Innovative Risk Research Articles

Innovative risk score to diagnose depression using data from the UAE Healthy Future Study

Abstract Introduction Depression has been recognized as a major mental health disorder. Diagnosing depression remains a challenge due to its complex multifactorial nature. The UAE Healthy Future Study is a long-term cohort study that focuses on understanding the factors that contribute to chronic disease among Emiratis. It involves answering a comprehensive questionnaire, undergoing physical measurements such as Body Mass Index (BMI), and biological samples for analysis. We analyized the eight-item depression screening instrument Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) for this project. Methods Out of 487 participants included in the PHQ-8, 205 participants (42.1%) were included in the statistical analysis after omitting missing values. A multivariate Least Absolute Selection Shrinkage Operator (LASSO) logistic regression model was performed using gender, age, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, body fat percentage, high-density lipoprotein (mg/dL), lowdensity lipoprotein (mg/dL), total cholesterol (mg/dL), diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1C, as predictors. The primary outcome was the binarized total PHQ-8 using a cutoff value of ten Tenfold cross-validation was applied. Results A cutoff value that yields an approximate sensitivity of 90% was selected to maximize the ability of the novel risk score to correctly identify subjects with depression symptoms. Sensitivity and specificity were estimated with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI). A novel depression risk score was computed as the linear predictor of the selected five variables in the LASSO regression analysis, as following: Risk score = -3.284 + 0.471*gender - 0.053*age + 0.049*BMI + 0.022*HDLmgdL - 0.072*HBA1c Conclusions We have shown that a novel depression risk score provides useful information for screening of depression. Further validation studies are needed to confirm the application of the risk score in daily practice. Key messages • A novel depression risk score provides useful information for screening of depression. • If the risk score can be verified in a different population, then it can improve the screening methods for depression.

ВЗАЄМОЗВ’ЯЗОК КІБЕРБЕЗПЕКИ ТА ІННОВАЦІЙНОГО ПОТЕНЦІАЛУ КРАЇНИ ПІД ЧАС ТРАНСФЕРУ ТА ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ ІННОВАЦІЙ

The article is devoted to the investigation of the relationship between innovation and cyber security in the context of forecasting and reducing risks related to cyber security during the implementation of innovations. The purpose of the study is to confirm and model the interconnection between the levels of innovation development and cyber security of the country. The work describes the concept of innovation risk and the importance of cyber security in the modern world as one of the important factors in overcoming innovation risks. The current state of cyber security was analysed based on various indices, and the impact of cyber threats on innovation processes was investigated based on a sample from 26 countries of the world. This made it possible to identify leaders and outsiders in this field, as well as trends in the development of cyber security in dynamics. It is well-founded that cyber security is a key factor for the development and implementation of innovations. To confirm the existing relationship between cyber security and innovation, the multiple correlation coefficient was calculated, and an econometric model was built using the built-in functions of MS Excel (the estimation of the model parameters was carried out using the method of least squares using the built-in "Data Analysis" package of the MS spreadsheet editor Excel for a multivariable linear model). The significance of the model was confirmed by the coefficient of determination, Fisher's test, and the level of significance of the p-value. The results of the study can be used to develop effective cyber defence strategies and contribute to the stable development of technologies in the face of growing cyber threats.

Investigation and Analysis of the Contribution of Chinese Electric Vehicle Social Organizations’ Standardization Innovation to Intelligent Optimization Research and Development Investment

Intelligent design has been the direction pursued by international electric vehicle (EV) research and development (R&D) teams in recent years. This paper analyzes the problems of unsustainable development in the current product design of EVs in China, such as high R&D investment, high innovation risks, and low R&D input–output ratios. It explores the issues related to intelligent design, R&D investment, car prices, and safety in the field of EVs in China, and it proposes the concept of optimizing intelligence to optimize the design investment of EVs in China. On the basis of the development situation and the existing problems of social organization standards that gather innovative technologies for EVs, this paper used data from the national social organization standard information platform as the research object and analyzed important data, such as the quantity of the information of relevant social organizations and professional fields of social organization standards, through mathematical methods. The article proposes an optimization design scheme for EV products in China, combining intelligence and practicality from the perspective of the optimizing intelligent design, and it models the construction of EV optimization design. The quantitative relationship between the two schemes before and after optimization design is compared in terms of cost savings in intelligent design, the improvement of social benefits, and the enhancement of EV cost performance. The comparative study found that intelligent optimization design reduced the R&D cost of EVs by 45.24%, and the social benefits of R&D investment increased by 29.51%.

