bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneuriat, spiritualité et religion
Authors: Ilama Ilda Ilse , Niglis Patricia
Published: November 2022

L’objectif original de cette contribution consiste à combiner la qualité de vie au travail et la spiritualité plutôt que de les étudier séparément. Sur la base de travaux montrant l’impact de la spiritualité sur le bien-être individuel, nous cherchons à comprendre comment elle permet de développer la qualité de vie au travail et augmenter par ricochet le rendement et la productivité du personnel. Pour répondre à notre objectif, une étude a été effectuée auprès de seize salariés de métiers assez distincts. Le choix des interviewés s’est fait sur la base du volontariat. Notre papier se divise en deux parties : dans une première partie, nous présentons les notions de QVT et de spiritualité. Dans une seconde partie, nous présentons les répondants, la méthodologie et la technique de collecte des données de même que les résultats tout en confrontant les points de vue des interviewés pour qui la spiritualité est liée à la religion aux points de vue de ceux pour qui elle est liée à autre chose.
Repousser les frontières des normes corporelles et sexuelles
Authors: Quéré Lucile
Published: November 2022

Résumé À partir d’une enquête sur les mobilisations transnationales de self-help féministe qui contestent l’emprise médicale sur le corps et la sexualité des femmes (Belgique, France, Suisse), cet article interroge la manière dont la sphère militante peut constituer une instance de socialisation secondaire à la santé et à la sexualité. Passant par le corps pour socialiser au féminisme, le militantisme de self-help entend sensibiliser les femmes au principe de libre disposition de leur corps et à une sexualité émancipée. L’article propose de saisir les effets de cet engagement sur le rapport individuel que les militantes entretiennent au corps, à la santé, à la sexualité et à leur encadrement médical. Si elles contestent les frontières des normes sexuelles, corporelles et sanitaires qui encadrent les expériences des femmes, les militantes du self-help entretiennent néanmoins un rapport ambivalent à la revendication de maîtrise de leur corps vis-à-vis du corps médical, et participent parfois à maintenir la frontière entre profanes et professionnelles.
Fixed point of Hardy-Rogers-type contractions on metric spaces with graph
Authors: Shagari Mohammed Shehu , Ali Faryad , Alotaibi Trad , Azam Akbar
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a novel concept of $ G $-Hardy-Rogers functional operators on metric spaces endowed with a graph. It investigates sufficient circumstances under which such a mapping becomes a Picard operator. As applications of the principal idea discussed herein, a few important corresponding fixed point results in ordered metric spaces and cyclic operators are pointed out and analyzed. For upcoming research papers in this field, comparative graphical illustrations are created to highlight the pre-eminence of proposed notions with respect to the existing ones.
Análisis geométrico y constructivo del artesonado de la capilla mayor de la iglesia de Sta. María (Alaejos, Valladollid)
Authors: Del Blanco-García Federico Luis , Cabo-Fernández Miguel Carlos , García-Ríos Ismael , Martin-Talaverano Rafael
Published: November 2022

Este artículo se destina al análisis geométrico y constructivo del artesonado de la capilla mayor de la iglesia de Santa María de Alaejos (Valladolid). El carpintero que realiza esta armadura contrata conjuntamente esta obra con la del retablo mayor. Se trata de un carpintero ensamblador y no de un carpintero de armar. Esto se va a notar en la manera de solucionar la prefabricación y montaje del artesonado. La inexperiencia en carpintería de armar se hace aquí más que evidente. Para poder realizar una prefabricación por paños de la ochava, según la tradición hispanomusulmana, se precisa de la solución de limas, bien con limas moamares, o bien con limas dobladas. Sorprendentemente, la solución que toma el carpintero es doblar los pares torales, que discurren por la mitad de los paños, dejando sin armadura las charnelas entre paños. La solución se vuelve muy inestable y precisa de herrajes de fundición.
Escala de Autorregulação Emocional (EARE-AD): evidências de validade baseadas na estrutura interna e fidedignidade
Authors: Bonfá-Araujo Bruno , Pallini Ana Celi , Nunes Baptista Makilim , Porto Noronha Ana Paula
Published: November 2022

O objetivo deste estudo foi buscar evidências de validade baseadas na estrutura interna e índices de fidedignidade da Escala de Autorregulação Emocional - Adultos. Para tal, três modelos foram testados (multidimensional, segunda-ordem e bifator). Além da análise fatorial confirmatória, foram testadas análises baseadas na teoria de resposta ao item, bem como investigou-se os índices de fidedignidade do instrumento. Compuseram a amostra 660 sujeitos, com idades entre 18 e 71 anos (M = 22,83 DP = 7,21). Os resultados indicaram que o modelo multidimensional é aquele que apresenta melhores índices de ajuste e índice de confiabilidade satisfatório para as dimensões, estas quando avaliadas pelo alpha e ômega variaram de 0,83 até 0,94. Encontrou-se também que o instrumento melhor mensura traços de baixa autorregulação. Assim, pode-se concluir que este estudo acumulou evidências para a Escala de Autorregulação Emocional – Adultos e que esta mostra-se adequada para a avaliação deste traço.
Relações entre Parentalidade e Saúde Mental de Mães Brasileiras
Authors: Puente Hensel Bruna , Garcia Maria Eduarda , Pires Coltro Beatriz , Paraventi Larissa , Vieira Mauro Lu´ís
Published: November 2022

