Blog Posts - GALUSHA AP SEMINAR

GALUSHA AP SEMINAR

The Outdated Work Week

5/23/2024

By Juliana V.
Abstract: Though not heavily conversed, the current work week is outdated. The current five day work week is quite strenuous for many, leaving them little motivation to strive in the workplace. Many employees are having imbalance within their life because of work and family conflicts, burnout due to too many hours in the workplace, and low productivity rates. Switching to a four day work week has been perceived to solve various problems as employees will have more time to spend with their families, they will form better health habits, and productivity rates should rise as people will have motivation to strive for an extra day off. Trials continue to be conducted around the world to test the benefits of a new work week.

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Summary:
The four day work week is strenuous for many, leaving them little motivation to work hard to get things done. Being a full time employee is hard for many when dealing with family and other life responsibilities. Changing the work week structure would help mitigate many struggles individuals face in five days.

A five day work week hurts many individuals' balance within life. Many individuals deal with many responsibilities in and out of the workplace, leading them to get overwhelmed. Parents are especially having a difficult time balancing their lives along with their childrens’.

As people continue to work strenuous hours, they get burnt out in the workplace. Individuals often wake up early for work, and are forced to stay late to finish all tasks. It is important that employees get time to rest, but they rarely do within five days of work.

As burnout worsens, people have less motivation to be productive. As inflation has risen, many employees feel they do not make enough money to afford life necessities. This is leading worker’s to be “lazy” at work and not focus all attention on their jobs.

A four day work week would provide more time for individuals to get things done
without worrying about work. Studies have shown the positive impacts to switching to a
new work week is less strenuous on the body. The four day work week is supposed to create more free time for employees, better well being, and increase production.

Wrongful Conviction due to Lack of Jury Diversity

5/23/2024

By Karina N

Abstract
Wrongful conviction is a common outcome from a jury pool not being diverse enough. The composition of a jury is crucial to what the verdict will be regardless of what kind of case is being dealt with. Factors like ethnicity, one's background and even prior juror experience is looked into when picking a jury pool. In most cases, jury pools are supposed to be composed of people from different backgrounds meaning that multiple races can and should be included though, challenges like peremptory challenges, the exclusion of a certain juror without a probable cause can stand in the way of picking a jury even if they do have prior experience that can be used to an advantage. If a jury pool is not as diverse as it should be, this creates a higher chance of racial bias to occur and impact the persuasion of the decision that comes out of a ruling. To address the issue of wrongful convictions due to lack of jury diversity, societal and legal reforms must be looked into to prevent the cases of wrongful conviction to further become higher or even resolve them after they are said and done.

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Wrongful conviction due to lack of jury diversity is one of the least common things that come to one's head when they imagine what is going on in a court case. The lack of awareness of it is why it is a frequent issue that continues to occur today. For example, connecting to a real world scenario would be what Confrontation on the Bridge by Jacob Lawrence depicts, the root causes of a serious situation are never truly looked into until it is too late and even in some cases, not looked into at all similarly like wrongful convictions. It is not common that people acknowledge the root cause of what the factors contributing to wrongful convictions are, like the lack of jury diversity which is why through legal and societal reforms is the most effective way to approach wrongful convictions due to lack of jury diversity regardless of how early on or late it is caught.
   What goes on in a prosecution decision is mostly to all based on what the jurors have to say. A jurors job is to come to the most reasonable decision that will help the case that they are dealing with to the best of their ability to ensure equal outcomes. Though in most cases, bias can become a majoring factor whether it is from a juror with a certain religious belief or political belief. The decision all comes down to what the majority says even if it may not be the best decision. Bias in juror decision has been proven to play a significant role in the ruling of a case which can be tied to a wrong or, not as correct decision that can result in a wrongful decision depending on the case, even a conviction.
   Peremptory challenges, the exclusion of a potential juror without a probable cause is a concerning issue that has no law prohibiting it as of right now. Due to there being no law that prevents peremptory challenges from being exercised, potential jurors that can be more than qualified are being denied from helping with a case. The impact of peremptory challenges can have a long lasting effect on the defendant when it may deal with a conviction and or sentencing. With a jury composed of a particular makeup, this creates the chances of an equal court case ruling from happening. If a jury is not diverse enough, then the chances of the case going fair and equal without a reopening is very low. The ruling of a case all comes down to what a jury has to say, what the jury has to say is a big part of a court case ruling, regardless of one's prior experience of being a juror or not, they can be denied without a reasonable cause at all times.
   The rates of wrongful conviction due to lack of jury diversity continue to skyrocket. The main issue being that it has not been addressed and if i t has been addressed, that it is not being handled or dealt with properly. If this issue is addressed, the likelihood of wrongful convictions due to lack of jury diversity can easily be resolved. Though it may not be easy, efforts throughout the years have made the rates of wrongful convictions due to lack of jury diversity to essentially decrease with the timeline between a weeks, months, or even years. Rates only continue to increase if no action is taken towards stopping them from occurring, by addressing this issue, it will essentially lower the likelihood of wrongful convictions.
   With that being said, the most effective solution to address wrongful convictions due to lack of jury diversity is legal and societal reforms which must be taken into account for. Societal reforms like the innocence project have worked towards exonerating cases of wrongful convictions simply because there has been nothing put into place to help. By enforcing laws that can make sure that evidence is looked over properly with the right people using their persuasion for a court case, this can ensure fair and equal treatments and odds for the defendant before they are wrongfully convicted if that is the case.

