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The vampire effect : the role of humour and involvement level in advertisement recall and recognition
No full textThe effect of humour on brand and product recall and recognition in advertising, and the consumer’s level of involvement, were studied by examining the “vampire effect,” wherein factors, such as humour, draw attention away from an advertising message. A descriptive, cross-sectional quantitative online survey using convenience and snowball sampling recruited 443 participants, who assessed the humorousness of six advertisements, were asked to recall the advertisements without prompts, and then to identify those recognized from a list of brand names. The study showed that humour in an advertisement negatively influenced brand recall and recognition and also reduced product recall and recognition. In both cases, respondents were less able to remember the products and brands in the humorous advertisements. Furthermore, people with low involvement in the advertised product category were more affected by the vampire effect and so were less likely to remember the product or brand. Finally, recommendations are provided for when humour in advertising is appropriate and when not. The study is important because, although there is much research on effectiveness of advertisements, especially recall and recognition, there is relatively little research on the vampire effect, and almost nothing on the vampire effect of humour in advertising
An optimized support vector machine for lung cancer classification system
No full textIntroduction
Lung cancer is one of the main causes of the rising death rate among the expanding population. For patients with lung cancer to have a higher chance of survival and fewer deaths, early categorization is essential. The goal of this research is to enhance machine learning to increase the precision and quality of lung cancer classification.MethodsThe dataset was obtained from an open-source database and was utilized for testing and training. The suggested system used a CT scan picture as its input image, and it underwent a variety of image processing operations, including segmentation, contrast enhancement, and feature extraction.ResultsThe training process produces a chameleon swarm-based supportvector machine that can identify between benign, malignant, and normal nodules.ConclusionThe performance of the system is evaluated in terms of false-positive rate (FPR), sensitivity, specificity, recognition time and recognition accuracy.</jats:sec
Derivation of emergent spacetime metric, gravitational potential and speed of light in superfluid vacuum theory
No full textWithin the frameworks of the logarithmic superfluid model of physical vacuum, we demonstrate the emergence of four-dimensional curved spacetime from the dynamics of quantum Bose liquid in three-dimensional Euclidean space. We derive the metric tensor of this spacetime and study its special cases and limits, such as the linear-phase flow and linearized gravity limit. We show that the value of speed of light, which is a fundamental parameter in a theory of relativity, is a derived notion in superfluid vacuum theory: its value is a combination of the Planck constant and original parameters of the background superfluid. As for the gravitational potential, then it can be defined in terms of the quantum information entropy of the background superfluid. Thus, relativistic gravity and curved spacetime are shown to result from the dynamics of quantum excitations of the background superfluid being projected onto the measurement apparatus of a relativistic observer
Corrosion behaviour of mild steel in 0.5 M sulphuric acid media in the presence of potassium chromate
No full textThis research investigates the behaviour of K2CrO4 on mild steel corrosion in 0.5 M H2SO4 at ambient temperature of 30'C. The study was conducted using weight loss and potentio-dynamic polarization measurements. Data were recorded from the weight loss tests while the readout from the potentiostat was documented. Adsorption studies were also carried out. Furthermore, an investigation was conducted using surface coverage against concentration plot to determine when the best surface would be obtained during the experiment. Results from the study revealed that inhibitor efficiency increased as inhibitor concentration increased. The potentio-dynamic polarization plot also identified the inhibition mechanism of action as mixed but predominantly anodic type inhibition with maximum Ecorr displacement of 68 mV. The adsorption of the inhibitor agrees with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm while the separation factor which is a component of the Langmuir expression showed a favourable adsorption. The Gibbs free energy of adsorption showed negative value (-9.8 kJ/mol) depicting a spontaneous process with a prevalence of physical adsorption. The first day curve showed the best surface coverage values across all inhibitor concentrations utilized
Navigating affordability challenges and opportunities in mixed-income housing : a case study of Cornubia in South Africa
