual peace to their settling here. One of the most prevalent and frightening displaces of prejudice and discrimination against Asian people occurred during World War II, after the attack on Pearl Harbor from the Japanese. After that attack, due to fear of Asian spies within the country's borders, many Asian-Americans of Japanese or Chinese decent were required to move into internment camps located across the country.While these camps were not like the labor camps into Germany, they were not any less bad. While interred in these camps, the prisoners were forced to read and learn American propaganda, they were not fed well, their sleeping conditions were poor, and the living conditions were filthy, and just sad. Many of the inmates at the camps had their homes foreclosed on and all of their property repossessed by federal and local governments. After the prisoners were released from these camps, they did not have homes to go to, and had been separated from their families.They were also not welcome at many places to eat, live and work. If we travel further back in history, any Chinese immigrant that came to America in the 1880s was not treated very well. They were often beaten in the streets. Lynching and murder of a local Chinese immigrant was often looked over. They were hired as cheap, fast, and replaceable workers, so if one died, no one really cared and the work continued because it was understood that there would be a replacement very soon. In the case of the internment camps during World War II, that was something that was done out of fear.The American people were afraid and as a result, a terrible thing happened that we all try to politely ignore, but that can never be erased. In the case of the great Chinese immigration in the 1880s, well that was a different time. We were a much younger country then, and fear, discriminatio n, and prejudice were much more common place. It was very easy for any white American to distrust any person that wasn't the same color as them, and there was a belief then that white people were better than the other races.But with all prejudice and discrimination, along with that thought of superiority, it comes down to fear, ignorance and misunderstanding. As the country has matured, as has our understanding of the world. Different ethnic groups still see prejudice and discrimination, but there is a lot less killing than there was in days past, and we see things in a different way than what we did in centuries past. From what I know about the many peoples of Asia, I understand that like us, they are a country (many countries). Like us, they have their religions, their cultural views, their languages, and their lives.They hold different views on personal responsibility, familial responsibility, school, family values, and religion. Asia is an incredibly vast continent, and there ar e many different cultures on that continent. I know that each country is different in its own way and I respect that. I do not greet people from that continent with any kind of disdain or prejudice. The Mormons, the Chinese, and the Japanese as well as other Asians have seen similar discrimination in that at some point in American history, on American soil, they have been beaten, killed, pressured, and taken out of their homes.They have also seen religious persecution. There was a time where any religion that was thought to be Asian was celebrated in a major way here in America. Though now these cultures are well assimilated into American culture, they were once feared and ostracized. Even other cultures from the continent of Asia have seen prejudice and hatred at the hands of the Americans, but I am of the opinion that everyone that has come to America has, even the pilgrims, it has all just come at a different time in history and been enacted out in different ways. Times may chang e, but hate never really does.The major difference between the two groups is that one is recognized as a religious group, and the other, while having varied religions, is recognized mainly as looking different from white people. The Mormons were Americans that were hated and feared by other Americans. Many Asians are recognizably different from a traditional American, even if they are not what we typically think of when we think of â€Å"Asians. † The other difference is that the Mormons saw their persecution not because of the way they looked, while Asians, because they looked different, were looked down upon. Both have seen physical pain, but I would venture to say that theAsians have seen more physical pain than the Mormons have. After the Mormons came to Utah, most of the violence was over, but there are crimes committed against non-whites even to this day. And since Mormons have fallen off of the great radar of hatred for America, there are still many very racist areas o f the country that are acutely aware of the difference between whites and non-whites, and tend to make a big deal about it. America, while being known as the land of opportunity and the great melting pot, is a very scared, hateful country. Yes, there are many places within America that are very tolerant and peaceful, such as where I live.But there are also other places that are still very prejudice towards certain ethnic groups. As our country has matured, the hate towards different ethnic groups has been expressed in a different ways, but hate is still hate. Perhaps someday in a perfect world, America will just stop caring and realize that in the end it doesn't matter what language we speak, what religion we are, or what color we are, but instead realize that the most important thing is that we are all people. We are all human beings on the same planet and that is, and should be recognized as the most important unifying factor in us all.

