bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Aluminum Hydroxide Gel on Quinidine Gluconate Absorption
Authors: Mauro Vincent F. , Mauro Laurie S. , Fraker Theodore D. , Temesy-Armos Peter N. , Somani Pitambar
Published: July 2017

The effect of aluminum hydroxide gel on quinidine gluconate bioavailability was studied in eight nonsmoking healthy male volunteers. Subjects were randomized to receive quinidine gluconate 648 mg with and without 30 mL of aluminum hydroxide gel. The mean area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) (23.11 ±5.21 mg•h/L), time to reach maximum concentration (tmax) (3.13 ± 0.64 h), maximum serum concentration (1.44 ±0.41 mg/L), and elimination rate constant (0.069 ±0.010−h) observed during the control phase of the trial did not differ significantly (p>0.05) from values obtained during the coadministration of aluminum hydroxide with quinidine gluconate (23.91 ±4.48 mg•h/L, 4.13 ±2.12 h, 1.53 ±0.34 mg/L, and 0.077 ±0.013−h, respectively). There was considerable individual variation in AUC with one subject demonstrating an increase of 35 percent and one subject demonstrating a decrease of 18 percent. There was a trend toward aluminum hydroxide delaying tmax with only one subject experiencing an earlier tmax, with the coadministration of aluminum hydroxide. The results of this single-dose trial suggest that, although statistically the concurrent administration of aluminum hydroxide gel with quinidine gluconate does not significantly alter the extent of quinidine absorption, clinically significant individual variations may occasionally occur.
Cephalosporin-Induced Nephrotoxicity: Does it Exist?
Authors: Zhanel George G.
Published: July 2017

The literature has been reviewed to determine whether cephalosporins have been implicated in causing nephrotoxicity and to assess the influence of concomitant aminoglycoside therapy. Animal and human data have implicated cephaloridine and cephalothin in causing nephrotoxicity, both alone and in combination with aminoglycosides. There are few data implicating other cephalosporins in causing nephrotoxicity. Cefazolin, which is nephrotoxic in animals, has not been reported to produce nephrotoxicity in humans. Two studies have documented nephrotoxicity due to ceftazidime, especially in patients with preexisting renal impairment. Such patients should have their dosage adjusted to minimize ceftazidime-induced renal impairment. Finally, cephalosporins other than cephaloridine and cephalothin have not been documented to increase the risk of nephrotoxicity when used in combination with aminoglycosides compared with aminoglycosides alone.
Aminoglycosides: Another Perspective
Authors: Garrison Mark W. , Zaske Darwin E. , Rotschafer John C.
Published: July 2017

Despite the introduction of several new classes of antimicrobial agents, aminoglycosides are still recognized as first-line therapeutic agents in the management of severe gram-negative sepsis. The major obstacle limiting the use of aminoglycoside antibiotics has been, and continues to be, the possibility of drug-induced ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. This review critically examines the definitions used to establish the diagnosis of aminoglycoside-induced nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity and the clinical significance of these adverse reactions. The review also focuses on the practical and economic issues surrounding therapeutic drug monitoring practices. We conclude that aminoglycoside antibiotics remain an effective and economical form of therapy for severe infections and that if careful criteria are used in the selection of these agents, the benefits of therapy outweigh the risk of toxicity.
Effect of Cimetidine on Oral Digoxin Absorption
Authors: Mouser Ben , Nykamp Diane , Murphy John E. , Krissman Paul H.
Published: July 2017

Cimetidine is a commonly prescribed histamine2-receptor antagonist used in the treatment of gastric acid-related disorders. Cimetidine can interact with a number of drugs, including theophylline, benzodiazepine sedative hypnotics, warfarin, and antiarrhythmics. Problems may occur in patients receiving drugs with a narrow therapeutic index when combined with cimetidine. Contrasting reports have been published on the potential interaction between digoxin and cimetidine. This study focuses on cimetidine's effect on the pharmacokinetic disposition of chronic digoxin usage. Six hospitalized patients with stable congestive heart failure received their usual maintenance dose of digoxin 0.125–0.25 mg/d po. After confirming steady-state digoxin concentrations, cimetidine 300 mg po q6h was administered. Two patients were dropped from the study. Analysis of digoxin serum concentrations, area under the curve, and the rate of elimination suggested no significant differences in digoxin parameters when combined with cimetidine.
A Comparative Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Cefotetan and Cefoxitin in Surgical Prophylaxis
Authors: Shwed Jill A. , Danziger Larry H. , Wojtynek Jeff , Rodvold Keith A.
Published: July 2017

