bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GASTO NA SUBFUNÇÃO DESPORTO COMUNITÁRIO NA REGIÃO SUL DO BRASIL
Authors: Santos Edmilson Santos , Carvalho Maria José
Published: January 2020

O presente trabalho de natureza descritiva exploratória buscou analisar de forma comparativa o comportamento dos municípios da Região Sul do Brasil no financiamento da subfunção Desporto Comunitário (sDC) de 2005 a 2014. Os recursos investidos na Função Desporto e Lazer (FDL) foram capturados junto ao site do Tesouro Nacional. A adesão e o gasto na subfunção Desporto Comunitário se deram em níveis elevados na região. Os resultados apontam também que os governos municipais são os principais financiadores desta agenda na região, quando comparados com a descentralização top-down. Os dados gerais revelam intensa atividade política na região em torno da agenda do esporte e do lazer e que, mesmo sem regulação federal, os municípios têm sido
ENTRE PLAYGROUNDS, PRAÇAS DE JOGOS E JARDINS DE RECREIO: O DEBATE SOBRE A PROVEITOSA OCUPAÇÃO DO TEMPO
Authors: Silva Giovanna Camila da
Published: January 2020

Este estudo investiga iniciativas relacionadas à construção de playgrounds, de praças de jogos e de jardins de recreio durante as décadas de 1920 e 1930, em experiências educacionais empreendidas no Rio de Janeiro, em Minas Gerais e no Rio Grande do Sul, por sujeitos ligados à Associação Cristã de Moços. A análise das fontes mobilizadas permite indicar que a consideração daqueles lugares como extensão da escola, o entendimento de que eles constituiriam momento privilegiado para dar expansão aos instintos infantis, a compreensão de que as atividades ali desenvolvidas poderiam incorporar códigos para a vida social dos alunos e a preocupação com a boa ocupação do tempo livre compuseram o arranjo argumentativo para a defesa da instalação de tais espaços educativos.
A Model for the Diffusive Filling-In Algorithm Operating in Spike Mode
Authors: Santos Genildo Nonato , Gabriel Rodriguez Carneiro Gomes José
Published: January 2020

To run cortical circuit simulations in spike mode, i.e. taking into account the neural representation of information in terms of sequences of electrical pulses (also known as spikes), the use of customized hardware, which is specific for this purpose, is recommended. Simulations using more traditional hardware can be prohibitive. In this context, theoretical predictions are important for customized hardware design. For example, theoretical predictions lead to an adequate neuron model choice. To make such theoretical predictions, the cortical circuit simulations are carried out in amplitude mode. Differently from the spike mode, in amplitude mode information is represented by sequences of scalar values that describe neural input and output spike rates. In this paper, it was proposed amplitude and spike mode simulations of a cortical algorithm, namely the diffusive filling-in algorithm, to investigate whether predictions based on the amplitude-mode results approximate well the behavior of the customized hardware (spike mode results). The diffusive filling-in algorithm was chosen because it is simple enough for spike-mode simulation in a conventional computer, but the proposed amplitude-mode prediction method is the same for more complex algorithms or circuits. We provide a highly realistic comparison between amplitude-mode and spike-mode in the diffusive filling-in case, which suggests that the amplitude mode is reliable for theoretical predictions useful for customized hardware design for cortical circuit simulation. The goal of this paper is not to bring closure to these discussions but to suggest a way of avoiding possible issues that could compromise the success of the customized device design.
Evaluating the impact of maintenance policies associated to SLA contracts on the dependability of data centers electrical infrastructures
Authors: Melo Felipe Fernandes Lima , Silva Junior Joao Ferreira , De Almeida Callou Gustavo Rau
Published: January 2020

Due to the growth of cloud computing, data center environment has grown in importance and in use. Data centers are responsible for maintaining and processing several critical-value applications. Therefore, data center infrastructures must be evaluated in order to improve the high availability and reliability demanded for such environments. This work adopts Stochastic Petri Nets (SPN) to evaluate the impact of maintenance policies on the data center dependability. The main goal is to analyze maintenance policies, associated to SLA contracts, and to propose improvements. In order to accomplish this, an optimization strategy that uses Euclidean distance is adopted to indicate the most appropriate solution assuming conflicting requirements (e.g., cost and availability). To illustrate the applicability of the proposed models and approach, this work presents case studies comparing different SLA contracts and maintenance policies (preventive and corrective) applied on data center electrical infrastructures.
Oral lesions of higher clinical frequency in children – literature review
Authors: Bettega Patrícia Vida Cassi , Navarro Lorena Bortolini , Bendo Cristiane Baccin , Paiva Saul Martins , Da Cruz Poliana Valdelice , Martins Carolina Castro , Serra-Negra Júnia Maria , Johann Aline Cristina Batista Rodrigues
Published: January 2020

