bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How and Why to Involve Patients in Drug Development: Perspectives From the Pharmaceutical Industry, Regulatory Authorities, and Patient Organizations
Authors: Hansen Marianne Botoft , Nørgaard Lotte Stig , Hallgreen Christine Erikstrup
Published: August 2019

Background:

Despite increasing interest and focus on patient-centric approaches to drug development, there might still be divergent views between key stakeholders in how to perceive patient involvement and how possibly divergent views influence the role of patients in the drug development process. The objective of this study is to explore how the perception of patient organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and regulatory agencies influence the role of patients in drug development.

Method:

A qualitative interview study based on 12 semi-structured interviews with representatives from the 3 stakeholders. Interviews were transcribed, and data were analyzed using a social constructivist approach in the form of systematic text condensation.

Results:

Three main perceptions of patient involvement were identified: “a way to improve quality of life,” “a way to avoid business failure,” and “a way to foster a faster drug approval process.” Transparency, trust, and clarification of expectations and roles were factors perceived as prerequisites for a valuable collaboration. Furthermore, a required cultural mindset change in the pharmaceutical industry, the lack of a common framework, patient organizations having limited resources available, and concerns about what to do with patient responsibility were perceived as the most important barriers for patient involvement.

Conclusion:

Based on the findings, the pharmaceutical industry, patient organizations, and regulatory authorities were labeled as “pioneer/dominant,” “unaware/quiet,” and “hesitant,” respectively. The 3 behavioural descriptors reflect a limited negotiation of the role patients have in drug development. Thus, the pharmaceutical industry appears to be the largest influencer with regard to patients’ role in drug development.
Computational parasites and hydropower: A political ecology of Bitcoin mining on the Columbia River
Authors: Lally Nick , Kay Kelly , Thatcher Jim
Published: August 2019

Over the past three years, the dams of Chelan County, Washington, its watershed and fish, the electrical grid and the laborers who maintain it, and cleared land with warehouses filled with computers, have all been enrolled as part of the decentralized digital infrastructure of Bitcoin. While popular accounts of the Bitcoin network correctly report the massive scale of energy it consumes and its potential environmental ramifications, in practice, the material geographies of Bitcoin are highly uneven and intertwined with specific infrastructural, ecological, and economic systems. In this article, we examine Bitcoin's impacts on Chelan County, untangling the processes that occur as the distributed, digital infrastructure consumes the very real material resources of one place to produce digital goods used in another. In so doing, we examine not only the material costs of networks like Bitcoin, but also their historical ties to older processes of accumulation.
Underground transfer of carbonised organic residues to lithics during preliminary fire experiments: implications for archaeology
Authors: Wadley Lyn , Luong Susan , Sievers Christine , Prinsloo Linda
Published: August 2019

Using fire experiments, we investigate claims that black organic residues on lithics found in Stone Age sites are markers for heat treatment of rocks in the embers of aboveground wood fires. We buried sedges overlain with lithics and bone to replicate plant bedding sometimes found in archaeological sites. Small fires were lit over the material buried under a mixture of coarse- and medium-grained sand. Black carbonised residues formed on several lithics that were in direct contact with buried sedges that burned below the fire. FTIR, Raman and preliminary GC–MS measurements were made on dried and burnt sedge, burnt bone, and on a prominent black residue that formed on one quartz piece that had been in contact with buried fresh sedge when it was heated. Importantly, we were able to confirm the spontaneous and accidental transfer of organic compounds to lithics buried and heated underground in the presence of plant material. This means that carbonised organic residues are not useful markers for determining whether heat treatment of rocks took place above or below ground. Our preliminary experiments imply that further work should be done to investigate the causes of the residues formed on lithics underground.
Long-Term Risk of Infections After Treatment of Childhood Leukemia: A Population-Based Cohort Study Using Administrative Health Data
Authors: Pelland-Marcotte Marie-Claude , Pole Jason D. , Hwee Jeremiah , Sutradhar Rinku , Science Michelle , Nathan Paul C. , Sung Lillian
Published: August 2019

PURPOSE

Infections are a frequent complication during childhood leukemia treatment. Little is known about the infectious risk in survivors. We compared the relative rate (RR) of infections after treatment completion between pediatric leukemia survivors and the general population.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective, population-based cohort study of children diagnosed with leukemia between 1992 and 2015 in Ontario, Canada, who were alive and relapse free 30 days after treatment completion (index date). Leukemia survivors were matched 5:1 with the general population by year of birth, sex, and rural status and stratified by initial treatment, including and excluding hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). The primary outcome was time to infections, as identified using validated diagnostic codes from administrative databases. Individuals were censored at the earliest of death, first relapse, loss to follow-up, or end of study.

