Browse Items (11809 total)
Sort by:
-
Screens and scars: SEM analysis of the relationship between childhood trauma, emotion regulation, and social media addiction
Background: Addiction is an increasingly significant global public health concern, affecting individuals across diverse age groups and demographics. With the rapid rise of digital technology, social media addiction has emerged as a growing behavioral issue, impacting mental health, interpersonal relationships, and daily functioning. Methods: This study employed an online cross-sectional self-report questionnaire, with university students aged 1635?years as the target population. Data were collected using Google Forms questionnaires, accessible via the university registration system, and sent to the participating students smart phones. The data collection instruments included the Social Media Addiction Scale (SMAS), the Childhood Trauma Scale (CTS), and the Difficulty in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). Results: Data from 318 university students were analyzed. The analysis of sociodemographic data revealed a mean participant age of 21.2?years, with 87.3% being female. An analysis of the relationship between social media addiction and childhood trauma revealed that participants with childhood trauma had higher social media addiction. The linear regression model, including childhood traumas and emotion regulation difficulties for social media addiction scores, was statistically significant. A positive correlation was observed between social media addiction and difficulty in emotion regulation. Conclusion: These findings suggest that individuals who struggle with emotion regulation tend to use social media more frequently. Furthermore, the negative effects of childhood trauma on emotion regulation capabilities during adulthood contribute to the development of social media addiction. Copyright 2025 Elkin, Mohammed Ashraf, K?l?nl, K?l?nL, Ranganathan, Sakarya and Soydan. -
Nano-architectured polypyrrole based magnetic nanocatalyst for the N- arylation of imidazoles and fused imidazoles
A new magnetically recoverable polypyrrole supported copper based nanocatalyst was synthesized, characterized with various analytical techniques like Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM), and Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) analysis. The loading of copper on the surface of the catalyst was found to be 4.23 wt%. The application of the synthesized nanocatalyst was checked for the N-arylation of imidazoles. Excellent catalytic performance was obtained with easy recoverability and reusability upto six cycles. The current green protocol makes it environmentally beneficial for scale-up industries. 2025 Elsevier B.V. -
FACTORS AFFECTING ORGANIC FARMING CULTIVATION AND THEIR ROLE IN ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDG)
Objectives: The paper aims to explore the factors which influence the organic farming cultivation in India and how they lead towards attainment of SDG. Theoretical Framework: This paper has adopted Theory of Planned Behavior to identify the factors which influence the organic farming and define their relationship with SDG. Method: The paper attempts to explore the factors which influence the organic farming intention among the farmers. It further explores the relationship between intention for organic farming and adoption of organic farming. The data was captured through detailed questionnaire which was captured through 347 respondents. The data analysis was performed with the help of SPSS 29 and AMOS 29 The mediating role of motivation was also explored using process Macro 4.2. Results & Discussions: The findings revealed that environment and cost influence the organic farming intention while attitude and perception had no effect on organic farming intention. Adoption of organic farming shared a positive relationship with organic farming intention The Cultivation of organic products lead to attainment of following goals No Poverty (SDG 1), zero Hunger (SDG2), Good Health and Well Being (SDG3) and Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12). Research Implications: The study reveals that there is a need to raise the awareness level among the farmers regarding the role of organic farming, its environmental impacts and health benefits associated with it. The findings underscore the importance of implementing additional training and awareness programs targeted at novice and less-experienced farmers. Such initiatives aim to familiarize them with diverse aspects of marketing, economics, and social factors associated with organic farming. 2025, Editora Alumni In. All rights reserved. -
Boosting Surface Coverage of CO Intermediates through Multimetallic Interface Interactions for Efficient CO2 Electrochemical Reduction
