bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term use of noble metal alloy coated urinary catheters reduces recurrent CAUTI and decreases proinflammatory markers
Authors: Magnusson Birgitta , Kai-Larsen Ylva , Granlund Petter , Seiger Åke , Lindbo Lena , Sanchez Javier , Johansson Dorota
Published: June 2019

Background:

The objective of this study was to investigate a case of a permanently (suprapubic) catheterized woman with neurogenic bladder dysfunction. The patient had suffered from recurrent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) since 2009, despite several prevention approaches and attempts. In 2013, the patient’s catheter was substituted for the BIP Foley Catheter, coated with a noble metal alloy (NMA) of gold, silver, and palladium.

Method:

This is a retrospective–prospective clinical case study covering 4 years history for the control catheters and up to 2.5 years for the anti-infective BIP Foley Catheter. CAUTI incidences, symptoms, antibiotics, catheter performance, and comfort were evaluated. Levels of proinflammatory cytokines were measured pre- and post-substitution to BIP Foley Catheter in urine of the case and of four other permanently catheterized patients. In addition, the levels of noble metals were assessed in urine of the case subject during use of the BIP Foley Catheter.

Results:

While using control catheters, the patient experienced symptomatic CAUTIs requiring antibiotics almost every month for 4 years. After 1 month with the BIP Foley Catheter, the symptoms disappeared, and the patient remained free of symptomatic CAUTIs and antibiotic treatment for the following 2.5 years, despite bacteriuria. The patient was satisfied with the comfort during insertion, use, and removal of the BIP Foley Catheter. Urinary levels of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) decreased towards normal levels post catheter type substitution. Traces of noble metals detected in a few urine samples were ⩽4% of the permitted daily exposure. The levels of the noble metals gold, silver, and palladium remaining on the BIP Foley Catheter after use were the same as for unused catheters.

Conclusion:

Long-term use of a NMA-coated catheter was associated with cessation of frequent CAUTIs. The catheter was experienced as comfortable and inflammatory markers were reduced with time. The coating was stable, with no significant metal release into urine and is therefore safe for patient use.
Lost trust and dissolvedguanxicircles: A case study of a collective resignation event at Tianyuan Tea Company
Authors: Shuai Man
Published: June 2019

The mainstream explanation for employee turnover is either cause–effect factor analysis or interaction analysis. The former is effective in identifying causal relations between factors and the latter in revealing the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. Combining the benefits of both methods, this study applies guanxi circle theory to studying employee turnover. It places various turnover factors under the framework of interpersonal interactions and uses the social network structure as an analytic point from which to examine the dynamic evolution of trust within the organization. The study finds that in the case of the Tianyuan Tea Company, the collective resignation was largely caused by the collapse of trust within the guanxi circles that informally operated within the company social network centered on the management authority who had the power of hiring, firing, and promotion. Five conclusions are proposed: (a) the formal hierarchical structure of power can either coincide with or be separate from the informal guanxi circles – when the two are in accordance, resignations rarely happen, while discordance between the two is often an indicator of potential resignations; (b) organizational changes are most likely to cause guanxi circles outsiders to resign; (c) members of the inner guanxi circle in the organization do not resign because of discordant relationships with lower level managers, but rather, they get relocated with promotion; (d) the collapse of ‘bridges’ between guanxi circles can cause collective resignations; (e) those who survive organizational shakeups are members of the inner guanxi circle in the organization and the ‘bridges’ of guanxi circles. This study contributes to the research on employee turnover by introducing a new perspective of guanxi circle theory as well as drawing attention to the important function of the ‘bridge’ in coordinating between circles, and by offering theoretical understanding and practical guidance for social governance.
Inpatient, Outpatient, and Pharmacy Costs in Patients With and Without HIV in the US Veteran’s Affairs Administration System
Authors: Sutton Scott , Magagnoli Joseph , Cummings Tammy , Hardin James , Edun Babatunde
Published: June 2019

Objectives:

To evaluate the association between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients and medical costs (inpatient, outpatient, pharmacy, total) using a national cohort of HIV-infected Veterans and non-HIV matched controls within the Veteran’s Affairs (VA) Administration system.

Design:

This study used claims (January 2000 to December 2016) extracted from the VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure and VA Health Economics Resource Center. Cases included Veterans with an International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision/International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision for HIV with at least 1 prescription for a complete antiretroviral therapy regimen (January 2000 to September 2016). Two non-HIV controls were exact matched on race, sex, month, and year of birth. All patients were followed until the earliest of the following: last date of VA activity, death, or December 31, 2016.

