bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progressive Web Apps vs Responsive Web Apps
Authors: Mr. Rohit Chandrakant Chavan  , Mr. Shubham Deepak Bhatkar  , Dr. Kirti Muley
Published: July 2022

In this research paper, we will investigate the browser compatibility of PWA features and compare and analyse the performance and memory consumption of PWA features compared to responsive web apps.
In 2015, the term Progressive Web Applications was coined to describe an application that takes advantage of all the features of a progressive app. Some of the key features include offline support, an app-like user interface, and secure connectivity. Since then, case studies of PWA implementations have shown optimistic promises to improve web page performance, time spent on websites, user engagement, and more. The report is to compare PWAs and RWAs and analyse some of the impacts of PWAs. The results show that many of PWA's features are not yet supported by some major browsers. Performance benchmarks have shown that the https connection required for the PWA slows down all PWA performance metrics on the first visit. With repeated access, some PWA features such as speed indexing are better than RWA. PWA storage consumption has more than doubled its RWA size. In conclusion, there may be a workaround even if some features are not directly supported by the browser. If https is not optimized on the web server, the PWA will be slower than a RWA. Different browsers have different storage limits for PWA caches.
Air Pollution Monitoring in Remote Areas using Smart UAV based System
Authors: S. Samanta  , H. Sarkar  , S. Chakraborty  , C. Singh
Published: July 2022

Real time monitoring of air pollution and measurement of pollutant gases is very challenging task and needs more numbers of sensors and lots of observation. In this paper, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) based system equipped with different micro sensor, is introduced for monitoring of air quality. It will offer a new approach in environmental pollution assessment instead of ground based monitoring system. Air pollution concentration data is collected by different sensors present in UAV, are effectively monitored in personal computer or mobile devices. The main objective of this paper is to elaborate the performance capability of UAV for effective monitoring of air pollution and measure health hazard air pollutants with high sensitivities in a particular area where human cannot reach. As it is quite recent field, a fruitful effort has dedicated to develop an integrated sensing system and optimization of its crucial features as dimension, weight and energy autonomy. The effectiveness of the developed system is evaluated by performing some field experiments using a hardware prototype UAV model.
A Study on Ecommerce during Covid Pandemic
Authors: Mukesh Verma
Published: July 2022

The worldwide spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has agitated how people buy commodities and other services and how they are involved in e-commerce. This is fully based on the current Situation and current information. The patterned lockdown rules across India and the growing hesitation among consumers to go outside and shop for essential goods have given a wider view of the nation towards e-commerce. Consumers have a turnabout from shops, supermarkets, and shopping malls to online portals and other shopping apps for the purchase of products, ranging from basic commodities to reputed brands.
Intelligent Accidental Detection and Prevention
System for Car using Can FD Protocol
Authors: Tushar Waghmare  , Sarvesh Tandale  , Prof. B. S. Kadam
Published: July 2022

Controller Area Network with Flexible Data Rate (CAN FD) is a vehicle bus standard protocol designed especially for automotive application. By using CAN FD Bus protocol, ECUs (Electronic control units) of vehicles can communicate with each other. It is a high speed, bandwidth efficient network. In order to reduce point to point wiring harness in vehicle automation, CAN FD is suggested as a means for data communication within the vehicle environment. The benefits of CAN FD bus based network over traditional point to point schemes will offer increased flexibility and expandability for future technology insertions units.
We have designed five nodes, 4-sensor nodes and 1-Bus monitor nodes. Sensor nodes and Bus monitor nodes are communicating with each other through CAN FD Bus. Bus monitor node collects all messages present on the CAN FD Bus and transmits to the PC by using the UART interface. The CAN FD monitor window is designed using Visual Studio.net which allows the time oriented buffering of CAN FD messages and visualization of the BUS data at the package level.
Big Data: A Transition from Conventional Databases
Authors: Sahil Gupta
Published: July 2022

The primary programming language created to manage data contained in database systems is called Structured Query Language (SQL). SQL was initially solely used with relational database management systems (RDBMS), but as additional categories of database systems have emerged, its use has substantially expanded. When processing Big Data, or datasets with great volume, velocity, and variety, highly distributed and scalable systems have been proven to be particularly effective at using SQL as a query language. Although conventional relational databases currently only make up a small portion of the database systems landscape, the majority of database courses that cover SQL only take traditional relational systems into account when using SQL. In this study, we suggest that SQL be taught as a general language, which can be applied to a variety of database systems, ranging from conventional RDBMSs to Big Data systems. In the context of emerging database systems like MapReduce, NoSQL, and NewSQL, this paper offers well-organized suggestions for introducing SQL. The description of a variety of course tools, such as virtual machines, sample projects, and in-class exercises, to provide hands-on experience with SQL across a wide range of contemporary database systems is a fundamental addition of this work. Descriptors for Categories and Subjects General terms for computer and information science education in K.3.2 [Computers and Education] Creating and experimenting Keywords Curriculums for databases; SQL; Query Language; Big Data 1.
Yoga and Health
Authors: Dr. Kanchan Joshi  , Preety
Published: July 2022

