Fast-track Program Research Articles

The role of universities’ social responsibility in enhancing business sustainability: Mediating role of entrepreneurial culture

This study aims to analyze the role of sustainable social responsibility in enhancing business sustainability, with entrepreneurial culture serving as a mediating variable. Focusing on Bisha University in Saudi Arabia, it demonstrates how the university’s socially responsible practices foster an entrepreneurial culture that, in turn, drives sustainable business outcomes within the local community. A descriptive-analytical approach was adopted, with data collected through a structured survey distributed to 200 faculty members of University of Bisha, yielding 190 valid responses. Hypotheses were tested using simple linear regression and path analysis to explore both direct and indirect relationships among the study variables.The findings reveal that sustainable social responsibility significantly impacts business sustainability, explaining 49.1% of its variability. Additionally, entrepreneurial culture mediates this relationship, contributing an indirect effect of 0.446 and amplifying the total impact of social responsibility on business sustainability to 70.1%. Sustainable social responsibility also explains 46.5% of the variability in entrepreneurial culture. Model fit indices confirm the robustness of the relationships, with strong statistical significance across all paths. These results underscore the strategic importance of universities in integrating social responsibility into their operations to foster entrepreneurial culture and achieve sustainable outcomes. This study provides valuable insights for higher education institutions aiming to align their academic and operational practices with sustainability goals, contributing to broader initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030. Acknowledgments The Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha is acknowledged for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Investment behavior in the Egyptian stock market: The impact of social media on investor decision-making

Social media significantly influences investor behavior, particularly in emerging markets like the Egyptian stock market. This study examines its impact on trading frequency, herding behavior, and overconfidence among Egyptian investors. Data were collected through a structured survey of 300 active investors, distributed via two prominent Facebook pages: “The Popular Union of Investors in the Egyptian Stock Market” and “Investment in the Egyptian Stock Market.” The sample was determined using Cochran’s formula for large, undefined populations, achieving a 78% response rate from the 385 recommended respondents. A descriptive quantitative approach was employed, utilizing correlation tests and regression analysis to assess relationships between social media engagement and investor behavior.Findings indicate that social media usage significantly increases trading frequency, as investors make more reactive decisions based on rapidly available information. Herding behavior is also positively associated with social media engagement, demonstrating that investors tend to follow market trends and decisions discussed in online communities. Additionally, social media exposure fosters overconfidence, leading to increased risk-taking behavior. These insights highlight the critical role of social media in shaping investor behavior, with practical implications for regulators, financial advisors, and individual investors. Regulators should promote investor education on the cognitive biases linked to social media engagement, while financial advisors must address its influence on client decision-making. Future research should explore platform-specific features, such as visual content and influencer-driven financial advice, to better understand their effects on investment strategies. AcknowledgmentThe authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Integrating knowledge management with smart technologies in public pharmaceutical organizations

This study investigates the impact of Knowledge Management (KM) practices, enhanced by smart technologies, on organizational performance within public pharmaceutical organizations in Cairo Governorate, Egypt. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, the study targeted employees from five public pharmaceutical companies in Cairo Governorate, including Memphis Pharmaceuticals, Arab Pharmaceuticals, Cairo Pharmaceuticals, Nile Pharmaceuticals, and EIPICO. These companies were selected based on their public listing and accessible workforce data. Respondents included administrative and technical staff, ensuring a representative sample of the sector. The sample size of 372 was calculated using a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error, proportionally distributed across organizations and roles. The results of the study reveal that KM practices significantly enhance operational efficiency and foster innovation, with quantitative evidence showing that KM positively influences operational efficiency (β = 0.42, p < 0.01) and innovation (β = 0.35, p < 0.05). The analysis also indicates that strategic leadership plays a moderating role in the relationship between KM practices and organizational performance. Specifically, the moderation effect of leadership strengthens the impact of KM on operational efficiency (interaction term: β = 0.18, p < 0.05) and innovation (interaction term: β = 0.21, p < 0.05). These findings underscore the critical role of leadership in aligning KM practices with strategic goals, highlighting the potential for public pharmaceutical organizations to achieve higher efficiency and innovation. Organizations operating in highly regulated sectors can drive continuous improvement and achieve sustainable performance outcomes by integrating KM frameworks with advanced technologies and strategic leadership. Acknowledgment The authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at the University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

The influence of social media marketing on customer knowledge management: The role of confidentiality in UAE public banks

