Logistics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Logistics - Essay Example It, in a manufacturing enterprise, consists of raw materials, work in progress and finished products. While the transportation cost of inventory may not be significantly variant, there is a significant variation in the cost incurred in storage of inventory. While some of the costs involved in dealing in and management of inventory are accounted for in the benefits associated with having the inventory, some of the involved costs are considered as wastes. Inventory therefore has its advantages in the form of derived benefits while it is at the same time associated with a number of disadvantages that includes induced unnecessary costs. One of the disadvantages of inventory, and which induces costs is the processes that are involved in the flow of inventory in an organization. Goldsby and Martichenko for example explains the additional costs of managing inventory as a disadvantage that an organization has to endure in order to obtain a set of inventory and finally transfer them to their point of demand. Every set of inventory held by BMW will therefore induce an extra cost to an entity on top of the cost of the goods. The additional costs such as the costs incurred when the inventory is â€Å"received, housed, paid for, and insured† are examples of expenses that BMW is most likely to incur when dealing in inventory (Goldsby and Martichenko, 2005, p. 20). Such costs add up to operational costs, costs of sales and consequently reduce an organization’s profit margin. Maintain an appropriate level of inventory at a particular time is however associated with satisfaction of consumers’ immediate demand for commodities (Goldsby and Martichenko, 2005, p. 20). A stock of goods allows BMW to deliver commodities at customers demand instead of arranging for the commodities after an order is placed. Maintaining inventory is therefore associated with both advantages and disadvantages. Another advantage of inventory that may prompt for endurance of the involv ed costs of its maintenance is the security of continuous supply of commodities to BMW’s consumers. This is because suppliers are not expected to regularly avail commodities in the supply chain. Seasonality or disrupted operations may also cut off flow of commodities from a supplier. Similarly, disruption in supply chain activities such as transportation systems may limit access of commodities down the supply chain. Maintained inventory can therefore allow BMW to be able to absorb ‘short-term’ disruption in supply chain to ensure continuous supply of products down a supply chain. While it adds to the costs on an organization, it also facilitates customer utility by ensuring ready availability of commodities at consumers’ demand (Goldsby and Martichenko, 2005, p. 20). Inventory management through customer relation management and supplier relations management is another process that monitors and influences inventory decisions by establishing reliable links u pon which planning can be made for a continuous supply chain with minimum inventory costs. This ensures that BMW stocks inventory for immediate future needs of its commodities, by the consumers. Similarly, developed relations with both suppliers and consumers identifies needs for value addition and facilitates reduction of costs in distribution through eliminating unnecessary costs (Lambert, 2008, p. 295; Cope and Brown,

The Gaming Industry Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Gaming Industry - Research Paper Example Several intellectuals have benefitted from the gaming industry just as the public has faced the dangers. There is too much violence in the recent games especially killing involved to reach the final level. Fighting against the war of terror can lead to adverse effects. The Gaming Industry Ever since the rise of technology there has been an endless competition in the making of the best software or something unique to be provided in all areas of life may it be education, politics or entertainment. The gaming industry plays a vital role in the growth of not only the youth’s minds and their passion for a better gaming environment but also aided the adult firms in gambling and the social media. It is multi-faceted and has both its advantages and disadvantages. No one can deny its benefits but they cannot also disagree with the massive explosion it has caused in the global war against terrorism. The human mind is capable of imagining beyond its own strength. Hence what video games a nd recent casinos have to offer are mere fragments of humans’ imagination and there is lot more in store that yet needs to be materialized. Internet and computer are means to access video games that are in more demand especially among the teenagers or even kids as young as two. The gaming industry has become an extremely powerful method of control and manipulation throughout the different courses of life. The Childhood Years: The gaming industry has its own ways to approach each stage of life. In the childhood phase it is rather too attractive to distract a child from his main focus; learning about life and his surrounding nature. For the IT professionals it is not difficult to claim that they are struggling day and night to bring the latest in the gaming industry. Most of the games are violent in nature leading to sadistic behavior at a very early age. It also depends upon how long the child spends on playing these games because the longer he does the more chances of him get ting brutal. It becomes difficult for kids to decipher between the world of gaming and the world in which they live. They end up committing crimes which they consider to be very normal for no reason (Kutner & Olson 2008). Something changes their brain waves and directs them to do things which are inappropriate otherwise. â€Å"There is no doubt that UK developers over the past three decades have worked hard to put the country in a very strong position and it is a platform upon which we can build to ensure computer games have a rosy future for the next 30 years and beyond.