Sustainability Practices and Firm Performance: Evidence from Listed Companies in India

Purpose: The impact of corporate sustainability practices on the firm performance of Indian-listed businesses was investigated in this study.   Theoretical Framework: The present research investigated the stakeholder theory’s application to corporate sustainability initiatives. Many recent studies have claimed that the theory encompasses a wide range of other elements that can affect the firm's valuation in addition to its purely economic value (Martin, 2022; Bodhanwala, 2022 ). To ensure firm performance in the current dynamic business environment, it is crucial to evaluate the scope of value creation from a stakeholder perspective in this context.   Design/Methodology/Approach: The corporate sustainability practices of 65 listed Indian firms were evaluated using the ESG score from the refinitive database of Thomson Reuters, and the firm performance was evaluated using the ROA (return on assets) score from the Prowess IQ database. The presented hypotheses were tested using single and multiple regression models for the study period of 2017–2021.   Findings: Findings suggest that the sustainability practices of listed companies in India had a significant positive impact on the firm performance. On detailed analysis, it was further found that among the three sustainability variables, social and governance activities of firms had a significant positive impact on firm performance while environmental activities had a negative insignificant association with firm performance.   Research, Practical & Social Implications: The findings of this study highlight the importance of supporting sustainable enterprises and properly reporting them in order to enhance firm-level performance. The study’s findings may also assist the business in piquing the interest of various stakeholders in reference to its sustainability initiatives and aid it in luring more investors.   Originality/Value: The study’s empirical data can be used by different governmental and regulatory agencies to help them take the necessary steps to support different sustainable business practices

Striving for Excellence: The Role of Work-Life Balance in Optimizing Job Performance Among Employees in Nepalese Microfinance Institutions

Purpose: Work-life balance is vital to employee well-being and organizational effectiveness in today's fast-paced, ever-changing workplace. Employee engagement and performance boost Nepal's microfinance industry's financial inclusion and growth. This study examines the relationship of work-life balance, quality of work life, and employee engagement affect microfinance job performance in Nepal. It examines how these characteristics affect employee work performance.   Theoretical Framework: The study stresses work-life balance, quality of work life, and employee engagement as independent variables affecting job performance.   Design/Methodology/Approach: A 210 respondents from 20 Nepalese microfinance institutions (MFIs) completed structured questionnaires for the quantitative study. Work-life balance, quality of work life, employee engagement, and job performance were examined using questionnaire data.   Findings: The findings of the study reveal that work-life balance and employee engagement positively impact job performance. Employees who can strike a healthy balance between work and personal life and are actively engaged in their roles exhibit enhanced job performance.   Research, Practical, and Social Implications: This study impacts BFIs, MFIs, regulatory agencies, HR analysts, and planners. These stakeholders may build supportive work environments that encourage employee well-being and organizational success by understanding the essential linkages between work-life balance, quality of work life, employee engagement, and job performance.   Originality/Value: The study sheds light on how work-life balance, quality of work life, employee engagement, and job performance affect the Nepalese microfinance industry. The study improves microfinance employee performance and well-being by comprehensively addressing these elements

Exploring the Link Between Servant Leadership, Procedural Justice, Conflict Management, and Innovative Work Behavior in the Pakistani Textile Industry

Purpose: The drive of this study is to explore the serial mediation role of procedural justice (PJ) and organizational conflict management (OCM) between servant leadership (SL) and innovative work behavior (IWB).   Theoretical framework: Previous studies have proved that there is a positive relationship between SL & PJ, OCM & SL, PJ & IWB, and SL & IWB. But there is a gap in validation for a serial mediation role of PJ and OCM between SL and IWB.   Design/methodology/approach: A sample of approximately 250 personnel employed in the textile industry in Pakistan was graphed to gather the data. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to assess the data.   Findings:  This study revealed that SL had a substantial and beneficial effect on IWB, whereas PJ had a noteworthy and favorable effect on OCM. Additionally, OCM had a noteworthy and favorable effect on IWB.   Research, practical & social implications:  The study is beneficial for the growth of the textile industry, where administrative management is recommended to play the role of servant leadership for innovative work behavior of employees. It is also suggested to create an environment of conflict management and procedural justice to boost innovative work behavior.   Originality/Value:  There is a substantial and beneficial serial mediating effect of PJ and OCM between SL and IWB

