bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of the Implementation of the Farmer Card Program and Work Motivation on the Welfare of Rice Farmers in Cilamaya Kulon, Karawang
Authors: Fajrin Yeni
Published: January 2025

This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Farmer Card program and its impact on the work motivation and welfare of rice farmers in Cilamaya Kulon District, Karawang Regency. The study used a descriptive qualitative method with a literature study, and data were obtained through in-depth interviews with four informants. The results showed that most informants considered the Farmer Card program ineffective. They complained about the difficulty of obtaining subsidized fertilizer, uneven distribution, and the existence of non-farmers who misused the Farmer Card to get fertilizer and then sell it at a high price. In addition, the existence of the Farmer Card reduced farmers' work motivation due to limited access to subsidized fertilizer. This program also did not have a significant impact on farmers' welfare; high fertilizer prices due to the inaccurate distribution process became an additional burden. The informants suggested improvements to the distribution system and program implementation so that it could truly improve farmers' welfare or proposed that this program be stopped if improvements were not possible. The results showed that farmers preferred the old system which was considered more flexible in meeting fertilizer needs.
The Poetics of Toxic Love
Authors: Que Jun
Published: January 2025

This article examines the intricate relationship between Anne Sexton’s depictions of “toxic love” and her suicidal ideation, situating her within the broader context of the American patriarchal culture. By analysing Sexton’s poetic corpus alongside biographical and critical studies, the essay argues that her self-destructive tendencies were deeply intertwined with her tumultuous relationships, which both reflected and perpetuated patriarchal structures. Despite this, Sexton did not dwell in passivity but explored the complexity of the “toxic love” dynamics in her poetry, striving to assert agency within a world that sought to strip her of it. Paradoxically, while Sexton critiqued the oppressive dynamics of patriarchy, she also actively participated in and reproduced them in her work, embodying a dual role as both victim and perpetrator. This complexity is central to understanding how Sexton navigated her agency within a deeply sexist society. In this sense, Sexton’s poetry evolves into a battleground for power negotiation, a realm where she not only resisted patriarchal control but also used the very tools of the system to her advantage. By focusing on the psychological and societal dimensions of her “toxic love” motif, this article probes the intersections between gender, identity, trauma, and artistic expression in Sexton’s work. It sheds new light on her continued struggle with patriarchy and self-destruction, offering insights into how her poetry engages in a complex, dynamic contest for autonomy and survival within an oppressive cultural framework.
How’s the Environmental Disclosure Index, Economic Growth, and Inflation Enhance the Banking Performance? In the Context of Listed Islamic Banks of Saudi Arabia.
Authors: Muneer Saqib
Published: January 2025

This research explains applied methods, current techniques, challenges, and future development agendas related to Islamic commercial banking and their performance factors. This article examines the connection between the performance of publicly traded Islamic commercial banks in Saudi Arabia and the performance factors such as return on assets, return on equity, and net profit. The methodology consists of a time series annual analysis. The content analysis is used to collect information from annual reports of ten listed Islamic commercial banks of Saudi Arabia on the Tadawul stock exchange from 2013 to 2022. The influencing factors are regressed with banking performance to check the banking performance using the autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) for short- and long-run estimators with the ARDL bound testing technique. The results interpret that bank size and GDP increase profitability metrics, while higher credit, inflation, and environmental disclosure negatively affect bank performance indicators in the long run. However, GDP, credit, and environmental disclosure have slight negative effects, suggesting volatility in the short term. Furthermore, governments and policymakers concentrated on environmental contribution and disclosure by the banking sector for a sustainable environment and banking performance.
The Nexus between Sustainable Procurement Orientation and Firm Performance
Authors: Atiga Oswald , Azanlerigu James   Abagna
Published: January 2025

