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Attitude towards the medical profession among higher secondary students in relation to medical aptitude, parental innfluene, peer influence and perceived social expectations
Attitude towards the medical profession includes concepts, motives or beliefs associated with the profession of medical science. A profession that challenges the intellectual competency of the aspirant to qualify- with soaring expectations from family and society- the demands of the career entail the individual to possess an appropriate attitude and a realistic understanding of it. The current study explores the role of medical aptitude, parental influence, peer influence and perceived social expectations in the formation of attitude towards the medical profession and their differences among higher secondary students based on their gender and type of pre-university college. The study-cum-survey employed a quantitative approach using the paradigm of post-positivism. The participants comprised of 396 second-year pre-university students from colleges of Bangalore South, who were selected by convenience sampling, with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as their core subjects. The findings reveal peer influence to be essential in the development of professionalism and a sense of service mindedness. Parental influence and the higher secondary adolescent s perceived social expectations act as significant predictors in the formation of favourable attitude. However, gender and the type of pre-university colleges bear no significant difference with respect to their attitude towards the profession. The study has set a base on what needs to be focussed in our country on the next generation of medical professionals. It is hoped that educational and medical institutions, policy and curriculum drafters, parents and teachers realise that a combination of sound medical aptitude, parental influence, peer influence and perceived social expectations resonates in the formation of a favourable attitude towards medical science. Assessing those higher secondary students qualifying into medical science would enable to analyse differences that existed, if any, in their entry-level and post-qualifying attitude towards the medical profession. -
A comparison of distressed and non distressed married couples on marital quality emotional intelligence and conflict resolution styles /
Aim: To compare and study the marital quality, emotional intelligence and conflict resolution styles of distressed and non-distressed married couples; and to examine the interrelationships between these variables. Method: The study utilized a cross sectional, between group, mixed method research design. The sample consisted of 43 heterosexual married couples (N=86) in non-clinical settings, in the age range of 20-60 years, living in Bangalore, who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were
recruited through purposive/ snowball sampling. The participants were administered a demographic data sheet, the Marital Quality Scale (Shah, 1995), the Emotional Intelligence Scale (Schutte, Malouff, Hall, Haggerty, Cooper, & Golden, 1998), the Conflict Resolution Scale (Kurdek, 1994) and a Semi-structured Interview Schedule for qualitative data (prepared by the researcher). Quantitative and Qualitative analysis was carried out. The MQS cutoff score of 80 was used to divide the sample into distressed and nondistressed couples. Results: The two groups significantly differed on the conflict resolution styles. A significant relationship was found between marital quality and conflict resolution styles of distressed as well as non distressed group. There was a significant positive relationship between withdrawal as a
conflict resolution style and marital quality among distressed wives. Correlations between marital quality and conflict resolution styles among non-distressed couples showed that withdrawal had a significant positive relationship with the marital quality of the husband. From the correlation between the emotional intelligence and conflict resolution styles of
distressed couples, compliance had a significant positive relationship with the wife’s emotional intelligence. Among non-distressed wives conflictxii engagement was negatively correlated and positive problem solving was positively correlated with their emotional intelligence. Through the thematic analysis, multiple themes were identified as factors that are fundamental for a happy and long-term marriage and at the same time reveal the factors that can be detrimental to a successful marital
relationship. These themes, including the importance of emotional intelligence in marital quality and ways of conflict resolution were classified. The study has implications for clinical practice and marital research. The study findings can be used by counsellors and therapists in helping distressed couples, and for premarital counselling work with individuals and dating couples to improve the chances of their marital quality. The primary limitation of the study was its small sample size that limits the
ability to generalize the findings of the study. For future research a larger sample size can be considered to study the influence and impact in depth. The variables can be studied in different cultures to understand the cultural differences. -
A Model for storage optimization of brain MRI images for tumor detection using image processing technique
