bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contextual Nature of Critical Care Judgment
Authors: Goldman Gilbert M. , Ravindranath Thyyar M.
Published: November 2015

Critical care decision-making involves principles common to all medical decision-making. However, critical care is a remarkably distinctive form of clinical practice and therefore it may be useful to distinguish those elements particularly important or unique to ICU decision-making. The peculiar contextuality of critical care decision-making may be the best example of these elements. If so, attempts to improve our understanding of ICU decision-making may benefit from a formal analysis of its remarkable contextual nature. Four key elements of the context of critical care decisions can be identified: (1) costs, (2) time constraints, (3) the uncertain status of much clinical data, and (4) the continually changing environment of the ICU setting. These 4 elements comprise the context for the practice of clinical judgment in the ICU. The fact that intensivists are severely constrained by teh context of each case has important ramifications both for practice and for retrospective review. During retrospective review, the contextual nature of ICU judgment may be unfairly neglected by ignoring one or more of the key elements. Such neglect can be avoided if intensivists demand empathetic evaluation from reviewers.
Percutaneous Abscess Drainage: Current Applications for Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Oglevie Steven B. , Casola Giovanna , van Sonnenberg Eric , D'Agostino Horacio B. , OLaoide Risteård , Fundell Lawrence
Published: November 2015

Radiologically guided percutaneous abscess drainage (PAD) was first reported in 1977. Since this time, technological advances in imaging, improved catheter technology, and increased experience with the procedure have resulted in a tremendous expansion of the indications for PAD. This procedure currently has applications in nearly every organ system of the body. These changes have also contributed to improved success rates, with concurrent minimization of procedure-related complications. The advantages of PAD include simple, rapid performance; feasibility of bedside intensive care unit (ICU) performance; safety; avoidance of general anesthesia; and well-documented efficacy. This procedure has now become well entrenched in clinical medicine and probably ranks with the development of effective antibiotics as the most significant improvement in the treatment of abscesses in the past century. PAD is ideally suited for the treatment of critically ill ICU patients. We discuss technical developments over the past 15 years; general principles of patient preparation and catheters are also reviewed. Current applications of PAD in each organ system are discussed.
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy for Critically Ill Patients: An Update
Authors: van Bommel Eric F. H. , Leunissen Karel M. L. , Weimar Willem
Published: November 2015

van Bommel EFH, Leunissen KML, Weimar W. Continuous renal replacement therapy for critically ill patients: an update. J Intensive Care Med 1994; 9: 265–280.

Despite continuous progress in intensive care during the last decades, the outcome of critically ill patients in whom acute renal failure (ARF) develops is still poor. This outcome may be explained partially by the frequent occurrence of ARF as part of multiple organ systems failure (MOSF). In this complex and unstable patient population, the provision of adequate renal support with either intermittent hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis may pose major problems. Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is now increasingly accepted as the preferred treatment modality in the management of ARF in these patients. The technique offers adequate control of biochemistry and fluid balance in hemodynamically unstable patients, thereby enabling aggressive nutritional and inotropic support without the risk of exacerbating azotemia or fluid overload. In addition, experimental and clinical data suggest that CRRT may have a beneficial influence on hemodynamics and gas exchange in patients with septic shock and (nonrenal) MOSF, independent of an impact on fluid balance. We review both technical and clinical aspects of various continuous therapies, including their impact on serum drug levels and nutrient balance. In addition, an attempt is made to clarify the possible beneficial role of CRRT in reducing patient morbidity and mortality in the ICU.
Current Concepts in Splenic Trauma
Authors: Dupuy Damian E. , Raptopoulos Vassilios , Fink Mitchell P.
Published: November 2015

Despite its protected location inside the rib cage, the spleen remains the most commonly injured organ after blunt abdominal trauma. The clinical decision-making process of splenic injury management continues to evolve due to improvements in surgical technique and noninvasive assessment. Splenic preservation techniques and splenic injury grading systems using computerized tomography were developed due to an increased understanding of the spleen's importance in the body's immunological defense system and awareness of the spleen's resiliency after injury. The concept of splenic salvage using splenorrhaphy and nonoperative management was initially applied to the pediatric population during the 1970s, with great success. Application of splenic salvage to hemodynamically stable adult patients with known or unknown splenic injury has demonstrated that adults can be less predictable in their clinical course. Despite the rigorous attention splenic trauma has received, it remains a controversial subject in the surgical and the radiological literature.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Smoke Inhalation
Authors: Pruitt Basil A. , Cioffi William G.
Published: November 2015