Results:

A total of 79 578 patients (26 526 HIV and 53 052 non-HIV) met all study criteria. The average age was 49.3 years, 38% were black, 32% were white, and 97% were male for both the HIV and control cohorts. Adjusted multivariable logistic regression models demonstrated that HIV was associated with higher odds of incurring a pharmacy cost (odds ratio = 2286.45, 95% confidence interval: 322.79-16 195.82), 4-fold, and 2-fold higher odds of incurring both outpatient and inpatient costs compared to the matched controls, respectively. In adjusted multivariable gamma generalized linear models, HIV-positive patients had an almost 4-fold, 17-fold, and almost 2-fold higher cost than matched controls in total, pharmacy, and outpatient costs, respectively.

Conclusions:

This study found an association between HIV-positive patients having higher odds of incurring a medical cost as well as higher medical costs compared to non-HIV controls.
Patellofemoral Stabilization: Postoperative Redislocation and Risk Factors Following Surgery
Authors: Hiemstra Laurie A. , Kerslake Sarah , Kupfer Nathalie , Lafave Mark
Published: June 2019

Background:

Patellofemoral instability is a common knee problem that is difficult to manage owing to its multifactorial etiology as well as the fact that predisposing pathoanatomic features vary from individual to individual. There is limited knowledge regarding the demographic and pathoanatomic risk factors or the relationship between these risk factors and the redislocation rate after surgical stabilization for this challenging condition.

Purpose:

To analyze the postoperative redislocation rates and the prevalence of demographic and pathoanatomic risk factors for patients undergoing a patellofemoral stabilization.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Patients with symptomatic recurrent patellofemoral instability underwent a soft tissue patellofemoral stabilization procedure. A total of 342 patellofemoral stabilization procedures (reconstruction, n = 256; imbrication, n = 86) were assessed at a mean follow-up of 24.3 months. Concomitant procedures were performed in accordance with the à la carte concept of addressing significant anatomic or biomechanical characteristics. Two surgical cohorts were analyzed separately for reconstruction or imbrication to address laxity of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL). Failure of the patellofemoral stabilization procedure was defined as postoperative redislocation of the patella. Prevalence of demographic and pathoanatomic risk factors was determined for all patients. Disease-specific patient-reported outcomes were assessed with the Banff Patella Instability Instrument (BPII).

Results:

A redislocation rate of 5.1% was identified for MPFL reconstruction and 20.9% for MPFL imbrication. For both MPFL procedures, age at time of surgery was significantly younger for the failed group as compared with the intact group. Postoperative BPII scores were significantly lower for patients who subsequently experienced a surgical failure as compared with intact surgery for both MPFL reconstruction ( P = .048) and MPFL imbrication ( P = .003).

Conclusion:

Patellofemoral stabilization with an à la carte approach to surgical selection demonstrated a low postoperative redislocation rate and good clinical results. Younger age at time of surgery was associated with surgical failure. This information may be used to guide surgical decision making and patient education.
Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Medial Epicondyle Fractures After Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction in Professional Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Erickson Brandon J. , Chalmers Peter N. , D’Angelo John , Ma Kevin , Romeo Anthony A.
Published: June 2019

Background:

Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) is a common procedure among professional baseball pitchers. An uncommon complication after UCLR is a fracture of the medial epicondyle at the level of the humeral tunnel, which requires open reduction internal fixation (ORIF).

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine the performance upon and rate of return to sport (RTS) in professional baseball pitchers after ORIF of the medial epicondyle and examine whether there is a difference in the RTS rate and performance between players who underwent ORIF and matched controls. It was hypothesized that there would be a high rate of RTS in professional baseball pitchers after ORIF of the medial epicondyle, with no difference between the ORIF and control groups in the rate of RTS or performance, specifically related to the primary performance outcome variables of win-loss percentage, walks plus hits per inning pitched, fielding independent pitching, and wins above replacement.

Methods:

All professional baseball pitchers who underwent ORIF of the medial epicondyle between 2010 and 2016 were included in this study. Demographic and performance data (preoperative and postoperative) were recorded for each player. Performance metrics were then compared between the ORIF and control (no history of UCLR or ORIF) groups.

Results:

Overall, 15 pitchers (80.0% starters, 73.3% right-handed) underwent ORIF of a medial epicondyle fracture. All had undergone prior UCLR using either the American Sports Medicine Institute (n = 9; 60.0%) or docking (n = 6; 40.0%) technique. ORIF techniques included fixation with 1 screw (n = 13; 86.7%) and fixation with suture anchors (n = 2; 13.3%). Eleven (73.3%) pitchers were able to return to sport (did not differ from controls; P = .537); 55% returned to the same level or higher. No significant differences existed in the primary performance outcome variables when comparing preoperative with postoperative performance. No significant differences in the primary performance outcome variables were seen between the ORIF and control groups after surgery, although players in the ORIF group pitched fewer innings than controls after surgery ( P = .003).