RESULTS

A total of 2,204 leukemia survivors were included and matched with 11,020 controls. The rate of infections was elevated after treatment completion compared with controls (RR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.45 to 1.57) and at less than 1 year (RR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.69 to 1.86); 1 to 4.99 years (RR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.62 to 1.71), and 5 or more years (RR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.22 to 1.36) from the index date. Among those whose initial treatment excluded HSCT, the rate remained elevated more than 5 years from the index date (RR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.23 to 1.35). Infection-related death was significantly increased in leukemia survivors both among the entire cohort (hazard ratio, 149.3; 95% CI, 20.4 to 1,091.9) and among those without HSCT (hazard ratio, 92.7; 95% CI, 12.4 to 690.7).

CONCLUSION

A significant association was found between a history of leukemia therapy and an increased risk of infections. Additional study is needed to establish which exposures in patients with leukemia lead to late infections.
Characteristics of Physicians Participating in Medicare’s Oncology Care Model Bundled Payment Program
Authors: Parikh Ravi B. , Bekelman Justin E. , Huang Qian , Martinez Joseph R. , Emanuel Ezekiel J. , Navathe Amol S.
Published: August 2019

PURPOSE:

The Oncology Care Model (OCM) is Medicare’s first bundled payment program for patients with cancer. We examined baseline characteristics of OCM physician participants and markets with high OCM physician participation to inform generalizability and complement the ongoing practice-level evaluation of the OCM.

METHODS:

In this cross-sectional study, we identified characteristics of US medical oncologists practicing in 2016, using a national telephone-verified physician database. We linked these data with Dartmouth Atlas and Medicare claims data from 2011 through 2016 to identify characteristics of markets with high OCM participation. We used logistic regression to examine relationships between market characteristics and OCM participation.

RESULTS:

Of 10,428 US medical oncologists, 2,605 (24.9%) were listed in an OCM practice. There were no differences in sex or medical training between OCM participants and nonparticipants, although OCM participants were slightly younger. OCM participants practiced in larger (median daily patient volume, 80 v 55 patients) and urban practices (95.2% v 90.7%) and were less likely to be part of a health system (41.0% v 60.4%) or solo practice (45.5% v 67.4%; all P < .001). Participation was higher in southern and mid-Atlantic markets. Markets with high OCM physician participation had higher specialist density, hospital care intensity, and acute care use at the end of life (all P < .001). Market-level penetration of Accountable Care Organizations (adjusted odds ratio, 4.65; 95% CI 3.31 to 6.56; P < .001) and Medicare Advantage (adjusted odds ratio 2.82; 95% CI, 1.97 to 4.06; P < .001) were associated with higher OCM participation.

CONCLUSION:

In the first description of oncologists participating in the OCM, we found differences in practice demographics, care intensity, and exposure to nontraditional payment models between OCM-participating and nonparticipating physicians. Such provider-level differences may not be captured in Medicare’s practice-level analysis.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Primary Ovarian Insufficiency
Authors: Tiosano Dov , Mears Jason A , Buchner David A
Published: August 2019

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is defined by the loss or dysfunction of ovarian follicles associated with amenorrhea before the age of 40. Symptoms include hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and depression, as well as reduced fertility and increased long-term risk of cardiovascular disease. POI occurs in ∼1% to 2% of women, although the etiology of most cases remains unexplained. Approximately 10% to 20% of POI cases are due to mutations in a single gene or a chromosomal abnormality, which has provided considerable molecular insight into the biological underpinnings of POI. Many of the genes for which mutations have been associated with POI, either isolated or syndromic cases, function within mitochondria, including MRPS22, POLG, TWNK, LARS2, HARS2, AARS2, CLPP, and LRPPRC. Collectively, these genes play roles in mitochondrial DNA replication, gene expression, and protein synthesis and degradation. Although mutations in these genes clearly implicate mitochondrial dysfunction in rare cases of POI, data are scant as to whether these genes in particular, and mitochondrial dysfunction in general, contribute to most POI cases that lack a known etiology. Further studies are needed to better elucidate the contribution of mitochondria to POI and determine whether there is a common molecular defect in mitochondrial function that distinguishes mitochondria-related genes that when mutated cause POI vs those that do not. Nonetheless, the clear implication of mitochondrial dysfunction in POI suggests that manipulation of mitochondrial function represents an important therapeutic target for the treatment or prevention of POI.
Intramyocardial Triglycerides Among Women With vs Without HIV: Hormonal Correlates and Functional Consequences
Authors: Toribio Mabel , Neilan Tomas G , Awadalla Magid , Stone Lauren A , Rokicki Adam , Rivard Corinne , Mulligan Connor P , Cagliero Diana , Fourman Lindsay T , Stanley Takara L , Ho Jennifer E , Triant Virginia A , Burdo Tricia H , Nelson Michael D , Szczepaniak Lidia S , Zanni Markella V
Published: August 2019

Context

Women with HIV (WHIV) on anti-retroviral therapy (ART) are living longer but facing heightened vulnerability to heart failure.

Objective

We investigated metabolic/hormonal/immune parameters relating to diastolic dysfunction—a precursor to heart failure—among WHIV without known cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Design and Outcome Measures

Nineteen ART-treated WHIV and 11 non-HIV-infected women without known CVD enrolled and successfully completed relevant study procedures [cardiac magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and cardiac MRI]. Groups were matched on age and body mass index. Primary outcome measures included intramyocardial triglyceride content (cardiac MRS) and diastolic function (cardiac MRI). Relationships between intramyocardial triglyceride content and clinical parameters were also assessed.

