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Peer Influence on Students Online Addiction Behaviors: Implications for Prevention Strategies Through Multidimensional Addiction Behavior Scale
This chapter explores how peer influence affects students online addiction behaviours, emphasizing peer pressure, social norms, and modelling. It outlines the risks and protective factors in peer interactions, supported by empirical evidence, and considers moderating factors such as peer group dynamics and individual traits. The chapter proposes prevention strategies, including educational programs, peer- led initiatives, and institution- based efforts. It also highlights the Multidimensional Addiction Behaviour Scale (MABS) as a critical tool for assessing addiction across five dimensions-Psychological, Biological, Social and Environmental, Cognitive and Behavioral, Motivation and Readiness for change. MABS is invaluable for detecting, preventing, and intervening in digital addiction by offering comprehensive insights into how peer dynamics influence online behaviours and supporting the development of targeted strategies for healthier digital habits. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Supporting educators with addiction: Intentional learning communities in higher education
This study explores the transformative potential of Intentional Learning Communities (ILCs) in supporting educators facing addiction. By integrating psychometric tools like the Multidimensional Addiction Behaviour Scale (MABS), which evaluates psychological, biological, social and environmental factors, cognitive and behavioral patterns, and motivation and readiness for change, ILCs provide personalized support that enhances mental health and professional growth. The research underscores the urgent need to prioritize educator well-being within the educational ecosystem. ILCs create a structured, empathetic environment that fosters recovery, resilience, and better educational outcomes. The study calls for robust institutional support to ensure the successful integration of ILCs, highlighting their broader positive impact on students, schools, and the overall educational landscape. The findings advocate for holistic approaches to building a healthier, more inclusive educational environment. 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Thermosensitive In-situ gel based on halloysite nanotube/chitosan for site-specific delivery of aceclofenac
Periodontitis, a severe and chronic inflammatory gum disease, necessitates the development of advanced drug delivery strategies due to the limitations of conventional therapies, such as rapid drug clearance and inadequate site-specific retention. This study addresses these challenges by formulating and evaluating a novel aceclofenac-loaded halloysite nanotube (HNT) In-situ gel designed for effective local treatment of periodontitis. Aceclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) known for its potent anti-inflammatory action and reduced gastrointestinal side effects, was encapsulated within HNTs to achieve sustained drug release and enhanced therapeutic efficacy. These drug-loaded HNTs were subsequently incorporated into a thermosensitive In-situ gelling system composed of medium molecular weight chitosan, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium ?-glycerophosphate. This gel formulation demonstrated favourable properties, including syringeability, swelling capacity, and temperature-responsive gelation at physiological conditions. The comprehensive characterization techniques such as FTIR, SEM, TEM, PXRD, DSC/TGA, confirmed successful drug encapsulation, structural stability, and uniform distribution within the gel matrix. The in vitro release studies revealed a sustained drug release profile, following zero-order and KorsmeyerPeppas kinetics, indicative of a Super Case-II transport mechanism. This novel, thermoresponsive local drug delivery system shows strong potential to improve the clinical management of periodontitis by providing prolonged therapeutic action, targeted delivery, and improved patient compliance. 2026 American Pharmacists Association. -
The Impact of Workforce Diversity on Organizational Climate in the Banking Industry
Liberalization, privatization, and globalization have paved the way to open the economy and integrate new philosophies and ideologies into the organization. The banking organization and other MNCs had opted for the ethos of enhancing the diversity of working professionals with the adoption of LPG. The novel approach to workforce diversity and organizational climate in the banking industry is considered in this study. The relevance of workforce diversity and the formation of an organizational climate are emphasized in this research work. The study's goal was reached through a series of steps, such as reviewing relevant literature and creating an appropriate theoretical framework. These steps laid the groundwork for creating and finalising research tools, which were done with the help of experts in the field. The creation of instruments for evaluating diversity and organizational climate was the final phase in this process. The study was carried out by using stratified sampling method with the participation of 778 bank employees from public and private banks located in the geographical area of Bangalore. The study's outcome states that There is no significant relationship between workforce diversity and organizational climate in the banking industry is rejected; this can be interpreted as the better organizational climate is highly correlated with the employees attitude towards organizational diversity. It indicated the importance of inculcating diversity and a favourable attitude towards diversity in the banking sector for the smooth conduction of work. "There is a significant relationship between workforce diversity and organizational climate in the banking industry". "Workforce diversity significantly influences the variation in the Organizational Climate". "Employee's belief differs significantly based on demographic profile, job profile, and organizational profile on workforce diversity