Safety and efficacy were evaluated and compared retrospectively in 77 patients who received cefotetan (CTN) and 51 patients who received cefoxitin (CFX) for surgical prophylaxis. Both groups were similar with respect to age and gender. Surgical procedures were similar between groups (e.g., obstetric/gynecologic, renal transplant, colon, exploratory laparotomy, gastroduodenal, hernia repair). Postoperative infectious complications were more common in the CTN group (11.6 percent [9/77]) than in the CFX (7.8 percent [4/51]) group; however, this difference was not statistically significant. A higher incidence of wound infections was noted in the CTN group (5.2 percent [4/77]) than in the CFX group (2.0 percent [1/51]); this difference was also not significant. Patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy were more likely to develop infectious complications when CTN was used for prophylaxis (p = 0.0001). Clinically significant blood loss was not noted during surgery. Elevations in prothrombin times (>1 sec) occurred in 27.3 percent (3/11) of CTN and 11.1 percent (1/9) of CFX patients (not significant). Except for the small subset of patients receiving concomitant immunosuppressive therapy, CTN appeared to be as safe and effective as CFX when used for surgical prophylaxis. Although not statistically significant, the increased incidence of wound infections in the CTN-treated patients requires further study in a prospective randomized comparison.
Improving Prescription-Writing Skills in a Family Practice Residency
Authors: Shaughnessy Allen F. , D'Amico Frank , Nickel Ronald O.
Published: July 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate a novel method of physician education that uses copies of prescriptions written by study participants to provide feedback on their prescription-writing skills. A prospective, blind, completely random before-after design was used, with observation, intervention, and postintervention periods, each lasting four months. The study group comprised 20 family practice residents, stratified by year of training and randomly assigned to treatment or control groups. Copies of all prescriptions written by participating residents were evaluated for prescription-writing errors. During the intervention phase, prescription copies with errors were returned to the treatment group residents with a tactful comment pointing out the error and suggesting changes. Over the three time periods, there was a continuous decline in the rate of prescription-writing errors in the treatment group, but not in the control group. A significant number of physicians who received the feedback improved their prescription writing (p<0.01), but logistic regression failed to show a difference attributable to the intervention. In conclusion, written feedback on copies of prescriptions produced a small decrease in the number of prescription-writing errors. Further, long-term study may show a magnified effect of this teaching method.
Intravenous Enalaprilat Therapy for Hypertension
Authors: Tutag-Lehr Victoria , Grassmick Bradford K.
Published: July 2017

The angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor enalapril is available for intravenous administration in the form of enalaprilat. Intravenous enalaprilat is indicated for the management of hypertension when oral therapy is not feasible. However, there are no reports of intravenous enalaprilat therapy exceeding one week in duration. We report the case of a critically ill, 39-year-old woman who received intravenous enalaprilat for the management of hypertension for a period of 21 days. The patient's blood pressure and heart rate were controlled adequately on a regimen of enalaprilat 1.25 mg iv piggyback q6h without any apparent adverse effects.
Successful Treatment of Neonatal Citrobacter Freundii Meningitis with Ceftriaxone
Authors: Rae Charlesworth E. , Fazio Anthony , Rosales Joaquin P.
Published: July 2017

Citrobacter meningitis is an uncommon enteric gram-negative infection that afflicts neonates and young children. Approximately 30 percent of children treated or untreated die from the infection. We report a case of C. freundii meningitis that was resistant to ampicillin and was successfully treated with ceftriaxone, a third-generation cephalosporin. A 13-day-old, full-term baby was admitted to the hospital with a one-day history of fever up to 38.8°C. On admission the infant had a temperature of 39.2°C, pulse of 140 beats/min, and a respiratory rate of 32 breaths/min. Except for a slightly bulging fontanelle, the rest of the physical examination was within normal limits. Complete blood count revealed a white blood cell (WBC) count of 12.5 × 109/L, with 0.66 polymorphonuclear cells, 0.10 bands, 0.18 lymphocytes, and 0.06 monocytes. A stat lumbar puncture showed 10 WBCs per high-power field with gram-negative rods. Empiric therapy with ampicillin 225 mg q12h and gentamicin 11 mg q8h was started. Both antibiotics were discontinued after culture and sensitivity results were positive for C. freundii in the blood and spinal fluid. The patient was successfully treated with nine days of ceftriaxone 250 mg q12h.
Clinical Pharmacology of the Neuromuscular Blocking Agents
Authors: Larijani Ghassem E. , Gratz Irwin , Silverberg Michael , Jacobi Athole G.
Published: July 2017

Neuromuscular blocking agents are among the most commonly used drugs during general anesthesia. They compete with acetylcholine and interfere with the transmission of nerve impulses resulting in skeletal muscle relaxation. Based on their mechanism of action, neuromuscular blocking agents are classified as either depolarizing or nondepolarizing. Succinylcholine is a short-acting depolarizing agent. Commonly used nondepolarizing agents are curare (long-acting), pancuronium (long-acting), atracurium (intermediate-acting), and vecuronium (intermediate-acting). Neuromuscular blocking agents are used clinically to facilitate endotracheal intubation and to provide skeletal muscle relaxation during surgery. This article provides an overview of the physiology of the neuromuscular transmission and summarizes our current knowledge on the use of these agents during general anesthesia.
Evaluation of Direct Pharmacist Intervention on Conversion from Parenteral to Oral Histamine H2-Receptor Antagonist Therapy
Authors: McGhan William F. , Bootman J. Lyle , Townsend Raymond J. , Kirking Duane M. , Svinte Michelle K. , Berardi Rosemary R. , Cornish Laura A. , Chaffee Bruce W. , Ryan Michael L.
Published: July 2017

