Purpose This study aims to find out whether eSports as intrinsic motivation has a positive effect on innovative behavior and whether knowledge sharing plays a mediating role in this relationship. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a quantitative approach. The research hypotheses were tested using partial least square-structural equation modeling with multi-group analysis using Smart-PLS 4. The sample was 208 respondents from the academic community affiliated with the universities in Indonesia and India. Findings For India, there is a positive relationship between eSports-driven intrinsic motivation and innovative behavior. Knowledge sharing acted as a mediator. For Indonesia, however, the results indicate a more complex dynamic. Although intrinsic motivation in eSports leads to knowledge-sharing behaviors, the direct relationship between intrinsic motivation and innovative behavior was not significant. Knowledge sharing, therefore, plays a crucial role as a mediator. Originality/value The study advances the literature by demonstrating how eSports as intrinsic motivation influences innovative behavior through knowledge sharing based on self-determination theory by focusing on academic communities in two different countries.

Purpose Citations are increasingly used as a measure of performance in research policies and evaluation systems. The purpose of this study is to examine the irregularities present in the citation numbers provided by the Web of Science (WoS). Design/methodology/approach A total of 3,000 highly cited articles on COVID-19 were obtained from the WoS at two-day intervals, with four samples collected each month, resulting in a total of 72,000 records across 24 samples. This study excluded one sample due to incomplete information, leaving a total of 69,000 articles. The final dataset, after screening the data, includes 2,765 articles with citation information from all 23 samples. The citation counts from the Web of Science Core Collections were utilized for the analysis, and all statistical analyses were conducted using MS-Excel. A dot plot was generated to gain insight into the distribution of the data. Findings All descriptive statistics, with the exception of the median and minimum citation numbers, displayed variations, indicating potential inconsistencies in citation counts. Notably, no discernible pattern emerged from these fluctuations. Nevertheless, the ANOVA test revealed no significant differences. It is important to highlight that there were considerable variations in citation numbers, especially at the higher end. Over a six-month period, a total of 1,191 articles, representing 43%, exhibited fluctuating citation numbers, ranging from 1 to 10,169. Furthermore, 70% of the articles with over 1,000 citations experienced multiple fluctuations in their citation numbers. Research limitations/implications Given the discrepancies seen in the citation counts provided by the WoS, this study stresses how important it is to be careful when using citation counts as performance indicators in research policy and evaluation frameworks. In conclusion, this study’s results are very important for researchers, policymakers and evaluators who use citation cunts as a measure of performance when making research policies and evaluative systems. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study offers the first report on discrepancies in the number of citations for COVID-19-related articles in the WoS over a period of time. By drawing attention to the inconsistencies in the citation counts provided by the WoS, a widely used database for research evaluation, this research adds to the body of literature.

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the performance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools ChatGPT-4o and Gemini in providing support in Arabic libraries, analyzing their ability to potentially answer diverse queries and exploring the feasibility of using such technologies. Design/methodology/approach Descriptive analytical and content-analysis methods were adopted. A set of queries was directed to each tool individually, and their responses’ accuracy, comprehensiveness and presentation style were evaluated. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the tools’ performance. Subject experts also evaluated the tools in their respective fields. Findings The results showed that Gemini significantly outperformed ChatGPT-4o in most question categories, providing more accurate and comprehensive responses. Gemini showed strength in social sciences, humanities and educational sciences. However, both tools had limitations with questions about current events and those requiring detailed local knowledge. Practical implications This study contributes empirical evidence on AI tools’ potential benefits and limitations in Arabic academic libraries. Information professionals should critically evaluate these technologies and consider the ethical implications of their use. Our results imply that Gemini can potentially enhance Arab researchers’ finding information, particularly in certain subject areas. Libraries should develop strategies for the responsible and effective implementation of AI tools. Originality/value This study enriches the literature on AI in libraries by focusing on the Arabic context and providing insights from a multifaceted analysis of two prominent AI tools.