Results

Among WHIV (vs non-HIV-infected women), intramyocardial triglyceride content was threefold higher [1.2 (0.4, 3.1) vs 0.4 (0.1, 0.5)%, P = 0.01], and diastolic function was reduced (left atrial passive ejection fraction: 27.2 ± 9.6 vs 35.9 ± 6.4%, P = 0.007). There was a strong inverse relationship between intramyocardial triglyceride content and diastolic function (ρ = −0.62, P = 0.004). Among the whole group, intramyocardial triglyceride content did not relate to chronologic age but did increase across the reproductive aging spectrum (P = 0.02). HIV status and reproductive aging status remained independent predictors of intramyocardial triglyceride content after adjusting for relevant cardiometabolic parameters (overall model R2 = 0.56, P = 0.003; HIV status P = 0.01, reproductive aging status P = 0.02).

Conclusions

For asymptomatic WHIV, increased intramyocardial triglyceride content is associated with diastolic dysfunction. Moreover, relationships between intramyocardial triglyceride accumulation and women’s reproductive aging are noted.
Pregnancy and Live Birth In Women With Pathogenic LHCGR Variants Using Their Own Oocytes
Authors: Lu Xuefeng , Yan Zheng , Cai Renfei , Khor Shuzin , Wu Ling , Sun Lihua , Wang Yun , Xu Yao , Tian Hui , Chen Qiuju , Qiao Jie , Li Bing , Chen Biaobang , Cao Yu , Lyu Qifeng , Wang Lei , Kuang Yanping
Published: August 2019

Context

The LH/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) is mainly expressed in gonads and plays important roles in estradiol production, ovulation, and luteal formation. Women with pathogenic LHCGR variants suffer from infertility, and successful fertility treatments for such women have never been reported.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine whether women with pathogenic LHCGR variants can achieve successful pregnancies through in vitro fertilization.

Design

Three women with LH resistance and infertility and their parents underwent exome sequencing. The biochemical characteristics and functional effects of LHCGR mutation were assessed in transfected human embryonic kidney -293T cells and primary granulosa cells.

Results

All affected women harbored pathogenic LHCGR variants. The LHCGR variants lacked cell surface localization and signal transduction abilities in vitro and in vivo. After dual triggering and prolonging the interval between triggering and oocyte pick-up, all three patients achieved oocytes and high-quality embryos. After frozen embryo transfer, one woman successfully birthed twins, and one woman successfully birthed a live boy. Apart from difficulties in oocyte retrieval, no obvious abnormalities in fertilization or during embryo development and pregnancy were identified in these patients.

Conclusions

This study is, to our knowledge, the first to report successful assisted reproductive treatment of women with pathogenic LHCGR variants using their own oocytes. Our results supported that defects in LHCGR disrupted ovulation but had no effect on fertilization and embryo development.
Characterization of the Rapid Drop in Pulse Oximetry Reading After Intraoperative Administration of Methylene Blue in Open Thoracoabdominal Aortic Repairs
Authors: Rong Lisa Q. , Mauer Elizabeth , Mustapich Taylor L. , White Robert S. , Di Franco Antonino , Girardi Leonard N. , Gaudino Mario , Pryor Kane O.
Published: August 2019

This study evaluates the changes of oxygen saturation (Spo2) after intravenous administration of methylene blue in 103 patients undergoing open repair of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. We found that Spo2decreased by a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 49% (37%–81%) <1 minute after methylene blue administration and recovered completely after approximately 6 minutes—median (IQR) of 270 seconds (180–510). A shorter time to nadir Spo2was associated with a higher nadir (Spearmanr[95% confidence interval {CI}], −0.32 [−0.50 to −0.13];P= .001). Body surface area (BSA) was positively correlated with nadir Spo2(Spearmanr[95% CI], 0.36 [0.15–0.51];P< .001).
Antibacterial effect of copper sulfate against multi-drug resistant nosocomial pathogens isolated from clinical samples
Authors: Benhalima Lamia , Amri Sandra , Bensouilah Mourad , Ouzrout Rachid
Published: August 2019

Background and Objective: With the emergence of antibiotic resistance and the hospital acquired infection, the interest for antimicrobial agents has recently increased again in public health. Copper is recommended as a supplementary method of increasing biological safety in the hospital environment. The objective of this study was to determine the antibacterial activity of copper sulfate salts on strains of bacterial pathogens isolated from different clinical pictures in different health establishment in Algeria.

Methods: A total of 25 different bacterial isolates (16 Enterobacteriaceae, 5 Staphylococci, and 4 Pseudomonas) were tested for susceptibility to copper sulfate using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC-Cu) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC-Cu) determinations. All isolates were also tested for susceptibility to six antibiotics.