Inhalation remains the most frequent and serious comorbid event that occurs in thermally injured patients. A thorough understanding of the pathophysiology enables individualization of therapy and appropriate triage of patients. We summarize our current knowledge of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of inhalation injury, with a focus on newer treatment strategies that are evolving secondary to laboratory research.
The Role of Angioplasty in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Rose Geoffrey A. , O'Gara Patrick T.
Published: November 2015

The role of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in the management of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has not yet been precisely defined. The longest experience with PTCA in this setting has been in patients who are not candidates for thrombolytic therapy and in patients in whom thrombolysis has failed. Clinical interest has recently focused on direct use of PTCA (instead of thrombloysis) as the initial approach to reperfusion in AMI. We review the conceptual bases for both thrombolytic therapy and PTCA in AMI, and we then detail the clinical experience with PTCA in a variety of patient populations with AMI to guide use of both therapies in this setting.
Admission to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for Bacterial Meningitis: Review of 168 Cases
Authors: Tucci Marisa , Lebel Marc H. , Gauthier Marie , Farrell Catherine A. , Lacroix Jacques
Published: November 2015

We performed a retrospective analysis of the charts of 168 patients (1 week to 17 years of age) admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with bacterial meningitis over an 11-year period (1980–1990) to delineate clinical characteristics and outcome. The four major reasons for PICU admission were an altered level of consciousness (70%), hemodynamic instability (33%), seizures (13%), and apnea (7%). Many children had more than one reason for admission to the PICU. The pathogens identified included Haemophilus influenzae type b in 71 (42%) patients, Neisseria meningitidis in 33 (20%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (SP) in 23 (14%), Group B Streptococcus (GBS) in 18 (11%), Escherichia coli in 7 (4%), and others in 7 (4%). Overall mortality was 13% (22 of 168); most deaths (12/22) occurred within 24 hours of admission. The highest mortality rate was associated with GBS meningitis (39%). Average duration of stay in the PICU was 2.9 days. Complications in the PICU included seizures (32%), hemodynamic instability (23%), hyponatremia (21%), syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (13%), disseminated intravascular coagulation (12%), and hypernatremia (6%). Ninety-five percent (138/146) of the survivors were evaluated between 1 month and 1 year after discharge: 79% had no significant neurological sequelae, 14% had mild sequelae, and 7% remained with major neurological sequelae. Moderate or severe hearing deficits were detected in 13% of those evaluated (13 of 102). Patients with SP and GBS meningitis had the highest incidence of complications, sequelae, and mortality. The majority of deaths due to bacterial meningitis, in a PICU, occur early, seem unavoidable, and result from neurological or hemodynamic dysfunction. The fact that the majority of survivors have a normal outcome despite a complicated course favors provision of close surveillance and aggressive management in a PICU setting.
Sedation and Analgesia for Children in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Tobias Joseph D.
Published: November 2015

Several situations arise in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) patient which may require the pharmacologic control of pain and anxiety. The author discusses the various pharmacologic agents available for sedation and analgesia including the inhalational anesthetic agents, nitrous oxide, benzodiasepines, opioids, ketamine, propofol, and the barbiturates. While intravenous administration is generally chosen for the PICU patient, certain situations may arise which preclude this route. The available information concerning alternative routes of delivery for the various agents including subcutaneous and transmucosal administration is presented. The role of various regional anesthetic techniques to control pain in the PICU patient are reviewed.
Late Hemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn: A Fatal Presentation of Hepatobiliary Disease Masquerading as Shaken Baby Syndrome
Authors: Shemie Sam , Cutz Ernest
Published: November 2015

Late hemorrhagic disease of newborns classically presents with intracranial hemorrhage in breast-fed infants who have not received vitamin K prophylaxis. We report a fatal case of vitamin K-deficient coagulopathy in a formula-fed infant who received parenteral vitamin K. This catastrophic presentation, initially mistaken for child abuse because of the associated retinal hemorrhages, revealed a previously unrecognized hepatobiliary disease. Infants presenting with intracranial hemorrhage and coagulopathy with a history of parenteral vitamin K prophylaxis should undergo appropriate investigation to rule out underlying liver pathology.
pH-associated Brain Injury in Cerebral Ischemia and Circulatory Arrest
Authors: Hum Patricia D. , Traystman Richard J.
Published: November 2015

