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Factors Affecting the Risk Perceptions of Cryptocurrency Investors
This study explores risk perceptions in cryptocurrency investments among Indian investors. It employs a multistage random sampling survey of 228 investors. Four key factors influence this perception: conceptual clarity, investment education, awareness of investment options, and fear-induced psychological factors. The overall risk perception of crypto investors is high. Based on our findings, we suggest that the Indian government should organize an awareness campaign to create awareness and educate investors about cryptocurrency. Policymakers and investment managers should focus on transforming high-risk investors into lower-risk investors through education and support, fostering a more favorable investment environment. 2024 The Institute of Behavioral Finance. -
Hydro-thermo-electromechanical response in a size-dependent porous piezoelectric medium under memory-dependent MGT theory
This study explores the intricate coupled hydro-thermo-electromechanical behavior of a size-dependent porous piezoelectric medium. We uniquely employ the memory-dependent MooreGibsonThompson (MGT) framework for heat conduction in conjunction with Eringens nonlocal elasticity theory to analyze the effects of time-delay and nonlocality on various physical fields. Novel constitutive relations are developed to capture these combined influences. Analytical solutions for displacements, temperatures (solid and fluid phases), stresses (normal and shear), and electric displacements and potentials are obtained using normal mode technique. A detailed graphical analysis illustrates the impact of time, nonlocality, and porosity under both open and short circuit electrical boundary conditions. Three-dimensional plots confirm the dispersive, diffusive, and memory-dependent behavior. The main findings reveal that nonlocality significantly smooths field gradients and broadens spatial profiles, while memory-dependent thermal conduction results in wave-like and delayed temperature responses, with the solid phase reacting faster than the fluid. Furthermore, electric potentials and displacements are considerably enhanced under open-circuit conditions, highlighting boundary effect sensitivity. It is also observed that increasing porosity consistently decreases the magnitudes of all fields and restricts their penetration depths, indicating a structural softening effect. This work presents a unique analytical model that integrates memory-dependent MGT theory with nonlocal elasticity to analyze the hydro-thermo-electromechanical behavior of a fluid-saturated porous piezoelectric medium. The theoretical framework provides a robust foundation for advancing the design and development of piezoelectric sensors and actuators operating in coupled hydro-thermo-electromechanical environments, particularly those with porous structures. Potential applications span geophysical monitoring, biomedical implants under complex loadings, and MEMS where size-dependent and relaxation effects are significant. 2025 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
Size-dependent analysis of surface wave in irregular fractured porous seabed subjected to fractional-order derivative
This study focuses on the investigation of the dispersive and damping characteristics of surface waves through an irregular boundary of ocean bed composed of a fluid-saturated dual porosity/dual permeability material. The nonlocal fluid-saturated dual porosity/dual permeability layer (NFSDP2L) is confined by a nonlocal viscous liquid layer (NVLL) and a nonlocal viscous sandy substrate (NVSS) having fractional viscoelastic properties. The governing equations for the proposed model are derived using Eringens nonlocal theory. The complex frequency relation is obtained by applying the variable separation technique and enforcing appropriate boundary conditions. By dissociating the frequency relation into real (dispersion equation) and imaginary (attenuation equation) parts, graphs are generated to illustrate the influence of several key parameters., viz. nonlocality, porosity, sandiness, fractional-order, fluctuation, flatness, and position on the fundamental and higher modes of propagating waves. The effects of various parameters are also depicted through the graphical illustration of shear wave speed in NFSDP2L and NVSS. Furthermore, the surface response of shear stress against depth within the layered structure has been graphically illustrated. The validity of our mathematical model has been assessed by examining multiple relevant scenarios. 2025 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
Mental health professionals insights on developing and implementing a Mental Health Awareness and Destigmatisation program (MHAD) for adolescents
This study examined mental health professionals insights on developing and implementing a Mental Health Awareness and Destigmatisation (MHAD) program for adolescents aged 1418 years in Bangalore. Qualitative Interviews with 17 professionals revealed three main themes: 1. Awareness and Destigmatisation Programs: A Boon 2. Key Ingredients: Program Content and Delivery Style 3. Shaping Program Success: Key Drivers and Challenges. Professionals recommend interactive programs that promote open discussions and educate them on symptom recognition, online behavior, and healthy relationships. They identified key enablers and challenges, emphasizing the programs ability to empower adolescents, parents, and educators to create a supportive, stigma-free environment. 2024 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
