bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of international law enforcement training on the South African Police Service’s effectiveness
Authors: Mofokeng Jacob , Grootboom Vanessa
Published: June 2023

The need for globalisation and a competitive edge in the ever-changing policing trends and crime-combatting strategies necessitates training and development interaction on a global platform. Essential in this regard is the development of skills, among others the training, development, and support of the South African Police Service (SAPS), through local and international training interventions in policing. This study followed the quantitative research design using the random sampling method. One hundred respondents from various SAPS divisions and at provincial level who attended international police training interventions were used as respondents and subjected to the completion of structured questionnaires. The main topic of this research revealed that international law enforcement training interventions were beneficial to the SAPS as it impacts positively on the SAPS’ effectiveness in service delivery. The results of this study is indicative that SAPS engages in the international field on policing practices as a means to train and develop its members beyond the scope of local practices to enable them to expand their knowledge and skills in order to further improve service delivery.
An investigation into the effectiveness of public participation mechanisms on service delivery within the Newcastle local municipality
Authors: Thusi Xolani , Mayisela Nzuzo , Mandisi  Matyana
Published: June 2023

A little over two years ago, from the 9th to the 18th of July 2021, South Africa experienced one of the worst incidents of civil unrest since the beginning of its democratic dispensation. Although the main catalyst for this unrest was not directly issues of service delivery or public participation, many observers, experts or not could not help but see the connection to issues of poverty, unemployment and overall lack of service delivery. Public participation has long been established as a vital tool in the hands of the government for efficient service delivery & development. The Newcastle Local Municipality (NLM) as an institution in South Africa, is governed by numerous public participation legislation which essentially states it must always consult & involve all its citizens on all issues that affect the community at large. Despite its adherence to these stipulations, this brief study, through a qualitative inquiry making use of an interview schedule, finds that NLM practices a type of participation strategy known as “Degrees of tokenism” where the result is the appeasement and placation of the masses as opposed to true participation that gives the masses real power. The results indicated that the officials entrusted with ensuring the implementation of the public participation mandate faced numerous challenges that rendered their stellar efforts inefficient. Issues such as a lack of understanding of the fundamental importance of good governance and public participation led to a shortage of resources and increased apathy toward municipal affairs. In investigating the nature of the public participation framework in NLM the researcher aimed at providing more insight into the complex issues at play responsible for the largely concerning state of local government in South Africa, thus possibly providing solutions in the process.
Anti-intrusion strategy MANET inspired by the bacterial foraging optimization algorithm
Authors: Mushininga Rodney
Published: June 2023

Mobile ad hoc networks (MANET) are reflexivity, fast, versatile wireless networks that are particularly useful when traditional radio infrastructure is unavailable, such as during outdoor events, natural disasters, and military operations. Security may be the weakest link in a network due to its dynamic topology, which leaves it susceptible to eavesdropping, rerouting, and application modifications. More security problems with MANET exist than with its service Quality of Service (QoS). Therefore, intrusion detection, which controls the system to find further security issues, is strongly suggested. Keeping an eye out for intrusions is essential to forestall future attacks and beef up security. If a mobile node loses its power supply, it may be unable to continue forwarding packets, which depends on the structure's condition. The proposed study presents a security of trust and optimization that conserves energy methods for MANETs based on integrating the K means algorithm and Bacteria Foraging Optimization Algorithm (KBFOA). This work proposes a method for quickly and accurately determining which nodes should serve as Cluster Heads (CHs) by K means algorithm. This approach aims to choose a node with a high Sustainable Cell (SC) rate as the Header of a Cluster (HC). Each node will calculate its SC according to its unique factors, such as energy consumption, degree, remaining energy, mobility, and distance from the HC and base stations. The security of MANETs is improved by the inclusion of an algorithm in the proposed approach that detects and eliminates rogue nodes. This suggested approach will increase network stability and performance using a high-sustainable cluster head. The proposed approach will be achieved the highest reliability of clustering rate of 97%. The intended research will be accomplished Maximum security measures rate will be accomplished by 96%, the maximum rate of data transmission will be obtained of 96%, and greater efficient detection of malicious nodes ratio will be enhanced by 95%, lower energy consumption rate will be achieved by 0.09 m joules.
The commercialisation of childhood? Materialism values of South African tweens
Authors: Senooane Belinda
Published: June 2023