In recent decades, yoga has been studied for its potential to treat current epidemic diseases such as mental stress, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Individual studies have found that yoga has a therapeutic effect on certain illnesses, implying that it can be used a s a nonpharmaceutical strategy or as a supplement to drug therapy. However, for therapeutic objectives, these research have only used yoga asana, pranayama, and or short durations of meditation. Yoga's general perception is likewise he same, which is incorrect. Yoga actually refers to the merging of human consciousness with the divine awareness. It involves eight rungs or limbs of yoga, which include yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi. Intense practice of these leads to self-realization, which is the primary goal of yoga. An analytical look at the rungs and the goal of yoga shows that it is a holistic way of life leading to a state of complete physical, social, mental, and spiritual well-being and harmony with nature. This is in contrast to purely economic and material developmental goal of modern civilization, which has brought social unrest and ecological devastation.
Vocal Airmail Service for Visually Impaired through Multimedia Approach
Authors: Mrs. Chandana K R  , Yasho Kartheek P  , P. Jaya Surya  , Subiya Firdose H  , Subiya Firdose H
Published: July 2022

With the advent of technologies in computer, many technological solutions have been implemented for visually impaired so that they can utilize them, and get benefited by them. Considering it as a key idea we have built a desktop application that will help blind people to send and read emails as ordinary people do. In this research paper we describe the VMAIL system architecture for Python platform that can be used by a Blind Person to access e-mails easily. The application uses ‘text to speech’ and voice recognizer to facilitate sending, reading, emails using a computer. Internet has become one of the basic amenities for day-to-day living. Every human being is widely accessing the knowledge and information through internet. However, blind people face difficulties in accessing these text materials, also in using any service provided through internet. The advancement in computer based accessible systems has opened up many avenues for the visually impaired across the globe in a wide way. Audio feedback based virtual environment like, the screen readers have helped Blind people to access internet applications immensely. We describe the Voicemail system architecture that can be used by a Blind person to access e-Mails easily and efficiently
Comparative Study on Packet Sniffing Tools
Authors: Miss. Shraddha Dilip Sarve  , Prof. Shubhangi Mahadik
Published: July 2022

With the advancement and widespread use of network technology, network administration, maintenance, and monitoring have become increasingly important in order to maintain the network running smoothly and increase economic efficiency. A packet sniffer is used for this purpose. Network monitoring relies on packet sniffing to troubleshoot and log issues. Both network software engineers and network administrators will gain from network activity. There are a few variety of packet sniffers on the market that can be used to do packet sniffing. The subject of this paper is the fundamentals of a packet sniffer; its operating principle; and the numerous packet sniffing tools and how they work, network monitoring and analysis capabilities.
Neuro-Anesthetic Management of Craniotomy-Surgery in Removal Tumor of Left Parasagittal Meningioma Patients: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Anesthesia, Basaveshwara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga, Karnataka, 577502, India, Biradar Shivashankar , Shivakumara K C , Megha G H ​
Published: July 2022

A 45-year-old female presented with complaints of headache and lower limb weakness since 3 months before admission to the hospital and slurring of speech. Patient was known hypertensive with a blood pressure of 130/80 mmhg, a regular pulse rate of 90 times/min, a breath rate of 18 times/min, and an oxygen saturation of 98%. Mallampati 1, good flexion and extension movements of the neck and temporomandibular joints. Keywords: Meningioma, Munroe Kellies Law, Neuro-anaesthesia, Parasagittal Tumour
Modelo de gestión para empresas paleteras bajo la norma ISO 9001:2015. El Oro. Ecuador
Authors: Márquez Cedillo Jackson Joel , Alba Gonzaga Maite Gissel , Romero Black Wilton Eduardo , Mora Sánchez Norman Vinicio
Published: July 2022

En la actualidad el pallet ecuatoriano no se lo comercializa como un producto de exportación; sino, como medio de transporte, por tal motivo solo se implementan normas técnicas ecuatorianas y fitosanitarias para su producción. La presente investigación descriptiva tuvo como objetivo analizar un modelo de gestión de las empresas paleteras de la provincia de El Oro, mediante la identificación de la cadena de valor; para lo cual, se emplearon la observación directa y las técnicas de búsqueda primarias y secundarias, para obtener datos sobre las variables de estudio. La investigación evidencia la existencia de secuencia lógica del proceso de elaboración del pallet; sin embargo, las distintas gestiones se las realizan de manera empírica, lo que dificulta que el producto tenga un valor agregado; lo que limita su comercialización como un producto de exportación. Es esencial establecer un modelo de gestión en base a la Norma ISO 9001:2015, dado que permite reestructurar y gestionar los procesos administrativos, productivos y de servicios para obtener un producto de calidad, acorde a las necesidades del mercado interno y/o externo.
Intención emprendedora en estudiantes de la Universidad Técnica de Machala.
Authors: Campos Pérez Bryan David , Ordoñez Romero Kristel Blancaí , Vásquez Campuzano John Alexander
Published: July 2022