Social media facilitates banks’ interaction with consumers and provides critical information about their behaviors and preferences. Nevertheless, given the sensitive nature of financial information, maintaining stringent confidentiality is of paramount importance. This study aims to examine the impact of social media marketing (SMM) dimensions on customer knowledge management (CKM) in UAE public banks, focusing on the moderating role of banking confidentiality. The study utilized a quantitative methodology with a correlational framework; data were collected from 283 respondents, who are active customers of First Abu Dhabi Bank, Emirates NBD, and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, through a structured questionnaire. These customers were surveyed to understand their interaction with social media campaigns, the information banks request from them, their willingness to share personal data, and their perceptions of safety and legal protections. The results revealed a strong positive relationship between SMM dimensions and CKM, with SMM explaining 65.9% of the variance in CKM outcomes (R² = 0.659, p < 0.01). Among the SMM dimensions, customization had the highest impact (R² = 0.766), followed by word-of-mouth (R² = 0.697) and aesthetics (R² = 0.651). Additionally, confidentiality was found to significantly enhance the effectiveness of SMM, with a moderating effect increasing explained variance by 6.5% (ΔR² = 0.065, β = 0.25, p < 0.01). These findings suggest that public banks in the UAE should integrate personalized SMM strategies with stringent confidentiality measures to optimize CKM. This approach not only enhances customer engagement but also builds trust, fostering sustainable growth in the digital era. Acknowledgements The authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Optimizing dormant account management in UAE banking: Legal gaps and proposed reforms

The management of dormant accounts and unclaimed balances is a pressing challenge in the banking sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly given the complex regulatory landscape. This study analyzes 150 dormant accounts across five major UAE banks (Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, Sharjah Islamic Bank, and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank) and identifies gaps in the legal framework, including the absence of clear definitions and handling of non-monetary assets.The study investigates the legal framework governing dormant accounts, specifically focusing on the Dormant Accounts System No. 1 of 2020. The results highlight critical issues, including the lack of clear timelines for transferring unclaimed balances and inconsistencies in communication protocols for notifying account holders. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for standardized practices across financial institutions in the UAE.To address these challenges, the study proposes legislative amendments to improve asset management and consumer protection. Key recommendations include establishing standardized definitions, implementing automated tracking systems for dormant accounts, and integrating dormant balances into social welfare programs to enhance public trust. These reforms could significantly improve operational efficiency and legal clarity in the UAE banking sector, contributing to a more transparent and effective management of dormant accounts and unclaimed balances. Acknowledgments The authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at the University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Analyzing the impact of viral marketing on brand equity dimensions in Egypt’s home appliances sector: A customer and legal perspective

In the digital age, viral marketing has emerged as a key driver in shaping brand equity, particularly in the highly competitive Egyptian home appliances sector. Traditional marketing strategies have proven insufficient in reaching consumers with the same efficacy as viral campaigns, which leverage digital platforms and consumer networks. This study examines the influence of viral marketing on brand equity dimensions – brand awareness, perceived quality, brand loyalty, and brand association – through the lens of both customer perception and legal frameworks Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 270 respondents across 389 companies, with a response rate of approximately 70% of the total population in Egypt’s home appliances sector, with simple linear regression analysis employed to assess the relationships. The results indicate a strong positive effect of viral marketing on brand equity. Specifically, viral marketing accounts for 27.2% of the variance in brand awareness (R² = 0.272, p < 0.001), 28.1% in perceived quality (R² = 0.281, p < 0.01), 13.6% in brand loyalty (R² = 0.136, p < 0.05), and 40.9% in brand association (R² = 0.409, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the study finds that regulatory compliance plays a moderating role, ensuring that viral marketing campaigns remain within ethical and legal bounds, thereby enhancing consumer trust and the long-term impact of marketing efforts.These findings highlight the strategic value of integrating viral marketing with a firm understanding of legal frameworks to optimize brand equity in Egypt’s home appliances industry. This research provides actionable insights for brand managers and marketers looking to maximize the efficacy of their viral campaigns while maintaining brand integrity. AcknowledgmentThe authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Analisis Motivasi Mahasiswa PAI 2020 UIN Malang dalam Mengikuti Program Fast Track

This study aims to analyze the motivations of students from the Islamic Education (PAI) class of 2020 at UIN Malang in participating in the Fast Track Program, as an effort to expedite higher education and increase the number of graduates in the Master's program. The research employs a qualitative approach with field research methods. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation over a period of two weeks in June 2024. The findings indicate strong support among students for the program, viewing it as an opportunity to accelerate their professional careers. However, students face challenges such as heavy credit loads and overlapping class schedules. With appropriate support, including effective time management and career guidance, the program can be enhanced to optimize academic and career achievements for students.

