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Readiness factors for information technology adoption in SMEs: testing an exploratory model in an Indian context
Purpose: Extant literature regarding factors essential for successful information technologies (IT) implementation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) does not significantly address readiness factors for IT implementation in an Indian context. This exploratory research develops and tests a framework to analyse the antecedents to organisational preparedness for adoption of IT infrastructure in SMEs. Design/methodology/approach: This exploratory research adopts a mixed-method approach to test the technology, organization and environment (TOE) framework. In-depth interviews with SME owners are conducted to develop the case study, and the measures obtained are tested through a survey at a small and medium business industrial cluster in Southern India in SMEs. Findings: The case study indicates SME owners drive to initiate technology preparedness for organisational sustainability is a key factor, a measure not seen during the literature review. An empirical study tests the measures. Pressure from customers, owners age, sales of SME, owners attitude towards IT and owners knowledge of IT was confirmed, which indicates organisational factors have more impact compared to technological and environmental factors. Research limitations/implications: The academic scope of this research paper can be extended to contexts such as readiness in IT infrastructure for digital transformation. Practical implications: The validated research framework can be used by organisation stakeholders and SME IT practitioners for successful IT adoption. Social implications: SMEs contribute significantly to gross domestic product (GDP) and provide employment opportunities. Hence, this research provides a tested model that SMEs owners/managers can adopt as a framework to augment competitiveness to implement IT. Originality/value: The study adopts a mixed-method research design and is, perhaps, a first in the Indian context to explore variables through case study and validate identified measures through an empirical study. The model can be used by SME owners and practitioners to ascertain factors for organisational preparedness for IT adoption. 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Advanced Materials from Biomass and Its Role in Carbon-Di-Oxide Capture
This chapter explores utilizing agricultural waste for developing advanced materials for CO2 capture, overcoming drawbacks of conventional adsorbents. It compares biomass-based activated carbons CO2 adsorption capabilities to commercial adsorbents, highlighting promising performance. Strategies for enhancing selectivity and efficiency through functional group hybridization are discussed, alongside investigations into operational parameters effects on material properties and CO2 uptake. Additionally, the chapter reviews biomass-derived carbon materials role in CO2 capture, detailing conversion techniques like pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization. Various modification methods, including activation and N-doping, are examined for enhancing CO2 capture. Discussion extends to diverse advanced materials derived from biomass, including biochar and activated carbon. The chapter underscores the circular-economy impact of utilizing biomass-derived porous carbons in CO2 capture processes, particularly in biogas upgrading to biomethane. Overall, it offers insights into addressing CO2 capture challenges, proposing future research directions in this field. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024. -
Impact of nanoparticles on immune cells and their potential applications in cancer immunotherapy
Nanoparticles represent a heterogeneous collection of materials, whether natural or synthetic, with dimensions aligning in the nanoscale. Because of their intense manifestation with the immune system, they can be harvested for numerous bio-medical and biotechnological advancements mainly in cancer treatment. This review article aims to scrutinize various types of nanoparticles that interact differently with immune cells like macrophages, dendritic cells, T lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells. It also underscores the importance of knowing how nanoparticles influence immune cell functions, such as the production of cytokines and the presentation of antigens which are crucial for effective cancer immunotherapy. Hence overviews of bio-molecular mechanisms are provided. Nanoparticles can improve antigen presentation, boost T-cell responses, and overcome the immunosuppressive tumor environment. The regulatory mechanisms, signaling pathways, and nanoparticle characteristics are also presented for a comprehensive understanding. We review the nanotechnology platform options and challenges in nanoparticles-based immunotherapy, from an immunotherapy perspective including precise targeting, immune modulation, and potential toxicity, as well as personalized approaches based on individual patient and tumor characteristics. The development of emerging multifunctional nanoparticles and theranostic nanoparticles will provide new solutions for the precision and efficiency of cancer therapies in next-generation practice. Copyright 2024 The Authors. -
