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Financial Vulnerability in Households: Dissecting the Roots of Financial Instability
The phenomenon of household financial vulnerability, defined by unexpected shocksin income and expenditures, carries major implications for both individual households and the overall economy of a nation. For a considerable time, household debt has been widely acknowledged as the primary determinant of household financial vulnerability. This study aims to extend the analysis beyond the scope of household debt. Middle-income households may experience financial difficulties when faced with unexpected changes in income and expenses. These challenges can arise from several circumstances, including the inability to engage in discretionary activities such as dining out or vacations. For a very long time, it has been posited that low-income households exclusively experience financial vulnerability. Hence, it is imperative to thoroughly examine the concept of household financial vulnerability and its underlying factors to enhance households' ability to withstand adversities and better clarify the matter. In light of the prevailing economic recession triggered by the global pandemic and the ongoing confrontation between Russia and Ukraine, the significance of the matter is further underscored. This study aims to comprehensively define household financial vulnerability and examine its relationship with financial capability, digitalized payments, financial stress, and financial socialization. The current study anticipates establishing a foundational framework for future research endeavors in this specific field. Moreover, this paper also explores potential avenues for future research. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Genetic Diversity of Garcinia gummi-gutta and Sustainable Utilization
The chapter discusses the consequences of using Garcinia gummi-gutta, often known as Malabar Tamarind, sustainably while diving into the complex web of genetic variation inside the crop. Giving a thorough overview, the chapter starts by detailing the botanical and genetic traits of this enigmatic species, revealing the morphological quirks and genetic differences that make it distinct. Examining the range and preferred habitats helps to highlight the ecological niches that are essential to its existence. It delves intently into the complex web of phytochemicals found in various plant parts and explains their range of biological functions. A crucial component of this study is a thorough examination of the techniques used to gauge the genetic diversity of populations of G. gummi-gutta. The assessment of G. gummi-gutta's conservation status indicates that threats to the species genetic richness need to be taken seriously and quickly addressed. The difficulties in attaining sustainable use are examined in detail, offering a comprehensive grasp of the nuances related to overexploitation and conservation initiatives. This study of G. gummi-gutta offers evidence of the complex interplay in the field of botanical resources between genetic diversity, conservation, and sustainable use. 2025 Hosakatte Niranjana Murthy. -
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. -
Does ESG Integration Enhance Financial Performance in Emerging Economies? A Systematic Review of Brics
A growing wave of environmental and social problems is driving the world's focus on sustainability, and the UN's creation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ESG-focused investments are giving this movement a strong push. Today, investors consider ethical and moral principles coupled with monetary factors. ESG, which stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance, is a set of factors used to judge how well a company runs. These factors look at how the company protects the environment, treats its workers and society, and manages itself fairly and effectively. The present study is a systematic literature review of ESG and its influence on the firm financial performance of BRICS nations. The majority of the existing literature places focus on ESG in the developed world and this study aims to bridge this divide by focusing on Emerging economiesBRICS. The majority of the studies reveal a positive association between ESG and firm financial performance. The findings reveal the primary financial variables that affect ESG performance in BRICS countries such as firm size, debt ratios, weighted average cost of capital, return on equity (ROE), return on capital (ROC), Returns on Sales (ROS), Return on Assets (ROA), transparency levels, and financial leverage. Various theories such as Long-term gains, Institutional theory, Stakeholder theory, and Legitimacy Theory have laid the foundation for the research in the area. The review highlights the need for uniform ESG frameworks and enhanced disclosures to foster responsible investment practices in emerging economies like BRICS nations, providing valuable insights for companies, investors, and regulatory bodies. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Self-silencing and Attitude Towards Women in the Contemporary World: A Millennial Generation Perspective