Innovative risk management techniques in food safety: A review of best practices and emerging trends

Effective risk management in food safety is critical to ensuring consumer protection and maintaining the integrity of global food supply chains. Traditional approaches, such as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), have long been the foundation of food safety risk management. However, with the increasing complexity of food production and distribution, new challenges demand more advanced techniques. This review explores innovative risk management methods, focusing on best practices and emerging trends that are transforming food safety. Technological advancements are driving much of this innovation. Predictive analytics and machine learning now allow for real-time monitoring and hazard detection, improving the accuracy of risk assessments. Blockchain technology is being leveraged for enhanced traceability and transparency in the supply chain, ensuring faster recall management and improved accountability. The integration of IoT (Internet of Things) sensors provides continuous monitoring of environmental factors like temperature and humidity, which are critical in preventing contamination, especially in perishable goods. Additionally, risk-based inspection systems, supported by regulatory frameworks such as the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), are becoming more prevalent, prioritizing resources where risks are highest. Emerging trends such as artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive risk management, big data analytics, and sustainability-driven risk approaches are reshaping the landscape. These innovations not only enhance risk mitigation but also align with consumer demands for greater transparency and environmental responsibility. Despite challenges such as cost, data privacy, and regulatory hurdles, the future of food safety lies in the continued development and adoption of these advanced techniques. This review highlights the potential of these innovative practices to improve food safety standards and protect public health in an increasingly interconnected world. Keywords: Innovative, Risk Management, Food Safety, Review.

Interpretation of Sydney Swallow Questionnaire results using the oropharyngeal dysphagia risk matrix.

Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) commonly occurs in neuromuscular diseases (NMD). Appropriate management involves early detection, clinical evaluation, and tailored follow-up to minimize complications. Various assessment tools exist, including the Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ), a patient-reported outcome measure for assessing OD severity in adult patients. This paper proposes utilizing an innovative risk matrix (OD-Risk-Matrix) to enhance SSQ interpretation. This matrix categorizes OD risk for each SSQ question, offering valuable assistance to clinicians. This study analyzes SSQ results from a cohort of individuals with NMD (n = 57). Patients filled in the SSQ during outpatient visits at our neuromuscular center. Subsequently, SSQ scores were grouped by NMD conditions and interpreted using the OD-Risk-Matrix categorizing each question's risk as low, moderate, or high. This matrix is based on the SSQ results by categorizing the risk of OD for each question, as well as the likelihood of occurrence of OD. In light of the OD-Risk-Matrix, the interpretation of SSQ scores revealed various risk categories associated with each question, while also highlighting distinct OD characteristics and discrepancies among the different NMDs. In conclusion, the OD-Risk-Matrix offers a framework for interpreting the SSQ, revealing variations in the risks of OD among different questions in patients with NMD. This novel approach could be a valuable tool in SSQ interpretation to identify specific fields of OD and could lead to a tailored management plan, prioritizing interventions aimed at reducing the risk of aspiration, ensuring proper nutrition, and enhancing swallowing safety and efficiency.

Entrepreneurial Innovation Responsibility (EIR): Mitigating the Political Risks of Disruptive Innovation

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a concept with a long history in research literature and the classroom. However, CSR mainly pertains to established companies with extensive resources and influence in markets and communities. Startups may acquire this influence, but it is likely to be in the future. As entrepreneurs build their businesses, current concerns related to establishing their products and enterprises is of utmost consideration. The startups with the most upside for investment opportunities pursue entrepreneurial innovation. Yet, entrepreneurial innovation changes not only markets but society itself. For many entrepreneurs, they do not consider the ramifications and challenges society and government may bring as the status quo is disrupted. Therefore, in this paper, we offer Entrepreneurial Innovation Responsibility (EIR) as a concept tailored to the unique challenges startup entrepreneurs may face. EIR is grounded in entrepreneurship and corporate social responsibility research and is a forward-looking approach to help entrepreneurs consider and plan for stakeholders who may resist the innovations they bring to the world. We provide a four-step process for mitigating these risks, as well as examples for illustrating how the process can be applied.

