Different Stages Of Development Research Articles

Aged and induced-premature ovarian failure mouse models affect diestrus profile and ovarian features

Sex hormones exert a wide influence on several systems of the human body, especially in women, who undergo intense changes in the trans and postmenopausal periods. Different experimental models are used to mimic these conditions; however, the impact on hormonal profile may be different. This study aimed to analyze and compare vaginal cytology of different post-estropausal mice models, along with their microscopical ovarian features. Forty-six C57BL/6J female mice with the ages of 4, 6 and 18 months at the beginning of the experiment, weighing about 25–28 grams, constituted five groups: NC–(negative control) animals with no treatment, OVX-SHAM—sham ovariectomized, OVX–ovariectomized, VCD–medicated with 160 mg/kg/day of 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide via IP for 20 consecutive days, and Aged–senescent mice under physiological estropause. Euthanasia was performed at different periods for the removal of the ovaries, and after diestrus was confirmed by vaginal cytology for 10 consecutive days. For daily vaginal cytology, morphological and histomorphometric microscopic analyzes were performed. Aged mice presented significant increased neutrophils when compared to VCD group, as well as increased cornified epithelial cells when compared to OVX mice, and also increased nucleated epithelial cells when compared to VCD and OVX. NC and OVX-SHAM ovaries presented innumerous follicles at different stages of development, while VCD showed marked follicular atresia, depleted of primordial or developing follicles and a predominance of interstitial cells. The ovaries of aged mice were predominantly constituted by corpus luteum degenerated into corpus albicans, with rare antral follicles. All analyzed models led to different permanent diestrus profiles caused by each model, as indicated by ovarian features. This should be carefully considered when choosing a post-estropausal experimental model, in order to better correlate this challenging phase of female’s life with physiological/pathological conditions.

Integrative analysis of long noncoding RNAs dysregulation and synapse-associated ceRNA regulatory axes in autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex disorder of neurodevelopment, the function of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in ASD remains essentially unknown. In the present study, gene networks were used to explore the ASD disease mechanisms integrating multiple data types (for example, RNA expression, whole-exome sequencing signals, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, and protein-protein interaction) and datasets (five human postmortem datasets). A total of 388 lncRNAs and five co-expression modules were found to be altered in ASD. The downregulated co-expression M4 module was significantly correlated with ASD, enriched with autism susceptibility genes and synaptic signaling. Integrating lncRNAs from the M4 module and microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation data from the literature identified competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. We identified the downregulated mRNAs that interact with miRNAs by the miRTarBase, miRDB, and TargetScan databases. Our analysis reveals that MIR600HG was downregulated in multiple brain tissue datasets and was closely associated with 9 autism-susceptible miRNAs in the ceRNA network. MIR600HG and target mRNAs (EPHA4, MOAP1, MAP3K9, STXBP1, PRKCE, and SCAMP5) were downregulated in the peripheral blood by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis (false discovery rate <0.05). Subsequently, we assessed the role of lncRNA dysregulation in altered mRNA levels. Experimental verification showed that some synapse-associated mRNAs were downregulated after the MIR600HG knockdown. BrainSpan project showed that the expression patterns of MIR600HG (primate-specific lncRNA) and synapse-associated mRNA were similar in different human brain regions and at different stages of development. A combination of support vector machine and random forest machine learning algorithms retrieved the marker gene for ASD in the ceRNA network, and the area under the curve of the diagnostic nomogram was 0.851. In conclusion, dysregulation of MIR600HG, a novel specific lncRNA associated with ASD, is responsible for the ASD-associated miRNA-mRNA axes, thereby potentially regulating synaptogenesis.