Los evidentes sucesos de crisis que se presentan constantemente en el mundo provocan que las personas busquen alternativas para emprender y mejorar sus condiciones de vida, éste realidad no es ajena al ámbito universitario ecuatoriano. Esta investigación tiene por objetivo corroborar si existe intención emprendedora en los estudiantes universitarios, y si está relacionada con el género, padres emprendedores, educacional de los padres, ingreso familiar mensual y la capacidad percibida de los estudiantes de la Facultad de Ciencias Empresariales de la Universidad Técnica de Machala; para ello se realizó un estudio analítico transversal, no experimental, con enfoque cuantitativo, durante noviembre de 2021 a enero de 2022. Se aplicó una encuesta 127 estudiantes la Carrera de Economía, los que fueron seleccionados mediante un muestreo aleatorio. Para explicar las variables categóricas se utilizó la estadística descriptiva; así como la prueba estadística de Chi-cuadrado de Pearson a un nivel de significación del 0.05, encontrando la no asociación de intención emprendedora de los estudiantes y las variables independientes.  Los resultados señalan que hay un alto porcentaje de estudiantes que tienen la intención de comenzar algún negocio en el futuro, a pesar de no tener padres emprendedores y consideran que tienen capacidades para emprender.
Construcción del pensamiento geográfico en los niños
Authors: Espinoza Freire Eudaldo Enrique
Published: July 2022

El objetivo principal del presente ensayo es analizar la importancia de le enseñanza-aprendizaje de la Geografía para crear el pensamiento geográfico en los escolares. Se desarrolló un estudio descriptivo de tipo revisión bibliográfica fundamentado en los métodos: análisis de contenido, hermenéutico y análisis documental. Entre los principales hallazgos se tienen: la Geografía como disciplina escolar puede y debe ser enseñada desde edades tempranas hasta la Universidad; tiene como objetivos, comprender el espacio geográfico; desarrollar capacidades personales de percepción, orientación, sistematización y comprensión del espacio; emplear las Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones como recurso didáctico; y alcanzar el pensamiento geográfico. El pensamiento geográfico requiere de habilidades para la construcción de redes conceptuales, representación geográfica y pensamiento crítico creativo. Las redes conceptuales pueden ser creadas mediante: cuestionamiento y problematización de las prácticas y los saberes espaciales, métodos de dupla estimulación, acción pedagógica sobre la zona de desarrollo próximo, solución de contradicciones y desafíos cognitivos y desarrollo de un sistema jerárquico de interrelaciones de conceptos científicos. Es urgente revertir la situación actual de la enseñanza de esta ciencia en la educación básica ecuatoriana y lograr el desarrollo de un pensamiento geográfico en pro de una educación para el desarrollo sustentable.
El daño moral a consecuencia del despido intempestivo
Authors: Villacrés Moreno José Luis , Alexandra Anabel Jaramillo León Alexandra Anabel
Published: July 2022

Desde hace varias décadas, en el Derecho Laboral se ha introducido la indemnización por daño moral en las diferentes legislaciones a nivel mundial. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar la indemnización por daño moral a consecuencia de un despido intempestivo en la legislación ecuatoriana; considerando al trabajador como víctima de una ruptura abusiva o maliciosa de su contrato de trabajo. Para alcanzar este objetivo se desarrolló una investigación descriptiva de tipo revisión documental, fundamentada en los métodos hermenéutico, análisis documental y análisis de contenido. Entre los principales hallazgos se encuentran: los factores para el resarcimiento del daño moral (psicológico, cultural, económico y social), la contextualización doctrinaria del despido intempestivo, la cuantificación del daño moral a causa del despido y la prueba en el daño moral.
Violación del derecho a la defensa en el procedimiento del error inexcusable
Authors: Blacio Villa Ruby del Carmen , Orellana Izurieta William Gabriel
Published: July 2022