in the banking industry" findings show only a few categories in the hypothesis. The gender of the reporting authority and the classification of the bank offers the difference in employees belief about gender diversity. "Employee's attitude differs significantly based on demographic profile, job profile, and organizational profile on workforce diversity in the banking industry" only a few demographic categories (marital status, gender of the reporting authority, and classification of bank) have a difference. Employee perception differs based on demographic profile, job profile, and organizational profile on workforce diversity in the banking industry. The study found that gender, gender of reporting authority, classification of the bank, monthly salary, and employee work experience show the difference in employees' perception towards workforce diversity. Employee culture differs based on demographic profile, job profile, and organizational profile on workforce diversity in the banking industry; the gender of the authority and classification of the bank show the difference in employees' culture. "Employee's organizational climate differs significantly based on a demographic variable, job profile, and organizational profile on workforce diversity in the banking industry, age, gender, gender of the reporting authority, and classification of the bank show the difference in organizational climate. The study found a positive correlation between the variable and the independent variables are the constant and strong predictors of the dependent variable. Employees' attitude towards workforce diversity is assessed based on demographics, job, and organisational profiles. Workforce diversity is appraised by evaluating different components of it, such as employees' beliefs, attitudes, perceptions, and culture. The results show that employees with same-gender reporting authority have a positive attitude towards workforce diversity and experience a positive organizational diversity climate. The public bank employees have a positive attitude towards workforce diversity and experience a positive organizational diversity climate. Employees' attitudes differ based on their marital status also. Employees' perception differs based on their work experience in the same bank and the monthly salary; those with 11 to 15 years of experience tend to have a positive perception. Age, gender, gender of the reporting authority, and the bank's classification are considered contributing factors to the organizational climate. The current study found the gender of reporting authority shows a difference in perception of gender diversity and organizational climate; the employees who have same-gender reporting authority tend to experience a positive organizational climate and a positive attitude towards workforce diversity. Classification of the bank also shows a difference where public bank employees experience a positive organizational climate and a positive attitude towards workforce diversity. Six hypotheses were tested, and a model for the banking industry in Bangalore was developed based on the results of these hypotheses testing. Theoretical models support all hypotheses. Fit indices show that all CB-CFA and CB-SEM models are a good fit. -
Pathways for Sustainable Food Security: Status, Challenges, and Opportunities in Developing World
Food security is a significant concern in developing countries because of the dense population of disadvantaged individuals, insufficient food resources, and restricted availability of retail options. Food availability, quantity, and consumption are significantly influenced by social conditions. This study aims to analyze the present circumstances, challenges, and potential prospects in order to suggest pathways towards achieving sustainable food security in developing countries. The study utilizes a comprehensive approach to identify the vital societal elements that impact food security, through the analysis of pertinent literature and case studies from multiple nations. The variables encompass affluence, gender, education, social capital, and culture. This study investigates the causal relationship between these variables and the occurrence of food insecurity. It proposes strategies that foster sustainable agriculture, social protection, community empowerment, and gender equality as potential remedies. The report asserts that addressing the socioeconomic determinants impacting food security is crucial for emerging nations to attain sustainable food security. Attaining sustainable food security necessitates a comprehensive approach that acknowledges the significance of social factors and focuses on the holistic well-being of individuals. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Capitalism, Socialism, and Communism: Comparative Insights in Modern Economic Anthropology
This chapter examines capitalism, socialism, and communism from an economic and anthropological perspective, emphasizing that these systems are culturally defined, historically conditioned, and socially lived. It does so through a detailed overview of each system's history, values, and contradictions, taking advantage of ethnographic case studies from around the world to compare the extremes of labour, resource distribution, and cultural impact. The chapter also explores mixed or hybrid economic systems, digital economies, and emerging alternatives for sustainability and equity. By applying classical theories with present-day issues, the chapter emphasizes the significance of anthropological perspectives to explain the effects of economic systems on human conduct, social ties, and future values. 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Key Regional Conflicts in Northeast India: The Koch Rajbongshi Tribe's Role in Geoeconomics and Geopolitics