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a major non-invasive method for Brain tumor detection. The anatomical assessment of brain newlinetumor can be carried out using brain MRI image analysis. MRI is widely used in brain tumor identification and classification. Images generated during the diagnosis purpose are unattended after the specified diagnosis. newlineBrain MRI images in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format require large amount of storage space. newlineAccumulation of the MRI images put forward the requirement of more storage space. To store large number of images, existing storage models has to be handled wisely. Research associated with storage, process and newlinemanipulation of medical image data using modern technologies with a minimal human intervention is the need of the time. Image processing deals with the study and development of innovative technologies for newlineanalysis,representation and interpretation of the image data. In this research, the need of an efficient storage model that can help in storing the brain MRI images is studied with the help of image processing technique. To store the brain MRI images with a reduced storage space, a matrix-based method is proposed. In this model brain MRI images in newlineDICOM format are converted into matrix format. In the DICOM images, the image data and header information together hold the details of the patient and image data. These data are converted and stored in the matrix. newlineThe stored matrix is accessed as the input to the proposed model. The proposed model follows different image processing steps.The process starts with pre-processing of brain MRI images followed by clustering of newlinewhite matter (WM), gray matter (GM) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), segmentation of tumor and classification of tumor and finally it handles the storage of the MRI images. In the pre-processing step, filtering algorithms are applied on MRI to remove the noise and text artifacts. The newlinewhite matter, gray matter and CSF are separated using the K-means newlineclustering method. -
Determinants of customer loyalty and retention : A Study of supermarket customers in Bangalore
Considering the ever dynamic lifestyle of the customers in Bangalore,the proposed study tried to find out the expectations and aspirations of supermarket customers in Bangalore.Most of the currently available studies are based on conceptual understanding and don t have an empirical backup. The proposed study is designed to determine the customer loyalty and retention of Supermarket Customers in Bangalore. newlineThe literature initiates an exhaustive discussion of various constructs leading to customer retention. Based on references from the literature constructs identified for customer retention are customer satisfaction, switching costs and customer loyalty and for customer loyalty the constructs identified are trust,commitment and customer satisfaction.For determining satisfaction the constructs identified in the proposed study are convenience of location, store atmosphere,promotion, customer relationship management practices and merchandise. Through extensive literature review,hypotheses were derived and the proposed conceptual model is developed. newlineObjectives of the proposed study are to empirically validate a model linking customer satisfaction, customer loyalty and customer retention with select antecedents. Research Methodology explains about the population spread from which the samples are collected, the justification for using the particular sampling technique and also about the tool employed for data collection. The techniques employed for checking the reliability and validity of the tool and pilot data analysis are also explained. Data collection was conducted using a structured questionnaire designed using Likert scale measurement. The pilot sample data consisted of 250 respondents.The questionnaires were analyzed using SPSS(v.20,software using Cronbach Alpha, Intra Class Correlation and Confirmatory factor analysis. newlineThe data collected from 600 respondents in Bengaluru city was used for the full fledged study. -
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A Study on Domination in Signed Graphs
Signed graphs, which represent the positive and negative interactions between networks, have gained signifcant attention in various felds, particularly social network analysis. Domination, a fundamental concept in graph theory, is important in understanding the structural characteristics of graphs and determining the minimum number of vertices needed to cover the entire graph. However, research on domination in the context of signed graphs has been limited, with most studies focusing on graphs. This thesis explores a variant of domination called restrained domination in signed graphs and investigates the characteristic properties of these signed graphs in relation to the restrained domination number. Throughout the thesis, we establish exact values and bounds for the restrained domination number in diferent classes of signed graphs. Additionally, we examine the restrained domination property in various derived signed graphs, including the line signed graph, semi-total point signed graph, semi-total line signed graph, and total signed graph. Additionally, we study criticality concepts associated with the restrained domination number in signed graphs. Specifcally, we analyze the efects of removing edges or vertices from signed graphs, as well as adding edges in signed graphs, on the restrained domination number. Further, we extend the concept of restrained domination number to encompass various variants, namely connected restrained domination number, restrained double domination number, and total restrained domination number for signed graphs. We derive relevant results and newlinefindings for these parameters, contributing to a deeper understanding of domination newlinein signed graphs. -