Disrupted sugar transport and continued sugar consumption lead to sugar decline in ripe ‘Shixia’ longan fruit

Longan fruit pulp sugar content and sweetness decline after ripening, which affects fruit quality and postharvest storage. Fruit sugar decline research has focused mainly on fruit physiology and biochemistry. To explore the molecular mechanism underlying sugar decline, we conducted transcriptome and metabolome analyses of ‘Shixia’ longan fruit aril (pulp) tissues at different stages of development. In total, 873 metabolites and 26584 annotated unigenes were identified. Sugar content changes in aril tissues were closely related to gene expression patterns related to starch and sucrose metabolism, such as sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS), invertase (INV), sucrose synthase (SUS), and glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI). Notably, glycolytic pathway gene expression and cellulose and lignin contents increased during the sugar decline stage compared to the sugar accumulation stage. Conversely, sucrose transporter genes, such as DlSWEET2b, DlSWEET10, and DlSWEET12, showed the opposite expression pattern, pointing to reduced sucrose transport during sugar decline. These results indicate that longan fruit sugar decline is likely related to an interruption of sugar input (cessation of sucrose transport to the aril) and continued glycolysis and cellulose/lignin biosynthesis. This provides a new way to delay longan fruit sugar decline, by regulating sugar transport instead of inhibiting respiration.

Development features of pericarp of Couroupita guianensis Aubl. (Lecythidaceae)

At present, there is a paucity of works dedicated to carpological investigations of Couroupita guianensis Aubl. In order to identify structural features, particularly those related to fruit histogenesis and determination of its histogenetic type, we examined the anatomical and morphological characteristics of the fruit of C. guianensis at different stages of development. The observed structure of the pericarp allows for the identification of a specialized morphogenetic type of amphicarp, which has not been previously reported in other representatives of Magnoliophyta. The sclerenchymatous zones are localized in the outer and middle zones of the mesocarp. The morphological and anatomical features of the fruit indicate a discrepancy between the structure of the pericarp and the contemporary method of C. guianensis dissemination. It is hypothesized that the fruit is endozoochorous, although among the present-day fauna of South America, there are no animals capable of breaking the integrity of the powerful bony structure of the fruit, which is represented by the internal sclerenchymatous zone. Apparently, C. guianensis lost its potential disseminators after the late Quaternary extinction of megafauna. As hypothetical disseminators, some representatives of the families Megatheriidae, Nothrotheriidae, Gomphotheriidae, Mammutidae, and Toxodontidae could be suggested. Based on our investigations, we can conclude that the fruit of C. guianensis currently illustrates an evolutionary anachronism of dissemination.

Comparison of two methods to measure the area of ultrasonography images of corpus luteum in sheep

Ultrasonography (US) is a helpful tool for studying follicular and luteal dynamics, ovulation, and embryo development. However, there is currently no gold standard reference technique for estimating the size of the corpus luteum (CL). The aim of this study was to compare the results from measuring ewes’ CL size based on its’ diameter or its’ surface with the aid of image software. The study involved 19 ewes, recording the images of 50 CLs at different stages of development, and therefore, calculating its’ size by both procedures. The results showed that measuring the CL diameter to calculate its’ area is a rapid and reliable technique that can effectively substitute the measurement of the surface, which requires precision and time. The study concluded that measuring the two main axes of the CL is a valid method for effectively estimating its size.

The search for inhibitors of somatic embryogenesis in Medicago truncatula

The success of protocols for the genetic transformation of legumes is limited by their low ability to regenerate. Plant regeneration can occur both along the path of shoot regeneration and their further rooting, and along the path of somatic embryogenesis (SE). SE is similar to zygotic embryogenesis (ZE). It is a method of asexual reproduction, in which the somatic cell, due to its totipotency, switches on the embryogenesis program.&#x0D; SE and ZE involve common participants in transcriptional, hormonal, and epigenetic control. Like many processes in the plant organism, SE is controlled by the activity of various stimulants or repressors.&#x0D; As a result of transcriptional analysis of embryogenic and non-embryogenic calli ofMedicago truncatulaat different stages of development, putative genes-inhibitors of SE were found. Using the Golden Gate system, we created vectors for agrobacterial transformation to overexpress genes of interest in embryogenic calli and evaluate their effect on SE. Overexpression of two genes encoding the transcription factors from WRKY and Homobox-WOX families had a significant inhibitory effect on SE (the average number of somatic embryos per callus decreased).&#x0D; TheMtCLE16,a previously found SE inhibitor from the CLE peptides group, was edited and heterozygous frameshift mutants were obtained. The impact of loss of its function on the SE capacity remains to be analyzed.&#x0D; This research was supported by the Sirius University of Science and Technology, project PBB-RND-2243.