The development of the child consumer market has often been criticised as the commercialisation of childhood. Marketers have been accused of targeting children and grooming them for a lifetime of consumerism. The maelstrom of marketing activities aimed directly at children has led to their being more active than ever in the consumer culture space. An unfortunate consequence of this has been children becoming materialistic because of the commercial pressures of modern childhood. This study sought to determine whether South African tweens are materialistic. Existing studies on child materialism have largely excluded African children, hence the need for the current study. Data were collected through a survey of 192 schoolchildren, aged 10-14 (tween cohort), using an adapted short material values scale (MVS-c). The results of the study revealed that while South African tweens are active in consumer culture, they are largely not materialistic. This research furthers the academic inquiry into children as consumers and active participants within consumer culture. It also addresses the paucity of research on African children within the consumer culture space. The results of the study have implications for marketers with regard to responsible marketing to child consumers, as well as for researchers with regard to acknowledging African children as a non-negotiable part of the study of consumption. The study also provides recommendations for further research on child consumers.
Overcoming language barriers: An exploration of the police perceptions of the digitisation of witness statements in South Africa
Authors: Zikalala Nomsa  Ingrid , Mofokeng Jacob , Zenzile Enoch , Motseki Moses Morero
Published: June 2023

The research identified instances were the English version of sworn statements was an inaccurate translation of the indigenous statement provided by a witness or complainant. The inaccurate translation of indigenous witness statements is a global phenomenon that manifests against the backdrop of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR). This study was conducted to explore police experiences of taking indigenous witness statements, and to establish their perceptions of the digitisation of witness statements. Purposive sampling was used for sampling. Interview schedules were administered to eighteen (18) South African Police Service (SAPS) members from nine Community Service Centres (CSC) in Soweto, a township in the Gauteng province. Ethical consideration, measures of trustworthiness and the Theory of Performance (ToP) were applied. The ToP provides that a person’s level of performance is dependent on the interaction of various contextual factors. Thematic content analysis was conducted using Atlas ti resulting in five dominant themes or impact factors namely “skills”, “collaboration”, “resources”, “duration” and “language”. Results showed that a majority of the SAPS members perceived that witness statements should be digitised to address language challenges experienced and improve their level of performance. Furthermore, they perceived the usefulness of technology in modernising outdated resources in the SAPS.
What makes a good leader: the context of the retail industry in South Africa
Authors: Wiid Johannes Arnoldus , Cant Michael C
Published: June 2023

Leaders are vital for organizations and have a significant impact on the success or failure of a business. Although there have been studies investigating the question “what makes a good leader”, few studies have explicitly focused on the retail sector. The study's primary objective is to identify the qualities and characteristics a good leader should possess, in the context of the retail industry in RSA.  A total of 107 respondents were interviewed and the results showed that “charisma” and “inspiration” are the most important characteristics, while “a character for integrity and honesty” and “knowledgeable and experienced” are the most important qualities of a good leader.
South African rural students’ adoption and use of learning management systems
Authors: Afolabi Oluwafemi Sunday , Ajani Oluwatoyin Ayodele
Published: June 2023

This discursive study examined the use of the learning management system (LMS) Moodle in rural South African universities. Moodle, a popular online programme, can be used to deliver learning activities, as well as online learning evaluations. The authors discuss LMS usage and adoption in higher education. LMS is a global online platform used in higher education institutions in developed countries across the globe, for decades. It has improved the education system in these developed countries by providing diverse students with learning opportunities, in their comfort zones. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, most developed nations adopted online methods, like LMS, for teaching and learning. Unfortunately, the pandemic lockdown in many developing nations, like South Africa, severely disrupted curriculum and educational activities for months. The South African Department of Higher Education and Training reviewed curriculum delivery approaches, to save academic activities due to COVID-19. Thus, it deemed online learning a higher education alternative to face-to-face curriculum instruction, during the lockdown to salvage the academic calendar, with LMS used as ideal online learning for student engagement.
An analysis of the Internal Audit Function in the South African Department of Defence
Authors: Nelufule Lutendo Patricia , Tyanai Masiya  , Lubinga Stellah
Published: June 2023

The IAF assists organizations in achieving accountability and integrity, enhancing the implementation of organizational programs, fostering public confidence, and mitigating the risk of mismanagement of public funds. Even though the significance of internal audit functions has been acknowledged and recognized in South Africa, the South African public sector is plagued by numerous issues resulting from the IAF's poor performance. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors that influence the efficacy of the internal audit function (IAF) within the Department of Defense (DoD). The investigation employed a qualitative methodology. Twenty-five professionals were interviewed in-depth, and the data were subjected to thematic analysis. Five factors have been identified as affecting the performance of the IAF within the DoD: limited resources, outmoded data collection techniques, a lack of automated data analytics software, the inaccessibility of audit records, and a lack of support from senior management. This article suggests that upper management invests in hiring competent and qualified personnel to automate its data collection and in purchasing data analysis software such as iAuditor, SAP, and TeamMate. It is recommended that audit records be well managed and securely stored and that internal auditors have complete access to information for conducting audits in all DoD sectors. The budget of the IAF within the DoD must be increased.
The ethics of resolving the nonperforming financing of Mudharaba Contracts in Indonesia Islamic Banks
Authors: Widana Gusti Oka , Fahrurozi Ahmad , Ssetyawan Muhammad  Arif
Published: June 2023