Artificial intelligence and marketing innovation: The mediating role of organizational culture

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the e-commerce landscape, prompting businesses to adopt innovative marketing strategies. This study investigates the relationship between AI applications and marketing innovation in Egyptian e-commerce retailers, with a focus on the mediating role of organizational culture. The research employed a quantitative approach, utilizing a survey to gather data from 260 Egyptian e-retail store owners, managers, and marketers. The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between AI applications and marketing innovation, with organizational culture playing a crucial mediating role. The correlation coefficient (R) between AI and organizational culture was found to be 0.76, indicating that AI explains 57% of the variance in organizational culture. Similarly, the correlation coefficient (R) between AI and marketing innovation was 0.70, suggesting that AI explains 49% of the variance in marketing innovation. Path analysis further demonstrated a significant indirect effect of AI on marketing innovation through organizational culture. The study concludes that the integration of AI into marketing strategies can substantially enhance innovation, particularly when complemented by a supportive organizational culture. It underscores the importance for e-commerce retailers to invest in AI technologies and cultivate a culture that embraces technological advancements to drive marketing innovation and achieve sustainable competitive advantage. AcknowledgmentThe authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Implications of peri-urban land reform programs on urban land markets: a case study of Harare, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe implemented the Fast-Track Land Reform Program (FTLRP) in the year 2000. This program has had far-reaching implications on urban development, especially on urban land markets in cities and towns. This paper highlights the implications of the land reform program on urban land markets, using Harare as a case study. The paper is based on document review (policy, academic and development literature) and interviews with key informants with experience and knowledge of the land reform and its associated implications on urban land markets. Our analysis demonstrates that the land reform process in peri-urban spaces was complex and largely driven by political interests. The land reform process distorted the urban planning processes, leading to disparities in the land markets. Such disparities include informal and uncontrolled processes of accessing land and, ultimately, rapid development of informal settlements in the city. Political elites and land barons took advantage of the land reform program extorting money from desperate home-seekers. We conclude that the distortion of urban land markets by politically driven land reform processes negatively affects sustainable urban development. Overall, the paper makes a valuable contribution to the growing literature on land reforms and peri-urban development in Africa, demonstrating the complex and multidimensional implications of land reform programs on peri-urban land markets. Based on the study findings, the paper provides a set of policy recommendations aimed at improving the effectiveness and equity of land reform programs in African peri-urban areas.

Impact of electronic customer relationship management on competitive advantage: Mediating role of customer satisfaction in EgyptAir

In today’s highly competitive business environment, organizations, particularly in the airline industry, are increasingly adopting electronic customer relationship management (E-CRM) to enhance customer engagement and achieve a competitive edge. This study aims to analyze the impact of E-CRM on the competitive advantage of EgyptAir, focusing on customer satisfaction as a mediating factor. Employing a descriptive and analytical methodology, the paper surveyed 355 EgyptAir customers, utilizing a structured questionnaire to gather data on E-CRM practices, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage. The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between E-CRM and competitive advantage, with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.56 and a determination coefficient (R²) of 0.315, indicating that E-CRM accounts for 31.5% of the variance in competitive advantage. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that customer satisfaction significantly mediates this relationship, with E-CRM explaining 43.9% of the variance in customer satisfaction (R² = 0.439) and a direct positive impact of customer satisfaction on competitive advantage (R = 0.38, R² = 0.247). Path analysis using AMOS v.24 confirmed these findings, showing both direct and indirect effects of E-CRM on competitive advantage through customer satisfaction. The model fit indices (CFI = 0.894, RMSEA = 0.000) suggest a robust model. The study underscores the crucial role of E-CRM in fostering customer satisfaction and enhancing competitive advantage in the airline industry, providing valuable insights for airlines aiming to leverage E-CRM for sustainable success. Acknowledgments The authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.