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An Anthropologically comprehensive model of education
The educational realm we find ourselves in owes much to the work of philosophers. Educational policy and practice have evolved and progressed across the centuries through their influence, some of which have been through great social travails. Humanity has sifted and accepted them through careful consideration. However, not all philosophies are entirely beneficial. Some are given to aberrations. This doctoral dissertation is a systematic look at some of these philosophies, which on critical evaluation, reveal fault lines in our educational enterprise. newlineThe contemporary educational scenario is dominated by idealism and consumerism and, as such, falls short of promoting the comprehensive welfare of the anthropos or the human person. We present a thesis newlinestatement and employ the historico-critical methodology to examine these issues and use logical, ethical and moral arguments, besides, supporting texts, aphorisms and thought experiments to argue for our position. Jean-Paul Sartre had stated that philosophical anthropology is the study of the essence of the human being and the human condition. With its roots planted there, we present a conceptual model of the anthropos that could serve as the starting point for educational policy. We put forward five dimensions to be catered to by any educational program and call it the newlineAnthropo-Centered Model of Education or ACME. That completes Part I of the dissertation. newlineIn Part II, we explore the five dimensions. The attempt has been to zero in on the underlying issues and elucidate them. At some places, we use analysis, at others, speculation and close synthetically as we integrate our model. The dissertation ends with the prospectus of a high school, newlineenvisioned on the basis of this research, to come up in the city of Bangalore. -
The Impact of corporate governance and capacity utilization on zimbabwe aviation industry
The study investigates the impact of corporate governance and capacity utilization on Zimbabwe Aviation industry, focusing on Air Zimbabwe Holdings. The study examined and newlinecritically analyzed the governance process and level of capacity utilization of the aviation industry in Zimbabwe. The major objectives of the study were to analyze the impact of failures and weaknesses of corporate governance on Air Zimbabwe Holding and to measure the extent of capacity utilization in Air Zimbabwe Holding and its impact on the unit cost of service. The study utilized mixed method where both quantitative and qualitative research methods were combined in the research design. The research philosophy is rooted in both positivism newlineand Interpretivism. The philosophy accommodates the realist ontology and interpretivist. Quantitative approach was used because of its easiness in data analysis. Qualitative method was also used because of its in-depth approach in understanding phenomena under study. The population of this study constituted the board of directors of Air Zimbabwe, the owner newlineand the executive management. The population was considered given the nature of the study newlinethat is corporate governance. The research used questionnaires and interview techniques in collecting primary data. Secondary data was derived from different search engines, books and company periodicals. The research instruments, questionnaires were tested for reliability using Cronbach s Alpha at coefficient of 70. Content analysis of secondary data was used to define a check list of qualitative variables on corporate governance. The hypothesis was tested by means of Analysis of variance. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 was used to analyse newlineprimary data. The SPSS was used to create a code book that enabled different scientific tests to be carried out. Frequency analysis was run in order to clean the data.ANOVA inferential statistics in the form of p-values for each of the independent variables was performed. -
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"Forgotten Communities" understanding the Anglo Indian community through the monthly magazine " The Review" /
A community has its own traditions and practices that have been followed by ancestors for generations. The Anglo-Indian community in India has a marginal, ethnic and minority existence in the social, cultural and political arena. Fighting for survival since the British era the community has emerged with its own uniqueness while living in India. It is considered as one of the most minority of races in India. -
Understanding the developmental relevance of animated cartoons: How people perceive the United Nations productions /
The mass media has emerged as one of the greatest tools and a catalyst in propelling some of the great changes in the society. Animated cartoon is one of the forms of mass media. Although often understated, mildly acknowledged and subtle in its ways, it holds the potential to make positive changes if used optimally. -
A Study on Critical Success Factors for Successful ERP Implementation at Indian SMEs