Results: Antibiotic susceptibility studies revealed that 100% of isolates were resistant to one or more antibiotics. Fifty two percent of isolates were very susceptible to copper sulfate, with MICs ranging from 100 to 200 µg/ml. MBC-Cu = 1600 μg/ml showed the best bactericidal effect against the great majority of studied bacteria (52%). A good bactericidal activities of copper sulfate were recorded against Proteus vulgaris and Staphylococcus aureus (MBC/MIC=1). The Gram-negative bacteria isolates which were copper resistant also showed a high resistance to chloramphenicol (r=0.78) and Trimethoprime (r=0.61). Furthermore, the strains that were no-susceptible to three different antimicrobial classes (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus saprophyticus) were not resistant to copper sulfate.

Conclusion: Copper sulfate salts has significant antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistant nosocomial pathogens.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.336

How to cite this:Benhalima L, Amri S, Bensouilah M, Ouzrout R. Antibacterial effect of copper sulfate against multi-drug resistant nosocomial pathogens isolated from clinical samples. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(5):1322-1328.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.336

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Examination of sexual functions and depressive symptoms among infertile and fertile women
Authors: Ozturk Selda , Kahyaoglu Sut Hatice , Kucuk Leyla
Published: August 2019

Objective: To examine the sexual functions and depressive symptoms of infertile and fertile women.
Methods: This study was conducted between October 2015 and April 2016 using a descriptive, cross-sectional and comparative design. The sample of this study consisted of 96 infertile and 96 fertile women. The data were collected using an information form, the Beck Depression Inventory and the Index of Female Sexual Function. The data were analyzed The Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test, and Spearman’s correlation analysis.
Results: The rate of sexual dysfunction (87.5% vs. 69.8%) and the Index of Female Sexual Function total score (31.8 ± 7.8 vs 35.7 ± 6.3) were significantly higher in infertile women than fertile women (p=0.003, p<0.001, respectively). The sexual satisfaction and discomfort during sexual intercourse subscales of the Index of Female Sexual Function were significantly lower among infertile women than fertile women (p<0.001 for all); however, no significant difference was observed in the sexual intercourse/libido score of the Index of Female Sexual Function between infertile and fertile women (p=0.590). The correlation coefficients between the Beck Depression Inventory total score and the total and subscale scores of the IFSF did not significantly differ between infertile and fertile women (p>0.05 for all).
Conclusion: The sexual dysfunction rate among infertile women was higher than that among fertile women. Sexual functions decreased when depressive symptoms increased for both infertile and fertile women.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.615
How to cite this:Ozturk S, Sut HK, Kucuk L. Examination of sexual functions and depressive symptoms among infertile and fertile women. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(5):1355-1360. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.615
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
World Federation for Medical Education: Appropriateness of Basic Medical Education standards in Pakistan
Authors: Wajid Gohar , Sethi Ahsan , Khan Rehan Ahmed , Aamir Hira Shireen
Published: August 2019

Objective: To explore the appropriateness of WFME Basic Medical Education (BME) standards to Pakistani context.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey of faculty, graduates and students of five Masters’ in Health Professions Education programmes was carried out from Jul-Dec 2017. Participants were asked to rate the appropriateness of WFME-BME basic standards to Pakistani context on a fourpoint Likert scale (Strongly Disagree through to Strongly Agree). They were also asked for additional comments, if any. Descriptive statistics were carried out for quantitative data, while content analysis for qualitative data.

Results: A total of 127/200 participants responded (63.5%). For all major areas (106 standards), 97.7% responses (n=13,149) were positive while only 2.3% (n=313) were negative. Ninety-six standards got more than 95% positive response while only 10 standards in three major areas got more than five percent negative response. These include five standards from major area Mission and Outcomes, one from Educational Programme and four from Students.

Conclusions: This is the first study exploring the appropriateness of WFME-BME standards for accreditation in Pakistan. We found that all the areas, sub-areas and standards are largely appropriate. We recommend further deliberation on 10 standards with more than five percent negative responses, regarding their contextualization to Pakistan and the development of guidelines and possible reconsiderations in WFME future revisions.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.882

How to cite this:Wajid G, Sethi A, Khan RA, Aamir HS. World Federation for Medical Education: Appropriateness of Basic Medical Education standards in Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(5):1185-1191. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.882

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
A novel comparison of Epstein-Barr virus with broad histological spectrum of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Saleem Muhammad Wasif , Baig Faraz Ahmed , Hadi Naila Irum
Published: August 2019

Objectives: To evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in broad spectrum histological subtypes of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and to determine the relationship of EBV with clinicopathological parameters of OSCC.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 150 clinically diagnosed OSCC cases from the outpatient of Ziauddin University Hospital from March, 2017 to October, 2018. These were confirmed on histological examination and categorized into conventional squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and rare variants. Conventional SCC was subcategorized into keratinizing (KSCC), non-keratinizing (NKSCC), and hybrid SCC (HSCC). EBV status was compared among various histological tumor entities and clinicopathological characteristics of OSCC using immunohistochemistry. Chi-square test was used to determine the association of each histological subtype with EBV status with P-value <0.05 considered as statistically significant.