How Social Media Marketing Impacts Relationship Quality for Masstige Brands
The Indian fashion industry is witnessing a significant transformation with the prominence of masstige brands. These brands cater to aspirational consumers who seek symbolic value and esthetic appeal without the financial burden of traditional luxury. Upper-middle-class working women in urban India form an influential demographic for such brands. They have a strong presence on digital platforms, are brand-conscious, and are eager to engage with fashion brands that reflect their aspirations, values, and lifestyle preferences. Despite the surge in masstige branding in India, limited studies focus on the influence of digital marketing efforts, particularly social media marketing activities, on the perception of masstige brand value and consumer-brand relationship quality and their impact on electronic word-of-mouth behavior in developing economies like India. The present study tries to fill this gap by proposing a conceptual model grounded in the established relationship marketing theory. A quantitative survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed among upper-middle-class working women in India who actively follow and engage with masstige fashion brands on social media to test the model. Responses were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 and AMOS version 20.0. The analysis followed a two-step approach: first, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis was conducted to assess the reliability and validity of the constructs, and second, a Structural Equation Modeling technique was used to test the hypothesized relationships. The studys results yield several significant insights on the firm and positive influence of social media marketing activities on perceived masstige brand value, significantly influencing relationship quality dimensions. 2025 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
Living Life Beyond Binaries- Bisexuality in Urban India
This qualitative study aimed to understand the lived realities of bisexual individuals in a society predominantly perceived through a binary lens. Describing the term bisexual by orientation as individuals who engage in same-sex and opposite-sex intimacies, taking into account several factors, that include but are not reducible to the sex and gender of the self and others. The research employed an ethnographic approach with a group of Indian adults. Interestingly, the study revealed that the participants did not consider bisexuality as a central component of their sexual behavior and identity, instead utilizing specific strategies to maintain a heterosexual facade while engaging in same-sex encounters. They regarded these encounters as part of their overall sexual experiences, distinct from a fixed sexual identity and relationships. Contrary to the prevailing notion that bisexuals must suppress their genders attraction to be in monogamous relationships, the participants affirmed being in monogamous relationships. They devised discreet methods to partake in same-sex encounters, safeguarding their monogamous relationships without feeling compelled to openly disclose their same-sex inclinations. 2025 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
Beyond Binary: Exploring the Dynamics of Bi-Curiosity Propulsion and Persistence Among Young Women
Sexual identity fails to adhere to the dichotomous models, transcending to a more fluid quality than normative compulsory heterosexuality. The present study investigates the experience of bi-curiosity, focusing on its initiation among young women residing in urban India. Bi-curiosity, a sexual orientation questioning marked by exploratory experiences, is a possible but not a necessary precursor to bisexuality. This qualitative study explores on the psychological and social factors contributing to a bi-curious orientation. It focuses on the subjective processes of development and maintenance of sexual identity questioning. Three organizing themes emerged from the Reflective Thematic Analysis: (a.) Affective Indicators, (b.) Social Experiences, and (c.) Intimacy in friendships. While sexual identity questioning was propelled by more psychological factors, like physical attraction, fantasy, experienced jealousy toward men, and comfort with the same sex, social and environmental factors contribute significantly. Individual experiences with patriarchy, social attitudes toward same-sex relationships, and their representation on media platforms often reinforce the process. Another important contributor was womens close friendships with the same sex, which are sites for physical closeness, emotional intimacy, and personal growth, and share these characteristics with romantic relationships. These factors emerged as important reinforcers to the development and maintenance of sexual identity questioning. 2024 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
The Role of Mega-events In Promoting Sustainable Behaviour: A Multi-group Analysis Using Micom
This study investigates the influence of participation in mega events, like Dubai Expo 2020, on factors related to environmentally responsible behavior. Data from 361 UAE respondents were collected, examining environmental concern, social and personal norms, ethical obligations, and perceived behavioral control. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling and Multi-Group Analysis tested the hypotheses. The results showed that environmental concern, ethical ideologies, and perceived behavioral control had stronger impacts on the intention for responsible behavior in event attendees than in non-attendees. Attendees also demonstrated a stronger positive impact on sustainable consumer behavior. These findings offer valuable insights into environmental psychology, sustainability, consumer behavior, and event management, and can inform strategies for promoting sustainable behavior in industries such as travel, tourism, and hospitality. 2024 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