Islamic bank is a bank that implement Islamic principles, including the implementation of policies and activities that should be in accordance with Islamic business ethics. This study discusses about how to behave ethically in solving the non-performing financing in Islamic banks. The non-performing financing has the potential to bring losses to banks. For Islamic banks which provide financing under mudharaba contract, this contract brings more risk to banks. Using a qualitative approach in the form of library research by gathering relevant library resources and abstracting and interpreting the excerpts of references to draw conclusions, this study seeks to explain how to solve non-performing financing from the view of Islamic business ethics. This study uses seven dimensions of Islamic business ethics to describe ethical behavior in resolving nonperforming financing, namely: (1) Unity of God (2) benevolence, (3) justice, (4) sincerity, (5) Equilibrium (6) responsibility and (7) vicegerency. The findings of this study summarize that resolving non-performing financing in Islamic Banks should consider the seven ethical variables to minimize the potential harms or losses. This study will contribute to the body of knowledge on Islamic Bank financing and the practical benefits for the officials and employees in Islamic Banks as there is still limited research regarding this topic. Future studies are encouraged to cover other specific financing activities or products to broaden the knowledge through the findings.
Drivers and risk of business process outsourcing in South African mobile telecommunication industry
Authors: Mbanje Samson , Orthodox Tefera
Published: June 2023

Mobile telecommunications service providers outsource various activities like logistics, assembly operations, manufacturing and design. However, little research has been conducted in Southern Africa to establish the actual drivers triggering mobile telecommunication companies to implement business process outsourcing (BPO) and the risks associated with implementation. This research aims to redress the existing knowledge gap and the limited body of literature by conducting research to establish the drivers and risks of implementing BPO. A structured, closed-ended questionnaire collected raw data from 210 employees. Descriptive statistics were conducted to establish the drivers triggering mobile telecommunication companies to implement BPO. Overall, the results concluded that some of the key drivers of implementing BPO by the telecom operators are reduction in capital investment, thereby freeing up limited capital funds more available for core areas, and the company can have access to unique resources skills and talents. The results also indicated that the risks of BPO implementation include the potential loss of control over critical functions and the difficulty of ensuring service quality and consistency from the service provider. The results will help the corporate management to make decisions about outsourcing based on quantifiable results instead of managerial estimates. While the study confined itself to the mobile telecommunications companies, more research can be conducted in other South African industries, most notably banks and learning institutions that are also important BPO hubs worthy of further examination.
The role of brand experience and E-Wom on purchase decisions
Authors: Sudirman Hudyah Astuti , Sartika Dewi , Anindita Marsha , Anshari Rahman
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of E-Wom and Brand Experience on MS Glow Skincare Product Purchase Decisions in Samarinda City. The sample for this study consisted of 95 people who had used and purchased MS Glow products at least twice and lived in Samarinda City. This study employs a quantitative descriptive approach. The collected data is then processed using the SmartPLS software. The findings of this study demonstrate that E-WOM has a positive and significant effect on purchase decisions and that Brand Experience also has a significant positive effect on purchase decisions for MS Glow Skincare Products in Samarinda City.
Designing a values-based performance management system towards promoting congruence of personal and organizational core values
Authors: Gelle-Jimenez Maureen , Jimenez Ferwin , Aguiling Hector
Published: June 2023

This study gives emphasis on how a values-based Performance Management System can lead to promoting congruence between organizational core values and the personal values of employees. Specifically, this study focuses on a tertiary higher education institution located in Manila, Philippines and how a values-based Performance Management System may be designed in order to achieve congruence of values. Congruence contributes to success by ensuring that the behaviors exhibited by employees in the workplace are strategically aligned with the vision, mission, goals, and objectives of the organization. Competence, commitment, and compassion are the core values of the organization in this study. The definitions and hallmarks of the core values were established through the interviews with university administrators. To establish a values-based Performance Management System, the core values were translated into competencies and behavioral indicators which may be incorporated in performance appraisal. This institutes a values-based competency model for managing the performance of an organization’s human capital, which has the goal of sustainably strengthening the congruence of values.
Internal audit involvement in Enterprise Risk Management (ERM): The case of Zimbabwean public universities
Authors: Denhere Varaidzo
Published: June 2023

