5975 research outputs found
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Energy efficient aware computational load balancing framework algorithm for fog-cloud data centers
No full textData centers form the foundation of Cloud computing systems. The overall operational costs are directly
influenced by the resource management algorithms that assign virtual machines (VMs) to physical servers and the ability to
relocate them in emergencies, such as power losses due to excessive heating. This paper presents a hierarchical SLA-based
distributed-based resource provisioning and optimization framework algorithm. This framework considers constraints like
energy consumption, cooling-related energy consumption, and scalability issues. We also include a load-balancing algorithm
to minimize the operational costs of the distributed data center cloud system. Simulation results demonstrate that this
approach, together with load balancing, significantly reduces the operational costs of the entire cloud system. This reduction
is significantly pronounced when considering dynamic energy tariffs from integrating renewable power sources to supply
server power
Risk exposure in recycled agro-industrial waste : radioactive sources and potential effects
No full textSurveyed agricultural byproducts pose no radioactive risk. Most industrial byproducts studied pose radioactive risks. Agricultural and industrial byproducts are significantly influenced by 40K and 232Th
Transition from inflation to dark energy in Superfluid Vacuum Theory
No full textThe laminar constant-velocity super flow of a physical vacuum modelled by logarithmic quantum Bose liquid is considered. We demonstrate that this three-dimensional non-relativistic quantum flow generates a four-dimensional relativistic quinton system, which comprises the dilation and quintom (a combination of the quintessence and tachyonic phantom fields); all three fields are thus shown to be projections of the dynamical evolution of superfluid vacuum density and its fluctuations onto the measuring apparatus of a relativistic observer. The unified model describes the transition from the inflationary period in the early universe to the contemporary accelerating expansion of the universe, commonly referred to as the “dark energy” period. The quintessence and tachyonic scalar components of the derived model turn out to be non-minimally coupled, which is a hitherto unexplored generalization of cosmological phantom models
Exploring knowledge transfer and retention strategies for postgraduate supervisors in higher education institutions : a global perspective
No full textPurpose – This study aims to systematically review extant global literature on knowledge transfer and retention in the context of postgraduate supervision in the higher education institutions (HEIs) sector.
Design/methodology/approach – To rationally explore knowledge transfer and retention in higher education, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis technique was used as a methodology.
Findings – The research findings of the study point to limited verified research in the global literature linking knowledge transfer, retention and postgraduate supervision in HEIs. Knowledge management is underdeveloped within the context of postgraduate supervision scholarship, albeit with potential serious knowledge loss risks within the HEIs sector. Moreover, knowledge transfer, retention and postgraduate supervision in HEIs are blurred. Therefore, future interdisciplinary studies are recommended to advance the scholarship of knowledge transfer and retention and postgraduate supervision in HEIs.
Research limitations/implications – Future research directions should focus on the critical role and capabilities of the supervisor, the student and other atmospherics.
Practical implications – This study proposes that 21st-century higher education systems depend heavily on the design of organisational knowledge-driven structures, transfer, retention strategies and policies within the context of postgraduate supervision.
Originality/value – This study presents global insights relating to knowledge transfer and strategies in the context of postgraduate supervision scholarship. Moreover, there is limited knowledge transfer and retention research aligned to ageing postgraduate supervisors and voluntary turnover in HEIs globally. Future interdisciplinary studies are recommended to advance the scholarship of knowledge transfer and retention and postgraduate supervision in HEIs
Integrating a digital pedagogy approach into online teaching : are academic librarians at Universities of Technology in South Africa prepared?
No full textPurpose
This paper aims to explore whether academic librarians at the Universities of Technology (UoTs) in South Africa have the pedagogy and digital skills to implement a digital pedagogy approach for online teaching.
Design/methodology/approach
A mixed-method approach in the form of a sequential explanatory design was selected to explore the topic in which the quantitative was followed by the qualitative phase. Instruments used included an online questionnaire and semi-structured interviews to explore the pedagogy and digital skills of academic librarians at UoTs in South Africa.
Findings
The quantitative results and findings revealed that academic librarians lacked the pedagogy and digital skills for online teaching. Similarly, results and findings in the qualitative phase also showed academic librarians lacking these skills for online teaching. Consequently, the results and findings derived from both phases were triangulated and the cohesive nature of the data was absolute.
Research limitations/implications
(i) Library schools include an elective module covering pedagogy and teaching with technology for librarians;
(ii) library professional bodies create opportunities for academic librarians to develop pedagogy and digital skills; and
(iii) higher education libraries need to create knowledge-sharing opportunities to improve the pedagogy and digital skills of academic librarians with teaching portfolios.
Practical implications
Higher education libraries and library schools must promote the teaching identity of academic librarians by helping them improve their pedagogical and digital skills for online teaching.
Social implications
This topic requires further exploration as academic librarians are fast becoming integrated into the teaching and learning agenda of institutions globally.