† (Kingsley 2012). These developers however fail to realize the impact they have on the younger generation. US history has witnessed many stages in the development of gaming industry which includes gambling. The political and social dynamics surrounding the gaming industry have far reaching effects. It only depends on how power is used at a given point in time to manipulate the system into believing how impor tant it is for the people and their enlightenment (McGowan 2001). â€Å"Computer simulations historically have been used in specific scientific disciplines (engineering, bio-sciences) and for high-risk occupational training (military, aviation,

psychological disorders, symptoms, and possible causes

psychological disorders, symptoms, and possible causes A psychological disorder can occur at any stage in ones life and to anyone. Much like a physical disease such as cancer, they do not discriminate. In our society, there seems to be certain stigmas and stereotypes attached to psychological disorders (although there is more understanding in recent years) and counseling for them, even though many may be overcome, or at least managed in this way, and this is needed for not just your mind or emotional health, but also for your whole self , as your physical wellness is directly related to your mind and emotions. Sometimes referred to as the Bible of Psychiatry, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is a manual that contains all the mental health disorders, the cause, prognosis, and treatment methods for each disorder. It is used to better understand the patients illness and needs, as well as treatment options. It is published by the American Psychiatric Association and uses a multidimensional approach to reach a diagnosis. The five dimensions are clinical syndromes, developmental disorders and personality disorders, physical condition, severity of psychological stressors, and highest level of functioning. The previous classification system, which is not current but still relevant to some classes, were two main categories: neurosis and psychosis. Neurosis is characterized by anxiety, often resulting from inner conflict. Psychosis is characterized by loss of contact with reality, delusional, irrational thoughts, and/or hallucinations. These have been replaced with specific classifications. The Anxiety Disorders, with the main feature in this category being abnormal or inappropriate anxiety which occurs when ones heart races, breathing increases, and muscles tense without any reason for them to do so, include the following: 1) Acute Stress Disorder- results from traumatic event in which the person responded with intense fear and helplessness. Symptoms include detachment, re-experiencing event, and significant anxiety. The disorder may resolve itself, or medication and therapy may be useful in preventing development of more serious disorder. Prognosis is very good. 2) Agoraphobia- generalized fear of being in places difficult to escape or embarrassing and without help is panic attack occurs. Prognosis is good when there is insight to development and with realization the fears are irrational. 3) Generalized Anxiety Disorder- overwhelming anxiety not related to specific event. Medication and therapy helpful to regain control over symptoms. Prognosis is good, however, underlying issues are more difficult to treat. 4) Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder- biological and psychological causes. Prognosis depends on response to medication and how deeply rooted the underlying issues are. 5) Panic Disorder- sudden attacks of intense fear. Treatment includes relaxation exercises and working through underlying issues. Prognosis is good if not left untreated to worsen and develop into Agoraphobia. 6) Phobias- extreme anxiety and fear associated with the object, situation, or avoidance that is disruptive to everyday functions. With behavioral therapy, prognosis is good. 7) Posttraumatic Stress Disorder- re-experiencing the traumatic event through nightmares, obsessive thoughts, and flashbacks, along with avoidance to anything that reminds the person of that event. Prognosis is moderate to good. Some can be treated with anxiety medication, but primarily psychological treatment. The category of Adjustment Disorders include Unspecified, with Anxiety, with Depressed Mood, with Disturbance of Conduct, with Mixed Anxiety and Depressed Mood, and with Mixed Disturbance of Emotions and Conduct. All of these disorders relate to a more difficult adjustment to a life situation than would normally be expected. Another category is called Dissociative Disorders, including Amnesia-loss of memory due to psychological factors, Dissociative Fugue- person disappears, forgets identity and past and begins a new life, Identity (known formerly as Multiple Personality Disorder), and Depersonalization Disorder. These include a disruption in consciousness, memory, identity, or perception. Eating Disorders is another category