Background: This study evaluated the causal connectivity between sustainable procurement orientation and firm performance in Ghana. Objectives: This paper sought to determine if a causal connectivity existed between sustainable procurement orientation and firm performance in Ghana. Method: This survey deployed an interviewer-administered questionnaire to obtain primary data from 500 sampled firm managers from private and public businesses, using random and purposive sampling techniques in Ghana. A Partial Least Square-structural Equation Model was used to analyse the dataset.Results: The findings established a direct significant causal relationship between sustainable procurement orientation and firm performance with multi-dimensional indicators, such as financial performance, operational performance and market performance. Managerial implications: Managers should appreciate and understand that firm performance can further be boosted if sustainable procurement orientation is envisaged as a critical resource. Originality/value: This study deployed the reasonably new concept of sustainable procurement orientation on firm performance within the Ghanaian context. It is perhaps one of the first studies to address the nexus between sustainable procurement orientation and firm performance in Ghana.
Strategic Marketing Alignment-Competitive Advantage Nexus: Green Entrepreneurship Path in SMEs
Authors: Mgwatyu Bonga , Chigori Darlington Tawanda , Olabanji Oni
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This study investigated strategic marketing alignment (SMA) and competitive advantage (CA) in SMEs with an emphasis on the moderating role of green entrepreneurship (GE). By focusing on sustainability, resources, and capabilities, light is shed on the importance of GE for the success of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Design/Methodology/Approach: A descriptive cross-sectional design with a quantitative research approach relying on structured questionnaires is employed. The data collection resulted in a total of 250 filled-out questionnaires. Participants were SME owners and managers in manufacturing, and other sectors around Buffalo City Metropolitan, East London.
Findings: The results indicated that the relationship between SMA and SME CA was not statistically significant (p = 0.702) while SMA had a significant positive impact on GE. The results supported the positive and direct effect of GE on CA. The results highlighted a complete moderation of GE on SMA and SME CA.
Managerial/Policy implications: Management of SMEs can take advantage of ecological sustainability. SMEs’ use of GE as their dynamic capabilities can enhance competitiveness and increase potential opportunities. SME organisational culture may affect green entrepreneurship and competitive advantage interaction.
Originality/Value: As a unique study bridging the gap between research and practice, the study delves further into encouraging SME managers and owners to align with ecological practices and comply with the environment in which they operate through sustainable practices to increase chances of differentiation and competitiveness.
Surfacing Victim-Worthiness: Male Victims of Sexual Violence and Registers of Empathy
Authors: Chitiki Elizabeth , Kiguwa Peace , Nkomo Nkululeko
Published: January 2025

In this article, we interrogate the role of affective economies in the surfacing of male victimhood in the context of sexual violence. The victim-worthiness concept speaks directly to the notions of the qualifications and characteristics of victimhood, especially in the context of gender- and sexual-based violence. The post-apartheid South African context on violence has largely been dominated by a public narrative that clearly demarcates victims and perpetrators of gender and sexual violence. In this article, we examine some ways in which male victim-survivors of sexual violence negotiate victim-worthiness in a public forum. We employ a discourse analytical approach and affect theoretical lenses to explore this negotiation and some of the tensions that it surfaces. We show how male victim-survivors of sexual violence take up different discursive positionalities to not only negotiate their victim status but also to legitimate and recognise male sexual victimhood. These discursive strategies further work in tandem with affective surfacing processes that produce a subject worthy of empathy.
Repurposing Fear in Contemporary South African Culture – a Critical Criminological Perspective
Authors: Lötter Casper
Published: January 2025

Conflict criminologists argue that criminal justice systems in contemporary capitalist, consumer societies exemplify a “Pyrrhic defeat”. According to Reiman and Leighton’s Pyrrhic defeat theory, the “defeat” in the fight against crime is designed to fail, since it serves the important objective of spotlighting the conventional crimes of the poor, while obfuscating the possibly even more monstrous crimes of the wealthy and powerful. In this article, I subject the concept of “culture” to scrutiny within a critical criminological theoretical framework. I also demonstrate how fear has been repurposed as a potent element of contemporary South African culture to achieve this objective. This was facilitated by perpetuating rape, disaster capitalism (notably committed during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic) and xenophobic hate crimes. By keeping this “fear factory” operational, I argue that the South African government has been able to perpetrate state crimes largely surreptitiously by repurposing this curious element (fear) of South African culture.
An Appraisal of the Borrowing of European Values to Systematically Convert Customary Law into “Constitutional Customary Law”
Authors: Manthwa Aubrey
Published: January 2025

Customary law has survived centuries of colonial onslaught whereby it was seen as uncivilised and in need of reform. Customary marriages were not viewed as marriages but as unions. Today, however, they enjoy recognition as marriages. The Constitutional Court stated in Alexkor v Ritchsveld that customary law would no longer be viewed with the eyes of the common law in the post-constitutional era but would be equal with the common law. It is argued, however, that the position of customary law has not changed since the enactment of the 1996 Constitution. It was hoped that this would bring change as it was an affirmation that customary law is recognised. However, the old order repugnancy clause only allowed customary law to be recognised only if it was consistent with rules of natural justice and public policy. This happens through using the right to equality and dignity in their Western setting rather than interrogating them and trying to infuse an African understanding and interpretation of these rights. Similarly, the LLB curriculum needs to be decolonised because it remains Eurocentric and produces judges and lawyers who also see customary law as a problem and see the common law as the solution. There is, therefore, a need to embrace African law as part of a dispute resolution avenue.
“The Inadequately Married:” Extending the Putative Marriage Doctrine to Assist Vulnerable Parties in Invalid Customary Marriages
Authors: Mavindidze Tafadzwa
Published: January 2025