A program in which pharmacists were authorized to change parenteral histamine H2-receptor antagonist (H2RA) therapy to the oral route without first contacting the prescriber was evaluated on cost and appropriateness of use of the parenteral route. Parenteral therapy was received by 264 and 244 patients in the study and comparison groups, respectively. Length of parenteral H2RA therapy was less in the study group (4.8 vs. 7.5 d) as was length of total (parenteral + oral) therapy (8.4 vs. 12.1 d). Parenteral H2RA drug acquisition savings were $6225 in the six-week study period or $53 950 when annualized. Decreased oral therapy contributed additional savings. There was a significant decrease in the number of inappropriate parenteral doses of ranitidine per patient, the drug used in more than 80 percent of the patients. In addition to the direct effect of pharmacists' interventions, there appeared to be an indirect effect of the program, as physicians initiated route of administration changes on their own.
Psychotropic Medication Prescription in U.S. Ambulatory Medical Care
Authors: Hartzema Abraham G. , Porta Miquel S. , Tilson Hugh H. , Hohmann Ann A. , Larson David B. , Thompson James W. , Beardsley Robert S.
Published: July 2017

Because of the pharmacologic power of psychotropic medications, the potential for adverse effects, and the changing popularity of particular psychotropic drugs, it is vital for pharmacoepidemiologists to monitor the prescribing patterns of these medications. Using data from the 1985 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS), this article assesses psychotropic medication prescribing by U.S. ambulatory care physicians. Psychotropic medications are classified into three categories: Minor tranquilizers (i.e., anxiolytics and sedative-hypnotics), antidepressants, and antipsychotics. The prescribing patterns of psychiatrists, primary care clinicians, and all other physicians are compared. Differences in psychotropic prescribing patterns by psychiatric diagnosis are examined as well. The excessive use of minor tranquilizers, the continuing use of first-generation psychotropic medications (particularly minor tranquilizers), and the lack of concordance between diagnoses and prescribed psychotropic medications are discussed.
Assessing the Effects of Antihypertensive Medication on Cerebral Blood Flow: Demonstration in Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion
Authors: Fagan Susan C. , Ewing James R. , Levine Steven R. , Tietjen Gretchen E. , Ramadan Nabih M. , Welch K. Michael A.
Published: July 2017

Dynamic cerebral blood flow (CBF) studies using acetazolamide or hypercapnia as a vasodilatory challenge have attempted to evaluate intracranial hemodynamics. We report two patients with asymptomatic internal carotid artery occlusion in whom the vasodilatory stimulus was a single oral dose of antihypertensive medication (prazosin hydrochloride or enalapril maléate). In both patients, changes in regional CBF occurred that were larger than those seen in nine normal controls. One patient experienced an improvement in regional CBF with a reduction in probe pair asymmetry. In the other patient, who had bilateral carotid artery disease, a decrease in regional CBF in all 16 probes (mean decrease 12 percent) and an accentuation of the predose asymmetry were observed. Both patients remained asymptomatic throughout the study. Assessing these effects on cerebral circulation may help identify patients at risk for iatrogenic focal cerebral ischemia and provide information regarding the functional status of the cerebral vasculature.
Possible Association of Pulmonary Fibrosis with Mexiletine
Authors: Bero Christopher J. , Rihn Thomas L.
Published: July 2017

This case describes a 75-year-old man who developed pulmonary fibrosis. The onset of symptoms occurred three months after starting mexiletine. A computerized tomogram obtained eight months after initiating mexiletine documented findings consistent with chronic pulmonary fibrosis. The patient died from intractable respiratory difficulties 13 months after beginning mexiletine therapy. To date, there have been three cases of pulmonary fibrosis in patients receiving mexiletine spontaneously reported to the manufacturer.
Eradication of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Vaginitis with Mupirocin
Authors: Cool-Foley Alicia A. , Nathan Cecelia , O'Donovan Charles , Simon Deborah
Published: July 2017

We report the case of a 54-year-old, quadriplegic woman with a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) vaginal infection. After failing a five-day course of intravenous vancomycin therapy, the patient was treated for ten days with mupirocin ointment applied intravaginally twice daily, which resulted in eradication of the infection. This report details a novel approach in treating MRSA vaginal infections.
Procainamide-Induced Pseudo-Obstruction in a Diabetic Patient
Authors: Peterson Andrew M. , Conrad Stephen D. , Bell Jeffrey M.
Published: July 2017