O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a relação entre a parentalidade e a saúde mental de mães de crianças de 3 a 11 anos, a partir do referencial teórico proposto pelo Modelo de Determinantes da Parentalidade de Jay Belsky. Trata-se de um estudo transversal e quantitativo, que utilizou análises de correlação e comparação para o teste das hipóteses. Da amostra inicial de 259 participantes, foram utilizados os dados de 247 mães brasileiras que responderam a Escala de Saúde Mental Positiva, o Questionário Sociodemográfico, o Inventário de Dimensões da Parentalidade e a Escala Apoio Social Percebido. Constatou-se correlação significativa entre a parentalidade positiva e saúde mental geral e entre a parentalidade e as dimensões de bem-estar emocional e psicológico. Na comparação de grupos, constatou-se que mães com maior saúde mental apresentaram maior parentalidade positiva, mais anos de escolaridade e maior escore de apoio social em comparação com as mães com menos saúde mental. Assim, conclui-se que fatores como saúde mental parental, situação socioeconômica, escolaridade e disponibilidade de apoio social aparecem como determinantes da parentalidade, atuando como fatores de proteção e promovendo o exercício de práticas parentais positivas.
Aportes Winnicottianos para a Compreensão das Vivências da Maternidade em Mulheres com Fibromialgia
Authors: Abreu Dias Marina , Sanches Peres Rodrigo
Published: November 2022

O presente estudo teve como objetivo compreender vivências da maternidade em mulheres com fibromialgia. Trata-se de um estudo de natureza clínico-qualitativa, do qual participaram duas mulheres selecionadas da amostra de uma pesquisa mais ampla. Os dados foram obtidos no âmbito de duas entrevistas grupais norteadas pelo Procedimento de Desenhos-Estórias com Tema e gravadas em áudio. O corpus do presente estudo foi constituído pela transcrição das gravações. A análise temática indutiva foi utilizada como método de organização do corpus, sendo que a discussão dos resultados foi empreendida com base em formulações psicanalíticas extraídas do quadro da teoria do amadurecimento emocional de Donald Woods Winnicott. Constatou-se que, para as participantes, ser mãe consiste em cumprir determinados papéis para responder às necessidades filiais como um todo, mas muitas vezes isso não é possível devido às limitações físicas causadas pela fibromialgia. Verificou-se ainda que, para as participantes, as vivências da maternidade, sobretudo devido à fibromialgia, são permeadas também por um anseio premente de receber cuidado, em particular por meio de um suporte de ordem instrumental que, contudo, não lhes é oferecido habitualmente. Perspectivas winnicottianas sobre responsabilidade materna e saúde, dentre outras, foram empregadas para a discussão desses resultados.
Comportamentos do Stalking: tipologia e manifestações
Authors: Zambelli Alves Bianca , Zanella Machado Carrion Anna Júlia , Ferro Cortazzi de Oliveira Bianca , De Antoni Clarissa
Published: November 2022

Os comportamentos do stalking são consideradas manifestações que ocorrem do stalker para com a vítima, perpassando os âmbitos público e privado, e podendo ocorrer por meios virtuais e físicos. O stalker é aquele que persegue, importuna e causa prejuízos na vida da vítima de forma incessante e insistente. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar, agrupar e nomear os diversos tipos de comportamento do stalking a partir da experiência de seis jovens mulheres, vítimas de comportamento do stalking. Foram aplicados um questionário sociodemográfico e entrevista semiestruturada. A partir do método de Análise Temática, identificou-se diferentes tipos de comportamentos do stalking, sendo divididos em três temáticas principais: comportamentos típicos, comportamentos ameaçadores e comportamentos bizarros. Os típicos foram caracterizados pelas perseguições, como as abordagens presenciais e comunicações inconvenientes; os ameaçadores marcados pelas ameaças do stalker em fazer algum mal para a vítima, seja contra algum aspecto de sua vida, ou até mesmo uma ameaça suicida; e os bizarros caracterizados pela sua excentricidade, como a entrega de presentes hiper personalizados, demonstrações peculiares de afeto e comportamentos imitativos. Entende-se que todos os comportamentos relatados causam diversos prejuízos às vítimas, e que merecem mais estudos, visto a falta desta temática na literatura.
Divórcio Inesperado: um rompimento amoroso traumático
Authors: Van Eyll Virginie Madeleine Giselle , Mantilla de Souza Rosane
Published: November 2022

