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The reverberations of an unparalleled labor shortage echo through service-based industries, leaving the hospitality, tourism, and food and beverage sectors grappling with a critical challenge. The fallout from the 2020-2021 global health crisis has laid bare a systemic flaw: the absence of sustainable career pathways for front-line workers. From airlines to cruise ships, theme parks to restaurants, and bars, the shortage of front-line workers has reached a critical level, preventing organizations from operating at full capacity even as public health restrictions are lifted. This crisis stems not only from the economic aftermath of the pandemic but also from the longstanding neglect within these industries to cultivate a resilient front-line workforce. Front-line positions, often considered transient and unskilled, lack the structured development pipelines that other professional industries utilize successfully. As organizations struggle to address these workforce challenges, Career Pathways and Professional Identities for Front-Line Workers in the Service Industries serves as a guide filled with solutions in the face of industry-wide adversity. Career Pathways and Professional Identities for Front-Line Workers in the Service Industries responds to the urgency within the hospitality, restaurant, and tourism industries, by applying the dynamics of the 4th Industrial Revolution and the Gig Economy, to propose innovative solutions to engineer sustainable career pathways and foster professional identities. Ideal for employers, educators, and researchers involved in these industries, the book aims to guide organizations in optimizing operations, implementing leadership-focused succession planning, and minimizing the impact of labor fluctuations. From an academic perspective, it harmonizes industry-focused programs, offering a distinct element for hospitality, restaurant, and tourism management curricula. Additionally, it opens avenues for research on transitioning low-pay roles into meaningful, long-term careers with a focus on continuous improvement.

The COVID-19 pandemic functioned as a stark illuminator, exposing the deep-seated cracks in social and material support for those in caregiving roles. Despite the resilience of care workers and essential personnel, the lack of robust connections and infrastructure became apparent, impacting these individuals but resonating across the broader public. The pandemic laid bare the lengths people must go to care for others and the urgent need for interconnectedness and support within caregiving realms. Perspectives on Social and Material Fractures in Care offers a multi-disciplinary exploration of care, drawing on existing theoretical frameworks, empirical research, and personal stories. By navigating the complexities of care at various levels, the book aims to provide a profound understanding of the current state of affairs. Moreover, it does not stop at diagnosis; it seeks to propel the conversation forward by delving into ethical, intersectional, and life-sustaining approaches to enhance the very fabric of caregiving. As we confront the pressing issues surrounding who receives care, who is expected to care, and the seemingly off-limits aspects of societal concern, the book becomes a vital resource for academics, higher education professionals, and students eager to grasp the intricate dynamics of care in the contemporary United States.

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly recognized as organizations seek to disrupt and transform processes in order to drive innovation in their business models. However, despite substantial investments in AI implementation, recent research indicates that organizations are struggling to realize the expected benefits. Furthermore, many firms face challenges when it comes to effectively integrating AI applications into their existing organizational systems. To bridge this gap, there is an urgent need to deepen understanding of AI techniques, particularly in the context of Asian organizations, where diverse workforces, cultural differences, language barriers, and skill shortages present unique complexities. Exploring the Intersection of AI and Human Resources Management explores the methodologies, theories, and perspectives related to the application of AI in organizations. Focused on the convergence of Human Resource Management (HRM) and AI, this book aims to provide invaluable insights to academics, researchers, policymakers, organizational managers, advanced-level students, leaders, academicians, and government officials. By shedding light on the tools and applications of AI in optimizing human resources, this book expands the horizons of research and encourages the seamless integration of HRM and AI.

In the evolving world of industrial materials, conventional choices have proved to be insufficient to meet the demands of contemporary applications. With the introduction of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, groundbreaking synthesis approaches are crafting nanocomposites with unprecedented versatility. Smart and Sustainable Applications of Nanocomposites delves into this research, exploring the bioinspired synthesis of nanocomposites and their multi-dimensional applications across diverse industries. This book addresses the escalating challenges faced by the nano-industry, such as the widening application window requiring additional properties like high modulus, flame retardation, UV resistance, and more. The book champions the development of environmentally friendly nanocomposites, ushering in the next generation of nanomaterials by reinforcing fibers, whiskers, or nano clays. Unique substitutes like ceramic, agricultural waste, and polymer-layered silicate nanocomposites are thoroughly examined for their exceptional physical, chemical, and physicochemical properties. From triobiological applications to the synthesis of bio-nanocoating, the book spans an array of subjects, each chapter revealing the potential applications of nanotechnology and nanocoatings in diverse fields. It highlights the ethical and environmental implications of this burgeoning technology, making it a crucial resource for students, researchers, academicians, and industry professionals.