Purpose Knowledge sabotage is an emerging challenge for today’s managers because every second individual is found to be involved in such behaviors. Therefore, to understand the antecedents and consequences of knowledge sabotage, this study aims to investigate the trustful climate toward knowledge-sharing climate through knowledge sabotage. It further investigates the conditional role of destructive personality types in the relationship between trustful climate and knowledge sabotage. Design/methodology/approach In this quantitative study, the data from 307 employees and their immediate supervisors working in the IT sector of Pakistan were collected on convenience basis. Furthermore, structural equation modeling and hierarchical regression techniques were applied to test the hypotheses. Findings The findings revealed that individuals’ perception of a trustful climate positively contributes to knowledge-sharing climate, and knowledge sabotage intervenes this relationship. Furthermore, the dark triad (psychopathy, narcissism and Machiavellianism) was noted to moderate the association between trustful climate and knowledge sabotage such that the dark triad strengthens this negative association. Research limitations/implications This study suggests using peer/colleagues’ rated scales to measure destructive personality. However, the findings suggest managers involve employees in the decision-making process and work on their skills to develop their trust in organizations and involve knowledge sharing. Conversely, managers are suggested to arrange training/workshops for individuals to understand and overcome their negative personality traits. Originality/value Contributing to the novel literature on the most extreme form of counterproductive behavior in the field of knowledge management (i.e. knowledge sabotage), this study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the first of its kind that empirically investigates the conditional role of destructive personalities toward knowledge sabotage in the presence of trustful climate.

Purpose This study aims to analyze the sentiments expressed in YouTube comments on videos from top dermatology channels, focusing on how social media mavens affect consumer behavior and perceptions related to cosmetic treatments. Design/methodology/approach The study utilized sentiment analysis to examine 300 comments from the top five YouTube dermatology channels using NVivo 14, a qualitative data analysis software. It categorized the comments into positive, negative, neutral and mixed sentiments to understand the impact of the content on viewers. Findings The analysis revealed that 54% of the comments were positive, 5.7% were negative, 18.7% were neutral and 21.6% were mixed. The study found that videos from dermatology influencers significantly impact viewers, with positive comments highlighting the informative nature of the content and negative feedback suggesting areas for improvement. Research limitations/implications The findings provide actionable insights for marketers and practitioners in the esthetic dermatology industry, emphasizing the importance of creating high-quality, informative content that addresses viewer concerns and ethical considerations in influencer marketing. Originality/value This study uniquely contributes to the literature by focusing on sentiment analysis of YouTube comments related to cosmetic surgery, offering insights into the influence of dermatology content creators on consumer behavior.

Purpose This study aims to explore the nexus between tourist’s characteristics and the changing intensity of social media’s impact on tourist decision-making among Indian tourists. A group-based comparison is done in this exploratory study; the basis of groups is the tourist’s characteristics which signifies their different types such as social media type, user type, traveller type and destination type. India, which is a huge market for tourists and social media users, is explored for this study. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts an exploratory design where an attempt is made to analyse if the intensity of social media impact on their decision-making changes with different types of tourists. For this purpose, primary data analysis using Partial Least Squares Regression based Multi Group Analysis (PLS-MGA) is performed on 488 Indian Tourists which was collected using a structured online questionnaire. The groups have been divided according to tourist characteristics signifying different types like social media type, user type, traveller type and destination type. Findings Social media usage frequency and travel frequency have no moderating effect on social media’s impact on tourist decision-making. But social media type partially moderates decision-making with changing impact on the need recognition, information search and post purchase behaviour stages. Destination type also partially moderates with an impact on post purchase behaviour stage of tourist decision-making. Thus, it can be said that different types of tourists are impacted differently by social media across various stages of decision-making. Originality/value This is a novel study that for the first time explores the changes in the impact of social media on tourist decision-making through changes in their own personal characteristics. Also, it provides real-time insights for tourism marketing for Indian market which has huge potential due to Indians being avid travellers and users of social media.

