Abstract In this paper, the intelligence failures that resulted in 9/11 are examined. The writer argues that the terrorist attacks of 9/11 represent the greatest intelligence failure in the history of the United States. Further, the writer briefly discusses the Intelligence Community in the U.S. and identifies strategic shortcomings. In this article, the writer details the specific intelligence failures leading to 9/11.
From the Paper "In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 9, hereafter referred to 9/11, as Americans were horrified at the sheer audacity and malicious inventiveness of the Al-Qaida operatives. The nation wondered how these men could have resided in the country for an extended period of time planning their bold strike without attracting any attention from our various federal and state law enforcement agencies. In the protracted period of soul searching that has followed, an answer to that question seems to have emerged. The answer quite simply is that represents ... "
Abstract This paper analyzes thoroughly and critically disasters or common failures in public policy in the developed and developing world. The discussion spans examples and case-studies in the UK, US in comparison to Anglophone Africa and the Caribbean. What causes policy failures/disasters as well as various useful recommendations for more effective public policy-making are examined drawing on many theories of prominent scholars in the field of public policy and development management.
From the Paper "In general, the process of public policy-making is subject to numerous disasters and many serious public policy failures. At the heart of such disasters and failures have been the contradictory circumstances, paths and outcomes of policies of regulation, deregulation, over-regulation, corrupt and bad politics, lack of planning, lack of accountability, transparency, initiative and risk management and the dominance of particular groups, organisations or individuals. Indeed it is this plexus of policy processes which may be termed as underlying factors common to policies that are disastrous and fraught with failures, and at the very least, factors that make policies counter productive or that produce either intended or unintended negative consequences. Disasters and serious failures, in particular, best refer to such unintended policies that cause collapse, confusion, and chaos and sometimes damage that is irreversible or difficult to overcome."
Abstract This paper discusses major project failures in information technology. It describes possible reasons for project failures and types of project failures that can occur. The paper then discusses how some of these project failures can be avoided and it concludes with the lessons that analysts should be able to learn from past failures, in order to avoid them in the future.
Table of Contents:
Types Information Technology Project Failures Costs Of Project Failures Common Causes for Failures Could Project Failures Have Been Avoided
Important Lessons for Analysts on Project Failures
From the Paper "Workstar (2003) suggests project managers can help avoid problems by planning better for projects and considering their current systems compared with the functionality new systems may provide. Among the key methods managers and technologists can adopt to prevent problems include: (1) taking time to assess what the goals, aims and objectives of a project are (2) giving responsibility to project managers but also ensuring there is someone to check everything at every step of the project implementation process (3) continuing to modify a plan as the plan is being implemented to account for unexpected realities and (4) focusing on the people that will be using the technology to ensure the technology meets their skills, needs and expectations (Workstar, 2003). Specificity is also vital to a project's success as is adaptability and flexibility from all members of the project team."
Abstract This paper examines how Niccolo Machiavelli (1469-1527) and Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) can be assessed as theorists influenced by direct exposure to political failure and its resulting chaos. It looks as how Machiavelli suggested that the prince was a person who knew he could not have something for nothing, whereas Hobbes was inclined to place the citizen in similar shoes, needing to adjust to a directed social order aware that without small compromises, he would lose the order so needed and wanted to achieve his ambitions. The paper concludes that in the early 21st century, there is much in international political life to remind us of Machiavelli's "The Prince" and Hobbes' "The Leviathan" in different demonstrations of both leadership and political failure and how war, anarchy, alienation and social chaos do seem the prices of poor leadership approaches and the failure to provide what is needed.