Forward the Foundation Chapter 12

13 Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. Gleb Andorin watched Gambol Deen Namarti trudging up and down. Namarti was obviously unable to sit still under the driving force of the violence of his passion. Andorin thought: He's not the brightest man in the Empire or even in the movement, not the shrewdest, certainly not the most capable of rational thought. He has to be held back constantly-but he's driven as none of the rest of us are. We would give up, let go, but he won't. Push, pull, prod, kick. Well, maybe we need someone like that. We must have someone like that or nothing will ever happen. Namarti stopped, as though he felt Andorin's eyes boring into his back. He turned around and said, â€Å"If you're going to lecture me again on Kaspalov, don't bother.† Andorin shrugged lightly. â€Å"Why bother lecturing you? The deed is done. The harm-if any-has been done.† â€Å"What harm, Andorin? What harm? If I had not done it, then we would have been harmed. The man was on the edge of being a traitor. Within a month, he would have gone running â€Å" â€Å"I know. I was there. I heard what he said.† â€Å"Then you understand there was no choice. No choice. You don't think I liked to have an old comrade killed, do you? I had no choice.† â€Å"Very well. You had no choice.† Namarti resumed his tramping, then turned again. â€Å"Andorin, do you believe in gods?† Andorin stared, â€Å"In what?† â€Å"In gods.† â€Å"I never heard the word. What is it?† Namarti said, â€Å"It's not Galactic Standard. Supernatural influences. How's that?† â€Å"Oh, supernatural influences. Why didn't you say so? No, I don't believe in that sort of thing. By definition, something is supernatural if it exists outside the laws of nature and nothing exists outside the laws of nature. Are you turning into a mystic?† Andorin asked it as though he were joking, but his eyes narrowed with sudden concern. Namarti stared him down. Those blazing eyes of his could stare anyone down. â€Å"Don't be a fool. I've been reading about it. Trillions of people believe in supernatural influences.† â€Å"I know,† said Andorin. â€Å"They always have.† â€Å"They've done so since before the beginning of history. The word ‘gods' is of unknown origin. It is, apparently, a hangover from some primeval language of which no trace any longer exists, except that word. Do you know how many different varieties of beliefs there are in various kinds of gods?† â€Å"Approximately as many as the varieties of fools among the Galactic population, I should say.† Namarti ignored that. â€Å"Some people think the word dates back to the time when all humanity existed on but a single world.† â€Å"Itself a mythological concept. That's just as lunatic as the notion of supernatural influences. There never was one original human world.† â€Å"There would have to be, Andorin,† said Namarti, annoyed. â€Å"Human beings can't have evolved on different worlds and ended as a single species.† â€Å"Even so, there's no effective human world. It can't be located, it can't he defined, so it can't be spoken of sensibly, so it effectively doesn't exist.† â€Å"These gods,† said Namarti, continuing to follow his own line of thought, â€Å"are supposed to protect humanity and keep it safe or at least to care for those portions of humanity that know how to make use of the gods. At a time when there was only one human world, it makes sense to suppose they would be particularly interested in caring for that one tiny world with a few people. They would care for such a world as though they were big brothers-or parents.† â€Å"Very nice of them. I'd like to see them try to handle the entire Empire.† â€Å"What if they could? What if they were infinite?† â€Å"What if the Sun were frozen? What's the use of ‘what if?† â€Å"I'm just speculating. Just thinking. Haven't you ever let your mind wander freely? Do you always keep everything on a leash?† â€Å"I should imagine that's the safest way, keeping it on a leash. What does your wandering mind tell you, Chief?† Namarti's eyes flashed at the other, as though he suspected sarcasm, but Andorin's face remained good-natured and blank. Namarti said, â€Å"What my mind is telling me is this-If there are gods, they must be on our side.† â€Å"Wonderful-if true. Where's the evidence?† â€Å"Evidence? Without the gods, it would just be a coincidence, I suppose, but a very useful one.† Suddenly Namarti yawned and sat down, looking exhausted. Good, thought Andorin. His galloping mind has finally wound itself down and he may talk sense now. â€Å"This matter of internal breakdown of the infrastructure-† said Namarti, his voice distinctly lower. Andorin interrupted. â€Å"You know, Chief, Kaspalov was not entirely wrong about this. The longer we keep it up, the greater the chance that Imperial forces will discover the cause. The whole program must, sooner or later, explode in our faces.† â€Å"Not yet. So far, everything is exploding in the Imperial face. The unrest on Trantor is something I can feel.† He raised his hands, rubbing his fingers together. â€Å"I can feel it. And we are almost through. We are ready for the next step.† Andorin smiled humorlessly. â€Å"I'm not asking for details, Chief. Kaspalov did and look where that got him. I am not Kaspalov.† â€Å"It's precisely because you're not Kaspalov that I can tell you. And because I know something now I didn't then.† â€Å"I presume,† said Andorin, only half-believing what he was saying, â€Å"that you intend a strike on the Imperial Palace grounds.† Namarti looked up. â€Å"Of course. What else is there to do? The problem, however, is how to penetrate the grounds effectively. I have my sources of information there, but they are only spies. I'll need men of action on the spot.† â€Å"To get men of action into the most heavily guarded region in all the galaxy will not be easy.† â€Å"Of course not. That's what has been giving me an unbearable headache till now-and then the gods intervened.† Andorin said gently (it was taking all his self-restraint to keep from showing his disgust), â€Å"I don't think we need a metaphysical discussion. What has happened-leaving the gods to one side?† â€Å"My information is that His Gracious and Ever to Be Beloved Emperor Cleon I has decided to appoint a new Chief Gardener. This is the first new appointee in nearly a quarter of a century.† â€Å"And if so?† â€Å"Do you see no significance?† Andorin thought for a moment. â€Å"I am not a favorite of your gods. I don't see any significance.† â€Å"If you have a new Chief Gardener, Andorin, the situation is the same as having a new administrator of any other type-the same as if you had a new First Minister or a new Emperor. The new Chief Gardener will certainly want his own staff. He will force into retirement what he considers dead wood and will hire younger gardeners by the hundreds.† â€Å"That's possible.† â€Å"It's more than possible. It's certain. Exactly that happened when the present Chief Gardener was appointed and the same when his predecessor was appointed and so on. Hundreds of strangers from the Outer Worlds-â€Å" â€Å"Why from the Outer Worlds?† â€Å"Use your brains-if you have any, Andorin. What do Trantorians know about gardening when they've lived under domes all their lives, tending potted plants, zoos, and carefully arranged crops of grains and fruit trees? What do they know about life in the wild?† â€Å"Ahhh. Now I understand.† â€Å"So there will be these strangers flooding the grounds. They will be carefully checked, I presume, but they won't be as tightly screened as they would be if they were Trantorians. And that means, surely, that we should be able to supply just a few of our own people, with false identifications, and get them inside. Even if some are screened out, a few might make it-a few must make it. Our people will enter, despite the supertight security established since the failed coup in the early days of First Minister Seldon.† (He virtually spat out the name, as he always did.) â€Å"We'll finally have our chance.† Now it was Andorin who felt dizzy, as if he'd fallen into a spinning vortex. â€Å"It seems odd for me to say so, Chief, but there is something to this ‘gods' business after all, because I have been waiting to tell you something that I now see fits in perfectly.† Namarti stared at the other suspiciously and looked around the room, as though he suddenly feared for security. But such fear was groundless. The room was located deep in an old-fashioned residential complex and was well shielded. No one could overhear and no one, even with detailed directions, could find it easily-nor get through the layers of protection provided by loyal members of the organization. Namarti said, â€Å"What are you talking about?† â€Å"I've found a man for you. A young man-very naive. A quite likable fellow, the kind you feel you can trust as soon as you see him. He's got an open face, wide-open eyes; he's lived in Dahl; he's an enthusiast for equality; he thinks Joranum was the greatest thing since Dahlite cokeicers; and I'm sure we can easily talk him into doing anything for the cause.† â€Å"For the cause?† said Namarti, whose suspicions were not in the least alleviated. â€Å"Is he one of us?† â€Å"Actually, he's not one of anything. He's got some vague notions in his head that Joranum wanted sector equality.† â€Å"That was his lure. Sure.† â€Å"It's ours, too, but the kid believes it. He talks about equality and popular participation in government. He even mentioned democracy.† Namarti snickered. â€Å"In twenty thousand years, democracy has never been used for very long without falling apart.† â€Å"Yes, but that's not our concern. It's what drives the young man and I tell you, Chief, I knew we had our tool just about the moment I saw him, but I didn't know how we could possibly use him. Now I know. We can get him onto the Imperial Palace grounds as a gardener.† â€Å"How? Does he know anything about gardening?† â€Å"No. I'm sure he doesn't. He's never worked at anything but unskilled labor. He's operating a hauler right now and I think that he had to be taught how to do that. Still, if we can get him in as a gardener's helper, if he just knows how to hold a pair of shears, then we've got it.† â€Å"Got what?† â€Å"Got someone who can approach anyone we wish-and do so without raising the flutter of a suspicion-and get close enough to strike. I'm telling you he simply exudes a kind of honorable stupidity, a kind of foolish virtue that inspires confidence.† â€Å"And he'll do what we tell him to do?† â€Å"Absolutely.† â€Å"How did you meet this person?† â€Å"It wasn't I. It was Manella who really spotted him.† â€Å"Who?† â€Å"Manella. Manella Dubanqua.† â€Å"Oh. That friend of yours.† Namarti's face twisted into a look of prissy disapproval. â€Å"She's the friend of many people,† said Andorin tolerantly. â€Å"That's one of the things that makes her so useful. She can weigh a man quickly and with very little to go on. She talked to this fellow because she was attracted to him at sight-and I assure you that Manella is not one who is usually attracted by anything but the bottom line-so, you see, this man is rather unusual. She talked to this fellow-his name is Planchet, by the way-and then told me, ‘I have a live one for you, Gleb.' I'll trust her on the matter of live ones any day of the week.† Namarti said slyly, â€Å"And what do you think this wonderful tool of yours would do once he had the run of the grounds, eh, Andorin?† Andorin took a deep breath. â€Å"What else? If we do everything right, he will dispose of our dear Emperor Cleon, First of that Name, for us.† Namarti's face blazed into anger. â€Å"What? Are you mad? Why should we want to kill Cleon? He's our hold on the government. He's the facade behind which we can rule. He's our passport to legitimacy. Where are your brains? We need him as a figurehead. He won't interfere with us and we'll be stronger for his existence.† Andorin's fair face turned blotchy red and his good humor finally exploded. â€Å"What do you have in mind, then? What are you planning? I'm getting tired of always having to second-guess.† Namarti raised his hand. â€Å"All right. All right. Calm down. I meant no harm. But think a bit, will you? Who destroyed Joranum? Who destroyed our hopes ten years ago? It was that mathematician. And it is he who rules the Empire now with his idiotic talk about psychohistory. Cleon is nothing. It is Hari Seldon we must destroy. It is Hari Seldon whom I've been turning into an object of ridicule with these constant breakdowns. The miseries they entail are placed at his doorstep. It is all being interpreted as his inefficiency, his incapacity.† There was a trace of spittle in the corners of Namarti's mouth. â€Å"When he's cut down, there will be a cheer from the Empire that will drown out every holovision report for hours. It won't even matter if they know who did it.† He raised his hand and let it drop, as if he were plunging a knife into someone's heart. â€Å"We will be looked upon as heroes of the Empire, as saviors. Eh? Eh? Do you think your youngster can cut down Hari Seldon?† Andorin had recovered his sense of equanimity-at least outwardly. â€Å"I'm sure he would,† he said with forced lightness. â€Å"For Cleon, he might have some respect; the Emperor has a mystical aura about him, as you know.† (He stressed the â€Å"you† faintly and Namarti scowled.) â€Å"He would have no such feelings about Seldon.† Inwardly, however, Andorin was furious. This was not what he wanted. He was being betrayed. 14 Manella brushed the hair out of her eyes and smiled up at Raych. â€Å"I told you it wouldn't cost you any credits.† Raych blinked and scratched at his bare shoulder. â€Å"But are you going to ask me for some now?† She shrugged and smiled rather impishly. â€Å"Why should I?† â€Å"Why shouldn't you?† â€Å"Because I'm allowed to take my own pleasure sometimes.† â€Å"With me?† â€Å"There's no one else here.† There was a long pause and then Manella said soothingly, â€Å"Besides, you don't have that many credits anyway. How's the job?† Raych said, â€Å"Ain't much but better than nothing. Lots better. Did you tell that guy to get me one?† Manella shook her head slowly. â€Å"You mean Gleb Andorin? I didn't tell him to do anything. I just said he might be interested in you.† â€Å"Is he going to be annoyed because you and I-â€Å" â€Å"Why should he? None of his business. And none of yours, either.† â€Å"What's he do? I mean, what does he work at?† â€Å"I don't think he works at anything. He's rich. He's a relative of the old Mayors.† â€Å"Of Wye?† â€Å"Right. He doesn't like the Imperial government. None of those old Mayor people do. He says Cleon should-â€Å" She stopped suddenly and said, â€Å"I'm talking too much. Don't you go repeating anything I say.† â€Å"Me? I ain't heard you say nothing at all. And I ain't going to.† â€Å"All right.† â€Å"But what about Andorin? Is he high up in Joranumite business? Is he an important guy there?† â€Å"I wouldn't know.† â€Å"Don't he ever talk about that kind of stuff?† â€Å"Not to me.† â€Å"Oh,† said Raych, trying not to sound annoyed. Manella looked at him shrewdly. â€Å"Why are you so interested?† â€Å"I want to get in with them. I figure I'll get higher up that way. Better job. More credits. You know.† â€Å"Maybe Andorin will help you. He likes you. I know that much.† â€Å"Could you make him like me more?† â€Å"I can try. I don't know why he shouldn't. I like you. I like you more than I like him.† â€Å"Thank you, Manella. I like you, too. A lot.† He ran his hand down the side of her body and wished ardently that he could concentrate more on her and less on his assignment. 15 â€Å"Gleb Andorin,† said Hari Seldon wearily, rubbing his eyes. â€Å"And who is he?† asked Dors Venabili, her mood as cold as it had teen every day since Raych had left. â€Å"Until a few days ago I never heard of him,† said Seldon. â€Å"That's the trouble with trying to run a world of forty billion people. You never hear of anyone, except for the few who obtrude themselves on your notice. With all the computerized information in the world, Trantor remains a planet of anonymities. We can drag up people with their reference numbers and their statistics, but whom do we drag up? Add twenty-five million Outer Worlds and the wonder is that the Galactic Empire has remained a working phenomenon for all these millennia. Frankly I think it has existed only because it very largely runs itself. And now it is finally running down.† â€Å"So much for philosophizing, Hari,† said Dors. â€Å"Who is this Andorin?† â€Å"Someone I admit I ought to have known about. I managed to cajole the security establishment into calling up some files on him. He's a member of the Wyan Mayoralty family-the most prominent member, in fact-so the security people have kept tabs on him. They think he has ambitions but is too much of a playboy to do anything about them.† â€Å"And is he involved with the Joranumites?† Seldon made an uncertain gesture. â€Å"I'm under the impression that the security establishment knows nothing about the Joranumites. That may mean that the Joranumites no longer exist or that, if they do, they are of no importance. It may also mean that the security establishment just isn't interested. Nor is there any way in which I can force it to be interested. I'm only thankful the officers give me any information at all. And I am the First Minister.† â€Å"Is it possible that you're not a very good First Minister?† said Dors, dryly. â€Å"That's more than possible. It's probably been generations since there's been an appointee less suited to the job than myself. But that has nothing to do with the security establishment. It's a totally independent arm of the government. I doubt that Cleon himself knows much about it, though, in theory, the security officers are supposed to report to him through their director. Believe me, if we only knew more about the security establishment, we'd be trying to stick its actions into our psychohistorical equations, such as they are.† â€Å"Are the security officers on our side, at least?† â€Å"I believe so, but I can't swear to it.† â€Å"And why are you interested in this what's-his-name?† â€Å"Gleb Andorin. Because I received a roundabout message from Raych.† Dors's eyes flashed. â€Å"Why didn't you tell me? Is he all right?† â€Å"As far as I know, but I hope he doesn't try any further messages. If he's caught communicating, he won't be all right. In any case, he has made contact with Andorin.† â€Å"And the Joranumites, too?† â€Å"I don't think so. It would sound unlikely, for the connection is not something that would make sense. The Joranumite movement is predominantly lower-class-a proletarian movement, so to speak. And Andorin is an aristocrat of aristocrats. What would he be doing with the Joranumites?† â€Å"If he's of the Wyan Mayoralty family, he might aspire to the Imperial throne, might he not?† â€Å"They've been aspiring for generations. You remember Rashelle, I trust. She was Andorin's aunt.† â€Å"Then he might be using the Joranumites as a stepping-stone, don't you think?† â€Å"If they exist. And if they do-and if a stepping-stone is what Andorin wants-I think he'd find himself playing a dangerous game. The Joranumites-if they exist-would have their own plans and a man like Andorin may find he's simply riding a greti-â€Å" â€Å"What's a greti?† â€Å"Some extinct animal of a ferocious type, I think. It's just a proverbial phrase back on Helicon. If you ride a greti, you find you can't get off, for then it will eat you.† Seldon paused. â€Å"One more thing. Raych seems to be involved with a woman who knows Andorin and through whom, he thinks, he may get important information. I'm telling you this now so that you won't accuse me afterward of keeping anything from you.† Dors frowned. â€Å"A woman?† â€Å"One, I gather, who knows a great many men who will talk to her unwisely, sometimes, under intimate circumstances.† â€Å"One of those.† Her frown deepened. â€Å"I don't like the thought of Raych-â€Å" â€Å"Come, come. Raych is thirty years old and undoubtedly has much experience. You can leave this woman-or any woman, I think-safely to Raych's good sense.† He turned toward Dors with a look so worn, so weary, and said, â€Å"Do you think I like this? Do you think I like any of this?† And Dors could find nothing to say.