Conclusion:

After ORIF of the medial epicondyle in professional pitchers with a history of UCLR, 73.3% were able to return to sport (only 55% of those who returned pitched at the same level or higher) without a significant decline in most performance variables when compared with their preoperative performance or matched controls. The number of innings pitched declined after surgery.
A Digital Early Spelling Game: The Role of Auditory and Visual Support
Authors: Elimelech Adi , Aram Dorit
Published: June 2019

We constructed a computer game to support preschoolers’ early word spelling without an adult’s assistance. The study explored the relative influence of auditory and visual digital supports on children’s performance. Participants were 96 preschoolers who were randomly assigned into one of three groups: no support, auditory only support, or auditory + visual support. Children in each group played the digital game during eight meetings, and the computer recorded their activity. The auditory + visual support group scored significantly higher than the no support group on all letter tasks. We did not find significant differences between the two groups that received support, nor did we find differences between the auditory only support compared to the no support group, except for writing the last letter. The study shows that a digital game can help preschoolers progress in their spelling skills without the support of an adult. Auditory support is important, and the visual support significantly adds to children’s spelling performance.
Evaluation of a Preclerkship Learning Community Model for Delivering Clinical Skills Curriculum
Authors: Roussel Danielle , Anderson Katherine , Glasgow Tiffany , Colbert-Getz Jorie M
Published: June 2019

Background:

Medical schools are increasingly using learning communities (LCs) for clinical skills curriculum delivery despite little research on LCs employed for this purpose. We evaluated an LC model compared with a non-LC model for preclerkship clinical skills curriculum using Kirkpatrick’s hierarchy as an evaluation framework.

Methods:

The first LC cohort’s (N = 101; matriculating Fall 2013) reaction to the LC model was assessed with self-reported surveys. Change in skills and learning transfer to clerkships was measured with objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) at the end of years 2 and 3 and first and last clerkship preceptor evaluations; the LC cohort and the prior cohort (N = 86; matriculating Fall 2012) that received clinical skills instruction in a non-LC format were compared with Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results:

The LC model for preclerkship clinical skills curriculum was rated as excellent or good by 96% of respondents in Semesters 1 to 3 (N = 95). Across multiple performance domains, 96% to 99% of students were satisfied to very satisfied with their LC faculty preceptors (N varied by item). For the end of preclerkship OSCE, the LC cohort scored higher than the non-LC cohort in history gathering ( P = .003, d = 0.50), physical examination ( P = .019, d = 0.32), and encounter documentation ( P ⩽ .001, d = 0.47); the non-LC cohort scored higher than the LC cohort in communication ( P = .001, d = 0.43). For the end of year 3 OSCE, the LC cohort scored higher than the non-LC cohort in history gathering ( P = .006, d = 0.50) and encounter note documentation ( P = .027, d = 0.24); there was no difference in physical examination or communication scores between cohorts. There was no detectable difference between LC and non-LC student performance on the preceptor evaluation forms at either the beginning or end of the clerkship curriculum.

Conclusions:

We observed limited performance improvements for LC compared with non-LC students on the end of the preclerkship OSCE but not on the clerkship preceptor evaluations. Additional studies of LC models for clinical skills curriculum delivery are needed to further elucidate their impact on the professional development of medical students.
A Novel Curriculum to Prepare Internal Medicine Residents for Fellowship Interviews
Authors: Sinclair Matthew , Raimo John , Wong Kelvin , Kline Myriam , Friedman Karen
Published: June 2019

Background:

Applications to the Fellowship Match through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) Specialties Matching Service (SMS) are at an all-time high. Data regarding the preparedness of medical residents who go through the interview process is limited.

Objective:

To assess whether the implementation of an interview curriculum could improve medical resident preparedness for and performance during fellowship interviews.

Methods:

All third-year internal medicine residents (N = 18) at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (Northwell) applying to subspecialty fellowship participated in an interview curriculum that comprised a didactic session and an Objective Structured Teaching Exercise (OSTE). Participants were surveyed on preparedness before and after the curriculum and medical residents and faculty were surveyed on medical resident performance after their OSTE and after their Northwell fellowship interview.

Results:

Out of the total possible number of participants, 16 (89%) were included in our analysis. Pre and post-test statistical differences in survey responses were evaluated using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. Medical resident preparedness and resident perceived performance increased in all measured categories, including overall preparedness ( P = .001) and overall interview skills ( P = .008). No significant change in faculty-rated resident performance was observed.

Conclusion:

The development and institution of a formal interview curriculum improved medical resident preparedness and perceived performance. However, this significant improvement seen between medical resident pre and post surveys did not translate to improvement between faculty pre and post surveys. Future studies should look at fellowship match rates to objectively assess the impact of the curriculum.
The (anti) adaptive neighbourhoods. Embracing complexity and distribution of design control in the ordinary built environment
Authors: Cozzolino Stefano
Published: June 2019