Neuronal injury remains a major limitation in therapies directed toward cardiopulmonary resuscitation and cerebral ischemia. We summarize clinical and experimental information regarding pH-modulated mechanisms of cerebral ischemic injury and the status of antiacidosis therapies relative to the brain. A large body of evidence in animals and humans indicates that cerebral pH can modulate, and perhaps mediate, ischemic brain pathology and influence functional outcome. The importance of low pH and brain bicarbonate levels during reperfusion as a secondary injury remains an open question of therapeutic importance. Under specific conditions, acidosis may be neuroprotective, but this is an area of current controversy. Effective antiacidosis therapy must address the possibility of synergism and competition among multiple injury mechanisms.
Energy Needs Are Poorly Predicted in Critically Ill Elderly
Authors: Sheridan R. , Prelack K. , Yin L. , Riggi Vincent
Published: November 2015

Changes in energy expenditure with age have been described, but this physiology is not routinely considered when managing critically ill elderly patients. To allow us to avoid the potential problems associated with underfeeding or overfeeding the critically ill elderly population, with approval of the human studies committee and appropriate consent from legal guardians, 25 critically ill patients over 65 years of age requiring mechanical ventilation underwent expired gas indirect calorimetry. If they had a pulmonary artery catheter in place for clinical reasons, reverse-Fick indirect calorimetry was also performed. Data obtained by indirect calorimetry was compared with commonly applied equations for predicting energy expenditure by statistical methods of correlation and limits of agreement. These 25 patients had an average age of 74 ± 1.23 (standard error of the mean) and an average APACHE II score of 15. Predictive equations correlated poorly with measured resting energy expenditure, and although they showed reasonable bias, they were imprecise in their estimation of resting energy expenditure. These data suggest that energy expenditure in critically ill, mechanically ventilated elderly patients is highly variable. Although generally overestimating energy needs, currently available equations for predicting energy expenditure in this population are associated with significant bias and imprecision, which may lead to both overfeeding and underfeeding. Although these equations may be suitable as a basis of initiating nutritional support, energy provisions should ideally be guided by indirect calorimetry.
Opioid Withdrawal Presenting as Stridor
Authors: Tobias Joseph D.
Published: November 2015

Following the prolonged administration of opioids for sedation in the PICU, tolerance and physical dependency may occur. In patients who have become tolerant, physical signs of withdrawal may occur when these agents are discontinued. The actual signs and symptoms of withdrawal vary from patient to patient, but the majority of the literature documents problems such as hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system included tachycardia, hypertension, diaphoresis, and tremulousness. The author presents two patients who developed symptoms of upper airway obstruction, including stridor, as the major manifestation of opioid withdrawal. Operative inspection of the airway with rigid bronchoscopy and direct laryngoscopy demonstrated no airway abnormalities. Reinstitution of opioid therapy resulted in a prompt resolution of symptoms and a more gradual tapering of the opioid dose prevented recurrence of the problem.
What is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome?
Authors: Moss Marc , Parsons Polly E.
Published: November 2015

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a form of acute lung injury which usually occurs within 24 hours of a major illness or injury. Unfortunately a clear definition of ARDS does not presently exist, and the variability in the diagnostic criteria may impact on the results of clinical trials for ARDS and our understanding of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of this syndrome. In this article the history of ARDS is reviewed and a few of the definitions that have evolved over wtime are explored in depth. In addition, several controversies with these existing defiitions are discussed.
Percutaneous Cholecystectomy in the Intensive Care Patient
Authors: Mcgahan John P.
Published: November 2015

The diagnosis of acute cholecystitis in the intensive care patient is often problematic. While most patients with acute cholecystitis present with fever, increased white count, or symptomatology pertaining to the gallbladder, occasionally these patients may be comatose and often present a diagnostic dilemma. Surgical cholecystectomy is the treatment of choice for acute cholecystitis, but this therapy carries with it a high mortality rate in the desperately ill patient. Thus surgical cholecystostomy has been advocated as a temporizing procedure to be performed until these patients stabilize. More recently percutaneous cholecystostomy, performed at the patient's bedside under ultrasound guidance, has been successfully performed using small-size catheters. This is a low-risk temporizing procedure when performed by well-trained personnel. In fact, percutaneous cholecystostomy has been shown to be a definitive treatment in patients with acute acalculous cholecystitis. Patients with calculous cholecystitis may require more definitive therapy, such as cholecystectomy. Presented is a review of the development and the current applications of percutaneous cholecystostomy in intensive care patients with suspected acute cholecystitis.
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Kaplan Andre A.
Published: November 2015

This review is specifically designed to address the topic of CRRT based on the needs and interests of intensivists. Some of the materials, concepts, and formulas presented in this review have been drawn from a previous chapter authored by myself and intended for individuals whose primary interest is specifically dialysis[1]. Since this previous chapter was authored in 1994, similar material presented in this review has been updated in order to present the most current information.
The Role of Echocardiography in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Foster Elyse , Nanevicz Tania
Published: November 2015