This chapter explores the complex regional conflicts in Northeast India through the lens of historical statehood movements, ethnic assertions, and cross-border cultural continuities. Focusing on the Koch-Rajbongshi community, the proposed Kamatapur state, and tribalhood, it analyzes the geo-ethno-political landscape involving Assam, North Bengal, and the bordering areas of Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. Drawing from the Kamata and Koch kingdom's historical legacies, the chapter situates the demand for Kamatapur within broader frameworks of linguistic rights, tribal autonomy, and national security concerns. Koch Rajbongshi, an Indigenous tribe tracing their lineage to the ancient Koch civilization and rightfully meets the criteria for Scheduled Tribe status, has long been denied their rightful recognition due to regional political intricacies. Through interdisciplinary insights, this study argues for a more nuanced understanding of regional self-determination, identity politics, and governance reforms in Eastern South Asia. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Inclusion in Healthcare Economics: Ensuring Affordability and Accessibility for All Social Groups
Healthcare systems across the globe continue to struggle with persistent inequities in affordability and accessibility, disproportionately affecting marginalized and socioeconomically vulnerable populations. As nations pursue large- scale health reforms, the integration of physical and digital (phygital) healthcare ecosystems presents both transformative opportunities and new ethical challenges. This chapter examines inclusion in healthcare economics through the lenses of affordability, accessibility, and social justice, situating these concerns within contemporary national health reform agendas. Drawing on economic theory, public health policy, and leadership studies, the chapter explores how phygital health models can reduce structural barriers while also risking new forms of exclusion if inequities in digital access, literacy, and governance persist. The chapter contributes a multidimensional framework that integrates economics, marketing, and leadership to advance inclusive, equitable, and sustainable healthcare systems. 2026 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Advancements in battery and energy storage materials: Paving the way for sustainable energy solutions
Advanced materials are key to battery and energy storage technology improvements, which are a cornerstone of sustainable energy for the future and are the topic of this chapter. It explores advances in solid- state electrolytes, lithium- sulfuric and sodium- ion batteries, nanomaterials and organic compounds, which all have the potential to enhance energy density, cycle life and environmental sustainability. These materials hold great promise, as they may overcome current limitations in battery performance, safety, and cost, the authors say. The chapter also explores the economic and environmental implications of these innovations, spotlighting their role in the global transition to renewable energy. Given ongoing research efforts and favourable policies, next- generation energy storage systems will play an essential role in advancing clean energy technologies in areas from electric vehicles to electric grid storage. 2025, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
The Role of Digital Media in Shaping Public Opinion and Political Discourse
The impact of digital media on public opinion and political debate is examined in this chapter. The significance of digital media in political communication and its effect on public opinion and political discourse are introduced at the outset of the chapter. It analyses the pros and cons of using social media for political campaigns. Further probes deeper into the proliferation of false information and propaganda in digital media, its effect on public opinion and political discourse, and the measures taken to counter it. It discusses the difficulties and ethical concerns of using digital media to encourage civic participation. This chapter provides a concise overview of the discussion and draws attention to the implications for future study and application. 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Integrating Koch Rajbongshi indigenous knowledge into teacher education: Bridging local traditions with global standards
This chapter examines the integration of Koch Rajbongshi indigenous knowledge into teacher education, preserving cultural diversity while aligning with global standards. The Koch community, spanning India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, holds rich cultural assets, including oral traditions and ecological wisdom, which can enhance curricula. Recognizing the Koch Rajbongshi as a Scheduled Tribe and including their language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution would aid in preserving their heritage. The chapter proposes strategies for integrating indigenous knowledge into mainstream education, addressing challenges and opportunities. It underscores the collective role of educators, policymakers, and Indigenous communities in fostering inclusive education and highlights global best practices for sustaining indigenous knowledge in formal learning systems. 2025, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. -
Crafting inclusive curricula: Strategies for equitable literacy education
The journey towards inclusive curriculum design is both complex and transformative, requiring a fundamental shift in addressing the diverse needs of students. This chapter explores the multifaceted nature of inclusive curriculum development as a vital pathway to achieving educational equity, particularly in literacy education. By integrating principles such as differentiated instruction, culturally relevant materials, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), educators can create dynamic, responsive curricula that honor cultural, linguistic, and cognitive diversity. Sustaining these efforts demands collaboration among policymakers, educators, parents, and communities, along with strategic investments in teacher training, assistive technologies, and inclusive resources. This chapter underscores the necessity of proactive and sustained commitment to fostering equitable, engaging, and empowering educational environments for all learners. 2025, IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved. -
