Internet addiction Essay Example for Free

Internet addiction Essay Addiction pertains to a behavioral issue that is mainly characterized by an urge to consume a particular item or perform a specific activity repeatedly (Pies, 2009). Addiction is different from abuse, which is technically a less serious version of this behavioral problem. The act of repeatedly performing an action or consuming a specific substance is mainly influenced by external and internal factors. Addiction is largely influenced by the physiological and psychological effect that an individual achieves when he performs a specific action or consumes a particular item. It is also possible for social factors to affect an individual to repeatedly perform a specific action. The Internet is one of the latest networks that links people to the rest of the world by enabling them to communicate and gather information at the fastest and most efficient way to date (Collier, 2009). The accessibility of the Internet in almost every place in the community has resulted in its integration into various settings, including business offices, academic institutions and homes. Aside from communication and the transfer of data from one computer user to another, the Internet currently serves as the prime source for entertainment to the public. It is now possible to download music, videos and even literature with such ease and precision. Alongside the availability of this helpful technology, there are also a number of negative effects that are associated with Internet use. The human psyche has been influenced by the Internet, which in turn has resulted in an addiction that is similar to the repeated actions involved in drug or alcohol use. This consequence has affected not only the addicted individual himself, but also his immediate family and co-workers. To date, there is no official term that could be employed to designate this particular addiction to the Internet (Zboralski et al. , 2009). However, it is quite easy to describe the activities of this behavioral issue based on the actions of an individual, including the need to check certain websites continuously and spending an extended period of time in front of the computer. In addition, Internet addiction could also involve frequent and continuous participation in online games, email, chat or messenger sessions. Controversy regarding the actual designation of Internet addiction is currently under the scrutiny of psychologists and other analysts. According to Pies (2009), the psychological manifestations associated with Internet addiction are similar to the other types of addiction, including that of drug and alcohol dependency. However, the physiological relationship of Internet addiction to the human body still needs to be further examined. Pies (2009) suggested that there must be an underlying medical condition that pushes an individual to repeatedly use the Internet, yet this still has to be identified. It is still thus premature to call Internet addiction as a disease, with the current insufficient amount of information that has been gathered on these occurrences. In an attempt to determine the extent of Internet addiction in the general society, a number of investigators have attempted to examine the frequency of Internet use in relation to the purpose of its use. In a study conducted by Zboralski et al. 2009) among school-age children, it was observed that 25% of the study population was strongly dependent to the Internet, including primary school children. Another interesting observation is that children who did not have siblings or children who were experiencing family problems were more likely to be addicted to Internet use. It is also alarming to find out that Internet-dependent children showed a greater susceptibility to enact aggressive behavior, as well as succumb to anxiety and depression. Deprivation of Internet use among addicts also results in withdrawal symptoms, as well as the development of an anxious stance. There are also cases wherein Internet addicts experience nausea and sweating when they engage in excessive use of the Internet, otherwise called computer binges (Collier, 2009). It is also observed that some Internet addicts undergo hyperarousal during interaction on the Internet. Unfortunately, there is no mention of other physiological responses to these reports, such as changes in the blood pressure or the heart rate of any study participants. It is thus recommended that for the time being, anecdotal, case and clinical reports be compiled for future reference and review.

Radiographic Quality of Root Canal Treatments

Radiographic Quality of Root Canal Treatments Title: Radiographic quality of root canal treatments performed by undergraduate dental students Authors: Masoud Saatchi1, Golshan Mohammadi2, Armita Vali Sichani3 Dental Research Center, Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Isfahan, Iran. School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Isfahan, Iran. Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Isfahan, Iran. Summary: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the quality of root canal treatments performed by students of Isfahan University School of Dentistry between 2013 and 2015. Periapical radiographs from 784 root treated teeth including 1674 root canals were randomly selected and evaluated in terms of quality of root fillings (length and density of root fillings) and procedural errors (ledge, foramen perforation, root perforation, and fractured instrument). Descriptive statistics and chi square test were used for evaluation of the data (P Key words: dentistry, procedural errors, radiography, root canal treatment, undergraduate student Introduction Root canal treatment (RCT) is an important part of comprehensive dental care (1). High prevalence of apical periodontitis in endodontically treated teeth, as