Society, including governments and other social agents, advocates for gender equality professionally and personally. Social media, online trends, music, the manufacturing industry, and many more such agencies create inequality in various unorganized forms. Inequality is experienced by people globally, irrespective of their gender, religion, caste, color, socio-economic status, culture, country of origin, sexual preferences, language, food preferences, political ideologies, and so on. By and large, women, irrespective of their gender roles, become the victims, and society develops a stereotype about them, but they keep themselves silent. From developmental aspects, mankind is a part of modern society but still holds a more traditional and conservative attitude towards women. The matter of surprise is the woman herself finds own self trapped in those conventional social norms and chooses to be silent. Being into multiple gender roles, she never externalizes self-perception (as she tends to judge herself by how she thinks other people see her); perceives care as self-sacrifice (putting the other persons needs in front of her own); silences the self (dont speak about own feelings in an intimate relationship when she knows they will cause disagreement) and has divided self (as she finds it harder to be herself when she is in a close relationship than when she is on her own). Considering the same, the current study focuses on understanding the association between self-silencing and attitudes toward women in contemporary society. For this purpose, correlational design was followed, and standardized tools about self-silencing and attitudes towards women were administered to a sample of 101 emerging adults. The present statistical outcomes revealed that younger millennials (born between 1991 and 96) hold a more pro-feminist attitude, whereas older millennials (born between 1981 to 85) still hold more conventional attitudes towards women (t = -3.58; p <.001). It was also found that older millennials were more likely to self-express than younger ones, who prefer to hide their feelings (t = -1.94; <.05). 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. -
Enhancing Customer Satisfaction and Sales in Retail Environments: A Personalized Augmented Reality Approach for Dynamic Product Recommendations
This article explores the potential transformative impact of integrating augmented reality (AR) technology with personalized product recommendations in the retail industry. By leveraging ARs ability to overlay digital information onto the physical world, retailers can offer tailored suggestions based on individual preferences, past purchases, and real-time contextual cues, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and driving sales. Through a comprehensive literature review and empirical analysis, the study investigates user experience, adoption factors, and the long-term effectiveness of AR-deep learning integration in retail settings. Findings reveal significant improvements in customer satisfaction, sales performance, inventory management, and employee productivity with the implementation of AR-Deep Learning technology. Additionally, the article presents an innovative framework that seamlessly integrates AR and deep learning models, demonstrating high accuracy in object recognition, real-time interaction, and enhanced user experience across various industries. While highlighting the studys limitations and areas for further research, this article underscores the importance of customer-centric strategies and technological innovation in optimizing the retail experience and driving business growth. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Role of Perceived Social Support and Sense of Coherence Towards Quality of Life Among People Seeking Treatment for Substance Use
A significant portion of individuals diagnosed with substance use disorder confront societal neglect and escalating stigma. This heightened pressure contributes to increased stress and the emergence of comorbid psychiatric conditions alongside their existing affliction. Considering it to be a significant untouched area, the current empirical research was undertaken to explore the role of psychological factors towards quality of life among people seeking treatment for substance use. To accomplish the proposed objectives a correlation design had been adopted and standardized psychological measures were administered on a sample of 100 participants who were registered under residential rehabilitation programs. The data was analyzed using SPSS statistical software and the findings revealed a significant positive correlation of perceived social support and a sense of coherence with quality of life, i.e., r = 0.72 (p <.001) and r = 0.68 (p <.001), respectively. Further, perceived social support and sense of coherence also emerged as predictors (R2 = 55%) of quality of life among people seeking treatment for substance use. Findings provide strong advocacy that people seeking treatment for substance use should be provided with social support which in turn helps them to hold a sense of coherence and ultimately both contributes to their overall quality of life. 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. -
Navigating the ethical landscape of artificial intelligence: Challenges, frameworks, and responsible deployment
In artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) has become a game-changing concept that allows systems to learn from experience and get better without explicit programming. This chapter explores the main ideas, techniques, and applications of ML, offering a succinct introduction to the field. The first step in the process is to gain a basic understanding of supervised learning, which is the process by which algorithms learn to make predictions or judgements from labelled training data. Next, we introduce unsupervised learning, which emphasizes finding patterns in unlabelled data and frequently results in interesting findings and clustering. To emphasize the importance of reinforcement learning in decision-making processes, the paradigm is presented where agents learn by interacting with an environment and receiving feedback. Ideas related to ML, such as feature engineering, model assessment, and the balance between variance and bias, are discussed. The significance of quality data in ML applications is emphasized, along with the impact of data pretreatment on model performance. It also clarifies how neural networks, a branch of ML, simulate the workings of the human brain. The ability of deep learning, a branch of ML that makes use of multi-layered neural networks, to handle challenging tasks such as speech and picture recognition is being investigated. In order to emphasize the necessity of responsible ML model deployment and usage, practical factors are emphasized, including the significance of ethical considerations and responsible AI. The final section of the chapter offers a preview of MLs future, discussing issues and trends that practitioners and researchers should be aware of. This chapter essentially functions as a thorough introduction to ML principles, providing an overview of the wide range of ML approaches, applications, and ethical issues that support the technologys transformative potential across a range of industries. 2025 selection and editorial matter, G. Sucharitha, Anjanna Matta, M. Srinivas and Sachi Nandan Mohanty; individual chapters, the contributors. -
Effect of Work Experience on Psychological Capital and Job Satisfaction among Employees
In todays fast-paced workplaces, where technology is evolving at a dizzying rate, professionals face a myriad of problems. Their inability to strike a healthy work-life balance may lead to feelings of dissatisfaction with their job. Consequently, in order to achieve flexible, long-term growth and job happiness, businesses should support their employees good psychological development. Primary data was acquired from employees in the automotive manufacturing company, totalling 95 individuals, using standardized questionnaires that had a good level of reliability and validity. The results indicated that there is no significant effect of work experience on the psychological capital of employees (F = 1.21; p < 0.30) and their job satisfaction (F = 0.35; p < 0.70). The major findings indicate that regardless of an employees level of experience, there is no substantial variation in the psychological capital and job satisfaction of the employees. This variation may also arise because of other specific factors. 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. -
Effect of Mindfulness Based Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (MBDBT) Training on it Employees: An Intervention Based Approach
Mindfulness Based Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (MBDBT) is a recent advancement in mindfulness-based interventions, focusing on helping clients observe their experiences, describe them using verbal labels, and be fully present in the moment and their actions without self-consciousness. This study investigated the effectiveness of MBDBT training on young employees using a mixed-method approach. The research was conducted on a sample of 10 newly joined IT employees in Bangalore, aged 25-30 years, over a 6-week period. The methodology included regular interviews for MBDBT skill training and standardized assessments measuring perceived stress, mindfulness, emotion regulation, and general self-confidence. Assessments were conducted at pre-, mid-, post-, and one-month follow-up sessions. The findings indicate that MBDBT has a significant effect on enhancing mindfulness and cognitive reappraisal while reducing expressive suppression with practice. These results suggest potential benefits of implementing MBDBT training programs for young professionals in the IT sector, with implications for improving their mental well-being and work performance. 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. -
Quantum cryptography: An in-depth exploration of principles and techniques
Quantum cryptography is evolving in the field of data security and cryptographic research, as it offers a high level of security based on the principles of quantum mechanics. This chapter provides an extensive understanding and in-depth explanation about the basic concepts of the techniques implemented in quantum cryptography. The exploration of the fundamental concepts begins with elaboration on the foundational concepts of quantum mechanics, such as no-cloning, entanglement, superposition, and quantum state measurement, which are crucial for the better understanding of quantum cryptography. Further, the chapter delves more into the quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols such as BB84, BBM92, and B92. All the QKD protocols are analysed and compared based on the underlying principles and techniques. Furthermore, the importance and benefits of the integration of quantum cryptography with the traditional algorithms are also discussed. The chapter also aims to provide thorough study of quantum cryptography principles, challenges, and future directions along with a detailed comprehensive review of quantum cryptographic techniques. 2025 selection and editorial matter, Keshav Kumar and Bishwajeet Kumar Pandey; individual chapters, the contributors. -
Innovation in TeachingExploring the Educators Perspective of AI Functions in Subject Pedagogy