While cities as a whole work as complex adaptive systems, the same cannot be said of many of their neighbourhoods constructed in the 20th century. The formation and perpetuation of anti-adaptive-neighbourhoods is a very recent and still under-explored phenomenon in urban history. The paper investigates the causes behind this phenomenon and suggests policy and design implications to generate neighbourhoods and built environments that are more adaptable. It demonstrates that contemporary discussions can be enriched if we pay more attention to certain underestimated urban factors that guarantee the incremental adaptation of the built environment: action, ownership, and time.
‘It’s too late’. Is it really? Considerations for amblyopia treatment in older children
Authors: Piano Marianne E.F. , Simmers Anita J.
Published: June 2019

In recent years, media coverage has demonstrated instances in which families of children aged 7 and older, newly diagnosed with strabismic and/or anisometropic amblyopia through community eyecare services, were told it was ‘too late’ for their child to effectively respond to conventional amblyopia treatment (occlusion or atropine penalisation). Formal guidance pertaining to binocular vision anomalies from eyecare professional bodies does not specifically make reference to a child’s age, beyond stating the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of strabismus/amblyopia. However, there have been many changes in the way we view the recovery period for amblyopia, and it is well demonstrated both within literature and clinical practice that conventional treatment can improve amblyopic eye visual acuity in children beyond the age of 7 years. The occurrence of these media described cases within the community eyecare sphere would suggest it is worthwhile revisiting the literature on the subject of amblyopia treatment in older children (aged 7+ years), to address misconceptions and place in the spotlight current considerations facing clinicians when treating newly diagnosed amblyopia within this age group. This perspective review provides an evidence-based update covering the various considerations associated with treatment of amblyopia in older children, along with recent amblyopia treatment advances that could have an impact on treatment prospects for this patient group. Considerations include the risks, benefits and efficacy of treating newly diagnosed amblyopia in older children, monitoring density of suppression to mitigate intractable diplopia risk, and recent findings regarding binocular treatments for amblyopia.
Epigenetic Deregulation of Protocadherin PCDHGC3 in Pheochromocytomas/Paragangliomas Associated With SDHB Mutations
Authors: Bernardo-Castiñeira Cristóbal , Valdés Nuria , Celada Lucía , Martinez Andrés San José , Sáenz-de-Santa-María I , Bayón Gustavo F , Fernández Agustín F , Sierra Marta I , Fraga Mario F , Astudillo Aurora , Jiménez-Fonseca Paula , Rial Juan Carlos , Hevia Miguel Ángel , Turienzo Estrella , Bernardo Carmen , Forga Lluis , Tena Isabel , Molina-Garrido María-José , Cacho Laura , Villabona Carles , Serrano Teresa , Scola Bartolomé , Chirivella Isabel , del Olmo Maribel , Menéndez Carmen Luz , Navarro Elena , Tous María , Vallejo Ana , Athimulam Shobana , Bancos Irina , Suarez Carlos , Chiara María-Dolores
Published: June 2019

Context

SDHB mutations are found in an increasing number of neoplasms, most notably in paragangliomas and pheochromocytomas (PPGLs). SDHB-PPGLs are slow-growing tumors, but ∼50% of them may develop metastasis. The molecular basis of metastasis in these tumors is a long-standing and unresolved problem. Thus, a better understanding of the biology of metastasis is needed.

Objective

This study aimed to identify gene methylation changes relevant for metastatic SDHB-PPGLs.

Design

We performed genome-wide profiling of DNA methylation in diverse clinical and genetic PPGL subtypes, and validated protocadherin γ-C3 (PCDHGC3) gene promoter methylation in metastatic SDHB-PPGLs.

Results

We define an epigenetic landscape specific for metastatic SDHB-PPGLs. DNA methylation levels were found significantly higher in metastatic SDHB-PPGLs than in SDHB-PPGLs without metastases. One such change included long-range de novo methylation of the PCDHA, PCDHB, and PCDHG gene clusters. High levels of PCDHGC3 promoter methylation were validated in primary metastatic SDHB-PPGLs, it was found amplified in the corresponding metastases, and it was significantly correlated with PCDHGC3 reduced expression. Interestingly, this epigenetic alteration could be detected in primary tumors that developed metastasis several years later. We also show that PCDHGC3 down regulation engages metastasis-initiating capabilities by promoting cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.

Conclusions

Our data provide a map of the DNA methylome episignature specific to an SDHB-mutated cancer and establish PCDHGC3 as a putative suppressor gene and a potential biomarker to identify patients with SDHB-mutated cancer at high risk of metastasis who might benefit from future targeted therapies.
Early Life Exposures to Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Relation to Adipokine Hormone Levels at Birth and During Childhood
Authors: Shelly Colleen , Grandjean Philippe , Oulhote Youssef , Plomgaard Peter , Frikke-Schmidt Ruth , Nielsen Flemming , Zmirou-Navier Denis , Weihe Pal , Valvi Damaskini
Published: June 2019

Background

Birth cohort studies have linked exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) with child anthropometry. Metabolic hormone dysregulation needs to be considered as a potential adverse outcome pathway. We examined the associations between PFAS exposures and concentrations of adipokine hormones from birth to adolescence.