Este artigo discute o sofrimento psicológico vivenciado em um caso de divórcio inesperado, forma específica de separação, e suas possibilidades de manejo clínico, com base na Gestalt-terapia e nos estudos de perdas ambíguas. Para tanto, definimos esta forma de rompimento amoroso como aquela em que há um término abrupto, o processo decisório é unilateral, há sensação de abandono e não existe percepção da possibilidade da quebra do relacionamento. Estes fatores combinados têm um alto potencial traumático, dificultando a elaboração por parte de quem foi deixado. No estudo de caso apresentado, ficam claros os impactos do divórcio na qualidade de vida da participante, sua capacidade financeira, assim como sobre sua saúde física e mental. As especificidades do enlutamento pela perda ambígua e não finita vivenciada são evidentes, permitindo discutir um manejo clínico específico, focado no awareness e ajustamento criativo, e que passam pelos seguintes pilares: dar sentido e significado ao vivido, encontrar equilíbrio, reconstruir a identidade, lidar com a ambivalência de sentimentos, rever os apegos e reencontrar esperança.
Problems of Terrorism in the Modern World
Authors: Chitadze Nika
Published: November 2022

Currently, the study of the topic of terrorism is especially relevant in connection with the increase in the number of terrorist attacks committed by various terrorist organizations around the world. The constant threat of terror leads to the destabilization of the political, economic, and social situation in the state. Lack of confidence in personal safety contributes to the growth of anxiety, fears, and mental stress, which negatively affects psychological health, leading to the development of various psychosomatic disorders among the population. The genesis of the concept of “terrorism,” the history of terrorism, the psychology of the personality of terrorists and terrorist groups, the victimology of terrorism, methods of providing psychological first aid in terrorist attacks, methods of negotiating with terrorists, technologies for forming a model of safe behavior are the main issues during the study of the basic aspects related to terrorism.
Victimology of Terrorism
Authors: Chitadze Nika
Published: November 2022

Terrorist acts have become an integral part of modern life. Terror (lat. terror – fear, horror) is aimed at “intimidation.” It is this circumstance that defines terror as a special form of political violence, characterized by cruelty, purposefulness, and apparent effectiveness. Terror is horror, that is, an emotional state, the emergence of which terrorists achieve by carrying out certain special actions: terrorist acts. An act of terrorism is a means that brings real or potential victims to a state of horror. The totality of links terrorist-terrorist act-terror constitutes terrorism as an integral phenomenon. Terrorism is the use of violence to intimidate people. This violence is carried out in various forms: it is physical, political, social, economic, informational, etc. violence. Taking into account the degree of mass character and the degree of organization, four types of violence are distinguished: mass organized and mass spontaneous and individual spontaneous and individual organized. Each of them has its own specifics and features.
Russian Aggression in Georgia and Ukraine as an Example of State Terrorism
Authors: Jajanidze Gurami
Published: November 2022

The chapter overviews Russian aggression in Georgia and Ukraine and provides comparative analyses – demonstrating the differences and similarities between Russia's tactics and policies during Russo-Georgian war (2008), the conflict in Eastern Ukraine (2014), and later during the Russian invasion of Ukraine (2022). It also analyzes Russian war crimes and atrocities committed during those conflicts. The first part was written in Spring 2021 before the war in Ukraine (2022), so initially the comparative analysis was made based on two cases – Russo-Georgian War 2008 and Russian aggression in Eastern Ukraine 2014. The second part of the chapter was written in Spring 2022 after Russia launched a full-scale invasion against Ukraine. The chapter was written based on the qualitative analyses of the existing literature – comparative analyses, researches about Russian hybrid war, independent case studies based on the information from archives of articles from the media outlets from 2008, 2014, and 2022 analyzing different documents, such as NATO summit declarations, Constitution of Russia, etc.
Cyberterrorism and Its Reflection on International Security
Authors: Tseruashvili Mary
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this chapter is to analyze cyberterrorism and its reflection on international security. More specifically, it focuses on the analysis of the challenges facing the modern world arising from the urgency of cyber threats. While the development of information technology and the availability of information, in general, make the life of the world community easier in some respects, there are also threats, the elimination of which require the full mobilization of states. Hence, the chapter is based on the analysis of the various articles, reports, analytical papers, and case studies, depending on which it becomes possible to answer the main research question and identify the cyber threats facing the modern states.
Machine Learning and Optimization Applications for Soft Robotics
Authors: İlman Mehmet Mert , Yildirim Taser Pelin
Published: November 2022

Due to their adaptability, flexibility, and deformability, soft robots have been widely studied in many areas. On the other hand, soft robots have some challenges in modeling, design, and control when compared to rigid robots, since the inherent features of soft materials may create complicated behaviors owing to non-linearity and hysteresis. To address these constraints, recent research has utilized different machine learning algorithms and meta-heuristic optimization techniques. First and foremost, the study looked at current breakthroughs and applications in the field of soft robots. Studies in the field are grouped under main headings such as modelling, design, and control. Fundamental issues and developed solutions were analyzed in this manner. Machine learning and meta-heuristic optimization-oriented methods created for various applications are highlighted in particular. At the same time, it is emphasized how the problems in each of the modeling, design, and control areas impact each other.
Design and Implementation of the FOIMC Using the PSO Algorithm for the Coupled Tank System
Authors: Vavilala Sateesh Kumar , Thirumavalavan Vinopraba , T. K. Radhakrishnan , N. Sivakumaran
Published: November 2022