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning ) comprises of a commercial software package that promises the seamless integration of all the information flowing through the company??financial, accounting, human resources, supply chain and customer information (Davenport, 1998). Much has been written on implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) in organizations of various sizes. The literature is replete with many cases studies of both successful and unsuccessful ERP implementations. Research on the implementation of ERP in certain European countries shows that, the job of implementing an ERP is a riskier business for Small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) than for Large Enterprises (LEs), still SMEs have been receiving lesser focus from the software vendors and consultants than LEs (Shanks et al.,2000). There have been very few empirical studies that attempt to delineate the critical success and failure factors that drive the success and failure of ERP implementation at Indian SMEs. Much of the time, ERP software vendors and consultants are the targets for blame when anticipated results do not materialize. Are the ERP vendors and consultants that sold the software the real culprits for the lack of business performance improvement? (Rao, 2000).The failure rates of ERP implementations have been publicized widely but, this has not distracted companies from investing large sums of money on ERP implementation. Many companies in developing countries have implemented ERP to capture its benefits still there is a lack of examining Critical Factors (CFs) that contribute in the success and failure of ERP implementation at Indian SMEs(Ranganathan and Kannabiran, 2004). In this dissertation, a framework has been adopted to cover both the national (Indian) and the organization size (SMEs) aspects to identify and rank the CFs that contribute in the success and failure of ERP implementation at Indian SMEs. Four models (ERP model, ERP Implementation Success Model, ERP Implementation Failure Model and ERP Gap (Strategic ERP) Model) were developed to explore and rank the thirty Critical Success Factors (CSFs) along with the twenty Critical Failure Factors (CFFs) that contribute in the success and failure of ERP implementation at Indian SMEs. Key Critical Success Factors (KCSFs) and Key Critical Failure Factors (KCFFs) were identified by ranking of these CSFs and CFFs according to their importance to decide their priorities during the ERP implementation at Indian SMEs. Quantitative survey based method was used to explore what are the possible critical success and failure factors that contribute in the success and failure of ERP implementation at India SMEs .Three close ended questionnaire were used to collect the data from the 500 Indian ERP consultants those who are having experience of ERP implementation in India for almost all types of Indian industries including Indian SMEs. Sample was drawn from ten national and international well known IT (ERP) sector companies which are involve in world wide ERP implementation including Indian SMEs. The Indian ERP consultants have been selected for the data collection using non probabilistic sampling method. The data collected were analyzed using statistical techniques such as descriptive statistics, reliability tests, validity tests, exploratory factor analysis and non parametric tests. In order to explore thirty CSFs and twenty CFFs along with the KCSFs and KCFFs, three close ended questionnaires were customized with the help of literature reviews and experts opinions. Later on it has been standardized for this research with the help of Cronbachs Alpha readability and validity test (Guilfords formula) supported by exploratory factor analysis. Based on the Indian ERP consultants perceptions, literature review, and secondary data review it was found that an ERP implementation at Indian SMEs is not exactly same from the ERP implementations found in the existing literature for the worldwide Large Enterprises (LEs). When discussing the CSFs and CFFs for an ERP implementation at Indian SMEs, it was found that although the factors are more or less same but the importance of factors in term of their priorities (importance) are defiantly different from the ERP implementation of the LEs. -
Psychological capital in positive ageing :
Positive ageing is feeling good and maintaining a positive attitude, keeping healthy and being fully involved in life. Older adults add value to family and society by sharing of wisdom, gratitude,spirituality, resilience, optimism, hope and confidence (PsyCap). These are the mental resources that developed through their life experiences when things went well and when faced with challenges. The aim was to understand the process of development of psychological capital in positive ageing. The participants were chosen purposively, older adults 70-80 years, men and women, retired, tenth standard, middle socio-economic status, spouses have expired and living with family. They were interviewed with a validated semi structured interview schedule. Themes were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, substantiated by verbatim from participant interviews and connections with existing theories and literature. Three super ordinate themes emerged, Factors that promote the development of PsyCap varies , Personal trauma and inadequacies as learning opportunities and Spiritual and philosophical ways of adaptation . Results indicated that support from family and friends and their internal strength helped them face adversity and aided in the development of optimism, hope, gratitude, confidence and self-belief. Challenges, lack of adequate resources and retirement were opportunities for learning as they facilitated the growth of PsyCap. Participants were grateful for effectual social support in time of grief. Their resilient attitude kept them positive and helped to prioritize goals effectively. Religion and spirituality provided solace and meaning to their lives, reflection led to the evolving of a philosophy that left them feeling fulfilled as they reached out to those in need. The study has implications for promoting a positive and healthy attitude towards older adults and sensitising family, caregivers and policy makers. -