of psychological disorders. They include Anorexia Nervosa, known for failure to maintain body weight of at least 85% of what is expected, fear of losing control over weight, and typically a distorted body image. Bulimia Nervosa includes bingeing and purging. Impulse Control Disorders include the failure or extreme difficulty in controlling impulses despite the negative consequences. Included in these disorders is Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania (stealing), Pathological Gambling, Pyromania (fire setting), Trichotillomania (recurrent pulling out of ones own hair). Mood Disorders include Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depressive)- mania at one extreme to major depression at the other, cycling between two extremes for days, weeks, or months, Cyclothymic Disorder, Dysthymic Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder. The primary symptom in this category is a disturbance of mood which is inappropriate, and exaggerated or a limited range of feelings. Feelings are to the extreme, having excess energy where sleep is not needed for days at a time, and during this time the decision making process is hindered. Paraphilias and Sexual disorders involve distressing and repetitive sexual fantasies, urges and behaviors that negatively impact ones life as they feel they are unable to control them. These include Exhibitionism, Fetishism, Frotteurism, Pedophilia, Sexual Masochism, Sexual Sadism, Transvestic Fetishism, and Voyeurism. Sexual Dysfunctions is the impairment in normal sexual functioning. This includes Dyspareunia, Female Orgasmic Disorder, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder, Gender Identity Disorder, Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder, Male Erectile Disorder, Male Orgasmic Disorder, Premature Ejaculation, Sexual Aversion Disorder, and Vaginismus. Primary Sleep Disorders are divided into Dyssomnias (related to amount, quality, and timing of sleep) and Parasomnias (abnormal behavior or psychological events that occur during sleep or sleep-wake transitions). Dyssomnias include Primary Insomnia, Primary Hypersomnia, and Narcolepsy. Parasomnias include Nightmare Disorder, Sleep Terror Disorder, and Sleepwalking Disorder. The major symptom of another category called Psychotic Disorders is psychosis, or delusions and hallucinations. Included in this category is Brief Psychotic Disorder, Delusional Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Schizpphreniform, Shared Psychotic Disorder, and Schizophrenia ( split mind)- not all symptoms are present at once, including hearing voices, hallucinating, disordered thought, attentional difficulties, delusions, and catatonia (person freezes and appears to be in a trance). Prognosis is dependent on the age of onset and ranging from good to poor. Somatoform Disorders are those where symptoms suggest a medical condition but where no medical condition can be found by a physician. Included in this is Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Conversion Disorder (hysteria), Hypochondriasis Disorder (hypochondriac), Pain Disorder, and Somatization Disorder. There are two disorders in this category: Substance Abuse and Substance Dependence. A substance can be anything that is ingested in order to produce a high, alter ones senses, or otherwise affect functioning. The most common substance thought of in this category is alcohol although other drugs, such as cocaine, marijuana, heroin, ecstasy, special-K, and crack, are also included. Probably the most abused substances, caffeine and nicotine, are also included although rarely thought of in this manner. Personality Disorders are mental illnesses that share several unique qualities. They contain symptoms that are enduring and play a major role in most, sometimes all, aspects of the persons life. While many disorders vary in terms of symptom presence and intensity, personality disorders usually remain constant. To be diagnosed with a disorder in this category, a psychologist will look for the following criteria: Symptoms have been present for an extended period of time, are inflexible and pervasive, and are not a result of alcohol or drugs or another psychiatric disorder. The history of symptoms can be traced back to adolescence or early adulthood. The symptoms have caused and continue to cause significant distress or negative consequences in different aspects of the persons life. Symptoms are seen in at least two of the following areas: Thoughts (ways of looking at the world, thinking about self or others, and interacting), Emotions (appropriateness, intensity, and range of emotional functioning), Interpersonal Functioning (relationships and interpersonal skills), and Impulse Control. Disorders in this category are Antisocial Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Through the biological perspective that is adopted from a medical approach and typically regards a malfunctioning brain as the cause of abnormal behavior. Many factors are considered to be potential causes of biological dysfunction, ranging from head injury to poor nutrition. Genetics, evolution, and viral infection are areas that have received a great deal of attention. Treatments by biological practitioners utilize psychotropic medications, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and neurosurgery. The psychodynamic theory regards human behavior to be determined by underlying psychological influences that usually are unconscious. These influences (also called forces) are dynamic -the relationship