Several business failures culminated in the necessity to improve overall risk management for different corporates. Educational organisations also began to realise the exigency for efficient risk management in the sector and embarked on tracking Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) related advances in the corporate world and seeking ways to apply these for higher education. This study sought to assess the involvement of internal auditors in ERM in Zimbabwean public universities. This study is quantitative and employed a survey to collect data from heads of internal audit sections in public universities. The main findings of the study indicated that 64.78 percent of the internal auditors were performing their core and permissible roles as promulgated by the Institute of Internal Audit in risk management while 35.22 percent were performing some prohibited roles. The study recommends engaging qualified internal auditors who are aware of their specific roles in risk management or providing some training for the officers in the internal audit sections. The study further recommends that these universities should institute risk management sections headed by qualified Chief Risk officers to complement internal auditors’ efforts and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of ERM in Zimbabwean public universities. Chief Risk officers should become champions of risk management in these institutions to avoid tempering the internal auditors’ objectivity.
Mapping education 4.0 research trends
Authors: Gudyanga Remeredzayi
Published: June 2023

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has profoundly impacted education systems globally, including in Africa. However, there is a dearth of research on Education 4.0 in Africa. To fill this gap, a bibliometric analysis of Scopus database data was conducted, with VOSviewer used to analyze the data. The study found that African research outputs on Education 4.0 have increased linearly between 2015 and 2022, but most are published outside Africa. Limited collaboration among African institutions and academics was observed, with African authors citing more academics outside Africa than within. E-learning, machine learning, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence were the most frequently researched areas. This study provides crucial information to researchers and policymakers, allowing them to map out future research and policies on Education 4.0.
Exploring the trajectories of preservice teachers' preparation in Business Studies and its impact on their teaching practice experience in South Africa
Authors: Oyinlola Adebola , Okwara Valentine Ukachukwu
Published: June 2023

The successful training of preservice teachers in South African universities will be incomplete without the intervention of high school teachers, principals, and other stakeholders in education. It has been discovered that preservice teachers who teach Business Studies (BS) as one of the Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) subjects during teaching practice (TP) do not get enough assistance from their mentor teachers as they ought to because they are overloaded with much teaching work at this time. Therefore, the study aims to explore the different trajectories that preservice teachers take in their preparation for teaching Business Studies, the challenges 4th-year preservice teachers who specialise in EMS subjects encounter, how they overcome them, and how these trajectories impact their teaching practice experience. Overall, the study seeks to improve the quality of Business Studies education in South Africa by providing insights into the preparation and experiences of preservice teachers. Six fourth-year preservice teachers who taught Business Studies in Grades 10 and 12 were selected for the study to reflect on their experiences during teaching practice; hence, reflection was used as the data source for the study. Experiential learning theory was used as the lens of the study. At the same time, the interpretivism paradigm was adopted to understand individual preservice experiences. A case study was used as the design, and thematic analysis was adopted to analyse the data generated. The study found that preservice teachers who teach BS during TP face challenges such as a lack of Learning and Teaching Support Materials (LTSM), being assigned too much work to do, and the fact that BS has too much content to teach. Despite the challenges, these preservice teachers were creative enough to develop solutions, like designing posters without teaching resources and using practical examples to explain content for better understanding and parental involvement in class decisions such as discipline.
The role of green procurement, green supply chain management, green marketing strategy, and customers' environmental attitudes on green purchase intentions of plastic bag substitutes: a structural equation model on modern retail
Authors: Fahmi Muhammad Ainul , Nurfauzia Fadila , Yulita Khairanis , Nurfitriani Wina
Published: June 2023

Plastic has become the most waste in the world. No less evidence that the plastic we buy directly or indirectly from modern retail has caused global waste that cannot be disposed of from the face of the earth. Therefore, studies need to find out what factors can be used to reduce consumptive activities on plastic bags in modern retail. In this study, research data was obtained from businesspeople to confirm the factors that reduce purchase intention so that customers and businesspeople of modern retail can use alternatives to plastic bags such as paper bags, biodegradable bags, or goody bags. By exploring questionnaire data using SEM PLS, it was found that the elements of Green Procurement, Green Supply Chain Management, Green Marketing Strategy, and Customers' Environmental Attitudes positively and significantly became the main role in influencing purchase intention with a green concept to replace single-use plastic bags in modern retail.
The role of self-efficacy in mediating parental financial teaching on financial management behavior: a study on youths in Malang
Authors: Kurniasari Irma , Sumiati  , Ratnawati Kusuma
Published: June 2023

This study aims to examine and analyze the role of self-efficacy in mediating parental financial teaching on financial management behavior. The object of this research is the younger generation as reflected by students. Respondents in this study amounted to 100 students at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Brawijaya. This study uses quantitative data which is then analyzed using PLS Structural Equation Modeling and hypothesis testing. The results of the analysis in this study illustrate that parental financial teaching, self-efficacy, and financial management behavior have a direct relationship and show a significant positive effect. Self-efficacy is a mediator in this study. The implications of this research are expected to contribute to science and related parties.
Xenophobic experiences of illegal migrant youths in Musina Town, South Africa
Authors: Dillo Justin Ramoshaba  , Frank Rapholo
Published: June 2023