The objective of the research is to gain insight into the viewpoints of educators regarding the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the teaching of academic subjects. The study endeavours to comprehend the most significant function of AI in attaining a successful teaching experience. Design/Methodology The study is an exploratory research design which utilises quantitative research strategy. Data is collected from students of Autonomous Institutions in Bangalore city. A convenience sampling technique is used to select 56 Educators. The data was analysed using the SPSS and AMOS software. Findings The studys results indicate that educators hold a favourable view of the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) features to enhance subject-specific teaching methods. According to the educators, the provision of instructions beyond the classroom and the facilitation of collaborative functions of artificial intelligence have the greatest impact on the effective delivery of subject matter to students. Originality This study is innovative in its methodology as it considers the viewpoint of educators regarding the role of Artificial Intelligence in the teaching of academic subjects. This study pertains to autonomous institutions located in Bangalore that possess the authority to develop their own subject pedagogies through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Implications This research will provide valuable insights for policymakers in the education industry and educational institutions regarding the perceptions of educators on the functions of artificial intelligence. The stakeholders can identify the ineffective functions which can either be substituted or eliminated. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Mother Phubbing and Psychological Well-being: Exploring Mediating Role of Loneliness
Mothers phubbing has been connected to a rise in loneliness and a fall in well-being in the role of parenthood. Study examined loneliness as a mediator between mother phubbing and psychological well-being. In total 186 mothers (30-45 years) were surveyed. Results highlighted that Mother phubbing negatively correlated with psychological well-being (r = -0.29) and loneliness (r = -0.39). Loneliness is negatively correlated with psychological well-being (r = -0.40). Loneliness mediated the relationship (b = -0.13, p<.001). 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. -
Interconnected Dynamics of Gold, Nifty, Crude Oil, and USD/INR: Insights from a Panel Data VAR Analysis
This study utilizes a panel data vector autoregression (PVAR) model to examine the relationships between Gold, Nifty, Crude Oil, and USD/INR, drawing from 3105 observations sourced from Yahoo Finance. Descriptive statistics reveal notable volatility, particularly in Gold and Crude Oil. Unit root tests confirm stationarity, crucial for time series analysis. Optimal lag selection recommends a lag order of 2, balancing model accuracy and complexity. Granger causality tests indicate limited predictive power, with gold influencing USD/INR unidirectionally. Impulse response function analysis and variance decomposition underscore Golds relative independence. Robustness tests affirm stability, highlighting USD/INRs endogeneity. This study enhances understanding of financial dynamics, offering insights for risk management, portfolio diversification, and monetary policy. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Exploring the Roots of Customer Adaptability Through the Landscape of Physical Retail Environments
This research delves into the intricate dynamics of customer adaptability within the realm of brick-and-mortar retail, examining the pivotal role of managing customer knowledge capabilities. As traditional retail spaces evolve in response to technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors, understanding the antecedents of customer agility becomes paramount. Drawing on insights from customer knowledge management literature and retail studies, this paper elucidates the nuanced interplay between customer adaptability and the strategies employed to harness and leverage customer knowledge. Through a comprehensive analysis of the contextual landscape of physical retail environments, we uncover the underlying factors that influence customer adaptability. By illuminating these connections, this study offers valuable insights for practitioners and scholars alike, contributing to a deeper understanding of how organizations can effectively navigate the evolving retail landscape to enhance customer experiences and foster sustainable growth. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Blockchain and IoT Integration for Financial Sector Revolution
The Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the globe. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) speaks about the use of Internet of Things (IoT) concepts and technology in industrial environments. The financial industry has long traded in the things that areintangible, from once-tangible but now-less-tangible items like stock certificates and even money itself. The Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technologythat offer and storedata aboutthings mighthave direct influence on how financial services institutions operate their businesses. The Financial Industry is adopting IoT for fast and effective transactions. The invention of disruptive technology like blockchain, which is a decentralized, unchangeable ledger makes tracking assets and record transactions easier. Decentralized Finance (DeFi) is based on the peer-to-peer idea that eliminates intermediaries from the system. It is possible to establish smart contracts, which will do away with the need for any middlemen. Due to the IoTs broad application and dispersed nature, security and privacy are the primary concerns in the financial sector. Blockchain is essential for IoT applications where data security and privacy are top priorities. Blockchain can secure data and keep the transactions private. IoT enhances business opportunities and offers firms a competitive edge in both established and developing industries. It has an impact on every aspect of technology, including the methods used to gather data and the locations, timings, and purposes for doing so. Since this data must be safeguarded, we need a standard blockchain-oriented architecture for IoT applications. The data generated by the financial industry is crucial because it establishes future market trends and preserves data on consumer and investor investments. Financial data is vulnerable to assaults and needs to be protected. This paper explores the need for regulations and policy in this area and attempts to understand how blockchain technology can be used to overcome barriers to IoT adoption in the financial sector. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025. -