The indications for echocardiography in the setting of acute myocardial infarction are to identify wall motion abnormalities, to evaluate left and right ventricular function, and to exclude complications such as pericarditis, mitral regurgitation, and ventricular rupture. Doppler echocardiography can provide important hemodynamic information. In the near future, contrast echocardiography can be expected to delineate myocardial perfusion and three-dimensional echocardiography to better define infarct size.
Imaging Evaluation of Pediatric Extremity Trauma, Part I: Injury Patterns in the Immature Skeleton and Imaging Modalities
Authors: John Susan D. , Phillips William A.
Published: November 2015

The injury patterns encountered in the extremities of infants and children differ from those seen in adults, predominantly due to significant differences in the composition and structure of the immature skeleton. A variety of fractures occur that are unique to children, and some of them tend to be subtle and easily overlooked. Plain radiographs remain an essential tool for the detection and management of such injuries. In addition, a variety of imaging modalities are available (e.g., CT, MRI, ultrasound) that provide additional information about musculoskeletal injuries which can be helpful in selected cases. This article presents the different types of injuries that can be expected in pediatric extremity trauma and discusses methods to improve detection on plain radiographs. The relative value and indications of other imaging modalities are also discussed.
Imaging Evaluation of Pediatric Extremity Trauma, Part II: Upper Extremity
Authors: John Susan D. , Phillips William A.
Published: November 2015

The upper extremity is the most common site for extremity injuries in pediatric patients. The majority of these fractures occur at the wrist and are caused by a fall on an outstretched arm. Elbow fractures are less common and are frequently difficult to detect. The complexity of the elbow joint results in different types of fractures than tend to be seen in other long bones, and knowledge of the mechanism of injury is helpful in this location. This article reviews the common injuries that occur in the upper extremity in children, and emphasizes imaging techniques to optimize detection of subtle injuries.
A Review of the Role of Blood Lactate Measurements in the ICU
Authors: Singarajah Clement , Carlson Richard W.
Published: November 2015

The production of hyperlactatemia in the critically ill patient has previously been thought to be primarily related to anaerobic conditions. Newer data suggests that lactate accumulates under aerobic conditions in clinical settings that were previously thought to solely represent anaerobic processes. This review summarizes the present understanding of lactate metabolism and reviews the data supporting use of lactate determinations in the critical care setting. The use of lactate as a marker of inadequate tissue perfusion as well as its role as a prognostic indicator are discussed. The utility of managing lactic acidosis with various buffers is also reviewed.
Device-Related Thrombosis in Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Support
Authors: Doligalski Christina Teeter , Jennings Douglas L.
Published: November 2015

Advanced heart failure therapy has been revolutionized with the advent of continuous-flow ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs) which have improved both survival and quality of life. Despite this, support with CF-LVADs is frequently complicated, with 70% of recipients experiencing a major complication in the first year of durable support. The most concerning of these complications to emerge is device-related thrombosis, which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Pathophysiology and diagnosis are multifaceted and complex, with pump-specific and patient-specific factors to be considered. Incidence estimates are evolving with increases seen in the past 2 years compared with earlier implant data. Evidence for treatment is limited to case series and reports, which are subject to significant publication bias. Finally, appropriate primary and secondary prophylaxis is imprecise with multiple antiplatelet and antithrombotic strategies described. This review seeks to summarize the current literature surrounding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of thrombosis in CF-LVAD recipients.
Fundamentals of Controlled Clinical Trials and Basic Evaluation Techniques
Authors: Kendrach Michael G. , Anderson H. Glenn
Published: November 2015

Controlled clinical trials (CCTs) are needed to determine if a difference is present between two or more interventions (e.g, medication versus placebo). Most biomedical journals require an author to conform to a standarized format to report a CCT. The preparation of the manuscript according to this manner increases the readability and comprehension plus enables the readers to quickly locate pertinent information. Although guidelines have been developed to prepare and report CCTs, limitations are present and errors do occur; no study design and author'S description is perfect. Thus, a CCT should be critiqued using literature analysis skills to identify study strengths and limitations that should be considered in interpreting the overall meaning of the trial. Furthermore, results of more than one CCT should be analyzed before changing practice habits since no one study answers all of the questions and addresses all the issues.
Hematogenous Candidiasis in Critically Ill Adult Patients: Epidemiology, Risk Factors and Management
Authors: Papadopoulos John
Published: November 2015