Outline:
Introduction
Machiavelli on Political Failure Hobbes on Political Failure Lessons of being a Bad Leader, or a Bad Subject
Concluding Remarks
From the Paper "Both Machiavelli and Hobbes had few illusions about human nature and the difficulties of governance. Machiavelli saw political failure as owing directly to the nature of the leader and whether or not he was a prince, in a person astute and evolved enough to wield power, and as Hobbes agreed in places but also expected subjects to understand that beyond a symbolic leader they needed to see their own culpability when political systems fell to pieces, that they were merely parts of the same organic social machine. Political failure meant that one party of another was not complying as necessary to make the machine function and that this should be recognized. In other words, whatever kind of leader or ruler was produced, human unwillingness to put cooperation ahead of competition and greed, or a failure to respect the law towards other anarchy would bring political failure's result in the anarchy of which human beings were also much afraid. "
This paper discusses the article "Factors Related to Nonadherence to Low Sodium Diet Recommendations in Heart Failure Patients," by B. Bentley, M.J. de Jong, D.K. Moser and A.R. Peden.
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that the paper "Factors Related to Nonadherence to Low Sodium Diet Recommendations in Heart Failure Patients" attempts to explore the experience of heart failure patients in adhering to a low sodium diet. The writer notes that heart failure is a global healthcare problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Further, the writer points out that the management of heart failure includes a regimen of pharmacologic medications as well as an observation of non-pharmacologic interventions. The writer discusses the article and notes that physicians and nurse practitioners advise their patients to include a regular exercise regimen and a low-sodium diet into their daily lives. Despite the healthcare professionals' advice, patients with heart failure fail to adhere to a low sodium diet. The writer notes that this paper attempts to discover the reasons why patients fail to do so.
From the Paper "This phenomenological approach aims to obtain an intuitive grasp of the phenomenon by analyzing, synthesizing, and describing its occurrences. A qualitative research design was used because it was believed to obtain straight and unembellished answers regarding a specific event. This study selected its 20 participants through convenience sampling. The inclusion criteria were the following: First, he must be diagnosed with heart failure due to left ventricular dysfunction with ejection fraction of less than 50%. Second, the patient must be advised to follow a low sodium diet. Third, he must not have any cognitive impairment that may limit him to complete the interview. Fourth, he must not be living in an extended care facility. Lastly, he must be on stable medical therapy without any major recent adjustments. Each participant must speak in English and received care at a health failure clinic in an academic medical center. Informed consent was obtained in each of the participant prior to the initiation of the experiment."
Abstract This paper explains that end-stage kidney disease occurs immediately prior to chronic renal failure in which the kidney is no longer able to provide its necessary physiological functions. The author points out that patients in end-stage chronic renal failure typically are engaged to some degree in the dialysis process, but complete chronic renal failure will create a new series of lifestyle changes for the patient. The paper provides a comprehensive lesson plan for a patient who is undergoing end-stage chronic renal failure.
From the Paper "End-stage kidney disease occurs immediately prior to chronic renal failure, in which the kidney is no longer able to provide its necessary physiological functions. Patients in end-stage chronic renal failure typically are engaged in the dialysis process to some degree, but complete chronic renal failure will create a new series of lifestyle changes for the patient. This paper is designed to provide a brief yet comprehensive lesson plan for a patient who is undergoing end-stage chronic renal failure. Conditions of End-Stage Chronic Renal Failure The patient undergoing end-stage chronic renal failure has a new set of physiological burdens applied. The kidney is no longer able to effectively process the body's wastes or play its role as the foremost regulator of the body's blood supply."
Abstract This paper explains that, in the beginning of chronic renal failure, there are virtually no symptoms; however, the progression of the disease can cause an increase in blood pressure, an accumulation of potassium in the blood, an accumulation of urea, anemia, fatigue, an overload of fluid volume, cardiac arrhythmia and vascular calcification. The author points out that, at end-stage of renal disease, renal replacement therapy, such as kidney dialysis and even kidney transplant, is required to keep the patient alive. The paper relates that patients with chronic renal failure also have a high incidence of atherosclerosis, which usually accelerates at a faster rate, and of cardiovascular disease, which has a prognosis that is not as good as someone without chronic renal failure.