Purpose This study aims to meticulously examine the current state and operational dynamics of e-libraries in Punjab, Pakistan. Using a qualitative research methodology and strength, weakness, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis as a principal analytical framework, the study seeks to capture a detailed portrait of these digital repositories. The goal is to uncover the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats associated with the e-libraries. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research approach was chosen to gain deeper insights into the e-libraries in Punjab. The study involved conducting detailed interviews with 14 librarians from these e-libraries, an interview guide that was developed specifically for this study. The guide was refined by experts and validated in a pilot study. Findings The study reveals that e-libraries in Punjab, Pakistan, excel in providing access to diverse digital resources and enhancing digital literacy but face significant challenges related to infrastructure, hardware and digital skills. Opportunities exist in leveraging mobile technology and enhancing staff training to improve service delivery. However, financial constraints, inadequate skilled personnel and regulatory issues pose threats to their efficacy and sustainability. Practical implications This study offers key recommendations for improving Punjab’s e-libraries, such as upgrading infrastructure, enhancing staff training and bolstering cybersecurity. It stresses the need for sustained government funding and support. The findings can help librarians boost digital literacy, refine resources and increase community involvement, while guiding policymakers in shaping effective legal frameworks and practitioners in enhancing resource quality and access. Social implications This research highlights the transformative potential of e-libraries in fostering education and culture in Punjab. It emphasizes integrating technology with community and government support to maximize benefits, bridge digital divides and promote social equity. The study calls for ongoing collaboration among librarians, educators and policymakers to harness e-libraries as catalysts for social change and development. Originality/value The originality of this study stems from its innovative application of SWOT analysis to e-libraries in Punjab, a first in this context. This approach not only offers new insights into the operational strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of e-libraries but also significantly aids in strategic planning. The findings are pivotal in shaping decisions that foster the effective use of e-libraries, ultimately enhancing digital literacy and educational growth across the region.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to systematically investigate the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of ChatGPT in the Thai context, using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a theoretical foundation which bridges the gap between technological innovation and local adoption dynamics, providing critical insights for future technology implementations in similar contexts.. Design/methodology/approach To validate six hypotheses, this study engages 400 respondents residing in Bangkok. Data were collected through a rigorously designed structured survey and analyzed via descriptive and inferential statistical techniques using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to validate hypotheses including mediating effect of attitude toward behavior (ATB). Findings The findings indicate that all determinants significantly influence the intention to adopt ChatGPT (IAC). Additionally, the ATB plays a pivotal role in mediating the relationship between perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and IAC. Originality/value This research shed a new light on emerging trends of Thais’ motivations toward ChatGPT adoption. This may provide an insight into further development and practical implications for businesses.

Purpose This study aims to analyze the mediating role of attitude in understanding the impact of online service convenience on user engagement and intention to continuously use e-resources. Five components of online service convenience have been adopted for the present study: These are access convenience, search convenience, evaluation convenience, transaction convenience and possession/ post-possession convenience. Design/methodology/approach A total of 500 PhD scholars and faculty members from two different states of India were approached to provide their responses through a structured questionnaire, which resulted in 224 complete responses. These responses were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The statistical analysis has been performed with the help of Smart-PLS 3. Findings The study findings have proven the proposed conceptual model by showing a significant relationship between all the variables. Furthermore, it has been identified that the attitude of the users also positively impacts intention to continuously use e-resources. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature on e-resources by providing implications for students, faculties, managers and society.

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the domain of metaverse commerce and conduct a thorough examination of the complex dynamics that contribute to impulsive purchasing behavior. This study aims to examine the impact of vividness, interactivity and effectiveness on social presence and telepresence within the metaverse, a digital landscape. Specifically, it seeks to understand how these factors influence consumers' impulsive buying behavior. Design/methodology/approach The methodology used in this study consisted of distributing self-administered questionnaires via a survey. Data collection was conducted among a targeted sample of 348 participants in Vietnam who had direct experience with metaverse commerce services. Then, the collected data was subjected to analysis using two distinct methodologies: partial least squares structural equation modeling and artificial neural networks. Findings The findings of this study provide significant insights into the correlation between social presence, telepresence and impulsive buying behavior within the field of metaverse commerce. The research findings also indicate that the impact of social presence and telepresence on impulsive purchasing behavior is contingent upon the enhanced vividness, effectiveness and interactivity of the virtual environment. Originality/value The present investigation unveiled a range of linear and non-linear mechanisms that elucidate the functions of effectiveness, vividness and interactivity in facilitating the complex interplay between social presence, telepresence and impulsive buying behavior in the context of metaverse commerce. The study provides both theoretical and practical contributions to the existing body of literature on Metaverse commerce.