Results: Conventional tumor was the most frequent squamous cell carcinoma (n=126; 84%). A significant statistical link of EBV infection was observed with rare histological tumors exhibiting acantholysis (P=0.01), as well as tumors involving buccal mucosa (P=0.03), and habitual smokers (P=0.001).

Conclusions: In this study, acantholytic tumor, a rare histological subtype of OSCC, tended to be EBV related. Moreover, OSCC cases bearing EBV infection were more likely smokers favoring buccal mucosa as primary anatomical site for oral cancer.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.899

How to cite this:Saleem MW, Baig FA, Hadi NI. A novel comparison of Epstein-Barr virus with broad histological spectrum of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(5):1192-1198. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.5.899

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
RETRACTED: Consumer perspectives on reproductive health after using the Jakpros smart mobile health application: A cross-sectional, qualitative study
Authors: Wiweko Budi , Riyanti Aida , Olivia Shanty , Priangga Muhammad , Silvana Vita , Putro Aruan Lewis , Wibawa Yohanes Satrya , Pertiwi Ilonna Putri , Zakirah Sarah Chairani , Harzif Achmad Kemal , Pratama Gita , Muharam R. , Hestiantoro Andon
Published: August 2019

The article titled “Consumer perspectives on reproductive health after using the Jakpros smart mobile health application: A cross-sectional, qualitative study” ([version 1; peer review: 1 not approved] F1000Research 2019, 8: 396 https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.17894.1) has been retracted by F1000Research on the grounds of scientific misconduct.

On submission to F1000Research, all manuscripts undergo plagiarism checks as standard—this is detailed in our Originality policies. Upon submission, authors are also required to declare that the article is not under consideration or review by another publisher. At this stage in the publication process, our plagiarism detection software did not identify any significant duplication of text. Following publication of the article, the F1000Research editorial team were notified of a high degree of similarity between this manuscript and one already published in the Institute of Physics (IOP) Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science (B Wiweko et al 2019 IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ. Sci. 248 012038 https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/248/1/012038/pdf). On investigation, the extent of overlap between these two publications was substantial, and this was deemed a case of duplicate publication. Duplicate publication is a major ethical issue and, as a member of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) and a follower of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) recommendations, F1000Research takes such matters seriously.

In response to our concerns, corresponding author Budi Wiweko acknowledged that publication misconduct has taken place and has been informed that, due to the extent and nature of duplication between the articles published in F1000Research and IOP, F1000Research will retract the article and publish a linked retraction notice.

In line with COPE guidelines, F1000Research has informed the Publisher of IOP Conference Series about this issue, and our final decision has been communicated to all authors and their respective institutions.
Funktionskreis and the stratificational model of semiotic structures: Jakob von Uexküll, Luis Prieto and Louis Hjelmslev
Authors: Chávez Barreto E. Israel
Published: August 2019

The main aim of this article is to show how a possible theoretical articulation between Uexküll’s notion of Funktionskreis and the stratificational model of semiotic structures proposed by Louis Hjelmslev can be made. In order to bridge the gap between these two models, Luis Prieto’s model of cognition will be used. The advantage of Prieto’s model is that it retains the Hjelmslevian stratificational ideas (i.e. a semiotic structure is made up of an expression and a content plane, each one with a dimension of form and substance), while it also pays attention to agency and practice. To put it briefly, according to Prieto the foundation of practice and knowledge is to be found on aisthesis. Hence, as in Uexküll, there is a way to merge action with perception, while retaining the semiotic structure that makes such a merging possible. The key point, however, is that Prieto’s model calls for an “ontological commitment” to the substance strata (both in expression and in content to some extent). Therefore, bridging Uexküll and Hjelmslev via Prieto suggests a possible way to provide a general structural model of semiosis which is closer to semiotic realism than to immanentism usually attributed to structuralism.
Steps towards the natural meronomy and taxonomy of semiosis: Emotin between index and symbol?
Authors: Kull Kalevi
Published: August 2019

The main aim of this brief and purposely radical essay is to investigate further possibilities for empirical research in natural classification of semiosis (signs as wholes). Before introducing emon – a missing term in the taxonomy of signs – we make a distinction between the natural and artificial, and between the taxonomic and meronomic classifications of signs. Natural classifications or typologies are empirically based, while artificial classifications do not require empirical test. Meronomy describes the relational or functional structure of the whole (for instance triadic, circular, etc. composition of sign), while taxonomy categorizes individuals (individual signs). We argue that a natural taxonomy of signs can be based on the existence of different complexity of operations during semiosis, which implies different mechanisms of learning. We add into the taxonomy a particular type of signs – emonic signs, which are at work in imitation and social learning, while being more complex than indexes and less complex than symbols. Icons are related to imprinting, indexes to conditioning, emons to imitating, and symbols to conventions or naming. We also argue that the semiotic typologies could undergo large changes after the discovery of the proper mechanisms or workings of semiosis.
A Study on Social Competence of Secondary School Students Residing in Juvenile Homes
Authors: CV Shylaja
Published: August 2019