Critically appraise the fiscal strategy of the UK Conservative-Liberal Essay

Critically appraise the fiscal strategy of the UK Conservative-Liberal Democrat Coalition government - Essay Example There is no plausible, consistent, or convincing measure that has been established to oversee national recovery by the coalition government. As a corollary, this paper will endeavour to critically appraise the fiscal strategy of the UK Conservative-Liberal Democrat Coalition government. To come up with a comprehensive and detailed appraisal, it is essential to revisit the genesis of the current financial woes in the UK and the rest of the world i.e. the global financial crisis. The first indicators of the global financial crisis were realized on August 2007. They developed progressively throughout the 2008. It was not until September/October 2008, that the full-blown effects of the crisis were realized. In this document, a succinct summary of the fiscal policy response strategies to the global financial crisis in the UK is given. An emphasis is given to the changes in those strategies after the shift of power from the Labour government to the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition. The Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition took fiscal austerity stance in a bid to counter the financial woes in the UK. This was particularly evident in the emergency budget was produced months after the inauguration of the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition where public expenditure cut were projected and the declaration of a programme to eradicate the structural budget discrepancies for five years was made. In March 2008, the Treasury asserted that UK’s the economy was unwavering and flexible, was experiencing a steady growth, and that the country had the aptitude to deal with fiscal shocks swiftly and with minimum financial expenses (HM Treasury, 2008a: 2). This self-satisfied stance changed in September/October 2008 when major financial effects of the global crisis started being experienced. The Labour government established a strategy aimed at enhancing the episodically

Financial Report on HUAYI BROTHERS MEDIA CORPORATION Essay

Financial Report on HUAYI BROTHERS MEDIA CORPORATION - Essay Example In 2011, the company’s current assets amount, 1403.42 was 3.99 times the amount of current liabilities, 351.91. On the other hand, the company’s 2012 current assets amount, 2,562.33 was only 1.66 times the amount of current liabilities, 1,544.15. The financial statement analysis indicates the company’s current ratio had declined between the 2011 and 2012, comparing their 3rd quarter business performances. The current ratio shows that the company has more than enough current assets available to pay the company’s current liabilities (Drury 496). The company’s gross ratio shows the relationship between the company’s net income amount and net sales figures (http://www.google.com/finance?q=SHE:300027&fstype=ii ). In terms of third quarter financial performance, the Huayi Brothers Media Corporation’s net profit margin ratio shows an unfavorable business performance picture. In 2011, the company’s net profit amount, 102.49 was 21 percent of the amount of net sales, 481.30. On the other hand, the company’s 2012 Net Income amount, 130.91 was only 18 percent of the amount of net sales, 707.80. The financial statement analysis indicates the company’s net profit ratio had dropped between the 2011 and 2012, when analyzing their 3rd quarter financial operations (Drury 185). The above return on investment graph shows how long the company will be able to recover its investments (http://www.google.com/finance?q=SHE:300027&fstype=ii). Recovering the investments in a shorter recovery time is better than a longer recovery time period. In terms of third quarter financial performance, the Huayi Brothers Media Corporation’s return on investment ratio shows an unfavorable business performance picture. In 2011, the company’s net profit amount, 102.49 was 7percent of the amount of Total Assets, 1,403.42. On the other hand, the company’s 2012 Net Income amount, 130.91 was only 18 percent of the amount of net sales, 707.80. The financial statement

Fatigue Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Fatigue - Essay Example Because of this subtlety, it is important to develop methods of predicting and controlling fatigue during the design process. The progress of fatigue is categorised into three stages (Budynas and Nisbett, 2006). Stage I is the presence of microcracks, which are the tiny regions of plastic deformation from which the failure process begins. During stage II, these cracks steadily grow and increase in length. It is during this stage that cracks can be detected and measured, and are apparent in post-failure analysis as visible ridges: How quickly a part reaches failure due to fatigue is an important question for mechanical design. It is a complicated process, influenced by many factors. A cornerstone of fatigue behaviour prediction is extensive materials testing. Whatever the mathematical framework used to predict fatigue behaviour, it invariably relies on empirical measurements of representative material samples. Because crack formation and propagation are stochastic processes, these tes ts must be repeated a large number of times and a statistical average used as a guideline. This is particularly true for low cycle fatigue. Characterization of Cyclical Loads In order to discuss fatigue and the types of loading that cause it, some standard terminology needs to first be established. Any cyclical stress can be characterized by the following parameters: ?a Stress amplitude ?r Stress range ?m Mid-range stress ?max Maximum stress ?min Minimum stress Additionally, there is the stress ratio R, and the amplitude ratio A defined by: In contrast to static failure, which occurs when a single threshold value is exceeded, fatigue failure can result from a near-endless combination of the above components. A number of different criteria have been developed to determine which combinations will lead to failure. The following diagram shows some of these criteria, with points on or above each line indicating failure. Some criteria are clearly more conservative than others, from the So derberg line to the Gerber ellipse. These criteria are somewhat crude approaches that do little to describe the physical phenomenon; they are deterministic, whilst the phenomenon itself is stochastic. They were developed early in the study of fatigue, and are primarily useful for quick estimation. The following three sections define more rigorous approaches. Fatigue-Life Methods Stress-Life Method The stress-life method is very convenient and intuitive, and consists of applying repetitive stresses to a sample, then measuring the number of cycles to failure. A sample of material is loaded into a high-speed rotating-beam machine, which places the sample into a state of pure bending, then rotates it to create fully-reversed cyclical axial stresses within it. These samples are very carefully machined and polished to control surface defects that could initiate a crack. Testing begins at near-yield strength, and then gradually reduced in subsequent tests. The result is known as the  "S-N curve† which shows the expected fatigue strength vs. the number of cycles to expected failure. This method of determining material fatigue properties is straightforward to implement, but lacks accuracy, particularly for determining low-cycle endurance. Fatigue failure is stochastic in nature, and even the most carefully-controlled experiments

Chromatographic and Hyphenated Methods Research Paper

Chromatographic and Hyphenated Methods - Research Paper Example Thermometers should be available to take the correct reading during the heating process. One can easily forget to transfer the reagents to 5 volumetric standard flasks. This will limit the dilution of the reagents with the correct amount of acetone (Holler, et al., 2006). Following the right procedure and collecting all the requirements before the experiment will be helpful. During the experiment, the following components must be evaluated in the experiment. The quantity of esomeprazole in the product, which is the drug is one of the components to be determined. It is also significant to determine the stability of the drug in the environment. The process of preparing the drug should also be examined to ascertain its validity to the process (Holler, et al., 2006). During microanalysis, it is important to take a keen interest in the following; the content of esomeprazole in the drug, functionality of the drug and the effects of the drug patients. It is also important to examine the suitability of the drug to its function. The following should also be looked into Nexpro, torrent, Raciper, Ranbaxy, Bezos, Glenmark. There are different methods for separating ingredients. One of the processes is base-acid extraction. This is a desirable method for separating valuable chemicals from the unwanted gunk. The principle behind this theory is that chemicals alkaloids in general, exist in two forms. Water-soluble component together with an acid and an oil.