Deciphering the Genomic Regulatory Architecture of iPSC Derived Oligodendrocytes from Diverse Ancestries for Alzheimer’s Disease Studies

AbstractBackgroundThe effect of variants associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can be influenced by ancestry, which determines the genomic regulatory architecture (GRA). A global understanding of GRA in the context of AD is imperative to interpret the variability associated with AD risk genes across populations. Most studies up to date have focused on studying GRA in European ancestry, in this study we aimed at determining the GRA in African, Amerindian, and European ancestries. Since GRA is cell specific, we developed a human induced pluripotent cells (hiPSC) based model for oligodendrocytes (OLs), a cell type which has limited studies focused on AD.MethodCells from AD patients or non‐cognitively impaired controls with &gt;90% of either Amerindian, African or European global ancestry were differentiated using a modified multi‐stage protocol that promotes the development and enrichment of oligodendrocytes in neural spheroids. After terminal differentiation, cells were collected and lysed to isolate nuclei for Multiomic profiling of chromatin accessibility and transcriptome using Single Cell ATAC and Single Cell RNA‐seq. Additionally, we examined chromatin interactions using Hi‐C analyses.ResultWe identified oligodendrocyte lineage cells at different stages of development ranging from dividing cells with transcriptional profiles consistent with those of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC) to mature myelinating oligodendrocytes. We compared the oligodendrocytes clusters across ancestries, cases versus controls and APOE genotypes to characterize the genomic landmarks and signatures associated with AD related GWAS loci. Astrocytes and neurons were also derived within our 3D spheroids, allowing us to study ancestry‐related cell type specific changes in GRA.ConclusionOur results provide ancestry‐specific insights into oligodendrocyte chromatin structure and gene regulation in the context of AD. These results offer an integrated view of the GRA of a previously overlooked cell lineage that constitute a large population in the central nervous system and is compromised during AD in terms of abundance and function. This will expand the available functional resources for gene identification studies in African American and Hispanic/Latino studies.

Effective idle land management: a conceptual framework from land management paradigm

Land serves as a fundamental input for social and economic sectors, significantly influencing the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, idle land can impede progress toward these goals if not utilized effectively. The prevalence of idle land has expanded in rural and rapidly growing urban areas across countries at different stages of development. Although several idle land management approaches have been implemented, they often result in short-term fixes rather than long-term solutions, and their efficacy remains inconsistent. Therefore, this article proposes a conceptual framework rooted in the principles of the Land Management Paradigm. This framework is developed based on a broad literature review to provide insights into the determinants for effective idle land management. The framework development draws upon the Land Management Paradigm, which highlights the interrelationship among a country’s land policy framework, land administration functions, land information infrastructures, and institutional arrangements. By utilizing this paradigm, the determinants for effective idle land management can be investigated comprehensively. The proposed conceptual framework highlights the importance of an integrated approach to idle land management. It emphasizes the need for a robust land policy framework that facilitates effective land utilization and discourages land idling. Furthermore, efficient land administration functions are vital in regulating and managing idle land. Accurate and accessible land information infrastructures are essential for informed decision-making and promoting optimal land use. Lastly, appropriate institutional arrangements must be established to ensure coordination and collaboration among relevant stakeholders involved in idle land management. In conclusion, idle land poses significant challenges to sustainable development, and existing solutions have often focused on short-term fixes. This article proposes a conceptual framework that integrates the principles of the Land Management Paradigm to enhance the effectiveness of idle land management initiatives towards implementing long-term solutions that promote optimal land utilization, contributing to achieving the SDGs.