We report the case of a 65-year-old black man who presented to our facility with pseudo-obstruction of the bowel within two weeks of the initiation of oral sustained-release procainamide hydrochloride therapy. The syndrome continued despite conversion to intravenous procainamide and only resolved after discontinuation of the medication. We believe that the anticholinergic properties of procainamide, coupled with the patient's diabetes, contributed to severe hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract and, subsequently, a pseudo-obstructive state. The syndrome of drug-induced pseudo-obstruction is also reviewed.
Indomethacin for Prevention of Neonatal Intraventricular Hemorrhage
Authors: Thompson Dennis F. , Raebel Marsha A. , Lamp Kenneth C. , Reynolds Maryann S.
Published: July 2017

Up to 50 percent of premature infants develop an intracerebral hemorrhage. Intracerebral hemorrhage in neonates occurs most frequently in the periventricular or intraventricular areas. Intravascular, vascular, and extravascular factors influence the development of hemorrhage. Pharmacologic therapies, such as phenobarbital, vitamin K, pancuronium bromide, vitamin E, and indomethacin, have been used in an attempt to prevent intraventricular hemorrhage (IH). Indomethacin inhibits prostaglandin production, which results in cerebral vasoconstriction and reduced cerebral blood flow. Several clinical studies have evaluated the role of indomethacin for the prevention of IH in premature infants. No definitive recommendations can be made regarding indomethacin use for this purpose. However, the two largest studies conducted to date have shown indomethacin to be effective in preventing or limiting the progression of IH. The drug appears to be most effective in reducing low-grade IH. More extensive research is needed to determine the most effective dose, duration, and serum concentration of indomethacin.
Changing Strategies in the Management of Chronic Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Hilleman Daniel E. , Mohiuddin Syed M.
Published: July 2017

Recent studies have more clearly defined the role of drug therapy in patients with chronic congestive heart failure (CHF). Treatment of patients with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction (New York Heart Association [NYHA] class I) cannot be recommended at this time. The benefit of prophylactic treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or vasodilators in patients at high risk for developing symptomatic CHF is currently being evaluated. Treatment of patients with symptomatic CHF (NYHA class II-IV) should be initiated with a combination of a diuretic, digoxin, and an ACEI. This combination has been shown to reduce the mortality rate in patients with NYHA class II-IV CHF. Patients who remain symptomatic despite treatment with this combination may benefit from the addition of the direct-acting, nonspecific vasodilators—hydralazine and a nitrate. The addition of the nonspecific vasodilators to an ACEI has not been tested in controlled trials. In patients who remain symptomatic despite treatment with diuretics, digoxin, ACEIs, and nonspecific vasodilators, treatment options are not clear. The use of beta-agonists, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and intermittent fixed-dose, fixed-interval dobutamine should be avoided as these agents are associated with a high mortality rate. Heart transplantation should be considered early in the course of CHF to allow for preservation of other vital organ systems. Unfortunately, heart transplantation is available to only a very small minority of potential transplant candidates.
Early Individualization of Tricyclic Antidepressant Dosing Using a Bayesian Pharmacokinetic Model
Authors: Robinson J. Daniel , Kehoe William A. , Harralson Arthur F. , Kwentus Joseph A. , Jacisin John J. , Sheffel William B. , Hetnal Mieczyslaw J.
Published: July 2017

Existing methods to prospectively dose tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) require either specific test doses, precisely timed serum sampling, or both. We prospectively tested a new pharmacokinetic model that allows flexible dosing and sampling to determine maintenance requirements in patients receiving TCAs. Thirty-four patients entered the study. Drug concentrations were measured on the third day after starting TCA therapy. These values were analyzed using a Bayesian pharmacokinetic model to determine drug clearance and volume of distribution. This information was then used to predict the serum concentration resulting from a maintenance dose chosen by the psychiatrist. In phase I (n=17), patients received imipramine without specific starting doses. Phase II (n=17) was performed to provide a preliminary evaluation of the method in the usual clinical environment. In this phase, patients received either amitriptyline, imipramine, desipramine, doxepin (75 mg on day 1, 100 mg on day 2), or nortriptyline (50 mg on day 1,75 mg on day 2). Lower doses were allowed if clinically indicated. The predictability of future serum concentrations was then compared between the two phases. The mean prediction errors (model bias) in phases I and II were −15.5 ± 27.3 and −12.3 ± 21.8 ng/mL and were not different (p>0.05). The absolute prediction errors (model precision) were 18.5 ± 25.1 and 18.8 ± 16.0 ng/mL and were not different (p>0.05). Two slow metabolizers were identified (clearance <0.10 L/kg/h). This new method allows the determination of maintenance dose requirements early in therapy without standard test doses or specifically timed serum sampling. An additional benefit is early identification of slow metabolizers, preventing potential drug toxicity.
Recommendations for Establishing a Drug and Toxicology Information Center in a Developing Country
Authors: Kasilo Ossy J. , Nhachi Charles F.B.
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this work was to formulate guidelines to help health professionals in establishing or strengthening the capabilities of drug and toxicology information centers and related facilities in developing countries. These guidelines are based on the experience of an established drug and toxicology information service in Zimbabwe which has been operating for more than ten years and on information obtained from other centers in developed countries. The guidelines provide advice rather than a unique model and should therefore be adapted rather than adopted. We conclude that national drug policies should include provision for establishing drug information centers. The World Health Organization and similar organizations should assist in establishing these centers. We believe that a drug and toxicology information center is more beneficial to the community when it is part of the teaching curriculum and continuing education for health professionals. Therefore, the center should be located in a medical teaching institution.
Preventing Medication Prescribing Errors
Authors: Vitillo Josephine A. , Lesar Timothy S.
Published: July 2017

