Benchmarking the Complementary Features of Online Auction Sites – A Survey

The functionalities required for successful deployment and operation of online auction site can be broadly classified into two categories: core features and complementary features. Core features are essential for the existence of a site, whereas complementary features enhance a users experience with the site. Since a site has to have the core features, it is the complementary features that contribute to the popularity of the auction sites. We have conducted a survey of 100 auction sites to study 23 features. We found out the similarities among these sites based on their feature vectors. Three distinct groups are formed in the process. The groups are found to be distinct with respect to the core features. We also compared the complementary features of these sites. The results of the chi square tests revealed that the groups do differ with respect to most of these features. We propose a model to assign weights to the features distinctly for three auction site categories. Pareto analyses show important features that contribute to eighty percent of the weights in each group. We next define Site Evaluation Index based on these weights. The analysis shows that the sites with higher site evaluation index are indeed the popular ones, as per their ranking in the results of search engines. The highest scored sites can serve as a benchmark to choose the value adding complementary features to guide the upcoming auction sites

Joint Indian Chest Society-National College of Chest Physicians (India) guidelines for spirometry

Although a simple and useful pulmonary function test, spirometry remains underutilized in India. The Indian Chest Society and National College of Chest Physicians (India) jointly supported an expert group to provide recommendations for spirometry in India. Based on a scientific grading of available published evidence, as well as other international recommendations, we propose a consensus statement for planning, performing and interpreting spirometry in a systematic manner across all levels of healthcare in India. We stress the use of standard equipment, and the need for quality control, to optimize testing. Important technical requirements for patient selection, and proper conduct of the vital capacity maneuver, are outlined. A brief algorithm to interpret and report spirometric data using minimal and most important variables is presented. The use of statistically valid lower limits of normality during interpretation is emphasized, and a listing of Indian reference equations is provided for this purpose. Other important issues such as peak expiratory flow, bronchodilator reversibility testing, and technician training are also discussed. We hope that this document will improve use of spirometry in a standardized fashion across diverse settings in India