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this article is to present to the dental professionals, through a literature review, the main oral lesions that are part of the odontopediatric stomatology, in order to improve the knowledge and attention to the health of the pediatric patients. Methods: The searches were carried out in the following bibliographic databases - PubMed, Web of Science, LILACS and Bireme. Data synthesis: This article deals with the description of the most frequent oral lesions in Pediatric Dentistry, ranging from characteristic changes in the newborn to pathological, non-pathological, congenital, fluid retained, ulcerative and those related to the main infectious diseases of childhood, with clinical manifestations in the oral cavity. Conclusion: It is very important, for General Practitioner and Pediatric Dentistry to,recognize oral lesions in children, to make a correct and early diagnosis of them, in order to improve the knowledge, attention to the health and quality of life of the pediatric patients.

RESUMO

Objetivo: apresentar aos profissionais da Odontologia, por meio de uma revisão da literatura, as principais lesões bucais que fazem parte da Odontopediatria, a fim de melhorar o conhecimento e a atenção à saúde dos pacientes pediátricos. Métodos: As buscas foram realizadas nas seguintes bases de dados bibliográficas - PubMed, Web of Science, LILACS e Bireme. Síntese dos dados: Este artigo trata da descrição das lesões bucais mais frequentes na Odontopediatria, desde mudanças características no recém-nascido até patológicas, não patológicas, congênitas, lesões com retenção de líquido, ulcerativas e aquelas relacionadas às principais doenças infecciosas da infância, com manifestações clínicas na cavidade bucal. Conclusão: É muito importante, para o clínico geral e para o odontopediatra, reconhecer as diversas lesões que podem acometer a cavidade bucal das crianças, propiciando um diagnóstico correto e precoce das mesmas, a fim de melhorar o conhecimento, atenção à saúde e qualidade de vida dos pacientes pediátricos. .
Influência da Stevia rebaudiana na saúde bucal – revisão de literatura
Authors: Henz Sandra Liana , Nied Maieli Maiara
Published: January 2020

Introdução: A Stevia rebaudiana é uma planta, nativa da América do Sul, da qual é extraída a stevia, um adoçante natural não calórico com potencial adoçante maior do que a sacarose, sem efeitos adversos e que tem demonstrado possuir muitos benefícios para a saúde sistêmica e, mais recentemente, para a saúde oral. O objetivo da presente revisão de literatura é apresentar os benefícios da Stevia como importante opção para substituição do uso da sacarose e dos adoçantes artificiais, principalmente no que se refere a saúde bucal. Discussão: Os estudos sobre a Stevia contribuem com importantes informações a respeito do potencial papel anti-cariogênico e antimicrobiano, oriundo de sua capacidade de reduzir a carga bacteriana, a formação de biofilme, evitando altas diminuições de pH e atuando como um agente anti-inflamatório. A Stevia pode se tornar um complemento aos cuidados de saúde bucal na forma de bochechos, cremes dentais, goma de mascar, saliva artificial, comprimidos mastigáveis, além de seu efeito benéfico para a saúde em geral, principalmente em paciente com obesidade, diabetes e hipertensão. Conclusão: Dessa forma, a Stevia apresenta vantagens quando comparada a outros adoçantes artificiais, além de ser uma excelente opção para substituir a sacarose.
Porto de Gwadar: o eixo geoestratégico do corredor econômico China-Paquistão
Authors: Fialho Vinícius Lerina , Haines Andrés Ernesto Ferrari
Published: January 2020

Este artigo discute a importância da região do Baluchistão, onde está inserido o Porto de Gwadar, para o Paquistão. A partir disso, discute também as condicionantes geradas para os interesses chineses, principalmente com o acordo dos memorandos de entendimento para a formalização do China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, sendo este Corredor considerado pela literatura como o principal eixo para o desenvolvimento e efetivação da Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Para o Paquistão, o Porto significa uma alternativa estratégica frente à proximidade territorial com a Índia, enquanto que, para a China, serve como principal rota de acesso para o Oceano Índico, Golfo Pérsico e Mar Arábico, diminuindo a dependência de Pequim da utilização do Mar do Sul. Diante disso, nosso debate é feito a partir de três seções. Em primeiro lugar, visamos a entender o contexto geopolítico do Oceano Índico na perspectiva da Nova Rota da Seda. Em seguida, buscamos apresentar os principais desdobramentos históricos do Porto de Gwadar. Posteriormente, o objetivo é identificar a importância geoestratégica do Baluchistão na qual Gwadar está inserida. Por fim, levantamos alguns questionamentos finais sobre a importância geoestratégica da região.
DESENVOLVIMENTO E SEGURANÇA NA POLÍTICA EXTERNA BRASILEIRA: CONSIDERAÇÕES TEÓRICAS E EMPÍRICAS DOS GOVERNOS LULA E DILMA (2003-2016)
Authors: Rizzi Kamilla Raquel , Antunes Diego Felipe
Published: January 2020

