Central Transition Research Articles

Narrowing the eco-innovation gender divide: insights for transition economies

ABSTRACT This paper aims to address the gender imbalance in eco-innovation within firms, particularly focusing on the role of top managers. Drawing on Upper Echelon Theory and Social Identity Theory, the study investigates the influence of female CEOs on the promotion of eco-innovation and examines how knowledge factors influence this relationship, especially within transition countries. Using a comprehensive cross-sectional dataset from the World Bank and EBRD (BEEPS), the research analyses over 12,000 firms operating across 28 European and Central Asian transition economies. The findings show that firms led by a female CEO are less likely to engage in eco-innovation. However, the moderating effect of knowledge can complement CEO actions, though this effect varies by macro-area. The study suggests tailored strategies, emphasising the need for knowledge-sharing networks, targeted investments in human capital, and a collaborative organizational culture. These strategies represent concrete steps to enhance management capabilities and mitigating the costs and uncertainties associated with eco-innovation process in specific socio-economic contexts

Eolian-fluvial succession in the Early Cretaceous from the Ordos Basin

Cretaceous eolian deposits are widely developed in North China, among which the Lower Cretaceous eolian (erg) sedimentary strata in the Ordos Basin are the most representative. Many studies have been conducted on eolian deposits in the Ordos Basin, especially the Luohe Formation; however, there is a lack of systematic sedimentology research and the corresponding research on the evolution of sedimentary facies. Therefore, to explore the Mesozoic drought events and the systematic evolution of the sub-tropical erg zone, this study reports the fluvial–eolian sedimentary sequences of the Early Cretaceous Luohe and Yijinhuoluo Formations in the Ordos Basin. Spatially, through detailed sedimentary lithofacies and structural analysis of different outcrops, the combination law of sedimentary facies can be determined. Based on this, a three-dimensional sedimentary model of erg is reconstructed. The erg environment is divided into three sub-environments: erg margin, erg margin–centre transition and erg centre. According to the evolution of the sedimentary facies, the sedimentary evolution from the Latef Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous in the Ordos Basin is divided into five stages. The Ordos Basin has experienced the delta, erg formation, erg deposition, erg shrinkage and evaporating salt-lake stages. The vertical sedimentary evolution indicates climatic oscillation in North China from the Late Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous. Under the control of the sub-tropical high belt, the Ordos Basin experienced a hot and arid climate during the Cretaceous, forming a widely distributed erg belt in the region. During this period, a small-scale climate shock occurred under the hot and arid background, changing the sedimentary environment.

Single Atom Catalyst for Nitrate-to-Ammonia Electrochemistry.

Various life forms suffer from the negative effects of nitrate when it accumulates in water bodies, which is a major concern in the present day. The removal of nitrate from water bodies is a critical challenge, and the most effective method to achieve that is to change it into ammonia. Ammonia is a clean energy source and a vital input for the fertilizer industry. The Haber-Bosch process, which dominates the industrial production of ammonia, requires a lot of energy. A more sustainable way to produce ammonia is to use nitrate-contaminated water and reduce it to ammonia through electrocatalysis. This review is constituted of amalgamated articles featuring unique conditions that affect the productivity and activity of the transition metal single atom catalyst (TNMSAC) for the electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia (NRA) reaction. It explores factors such as nitrate ion adsorption, the characteristics of the central electroactive transition metal, the type of coordinating atoms, the impact of potential on stability, and the interplay among single atoms on the selectivity and yield of ammonia gas. In addition, this review also covers advanced concepts such as dual-atom catalysts, dual single atom catalysts, and single atom alloys. The review will provide valuable guidance for enhanced comprehension and strategic designing of TNMSAC for the electrocatalytic conversion of NRA, which will contribute to achieving a green ammonia economy.