The present study examines the social competence of secondary school students residing in Juvenile homes. Studies report that the residents of Juvenile homes are deficient in social adaptation skills. This could be due to lack of resources and support. Schools within Juvenile homes could provide resources to develop social competence skills beneficial for their personal and social development. The study used surveys to measure the level of social competence of the secondary school students residing in the Juvenile homes of Kerala with the sub-samples based on gender, locality, and type of institution. The study reports significant differences in social competence between boys and girls, urban and rural population, and government, aided, and private residents of Juvenile homes.
Emotional Vulnerability of Displaced Children in a Protracted Conflict
Authors: Grace K Neinunnem , Bhawmik Paramita , C Jayakumar , K Sekar
Published: August 2019

Children are the most vulnerable and affected population in areas of protracted armed conflict. Due to internal displacement, deaths, injury, separation from family, and other social and economic disruptions are on the rise. In India, there are limited studies focussing on children in protracted conflict. This study focusses on the state of Manipur and looks into the relationship between the background to displacement and emotional vulnerability and tries to understand the different aspects of emotional vulnerability that children have faced due to the protracted armed conflict.
SWOT Analysis of Eco-Labels and their Projection on Sustainability Spectrum: A Theoretical Evaluation of Destination India
Authors: Akhter Shamima , Darzi M A
Published: August 2019

Most of the organisations in India follow contemporary practices of sustainable development but very few have obtained 'green' certifications, and tourism industry is no exception.  A  booming  economy,  with  a  population  of over  1.2  billion,  India's  infrastructure  constructions  are soaring, resulting in a depletion of rare flora and fauna species  and  an  increase  in  pollution  of  water  bodies. Against  the  backdrop  of  these  three  constituents,  this paper  presents  a  SWOT  analysis  of  three  important ecolabels which covers almost all sectors of the tourism industry.  Further,  an  evaluation  of  this  ecolabel implementation  in  India  is  done  through  sustainability spectrum vis-a-vis sustainability positions.
The Implications of Demonetization and Currency Constraints on Indian Tourism – A Perspective Analysis
Authors: S Mary Jeniffer , Chandran Anu , Gantait Arnab
Published: August 2019

A landmark decision by the Government of India on the 8th of November 2016, viz, demonetization, propped up monetary repercussions of high magnitude the nation has ever witnessed.  The ‘Ifs and Buts’ of demonetization are being widely debated (of course at this juncture the government machinery and banks need to announce the positive outcomes such as stoppage of terrorist funding and black money, etc. as claimed earlier) albeit in the  days that followed after the announcement it became explicit that the decision was taken without adequate preparedness. The whole process, though seemingly transparent, has had on impact on the lives of all the citizens leading to the initial optimism expressed by a great number of people waning into contempt and
Impact of Land Use Land Cover Change on Coastal Tourism in Kundapura, Karnataka, Using Multi-temporal Remotely Sensed Data and GIS Techniques
Authors: Naik Shekar , Bhat H Gangadhara , Sreedhara T N
Published: August 2019

The present study is an attempt to examine the Land Use Land Cover changes in parts of Kundapura Taluk in Karnataka for the period 2006 and 2016 and its impact on coastal tourism. IRS satellite images of 2006 and 2016 have been used and processed using ERDAS Imagine and ArcGIS. The result indicated tremendous changes, particularly in mixed urban and agricultural land and proved that RS/GIS has advantages over conventional techniques. The result obtained, based on the multi-dated satellite data study, will assist in decision making and help to take appropriate measures to monitor and regulate coastal development in order to achieve sustainable and integrated coastal development.
Socio-economic Factors and Residents’ Motivation for Travel - A Conceptual Study
Authors: Minj Shashi Kanta , Mishra Jitendra Mohan
Published: August 2019

There are several factors which influence the travel attitude of residents in choosing a destination. In tourism research, many researchers have examined social, cultural, economic, psychological, personal, internal and external factors that influence the travel attitudes of residents. This paper attempts to conceptualise the socio-economic factors such as income, education, and health that influence the residents‟ motivation for travel. The study concludes with a conceptual model indicating the interaction between the socio-economic factors and the residents‟ motivation/ constraints for travel that can be studied in future using an empirical model.
A Study on the Role and Contribution of Women for the Development of Ayurvedic Education in Kerala
Authors: Thomas Anila
Published: August 2019

Education has been of central significance to the development of human society. It can be the beginning not only of individual knowledge, information and awareness, but also of a holistic strategy for development and change. Education helps an individual to develop his or her potential to the fullest, to increase the productivity and to become useful and resourceful members of the society. Education is holistic in concept and is multidimensional. Due to the technical advancement and social development, the structure of the family organization is changing. These substantial changes have created a new challenging role and status for the Indian women, especially for the middle class women. The structure of the Indian society is undergoing a metamorphosis due to Urbanisation, Westernisation, Industrialisation and Politicalisation. As a member of the family, she has to perform certain traditional roles, apart from taking an active part in economic activity.  The provision of educational opportunities for girls and women has been part of the national endeavour since independence. The constitution of India, is clearly committed to the cause of education and unequivocally endorses state intervention to redress an adverse educational scenario. The recent social
Karnataka Tourism Satellite Accounts (Kar-TSA): A Necessity for the Tourism Industry
Authors: Kumar Mahesh
Published: August 2019