Hematogenous candidiasis is a life-threatening infection that occurs in critically ill patients. The incidence has increased dramatically over the past decade and Candida species are currently the fourth most common organism recovered from blood cultures in hospitalized patients. Numerous risk factors have been identified that predispose a patient to the development of hematogenous candidiasis. Diagnosis is often difficult in the clinical setting. Pharmacologic options for the management of hematogenous candidiasis includes amphotericin B, fluconazole, and flucytosine. Evidence from clinical trials indicate that fluconazole is as effective and better tolerated than amphotericin B for the management of hematogenous candidiasis in critically ill patients.
Detection of New Adverse Drug Reactions, 4th Edition
Authors: O'Donnell James
Published: November 2015

Stephens MDB, Talbot JCC and Routledge, PA, editors 1998 MacMillanReference Ltd London, New York Number of Pages: 546, including 6 appendices.
Effectiveness of Ginkgo Biloba in Memory Disorders
Authors: Massey Angela J.
Published: November 2015

Numerous trials have been conducted evaluating the efficacy of ginkgo biloba in memory disorders. The active constituents of ginkgo biloba are antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, which have been implicated in the pathogenesis of memory disorders. These studies suggest that ginkgo biloba in doses up to 120 mg/day when taken for 2 years may halt the progression of the disease for at least six months. The biggest concern of using ginkgo biloba is associated with its effects on platelet activating factor, which may result in bleeding disorders. Additional studies are needed to evaluate ginkgo biloba in combination with other medications.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Strategies for Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Carlstedt Bruce C. , Stanaszek Walter F.
Published: November 2015

Historically, treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been conservative and symptom or patient-complaint oriented. Newer approaches use disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), sometimes known as slow-acting antirheumatic drugs (SAARDs), to slow the progression of the disease earlier in its course. Some of these drugs may be used as initial therapy and some may be used in combinations to reduce the side effects or adverse reactions.
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Baxter Jennifer , Thill Paul
Published: November 2015

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is a common disorder of childhood that can be potentially devastating physically and psychologically. Over the last several decades, therapy for JRA has changed little. Therapy for advanced JRA is based on trial and error due to the lack of significant clinical trials for both old and new pharmaceutical agents. The following article is a brief overview of the disease and a review of the different treatment options available today with a look at some of the future developments in JRA research.
Management of Pancreatitis
Authors: Tofade Toyin
Published: November 2015

Acute pancreatitis can be mild or severe. Identifying causes helps in preventing recurrent episodes, management of complications, treatment of the underlying disorder, and/ or removal of an etiologic agent. Supportive care, pain control, nutrition, and antibiotic use are discussed. Overall, the goal is to prevent and minimize complications and reduce mortality. Chronic pancreatitis is complex, and the etiology of the abdominal pain is multifactorial. The goal is to eliminate causes and treat underlying disorders that may contribute to the inflammatory process. Management of pain, pancreatic insufficiency, and complications is essential. If medical management is not successful, surgical options should be considered.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Current Pharmacotherapy Issues
Authors: Boger M. Sean , Raasch Ralph H.
Published: November 2015

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes two idiopathic syndromes, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. In ulcerative colitis, inflammation is limited to the colonic mucosa and submucosa. Crohn's disease may, however, involve the small intestine, all bowel wall layers, and the upper gastrointestinal tract. Because health-related quality of life is significantly impaired during active disease, pharmaceutical care. is important in patient management. Traditional therapy includes 5-aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and antimicrobial therapy. In steroid-resistant active disease, immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, methotrexate) have a role but possess significant toxicity profiles. Current research focuses on the role of inflammatory mediators in IBD. Investigational therapies include monoclonal antibodies to proinflammatory cytokines, inhibitory cytokines, and anti-CD4 monoclonal antibodies.
The Design and Development of the Rover K16 Engine
Authors: Stone R D , Crabb D , Richardson R , Draper A
Published: November 2015

This paper describes the design and construction of the Rover K16 engine and also provides an insight into the development programme that was undertaken in order to ensure that the functional objectives set at its concept were achieved.
CHANGES IN THE STRUCTURE OF PRODUCTION, EMPLOYMENT AND THE POLICIES IN SELECTED ESCAP COUNTRIES
Authors: Yadav Anil K.
Published: November 2015

The basic thrust of the paper is to examine the growth pattern and the changes in the structure of production and employment in some selected countries (China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines and Thailand) belonging to Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). It has been seen that following structural reforms in these economies, these countries have witnessed a substantial improvement in their growth pattern. However, among these selected countries the improvement in growth has been much more in China. Regarding the structure of production, it was seen that the shift in the structure was directly from agriculture sector to the industry (China, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines) and in the other a mixed one, i.e, from agriculture to industry and more to services sector (India, Pakistan and Thailand). The employment structure has also undergone a change but relatively at a slower pace. The group of ESCAP countries under study were forced to go for structural reforms because of a common problem faced by them - resource crunch at various points of time. The main finding of this paper suggests that despite different methodologies used by these countries in the reform of their respective economies, they have been, in some form or the other, beneficiary of the strategy called economic reforms.
Asia and Pacific Growth Springs to Hasten East-West Economic Integration
Authors: Raipuria Kalyan
Published: November 2015