Discussion of Projects for the Development of the Amudarya Flotilla by the Russian Government at the Turn of the 19th–20th centuries

The article examines the approaches of government departments regarding the development of private shipping on the Amu Darya, emphasizing the importance of the Amu Darya waterway in the context of the development of the Central Asian regional transit potential at the turn of the 19th–20th centuries. The work also analyzes the financial indicators of this infrastructure project, its impact on strengthening the position of the Russian Empire on the territory of the southern Central Asian frontier. The author noted key role of the Military Department in the discussion and implementation of the Amudarya flotilla project, the contradictory approaches of government structures regarding private shipping projects, which ultimately led to the lack of a decision on this issue. The author concluded that, during the discussion of this water transport project, due to the uncertainty of many of its aspects and the unsettled financial issues the model of attracting private investors to its implementation was not accepted by the state. At the same time, due to geostrategic and economic reasons, the Amudarya flotilla remained important for the Military Department even in a situation of increasing budgetary unprofitability of this project. The main provisions and conclusions of the work may be of interest to historians specializing in economic history and orientalists studying the region of Central Asia and the Middle East.

:Walking Together: Central Americans and Transit Migration through Mexico

:<i>Walking Together: Central Americans and Transit Migration through Mexico</i>

Reversible mechanochromic luminescence in a binuclear zero-dimensional Cd(II) complex through transformation between exciplex and excimer

In this work, the mechanochromic luminescence (MCL) property of a binuclear zero-dimensional cadmium complex with a variety of weak interactions is investigated. It exhibits a reversible transition between blue (445 nm) and yellow-green (470 nm) emission under the alternating treatments of grinding and CH3CN fumigation. The mechanism of MCL is proposed by combining the structural features, characterization results and theoretical calculations. During the grinding process, the ordered stacking of the structural units is disrupted and the crystalline state is transformed into an amorphous state, which is accompanied by a transition of the luminescent center from exciplex to excimer. In addition to exploring the MCL properties of a binuclear cadmium complex, this work provides feasible ideas for studying the response mechanism.

Macroeconomic effects of carbon transition policies: An assessment based on the ECB’s New Area-Wide Model with a disaggregated energy sector

We assess the macroeconomic effects of carbon transition policies aimed at mitigating climate change in the euro area. To this end, we augment the ECB’s New Area-Wide Model (NAWM) with a framework of disaggregated energy production and use, which distinguishes between “dirty” and “clean” energy. Our central transition policy is that of a permanent increase in carbon taxes, which are levied as a surcharge on the price of dirty energy, combined with a price-preserving fall in fossil resource supply. Our findings suggest that increasing carbon taxes to an interim target level consistent with the transition to a net-zero economy entails a transitory rise in inflation and a lasting, albeit moderate decline in GDP. We show that the short and medium-term effects depend on the monetary policy reaction, the path of the carbon tax increase and its credibility, while expanding clean energy supply is key for containing the decline in GDP. Undesirable distributional effects can be addressed by appropriately redistributing the fiscal revenues from the carbon tax increase across households.

The investigation on the dynamic solidification behavior of the hybrid molten pool in layered bimetallic laser penetration welding

The dynamic solidification behavior of the hybrid molten pool in layered bimetallic DSS2205/X65 laser penetration welding has been investigated using high-speed photography and grayscale processing techniques. The results demonstrate that this welding process creates layered joints. Alongside the DSS2205 and X65 layers’ interconnection, an intermediate transition layer emerges proximate to their interface, exhibiting limited solute exchange. Understanding the dynamic solidification in the hybrid molten pool is crucial. Two Marangoni eddies form in the DSS2205 and X65 layers at the posterior end of the keyhole during welding. Despite encountering less external gas convection, the central transition zone of the hybrid pool undergoes rapid cooling, prompting preferential solidification. The grains then grow towards the sides due to the Marangoni eddies, resulting in a dumbbell morphology by wider ends and a narrower middle region. Thermodynamic calculations and microstructure observations reveal fine equiaxed grains in the transition zone influenced by the greater cooling rate and element distribution, while larger grains in the base layer, and columnar grains in the cladding layer. This confirms preferential solidification in the middle region. The study uncovers the intrinsic mechanism behind this phenomenon, offering valuable insights for controlling the microstructure, optimizing parameters, and enhancing mechanical properties in layered bimetallic composite joints using laser penetration welding.