El error inexcusable es una figura disciplinaria que deriva en la destitución de los servidores judiciales. El presente artículo tiene por objetivo analizar la figura del error inexcusable y la violación del derecho a la defensa en el procedimiento del error inexcusable, para lo cual se desarrolló un estudio descriptivo con enfoque cualitativo sustentado en los métodos exegético, revisión bibliográfica, analítico-sintético e histórico-lógico. Se concluye que existe vaguedad y desconcierto en los criterios interpretativos aplicados de la norma, lo que deriva del control jurisdiccional de los jueces de alzada y de su informe de declaratoria de error inexcusable previo al sumario versus la facultad sancionadora del Consejo de la Judicatura, órgano administrativo, quien por su parte tras dicho informe inapelable, deberá realizar una valoración subjetiva y autónoma a fin de que potestativamente determine la idoneidad del sumariado, situación incomprensible por cuanto dicho órgano administrativo carece de la facultad de interpretación conferida a los órganos jurisdiccionales, inconsistencias que posibilita la violación del derecho a la defensa de los sumariados.
Estrategia Axiológica para fortalecer los valores y el clima organizacional en una empresa constructora
Authors: Acosta Mir Aimé , Medina Peña Rolando , Pino Sera Yamilka
Published: July 2022

El presente artículo aborda la importancia del clima organizacional y valores compartidos en el contexto de la Empresa Constructora de Obras Industriales de la provincia de Holguín en Cuba. Es estudio cualitativo realizado se fundamentó en los métodos analítico-sintético, sistémico-estructural y en la triangulación teórica, lo que contribuyó a la construcción de un sistema homogéneo y coherente de conocimientos científicos que tributó a la propuesta de una estrategia axiológica como principal resultado; también se utilizó la consulta a especialistas para validar la pertenencia de la estrategia. Se concluye que la propuesta contiene una instrumentación útil para los trabajadores y directivos de las empresas del sistema de la construcción para determinar la relación existente entre el clima organizacional y los valores compartidos, la que permite perfeccionar los métodos y estilos de dirección a aplicar como parte de la gestión por procesos.
Black economic empowerment and local economic development in the accommodation sector : the case of Clarens, in the Free State Province
Authors:   , Mofokeng Nyane Macdonald Ezekiel
Published: July 2022

In South Africa, the tourism industry has been identified as one of the key drivers for economic development and transformation of the country. Although South Africa joined the world tourism stage since democracy, the country still contends with issues linked to apartheid, such as poverty, inequality and transformation. More specific and related to this study is the transformation of the tourism industry. In this regard, an overwhelming majority of tourism enterprises are still under the ownership of the White minority. With the post-apartheid transition, the national government recognized that the unequal ownership structure within the tourism sector (as with most of the other economic sectors) needed to be addressed through a programme of transformation. Hence, the transformation programme introduced to counter the current dominance of the economic sector was called Black Economic Empowerment (BEE), followed by Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE); the programme aimed at redressing inequalities that were linked to the legacy of apartheid. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather in-depth information from respondents, based on their accommodation establishment. The data collected from the responses were analysed using Microsoft Excel. This study revealed that the accommodation sector is struggling to keep up with the 2014 transformation target of thirty percent. Incidentally, transformation as noted by the National Department of Tourism, within the industry currently stands at less than 3 percent and will struggle to meet the amended target of thirty percent in respect of the transformation targets set for 2017. Although the government has introduced many initiatives to promote Black participation within the accommodation sector, transformation has remained stagnant and Black ownership of accommodation establishments is almost non-existent. The study results have found that there are no Black business that operate within the CBD of Clarens and that businesses that operate in Clarens even though wholly White-owned, are indeed compliant with the Tourism BEE charter in spite of the results noting that no transformation has taken place. This is due to the issue of automatic compliance afforded to businesses based on their annual turnover.
Exploring alternative revenue sources that can be utilised to improve advertising revenue at SABC public broadcasting radio stations
Authors:   , Pillay Alvin
Published: July 2022

This qualitative study explored alternative revenue sources within and outside PBS radio stations that can be utilised to improve revenue generation at South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) Public Broadcasting Radio Stations (PBS). PBS radio relies heavily on traditional advertising revenue, sponsorships and TV licence fees, revenue sources are insufficient to sustain public broadcasting radio service in South Africa because funding from the South African Government is limited to specific projects. Public broadcasting radio services in South Africa have to provide content of public value while remaining competitive and profitable. The SABC is the sole owner of fifteen public broadcasting radio stations, making it one of the dominant media owners in South Africa. SABC owns all public broadcasting radio stations and has the highest audience penetration in South Africa which should translate into receiving the highest revenue share. However, this is not the case. Commercial radio stations earn a bigger percentage of the pie of advertising revenue although PBS radio stations command higher audience penetration. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen public broadcasting radio station managers and three senior public broadcasting managers to ascertain what alternative sources within and outside the radio station can help improve the revenue of the radio stations. The analysis of the data collected through interviews identified that there are a number of alternative sources which can assist in improving the revenue of the radio stations. It is therefore time that PBS Radio stations monetise their audience and not rely heavily on traditional advertising revenue. Six important alternative revenue sources are identified as follows: • Radio station events and outside broadcasts: Revenue generation potential is immense with opportunities for gate-takings, sponsorship and advertising or promotional revenues. • Broadcast syndication and sale of content: Original programming content and popular music genre playlists are sought after by the public or other entities that are prepared to pay for the content. • Radio Station Websites: Opportunities to generate revenue by marketing website opportunities to the public and advertisers. • Merchandising: Radio audiences like to own radio station branded merchandising like t-shirts, caps and jackets which can be made available at radio stations and retail stores for the public to purchase. • Cellular or mobile phones: Mobile phones provide an interactive element to radio campaign advertisements, competitions, and promotions, which should be monetised as an extension to advertisers‟ radio campaigns. • Social Media Platforms: Radio campaigns are extended to social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter to target a larger audience.
The impact of job security on job satisfaction and organisational commitment at Femina Garments in Zimbabwe : a case study
Authors:   , Taduvana Stephen
Published: July 2022