Since the mid-twentieth century, Brazilian foreign policy has been gradually insertinginto its agenda the concept of development (alternating between an orthodox and aheterodox view) as a fundamental motto of action. Other sub-areas of Brazilian diplomacyhave become conditional on development, especially international security. Presentingsocial aspects of development and Human Security as intertwined since the1990s in Brazil, the article analyzes theoretically and empirically the foreign policythe governments of Lula da Silva (2003-2010) and Dilma Rousseff (2011-2016). Takingas its main goal to verify the validity of such hypothesis, the article concludes thatthis conditionality is coherent with Brazilian socioeconomic and geopolitical reality,but that its proximity to Human Security must be taken with caution.
IRAQ: YEARS OF POST-SADDAM INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL DEVELOPMENTS
Authors: Ignatiev Pavlo
Published: January 2020

Iraqis very important for the world community because of its strategic position at the crossroads between the Persian Gulf, theMideteraneanSeaand theRed Seaalong with huge oil and mineral wealth. Moreover, Iraqi case illustrates all aspects of the US Middle Eastern policy since the end of the Cold War. The article analyses political and economic processes in Iraq after the demise of Saddam Hussain’s regime, evaluates the efficiency of post-war reconstruction of this Arab country in security and economic fields, singles out the reasons behind the civil war between Sunni and Shia followers, explains the paradox of semi-independent status of Iraqi Kurdistan as well as foreign policy of official Baghdad towards important neighbours – Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Jordan. The rise of Islamic State of Iraq andLevantcapitalizing on sectarian devide and an attempt of Iraqi leadership to neutralize this threat also has become the part of analyzis.
UM ESTUDO COMPARADO DA DIPLOMACIA DE LULA NO ORIENTE MÉDIO E AHMADINEJAD NA AMÉRICA LATINA
Authors: Souza Bruno Mendelski de
Published: January 2020

The article compares Lula’s foreign policy to the Middle East with Ahmadinejad’s to Latin America. Methodologically, the historical concepts of each diplomacy is combined with empirical data on trade flows and diplomatic actions. It is argued that the implementation of foreign policies involved similar (presidential diplomacy) and distinct means (universalism and multilateralism by Brazil, and personalism, bilateralism and low institutionalization by Iran). The results of diplomacies also resembled: although the economic implications were modest, Brasilia politically increased its global projection capacity, while Tehran relatively reduced its international isolation.
AFRICAN UNION, STATE-BUILDING AND THE CHALLENGES OF STATE FRAGILITY IN AFRICA
Authors: Nwozor Agaptus
Published: January 2020

This article evaluates the transformational role of the African Union (AU) in enhancing state-building and reversing the fragility of African states. Essentially, the AU was repackaged in July 2001 as a strategic platform to meet new aspirations for African unity and development. This article notes that after over half a century of collective African attempt at strengthening its state system, the picture is still one of fragile statehood, thus emphasizing the imperative of evolving new strategies to reverse the forces of state fragility in the continent. The article contends that in the face of concerns for African development within the context of sustainable development goals (SDGs), a healthy and functional state system is an irreducible minimum requirement. In order to repair the seemingly battered image of statehood in Africa, the AU must contend with, and overcome, the interplay of internal and external forces that conduce to and trigger fragility.
INTEGRAÇÃO REGIONAL: O MERCOSUL NA ENSEADA DAS ORIENTAÇÕES POLÍTICAS
Authors: Fernandes Marcelo Pereira , Wegner Rubia
Published: January 2020

The aim of this paper is to analyze the change in the orientation of Brazil’s foreign policy after the beginning of the Temer government, highlighting the main measures related to MERCOSUR. With the appointment of José Serra as Minister of Foreign Affairs, a profound change of position took place in relation to the way in which Brazil has guided its foreign policy since 2003, especially in relation to MERCOSUR. Evidence shows that the focus of South-South integration is likely to give rise to a project of rapprochement with Western powers, notably the United States.
A IMPORTÂNCIA ESTRATÉGICA DA ANTÁRTICA PARA CHINA E INDIA A LUZ DO REALISMO OFENSIVO DE MEARSHEIMER
Authors: Portella de Aguiar Mônica Heinzelmann , Mattos Leonardo Faria de
Published: January 2020

The Antarctic Treaty was signed during the Cold War and intended to preserve the continent and transform it into a conflict free territory, prioritizing scientific cooperation. Despite having quadrupled the number of its signatories, the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) faces nowadays the uncertainties of the new international order. Starting out from John Mearsheimer’s realistic perspective, this paper aims to analyze, the strategic importance of Antarctica and the interests that China and India have on the continent, as well as speculate on how their rise on the international scenario can impact the future of the Antarctic Treaty System.
THE SPREAD OUT STRATEGY OF THE MAIN WEAPONS TOOL SYSTEM OF THE INDONESIAN AIR FORCE IN THE REGION OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA
Authors: Akib Haedar , Hariyono Umar Sugeng
Published: January 2020

