bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"Smart" nanoscalpel for microsurgery of glial tumors of the human brain
Authors:   Krasnoyarsk Science Center of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zamay S.S. , Narodov A.A. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Galeev R.G. ,   JSC «NPP «Radiosviaz», Prokopenko V.S. ,   V.P. Astafiev Krasnoyarsk State Pedagogical University, Sokolov A.E. ,   L. V. Kirensky Institute of Physics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Borus A.A. ,   L. V. Kirensky Institute of Physics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zabluda V.N. ,   L. V. Kirensky Institute of Physics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lukyanenko A.V. ,   L. V. Kirensky Institute of Physics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Baron F.A. ,   L. V. Kirensky Institute of Physics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Garifullin V.F. ,   JSC «NPP «Radiosviaz», Masyugin A.N. ,   JSC «NPP «Radiosviaz», Zelenov F.V. ,   JSC «NPP «Radiosviaz», Grek D.S. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Voronkovskii I.I. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Gorbushin A.K. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Kolovskaya O.S. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Lukyanenko K.A. ,   Federal Research Center “Krasnoyarsk Research Center” Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, Nikolaeva E.D. ,   Federal Research Center “Krasnoyarsk Research Center” Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Science, Luzan N.A. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Kichkailo A.S. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University
Published: November 2022

We studied the effectiveness of magnetomechanical therapy in the treatment of brain glial tumors using magnetic nanodiscs functionalized with DNA aptamers to human brain tumor glial cells. • Materials and methods. The formation of a model of human glioblastoma was carried out by intracranial injection of tumor cells of glioblastoma obtained from a patient with glioblastoma. Antitumor therapy was carried out using nanodiscs modified with the Gli233 aptamer. The growth of the glial tumor was monitored using NMR tomography. • Results and discussion. Therapy of a glial tumor during 4 sessions of magnetomechanical therapy using a "smart" nanoscalpel in MF (10Hz, 100Oe) led to a significant reduction in its size, while glial tumors in mice that were treated with nanodiscs modified with nonspecific aptamers continued to increase in size. • Conclusion. Microsurgery using three-layer magnetic nanodisks with a quasi-dipole structure (Au/Ni/Au) modified with the specific for glial cells Gli233 aptamer (“smart” nanoscalpel) is effective for the treatment of human glial tumors in the brain.
Structural analysis of thrombin-binding G-aptamers in presence of bivalent ions
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Nikolaeva P.A. , Moryachkov R.V. ,   Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS, Raldugina V.N. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Naumova J.O. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Novikova T.M. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Spiridonova V.A. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to examine 3D structures of DNA aptamers, thrombin inhibitors. •The main objective was to study 3D structure 15TBA, RE31, NU172 aptamers using the small-angle X-ray scattering method. The size of 15TBA was 4.5 nm, which corresponds to a partially unfolded conformation. The CD spectrum of Nu172 in the presence of 50 mM strontium ions indicates the presence of an antiparallel G-quadruplex, the concentration o f which drops at 50°C. NU172 does not have a rigid structure, apparently due to the presence of a guanine residue in the GT loop. The NU172 aptamer does not form a stable conformation in solution either without ions or with Ba2+ and Sr2+ ions. • It was shown that there is possibility of aptamers transition from one conformation to another dependently on concentration and temperature confirms that the potassium ion is a unique stabilizing ion of natural molecules containing G-quadruplexes
Aptamer-based RNA-bio-drugs for the combined therapy of GBM
Authors:   “Federico II” University of Naple, Ibba M. , Ciccone G. ,   Institute Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Condorelli G. ,   Institute Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Franciscis V. ,   Institute Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Catuogno S. ,   Research National Council (CNR), Moryachkov R.V. ,   Federal Research Center ”Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS”, Morozov E. ,   Krasnoyarsk Science Center of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, Kuligina E.V. ,   Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Esposito C.L. ,   “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR)
Published: November 2022

This paper describes a novel combined approach to targeting GBM with multiple RNA-based therapeutics. Overall, the results demonstrate the good potential of a smart safe and clinically applicable combined regimen for the treatment of glioblastoma, opening up a new avenue in the treatment of this aggressive disease
Modern methods of sarcopenia diagnostics
Authors:   Kemerovo State Medical University, Fomina N.V. , Utkina E.V. ,   Kemerovo State Medical University
Published: November 2022