Second opinion machine learning for fast-track pathway assignment in hip and knee replacement surgery: the use of patient-reported outcome measures

BackgroundThe frequency of hip and knee arthroplasty surgeries has been rising steadily in recent decades. This trend is attributed to an aging population, leading to increased demands on healthcare systems. Fast Track (FT) surgical protocols, perioperative procedures designed to expedite patient recovery and early mobilization, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing hospital stays, convalescence periods, and associated costs. However, the criteria for selecting patients for FT procedures have not fully capitalized on the available patient data, including patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).MethodsOur study focused on developing machine learning (ML) models to support decision making in assigning patients to FT procedures, utilizing data from patients’ self-reported health status. These models are specifically designed to predict the potential health status improvement in patients initially selected for FT. Our approach focused on techniques inspired by the concept of controllable AI. This includes eXplainable AI (XAI), which aims to make the model’s recommendations comprehensible to clinicians, and cautious prediction, a method used to alert clinicians about potential control losses, thereby enhancing the models’ trustworthiness and reliability.ResultsOur models were trained and tested using a dataset comprising 899 records from individual patients admitted to the FT program at IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi-Sant’Ambrogio. After training and selecting hyper-parameters, the models were assessed using a separate internal test set. The interpretable models demonstrated performance on par or even better than the most effective ‘black-box’ model (Random Forest). These models achieved sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) exceeding 70%, with an area under the curve (AUC) greater than 80%. The cautious prediction models exhibited enhanced performance while maintaining satisfactory coverage (over 50%). Further, when externally validated on a separate cohort from the same hospital-comprising patients from a subsequent time period-the models showed no pragmatically notable decline in performance.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate the effectiveness of utilizing PROMs as basis to develop ML models for planning assignments to FT procedures. Notably, the application of controllable AI techniques, particularly those based on XAI and cautious prediction, emerges as a promising approach. These techniques provide reliable and interpretable support, essential for informed decision-making in clinical processes.

Quantitative analysis of the impact of infectious disease physicians on patients in the emergency department fast-track parenteral antibiotics program

IntroductionThe outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) program of Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) was supervised by emergency physicians (EPs) until 2017 when infectious disease (ID) physicians began assisting in management. We designed a retrospective study to determine whether ID involvement led to improved outcomes.MethodsThis study analyzes the impact of ID involvement by comparing the mean days patients spent on OPAT with ID involvement versus EPs alone through a retrospective chart review. Secondary research objectives were to compare patient care decisions, e.g., antibiotic choice, tests ordered, and final diagnosis.ResultsThere was no difference between the mean number of days on OPAT between physician types. Compared to historic patterns, patients seen in OPAT after increased ID consultation spent an average of 0.5 fewer days in the program. However, when grouped by the first day of ID assessment, the average total days in OPAT was closely aligned with the day of first ID assessment, implying that ID frequently discharged patients close to initial assessment. Patients seen by ID were less likely to return within one month of discharge compared to those not seen by ID. Secondary findings include ID physicians prescribing a greater range of antibiotics, providing more varied final diagnoses, prescribing antibiotics less frequently, as well as ordering more cultures, diagnostic imaging and specialist consults.DiscussionThe findings of this study support the hypothesis that ID involvement in OPAT programs leads to changes in care that may have beneficial outcomes for patients and the healthcare system.

Specific Features of Diagnostic and Treatment Tactics in Patients with Crushed Abdominal Hernias Without Resection of a Hollow Organ.