The Impact of Digital Marketing Strategies on Customer Attitude and Purchase Intention Towards Electronic Gadgets: A Study on Indian Students
A portion of a companys long-term strategy should be devoted to digital marketing transformation. It is a challenging task to select the effective marketing strategy when conducting business in modern digital world. This study seeks to elucidate the influences of digital marketing strategy forms on customer attitude and purchase intention of students towards electronic gadgets. The relationship between four digital marketing strategies such as search engine advertising, social media, content marketing and email marketing towards customer attitudes and purchase intention was investigated in accordance with hypotheses, 225 students from Bangalore city, India, who had experience in online purchase of electronic gadgets comprised as a research sample. The relationship among the selected variables are tested with help of Correlation, ANOVA and regression analysis. The study conclude that there is an impact of various forms of digital marketing strategies on customers attitude and the purchase intention of young (Students) customer. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Higher Education in Maldives amidst the Pandemic: An Intersectional Approach to Digital Education
The Covid-19 outbreak upended the core foundations of societies across the globe, leading to dramatic shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and values. The education sector, known for its traditional classroom model, had to adapt quickly. However, the pandemic's impact varied widely due to social, cultural, economic, geographic, and gender factors. Amid such inequal pandemic disruptions, Maldives presents a unique case as an upper-middle-income economy with diverse higher education (HE) opportunities. The pandemic pushed Maldives towards digital education, capitalizing on pre-existing capabilities. The study employs an intersectional feminist approach to the gender digital divide, seeking to understand how the rapid adoption of digital education in Maldives' higher education institutions (HEIs) has unfolded during the pandemic. The analysis reveals deeply entrenched gender norms that have had a disproportionate impact on women students and lecturers in HEIs. Factors like unpaid domestic labour and care work, lack of suitable home space, absence of psychological support, and reinforcement of gender roles have primarily widened the gender digital divide in digital education during the pandemic. Moreover, local, social, and cultural attitudes further exacerbate this divide signifying a pressing need to re-evaluate women's roles in HEIs in the post-pandemic world. 2025 selection and editorial matter, Padma Rani, Bhanu Bhakta. -
Unraveling the Intangibles: Influence of AI and Employee Valuation on Corporate Sustainability
This study investigates the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and human capital on a firm's sustainability based on the selected thirty companies in the Indian Information Technology (IT) Sector. It also involves an insight into the usage of AI tools for the same. This study takes three independent variables, namelySalaries and wages (SW), Provident Fund (PF), and Gratuity and superannuation (GS), which are dependent on the Return On Capital Employed (ROCE). Furthermore, the study evaluates these variables through multiple regression analysis to establish the link between them and determine how human capital affects a firm's profitability. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025. -
Navigating Financial Waters: Exploring the Intersection of Algorithmic Trading and Market Liquidity Dynamics
Algorithmic trading has ushered paradigm shift in trading. The market regulators although welcome this new technological advancement but are still keeping a tight leash. This can be owing to the contradicting and inconclusive evidence of its implications and impact on market microstructure. This study focuses on liquidity which is an integral part of a thriving stock market. We aim to examine if there is a statistical significance between volume of algorithmic orders and market capitalization. The liquidity provision is measured using Amihuds Illiquidity measure which is a proxy for measuring illiquidity. The liquidity measure is examined for chosen 8 stocks based on their market capitalization. The volume of algorithmic orders is examined using the Limit Order Book (LOB) data obtained from the BSE and orders for 23 trading days have been considered. We observe that large capitalization stocks display higher liquidity and algorithmic traders are able to contribute significantly to liquidity when compared to non-algorithmic traders. It was also looked at if there was a big difference in the amount of algorithmic trading done on stocks with big and small capitalization. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.