Sarcopenia is the loss of muscle strength and mass due to the natural ageing process of the body (primary) or a combination of sarcopenia with various diseases (secondary). Despite its clinical significance, sarcopenia often remains unrecognised and aggravates the course of comorbid diseases. The review presents analysis of scientific literature on sarcopenia diagnostic methods. Literatures from the E-Library.ru and PubMed databases published within the period of 1998- 2021 were used. The search was performed using the “sarcopenia” and “methods for diagnosing sarcopenia” keywords. Patients with sarcopenia have similar symptoms with cachexia, fatty infiltration and inflammatory lesions of muscle tissue, which complicates differential diagnosis of this disease. The screening methods for sarcopenia diagnosis include MSRA-7, MARS-5 questionnaires, Shinya Ishii method, SARC-F. The diagnosis of sarcopenia is established based on instrumental methods (bioelectrical impedance analysis, computer and magnetic resonance imaging, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry).
Obstructive intestinal resection in the treatment of traumatic intestinal injuries under peritonitis
Authors:   Novokuznetsk City Clinical Hospital 29 named after I.I. A.A. Lutsik, Yaroshchuk S.A. , Baranov A.I. ,   Novokuznetsk Institute for Postgraduate Medical Education, Korotkevich A.G. ,   Novokuznetsk Institute for Postgraduate Medical Education, Katasheva L.Yu. ,   Novokuznetsk City Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after G.P. Kurbatov, Kuznetsov V.V. ,   Novokuznetsk City Clinical Hospital 29 named after I.I. A.A. Lutsik
Published: November 2022

Treating bowel injuries is challenging. Although the failure of anastomosis or suture of the intestine remains a dangerous complication and multiplies in conditions of peritonitis, multistage tactics before the tactics of maintaining intestinal continuity during the first operation is becoming an increasingly preferred strategy. The aim of the research. To evaluate the treatment results for delayed formation of the inter-intestinal anastomosis in patients with bowel injury complicated by peritonitis. Material and Methods. A total of 69 patients were enrolled in the study, among which 40 were included in the retrospective group and 29 were included into the prospective group. All included patients underwent surgery for bowel injuries at the NCHKH 29 and at the NCHKH 1 within the period from 2011 to 2019. The patients’ mean age amounted to 33.4±9.2 years. A total of 35 patients were admitted with blunt trauma and 34 had stab wounds. The retrospective group received treatment with bowel resection with application of anastomosis during the initial surgery while patients of the prospective group had their anastomosis formation delayed to the time after peritonitis management. The postoperative course was analysed in regard to the frequency and severity of postoperative complications and mortality. Results. Among the 69 patients, 78% had a small bowel injury and 47% had a colon injury. A total 39.1% of the lesions in the small intestine and 21.7% of the lesions in the colon were treated with wound closure or bowel resection with primary anastomosis, regardless of the site of injury (p = 0.381). Mortality was 33%, of which 47.5% in the control group and 13.8% in the comparison group. A severe course of the disease was noted in 32% and complications in the abdominal cavity occurred in 32% of patients. The risk factors for severe course of the disease were formed intestinal stomas (p = 0.036), massive blood loss (p = 0.005) and delayed seeking medical care (p = 0.023). The incidence of intestinal suture incompetence was 28.2%. All failures occurred in the early postoperative period. Conclusion. Multi-stage surgical tactics in treatment of patients with intestinal injury complicated by peritonitis should be the preferred option, regardless of the site of injury – small or large intestine. The imposition of an intestinal stoma is an important factor in the development of postoperative complications, which can be compared with the risk of an intestinal suture or anastomosis in peritonitis
The efficiency of extracorporeal selective endotoxin adsorption in treatment of sepsis and septic shock
Authors:   Perm State Medical University, Kotelnikova L.P. , Vereshchagin A.V. ,   Perm State Medical University, Peremykina K.S. ,   Perm State Medical University
Published: November 2022

The aim of the research. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficiency of extracorporeal selective endotoxin adsorption in complex treatment of sepsis and septic shock in patients with surgical diseases, as well as in puerperas with obstetric complications or surgical problems. Material and Methods. This pilot retrospective-prospective study without formation of a control group included 36 patients with sepsis (7) and septic shock (29) against the background of surgical pathology and/or obstetric complications. The patients underwent 67 sessions of lipopolysaccharide sorption (LPS sorption) using Alteco LPS adsorbers and the number of perfusions from one to three. The efficacy of the procedure was evaluated clinically and in the laboratory with the determination of levels of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, presepsin and endotoxin activity assay (EAA). Results. After one-three sessions of LPS sorption, the severity on the SOFA scale reliably decreased from 12 to 7 points (p=0.000) due to improvements in cardiovascular (p=0.000), respiratory (p=0.001) and neurological indicators (p=0.041). There was a significant decrease in the percentage of rod-shaped neutrophils, the level of procalcitonin and endotoxin activity (p=0.007, p=0.000, p=0.002). The mortality rate amounted to 17 out of 36 (47.2%). A direct positive correlation was found between the lethal outcome and the timing of LPS sorption (r=0.432, p=0.024), as well as the presence of septic shock (r=0.324, p=0.050). The later the procedure was performed, the more often lethal outcomes were noted, especially in septic shock. A direct positive dependence of mortality on the need for vasopressor support before and after the procedure was established (r=0.446, p=0.007; r=0.653, p=0.000). The initial levels of procalcitonin, presepsin and endotoxin activity were not considered to be statistically significant for predicting the results of extracorporeal selective sorption of endotoxin. Conclusion. LPS sorption in sepsis and septic shock in addition to complex treatment significantly reduces the severity of multiple organ failure on the SOFA scale by improving cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological parameters and leads to a significant decrease in the level of procalcitonin and endotoxin activity. The earlier the procedure of extracorporeal selective sorption of endotoxin was initiated, the less lethal outcomes occurred.
Immediate results of organ-preserving anatomical resections and pneumonectomy in elderly and senile patients with lung cancer
Authors:   Siberian State Medical University, Shefer N.A. , Topolnitskiy E.B. ,   Siberian State Medical University
Published: November 2022