This article considers whether the putative marriage doctrine can be developed to assist those who find themselves in invalid customary marriages. The article considers the nature of the putative marriage doctrine, that is, as a remedy utilised where one or both parties believe in good faith that their marriage is valid when, in fact, one or more of the material requirements for marriage has not been met. The article focuses on situations where a customary marriage is considered invalid and where, in particular, women are left without protection and regulation of the proprietary consequences of the marital estate. Currently, the judgment of Zulu v Zulu impedes the doctrine’s application for property division in polygamous customary marriages. Through a comparative analysis of Californian and Namibian family law, this article suggests that the judgment is wrong, or at least short-sighted, in its failure to apply the doctrine in these circumstances. I then propose a framework that develops the putative marriage doctrine in a way that ensures the protection of customary wives in subsequent marriages that are declared invalid.
Gender and the Housing Production Process: A Bibliographic Survey of Women’s Engagement and Challenges
Authors: Chiwuzie Augustina , Busayo Akinwale E. , Musibau Lukuman
Published: January 2025

Housing remains a global challenge, with access and involvement in the housing production process shaped by gender, varying across national contexts. This article reviews women’s engagement, comparing women’s participation in housing production between developed and developing countries. It discusses the activities women engage in, their rate of participation, the challenges they face and ways to improve their engagement. Research indicates that women’s engagement in housing creation is low and varies between developed and developing countries. Women participate and are involved in decision-making; planning; supervision; physical construction and maintenance, in both the self-build and construction industry. However, patriarchy, along with societal and cultural beliefs, economic, legal and educational barriers limit their participation in house construction.  Ensuring women’s access to land, promoting gender-sensitive education and training, improving legal literacy, implementing gender-friendly policies and establishing supportive frameworks are essential for creating an environment where women can thrive in housing production.
2023 Control Measures to Curb Violence and the Security Services
Authors: Du Plessis Willemien , Pienaar Juanita , Koraan René , Stoffels Myrone
Published: January 2025

This article discusses the most important court decisions and measures that dealt with violence and the security services in South Africa in 2023. It discusses, among others, the 2023 crime statistics that continue to underline  South Africa as a violent society. It indicates, for example, that violent crimes increased while violent protests decreased during the reporting period. Despite the destruction of firearms, violent crimes still include the use of firearms. The article also deals with new measures to curb gender-based violence. It further introduces the newest amendments providing more clarity with regard to the beneficiaries of the educational financial aid regulations issued in terms of the Promotion of National Unity and Reconciliation Act 34 of 1995. The Draft National Policing Policy, rural safety and the rising number of civil claims against the police services are also discussed. The article further discusses the Correctional Services Amendment Bill [B14-2023] and the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill [B40-2023], that give effect to judgments of the Constitutional Court that declared some of the provisions of the original acts unconstitutional. The General Law (Anti-Money Laundering and Combating of Terrorism Financing) Amendment Act 22 of 2022 increased the penalties for offences committed in terms of this Act. This article discusses the most important 2023 measures and court decisions in relation to crime statistics and violent protests, national unity and reconciliation, security services (police services, correctional services, defence and intelligence services), arms and ammunition, gender-based violence and terrorism.
Coercive Competition: Geostrategic Rivalry in Africa
Authors: Kuwali Dan
Published: January 2025

The geostrategic rivalry between the West and the East is taking centre stage in global affairs, with Africa becoming an alluring battleground. Averting overt conflict, global powers are using economic, political and military statecraft to pursue strategic and security interests on the African continent. The strategic competition between global powers in Africa has significant diplomatic, military and ideological dimensions, with technological and economic dimensions dominating. Unless Africa intercedes to secure a détente among the global powers, the rivalry of these powers will be detrimental to the continent. This article examines how Africa can mitigate the negative effects of coercive competition on the continent, and how the continent may benefit from its increased allure to global powers. The central thesis is that African governments should develop a coherent strategy for dealing with global powers so as not to exacerbate their geostrategic rivalry. Instead, African governments should launch calibrated cooperation on matters of mutual interest for the common good.
Establishing an Effective Trade Litigation Mechanism under the AfCFTA: What Can We Learn from the World Trade Organization?
Authors: Kouamo Juliette Armelle
Published: January 2025

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) seeks to achieve trade integration in Africa through a single market area that will make the participating countries’ economies competitive within the continent and on the global market. The Agreement establishing the AfCFTA, amongst others, provides for a Dispute Settlement Mechanism (DSM) which is regulated by the Protocol on Rules and Procedures on the Settlement of Disputes (DSP). The DSP was modelled after the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU) of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This DSP aims to provide security and predictability to the regional trading system. It is common cause that the DSU of the WTO and those of the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) have not warranted the expected level of participation by African countries thereby giving rise to a trade litigation deficit. The AfCFTA hopes through its DSM to remove the various obstacles preventing such participation. This paper aims to critically navigate through the various factors justifying the low level of participation of African countries in formal trade litigation and make recommendations on how the AfCFTA can build an effective DSM that is accepted and used by all its members. The methodology used here is a qualitative one through which all material relevant to this work is critically scrutinised for possible viable approaches. In the end, the digitalisation of most (if not all) of the DSM’s processes will help effectively tackle the issue of expensive procedures which limit these countries’ use of formal DSM.
Questioning the Merit of Streamlining the Regulation of Activities in the Kruger National Park Through the Use of Environmental Management Instruments and Environmental Impact Assessment Exclusions
Authors: Paterson Alexander , Alberts Reece , Summers Richard , Retief Francois , Blackmore Andy
Published: January 2025