Analysis of SH-waves Propagating in Multiferroic Structure with Interfacial Imperfection
This article presents the study of wave mechanics in a multiferroic structure having imperfection in the structures interface. This article reflects the study of shear horizontal (SH) wave propagation in a layered cylindrical structure consisting of thin layers of different materials (reinforced material and piezomagnetic material) with an imperfect interface. The interface considered between both materials is mechanically imperfect. Dispersion relations are achieved analytically. Distinct graphs are drawn (numerically) to exhibit the influence of parameters like rotation, initial stress, and mechanically imperfect parameters on phase velocity. Numerical results are drawn analytically and explained for each affecting distinct parameters for materials and interface. Parametric results on the phase velocities yield a significant conclusion of which some are: (a) Performance of Piezo with reinforcement material have an influential impact on wave velocity. (b) The mechanical imperfection affects the significantly on wave velocity (c) The Reinforcement/PM stiffening can monotonically up the velocity of phase velocity. 2022 Published by Semnan University Press. -
Study of Surface Waves Transmission in Orthotropic Bilateral Structure
This research work depicts the study of transmission of surface Rayleigh elastic waves in orthotropic layer having corrugated boundary resting over a pre-stressed orthotropic substrate. As a result, this study is made to spot the Rayleigh elastic wave transference under the consequence of initial stress in orthotropic material medium. Consequence of corrugation parameter, layer width parameter, initial stress parameter and density parameter on Rayleigh elastic wave propagation are marked separately. Distinguished parametric graphs are drawn following numerically the analytical study to exhibit the influence of distinct considered parameters on Rayleigh wave phase velocity of propagation. Frequency equations are obtained in closed determinant form under certain boundary conditions. Some particular cases have been deduced. Parametric results on the phase velocities yield a significant conclusion of which some are: (a) The corrugation parameter affects the more on phase velocity in comparison to initial stress (b) The orthotropic height stiffening can monotonically decrease the speed of phase. The present models may be applicable in engineering composites and for seismologist. 2023, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature India Private Limited. -
Perusal of flexoelectric effect with deformed interface in distinct (PZT-7A, PZT-5A, PZT-6B, PZT-4, PZT-2) piezoelectric materials
The present research article aims to describe that the flexoelectric affects the propagation of Love-type in various piezoelectric (PE) materials bars (PZT-7A, PZT-5A, PZT-6B, PZT-4, PZT-2) that rest over a silicon oxide plate under the presence of a deformed interface. With the help of material properties of these various piezoelectric, this article elucidates the impact of flexoelectric (FE) and piezoelectric (PE) on propagation characteristics of Love-type waves. Before this, the desire dispersion relation in the form of a complex, for both electrically unlocked/locked conditions, have been obtained by using mechanical as well as electrical quantities for the respective medium under suitable boundary and interface conditions. The complex dispersion relation is separated into real and imaginary terms which give Real(c) and Imag(c). Further, the effect of flexoelectric (FE) and piezoelectric (PE) on Real(c) and Imag(c) have been observed. In addition, a comparative study among various types of piezoelectric materials is also performed which serve as a major highlight of the present research work. The outcomes of this study may be very helpful in the specific problems of monitoring structural health system design with the help of simulation and alesser number of elaborate trials. 2022 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Analysis of Flexoelectricity with Deformed Junction in Two Distinct Piezoelectric Materials Using Wave Transmission Study
Analysis of flexoelectricity in distinct piezoelectric (PE) materials bars (PZT-7A, PZT-6B) with deformed interface in stick over Silicon oxide layer is studied analytically with the help of Love-type wave vibrations. Using the numerical data for PE material, then research achieves the noteworthy fallouts of flexoelectric effect (FE) and PE. The effect of flexoelectricity is compared first between biomaterials of piezoelectric ceramics. Dispersion expressions are procured logically for together electrically unlocked/locked conditions under the influence of deformed interface in the complex form which is transcendental. Fallouts of the research identify that contexture consisting of FE has a noteworthy impact on the acquired dispersion expressions. Existence of FE displays that the unreal section of the phase velocity rises monotonically. Competitive consequences are displayed diagrammatically and ratified with published outcomes. The outcomes of the present research done on both the real and imaginary section of the wave velocity. The comparative study between the two piezo-ceramics bars helps us to understand the properties of one piezo-material over the another and as an outcomes the significance of the present study helps in structural health monitoring, bioengineering for optimizing the detection sensitivity in the smart sensors. 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG. -
Biotechnological advancements in microplastics degradation in drinking water: Current insights and Future perspectives
Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as persistent toxicants in the recent decade. MPs are reported to present in different samples such as soil, water, wastewater, and human samples including placenta, urine etc. Recent studies have reported its presence in drinking water. MPs presence in the drinking water is of concern to the research because MPs are associated with several toxicities in animal models including human. The presented review is focused on understanding MPs abundance, sources, detection, analysis, and biotechnological approaches for its degradation. The paper discusses MPs sources, distribution, and transport in drinking water. In addition, it discusses the MPs identification in drinking water, and advances in biotechnological, metagenomics, system, and synthetic biology approaches for MPs degradation. Moreover, it discusses critically the major challenges associated with the MPs degradation in drinking water. Heterogeneity in the MPs size and shape makes it its identification difficult in the drinking water. Most of the methods available for MPs analysis are based on the dried samples analysis. Development of MPs in liquid samples may bring a breakthrough in the research. 2024 The Authors -
An analysis of factors associated with employee satisfaction in information technology companies
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: An employees satisfaction and performance are linked to the companys work discipline, personal factors, and organizational culture. This paper studies these three factors in the context of Information Technology companies and their connection to employee satisfaction. Job satisfaction is a significant issue in Information Technology Companies, leading to increased labour turnover in Information Technology Companies. The study highlights the relevance of Information Technology companies to understanding the reasons behind their employees satisfaction. Until now, little is known concerning the variants of job satisfaction among Information Technology employees, enriching the understanding in this particular professional area. The study was conducted to assess the job satisfaction needs of the employees in major Information Technology companies. The study helps to know the preferences and problems of the employees. METHODS: In this study, data was collected from employees from various Information Technology companies to uncover the factors that impact the satisfaction of employees. Considering the studys goal and the literature review, the technique was analytical and interpretive. Due to large populations random sampling method is convenient for the study. The studys objectives were achieved explicitly via the questionnaires design. To test the proposed hypotheses, all data were processed using the Structural Equation Modelling, Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and Analysis of Moment Structures. FINDINGS: Information Technology companies need their employees to feel satisfied to achieve the overall objectives and remain loyal to the company to achieve company success. From the responses, we learned that 31% of the respondents were satisfied with their employer about the various allowances and benefits they receive. Also, we knew that around 50% of the respondents were happy with their choice of the company because of its future commitments. 102 of the respondents highly disagreed that they were satisfied with the attitude and nature of their employees. Also, 22.26% of the male respondents have said they are only sometimes motivated to go to work. The limitation of this study was that the collected data was only of the general employees of the Indian Information Technology companies and not to specific departments of those companies. Also, no categories of companies were defined as per turnover. CONCLUSION: By recognizing the importance of job satisfaction, managers can create an environment that motivates and engages employees, leading to better performance, increased productivity and reduced employee turnover 2024 Tehran Urban Research and Planning Center. All Rights Reserved. -
The role of guilt-shame proneness and locus of control in predicting moral injury among healthcare professionals
Despite the advances in studies conducted among healthcare professionals to explore the impact of the pandemic on their mental health, a large population still continues to display COVID-19 related psychological complaints. There has been recent awareness of moral injury related guilt and shame among doctors and nurses. However, the factors associated with moral injury have not received much attention, due to which the issue still persists. This study aims to explore the role of guilt-shame proneness, and locus of control in predicting moral injury among healthcare professionals. MISS-HP, PGI Locus of Control, and GASP scales were administered to a sample of 806 healthcare professionals. Pearson correlation coefficient indicated a significant positive relationship between moral injury and guilt-shame proneness, as well as the locus of control. Regression analysis indicated a significant role of guilt-shame proneness and locus of control in predicting moral injury. In conclusion, while studying moral injury, it becomes equally important to consider these factors to understand the concept better. 2023 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Psychometric Properties of the Moral Injury Symptom Scale Among Indian Healthcare Professionals
The spread of the novel coronavirus has led to a rise in morally conflicting situations for healthcare professionals. Doctors and nurses who were serving as frontline workers, require special attention to alleviate the long-lasting impact of the potentially morally injurious events. The current study aims to validate the Moral Injury Symptom Scale-Healthcare Professionals (MISS-HP) among Indian healthcare workers. The 10-item MISS was administered to 150 doctors and 150 nurses using the purposive sampling method. Firstly, reliability was assessed using internal consistency measure. Secondly, item discrimination index was assessed by calculating the point biserial correlation for each item. Cronbach alpha indicated high internal consistency (0.77). The point biserial correlation value for each item indicated good discrimination. Finally, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to replicate the factor structure. CFA results suggested a good fit to the data. In conclusion, MISS-HP is a reliable and valid tool to assess moral injury among Indian healthcare professionals in India. 2023 Hibino et al.