The aim of the research. The aim of the study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the immediate results of organ-preserving anatomical resections and pneumonectomy in elderly and senile patients with lung cancer. Material and methods. The study included 126 patients over 60 years of age, who were divided into 2 groups depending on the extent of the surgical intervention performed. Group A was represented by 63 patients who underwent organ-preserving anatomical resections and group B enrolled 63 patients after pneumonectomy. The groups were formed through retrospective analysis of prospective data obtained from the electronic registry. In all cases, the comorbid background was assessed, as well as options for preoperative correction of the concomitant pathology. In the postoperative period, the number and severity of complications were assessed using the TMM (Thoracic Morbidity and Mortality) System, and an intergroup comparative statistical analysis was performed. Results. According to the results of the study, postoperative complications among patients in group A were recorded in 22 (34.9%) cases, mortality was established in 4 (6.35%) patients. In group B, the number of complications and mortality were registered in 18 (28.6%) and 6 (9.52%) cases, respectively. Among the complications registered in group A, the most common were prolonged air discharge through the drainage and cardiac arrhythmias. In the group after pneumonectomy, complications associated with arrhythmia also prevailed, while the complication occurred statistically more often. Among the lethal outcomes in both groups, the main cause was progressive cardiovascular insufficiency against the background of arrhythmia, as well as failure of the bronchus stump and suture. Conclusion. Despite the absence of reliable differences in the total number of complications and mortality in the groups, there is a clear trend towards a higher frequency of fatal complications in the group after pneumonectomy. A feature was noted in the continuing risk of mortality, regardless of the severity of the complication. Among patients after organ-preserving anatomical resections, reversible deviations from the normal course in the postoperative period prevail. In addition, this extent of surgical intervention provides for better functionality and quality of life to elderly and senile patients.
Analysis of infant mortality in the Irkutsk region and reserves for its reduction
Authors:   Irkutsk State Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education, Boyko T.V. , Protopopova N.V. ,   Irkutsk State Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education, Kravchuk L.A. ,   Irkutsk Regional Clinical Hospital of the Order of the Badge of Honor
Published: November 2022

The aim of the research. Determination of reserves for reducing infant mortality based on the results of its analysis. Material and methods. An analysis of infant mortality dynamics in the Irkutsk Region for 2018-2020 was made as well as of medical documentation of 51 cases of death from external causes in the postneonatal period. Results. In 2020, the structure of the causes of infant mortality has changed due to its increase from external causes, which took the first place in the postneonatal period. Infant mortality outside medical institutions has a negative trend: 19.8% in 2018, 24.5% in 2019 and 25.1% in 2020. Analysis of medical records revealed that children aged 1 to 3 months (52.9%) and 4 to 6 months (35.3%) died more often, being mostly full-term children (84.3%), among whom 27.9% were with intrauterine development delay. The largest number of deaths occurred from accidental suffocation at home – 86.3%. A total of 35 (68.6%) children were brought up in families of high social risk, while 25 (71.4%) families were not registered by social protection authorities and were deprived of the opportunity to receive social support. Conclusion. The reduction of infant mortality from external causes largely depends on organisation of interdepartmental interaction of medical organisations with bodies and institutions of the neglect prevention system for monitoring families in socially dangerous situations. For timely identification of families of high social risk and the transfer of information to the custody and guardianship authority and the social protection management authority, medical organisations must be staffed with social workers.
Cardiac manifestations of post-COVID syndrome in children and adolescents
Authors:   Siberian State Medical University, Ponomareva D.A. , Nagaeva T.A. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Zhelev V.A. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Basareva N.I. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Mochalina L.A. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Reim A.S. ,   Siberian State Medical University, Ermolaeva J.A. ,   Siberian State Medical University
Published: November 2022