The urgency of this article is based on its focus and locus on the spread out or placement a strategy of the Main Weapons Tool System (Alutsista) in the broad perspective of the territory of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). One of the Alutsista owned by Indonesia is Air Alutsista which is used to maintain the existence of the Indonesian state in the air. The air alutsista manned by the Indonesian National Army (TNI) Air Force (AU) currently has a considerable power posture in Asia and the international world. This study aims to provide an overview of Strategy Placement Alutsista TNI AU seen from the vast territory of the Republic of Indonesia as an archipelago. This study uses normative research methods conducted by reviewing relevant reference content or based on secondary data that is adjusted with factual data of observation and experience of the author. The result of the research shows that faced with the territory of NKRI as an archipelago country, the placement of Alutsista TNI AU is uniformly distributed because it has only been fulfilled 40 percent of the minimum strength and still dominated in Java, Sumatera, Kalimantan and Sulawesi which should be fulfilled for Papua , Maluku, West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, and Bali. Similarly, the deployment of Radar will be provided at least 23 units because currently placed only amounted to 20 units.
BRICS COMO UMA COALIZÃO TRANSREGIONAL DE ADVOCACY
Authors: Rodrigues Marques da Silva Roberta , Rodrigues Gomes Eduardo
Published: January 2020

In this article, we aim to: (i) review the concepts adopted in the literature to explain the nature and behavior of the BRICS in international relations and (ii) present a new BRICS conceptualization proposal. From the first to the last Summit Conference, the BRICS explicitly advocates a multilateral world order through the inclusion of emerging countries in the base institutions of the Western order. For the elaboration of the article, we review the literature on BRICS, as well as the approach on regionalism proposed by Soderbaum to elaborate our conceptualization of the BRICS as an advocacy coalition.
CLASSIFICAÇÃO DE MARINHAS: UMA PROPOSTA DE METODOLOGIA COMPARATIVA
Authors: Alves de Almeida Francisco Eduardo , Pereira Cabral Ricardo
Published: January 2020

Classification of navies according to their relative power has been a challenge for the academic area that works with issues in the field of Security and Defense. Qualitative ratings have been presented by renowned researchers such as Colin Gray, Hervé Coutau-Begarie and Michael Morris, however these attempts have stumbled in its simplicity and little scope. From studies based on open access sources, this paper tries to develop a comparative methodology that would not only take into account qualitative but also quantitative factors. This innovative method was used to classify the navy of the different states in a ranking of power taking into account parameters such as the number of means, shipbuilding capacity, number of bases and arsenals, naval assets and availability of resources, among others, in order to rank naval powers. This methodology aims to reduce uncertainties in the classification of navies and serve as a reference for future works in the academic area that are dedicated to the fields of Security and Defense.
COOPERAÇÃO REGIONAL NA SEGURANÇA PÚBLICA: AVALIAÇÃO DO QUADRO NORMATIVO NO CONTEXTO DA UNASUL
Authors: Viggiano Juliana
Published: January 2020

This paper considers the normative framework that support regional cooperative practices in public security based on the activities carried out by UNASUR’s South American Council on Citizen Security, Justice and Coordination of Actions against Transnational Organized Crime. The article discusses differences and similarities between the conceptions of cooperation and public policies, analyzes the documents produced within the Council and presents limitations, obstacles and opportunities identified from the reading of these documents with regard to regional cooperation in public security.
DESENVOLVIMENTO E PODER GLOBAL DA CHINA: A POLÍTICA MADE IN CHINA 2025
Authors: Pautasso Diego
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this article is to analyze the relationship between development and global power of China. And, more specifically, how the Made in China 2025 policy is designed to deepen China’s development by driving strategic sectors of smart manufacturing and other innovations. To do so, it needs to understand how China has taken advantage of systemic changes since the 1970s to unleash a cycle of comprehensive reforms mobilizing industrial, commercial and technological (ICT) policies. That is, without state emulation there is no economic complexity or expansion of the country’s presence in the world. The proposed argument is that the interweaving between the internal and international dimensions compose the key of the rise of the powers - imperative underestimated by the narratives of liberal globalization - whose epicenter remains the national development.
LA DOCTRINA SALMÁN EN LA POLÍTICA EXTERIOR DE ARABIA SAUDÍ: OBJETIVOS Y EL USO DE LA FUERZA MILITAR
Authors: González del Miño Paloma , Hernández Martínez David
Published: January 2020

Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy is one of the central elements in the analysis of the current dynamics of the Middle East. King Salman and the crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, are introducing significant changes in the international activities of the kingdom, through a more assertive and militaristic policy, especially to deal with the different outbreaks of the region and the Muslim sphere. This article analyzes the objectives and strategies that support the responses of the Saudi Government, as well as the use of force as a resource for foreign policy. This paper studies the main challenges and resistance to the power of the Saud House. The formulation and development of the current monarch’s doctrine is determined by Saudi interpretations of possible security threats and opportunities at different levels, which may have a direct effect on the interests of the crown.
Size and Shape: The Influence of Packaging on South African BOP Consumers' Decision-Making
Authors: Oodith Pravina Devpersadh
Published: January 2020

The bottom of the pyramid (BOP) proposition espouses the use of â€˜single-serveâ€™ or â€˜sachetâ€™ packaging in order to enhance affordability, encourage consumption and offer an assortment of good-quality products to BOP consumers. This study assesses the influence of packaging (in relation to size and price of different quantities) on South African BOP consumersâ€™ purchase decisions. The study analyses whether or not these consumers have a tendency to purchase smaller quantities of products as opposed to making bulk purchases. This study further investigates the impact that packaging criteria (storage, convenience of purchase, prices of different package sizes and reusability of packaging) have on consumersâ€™ decision-making. The aim is to uncover South African BOP consumersâ€™ perceptions of packaging as a decision-making influencer in order to formulate appropriate strategies that businesses can adopt in order to lucratively serve this market. Using area sampling, a sample of 600 BOP consumers living in relative poverty within the rural areas of South Africa was drawn. Data was collected using a self-developed questionnaire whose psychometric properties were statistically analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The studyâ€™s results reveal that although South African BOP consumers view small quantities of products as convenient and easy to store, the majority have an inclination to purchase large quantities instead of smaller package sizes. South African BOP consumers are also enticed to purchase products that are packaged in reusable containers, thereby, enabling the containers to be re-used after the consumption of the contents. Practical recommendations are articulated for business organizations.
Climate Change and Food Insecurity Dynamics in the Rural Limpopo Province of South Africa
Authors: Omotayo Abiodun Olusola
Published: January 2020

In the developing nations of the world, poor gross domestic product growth has shown serious vacuum to be filled in order to achieve the sustainable development goals. In that regard, this research article intends to contribute to the sustainable development goals of the United Nationâ€™s goal by explaining the rural food insecurity in the light of climate change dynamic in some selected rural communities of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The data employed in the study were collected from 120 randomly selected rural household heads. Data were analysed with descriptive (frequency, mean etc.) and inferential statistics (Principal component Analysis (PCA), Tobit and Probit Regression) which were properly fitted (P<0.05) for the set research objectives. Descriptive results indicate that the average age of the respondents was 52 years with 60% of the household heads being married and a mean household size of 5.The study concluded that there is climate change effect and food insecurity in the study area and therefore recommended among others that the government of South Africa should endeavour to implement a more rural focused food securityclimate change policies in order to relieve the intensity of food insecurity situations among these disadvantaged rural dwellers of the province as well as to entrench a policy of long term development of agriculture. Finally, the study emphasized that the rural farming households should be enlightened through proper extension services to carry out climate change adaptation and mitigation measures in alleviating the food insecurity situation in the rural communities of the province.
The Cognitive and Psychological Bias in Investment Decision-Making Behavior: (Evidence From Indonesian Investor's Behavior)
Authors: Ady Sri Utami
Published: January 2020

The purposes of this research were to understand and analyze the behavior of the psychological bias experienced by investors in making investment decisions. Psychological bias experienced by investors led to wrong decision making and fatal losses. This research used qualitative interpretive phenomenology method to understand the phenomenon of decision making based on the perspective of investors. The result showed that: (1) The phenomenon of cognitive bias and psychological bias behavior occur in nearly all informants, (2) The Psychology bias could be divided by two types, namely: expected emotion bias behavior and immediate emotion bias behavior, (3) experience, knowledge of the capital markets and the management of good emotions determine the level of psychological stability and reduce bias behavior that could be raising the return.
Green Marketing Trek: Drivers, Challenges and Future Directions in Emerging Markets- A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Muposhi A.
Published: January 2020

Green marketing is growing in importance as it is tied to the universal goal of sustainable development. Although green marketing is gaining in prominence as a strategic imperative, mixed accounts a bound on its ability to create sustainable competitive advantage. Against this backdrop, this conceptual paper discusses the concept of green marketing, its drivers, challenges and future directions in the context of emerging markets. With the aid of a systematic literature review, this paper discusses market opportunities and challenges, implementation gaps, future directions and misconceptions associated with the adoption and implementation of green marketing. Results of literature review showed that the adoption of green marketing is driven principally by market opportunities, environmental legislation, operating efficiencies and improved profitability. Literature reviewed also notes challenges associated with green marketing implementation such as consumer cynicism, variability in demand of green products and exorbitant investment costs related to green technologies. This paper concludes that successful implementation of green marketing depends on a green vision that meticulously counterbalances the vested interests of key stakeholders in the value chain such as suppliers and customers. Effective green marketing implementation is also contingent on the ability of top management to integrate, coordinate and re-configure corporate competences to achieve green marketing goals. This paper recommends that marketers should resist the green marketing bandwagon but rather focus on understanding implementation imperatives that are preconditions for creation of sustainable competitive advantage. Marketers should also note that green marketing is not a panacea to all marketing challenges as it needs to be supported by sound marketing acumen
Incentivized Time Preferences, Level of Education in a Household and Financial Literacy: Laboratory Evidence
Authors: Mudzingiri Calvin , Mwamba John W. Muteba , Keyser Jacobus Nicolaas
Published: January 2020

