Assessment of Industry Competition and Marketing Productivity on the Performance of Hotel Firms in Kenya

The principal objective of the study was to empirically assess the influence of industry competition (new entrants, substitute services, power of buyers, power of supplier and rivalry among firms) and marketing productivity (marketing activities and salesforce performance) on the performance of hotel firms in Kenya. The pertinent hypotheses were derived from the objectives. The study population comprised 209 hotel firms registered with the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) which is the principal umbrella body that brings together duly registered hotels, lodges, restaurants, membership clubs and camps operating in Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was used. The relevant primary data were collected from Chief Executives and Senior Managers using semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and regression analysis.The results of the study revealed that both industry competition and marketing productivity significantly influences performance. The coefficient of determination (R2) showed that industry competition explained 18% of the variation in overall firm performance. Holding other factors constant, a unit increase in industry competition would cause a 0.426 increase in firm performance. A t-value of 4.344 was established at p=0.000 depicting that the relationship was statistically significant at 95% confidence level (p-value < .05). On the other hand the coefficient of determination (R2) depicted that marketing productivity accounted for 8% variations in the overall success in firm performance. Holding other factors constant, a unit increase in marketing productivity would cause a 0.238 increase in firm performance. A t-value of 8.181 was established at p=0.000 depicting that the relationship is statistically significant at 95% confidence level (p-value < .05).  The study has made contributions to theory, policy and practice in relation to marketing in general and specifically in industry competition, marketing productivity and firm performance in the hotel industry. Future research should include additional factors, use a longitudinal research design and test the model in different sectors of the economy. Keywords: Industry Competition, Marketing Productivity, Firm Performance, Companies, Keny