The aim of the research. To study the features of cardiovascular system disorders in post-covid syndrome (PCS) in children and adolescents after a mild form of coronavirus infection (COVID-19). Material and methods. From 260 children and adolescents after a mild form of COVID-19, a total of 30 patients aged 7–17 years with cardiac manifestations of PCS were selected. Therewith, 32 patients with an uncomplicated form of the disease were selected to form a comparison group. In 3 and 6 months after disease onset, a comprehensive examination of patients was performed with a questionnaire on the subjective scale for MFI-20 assessment asthenia (Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20), electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography; daily monitoring of ECG and blood pressure. The biochemical blood test included assay of creatine phosphokinase-MB (CPK-MB), troponin I and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Results. The incidence of PCS with cardiac manifestations amounted to 11.5 %. After 3 months from the disease onset, complaints of pain and discomfort in the chest, palpitations, fatigue, and poor exercise tolerance persisted. Asthenic syndrome was diagnosed in 70 % of patients. The “general asthenia” indicator totalled14 [12; 16] points (p<0.001) and was associated with the age of patients (r=+0.5; p<0.05). Arrhythmic syndrome and conduction disorders were detected in 67% of children. Labile arterial hypertension and hypotension occurred in 23 % of the adolescents. The increase in CPK-MB remained in 17% of the children, LDH – in 10%. In the sixth month after the onset of the disease, there were no significant differences in the results of the examination in the observation groups. However, a decrease in the level of resistance within 6 months was recorded in 43.3% of the schoolchildren with PCS (p<0.001). Conclusion. The data obtained indicate the need for early verification of cardiopathies in children with COVID-19, determination of a set of therapeutic and rehabilitation measures as well as ECG monitoring.
A clinical case of simultaneous embolisation and endoscopic removal of juvenile angiofibroma at the cranial base
Authors:   Krasnoyarsk regional hospital, Litvinyuk N.V. , Donov I.A. ,   Krasnoyarsk regional hospital, Eytyagen S.E. ,   Krasnoyarsk regional hospital, Sidorenko A.V. ,   Krasnoyarsk regional hospital, Afonkin V.Yu. ,   Krasnoyarsk regional hospital, Kashirtseva I.A. ,   Krasnoyarsk interdistrict hospital No. 4, Evdokimova E.Yu. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Vakhrushev S.G. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Protopopov A.V. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University
Published: November 2022

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is a benign vascular tumour, mainly in young patients. There are several theories regarding the origin of this type of tumour, but the accepted treatment tactic is radical removal. The complexity of surgical intervention is associated with pronounced vascularisation of the formation, which leads to severe intraoperative blood loss. The development of surgical techniques from open resections to endoscopic interventions made it possible to reduce the volume of blood loss and the next step was the use of preoperative arterial embolisation of the tumour. Our clinical example demonstrates the safety and efficacy of simultaneous implementation of JNA embolisation and endoscopic resection under intraoperative MSCT control.
Abordagem da sustentabilidade no contexto da gestão de bibliotecas
Authors: Moreno Edinei Antônio , Dutra Ademar , Junges Ivone , Mussi Clarissa Carneiro
Published: November 2022

Introdução: a adoção da sustentabilidade na rotina das pessoas e nas atividades de gestão de instituições de ensino está cada vez mais presente. Esta pesquisa aborda o conceito de sustentabilidade aplicado nas atividades de gestão no cenário das bibliotecas. Obejtivo: O objetivo deste estudo é analisar, a partir de um fragmento da literatura científica, os conteúdos do tema sustentabilidade no contexto da gestão de bibliotecas. Metodologia: realizou-se uma revisão da literatura em três bases de dados (Scopus, Web of Science e Scielo), auxiliado pelo instrumento denominado ProKnow-C; a pesquisa foi desenvolvida com abordagem qualitativa e os resultados analisados com a técnica de Análise de conteúdo. Resultados: a seleção do portfólio referente ao tema ficou representado por 23 artigos alinhados. Após análise do conteúdo dos artigos, entre alguns dos resultados, destaca-se que o conceito de sustentabilidade no contexto da gestão de bibliotecas ficou representado por quatro temas principais: Construção verde, Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação, Modelos de avaliação e Práticas sustentáveis aplicadas simultaneamente. Conclusão: aos bibliotecários, gestores e pesquisadores da área de biblioteconomia implica esclarecer que este estudo categoriza iniciativas teóricas e práticas do conceito de sustentabilidade aplicado na gestão de bibliotecas e que sua utilização como fonte de informação pode elucidar questões a respeito desta temática.
The information professional and the co-creation of value in information services: theoretical contributions
Authors:   State University of Santa Catarina, Silveira Mauro , Varvakis Gregório ,   State University of Santa Catarina
Published: November 2022