In this work, a fractional order internal model controller (FOIMC) is developed for the level control of a coupled tank system. The parameters of the FOIMC are optimized by the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The controller parameters obtained by the PSO algorithm, are compared with the gray wolf optimizer (GWO) and the whale optimization algorithms (WOA), and the PSO algorithm gave better results. The performance of the proposed FOIMC is compared with the state of the art. The experimental results obtained from the laboratory setup of the cylindrical tank system using the proposed FOIMC are also presented. The step responses from the simulation and the experimental results, indicated that the proposed FOIMC has good time domain performance than the state of the art. The proposed controller showed better robustness to a change in the operating point. The novelty of the present work is, for the first time, a comparative study of latest swarm algorithms is done for the tuning of FOIMC parameters.
Digital Transformation of Small and Medium Businesses
Authors: Baimukhamedova Aizhan , Baimukhamedov Malik
Published: November 2022

This chapter examines the essence and importance of digital transformation in developing small and medium-sized businesses. It is noted that digitalization uses computer technology to reshape business so that all decisions are made based on data. The main objectives of the digital transformation of SMEs are shown. The technologies accelerating digital transformation include the internet of things, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, big data, cloud technology, blockchain, etc. The tasks of managing an organization in the context of digitalization include changing the company's business processes based on advanced digital technologies, maintaining a high level of knowledge of company management and specialists in the field of modern technologies, maintaining a high degree of preparedness for changes and challenges of the external environment. The authors consider the digital transformation of SMEs in the industrial, agricultural, and commercial spheres, as well as e-commerce.
Factors Hindering Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprise Business Growth in South Africa
Authors: Nxele Sfiso , Hoque Muhammad Ehsanul
Published: November 2022

Small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are critical contributors to the gross domestic product (GDP) rise and the creation of employment opportunities. In South Africa, SMMEs receive funding for sustainability and job creation. The current SMMEs' contribution to the country's GDP and employment creation has, over the years, been on a decline. Therefore, the study aimed to explore the factors hindering SMME business growth. SMMEs experienced challenges of lack of financial assistance, lack of information, unavailable mentorship, unskilled administration, limited assessment within the various institutions, and access to financial support. Significant priority is placed on support institutions and government to create sector specific SMME assessment criterion instead of applying a blanket approach to all business sectors' support.
Trust in E-Commerce From the Cultural Perspective
Authors: Özdemir Neslişah
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to review the literature on e-commerce trust from a cultural perspective, analyze where and how research is conducted, and determine the research stream. For this purpose, a systematic literature review of 52 peer-reviewed articles published in the Scopus database on trust in e-commerce was performed. The findings indicate that there has been a rise, over time, in the number of publications that discuss trust in e-commerce across a variety of cultural contexts. Various methodologies have been employed in these studies, and e-commerce trust has been analyzed in several sectors. The articles on trust in e-commerce from the cultural perspective are under three categories: impact of culture on online trust, antecedents, and consequences of online trust. In this regard, this study contributes to the body of knowledge by evaluating the process of establishing trust in e-commerce and examining the antecedents and consequences of online trust from the cultural perspective.
Customer Segmentation of Shopping Mall Users Using K-Means Clustering
Authors: Kumar Amit
Published: November 2022

The most successful companies are the one that know their customers very well and can anticipate their needs. Good customer profiles at the fingertips have businesses improve marketing campaigns, targeting feature launches and product roadmaps. In this study, exploratory data analysis was done on the shopping mall data, and customer segmentation was done using k-means clustering. Two different clusters were done based on age vs. spending score and annual income vs. spending score. Four optimum clusters were obtained for age and spending scores using the elbow graph method, and five optimum clusters were obtained for annual income and spending scores. Firstly, for clusters based on age and spending score, people with higher age groups have less spending scores. Secondly, clusters based on annual income and spending scores had high annual income and very low spending scores. Thus, the mall can offer these cluster customers to attract them, thereby increasing its profits.
Exploring How Members of the Group of Twenty Develop Artificial Intelligence Technology
Authors: Karman Karman , Setiawan Ahmad Budi , Dunan Amri , Mudjiyanto Bambang
Published: November 2022