Capacités de traitement d'un effluent de synthèse en infiltration percolation

Dans cet article, nous présentons des travaux mettant en évidence les capacités de traitement biologique des eaux résiduaires urbaines au sein des milieux poreux de textures différentes. Une étude comparative du développement de la biomasse couplé aux mécanismes généraux de transferts gazeux à travers deux réacteurs biologiques est menée. Des lits d’infiltration percolation sont simulés par des colonnes garnies de sables d’origine et de structures différentes. Ils sont alimentés périodiquement via un automate de commande avec un influent d’une charge de 525 mgDCO/l et de 54 mgNK/l. Les résultats obtenus établissent le fait qu’un développement équilibré de la biomasse incluant les phases de croissance et de régression est intrinsèquement lié à la nature physique du matériau support. A l’aide des carottes prélevées sur les massifs filtrants et des sondes d’oxymétrie introduites à différentes hauteurs des lits d’infiltration, nous montrons que la répartition verticale du biofilm dans les colonnes ainsi que l’oxygénation des milieux poreux lors des périodes de repos sont également corrélées à la structure des supports pourtant de diamètres moyens similaires. L’efficacité de traitement biologique du carbone est supérieure pour un sable d’origine alluvionnaire comparativement à un sable concassé ; la tendance s’inversant significativement lorsqu’il s’agit de la diminution de l’azote.In this article, we present work highlighting the capacity of variously textured porous media to biologically process urban waste water. A comparative study was undertaken that coupled biomass development with general gas transfer mechanisms through two biological engines.Infiltration/percolation beds are biological systems that treat water using a purifying bacterial culture that develops on a mineral support. Used in domestic wastewater treatment, they are regarded as being well suited to rural areas. These infiltration/percolation beds are easy to use and attain a high quality in their output, two factors that constitute assets for small communities.Infiltration/percolation beds were simulated in the present work by columns lined with sands of varying origin and structure. They were fed automatically, at set intervals, with waste water containing 525 mg/L of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and 54 mg/L of Kjeldahl nitrogen. A balanced development of the biomass, including the phases of growth and regression, was intrinsically related to the physical nature of the material used as a support. First, during the supply period, balanced growth of the biomass was quickly reached within the crushed sand. Secondly, within round sand, the regression of the biofilm was less significant and more regular over several weeks. In both supports, the regression was well correlated with an exponential decay. Lastly, the frequency of the supply periods, the organic loads involved, and the rest periods imposed are all factors that contribute to a lack of accumulation of living and/or inert organic matter in the columns.After obtaining a balanced development of the biomass, the abilities of the columns to reduce the concentrations of carbon, Kjeldahl nitrogen and ammonia were evaluated. Samples of effluent were taken downstream, both before the beginning of the supply period and as it came out of the column approximately thirty minutes after beginning the drainage period. The percentage of suspended matter coming out of the columns gave rather precise information on the scrubbing of the solid mass caused by various shearing speeds or by the structure of the base.Generally, it appeared that :- The reduction of the overall DOC was higher than 70%, regardless of which type of sand base was used.- In the water coming out of the column made up of round sand, the overall DOC content was without exception lower than 125 mg/L, as would be expected for an infiltration-percolation process.- The treatment of carbon in the columns based on stream sand was in general more effective than that obtained in columns with crushed sand.Concerning the treatment of nitrogen, crushed sand yielded outputs with a reduction in ammonia that was a lot higher than 80% (mean ± SD: 92 ± 4%) and was systematically higher than those obtained with stream sand (mean ± SD: 72 ± 7%). The suspended matter content was extremely low in the effluent; since no suspended matter was introduced into the effluent, the concentration coming out of the column was the direct result of the biofilm becoming detached and/or, to a lesser extent, of the transport of the biomass in the liquid phase. As could be expected, because of the roughness causing more shearing, more particles became detached when the interior solid mass was made up of crushed sand.Using core samples taken from the filter's solid mass, as well as oxygen probes inserted at various levels into the biological engines, we showed that the vertical distribution of the biofilm in the columns, as well as the oxygenation of the porous media during the rest periods, were all correlated with the structure of the solid supports (note that all sands had similar average diameters). Gaseous exchanges within the filter's solid mass were dependent on both the type of coating and the depth at which they took place. The oxygen probes were inserted at depths of 14 cm and 18 cm respectively, to determine the percentage of oxygen saturation in the liquid phase within the filter during one week while the columns were operating. Two phases were characteristic of the exchanges observed in the upper part of the filter's solid mass. First we noted an instantaneous reduction in the oxygen content of the liquid phase, linked to the arrival of a batch, followed by a reoxygenation of this portion. Next there was a long phase, lasting approximately 94% of the time between batches, during which time the oxygen content in the residual moisture remained constant. In the lower part of the solid mass, variation in oxygen content was different. Partial deoxygenation in the liquid phase of the porous media here was primarily due to the biochemical oxidation of the organic matter (i.e., consumption by the biomass). It was also due, to a lesser extent, to the augmentation in moisture content that occurs after each batch, and leads to a reduction in porosity and a decrease in oxygen transfer. During the final phase of drainage, a balance was created between the open porous space with air, and the space containing stagnant moisture. The diffusion of oxygen in the former and its transfer towards the latter thus compensated for this consumption, and it therefore remained constant. If the medium was left to dry out longer, the diffusion and transfer phenomena increased, and we observed an increase in oxygen content.With respect to the vertical distribution of biomass in the columns, we found that it was almost homogeneous inside the stream sand, up to a depth of 28 cm (total depth = 40 cm). Generally, the organic matter content at each point of measurement in the column was higher in the stream sand than in the crushed sand. The variation was greater around 28 cm, where there was a more significant quantity of moisture inside the sand

