Innovative Pathways Research Articles

LncRNAs associated with vascular mimicry establish a novel molecular subtype and prognostic model for pancreatic cancer.

Vascular mimicry (VM) epitomizes an innovative tumor angiogenesis pathway, potentially serving as an alternate conduit under the assumption of traditional tumor angiogenesis pathway inhibition. The role of VM in pancreatic cancer (PC), however, remains unexplored. Using differential analysis and Spearman correlation, we identified key long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) signatures in PC from the collected set of VM-associated genes in the literature. We identified optimal clusters using the non-negative matrix decomposition (NMF) algorithm, and then compared clinicopathological features and prognostic differences between clusters. We also assessed tumor microenvironmental (TME) differences between clusters using multiple algorithms. Using univariate Cox regression analyses as well as lasso regression, we constructed and validated new lncRNA prognostic risk models for PC. We used Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) to analyze model-enriched functions and pathways. Nomograms were then developed to predict patient survival in association with clinicopathological factors. In addition, single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis was used to analyze the expression patterns of VM-related genes and lncRNAs in the PC of TME. Finally, we used the Connectivity Map (cMap) database to predict local anaesthetics that could modify the VM of PC. In this study, we developed a novel three-cluster molecular subtype using the identified VM-associated lncRNA signatures of PC. The different subtypes have significantly different clinical characteristics and prognostic value, and also show differential treatment response and TME. Following an in-depth analysis, we constructed and validated a novel prognostic risk model for PC based on the VM-associated lncRNA signatures. Enrichment analysis suggested that high riskscores were significantly associated with functions and pathways, including extracellular matrix remodeling, et al. In addition, we predicted eight local anaesthetics that could modulate VM in PC. Finally, we discovered differential expression of VM-related genes and lncRNAs across various cell types within pancreatic cancer. VM has a critical role in PC. This study pioneers the development of a VM-based molecular subtype that demonstrates substantial differentiation in PC populations. Furthermore, we highlighted the significance of VM within the immune microenvironment of PC. Moreover, VM might contribute to PC tumorigenesis through its mediation of mesenchymal remodeling and endothelial transdifferentiation-related pathways, which offers a new perspective on its role in PC.

How Can Urban Regeneration Reduce Carbon Emissions? A Bibliometric Review

As urbanization continues to accelerate worldwide, the consequential rise in CO2 emissions has caused substantial environmental challenges. Urban regeneration has emerged as a promising approach to reducing carbon emissions and developing low-carbon cities. Even though both urban regeneration and carbon emissions reduction have been researched from various perspectives, a thorough review is still required to completely reveal their multifaceted relationship. Based on 231 papers published between 2001 and 2023, a bibliometric analysis was conducted to understand the overall trajectory and main focus of the existing research. Then, we qualitatively analyzed the main findings from bibliometric results in terms of key regeneration elements, specific regeneration strategies, research methodologies, as well as research trends and agendas. The results indicated that research in this field is gradually becoming more specialized and comprehensive. Buildings and energy have always been two key urban regeneration elements and research hotspots. Additionally, as a systematic project, reducing carbon emissions requires further exploration of other regeneration elements’ contributions and their interactions in the urban system, which needs the corresponding support of more specific regeneration strategies and research methodologies. These findings can advance the development of innovative and impactful pathways for low-carbon oriented urban regeneration, leading ultimately to sustainable cities.

The CtMYB63 -CtU-box1-CtUCH1 module regulates cold tolerance and Hydroxysafflor yellow A accumulation in Carthamus tinctorius