High-resolution heteronuclear correlations between spin-1/2 and half-integer quadrupolar nuclei under fast MAS solid-state NMR

High isotropic resolution is essential for the structural elucidation of samples with multiple sites. In this study, utilizing the benefits of TRAPDOR-based heteronuclear multiple quantum coherence (T-HMQC) and a pair of one rotor period long cosine amplitude modulated low-power (cos-lp) pulse-based symmetric-split-t1 multiple-quantum magic angle spinning (MQMAS) methods, we have developed a proton-detected 2D 35Cl/1H T-HMQC-MQMAS pulse sequence under fast MAS (70 kHz) to achieve high-resolution in the indirect dimension of the spin-3/2 (35Cl) nuclei connected via protons. As T-HMQC polarizes not only single-quantum central transition (SQCT) but also triple-quantum (TQ) coherences, the proposed 2D pulse sequence is implemented via selection of two coherence pathways (SQCT→TQ →SQCT and TQ → SQCT→TQ) resulting in the 35Cl isotropic dimension and is superior to the existing double-quantum satellite-transition (DQST) T-HMQC in terms of resolution.

ENHANCING TRUCK FREIGHT MANAGEMENT VIA DIGITAL TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS ECOSYSTEMS

The Republic of Kazakhstan is prioritizing the digitalization of its transportation and logistics sector as a strategic approach to sustainable economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. Guided by the decrees and messages from the President of Kazakhstan, the nation is focusing on developing its transit potential and incorporating modern technologies to streamline transport and logistics processes. The emphasis is on increasing the efficiency of transportation activities, developing transit and multimodal potential, and ensuring the security and stability of transport connectivity. This initiative aims to raise the transportation and logistics sector's contribution to the GDP and establish Kazakhstan as a central transit hub in the region. Recent advancements in digital ecosystems, which include technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain, are set to revolutionize the truck freight transportation industry. These technologies promise enhanced efficiency, improved supply chain visibility, and reduced environmental impacts. Kazakhstan's efforts in digitalizing its transport and logistics complex, including recommendations for implementing digital transport corridors and developing an integrated information and logistics platform, signify a critical step toward realizing these benefits. This approach will not only enhance the transparency and efficiency of management processes but also reduce costs and improve service quality for end-users, contributing significantly to the nation's economic growth and regional integration.

Uzbekistan’s ‘Real’ Second Chance: a Structural Account of the Reforms of Shavkat Mirziyoyev

Abstract The election of Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Uzbekistan was initially dismissed as, yet another Central Asian transition of power that would ultimately change very little. In this instance however, analysts were proven quite wrong. Since taking the country’s highest office, Mirziyoyev has liberalized the economy, improved relations with neighbors, increased accountability, and signaled willingness to release some executive powers to the people. However, in analyzing these welcomed reforms, we must ask ourselves whether they are genuine. Is Mirziyoyev a radical reformist willing to sacrifice the political order established by his predecessor for the sake of liberalization or are these changes instead part of a broader political agenda for the sake of legitimacy?

Development of a Standardized Process for Transition to Adult Care in a Pediatric Colorectal Surgery Clinic

BackgroundAs pediatric patients with colorectal diseases grow, it is important to address transition to adult practice. We aim to describe our center's transition process and early outcomes. MethodsWe developed a standardized process for transition to adult practice. An annual survey is given to parents and caregivers starting at age 12 that assesses knowledge of disease, independence with healthcare tasks, and confidence and interest regarding transition. After multidisciplinary review, those eligible are recommended for transition. Those not referred are provided with tools to help with areas of weakness. Outcomes were analyzed with descriptive and regression analyses (significance at p ≤ 0.05). ResultsA total of 116 patients were evaluated, with 80 patients (69.0%) recommended for transition. Median age at survey was 15.5 years [IQR: 13.7–18.1], and those recommended were older (16.6 years [IQR: 14.7–19.4] vs 13.5 years [IQR: 12.5–14.9], p < 0.001)). Primary diagnosis and gender were not associated with recommendation for transition. Overall, a minority (18.1%) were able to complete healthcare tasks; this correlated strongly with transition recommendation (26.3% vs 0.0%, p < 0.0001). On regression controlling for age, diagnosis, knowledge, and confidence, age (aOR 1.98, 95% CI 1.44–2.71) and confidence (aOR 3.78, 95% CI 1.29–11.11) independently predicted transition recommendation. ConclusionA standardized approach may be effective in transitioning patients from pediatric to adult colorectal surgery practice. Patients who transition are more confident and can perform healthcare tasks independently; however, these skills are not essential prior to a recommendation of transition. Level of evidenceIII.