Asia and Pacific region is likely to provide the main growth springs in the global economy. With the state policy and business methods of the West and the East converging, it is no exaggeration to say that the multiplying growth springs of Asia and Pacific will hasten the integration of the East and the West.
Electricity Reforms: A Review
Authors: Ranganathan V.
Published: November 2015

Electicity reform has been on the agenda of many countries in the world today. In India, reforms are driven by the fiscal crunch at the centre and the bankruptcy of the SEBs at the State Level. In the West, reform is a means of introducing competition but in India the end objective has been sidelined. Instead the means have become more prominent viz, privatisation. The article rewiews the electricity reforms in India with comparative references of the West.
Raising Productivity in a Service Organisation: The Role of Pace and Customer Participation
Authors: Singh Rakesh
Published: November 2015

One of the complaints against the service sector is that it is comparatively inefficient and that it yields a lower rate of productivity vis a vis the manufacturing sector. The service providers contend this mainly with the argument that their services are as against products, more 'Person-dominant' and that a significant part of service benefit can never be pre-engineered in the workshop. Often a service is 'produced' in interaction with its customers. By extension, therefore, the burden of raising productivity in service sector is not entirely in the hands of service marketers.

The author, with his views on customized and general management programmes on service and satisfaction, offers a solution towards raising productivity in a service firm. He invokes the concept of pace (speed or time consciousness) and customer participation (or using the customer participation (or using the customer as a fellow producer of the service) and marshals both the forces to enhance the general productivity of the service firm. Several suggestions are made in this respect.
Supercomplan: Five Commandments
Authors: Swaminathan T.N.
Published: November 2015

Supercomplan stands for a time-bound marketing strategy and aims at strengthening brands. It implies taking mid-course corrections, that correspond to the core brand values through a mix of marketing and related activities. Barring single product companies, managers need to take hard look at the product portfolio and determine the brand or the variant that can respond fastest to the crisis.
A DSS for Facility Location
Authors: Datta S.
Published: November 2015

The paper presents a Decision Support System (055) for facility location called LOCATE. The model is transformed into a user-interactive computer programme. The module can generate a number of alternative feasible solutions which can be evaluated by the decision makers in the real situations of planning. The facility could be a school, health centre, post office, warehouse or market centre. The given area could be a village, block or a district. The model utilises the criteria of distance traveled and capacity (total 1111111ber of population served) of each facility so as to find the miinimum number of facilities to be located so that all the population the given area is covered.
Need for an Outsourcing Strategy
Authors: Shirur Srinivas
Published: November 2015

After liberalisation, Indian companies will have to become market driven. Many business houses are restructuring and reengineering their companies. Outsourcing strategy will play a key part in this process and such decisions should be taken from the strategic perspective in order to sustain competitive advantage in dynamic environment. The present study emphasises the key aspect and significant contribution of outsourcing in competitive business environment.
What Human Resource Managers Need to Know in the New Millennium
Authors: Khan DR Sami A.
Published: November 2015

Technological transformation including the IT revolution coupled with globalisation have driven companies to deepen their ·values and relationship with customers. Leadership as n business mantra is being replaced with learning. A new type of organisation has emerged to face these challenges. In this new set up, people management has never before been so significant a function and so central to strategy. The new situation warrant newer set of skills and competencies to be acquired by the HR managers which this paper deals in depth. The author has advocated nine areas that the new age HR manager needs to take care of In the end, the author opines that competence and skills are not enough, it is the attitude of the HR managers that will make them successful in these tumultuous times.
Competitive Intelligence: An Effective War-Game
Authors: Sahaf M.A.
Published: November 2015

To face the challenges of a highly dynamic and increasingly complex competitive environment and to take advantage of emerging opportunities, firms need to possess unprecedented capabilities in understanding and responding to competition. In fact, a firm’s success largely depends on its ability to quickly identify threats and opportunities, respond rapidly to changes in competitors’ strategies and improve the overall effectiveness of the planning process. For this purpose they have to develop detailed information about competitors’ characteristics, activities, costs and strategies. A thorough understanding of the competitive environment enables a marketer not only to identify, but also to act on opportunities. However, to achieve this objective, the information collected is not only to be collated but also the relevance and significance of its each piece needs to be interpreted and analysed. At the same time, firms have to recognise the fact that every competitor has virtually the same access to every information because of advanced technology. Therefore, the marketer’s success depends on his ability to make information work for him - the conversion of information into actionable intelligence. All companies, small or1arge, need to have some form of competitive intelligence activity to help them capture and leverage market knowledge to reduce decision uncertainty surrounding key competitive decisions. Unfortunately, no serious effort in this direction has been made in India in the past. Realising the significance of competitive intelligence, the author makes a modest attempt in this article, to expose the marketers to the nature and scope of this new war-game.
Multilevel - Multidimensional Model of Banking Service Quality
Authors: Aggarwal Navdeep , Gupta Mohit
Published: November 2015