Low-temperature chilling injury poses a formidable threat to plant growth, development, and crop productivity. MYB transcription factors have emerged as key players, orchestrating a symphony of positive regulation in the realms of cold tolerance and flavonoid accumulation. However, the intricate regulatory mechanisms underlying safflower's response to such stressors still remain unclear. In the present study, a putative CtMYB63 was discovered to positively regulate low-temperature tolerance and hydroxysafflor yellow A accumulation in safflower. CtMYB63 exhibited up-regulation in the face of low-temperature stress. Similarly, the silencing of CtMYB63 via RNAi showed down-regulation of key genes involved in cold stress pathway emphasized their susceptibility to low temperature stress unlike overexpressed and wild-type plants. In addition, the interaction between CtMYB63 and a deubiquitin enzyme (CtUCH1) was also confirmed through yeast two-hybrid analysis. Remarkably, the overexpression of CtUCH1 in safflower rebounded the positive effects on low-temperature tolerance, further corroborating its regulatory prowess. Interestingly, while the accumulation of Hydroxysafflor yellow A remained unaffected in CtUCH1 overexpressed plants, it showed positive impact on cold tolerance. Furthermore, the overexpression of CtUCH1 in MYB63 mutant Arabidopsis leads to the restoration of MYB63 function and enhance its ability to regulate downstream target genes. This restoration of MYB function highlighted the intricate interplay between CtUCH1 and CtMYB63 in shaping safflower's transcriptional landscape. The detrimental effects on cold tolerance and Hydroxysafflor yellow A accumulation became evident as the U-box family of E3 ubiquitin ligases, particularly CtU-box1, targeted CtMYB63 for ubiquitination. In this complex interplay, the deubiquitinating prowess of CtUCH1 emerged as a vital modulator, preserving the stability of CtMYB63 by counteracting the adverse effects of CtU-box1. By elucidating this novel regulatory module, consisting of CtMYB63-CtU-box1-CtUCH1, our study pioneers an innovative pathway for enhancing cold stress resilience and optimizing Hydroxysafflor yellow A accumulation in safflower. These findings not only deepen our understanding of safflower's intricate adaptive mechanisms in response to cold stress but also pave the way for the development of novel strategies in crop improvement and pharmaceutical applications.

Effects of losartan and enalapril on lithium-pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus, spontaneous convulsive seizures, and cardiac changes in rats

Modulating the brain renin-angiotensin system presents an innovative pathway for exploring newer treatment approaches in epilepsy. The current study aimed to evaluate the influence of losartan (LOS) and enalapril (ENP), which are angiotensin receptor blocker and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, respectively, on the incidence, initiation, and duration of status epilepticus (SE), spontaneous convulsive seizures (SCS), survival, and cardiac alterations in rats subjected to lithium-pilocarpine (LiP)-induced SE. Lithium (127 mg/kg, i.p.) pretreated male Wistar rats were administered pilocarpine (30 mg/kg, i.p.) after 24 h to induce SE, which was terminated after 90 min of onset. Daily 10-h video monitoring was carried out for examining onset, frequency, duration of SCS, and mortality till 18 days. The administration of LOS (10 mg/kg, i.p.), ENP (20 mg/kg, i.p.) and atenolol (AT; 50 mg/kg, p.o.) was started before lithium in pre-SE protocol and for post-SE protocol these drugs were administered 1 h after terminating SE and continued for 7 days’ post-SE. Cardiac pathology, echocardiography, heart weight/body weight ratio, and histopathology were evaluated. None of the drugs used (LOS/ENP/AT) offered protection against SE. Administration before SE decreased and post-SE administration increased the latency of SCS, and the overall duration of seizures remained short in both cases as compared to untreated rats. The heart weight/body weight ratio decreased in rats that did not survive. No echocardiographic changes were observed in any of the groups. Untreated SE rats showed myocyte ischemic changes, which were not present in any treated rats. In conclusion, LOS may reduce cardiac complications in SE rats. Hence, further evaluation of LOS as an add-on in epilepsy treatment should be performed.