reported by epidemiological studies (2-4), reveals that outcome of RCT in many populations is poor, which as a health care problem can elicit medical, economical and ethical consequences (1). Outcome of primary endodontic treatment is reported to be associated with many factors (5). One of these factors is technical quality of RCT that is usually evaluated using radiographic method (3, 6). Its shown that the length of the root filling, relative to the radiographic apex, significantly affects the treatment outcomes (7). In addition, root fillings with an adequate density are strongly associated with a lower risk of periapical disease (8). Also, procedural errors such as ledges, zip and elbow formations, fractured instruments and perforations may accrue during the RCT. These errors may result in compromised cleaning and shaping, leakage through root filling or infection of the periradicular tissues and can jeopardize the endodontic outcomes (9). Recent studies accomplished in various population groups, show that undesirable quality is a common finding in RCTs performed by dentists and undergraduate dental students (Table 1). Therefore a worldwide enhancement in the quality of RCT is required (2) that could be achieved by means of education. Studies concerning quality of RCT are needed in order to appraise the efficiency of dental training, highlight the weaknesses and help with the planning for dental education. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate quality of root canal treatments (quality of root fillings and incidence of procedural errors) performed by students of Isfahan University School of Dentistry between 2013 and 2015. Materials and methods In this cross-sectional study, a random sample of 1200 cases were selected from the records of patients who had received RCT by undergraduate students at School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran, during 2013-2015. Records with missing or unreadable radiographs due to improper imaging or processing technique, or those with radiographs that didnt show the entire length of the root canals and 2mm of periapical area, were excluded. Finally, 784 treated teeth including 1674 canals were evaluated. The RCTs were accomplished by fourth, fifth and sixth year undergraduate dental students according to the fallowing protocol: after taking medical and dental history and diagnosis of palp and periapical disease, local anesthesia was injected and the access cavity was prepared. An aseptic technique with rubber dam isolation was applied and working length was determined using periapical radiographs. Canals were prepared using step back technique by means of stainless steel k-files of 0.02 taper (Dentsply, Tusla, USA or Mani, Tochigi, Japan). In some case Gates-Glidden drills (Mani, Tochigi, Japan) were used for preparation of coronal third of the canals. Canals were irrigated by 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. Obturations were carried out using lateral compaction technique with gutta-percha cones (Ariadent, Tehran, Iran) and a ZOE based sealer. Teeth were temporarily restored and referred for permanent restorations. For root canal treatment of each tooth, 4 periapical radiographs (preoperati ve, working length determination, master cone and postoperative) were taken by the bisecting-angle method using De Gotzen dental radiography machine (De Gotzen, Roma, Italy) and E speed size 2 intraoral films (Primax, Berlin, Germany). Developing solutions (Champion, Tehran, Iran) were used to possess the radiographs in a time-temperature technique. Endodontist academic stuff supervised all the treatment steps. Average academic stuff: student ratio has been 1: 6 at the time of the study. In order to evaluate the quality of each RCT, at least 3 radiographs including preoperative, working length determination and postoperative, were examined. Evaluations were made in a dark room under even illumination and 3x magnification. Radiographs were mounted in a cardboard slit to exclude the extraneous lights. Measurements were done using a transparent ruler of 0.5 mm accuracy. In cases that the radiographic images were taken with an alternation in horizontal angulation, it was supposed that they were exposed with a mesial angulation. Two individual investigators (GM and AV) securitized the radiographs of each record. The results were compared and in case of disagreement a third investigator (MS) was asked to examine the records, and a final agreement was achieved. Before the study, investigators were calibrated and Inter-examination agreement was determined by evaluating 30 radiographic records that werent included in the study. For establishing intra-examiner agreement, each investigator re-evaluated the same radiographs after 2 weeks. Evaluation of quality of RCTs was accomplished by examining radiographic quality of root fillings and detection of the procedural errors. Root canal was considered as the unit of evaluation. Quality of root filling in each canal was categorized as acceptable and unacceptable based on the following criteria: Acceptable root filling: root filling ending 0-2 mm from radiographic apex without any visible voids in the filling mass or between the filling mass and root canal walls. Unacceptable root filling: Overfilling: root filling that extends beyond radiographic apex. Undrefilling: root filling ending shorter than 2 mm from the radiographic apex. Inadequate density: root fillings with visible voids in the filling mass or between the filling mass and root canal walls. The criteria for the detection of procedural errors in this study, were as follows: A ledge was identified if the root filling in the final radiograph did not follow the curvature of the main canal path in working-length radiograph. Root perforations (including furcation perforation, strip perforation and lateral perforations