This study investigates the impact of financial literacy, level of education in a household and gender differences on time preferences of students at a university in South Africa. The study relies on a convenient sample of (N=85, female=48%) pursuing a financial literacy course.  The study uses a questionnaire, a financial literacy test and a simple binary choice experimental game that elicited individual time discount rate to gather data. Ten percent of the participants were paid (in South African rands) for their time preference choices by way of quota random sampling. Female university studentsâ€™ individual time discount rate was found to be on average higher than that of their male counterparts, indicating that female university students are generally impatient, especially those with low levels of financial literacy. Our results (using a Negative Binomial Regression analysis and Ordinary Least Squares regression analysis) show that time preferences of university students aresignificantly influenced by highest level of education in the household. The OLS regression model shows that financial literacy, measured using financial literacy test, significantly influence time preferences for all subjects. The study concluded that patience levels among male university students increase as financial literacy increases. Gender, income, age and family size significantly influence time preferences of university students. Highest level of education in a household, financial literacy and gender differences have a bearing on individual time preferences.
A Website Quality Model Investigating the Loyalty of South African Consumers towards Travel Websites
Authors: Omoruyi O.
Published: January 2020

Due to the increase in the need for travel by international visitors, it is important that organisations consider key attributes of website quality, namely information quality and system quality to encourage and enhance consumer loyalty overtime. Drawing from Delone and McLeanâ€™s theory, this research argues that information quality and system quality are antecedents of travel website quality, of which the latter is a predictor of consumer loyalty. A quantitative research approach was adopted by way of a survey methodology and data were analysed usingSmart PLS software for structural equation modelling (SEM). Based on the theoretical review, a research framework detailing the hypotheses relationships among the research constructs was developed. Based on the research findings, the results provide support for the proposed positive relationships among the research constructs.
Relationship between National Culture and Development
Authors: Zuva Tranos , Worku Zeleke
Published: January 2020

Culture, as it is defined and well understood, differentiates one group from the other; in more general form, one country from the other. Culture then influences the behaviour and how we think in our everyday lives but so far culture of any group can only be measured in terms of a collection of cultural dimensions. This has made it difficult to establish whether there is any relationship between culture and any other social factors. In this study we derived national culture index from the four (4) Hofstede cultural dimensions (power (equality versus inequality), collectivism (versus individualism), uncertainty avoidance (versus uncertainty tolerance), masculinity (versus femininity)) using geo-mean formula. We then investigated whether there is any relationship between national culture index and national development index. In doing this we endeavoured to answer the question â€œIs There Really a Relationship Between Culture and Development?â€ posed by Mbakogu (2004:38). The data used for our experiments for Hofstedeâ€™s dimensions of national culture values were retrieved from Hofstede website that has an open licence for academic researchers. Data for human development national index were retrieved from UNDP website (Letter of consent was obtained from UNDP officials). The Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated (r=0.083, p=0.502>0.05), which indicated that there is very negligible positive relationship between cultural index values and the development index values. Since the value of p is greater than the significance level of 0.05, we concluded that there is inconclusive evidence about the significance of the association established between National Culture Index and National Development Index. Since we currently have a national culture index, researchers can now talk about culture as a homogeneous unit. Researchers may use the national culture index to investigate relationship between culture and any other social factors. In future we intend to use other cultural dimensions proposed by other researchers to present a national culture index.
A Comparison of Rural and Urban Tourism Experiences: A South African Example
Authors: Amoah Felix , Radder Laetitia , Van Eyk MarlÃ
Published: January 2020

Tourism is a rewarding sector for several countries as it presents opportunities for growth and development. While tourism attractions are predominantly located in either a rural or an urban destination, literature lacks comparative research about experiences in these two contexts. The purpose of this study was to compare touristsâ€™ experiences of visiting a rural or an urban destination in South Africa. Data were conveniently obtained from 401 tourists who visited either one of two rural, or one of two selected urban tourist destinations. This study found significant differences in tourist perceptions for escape and peace of mind. Tourists felt more strongly/positive that they were escaping when visiting a rural tourism destination than when visiting an urban tourism destination.  However, the study also revealed that tourists felt more secure and safe and that their privacy was prioritised (peace of mind) at an urban tourism destination than at a rural tourism destination. Tourism destination managers and governments may use the findings of the study to improve the tourist experience and promote a competitive platform for the tourism destination to attract more tourists.
The South African Women Purchasing Behavior and the Zero Moment of Truth
Authors: Pitman Sara , Amolo John , Ramraj Andrishabeharry
Published: January 2020