Originality/value
The current study is novel in that it explores the pedagogical and digital skills of academic librarians at UoTs in South Africa for online teaching
Strategic alignment of the South African retail sector with the national development plan
No full textThis paper provides an evaluation of the strategy alignment of the South African retail sector with the National Development Plan (NDP) governance values and objectives. The paper considers the commercial realities which form the framework for retail decision-makers when they address the challenges in aligning their business growth strategies with the regulatory framework of a capable, developmental state. Within that context, the outcomes of a retail stakeholder alignment study of the NDP strategy themes are analysed. The method involved a policy survey of a purposive sample of retail business and governance stakeholders. The survey findings reflect retailer alignment with many NDP regulatory and ‘active citizenry’ strategies, but with strong beliefs that others are not the retail business sector’s governance responsibility
The inclusion of design thinking as a tool for entrepreneurship at the Durban University of Technology
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree Master in Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.The volatile nature of the entrepreneurship environment requires specific
characteristics from individuals entering the field. These traits can be developed
through entrepreneurial learning, utilising a method- and design-based approach
known as design thinking (DT). Design Thinking prioritises the entrepreneurial
process, particularly the mindset and skills of student entrepreneurs. It also
encourages student-centred learning by ensuring that the acquired skills are
applicable to real-life situations. The study evaluated the inclusion of DT as an
entrepreneurship and business development tool at the Durban University of
Technology. Entrepreneurial learning through a design-based and method approach
was conceptualised. A quantitative research approach was used, focussed on
students who have either enrolled in entrepreneurship modules that follow the DT
approach or in courses that do not follow the DT approach, for comparative purposes.
The collection of data was done using a semi-structured questionnaire. Thereafter,
SPSS version 24 was used to analyse the collected data. The study results showed a
lack of awareness concerning DT, and that most participants have not enrolled in DT
boot camps or workshops. This lack is evident in the limited number of ventures
undertaken by participants. In conclusion an intervention is recommended which will
allow the incorporation of DT into the Higher Education Institution curriculum to foster
innovation and the execution of novel ideas.
Critical skills and knowledge to succeed in the township liquor retail industry
No full textThe township market makes the largest contribution to liquor sales in South Africa, but growth, sustainability and success of this market is unsatisfactory. The sector needs assistance to improve their performance. This paper aims at identifying the critical skills and knowledge specific to township liquor retailing. Data was collected through qualitative semi-structured interviews; participants included representatives from provincial government, the top three liquor manufacturers and distributors, and forty liquor retail owners from Khayelitsha and Mitchell's Plain townships. The findings reveal that skills and knowledge (customised to suit township are the foundation for better management of these businesses). The critical skills and knowledge are Operating Capital, Operations Management and Human Resource. Township liquor retailers fail as a result of mistakes that could be avoided through acquiring the right skills and knowledge. The current government and supplier skills and knowledge programmes should be improved and tailored to suit the profile of these entrepreneurs
Communication channels and interpersonal communication between South African and German business partners
No full textGood communication skills are vital, especially in business. This study investigated the role of interpersonal communications in managing South African – German business relationships. The objective of the study was to identify which communication channels South African businesses use to communicate with their German business partners, and which are perceived to be the most effective. In order to accomplish the objective, a survey was conducted by means of self-administered e-mail based questionnaires. In addition, a few depth interviews were conducted to help interpret the quantitative results of the study. In both cases, the respondents were purposively selected. Based on the findings, recommendations were provided on how communication can be made more effective to improve South African and German business relationships
Reducing long-term communal violence in Isiolo County, Northern Kenya
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration - Peace Studies, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2024.Several variables have transformed the landscape of farmers-pastoralists’ conflict in Kenya and many
other East African countries into what is undoubtedly violent and linked to larger political, economic,
and social forces. Integration and clan interactions among the various farmers-pastoralist
communities of Northern Kenya and the broader Horn of Africa region have been characterized by
violence in the recent past, which has been linked with cattle rustling, communal tensions, expulsions,
and massacres. Isiolo South borders Meru County, Garissa Laikipia, and Tana River counties are no
exception. However, most of the violence reported involves Meru and Borana, Borana and Somali of
Garissa and Borana, and communities living in Tana River County. The majority of people living in
this county are from Borana communities.
This study explored the nature, extent, trends, causes, and consequences of conflict and violence; the
interventions were previously undertaken to reduce conflict and violence among farmer-herders’
communities and followed an action research framework to plan and implement interventions to
reduce conflict and violence among the communities and evaluated the short-term outcome of the
intervention.
The study used dialogue to develop understanding and build good relationships among the
communities in Isiolo County (Borana, Somali, and Meru) to reduce conflict and violence. Six (6)
dialogue sessions were conducted involving the community members from the conflicting
communities and the action team of 15 members, the district peace community, and civil societies.
Dialogue was demonstrated as a conflict transformation technique that brings communities together,
removes misunderstandings, educates, and informs. Through discussion, the opposing communities
of Isiolo County achieved mutual understanding, which led to an investigation of the fundamental
problem of conflict and violence. The accord resulted in official negotiations aimed at reducing longterm conflict and violence. The research contributes valuable insights and practical strategies for
addressing communal violence in Isiolo County. It highlights the importance of building resilient
communities through dialogue, education, and empowerment while emphasizing the need for
continuous and adaptive approaches. To achieve enduring peace, stakeholders must commit to
addressing the root causes of conflict and creating an enabling environment where all communities
can coexist harmoniously and thrive collectively.