The South African government has recently proposed a streamlined environmental impact assessment (EIA) process to fast-track decision-making and expedite a broad range of activities linked to the construction and upgrading of tourism infrastructure, maintenance, conservation and rehabilitation in the Kruger National Park (KNP). This proposal is founded on the adoption of the KNP’s Management Plan and a Generic Environmental Management Programme as environmental management instruments (EMIs) under the National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998. The intention is to exclude South African National Parks (SANParks), the management authority for the KNP, from having to undertake any form of EIA and from having to secure an environmental authorisation from the competent authority prior to undertaking these activities. This article critically explores the merits of implementing such an approach in a state-owned national park established to protect the area’s sensitive and vulnerable ecosystem and species, viewscapes and sense of place. It highlights an array of issues and risks associated with the proposal which, if implemented, hold the potential to undermine the effective management and conservation of the KNP. These risks include a perceived fundamental misunderstanding of the role of management plans, EMIs and EIAs; the potential broad scope of the exclusion; the extent to which the exclusion potentially undermines key constitutionally entrenched principles of administrative justice; and anomalies in the array of proposed conditions built into the exclusion that may undermine the operation of these conditions as satisfactory safeguards.
Analysing the Effectiveness of Limpopo CoLab in Upskilling Young Rural Women with Digital Skills in Selected Areas of Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Kanjere Maria Matshidiso
Published: January 2025

Young rural women lag behind in as far as digital skills are concerned. This makes it difficult for them to access the employment market or create small businesses for themselves. Youth unemployment is very high in the Limpopo Province and in many other parts of the country. It is, therefore, important that the youth, as the marginalised group in socio-economic activities, be equipped with the right skills to navigate the challenging unemployment environment. Hence, this lack of digital skills among these marginalised individuals has prompted the United Nations to urge countries to develop strategies that would close the skills gap. Likewise, South Africa has since developed the National Development Plan and other relevant legislation to address the digital skills gap in the country through the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA). Subsequently, NEMISA created Collaboration Laboratories (CoLabs) with previously disadvantaged universities in the country to execute its mandate. This article analyses the effectiveness of Limpopo CoLab in upskilling young rural women with digital skills for employment opportunities or entrepreneurial activities in selected areas of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative research approach and document analysis techniques were employed to arrive at plausible conclusions and recommendations. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of Limpopo CoLab as an impactful agent of change, but also recommends that Limpopo CoLab should put more emphasis on digital skills that would enable young women to create their own employment.
Bureaucracy and Service Delivery in Africa: Issues, Challenges, and The Way Forward
Authors: Igbokwe-Ibeto Chinyeaka Justine , Nel-Sanders Danille
Published: January 2025

Background: Government service providers in Africa have not taken the issue of value for money to heart. Public opinion has it that government ministries, department, and agencies (MDAs) have not done well considering the quantum of resources sunk into this sub-sector over the years.
Aim: Within the framework of the public choice theory, this article examined bureaucracy and service delivery in Africa with specific reference to Nigeria and South Africa.
Method: This article adopted a qualitative approach and is descriptive in nature. Authoritative scholarly sources were reviewed by means of a desktop study.
Results: This article posits that leadership is the key to service delivery. While many would disagree with what leadership actually means, it is clear that it is an influencer. It brings together other factors and makes them work towards the achievement of specified goals.
Conclusion: This article concludes that while service delivery is at the centre of governance in any country, it has long been neglected by successive governments. But with the new awakening and expansion of the political and economic space, more people are pressing for quality service delivery from government officials to justify the rates, levies, and dues they pay to government agencies and departments. But the consumers themselves should also show orderliness, discipline, and integrity by paying their dues and ensuring that they get value for their money by insisting on better service delivery.
The Archaeological Study of the Concept of “The Emptiness of Judah” During the Babylonian Exile and the Early Persian Period
Authors: Makuwa Phaswane Simon
Published: January 2025