Introduction: The co-creation of value is a relevant factor for the development of better informational services provided by libraries. These services require reassessments of processes that involve their various participants. The co-creation of value offers opportunities for better integration between provider and user of information services. In this aspect, the question is how to understand the participation of the participants in this process. Objective: The objective of this study is to build a theoretical framework that allowsthe investigation of the processes of co-creation of value in informational services from the perspective of the service provider (information professionals/library). It is justified by the lack and lack of understanding of how the co-creation of value inlibraries occurs, mainly on the aspects of providing informational services. Methodology: It is a theoretical essay, of a conceptual and analytical nature. Results: As a result, through national and international literature reviews, it was possible to delimit the study scenario, which resulted in a structure of connections, which enabled the construction of the frame of reference. Conclusion: It is concluded that the frame of reference can contribute to the theoretical advance and development of studies that allow the investigation of the processes/elements of co-creation of value of the users, and perhaps the construction of models and the management of these elements.
Effects of skill acquisition on entrepreneurship development: General systematic review and progress in Ghana
Authors: Padi Abigail
Published: November 2022

Over the years, governments in Ghana have provided various stimulus packages for local entrepreneurs to rejuvenate and expand their businesses while setting up new companies. The question is, how talented are the youth in entrepreneurship? This paper sought to review the extant literature on the impact of skill acquisition on entrepreneurship development and progress in Ghana. The Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach was used to search for relevant journal articles from Scopus, Emerald Insight, and Google Scholar search engines. The search criteria were limited to journal articles with the keywords “skill acquisition”, “entrepreneurship,” and entrepreneurship development” from 1970 to 2020. Using the SLR technique, a total of 45 articles were identified, and 21 were relevant to the research focus. The review identified that skill acquisition significantly influences entrepreneurship development. It is recommended that entrepreneurship skill acquisition should be integrated in the Ghanaian education system right from the elementary level. Again, tertiary institutions in Ghana should have entrepreneurial centers for practical sessions.
Influence of service assurance on customer satisfaction across Kenyan insurance companies
Authors: Chege Catherine Njoki
Published: November 2022

This study sought to determine the influence of service assurance on customer satisfaction in the insurance industry in Kenya. The latent variable assurance was measured using four manifest variables namely, Employees instill customer confidence; Customers feel safe to transact with the company; Employee Politeness and Provision of adequate information on service requested. A descriptive research design was adopted and a multi-stage sampling technique was used to sample 400 policyholders from 19 composite insurance companies in Kenya. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire. A pilot test was conducted to check the reliability and validity of the questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using inferential statistics. R-Gui was the leading statistical software. The study applied linear mixed-effect models of structural equation modeling (SEM) considering the multi-level structure of the data collected. Multi-level analysis was adopted to determine whether service assurance contributed to the variation in levels of customer satisfaction across insurance companies. A significant fixed effect coefficient estimate of 0.696 was established, implying that increasing the levels of Service Assurance as perceived by a customer by one unit would increase the level of Customer Satisfaction by 0.696. The study concluded that a client who perceives Service Assurance from their insurer is bound to have higher satisfaction than a customer who does not perceive it. Employee Assurance, however, was found not to significantly affect the variations in customer satisfaction across the insurance companies. The study recommended that insurance firms invest in service assurance to achieve maximum customer satisfaction.
Evaluating the adoption of e-banking services by SMEs in the common monetary area
Authors: Moss Gavin , Thomas Peta
Published: November 2022

There has been limited study from a southern-African perspective investigating factors that affect the adoption of e-banking specific to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing African economies. To date, little is known about SME uptake of e-banking in the southern African common monetary area (CMA), comprising South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, and Eswatini. This knowledge gap is problematic for banks in providing SME support for the transition to e-banking, given the current move by banks toward embracing digital strategies. This study focused on a single bank with a large footprint in the CMA, intending to add to the body of academic knowledge regarding the adoption of e-banking services by SMEs. It employed a qualitative methodology involving one-on-one, semi-structured, open-ended interviews with purposefully selected Bank X staff in each country of the CMA, using the literature reviewed to identify themes relevant to the proposed conceptual model. The conclusions of this research have led to a framework for e-banking adoption. A framework such as this may positively impact the profitability and sustainability of an SME by ensuring the adoption of e-banking services and utilization of available financial products to improve business opportunities via the e-banking channels of Bank X.
Teaching learners with learning disabilities in inclusive classrooms: Challenges and possible solutions
Authors: Masana Seliane , Kgothule Rantsie
Published: November 2022