The e-government and e-procurement situation in the GCC countries Research Paper

The e-government and e-procurement situation in the GCC countries - Research Paper Example Oman has a high level of economic growth and has a free economy.The new trade and investment laws provide better degrees of vitality and flexibility to E-commerce and the government actively participates in the E commerce initiatives to provide for better business conditions (2).Qatar is more closed up and does not allow FDI in some sectors like banking, insurance, real estate, commercial agencies. Further more not more than 40% of foreign ownership is allowed unless there is a sector like Agriculture, industry, health, education, tourism, leisure and development of natural resources, energy, and mining (2).The UAE is the fastest growing economy with the recent government’s allotment of $13.4 billion towards the development of the non-oil sector, much of which will be spent on telecommunications and information technology. A recent initiative is the Dubai Internet City which is a great move to UAE’s future internet economy (2).Bahrain is an important business center and is only recently warming up in the internet race. It is located half way between the time zones of East and West, and give that the GCC countries (mostly import oriented) have an estimated population of more than 19 million, and added 100 million to adjoining neighboring countries that leads to enormous consumer bases potential. It is reported that the Bahrain government is striving towards E-procurement in the sectors of business & financial services, tourism, information technology, telecommunications, healthcare & education (2).... Qatar is more closed up and does not allow FDI in some sectors like: banking, insurance, real estate, commercial agencies. Further more not more than 40% of foreign ownership is allowed unless there is a sector like: Agriculture, industry, health, education, tourism, leisure anddevelopment of natural resources, energy and mining (2). The UAE is the fastest growing economy with the recent government's allotment of $13.4 billion towards the development of the non-oil sector, much of which will be spent on telecommunications and information technology. A recent initiative is the Dubai Internet City which is a great move to UAE's future internet economy (2). Bahrain is an important business centre and is only recently warming up in the internet race. It is located half way between the time zones of East and West, and give that the GCC countries (mostly import oriented) have an estimated population of more than 19 million, and added 100 million to adjoining neighboring countries that leads to enormous consumer bases potential. It is reported that the Bahrain government is striving towards E-procurement in the sectors of business & financial services, tourism, information technology, telecommunications, healthcare & education (2). In a similar vein Saudi Arabia has followed suit and an even better climate is found in Kuwait where as any Kuwaiti or GCC national over 21 years of age can carry commerce in Kuwait. In Kuwait public procurement is dealt with government of law 37 of 1964, Law 18 of 1970 and Law 81 of 1977. There is no internet procedure for most of the tendering procedures and this has yet to change to promote public procurement (2). 2. Role of Internet and the other emerging ICT ways of communication in

The Holocaust Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Holocaust - Research Paper Example The state of Germany led by Adolf Hitler killed six million individual from the Jews community between1933 to 1945. Since the Holocaust years, it is 50 years down the line but relevant questions are still being asked by not only the Jews community but also the international communities across the globe. â€Å"How could a modern state carry out the planned murder of a whole people just because they were Jews?† (Rossel, 12). It is also a perturbing issue since the whole world watched, as six million innocent souls were murdered in cold blood. In addition, it is even hard to find an individual who can give an explanation of what really happened? In spite of having the survivors of the holocaust, by then they were children. Giving an ear to them to explain is like history in pieces. But as time goes by historians give clear description of the Holocaust. It is indeed strange to hear politicians and professors reports claiming that there is nothing like years of Holocaust. On the ot her hand, the social scientist can claim that sacrifice by blood is ridiculers’ thing, since it impossible to encounter a group of individuals who can do such an act in such a long period. Furthermore, the politicians may claim that Holocaust story was told by the Jews community, as a plot or for evil reasons. ... Weiss describes that the writing of Luther as â€Å"more obscene than even Hitler’s Mein Kampf† A unique brand of the fascisms in Germany was as a result of the waiving out of the nationalism which was peculiar as it was introduced in Germany that came with the revolutions, capitalism with enlighten and the 20th Century war that were fused together. In addition, it is still moot to explain the extent at which the Holocaust covered, but studies that have been done locally show that the Germaine’s were attracted to the anti-Semitism since they were drawn to be part of the Nazism but not the anti-Nazism. It is therefore obvious that the anti-Semitists power was in the Holocaust. However, the anti-Semitists in Germany resulted to different situations as well as having unique outcome compared to the anti-Semitist in other countries with the same characteristics, Christianity was at bay. Between years 1933 to 1945 there was a concentration camp since the beginning, the y were founded with an aim of holding political prisoners and they were later used to hold the â€Å"asocial†. However, there were high death rates that were recorded with 50 percent rate of the mortality rate which were not meant to be or be centers of killings. While 1942 was approaching Germany had 6 extermination camps and they were large in size. There was a difference in the concentration camps since individuals who were sent in the 6 camps were killed. The camps continuously became a site where the Jews and the POWs were brought to their death dates. A part from being killed they were forced to be slaves, laborers, torture and were as well undernourished. In addition, German went ahead and established 15,000 more camps in countries where they had occupied such as

Synthesis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Synthesis - Essay Example Majority of the opinion from the analysts, authors, and interviewees, is that college is worth it. This paper will present all sides of the issue -- from yes, no, to â€Å"its complicated† in order to prove and defend the stand of the collective writers that college is definitely worth it. With most college students needing to work in order to stay in college, the financial trade off for the student and his parents does not seem to be fair. That is most likely the reason why there is a rush of articles in academic journals arguing about the validity of a college education. Is it worth going into debt for? Is there actually any value that can be set for the college education of a person? Is it truly worth the financial sacrifice to complete a college education? Or perhaps trade school would be best so that the student can immediately set out to work after graduation? These are the questions that three separate articles which were assigned reading in our class tried to answer based upon practical reasoning, historical data, and common sense. Once viewed collectively, the answer to the question being posed becomes quite clear, college is definitely worth it for those who can afford it. In the interview of Larry D. Singell, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences of Indiana University, Jamsheed Chosky , professor of Central Eurasian Studies and History, and finally Richard Miller, professor of Religious Studies, the three important figures from Indiana University attempt to provide evidence as to why a college degree is worth the cost in an interview with Bruce Lilly. The main argument of the three university representatives centered around the cost of education and the difference between a completed liberal arts education as opposed to an education completed at a trade school. All three men, regardless of how they presented their opinion on the

Graduate admission essay (career in forensic science)

Graduate admission (career in forensic science) - Essay Example The way in which Forensic Science is spreading its branches into legal and criminal fields, aided by new inventions and tools fascinates me. I keep updating my knowledge in forensic science by reading books, journals and research papers. The ever-evolving nature of the subject is very attractive to me. With the crime rate shooting up in all bigger cities, I am sure there would be tremendous amount of openings in the forensic area. Forensic and DNA analysis have proved to be a boon to solving criminal cases. Now cases are getting solved beyond doubt and ambiguity due to developments in both the fields. Taking this view into consideration, I do not think that my future plans are too ambitious to materialize. With this career in view, I have taken almost all available short courses in the last four years. I have taken a lot of care to be in touch with recent advancement in the field. It is extremely important for me to get this admission, as I have not thought of any other career for myself. I have been focusing for a long time only on Forensic Science and this is the only field that inspires me. I also feel that I could be of good use to society by helping police or FBI to solve murders.

Britain in the second World War Essay Example for Free

Britain in the second World War Essay Britain in the second World War: the Evacuation of British Children Explain the differing reactions of people in Britain to the policy of evacuating children during the Second World War. There were a variety of reactions towards the evacuation of children in World War 2. Everyone was affected by the evacuation but the main reaction was that it was needed. I am going to look at different groups and what their reactions would have been towards the evacuation. Firstly I think I should look at the children themselves. Many children would have wanted the evacuation, as they would be concerned for their safety. Children would naturally be afraid of air bombings and the sound and sights of bombs would horrify them. If it meant they were safe Im sure they wouldnt mind leaving their homes. Well I definitely think that the more mature children would definitely not mind leaving. Many children then lived in poverty, and would not get to go on holiday; this would then be like a long holiday for them. Many children enjoyed the evacuation as they experienced new sights and new surroundings. An example of this is in the A Coursework Sources Booklet On : the evacuation of British children in the Second World War. On page 6 source 14, a boys says, instead of having to play cricket in the garden, we went bird nesting. This suggests that the boy did not enjoy playing cricket, but was enjoy himself more when evacuated. But Im not forgetting this is only the reaction of one boy. But there were some children who would get homesick or not enjoy themselves. This can be expected when you put young children into new surroundings and they would have been scared. In the booklet, page 4, source N it quotes And hot water from a tap. And there was a lavatory upstairs. And carpets. And something called an eiderdown. And clean sheets. This was all very odd. I didnt like it. it was scary. This shows that even though this person was now living in better conditions, they were not happy were they were and they would rather be home. I think it depended on your host. If you liked them, then you would likely enjoy yourself. If you didnt like them the majority hated it. I will now look at the reaction of the mothers. I think the majority of mothers would have felt the evacuation was correct and would have felt reassured that the Government was taking some action and getting the children to safety. The mothers would also like the evacuation because they would benefit. They could now concentrate more on work now and in the view of the economy this was an advantage of the evacuation. Knowing that their children were now safe and werent in danger of their school being bombed, they could work more efficiently and harder, therefore producing more artillery for example. If the mothers were working harder at work they would be tired at home and therefore if the children were away they wouldnt have to worry about them misbehaving, or getting into trouble, but they could now relax more. Also they would be better off financially, they may be getting better wages as they had time for over-time, and the didnt have to spend money on the children or as much food etc. But some mothers may not like it as much as others, as they may worry about their children being away from them. They may worry that their temporary parents did not treat them well or feed the well etc. Some may feel that they would be safer at home though this was obviously no the case). They may also find themselves very lonely, their husbands had gone and now their children, and there now would be less help around the house Also mothers are very protective of their children and they may worry that their children may get ill or hurt, and if this was the case they would feel they should be there to care for them. I now think it is appropriate to look at the reaction of the fathers. As with the mothers I feel the majority of fathers would welcome the evacuations, as they could respect that it was for their safety. They would welcome it as it would be very comforting knowing their children were safe, and they knew that if they felt this way they could fight with more heart, effort and overall increase moral. So contributing to the war effort.