The overall aim of the study was to investigate the impact of job insecurity on job satisfaction and organisational commitment at Femina Garments in Zimbabwe. Job insecurity has increased considerably over the recent decade in the clothing industry of Zimbabwe. Negative economic growth, retrenchments and company closures have led to job insecurity increase in Zimbabwe. Against this background, the literature suggests that job insecurity has a negative impact on different job attitudes. The study was conducted at Femina Garments, a clothing manufacturing company in Zimbabwe. The study adopted the quantitative research design and a survey method was employed for all 109 employees at Femina Garments. A structured closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect data. A significant response rate of 93.58% was obtained using the personal method of data collection. The responses to the questionnaire were captured and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 for Windows. Several hypotheses were formulated and tested using the Pearson`s chi-square and Spearman`s rank order correlation co-efficient. The main findings revealed that job insecurity did have an impact on organisational commitment. The findings also revealed that job insecurity had no relationship with job satisfaction at Femina Garments. The recommendations suggest that management at Femina Garments should provide clear communication, provide social support and maintain a balanced psychological contract. The recommendations also suggest that management at Femina Garments should provide salaries and benefits that are market related. The study concludes by providing directions for future research.
Healthcare reform and service delivery : a case study of Montebello Hospital
Authors:   , Brauns Melody
Published: July 2022

The South African healthcare sector stands at the threshold of major restructuring in an attempt to address inadequacies as a result of fragmentation of health services in apartheid South Africa. The level of health services, particularly in rural areas, has decreased and has led to reduced quality and productivity of health services. For individuals residing in rural communities, access to health services can be arduous. Delivery of essential services has to meet the needs of marginalised people who live in remote areas. In light of the above, the department of health is faced with growing expectations from citizens to use resources efficiently and effectively and to ensure that healthcare is affordable and accessible to all. National Health Insurance (NHI) is intended to bring about reform that will improve service provision. The researcher undertook this study to explore healthcare challenges faced by South Africa and its people and how far progressive realisation of access to healthcare, as enshrined in the 1996 Constitution, is being implemented. A case study using a mixed method approach was adopted. The literature reviewed indicated that issues of remuneration, ageing infrastructure and general management challenges, including financial management, are among the challenges that continue to hamper the public health system in South Africa. In addition, the HIV/AIDS epidemic has created more demand for healthcare as many more people become sick. The Green Paper outlining the government’s broad policy proposals for NHI, released in August 2011, makes it clear that NHI is a long-term project that will be rolled out over 14 years. It aims to promote efficiency and equity to ensure that all South Africans have access to affordable, quality healthcare. The findings of this study are useful not only to the case study institution, but to all District Hospitals, especially the department of health and the public management sector and may assist in taking the NHI forward.
Analysis of consumption patterns and their effects on social cohesion from a Zulu cosmology perspective
Authors:   , Lombo Sipho
Published: July 2022

Using historic and ethnographic data collected from KwaZulu-Natal, this study examines food consumption from the Zulu Cosmology epistemic point of view. The study highlights as a prosocial behaviour that reduces the importance of self in favour of pro social norms of sharing and selflessness. In other words, personhood is understood as a process and the product of interconnectedness experienced in social spaces. Pro-social behaviour is therefore seen as a determinant of harmonious and social cohesive communities. The study concluded that social cohesive communities develop a set of cultural protocols and boundaries that reward prosocial norms and punish antisocial behaviour. Social cohesion as a concept was also found to be inseparable from the notion of shared values, identities and norms. The study delved deeper and found that the land, the livestock and the cultural rituals to honour the living and the dead defined a unique interconnectedness of the Zulu person to his culture. Eating and eaten products were part of a uniting culture that linked a Zulu man, woman, girls, old men and women to other people, their animals and their land. Zulu people lived for, and with, other people in peace. No man or family would go hungry. Immediately that becomes known, another man would give the destitute man a few cattle to start his own flock and feed his family. This and other eating rituals contributed to a strong, peaceful and social cohesive nation of King Shaka ka Senzangakhona. On the basis of the understanding of the cultural rituals, their link with the land and animal the study concluded that land restitution and agrarian policies can be enhanced by taking into consideration their need for land to cultivate vegetables and fruits that have cultural meaning, policies that enable to have livestock as well as space to practise their culture. The study is envisaged to inspire social welfare and community development policies that instil the prosocial values of Ubuntu and interconnectedness.
The relationship between entrepreneurial orientation, competitive advantage and business performance among small businesses in Durban
Authors:   , Mtshali Sbongiseni Sanele
Published: July 2022