This chapter explores Group of Twenty (G20) initiatives to develop artificial intelligence technology. This chapter discusses humans' critical element in A.I. development and the privacy issues. This chapter reviews the policy documents to identify their policies regarding artificial intelligence and analyzes the A.I. technology development approaches based on their goals. The authors grouped them into four models. To achieve the goals of G20 countries, these countries promote the development of A.I. technologies by conducting research, building capacity, issuing regulations, and protecting privacy as the commitment to respect humans and determining security standards for A.I. technology. The A.I. development resulted in the issues of privacy. Humans are responsible agents. This chapter's limitation is that it does not investigate the implementation of a blueprint for artificial intelligence technology advancement in every nation of the G20.
Robust Analysis of Motor Imagery From Brain Signals for a BCI-Controlled Virtual Reality System to Aid Paralysis Patients
Authors: Saif A. F. M. Saifuddin , Mahayuddin Zainal Rasyid
Published: November 2022

The contribution of the brain-computer interface (BCI) ranges from prevention of disease to neuronal control for disabled peoples. BCI-controlled virtual reality system is a potentially important new assistive technology area to aid various physically disable people (i.e., paralyzed people) by monitoring brain activity and translating desired signal features to operate external devices. This research used motor imagery achieved from EEG data implicating three main phases (i.e., preprocessing, features extraction, and classification of brain signals). This research used linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifier to achieve decision boundary between left hand and right hand imagination. In this context, motor imagery-based EEG data was segmented and classified to be used as a controller for BCI. Experimental results reflect the significant impact of various classifiers and is expected to aid paralyzed people in converting their imagination into reality.
Enhancing Student Professionalization Through Business Simulation Games
Authors: Lau Yui-Yip , Wong Macy , Yang Zhuang , Kwai Nam Chan , Shih-Kuei Hsiao Arthur
Published: November 2022

A traditional classroom approach focuses on teacher-centric learning, and theoretical knowledge transition is often reinforcing spoon-feeding education. To this end, it leads to demotivating students' learning and failing to fulfill the employers' expectations. The business simulation game is a new, innovative educational tool for students to enjoy in an interactive learning classroom. The use of support tools can help students to improve their professionalization. This study mainly uses an illustrative real-life case study, Macro Business Simulation, as the target study area. In response, the study invited 64 university students to complete both pre-activity and post-activity surveys, along with 10 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with relevant parties including teachers, students, Macro Business Simulation operators, and business enterprises. Implications of the findings are also discussed.
Teachers' Perceptions on Using Arabic L1 to Teach English in Higher Education in Yemen
Authors: Alfalagg Abdullah Rajab , Ba-Udhan Hassan Saeed Awadh
Published: November 2022

This chapter aims at exploring teachers' perceptions of using Arabic (L1) as a pedagogical tool to mediate teaching English in higher education. It further investigates the reasons for abstaining from using Arabic and its functions and attempts to determine the factors that affect teachers' decisions on whether or not to use L1. Forty teachers from different universities responded to an online questionnaire. The results revealed that the teachers had positive perspectives toward the selective use of students' L1 (M= 2.89; SD= 0.39). The results showed a moderate positive correlation between the respondents' perceptions of using L1 and their classroom practices (r=0. 498; p=0.001). The results suggested that the teachers were hesitant about using students' L1 because of the misconception about its role in learning the target language. The chapter concludes with implications on functions for utilizing L1, its determining factors, and the reasons for abstaining from it.
The Significance of Collective Self-Directed Learning Competencies for the Sustainability of Higher Education
Authors: Blignaut Jean Henry , du Toit-Brits Charlene
Published: November 2022

Few scholarly studies have addressed SDL in HE. Competency improvement and curriculum change are important HE learning opportunities. Curricula should emphasize knowledge acquisition, future-oriented evaluation, and global accountability to meet HE's SDGs. Sustainable learning, living, and working must be explored alongside HE for sustainable development. New learning strategies and cultures are needed. It should be sustainable, open-minded, self-directed, and participatory. CSDL is essential for sustained capabilities and HE's growth. HE must promote SDL to engage pupils. This chapter claims that SDL skills are vital for HE's progress. Participatory learning builds these skills, which needs a university-wide approach. Using explicit, null, and hidden curricula creates meaningful learning experiences, linking theory and practice. Self-directed, sustained learning ought to be HE's focus. SDL should replace directed learning in HESD. Lastly, participatory learning might generate independently responsible and accountable thinkers who respect sustainable development.
Voice and Photovoice of the Bangladeshi Migrant Workers in Malaysia
Authors: Chowdhury Jahid Siraz
Published: November 2022

This chapter has an inspirational event. During this pandemic, the authors have been volunteering among the Bangladeshi migrant workers in Malaysia, concomitantly finding that marginal people are unsecured for the severe food crisis. In doing this volunteering, a few questions were raised: What is the state's responsibility for the marginal people's food supply? Why does the state ignore its presence? Is there any philosophical reason? And how can these activities be theorized? Finally, how can these people survive? How can it be theorized? The authors endeavoured to answer these questions from the critical paradigm by adopting the philanthropic accountability model. In this empirical study, they argue by applying or testing the Ubuntu for politics and policy about a practical way forward in this new normal for a happier, sustainable, and healthier community.
The Role of Microfinance in Africa
Authors: Alhassan Yahaya , Kuagbela Francis , Nurokina Caesar D. , Appiah Bernard
Published: November 2022