In the age of immediate technical expansion, our world faces a multifaceted challenge: ensuring the sustainability of our digital transformation. Governments and organizations have wholeheartedly embraced innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and e-governance, but in doing so, they have encountered a complex web of issues. These range from cybersecurity concerns in an increasingly digitalized world to the need for intelligent systems capable of managing automation infrastructure and interconnected environments. Sustainable Development in AI, Blockchain, and E-Governance Applications offers a forward-thinking approach that harnesses the synergy between intelligent systems, machine learning, deep learning, and blockchain methods. It explores data-driven decision-making, automation infrastructure, autonomous transportation, and the creation of connected buildings, all aimed at crafting a sustainable digital future. By delving into topics like machine learning for smart parking, disease classification through neural networks, and the Internet of Things (IoT) for smarter cities, this book equips academic scholars with the tools they need to navigate the complex terrain of technology and governance. Academic scholars and researchers in technology, governance, and sustainability will find this book to be an indispensable resource. It caters to those seeking a comprehensive understanding of current and future trends in the integration of intelligent systems with cybersecurity applications.

As the educational sphere witnessed an unprecedented shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, a pivotal transformation was set in motion. The surge in online enrollment, spanning synchronous, asynchronous, hybrid, and mobile formats, has established the digital domain as a formidable medium of education. However, this transition comes with a responsibility to uphold the principles of equality and accessibility, a responsibility that mirrors the concerns long prevalent in traditional brick-and-mortar classrooms. Designing Equitable and Accessible Online Learning Environments is a pioneering endeavor which delves into the multifaceted dimensions of online education and reveals a crucial revelation that students from disadvantaged backgrounds exhibit a pronounced affinity for online courses. This book magnifies the essence of this observation, venturing beyond the surface to uncover the means to cultivate a genuinely inclusive online pedagogical experience. Meticulously curated, this book amalgamates diverse perspectives from luminaries in the field. The ultimate aspiration is to empower educators, administrators, researchers, and students with a profound understanding of the symbiotic relationship between inclusivity and technology. From theoretical underpinnings to practical strategies, every chapter resonates with the heartbeat of equitable education in the digital age. Embarking on a comprehensive journey, this book is an exploration of design theories that embrace the ethos of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Topics span the spectrum, from deciphering the architecture of accessible digital tools to unraveling the tapestry of culturally responsive teaching in the virtual classroom.

When it comes to Parkinson's disease, one of the most important issues revolves around early detection and accurate diagnosis. The intricacies of this neurodegenerative disorder often elude timely identification, leaving patients and healthcare providers grappling with its progressive symptoms. Ethical concerns surrounding the use of machine learning to aid in diagnosis further complicate this challenge. This issue is particularly significant for research scholars, PhD fellows, post-doc fellows, and medical and biomedical scholars seeking to unravel the mysteries of Parkinson's disease and develop more effective treatments. Intelligent Technologies and Parkinson's Disease: Prediction and Diagnosis serves as a beacon of hope in the quest to revolutionize Parkinson's disease diagnosis and treatment. It unveils the remarkable potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in remodeling the way we approach this debilitating condition. With a comprehensive exploration of AI's capacity to analyze speech patterns, brain imaging data, and gait patterns, this book offers a powerful solution to the challenges of early detection and accurate diagnosis.

Within the healthcare sector, a pressing need for transformative changes is growing. From chronic diseases to complex diagnostic procedures, the industry stands at the crossroads of technological innovation and a burgeoning demand for more efficient, precise interventions. Patient expectations are soaring, and the deluge of medical data is overwhelming traditional healthcare systems. It is within this challenging environment that AI-Driven Innovations in Digital Healthcare: Emerging Trends, Challenges, and Applications emerges as a beacon of insight and practical solutions. The traditional healthcare framework is struggling to keep pace with the diverse demands of patients and the ever-expanding volume of medical data. As diseases become more intricate, attempts to provide timely identification and precise treatment of ailments become increasingly elusive. The urgency for a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery is emphasized by the critical need for early interventions, particularly in disease prediction. This challenge necessitates a holistic approach that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative technologies to steer healthcare toward a more responsive and patient-centric future.

In today's business landscape, a pressing challenge looms large - the harmonious integration of digitalization, innovation, and sustainable development. As organizations grapple with the dizzying pace of digital transformation, they also confront the imperative of sustainability. Yet, the synergy between these two crucial facets remains uncharted territory, leaving a void in both academic discourse and practical application. Convergence of Digitalization, Innovation, and Sustainable Development in Business emerges as the much-needed solution to the complex interplay of digitalization, innovation, and sustainable development. Drawing from the insights of leading scholars and practitioners convened at the International Conference on Digitalization, Innovations, and Sustainable Development, this book offers a meticulously curated selection of papers that illuminate the path forward. For university professors, researchers, students, and industry practitioners, this book is an indispensable resource. It offers a multifaceted exploration of the intersection between digitalization and sustainable development, empowering organizations with a diverse array of digital innovative solutions and strategies. With topics spanning sustainable supply chain management, renewable energy innovations, smart cities, sustainable finance, and more, this book is poised to make a profound impact on academia and real-world decision-making processes.