This study sought to close this gap by exploring the xenophobic experiences of illegal migrant youths in Musina town in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Nine illegal migrant youths were purposively and conveniently selected to participate in this study. Data was collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews and analysed thematically through the assistance of the Nvivo software. The objective of this study was achieved through the guidance of narrative theory. The findings of the study reveal that illegal migrant youth in Musina Town experience violent attacks and derogatory name-calling from the local citizens. The findings further reveal that illegal migrant youths are experiencing blame-shifting by the local citizens. Harassment in healthcare facilities and employment places is also revealed as xenophobic experiences of illegal migrant youths in South Africa. It is recommended that the South African government should develop educative and awareness campaigns to respond to xenophobia in the country. It is also recommended that the security at the border gates need to be tightened to mitigate the influx of illegal migrants into the country.
A research agenda on portfolio diversification, government regulations, and the financial performance of deposit-taking SACCOs in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Ndonye Paul , Ambrose Jagongo
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between portfolio diversification, government regulations, and the financial performance of DT SACCOs in Nairobi County, Kenya. It aims to determine the impact of financial asset investment on the financial performance of deposit-taking SACCOs in Nairobi County, Kenya; the impact of loan portfolios on the financial performance of deposit-taking SACCOs in Nairobi County; and the moderating effect of government regulations on the relationship between portfolio diversification and the financial performance of deposit-taking SACCOs in Nairobi County, Kenya. Capital market theory, modern portfolio theory, risk aversion theory, arbitrage portfolio theory, and decision-making theory will serve as the study's foundation. For the period under review, secondary data will be collected from audited annual financial statements included in SASRA reports.
Comprehensive analysis of occupational accidents contributing factors in the electrical industry
Authors: Yuliani Nurul Firda , Subroto Athor
Published: June 2023

This research investigates the linkages between the contributing factors of occupational accidents in the electrical industry, i.e., the business unit factor, the time of accidents, the level of injuries, the gender, and the day when occurred. The research also analyzes the linkage between the contributing factors of accidents to the occurrence of occupational accidents. The research method employed crosstab analysis as a quantitative technique through reports of occupational accidents, especially in the Indonesia Electrical Industry. Moreover, dummy variable regression is utilized to analyze the impact of contributing factors on the likelihood of work accidents. The results show that there is no significant statistical relationship between the contributing factors of occupational accidents, namely the business unit to the level of injury, the business unit to the day, the time of the accident to the level of injury, the time of the accident to the day, and the level of injury to the day. This research also finds that the significant variable in occupational accidents is the type of generation unit. As for the variable type of injury and the days, both are not proven to correlate statistically. This study can help the electrical industry improve occupational health and safety (OHS) performance through analysis to optimize the company's resources. The Management of the electrical company can allocate the right policy to increase OHS operational performance. This research integrates the identifying significant factors of occupational accidents and analyses their linkage, which can help guide future research in this area.
Why does the level of financial satisfaction high during the covid-19 pandemic?
Authors: Adinda Charisna , Salim Ubud , Amanah Jiwa Juwita Himmiyatul
Published: June 2023

This study aims to analyze and investigate the impact of income, financial knowledge, financial stress, COVID-19 omicron awareness, and behavior on financial satisfaction. This study uses explanatory research with a quantitative approach. The population in this study was all students with a study status still enrolled in the master of management program at Brawijaya University from 2018–2022, totaling around 353 students. The sampling technique used in the study was purposive sampling. The sample in the study was 79 students. Surveys and documentation were used to collect data, and Likert scales were used to test instruments. The structural equation model of partial least squares (SEM-PLS) modeling was used to analyze the data. The results of this study indicate that income and financial knowledge can directly increase financial satisfaction. However, financial stress and COVID-19 omicron awareness have no effect on financial satisfaction. On the other hand, financial behavior can increase financial satisfaction. Financial behavior can fully mediate the influence relationship between financial stress and COVID-19 omicron awareness on financial satisfaction. Financial behavior is also discovered to play a role as a partial mediator in the relationship between the effect of income and financial knowledge on financial satisfaction at the individual level. The findings of this study suggest that students should improve their habits in carrying out the proper financial management, such as planning, increasing assets through saving and investing activities, and minimizing living costs through controlling spending activities, in order to meet all needs and avoid financial problems in the future, which will have an impact on achieving high financial satisfaction.
Emerging challenges in implementing the common market protocol for free movement of goods in the East African community
Authors: Chilangazi Eliah , Magasi Chacha
Published: June 2023