"The sense" and its manifestations launch new trends in marketing
The chapter investigates the latest developments in marketing and consumer science. The study deepens and strengthens the prospects of marketing. In the process, human sense plays a vital role. The study seeks the assistance of hermeneutics to understand the permutations and combinations generated by a plethora of multifarious conceptual variations in both perception and aesthetics. The "sense" influences marketing of goods and products in business. The proposed configurations relate business functions with aesthetic characteristics. The first part by the research picks the application of senses in the perception level. The second part the researcher chooses sense in the cognition level. The whole study substantiates how Aesthetics and Sense during last decades generate a fast progress in business and marketing. 2024, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on e-learning adoption in an emerging market: a longitudinal study using the UTAUT model
Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic provided unprecedented impetus to the evolution of the e-learning learning ecosystem by compelling students to adopt e-learning systems. This paper aims to use the UTAUT model to provide insight into the differences in factors influencing the adoption of e-learning systems before and after the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: This longitudinal study uses two surveys conducted among graduate students in the city of Bengaluru in India. One prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and a second in its aftermath. PLS-SEM is used to analyze both data sets to draw insights into the constructs that influence Behavioral intention to adopt e-learning systems. The moderating effect of gender is also analyzed. Findings: Pre COVID-19, Facilitating Conditions, Performance Expectancy and Effort Expectancy (quadratic behavior) were dominant factors influencing the adoption of e-learning technologies. Post pandemic, Performance Expectancy and Social Influence are drivers of e-learning adoption. Effort Expectancy and Facilitating Conditions grouped as Ease of Use is a significant driver of e-learning adoption post pandemic. Gender is found to not have a moderating influence. Originality/value: The unique longitudinal study of the differences in factors influencing students intention to adopt e-learning pre- and post-COVID-19 can prove useful to policy makers in the higher education sector. Academics can use the post-pandemic e-learning models findings in multiple contexts such as generational cohorts, educational contexts and social contexts. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Mind and Nature: Study on Mental Health, Nature Connectedness, Pro-Nature Conservation Behaviors and Geographical Green Cover among Indian Adults
For centuries the relation between mind and nature has been represented through literature, songs and cultural traditions. However with increasing urgency of the climate crisis and the corresponding growing distance between humans and nature, we find very limited scientific work exploring their relationship, which could perhaps help re-bridge the connection between the two. A significant, yet not directly observable, and often overlooked impact of the climate crisis is its impact on mental health. This study looks at this relationship in the Indian context, through a relatively unexplored perspective, by investigating the effects of nature connectedness (NC), pro-nature conservation behaviours (ProCoB) and geographical green cover (GGC) on mental health (MH) among middle-aged adults residing in India, and the existing inter-relationships. 180 middle-aged Indian adults, selected through purposive and snowball sampling, from across 21 states and 2 Union Territories (UTs), were administered questionnaires through a Google form. Their data was collected and scored, and the GGC was calculated for each state/ UT from the India State of Forest Report 2021. Correlation and Regression analysis were conducted on the scores using SPSS. A positive and statistically significant correlation exists between the variables NC, ProCoB and MH; NC, MH and GGC; and NC and ProCoB. NC and ProCoB predict MH. Gardening also predicts MH. The findings are new and contribute to the field of Environmental Psychology. It provides a scientific basis for the often romanticized relationship between man and nature as found in literature. It has great implications for the future, such as increasing awareness and understanding, and planning interventions to improve both environment and wellbeing. 2024 selection and editorial matter, Dr. Sundeep Katevarapu, Dr. Anand Pratap Singh, Dr. Priyanka Tiwari, Ms. Akriti Varshney, Ms. Priya Lanka, Ms. Aankur Pradhan, Dr. Neeraj Panwar, Dr. Kumud Sapru Wangnue; individual chapters, the contributors. -
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Beyond the borders: Fashion influencers shaping global trends