of the root) were detected when extrusion of the filling materials was identified in any area of the root except the apical foramen. Foramen perforation was diagnosed when the apical termination of the filled canal appeared as an elliptical shape transported to the outer wall. Fractured instruments: was detected by observing a part of instrument in the root canal or in periarticular area in the final radiograph. Statistical analysis Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 21 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, USA). Descriptive analyzes were used for expressing frequency of radiographic criteria of quality of RCTs. Pearsons chi square test was used to compare the results among tooth types and locations and also academic year of students. P-values Results From 1200 collected records of endodontically treated teeth, 416 cases (34.7%) were excluded and 734 teeth including 1674 root canals were evaluated. 52% of treated root canals were in maxilla and 48% were in mandible. Canals of molar teeth comprised the most frequent treated root canals (68%), followed by canals of premolars (22%) and anterior teeth (10%) . 6th   year students performed RCTs on 49% of root canals. 5th and 4th year students treated 32% and 19% of root canals, respectively. Anterior teeth and premolars constituted the teeth treated by 4th year students while 5th and 6th year students treated premolars and molars (Table 2). Technical quality of root fillings According to length and density, acceptable fillings was found in 54.1% of root canals. From treated maxillary root canals, 56.2% and from treated mandibular root canals, 51.9% were acceptable. Rate of acceptable root fillings wasnt significantly different between the two arches (P=0.072). Among tooth types, canals of molar teeth exhibited lower ratio of acceptable root fillings (51.3%) compared to premolars (61.3%) (P=0.001). Rate of acceptable fillings in anterior teeth (57.7%) wasnt significantly different from molars (P=0.430) and premolars (P=0.128). Inadequate density, overfilling and underfilling was found in 34.6%, 11% and 8.3% of root canals, respectively. In both arches inadequate density consisted the most common cause for unacceptable fillings. In maxilla overfilling consisted the second frequent cause for unacceptable fillings, followed by under filling, However, underfilling was the second common cause of unacceptable fillings in mandible and overfilling was the least f requent cause (Table 3). From the root canals treated by 5th year students 46.1% had acceptable fillings which is significantly lower than canals treated by 4th year students (55.6%) (P=0.007) and 6th year students (58.8%) (Pth and 6th year students (P=0.339) (Table 4). Procedural errors: Procedural errors were found in 18.6% of root treated canals. Incidence of procedural errors between 5th year students (22.2%) and 6th year students (19%) wasnt significantly different (P=0.149). Students of 4th year had created less procedural errors (11.6%) than students of 5th year (Pth year (P=0.003). Ledge was the most frequent procedural error and was identified in 12.5% of root treated canals. Foramen perforation, root perforation and fractured instrument were detected in 2%, 2.4% and 2% of canals, respectively (Table 5). Incidence of procedural errors wasnt significantly different in canals of anterior teeth (12.3%) and premolars (9.5%) (P=0.341). These errors were significantly more frequent in canals of molars (22.5%) than anterior teeth (P=0.003) and premolars (P The k-value for inter-examiner agreement was 0.87 for detection of acceptable root fillings and 0.81 for identification of RCTs without procedural errors. For intra-examiner agreement k-values for detection of acceptable root fillings and identification of RCTs without procedural errors were 0.93 and 0.87 for first and 0.84 and 0.81 for second investigator, respectively. Discussion This study was designed to evaluate the quality of root canal treatments accomplished by undergraduate dental students at School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Periapical radiographs taken during the RCT procedures were used for this investigation. Root fillings were considered acceptable if terminated 0-2 mm from radiographic apex and had no voids. This criteria is extensively documented to be associated with improved periapical health (4, 5, 8). In order to limit inter-examiner and intra-examiner erraticism, the radiographic criteria were strictly defined and two investigators were calibrated before the study. Its reported that great variations could exist between investigators regarding assessment of technical quality of RCT (22). In the present study, the k-value of 0.87 for detection of acceptable root fillings and 0.81 for identification of RCTs without procedural errors, exhibit good agreement between the investigators. Also values for intra-examiner agreement were found to be greater than 0.81, which shows reliability of each investigator. Acceptable root fillings according to length and density was found in 54.1% of investigated canals. Comparing this result to the findings of others is rather difficult due to differences in level of practitioners (undergraduate students, general practitioners, and endodontists), techniques and materials used for preparation and obturation of the canal and also evaluation criteria used to assess the quality of RCT. For example, in the study of Bierenkrant et al. (18) who investigated root canals treated by endodontists, 91% of root fillings had adequate quality which is greater than the present study and other studies investigating quality of RCT performed by undergraduate students and general practitioners (Table 2). Among the studies concerning quality of RCT performed by undergraduate students, frequency of acceptable fillings in the current study is