ASSESSING THE MENTAL STRESS OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has placed significant psychological burdens on healthcare workers, leading to increased mental stress and burnout. This research paper aims to assess the mental stress experienced by healthcare workers during the pandemic and compare it across different healthcare settings and professional roles. The study will employ a cross-sectional design, targeting healthcare workers from various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. A standardized questionnaire, such as the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), will be used to assess the levels of mental stress among participants. The survey will also collect demographic information, work-related factors, such as work hours and direct patient contact, and coping strategies employed by healthcare workers to mitigate stress. Data analysis will involve descriptive statistics to determine the overall levels of mental stress. Furthermore, the stress levels will be compared across different healthcare settings and professional roles using appropriate statistical tests. The findings will provide insights into the mental stress experienced by healthcare workers during the pandemic and shed light on the factors contributing to heightened stress levels. This information can be utilized to develop targeted interventions, support systems, and mental health programs to address the mental well-being of healthcare workers

ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MEDICAL/DRUG-RELATED APPS IN PATIENT HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT

Abstract In recent years, the availability and usage of medical and drug-related mobile applications (apps) have rapidly increased, promising to revolutionize patient healthcare management. This research paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of medical/drug-related apps in enhancing patient outcomes and healthcare management. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, starting with a comprehensive review of existing literature on medical/drug-related apps, their functionalities, and their impact on patient care. A systematic analysis of various app categories, including medication management, symptom trackers, appointment reminders, and health education, will be conducted. Quantitative data will be collected through surveys and usage analytics to assess the adoption rates, user satisfaction, and perceived effectiveness of medical/drug-related apps among patients. Additionally, qualitative data will be gathered through interviews or focus groups to explore users' experiences, challenges, and perceptions related to these apps. Key performance indicators such as medication adherence, self-care behaviors, patient empowerment, and health outcomes will be assessed to determine the impact of medical/drug-related apps on patient healthcare management. Statistical analysis and thematic coding techniques will be applied to analyze the data and identify patterns and themes. The research will also investigate the factors influencing app adoption and the barriers or challenges faced by patients in utilizing these apps effectively. Privacy and security concerns, user interface design, and healthcare professional recommendations will be considered in the evaluation process

ASSESSING THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF BIO-MEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN HOSPITAL SETTINGS

Abstract Effective bio-medical waste management is crucial for preventing the spread of infections, protecting the environment, and ensuring the safety of healthcare workers and the community. This research paper aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of bio-medical waste management among healthcare workers in hospital settings. The study will employ a cross-sectional survey design, targeting healthcare workers from various departments in selected hospitals. A structured questionnaire will be used to assess their knowledge regarding bio-medical waste segregation, storage, transportation, and disposal, as well as their awareness of associated risks and regulations. The attitude of healthcare workers towards bio-medical waste management will be explored, including their perception of its importance, their motivation to comply with guidelines, and their willingness to adopt proper waste management practices. Factors influencing attitude, such as training programs, availability of resources, and organizational support, will be examined. The study will also assess the actual practice of bio-medical waste management among healthcare workers, including segregation practices, usage of appropriate containers, adherence to disposal guidelines, and utilization of personal protective equipment. Compliance with regulatory standards, such as color coding and signage, will also be evaluated. Data analysis will involve descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression modeling to identify the factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice of bio-medical waste management among healthcare workers. The findings will inform the development of targeted interventions and training programs to improve waste management practices in healthcare settings

Learning Culture and Innovative Work Behaviour: Does Attitude Toward Change Matter?