Given the inherent challenges of the CO2 electroreduction (CO2ER) reaction, solely from CO2 and H2O, it is desirable to develop selective product formation pathways. This can be achieved by designing multimetallic nanocomposites that provide optimal CO coverage, allowing for tunability in the product formation. In this work, Ag and Zn codoped-SrTiO3 (ZAST) composite immobilized carbon black (CB)-modified GCE working electrode (ZAST@CB/GCE) was developed for the electrochemical conversion of CO2 to multicarbon products. The complete reaction was carried out in a CO2-saturated aqueous system of 0.5 M KHCO3 electrolyte. A potential-dependent product selectivity was suggested based on the NMR results, wherein raising the potential value enhanced the formation of liquid products such as acetone and alcohols while suppressing competitive HER. The total Faradaic efficiency for liquid products reached an impressive 97% at a potential of ?0.6 V vs. RHE. This represents a significant advancement in acetone production pathways and valorization of CO2ER technology. 2025 American Chemical Society. -
Efficacy of digital MBCT-PD in preventing postpartum depression and enhancing work motivation: A study protocol
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant challenge for women transitioning back to work. While preventive measures are essential, the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) in this context remains underexplored. This study will assess the efficacy of a digital MBCT program (MBCT-PD) in preventing PPD, enhancing well-being, and motivating work resumption after childbirth. Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with repeated measures will evaluate MBCT-PD, a digitally delivered intervention designed to promote mindfulness and emotional resilience. Eighty consenting pregnant women aged 18+, between 16 and 32 weeks gestation, residing in urban India will be recruited and randomized to either the MBCT-PD group or an enhanced treatment-as-usual (TAU) control group, which includes additional prenatal wellness resources. The intervention will span eight weeks, with assessments at baseline, post-intervention (T1), and six weeks postpartum (T2). Primary outcomes are depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), well-being (Pregnancy Experience Scale-Brief), and work motivation (Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale). Secondary outcome is mindfulness level (Three Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form). Descriptive statistics, repeated measures ANOVA, and regression analyses will determine the effect of MBCT-PD on these outcomes. Expected Results: We anticipate that the MBCT-PD group will show reduced PPD symptoms, improved well-being, and greater motivation to resume work than the control group, consistent with previous findings on mindfulness-based interventions. Conclusion: The findings from this study are expected to support the efficacy of MBCT-PD as a cost-effective, scalable intervention for enhancing postpartum mental health and work reintegration, with potential applications in maternal mental health practices and policies worldwide. Trial Registration: Clinical Trial Registry of India. CTRI/2024/03/064,831 2025 -
Dual strategy for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline: Phosphorus doping and cobalt boride co-catalyst loading on g-C3N4
Despite being promising for the removal of ever-growing pharmaceutical contamination from water, the g-C3N4 photocatalyst still faces roadblocks to implementation due to its intrinsic properties, for example, the limited visible light absorption, reduced charge separation capacity, and low mobility of photo-excited electrons. Doping with non-metals and loading with the co-catalyst is an effective approach to overcome the abovementioned limitations for the g-C3N4 photocatalyst. Herein, both these strategies are integrated in cobalt-boride loaded on phosphorous-doped g-C3N4 (CoB/P-g-C3N4) by facile chemical fabrication routes. Detailed morphological, structural, chemical, and spectroscopic analyses demonstrated that phosphorus doping effectively reduces the bandgap of g-C3N4 to absorb more visible light. Uniformly distributed CoB-nanoparticles create local Schottky barriers that trap photo-generated electrons from g-C3N4 to suppress charge carrier recombination. The optimized CoB/P-g-C3N4 photocatalyst produces ~35 times higher degradation rate constant than the pristine g-C3N4 for the photocatalytic removal of tetracycline antibiotics from water under visible light irradiation. Combining these advantageous features with cost-effective and stable elements, CoB/P-g-C3N4 offers an optimal solution for tuning the intrinsic electronic structure and surface reactivity of g-C3N4, making it highly effective for various photocatalytic applications. 2025 Elsevier Ltd -
An integrated model to predict students online learning behavior in emerging economies: a hybrid SEMANN approach