comparable to the findings of Eleftheriadis Lambrianidis (14) (55.3%) and Khabbaz et al. (19) (54.8%). In the study of Er et al. (15 ), 33% of root fillings were acceptable which is less than the present study; thought, they used different evaluation criteria. Lynch and Burke (16) reported adequate fillings in 63% of RCTs, which is higher than the present study, however they only evaluated single rooted teeth. In the present study, inadequate density was the most common cause for unqualified root fillings. This is consistent with the findings of Balto et al. (20). Its believed that lateral condensation technique with gutta percha, could create voids in canals with insufficient flaring (14). No significant difference was found between quality of maxillary and mandibular root fillings. Also adequate root fillings in molars were less than premolars. This result was consistent with findings of Er et al. (15) and Khabbaz et al. (19) who report a lower quality of root fillings in molar teeth. This could be explained by posterior position and complex anatomy of these teeth. Students of 5th year had performed more unacceptable root fillings than 4th and 6th year students. This could be explained considering the fact that at Isfahan University School of Dentistry, first clinical encounter of undergraduate students with molar teeth, is at their 5th year of study. Iatrogenic errors were detected in 18.6% of root canals. These errors are more frequent in molar teeth. Balto et al. (20) and Khabbaz et al. (19) also reported a high prevalence procedural errors in molar teeth. The reason for this, could be explained by curved and narrow canals of molar teeth, which makes them challenging for undergraduate students. Furthermore, 5th and 6th year students had created more procedural errors than 4th year students. This is because 4th year students only perform RCTs on anterior teeth and premolars which are less challenging than molar teeth. In this study, ledge was found to be the most frequent procedural error and was detected in 12.5% of root canals. This finding is similar to incidence of ledged root canals in the study of Khabbaz et al. (19) and is less than study of Eleftheriadis Lambrianidis (14). Its shown that stainless steel hand files used by unexperienced undergraduate students could increase the incidence of ledge and other procedural errors (14). Radiographic images cannot illustrate all iatrogenic errors. For instance, over instrumentation which drives pulpal fragments and microorganisms beyond the apex into the periapical tissues, can only be radiographically diagnosed when it is followed by extrusion of filling material from the apex. The use of bisecting-angle technique for taking periapical radiographs, results in less accuracy in recognition of canal length, comparing to the parallel technique (23). It has also been shown that using only one orthoradial radiographic image for assessing the adaptation of the filling material to the root canal walls, isnt reliable. This adaptation has to be further investigated with at least one extra radiography of distal or mesial angulation in order to obtain more realistic estimate of density of root filling (24). Although radiographic quality of RCT is a significant determinant in predicting outcomes of primary endodontic treatment, the radiographic images can not reflect the general quality of treatment. Application of the antiseptic and aseptic techniques, material used and microbial circumstance of the canal are the predicting factors which are not investigated in radiographic studies. At Isfahan University School of Dentistry, Step-back preparation and cold lateral condensation techniques are being taught to the undergraduate dental student. Most universities teach these standard techniques to their students. Its shown that using rotary Ni-Ti instruments provide better canal shaping, reduce the procedural errors and are being taught in undergraduate curriculum in some dental schools (17). In many studied insufficient time allocated to clinical and preclinical training, the academic stuff: student ratio and evaluation methods are stated as reasons for low quality of RCTs in university clinics (14, 19, 20). Isfahan University School of Dentistry uses endodontic specialists and 3rd year post graduate students as training stuff. Also academic curriculum have been recently revised to increase preclinical training. Nevertheless, enhancing the time allocated to clinical training and increasing stuff: student ratio could lead to improvements in quality of RCTs performed by undergraduate students. In conclusion, findings of this study shows that 54.1% of root fillings performed by undergraduate students of Isfahan University School of Dentistry were acceptable. Thus, there a necessity to revise the educational programs in Endodontics in order to improve quality of root canal treatments. References: 1.Boucher Y, Matossian L, Rilliard F, Machtou P. Radiographic evaluation of the prevalence and technical quality of root canal treatment in a French subpopulation. Int Endod J. 2002;35(3):229-38. 2.Asgary S, Shadman B, Ghalamkarpour Z, Shahravan A, Ghoddusi J, Bagherpour A, et al. Periapical Status and Quality of Root canal Fillings and Coronal Restorations in Iranian Population. Iran Endod J. 2010;5(2):74-82. 3.Moreno JO, Alves FR, Goncalves LS, Martinez AM, Rocas IN, Siqueira JF, Jr. Periradicular status and quality of root canal fillings and coronal restorations in an urban Colombian population. J Endod. 2013;39(5):600-4. 4.Pak JG, Fayazi S, White SN. Prevalence of periapical radiolucency and root canal treatment: a systematic review of cross-sectional studies. J Endod. 2012;38(9):1170-6. 5.Ng YL, Mann V, Rahbaran S, Lewsey J, Gulabivala K. Outcome of primary root canal treatment: systematic review of the literature-Part 2. Influence of clinical factors. Int Endod J. 2008;41(1):6-31. 