In 2001, the government of Lesotho increased access to schooling for all learners by incrementally eliminating school fees in primary schools. As a result, the admission of children with learning disabilities (LD) in primary schools also increased. Despite these important gains in the restructuring of the education system towards full inclusion during the past two decades, the national policy on teacher training and implementation and school- and classroom-based challenges, remain. Data for this qualitative study were generated through meetings with two groups of participants (Grade 1 teachers). Free-attitude interviews were also conducted in the meetings to conduct an in-depth investigation in the study and the generated data were analysed using conversation analysis. The study concludes that all identified challenges are surmountable and therefore require careful planning, dedicated effort and financial assistance to enable teachers to act as a driving force for inclusive schooling.
Influence of brand loyalty on consumer purchase behavior
Authors: Catic Lejla , Poturak Mersid
Published: November 2022

The subject of scientific research is the examination of the difference in brand loyalty factors according to the socio-demographic characteristics (age, education, income level) of confectionary consumers, as well as the examination of the connection between brand loyalty factors and brand loyalty of confectionary consumers in Serbia. 200 respondents completed the structured questionnaire. Determining the difference in brand loyalty factors according to socio-demographic characteristics of confectionary consumers was performed using the f test, while the correlation between the brand loyalty factors and brand loyalty was performed using Spearman's rank correlation as a non-parametric alternative to Pearson's correlation. It was determined that there is a significant difference in brand loyalty factors according to the age, education, and income level of confectionary consumers. There is also a statistically significant correlation between all brand loyalty factors and brand loyalty.
Influence of special treatment benefits on Generation Y students’ attitude towards retail point-based loyalty programmes
Authors: Neves Jacinta Ana , Redda Ephrem Habtemichael , De Klerk Natasha
Published: November 2022

The number of loyalty programmes has increased rapidly, becoming one of the most used marketing practices in the global retail market today. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether special treatment benefits influence Generation Y students’ attitudes towards retail point-based loyalty programmes and usage behaviour in South Africa by extending the theory of planned behaviour and adding unique treatment benefits and consumer satisfaction factors to propose a model for this study. The study employed a quantitative method, where a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a non-probability convenience sample of 388 students (aged 18 to 24 years), across two public higher education institutions’ campuses in the Gauteng province. The collected data was examined using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, reliability, correlation analysis multicollinearity and structural equation modelling (SEM). The study results indicate that subjective norms, unique treatment benefits and perceived behavioural control positively influence consumer satisfaction. The results also indicate that consumer satisfaction has a positive influence in shaping consumer attitudes towards retail point-based loyalty programmes which in turn influence usage behaviour of Generation Y students.
Product quality, reference group, convenience and its effect on the repurchase intentions of Janji Jiwa brand coffee
Authors: Dalilati Prabarini Devina , Sumiati  , Setiawan Margono
Published: November 2022

Coffee is currently a part of people's lifestyles, so the coffee shop is one of the most promising businesses, especially among teenagers. This study uses product quality, reference group and convenience as exogenous variables that influence customers' repurchase intentions, with satisfaction as a mediation. The respondents in this study were millennial customers (Generations Z and Y) who buy Janji Jiwa brand coffee in the city of Surabaya, the determination of the number of samples in this study used a purposive sampling technique with a sample of 150 respondents. The method of collecting data is using a questionnaire; the data is analyzed using PLS-SEM. The results showed that product quality, reference group and convenience significantly affected customers' repurchase intentions. The product quality, reference group and convenience had a significant effect on satisfaction; satisfaction had a significant effect on repurchase intentions. Satisfaction can partially mediate the relationship between product quality, reference group, and convenience to customers' repurchase intentions.
Enhanced digital learning strategies: A case of a rural senior secondary school
Authors: Yengwayo Zameka Primrose , Makena Bulelwa
Published: November 2022

As qualitative research, this paper aims to identify the impact of the necessary significance of enhanced digital learning strategies in rural senior secondary schooling. The main findings about improved digital learning strategies in rural schools are (i) limited availability of digital resources coupled with (i) motivation as a factor for teachers and learners as recipients of the schooling process. As a result, this paper concludes by outlining the necessary significance for teachers and learners to have upgraded skills for viability in the digital world. Therefore, this paper recommends that teachers require more professional support and development to transform teaching strategies.
Practitioners’ challenges in the application of conceptions of mathematical knowledge in the foundation phase mathematics learning
Authors: Gqoli Neliswa , Okeke Chinedu , Ugwuanyi Christian
Published: November 2022