Acidified coconut husk as a potential biosorbent for adsorption of textile dye reactive yellow 160
Coconut husk could be employed as an environment friendly adsorbent for removal of various xenobiotics from the environment, especially the reactive dyes from the polluted waterbodies. In this study the Acidified Coconut Husk(ACH) with 0.1 N Hydrochloric acid was identified as a potentially low-cost biosorbent for the removal of Reactive Yellow 160(RY160) in aqueous solution. Optimization of various parameters such as the effect of agitation at shaker rotor speed of 120 rpm, adsorbent dosage ranging from 0.54%, initial dye concentration (200 to 1000 mg/L) and pH (3 to 11) were conducted and it was found that maximum adsorption percentage of 93% occurred with 4% adsorbent dosage at 200 mg/L initial dye concentration and pH 3 under agitating conditions. Adsorption was confirmed with the changes in FTIR spectrum, XRD and SEM of the ACH before and after adsorption. Adsorption kinetics studies proved a best fit into the pseudo second order kinetics model (R2= 0.9973) indicating chemisorption as the rate-limiting step of the process. Adsorption capacity(qe) of 4.56 mg/g fitted more into Langmuir isotherm model (R2= 0.9884) than Freundlich isotherm (R2= 0.8792) with Qmax value of 35.97 mg/g. Acidified coconut husk is proved as feasible adsorbent for textile dye removal from the aqueous environment. 2026 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
Multi-metal phytoremediation using Salvinia molesta: the role of EDDS and SDS in enhancing metal removal efficiency
Significant environmental damage to aquatic ecosystems is caused by heavy metals, and the situation necessitates strategies against the contaminants. The present study was intended to explore Salvinia molestas potential for the phytoremediation of contaminating water to remove three metals: chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and cadmium (Cd), with an emphasis on the influence of chemical amendments, ethylene diamine disuccinic acid (EDDS) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), applied independently. Plants were treated for a period of 60 days with single and combined metal solutions supplemented with EDDS (0.050.2%) and SDS (0.52%), and responses were measured through morphological factors and biochemical indicators, including bioaccumulation factor (BAF) with translocation factor (TF) used cautiously due to the floating habit of S. molesta. It was observed that S. molesta was capable of substantial heavy metal accumulation, with the highest accumulation recorded under EDDS amended and SDS amended treatments at elevated metal concentrations. EDDS treatments primarily enhanced metal bioavailability and uptake while maintaining plant growth and physiological stability under moderate metal stress, whereas SDS treatments, particularly at higher concentrations, resulted in increased metal accumulation accompanied by reductions in biomass, chlorophyll content and protein levels, indicating stress driven accumulation linked to altered membrane permeability. The application of EDDS or SDS resulted in higher metal uptake compared to untreated controls, with BAF values reaching 3.8 for Cr, 4.2 for Ni, and 3.5 for Cd; however, maximum accumulation under SDS treatments did not consistently correspond to biologically sustainable phytoremediation performance. Statistical analysis showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between treatments and control in metal bioavailability following amendment application, highlighting a dose-dependent tradeoff between metal uptake efficiency and plant health. This study represents the first integrated evaluation of EDDS and SDS under multi-metal (CrNiCd) conditions in S. molesta, addressing a major gap in chemical-assisted phytoremediation research. Future work should be aimed at determining the optimum concentrations of these chemical amendments to facilitate the scale-up of phytoremediation projects. 2026 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. -
Investigation of the therapeutic potential of daphnetin, derived from Daucus carota leaves, against colorectal cancer: insights from in-silico, DFT, in-vitro, and fluorescence studies on its interactions with proteins
Daphnetin (NAP) has a sophisticated structure containing two oxygen-linked rings, which have long attracted medicinal chemists in the drug discovery process. Daphnetin features a coumarin structure with two hydroxy groups positioned side by side at the 7th and 8th carbons, making it an essential component for developing a novel triple point co-prodrug. We have isolated NAP from the leaves of Daucus carota (commonly known as carrot). NAP showed a good docking score with the EGFR protein obtained from network pharmacology, while molecular dynamics simulations evaluated the stability. ROS generation assays, MTT assays, etc. confirmed that NAP exhibits significant cytotoxic effects on HCT-116 cells. An investigation of the reverse phase interaction of NAP with BSA and ovalbumin, where proteins are added to the ligand solution, demonstrated fluorescence enhancement, ensuing in a observable colour transformation from neutral to blue, through binding-constants of 4.8 104 M?1 and 2.08 104 M?1. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Reclaiming Selfhood: Transfeminine Identity in the Poetry of Justice Ameer and Golden