The purpose of the work is to analyze the results of the use of optimized diagnostic and therapeutic tactics in patients with strangulated abdominal hernias without resection of the hollow organ. Materials and methods: The work is based on the analysis of the results of surgical treatment of 665 patients with strangulated abdominal hernias without resection of the hollow organ, who were divided into 2 groups depending on the features of the diagnostic and treatment tactics. Unlike the patients of group 1, the following diagnostic tactics were used in group 2: substantiated laparoscopic diagnosis of abdominal organs; mandatory biochemical assessment of hernia water; mandatory intraoperative instrumental assessment of the state of the strangulated organ; expansion of indications for the use of laparoscopic interventions and components of the comprehensive Fast track program; substantiated complex prevention of malignancy. The clinical diagnostic algorithm included laboratory, instrumental and biochemical research methods. Results: The use of priority diagnostic and therapeutic tactics in the patients of group 2 allowed to increase the number of laparoscopic hernioplasty by 49.34%, the number of allohernioplasty by 18.62%, among which the "Sublay" technique was preferred for strangulated ventral hernias. This was accompanied by a decrease in the pain syndrome on the VAS scale during the four days of observation, both during coughing and at rest, and amounted to only 2.21 ± 0.29 points on the fourth day when at rest. In addition, and after 12 months, the patients of group 2 observed a better recovery according to the SF-36 questionnaire, which amounted to 76.77±6.63 points for the assessment of the general state of health, 70.81±5.86 points for the assessment of physical functioning, 68.88±5.37 points for the assessment of role functioning due to physical condition, 68.03±5.92 points for the assessment of role functioning due to emotional state, and social activity was characterized by 72.82±5.52 points. Conclusions: 1. The proposed diagnostic and treatment tactics in the patients of group 2 with strangulated abdominal hernias without resection of a hollow organ, in contrast to patients in group 1, made it possible to increase the number of laparoscopic operations to 227 (66.37%) in contrast to 55 (17.03%) in the first group, which was accompanied by a decrease in pain syndrome on the VAS scale on the fourth day when coughing from 4.35 ± 0.38 points to 2.97 ± 0.43 points. 2. The expansion of indications for the use of laparoscopic operations in patients of group 2, in contrast to patients of group 1, led to a decrease in the postoperative complications by 10.48% and the postoperative mortality by 2.29% and was characterized by better postoperative rehabilitation according to the assessment of the patients' condition after 12 months according to the SF-36 questionnaire..

Are patients ready for discharge from the hospital after fast-track total knee arthroplasty?-A qualitative study.

The fast-track based on evidence-based medicine, has dramatically reduced the length of stay for patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Therefore, patients must assume the responsibility for self-functional exercise and care as early as possible. Also, higher standards and expectations of care delivery have been set. Studies into patients' experiences when faced with a discharge decision under a fast-track program are lacking. (1) Increase the knowledge about patients' experiences of discharged from hospital via a fast-track process after TKA. (2) Explore what gaps exist in the current discharge preparation care service for TKA under fast-track and what can be improved. A qualitative research design was chosen to conduct semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 21 patients from one Chinese hospital who successfully underwent TKA and received discharge orders. Interview data were meticulously analyzed, summarized and thematically distilled using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Three themes emerged from the structural analyses: a) Preparing for discharge despite concerns about symptoms-a sense of joy at discharge despite feelings of helplessness, stigmatisation, anxiety about prosthetic function. b) Managing the rehabilitation difficulties-vigilance is needed for medication management, environmental changes, and intimate relationships. c) Creating conditions for safe transition-compassionate bedside manner, listening to patients, and providing a humanized continuing care and referral services are important for safe transitions. Findings suggest that patients undergoing fast-track TKA report good discharge preparation experiences. However, closer analysis reveals difficulties with this process and important directions in which discharge readiness care services can strive.

Protocol for a prospective multicentre cohort study to address the question whether diabetes and its management is still a risk factor in fast-track joint arthroplasty

IntroductionPerioperative glycaemic control is important. However, the complexity of guidelines for perioperative diabetes management is complicated due to different and novel antihyperglycaemic medications, limited procedure-specific data and lack of data...

Comprehensive Review on Pancreatic Head Cancer: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment Challenges in the Quest for Improved Survival.

This comprehensive review explores the complexities surrounding pancreatic head cancer, a highly fatal and challenging-to-treat illness with a survival rate of less than five years. Despite being a major contributor to cancer-related deaths, pancreatic head malignancy often eludes early detection due to its posterior location and high metastatic potential. The review delves into the associated symptoms, including gastric outlet obstruction and obstructive jaundice, highlighting the impact on the patient's eligibility for surgery. Examining recent advancements, the article discusses fast-track surgery recovery programs and emerging immunotherapeutic approaches, acknowledging the unique challenges posed by the immunosuppressive environment of pancreatic head cancer. Additionally, the review elucidates the intricate relationship between pancreatic cancer and glucose levels, emphasizing the role of islets of Langerhans in insulin production. The pathogenesis section explores lifestyle and genetic factors contributing to pancreatic head carcinoma, shedding light on risk factors such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, and hereditary predispositions. The extensive analysis of pancreatic cancer diagnosis methods encompasses imaging techniques, biopsies, and biomarkers, emphasizing the challenges posed by late-stage diagnoses. Addressing treatment modalities, the review emphasizes the significance of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy. The intricate details of neoadjuvant, immunotherapy, and microbial therapy provide a comprehensive understanding of evolving treatment strategies. The review concludes by highlighting promising areas of research, including oncolytic viral therapy and gene editing technology, aiming to enhance the limited treatment options for this devastating disease.

