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1 – 10 of 28Social media remarkably changed the way of interaction between the consumers and organizations. The increased acceptance of social media has given rise to social commerce…
Abstract
Purpose
Social media remarkably changed the way of interaction between the consumers and organizations. The increased acceptance of social media has given rise to social commerce (s-commerce) and s-commerce usage is gradually increasing over the last few years. The progressive development of technologies suggests that s-commerce will become the mainstream for marketing and a literature survey indicates that there have not been many studies in this area. The purpose of this paper is to predict the factors influencing consumer intention towards the adoption of s-commerce.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a survey approach with reference to important behavioural factors such as satisfaction, ethics, trust, enjoyment/easiness, social pressure and awareness. The research model was developed to be in line with the available literature. The data were collected using a five-point Likert scale and the research model was tested using least square regression.
Findings
The results showed that user intention is significantly and positively related to perceived trust, enjoyment/easiness, social pressure, satisfaction and awareness. Also, “intention” was found to be a significant mediating factor for actual usage.
Research limitations/implications
First, the questionnaire was a “snap-shot” instead of longitudinal study. Second, future research should use other moderating variables that may affect the usage of social media. Also the study could apply a variant of research methods to include other techniques such as interviews, which allow for deeper understanding of the problem and issues.
Practical implications
Social media represents an important platform for electronic commerce and has one of the most metamorphic impacts on business. Therefore, investigating the usage of s-commerce with reference to important behavioural factors could provide valuable information for companies in establishing policies and strategies. It could also be useful for management studies and researchers in understanding the consumers’ attitude towards usage of social media for commercial purposes.
Social implications
S-commerce creates opportunities for firms. Based on findings this research provides insights with major implications for marketers, who would like to generate direct sales on social network platforms.
Originality/value
Existing literature focusses largely on the effectiveness of social media. Only a handful has endeavoured to analyse s-commerce systems and the literature on consumers’ behaviour in using s-commerce is not mature yet. This study is one of the few studies in this field, and aims to predict and explain the user acceptance of social media for commercial purposes.
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This paper aims to review the recent advances in processing and utilization of Madhuca longifolia flowers to address its potential as an industrial ingredient.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to review the recent advances in processing and utilization of Madhuca longifolia flowers to address its potential as an industrial ingredient.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper analyzes the harvesting practices of flowers and recent works on the value addition.
Findings
Mahua flowers are rich source of natural sugars (glucose, fructose, sucrose, etc.) and hence are deliberately used for liquor production by tribal besides various food products, namely, Mahua ladoo, barfi, kheer, sweet puri and as grain staple. Mahuain medicine has been curing people since ages such as in rakhtpitta, diarrhoea and skin diseases and as aphrodisiac, galactagogue, carminative, antihelmenthic, antibacterial and antioxidant. Mahua candy, cake, ready to serve beverages, toffee, squash, ladoo, bars, etc. have been developed as value-added products. However, such a wonderful nature’s gift remains underused due to post harvest spoilage.
Practical implications
Improvement in storage facilities and processing of flowers after harvesting and drying will lead to enhanced availability of flowers for industrial purposes for food, feed and fodder. More value-added products can be prepared by the preparation of flower-juice concentrate, as well as efforts are made to produce powder from the flowers.
Originality/value
Post-harvest spoilage of Mahua flowers due to improper collection and handling practices, and filthy storage conditions is the major limitation of Mahua flowers to be used as a potential industrial ingredient. An improvement in collection, handling and pre-processing practices can diversify its use from liquor production to various value-added and functional food products at an industrial scale.
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This review discusses the concept of edible nanocoatings (ENCs), the biomaterials used in the coating matrices, techniques of coating development, applications, challenges and…
Abstract
Purpose
This review discusses the concept of edible nanocoatings (ENCs), the biomaterials used in the coating matrices, techniques of coating development, applications, challenges and safety regulations associated with nanotechnology in food products. These ENCs are capable of imparting increased shelf life, improved appearance, better physiological qualities and bioactive potentials such as antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. ENCs can be developed using the layer-by-layer method which forms multiple alternative layers adhered together primarily by electrostatic interactions.
Design/methodology/approach
Various keywords such as edible coatings (ECs), safety aspects and nanocoatings were used to search the literature from Google Scholar, Research Gate, ScienceDirect, Springer Link, Taylor and Francis and PubMed. After searching enough literature, 113 articles and research papers were examined, which provides the updated overview of different aspects of edible nano-coatings.