6.Craveiro MA, Fontana CE, de Martin AS, Bueno CE. Influence of coronal restoration and root canal filling quality on periapical status: clinical and radiographic evaluation. J Endod. 2015;41(6):836-40. 7.Sjà ¶gren U, Hà ¤gglund B, Sundqvist G, Wing K. Factors affecting the long-term results of endodontic treatment. J Endod. 1990;16(10):498-504. 8.Chugal NM, Clive JM, Spangberg LS. Endodontic infection: some biologic and treatment factors associated with outcome. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod. 2003;96(1):81-90. 9.Peters OA. Current challenges and concepts in the preparation of root canal systems: a review. J Endod. 2004;30(8):559-67. 10.Hayes SJ, Gibson M, Hammond M, Bryant ST, Dummer PM. An audit of root canal treatment performed by undergraduate students. Int Endod J. 2001;34(7):501-5. 11.Dugas NN, Lawrence HP, Teplitsky PE, Pharoah MJ, Friedman S. Periapical health and treatment quality assessment of root-filled teeth in two Canadian populations. Int Endod J. 2003;36(3):181-92. 12.Barrieshi-Nusair KM, Al-Omari MA, Al-Hiyasat AS. Radiographic technical quality of root canal treatment performed by dental students at the Dental Teaching Center in Jordan. J Dent. 2004;32(4):301-7. 13.Segura-Egea JJ, Jimenez-Pinzon A, Poyato-Ferrera M, Velasco-Ortega E, Rios-Santos JV. Periapical status and quality of root fillings and coronal restorations in an adult Spanish population. Int Endod J. 2004;37(8):525-30. 14.Eleftheriadis GI, Lambrianidis TP. Technical quality of root canal treatment and detection of iatrogenic errors in an undergraduate dental clinic. Int Endod J. 2005;38(10):725-34. 15.Er O, Sagsen B, Maden M, Cinar S, Kahraman Y. Radiographic technical quality of root fillings performed by dental students in Turkey. Int Endod J. 2006;39(11):867-72. 16.Lynch CD, Burke FM. Quality of root canal fillings performed by undergraduate dental students on single-rooted teeth. Eur J Dent Educ. 2006;10(2):67-72. 17.Moussaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Badran S, Roy B, Bessart du Parc A, Bruyant M, Lefevre B, Maurin J. Technical quality of root fillings performed by dental students at the dental teaching centre in Reims, France. Int Endod J. 2008;41(8):679-84. 18.Bierenkrant DE, Parashos P, Messer HH. The technical quality of nonsurgical root canal treatment performed by a selected cohort of Australian endodontists. Int Endod J. 2008;41(7):561-70. 19.Khabbaz MG, Protogerou E, Douka E. Radiographic quality of root fillings performed by undergraduate students. Int Endod J. 2010;43(6):499-508. 20.Balto H, Al Khalifah S, Al Mugairin S, Al Deeb M, Al-Madi E. Technical quality of root fillings performed by undergraduate students in Saudi Arabia. Int Endod J. 2010;43(4):292-300. 21.Yavari H, Samiei M, Shahi S, Borna Z, Abdollahi AA, Ghiasvand N, et al. Radiographic evaluation of root canal fillings accomplished by undergraduate dental students. Iran Endod J. 2015;10(2):127-30. 22.Lambrianidis T. Observer variations in radiographic evaluation of endodontic therapy. Endod Dent Traumatol. 1985;1(6):235-41. 23.Forsberg J. Estimation of the root filling length with the paralleling and bisecting-angle techniques performed by undergraduate students. Int Endod J. 1987;20(6):282-6. 24.Eckerbom M, Magnusson T. Evaluation of technical quality of endodontic treatmentreliability of intraoral radiographs. Endod Dent Traumatol. 1997;13(6):259-64.

Platos Meno :: essays research papers

The questions of what exactly knowledge, virtue and the soul are, are among the most important problems of philosophy The soul may be defined as the ultimate internal principle by which we think, feel, and exist. If there is life after death, the soul must be capable of an existence separate from the body. The mysteries of birth and death, the lapse of conscious life during sleep, even the most common operations of imagination and memory, which abstract a man from his bodily presence even while awake; all such facts suggest the existence of something other. The quest to put a solid definition on what exactly knowledge and virtue was the basis of Socrates' life. Socrates discusses these things all the time but they seemed to be better explained in two specific dialogues The Meno and The Republic. In the Meno, Plato justifies the possibility for one's mind to uncover knowledge. Plato presents a valid theory on how our minds can obtain knowledge. Socrates asks â€Å"What is virtue?† , when questioning Meno on the single definition of virtue, Socrates was never satisfied. He never accepted Meno’s answers because Meno gave â€Å"virtuous† definitions, not the definition of â€Å"virtue.† For example, Meno claimed, â€Å"A man's virtue, consists of being able to manage public affairs and in so doing to benefit his friends and harm his enemies and to be careful no harm comes to himself." Meno does not know what virtue really is, so he cannot apply which characteristics associate with virtue and which do not. So when Socrates asks, â€Å"Does anyone know what a part of virtue is, without knowing the whole?†, Meno agrees this is not possible. This presents a logical argument against Meno’s definition of virtue. Socrates believes th e conversation to search for what virtue really is should continue although they achieved no success in their first effort to form a definition. Meno questions Socrates, â€Å"And how will you inquire, into that of which you are totally ignorant? What sort of thing, among those things which you know not, will you put forth as the object of your seeking? And even if you should chance upon it, how will you ever know that it is the thing which you not know?†. Socrates explores the subject that one not only obtains knowledge through perception but can also obtain knowledge through reason and hard work. Socrates then tells Meno of the theory of recollection.