This study used a qualitative research design to examine the difficulties faced by ECD practitioners when applying their mathematical expertise to improve young children's arithmetic learning. Five practitioners were selected from among the five ECD centers using a purposive sampling method for the study. Semi-structured interview questions were employed to collect the data. The construction of themes and sub-themes resulted from analyzing the collected data thematically. According to the research's findings, early childhood educators face difficulties due to their limited grasp of mathematical language, lack of classroom environments conducive to children learning mathematics, and lack of experience incorporating play into their instruction. It was discovered that some practitioners struggled to get kids interested in learning the language since they don't know how to communicate and take a long time to educate because they don't pay attention in class and forget rapidly. Based on the findings of this research, there is a need for proper in-service training of the practitioners, as was the provision of adequate space for the ECD centers.
Can enabling entrepreneurship ecosystem improve commercialization of research in South African Higher Education Institutions?
Authors: Ncanywa Thobeka , Dyantyi Noluntu
Published: November 2022

An entrepreneurship ecosystem entails a community of practice that displays the characteristics of creativity and innovation, risk-taking, a strategist, and an active participant in identifying opportunities and making decisions among others in the organization. The ecosystem can be key when Higher Education Institutions are engaged in the transformation process of commercialization. The paper intends to explore whether an entrepreneurship ecosystem can stimulate the commercialization of the research process in a sustainable way. The qualitative thematic review methodology is employed to achieve this aim. The commercialization process is viewed in an entrepreneurship ecosystem by looking at the entrepreneurial institutions, stakeholders involved, and the sustainable business model. It is recommended that adopting an entrepreneurial ecosystem for commercialization of research in Higher Education Institutions can play a crucial role in building their structures to be economically active; addressing graduate unemployment; providing recovery strategies to reboot businesses in communities, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic; and position themselves as entrepreneurial institutions.
Examining the relationship between employment equity implementation and employee performance at the workplace: Evidence from a leading organisation in South Africa
Authors: Utete Reward
Published: November 2022

Employment equity has continued to occupy a centre stage in the field of human resource management in the current and forthcoming decades in various countries worldwide. It plays a critical role in promoting the elimination of unfair discrimination and consideration of people from previously disadvantaged groups at the workplace. The paper aims to establish the relationship between employment equity implementation and employee performance. The paper also examines the relationship between eliminating unfair discrimination and employee performance at the workplace. In addition, the paper also aims to evaluate the relationship between the maintenance of affirmative action and employee performance. This study adopted a descriptive research design and a quantitative research approach. The data employed regression analysis to test the hypotheses. Data was gathered from 172 employees in a leading organisation in South Africa. This paper's key findings revealed a positive relationship between employment equity implementation and employee performance. The statistical tests revealed a significant relationship between eliminating discrimination and improving employee performance in the workplace. However, the results of the statistical tests revealed an insignificant relationship between the maintenance of affirmative action and the improvement of employee performance at the workplace. In conclusion, organisations should ensure they eliminate unfair discrimination at all costs. This can improve employee performance.
Chronicling teacher’s experiences in the teaching of economics in the Covid-19 era
Authors: Adu Emmanuel Olusola , Zondo Sindiswa S.
Published: November 2022

Worldwide the emergence of Covid-19 brought about shock and many challenges in the education system. During the lockdown, schools were closed and that reduced contact time. Hence, almost 75 percent of a full school year of the curriculum was not covered. Approximately 400. 000 to 500. 000 learners dropped out of school and to date, the total number of drop-outs grown to 750.000 in South African schools. The study explored the teachers’ experiences in the teaching of Economics during the COVID-19pandemic. Underpinned by an interpretive paradigm, the study adopted a qualitative research approach and used a case study design.  The samples comprised four township secondary schools in KwaZulu Natal (Durban). Using purposive sampling, two Economics teachers were sampled. Two instruments (semi-structured interviews and document review) were used as data collection tools. The findings revealed that Economics teachers experienced problems when teaching the subject during the pandemic. They have found it challenging to adapt to the new teaching methods like using technological tools. The lack of resources and Economics instructional materials exacerbated teachers’ difficulties. The findings revealed that poor attendance for teachers and learners was extraordinary. Notably, due to fears of being sick and infected, stigmatization within the schools prevailed, resulting in bad working relations. From the findings, the study recommends new teaching approaches to stabilize and restructure the curriculum and the retainment of some of the COVID-19regulations to ensure the effective teaching and learning of Economics.
Transformational leadership and innovation in deposit taking SACCOs
Authors: Odero Jackline Akoth , Egessa Robert K.W. , Mogere Machuki Kelvin , Limonya Joel
Published: November 2022