This paper delves into the intricate challenges encountered by Tanzania in effectively implementing the East African Community (EAC) Common Market Protocol (CMP) pertaining to the seamless movement of goods to Kenya. The research adopts a case study design, employing qualitative and in-depth methods to gather data. The data collection process utilizes a purposeful sampling technique involving 30 participants, and thematic analysis is employed for data analysis. The findings highlight several tariff barriers that hinder the effective implementation of the EAC CMP, including customs duties, quantitative restrictions, measures with equivalent impact to customs duties, and those with equivalent impact to quantitative restrictions. Furthermore, the study uncovers non-tariff barriers (NTBs) that impede the free movement of goods from Tanzania to Kenya, such as political barriers, high transportation costs, food insecurity, discrepancies in standards, limited logistics and trade services, and restricted access to finance. The study concludes that the EAC Partner States bear the responsibility of eliminating existing tariff and non-tariff restrictions that obstruct trade, as well as refraining from imposing new ones. This research significantly contributes to our understanding of the economic integration within the EAC by shedding light on the novel challenges encountered in the implementation of the CMP concerning the free movement of goods.
Effect of deployment of strategic leadership in the horticulture industry: a case study of selected flower farms in Kenya
Authors: Korir Doreen Jebiwot , Kilika James M
Published: June 2023

The paper reports empirical findings drawn from a study undertaken to understand the dimensions of strategic leadership deployed among flower farms and the benefits that the flower farms have derived from deployment of strategic leadership. The context was selected due to its significance in contributing to the national economy and the level of turbulence experienced by the farms that requires a leadership style entrenching strategic thinking. 43 flower farms were sampled and primary data obtained using a structured questionnaire from CEOs, Deputy CEOs and heads of functional areas. Two dimensions of strategic leadership have been deployed to a low extent while two have been implemented to a moderate extent. The deployed dimensions of strategic leadership have significantly contributed to the flower farms performance by enhancing their capacity to attain growth at the rate of 15-20%. The study concluded that strategic leadership is relevant for deployment by the flower farms and raised implications for its deployment among organizations facing complex and turbulent environments. The paper called on future research to consider expanding the scope of the context of the investigation and conceptualization of the dimensions of strategic leadership based on other relevant theoretical frameworks anchoring strategic leadership.
The impact of the role of internal and external accountants on taxpayer compliance moderated by good corporate governance
Authors: Rezky Amalya Wulan , Iqbal Syaiful , Ghofar Abdul
Published: June 2023

This study examines the impact of the roles of internal and external accountants on taxpayer compliance in moderation of good corporate governance. This study uses explanatory research with a quantitative approach. The population for this study was corporate taxpayers registered with the KPP Masuk Bursa Company (PMB) for the 2018–2020 fiscal year. Purposive sampling was used in this study, and the sample size was 78 companies’ data. Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA) was used to analyze the data. Techniques for collecting data include literature research and documentation. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) analyzed the data. The findings of this study indicate that the role of internal accountants, as proxied by the timeliness of financial report submission, has a significant positive effect on corporate taxpayer compliance. In addition, the role of external auditors, as represented by audit opinion, has a significant and positive impact on taxpayer compliance. Furthermore, GCG can moderate or strengthen the impact of internal and external accountants on taxpayer compliance. The position of internal accountants and the role of external accountants can both improve corporate taxpayer compliance.
Geotourism Observational Investigation From the Tourist Perspective: A Case Study of Kyushu Area Volcanoes, Japan
Authors: Morrow Jeffrey Stewart , Kai Ruth
Published: June 2023

Of late, geotourism has become a viable part of global tourism; however, it is still a little-known tourism activity in many parts of the world. Geologists and volcanologists have been studying active volcanoes for years, but it is just in the past several decades that geotourism has become popular with those seeking an interesting and adventurous tourism experience. In the authors’ country of residence, Japan, volcanoes are part of the fabric of society in that many people live and work directly around active volcanoes, which have generated keen tourism interest there. Kyushu, where the authors live, contains four active volcanoes that are geo-related tourism destinations; several of them have been given UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGP) status. However, very little research has been conducted among these volcanoes, and, as such, the volcanoes receive little attention globally. To fill this gap, the authors decided to conduct observational investigations of each of the volcanoes to determine the potential for tourism activities. Findings show that all sites had potential to be interesting and informative destinations that offer interesting geo experiences with opportunities for environmental learning.
Geomorphological Features of the Area to Be Established as a UNESCO Global Geopark in Phu Yen
Authors: Toan Nguyen Van , Linh Nguyen Vo , Quy Truong Quang , Lan Vu Quang , Be Ngo Thi , Kien Nguyen Vo
Published: June 2023