Purpose: The online learning environment is a function of dynamic market forces constantly restructuring the e-learning landscapes complete ecosystemcape. This study aims to propose an e-learning framework by integrating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to predict students Online Learning Readiness and Behaviour. Design/methodology/approach: A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 406 students through a survey. The data were analysed using two-stage structural equation modelling and artificial neural network (ANN). Findings: The studys results revealed that perceived ubiquity (PUB) positively influences perceived ease of use, usefulness and attitude. Similarly, perceived mobility significantly influences perceived ease of use and attitude. Furthermore, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and perceived usefulness significantly influence readiness to learn online, which further influences students online learning behaviour. The root-mean-square error (RMSE) values obtained from the ANN analysis indicate the models predictive solid accuracy. Originality/value: The study contributes to the existing literature by proposing an Online Learning Behaviour Model by integrating the TAM and the TPB frameworks in association with two additional constructs, PUB and Perceived Mobility. Secondly, this study proposes a unique triangulation framework of recommendations for learners, educators and policymakers. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Catalytic potential of fluorescein under visible light irradiation: Enabling single-pot open flask synthesis of novel pyrazolyl methanesulfonamides
This groundbreaking study introduces a novel and efficient method for synthesizing a range of substituted pyrazolyl methanesulfonamides through a five-component cyclocondensation reaction. This reaction incorporates five different components, such as ethyl acetoacetate, hydrazine, dimedone, benzaldehydes, substituted phenyl acetonitriles, and methyl sulfonyl chloride was made to react under visible light irradiation, with fluorescein serving as an effective catalyst and ethanol as solvent for 30 mintues. This method offers significant advantages, including simplified handling, higher yields of target products with shorter reaction times, and easier purification processes. We successfully synthesized around 15 novel pyrazolyl methanesulfonamide derivatives with high efficiency. Comprehensive spectral characterization confirmed the structural integrity and purity of these derivatives, demonstrating the robustness and versatility of this approach. Facilitated by visible light and utilizing fluorescein as a bio-friendly catalyst, this methodology is both green and sustainable. This innovative approach not only streamlines the synthesis of pyrazolyl methanesulfonamides but also holds considerable promise for advancing research and applications in fields such as medicinal chemistry and materials science. 2024 The Author(s) -
10-camphor sulfonic acid: A simple and efficient organocatalyst to access anti-SARS-COV-2 Benzoxanthene derivatives
10-Camphor sulfonic acid (10-CSA) has gained popularity as an organocatalyst due to its broad range of solubility and user-friendliness. Affordable multicomponent reactions (MCRs) for the preparation of benzoxanthenes (4a-4 h) (5a-5i) are presented in this work. Extensive investigations and records have been conducted on the diverse biological features exhibited by xanthenes and benzoxanthenones, such as their antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory capabilities.Using ?-naphthol, dimedone, and aldehydes, we demonstrate a cost-effective and environmentally friendly catalytic method. Under ideal circumstances, the 10-CSA catalyzes one-pot reaction, procuring impressive amounts of benzoanthenes (8595 %). All the synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H NMR and 13C NMR. A wide variety of suitable chemicals, simple work-up procedures, and solvent-free synthesis outperforms numerous existing methods for procuring biologically relevant benzoxanthene derivatives are some of the interesting features of this organocatalyzed bronsted acid process. Therefore this synthesis is industrially inevitable. Furthermore, computational studies such as molecular docking and ADMET data analysis were performed on a number of the synthesized benzoxanthene molecules. This has led to the identification of the most potent synthetic against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Additionally, to mimic how medicinal compounds interact to target proteins, computational docking and dynamics techniques were used. These studies showed that, in terms of binding affinity and other crucial traits, 4a, 4b, and 5a are potential possibilities. Overall, the current study should be of great help in the development of benzoxanthene analogs which can be potential drugs for treatment of COVID-19. 2024 Elsevier B.V. -