Despite increased visibility of trans identities in contemporary US discourse, Black transfeminine individuals remain subjected to systemic violence, societal misrecognition, and cultural erasure, exacerbated by the fraught political climate under administrations that alternately advance and restrict transgender rights. This paper explores the transformative potential of Black transfeminine poetry as a site of self-representation and resistance against hegemonic frameworks of gender, race, and identity. Through a close reading of select poems by Justice Ameer and Golden, the analysis highlights how their works challenge cisnormative and patriarchal narratives, reclaim authority over gender representation and illuminate the fluidity of identity as a process of resilience and resistance. Drawing on themes of memory, trauma, community, and agency, this paper situates their poetry as both a critique of systemic marginalisation and a radical act of reimagination. By positioning their works within the broader socio-political context of the United States, the paper underscores how Black transfeminine poetics not only confront societal erasure but also construct spaces of affirmation and liberation. Through these explorations, the paper demonstrates the capacity of poetry to subvert oppressive narratives, assert the multiplicity of identity, and envision transformative possibilities for transfeminine existence. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Exploring Symbolism and Myth in the Motifs of Pashmina Shawls: A Semiotic Analysis
The motifs adorning the pashmina shawl serve as a visual testimony to its association with Persian art, which significantly influenced the region. The advent of Islam in Kashmir during the 14th century ushered in a new era of artistic expression, wherein Muslim artists incorporated floral and arboreal motifs to enhance the esthetic appeal of textiles, architecture, and other facets of material culture. The main objective of this study is to examine the myth and narrative included in motifs found on Kashmiri pashmina shawls in light of Barthess mythological framework. The study reevaluates the paisley motif, attributing its creativity to Kashmiri artisans, and contributes significantly to documenting and conserving Kashmiri textile heritage. Through primary data analysis, it offers fresh insights into the motifs meanings and challenges conventional narratives. This study looked into the significance of floral motifs that are frequently used on pashmina shawls. This study depends upon the conclusions derived from the firsthand information collected from Kashmiri academicians, artisans, and secondary sources. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Breaking down the barrier: exploring queer young adults experience with counselling
This study explores the impact of counselling on the mental health of queer young adults in India. The research uses qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, to understand how counselling impacts their identities and well-being. The study involved 12 participants aged 1825, representing diverse genders and sexual orientations across different regions of India. Thematic analysis revealed three main themes: Queer Identity: Recognized, Misrecognized, and Negotiated in Therapy, Queer recommendations for inclusive care, and Empowering queer mental health journey. Each main theme revealed three sub-themes. The study emphasises the importance of therapists competence, empathy, and affirmative practices in creating a supportive therapeutic environment for queer young adults. The participant narratives highlight the complex character of the therapeutic process, going beyond professional interventions to include concepts like belonging, empowerment, and validation. 2026 College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists. -
Nature metaphors in Kalyanikutty Ammas Mohiniyattam body aesthetics
Mohiniyattam is a classical dance tradition from the state of Kerala in India, which is bestowed with a feminine identity. Scholars have theorised this feminine identity as self-enforced, constructed and regional. Unique to Mohiniyattam is the inherent relationship with nature. Nature association can be observed in the tradition of Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma, one of the revivalists of Mohiniyattam. This paper will closely read the dance manual Mohiniyattam: Charithravum Aattaprakaaravum by Kalyanikutty Amma, focussing on Ammas use of nature metaphor for body movement. Dance theorist Sondra Fraleighs ideation of the lived and poetic body will be used to understand the experience and expression of nature as a movement quality. Further, Kavya Krishnas theorisation of gender performativity in Mohiniyattam and the discussions on regionality and naturality in movement will bring into effect an ecofeminist reading of Ammas dance aesthetics. This paper will also examine the metaphorical nomenclature that constructs nature as a feminine quality in the body movements and aesthetics of Mohiniyattam. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Nature metaphors in Kalyanikutty Ammas Mohiniyattam body aesthetics