Virtual Learning Environments Essay -- Education, Blackboard

Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) are considered to be among the most outstanding, interesting and rapidly developing contemporary computer technologies. It is a package of software systems initially created in order to utilize the advantages offered by the Internet, such as Blackboard and WebCT. It provides a resource for exchanging, transforming and managing information, as well as offering various academic and administrative services, through a group of various tools. These environments are not restricted to e-learning or distance learning. It is also being recognized as the most effective means to support and assist the development of traditional learning and to enrich classroom activities. Furthermore, VLEs have become among the most significant means to achieve and support the philosophy of self-learning in many universities. Consequently, educational institutions and individuals now realize the benefits of using VLEs to reinforce and improve the learning process. Therefore, it is necessary for the learner to master the use of this technology as well as the tutor and it is necessary to use this technology in all aspects of the learning process. In this study I will highlight the purposes of VLEs, then the common tools in VLEs, followed by the advantages and disadvantages for VLEs. Afterward, I will outline the factors that impact in success VLEs and the characteristics of successful online learner. Recently many universities have been using advanced technology in the learning process, as result of the rapidly changing information communication technology (ICT). These changes demand that education institutions use a various tools from ICT world. One of the substantial tools on ICT is VLEs. Currently VLE... ...ccessful VLE, for example, taking into consideration the effectiveness of online learning strategies. Moreover, technical skills are not enough for the tutor experience. It is more important that tutors should develop their pedagogical skills in order to make best use of VLEs. In my point of view, for the success VLEs, the tutor and the learner should play different roles in this issue. They complement each other in succeeding the learning process via VLEs. Therefore, we cannot rely only on the tutor for the success of the learning process. I believe learners in this generation are growing up with technology and becoming more familiar with ICT. Their learning styles and thinking differ. They are adapting to these technologies. So I think learners prefer the learning process that is characterized with various interesting tools such as VLEs.

Charles Manson Essay -- essays research papers

Charles Manson   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Charles Manson has been named "the most dangerous man alive." Society referred to him as the devil. They believed he was the reason society was so bad in the 1960's. The 1950's to the 1960's was uncontrollably filled with violence. Our culture was shattered by the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. At the same time, body bags from Vietnam were building up from a war that was tearing our nation apart. Riots and antiwar protesters marched across America. Many people worried that the US was getting out of control. "The Sixties ended abruptly on August 9, 1969..." wrote Didon in The White Album. On August 8,1969, director Roman Polaski's housekeeper found five bodies, slashed and bloody. Manson was the metaphor of evil! To many, Charles Manson symbolized the end of civilized society and the dawn of a new age of terror. (Lagarde)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On November 12, 1934, Charles Milles Manson was brought into this world by Kathleen Maddox and Colonal Scott. At the time Kathleen was a 16 year old troublemaker. Charlie never knew his father and never really had a "father figure." His mother was the kind that children are taken away from and put in foster homes. Kathleen had the habit of disappearing for days and weeks at a time, leaving Charlie with his grandmother or aunt. Kathleen Maddox was sentenced to a penitentiary for armed robbery, Charlie was sent to live with his aunt and uncle; who were going to try to straighten him out. When Kathleen was released from jail she didn't want Charlie as her responsibility, preferring her life of drinking. At this point in time she was willing to trade Charlie for a glass of beer. Charlie was adapted to a life of violence and loneliness. He kept to himself and didn't have any friends. Charlie was an observer, he never got involved or talked to people. Soon Charlie was f ollowing in his mother's foot steps. He began stealing and causing trouble. By age nine he was sent to a reform school. In less than a year he ran away from his school. He tried to run to his mother but she wanted nothing to do with him. Charlie was in and out of reform schools, jails, and institutions. By 1958, Charles Manson was released on parole only to cause more chaos. (Newsweek,55)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On the streets Manson chose pimping as his career. In 1959 he was arrested once again on two ... ...d impersonated all of Charles actions. To many, Charles Manson symbolized the end of civilized society and the dawn of a new age of terror. Book of Revelations.Online Available http://www.umkc.com,1 May.2000.