Methods

We studied 80 mother-child pairs from a Faroese cohort born in 1997 to 2000. Five PFASs were measured in maternal pregnancy serum and in child serum at ages 5, 7, and 13 years. Leptin, adiponectin, and resistin were analyzed in cord serum and child serum at the same ages. We fitted multivariable-adjusted generalized estimating equations to assess the associations of PFASs at each age with repeated adipokine concentrations at concurrent and subsequent ages.

Results

We observed tendencies of inverse associations between PFASs and adipokine hormones specific to particular ages and sex. Significant associations with all adipokines were observed for maternal and child 5-year serum PFAS concentrations, whereas associations for PFASs measured at ages 7 to 13 years were mostly null. The inverse associations with leptin and adiponectin were seen mainly in females, whereas the inverse PFAS associations with resistin levels were seen mainly in males. Estimates for significant associations (P value <0.05) suggested mean decreases in hormone levels (range) by 38% to 89% for leptin, 16% to 70% for adiponectin, and 33% to 62% for resistin for each twofold increase in serum PFAS concentration.

Conclusions

These findings suggest adipokine hormone dysregulation in early life as a potential pathway underlying PFAS-related health outcomes and underscore the need to further account for susceptibility windows and sex-dimorphic effects in future investigations.
Hippocampal Volume, Cognitive Functions, Depression, Anxiety, and Quality of Life in Patients With Cushing Syndrome
Authors: Frimodt-Møller Katrine Emilie , Møllegaard Jepsen Jens Richardt , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Krogh Jesper
Published: June 2019

Context

Cushing syndrome (CS) is associated with hippocampal atrophy and psychopathology.

Objective

The primary objective of this systematic review was to assess hippocampal volume (HV) in patients with CS. The secondary objectives were to assess patients’ cognitive functioning, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and quality of life.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, LILACs, and Scopus databases were searched for relevant studies until 1 May 2019.

Study Selection

Case-control studies comparing patients with CS with healthy control subjects, or studies assessing patients with CS before and after surgery were included. The initial search resulted in 18 studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria.

Data Extraction

Data extraction regarding all outcomes was performed independently by two reviewers. Quality assessment was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for case-control studies.

Data Synthesis

Meta-analysis was performed using a random effect model. The right-side HV in patients with CS was reduced by a standard mean difference of 0.68 (95% CI, −1.12 to −0.24; P = 0.002; I2 = 0%) compared with healthy control subjects, but with no increase in HV after surgery. Patients had more depressive symptoms, impaired cognitive functions, and reduced health-related QoL (HRQoL), which all responded favorably to surgery. The data did not support the presence of anxiety in patients with CS.

Conclusion

An overall reduction of HV in patients with CS was not suggested by the study findings. However, most cognitive domains were significantly affected and responded favorably to surgery. Depressive symptoms and reduced HRQoL were present in patients with CS and improved after surgery.
Influência da nova estrutura fiscal de impostos de Angola na gestão de escolas privadas do município do Lobito
Authors: Nogueira Armando Carlos Hombo , Pacheco Luís Miguel , Rodrigues Marcus Antonio Almeida , Marques João Alexandre Lobo
Published: June 2019

O impacto dos impostos no desempenho das escolas privadas é um tema muito pertinente em vista das recentes alterações na estrutura de impostos de Angola e  a severa crise econômica e financeira que o país atravessa, o que faz que o Estado estabeleça medidas que visem contribuir para o aumento das receitas públicas, sendo o sistema fiscal uma das áreas estratégicas. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar a influência dos impostos na gestão de escolas privadas no Município do Lobito, em Angola, de forma a compreender o impacto dos impostos e as obrigações fiscais nas decisões de gestão, bem como a influência decorrente do atual regime fiscal e as exigências tributárias. Por meio da revisão bibliográfica, pretende-se fornecer informação e conteúdos referentes à informação contabilística e o seu papel na gestão empresarial, além de abordar a complementaridade entre a contabilidade, a fiscalidade e a gestão. A temática da gestão fiscal é abordada com realce para o sistema fiscal angolano. Relativamente ao tipo de atividade em estudo, apresenta-se uma abordagem sobre a realidade atual do país, destacando-se a importância das escolas privadas como principal parceiro do estado na luta do analfabetismo e na redução de crianças fora do sistema de ensino e analisando as vantagens e as desvantagens de tal parceria. No estudo empírico, realiza-se um diagnóstico relativo ao tema em estudo por meio de questionários enviados a trinta e quatro escolas privadas do Município do Lobito, o que se permite chegar à conclusão de que os impostos influenciam, positivamente, a gestão das escolas privadas, incentivando a organização e a melhoria do controlo interno, e de que os gestores têm certo domínio da legislação fiscal, procurando entidades que os apoiem quando surgem dúvidas. Recomentações são propostas tanto para as entidades empresariais quanto para a estrutura fiscal do país, visando auxiliar nos desafios que surgem com a implantação da nova estrutura fiscal de Angola.
Futuristic Perspective Analysis of Online Buyers for Sustainability of E-commerce
Authors: Arulmurugan V , Viknesh Kumar S A
Published: June 2019