Findings
Consumers today are very much aware of the food quality and its safety. They demand food products with longer shelf life, which are minimally processed with natural or no preservatives. ECs based on biopolymers is an alternative technique, which is biodegradable and can be consumed as such without posing any safety risks. The emergence of nanotechnology in food processing has provided new insights to develop ECs at the nanoscale with improved mechanical and barrier properties
Originality/value
ECs are beneficial to consumers and to the environment. ECs have generated significant attention over years as an alternative to fossil-based plastics, considering their renewable and biodegradable features
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Alok Kumar Mishra, Vaithiyanathan D., Yogesh Pal and Baljit Kaur
This work is proposed for low power energy-efficient applications like laptops, mobile phones, and palmtops. In this study, P-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor (PMOS)’s are used…
Abstract
Purpose
This work is proposed for low power energy-efficient applications like laptops, mobile phones, and palmtops. In this study, P-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor (PMOS)’s are used as access transistor in 7 transistors (7 T) Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) cell, and the theoretical Static Noise Margin (SNM) analysis for the proposed cell is also performed. A cell is designed using 7 T which consists of 4 PMOS and 3 NMOS. In this paper write and hold SNM is addressed and read SNM is also calculated for the proposed 7 T SRAM cell.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors have replaced N-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor (NMOS) access transistors with the PMOS access transistors, which results in proper data line recovery and provides the desired coupling. An error is likely to occur, if the read operation is performed too often probably by using the NMOS pass gate. It results in an improper recovery of the data line. Instead, by using PMOS as a pass gate, the time required for read operation can be brought down. As we know the mobility (µ) of the PMOS transistor is low, so the authors have used this property into the proposed design. When a low signal is applied to its control gate, the PMOS transistor come up with the desired coupling, when working as a pass gate.
Findings
Feedback switched transistor is used in the proposed circuit, which plays an important role in the write operation. This transistor is in OFF state and PMOS’s work as access transistor, when the proposed cell operating in read mode. This helps in the reduction of power. This work is simulated using UMC 40 nm technology node in the cadence virtuoso environment. The simulated result shows that, write power saving of 51.54% and 61.17%, hold power saving of 25.68% and 48.93% when compared with reported 7 T and 6 T, respectively.
Originality/value
The proposed 7 T SRAM cell provides proper data line recovery at a lower voltage when PMOS works as the access transistor. Power consumption is very less in this technique and it is best suitable for low power applications.
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Vaithiyanathan D., Megha Singh Kurmi, Alok Kumar Mishra and Britto Pari J.
In complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic circuits, there is a direct square proportion of supply voltage on dynamic power. If the supply voltage is high, then more…
Abstract
Purpose
In complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic circuits, there is a direct square proportion of supply voltage on dynamic power. If the supply voltage is high, then more amount of energy will be consumed. Therefore, if a low voltage supply is used, then dynamic power will also be reduced. In a mixed signal circuit, there can be a situation when lower voltage circuitry has to drive large voltage circuitry. In such a case, P-type metal-oxide-semiconductor of high-voltage circuitry may not be switched off completely by applying a low voltage as input. Therefore, there is a need for level shifter where low-voltage and high-voltage circuits are connected. In this paper the multi-scaling voltage level shifter is presented which overcomes the contention problems and suitable for low-power applications.
Design/methodology/approach
The voltage level shifter circuit is essential for digital and analog circuits in the on-chip integrated circuits. The modified voltage level shifter and reported energy-efficient voltage level shifter have been optimally designed to be functional in all process voltage and temperature corners for VDDH = 5V, VDDL = 2V and the input frequency of 5 MHz. The modified voltage level shifter and reported shifter circuits are implemented using Cadence Virtuoso at 90 nm CMOS technology and the comparison is made based on speed and power consumed by the circuit.
Findings
The voltage level shifter circuit discussed in this paper removes the contention problem that is present in conventional voltage level shifter. Moreover, it has the capability for up and down conversion and reduced power and delay as compared to conventional voltage level shifter. The efficiency of the circuit is improved in two ways, first, the current of the pull-up device is reduced and second, the strength of the pull-down device is increased.
Originality/value
The modified level shifter is faster for switching low input voltage to high output voltage and also high input voltage to low output voltage. The average power consumption for the multi-scaling voltage level shifter is 259.445 µW. The power consumption is very less in this technique and it is best suitable for low-power applications.