between them gives rise to behavior. Abnormal symptoms are created when conflicts arise in this relationship. This theory states that all behavior is determined by childhood events and past experience. Treatment then consists of psychoanalysis, which involves bringing into conscious awareness the traumatic childhood conflicts that have been repressed, and resulting in resolution. The behavioral model of psychopathology suggests that abnormal responses, particularly phobias, were formed through a conditioning process, and also can be treated through new learning- a process known as behavior therapy. Abnormal functioning, according to cognitive theorists, is explained by realizing that everyone creates their view of the world that comprises their reality. If the view of an individual is flawed then unhealthy thoughts create dysfunctional behavior. Treatment with this approach involves therapy sessions which work to change a clients self-defeating beliefs and behaviors by showing their irrationality. It is believed that through rational analysis, people can understand their errors in light of the irrational beliefs and then construct a more rational way of seeing themselves, their world, and the events in their lives. The sociocultural approach holds that abnormal behavior is caused by the role that society and culture play in an individuals life. It considers societal norms, roles in the social environment, cultural background, family, and views of others. Sociocultural theorists focus on labels and rules of society, social networks, family structure, communication, cultural influences, and religious beliefs. These are the signs of mental illness are arranged into six categories: thinking, feeling, socializing, functioning, problems at home and poor self-care. These are symptoms of psychological disorders and none by themselves mean necessarily there is mental illness, such as bipolar disorder or depression. However, two or three of these signs of mental illness may indicate a type of psychological disorder. Psychotherapy and psychiatric medication are the two major treatment options as are social interventions, peer support and self-help. In some cases there may be involuntary detention and involuntary treatment. Stigma and discrimination add to the suffering associated with the disorders, and have led to social movements for change. The field of Global Mental Health has recently emerged and has been defined as the area of study, research and practice that places a priority on improving mental health and achieving equity in mental health for all people worldwide. Diagnostic practice in mental health services typically involves an interview where judgments are made of the appearance and behavior, self-reported symptoms, mental health history, and current life circumstances. The views of relatives or other third parties may be taken into account. A physical exam to check for ill health or the effects of medications or other drugs may be conducted. Psychological testing is sometimes used via paper-and-pen or computerized questionnaires, and in rare specialist cases neuroimaging tests may be requested, but these methods are more commonly found in research studies than routine clinical practice. Extreme mental illness, insanity, or psychotic disorders are defined by actions that fall out of the realm of normal human behavior. Standards of acceptability for behaviors vary with culture. When trying to determine if an eccentricity is a psychological disorder or simply immature or odd behavior, it is compared to the four factors commonly used to establish psychological dis orders. They are as follows: 1. Atypical behavior -that is psychologically disordered is outside the range of normal human behavior, which is defined by the culture or community. Just being different isnt enough to consider insanity or a psychological disorder. 2. Disturbing others. People are usually disturbed by insanity or psychological disorders, whether its excessively worrying about your son or being directly affected by harmful behavior. Whether a behavior is disturbing or abnormal may be subject to the culture, situation, and even the decade or century. 3. Maladaptive thoughts or behavior-often behaviors that dont allow people to adapt to life successfully. For example, hearing voices or being unable to leave the house because of an extreme fear. 4. Unjustifiable behavior-Certain abnormal behaviors arent seen as possible, believable, or supportable which means a mental health problem may be present. If an abnormal behavior is unjustifiable, its more likely to be a psychological disorder. After proper diagnosis, prognosis depends on the disorder, the individual and a number of other factors. Some disorders are for a short while and others may last a lifetime. Some disorders may be limited in their functional effects, while others may involve substantial disability and support needs. The degree of ability or disability may vary across different life domains. Continued disability has been linked to institutionalization, discrimination and social exclusion as well as to the properties of disorders. Some disorders are linked to increased rates of attempted and/or completed suicide or self-harm especially if intervention does not take place. Even though often characterized in negative terms, some mental states labeled as disorders can also involve above-average creativity, non-conformity, goal-striving, meticulousness, or empathy. Also the way the public sees and responds to disorders can change.