In the global competitive business world, utilization of modern and innovative technological practices in business transactions is inevitable. E-commerce is a paradigm shift to connect customers electronically in the present business system. E-commerce covers electronic transmission of information, monetary payments and physical delivery of products. It is a pertinent time to analyse the future potentiality of e-commerce and the perception of online buyers who use this platform. A study was conducted with the following objectives: to describe the perception of online buyers, to make online buyers’ Futuristic Perspective Analysis (FPA) of e-commerce and to study factors influencing sustainability of e-commerce in the future. The data were collected from primary and secondary sources. A primary survey was conducted through structured questionnaire administered on select online buyers in Karaikal, Union Territory of Puducherry, India. The collected data were analysed with multivariate statistical tools like factor analysis and multiple regression analysis with SPSS. The findings were presented with suitable suggestions to know the futuristic perspectives of online buyers and the sustainability of e-commerce.
Values and Strategy Development and Management
Authors: P lyer Ramu
Published: June 2019

This article highlights the values, vision, mission and socio­economic objectives of few successful companies that have succeeded in the past, and that will succeed in the future also if they continue to stick to those values
Challenges and Opportunities in the Field of Business and Management
Authors: Oommen Sherry Samuel
Published: June 2019

In this essay, the writer has placed his personal views regarding the subject and invites comments regarding the gravity of the situation. The writer seeks to highlight the point that in a capitalist economy, unless the forces of terror are destroyed, a nation cannot progress. The writer also speaks about the impending dangers of terror and the challenges it openly.
Editorial
Authors: James Leena
Published: June 2019

The eleventh issue of Ushus brings to you a wide variety of scholarly articles encompassing socio-economic and managerial issues. The first paper "Information technology and banking sector with reference to customer satisfaction" focuses on the impact of automation of the public sector banks as per the reflections of the bank officials and the customers. The crest of the article lies in the fact that the customers are being able to keep abreast with the exchange of automation in the modern banking practices and the survey brings out their perception towards it and throws some light on the effective ways to deal with this crisis. The study concludes with the analytical results that public sector bank customers have a positive inclination towards technological upgradation but the banks need to be more flexible in their work process and focus on marketing themselves in order to entrap a larger customer base. The paper titled "Administration of micro-credit by national bank" talks about the successful micro-finance initiatives taken by NABARD how aptly they had been implemented and evolved as a sustainable social movement over a decade now.
Business Ethics in Practice
Authors: Raj L Solomon , Soundararaj J J
Published: June 2019

Globally, all stakeholders associated with any business feel comfortable in an environment where the fundamentals of ethical business practices are best protected and practiced. It is time for any business that goes global or act local to get serious about the moral aspects and social implications of decision making. There are a good number of evidences in the global scenario that the organisations adhere to ethical business practices are able to meet out the expectations of all the stakeholders satisfactorily. The ultimate task must be considered by every manager is to be more than simply meeting performance expectations. Performance goals must always be achieved through ethically and socially responsible action. The attitude to practice good business practices could be well evidenced basically by the mission and vision of an organization. The mission of Infosys is " to achieve our objectives in an environment of fairness, honesty and courtesy towards our clients, employees, vendors and society at large". Its vision is "to be a globally respected corporation that provides best-of-breed business solutions, leveraging technology, delivered by best in-class people". Moreover Infosys has set standards in every business activity- best campus, best working environment, best employer, most transparent dealings, highest quality standards- as well as the highest ethical standards, never seeking any deviant benefits from the government. It would be interesting but not shocking to know the most telling message that Infosys gives out to any discerning observer is its motto:

Powered by intellect and Driven by Values. Knowing the importance of adhering to the best business practices to reap the fruit of success, some of the ethical practices need to be followed and being practiced by the well-known organisations are presented in this paper.
Select Your Style for Best Results
Authors: Lylin D. Fennala Agnes
Published: June 2019

Success of a business concern is dependent upon the ability of its leadership. Leadership exists in any type of organization. Whenever and in whatever situation if someone tries to influence the behavior of another individual or a group, there is a leadership. In an organization, wherever an individual has subordinates he may act as a leader.
Comparative Analysis of Dimensions of Teacher Commitment
Authors: Parthiban V
Published: June 2019

Teacher commitment is considered to be the most prominent factor in the success and future of education. This paper investigates the job, departmental and organizational commitment of teachers. The study is based on the Institutional variables viz., Aid status, Gender status, Autonomous status, Accreditation status and location.
Fairness Cream: a Study on Brand Preference of Consumers in Gobichettipalayam Town
Authors: Sakthivel N.
Published: June 2019