Observation of Solvent-Dependence in the Mechanism of Neutral-Catalyzed Isomerization of para-Aminobenzoic Acid Protomers.

Proton-transfer reactions are commonplace during electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry experiments and are often responsible for imparting charge to analyte molecules. Multiple protonation-site isomers (protomers) can arise for polyfunctional molecules and these isomers can interconvert via solvent-mediated proton transfer reactions during various stages of the ESI process. Studying the populations and interconversion of protonation isomers provides key insight into the ESI process, ion-molecule interactions, and ion dissociation mechanisms. An archetype molecule to study protomer interconversion fundamentals in this context is para-aminobenzoic acid (pABA), where both the amino and carboxylic acid protomers are typically formed under ESI and the mechanisms for interconversion are still under refinement. Using ion-trap mass spectrometry reaction kinetics (2.5 mTorr, 300 K), this study examines gas-phase interconversion catalysis of pABA protomers by seven neutral species, which are commen solvents and additives used for ESI: water, formic acid, methanol, ethanol, propanol, ammonia, and acetonitrile. Three distinct reaction cases are reported: (i) formic acid, methanol, ethanol, propanol, and ammonia each catalyze the interconversion between the amino and carboxylic acid protomers via a n = 1 solvent-molecule vehicle mechanism; (ii) for water, however, a n = 6 adduct complex is detected and this suggests that the observed protomer interconversion occurs through a Grotthuss mechanism, in accord with literature reports; (iii) acetonitrile inhibits proton transfer by the formation of particularly stable n = 1 and 2 adduct complexes. The second-order rate constants for the protomer interconversion are observed to increase in the following order: H2O < HCO2H < MeOH < EtOH < PrOH < NH3. Potential energy schemes are reported for all neutral-catalyzed proton transfer reactions using the DSD-PBEP86-D3(BJ)/aug-cc-pVDZ level of theory. A central transition state, which connects the protonation site adducts, is shown to be the key rate-limiting step. The energy of this transition state is sensitive to the proton affinity of the neutral solvent, and this is supported by the correlation between the reaction rate and the solvent proton affinity.

Extending the Range of Distances Accessible by 19F Electron-Nuclear Double Resonance in Proteins Using High-Spin Gd(III) Labels.

Fluorine electron-nuclear double resonance (19F ENDOR) has recently emerged as a valuable tool in structural biology for distance determination between F atoms and a paramagnetic center, either intrinsic or conjugated to a biomolecule via spin labeling. Such measurements allow access to distances too short to be measured by double electron-electron resonance (DEER). To further extend the accessible distance range, we exploit the high-spin properties of Gd(III) and focus on transitions other than the central transition (|-1/2⟩ ↔ |+1/2⟩), that become more populated at high magnetic fields and low temperatures. This increases the spectral resolution up to ca. 7 times, thus raising the long-distance limit of 19F ENDOR almost 2-fold. We first demonstrate this on a model fluorine-containing Gd(III) complex with a well-resolved 19F spectrum in conventional central transition measurements and show quantitative agreement between the experimental spectra and theoretical predictions. We then validate our approach on two proteins labeled with 19F and Gd(III), in which the Gd-F distance is too long to produce a well-resolved 19F ENDOR doublet when measured at the central transition. By focusing on the |-5/2⟩ ↔ |-3/2⟩ and |-7/2⟩ ↔ |-5/2⟩ EPR transitions, a resolution enhancement of 4.5- and 7-fold was obtained, respectively. We also present data analysis strategies to handle contributions of different electron spin manifolds to the ENDOR spectrum. Our new extended 19F ENDOR approach may be applicable to Gd-F distances as large as 20 Å, widening the current ENDOR distance window.