Plasmonic Nanocomposite for Visible Light-Modulated Bimorph-Actuator
Soft actuators have great potential applications in sophisticated movement and sensitive devices due to their flexible nature, good interaction, and precise control. However, existing carbon-based optical actuators are limited in their response under visible light irradiation. The limited visible light absorbance of the carbon nanostructure brought the metallic nanoparticle into the soft actuators that can absorb visible light. This study introduces a new type of plasmonic photothermal-bimorph actuator, using graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and silver nanorods (Ag NRs) to overcome the limitations of traditional optical actuators. The bimorph film is actuated by visible and near-infrared light stimuli with various power densities showing reversible deformation behavior. The actuator shows significant bending associated with a ?50 change in bending angle under visible light irradiation with a response time of ?5 1 sec. Furthermore, a smart photo-controlled non-contact switch is fabricated based on photo-thermal conversion properties, demonstrating perfect integration of plasmonic bimorph actuators. The density functional theory based molecular dynamics calculations provide an additional understanding of the bending of actuators under external stimulus. Using illustrative demonstrations of actuators, these results hint at a method for generating multipurpose visible light-based soft robots, supporting a new approach to developing an optical locking system. 2024 Wiley-VCH GmbH. -
Designing an artificial intelligence-enabled large language model for financial decisions
Purpose: Artificial intelligence (AI) has profoundly reshaped financial decision-making, introducing a paradigm shift in how institutions and individuals navigate the complex finance landscape. The study evaluates the significant impact of integrating advanced AI and large language models (LLMs) in financial decision analytics. Design/methodology/approach: The study offers FinSageNet, a novel framework designed and tested to harness the potential of LLMs in financial decisions. The framework excels in handling and analyzing large volumes of numerical and textual data through advanced data mining techniques. Findings: FinSageNet demonstrates exceptional text summarization capabilities, outperforming models like FLAN and GPT-3.5 in Rouge score metrics. The proposed model has shown more accuracy than generic models. Originality/value: The study emphasizes the significance of consistently updating models and adopting a comprehensive approach to integrating AI into financial decisions. This study improves our understanding of how artificial intelligence transforms financial analytics and decision-making processes. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Voluntary cybersecurity risk disclosures and firms characteristics: the moderating role of the knowledge-intensive industry
Purpose: This study examines voluntary cybersecurity risk disclosures (VCRD) by listed Indian companies. It also investigates how it relates to firm-specific characteristics such as size, leverage, profitability, liquidity, beta, market growth and industry. Design/methodology/approach: The extent of VCRD was measured by assessing the cumulative occurrence of cybersecurity risk keywords in the annual report of 100 listed Indian non-financial companies. Keyword extraction and occurrence counts were performed using Python software. A multiple regression analysis was applied to predict the characteristics of VCRD. Findings: The results showed that the theoretical frameworks underpinned by agency and signalling theories continued to provide a valid explanation of VCRD by Indian companies. Specifically, the findings emphasized the importance of firm size, leverage, and beta as significant VCRD determinants. Additionally, the study found that knowledge-intensive industries had a favourable impact on the extent of VCRD. Research limitations/implications: This study is relevant because it informs company management, regulators and investors about the nature and characteristics of companies that satisfy stakeholder demands to prevent cyber breaches. Originality/value: Understanding disclosure characteristics is crucial from policy and regulatory perspectives. Studies on cybersecurity disclosures are related to developed economies such as the United States of America and Canada. This is the first study to explore this issue in a developing nation, in general, and in India, in particular, where cybersecurity risk disclosure has yet to be recognized. 2025, Harmandeep Singh. -
Unveiling virtual interactive marketplaces: Shopping motivations in the Metaverse through the lens of uses and gratifications theory