Social media has emerged as a powerful platform that revolutionized the way the fashion industry operates. Fashion influencers have significantly impacted global consumer trends and brand perceptions with their large followings and engaging content. This chapter investigated the ways in which fashion influencers leverage social media platforms to shape consumer behavior, promote sustainable fashion practices, and bridge cultural boundaries to create a more inclusive fashion community across borders. This chapter has contributed to a better understanding of fashion beyond borders, social media influencers' role in transforming the fashion landscape, and their potential to influence positive change in the industry by conducting a comprehensive literature review. This chapter explores social media influencers' multifaceted roles in redefining fashion globally. 2024, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
Influencing the influencers through co-creation: Approaches to successful brand strategies
In today's technology-driven landscape, the internet and social media have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric of both brands and consumers' lives. Among the arsenal of modern marketing strategies, influencer marketing has emerged as a formidable force. It bestows organisations the privilege of accessing extensive and dedicated online influencers and co-creation as a technique, making it one of the most potent tools in their marketing toolkit. This chapter focuses on the intricate art of how brands strategically harness the power of social media platforms and influencers to extend their reach far and wide, aiming to connect with as many consumers as possible. By forging these connections, brands aspire to cultivate a devoted and unwavering fan base, fostering long-term customer loyalty. 2024, IGI Global. All rights reserved. -
Eradication of Global Hunger at UN Initiative: Holacracy Process Enriched byHuman Will and Virtue
The researchers have directed their attention to the UNs 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a specific focus on two critical objectives: hunger and poverty alleviation. While the UN has been vocal about eradicating hunger and poverty, the researchers believe that a fundamental shift in human perspective is needed. They propose a novel approach rooted in holacracy to revolutionize food production, distribution, and management. At the core of their proposal lies the ancient Indian principle, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which translates to The World Is One Family. While it may seem utopian, the researchers see it as a reachable goal through holacracy. Their hypothesis centres on producing food for all and collectively utilizing it, transcending national boundaries and individual interests. The researchers advocate for a transformation in the way the UN operates by embracing holacracy as a practical social technology rather than a mere concept. Holacratic organizations, they argue, have the potential to remove barriers obstructing progress. The implementation of their vision begins with the UN functioning as a global nerve centre for data, with its 193 member nations acting as equal and interdependent contributors. This Centre would display the worldwide food landscape and foster a moral and ethical awakening, emphasizing the shared responsibility for all humanity. Real-time data on food availability, supply chains, and consumption would be accessible on a public website. Holacracy, they contend, should inspire individuals to prioritize love for humanity as a panacea. Power circles interconnect to collaboratively address issues. The UN could serve as a catalyst for this transformation. The knowledge nerve centre would provide critical data on arable land, water resources, and supply chain infrastructure to facilitate problem-solving at various levels. Timely responses and actions would be driven by the principles of holacracy and advanced digital technologies, addressing concerns hindering the achievement of UN goals. This data-driven approach, coupled with actionable plans, aims to eliminate food shortages and subsequently combat poverty and hunger worldwide. In conclusion, the researchers envision a future where holacracy and a shared sense of responsibility propel humanity towards ending hunger and poverty, with the UN playing a pivotal role as a catalyst for change and a provider of essential data and guidance. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024. -
Ceria doped titania nano particles: Synthesis and photocatalytic activity
Ceria (0.5, 1 and 2 mol%) doped titania nano catalysts were prepared by combustion synthesis method, using titanium isopropoxide as the starting material. The prepared catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Infra red spectroscopy (FTIR). Total acidity of the prepared catalysts were determined by temperature programmed desorption of ammonia (TPD - NH3). XRD pattern of 1% ceria doped titania obtained by calcinations at 873 K indicated that the samples were crystalline with a mixture of anatase and rutile phase. No peaks corresponding to cerium oxide were observed XRD patterns indicating that the amount of cerium is negligible on the surface of titania catalyst. The photo catalytic activity was evaluated for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation. The degradation rates of MB on cerium doped TiO2 samples were higher than that of pure TiO2. The introduction of structural defects (cationic ceria dopant) into the titania crystal lattice leads to the change of band gap energy. As a result, the excitation energy is expanded from UV light of anatase TiO2 to visible light for ceria doped titania. 2016 Elsevier Ltd. -