Fairness cream market is growing segment of the personal care product industry. The urban population in India is being increasingly influenced by spurt of fairness cream entry into the market. Recently 30 brands of fairness creams are found in all urban places, fair and lovely is the highest penetrated brand. In this industry, there is a high entry barrier due to the strong brand preference of the existing players.
Are You in Balance!!
Authors: Jha Supriya
Published: June 2019

The expression "work-life balance" was first used in the late 1970s to describe the balance between an individual's work and personal life. In the United States, this phrase was first used in 1986. As the separation between work and home life has diminished, this concept has become more relevant than ever before.
Competencies Of Commerce Teacher Trainees
Authors: Philip Simon , Nellaiyapen N.O.
Published: June 2019

This is an attempt to investigate the teaching competencies of commerce teacher trainees. The main objectives of the study is find out whether there is any significant difference in the teaching competencies of commerce teacher trainees in respect of their gender, age, and medium studied. Sample of 200 B.Ed. trainees were selected by using purposive sampling technique. It is found that teacher trainees have low teaching competencies. It is revealed that there is significant difference in mean teaching competency scores of male and female, English and Malayalam medium teacher trainees. This study also revealed that there is no significant difference in mean teaching competency scores of trainees who are less than 22 years of age and above 22 years of the age group.
Brand Preference of Two Wheeler's: Problems and Satisfaction Level of Consumers
Authors: Kannusamy K.
Published: June 2019

Transport is an important aid for better hiring. Two — wheelers are becoming more popular especially among the people belonging to middle income group. There are wide choice of brands there is a stiff competition among the manufactures and marketers to attract the attention of buyers. People prefer a specific model of motorcycle among different brands for various reasons like price, maintenance, fuel efficiency appearance, durability and resale value.Today the iwo wheeler industry plays a significant role in the Indian economy. India is the second largest manufactures of two — wheelers in the world.One of the very important characteristics of economic development is the transformation of luxury goods into necessary goods. In recent time one such goods, which has been highly demanded by the customers, is the motor cycle possessing a mechanical devices for conveyance is an indicator of good standard of living. Hence an attempt to be made on the Brand Preference of Two—Wheelers Problems and Satisfaction of consumers.
UNDERSTANDING FINANCIAL CRISIS: A THEORETICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Sudarsan P.K.
Published: June 2019

Financial crises and their sub set banking crises have become worldwide phenomena in recent years. Understanding of financial crises assumes importance because the success of policy prescriptions to cure these crises depends to a large extent on the proper diagnosis of these crises. The objective of this paper is to provide a theoretical analysis to understand the financial crisis in a better way. The poper conjectures three stages in the financial crisis: confidence crisis, currency crisis and financial crisis. Paper shows that confidence crisis leads to the currency crisis and currency crisis in turn advances into the financial crisis. The paper also highlights the two-way linkage between currency crisis and financial crisis and its implications on policy suggestions. The two-way linkage between the currency crisis and financial crisis makes the policy prescriptions difficult. IMF policy to cure the East Asian crisis failed initially mainly because of this reason. The theoretical analysis reveals that a judicious mix of different policies would be the best remedy for the financial crisis of the type occurred in East Asia, though this would take some time to show positive results.
KNOW YOUR BANKNOTES
Authors: . Nag S.K
Published: June 2019

Banknotes or currency notes are important constituent of any economy and Indian economy is no exception. Banknotes of India are security products of high symbolic value and are considered an important national feature by this sovereign country. Currency notes of this country are an expression of stability and trust in its economic power and that explains the eternal craving for more and more of it.
Can Technology be a Solution to Operational Impediments? The Story of EZ School at NVJR College of Engineering: A Case Study
Authors: Chaganti Vinay
Published: June 2019

We see that you have the right skills to manage our processes and bring them to a better shape. We hope you can bring out an operations manual in about one year, so that all the administrative processes will be streamlined”, said Lakshmipati, Principal, NVJRCollege of Engineering (here after referred to as NVJR), to Bharat, Assistant Professor, Department of Management. Bharat thanked the Principal for giving him the opportunity to make a contribution to the operations in the college.
Information Systems in Bangalore Traffic: A Case Study
Authors: Iyer Lakshmi Shankar
Published: June 2019

Year 2012, month of March, Monday morning 8.30 a.m. Ramesh, a techie1in his mid 30s with one of the popular software companies in Bangalore was on his way to office. He was waiting for the traffic signal to turn green in one of the busiest junctions of Bangalore city.
Impact of Risk Diversification in Industrial Investment by applying Topsis Method
Authors: Vilvijayan C
Published: June 2019

The major issues pertaining to the different projects is frequent day is mainly due to the delay in their completion. The most important reason is existence of risk and internal and external uncertainties. To solve this problem a program is needed to manage the risks and uncertainties and reduce their impacts on the objectives of the project. In this paper, in order to quantitatively analyze the risks in industrial investment project, using database supported by Topsis algorithm is suggested. By using Visual Basic software, a program is designed to identify the project risks.
A Study on Identification of Consumer Groups buying at Apparel Retail Store: A Cluster Analysis
Authors: M K M Manikandan
Published: June 2019