From the Paper "Sometimes, the levels of serum creatinine have not been measured in the past, and therefore the patient is often first treated as having acute renal failure. Only when blood tests continue to show elevated serum creatinine levels and it is determined that the renal failure is irreversible will the diagnosis be made as chronic renal failure as opposed to the previously assumed acute renal failure. A numerous amount of uremic toxins also accumulate in individuals that have chronic renal failure and are involved in the treatment of standard dialysis."
Abstract This paper presents a colorful and detailed explanation of the function of the kidneys. The paper offers many diagrams to illustrate the material discussed. The paper also includes extensive research on acute and chronic renal failure. The paper examines acute renal failure by providing a case study on the subject.
Outline
Introduction
Mechanisms of Fluid Regulation
Acute Renal Failure Pathophysiology
Clinical Manifestations
Treatment
Diet
Drug Treatment
Case Study
References
From the Paper "The adrenal medulla functions as part of the autonomic nervous system. Stimulation of preganglionic sympathetic nerve fibers causes release of epinephrine and noreepinephrine. These regulate metabolic pathways to promote catabolism of stored fuels to meet caloric needs from endogenous sources. Epinephrine is the key player in the 'fight or flight' response. The adrenal cortex produces three steroid hormones. Glucocorticoids affect blood glucose levels using the negative feedback system. Mineralcorticoids exert their major efforts on electrolyte balance. Androgens effects are similar to male sex hormones."
Abstract This is a paper comparing Voltaire's "Candide" and Mary Shelly's "Frankenstein." The author looks at the failures in the ideology of the teachers in these two stories. The author examines how these failures are related to the ultimate failures in the educators' creations. This paper compares Dr. Frankenstein to the baron and tutor in "Candide," and explains how both stories are an allegory to the religious and political issues of the time. The author contends that the two works are similar in ultimate meaning, despite the obvious differences in style and subject matter.
From the Paper "Both Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Voltaire's Candide show the failure of ideology--namely the inability of human beings to frame their lives according to a narrow doctrine, however superficially persuasive that doctrine might seem upon its surface. It does not matter if the doctrine is political, religious, or even scientific in nature--the use of satirical or science fiction underlines the importance of idiosyncrasies in human narrative, nature, and thought. In the case of Voltaire's Candide, of course, the doctrine that is 'deflated' is that all human beings live in the best of all possible worlds. In the case of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein the ideology the text desires to deflate is more subtly expressed. Shelley seeks to deflate the religious definitions of limits of humanity and the Enlightenment scientific impulse's belief that all human needs are rational."
Abstract This paper describes hemodialysis, which is used to treat patients suffering from renal failure. The paper begins by explaining renal failure. Next the paper discusses the need for dialysis, explains how it is preformed, and assesses its effects -- both positive and negative -- on the patient. The paper also investigates potential complications, particularly with regard to arteriovenous fistulas, which are essential for connecting the patient to the dialysis machine. The paper concludes by reviewing other side-effects of renal failure, such as anemia and high blood pressure, and their treatment.
From the Paper "When the kidneys are functioning normally, they regulate the chemical composition of the blood, particularly sodium, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. They also remove extra fluid to form urine, as well as drugs and toxins..."
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss and analyze the topic of heart disease. Specifically, the paper discusses the causes of congestive heart failure (CHF) and its affects on the body. Heart failure is a leading cause of illness and death in America today. It looks at how congestive heart failure can weaken the body and the person until that person can no longer function and how it can lead to several other debilitating diseases.
From the Paper "There are also several different birth and other physical conditions that can eventually lead to CHF. These include congenital heart disease that is present at birth (also called birth defects), abnormal heart valves, which can result from disease or infection, and heart muscle disease, which can also come from disease but can also occur as a result of substance abuse. Other conditions include anemia, an overactive thyroid gland, or abnormal heart rhythm. Some of these conditions come from health problems, and some are simply genetic. Therefore, there are a wide variety of causes of CHF, and Americans should be aware of high-risk lifestyles that can lead to increased instances of CHF. "
Abstract This paper discusses the causes and consequences of political failure for Thomas Hobbes and Niccolo Machiavelli. It shows how the causes for each of their political failure were different, as reflected in their views of man and in the actions of men within their respective forms of government. The paper presents both Hobbes' and Machiavelli's views and then compares the results of their political failure.