In the realm of mental health professionals, possessing knowledge of psychotherapeutic techniques is merely the tip of the iceberg. To excel in this field, professionals must master navigating the ethical challenges inherent in therapeutic relationships. Ethics for Mental Health Professionals illuminates the intricate landscape of ethical considerations that define the practice of mental health professionals. This book goes beyond the mere acquisition of psychotherapeutic techniques, emphasizing the paramount significance of navigating ethical challenges inherent in the field. This book delves into the ethical foundations underpinning the mental health profession, acknowledging the elevated responsibility and ethical requisites placed upon these professionals. Readers will embark on a journey transcending routine psychotherapeutic knowledge and exploring ethical decision-making within therapeutic relationships. The book addresses the critical need for mental health practitioners to possess clinical expertise and adeptly navigate ethical dilemmas that may arise in their professional journey. Mental health professionals will find invaluable insights within these pages. From dissecting the ethical dimensions of confidentiality to providing a roadmap for ethical decision-making when confronted with moral quandaries, this book equips practitioners with the tools to uphold the highest ethical standards in their practice.

Ethics, the moral compass guiding our actions, stands at the core of academic integrity. In the field of social sciences research, ethical violations persist as a silent threat, overshadowing the pursuit of knowledge. Uncovering the pervasive challenges, Methodologies and Ethics for Social Sciences Research boldly addresses the often-overlooked ethical breaches within scientific research. From plagiarism to the distortion of data, the book meticulously dissects common ethical pitfalls, emphasizing their significance in maintaining the credibility and trustworthiness of research outcomes. Recognizing the global nature of academic endeavors, the book sheds light on the cultural factors influencing ethical considerations, fostering a collective awareness among scholars. Methodologies and Ethics for Social Sciences Research transcends geographical boundaries, offering a comprehensive exploration of research methodologies in social sciences. It equips researchers, academics, teachers, and students with the tools to navigate the intricate terrain of scientific inquiry while upholding ethical standards. With a focus on the multicultural perspective, the book features contributions from academics worldwide, enriching the narrative with diverse experiences and insights. By incorporating practical examples of ethical violations from different countries, it not only highlights common ethical dilemmas but also provides a foundation for a shared global understanding of research ethics.

In today's digital age, cyber threats have become an ever-increasing risk to businesses, governments, and individuals worldwide. The deep integration of technology into every facet of modern life has given rise to a complex and interconnected web of vulnerabilities. As a result, traditional, sector-specific approaches to cybersecurity have proven insufficient in the face of these sophisticated and relentless adversaries. The need for a transformative solution that transcends organizational silos and fosters cross-sector collaboration, information sharing, and intelligence-driven defense strategies is now more critical than ever. Evolution of Cross-Sector Cyber Intelligent Markets explores the changes occurring within the field of intelligent markets, noting a significant paradigm shift that redefines cybersecurity. Through engaging narratives, real-world examples, and in-depth analysis, the book illuminates the key principles and objectives driving this evolution, shedding light on innovative solutions and collaborative efforts aimed at securing our digital future.

In central banking, the need for effective governance and policy transformations has never been more pressing. Central banks serve as the bedrock of a nation's financial stability, and yet, they face an array of complex challenges in the modern era. The delicate balance between autonomy from government influence and the necessity of adapting to external economic forces has become increasingly elusive. As the world grapples with the aftermath of a global pandemic and persistent economic turbulence, the demand for innovative strategies to safeguard economic and financial stability has reached a crescendo. Central bankers, economists, and policy experts are left grappling with the daunting task of navigating these treacherous waters, in dire need of a compass to guide them toward a resilient future. Governance and Policy Transformations in Central Banking is a groundbreaking book that transcends traditional boundaries to offer a comprehensive solution to the complex challenges faced by central banks worldwide. This book not only diagnoses problems, it also presents a meticulously curated collection of new empirical and theoretical chapters that illuminate the path forward. It is an invaluable resource that empowers central banks with the knowledge and tools necessary for development, governance, and policy transformation.