The emergence of Metaverse has transformed the consumer shopping experience. This novel e-commerce platform offers a fresh approach to shopping, with Generation Z primarily exploring this innovative technology. Our research examines shopping within the Metaverse by developing a model based on the Uses and Gratifications Theory and Metaverse-related factors. A total of 1220 Gen Z consumers were surveyed, and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Further, analysis of collected data was done using PLS-SEM. The results reveal that information seeking, perceived enjoyment, escapism, social interaction, sense of immersion, and personalization influence the shopping intention in the Metaverse, and perceived risk negatively influences the shopping intention of consumers. Further, shopping intention influences the potential use of Metaverse for shopping, and this relationship is moderated by technological innovativeness. This investigation into the adoption of the Metaverse for retail purposes augments the current Metaverse research and enhances the uses and gratifications theory within the Metaverse domain. Metaverse e-commerce professionals, including managers and developers, can acquire valuable perspectives on consumer shopping tendencies in the Metaverse from this study. 2025 The Author(s) -
Recent developments in melamine detection: Applications of gold and silver nanostructures in colorimetric and fluorometric assays
The purity of milk, traditionally regarded as a symbol of health and nourishment, has been undermined by the alarming issue of melamine (MLM) adulteration. This nitrogen-rich compound is illicitly introduced to falsely enhance protein content, posing significant health risks. Traditional detection methods are often labor-intensive, time-consuming, or require expensive equipment. In response, researchers have developed colorimetric detection techniques to efficiently screen milk for MLM contamination. These methods are particularly promising due to their ease of preparation, rapid detection, high sensitivity, and capability for naked-eye detection. Furthermore, the unique optical properties of advanced nanomaterials have facilitated fluorometric detection, wherein the presence of contaminants induces detectable changes in fluorescence intensity or wavelength. This study offers an in-depth review of recent advancements in colorimetric and fluorometric probes based on silver (Ag) and gold (Au) nanostructures, exploring their application in food analysis. It delves into the underlying sensing mechanisms of these probes, showcasing their efficacy in detecting food contaminants. Despite the numerous advantages of Ag and Au nanostructure-based probes, challenges remain, particularly in addressing the complexity of food matrices, achieving simultaneous detection of multiple analytes, and mitigating interference from testing conditions. Additionally, this review highlights the emergence of immunoassay-based sensors, noting that many commercially available MLM testing kits utilize ELISA and LFIA platforms. For the first time, a comprehensive list of MLM testing devices and assay kits is presented, accompanied by key findings from recent studies and recommendations for future research directions. 2024 The Author(s) -
Bougainvillea glabra-mediated synthesis of Zr?O and chitosan-coated zirconium oxide nanoparticles: Multifunctional antibacterial and anticancer agents with enhanced biocompatibility
The effectiveness and safety of nanomaterials (NMs) are essential for their use in healthcare. This study focuses on creating NPs with multifunctional antibacterial and anticancer properties to combat bacterial infections and cancer disease more effectively than traditional antibiotics. This study investigates the synthesis of Zr3O and chitosan (ch) coated zirconium oxide nanoparticles (chZrO NPs) using Bougainvillea glabra (B. glabra) plant extract through a green, one-pot precipitation method. The synthesized NPs were analyzed using various techniques. Their antibacterial properties are attributed to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), influenced by their size, large surface area, oxygen vacancies, ion release, and diffusion capabilities. The chZrO NPs showed superior antibacterial activity compared to Zr3O and chitosan alone, with effective inhibition against both Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus and B. subtilis) and Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli and P. aeruginosa). Additionally, anticancer studies of chZrO NPs demonstrated significant activity against colon cancer HCT116 cells with C50 values of 4.98 ?g/mL compared to chitosan and Zr3O with 9.62, 6.69 ?g/mL, while biocompatibility tests on L929 cells confirmed their safety showing 93 % cell viability compared to ch and Zr3O. These findings suggest that chZrO NPs are promising candidates for future use in clinical and healthcare applications. 2025 Elsevier B.V. -
Exploring various nanomaterials in enhancing the performance of chiral nematic liquid crystal for blue phase display