Variación de las propiedades mecánicas del hueso inmaduro en las etapas más tempranas del desarrollo

IntroductionBone as a material varies its composition and mechanical properties throughout life. Although these variations are better understood in adulthood, there is little experimental information on the variation of these properties in early stages of development. The objective of this study is to analyze the mechanical behavior and chemical properties of cortical bone tissue from two animal species in these earliest stages. Material and methodologyTwenty specimens of cortical bone were manufactured from bovine and ovine species that were in different stages of development (feeding exclusively on breast milk, in the transition period to feed or pasture, and young animals but on a solid food diet). The specimens were subjected to tensile tests, recorded with a high-speed camera to obtain deformation maps. Measurements of the tensile force until the specimen broke were also carried out. A fractographic study was carried out with a scanning electron microscope to analyze the fracture surface and an analysis of the amount of calcium in each of the specimens using X-ray dispersion spectroscopy. ResultsA statistically significant and positive correlation was found between the elastic modulus of the specimens and their calcium content. A trend towards more rigid behavior with age was observed. ConclusionsYoung bone tissue tends to stiffen with age as the calcium content increases with an increase in elastic modulus.

Caregiver Influences on Eating Behaviors in Children: An Opportunity for Preventing Obesity.

This review seeks to define caregiver practices that impact childhood eating behaviors and identify ways to utilize these relationships to prevent childhood obesity. Childhood obesity, which correlates with adult obesity and increased cardiovascular risk, is increasing in prevalence and severity. Caregivers play a significant role in shaping a child's eating behaviors and their predisposition to obesity. Maternal influences during pregnancy and infancy impact a child's future food preferences. Caregiver feeding styles (authoritarian, authoritative, indulgent, and uninvolved) are associated with distinct effects on children's eating behaviors and self-regulation. Authoritative feeding styles promote child autonomy while setting boundaries in the feeding environment. Early caregiver education and coaching regarding nutrition and feeding practices is beneficial to establishing healthy eating behaviors for children.Various caregivers, including parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers, and others, influence a child's eating habits at different stages of development. These caregivers can both positively and negatively impact a child's diet. Comprehensive interventions involving these various caregivers to promote healthy eating practices in children is ideal. Such interventions should be sensitive to cultural and environmental factors. Childhood obesity is a complex issue with long-term health effects. Early intervention using comprehensive approaches including all caregivers, community support, and public policies to address the social determinants of health will be beneficial. Future research should focus on valid outcome measures and equitable interventions that encompass all aspects of a child's life.

Ecological diversity, structure and exploitation of rattan stands according to a disturbance gradient around the Nkoltang forest, Estuary province of Gabon

This study was carried out in three areas of the peri-urban forest of the locality of Nkoltang, located 30 km from Libreville in Gabon. The purpose was to assess abundance; the species distribution, regeneration and exploitation status of the different rattan species in three areas of the Nkoltang forest. The diversity and floristic abundance of rattan stands were determined from the botanical identification of the individuals. The enumeration of the different stages of development and the mortality rates made it possible to know the structure of the stands and the state of regeneration of the resource. The abundance of cut stems made it possible to characterize the operating pressure. The results reveal that 683 rattan stems belonging to 7 species and 3 genera of rattan were inventoried in the study area. The distribution of specific abundances does not vary across forest areas. The structure of the stands shows a widespread abundance of green and vigorous stems, a low presence of mature stems. The moderately disturbed forest area supports the most diverse and abundant regeneration of rattan stands. Mining intensity is higher in the low-disturbance environment and lower in the high-disturbance environment. However, the results obtained reveal that artisanal exploitation of peri-urban forests does not seem to have any adverse effects on the abundance, structuring and regeneration of rattan stands. Local populations seem to have a low impact on the resource.

A rat study on the PTEN expression in ovarian tissue in PCOS and folliculogenesis

The objective of this investigation was to examine alterations in PTEN expression within ovarian tissue in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The analysis also encompassed the examination of PTEN alterations in the ovarian tissue throughout the process of folliculogenesis in rats with normal ovulatory cycles. The study involved 12 adult female Sprague‒Dawley rats randomly assigned to the letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) group as part of an animal-based research endeavour. The sections derived from the ovaries were subjected to immunohistochemical staining for PTEN. The evaluation of PTEN staining levels in ovarian tissues was conducted using electron microscopy. Follicle counts, as well as hormonal and biochemical analyses (serum luteinising hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), testosterone, oestradiol levels and serum glucose, triglyceride, HDL and LDL-cholesterol levels), were conducted to provide evidence of the manifestation of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in rats. The number of primordial and Graafian follicles in the PCOS group decreased significantly, and the number of primary, secondary and antral follicles increased significantly. PTEN expression was found to be significantly higher in the PCOS group than in the control group in the primordial follicle oocyte cytoplasm, primordial follicle granulosa cells, primary follicle oocyte cytoplasm, primary follicle granulosa cells, antral follicle oocyte cytoplasm, antral follicle granulosa cells, and corpus luteum (p = 0.007, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.002, and p = 0.018, respectively). In the non-PCOS group, a time-dependent comparison of the amount of oocyte cytoplasm and PTEN staining in granulosa cells of the oocytes at different stages of development was performed. While the follicles were developing from the primordial follicle to the primary and antral follicle, the amount of PTEN staining in the oocyte cytoplasm decreased, whereas the PTEN activity in the granulosa cells increased as the oocyte developed (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). The current investigation demonstrated changes in PTEN expression in ovarian tissue throughout the course of normal folliculogenesis, as well as in instances of disrupted folliculogenesis, with a focus on rats with PCOS.