While extensive research has been carried out in the field of service quality, no work is universally acceptable. Further, all the available approaches to determination of service quality are abstract and subjective in nature; consequently of no practical utility to the managers. Keeping this gap in mind, the authors have attempted to develop a model for banking service quality. Specifically, Dabholkar, Thorpe, and Rentz (1996) multilevel - multidimensional model of service quality which presents service quality as consisting of primary and secondary dimensions has been used as the building block for this model. Secondary dimensions were identified using qualitative research and were condensed into primary dimensions using factor analysis. The authors have identified four primary dimensions namely, ‘Service time’, ‘Interaction with bank’s staff, ‘Ambience and infrastructure’, and ‘Services and banking channels.’ Details of these primary dimensions and their managerial implications have been discussed.
Forecast of Indian Automobile Industry Using Mathematical Models
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Singh Balraj
Published: November 2015

New product diffusion forecasting is one of the most important areas for strategic and policy making perspectives. A number of innovation diffusion models are available in the literatures that have been applied to forecast new product diffusion. In this paper production and market forecast of Indian automobile industry (passenger cars, commercial vehicles, three wheelers and two wheelers) is analysed with the help of non-linear innovation diffusion and substitution models. Findings show that India has a growing market for passenger cars and commercial vehicles are showing saturation phase whereas three wheelers are growing marginally. Further, results show that in two wheelers category motorcycles have emerging market substituting scooters and mopeds.
Emerging Microfinance Practices
Authors: Pethiya B.P. , Surayya Teki
Published: November 2015

Poverty in India is one of the persisting problems since long time. Governments have been striving to alleviate poverty. A variety of welfare strategic programs like IRDP have been activated to address the problem. These programs could not attain the desired results effectively. Undeterred by this the Governments quest for alternative endeavors is a continous process. This in turn gave birth to the concept of microfinance with buzzword SHG (Self-Help Groups) emerging since late 80’s. This evolution has been proving to be result oriented and effective. The people living below poverty line usually need small financial assistance for subsistence, health etc. Major sources available for financing these needs includes moneylender/landlords, SHGs, etc. The awareness among the people about emergence of SHGs alike systems is high. The amount and purpose for micro finance varies with landholding size. The micro-credit delivery models includes SHG, Grameen, Cluster-Federation, DWCRA, and SGSY model.
E-Mail Surveillance At Workplace
Authors: Jain Kamal Kishore , Sherry Alok Mohan
Published: November 2015

The popularity of Internet worldwide has transformed the way individuals and companies carry out their daily transactions. Electronic mail a.k.a. email is a subset of the big Internet world. It is a communication facility that is slowly replacing the conventional mail. Its advantages had pursued individuals and businesses to adopt email facility as part of their daily life. However, many media headlines, including the court of law judgments, have highlighted the risk and the danger of emails facility at work. The way it has been misused, abused and violated has jeopardized the employer and has placed the relevant parties at risk. This and other reasons have led the management to monitor the emails usage by its employees. This paper examines the need for monitoring email usage at the work place. It looks into the extent of misuse of the facility by employees in general and with reference to Tenaga National Engineering and Consultancy (TNEC), Malaysia in particular. The paper also sheds light on employees’ perception on email monitoring. A well-defined organizational policy on email surveillance is the need of the hour, proposes the paper.
Impact Of Globalisation On Foreign Trade: Indian Scenario
Authors: Paul Justin , Ramanathan A.
Published: November 2015

This paper analyses trade performance of industrial sector in India in order to gauge comparative perspectives pertaining to pre-and post-trade liberalisation periods. Major product groups have been covered from the industrial sector. In addition, analysis of exports is carried out with a cross-country perspective to study whether India's performance is remarkable or not. Since the Small Scale Industries (SSIs) play vital role in Indian economy, the analysis of export performance of SSIs has, specially, been looked into.
Workers' Participation In Management In Public Sector Industrial Undertakings
Authors: Jacob K.K.
Published: November 2015