The decision-making process after online consumers have been stimulated through traditional advertising is a new and crucial part of the traditional three-phase marketing model. This paper was undertaken to understand the relevance of the Zero Moment of Truth (ZMOT) to women in Living Standard Measure (LSM) B in Durban, South Africa. The three questions that were the main focal point of this study aimed to assess the relevance of the ZMOT theory to women in Durban, South Africa within LSM B, the most frequented product categories as well as the platforms that were accessed to gain brand-related information in order to make the purchase decision. Data for this study was collected through mixed methods with a sample group of 100 women. The findings from the research suggest that there is a link between the relevance of core products like groceries and basic household items and the need to make smart purchases, as money needs to be spent wisely. The most frequently accessed category amongst women in LSM B was basic household items and groceries, this category was closely followed by skin care and cosmetics. The most widely accessed platform to search for brand information was the Google search engine.
Integration of Information and Communication Technology into Women Entrepreneurship in Uyo, Nigeria
Authors: Etim Ernest S. , Tengeh Robertson K. , Iwu Chux Gervase
Published: January 2020

Globally, entrepreneurship has steadily become the leading trend associated with growth regionally as well as nationally. It has lent itself to the significant and sustainable development of locally available resources and of human and social capital. More so, the establishment of microenterprises, together with small and medium scale businesses by women, is the most recognizable route to job creation, poverty alleviation, family well-being and women empowerment; apart from the social benefits accrued and direct impact to the community and environment. Unfortunately, despite the substantial resources invested by national and regional governments, international development organizations and other stakeholders for the enhancement of women entrepreneurship, several constraints still prevent women from attaining optimal performance in terms of business growth, annual turnover, and market capitalization. The use of information and communications technologies (ICT) has been suggested as another appropriate medium to assist with some of these challenges. A total number of 50 targeted female entrepreneurs in Uyo metropolis, Nigeria, were purposively sampled to take part in this study. Quantitative research design using semi-structured questionnaires was used to explore the influence of ICT on the entrepreneurial activities of female entrepreneurs. Descriptive and inferential statistics were adopted to interpret the primary data. Binary Logistics Regression resulted in Wald value =1.353 and p=.245, which is >> .05. The Wald chi-square test led to the rejection of the null hypothesis because of the p-value. Therefore, the leveraging of ICT tools did not have a significant effect on entrepreneurial activities among women entrepreneurs in the educational sector.
Efficiency Estimates of Public Health Center II Facilities in Southwestern Uganda
Authors: Tindimwebwa Kenneth , Kidane Asmerom , Joel Silas
Published: January 2020

The study estimates the efficiency of public health centre II (HCII) facilities in Southwestern Uganda. Specifically, it determines the level of technical efficiency (TE), scale efficiency (SE) and estimates the economic savings required to make inefficient public health facilities efficient. An output-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is employed in the estimation of TE and SE. It was found out that 73 % of the HCIIs were technically inefficient while 27% were technically efficient. Mean TE stood at 72.3% implying that an average HCII could potentially improve its efficiency by increasing its outputs by 27.7%. In addition, 77% of the facilities were SE implying that they obtained the most productive scale size given the input-output combination. 23% of the facilities were scaled inefficient implying that they have more input waste attributable to their size. There is great potential for economic savings shown by different magnitudes of input reductions and output augmentations required to make inefficient facilities efficient. The study has important policy implications. The health sector should embark on rigorous periodic research and development to enhance healthcare delivery efficiently. Since the health units are small, there is a need  to augment their scale sizes and improve on their management practices so as to enhance their overall productivity and efficiency. Stakeholders should scale up efforts to attract, align skills with needs and improve retention and motivation of the health workforce. Holistic investment in resource inputs is essential. A comprehensive monitoring and evaluation plan with key verifiable indicators to monitor the overall health sector performance is required.
The Impact of FDI Inflows, Exports and Domestic Investment on Economic Growth in Africa
Authors: Maune Alexander
Published: January 2020