The effects of government venture capital: New evidence from China based on a two-sided matching structural model

This study develops a two-sided matching structural model to examine whether government venture capitals (GVCs) crowd out private venture capitals (PVCs) by comparing the pre-money economic valuation of observed and counterfactual investments. The structural model also allows us to study the impacts of GVCs on the post-investment performance of the funded companies. Using China's VC market data between 2000 and 2020, we find that GVC-funded companies are those neglected by PVCs, and the potential economic performance of GVC-funded companies is inferior to that of PVC-funded ones. It means that the data do not support the crowding out conjecture. Moreover, the evidence suggests that the potential innovativeness of GVC-funded companies is higher than that of PVC-funded companies, indicating that GVCs bridge the equity gap left by PVCs in innovative companies. Regarding the impacts on companies' post-investment performance, GVCs are not significantly different from PVCs in improving companies' economic performance, and they are better than PVCs in improving companies' innovative performance. We also explore the impacts of different types of GVCs, the impacts of the co-investment between GVCs and PVCs, and the impacts of GVCs on companies in different stages of development.

Analysis of OCT4 and PGP9.5 gene expression in prenatal and postnatal buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) testes

This study aimed to investigate and characterize the spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in buffaloes at different stages of development, including prenatal, neonatal, prepubertal, and adult testes. We sought a comprehensive understanding of these cells through a combination of histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural analyses. Specifically, we examined changes in the expression of two potential SSC markers, OCT4 and PGP9.5, using immunohistochemistry. Additionally, we conducted a real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) to assess the relative gene expression of OCT4 and PGP9.5. The relative expression of the OCT4 gene was down-regulated in the adult testes compared to its expression during prepubertal and neonatal life. The relative expression of the PGP9.5 gene was up-regulated in the neonatal testes and down-regulated in the prepubertal and adult testes. The spermatogonia were round, oval-to-ellipsoidal cells lying over the basement membrane (BM) with a round-to-oval nucleus. Based on the immunoexpression of the putative SSC markers, OCT4 and PGP9.5, we concluded that the proportion of stem cells was highest during the neonatal stage, followed by the prepubertal and prenatal stages. This finding sheds light on the dynamics of spermatogonial stem cells in buffalo testes at different developmental stages, providing valuable insights into these cells’ regulation and potential applications.

Immunoexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor and vWF-regulating angiogenesis in cyclic corpus luteum of Indian buffalo.

The present study was conducted to localize the immunoexpression of VEGF-A (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) and von Willebrand factor (vWF) in corpora lutea of healthy buffaloes (24) collected from local slaughterhouses. CL collected were categorized into early (stage I, 1-5 days, n = 6), mid (stage II, 6-11 days, n = 6), late luteal phase (stage III, 12 to 16 days, n = 6) and regressing phase (stage IV, 17 to 20 days, n = 6). The percent positive immunostaining for VEGF-A was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in mid-luteal phase than the other three stages of CL. However, it was higher in early luteal phase as well indicated intense angiogenesis in both early and mid-luteal phases. The number of capillary endothelium expressing vWF was significantly (p < 0.05) highest in mid-luteal phase among all the phases. However, in late luteal phase, the percent area positive for VEGF-A immunostaining was reduced but it was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than corpus albicans phase. Thus, in regressing phase or corpus albicans, it was lowest and reduced considerably. However, in late luteal phase, the number of capillaries with vWF immunoexpression reduced significantly (p < 0.05) but it was lowest in corpus albicans phase. Therefore, the immunotaining pattern for VEGF-A and vWF concluded that there was a spositive linear correlation between the two, that is, as the VEGF-A expression was increased, the number of vWF positive capillaries also increased and vice versa. The VEGF-A expressed by the luteal parenchyma in different stages of development and regression of corpus luteum was thus observed to be involved in promoting the angiogenesis and luteal cell proliferation as supported by vWF expressed by endothelium of proliferating capillaries in buffalo corpus luteum throughout the estrous cycle.