The proposed area for establishment of Phu Yen Geopark is limited to 6 districts, towns and cities, including: Tuy Hoa City, Dong Hoa provincial town, Tuy An district, Song Cau provincial town and 3 communes, 1 town in Phu Hoa district town, 3 communes in Son Hoa district with an area of 1,575 km2. Distributed in the central coastal line, the area's topography is quite diverse, including mountains, hills, plains and coastal areas, divided into 6 main origin types: 1) Terrain tectonics, volcanoes, architectural erosion, include: The tectonic and cavitation flanks of Pliocene - Quaternary age; Highland ridge, Neogene - highland Quaternary; Surface of the volcanic plateau has an elevation of less than 250 m; Surface of volcanic plateau is 300-400 m high; Cone ridge of Quaternary age crater; Structural eroded slope; Slope erodes edge of dome of the intrusive blocks, quartz fracture zones; 2) Terrain formed by erosion – cavitation, include: Pediple leveled surface, Miocene age 750 - 1100m high; Pediple leveled surface, early Pliocene age 450 - 600 m high; Pediple leveled surface, late Pliocene age 300 – 400 m high; Pediment leveled surface, Late Pliocene - Early Pleistocene age 150 - 250m high; Early - middle Pleistocene pedimen surface, 50 - 120 m high; Cavitation flank; Cavitation flanks of crevices and ditches of Quaternary age; Cavitation – erosion flanks; Collapsed erosion flank in Neogene - Quaternary age; Synthetic erosion flank Neogene - Quaternary age; Abrasion flank Quaternary age; 3) Terrain formed by rivers, include: River shelf level II, late Pleistocene age; River shelf level I, middle Holocene age; River accumulation delta, late Holocene age, early age; River bed and low alluvial ground along the riverbed, late Holocene age, late age; 4) Terrain formed by the sea, include: Abrasion – marine accumulation surface, Early – Middle Pleistocene age; Abrasive seashelf – accumulation level III, late Pleistocene age, early age; Abrasive seashelf – accumulation level II, late Pleistocene age, late age; Sea shelf level I, middle Holocene age, 5-10 m high; Surface of the sand dyke connecting the island, late Holocene age, early age; Modern beaches are flooded with frequent tides; 5) Terrain include:formed by the mixed impact of rivers and sea, include: The river-sea delta (shelf) of the Late Pleistocene age, Late and Middle Holocene age; Modern sea-swamp plain; Modern river-swamp plain; 6) Terrain formed by wind, include: Terrain type of sand dunes with elevation of 15-25 m; The terrain is sandy hill with an altitude of 105 m. Each terrain type is associated with diverse geological heritages: paleontological heritage; geomorphological heritage; stone heritage…
EFFECTS OF PRE-HARVEST METHYL JASMONATE TREATMENT ON POST-HARVEST FRUIT QUALITY OF JAPANESE PLUMS
Authors: Kucuker Emine , Ozturk Burhan
Published: June 2023

Background: Plum fruits constitute a good source of natural antioxidant substances. Particularly, plums contain large amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids having natural antioxidant activity which is effective in human diet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of pre-harvest MeJA treatment on the fruit quality and bioactive compounds of three different Japanese plums under storage conditions.

Materials and Methods: The effects of pre-harvest methyl jasmonate treatment (MeJA) on weight loss, color characteristics (L*, C* and h°), firmness, soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), total phenolics (TP) and total antioxidant activity (TAA) of ‘Black Beauty’, ‘Black Amber’ and ‘Fortune’ plum fruits during the cold storage (at 0±0.5 C and 90±5% RH) were investigated in this study.

Results: MeJA did not have significant effects on the weight loss (%) of ‘Black Amber’ and ‘Fortune’ fruits, whereas it was effective in delaying the weight loss of ‘Black Beauty’ at the end of storage. The color characteristics of all plum cultivars were not significantly affected by MeJA at the end of storage. In all plum cultivars, the SSC increased, while TA significantly (P
THE EFFECTS OF SEASONS ON CHOLESTEROL CONTENT AND FATTY ACID COMPOSITIONS OF MUSCLE OF HELIX ASPERSA LIVING IN KONYA, TURKEY
Authors: Citil Ozcan Baris , Tekeli Yener , Danahaliloglu Hatice , Bucak Serbay
Published: June 2023

Background: The aim of the present study is the determination of the effects of seasonal variations on the proximate analysis, cholesterol content and fatty acid compositions of Helix aspersa.

Materials and Methods: Garden snails (Helix aspersa) were picked up by hand from the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey, in autumn (November) and spring (April) in 2011. Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) and cholesterol analysis were analyzed by gas chromatography (GC). The protein contents of snail muscle were determined with Kjeldahl distillation units. Statistical comparisons were made by using SPSS Software (version 16.0).