This study aims to develop composite liquid crystal (LC) materials for energy-efficient blue phase (BP) display applications with enhanced luminescent and dielectric properties. Chiral nematic liquid crystal (CNLC) was systematically doped with nanomaterials, including nickel zinc ferrite (NZFO), single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT), gold nanoparticles (GNPs), and strontium titanate (SrTiO3). Optimal doping concentrations (0.05 wt% for NZFO and SWCNT; 0.1 wt% for GNPs) enhanced photoluminescence, while SrTiO3 served as a luminescence quencher. Dielectric studies revealed a substantial reduction in the Freedericksz transition threshold voltage, particularly with NZFO (0.05 wt%), which halved the voltage. Optical texture and structural analysis confirmed that the CNLC structure remain intact while maintaining the BP temperature window (12 C). The reduced splay elastic constant in all doped CNLC revealed that the optimum quantity of nanomaterials is occupied in the disclination site of BP, resulting in a reduction of volume and associated free energy around the disclinations to reduce threshold voltage. These findings highlight the potential of nanomaterial-doped CNLCs, especially magnetic NZFO NPs, in enabling high-performance, low-power BP-based LC displays for advanced applications. 2025 Elsevier B.V. -
Brinkman-Bard convection in a rotating-binary liquid saturated porous medium
The primary intent of the work is to investigate the linear and weakly non-linear stability analyses of natural convection in a rotating binary liquidsaturated porous medium. In the mathematical model, Newtonian binary liquid-saturated porous medium with uniform rotation subjected to stress-free isothermal boundaries and the validity of OseenBoussinesq approximation is considered in the study. Normal mode analysis is operated to acquire the DarcyRayleigh number expression in terms of the other parameters. The amount of heat and mass transfer rates are approximated at the lower boundary by performing weakly non-linear stability analysis using truncated Fourier series solution. The analysis of critical Rayleigh number, critical wave number, heat, and mass transfer is done for different values of parameters and discussed in detail with the help of plots and tables. Lewis number stabilizes the convective system, whereas increasing in the separation ratio coefficient destabilizes the convective system. Weakly nonlinear stability analysis reveals that the binary liquids with a smaller separation ratio coefficient transport the maximum heat and minimum mass compared to binary liquids with large separation ratio coefficient values. The amount of heat transport is enhanced by 14% with increase in the values of Ta whereas the same is diminished by 3.5 % and 5% respectively for the ? and Le. Thus, the effect of rotations pronounced on the onset of convection, heat and mass transports predominantly compared to the effect of binary mixtures parameters. The results of the classical RayleighBard convection and natural convection in a liquid-saturated porous medium with local thermal-equilibrium assumption can be obtained as a particular case of the study by setting the appropriate limits. 2025 Elsevier Ltd -
Positive psychology in individual wellness: a thematic illustration of drama as a therapeutic framework in identity transformation
Purpose: The language of participative theatre can be considered immersive in the treatment of its dialectics where participants engage fully with their dichotomies and value systems through physical and psychological exploratory processes as they commit themselves to transformation. Design/methodology/approach: The use of drama as an intervention for challenging recurring mental models of oppressive narratives is used extensively in experiential psychotherapy and as a socio-psychological integrative tool. This experiential methodology allows for an organic development and expression of themes and motifs by encouraging a participant to develop a deeper awareness of how he/she interprets their identity and that of the community in which they function. Findings: This paper aims to review the implications of applying drama-based interventions as positive psychotherapeutic devices to facilitate self-reflection and active-constructive responding in enabling a rendering of positive patterns of thought and purposeful movement towards emotional and physical well-being. Practical implications: Research on the principles of positive psychology suggests that positive emotions lead to therapeutic change. Nurturing positive emotions which are immanent in spirituality, creativity and optimistic perseverance through autonomy and self-regulation enable individual potential to come to meaningful fruition. Originality/value: The paper conceptualizes psychodrama as a framing technique in enabling reflexive action in identity transformation and well-being. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Paytms crossroads: an analysts dilemma