Evaluating changes in business distribution within urban rail transit hubs in Beijing via Point of Interest (POI) data analysis (2008–2020)

This paper, set against the backdrop of expanding urban rail networks and dynamic urban development, focuses on the distribution and evolution of commercial Points of Interests (POIs) within the central urban rail transit areas of Beijing. The study examines data from four different years—2008, 2013, 2017, and 2020—to observe the temporal evolution of commercial entities. It identifies stable explanatory variables affecting the distribution and evolution of commercial POIs, which include rail transit accessibility, characteristics of the working and residential population distribution around stations, and the construction intensity in the vicinity of station areas. Through statistical analysis and model building, relatively stable linear regression equations were established, with R2 values generally maintained above 0.5 (except for 2017). The study advances our understanding of the influence of rail transit on urban commercial spaces and how this influence shifts with temporal and urban developmental changes. It elucidates the correlation between changes in the number of businesses and spatial configuration, offering insights and information for urban planners and policy makers. This research also serves as a model for exploring the interplay between urban rail transit and commercial spaces in other major cities.

Accelerated acquisition of wideline solid-state NMR spectra of spin 3/2 nuclei by frequency-stepped indirect detection experiments.

73% of all NMR-active nuclei are quadrupolar nuclei with a nuclear spin I > 1/2. The broadening of the solid-state NMR signals by the quadrupolar interaction often leads to poor sensitivity and low resolution. In this work we present experimental and theoretical investigations of magic angle spinning (MAS) 1H{X} double-echo resonance-echo saturation-pulse double-resonance (DE-RESPDOR) and Y{X} J-resolved solid-state NMR experiments for the indirect detection of spin 3/2 quadrupolar nuclei (X = spin 3/2 nuclei, Y = spin 1/2 nuclei). In these experiments, the spectrum of the quadrupolar nucleus is reconstructed by plotting the observed dephasing of the detected spin as a function of the transmitter offset of the indirectly detected spin. Numerical simulations were used to investigate the achievable levels of dephasing and to predict the lineshapes of indirectly detected NMR spectra of the quadrupolar nucleus. We demonstrate 1H, 31P and 207Pb detection of 35Cl, 81Br, and 63Cu (I = 3/2) nuclei in trans-Cl2Pt(NH3)2 (transplatin), (CH3NH3)PbCl3 (methylammonium lead chloride, MAPbCl3), (CH3NH3)PbBr3 (methylammonium lead bromide, MAPbBr3) and CH3C(CH2PPh2)3CuI (1,1,1-tris(diphenylphosphinomethyl)ethane copper(I) iodide, triphosCuI), respectively. In all of these experiments, we were able to detect megahertz wide central transition or satellite transition powder patterns. Significant time savings and gains in sensitivity were attained in several test cases. Additionally, the indirect detection experiments provide valuable structural information because they confirm the presence of dipolar or scalar couplings between the detected nucleus and the quadrupolar nucleus of interest. Finally, numerical simulations suggest these methods are also potentially applicable to abundant spin 5/2 and spin 7/2 quadrupolar nuclei.

A mixed-methods evaluation of a longitudinal primary-secondary school transitions support intervention.

Primary-secondary school transitions are critical transitions for children that can be emotionally demanding longitudinal experiences, which can positively and negatively impact future emotional wellbeing and mental health. However, interventions that have been developed to reduce the negative outcomes children commonly experience are limited in number, sustainability, and reach and rely on a cross-sectional approach, as opposed to longitudinal evaluations. The current study evaluates Transitions 5-7, a universal, class-based 9-week intervention to develop children's awareness and ability to cope with the multiple changes experienced over primary-secondary school transitions. The evaluation utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative outcome and qualitative process intervention evaluation. For the outcome evaluation, a quasi-experimental research design was used, and children of the intervention and comparison groups completed a questionnaire in Year 5 (n = 185), Year 6 (n = 217), and Year 7 (n = 162), which assessed their self-reported perception of Transitions Worries, Transitions Excitement, Emotional Wellbeing, Parental Support, and Coping Efficacy. To understand the implementation of Transitions 5-7, three focus groups were conducted with Year 6 children, 3 interviews with teachers, and 1 interview with the Transitions Manager of the local government education authority during the project, who developed Transitions 5-7. The outcome evaluation found that children participating in the intervention showed a decrease in Transitions Worries and an increase in Transitions Excitement and Coping Efficacy compared with the comparison group, resulting in a lowered impact on Emotional Wellbeing over time. The need for a more systemic approach to primary-secondary school support provision, which is gradual, has a distinct delivery and follows a skills-based curriculum, was discussed in the process evaluation. Meta-inferences drawn demonstrate the importance of gradual emotional centered transitions provision embedded within Years 5, 6, and 7. The present study makes a unique empirical contribution in demonstrating the need and viability to take a preventative as opposed to a curative approach to primary-secondary school transitions support provision and begin early in Year 5. Conceptual and methodological implications for future research and implications for educational policy and practice are discussed.