This chapter examines the role of microfinance in developing countries, particularly Ghana and Nigeria. The chapter begins with an overview of the link between microfinance, poverty, and women empowerment in the chapter introduction. The background to the chapter sets out the main difference between microfinance and microcredit. The role of microfinance in contemporary development finance is then discussed. In this context, existing literature on the role of microfinance in reducing poverty, women empowerment, and microenterprise growth is extensively reviewed. Key solutions and recommendations are then presented next, followed by future research direction and the chapter conclusion.
Adoption of Microfinance in Entrepreneurship Development Amongst Rural Women in Vhembe District
Authors: Mafukata Mavhungu Abel
Published: November 2022

This chapter investigates a group of rural women in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa who adopted microfinance-based entrepreneurship for self-empowerment and poverty alleviation. The chapter is anchored on multiple theories of empowerment, social capital, gender and development (GAD), and women in development (WID). The chapter adds to the growing body of the women empowerment literature. This is a mixed methods chapter. Various instruments are also used to collect data. Amongst others, data were collected through face-to-face and telephonic interviews using (English-Tshivenda) cross-language open-ended questionnaire. In addition, data were also collected through key informant interviews (KIIs) and desktop approach. The concept of bricolage entrepreneurship based on social capital exploitation by the women entrepreneurs has been explained. This chapter established that women were capable of developing sustainable entrepreneur activities to empower themselves and to also fight poverty.
Ruminating on Microfinance as a Contrivance of Economic Development and Women Upliftment
Authors: Arora Manpreet
Published: November 2022

This chapter focuses on the success of microfinance as a tool to create opportunities for women and other deprived sections in the formal financial structure of India. It also aims at focusing on the role of various institutions which play a significant position in providing rural credit through various channels. The author contends that in this pandemic where economies at global level require resilience strategies, microfinance once again can prove to be an effective strategy to bounce back in terms of improving the economic conditions of poor and vulnerable who suffered the most due to lockdowns, especially in developing nations like India. Localization and promotion of local product can help boost entrepreneurial activities at various levels, which can improve the distorted global supply chain slowly and gradually but effectively.
Role of Microfinance for Entrepreneurial Success
Authors: Dzingirai Mufaro , Baporikar Neeta
Published: November 2022

The main objective of the paper is to analyze the influence of microfinance on entrepreneurial success of Zimbabwean SMEs. Adopting explanatory research design with a sample that constitutes 120 business owners of SMEs in Gweru district data collection was through questionnaire administering that used Likert scale-type questions. The hypotheses are analyzed using Spearman's correlation and regression analysis in order to empirically establish the influence of microfinance on entrepreneurial success. The main regression results show a strong positive relationship between microfinance and entrepreneurial success, a weak negative relationship between the business owner's age and entrepreneurial success, and a positive relationship between the level of studies and entrepreneurial success of Zimbabwean SMEs.
Exploring Venture Funding in the Entrepreneurial University
Authors: Pittaway Luke , Benedict Paul , Bedő Zsolt , Erdős Katalin , Flournoy Eli
Published: November 2022

This chapter considers the role of venture funding in the entrepreneurial university. It begins by discussing the literature on the entrepreneurial university, focusing on the role of financing. The literature shows that there are gaps in the financing of academic and graduate ventures. The second part of the chapter introduces short case examples that illustrate different forms of university-led venture funding, demonstrating how different universities have sought to fill funding gaps by means of seed capital grants, micro-financing, small business research grants, crowdfunding, social impact investing, seed capital investing, public venture capital, and venture capital. The chapter concludes by arguing that universities have sufficient resource endowments and human capital to address many funding gaps through innovative thinking and practice.
Analysis of Factors That Affect the Use of Microfinance for Microbusiness Development in Ghana
Authors: Alhassan Yahaya , Nwagbara Uzoechi , Salia Samuel
Published: November 2022

This chapter examined the factors that affect the use of microfinance for microbusiness development in Ghana. The study employed semi-structured survey questionnaire to determine whether an entrepreneur's personal attributes impede or facilitate microbusiness development in Ghana. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to determine the effects of entrepreneur's personal attributes on the monthly sales, number of employees, business assets, and capital stock of microbusinesses that received credit from a microfinance provider in the northern region of Ghana. The findings of the study suggest that micro-entrepreneur prior work experience, occupation, and prior income facilitate the use of microfinance for microbusiness development. These findings have policy implications for the government of Ghana and other agencies that are interested in using microfinance as a catalyst for economic growth in deprived communities in the country.
A Comparative Integration Study of Performance Metrics in Microfinance
Authors: Iqbal Mehree , Nisha Nabila , Rifat Afrin
Published: November 2022