Medication errors may arise in the manufacture, preparation, distribution, and administration of drugs. Physician prescribing errors are of particular importance as such errors have been associated with significant adverse patient outcomes. The pharmacist plays an important role in preventing such errors from reaching the patient. The purpose of this article is to define and illustrate the various error types and the mental attitudes that cause individuals to prescribe errant orders. Through better understanding of the cause of prescribing errors, pharmacists may be able to improve the error prevention services they provide. Based on the error types discussed and their causes, recommendations are proposed to decrease the frequency of such errors and thereby improve the quality of patient care.
Spatial and Dynamic Features of Land Value Capture: A Case Study from Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Garza Néstor
Published: July 2017

This article assesses the neutrality of Captura de Plusvalía, a land value capture policy implemented in Bogotá (Colombia) in 2004. The case offers a rare opportunity for assessment because the policy application had a scattered spatial and temporal structure but on an urban agglomeration ruled by a single master plan and revenue collecting authority. The analysis reveals that (a) the relationship between value capture and prices is negative (static neutrality); (b) this result holds under various spatial specifications and controls; (c) the policy is not endogenous to the built output or the spatial distribution of the land prices; and (d) there is no evidence of preemption, a theoretical feature where landowners consider that the policy onset represents a regulatory taking, compelling them to accelerate developing timing (dynamic neutrality).
Integrating Functional and Academic Goals into Literacy Instruction for Adolescents with Significant Cognitive Disabilities through Shared Story Reading
Authors: Roberts Carly A. , Leko Melinda M.
Published: July 2017

A multiple baseline single-case study examined the integration of functional and academic goals in an individualized story-based lesson plan incorporating an adapted text on grade level content for adolescent students with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities across three staff–student dyads. The research team collected data on teacher and support staff intervention fidelity as well as scores on weekly social validity surveys. Student data consisted of performance on predetermined academic and functional goals. Staff improved their ability to implement the intervention with fidelity when it was formatted task-analytically. Students also improved their performance on both goals over the duration of the study. Despite student growth, the social validity scores remained relatively stable throughout the entirety of the study. These results suggest that such practices can provide an innovative way for teachers to address functional content while also providing access to the general education curriculum as mandated by IDEA.
A Study of Overreaction Hypothesis in the Indian Equity Market
Authors: Choudhary Kapil , Sethi Naman
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study is to examine the overreaction hypothesis in the Indian stock market during the period 1990 to 2012. It also explores whether this overreaction hypothesis is the manifestation of earlier anomalies such as size effect and value effect. The stock price and fundamental data of 1,427 Indian firms listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange during the period 1990 to 2012 have been used. Time series regression and CAPM have been applied to test overreaction, size and value effects. The empirical results suggest that past losers have a tendency to outperform past winners for longer investment periods such as two to three years. Although lower in magnitude, yet this superior performance of loser stocks is economically significant in the Indian equity market. The empirical results do not reveal any calendar anomaly in the superior performance of loser stocks. Furthermore, the results indicate that losers tended to be small and value stocks and that the limited overreaction effects documented are probably attributable to the size and value effect in the Indian equity market during the last two decades. The findings may provide a base for investment managers and investors to reallocate their portfolio weights to small and value stocks. Earlier studies in the Indian context were primarily focused only on the overreaction hypothesis and to cover this research gap, a further dig has been made to uproot the possibility of size effect, value effect and seasonality in overreaction effects. A fairly large sample (1,427 firms) has been used as compared to previous studies.
An Empirical Study on Performance of Indian MSME
Authors: Kumar Pankaj
Published: July 2017

The article discusses the performance of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) during the pre-liberalisation and post-liberalisation periods. The sector has faced a number of enactments and amendments in the policies and programmes between the first Industrial Policy and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act for better performance. It has acquired a respectable place in the socio-economic contribution of India even after various shortcomings in the policy proposal, poor infrastructure, inadequate training, deficient credit facility, higher sickness rate and so forth. The aim of this article is to compute and compare performance variables of MSME between the pre-liberalisation and post-liberalisation period as well as to examine the inter-relationship among variables plus the functional relationship between variables. The cumulative annual growth rate and average of percentage change value are applied to calculate and compare the performance between two periods. The correlation coefficient is used to find out the inter-relationship among variables and multiple regression (ordinary least squares) with and without dummy variables are used to find out the degree of functional relationship between output and other performance variables.
Stock Market Reaction during the Global Financial Crisis in India: Fractal Analysis
Authors: Mahalingam Gayathri , Selvam Murugesan
Published: July 2017