Results: Thirty different fatty acids of different saturation levels were detected. As the predominant fatty acids, stearic acid (C18:0), oleic acid (C18:1ω9), linoleic acid (C18:2ω6), palmitic acid (C16:0), arachidonic acid (C20:4ω6), eicosadienoic acid (C20:2) and linolenic acid (C18:3ω3) were found in Helix aspersa. Palmitic acid (C16:0) was identified as the major SFA in autumn and spring. Linoleic acid (C18:2ω6), eicosadienoic acid (C20:2) and arachidonic acid (C20:4ω6) have the highest levels among the PUFAs. In the present study, ω3 were found 5.48% and 13.94% in autumn and spring, respectively.

Conclusion: Linolenic acid and omega-3 fatty acid amounts in the spring increased significantly but cholesterol content was not affected in Helix aspersa both in season.
PEPTIDES EXTRACTED FROM ARTEMISIA HERBA ALBA HAVE ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY AGAINST FOODBORNE PATHOGENIC GRAM-POSITIVE BACTERIA
Authors: Fedhila Sinda , Ben Lazhar Wafa , Jeridi Taoufik , Sanchis Vincent , Gohar Michel , Lereclus Didier , Ben Hamida Jeannette
Published: June 2023

Background: Artemisia herba alba, classified into the family of Asteraceae, is an aromatic herb that is traditionally used as a purgative and anti-pyretic folk medicine by rural people of south Tunisia. This study reports the first identification of antimicrobial peptides from this medicinal plant that inhibited the growth of several food-borne pathogenic bacteria.

Materials and methods: The extraction and purification of peptidic agents from Artemisia herba alba, have been performed using precipitation by ammonium sulfate of a phosphate buffer crude extract obtained from the plant leaves, followed by reverse-phase HPLC on a C18 column. The mass of the peptides was estimated by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, followed by a gel overlay assay and ultra-filtration through a 5 kDa cut-off membrane. Fractions from every purification steps were sampled and assayed for activity towards different food-borne bacterial strains pathogenic and non pathogenic to humans.

Results: The phosphate buffer crude extract, as well as its ammonium sulfate precipitate, designated AS-P, inhibited the growth of Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus sensu stricto and the new approved species Bacillus cytotoxicus. AS-P MICs (minimum inhibitory concentrations) ranged from 0.241 to 3.8 mg/ml proteins for L. monocytogenes and B. cereus sensu stricto (strains ATCC10987 and IP5832), respectively. The bioactive AS-P molecules were stable up to 10 minutes heating at 120°C and they resisted organic solvent effects. Antimicrobial activity of A. herba alba AS-P decreased to 40 and 60% after proteolytic treatment with trypsin and proteinase K, respectively, suggesting peptides being responsible for the A. herba alba AS-P activity. The mass of antibacterial A. herba alba peptides was estimated below 5 kDa. Two AS-P fractions, eluted at 40 and 37% acetonitrile, showed antibacterial activity when assayed against L. monocytogenes.

Conclusion: A. herba alba could make a new source of novel natural anti-infective agents that could be used in food bio-preservation as natural additives or in human infectious disease treatments against multi-drug resistant pathogens.
DIPEPTIDYL PEPTIDASE IV INHIBITORY ACTIVITY OF PROTEIN HYDROLYZATES FROM AMARANTHUS HYPOCHONDRIACUS L. GRAIN AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON POSTPRANDIAL GLYCEMIA IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED DIABETIC MICE.
Authors: Soriano-Santos Jorge , Reyes-Bautista RaÃºl , Guerrero-Legarreta Isabel , Ponce-Alquicira Edith , Escalona-BuendÃ­a HÃ©ctor Bernardo , Almanza-PÃ©rez Julio CÃ©sar , DÃ­az-GodÃ­nez Gerardo , RomÃ¡n-Ramos RubÃ©n
Published: June 2023

Background: Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder. Recently, dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors that protect incretin hormones from being cleaved by DPP-IV have been used as drugs to control glycemia. This study examined the potential hypoglycemic effect of amaranth grain storage protein hydrolyzates to control postprandial glycemia in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice as a model system of diabetes, and their inhibition mode on the enzyme.

Material and Methods: Amaranth grain proteins were isolated and hydrolyzed and fractionated by gel filtration. The DPP-IV inhibitory activity of hydrolyzates as well as their kinetic parameters were assessed. Selected hydrolyzates (300 mg/kg body weight) were administered in a single administration-study (SAS) or in the same concentration during a four-week chronic daily dosing study (FWCDDS) in order to observe the effect on postprandial glycemia of diabetic mice.

Results: Albumin 1, Globulin and Glutelin hydrolyzates (GluH) competitively inhibited DPP-IV in vitro (Ki= 0.11-5.61 mg/mL). GluH called Glu.III (IC50= 0.12±0.01 mg/mL) considerably inhibited DPP-IV activity. GluH identified as GluH24 improved glucose tolerance significantly (p