Archaeological studies are essential on the subject of Judah’s emptiness during the Babylonian exile, as referenced in 2 Chronicles 36:20–21 and Lamentations 1:3–4. The biblical accounts about the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE imply that it was uninhabited. However, archaeological evidence indicates that Jerusalem remained inhabited, framing the issue as one of perspective rather than literal emptiness. The lack of evidence for a functional capital city during this period indicates the nature of the desolation. The absence of the divinely driven royal and cultic activities that defined Judah are the crux of the matter. The subsistence agricultural activities in Judah benefited Babylonian interests, at the total disregard of Judah. Judah lost its sovereignty, pride, and glory associated with God’s presence. Meanwhile, God’s wondrous acts were experienced in Babylon, leaving Judah bereft of divine favour and involvement. Judah was “written off” by divinity for a period referred to as a Sabbath rest. The desolation is not total depopulation, but the deliberate absence of God in all spheres of life for many years. Archaeological extrapolations point not to the lack of residents, but the absence of leadership and the profound disengagement of God. God actively wrought the desolation, as indicated in pre-exilic and exilic prophecies concerning the disaster. This article contributes to the understanding that God has repeatedly expressed his involvement in Judah’s desolation, illustrating his departure and explaining the true nature of Judah’s desolation in contrast to its previous identity as a nation under God.
“Here I Am, I Have Come; In the Scroll of the Book, it is Written of Me” (Ps 40:8). The Private and Public Piety Advocated by Psalm 40 and the Challenges Faced by the Editors of the Psalter
Authors: Botha Phil J
Published: January 2025

This article argues that Ps 40 should not be interpreted within a cultic milieu but as part of the literary context of the Psalter. As part of the conclusion of the final cluster in Book I, and thus as part of the conclusion of the first book of Davidic psalms, it is closely related to (especially) Pss 1–2 and Ps 35. When read as part of this context, it becomes clear that the psalmist, as the “servant” of YHWH, represents the in-group of faithful believers in the late post-exilic period who earnestly studied the Torah and attempted to follow its directives. They were waiting for YHWH’s intervention to save them from renegade fellow Jews and foreign overlords who oppressed them.
Uncovering Hidden Oppressions: Probing the Use of Patriarchal Language in Genesis 3:16, Ephesians 5:22–24, and 1 Timothy 2:11–12 Through Poststructuralist Feminism
Authors: Diko Mlamli
Published: January 2025

In this article I probe the use of patriarchal or male-centric language in Genesis 3:16, Ephesians 5:22–24, and 1 Timothy 2:11–12 through the theory of poststructuralist feminism. By applying poststructuralist feminist theory, which stresses the deconstruction of binary oppositions and rejects the stability of meanings, I unmask how these biblical texts cement gender hierarchies and solidify male hegemony. Genesis 3:16’s depiction of women’s increased pain in childbirth and their submission to their husbands is scrutinised for its role in fuelling male-centric standards. Ephesians 5:22–24’s directive for wives to submit to their husbands is critiqued in light of poststructuralist feminist evaluations of fixated gender roles, while 1 Timothy 2:11–12’s prohibition on women teaching or exercising power over men is re-evaluated to uncover underlying cultural and historical prejudices. This poststructuralist feminist discourse aims to deconstruct traditional interpretations and offer alternative readings that question entrenched gender disparities. The overall findings underline the demand for more inclusive interpretations of these biblical texts and highlight the universal implications for contemporary gender dynamics within religious and social contexts. To further contextualise the argument, I engage a young woman who questions patriarchal or male-orientated expectations within her community, linking her journey to the three selected biblical texts.
Reading Rabbinic Distinctions Between the Titles and Texts of the Psalms as Metaphors for Theological Framing Devices
Authors: Michal Gavin
Published: January 2025

This article examines how subtle “textual framing” embedded within the presentation of all religious texts can influence the texts even before they are read. Using Psalms as a point of departure, 116 of the 150 psalms begin with introductory titles or superscriptions also known as paratexts, for example, “Lamenatzeach—For the Choirmaster.” Depending on the editions, these paratexts are often distinguished from the base or main text of the psalm by some form of spacing to indicate that they were not part of the original text. Their purpose is to frame the psalm for the reader. This study explores the Psalter’s paratexts as metaphors for the framing strategies adopted by various theological ideologies within their internal written, oral, and other formulations; and suggests a critical and conscious engagement with all “paratextual framing,” rather than an unmitigated acceptance thereof.
Mediation in Sudan and Ethiopia: Lessons Learnt from The Gambia Track III Mediation Process
Authors: Rabele Litlhare , Ettang Dorcas , Adeogun Tolulope
Published: January 2025