The Bombay Stock Exchange is the most popular and also the oldest stock exchange in Asia. It has the major number of listed companies in the world. In September 2008, the Sensex experienced huge falls, along with other markets around the world. Financial markets have become ever larger and financial crises have become more threatening to society. The devastating consequences of these crises stimulated the development of methods for predicting financial turmoil. New approaches to stock market prediction are considered on the basis of the intensity of stock index fluctuations estimated by fractal analysis techniques. Fractal analysis is used to analyse the financial time series. This article examined the fractal dimension in S&P BSE Sensex for pre- and post-recession periods—2004–2008 and 2008–2012 respectively.
Mispricing in CNX Nifty Futures: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Nandan Tanuj , Agrawal Puja , Bhargava Shachi
Published: July 2017

Derivatives markets have witnessed considerable growth since their inception at Indian stock exchanges. In the present study, we aim to assess the pricing efficiency of the CNX Nifty index futures. We compare the theoretical cost of carry price with the corresponding observed prices for the period January 2003 to December 2012. In an efficient market, these two are expected not to differ, since such a deviation could lead to riskless arbitrage opportunities. Non-parametric tests are employed to test the statistical significance of our results. We report that the CNX Nifty futures are frequently underpriced, possibly due to short-sales restrictions. There are instances of overpricing, too, but the frequency and magnitude of such scenarios are fewer. We find significant differences in the behaviour of mispricing between the instances of negative/positive basis. Similarly, there appears to be a significant difference between mispricing series with changing days to expiry. These findings can have important implications, which are presented in the conclusion along with an outline of future prospects for research.
Correlates of HRM Practices and Organisational Commitment of Retail Employees in Delhi-NCR
Authors: Khatri Puja , Gupta Pragya
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

The advent of global players in the Indian retail sector has generated mammoth challenges for the Indian retail establishments by increasing the gap in supply and demand of talented professionals. The current article seeks to analyse the perceptions of prevalent human resource (HR) practices, such as hiring and selection, career management, learning and development, performance evaluation, management policies and grievance handling and its relationship with the commitment level of the retail sector employees.

Research methodology:

The data were collected from 100 respondents working in retail companies in Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) through a combination of standardised and self-constructed questionnaires including demographics.

Findings:

The significant discoveries of this empirical research display a highly significant and positive relationship between organisation commitment and perceptions of staffing and resource management practices ( r = 0.424, p ≤ 0.01), the perceptions of performance evaluation practices in the organisation ( r = 0.592, p ≤ 0.01) and perceptions of people management practices prevalent in the organisation ( r = 0.396, p ≤ 0.01).

Research limitations/implications:

First, the study sample picked for the research belonged to Delhi NCR and this study does not include the perceptions of retail employees in Tier II and Tier III cities. Second, it mainly focused on the entry-level and junior-level employees; therefore, future research should be conducted to find out its validity in the context of middle and senior management.
On the Determinants of Voluntary Disclosure by Indian Companies
Authors: Charumathi B. , Ramesh Latha
Published: July 2017

In the current scenario of financial reporting regime, investors are increasingly looking at the disclosure practices of companies. The companies also face capital market pressures and need to disclose more than the regulatory norms. There could be several motivations for the companies to disclose more information voluntarily. This article explores the factors that determine the voluntary disclosure choices of the non-financial companies listed in the National Stock Exchange (NSE). The study uses a voluntary disclosure index (VDI) constructed by the authors with 81 financial and non-financial items across different categories such as strategy, forward looking, environment and social, etc. With the VDI, this study measures the voluntary disclosure levels for four financial years from 2009–2010 to 2012–2013 using the content analysis methodology. The study uses a panel data model to analyse the effects of three categories of variables, namely, firm characteristics, profitability and governance and found the fixed effect model to be suitable and leverage, size and institutional ownership emerged as the determinants of voluntary disclosures. The article is one of the first studies to use longitudinal data and a disclosure index specific to the Indian context.
Do Reputation and Image Matter for Recommendations and Switching Intentions in the Telecommunications Industry?
Authors: Abiodun Abolaji Joachim , Adeyemi Kenneth Sola , Oyeniyi Omotayo , Olayiwola Abimbola Olabisi
Published: July 2017

This research explores the interconnections between telecommunications service attributes and service providers’ reputation and image and the implications for subscribers’ recommendations and switching intentions. The study, based on survey data from 402 subscribers, proposed a number of hypotheses related to these variables and test using structural equation modelling (SEM). The results of data analysis revealed that ease of call, reputation, service quality and customer service influence perceptions of image. In addition, providers’ reputation is not only a significant determinant of recommendations but also holds promise as a lock-in variable to hedge against subscribers switching. It is suggested that investments in telecommunication firms’ image may be necessary but may not be sufficient to attract subscribers to partner with the firm in enlarging their subscribers’ base.
Corporate Governance, Institutional Ownership and Firm Performance in Indian State-owned Enterprises
Authors: Subramanian S.
Published: July 2017