The topic regarding the impact of foreign direct investment net inflows, exports and domestic investment on economic growth has resulted in mixed research findings across the globe. Literature related to the above variables in five selected African countries drawn from the five sub-regions is critically reviewed in this article. Furthermore, an econometric analysis of these variables is done to ascertain their impact on economic growth. The findings are compared to previous findings in other studies. The researcher found similar results in some variables when compared to previous researches in other countries. The study found that the independent statistical variables significantly predicted gross domestic product, with F (3, 63) = 5.84, P > F 0.0014, R2 = 0.2176, adjusted R2 = 0.1804 and root mean squared error (RMSE) = 0.54976. The independent variables added significantly to the prediction of p < 0.05. The researcher challenges the notion that the impact of foreign direct investment net inflows, exports and domestic investment on economic growth should always be positive and significant. This study provides a refreshed appreciation of the relationship between foreign direct investment net inflows, exports, domestic investment and economic growth in light of rapid socioeconomic changes in the sampled countries. The article also proposes some critical considerations regarding this relationship.
An Econometric Analysis of the Relationship between Changes in Government Bonds, Exchange Rate and Inflation Dynamics in South Africa
Authors: A Sanusi K , F Meyer D
Published: January 2020

The study examined the dynamic interaction between government bonds, exchange rate and inflation in South Africa. The study follows a quantitative research method, using monthly time series data from 2007 to 2017 within the framework of a Vector Autoregressive Analysis (VAR). Evidence from the empirical analysis shows that government bond accounts for significant variation in the exchange rate and inflation rate within the study period. The causality test also suggests the presence of uni-directional causal relationships from government bonds to exchange rate, and also to the inflation rate. The principal conclusion that emanates from the empirical analysis is that government bonds are an important policy instrument in the management of the exchange rate and the inflation rate in South Africa. The study recommends that the South African Reserve Bank is a coordinator of government bond and should carry out an in-depth analysis of the economic conditions before issuing the government bonds, taking into account its impeding effects on the exchange rate and inflation rate and many other macroeconomic variables.
Investor-State Dispute Settlement and Indonesian Reform Policy in Mining Downstream Sector
Authors: Ika Syahrir , Setiawan Sigit
Published: January 2020

To date, Indonesia has been facing the seventh ISDS (Investor-State Dispute Settlement) lawsuit case in ICSID, the most number of ICSID cases a particular country has in ASEAN. In the meantime, Indonesia had to initiate reform in its minerals mining sector policy since the sector had provided little benefit in Indonesian sustainable economic development thus farâ€“a policy reform which is potentially highly exposed to ISDS lawsuit case. Yet, the reform once issued has no turning back and thus it should move forward. Indonesian reform policy to support more its mining downstream by Minerba Act issuance is intended to benefit from its scarce, limited non-renewable minerals so as to support national development and maintain its long-term interest and economic sustainability. Undoubtfully, the policy reform will be beneficial for Indonesian economy sustainability and thus it should be protected from any potential ISDS claims in the future. This study seeks to address such real, critical current challenges arising from contingent ISDS claims towards Indonesia. This study adopts a descriptive analytical method, which combines literature review, authorsâ€™ shared expertise in this field, and results of interviews and discussions with several other experts in relevant fields. This study concludes that in addressing ISDS contingent problems threatening Indonesian current reform policy in mining downstream sector, Indonesia should focus the emphasis on the prevention endeavor, those are a review of BITs and IIAs containing ISDS provisions; improvement in investment dispute management; which are mainly supported by continuous bureaucracy reform, capacity building, and better coordination.
Trade Openness, FDI and Exchange Rate Effects on Job Creation in South Africa's Tradable Sectors
Authors: CHIPETA Chama , MEYER Daniel Francois
Published: January 2020

Employment creation remains the pinnacle standard of sound social welfare and economic progress. It is a fundamental driver of economic development for any economy. However, such a pursuit faces tenacious challenges, especially amidst the growing global market integration. This study unravelled the effects of the underlying trade environment mechanisms such as trade openness, foreign direct investment(FDI) and the exchange rate on South Africaâ€™s job creation efforts within the tradable sectors. The study employed a quantitative analysis and included time series explanatory variables of trade openness, netFDI flows and the real effective exchange rate. Employment series of both South Africaâ€™s mining and manufacturing tradable sectors served as the dependent variables. The study made use of quarterly observations starting from 1995 to 2016. In doing so, various econometric methods were utilised. These included descriptive analyses, the standard Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, and the TodaYamamoto Granger Non-Causality test. Empirical ARDL results of employment in the individual mining sector, established no long-run and short-run relationships with trade openness, the real effective exchange rate and net-FDI. Employment in the manufacturing tradable sector presented significant and negative longrun relationships with trade openness, the real effective exchange rate and net-FDI. Meanwhile, the short-run findings exhibited significant and positive relationships between employment in the manufacturing tradable sector with trade openness, and significantly negative for net-FDI. However short-run results of manufacturing employment and the real effective exchange rate were not significant. Based on these results, South Africaâ€™s mining sector seems unresponsive to mechanisms in the trade environment while these relationships are relatively dynamic in the manufacturing sector. Further recommendations were thus provided to improve these interrelationships in promoting job growth and its responsiveness to trade components.