oil :: essays research papers

It is easy to see why DWI would like to consider Iraqi oil reserves for its exploration, drilling, refining, and transport. Iraq has become a popular country for there oil. Over the past decade since the 1991 Gulf War, many companies from over 12 countries have been signing deals to develop the Iraqi oil reserves, as part of the limited United Nations "Oil-for-Food" program. Many of these companies were from Russia and France, and both countries keep their Iraqi oil concessions for financial reasons. (ABC News) More than a fourth of Iraqis surveyed described themselves as being poor and 96 percent said they receive monthly food rations under the public food system set up through the â€Å"Oil-for-Food† program. The median income in Iraq was equivalent to about $255 (366,000 dinars) in 2003 and decreased in the first half of 2004 to about $144 (207,000 dinars). (Report paints grim picture of Iraqi life) This could be a little misleading for some. You may see numbers like this and feel investing some new business could be very helpful, yet many security issues are a major factor. Security continues to be the number one concern of the Iraqi Government and the international business community. The security situation in Iraq remains serious. Theft and violent crime persist in Iraq, and the potential for attacks against U.S. citizens and facilities remains high. Roads and other public areas can be dangerous for conspicuous foreign travelers. Law enforcement is limited, although Iraqi police units continue to be trained and deployed. (Oil connections) DWI’s current oil division is successful with Siberia, and South China Sea. At this time I feel that more research and time should be considered before investing too much money and personal into the Oil of Iraq.

Couples Should Cohabit Before Marriage

Tanya Givans Mrs. Lamptey English-099 02-09-2010 Couples Should Cohabit before Marriage In the beginning of a relationship, there is a lot of excitement, giddiness, infatuation, lust and romance. As the relationship grows stronger, there are important decisions that need to be made. One in particular is the living arrangements of the couple. There are couples that decide to live together before marriage to see if their partnership will work. Some people are appalled by the fact that a couple would move in together and live as a married couple, because they believe it to be ungodly and that ex and children should only be a result of marriage. However, there are people who do not believe in religion, nor do they care if you live together before marriage or not . Couples should live together before marriage because they will learn more about themselves and each other before taking such a big step. Couples living together prior to marriage will find out if they are financially compatible . Once a couple makes the transition of moving in together, they will see how easy or hard it will be to manage their money. The fact of having one household instead f two will make it easy also all utility, water, grocery, and rent will be split in half. Living together before marriage will help a couple find out if maybe one is too frivolous with their money, and if the situation could be controlled before taking the next step into marriage. For example, maybe the boyfriend will get his paycheck go out to the bar spend and all of his money then come home broke. As a result, the girl is stuck paying the bills for the month. The financial burden of taken care of oneself is hard, but if a partner is irresponsible with their money, it can get expensive. Couples that live together before marriage also will learn more about themselves. After a couple has moved in together, they will have all of these expectations of each other. For example, my husband and I lived together before we were married, during this time we gave up our single lives. There was no partying at the clubs, hanging out with friends, or any nightlife what so ever. So being in this relationship meant that we would be totally devoted to each other. Giving up your single life to join with your partner means losing freedom, and a sense of ones self. Living together before marriage can help one to realize what a relationship is about, and if giving up their single life is what they are willing to sacrifice to share a lifetime with their partner. Marriage should last forever, so living together in advance can help a person realize if this is the life they want. Couples will learn more about their partner when living together before marriage. Hopefully, before a couple moves in together they will know if one another has any manners, bad habits or if one likes to fight. For example, when walking into the kitchen nd your boyfriend is moving the dishes out of the sink before he urinates in it. This would be disgusting and behavior like that is not acceptable. Or, after using the restroom he does not wash his hands. The lack of hand washing could actually be harmful especially if he prepares the family’s dinners. There are also more serious issues like when your partner is angry, will he or she get physically abusive. If a coupl e, has an irreparable problem in the relationship while living together then they can simply move out. Living together teaches a couple about their partners, and tolerance of each ther. In conclusion, some people may say that their religious practices do not allow them to live together before marriage, but I say couples should live together before marriage because they will learn more about themselves, their partners, and it is more convenient financially. Toleration of bad habits and the loss of one’s individualism will come with the territory of living together or being married. So if there are problems in the relationship now that cannot be fixed then it is safe to assume their will be problems if the couple foolishly decides to marry. .