A Thousand Splendid Suns Essay Example for Free

A Thousand Splendid Suns Essay â€Å"Come. There is a way to be good again,† said Rahim Khan to Amir. In the novel the Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, Amir, the main character, expresses his thoughts and actions due to his baneful choices. The tribulations he faced were all repercussions of the sin committed by his disdainful youth. His sins ravaged the early stages of his life and gave him a troublesome memory full of guilt. As the novel progressed, Amir attempted to disengage the memory of his sin and forget about it. Amir soon faced the long over due road to redemption. Khaled Hosseini’s novel the Kite Runner is about redemption, and that the lifelong pursuit of happiness will never be fulfilled without it. At a young age Amir and Hassan were best friends, even though Amir was roughly expressing it. Amir and Hassan enjoyed many activities together as Khaled expressed in his novel: â€Å"I spent most of the first twelve years of my life playing with Hassan. Sometimes, my entire childhood seems like one long lazy summer day with Hassan, chasing each other between tangles of trees in my father’s yard, playing hide-and-seek, cops and robbers, cowboys and Indians, insect torture†¦ We saw our first Western together, Rio Bravo with John Wayne, at the Cinema Park†¦,† stated Amir. Amir stated all these â€Å"friend-like† activities, yet witnessed the sexual abuse administered by Assef and his goons on Hassan without a peep from his mouth. At this point Amir’s lust for obtaining the kite, so he could finally enjoy love from his father had over come his friendship. That temporary love given to Amir by his father was enough for Amir to attempt to get rid of Hassan permanently, which worked. Amir’s sin committed in his early years set the stage for the rest of his life, for he would seek redemption for his acts. Many years passed, Amir was on his own now in America, with his wife Soraya that could not bare children. Amir received a call from Rahim Kahn who was dying and wanted a last visit from Amir. Amir had jumped at the chance to visit an old friend/father figure and flew to see Rahim. Little did Amir know he was about to face all of the tribulations he had seemed to forget of his past ten fold. Rahim Khan reveals â€Å"Hassan, Amirs childhood friend, the presumed son of the family servant was in reality, Amirs half-brother, his fathers illegitimate son with Alis wife. † He also reveals that the prolonged redemption is just around the Taliban by saving Amir’s half-nephew Sohrab (Hassan’s son) from Kabul. Amir was in a state of confusion, he expressed his plead to Rahim: â€Å"I can’t go to Kabul,† I had said to Rahim Khan. â€Å"I have a wife in America, a home, a career, and a family. † But how could I pack up and go and go back home when my actions may have caused Hassan a chance at those very same things (talking to himself)? I wished Rahim Khan hadn’t called me. I wished he had let me live on in my oblivion. But he had called me. And what Rahim Khan revealed to me changed things. Made me see how my entire life†¦had been a cycle of lies, betrayal, and deceit. ‘There is a way to be good again’ he’d said. Thus started Amir’s road to redemption. Amir searched through Kabul for Sohrab and an orphanage leader had stated that Sohrab had been sold to a Taliban leader. The Taliban Leader who showboated John Lennon glasses and conducted the stoning ceremony at halftime of the soccer game was the man that Amir had to speak with. As Amir conversed with the Taliban lead he learned of his cruel ways of massacring the Hazaras. Then the Taliban leader revealed, â€Å"What did you think? That you’d put on a fake beard and I wouldn’t recognize you? I never forget a face. Not ever. † The Taliban revealed himself as Assef, Amir’s childhood enemy. Assef created an ordeal stating that if Amir were to overcome him in a blood brawl, then Sohrab would be Amir’s boy to take. Assef completely demolished Amir by breaking several ribs with his brass knuckles. Amir was barely able to stand, but he withheld the beating for he knew that destiny had brought him to this moment. The moment came when Sohrab had pierced Assef’s eye and he and Amir escaped. Amir had finally accomplished his self-turmoil and had almost completed his redemption by saving his half-brother’s son, and almost dying for him. Amir knew that he had to adopt Sohrab when they got back to a safe haven. This caused some trouble with the embassy for they required legal documents of the orphaned child. Sohrab believed that there was no possible way for him to come to America and he did not want to return to an orphanage, so he attempted suicide. Amir had gone through a father’s worst nightmare when he thought his soon to be adopted son would die. Sohrab survived though, leaving a reckless, unrighteous Muslim, self- centered Amir behind. Amir’s pursuit of happiness was fulfilled as he and his son were flying kites in America. He had redeemed himself as he said to Sohrab, â€Å"Do you want me to run that kite for you? †Ã¢â‚¬ ¦A nod from Sohrab†¦ â€Å"For you, a thousand times over,† and a smile cracked open on Sohrab’s face.