In October 2000, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) passed a landmark Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (WPS). Many African countries have developed the NAPs with few that seem to be implementing the NAP, including South Africa. The Gambia developed its first NAP in 2012. The Gambia has successfully prevented armed conflict by engaging women at the grassroots level to address the root causes of conflict. Women in Gambia have contributed to resolving conflicts using different strategies. Sudan developed its first NAP on implementing UNSC Resolution 1325 in March 2020 after decades of armed conflicts. With the ongoing armed conflict and the limited active participation of women in mediation leadership, it is difficult to notice the implementation of the NAP. Ethiopia does not have a NAP on implementing UNSC Resolution 1325 despite the ongoing armed conflict. Like in Sudan, women in Ethiopia remain underrepresented in efforts to resolve the conflict. The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) does not seem convincing that it has the capacity, resources and political will to ensure meaningful inclusion of women in resolving conflicts in Ethiopia and Sudan. The IGAD seems to be overwhelmed with armed conflict and civil unrest in different countries in the region. This paper uses qualitative research and desktop literature to analyse the role of women in mediation leadership in both Ethiopia and Sudan and to interrogate lessons that could be learnt from Gambia.
Relationship between Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Shona Folktales
Authors: Chiumburu Caroline , Mutasa Davie E
Published: January 2025

This article discusses the connection between Abraham Maslow’s psychological theory of human motivation and Shona folktales. The objective is to outline how folktales facilitate Maslow’s hierarchy. The theory provides the five-tier hierarchy of needs without indicating how to achieve the levels. The researchers deploy a textual analysis of folktales to indicate how these levels are achieved. Five stories, “Zindere” (The lonely man), “Ushamwari hwaTsuro naKamba” (The hare and tortoise’s friendship), and “Rungano rwaTsuro nedzimwe mhuka” (The story of hare and other animals) from George Fortune’s Ngano Volume 1 (1973) and “Mwanasikana nevabereki vake” (The girl and her parents) and “Vasikana nevakomana Shumba” (The girls and the boys who turned into lions) by Aaron Hodza (1983) are analysed. These folktales are fundamental in providing motivation for survival. The study is essential in quizzing the validity of adopting Western physiological theories in Shona communities.
Developing a Theoretical Framework for Conflict Management and Engagement for South African Shop Stewards
Authors: Matjie Mokgata , Maleka Molefe , Allais Carol
Published: January 2025

Shop stewards in South Africa experience high job demands and pressures. They need role-related conflict management skills and support to remain engaged. This study aimed to develop a theoretical framework for conflict management for South African shop stewards. The study approach was exploratory and qualitative. From the two trade unions, 20 (n = 20) shop stewards were purposively selected and interviewed, and their responses were thematically and manually analysed. From the transcribed interviews and using inductive and deductive thematic data analysis techniques, the findings indicated that shop stewards encountered interpersonal, intrapersonal and inter-union rivalry conflicts. Practically, this study developed a conflict management framework for those who are in union leadership. Socially, the study provides for harmony in the workplace by making shop stewards aware of the conflicts and how to manage them. Line managers will understand the conflict-related challenges experienced by shop stewards and be able to understand and collaborate well with them. Organisations should develop policies and procedures for shop stewards or trade unions and adhere to existing structures and agreements that assist shop stewards in managing conflict in the workplace.
Future Managerial Competencies Required for the Manufacturing Sector in South Africa
Authors: Stenger Thembekile P. , Jonker Bouwer E.
Published: January 2025

The impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and resulting technological advancements on the manufacturing environment requires new competencies from managers. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of managers concerning essential managerial competencies for future success in the manufacturing sector in South Africa. Studies on future managerial competencies are currently under-represented and served as motivation for this study. An exploratory qualitative research approach was followed and an interpretivist paradigm was employed. A qualitative descriptive empirical research design was used. The research sample comprised 20 managers from a variety of manufacturing organisations. Purposive sampling was used, and online semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect the data. Conventional qualitative content analysis was employed to analyse the data. The participants indicated that cognitive, general managerial, intrapersonal, macroeconomic, mesi-economic, organisational-focused and social skills will be critical managerial competencies for future success in the manufacturing sector. Limitations of the current study were reported and recommendations for future research were made. The findings of this study can inform talent acquisition, development and retention in the manufacturing sector of South Africa. In this study, we highlight the importance of social skills for managers such as people management, employee empowerment and interpersonal skills. Our study adds to the body of literature by highlighting the essential managerial competency of adaptability in the manufacturing sector. Managers should have the ability to adapt to change if they wish to be successful in the South African manufacturing sector. Another significant contribution was to qualitatively explore critical managerial competencies for the 4IR in this sector, from the perspective of those managers who already function in these roles.
Cyber Threats and Safeguarding Strategies in Metaverse Libraries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Oladokun Bolaji David , Orubebe Ebiere Diana , Ajani Yusuf , Omoniyi Yinka Martins , Ben Edidiong Nyong
Published: January 2025