THE INFLUENCE OF SERVICE QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF HOTEL FIRMS IN KENYA

The principal objective of the study was to empirically assess the influence of service quality management practices (top management support, employee management, customer orientation, quality information, reward and recognition and product/service) on the performance of hotel firms in Kenya. The pertinent hypothesis was derived from the objective. The study population comprised 209 hotel firms registered with the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) which is the principal umbrella body that brings together duly registered hotels, lodges, restaurants, membership clubs and camps operating in Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was used. The relevant primary data were collected from Chief Executives and Senior Managers using semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and regression analysis. The results of the study revealed that service quality management practices significantly influences performance. The coefficient of determination (R2) showed that service quality management practices explained 14.8% of the variation in overall firm performance. Holding other factors constant, a unit increase in service quality practices would cause a 0.359 increase in firm performance. A t-value of 3.857 was established at p=0.000 depicting that the relationship was statistically significant at 95% confidence level (p-value < .05). The study has made contributions to theory, policy and practice in relation to marketing in general and specifically in service quality management practices and firm performance in the hotel industry. Future research should include additional factors, use a longitudinal research design and test the model in different sectors of the economy

UC-81 Drinkinator App

The Drinkinator app represents an innovative solution aimed at revolutionizing the beverage industry by providing users with a personalized drink recommendation system. Rooted in a motivation to diversify people\u27s beverage selections and enhance their drinking experiences, the app facilitates exploration of a wide range of mixed drinks, wines, and beers tailored to individual preferences. Leveraging data analysis and user profiling techniques, the app offers tailored suggestions, showcasing a deep understanding of consumer behavior and taste preferences. Utilizing React Native for front-end development and JavaScript for back-end functionality, the app integrates various libraries to ensure seamless user experiences and efficient data retrieval. With its unique approach, the Drinkinator app not only enriches user experiences but also holds significant business potential. Its personalized recommendation system can drive user engagement and retention, paving the way for targeted advertising and promotional opportunities within the beverage industry. Moreover, the app\u27s potential to establish valuable partnerships further underscores its intellectual and business merit, positioning it as a leading platform for beverage enthusiasts seeking novel and diverse drinking experiences

Severe Insulin Resistance in the Setting of Therapeutic Hypothermia

Background: Hyperglycemia is common in critically ill patients and has been associated with poor outcomes. The effect of hypothermia, whether induced or spontaneous, on insulin resistance and hyperglycemia is not well understood and sometimes overlooked. Objectives: To review the literature on glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in patients treated with therapeutic Hypothermia (TH) after sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). And also to present knowledge about the possible effects of hypothermia on glycemic control and insulin sensitivity. Methods: we present an example of extreme insulin resistance during the period of therapeutic hypothermia in a patient who was admitted after a sudden cardiac Arrest. Literature review was conducted as a Medline/PubMed search. Studies were assessed regarding designs, primary and secondary efficacy parameters on TH after sudden cardiac arrest and effects on glucose metabolism. Results: A 68-year-old male who was admitted after SCA was noted to have extreme insulin resistance during TH which completely resolved during the rewarming phase of TH. No randomized, controlled trials were found in the Medline search. Two studies found that there was an increase in insulin resistance during TH especially during the cooling phase, whereas three studies found no direct association between TH and blood glucose levels. Conclusion: There is a possible association between TH and a reversible form of insulin resistance. More studies are needed. Patients who are treated with TH after SCA may present a challenge in glucose management

INFLUENCE OF FARM SIZE AND ACCESS TO FUNDS ON UPTAKE OF IMPROVED PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES IN AVOCADO (PERSEA AMERICANA) FARMING, KENYA