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of La3+ doped bicrystalline titania prepared via combustion method for the degradation of cationic dye under solar illumination
La3+ doped TiO2 photocatalysts were successfully synthesized by combustion method in the presence of urea and were characterized by various physico-chemical techniques. Further, the photocatalytic performance of the synthesized catalysts was monitored by photocatalytic degradation of synthetic cationic dye-Methylene Blue (MB) under solar illumination. The bicrystalline phase of anatase and rutile was confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. Moreover, the transformation from anatase to rutile phase proceeds at a slower rate in the La3+ doped TiO2 catalysts. Effective separation of charge carriers, a synergistic effect in the bicrystalline framework of anatase and rutile, smaller crystallite size, and higher concentration of surface adsorbed hydroxyl groups helped these catalysts to show improved activity for the dye degradation. Copyright 2018 BCREC Group. All rights reserved. -
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Employee experience, well-being and turnover intentions in the workplace
Purpose: This study aims to examine the role of employee experience in influencing employee well-being and turnover intentions within organizations. The mediating role of well-being will also be investigated, along with an exploration of whether these relationships differ across genders, specifically in the Indian corporate context. Design/methodology/approach: A descriptive, quantitative study was conducted using structured questionnaires to gather data from 111 employees in the Indian corporate sector. The study used a non-probability judgment sampling method. Data was analyzed through SPSS for descriptive and inferential statistics, and partial least squares was used to explore mediation and model fit. Findings: The study found a significant impact of employee experience on well-being, as well as a negative correlation between both employee experience and turnover intention and well-being and turnover intention. Well-being was found to partially mediate the relationship between employee experience and turnover intention. Gender-based analysis revealed no significant differences in the relationships between these variables for men and women. Originality/value: This research highlights the universal applicability of employee experience as a predictor of well-being and turnover intention, irrespective of gender. By establishing that gender does not moderate these relationships, this study provides new insights challenging traditional assumptions about gender disparities in workplace outcomes. 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited. -
Synergizing Humanity and Technology: A Human-Machine Collaboration for Business Sustainability in Industry 5.0
In the context of Industry 5.0, this paper emphasizes the crucial role of human-machine collaboration for sustainable business practices. It explores the need for a people-centric approach, recognizing the significance of the human workforce alongside advanced technologies. The study investigates three influential theoriesActor-Network Theory (ANT), Activity Theory, and Socio-Technical Systems Theory (STS)proposing a novel Socio-Technical Interaction Network (STIN) model that synthesizes their strengths. The STIN model views systems as intricate networks of diverse actors, both human and non-human, acknowledging their agency and interactions within socio-technical environments. By incorporating elements from each theory, it prioritizes contextual analysis, considering socio-cultural and environmental influences on human-technology interactions. The STIN model aims to provide a holistic lens for interdisciplinary research and guide the design of technology-infused systems aligned with human needs and societal contexts. In conclusion, human-machine collaboration is deemed not just a technological necessity but a strategic imperative for organizations striving for long-term sustainability in Industry 5.0, fostering adaptability, innovation, and sustainable practices. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024. -
Relationship Between Job Stress, Employee Engagement and Job Satisfaction: A Study Based on Women Managers in 4 and 5 star Hotels in India
Women account for a very small percentage of the employee population in Indian luxury hotels. While they have proved themselves as valuable assets, the average tenure of a woman in a managerial role in the sector is still around 2 to 4 years. The Government of India in its India Skills report has identified the sector as a focus area, in the drive to achieve better gender ratios. This study takes a small step towards understanding the factors that could influence the tenure of women in the hotel sector. The study examines the role of job stress in determining the levels of job satisfaction of women in the Indian hotel industry. The study also examines the mediating effect that employee engagement may have on the relation. The researchers have studied women in managerial roles in 4 and 5-star hotels, across India. The findings suggest that there is a strong negative correlation between job stress and job satisfaction and that this relationship is partially mediated by the presence of employee engagement. The findings are particularly important for the hospitality sector in India, as it struggles to retain its talented female employees. 2022 K. J. Somaiya Institute of Management. -