This study aims to understand the cause-and-effect relationship between financial and non-financial measures under a balanced scorecard (BSC) model in the microfinance sector of Bangladesh. Structural equation modeling is employed to test non-financial relationships hypothesized under BSC model and one sample t-tests are conducted to further relate non-financial variables to the financial performance variable for two microfinance providers. While all non-financial variables share positive and significant relationships, findings show that customer perspective and internal business process factors are quite strong and more evident for Grameen Bank than a cooperative bank. As such, microfinance providers which will improve their non-financial perspectives can ultimately benefit from increased financial performance. The article draws attention to microfinance providers so that they can address shortcomings in their current performance measurement systems and identify mechanisms that can help them improve their financial performances. Implications and future directions are discussed too.
Islamic Social Finance: Integrating Zakah Funds in Microfinance and Microenterprise Support Programs
Authors: Kachkar Omar Ahmad , Alfares Marwa
Published: November 2022

Alleviating poverty and inequality are among the central objectives of zakah in the Islamic economic system. These objectives are also on top of the 17 SDGs of the UN 2030 Agenda. This research argues that microenterprise support programs (MSPs) have been proven as effective tools in combating poverty. However, lack of funds has always been a major challenge for the sustainability of those programs. Channeling zakah funds to MSPs will directly contribute to empowering deprived populations and helping them to lift themselves out of the poverty cycle. Two zakah-based MSPs have been analyzed in this chapter. The first one is the Asnaf Entrepreneurship Program of Lembaga Zakah, Malaysia and the second one is Baitul Maal Muamalat Indonesia (BMMI). According to literature, using zakah in (MSPs) requires a strict implementation of best practices including screening program beneficiaries, providing professional training and monitoring to businesses, and finally applying a graduation scheme.
Harmonising Microfinance With Islamic Banking
Authors: Aziz Shahab , Md Husin Maizaitulaidawati , Ashfaq Muhammad
Published: November 2022

While microfinance institutions play a role in the provision of financial services to individuals and small businesses that lack access to banking and related services, the question is: Can this role be taken up solely by the banking institutions? This chapter discusses the performance and application of microfinance institutions and challenges in developing a sustainable microfinance environment. The chapter deliberates the importance of integrating Islamic microfinance with Islamic commercial banks. It is argued that the integration of Islamic microcredit into the banking and credit schemes of Islamic commercial banks and Islamic microfinance institutions is a key to promoting financial inclusion. In addition, the chapter discusses how the Islamic microfinance model can be applied towards improving and humanising society and suggests strategies to improve the sustainability of microfinance institutions.
SME Micro-Financing and Business Growth in Rural Nigeria
Authors: Adewusi Adedeji Oluwaseun
Published: November 2022

Despite the critical nature of SMEs to the prosperity of less developed countries, evidence has shown that small businesses in Nigeria have not made a significant contribution to the nation's economic growth and development due to finance-related issues. This chapter, identifies the social determinants of microfinance loan accessibility; examines SME owner satisfaction with existing microfinance institutions loan requirements; investigates the relationship between microfinance and perceived business growth; and documents the challenges facing rural SME owners in accessing business loans in microfinance banks. By adopting non-probability sampling techniques, 262 identical questionnaires and 21 in-depth interviews were used to compile data from the study subjects. The data was quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed. The findings of this chapter informs the reader about the direction for further research into interventionist programmes for SMEs in Nigeria.
Determinants of Customer Loyalty in the Zimbabwean Microfinance Sector
Authors: Dzingirai Mufaro , Tshuma Noah , Sikomwe Shingirai
Published: November 2022

Recently, there has been an exponential increase in microfinance institutions leading to intense competition. This has impelled the interest of scholars, practitioners, and researchers in customer loyalty. Nonetheless, there is a dearth of empirical evidence on the determinants of customer loyalty in the microfinance sector. Accordingly, the main objective of this study is to establish the determinants of customer loyalty. Employing correlational research design with a sample size of 132 customers of microfinance institutions in Gweru who completed a highly structured questionnaire, the hypotheses are tested using Pearson correlation and regression analysis. The findings reveal that service quality, customer trust, and customer satisfaction have a strong statistically significant positive effect on customer loyalty. Nonetheless, a weak insignificant positive relationship between perceived microfinance image and customer loyalty is observed. It is, therefore, recommended that the managers should devise strategies to augment service quality, customer trust, and customer satisfaction.
Fostering Financial Inclusion in a Developing Country
Authors: Wamba Samuel Fosso , Queiroz Maciel M. , Blome Constantin , Sivarajah Uthayasankar
Published: November 2022

Financial inclusion is a vital development priority for countries worldwide. Mobile wallet (m-wallet) is considered as a disruptive payment method that will substitute the traditional physical wallet to achieve the so-called cashless society and enables financial inclusion. This study aims at developing and testing a research model that integrates a set of technology factors (perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, fun to use, monetary value), external factors (peer influence and perceived status benefit), and cultural factors (humane orientation and societal collectivism) to assess the intention to adopt and use m-wallet, for financial inclusion, in a developing country. The proposed conceptual model is tested using data collected from 621 m-wallet users in Cameroon. The model explains 47.5% of the variance of the actual use of m-wallet and 32.90% of the variance of financial inclusion. Eight out of the 10 proposed hypotheses were supported. Finally, implications for research and practice are discussed.
How Does National Culture Influence Microfinance Institutions?
Authors: Banász Zsuzsanna , Csepregi Anikó
Published: November 2022