From the Paper "Hobbes favors an authoritarian government where the welfare of the people is assured by the paternal care of the Sovereign because it would make no sense that a Sovereign should oppress his people. The consequences of political failure are to plunge men back into the chaos of the state of nature, the "Warre of everyone against everyone, in which case everyone is governed by his own reason" (Lev., ch. 14, p. 64). Only when men subjugate themselves and their reason to the Reason of the Sovereign does the Power of the Sovereign ensure "peace and commodious living". It is in this way that "we make the commonwealth ourselves" (Six Lessons, Ep. Ded., p. 184)."
Abstract This paper discusses the phenomenon of market failure and what happens when a market fails. The paper specifically focuses on the role of the government and how it is expected to intervene in a manner that is targeted towards mitigating the effects of market failure. The paper also discusses effective government intervention and the industries it has the most success with.
Table of Contents:
Market Failure and Public Policy
The Role of Government
Effective Government Intervention
From the Paper "Grand also mentions increasing returns to scale (Grand, 1991, p. 427), which entails that the average production costs fall with the increase of the production scale. This could lead to market monopolization by large firms that receive the greatest competitive advantage as a result. Grand mentions the transportation industry as a result."
"The imperfect information issue in market failure implies that there exists some miscommunication between the customer and producer. Producers, such as medical doctors and pharmacists, for example, are in an advantageous position regarding knowledge about their patients' health, and can therefore exploit this knowledge to their own advantage. Doctors have an interest in providing as many services as possible, as their income level depends upon this. The market is thus oversupplied and concomitantly inefficient."
Abstract This paper explains the reasons why people go into joint ventures, such as when firms want to enhance their competitive advantage, and access resources and skills not found in their organizations in order to increase their profits. The paper tells us the reasons why companies succeed or fail in these joint ventures and presents a case study that illustrates how important it is for companies engaged in joint ventures to be knowledgeable of the factors that can either lead to the success or failure of their business. The Ninemsn Company, a known multinational that is engaged in such an alliance, is the focus of the case study.
Outline:
Introduction
Reasons why companies engage in joint ventures
Case Study Ninemsn Company
Failures associated with joint ventures
Factors that determine the success or failure of joint ventures
Conclusion
From the Paper "Companies do not want to face the costs and risks that they are likely to be exposed to alone especially when the company is operating in a foreign land. The business leaders will therefore look for other interested business partners in the region so that they can share the success of the business as well as the risks. This will make the business feel more comfortable in the area as they have other experts who are able to give their expert opinions on certain issues hence they will be able to face the various challenges as a team."
Abstract This paper explains that, in congestive heart failure, the blood flow, which normally comes from the heart, is slowed down; therefore, the blood, which is coming through the veins and returning to the heart, often backs up, causing swelling in various tissues and in the lungs; this is a serious problem. The author points out that there are genetic and congenital risk factors for congestive heart failure, and not all of them can be controlled. Other factors, such as quitting smoking, getting blood pressure and diabetes under control, losing weight, and watching one's diet, can be controlled, however. The paper relates that nursing care can help patients deal with their condition, especially in the areas of their greatest concern, which include activity, lack of knowledge about the condition, and pain management.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Disease Condition
Treatment
Conclusion
From the Paper "There are many different instruments and other medical tactics used to diagnose congestive heart failure. Obtaining a complete and thorough clinical history for the patient is the first step towards this diagnosis. Once this has been completed, the patient is usually placed in a classification based on how severe their suspected congestive heart failure is and what they can and cannot do on a normal basis. A complete physical is also performed. Being able to diagnose congestive heart failure in someone who is elderly is sometimes difficult because anorexia, anxiety, and other seemingly odd problems that are considered to be atypical of congestive heart failure are the things that are seen most often in this age group."