Corporate governance norms were prepared with the assumption that the companies are controlled by private players. However, countries such as India also have listed firms that are majority owned by the state/government. The literature on corporate governance has highlighted the differences in the governance practices of the state-owned enterprises and private-owned enterprises. This article analyses the relationship between corporate governance practices of listed state-owned enterprises in India with institutional ownership and the firm performance. The article measures the corporate governance practices of the listed Indian state-owned firms through a standard instrument to arrive at corporate governance scores. The article first analyses the relationship of corporate governance scores with the firm performance measured through the profitability parameter. The results indicate that corporate governance and firm performance share a positive relationship, which is in line with the expectations. However, the relationship between corporate governance practices and institutional ownership is negative, indicating that increasing institutional ownership is negatively affecting the corporate governance practices of the state-owned firm. This result calls for further research in this area as it deviates from the results of the studies done in the context of family-owned firms.
Change Management, Knowledge Dynamics and Normative Influences in Enterprise Technology Implementation: An Empirical Study
Authors: Sasidharan Sharath
Published: July 2017

The sufficiency of the work environment in providing knowledge support and influencing user perceptions can impact enterprise technology implementation. This article examines the dialectics of change management techniques such as training and user involvement in system design with user task structure in impacting implementation success. Drawing upon the social information processing theory and by adopting a social networking perspective, it also examines the influence of knowledge networks in facilitating technology-related knowledge acquisition while taking into account the domain expertise of knowledge sources and the quality of resulting knowledge flows. The role of influence networks in channelling normative influences is also explored. Analysis of data collected from users of a newly implemented enterprise resource planning system indicates that training and user involvement in system design had a nuanced impact on implementation success, with training benefiting users performing routine, structured tasks while involvement in system design supported those performing ad hoc, unstructured tasks. Centrality positions in the knowledge and influence networks positively impacted implementation success. The results point to the need for restructuring change management programmes to suit the implementation environment, crafting ‘designer’ social networks that facilitate knowledge acquisition, and the inclusion of domain expertise of knowledge sources while assessing knowledge centralities.
Purging Compound for Polyamides and Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Copolymers
Authors: Botros Maged G.
Published: July 2017

This paper discusses the development of a new purge compound, Plexar' PX 909, which was designed to remove residual polar resins, such as polyamides, ethylene/vinyl alcohol (EVOH), and oxidized polyolefins or color concentrates which adhere to the internal parts of an extruder and die. Several characterization techniques were used to compare the purging efficiency of PX 909 to that obtained with three commercial purge compounds and low density polyethylene (LDPE). Data showed that PX 909 was at least twice as efficient as other purging compounds in purging residual nylon or EVOH from extruders. The high purging efficiency of PX 909 is attributed to its ability to chemically react with residual polar compounds remaining in the extruder.
Improved Barrier and Mechanical Properties of Laminar Polymer Blends
Authors: Garmabi Hamid , Kamal M. R.
Published: July 2017

Laminar blends of high density polyethylene and polyamide-6, with only small amounts (up to 17 vol.%) of the barrier component (polyamide-6), produce significant reduction (up to 50 times) in hydrocarbon permeability of extruded ribbons. Such barrier properties approach the range observed with co-extruded multi-layer films. The substantial improvement in barrier behaviour is accompanied by good mechanical properties; this is achieved through optimization of the maleation level of high density polyethylene and controlling the processing temperature to have similar melt viscosities of the blend components.
Author Meets Critics— Black Ops Advertising
Authors: Einstein Mara , Ableman Scott , Kaneva Nadia , Timke Edward
Published: July 2017

In this book discussion, author Mara Einstein and critics join to discuss Einstein's book Black Ops Advertising: Native Ads, Content Marketing, and the Covert World of the Digital Sell (O/R Books, 2016). The conversation focuses on definitions of "black ops advertising," such as content marketing and native advertising, and what they mean for entertainment media and journalism's ability to financially support themselves when people actively avoid advertising. At stake are questions of authenticity and intent of covert advertising messages, consumers' ability to distinguish advertising from non-advertising content, objectivity in reporting when journalists and editors become marketers and advertisers, and consumer agency in an environment with evolving digital advertising regulations. In the end, the participants agreed on the public's need for increased media and advertising literacy as well as the industry's responsibility to reflect on the tactics and data that are being used as digital media and technologies take an increasing hold on everyday life.
Social Media Influencers: A Lesson Plan for Teaching Digital Advertising Media Literacy
Authors: Meyers Cynthia B.
Published: July 2017