Learning outcomes: This case study enables participants to:??To understand the fintech landscape in India and assess how market dynamics can impact Paytms valuation.??To evaluate the drivers affecting the value of Paytm and arrive at Paytms valuation.??To critically appraise the investment decision made. Case overview/synopsis: Rajani Chandran, a seasoned financial analyst, relooks her recommendation of Paytm in light of the recent revocation of its Payment Bank License. Paytm, the flagship service of One97 Communications Ltd., a financial technology company, is a pioneer in the Indian digital payments and financial services market. However, the developments post going public in 2021 were not always favorable. The frequent fallout with Reserve Bank of India brought restrictions on onboarding new customers and ultimately the revocation of the license. This drastic move is of huge concern to those who have invested in the company. Thus, given this backdrop, Rajani initially explored the dynamic landscape of the Indian digital payments and fintech industry, considering macroeconomic factors, competition and regulatory dynamics. She delved into Paytms financial performance to gauge its position in the market. The next phase of the careful scrutiny involved arriving at the equity value of the venture using the discounted cash flow model. Finally, Rajani critically appraised the drivers of valuation, incorporating both quantitative and the story she has crafted around Paytm. Consequently, participants in this case study are prompted to evaluate Paytm and arrive at a valuation and furnish a comprehensive recommendation based on their analyses, thus understanding the intricacies of evaluating a fintech company with immense potential. This case study serves as a valuable resource for students seeking to comprehend the complexities of financial analysis and valuation within the context of a dynamic and evolving industry landscape. Complexity academic level: The case is best suited for a course on Financial Statement Analysis while discussing how the financial statements of new-age tech companies can be analyzed and Business Valuation while introducing DCF valuation. The case serves as a comprehensive example of the multifaceted challenges and considerations that a buy-side analyst should have while valuing a company and pitching an investment within the fintech industry. Designed for second-year MBA students, the case assumes familiarity with financial reporting and strategic management concepts such as Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal and Environmental (PESTLE) and strength, weakness, opportunity and threat (SWOT) analyses and Business Canvas Model. Supplementary material: Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code: CSS 1: Accounting and Finance. 2025, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
A reliable inter-domain routing framework for autonomous systems using hybrid Blockchain
Inter-domain networks face several routing challenges, such as security, scalability, and reliability concerns in existing BGP-based systems. These challenges are exacerbated by the increasing number of interconnected networks and the lack of a standardized approach for routing data between them. Hybrid Blockchain-based framework has proposed for inter-domain routing in autonomous systems in this research. The framework combines the use of traditional routing protocols with the distributed ledger technology of Blockchain. It leverages the salient features of both to create a more secure and efficient routing framework. The Blockchain component provides a decentralized and tamper-proof ledger for storing routing information, while the traditional routing protocols handle the actual exchange of data between autonomous systems. The framework is designed to enhance the security of inter-domain routing by incorporating the use of digital signatures and information sharing among participating autonomous systems. Each participating system maintains a copy of the distributed ledger and can verify the authenticity of routing information using digital signatures. It ensures that only legitimate and authorized data is transmitted between autonomous systems, mitigating the risk of malicious attacks or illegitimate routing. The proposed framework obtained 87.73 % Route calculation Speed, 90.41 % Route filtering, 93.77 % Fault tolerance, 94.10 % Load balancing, 95.54 % Hop count, 95.13 % bandwidth consumption, 93.94 % Security Management and 96.29 % Convergence time. The framework employs a consensus mechanism for updating and validating the routing information, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the routing decisions. It also reduces the reliance on a single central authority and distributes the decision-making process among participating systems. 2024 Elsevier Ltd