Tourism  is  being  highlighted  for  its  immense  business opportunities with its close linkages to the transport and accommodation industry and a host of other sectors. The potential and performance of the tourism industry in the state of Karnataka, needs to be gauged in terms of its socio-economic magnitudes. The present study focuses on the need for developing a Tourism  Satellite  Account  (TSA)  framework, which enables estimating or arriving at tourism activity impact on  the  state  economy  and  its  people,  because  tourism does  not  exist  as  a  distinct  sector,  but  happens  across several  sectors.  The  TSA  framework  separates  out  all tourism-related activity within gross state products (GSP). World Tourism Organization developed this framework and  so  far, over  75  counties  have  either  initiated  or completed  implementation  of  this  framework.  In  2006, India has published the first National Tourism Satellite Accounts. Efforts are being made to understand the need for adapting the sub-national level TSA for the state of Karnataka  with  discussions  on the TSA  conceptual framework and the present situation around the globe as well as in the sub-continent, followed by the findings and recommendations.
Sustainability Issues in River Tourism: A Case Study of Ganges in Varanasi
Authors: Tandon Neha
Published: August 2019

Understanding future expectations and fulfilling current demands with a view of conserving social, cultural and natural environment of a destination, can be referred to as sustainable  tourism.  Changes  in  social  and  cultural environment are identified a little early than their natural counterpart. The first two being more vocal and narrates quick reactions among its audiences. Changes in natural environment lie silent till the time they reach a visible level  of  depletion.  The  present  paper  will  highlight sustainability issues in river tourism, which is one of the significant natural resources for tourism. Understanding the dependency of tourism on rivers and highlighting its positive and negative effects of it, will be discussed in the paper. The paper is supported by a case study on „The Ganges in Varanasi‟.  The Holy Ganges is the lifeline of the city and is facing immense sustainability issues, which has  raised  questions  against  her  future  existence.  The problems  faced and  measures  taken by  various organizations,  government  bodies,  and  individuals  to protect the lifeline of the oldest living city of the world will be examined further.
Influence of New Media on Travel Decision Making
Authors: Dileep M R , S Sindhu , Ismail Abduraoof Ahmed
Published: August 2019

Tourism, one of the largest industries in the world, has recorded  consistent  growth  since  the  end  of  Second World  War.  Travel  is  a  key  factor  in  the  process  of tourism, where the tourist is the main player as well as the  ultimate  consumer  of  the  products  and  services offered to him/her. A tourist‟s decision to travel is  by itself a complex process because there are many factors that influence the decision. The New media, which has emerged  in  the  wake  of  tremendous  advancements  in information  and  communication  technologies  is also influencing the decision making process in modern times. Here, an attempt has been done to examine the influence of new media in the various stages of decision making process and the role played by it. A questionnaire based survey was  undertaken  to  conduct  the  study  and  the analysis reveals various kinds of influences of new media.
A Web-based GIS for Tourism Administration in Kerala
Authors: C K Venugopal , Ajayakumar V
Published: August 2019

Geographic  Information  systems  are  used  widely  for Tourism  administration  in  several  countries,  but  not especially true in Kerala scenario. This paper attempts to present a GIS model for tourism administration in Kerala. Various  applications  of  Tourism  based  GIS  in  the international  arena  have  been  examined  in  this  paper. Data collected from different sources reveals the present status of Tourism GISs world over. The study focuses on areas where GIS can be applied in Kerala Tourism and gives outputs that can be generated using the proposed model.  Tourism  is  essentially  a  cartographic phenomenon.  In  this  context  this  paper  assumes importance as various devices, both wired and wireless are  increasingly  used  to  accesses  cartographic information.  With  internet  becoming  an  unavoidable component of modern day life, map based information is the need of the hour. A web based GIS will benefit Kerala tourism in the coming years. The model proposed in this paper can act as a foundation for building a web based GIS for Kerala tourism.
Multisensory Marketing: Creating New Sustainability Perspective in Hospitality Sector
Authors: Kumar Prarthana
Published: August 2019