Upwelling as a stressor event during embryonic development: Consequences for encapsulated and early juvenile stages of the marine gastropod Acanthina monodon

Upwelling phenomena alter the physical and chemical parameters of the sea's subsurface waters, producing low levels of temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen, which can seriously impact the early developmental stages of marine organisms. To understand how upwelling can affect the encapsulated development of the gastropod Acanthina monodon, capsules containing embryos at different stages of development (initial, intermediate and advanced) were exposed to upwelling conditions (pH = 7.6; O2 = 3 mg L−1; T° = 9 °C) for a period of 7 days. Effects of treatment were determined by estimating parameters such as time to hatching, number of hatchlings per capsule, percentage of individuals with incomplete development, and shell parameters such as shell shape and size, shell strength, and the percentage of the organic/inorganic content.We found no significant impacts on hatching time, number of hatchlings per capsule, or percentage of incomplete development in either the presence or absence of upwelling, regardless of developmental stage. On the other hand, latent effects on encapsulated stages of A. monodon were detected in embryos that had been exposed to upwelling stress in the initial embryonic stage. The juveniles from this treatment hatched at smaller sizes and with higher organic content in their shells, resulting in a higher resistance to cracking 30 days after hatching, due to greater elasticity.Geometric morphometric analysis showed that exposure to upwelling condition induced a change in the morphology of shell growth in all post-hatching juveniles (0–30 days), regardless of embryonic developmental stage at the time of exposure. Thus, more elongated shells (siphonal canal and posterior region) and more globular shells were observed in newly hatched juveniles that had been exposed to the upwelling condition. The neutral or even positive upwelling exposure results suggests that exposure to upwelling events during the encapsulated embryonic phase of A. monodon development might not have major impacts on the future juvenile stages. However, this should be taken with caution in consideration of the increased frequency and intensity of upwelling events predicted for the coming decades.

Teacher development in an evolving online professional learning community: an action research study

ABSTRACT Professional learning communities (PLCs) have long been regarded as effective for professional development; their operational processes, however, are largely unexplored in the literature. This paper examines the dynamic process of an online PLC by using an action research approach to explore the role of different collaborative learning methods. Data were collected using observations, field notes, interviews, video records, and various artefacts. Surveys were also used to examine the teachers’ competencies. The findings confirm the positive effects of online PLCs on teachers’ competencies and the formation of a learning culture. Moreover, each of the three collaborative learning approaches has distinct advantages for teachers at different stages of development. This result highlights that the forms of collaboration in online PLCs are subject to negotiation and change as the community develops; the potential of online PLCs should be continuously explored using process-oriented, context-sensitive methods.

Mentors' motives and mentoring functions: comparing social and commercial new ventures