How do digital capitalism and the evolving landscape of new media intersect, and what does this mean for the future of media? It is necessary to begin the excavation process, to unearth the insights of experts in these fields to better understand the transformation of the globalized world. In Digital Capitalism in the New Media Era , the intricate relationship between media and society takes center stage, examined through the lens of contemporary technology's impact on this dynamic. Within the confines of this meticulously researched book lies a comprehensive analysis of how the established political economy of traditional media has adapted and responded to the surge of new technologies. The rise of new tools has inadvertently ushered in a new age of surveillance, marked by sophisticated techniques like digital trace tracking and micro-targeting strategies. This book covers comprehensive topics, including exploiting personal data for both commercial and political ends, the pervasive influence of algorithmic mechanisms and filter bubbles, and the dominion of tech giants in this digital landscape. By offering a panoramic view of the contemporary media landscape, this book not only equips researchers, sociologists, and media professionals with an understanding of the intricate interplay between technology and society but also facilitates a deeper comprehension of pressing concerns such as open science, gender equality, and the digital divide.

The intricate web of healthcare, sustainability, and legalities has never been more significant or complex. Bridging Health, Environment, and Legalities: A Holistic Approach embarks on an enlightening journey through these interwoven domains, exploring their relationships and their pivotal role in shaping global well-being. Not merely content with the surface, this book navigates the complex terrain of health equity and access to care, unveiling the role of social determinants of health and their legal implications. It critically examines sustainable medical innovations, scrutinizing the legal and regulatory challenges in adopting and implementing groundbreaking medical advancements. Intellectual property rights and ethical considerations in medical research are carefully dissected, offering guidance on promoting sustainable medical breakthroughs through policy and law.

Blockchain has become the cornerstone of technologies, supported by others including Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Originating from cryptocurrency, it transcends boundaries, finding resonance in finance, healthcare, e-governance, and beyond. While blockchain relies on a peer-to-peer approach, enabling nodes to collaborate without the shackles of a central authority, appropriate monitoring and updating of these technologies is a constant necessity. This is especially true for healthcare data systems, where data privacy and security concerns, especially with sensitive health information are paramount. Threads of automation in artificial intelligence (AI) weave through sectors such as business, finance, healthcare, marketing, and governance. Industrial Applications of Big Data, AI, and Blockchain delves into the pulsating realms of big data, AI, and blockchain. From natural language processing's eloquent interpretation of human language to the prowess of AI algorithms in predictive tasks, this book explores how AI enhances decision-making accuracy, catalyzing a paradigm shift in diverse industries. This book is ideal for researchers, business visionaries, tech enthusiasts, and curious minds eager to fathom the transformative potential of these technologies.

In an era marked by rapid technological progress, women's safety remains a pressing concern despite strides toward gender equality. Women continue to grapple with safety challenges in both public and private spaces, enduring harassment, violence, and discrimination driven by entrenched societal norms and modern complexities. Amidst these challenges, harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a promising avenue to reshape the landscape of women's safety. The groundbreaking book, AI Tools and Applications for Women's Safety , curated by experts Sivaram Ponnusamy, Vibha Bora, Prema Daigavane, and Sampada Wazalwar, delves into the transformative power of AI to address the daily safety concerns women face. This timely volume explores innovative AI-driven resources and applications that redefine personal security, offering tailored protection through real-time threat assessment and emergency response coordination. With comprehensive insights spanning academia, law enforcement, policymaking, and advocacy, this book covers predictive safety analytics, smart surveillance, ethical considerations, and more. AI Tools and Applications for Women's Safety not only sheds light on the promise of AI but also paves the way for informed discourse and meaningful action, ushering in a future defined by women's empowerment and security.

The rapid adoption of deep learning models has resulted in many business services becoming model services, yet most AI systems lack the necessary automation and industrialization capabilities. This leads to heavy reliance on manual operation and maintenance, which not only consumes power but also causes resource wastage and stability issues during system mutations. The inadequate self-adaptation of AI systems poses significant challenges in terms of cost-effectiveness and operational stability. Principles and Applications of Adaptive Artificial Intelligence , edited by Zhihan Lv from Uppsala University, Sweden, offers a comprehensive solution to the self-adaptation problem in AI systems. It explores the latest concepts, technologies, and applications of Adaptive AI, equipping academic scholars and professionals with the necessary knowledge to overcome the challenges faced by traditional business logic transformed into model services. With its problem-solving approach, real-world case studies, and thorough analysis, the Handbook provides practitioners with practical ideas and solutions, while also serving as a valuable teaching material and reference guide for students and educators in AI-related disciplines. By emphasizing self-adaptation, continuous model iteration, and dynamic learning based on real-time feedback, the book empowers readers to significantly enhance the cost-effectiveness and operational stability of AI systems, making it an indispensable resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to revolutionize their research and applications in the field of Adaptive AI.