The workers' participation in management is a concept by which the principle of democratic administration of industry is ensured for attaining industrial peace and harmony. A symbol of joint relationship, it explains the extent of adjustment between the workers and management for the maintenance of peaceful industrial environment. The technique of workers’ participation in management has been regarded as a powerful behavioural tool for sustaining harmonious labour-management relations in industrial undertakings.
A Process Model for Decision-making in Stock Markets: The Information Integrity Approach
Authors: Narayanan K , Mandke V.V. , Prashanth M.
Published: November 2015

Information integrity is concerned with the correctness, reliability and trustworthiness of information. A most phenomenal case of a working environment is the stock market, where there is intense time pressure and uncertainty which may hamper the flow of information and its integrity. This paper introduces the information integrity approach for decision making in the stock market process and provides an operable model for achieving information integrity in stock market decision making.
Legal Aspects of Data Protection
Authors: K. Agarwal Anurag
Published: November 2015

There is no specific privacy or data protection law presently in India. To create confidence among foreign companies and investors, who send data to India for back-office operations, it is becoming increasingly important to have a specific law for data protection. There is an urgent need to have in place appropriate statutory mechanisms, which work speedily and efficaciously in cases of breach of data. Relying on contract law to protect data does not work satisfactorily. The winds of change are blowing and in the next few years Indian data protection law is likely to change dramatically. An attempt is made in this paper to raise vital issues relating to data protection laws in general and the outsourcing industry in particular with an Indian perspective. This paper discusses the implication of transfer of personal data in the age of trans-border information technology. The paper examines various international and national data protection laws and challenges to be faced.
NPA Management in India: In Search of a New Paradigm?
Authors: Pandey Alok , K. Ghosh Syamal
Published: November 2015

The banking & financial sector in India is undergoing rapid transformation Banks & financial institutions have amassed huge NPA's (Non-Performing Assets). This paper presents a comparative analysis of NPA management practices in several Asian countries and seeks to find out whether Indian institutions should emulate these. It also looks at several innovations in NPA and credit risk management techniques at banks & financial institutions in the last decade. This paper also analyzes the efficacy of credit derivatives as a tool for credit risk management and insolvency management in banking and financial institutions. It critically analyzes the evolution, growth and usage of these instruments since their introduction in the banking sector in India.
Role of APQP and PPAP in Supply Chain Management
Authors: Khanna V.K.
Published: November 2015

Waves of liberalization are sweeping all over the world breaking political barriers, integrating world capital and financial markets, opening up international trade and freeing import of technology or raw materials from licenses. New challenges and opportunities have been thrown up. The new economic scenario has also brought in risks of increased competition.

As the customer is supreme, only those enterprises are going to be successful, which are able to provide goods and services to the customer in a timely cost-effective manner and also provide quality, which not only satisfies him but delights him. This means that the enterprise has to manage its operations in such a way that the production costs and delivery costs are kept to the minimum and margins are optimized. Simultaneously, it has to build a culture of quality and productivity because without that it is just not possible to survive. Finally, to stay always one step ahead of the competition, there has to be an element of creativity.

Advance Product Quality Planning and Production Part Approval Process help the organization to be creative and innovative in approach in addressing all customers' related issues. Both these tools are very important while implementing quality management system requirements pertaining to ISO/TS 16949:2002. These tools are generic in nature and can help any type of industry. Effective implementation of PPAP will help the supply chain to improve the quality of the product, reduce the cost by optimal use of resources and maintain on time delivery at competitive cost.
Corporate Governance in Asia: The Challenge of Improving Transparency
Authors: Bhasin Madan Lal
Published: November 2015

Corporate governance (CG) has come to the limelight with the series of corporate failings following which the markets, investors, and society at large have begun to lose faith in the infallibility of these systems. Nowadays, the conduct of those who take care of ‘public’ money is being questioned since they are being tested on ‘ethical’ standards. We have advocated the application of ‘Dharma’, as stipulated in ancient Indian shastras. India can be proud of what it has achieved so far in CG practices but, of course, much more needs to be done. How to increase CG transparency in Asian countries is the biggest challenge? We have provided an overview of two independent studies recently reported by ACGA and JPMorgan. Full convergence with international accounting and audit standards, better protection of minority investors, and stronger enforcement of existing laws and regulations are some of the recommendations to improve governance in Asian countries. CG has been high on the agenda for Asian regulators in recent years with most markets having introduced comprehensive regulations. Still much work remains to be done and despite compelling evidence of the financial benefits to companies of a good governance culture, the ethos of CG has yet to sink in. Regulators, companies, and investors all have to play their vital roles. CG in Asia remains, at best, a work-in-progress requiring some rethinking.