PurposeEntrepreneurial support programs, like incubators and accelerators, often offer mentorship to new ventures. However, existing research on mentoring has mainly focused on the entrepreneur's perspective, leaving researchers with limited understanding of why experienced mentors provide support to new ventures. This study aimed to explore mentors' motives in mentor–venture relationships and their impact on the advisory process. It also examined different types of mentors (social and commercial) and their motivations for assisting and supporting new ventures.Design/methodology/approachThe present study utilizes a qualitative research approach to investigate the motivations and mechanisms through which new venture mentors assist founders in their growth and success. In-depth interviews were conducted with 18 mentors supporting both social and commercial ventures. These mentors were selected from ten accelerator and incubator programs situated in Belgium. The interviews aimed to gain insights into the mentors' motivations and their experiences in the role of mentors.FindingsBased on the social exchange theory and the norm of reciprocity, this study identified two main motives of mentors: “gaining back” reflecting mentors’ self-interest in deriving benefits from the relationship and “paying back” representing their altruistic reasons for supporting new ventures. Additionally, the study identified mentor functions that primarily involved providing career-related support to new ventures. Moreover, the research revealed intriguing similarities and differences in the motivations and mentoring functions between mentors of social and commercial ventures.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should explore the evaluation process and criteria used by mentors and new ventures when selecting each other for a productive mentoring relationship. Additionally, further investigation is needed to examine the firm-level impact of various mentoring services on the performance of social and commercial new ventures at different stages of development. Comparing mentor motives and functions across diverse geographical settings would address the limitation of the study and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.Practical implicationsThe findings of the study can inform policymakers, accelerator and incubator program managers and new ventures seeking mentors and support initiatives. They can use the insights to design effective mentoring programs that align with the specific needs and motivations of mentors and new ventures. Understanding the different motives and functions of mentors can help in the selection of appropriate mentors who can provide the necessary support and expertise to new ventures.Social implicationsThe study highlights the importance of mentorship in the development of entrepreneurial ecosystems. Accelerator and incubator programs play a crucial role in connecting new ventures with mentors who have the right motivation and expertise, contributing to the growth and success of new ventures and the overall entrepreneurial ecosystem. By identifying both altruistic and self-interest motivations in mentoring relationships, the study emphasizes the dual dimensions that characterize the mentor–venture relationship. This understanding can foster stronger collaborations and reciprocal exchanges between mentors and new ventures, ultimately benefiting both parties.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the entrepreneurship literature by exploring the mentor–new venture relationship from mentors' perspective. It expands the existing research on mentor–protégé relationships, broadening the understanding of mentoring dynamics in different organizational settings. The findings offer insights grounded in social exchange theory and provide directions for future research on mentor–venture relationships, resource exchange and relationship development. The study also holds practical implications for policymakers and program managers involved in fostering mentoring initiatives for new ventures.

The Supreme Court of the Russian Federation as Successor to the Supreme Court of the RSFSR: Historical and Legal Aspects

A democratic legal state is featured by a judicial system capable of effectively protecting the interests of citizens and organizations. In historical and legal studies, it is crucial to study how its main institutions were formed and developed. The study seeks to define the peculiarities of the legal and organizational foundations underlying the RSFSR Supreme Court’s creation and its subsequent development in modern Russia. This goal can only be reached by completing the following tasks: – To provide an overview of the historical and legal aspects of the activities of the domestic higher courts; – To describe the legal acts governing the structure of the highest judicial instance, both in the RSFSR and in modern Russia; – To explore how the competencies of the Supreme Court of the RSFSR and the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation have been evolved. This study analyzes the activities of the highest judicial bodies using a structural and functional approach; the historical and legal method and the analysis method are used to determine the scope of the highest courts’ authority and their significance at different stages of development. Through the analysis of the legal framework, a legal assessment is given to the activities of the Supreme Court of the RSFSR, and it is also concluded that the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation is its successor, since both courts in different historical eras were the highest judicial instance, whose function was to supervise lower courts and ensure uniformity of judicial practice.

Technology Route Options of China’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel: Analysis Based on the TOPSIS Method

Developing production technology pathways of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) that align with China’s national conditions and aviation transportation needs is crucial for promoting the SAF industry and achieving China’s carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals. This article first projects the future SAF demand in China for the coming decades. Using SAF demand data as an input, this article employs the TOPSIS analysis method to comprehensively evaluate the suitability of four SAF production technology pathways at different stages of development in China, which are Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA), Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ), Natural Gas + Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis (G + FT), and Power-to-Liquid (PtL). The research results reveal the following trends: HEFA-based processes are the most suitable technology pathways for China in the near term; the G + FT route, based on energy crops, appears the most likely to support civil aviation needs in the medium to long term. In the long run, the PtL route holds significant potential, especially with the decreasing costs of green electricity, advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology, and improvements in SAF synthesis methods. In the final section of this article, we provide recommendations to drive the development of the SAF industry in China.