The Nursing Shortage

5/23/2024

By Leila M

Abstract
The nursing shortage is a major problem that exists globally. Many people are unaware of how widespread this shortage actually is. Hospitals are not able to function efficiently because of the lack of workers to perform necessary procedures and tasks that many patients are in need of. This problem has existed for many years and grows increasingly worse. It is urgent that a solution needs to be implemented to help this crisis. There are many things that contribute to this issue including the hostile working conditions which make it impossible for nurses to be able to perform to their full potential when they are not properly equipped for their job. The workforce being predominantly older has also played a major effect because the retirement rate is higher than the younger workers joining the workforce. Nurses also have an unprofessionally low salary which makes this profession extremely unappealing. By increasing education that is taught throughout nursing school, they can be equipped to tackle all these challenges and bring new people into the profession. More opportunities are also available and with more experience it enhances their quality of skill.

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The nursing shortage is one of the most frequent examples of institutional corruption. Following this theme, Franklin D. Roosevelt's speech exemplifies the great challenges of fixing the turmoil in the country that was caused by corrupt institutions. Simone Biles also offers an example of how being in an institution like this can not only deprive someone of joy and passion but also can exhaust their mental health to the point where Biles dropped out of the Olympics altogether. Focusing on this theme, the nursing sector has shown many aspects of what a corrupt institution can cause including poor working conditions, uneven age distribution, and unfair salaries. This problem has grown widespread and the numbers of struggling hospitals is only increasing. Increasing nursing education is the best possible solution because it provides nurses with advanced skills, attracts younger individuals to the profession, and offers opportunities for career advancement.

Focusing on the root causes of working conditions, age, and salary, all of these show why this issue has become so prevalent. Starting with working conditions, studies have shown that nursing students are often uninformed of the rigorous aspects of the professional reality of the job. Especially during the pandemic, the profession had been glorified to them which left many burnt out and completely unprepared. There is also a big gap in age and most of the current day nurses are in their 50s which is making this shortage worse because more nurses are retiring then entering the profession. Not only is age a big problem, but the salary does not align with the amount of time and effort put into being a nurse. This has turned people away from this role and to other professions in this area such as traveling nurses or even going further to become physicians. Therefore there is a large demand for bedside nurses that is not being fulfilled.

Increasing nursing education is the best solution because it equips nurses with advanced skills, attracts younger workers, and it opens up opportunities for career advancement. Being a great nurse all starts with how they receive education. If they are focusing on managing skills that they will need continuously throughout their career, they have a higher chance of being successful in their work. By equipping nurses with the right skills they are less likely to be burnt out since they know how to handle upcoming challenges. Younger students who are looking for jobs will often join programs that seem the most appealing to them. If these programs are expanded to cater more to a younger audience, there will be more younger aspiring nurses willing to join. If these programs focus on the reality of being a nurse and the skills they will need, younger nurses will be more likely to survive the first few years and continue that as a career. Opening up more career opportunities can also provide the benefit for more advanced nurses and healthcare professionals to teach upcoming generations the skills that they found most helpful.

All this being said there are still some things that will always be a limitation regarding education. It will take a tremendous amount of time, money, and effort from both students and schools who are looking to implement this solution. However it is possible to receive this funding by forming partnerships with other colleges and organizations and this program in the end will be proven beneficial in making the profession a healthier and more appealing environment to nurses all over the world. With the help of educational institutions such as colleges, universities, and vocational schools this can reshape the profession to be one step ahead for nurses and patients.