Reportage of AFSPA incidents in mainstream media: Media shying away from criticising army /
The primary focus of the research work deals with the limited coverage of Armed Forces Special Powers Act by the National Media. Armed Forces Special Powers Act came into existence in the newly formed India in the year 1957. Media has been catering the interest of millions, but what about those sections of the Indian society which are suppressed by the imperialistic state apparatus? -
A study on the current status of Kathakali with special reference to participation of women /
The human evolution has witnessed a journey of joy and pain, might vary from region to region yet all community share a common thread and nostalgia. Art forms are such communication tools which preserved and promoted such cultural events. Kathakali is the indigenous art form of Kerala, the southern state of India. Katha means Story and Kali means Performance Kathakali, the world renowned Classical Dance-Drama of Kerala, originated in Kottarakkara during the first quarter of the 15th Century. -
Perceived organizational support, employee engagement and organizational commitment among millennials
Millennials (born between 1981-2000) are drastically different from any other generational cohorts, with their high education level, technological skills, social networking, self-confidence and always teeming with energy, which makes them excellent team players, unlike the previous generations who preferred to work on their own for long hours. Millennials, having grown to constitute a considerable proportion of the workforce and will continue to grow to represent more over the next 20 years, desire for immediate result and speedy advancement, which has led to perceiving them to be impatient and inconsistent. Hence, retaining them has become one of the top managerial priorities. Millennials are prone to frequent switching of jobs which is why they are attributed with the character of job-hopping. Of all the generations in the work force, Millennials are found to be less consistent in their workplace relationships which calls for the purposeful need for cultivating positive relationships with them at workplace. Organizational commitment is evidently one such gesture of an employee, towards positive and long-term relationship with the organization, as a committed employee stays with the organization and this can be brought about if the employees realize that they are being supported well by the organization. Hence, the perceived organizational support plays a pivotal role in work place relations. Another construct in the employeeorganization relationship is, which has a decisive role to play, is Employee engagement. Thus, this study intents to examine how perceived organizational support is related to organizational commitment where employee engagement mediates the relation between the two variables. An empirical study has been done, whereby carrying out a survey among 402 millennial employees across various companies in the information technology sector, as this sector experiences the rush of millennials more, compared to other traditional industries. And it was found that there is a vi significant relation that existed among perceived organization support and organizational commitment and employee engagement and organizational commitment as well. Employee engagement also turned out to be partially mediating the relationship between POS and OC. This study, done to find the relation between the three important constructs in organizational behavior and human resource management, and also to find out the difference in the variation of these three constructs based on the demographical factors, is the first of its kind to be done, among Millennials -
Predictive analytics for cardiac arrhythmia using machine intelligence
Myocardial Infarction (MI) is the primary cause of death worldwide. MI occurs when a plaque buildup in the inner surface of the coronary artery suddenly ruptures and prevents the blood flow. A heart attack is medically termed as MI. It is the irreversible damage caused by the prolonged ischemia. Ischemia is nothing but the heart organ doesn’t get enough blood and oxygen which is also termed as coronary artery disease or coronary
heart disease. The heart gets damaged if it has not received enough blood or oxygen. In connection to the damage of the heart, arrhythmia would occur. Arrhythmia is the problem based on the heart rhythm or rate of the heartbeat. Tachycardia, when there is a fast beat in the heart. Bradycardia, when the heart beats too slow. The common type of arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation. The great concern is that the patient who has arrhythmia has to be treated immediately. They lose consciousness in a few minutes when the heart is not pumping enough blood mainly to the brain. Death occurs when the patient is not given emergency treatment.