The study explores cyber threats in metaverse libraries, focusing on the challenges these institutions face as they integrate immersive technologies into their services. The rationale for this study stems from the increasing popularity of the metaverse across various sectors, including libraries, where it enhances user engagement through immersive experiences. However, the integration of these technologies introduces new vulnerabilities that necessitate robust cybersecurity measures. The study employed a systematic review methodology, sourcing relevant literature from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar published between 2020 and 2024. The findings were categorised into three main themes: the conceptual framework of cybersecurity in the metaverse, cyber threats specific to metaverse libraries, and potential cybersecurity strategies. The findings reveal significant risks for metaverse libraries, particularly concerning data privacy, avatar impersonation, intellectual property theft, and the security of virtual interactions. The study also underscores the need for compliance with global data protection regulations and for libraries to establish transparent privacy policies.
Prerequisites and Prospects for Hydrogen Energy Development in the Baikal Region
Authors: Baldynov O.A. , Popov S.P.
Published: January 2025

A series of legislative documents has been adopted in the Russian Federation with the objective of promoting the development of hydrogen energy. The Irkutsk Region is one of the regions in which the establishment of a large-scale production facility for green hydrogen is planned. According to the Russian Atlas of Low-Carbon and Carbon-Free Hydrogen and Ammonia Production Projects, published by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the total hydrogen production in Irkutsk Oblast is projected to reach 21,800 tons per year. The principal avenues for utilization are expected to be the domestic market and export to countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The high cost of hydrogen transportation will render export a suboptimal economic strategy in the medium to long term. Export of hydrogen may be feasible through the establishment of a hydrogen green certification system, which would allow for trade of hydrogen without its physical relocation.  In this case, the utilization of hydrogen within the region is necessary. The objective of the study is to ascertain the optimal applications of hydrogen and the advancement of hydrogen technologies.
High-Throughput Solid Phase Extraction for Targeted and Non-Targeted Exposomics
Authors: Gu Yunyun , Feuerstein Max Lennart , Warth Benedikt
Published: January 2025

Characterizing the chemical exposome relies on advanced instrumentation including tandem mass spectrometry coupled to liquid chromatography (LC-MS/MS), and non-targeted analysis (NTA) using high-resolution MS. How-ever, proper sample pretreatment, balancing broad analyte coverage, method robustness, and throughput remain a major bottleneck in exposomics. Here, we developed a robust and scalable solid phase extraction (SPE) proto-col in 96-well format for human urine and plasma and optimized it for a panel of 94 highly diverse environmen-tal and food-related contaminants (LogP -0.7 ~ 6.8). Extraction recoveries (RE) and signal suppression and en-hancement (SSE) were determined using targeted LC-MS/MS. Acceptable REs (60% - 140%) were achieved for >70% of all analytes, and acceptable SSE values (60% -140%) for 86% and 90% in urine and plasma, respective-ly. Subsequently, the method was transferred to 96-well format, significantly improving throughput to meet the capacity requirements needed for exposome-wide association studies (ExWAS). The established workflow is approximately 10× faster than routinely used metabolomics-based protein precipitation approaches when com-paring the estimated total analysis time for 1000 samples. The method’s applicability for NTA and suspect screening was tested and compared to a generic protein precipitation protocol using NIST standard reference materials for urine (SRM 3672) and plasma (SRM 1950). Favorable performance was shown for the protein pre-cipitation workflow while the SPE protocol demonstrated promising results. The developed workflow is thus not only superior for future high-throughput targeted exposomics but also offers an option for NTA applications. The presented well-balanced approach is scalable and also applicable to research in the fields of pharmacology, food safety, or systems toxicology.
CRISPR in therapeutics and diagnostics: Perspectives from landscape analysis
Authors: Iyer Kavita , Tenchov Rumiana , Lotti Diaz Leilani , Jain Preeti , Thite Trupti , Deng Yi , Zhou Qiongqiong
Published: January 2025

In this report, we examine the extensive research landscape of CRISPR with an emphasis on CRISPR therapeutics and showcase our results from an in-depth analysis of the most up-to-date scientific information consisting of more than 53,000 publications encompassing academic journal articles and patents, spanning nearly three decades, extracted from the CAS Content Collection. Our analysis indicates that cancer and infectious diseases are the most explored in the context of CRISPR. Identified gene targets associated with CRISPR-related publications are led by TP53, c-myc, and hemoglobin beta subunit (HBB). Among the many delivery methods, adeno-associated vectors (AAVs) appear to be highly explored. With >140 CRISPR-based therapeutics in the clinical development pipeline and billions of dollars in investment, the field of CRISPR continues to evolve rapidly. We also briefly discuss the ethical implications of CRISPR technology. While some fundamental challenges persist, the future of CRISPR is undoubtedly bright.
5'-Guanidino Xylofuranosyl Nucleosides as Novel Types of 5'-Functionalized Nucleosides with Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Xavier Nuno Manuel , Szilagyi Jennifer , Moreira Tânia , Santana Nunes Rafael , Silva Joana , Celso Alves Celso , Martins Alice I. , Alvariño Rebeca , Heise Niels V. , Csuk René
Published: January 2025