Small businesses form the backbone of any nation’s economy, especially where unemployment is extremely high. South Africa is one of the many countries that struggle with low economic growth resulting in low employment. This study investigates the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation, business performance and competitive advantage. South Africa’s small business sector is under pressure as evidence exists that the failure rate is well above 70 percent, and to an extent, up to 90 percent depending on various conditions. This study was conducted in Durban, South Africa. The study sought to answer the two questions namely: a) Is there a significant relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance? and b) Is there a mediating role of competitive advantage in the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance? These questions were targeted to small business owners or managers in Durban, South Africa. Therefore, 177 participants responded, and both questions were tested and yielded positive results. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire consisting of 24 items. Indeed, the finding was that there is a positive and significant relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance, and that competitive advantage does mediate the relationship between business performance and entrepreneurial orientation. Finally, many studies examined in this study support the findings of this research pointing out that a strong positive relationship exists between business performance and entrepreneurial orientation. Similarly, there seems to be an agreement that there is some relationship between competitive advantage, entrepreneurial orientation and business performance. However, the literature reviewed did not clarify if competitive advantage does actually mediate the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance whilst this study found that mediation does exist between the entrepreneurial orientation and business performance link. Hence, small businesses need to learn more about this relationship so to take advantage of possible synergies that may arise from it. Further, both the government of South Africa and the private sector should keep supporting small businesses by making use of research studies like this one and many more which are based on theory and practice.
A participatory action research study of junior youth-led community action in Durban, South Africa
Authors:   , Varjavandi Roya
Published: July 2022

Informed by Bronfenbrenner’s theory of social ecosystems and embedded in the Freirean pedagogy of participatory and critical praxis, this youth-led participatory action research (YPAR) study aims to highlight the power and potential of young people as peacebuilders. Bringing attention to the powerful capacity young people have in transforming society, the entire process was guided by the following meta-question: “how can YPAR assist young people to become active agents in the construction of peace?” Approximately 20 young people aged between 13 and 17 from a low-income high-density neighbourhood in central Durban became co-researcher volunteers in the program. Their participation in a six phases process involved exploration and identification of the social needs of the community, followed by planning, implementing and evaluating a peacebuilding intervention. The data itself is comprised of the activities that constituted the YPAR program, including drama skits, mapping and photo story posters. The data was collected using research diaries, video and audio recording and photography. Through the involvement of participants in research and action as “peace leaders,” the findings highlight the potential of YPAR in the peacebuilding field.
Towards an index to assess the novelty value of the investment in World Cup Stadia
Authors:   , Mazibuko Vusi Phillip
Published: July 2022

The costs of bidding to host mega sporting events such as the Olympics and FIFA World cups are huge. The demand for massive infrastructure to deliver such games is high irrespective of slow economic growth and constrained fiscal budgets. Very few governments are able to properly assess the actual economic value of the investments in infrastructure. The existing infrastructure appraisal and prioritisation methodologies usually take a very narrow view of value. There is scholarly evidence that there is little effort directed towards studies that investigate intangible benefits associated with infrastructural investment in stadia. Much research effort has been invested in the development of methods and models to measure the economic impacts of mega events. While the focus has been, on balance, on financial benefits of hosting mega events, the independent empirical research has found no evidence of economic benefits associated with mega sport events. This study then determined, first the conceptual definition, and the nature of novelty value derived from infrastructural investment. Secondly, an index was constructed to assess the novelty value of infrastructural investment on stadia. The index creation process commenced with the identification of items that define the concept from literature. This was followed by interviews of key informants who are experts and insightful on world cup stadia infrastructural investment. The themes from literature as well as insights from key informants shaped the survey instrument for the second phase of the study. A sample (n =399) was drawn from the study population which is made up of patrons of Moses Mabhida stadium. Factor analysis, a multivariate analytical tool was used to develop a reliable novelty value index (V-ndex). The constructed index has three valid and reliable constructs; spectator experience, novelty continuance and modernity. These three construct define the nonfinancial value, which this study describes as novelty value derived from infrastructural investment. It is therefore recommended that when policy makers seek to assess the value of infrastructural investment on sporting facilities, they incorporate non financial value to the financial value added by investment.
The application of marketing intelligence for the survival, growth and success of Chinese entrepreneurs in KwaZulu-Natal
Authors:   , Yu Xiao
Published: July 2022