Lean Manufacturing | Literature Review

Lean Manufacturing | Literature Review Since the 1980s, numerous businesses in various sectors of industry have continually been introducing programs intended to improve both productivity and quality. Several authors have posited lean manufacturing or lean production as the best possible production system and one that can be implemented in any industry and any process (Bonavia and Marin, 2006 and Lee-Mortimer, 2006). Doolen and Hacker (2005) mentioned that different researchers have explored the portability of lean practices both within and between different manufacturing sectors. In accordance, a variety of surveys conducted in different types of industry (Soriano-Meier and Forrester, 2002, Bonavia and Marin, 2006, Doolen and Hacker, 2005, Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001 and Taj, 2008) proved that lean is widely successful in a variety of industrial sectors. However, there are two problematic issues regarding lean manufacturing have been addressed in several studies. First, Shah and Ward (2007) claimed that any discussion of lean production points to an absence of common definition of the concept. Likewise, Pettersen (2009) alleged that there is no agreed upon definition of lean that could be found in the literature. Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak (2005) declared that there is no consensus in different researchers perceptions to the concept of lean which leads to conflicting results in identifying and classifying its practices and techniques. Second, there is conflict in using terms such as elements, principles, constructs, techniques and practices. Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak (2005) mentioned that some of the elements of lean are actually referring to the goals and objectives rather than techniques or tools (e.g. elimination of waste, lead time reduction) and, in addition, a number of other best manufacturing practices (such as agile manufacturing) were used in literature as lean practices. Moreover, Shah and Ward (2007) underscored that identical items are used to operationalize vastly different concepts and different items are used to operationalize the same construct. Thus, Shah and Ward (2007) argued that a great source of confusion and inconsistency associated with lean is the more substantive disagreement about what comprises lean production and how it can be measured operationally. Statement of the problem The above mentioned issues revealed three confusions surrounding the lean concept in literature, which are (1) the lack of a consistent definition of lean, (2) the disagreement about the elements that comprise lean manufacturing and (3) the lack of a measurement tool for assessing changes towards lean implementation. With the aim to clarify and resolve these confusions, this chapter has three main objectives; (1) to propose a conceptual definition of the term lean manufacturing that captures all its main facets, (2) to provide a framework that identifies its major elements and practices, and (3) to develop an operationalized model to assess changes towards lean manufacturing implementation. To achieve these objectives, an in-depth literature review is conducted regarding the topic of lean manufacturing. At first, the concept of Lean and its main principles are introduced. Next, the elements of lean manufacturing and the practices for lean implementation will be investigated. Finally, different indicators that measure the progress achieved towards lean are explored. The concept of Lean Lean was associated with the practice of deciphering the value added activities from those that are waste in an organization and its supply chain (Comm and Mathaisel, 2005). Motwani (2003) declared that companies need to focus on each product and its value stream in order to distinguish between wasted activities and that actually create value. Moreover, Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak (2005) stated that leanness was introduced as an approach to manufacturing that was aiming at the elimination of waste while stressing the need for continuous improvement. However, lean manufacturing is much more than a technique, it is, in addition, a way of thinking (Taj, 2008). The issue of lean thinking was widely discussed in different researches. Comm and Mathaisel (2005) believed that lean thinking removes the traditional way people think about roles and responsibilities through remaining focused on the customer and the core competencies that the customer values from an organization. Therefore, Bhasin and Burcher (2006) claimed that for a successful implementation, numerous cultural changes are required for embracing empowerment and disseminating the lean principles through-out the value chain. Similarly, Taj (2008) confirmed that lean as a way of thinking creates a culture in which everyone in the organization continuously improve operations. In accordance, Comm and Mathaisel (2000) introduced leanness as a philosophy that intended to significantly reduce cost and cycle time throughout the entire value chain while continuing to improve product performance. Hence, lean should be described from two points of view; the philosophical perspective and the practical perspective (Shah and Ward, 2007). From the philosophical perspective, lean is viewed as an overall organizational philosophy that should affect the people way of thinking and behaving (Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak, 2005 and Bhasin and Burcher, 2006). This philosophy drives the guiding principles and the overarching goals of lean (Shah and Ward, 2007). On the other hand, the practical perspective see lean as a set of management practices, tools and techniques (Shah and Ward, 2007) that are used to apply the philosophy and to achieve the goals (Bhasin and Burcher, 2006). This two-perspective view of lean is supported by the definition of lean as a socio-technical system. Such system combines both technical system; i.e. technology and social system; i.e. people and organizational structure (Bhasin and Burcher, 2006). In the same context, Shah and Ward (2007) asserted that to pursue lean production, firms have to effectively manage their social and technical systems simultaneously. Moreover, Cua et al. (2001) proved that joint optimization of both socially- and technically-oriented policies or practices is necessary for achieving good results. Regarding its implementation, Panizzolo (1998) demonstrated that the wide range of lean practices are related to interventions in the manufacturing area, actions taken in other areas of the firm (design, HR, strategy, etc.) and relationships with both suppliers and customers. Likewise, Shah and Ward (2003) stated that lean should be seen as a multi-dimensional approach that encompasses a wide variety of management practices. This conceptualization of lean as multidimensional strategy is supported by a wide range of researchers (Doolen and Hacker, 2005, Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996, Shah and Ward, 2007 and Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak, 2005). However, it is well accepted among researchers that lean should be implemented as an integrated system (Shah and Ward, 2007, Bhasin and Burcher, 2006, Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996 and Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak, 2005). Shah and Ward (2007) suggested that a well-developed lean strategy implementation will require firms to exert considerable effort along several dimensions simultaneously. Bonavia and Marin (2006) concluded that there are only few relationships between the degree of use of lean production practices individually and operational performance (in terms of productivity, quality, lead time and inventory). In the same vein, Shah and Ward (2003) provide unambiguous evidence that the synergistic effects of all lean practices are associated with better manufacturing performance. Another feature of lean manufacturing that was emphasized in literature is its time-frame of implementation. Bhasin and Burcher (2006) and Doolen and Hacker (2005) believed that lean is a long-term multidimensional organizational strategy. Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak (2005) affirmed that transformation to lean requires a lot of effort, time and participation of all organization levels in addition to make changes in company culture and organizational structure. Thus, lean enterprises should continuously find ways to eliminate consumption of resources in their struggle to deliver value to their customers. In correspondence, the implementation of the lean program in the case study discussed in (Lee-Mortimer, 2006) proved that lean is not just a project, it is a long-term continuous journey which is implemented as a sequence of stages or projects. In conclusion, lean manufacturing embraces different features that should be taken into consideration when defining this concept. Lean should be viewed as a philosophy, affecting company culture, rather than a set of tools/techniques. This, in turn, reveals the importance of managing social system as well as technical system simultaneously. Moreover, lean implementation scope is not confined to the manufacturing function of a company, rather it relates to all functions ranging from product development, procurement and manufacturing over to distribution. Since lean companies seek to deliver value to their customers, this value should be predefined and delivered, while waste, which customers are not willing to pay for, should continuously be eliminated. All the aforementioned features of lean manufacturing can be captured in the following proposed conceptual definition. Lean manufacturing is a philosophy and a long-term strategy that is applied through a socio-technical system integrating all functions within the organization with the aim of continuous waste elimination while delivering outcomes that meet continuously predefined customer value. Lean principles Lean philosophy is mainly based on the principle of eliminating waste. Waste is anything other than the minimum amount of equipment, materials, parts, and working time that are essential to add value (Taj, 2008, Bonavia and Marin, 2006 and Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez (2001) cited that the main goal of lean is to eliminate all activities that do not add value to the product. Value should be specified as it is perceived by customers (Andersson et al., 2006 and Dahlgaard and Dahlgaard-Park, 2006). If the task does not add value from the customers point of view, it should be modified or eliminated from the process (Andersson et al., 2006). It is believed that by minimizing waste and zero-value added activities, companies can reduce production costs and the overall production system will be more efficient (Comm and Mathaisel, 2005 and Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Since inventory is considered one of the critical sources of waste (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001 and Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996), Dahlgaard and Dahlgaard-Park (2006) declared that the traditional way of producing in batches is inefficient as it requires goods to wait in inventories before the next production step is started up. Thus, Motwani (2003) mentioned that the value must flow to the customer without interruptions. Andersson et al. (2006) confirmed that focus should be on organizing a continuous flow through the production or supply chain rather than moving commodities in large batches. Closely related to the continuous flow is the principle of just-in-time (JIT), since the ultimate goal that every process should be provided with only one part at a time, exactly when that part is needed (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Moreover, if continuous flow is not possible (Lummus et al., 2006), the way of scheduling the flow of material should be pull instead of push (Motwani, 2003 and Dahlgaard and Dahlgaard-Park, 2006). This means that customer demand should pull finished products through the system with the aim of not carrying out any work unless the result of it is required downstream (Andersson et al., 2006). It is obvious that to succeed in the implementation of any modern system, everyone from top management to any lower level should make sincere efforts, and set their goals jointly through active participation and understanding (Ahmed et al., 2004). According to (McKone et al., 1999), employees can contribute significantly to the organization when they are allowed to participate in decisions that impact their area of responsibility. As a result, involvement from all employees allows companies to better use of its available resources (McKone et al., 1999). This principle reflects the conceptualization of lean manufacturing as a socio-technical system, since it highlights the importance of managing social system as well as technical system. Since lean is viewed as a long-term strategy, lean philosophy emphasizes continuous improvement. Several researchers (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996, Comm and Mathaisel, 2005 and Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001) affirmed that one of the most fundamental principles of lean is the search for continuous improvement in products and processes. Lummus et al. (2006) mentioned that processes should be managed towards perfection to continuously reduce the time needed to serve the customer. Likewise, Andersson et al. (2006) underscored that the elimination of non-value-adding elements (waste) is a process of continuous improvement. In this context, Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez (2001) highlighted the importance of employees involvement and top management support to create and train improvement teams that lead the organization to move toward zero defects. Based on the analysis of lean previous studies, it is concluded that there are five key principles / overarching goals which can be considered the bases for the lean philosophy. These principles are; (1) waste elimination, (2) customer value identification, (3) continuous production flow, (4) employees involvement and (5) continuous improvement. Furthermore, the aforesaid lean principles confirm some issues in the proposed conceptual definition. The unambiguous believe that elimination of waste is the fundamental goal is affirmed since lean is regularly defined as manufacturing without waste. Likewise, identifying value as perceived by customer is asserted in the proposed definition. Moreover, seeking continuous improvement as a principle of lean philosophy reflects the long-term nature of lean implementation. Thus, the proposed definition stresses the aim of continuous waste elimination and highlighted the need to continuously predefine customer value. Also, the importance of employ ees involvement emphasizes the social phase of the lean system as a socio-technical system. Finally, holding in mind these principles / goals underscores the view of lean as a philosophy that affects the people way of thinking. Lean implementation framework Previous studies concerning lean manufacturing revealed a number of manufacturing practices that are commonly associated with lean implementation. The initial step towards developing a framework for lean implementation is to capture different practices