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Debarun Chakraborty and Wendrila Biswas
Today, the employees stand firm as an integral part of the organization and are a precious asset. They are willing to learn, accept challenges and strive hard to deliver their…
Abstract
Purpose
Today, the employees stand firm as an integral part of the organization and are a precious asset. They are willing to learn, accept challenges and strive hard to deliver their level best. The role of the employees has become pronounced and significant, and it is no more conventional. They are now taking up responsibilities in strategic planning and development of the organization. Thus, HR department plays a profuse role in planning for the human resource of the firm to optimize the utilization of their potentials that would help support and meet the business as well as strategic goal of the firm. These HR planning programs ensure managing people within a planned framework and make them develop their performance that becomes a source of sustained competitive advantage for the firm. The paper aims to discuss these issues.
Design/methodology/approach
A descriptive research has been conducted with cross-sectional survey through a formalized questionnaire. Multistage sampling has been used in the study. Primary data have been collected from different manufacturing industries of India. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis have been conducted on the hypothesized research model. Structural equation modeling has been done to specify the relation between the measured and latent variables.
Findings
The HR planning programs, namely, staffing plan and succession plan, yield a better result in addressing the strategic goal of the company. Succession plan, staffing plan and talent management strategies augment the efficacious performance of the firm. Effectual performance aids in gaining a competitive advantage for the firm in a substantial way. Job analysis and design have no impact in achieving the strategic intent of the organization.
Originality/value
The study gives a comprehensive scenario of the HR planning programs that can help the organization to meet and uphold their strategic goals. The study provides a model that can solidify and bind the organization toward securing organizational intent and leading a steadfast business process in this dynamic competitive marketplace.
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Debarun Chakraborty and Wendrila Biswas
The momentum of globalization has helped the organization to gain new insights into the domain of human resources (HRs). The changing nature of work has affected the coherence of…
Abstract
Purpose
The momentum of globalization has helped the organization to gain new insights into the domain of human resources (HRs). The changing nature of work has affected the coherence of the workplaces. Today, it is essential to preserve and nurture the cognitive and creative abilities of the diverse group of employees so that concrete outcomes and actions can be achieved. Human resource planning (HRP) is one of the processes that facilitate the development of employees and the integration of their individual goals with the business plans. This paper aims to produce useful predictions and unprecedented direction to boost organizational performance amidst cyclical business fluctuations. The innovative HRP programs minimize the dysfunctional aspects of employee handling through proper assessment of their skills and abilities. This inclusive approach initiates a sustainable journey for the firm and heightens its competitive edge.
Design/methodology/approach
A descriptive study has been conducted through a structured questionnaire. Primary data were collected from respondents working in the HR department of different manufacturing companies in the state of West Bengal, India. A multistage sampling technique has been used. Data analysis has been conducted through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Through structural equation modeling, the researchers examined a series of dependence relationships simultaneously and represented unobserved concepts.
Findings
The current study ratifies the overall model and reflects that the HRP activities, namely, retention plan, professional training and development, job analysis and design, succession planning and redeployment plan vitalizes the performance of the firm. A recruitment plan has a negative and non-significant impact on the functional performance of the organization. Succession planning practices immensely affect the firm’s competitive edge followed by the retention plans. The results also uphold that the efficacious performance of the firm brings in strategic sustainability for it.
Practical Implications
HRP activities sufficiently address the HR concerns facilitating the organization to coalesce the needs of the employees and the business. It helps to adopt a long term perspective to foster productivity, innovation and quality. It encourages employees to believe in their competencies to deliver their best. Such practices involve the workforce; coordinate their efforts to contribute meaningfully in this intricate business network. Thus, HRP practices drive to accomplish challenging tasks, focus on creative work-related projects, enhances an employee’s coping skills and morale to establish strategic sustainability for the firm.
Originality/value
The study sheds light on the fact that in this complex and dynamic business system where the authors find multigenerational workforce, it is essential to nurture the subtle aspects of the employees rather than continuous monitoring and controlling them. HRP activities provide such a platform that maximizes employees’ potential and will to fit into a firm’s business strategy and translate a strategic plan into action. Such practices have the capability to intensify the positive aspects and ideas in an organization.