Scenarios to promote territorial innovation systems in agri-food value chains: case of cocoa in Colombia

ABSTRACT Purpose The aim of the research was to propose probable scenarios for the year 2030 for the cocoa value chain in the department of Antioquia (Colombia), based on functional approach to analysing territorial innovation systems (TIS). Methodology TIS in the cocoa value chain was analysed by comparing two rural municipalities as case studies, where different actors respectively participated. Prospective analysis approach, Delphi method, MICMAC program and morphological analysis were combined for the construction of scenarios. Findings Case study comparison indicates that analysis at the territorial level is an appropriate perspective to identify key aspects of the TIS functions that lead to different scenarios for promoting local innovation in agri-food value chains. The results provide specific scenarios including short-, medium- and long-term strategies for the promotion of territorial innovation systems. Practical implications This approach has the potential for multiple heterogeneous TIS actors to explore different innovation pathways and prospective scenarios that contribute to action planning to reduce uncertainty and promote innovation in TIS. Theoretical implications This study contributes with a new way of approaching the functions of TIS, where dynamics that occur in the local geography are highlighted. Also based on the prospective analysis, scenarios are configured that arise from a set of aspects analysed by local and external actors of the territories. Originality/value The study generates important knowledge about TIS and the functional approach regarding the design of prospective scenarios to promote innovation in agri-food value chains.

Knowledge contribution from science to technology in the conceptualization model to produce sustainable aviation fuels from lignocellulosic biomass

Alternative biofuels provide a great perspective to assist the fast decarbonization of the mobility area and replacement for conventional non-renewable petroleum fuels. Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) as a fuel in the aviation sector are presently generated from several raw materials and conversion passages to fulfill sustainability goals. In this article, using modeling systems, the material balance for generating sustainable aviation fuel utilizing PCH (pyrolysis, coking, and hydrocracking) technologies from lignocellulosic biomass is presented. According to the technology, bio-raw materials (sawdust and husks) are subjected to rapid pyrolysis at the first stage. The second stage is the delayed coking of mixed raw materials containing up to 25 wt % of biooil. The resulting coking distillates, mainly gas oils, are sent to hydrocracking, where high quality fuel components are produced. According to the material balance, the kerosene component in its composition contains about 5 wt % of organic kerosene. The results reported that an innovative SAF generation pathway has been currently upgraded, which depended on lignocellulosic biomass.

Ultrahigh Selective Hydrogenation of Furfural Enabled by Modularizing Hydrogen Dissociation and Substrate Activation

Designing optimal heterogeneous metal hydrogenation catalysts for biomass conversion with simultaneously high activity and selectivity is a significant but challenging topic. Herein, we report a modularized hydrogenation mode with hydrogen dissociation and substrate activation on different sites (e.g., Pt and Cu), where Pt nanoclusters are responsible for H2 dissociation and Cu nanoparticles act as the active center for further substrate activation. Specifically, TS-1 zeolite@mesoporous silica with a core–shell structure was fabricated, in which the Pt and Cu species are confined within micropores and mesopores, respectively. Such configurations allow facile dissociation of H2 on Pt sites, followed by the migration of spilled-over hydrogen atoms to the Cu sites where the adsorbed substrates are activated for catalytic hydrogenation. This synergy yields an efficient furfural hydrogenation system with a high turnover frequency (32.8 h–1) and a remarkable furfuryl alcohol selectivity (>99.6%). The modularizing strategy opens up an innovative pathway for fabrication of hydrogenation catalysts with outstanding activity and high selectivity.

Effects of rice protein on the formation and structural properties of starch-lipid complexes in instant rice noodles incorporated with different fatty acids

Herein, the influence of rice protein (10%, w/w) on the formation of indica rice starch-lipid complexes in pure indica rice starch (IRS) system, and the influence of rice starch-lipid complexes formed in instant rice noodles (IRN) after the incorporation of fatty acids (FAs) on in vitro starch digestion were systemly evaluated. The viscoelastic properties of IRS samples increased after the incorporation of protein and lipids. The V-type diffraction intensity in IRS-lipid samples compounded with protein was greater than that of IRS-lipid samples supplemented without protein. In comparison to natural IRN samples, IRN fortified with FAs (especially for LOA) displayed significantly higher relative crystallinity (35.76%) and resistant starch content (14.42%). As shown by SEM, the microstructure of IRN incorporated with SA and LOA presented more denser and regular lamellar structures than those supplemented with shorter-chain FAs; confirmed by the significantly increased short-range order structure and better thermal stability. Collectively, this research may provide a deep understanding on how these three macronutrients (starch, protein, and lipids) interactions taken place during food processing, which might be helpful to develop novel stable foods with desirable digestive and functional properties in an innovative pathway.

Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO): The case of MakerDAO

The global adoption and diffusion of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies has given rise to a new form of organizing referred to as decentralized autonomous organizations (DAO). Many DAOs sit at the intersection between decentralized blockchain technologies and finance, so-called decentralized finance (DeFi). This teaching case focuses on one of the most prominent and established DeFi DAOs, MakerDAO, a community-driven initiative that leverages blockchain technology to create a stablecoin pegged to the US Dollar as a basis for decentralized financial services such as lending and yield generation. The case describes the delicate balancing act between centralization and decentralization in the evolution of MakerDAO. It can be used in graduate business programs to achieve the following learning objectives: (1) Understand the concept of decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) as a new form of organizing in which communities leverage blockchain technologies and community-based principles to work jointly on a common goal, (2) Be able to assess the benefits and risks of novel decentralized finance (DeFi) models, such as MakerDAO, which offer alternative financial tools and resources that are not controlled by traditional financial institutions, (3) Evaluate the potential and pathway for disruptive innovation in the era of blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and Web3, where decentralized applications (dapps) on blockchain networks enable decentralized and trustless transactions and interactions.

Alzheimer's Disease Treatment: The Search for a Breakthrough.

As the search for modalities to cure Alzheimer's disease (AD) has made slow progress, research has now turned to innovative pathways involving neural and peripheral inflammation and neuro-regeneration. Widely used AD treatments provide only symptomatic relief without changing the disease course. The recently FDA-approved anti-amyloid drugs, aducanumab and lecanemab, have demonstrated unclear real-world efficacy with a substantial side effect profile. Interest is growing in targeting the early stages of AD before irreversible pathologic changes so that cognitive function and neuronal viability can be preserved. Neuroinflammation is a fundamental feature of AD that involves complex relationships among cerebral immune cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines, which could be altered pharmacologically by AD therapy. Here, we provide an overview of the manipulations attempted in pre-clinical experiments. These include inhibition of microglial receptors, attenuation of inflammation and enhancement of toxin-clearing autophagy. In addition, modulation of the microbiome-brain-gut axis, dietary changes, and increased mental and physical exercise are under evaluation as ways to optimize brain health. As the scientific and medical communities work together, new solutions may be on the horizon to slow or halt AD progression.

A257 Establishment of a Patient Education Curriculum: An Innovative Treatment Pathway for Pediatric Severe Obesity

A257 Establishment of a Patient Education Curriculum: An Innovative Treatment Pathway for Pediatric Severe Obesity

Configuration analysis of the innovation pathway of gerontechnological enterprises under the market-organization-technology perspective

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the innovation pathway of gerontechnological enterprises under the market-organization-technology (MOT) perspective through configuration analysis.Design/methodology/approachBased on the analytical framework of technology, organization and market, this paper conducts configuration analysis on the cases of 55 elderly-friendly enterprises in China combined with fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA).FindingsFirst, this study identifies the three first-level preconditions affecting innovation performance: organization's architectural innovation, technology adapting to aging and market environment attention on the innovation pathway of gerontechnological enterprises. These three first-level conditions include six sub-conditions. Second, this study investigates three innovation pathways by analyzing the configuration effects of preconditions: Configuration 1, technology-balanced type; Configuration 2, organization-market linkage type and Configuration, 3 balanced type. Third, there are differences in the distribution of different configuration types in subdivided industries. The technology-balanced configuration is mainly concentrated in design-driven innovative enterprises, the organization-market linkage configuration is mainly concentrated in medical auxiliary equipment enterprises and the balanced configuration is mainly concentrated in smart elderly care service platform enterprises empowered by digital technology. Fourth, there are differences in the innovation impact paths of the same configuration type. However, the essence lies in the high-level innovation performance formed by the coordinated evolution of technology, organization and market factors, reflecting the characteristics of the same goal through different routes.Research limitations/implicationsThe authors' study generates new insights for innovation managers of gerontechnological enterprises about the innovation pathway.Originality/valueThis research enriches innovation management by integrating the linkage adaptation relationship among market, organization and technology factors; further research studies on the different configuration types suitable for different types of enterprises, as well as differentiated innovation pathways under the same configuration type, could contribute to the study on the innovation pathway under a premise of MOT.