With the drive for enhanced financial inclusion of the population through encouraging savings and investments in a bid to spur economic growth and attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the critical role played by Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) in developing countries in this endeavor cannot be gainsaid. It is worth noting that the extent to which such entities will contribute to economic development depends on the leadership paradigm utilized in guiding their operations and the extent to which they are innovative in their undertakings. This may further depend on the moderating effects of various factors, among them competitor orientation, especially in developing countries like Kenya, where the SACCO sector has grown tremendously with many deposit-taking SACCOs licensed to operate by the government. This study sought to establish the influence of transformational leadership on innovation in Deposit Taking SACCOs as moderated by competitor orientation in developing countries with a focus on Kenya. The study utilized descriptive and correlation research designs where 49 respondents, drawn from all the 7 Deposit-taking SACCOs in the Western region of Kenya, were targeted. Structured questionnaires were employed for data collection. The study used descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze data. Findings revealed that transformational leadership had a positive and significant influence on innovation. Further, competitor orientation had a positive but insignificant moderating effect on the relationship between transformational leadership and innovation. The study recommends that managers utilize transformational leadership practices in their undertakings to encourage innovation that ensures firm competitiveness. They should also focus on competitor orientation to support the firms’ innovative efforts.
Intermediaries’ role in urban fresh fruits and vegetables supply chain in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Issa Ibrahim , Munishi Emmanuel , Mubarack Kirumirah
Published: November 2022

The study examines the supply chain for fresh fruits and vegetables in cities. In particular, the study determines the functions of intermediaries in the supply chain for fresh fruits and vegetables in urban settings. The study is qualitative with an ethnographic design. The study involved a sample of 92 participants obtained purposively. Data are obtained using In-Depth Interviews (IDIs), document reviews and researchers’ observations. Findings demonstrate that intermediaries typically facilitate transportation services that involve the collection, packing and handling facility selection, and delivery of fruits and vegetables. Secondly, intermediaries provide efficient storage services for storing fruits and vegetables and education about proper storage practices. Thirdly, intermediaries have involved value addition and improvement of the quality of fruits and vegetables through sorting, grading, gathering, inspection, branding, and packing. Fourthly, they execute marketing services and facilitate information flow and exchange. It is presented that to enhance intermediaries’ roles, there is a need to improve the road infrastructure networks and control corruption among unethical police officers. There is a great need to strengthen electricity. This will facilitate a reliable power supply that will enhance the easy storage of fruits and vegetables. Farmers and intermediaries need more education on quality, and financial assistance. This will support the continuum of the fresh fruits and vegetable supply chain.
Environmental concern in its role to mediate religiosity and green purchase intention to retail consumers, cafés, and restaurants
Authors: Sari Listyorini  , Naili Farida
Published: November 2022

Environmental awareness is essential to maintain the balance of ecosystems in the world. One of them is reducing the use of plastic bags in shopping, which can reduce plastic waste heaps. Environmental awareness relates to a person's religiosity, whereas religiosity is the belief to behave rightly and wrongly.  Religiosity and environmental awareness also relate to the Green Purchase Intention because it contributes to consumers' increasing interest in not damaging the environment.   This study aims to determine the influence of religiosity on environmental concern, the influence of religion on green purchase intention, and the influence of environmental concern on green purchase intention. This research was conducted with the criteria of respondents who have visited retail, cafes, and restaurants, who have campaigned against the green environment. This study was conducted in Central Java with 100 respondents using the WarpPls analysis tool.  This research resulted in findings that (i) religiosity has a significant effect on Environmental Concern, (ii) Religiosity has a significant effect on Green Purchase Intention, and (iii) Environmental Concern has a significant effect on Green Purchase Intention. Retailers, cafes and restaurants need to pay more attention to the green environment component because high religiosity consumers have high green purchase intentions. Retailers, cafes and restaurants need to pay more attention to the green environment component because high religiosity consumers have high green purchase intentions. These components include increasing green products, green packaging, and green shopping bags.
Religiosity and subjective norm in waqf intention
Authors: Badawi Badawi , Andi Purnomo Muhammad Ridwan , Siswanti Yuni , Syari’udin Akhmad , Kholid Muamar Nur , Muslichah Istyakara , Gusman Tania Avianda
Published: November 2022

The optimal implementation of waqf is believed by some literature as a solution to various socio-economic problems of the community. However, the public's interest in waqf is lacking. This study aims to analyze the factors that can increase interest in waqf for the community. The population in this study was the people of Cirebon Regency, Indonesia, and 205 respondents were taken from the population. Data were collected by distributing questionnaires with a scale of 1-6. The data collected in this study were analyzed using the structural equation model method with Smart-PLS. The analysis results show that religiosity and attitude affect people's waqf intentions, but perceived behavioral control and subjective norms have no effect. On the other hand, this study found that awareness can affect religiosity and perceived behavioral control. Meanwhile, trust is also proven to have an effect on subjective norms and attitudes.