Eating Disorders in Adolescent Females in the United States

5/23/2024

By Eleni K

Abstract
Eating disorders in adolescents women is an issue in the United States which affects many younger girls. This paper views the impact and causes of eating disorders by the sociocultural, psychological, and environmental lenses. To provide a better view of this issue this article talks about how the fashion industry plays a role in the development of an eating disorder, how self esteem is related to eating disorders, and how parent association is important. As this is a recurring problem family and individual based therapy session were considered to be one of the most effective solution

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Summary:
Eating disorders in adolescents are often caused by the promotion of a body type which is not ideal and not achievable by most people. This body type is often promoted by the fashion industry by using models who are said to be in better shape for better sales on products. What it really does is create girls to want to follow the thin ideal being promoted.

A cause and a common outcome of an eating disorder in an adolescent is low self esteem. With the thin ideal that is promoted girls become insecure of their body and their value of their body goes very low. Adolescents believe that their body is not good enough which causes them to want to lose weight which leads to an eating disorder.

Adolescents who tend to have parents who are not as involved in their life have a higher chance for the development of an eating disorder. This is caused by lack of trust, no communication, and often a feeling of isolation. Patients with non involved parents can develop alexithymia which is the feeling that an individual can not express their feelings. Overall lack of parents association leads to the lack of being able to express feelings.

As eating disorders in adolescent girls has been a problem over many years there still is not an effective way to solve this issue. It was found that Family and Individual based therapy sessions would be one of the most effective solutions. Two options are provided, family or individual to give the patient the most comfortable options. What this would do is give parents a better understanding, allow parents to be involved with the treatment, and knowing someone is capable of getting treatment on their own.

May 23rd, 2024

5/23/2024

The Systemic Oppression of Women in Palestine

5/23/2024

By Kiera H.

Abstract:
The Palestinian government fails to support an entire group of people in its country. The systemic oppression of women in Palestine is a huge problem. Being a female in Palestine immediately lessens the value of life, due to patriarchal norms that deem women inferior. This paper highlights the political, social and educational lenses of Palestinian women's struggles, while also recognizing the men, women, and governments viewpoints. It also goes over the benefits of political participation and legal reforms, which showed the most effectiveness in addressing Palestinian women's systemic oppression.

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Summary:

Women in Palestine are treated differently in society due to traditional patriarchal systems that are still present. Palestinian society is biased against women, holding them back. For example, women being immediately subjected into a family life can restrict them from accomplishing other goals. Palestine is not recognizing women in modern times, and since women are traditionally seen as household figures, concerns of the state also commonly disclude them. Women’s social status in Palestine is poor and needs to be updated.

Women in Palestine’s right to education is commonly interfered with by suppressing factors. Women pursuing academic careers in Palestine can be faced with burdens such as arranged marriage, causing them to drop out of school, and have much lower chances of going to after graduate programs like college. Since education is such a valuable asset to have in life, fair and equal access is extremely important.

Government has a significant impact on people’s everyday life, therefore it needs to be strong. The Palestinian government has a much larger ratio of men than women in office due to the many more challenges women must face before getting there. Having a majority ruling government of men has shown to have negative effects on women's lifestyle and rights in Palestine. In order for changes to take place, there must be a reframing of the Palestinian law system.

Political participation and legal reforms are necessary factors for improving women's lives in Palestine. When women are able to possess decision-making power in a country, its citizens enjoy a better quality of life, more women will be recognized by the state, and it will help with the law system and decrease domestic violence. With such an undiverse political force, women are being underrepresented. Women in politics will enhance life for citizens by adding new perspectives. Women's representation in politics will also create a spotlight for the everyday struggles they face in Palestine. The government has potential to grow with women's help. A better future for Palestinian women will begin with this solution, and it is necessary to be organized as soon as possible.

Combating Poor Walkability: How Form-Based Codes ProtectCitizens

6/5/2023

By Rebekah S.

Abstract
Though not popular, poor walkability has become a concerning and eventually lethal issue to the U.S. Citizens, especially marginalized individuals. Traditional zoning has proven unjust and unsafe considering zoning's connection with structural racism. Additionally poor walkability has stunted the U.S. economy, causing it to cause more harm in a holistic sense. Walkability discussions have previously centralized around policies and zoning, yet researchers question the credibility of such . Form based codes present as an optimal method to replenish walkability as it allows for the combination of a regulation of the built environment, pedestrian encouragement and further encourages community building. While the new language and gentrification concerns can be a setback, the benefits undeniably outweigh them.