Effects of fast-track recovery programme on the surgical site wound infection in patients undergoing biliary stones surgery: A meta-analysis.

To systematically evaluate the effects of a fast-track recovery programme on perioperative wound infections and postoperative complications in patients undergoing biliary tone surgery, we conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, China Biomedical Literature Database, Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases from inception to 29 September 2023 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on the application of a fast-track recovery programme in patients undergoing biliary stone surgery. Two researchers independently screened and evaluated the studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were subsequently extracted from the included studies. Stata software (version 17.0) was employed for data analysis. Overall, 19 RCTs involving 2363 patients were included, with 1178 patients allocated to the fast-track recovery programme group and 1185 to the conventional care group. The results revealed a significantly lower occurrence of wound infection (3.74% vs. 9.45%, OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.25-0.51, p < 0.001) and postoperative complications (11.38% vs. 27.34%, OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.25-0.39, p < 0.001) in the fast-track recovery programme group compared to the conventional care group. The available evidence supports the assertion that implementing a fast-track recovery programme in the perioperative period of patients undergoing biliary stone surgery effectively reduces the incidence of wound infections and postoperative complications while facilitating postoperative recovery.

Experience of using the fast track program in pancreatic surgery

Experience of using the fast track program in pancreatic surgery

ГРАНТИ ПРОГРАМИ SEEDS OF BRAVERY ДЛЯ ПІДТРИМКИ УКРАЇНСЬКИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЧНИХ СТАРТАПІВ В УМОВАХ ВІЙНИ

The article examines the SEEDS OF BRAVERY Project, which is funded by the European Union through the European Innovation Council. It is emphasized that this is an initiative implemented to support Ukrainian technology startups and their integration with the EU; the main goal of the Project is to promote the development of diversity, increase the potential of deep technologies and stimulate hundreds of innovations based on Ukrainian technologies that are useful for end users in Europe, Ukraine and around the world. The possibilities of the Project for Ukrainian startups and existing large-scale companies of Ukraine that develop innovative services or products have been demonstrated, namely: to receive financial and non-financial assistance for the implementation of the project's innovative business and innovative initiative. Emphasis is placed on the fact that this is help for business startups and companies that wish to expand their operational activities in Ukraine, to achieve a positive development effect, including for the implementation of social projects. The main areas of support for the Project were demonstrated: "Business and innovative services", "Innovative entrepreneurship", "Deep Tech incubators", "Ukraine reconstruction", "Expansion and acceleration of Deep Tech". The study noted that until April 25, 2025, Ukrainian companies can apply for grant funding in the amount of up to 60,000 euros in total. Outlined main support of the UASEEDs Project as of March 2024: 1. Non-refundable grants (up to 60,000 euros); 2. Access to additional financing; 3. Women's entrepreneurship and leadership programs; 4. Support of applications of Ukrainian startups to EIC and other European funding competitions; 5. Market Discovery and Fast track programs, as well as regular DemoDays with international investors and business angels; 6. Creation and acceleration of Deep Tech business, entrepreneurial education for scientists and innovators; 7. Getting to know investors, accelerators, stakeholders of the innovation ecosystem. Summarized, as a result of the implementation of these projects, a significant impact of the startups' activities on the innovation ecosystem of Ukraine, as well as on various spheres for the recovery of Ukraine in war conditions, is expected.

Land use/cover change and transormations in Upper Runde Sub-catchment area in Zimbabwe

The study assessed land use/cover changes in the Upper Runnde sub-catchment in Zimbabwe between 2000 and 2020 using GIS and remote sensing techniques with the support of interviews and field observations. Faster land use/cover changes were experienced within the 2000–2010 decade when compared to the 2010–2020 decade; for instance, bare land increased by 92.1% between 2000–2010 compared to 16.5% between 2010–2020. Major land cover transformations included change from forest land to bare land, grassland and shrub land, and change from grassland to bare and shrub land to grassland. The results confirmed conversion of forests to agricultural lands and settlements following the fast-track land reform program in 2000, and livestock increase induced overgrazing as major human activities driving land cover changes. There is a need for serious attention from resource management stakeholders before depletion of critical resources like water and woodlands. Therefore, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, and Rural Resettlement and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority may consider strict auditing of land uses and water resource use in catchment areas to guard against encroachment of agriculture and other land uses in protected lands and fragile ecosystems like water bodies and wetlands.