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Buglioso, Vincent. Helter Skelter. New York: Bantam Books,1974.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Charles Manson.Online Available http://www.crimelibrary.com, 1 May.2000.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Filmer, Deborah K. Forensic Science and Charles Manson Murders. Online Available  http://www.concentric.net, 2 May. 2000  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Galanter, Marc. Cults:Faith, Healing,and Coercion. New York: Oxford University Press, 1989.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "In '69: Manson". Newsweeks. 3 July. 1989: 54-55.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Lagarde, Deborah. The Manson Murders, 30 Years Later. Online Available  Ã‚  http://omegaserve.com, 30 April.2000  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Porterfield, Kay Marie. Straight Talk About Cults. New York: Facts on File,1995.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Sanders, Ed. The Family. New York: Avon, 1971.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Singer, Margaret.Cults and Our Midst. SanFrancisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers,1995.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  

How Bilbo Baggins Changed to Become a Hero Essay

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s, The Hobbit, the heroic nature of Bilbo Baggins is depicted through his actions in each mental and physical challenge. His mental challenges in learning about himself, what he is capable of achieving, and being a faithful leader in times of crisis, the physical challenges of fighting off spiders, goblins, and Wood-elves. The hero of the novel is witnessed from being a modest and timid hobbit to a clever and respected leader. Even though he didn’t start off as an extraordinary hero, he was slowly turning into one. Bilbo’s growing valor is shown with his riddle fight with Gollum. â€Å"Straight over Gollum’s head he jumped, seven feet forward and three feet in the air.† This proves that Bilbo is willing to take risks and have the skill to jump that high takes true grit. Also in this chapter, he becomes more verbally heroic, for example: â€Å" ‘ Come on!’ said Bilbo. ‘I am waiting!’ He tried to sound bold and cheerful, but he did not feel at all sure how the game was going to end, whether Gollum guessed right or not.† Although Bilbo puts up a tough front by trying to sound brave and bold, he is still pretty weak inside, doubting his own abilities. However, this will change dramatically throughout the novel. Another way he has shown heroic qualities is when he had to save the dwarves from the elves. â€Å" ‘No time now!’ said the hobbit. ‘You just follow me! We must all keep together and not risk getting separated. All of us must escape or none, and its our last chance. His commanding words reflect off as a respected leader. When he said ‘all of us must escape or none’ it means he’s willing to leave no man behind, spoken like a true army general. In the same chapter, Bilbo showed greater heroism, â€Å"Bilbo did his best to find straw and other stuff to pack them in cozily as could be managed in a short time.† This proves that Bilbo cares about his friends and would suffer more himself for the comfort of other. Not only was it because he was the one who wanted them to go into uncomfortable barrels, he tried to make up for it the best he can, it was also because he felt that he was the ‘leader of the pack’ now and that he had the responsibility, the type of responsibility that only a hero would feel. When Bilbo was faced with a huge fear – Smaug, he was at first a little reluctant but confronted it anyways. â€Å" Now I will make you an offer, I have got my ring and will creep down this very noon. Then if veer Smaug ought to be napping – and see what he is up to.† This shows that even if he wasn’t enthusiastic about it, he still gave it a try. Coming from a tiny hobbit hole, eating cakes and drinking tea, it was very challenging for Bilbo to face a frightening, fire-breathing dragon. In chapter 16, ‘ A Thief in the Night’, Bilbo’s growing heroism is shown with the giving of the Arkenstone. Independent moral judgment is displayed when Bilbo goes against his true friend, Thorin. â€Å" Then Bilbo, not without a shudder, not without a glance of longing, handed the marvelous stone to Bard,† This shows that he is willing to give up anything, even the amazing Arkenstone and the friendship with Thorin, to do what’s right. Although he did want to keep their friendship and the Arkenstone at first, he is not materialistic and greedy and gave it to Bard. A hobbit that possesses this type of generosity can be called a hero. I think this novel is actually about the formation of Bilbo Baggins from comfort-loving Hobbit into a fully-fledged hero at the end of the novel. Therefore he doesn’t start off as a hero but certainly as his character develops by the incidents that he faces he shows himself to be truly heroic, especially in contrast to other â€Å"heroic† characters.