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Often overlooked, poor walkability has become a concerning and increasingly lethal issue
to the U.S. Citizens. Considering the statistics, marginalized persons are widely put at a bigger
disadvantage, with the built environment playing a key role. This article will discuss the
background of poor walkability, considering citizens, economics, and legalities. Additionally, the
most efficient method to diminish poor walkability will be discussed.

Traditional zoning has proven itself as harmful to these citizens, especially considering its
history of structural/environmental racism. The effect that this has on young children and
adolescents should be considered as well. Safety is an important part of walkability.
Disadvantaged individuals are left in a compromising cycle of being stunted progression due to
this issue. Poor walkability is actually worse for the economy. By recognizing the issue and
solving it, it can lead to a better transport system. The perception of suburbia can be harmful,
especially in means of poor walkability and car dependency. Researchers continue to debate if
legal policy is the best way to address walkability, with concerns of past discriminatory zoning
and suggested alternatives.

Form based codes have primarily proved themselves as the most effective solution as
they regulate the built environment and encourage pedestrianism. Additionally they work to
improve communities at the benefit of disadvantaged communities. This allows for closer
destinations and diverse citizens. Specific regulation can be efficient if done correctly. U.S.
Governments have already started commending it, further allowing for community improvement.
While the new language and gentrification concerns can be a setback, the benefits undeniably
outweigh them.

Christian Persecution in the Middle East

5/23/2023

Youstina N.

Abstract: Christian persecution in the Middle East is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted solution. International pressure and violent harassment are major causes and impacts of this persecution. Social media emerges as the most effective solution, allowing for the exposure of religious persecution and raising awareness. It can also lead to the implementation of laws to protect against further persecution. Social media builds relationships, protects vulnerable communities, and encourages high-level acts of unity. While there may be limitations, such as misinformation and limited access, social media remains a powerful tool to address Christian persecution in the Middle East.

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Summary: Overcoming adversity through the persecution of Christians by terrorist groups is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted solution. Nelson Mandela's example of gaining freedom through struggle emphasizes the importance of courage and sacrifice (Mandela 13). Similarly, forest fires in California, as highlighted by Rahill and Guitele, symbolize overcoming adversity in uncontrollable situations (Rahill). These examples illustrate the theme of overcoming adversity in challenging circumstances. Haider Huma, a Director of Education and Research, sheds light on the decline of Christians in the Middle East due to violence, with their population now constituting only 3-4% of the region (Haider 17). The Guardian addresses the persecution faced by millions of Christians in the Middle East, including displacement, imprisonment, and discrimination (The Guardian).

To effectively address Christian persecution in the Middle East, it is essential to consider technological, social and cultural, political, and legal causes, impacts, and potential solutions. International pressure plays a crucial role in reducing Christian persecution. ISIS, a serious security threat, aims to solidify and expand its control through strict interpretation and criminal activities (Beccaro 3-8). Social hostility and terrorist violence affect religious groups in many countries, leading to injuries, deaths, and displacements (Casper 3). Raising awareness, diplomatic pressure, and legal frameworks can protect the rights of Christians and promote religious freedom (Chow 12).

Pontification and violent harassment are key challenges faced by Christians in the Middle East. Christians are killed for their faith, and religious conversion is enforced through extreme measures (Jasper 4-7). ISIS alienates Christians, confiscating their properties and means of livelihood (Garcia-Navarro 1-2). Historical impositions, such as paying taxes and wearing distinctive dress, limit religious, political, and economic freedoms (LeMasters 5).

The most effective solution to address Christian persecution is social media. Social media platforms provide a means for users to build relationships, protect vulnerable communities, and encourage high-level acts of unity. By raising awareness and educating others, social media empowers Christians and informs communities about the struggles of persecuted minorities (Soliman 2). Advocacy on social media can integrate into larger organizational goals and contribute to political commentary and accountability (Soliman 28). The U.S. Department of State emphasizes that social media can urge respect for religious freedom and promote changes in laws regulating religious practice (U.S Department of State 3).
However, there are limitations to relying solely on social media. The truth can be manipulated, posts go unchecked, and not everyone has access to social media (Open Doors Youth). Nevertheless, social media remains an effective tool for political activism and global citizenship (BBC Future). Despite the challenges, fighting for freedom and using social media as a means to expose religious persecution and raise awareness is crucial.