There has been substantial research related to small and medium-sized Chinese enterprises in various countries. However, little research has been done on marketing by Chinese entrepreneurs in South Africa. Furthermore, no documented research has been conducted on the use of marketing intelligence by Chinese entrepreneurs in KwaZulu-Natal. For entrepreneurs, marketing intelligence plays an important role in the performance of their businesses. This study is aimed at assessing the application of marketing intelligence by Chinese entrepreneurs regarding their survival, growth and success in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This study was conducted within the main industrial areas in KwaZulu-Natal, where Chinese entrepreneurs are based. The research was of a quantitative, descriptive and cross sectional nature, conducted among a sample of 120 business owners, managers, marketing executives and senior staff. The results revealed that the use of marketing intelligence in strategic decision-making by Chinese entrepreneurs in KwaZulu-Natal is very limited. The extent of awareness of marketing intelligence was fairly low. It also emerged that most of the respondents still acknowledged the importance of marketing intelligence and the role it could play in their businesses’ success. Pursuant to the general requirement for an original contribution in a doctoral thesis, the study provides a framework for current and potential Chinese entrepreneurs with regard to the application of marketing intelligence in their marketing planning.
Reducing school-based violence : an anti-bullying intervention in two schools in Harare
Authors:   , Musariwa Priscilla
Published: July 2022

Since Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, the issue of achieving sustainable peace and development has remained a challenge due to a lack of comprehensive approaches to issues of human rights violations. With such a problem, it becomes easy for individuals and society to use violence as a means to an end and, thus, it has become culturally acceptable, not only in political spheres but also in the school sphere. Therefore, this study aims to promote positive attitudes among students to reduce levels of bullying and to enable to realise the prevention mechanisms that exist within themselves through an action research intervention. Action research with a group of ten students was used create awareness on the negative impact of bullying and also the importance of creating and maintaining peaceful schools. Research proved that violent behaviour among students appears to be a serious problem at Prince Edward School and at Cranborne High School. I worked together with students in two schools to design, implement and evaluate a programme designed to reduce bullying behaviour. It is recommended that students, academic staff, police and the Ministry of Education work together to design interventions that include students in reducing bullying in schools.
An investigation into employee job satisfaction and its impact on organizational effectiveness : a case study of the Buffalo City College
Authors:   , Sibhoko Onesimo
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of job satisfaction on organizational effectiveness at Buffalo City College in the Eastern Cape. When job satisfaction levels are low, the organizations efforts to attain organizational effectiveness may be compromised. For any organisation to be effective, it should have satisfied and committed workers. The levels of employee performance may be increased by job satisfaction in an organisation including the further education and training sector. The individual commitment of employees in the workplace may be stimulated by job satisfaction. This means that the satisfaction of employees is necessary for the development of any establishment. A quantitative methodological style was used for the collection of data in this study. The target population consisted of 100 lecturers at Buffalo City College. The personal method of administering the questionnaire was used and a 75% response rate was obtained. The Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 was used for statistical examination. Significant findings emerged from the empirical analysis and results. Some respondents experienced job satisfaction while others experienced dissatisfaction with growth opportunities, pay, working conditions and recognition. The recommendations highlighted that top management should consider improving the working conditions of employees and opening up opportunities for individual advancement of the workers. Further, it was recommended that top management of Buffalo City College should pay a fair salary to the lecturers and involve them in decision making particularly on those things that have a direct impact on them. The study concludes by providing directions for future research.
İsa Mesih’in Tanrısallığının Taklidi ve Bunun Orta Çağ Hıristiyan Dünyasındaki Yansımaları Üzerine Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: SÖNMEZ Zekiye
Published: July 2022