Evaluation of Gamified TrainingASolomon Four-Group Analysis of the Impact of Gamification on Learning Outcomes
Gamification is the application of game elements to non-game contexts. The process of gamification has been found to improve engagement levels, motivate participation and improve outcomes of activities. The primary focus of Gamification research has been on understanding how it can improve the process of learning, especially in academics or education. The impact of gamification in the organizational context is still relatively unexplored. The current study attempts to provide evidence supporting the use of gamification in organizational training. The study adopted an experimental methodology and is set in the context of organizations in India. The findings suggest that potential learners responded more positively to the gamified module and the knowledge gained was also higher through the gamified module. The gamified module also resulted in higher learner motivation. Thus, the current study provide support for the Theory of Gamified Learning that proposes that Gamification would increase Learner Motivation and thereby improve Learner reaction to the training and increase Learning. 2021, Association for Educational Communications & Technology. -
A theoretical framework for gamified learning
The term gamified has been applied to a large number of processes in the organization. Marketing professionals have attempted to gamify customer experiences, while human resource managers have attempted to gamify employee processes like recruitment and onboarding. Being a powerful driver for goal-oriented behavioural change, gamification has the potential to revolutionise the way people work, collaborate, and develop. However, the application of gamification has met with limited success in the organization. Researchers have attributed this lack of success to incomplete understanding of the concept. The current study reviews literature in the area of Gamification in an attempt to arrive at a conceptual model explaining how gamification drives learning. The model proposed in this study is simple and draws from key theories related to Learning and use of technology. The purpose of the review is to provide a base for future researchers and a basic understanding for practitioners attempting to introduce gamified learning. BEIESP. -
Learning through Play: Gamification of Learning A Systematic Review of Studies on Gamified Learning
According to Gartner's Hype Cycle, gamification is poised for large-scale adoption in the coming years. The construct of gamification has received considerable interest, especially in the context of learning. Over the past five years, research in the area has grown. The current study looks at consolidating the conducted research and attempts to provide a snapshot of the work carried out in the last five years. The chosen studies have explored the role of gamification in learning activities and have attempted to provide empirical evidence to support gamified learning. The purpose of the study is to review existing literature, in terms of the outcomes, outcome variables, context of the study, and research methodology used. This would not only add to the knowledge in the field but would also guide future research. Additionally, practitioners would benefit from a consolidated view of five years of research into the practice of gamification. 2022 University of Tehran, Faculty of Management, Sridevi Nair and Jain Mathew -
Evaluation of a gamified learning experience: Analysis of factors that impact the effectiveness of a gamified experience; [Avaliao de uma expericia de aprendizagem gamificada: Anise dos fatores que afetam a eficia de uma expericia gamificada]
Gamification has gone through a faddish cycle. It first gained prominence around 2012 and was quickly abandoned, as practitioners did not achieve the outcomes they expected. According to Gartner's Hype Cycle, Gamification is at a point at which one might expect wide scale adoption. However, if history is not to repeat itself and results are to be achieved as theoretically predicted, a deeper understanding of the concept is essential. In the current study, the researchers attempt to evaluate a gamified learning experience. The participants were students of a Master in Business Administration course. The students were asked to participate in a gamified module and relevant data was collected, before and after the intervention. Based on a review of literature, the researchers identified the exogenous variables of Valence, Attitude towards use of Technology and Experience with Technology. The endogenous variables identified included Reaction and Learning. The findings of the study suggest that the gamified module resulted in increase in knowledge and that Attitude, Experience and Valence significantly predicted the Learner's reaction to the experience. The findings of the study provide support to key theories in the area of gamification and insights for practitioners, on the factors to be considered before using a gamifiedlearning intervention. 2021 UNIVERSIDADE FEEVALE All rights reserved.