The Indian Retail Industry is growing at such a fast rate that many foreign retailers want to capitalize on the growth momentum and the opportunity offered by the growing buying power of middle class. Many retailers are already present in Indian retail landscape and they are finding it difficult to run the business profitably. Not many India specific retail research has been carried out so far. Of late many researchers are coming up with studies that focus on India specific retailing. This study tries to study the type of customers who are visiting the apparel retailers and tries to group them based on certain parameters like their occupation, continued patronage and age. Cluster analysis is used as a statistical tool to group the sample into various groups. The result indicates the existence of four types of customer groups for the apparel retailing stores
Unwrapping the Cosmetic Package: A Discriminant Analysis Approach
Authors: Shekhar Suraj Kushe , T Raveendran P , R Rehin K
Published: June 2019

Packaging which is often called as the ‘silent salesman’ is an important component of marketing. Today the importance of packaging has risen to such an extent that product packaging is rightly called as the fifth ‘P’ of marketing mix. Cosmetics are products which are utilized by a large number of people. The present study examines the discriminating power of five selected cosmetics packaging variables namely ‘picture’, ‘colour’, ‘size’, ‘shape’ and ‘material’ amidst those who purchased cosmetics based on these packaging variables and for those who purchased cosmetics not based on these packaging variables. Discriminant analysis showed that only two variables namely ‘Colour’ (.706) and ‘Shape’ (– .527) were good predictors. Variables ‘Picture’, ‘size’ and ‘material’ were considered as poor predictors as far as the student communities were considered. The cross validated classification showed that out of the 240 samples drawn, 91.8% of the cases were correctly classified.
Personality and Leadership as Antecedents of Organizational Citizenship Behaviour: A Study of Mining Company in Goa
Authors: Gondlekar Sonam J
Published: June 2019

This study investigates the relationship between personality factors, leadership and organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB), predict changes in OCB by personality and leadership, and analyze the influence of demographic variables (organizational tenure, educational qualifications, age, designation, gender and job status) on OCB, personality, leadership and their dimensions. The sample consisted of 203 employees from three units of Sesa Goa Ltd., a leading mining company in Goa. Three reliable and valid tools were employed for the assessment-Organizational Citizenship Behaviour, NEO Five Factor Inventory and Leadership Effectiveness scale. Results of correlation analysis indicated positive correlation between leadership (all dimensions) and OCB. Of five personality factors, extraversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness showed positive correlation while neuroticism was found to be negatively correlated with OCB. Furthermore, result of regression analysis unveiled that 18% variance in OCB is contributed by leadership and 11% by personality. Unit wise differences were also evident in OCB. An incidental analysis using One Way ANOVA and t test revealed significant influence of organizational tenure and educational level on OCB. No significant difference was noticed on leadership and any of its dimensions. This study provides guidelines to aid managers better understand how to enhance OCB.
A Study of Foreign Exchange Exposure in the Indian IT Sector
Authors: Dash Mihir , Yadav Manoj
Published: June 2019

Foreign exchange exposure measures the extent of fluctuation of a firm’s future cash flows with respect to exchange rate movements. In particular, such fluctuation can have an adverse impact on firms which are already under tight liquidity constraints, often leading to financial distress. Thus, firms must evaluate their foreign exchange exposure in order to effectively hedge their foreign exchange risk. This study examines the issue of foreign exchange rate exposure in the Indian information technology (IT) sector. Foreign exchange exposure is particularly important for firms in the Indian IT sector, as a major part of their revenue is derived from exports. Dash and Madhava (2009) found positive foreign exchange exposure for the sector in the period 2005-07, and alarmingly high level of exposure for some small-cap IT companies.  Since then, in the aftermath of the global financial crisis, the nature of the IT sector has dramatically changed, with lower dependence on the US market in particular. The present study assesses whether there is still significant positive foreign exchange exposure in the Indian IT sector, and whether there is still a significant difference in foreign exchange exposure
Association between Brand Architecture and Brand Concept-An Exploration Based on Primary Survey
Authors: Harish R
Published: June 2019

This paper explores the linkage between brand concepts (functional, experiential, symbolic and relational) and brand architecture typologies (product, dual and corporate) considering popular and successful consumer brands marketed in India. This study in fact draws upon an earlier conceptual paper, which recommended a framework of strong relationships between brand concepts and brand architectures based on anecdotal evidence of prominent examples. But this framework had not been empirically tested out through analysis using a large sample from actual industry practice. Observation of data gathered in the present study (including through consumer survey) indicates that the relationships between brand architectures and brand concepts are in partial alignment with the framework proposed in the earlier study. The deviations are mainly due to various other factors which also influence the brand architectures of companies. Further research could also suggest some modifications to the BASE model itself, to suit specific contexts.