In conclusion, the persecution of Christians in the Middle East is a distressing issue that requires comprehensive solutions. Social media emerges as the most effective solution, allowing for the building of relationships, protection of vulnerable communities, and encouragement of high-level acts of unity. By leveraging social media, Christians can raise awareness, advocate for their rights, and catalyze legal measures to protect against further religious persecution.

The DREAM Act Solving Mexican Immigrant Employment

5/23/2023

Pragati J.

Abstract: Employment opportunities continue to be limited for Mexican immigrants. This paper analyzes the responsibility of the government to provide for Mexican immigrants coming into the U.S., concluding that the government has yet to enforce effective action. Considering that wages are inadequate for the limited employment Mexican Immigrants receive, employers should be held more accountable. It is shown that the underlying cause for inadequate employment opportunities stems from a lack of credentials from higher education. This paper highlights that passing and enforcing the DREAM Act is the most effective solution, as it allows for Mexican Immigrants to pay for higher education allowing them the credentials to appeal to employers. In addition, the DREAM Act allows immigrants to be eligible for legal residence, amplifying their appeal to employers. This paper further analyzes why the DREAM Act is effective because of its success in the House of Representatives and its open opportunities for young immigrants.

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Summary: Eligibility to quality employment continues to be a struggle for Mexican immigrants. With immigration on the rise, more Mexican immigrants come into the U.S. seeking new opportunities to provide for themselves and their families. However, with little to no money, these Mexican immigrants are unable to build the resources they need for employment. Passing and enforcing the DREAM Act will open more employment opportunities for Mexican immigrants.

As Mexican immigrants come into the U.S. they fall under the responsibility of the United States government. Experts have concluded that the government must enforce more action to aid Mexican immigrants specifically in the area of employment. Past action conducted by the U.S. government has reduced instead of improved employment opportunities. Especially since many undocumented immigrants are excluded from government assistance programs, it becomes urgent for the government to formulate effective action.

The limited employment opportunities which Mexican immigrants are eligible for, usually do not pay what that job is worth. Many Mexican immigrants looking for employment, are desperate and will work even if the pay is low. This is shocking, considering their immense contribution to the economy.

One of the main contributors to the lack of employment opportunities for Mexican immigrants is the employers. These employers often hold high standards which immigrants lack the qualifications to meet. Employers will also avoid hiring undocumented Mexican immigrants, in fear of getting in trouble with the law.

The DREAM Act allows Mexican immigrants the ability to pay for higher education and revive credentials that appeal to employers when hiring. The DREAM Act also provides temporary and permanent residence, allowing immigrants legal status. This bipartisan legislation has been passed in the House of Representatives but has yet to pass in the Senate.

The main barrier to Mexican immigrants attending high education is the cost. With the DREAM Act, states can give immigrants the price of in-state tuition. Without the DREAM Act, states would face a penalty for providing in-state tuition to immigrants.

Many of the Mexican immigrants that come into the U.S. do so at a young age. When they arrived they take on the status of their parents, which is generally ‘undocumented’ denying them the opportunities available in the United States. The DREAM Act provides young immigrants with legal status.

The DREAM Act provides Mexican immigrants the qualifications they need to be successful in the United States and should therefore be passed and enforced.

North Weymouth Compressor Station Proximity in Relation to Residential Cardiopulmonary Health in the Fore River Basin Area

5/22/2023

Jarard R.

Abstract: In the United States, the natural gas industry continues to expand as the country switches
from coal to natural gas as its main source for electricity generation. As the need for natural gas
rises, the infrastructure required to collect and deliver natural gas has begun to increase. This
includes the building of new pipelines and compressor stations. One of these newer pipelines
travels through the South Shore of Massachusetts, where a compressor station was also recently
built in the town of Weymouth. Due to the negative implications of compressor stations releasing
toxic pollutants that contribute to air pollution, it is of great concern for Weymouth residents as
well as other surrounding towns. The presented study thus looks at the negative health effects the
compressor station may have on residents, asking the question, “Since its opening in January of
2021, how has the North Weymouth Compressor Station Affected surrounding residential
cardiopulmonary health through its influence over air quality?”. With almost no research that
pertains to proximities to compressor stations and human health in the academic literature, the
study plans to address this gap through the use of a non-experimental correlational analysis that
looks at proximity and occurrence of cardiopulmonary diseases.

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