Synchronic  studies  in  marketing  propose that  sensory stimulus,  like colour, lighting  effects,  backdrop music, ambient scents or upholstery‘s texture, affect consumers‘ evaluation of the milieu, the wares presented, and affect consumer behavior  (e.g.,  approximate  amount spent, time spent at a store).  A Customer is frequently attracted towards a brand based on its sensory experience. In toto, the unexpurgated world is experienced through multiple senses. (Lindstrom & Kotler, 2005). Ingenious brands are discovering means  to  captivate the  entire consumer senses to fortify their brand experience, by amalgamating every sense into the marketing strategy, this approach is called Sensory Marketing. Sensory branding is based on the idea that we are most likely to form, retain and revisit memory  when  all  five  senses  are  engaged. Many companies  are  discovering that  when  they  engage consumers with multiple sensory touch points—not just the traditional sensory channels of sight or hearing—they can enhance customers‘ emotional connection with their products and brands. The multisensory strategies seek to go beyond delivering functionality and value to evoking significant personal identification with products. It aims to  fill  in  the lacuna of  the  conventional marketing. Technology  is  one  of the  main  factors  driving  Sensory marketing  to  success.  Sensory  Marketing  has  made  its mark  in  multiple  fields  like  Automobiles,  Airlines, Hospitality,   Casinos,   Retail   stores,   Textile,   Leather production, Skin Care and Cosmetics at multiple levels. The  following  are  a  few  examples  for  multisensory applications:  74%  of  Europeans  and  46%  of  American recognize the Nokia ringtone (Lindstrom, 2005); Ford has a  specific  branded  aroma  since  2000.  27%  of  US consumers  and  37%  of  Europeans  consider  ford  has  a distinct  smell.  (Lindstrom, 2005);  United  Airlines  has adapted  a  famous composition,  George  Gershwin‘s Rhapsody in Blue, and personalized it; Restaurants play slower  music  as  it  creates extended  dining  hours, increasing 29% of average bill according to an experiment; Heinz  launched  EZ  Squirt  Blastin‘,  Green  Ketchup  in 2001.  They  sold  over  10  million  bottles  in  the  first  7 months. That is the highest sales peak in the history of Heinz,  all  because  of  a  simple  color  adjustment. This paper deals with use of sensory marketing in technology and  the  use  of  technology  to  make  Sensory  Marketing successful.
АНТРОПОМЕТРИЧЕСКИЕ ОСОБЕННОСТИ И КОМПОНЕНТНЫЙ СОСТАВ МАССЫ ТЕЛА У МУЖЧИН С ХРОНИЧЕСКОЙ ОБСТРУКТИВНОЙ БОЛЕЗНЬЮ ЛЕГКИХ В УСЛОВИЯХ КОМОРБИДНОСТИ
Authors: Kozlov Evgeny Vyacheslavovich , Yaskevich Roman Anatolyevich , Moskalenko Olga Leonidovna , Kochergina Ksenia Nikolaevna
Published: August 2019

Цель: Изучение и сравнительный анализ компонентного состава массы тела и антропометрических показателей у мужчин с хронической болезнью легких (ХОБЛ) при коморбидности с артериальной гипертонией (АГ).Материалы и методы. В исследование было включено 136 пациентов мужского пола, средний возраст 61 лет. Из них пациентов с ХОБЛ в сочетании с АГ – 63 человека, пациентов с ХОБЛ без АГ 29 человек. Группу сравнения составили 44 пациента с АГ без ХОБЛ. Протокол исследования включал: клинические, инструментальные и лабораторные методы исследования.Результаты. В ходе проведенного исследования были выделены закономерности распределения конституциональных типов у мужчин с ХОБЛ в условиях коморбидности, а также установлены особенности антропометрических показателей и компонентного состава массы тела в исследуемых группах. Особенностью распределения мужчин по конституциональным типам является преобладание лиц с грудным конституциональным типом среди мужчин с ХОБЛ и преобладание лиц с мускульным конституциональным типом среди мужчин с АГ и ХОБЛ и АГ. Получены данные о росто-весовых параметрах, компонентном составе тела у представителей с ХОБЛ в зависимости от степени тяжести заболевания. При прогрессировании ХОБЛ отмечается тенденция к уменьшению ИМТ и снижению жировой и мышечной компонент массы тела.Заключение. Установлено, что в при прогрессирования ХОБЛ уменьшаются значения ИМТ, с параллельным увеличением доли пациентов с нормальной массой тела, за счет уменьшения доли больных с избыточной массой тела и ожирением.
Carrying out systematic literature reviews: an introduction
Authors: Davies Alan
Published: August 2019

Systematic reviews provide a synthesis of evidence for a specific topic of interest, summarising the results of multiple studies to aid in clinical decisions and resource allocation. They remain among the best forms of evidence, and reduce the bias inherent in other methods. A solid understanding of the systematic review process can be of benefit to nurses that carry out such reviews, and for those who make decisions based on them. An overview of the main steps involved in carrying out a systematic review is presented, including some of the common tools and frameworks utilised in this area. This should provide a good starting point for those that are considering embarking on such work, and to aid readers of such reviews in their understanding of the main review components, in order to appraise the quality of a review that may be used to inform subsequent clinical decision making.
BJN Awards 2019: innovation runner up: creating a staff flu vaccination game
Authors: Laplana Joan Pons
Published: August 2019

The Flu Bee Game earned Joan Pons Laplana a runner-up place in the innovation category, as Andy Yeoman of Focus Games Ltd explains