No full textThis article offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex dynamics within the Cornubia mixed-income housing development. Positioned as a microcosm of challenges in creating sustainable living environments for affordable housing, the paper navigates through theoretical discussions to propose actionable strategies. The study employs a rigorous qualitative methodology rooted in a relativist perspective, utilizing semi-structured interviews, context-sensitive approaches, and local collaboration to delve into participants’ affordability challenges and the constraints/limitations of living in the Cornubia mixed-income housing. The findings, driven by the experiences of 254 low-income residents, illuminate two key themes on affordability: high living costs and affordable living in Cornubia. Findings highlight three factors that exacerbate high costs of living: Electricity, Water, and Transport. These multifaceted challenges underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions. In the context of sustainable development, the study identifies key areas for lasting impact, aligning with environmental sustainability and social equity goals
Quantum PSO-based power demand and supply management algorithm for Micogrids
No full textIn this paper, we formulate a day-ahead dispatch problem of microgrids with distributed generation (DG) subject to the non-convex cost function. An operational frame- work is proposed to address the DGs 'valve-point' loading effect and optimize its performance. The valve-point effect induces a ripple in a 'fuel-cost' curve. The impact of demand side management (DSM) on convex and non-convex energy management system (EMS) problems with different load participation levels is investigated. Further, the DA scheduling horizon of a fifteen-minute resolution time is considered to examine the effect of load dynamics in the MG. The new optimization algorithm, Quantum Particle Swarm Optimization (QPSO), is employed to solve the non-convex DGs cost optimization problem. It is demonstrated that the algorithm efficiently solves the EMS problem. Simulation results point to a 5% reduction in OPEX costs with a minimal penalty on customer satisfaction or Utility
Passenger vehicle brand meaning among generations X and Y in South Africa
No full textThis study investigated the meaning of passenger motor vehicle brands among Generations X and Y in South Africa, a developing country. The study was conducted in the form of a quantitative survey at four universities in KwaZulu-Natal to access a spread of Generations X and Y respondents. It aimed to generate insights into consumer perceptions and choices regarding these two generations’ preferred motor vehicle brands who account for the bulk of car buyers. The study investigated specific brand dimensions, namely, factors related to quality, value, personal and group identity, status, and family traditions. The main finding was that the personal or individualistic factors, namely quality, value, and personal identity, were more important than the group-oriented factors, namely status, group identity, and family tradition. The implication is that marketers should focus on the buyer’s individualistic perceptions, wants, and needs, rather than those that are influenced by others through group processes or perceptions. This research has added to current knowledge on consumer behavior regarding motor vehicle brands by investigating the factors that influence the Generations X and Y buyer decision-making process in a developing country
Policing system and electoral violence : a case of Nigeria’s fourth republic
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Management Sciences Public Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.Electoral violence is a persistent challenge to Nigeria's democratic
consolidation, threatening the integrity of the electoral process and national
stability. The study investigated the relationship between law enforcement
and electoral violence in Nigeria's Fourth Republic. It examined the current
policing system, identified deficiencies, and proposed measures to mitigate
electoral violence. Key objectives include analysing the policing structure, its
link to electoral violence, challenges to reform, and recommending effective
measures. The study used face-to-face interviews with stakeholders,
transcribed and analysed using NVivo 12 software. Thematic analysis
revealed significant deficiencies in Nigeria's policing system in managing
electoral violence. Recommended reforms include structural changes,
capacity building, and enhancing police independence and accountability.
Minimising political interference and restoring public trust in law enforcement
are crucial for safeguarding democratic processes. The study highlighted the
impact of socio-economic grievances on electoral violence and the interplay
of weak legal frameworks, inadequate law enforcement, corruption, and
impunity. Technological innovations, such as electronic voting systems and
digital whistleblowing platforms, are essential for enhancing electoral
efficiency and transparency. The study concluded that addressing electoral
violence in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach, including structural
police reforms, socio-economic development, technological innovations,
stringent rules for defaulters, and international cooperation. Comprehensive
reforms are necessary to enhance legal and institutional frameworks,
ensuring the integrity and stability of Nigeria's electoral processes.