Trauma Center Transition From Paper to Electronic Quality Improvement: Enhancing Trauma Performance Efficiency.

The American College of Surgeons requires continuous process improvement review to maintain trauma center verification. Paper-based systems to monitor and track performance improvement are commonly used but can be inadequate to monitor concurrent ongoing improvement effectively. To describe the implementation of an electronic process to capture and monitor performance improvement in near real time. In 2020, a Midwestern U.S. Level I adult trauma center and a Level II pediatric trauma center's trauma programs transitioned from a paper to an electronic file-sharing system for performance improvement. We converted our primary, secondary, and tertiary review documentation into a single electronic performance improvement file stored on the institution's virtual hard drive, accessible to designated staff, allowing continuous real-time updates. The electronic file-sharing and monitoring process reinvigorated the team and enhanced performance improvement efforts, leading to increased efficiency through documentation and effective loop closure. Real-time monitoring allowed the trauma program to identify opportunities for improvement and enact timely action plans, including targeted performance improvement projects, department education, and ongoing training. We found that implementing an electronic file-sharing system enhanced the trauma team's ability to monitor and trend performance improvement in real time.

Catechol-Isolated Atomically Dispersed Nanocatalysts for Self-Motivated Cocatalytic Tumor Therapy.

Nanocatalytic tumor therapy based on Fenton nanocatalysts has attracted considerable attention because of its therapeutic specificity, enhanced outcomes, and high biocompatibility. Nevertheless, the rate-determining step in Fenton chemistry, which involves the transition of a high-valence metallic center (FeIII ) to a Fenton-active low-valence metallic center (FeII ), has hindered advances in nanocatalyst-based therapeutics. In this study, we constructed mesoporous single iron atomic nanocatalysts (mSAFe NCs) by employing catechols from dopamine to coordinate and isolate single iron atoms. The catechols also serve as reductive ligands, generating a field-effect-based cocatalytic system that instantly reduces FeIII species to FeII species within the mSAFe NCs. This self-motivated cocatalytic strategy enabled by mSAFe NCs accelerates the kinetics of the Fenton catalytic reaction, resulting in remarkable performance for nanocatalytic tumor therapy both in vitro and in vivo.

EPR of LiNaGe4O9:Mn crystal

EPR spectra of manganese ions were studied in lithium-sodium tetragermanate LiNaGe4O9 crystal. The observed spectrum was typical for doping ions in tetravalent Mn4+ state (3d 3, S=3/2) and for main orientations of static magnetic field along the crystal axes (T=296 K) consisted of hyperfine sextuplet from electronic transition Ms= +1/2 ↔ – 1/2. Transitions Ms= ±3/2 ↔±1/2 were not detected owing to strong interaction of the spin system with crystal field as compared with electron Zeeman interaction in the X frequency range of EPR registration. The angular variations of the spectrum were measured for static field B rotated in three main crystal planes. Since only central transition (Ms= +1/2 ↔ – 1/2) was detected and the splitting of the fine structure remained unknown, the spectrum was described in the approximation of effective spin Seff=1/2. The parameters of the spin Hamiltonian, including electron Zeeman and hyperfine interactions, were calculated. The magnetic multiplicity of the spectrum (km=2) evidenced that paramagnetic centers occupied the sites with monoclinic C2 point symmetry. Taking into consideration the positional symmetry as well ionic charges and radii of the guest ion and the hosts, it was concluded that paramagnetic Mn4+ centers substituted for Ge4+ within oxygen octahedral complexes in the crystal lattice of LiNaGe4O9.