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Ishfaq Hussain Bhat, Shilpi Gupta, Shakir Hussain Parray, Dhiraj Sharma, Faizan Ali and Rais Ahmad Itoo
This study delves into the complex realm of consumer behavior by exploring the impact of distinct shopping motives, encompassing status, value and gratification, on store…
Abstract
Purpose
This study delves into the complex realm of consumer behavior by exploring the impact of distinct shopping motives, encompassing status, value and gratification, on store satisfaction within the domain of organic food retail. Moreover, it seeks to decipher the influence of perceptual disparities between male and female patrons on the intricate nexus between shopping experience and consumer loyalty within organic food stores.
Design/methodology/approach
A comprehensive dataset comprising responses from 400 participants was gathered and subjected to confirmatory analysis and structural equation modeling. These analytical tools were employed to dissect the data, validate the underlying research framework and unveil critical insights.
Findings
The empirical analysis, facilitated by structural equation modeling, substantiates that organic food stores prioritize the organic attribute, primarily centered on healthiness, often to the detriment of broader conceptual and social aspects. This validates the interplay between shopping experience dimensions, customer contentment, loyalty and the intent to revisit. Gender, as a moderator, exerts a discernible influence on these relationships, highlighting distinct shopping behaviors among male and female consumers when gauging the influence of shopping experience dimensions within organic food retail establishments.
Practical implications
The implications of this research resonate deeply within the organic food retail landscape. The insights garnered provide valuable guidance to organic food retailers aiming to enhance their store ambiance and allure, thereby fostering sustained customer satisfaction. This, in turn, augments the propensity for customer loyalty and repeat patronage, a particularly pressing concern in today's fiercely competitive retail milieu. Furthermore, the study carries significant ramifications for organic food producers and governmental entities, outlining a framework for augmenting the value proposition of organic foods in alignment with customer experiential paradigms.
Originality/value
In a milieu characterized by the emergence of novel product categories and industry entrants, the study fills a critical void by investigating customer satisfaction within the broader retail food sector, with specific focus on organic food stores. Moreover, the research embarks on a pioneering exploration of the prospective trajectory of organic food stores in the Indian context, employing a marketing lens and grounded in the theory of needs satisfaction.
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By using exploratory mixed methods, this study aims to present the investigation of the existing situation of private off-campus student accommodation at the University of…
Abstract
Purpose
By using exploratory mixed methods, this study aims to present the investigation of the existing situation of private off-campus student accommodation at the University of Allahabad (UoA) in Prayagraj city.
Design/methodology/approach
This study explored the geographical variability of student’s private rental housing in Prayagraj city of India through 721 responses from an online semi-structured questionnaire, together with 12 interviews. Moran’s I and LISA were used to determine spatial clustering of rents paid by male and female students.
Findings
Results of this study reveal prevalence of unregulated with poor quality of off-campus housing in general and expensive rents in the proximity of UoA.
Research limitations/implications
Obtaining less responses from the female students was one of the important limitations.
Practical implications
A win-win strategy might be formulated with a mix of innovative solutions inclusive of public private partnerships and social economy solutions woven with need-based rental housing, rekindled as the affordable rental housing complexes after COVID-19 pandemic.
Social implications
This study is highly beneficial to improve liveability in the student housing segment.
Originality/value
This paper develops extensive understanding on the potential student housing segment in the Indian cities. Additionally, this paper demonstrates weak coordination between the central government policies, educational administrators and municipal officials.
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The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effect of surface treatment on slurry erosion behavior of AISI 5,117 steel using artificial neural network (ANN) technique.
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effect of surface treatment on slurry erosion behavior of AISI 5,117 steel using artificial neural network (ANN) technique.
Design/methodology/approach
The slurry erosion wear behavior of electroless nickel-phosphorus (Ni-P) coated, carburized and untreated AISI 5,117 alloy steel was investigated experimentally and theoretically using ANN technique based on error back propagation learning algorithm.
Findings
From the obtained results, it can be concluded that the proposed AAN model can be successfully used for evaluating slurry erosion behavior of the Ni-P coated, carburized and untreated AISI 5,117 steel for wide range of operating conditions and Ni-P coating and carburizing improve the slurry erosion resistance of AISI 5,117 steel; however, the coating is more efficient.
Originality/value
Slurry erosion is a serious problem for the performance, reliability and service life of engineering components used in many industrial applications. To improve the performance of these components, engineering surface technologies have been attracting a great deal of attention. The extent of slurry erosion is dependent on a wide range of variables. To account all variables that effect on erosion behavior, prediction of erosion behavior by soft computational technique is one of the most important requirements. ANN has the ability to tackle the problem of complex relationships among variables that cannot be accomplished by traditional analytical methods.
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