The synthesis and biological evaluation of 5′-guanidino furanosyl nucleosides comprising 6-chloropurine and uracil moieties and a 3-O-benzyl xylofuranosyl unit is presented. Their access was based on the N-glycosylation of a 5-azido 3-O-benzyl xylofuranosyl acetate donor with the silylated nucleobase and a subsequent one-pot sequential two-step protocol involving Staudinger reduction of the thus obtained 5-azido uracil and N7/N9-linked purine nucleosides followed by guanidinylation with N,N’-bis(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-N’’-triflylguanidine. Bioactivity screening revealed the significant activities exhibited among the synthesized compounds, namely abilities to inhibit butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), a therapeutic target for the symptomatic treatment of latter stages of Alzheimer’s disease, cytotoxic activities against cancer cells, and/or neuroprotective effects. 5′-Guanidino 6-chloropurine nucleosides were shown to act as mixed-type and selective submicromolar or micromolar BChE inhibitors, from which the N9 nucleoside was the most prominent compound with inhibition constants Ki / Ki' of 0.89 μM / 2.96 μM, besides showing low cytotoxicity to FL83B hepatocytes and no significant cytotoxicity to human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y). Moreover, the N9-linked nucleoside exhibited selective cytotoxic activity to prostate cancer cells (DU-145, IC50 = 27.63 μM), while its N7 regioisomer was active against all cancer cells tested [DU-145, IC50 = 24.48 μM; colorectal adenocarcinoma (HCT-15, IC50 = 64.07 μM); and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7, IC50 = 43.67 μM)]. In turn, the 5'-guanidino uracil nucleoside displayed selective cytotoxicity to HCT-15 cells (IC50 = 76.02 μM) and showed also neuroprotective potential in a Parkinson’s disease SH-SY5Y cells’ damage model. The active molecules exhibited IC50 values to the affected cancer cells close or lower than those of standard drugs, and comparable or not significant neuro- and hepatotoxicity.
Xylopyranose ring‐opening by single and double proton transfers under pyrolysis conditions
Authors: Lupi Jacopo , Ballotta Bernardo , Ayarde-Henríquez Leandro , Dooley Stephen
Published: January 2025

This study unveils a new transition state (TS) leading to the acyclic product via synchronous double proton transfer by automatedly exploring the potential energy surface of β‐D‐xylopyranose under pyrolysis conditions. Quantum chemistry methods with multi‐path canonical variational transition state theory, show that the standard activation enthalpy of the new TS (46.4 kcal mol–1) is 1.5 kcal mol–1 lower than that of the well‐established channel; however, the latter’s rate constant (4.36 × 10–2 ‐9.96 × 101 s–1 ) is higher in the 673.15‐873.15 K pyrolytic interval by a factor of 5‐8. This gap narrows to a factor of 2 within 320‐400 K, signifying that the new TS can potentially impact the acyclic product production in this low‐temperature range. This is particularly relevant for β‐D‐xylopyranose trimers, as the interior unit bears different substituents at the C1 and C3 positions.
Importance of self-absorption correction for HERFD-XAS of concentrated samples
Authors: Huntsman Ben , Vogt Linda , Kidman Clinton , Cotelesage Julien , Sokaras Dimosthenis , Kroll Thomas , Pickering Ingrid , George Graham
Published: January 2025

High energy resolution fluorescence detected X-ray absorption spectroscopy (HERFD-XAS) can dramatically reduce core-hole lifetime broadening that smears out spectroscopic detail in conventional X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). This increased spectroscopic resolution can directly translate to increased speciation capabilities in analysis of complex mixtures. However, spectral distortions due to fluorescence self-absorption are inherent in the HERFD-XAS method and can negate improvements. We discuss a method for correcting self-absorption.
Carbon Dioxide Hydrogenation to Formate Catalyzed by Highly Active Ru-tris(pyrazolyl)methane Complexes
Authors: Kostera Sylwia , Gobbo Alberto , Guelfi Massimo , Zacchini Stefano , Manca Gabriele , Marchetti Fabio , Gonsalvi Luca
Published: January 2025

In the quest for highly active ruthenium(II) complexes for homogeneous catalytic CO2 hydrogenation to formate, a small library of cationic Ru(k3-tpm) piano-stool complexes [tpm = tris(pyrazolyl)methane], bearing different ancillary ligands, were tested under various reaction conditions, with and without the addition of a Lewis acid co-catalyst. Under optimized conditions (80 bar, 120 °C) and in the presence of LiOTf, TONs > 54000 were obtained in single batch runs with the complex [RuCl(k3-tpm)(PPh3)(CH3CN)]Cl (1). Mechanistic studies using NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations were also carried out to elucidate key steps and the energies associated with the reaction pathway, which allowed for the proposal of a catalytic mechanism.