Abstract: Aware that younger consumers often skip traditional television commercials, an increasing number of advertisers pay social media content creators to incorporate brands into social media content on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. These "social media influencers" rarely label these brand integrations as "sponsored" or "ad," thus blurring traditional boundaries between "advertising" and "content." Cynthia B. Meyers details a short course and an assignment she developed to help students develop the media literacy skills to critically analyze this increasingly important advertising strategy.
Políticas de permanência no ensino superior público em perspectiva comparada: Argentina, Brasil e Chile
Authors: Vargas Hustana Maria , Heringer Rosana
Published: July 2017

O sistema de ensino superior na Argentina, no Brasil e no Chile guarda diferenças quanto à gênese e estrutura, mas a característica elitista é comum nos três países. Observam-se processos de massificação nas últimas décadas, apoiados tanto em políticas de expansão quanto na adoção de políticas de ação afirmativa. Considerando a multidimensionalidade do problema da permanência, dados seus aspectos materiais, culturais, simbólicos e psicológicos, interessa-nos analisar de maneira comparativa as práticas voltadas a estudantes do ensino superior público federal/nacional nestes três países. Elegemos algumas categorias-chave para a comparação, como: 1) visões sobre permanência explicitadas nos documentos normativos: Direito? Assistencialismo?; 2) natureza jurídico-política das ações: Compromisso estatal? Ações isoladas?; 3) autonomia das instituições para desenharem seus modelos de permanência; 4) principais modelos de permanência encontrados. Além dos aportes teóricos, a análise tem por base as legislações nacionais sobre o tema e dados secundários de âmbito nacional fornecidos pelas agências educacionais de cada país, além de informações fornecidas por instituições de ensino superior específicas. Trata-se principalmente de um esforço descritivo, tendo por base aspectos históricos, legais e socioeconômicos, com a pretensão de oferecer um panorama sobre estes programas nos diferentes contextos nacionais.
Marchas y contramarchas en los procesos de diversificación institucional: La experiencia universitaria uruguaya en clave comparada
Authors: Landoni-Couture Pablo
Published: July 2017

El texto analiza cuatro iniciativas de reformas de la educación superior en Uruguay procesadas entre los años 2008 y 2014.  Dos de ellas, apuntaron a reformar el marco regulatorio de la educación superior, por un lado, intentando crear una Agencia de acreditación, y por otro modificando el esquema ordenador de la educación superior privada. Las otras dos tuvieron como objeto la creación de nuevas universidades estatales. En el mismo se estudian las dinámicas de contexto que influyeron sobre los procesos de formulación y de toma de decisiones de las iniciativas, e intenta explicar las razones por las que algunos de los proyectos tuvieron éxito y otros no. Se analiza la influencia del contexto internacional en la elaboración de las propuestas de reforma y su discusión, tanto técnica como política.
Planeamiento de la educación superior en Argentina: Entre las políticas de regionalización y los procesos de innovación universitaria (1995-2015)
Authors: González Giselle , Claverie Julieta
Published: July 2017

Desde una perspectiva socio-política y organizacional, el artículo se propone describir y analizar las relaciones entre las políticas públicas de regionalización y las dinámicas organizacionales de las universidades en el nivel territorial. En particular, se describe cómo se diseñó la política de regionalización en el marco de la implementación de la Ley 24.521/95 de Educación Superior hasta 2015, qué modelo de gestión se preveía poner en marcha y qué ocurrió finalmente en el funcionamiento de las universidades en tanto destinatarias de esas políticas. Se abordó el sector universitario público nacional en su conjunto a fin de mostrar semejanzas y particularidades por región. Se analizaron fuentes documentales y entrevistas semi-estructuradas a informantes claves del ámbito académico, técnicos y políticos que participaron en el Programa de Reforma de la Educación Superior iniciado en 1995. Como conclusión se observa que la implementación de las políticas públicas de regionalización depende, en gran medida, de la universidad como un actor activo y relevante para el desarrollo territorial. No obstante, la misma no termina de constituirse como un actor dinámico e innovador en términos de sistema universitario.
Social justice debate and college access in Latin America: merit or need? The role of educational institutions and states in broadening access to higher education in the region
Authors: Villalobos Cristobal , Treviño Ernesto , Wyman Ignacio , Scheele Judith
Published: July 2017

During the first decade of the 21st century, Latin America experienced an intense economic growth that increased access in the school system. In this context, the paper  analyzes four different programs from Bolivia (Intercultural Community Indigenous Universities), Brazil (Quotas´ Law), Chile (Follow up and Effective Access to Higher Education Program) and Ecuador (Scholarship Program based on Quotas) aimed at improving the participation of marginalized students in the university from three different perspectives. First, conceptually, the paper analyzes the governance of these programs in terms of what are the institutional arrangements that define who is responsible for solving this source of inequality in higher education. Second, the study looks at the concepts of equality, fairness, merit, need and diversity behind the different initiatives presented, using the social justice debate. Thirdly, the paper uses the framework of analysis of different types of access programs to study the scope, components and arrangements of the policies.  The results show a high level of heterogeneity in the characteristics and focuses of the programs, which allows to deepen the discussion on the role of access to higher education in the region.