Study on the Integration and Innovation Pathways of Etiquette Culture in Ceramic Design Theory Courses at Higher Education Institutions

Etiquette culture serves as the core of Chinese traditional cultural values, possessing rich spiritual connotations and significant importance. Currently, ceramic design theory courses in higher education institutions are facing a series of challenges. Design education overly emphasizes the adaptability of course content to social demands, to some extent neglecting the intrinsic humanistic spirit. By employing approaches such as "illuminating etiquette through vessels," "comparing virtues with vessels," and "upholding both art and virtue," and utilizing objects as carriers, the fusion of etiquette culture with ceramic design theory courses can enhance the cultural literacy and spiritual horizons of design talents, achieving a subtle and unobtrusive educational impact.

The KORE-INNOVATION trial, a prospective controlled multi-site clinical study to implement and assess the effects of an innovative peri-operative care pathway for patients with ovarian cancer: rationale, methods and trial design

BackgroundAdvanced ovarian cancer is managed by extensive surgery, which could be associated with high morbidity. A personalized pre-habilitation strategy combined with an ‘enhanced recovery after surgery’ (ERAS) pathway may decrease...

Innovative Pathways for the Valorization of Biomass Gasification Char: A Systematic Review

The thermochemical process of gasification is widely utilized for bioenergy production and is particularly attractive due to its high conversion efficiency. However, a gasification byproduct, known as char, is commonly treated as industrial waste despite its attractive qualities. Indeed, due to its high carbon content (up to 91%) and well-developed porosity (specific surface areas up to 1253 m2 g−1), gasification char could be considered a cost-effective substitute for activated carbon in various applications, such as catalysis and adsorption. However, its properties are highly dependent on the gasification parameters and the initial feedstock selected, and thus a careful characterization of the material is needed to find the most suitable applications. This review can act as a preliminary assessment of the gasification along with the expected char properties, aiding in the selection of the most appropriate valorization pathways. In particular, different application areas, their relation to the gasification process, and the char properties are extensively discussed.

Exploring Progress and Hurdles in Plant Tissue Culture: A Comprehensive Review

Plant tissue culture has revolutionized agriculture, horticulture, and plant science research by offering a platform for mass propagation, germplasm conservation, and genetic transformation of plants. This review comprehensively explores the progress made in plant tissue culture techniques, highlighting their applications and advancements. Additionally, it examines the hurdles and challenges that impede the widespread adoption and optimization of tissue culture methods. Through a detailed analysis of current research and technological developments, this review aims to provide insights into the future directions and potential solutions for overcoming barriers in plant tissue culture. Plant tissue culture stands as a pivotal technique in modern agriculture and plant biotechnology, offering avenues for rapid propagation, genetic manipulation, and conservation of plant species. This review delves into the dynamic landscape of tissue culture methodologies, emphasizing their pivotal role in enhancing crop productivity and preserving genetic diversity. By scrutinizing both progress and obstacles, this exploration seeks to illuminate pathways for further innovation and refinement in plant tissue culture practices.

Microwave-assisted synthesis of edge-grafted carbon nitride by triazole rings for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution

Copolymerization of conjugated nitrogen heterocycles within carbon nitride nowadays is proven to be a successful strategy to promote charge separation. Here, a novel edge-grafted carbon nitride nanosheets by triazole rings were synthesized from the copolymerization of dicyandiamide and 3-amino-1, 2, 4-triazole via microwave-assisted heating with improved yield. Based on the building of a feasible donor-acceptor (D-A) system by such edge grafting, the rapid charge transfer pathways were formed. Benefiting from the thin-layer structure of carbon nitride via microwave-assisted heating and abundant π electrons by intramolecular doping, the system showed enhanced visible light absorption from n-π∗ electrons transition, facile charge separation and transfer, and then an increased H2 evolution rate (637.58 μmol h−1 g−1), which is 17.43 times than the triazole modified sample from conventional thermal condensation method. This work enlightens an innovative pathway for the regulation of carbon nitride photocatalysts by conjugated nitrogen heterocycles for efficient solar energy conversion applications.