Del Monte Fresh Produce

The plaintiffs Del Monte Fresh Produce Company and Del Monte Fresh Produce, N. A. , Inc. incorporated in Delaware Florida, respectively and the defendants Dole Food Company, Inc. and Dole Fresh Fruit Company, incorporated in Hawaii and Nevada, respectively were developers, growers, processors and distributors of pineapples by profession. The plaintiff developed a new variety of extra sweet pineapples, which was named as MD-2 or the â€Å"Del Monte Gold Extra Sweet†.The cultivation of this new variety of pineapple was commenced in Costa Rica. In the year1991, Cabo Marzo, which was a Costa Rican farm and one of Dole’s suppliers of pineapples, managed to procure Del Monte’s MD-2 plant material. Subsequently, Dole announced in the pineapple market that it had developed a new super sweet pineapple variety, which it named as the â€Å"Dole Premium Select†, in order to offer competition to the â€Å"Gold Extra Sweet† variety developed by Del Monte. Procedu ral History:In the Southern District Court of Florida a complaint was filed by Del Monte against Dole for breach of section 1125 of the Lanham Act; violation of the Florida Trade Secret Act on account of misappropriation of trade secrets; conversion and the adoption of deceptive and unfair trade practices as per the provisions of the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. The contention of Del Monte was that not only Cabo Marzo but also Dole were cognizant of the fact that the M-2 variety of pineapple was belonged solely to Del Monte.In reply, Dole filed a motion seeking dismissal on the grounds of forum non conveniens. Issues legal question: The legal issue raised was whether a case that involved companies incorporated in the United States and conducting business operations in the United States could be dismissed on ground of forum non conveniens if an alternative forum was available. Broad holding: In instances where there is an absence of an adequate alternative forum and where dismissal of the case would not further public or private interest, the court may refuse to set aside a motion for dismissal.Narrow holding: The Costa Rican court did not have the authority to sanction the remedy sought by the plaintiffs and these US corporations sold most of their products in the domestic market, therefore there had been an infringement of the US competition law; consequently, the court may refuse to allow a motion for dismissal on grounds of forum non conveniens. Doctrinal Reasoning: The court referred to Doe v. Sun Int’l Hotels., Ltd and held that choice of forum indicated by the plaintiff should not be changed, unless the facts of the case warranted such a change (Doe v. Sun Int’l Hotels. , Ltd , 1998). The court further opined, on the basis of Republic of Panama v. BCCI Holdings that there should exist, an adequate alternative forum and that adjudication in such a forum should be conducive to public and private interest (Republic of Pana ma v. BCCI Holdings , 1997).It also held that adjudication in an alternative forum could totally deprive Del Monte of a remedy. Policy Reasoning: The doctrines established by the extant case law formed the basis for this decision and no change to the existing case law was effected. Miscellaneous: All the presiding judges were unanimous in their opinion. References Doe v. Sun Int’l Hotels. , Ltd , 20 F. Supp. 2d 1328 (S. D. Fla 1998). Republic of Panama v. BCCI Holdings , 119 F. 3d. 935 (11th Circuit Court 1997).