Simulation Review Paper

Running header Simulation polish up constitution Simulation Review Paper HSC/405 January 10, 2012 David Catoe Some point in the lives of some to all there argon choices and closes that argon to be do. These individual choices and decisions we make booster guide us to a trustworthy destination or point in life where onenessness would exchangeable to be. non to say that reaching these set destinations leave alone be easy to get excessively exactly they atomic number 18nt hard to touch with incontroertible thinking and actions.Financial and sparing decisions in a business spatial relation be difficult and could feel like we be come inside trying to seek in at times when invest in a tough position. My remnant is to further review the financial bet of a Cardiac care infirmary to im final causet strategies to resolve some on-going financial strikes. The cardiac care hospital in review is Elijah Hearts bear on (EHC). EHC is facing galore(postnominal) another(p renominal) critical downfalls that are causing financial concerns to arise. Several of those downfalls are Capital shortage, heavy(p) expansion, accounting systems and living plectrons.Critical thinking, planning and leadership skills are needed to protagonist figure out a parvenue financial answer for the organization and that is what leave behind be habituated up and shown in todays paper. afterwards analyzing and reviewing the accepted status of the come with I must figure out whats beneficial for the organization in opine to gravid shortage. Considering my options I decided to geld cost in funding by cutting down on provide. This decision I make was hard just at present reaching the facts at hand I made this choice with an circularize mind and positive thinking.The lay off of staff has a sparse effect on the hospital but nothing to damaging to their functions and operations. Not plainly oblige I decided to downsize staff but I assume overly chosen to change the skill mix. This will better help increase forbearing volumes and allow for the organization to solve the capital shortfall. As for my choice in impart options I went with impart option one vs. loanword option two for a fewer opposite reasons. When picking which loan was vanquish it was simple due to the given interest rates and monthly installments which were ery standardised in pricing and percentage. However the concern was in that of loan option two. on that point was a prepayment boundary of 6 correspond for loan option two which loan option one had a prepayment limitation of 0. The critical and visual aspect of what was provided helped me in my choices resulting in a solved chore with the capital storage at EHC. piteous on with all the advancements with engineering it is considered by Mr. Sanchez to acquire a High-Speed CT Scanner, an X-Ray Machine and a spic-and-span sonography system.These systems will provide more than satisfying quality of care to EHC patients. My given option of ensuring the hospital has these equipments are either buying new or refurbished including loan options of a capital or operating permit. Starting with the high-speed CT scanner, after review of my options and looking over the new equipment details I get down made a pick. I chose to have EHC invest into a refurbished elevator car. The choice was the put one for EHC and its financial status.It is shown that the price is cheaper which in addition technology for tis equipment is bond to change in a few years. The X-ray machine was tough to choose the upright option but I chose a capital lease. The reason was the equipment is new and after the lease ends the caller is given an option of purchase the equipment or not. The capital lease withal allows for EHC to claim ownership on their difference sheets inwardly the provided lease period. Next is the Ultrasound system and my decision was between a capital lease and an operating lease. subsequent ly closer review I hope the operating lease was the best option. The equipment at this point is two years onetime(a) and change with technology every few years. This would allow EHC to be current with technology and futurity options of keeping what machinery is needed or if not handing back outdated equipment. As with that said the operating lease is not treated as if its apart of the assets of the gild but as a rental. The decisions that I have made were all manufacture and EHC is now doing better allowing for growths in pay and patient care.Capital expansion is main(prenominal) for EHC so I chose HUD 242 Loan insurance policy policy Program as the best fit. The company is due to have increased revenues within the seventh year of operating the new expansion which allows time for saving. HUD 242 loan insurance program best fits because interest payments set down 8 years after derail date. This is perfect and falls in melodic phrase with the companys financial status, fut ure revenue and help save funds. The decisions that I have made have prove to provide well for EHC and now the company is back on track and in good financial status.The computer simulation that was provided served me with gigantic hands on experience and association of how critical thinking can usefulness not only me but many others in different ways. The choices that I made just dont excrete in a occasion of a minute but took a matter of time. Remember the turtle won the lead being steady and on the lookout and thats how I feel I took this simulation review. I had to review and analyze arrears of different categories trying to figure out the best options for EHC. The financial aspect within a business such as EHC has many different bridges which some competency be easy to cross plot others are difficult.This simulation did challenge me to consider not only what I cherished for the company but what was best compatible. I worked though the simulation with nervousness but then again I was self-assured and come out with correct choices. In Conclusion EHC has allowed me a great prospect to help resolve their financial matters in which all worked out fine. The medical equipment that EHC has now allows for patient to wait in lesser lines for tests or treatments. By being move more quickly and efficiently patients perish less stress when in the hospital.The downsizing of staff at this point was right but in the future more job opportunities will be open allowing for returning staff growth. Since EHC is moving forwards in a positive behavior the organization set forth $75 million dollars for an expansion. The expansion called for a plan that HUD 242 loan insurance program could help with in funding. The choices made lead EHC to have good cash flow resulting in a steady income. Introduced were strategies for future and current use and the purpose is that bridges that one though couldnt be cover have been crossed through careful thought and analyzing.