Hıristiyanlıkta İsa Mesih, kimliği, kişiliği ve konumu açısından çokça tartışılmış, bu durum kristoloji adında bir bilim dalının ortaya çıkmasına sebep olmuştur. İsa, doğumuyla, yaşadığı dönemdeki eylemleriyle ve de çarmıhtaki ölümüyle diğer insanlardan oldukça farklı bir konumda görülmüştür. Bu farklılıklardan dolayı onun sadece bir insan değil, aynı zamanda Tanrı olabileceği konusu Hıristiyanları en çok meşgul eden konuların başında gelmiştir. Ayrıca onun bir insan veya Tanrı olarak nasıl modelleneceği veya taklit edileceği konusu da Hıristiyanların tartıştığı konulardandır. Bu bağlamda günümüz Hıristiyanlığının kurucusu kabul edilen Pavlus “Mesih’i taklit ettiğim gibi, siz de beni taklit edin” sözüyle Hıristiyanlıktaki “Mesih’in Taklidi” (Imitatio Christi) konusunun başlatıcısı olmuş; ondan itibaren Mesih’in taklidi ve takibi Hıristiyan dünyasında tartışıla gelen bir konu haline gelmiştir. Bu makalede, Hıristiyanlara göre İsa Mesih’in nasıl taklit edildiği ve bunun Orta Çağ Hıristiyan dünyasındaki yansımaları ele alınmaktadır.
Analisis Strategi Kepemimpinan Kepala Desa Perempuan dalam Penyelenggaraan Pemerintahan di Desa Pager Kecamatan Bungkal Kabupaten Ponorogo
Authors: Setyawati Febriani Indah , Triono Bambang , Khoirurrosyidin Khoirurrosyidin
Published: July 2022

Strategi kepemimpinan merupakan sebuah cara, langkah maupun upaya yang dilakukan oleh seorang pemimpin untuk mencapai sebuah cita-cita dan tujuan kepemimpinan. Dalam hal ini adalah kepemimpinan Kepala Desa untuk membangun kemajuan Desa. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui strategi dan hambatan dalam kepemimpinan Kepala Desa Perempuan di Desa Pager Kecamatan Bungkal Kabupaten Ponorogo. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini ialah deskriptif kualitatif dengan teknik wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi. Lokasi penelitian berada di Desa Pager Kecamatan Bungkal Kabupaten Ponorogo karena Desa Pager adalah satu-satunya desa di Kecamatan Bungkal yang dipimpin oleh seorang Kepala Desa Perempuan dengan informan penelitian, yakni Kepala Desa Pager, Kasi Pemerintahan Desa Pager, Kaur Umum dan Tata Usaha serta masyarakat Desa Pager. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa strategi yang dibangun oleh Kepala Desa Perempuan di Desa Pager yaitu memprioritaskan kemajuan Desa, memberi ruang yang terbuka bagi masyarakat, mendisiplinkan kinerja perangkat Desa, menyelenggarakan pemerintahan Desa secara jujur, transparan, adil dengan mengedepankan gaya kepemimpinan yang demokratis, aktif, dinamis dan terarah. Kemudian sebagai pemimpin Desa, Kepala Desa Pager telah melaksanakan tugas dan fungsinya yaitu melaksanakan pemerintahan Desa dengan baik, melaksanakan pembangunan, pembinaan dan pemberdayaan kepada masyarakat. Dalam melaksanakan kepemimpinannya, Kepala Desa Perempuan di Desa Pager juga mengalami hambatan yakni dalam hal keuangan untuk pembangunan Desa dan adanya konflik sosial individu di masyarakat.
Out of the Shadow and Into the Light: New Data Comparing Asexual and Sexual Undergraduates
Authors: Hall Scott , Knox David , Chang I. Joyce
Published: July 2022

Drawing from a large dataset of over 13,000 college students, this research compared 75 self-identified asexual individuals with heterosexual, bisexual, and gay/lesbian undergraduates. The results revealed that asexual individuals were less likely to have engaged in sexual behaviors (oral sex, anal sex, friends with benefits, sexual intercourse, hooking up) than heterosexual, bisexual, and gay or lesbian individuals. Asexual and heterosexual individuals were similar in endorsing absolutist sexual values, having a lower willingness to cohabit, and reporting less likelihood of having masturbated. Asexual individuals were similar to other sexual minorities in being less religious and having more positive attitudes toward LGB issues. A multinomial logistic regression analysis using all the variables with significant differences at the bivariate level revealed similar findings, though asexual individuals differed most dramatically in their lower levels of sexual experience when compared to gay/lesbian individuals. Future researchers are encouraged to consider reframing asexuality as more sex positive so as to recognize diversity and empower asexual individuals.
Close the Door and Open Your Mind: Advancing Sexual Openness in the Nursing Home
Authors: Allen Priscilla
Published: July 2022

Sexuality does not end when nursing home placement begins, yet nursing home personnel can be restrictive about allowing residents to enjoy sexual intimacy due to a host of reasons, from ageism to fear of litigation. This article discusses how nursing home residents are often discouraged from sexual connection and shares the author’s examples of sexual relationships challenged in long-term care. Sexual expression among older adults remains a rich topic to investigate. Literature and recommendations are presented to encourage a productive conversation about the need for more sex-positive nursing home policies and practices. Training to normalize sexual expression in a supportive nursing home environment has been viewed as beneficial to nursing home residents for added quality of life.