The study was carried out to evaluate influence of economic factors  on uptake of  avocado improved production technologies by small scale  farmers to increase yields. The study was carried out in Kisii and Nyamira counties region, Kenya.The general objective of the study is to improve avocado production in the study region. The specific objective is to evaluated influence of farmer’s economic factors; farm size and access to finance on upake of the production technologies, respectively. Reduced avocado yields in the region could be due to low uptake of improved  production technologies by  small scale farmers. The study hypothesised that the low  uptake could be due to  chance and there is no  significant influence  of the farmer’s economic factors; farm size and access to funds  on  the  uptake. Descriptive survey  research design  was used. Stratified and  purposive sampling  procedures and Morgan’s table of sample size determination  were applied in chosing of respondents. There was one sub-county  purposively sampled from each  of  the 4 agroecological zones in the region for study area. Thus from 4 sub  counties with 1,211  house holds, a sample of 291 respondents was accessed  using Morgan’s table. Reliable structured questionnaires with  Cronbach Alpha, α=0.724 were  used to collect  field data from 291  small scale avocado farmers.The data was analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SSP) computer software. Descriptive,  analysis of variance, least significant difference and regression outputs were obtained. Results show that influence of  farmer’s farm size of more than 3 acres and access of funds from formal employment make significant  difference and have positive correlation with uptake of avocado improved production technologies, respectively. Farmer’s access of funds from banks or SACCOs  does not  have  a significant  influence on uptake of the avocado production technologies. Land subdivsion among small scale farmers should be discouraged and and affordable credit sources for them considered, respectively for increased uptake of avocado improved production technologie

INFLUENCE OF EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL FACTORS ON UPTAKE OF AVOCADO IMPROVED PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES: CASE OF KISII AND NYAMIRA COUNTIES REGION, KENYA

The study was carried out to evaluate influence of social and educational factors on uptake of  improved production technologies in avocado smallholder farming. The study was done in Kisii and Nyamira counties region, Kenya.The general objective is to improve avocado production. The specific objective is to assess influence of farmer’s social factors; gender roles, age and level of formal education on upake of improved production technologies in Avocado smallholder farming. Low avocado production in the study region is attributed to low uptake of improved  production technologies by  small scale farmers, among other factors. The study hypothesised that the low  uptake could be due to  chance and there is no  significant influence  of the farmer’s social factors; gender roles,age and level of formal education  on  the  uptake  hence the study. Descriptive survey  research design  was used.Stratified and  purposive sampling procedures  and Morgan’s table of sample size determination were applied in obtaining respondents. There was one sub county  purposively sampled from each  of  the 4 agroecological zones in the region.Thus from 4 sub  counties with 1,211  house holds, a sample of 291 respondents was accessed  using Morgan’s table. Reliable structured questionnaires with  Cronbach Alpha, α=0.724 were  used to collect  field data from 291  small scale avocado farmers.The data was analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) computer software. Descriptive, analysis of variance, least significant difference and regression outputs were obtained. Results show that where male farmers  control family resources more than females, influence of  the gender roles has more significant  mean difference and positive  correlation  with uptake  of avocado improved production technologies hence better for the uptake. Although influence of farmer’s age of over 70 years has more significant difference on uptake of the technologies, their correlation is not significant. Thus, farmers’ uptake of  the technologies non-significantly decreases with both decrease and increase in age. Influence of  farmer’s secondary level of formal education has more significant  difference and positive correlation on uptake  of avocado improved production technologies hence better for the uptake. Gender inclusivity should be encouraged and  there is room for offering extension services even to the aged farmers involved in production of improved production technologies such as avocado. Secondary level of formal education should be prioritized for the citicenry for increased  uptake of  avocado improved  production technologies

Participation in environmental health research by placenta donation – a perception study

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Much environmental health research depends on human volunteers participating with biological samples. The perception study explores why and how people participate in a placenta perfusion study in Copenhagen. The participation implies donation of the placenta after birth and some background information but no follow up.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Nineteen semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with participants in the placenta perfusion study after donation of placenta. Observation studies were made of recruitment sessions.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>The interviewed participants are generally in favour of medical research. They participated in the placenta perfusion study due to a belief that societal progress follows medical research. They also felt that participating was a way of giving something back to the Danish health care system. The participants have trust in medical science and scientists, but trust is something which needs to be created through "trust-work". Face-to-face interaction, written information material and informed consent forms play important parts in creating trusting relationships in medical research.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Medical research ethics do not only amount to specific types of written information material but should also be seen as a number of trust making performances involving researchers as well as research participants.</p