Institutionalising entrepreneurship education as a strategic approach to enhance entrepreneurial spirit in selected schools in KwaZulu-Natal
No full textSubmitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2025.The institutionalisation of entrepreneurship education in South African schools is
essential for youth empowerment and addressing critical socio-economic
challenges such as unemployment, poverty, and inequality. Despite its potential to
foster innovation and drive economic development, its implementation faces
significant barriers, including the absence of policies, resource constraints,
inadequate funding, and poor infrastructure. While entrepreneurship can create
jobs, boost individual earnings, and support national growth, South Africa lacks a
formalised approach to integrating it into school curricula to equip learners with
essential entrepreneurial skills and mindsets. This gap highlights an urgent need for
strategic interventions to promote a culture of entrepreneurship among primary and
secondary school learners.
The aim of the study was, consequently, to explore the institutionalisation of
entrepreneurship education as a strategic approach to improve entrepreneurial spirit
in KwaZulu-Natal schools. To achieve this objective, along with the secondary
objectives, both quantitative and qualitative research methods guided the data
collection processes. The 356-respondent sample was selected using a nonprobability quota sampling technique, with data collected using a questionnaire and
one-on-one interviews. The data obtained were captured, cleaned, and analysed
using the latest statistical package for social sciences analysis software, SPSS,
version 29.0.
The institutionalisation of entrepreneurship was found achievable through
entrepreneurial education integration as a compulsory subject of formal structures
and systems of educational institutions, such as curriculum and policies. However,
the study found the lack of policies, resources, and trained personnel remains a
challenge, while the majority respondents felt the government is not doing enough
to implement entrepreneurship education policy for basic education. This study
provides both theoretical and practical implications for government, educators,
learners, and parents, as well as business, society, and principals. The study also
offers several recommendations, one of which suggests the government should
consider developing an entrepreneurship education policy mandating educators to
teach entrepreneurship from primary through secondary levels. The study further recommends that the Department of Basic Education should organise
entrepreneurship workshops or training sessions, aimed at capacitating principals
and entrepreneurship educators with entrepreneurial knowledge. These workshops
and trainings should focus on product knowledge, conceptualisation of EED,
marketing, and other critical aspects of entrepreneurship. Moreover, these
workshops can serve as networking opportunities, fostering collaboration among
educators and sharing best practices in EED.
A theoretical framework addressing underlying factors such as the lack of
comprehensive policy formulation, resource constraints, inadequate funding, and
insufficient infrastructure is proposed. This framework is designed to be easily
understood by policymakers and the government, enabling the efficient
implementation of strategies to address the challenges of formalising and
introducing entrepreneurship education in schools nationwide.
Ergonomic challenges and musculoskeletal pain during remote working : a study of academic staff at a selected university in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic
No full textThe COVID-19 pandemic led to a rapid shift to remote working, which affected ergonomic conditions and increased the risk of upper body musculoskeletal pain (MSP). This study assessed the prevalence and impact of upper body MSP (affecting the head, neck, shoulders, and back) among academic staff at a University of Technology during the pandemic. Data were collected from 110 participants through an online, descriptive, cross-sectional survey adapted from the Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire, and the McCaffrey Initial Pain Assessment Tool. The survey examined demographics, ergonomic practices, MSP, and psychological well-being before and during the pandemic. The sample included 59.1% female participants, with most being middle-aged. Persistent MSP was common, with 54.5% reporting neck pain and 59.1% experiencing back pain during the pandemic, alongside a significant decline in wrists in neutral position ergonomics (p = 0.012). Psychological well-being also worsened, as participants reported lower levels of cheerfulness, calmness, and energy than before the pandemic. While 81.9% of 90.9% participants with pre-existing MSP continued to experience pain, a small (9%) but notable proportion saw a decline in MSP during this period. These findings highlight a strong relationship between remote working conditions and MSP, with poor ergonomics and psychological distress contributing significantly to persistent pain. The results emphasise the need for institutions to provide ergonomic support, such as appropriate equipment and workstation adjustments, alongside mental health resources to mitigate the long-term impacts of remote working on physical and mental health