Shaping the future of sustainable energy through AI-enabled circular economy policies

The energy sector is enduring a momentous transformation with new technological advancements and increasing demand leading to innovative pathways. Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a critical driver of the change, offering new ways to optimize energy systems operations, control, automation, etc. Developing a competitive policy framework aligned with circular economy practices to adapt to the trends of the rapid revolution is crucial, shaping the future of energy and leading the sector in a sustainable, equitable, and impartial direction. This study aims to propose an AI-driven policy framework that aligns with the circular economy business model to address the transformation trend in the development of energy policies through a multidisciplinary approach. The study identifies key trends, various approaches, and evaluates the potential of AI in addressing the challenges. The AI-driven policy paradigm outlines a comprehensive framework and roadmap to harness the potential of AI through a forward-looking policy framework that considers the rapidly changing landscape and the essence of the circular economy. The proposed novel framework provides a roadmap for researchers, governments, and other stakeholders to navigate the future of energy and unlock the potential of AI for a sustainable energy future.

Applying Enterprises’ Frugal Innovation in Ecologically Vulnerable Areas: A Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis of the Influence Paths

Frugal innovation has become popular in ecologically vulnerable areas in the past decade, as it was initiated under a resource-constrained innovation paradigm. However, there has been limited research on its influence factors and fundamental operating mechanisms in such areas. This paper aims to address this gap by using qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to analyze unique datasets from three ecologically vulnerable areas in China. Based on the theory of planned behavior, the study identifies three key influence factors in frugal innovation: behavioral attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control. The relationships among these factors and pathways are also described. The study’s findings suggest: (1) frugal innovation is an integrated product of multiple influence factors and pathways, where the same goal can be achieved through different pathways; (2) Three pathways for conducting high-level frugal innovation are identified: attitude-oriented, norm-oriented, and attitude-norm-oriented pathways. Behavioral attitudes and subjective norms are the two dominant factors that influence enterprises to carry out frugal innovation. (3) Perceived behavior control does not play a leading role in frugal innovation as the resource-constrained environment in ecologically vulnerable areas and the characteristics of enterprises heavily influence frugal innovation. (4) The lack of behavioral attitudes and subjective norms are the main causes leading to the low-level frugal innovation of enterprises. In conclusion, this study systematically investigates the different influence factors and pathways of frugal innovation in ecologically vulnerable areas. The findings enrich the frugal theory and promote the effective development strategy of innovation for enterprises in such areas.

Cancer research and innovation: conceptualising a persistent anomaly

ABSTRACT In the last two decades, efforts in cancer treatment have been progressing rapidly in terms of scientific discoveries and development of new therapeutic solutions. Medical innovation contributes to significant survival gains for cancer patients. Yet, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death and one of the most pressing public health challenges worldwide. We propose an interpretative lens that refers to the idea of ‘anomaly’ as a driver of new technological paradigms to interpret new and emerging developments in medical innovation and in cancer treatment in particular. We use the lens of gateways to innovation and pathways of innovation to investigate how the organisation of (i) knowledge generation, (ii) technological applications and (iii) new clinical approaches emerge and are refined. We adopt a historical/longitudinal method following research and clinical outcomes in three ‘illustrative’ cases of cancer. Cancer is a heterogeneous, complex disease and is constantly evolving; thus, it remains a ‘persistent anomaly’. Research and clinical innovation activities have recently made great strides in understanding specific aspects of the disease and generated truly innovative therapeutic options in some areas, whilst in other areas, progress is lagging. At the same time, research and innovation activities have been employed to refine existing techniques, drugs and diagnostics providing improved treatment solutions across the related disease areas. Throughout its recent history, cancer research and innovation promoted several new paradigms tackling different aspects of the disease engendering new trajectories that have been implemented in conjunction with established and improved practices.