Purpose:  This empirical research aimed to analyze the mediating role of attitude toward change (ATC) on the relationship between the learning organization dimensions (LODs) and innovative work behaviour (IWB) among academics with the rank of professor in Malaysian public higher education institutions (HEIs).   Theoretical framework: Organizational effectiveness, leading to sustainable goal development to happen swiftly, requires an attitude toward change (ATC) that leads to IWB among the institutional members who are undoubtedly already in a learning culture with supporting milieus.   Design/methodology/approach: 366 valid survey responses were collected using self-administered questionnaires delivered through the online survey with professors serving Malaysian public HEIs as target respondents. The study used Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS‐SEM) for exploratory data analysis and hypothesis testing.   Findings:  The results indicate that four LODs, systems connection, strategic leadership, continuous learning and dialogue and inquiry, significantly affect IWB in the presence of ATC as a mediator. On the other hand, ATC cannot mediate the outcome of IWB substantially, testing for the following exogenous variables: team level of learning, and two different dimensions of learning at the organization level, embedded system and empowerment.   Research, Practical & Social implications:  This study can be instructive for HEIs policymakers and those charged with institutional change and development. The study found that the HEIs’ effort in creating dynamic continuous learning opportunities and endless action in creating a culture of enthusiasm for questioning, timely feedback, and research enhanced the IWB through the upshot of ATC. At the structural level,  encouraging active participation and contributions to global intelligence and learning-oriented leadership marks the progress of the IWB. The capacity of the HEIs to integrate people and structures ultimately reaches healthier work behaviour necessary for the present needs of creative educational institutions. Practical implications and future research opportunities are in this empirical paper.   Originality/value:  The study empirically supports the strength of measures used to gauge the LODs, ATC and IWB. The mediating effects of ATC are substantial, with solid research evidence to suggest it is essential to identify what influences employee attitudes to change to facilitate and optimize employee receptiveness to change and, therefore, the likely success of HEIs change.

PREDICTIVE DIAGNOSIS THROUGH DATA MINING FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and early detection and accurate diagnosis are critical for effective treatment and prevention. Data mining techniques have emerged as powerful tools for analyzing large datasets to extract meaningful patterns and make predictions. This research paper aims to explore the application of data mining in predictive diagnosis for cardiovascular diseases. The study will start by collecting a comprehensive dataset comprising patient information, including demographics, medical history, lifestyle factors, and diagnostic test results. Various data mining techniques, such as classification, clustering, and association rule mining, will be applied to uncover hidden patterns and relationships within the data. Feature selection methods will be employed to identify the most relevant attributes for accurate prediction. The research will investigate different predictive models, including decision trees, support vector machines, and neural networks, to develop a reliable diagnostic system. Model performance will be evaluated using metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC). Additionally, the study will employ cross-validation techniques to ensure the generalizability and robustness of the developed models. The research will explore the integration of advanced techniques, such as deep learning and ensemble methods, to enhance the predictive accuracy of the diagnosis. The use of explainable AI techniques will also be considered to provide interpretable insights into the predictive models' decision-making process. The findings of this research will contribute to the advancement of predictive diagnosis for cardiovascular diseases by leveraging data mining techniques. The developed diagnostic models will assist healthcare professionals in making accurate and timely predictions, leading to improved patient outcomes, personalized treatment plans, and effective preventive measures

ASSESSING THE KNOWLEDGE OF INFECTION CONTROL PRACTICES AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY IN HOSPITAL SETTINGS

Abstract Effective infection control practices are essential for minimizing the transmission of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and ensuring patient safety. This research paper aims to assess the knowledge of infection control practices among healthcare workers and compare it across different departments and experience levels in hospital settings. The study will utilize a cross-sectional design, targeting healthcare workers from various departments, including doctors, nurses, and support staff, in selected hospitals. A structured questionnaire will be used to assess their knowledge regarding standard precautions, hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, safe injection practices, and environmental hygiene. The survey will also capture demographic information, years of experience, and previous infection control training received by the participants. Data analysis will involve descriptive statistics, including mean scores and percentages, to assess the overall knowledge level among healthcare workers. Furthermore, the knowledge scores will be compared across different departments and experience levels using appropriate statistical tests. The findings will provide insights into the gaps in knowledge regarding infection control practices among healthcare workers. This information can be utilized to develop targeted educational interventions and training programs to enhance their understanding and adherence to infection control guidelines