Mohiniyattam is a classical dance tradition from the state of Kerala in India, which is bestowed with a feminine identity. Scholars have theorised this feminine identity as self-enforced, constructed and regional. Unique to Mohiniyattam is the inherent relationship with nature. Nature association can be observed in the tradition of Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma, one of the revivalists of Mohiniyattam. This paper will closely read the dance manual Mohiniyattam: Charithravum Aattaprakaaravum by Kalyanikutty Amma, focussing on Ammas use of nature metaphor for body movement. Dance theorist Sondra Fraleighs ideation of the lived and poetic body will be used to understand the experience and expression of nature as a movement quality. Further, Kavya Krishnas theorisation of gender performativity in Mohiniyattam and the discussions on regionality and naturality in movement will bring into effect an ecofeminist reading of Ammas dance aesthetics. This paper will also examine the metaphorical nomenclature that constructs nature as a feminine quality in the body movements and aesthetics of Mohiniyattam. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
When cloth colours become markers of caste identities: ritual performance and caste politics in contemporary Kerala
Keralas caste hierarchy, characterised by untouchability and social exclusion, historically provoked protests demanding temple entry and basic rights for marginalised Hindus. In 2024, during the centenary of the 1924 Vaikom Satyagraha, the annual Ashtami festival at the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple featured women participating in the Poothalam ritual procession and wearing colour-coded blouses that signified caste identities. The temple re-emerges as a ritual space where caste distinctions become publicly visible, which transforms a commemorative event into a site for expressing caste identities. This article argues that the colour-coded blouses worn in the ritual procession reconfigure caste as a performative and embodied marker of identity. The article further demonstrates how ritual practices re-inscribe historical hierarchies in contemporary Kerala. The study analyses media narratives and ritual symbolism to connect the historical struggle for equality with contemporary representations of caste in Kerala and draws on theories of social construction, cultural memory, and subaltern identity. 2026 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Environmental value development among preadolescents: a content analysis of reflective responses
Addressing the environmentally detrimental values prevalent in society in the context of rapid climate change is the need of the hour. Combining empathy with cognitive skills such as reflective thinking effectively creates new values among people. The present study attempts to reveal the pattern of environmental value development among 33 preadolescents by reflecting upon the empathy-generating story experiences and the related contents. The study is part of a more extensive quasi-experimental study, and it specifically performs a content analysis on the participants responses in their workbooks. Biospheric nature-related values are the most highly developed, and social justice is the least developed value, implying the need to focus more on the value of social justice. Stories are aids, and reflective thinking and empathetic elicitation are effective techniques for passing environmental values. Empathy generation instead of negative emotions from self-concern and emotion regulation through reflective thinking may be helpful to promote well-being in the context of climate change. Reflective thinking helps environmental value development by enhancing comprehension, emotion regulation, and self-awareness of values, implying a shift from telling the moral of a story to exploring the same through reflective thinking. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Masculinities, tlawmngaihna, and mizo nationalism: Why soft, pretty Mizo men are perceived as a threat
Masculinities are social and cultural attributes, roles and performances typically associated with being men. Through ethnography, this article explores the complicated position of soft masculinity in mizo cultural space and nationalist discourse. It looks at tlawmngaihna (mizo code of conduct) performances as hierarchies that are gendered and explains why mens tlawmngaihna are considered to be more visible and valuable. Using hegemonic masculinity theory, this article argues that mizo nationalism is masculinised which is fuelled by homophobia and anti-femininity. Ultimately, it explains the complexity of soft mizo masculinitys position and how they are involved but are non-visible in mizo cultural space. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group. -
Leveraging history to invoke nationalism: from the annals of history to social engineering of present and future in Hindi cinema
Nationalism calls for ones loyalty and affiliation towards their chosen nation. Various versions of nationalism emphasise that one must prioritise said nation above themselves and their personal ethics, hence, allowing the nation to overpower the nationalists individuality. In this article, we use Critical Discourse Analysis to deconstruct the narratives of nationalism as portrayed in two popular films, viz. The Kashmir Files and Uri: The Surgical Strike, which are based on real historical eventsthe exodus of Kashmiri Hindus and the surgical strike by the Indian Army in retaliation to the Uri attack. Both films use narrative strategies to frame key historical events into certain ideological contexts, and hence they serve the populist purpose of swaying viewers opinion in favour of the dominant socio-political class. 2024 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.