Many studies deal with the determinants of countries' culture or efficiency of microfinance institutions (MFIs). This chapter aims to fill the gap in the literature by analyzing the connection between national cultural features and indicators of countries' MFIs. The summary of analyses made regarding MFIs is followed by the national cultural dimensions, and how knowledge strategy could serve poverty reduction. Forty-five countries represent the subject of the research. Their statistics are available for both MFIs and national culture. Rank correlation and investigation of TOP5 countries show that the MFIs are successful in countries characterized by high levels of power distance, collectivistic, long-term-oriented and restraint culture. Based on these results, the chapter lists countries where MFIs could be successfully introduced based on their national cultural features and recommends certain knowledge strategies for effective operation. Finally, research directions as a continuation of this study are also presented.
Integrating Zakat and Microfinance
Authors: Pamuncak Mohammad Bintang , Possumah Bayu Taufiq , Halim Zairihan Abdul
Published: November 2022

This chapter bridges the concepts of microfinance and Zakat, and proposes a conceptual framework as a potential strategy to solve poverty. This study employs qualitative approach. Specifically, it performs content analysis on related manuscripts, and conducts a structured interview with selected stakeholders of Zakat institutions. The study proposes that Zakat institution must have a clear definition about which Zakat fund portion should be used for the program. Authors propose the use of amil for the program and it must be given by amil voluntarily and there must be clear mechanism on which deserving categories (asnaf/mustahik) should be prioritised to be the part of the program. In practice, amil can be considered as investors (where Zakat institution distributes and becomes Islamic microfinance institution) or financial intermediary (where the amil distributes and becomes Islamic microfinance institution appointed by the authority).
Poverty and Microfinance in Char Areas of Dhubri District in Assam
Authors: Sheikh Shahjahan Ali , Datta Kanchan
Published: November 2022

In India, 70% of population lives in rural area and 60% of population earn their livelihood from agriculture which implies a high rate of underemployment and poverty. The root cause of poverty is the low access to credit facilities. Micro finance in this respect can play a vital role in providing financial services to the poor. In India Micro finance is dominated by self-help groups (SHGs), bank linkage programs aimed at providing a cost effective mechanism for providing financial services to unreached poor to fight against poverty. The chapter, thus, aims at identifying the current status, role, and performance of microfinance in Char areas of Assam in India. The chapter is concluded with the stress that more and more number of SHGs should be encouraged to form among the poor household in the study area to avail the benefit and cross poverty line.
Aproximação de funções: polinômios de Bernstein
Authors:   Universidade Federal Fluminense, Medeiros Heloisa B. , Menezes M. Lucia ,   Universidade Federal Fluminense
Published: November 2022

Esse artigo foi originalmente publicado como um artigo do Projeto Klein. Dentro desse contexto, se propõe a apresentar de forma leve e resumida os famosos Polinômios de Bernstein, muito usados para aproximar funções. O texto se insere no panorama da analise numérica fazendo algumas considerações sobre os aspectos positivos e negativos dessa aproximação. Também apresenta um esboço da demonstração de convergência desses polinômios, apresentada pelo próprio Bernstein, comentando sobre a possibilidade de sua utilização em uma demonstração construtiva do Teorema de Weirstrass.
Superfícies Parametrizadas
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Andrade Doherty , de Lacerda Jorge Ferreira ,   Universidade Estadual de Maringá
Published: November 2022

Neste trabalho apresentamos a parametrização das superfícies mais comumente utilizadas em calculo, usamos a primeira forma quadrática para determinar áreas, e calculamos volumes por meio do teorema da divergência.
Chemical Bath Deposition Grown Zno Thin Films: Role of Manganese Doping
Authors: Güneri Emine , Johnson Henry , Göde Fatma
Published: November 2022

In this study, the effect of Mn doping concentration on the structural, microstructural, linear and nonlinear optical properties of ZnO was investigated. Pristine and Mn-doped ZnO films were prepared by chemical bath deposition on a glass substrate. The crystal structure and surface morphology of the films were determined by X-ray diffraction and force electron scanning microscopy (FESEM). X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the films had a polycrystalline structure and all films were ZnO with a hexagonal structure. In addition, a shift was detected in the XRD pattern of the films with the Mn doping process. According to the FESEM results, the surface of the films has irregularly shaped particles. Linear and nonlinear optical parameters were estimated using transmittance and absorbance measurements. And then, optical absorption coefficient, extinction coefficient, refractive index, optical dielectric constants, surface, and volume energy loss functions, optical band gap values, and optical and electrical conductivity were determined as linear optical properties. It was determined that these properties were affected by Mn-doped ratios. It was determined that nonlinear optical properties such as linear optical properties were also affected by the doping process.