and combine them into inter-related groups in accordance to the multi-dimensional nature of lean manufacturing. The term practices in this context refers to the predominant methodologies that may include many techniques and tools. Shah and Ward (2003) identified and empirically validated combining lean practices into four specific lean bundles: namely Total Quality Management (TQM), Just In Time (JIT), Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Human Resources Management (HRM). Bonavia and Marin (2006) found enough agreement in literature to identify the first three bundles; TQM, JIT and TPM, while Cua et al. (2001) are of the opinion that human and strategic-oriented practices are common practices that support all other three bundles. Although there is general agreement within operations management literature that JIT, TPM, TQM and HRM are conceptually, theoretically, and empirically well established (Shah and Ward, 2003), there is no unanimous classification of the lean manufacturing practices that make up each of the four bundles (Bonavia and Marin, 2006). Therefore, in an attempt to provide a framework for lean implementation comprises the actual practices that represent each of the four mentioned bundles, the basic theme of these bundles are identified. Then, different lean practices are combined into each of these bundles based on reviewing different research papers regarding lean implementation practices, in addition to articles that were focused mainly on one of these bundles. TQM bundle Lack of quality is a major source of waste, since the defective parts and products that need to be reworked or scrapped do not add any value to the customer and should be eliminated in order to attain high productivity (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Sà ¶derquist and Motwani (1999) underscored that quality should be a top management issue and continuous improvement efforts together with the zero error objective should be company-wide and extended over company limits in production chains. Cua et al. (2001) defined total quality management (TQM) as a manufacturing program aimed at continuously improving and sustaining quality products and processes by capitalizing on the involvement of management, workforce, suppliers, and customers, in order to meet or exceed customer expectations. Sà ¶derquist and Motwani (1999) emphasized that TQM approach is the philosophy that should underpin the quality project in a lean company. The practices combined to form the TQM bundle include; product quality control, visual management (Cua et al., 2001, McKone et al., 1999 and Sà ¶derquist and Motwani, 1999), process management (Shah and Ward, 2003, Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999), product design and development (Cua et al., 2001 and Sà ¶derquist and Motwani, 1999), standardization (Sà ¶derquist and Motwani, 1999), suppliers quality management and customers involvement (Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999). JIT bundle Just-in-time philosophy means to deliver the right part in the necessary quantity and at the right time (Canel et al., 2000, Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001 and Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Ahmed et al. (2004) defined JIT as a philosophy and system concept of doing, maintaining and producing what is value adding or what is just needed, be it raw materials, components, parts, WIP, employees, or finished products. Cua et al. (2001) asserted that the primary goal of JIT, as a manufacturing program, is continuously reducing and ultimately eliminating all forms of waste through JIT production and involvement of the work force. JIT basic techniques include set-up time and lot size reduction, pull production systems (Shah and Ward, 2003, Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999), equipment layout and cellular manufacturing (Shah and Ward, 2003 and Cua et al., 2001), production leveling and scheduling and JIT delivery by suppliers (Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999). TPM bundle It has been accepted beyond any doubt that maintenance, as a support function in businesses, plays an important role in backing up many emerging business and operation strategies like lean manufacturing (Ahuja and Khamba, 2008b). Without having a productive maintenance system, lean production, just-in-time (JIT) or total quality management (TQM) environment cannot be attained (Ahmed et al., 2004). TPM is a proven and successful procedure for introducing maintenance considerations into organizational activities (Eti et al., 2004). Ahuja and Khamba (2008b) stated that TPM is a methodology originating from Japan to support its lean manufacturing system, since dependable and effective equipment are essential pre-requisite for implementing lean manufacturing initiatives in the organizations. Cua et al. (2001) and Shah and Ward (2003) defined TPM as a manufacturing program designed primarily to maximize equipment effectiveness throughout its entire life through the participation and motivation of the entire work force for performing planned predictive and preventive maintenance of the equipment and using maintenance optimization techniques. TPM, according to McKone et al. (1999), provides a comprehensive company-wide approach to maintenance management which is usually divided into short-term and long-term elements. In the short-term, TPM basic practices include; industrial housekeeping, autonomous maintenance (Cua et al., 2001, Eti et al., 2004 and McKone et al., 1999), and planned preventive and predictive maintenance (Shah and Ward, 2003, Cua et al., 2001, Eti et al., 2004 and McKone et al., 1999). In the long-term, TPM efforts focus on new equipment and technology acquisition (Shah and Ward, 2003, Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999). HRM bundle Human resources have a critical role in carrying out the continuous improvement plans which are the basis for success in lean implementation (Panizzolo, 1998). Eti et al. (2004) claimed that the degree of employees eagerness to embrace change determines the rate of progress towards that goal. Moreover, McKone et al. (1999) declared that employees are the greatest sources of information for companies to improve their performance. Shah and Ward (2003) affirmed that the HRM bundle has significant theoretical and empirical support. The most commonly cited HRM practices are employees involvement (Shah and Ward, 2003, Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999), multi-skilled workforce, multi-functional work teams (Shah and Ward, 2003), education and training (Shah and Ward, 2003, Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999), performance-based compensation system (McKone et al., 1999) and information and feedback (Cua et al., 2001 and McKone et al., 1999). Lean operationalized model Traditionally, managers have relied heavily on accounting metrics to determine efficiency, such metrics reflect the final state achieved as the result of a long chain of decisions (Taj, 2008), while lean should be seen as a direction rather than a state to be reached after a certain time (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Therefore, managing a lean factory requires key information to assess the changes taking place in the effort to introduce lean (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001 and Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Consequently, in order to develop an operationalized model for lean manufacturing, the aforementioned bundles and practices will be discussed with focus on identifying the indicators that can be used in assessing changes towards lean implementation. It is important here to note that the focus lies on the changes in these indicators, not on their actual values. So, the desired direction of each indicator, if moving in a lean direction, will be also specified. Measurement of TQM basic practices Since the ultimate goal of TQM practices is to achieve zero defects, Motwani (2001) mentioned that the percentage of defects (TQM1) and the percentage of products needing rework (TQM2) are among the common quality outcome indicators employed by several researchers. Product quality can be controlled through the involvement of production line workers for identification and adjustment of defective parts and their authority to stop lines when defective parts are found in order to avoid any defective parts moving to the next production stage (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Thus, Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez (2001) used the percentage of defective parts adjusted by production line workers (TQM3) as an indicator of transferring the responsibility for products quality from the quality control department to the line workers. In addition, Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m (1996) alleged that the number of quality control personnel (TQM4) and the size of repair area (TQM5) can be reduced as a consequence. Furthermore, Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m (1996) declared the use of autonomous defect control (poka yoke) as inexpensive means to help conducting inspection of all units with the ultimate goal of zero defects. Therefore, the percentage of inspection carried out by autonomous defect control (TQM6) is a common measure (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001 and Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Visible graphs and panels are used to gather performance data, to plot different measurements and to identify specific problems and causes of delay in order to take efforts for resolution (Lee-Mortimer, 2006 and Bonavia and Marin, 2006). For this, Bonavia and Marin (2006) measured the percentage of work areas where visible graphs panels are used (TQM7) as an indicator for visual management. In addition to controlling products quality, process management is essential to obtain fault free parts and products from the very beginning (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). Cua et al. (2001) emphasized the use of Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques in monitoring processes to ensure that each process will supply defect free units to subsequent process. Shah and Ward (2007) and Bonavia and Marin (2006) measured the percentage of equipment / processes under SPC (TQM8) as an indicator to represent the expansion of using SPC. Panizzolo (1998) emphasized the attention that has been devoted to the relationships between product development and manufacturing activities. Sà ¶derquist and Motwani (1999) claimed that design for manufacturing through integrating product and process engineering is one of the core features of quality management within the lean production framework. Thus, the percentage of parts designed by cross-functional teams (TQM9) can be used as a measure for this practice. In addition, Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez (2001) mentioned the use of common parts (TQM10) to manufacture different products as a technique used to reduce inventory and lead times as well. Moreover, participation of suppliers in the design stage (TQM11) facilitates manufacturing of components they have designed. Standardization is an essential principle of lean manufacturing that involves establishing the sequence of tasks to be done by each worker and how those tasks are done (Olivella et al, 2008), measuring and comparing the cycle time against the required takt time (Motwani, 2003) and specifying procedures, tools and materials (Bonavia and Marin, 2006). The percentage of procedures which are written recorded (TQM12) is the measure used by Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez (2001) and Bonavia and Marin (2006) to quantify the extent to which the company standardize its operations. Several researches emphasized the significant role that suppliers can play when involved in quality improvement programs (Panizzolo, 1998, Shah and Ward, 2007, Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak, 2005 and Motwani, 2003). In order to enhance suppliers involvement, Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez (2001) stressed the importance of information exchange with suppliers through conducting visits by engineers and technicians from both sides and interchanging documents. This will help to reduce inefficiencies and eliminate activities that are not value added (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001). This practice is measured by two indicators; the frequency of visits between companys and suppliers technicians (TQM13) and the number of suggestions made to suppliers (TQM14) (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001). With the focus on customers and their needs, Motwani (2001) declared that customer service programs should include quick responsiveness to complaints and maintaining a corporate goal to reduce the quantity of complaints (TQM15). Furthermore, Panizzolo (1998) affirmed that customer-driven enterprises dedicated much attention to organize customer participation in design, manufacturing and delivery activities. Thus, Bhasin and Burcher (2006) considered the percentage of projects in which the customer was involved (TQM16) as a signal of the systematically and continuously focus on the customer. In conclusion, table 3.1 summarizes the indicators developed to assess changes towards implementing the previously discussed TQM practices. Measurement of JIT basic practices Several authors (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001, Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996, Lee-Mortimer, 2006 and Salaheldin, 2005) have proposed the value of WIP (JIT1) and the lead time to customer order (JIT2) as common indicators of JIT implementation. Moreover, Motwani (2003) and Bhasin (2008) affirmed that total product cycle time (total time that material spends in the production system) (JIT3) is the best measure for tracking lean progress. Reducing set-up times simultaneously with reducing lot sizes is a technique used to reduce inventories and also it contributes to the reduction of lead times (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001) and increasing flexibility (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996). The progress in this practice can be directly measured by two indicators; set-up times (JIT4) and production and delivery lot sizes (JIT5). Firms use pull production systems to facilitate JIT production with the aim to produce the kind of units needed, at the time needed, and in the quantities needed (Shah and Ward, 2007). Bonavia and Marin (2006), Cua et al. (2001), McKone et al. (1999) and Shah and Ward (2007) highlighted the use of kanban squares, containers or signals as a means to pull material from an upstream station and manage product flow. Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m (1996) argued that as the work with implementing pull system proceeded, the number of manufacturing stages producing against customer orders should extend. Accordingly, they considered the percentage of stages in the material flow that uses pull (JIT6) as a determinant of the change towards this practice. Cua et al. (2001) and McKone et al. (1999) emphasized the importance of equipment layout to facilitate low inventories (JIT1) and fast throughput (i.e. shorten lead time (JIT3)). Grouping machines together in a cell-based layout (Cellular manufacturing) is one technique that is developed to facilitate line balancing with the ultimate goal of creating single piece flow (Lee-Mortimer, 2006 and Motwani, 2003). Implementing cellular manufacturing technique helps to eliminate the frequency (JIT7) and physical distances (JIT8) of parts transportation (Karlsson and Ã…hlstrà ¶m, 1996) and to reduce the investments (JIT9) in handling systems (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001). Panizzolo (1998) considered production leveling as a practice, in addition to small lots and pull control that is adopted to synchronize production and market demand. Thus, this practice contributes in achieving reductions in the value of WIP (JIT1) and the lead times to customer order (JIT2). Moreover, the synchronization between production output and market demand helps company to minimize finished goods inventory (JIT10). Suppliers are required to deliver the right quantity, at the right time, and at the right quality (Shah and Ward, 2007) in order to facilitate JIT production. Many researches agreed on the importance of reducing the number of key suppliers (JIT11) for the main components and engaging with them in long term contracts (JIT12) (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001, McKone et al., 1999, Shah and Ward, 2007, Doolen and Hacker, 2005, Bhasin and Burcher, 2006 and Papadopoulou and ÃÆ'-zbayrak, 2005). Furthermore, the case study of (Comm and Mathaisel, 2005) highlighted how maintaining good relationships with suppliers helped to keep minimum raw material inventories (JIT13). In general, McKone et al. (1999) highlighted the importance of on-time delivery (JIT14) to customers as an indicator of the JIT concept implementation. Likewise, Bhasin (2008) mentioned measuring on-time delivery as one of the customer / market indicators of lean implementation. In the same vein, Motwani (2001) recommended monitoring the amount of lateness in orders delivery as a tool in measuring the spread of delivery time. Furthermore, since the change towards JIT production and delivery is made gradually (Sà ¡nchez and Pà ©rez, 2001), the proportion of products transferred just-in-time between production stages (JIT15) and that delivered just-in-time by suppliers (JIT16) should be measured. Table 3.2 summarizes the indicators developed to assess changes towards implementing the previously discussed JIT practices. Measurement of TPM basic practices It is agreed upon in literature that overall equipment effectiveness OEE ( Adaptive Immune Response: Case Study Adaptive Immune Response: Case Study Adaptive Response Abstract Adaptive immunity is an important part of the immune system. It is the third line of defense in the human body, which includes highly specialized systemic cells and processes that eliminate or prevent pathogenic growth. Once external barriers have been compromised and inflammation (innate immunity) has been activated, the adaptive response is called into action (Huether McCance, 2012). It develops slower than the innate inflammatory response and is specific—unlike inflammation, which is non-specific—and has immunological memory that recognizes each pathogen by a signature antibody (Huether McCance, 2012). In addition, the activated B cells and T cells can develop to memory cells that respond rapidly and efficiently to a subsequent encounter with a pathogen. Adaptive immunity response primary obligation is destroying infectious agents that are resistant to inflammation and provides long-term protection against future exposure to the same agents (Huether McCance, 2012) . Adaptive Response The adaptive response consists of an antibody response and cell-medicated response, which are carried out by different lymphocytes cells, B cells and T cells respectively. B cells (B indicates bone marrow) are the major cells involved in the creation of antibodies that circulate in blood plasma and lymph, where they have capacity bind to almost any foreign antigen found in the environment (Huether McCance, 2012). Binding of antibody inactivates virus and microbial toxins by blocking their ability to bind to receptors on host cells. Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulin, are large Y shaped proteins, which are typically composed of two large heavy pair chains and two small light chains (Huether McCance, 2012). There are five types of immunoglobulin: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM, which are characterized by differences in structure and function, each has evolved to handle particular antigens (Huether McCance, 2012). The antibody responses are also called humoral immunity. Another ad aptive response is known as cell-medicated immunity responses that activate T cells to combat against a foreign antigen presented on the surface of a host cell. Also, T cells produce signal molecules that trigger macrophages, natural killers (NK), antigen specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, and release of various cytokines in responses to an antigen (Huether McCance, 2012). The purpose of this paper is to explain pathophysiology of disorders presented in the scenarios, including associated alterations, and adaptive responses to the alteration as well as construct a mind map for the selected disorder. Furthermore, consider the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risks factors, clinical presentation, and diagnosis of the disorder and any adaptive responses to alteration. Scenario 1: The first scenario the patient’s mother mentioned that Jennifer is usually healthy and has no significant medical history. However, physical examination revealed clinical manifestations, which include fever; tympanic membranes slightly redden on the periphery, throat erythematous with 4+ tonsils and diffuse exudate; anterior cervical nodes palpable and tender to touch. The child indicated throat hurts and painful to swallow. Vital signs reveal increased temperature, pulse and respiratory rate that suggested tonsillitis disorder. Pathophysiology Tonsillitis is an inflammatory condition of the tonsils due to bacteria, allergies or respiratory problems (Tonsillitis, 2014). When inflamed, tonsils become swollen and red with a grayish or yellowish coating on its surface. Tonsillitis usually begins with a sudden sore throat and painful swallowing. Tonsillitis causes tonsils and throat tissues to swell obstructing air from passing in and out of the respiratory system (Huether McCance, 2012). The tonsils infection is common in children under age six and teenagers but rare in adults. The adaptive response activates the different B cells and T cells lymphocytes to eliminate the alteration, so body can return back to hemostasis. Scenario 2: Pathophysiology Irritant contact dermatitis is a common nonimmunologically mediated inflammation arising from the release of proinflammatory cytokines from skin cells (principally keratinocytes), usually in responses to chemical stimuli such as cleansers, soap detergent, and various chemical agents (Hogan Elson, 2013). The main pathophysiological changes are skin barrier disruption, epidermal cellular changes and cytokine release. Irritant contact dermatitis is a major occupational disease; skin disorders comprise up to 40% of occupational illness (Hogan Elson, 2013). Patient work history is crucial in making diagnoses, and appearance of the skin. It may be treated with topical agents such as corticosteroid skin creams, emollients or moisturizers to prevent further irritation (Hogan Elson, 2013). Scenario 2: The patient presented with redness and irritation of his hands. The history revealed no allergies or significant medical history except for recurrent ear infections as a child. He denied any unknown exposure to irritants. Also, patient admits to working in maintenance and often working with abrasive solvent and chemical. Normally he wears gloves, but this particular time the patient did not wear gloves. He exposed his hands to some cleaning solutions. The patient’s detailed history and clinical manifestations led the student to a diagnosis of irritant contact dermatitis. Pathophysiology Stress is any situation that results in a reaction of the human body called the stress response (Huether McCance, 2012). The stress response is a set of adaptations that are mobilized throughout the body to correct state of allostatic imbalance. This involves a fairly stereotyped set neural an endocrine changes. A critical one is the secretion of catecholamines-epinephrine and norepinephrine from the nerve endings of the sympathetic nervous system projecting throughout the body (Huether McCance, 2012). Catecholamine induces vasoconstriction and increases in heart rate and blood pressure. It also increases the amount of nutrient and oxygen that is available to the muscle’s reaction during a stress response (Huether McCance, 2012). Another is secretion by the adrenal glands of a class of steroid hormones called glucocorticoids (GCs) ((Huether McCance, 2012). While there is an array of additional changes in levels of various hormones during stress (generally an increase in ci rculating levels of glucagon, prolactin, and beta-endorphin, decreases in insulin and reproductive hormones), secretion of GCs and the activation of the sympathetic nervous system constitute workhorses of the stress response (Huether McCance, 2012). Some common symptoms can include: increase heart rate, chest pain, poor appetite, depression, and insomnia. Usually, coping strategies are beneficial in helping individuals manage stress physical and psychological (Huether McCance, 2012). Adaptive responses help prepare the body for fight or flight by activating adaptive immunity response to correct imbalance. Scenario 3: The patient in this case study recently retired from her job as an administrative assistance at a local hospital. She does have a history of hypertensive, but controlled for years with medication. Patient reported having problem sleeping, occasionally rapid heart rate, and decrease appetite. She also mentioned her 87-year old mother moved in a few years ago after falling down a flight of stairs and broken her hip. Martha is taking care of her mother who requires enormous amount assistance with activities of daily living. She is worried about her own health at her age and sleep habits therefore clinical manifestations suggested stress disorder. Mind Map for Tonsillitis Disorder Epidemiology Irritant contact dermatitis is common in occupations that involve repeated hand washing or repeated exposure of the skin to water, food materials, and other irritants. High-risk occupations include maintenance, health care workers food preparation, and hairstylists (Hogan Elson, 2013). The prevalence of occupational hand dermatitis was found to be 55.6% in 2 intensive care units and was 69.7% in the most highly exposed workers. Irritant contact dermatitis is significantly more common in women than men. The high frequency of hand eczema in women in comparison with men is caused by environmental factors, not genetic factors. Pathophysiology Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD) is a common nonimmunologically mediated inflammation arising from the release of proinflammatory cytokines from skin cells (principally keratinocytes), usually in responses to chemical stimuli such as cleansers, soap detergent, and various chemical agents (Hogan Elson, 2013). The main pathophysiological changes are skin barrier disruption, epidermal cellular changes and cytokine release hones naà ¯ve T- lymphocytes to the skin. Patients with altered barrier function are more prone to ICD. Risk factors People who work in occupational hazard environment and handles irritant such as cleaners, nurses, construction workers, mechanics, and agricultural workers are at risk for developing irritant contact dermatitis (Mayo Clinic, 2012). Another risk factor is younger workers often less experienced than their older colleagues or may have a more careless attitude about safety measures causing them to develop the disorder (Mayo Clinic, 2012). Clinical presentation Clinically, irritant contact dermatitis presents with scaly erythematous plaques, cracking of the skin, inflammation, dryness, and fissuring. It commonly involves web spaces that extend to the dorsal and ventral surface of the hand and fingers (Mayo Clinic, 2012). Vesicles do not typically form. Pruritus can be mild; however, stinging, burning and pain are frequently reported symptoms. Diagnosis Irritant contact dermatitis does not need a specific test because ICD can be diagnosed through clinical examination and a careful history. A clinical examination must include a careful look at the distribution of the dermatitis (palmar, dorsal, face, abdomen, web spaces, and fingernails) as well as the extension of dermatitis to wrists or forearms (Mayo Clinic, 2012). The history should include a questionnaire that addresses the individual name and address of the employer; the worker’s job’s title and a description of functions. The worker should provide a list of all chemicals handled and supply information about them, such as found on the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) in order to provide an appropriate diagnosis (Mayo Clinic, 2012). Adaptive responses to alteration Harding or accommodation has been defined as the adaptation of the skin from altered local expression of multiple cytokines and inflammatory mediators with repeated irritation from skin irritants. Accommodated skin has a relatively thicker layer of stratum granulosum versus normal skin. Accommodated skin may exhibit a slight sheen and glossy appearance with a mild scale. On manipulation, there may also be a slight loss of elasticity (Huether McCance, 2012). Conclusion When successful, an adaptive immune response terminates infection and provides long-lasting protective immunity against the pathogen that provoked response. Adaptive immunity is an evolving process within a person’s lifetime, in which each infection changes the make-up of that individual’s lymphocyte population. Adaptive immunity is an evolving process within a person’s lifetime, in which each infection changes the make-up of that individual’s lymphocyte population (Huether McCance, 2012). These changes are neither inherited nor passed on but, during the course of a lifetime, they determine a person’s fitness and their susceptibility to disease. Failures to develop a successful adaptive response can arise from inherited deficiencies in the immune system or from the pathogen’s ability to escape, avoid, or subvert the immune response. Such failures can lead to debilitating chronic infections or death (Huether McCance, 2012). References Golden, S. Shaw, T. (2013). Hand dermatitis: Review of clinical features and treatment options. Retrieved from www.cutis.com/fileadmin/content†¦/SCMS_vol32_No3_Golden.pdf Hogan, D., Elston, D. M. (2013). Irritant contact dermatitis. Medscape. Retrieved from emedicine.medscape.com/article/1049353-overview Huether, S. E., McCance, K. L. (2012). Understanding pathophysiology (Laureate custom ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby. Mayo Clinic. (2012). Tonsillitis. Retrieved from www.mayoclinic.org/diseases†¦/tonsillitis/†¦/con-20023538 Tonsillitis. (2014). In Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved from http://wwe.britannica.com/Ebchecked/topic/599370/tonsillitis