أثر ضمانات منح القروض على مخاطر القروض البنكية: دراسة تطبيقية على بنك التنمية الاجتماعية

This study focuses on a different approach to understanding the impact of loan guarantees on bank risks. In it, utility theory and the descriptive analytical approach are used appropriately to analyze various data and determine the relationship between guarantees and the level of risk. The findings of the study are important, as they show that guarantees contribute effectively to reducing bank risks and provide additional protection for banks when borrowers default. It also enhances financial stability and improves banking decisions. These conclusions also reinforce the importance of loan guarantees in the banking system. It is good that the study recommends the need to improve safeguards policies and implement innovative risk management strategies. Therefore, this will help in enhancing maximum utilization of collateral and improving the performance of banks. However, the study could benefit from adding some clarifications to the methodological part to clarify how to analyze the data and how to define the relationship between safeguards and risks more specifically. Overall, this study provides important findings about the impact of granting loan guarantees on bank risks and recommends measures to enhance banks' utilization of these guarantees. One of the most important objectives of the study is to be a reference for people seeking future loans, such as family and marriage loans.

A prognostic model and novel risk classification system for radical gallbladder cancer surgery: A population-based study and external validation

BackgroundThis research aimed to create a predictive model and an innovative risk classification system for patients with gallbladder cancer who undergo radical surgery. MethodsA cohort of 1387 patients diagnosed with gallbladder cancer was selected from the SEER database. The researchers devised a prognostic tool known as a nomogram, which was subjected to assessment and fine-tuning using various statistical measures such as the concordance index (C-index), receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and calibration curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and risk stratification were included in the catalog of comparisons. An external validation set comprising 93 patients from Nanchong Central Hospital was gathered for evaluation purposes. ResultsThe nomogram effectively incorporated seven variables and demonstrated satisfactory discriminatory ability, as evidenced by the C-index (training cohort: 0.737, validation cohort: 0.730) and time-dependent AUC (>0.7). Additionally, calibration plots confirmed the excellent alignment between the nomogram and actual observations. Our investigation unveiled NRI scores of 0.79, 0.81, and 0.81 in the training group, while the validation group exhibited NRI values of 0.82, 0.77, and 0.78. Additionally, when evaluating CSS at three-, six-, and nine-year intervals using DCA curves, our established nomograms demonstrated significantly improved performance compared to the old model (P < 0.05), showcasing enhanced discriminatory ability. The results of the external validation set proved the above results. ConclusionsThe current investigation has devised a practical prognostic nomogram and risk stratification framework to aid healthcare practitioners in evaluating the postoperative outlook of individuals who have received extensive surgical treatment for gallbladder carcinoma.

THE MICROECONOMICS OF INNOVATION UNDER UNCERTAINTY AND THE RESOURCE-BASED VIEW OF BUSINESS STRATEGY

We link end-product innovations with those entrepreneurial endeavors aimed at developing firm-specific valuable, rare and unique resources (VRIO) under uncertainty. These resources are responsible for rent and sustainable competitive advantage by the resource-based view (RBV) of business strategy, yet their uncertain cost and productivity are not explicitly operationalised in RBV. We argue that acknowledging resource-uncertainty implies uncertainty in the path-dependent evolution of VRIO resources, which translate to heterogenous end-product attributes that shape the competitive environment. Resource-uncertainty requires management to be active in resource-risk-management, a role that ultimately reduces the uncertainty management observes, compared with the uncertainty that an outsider observes. Our framework highlights complementarities between those entrepreneurs responsible for disruptive innovations, and routinised innovation processes of established firms. Both cope with and manage innovation risk, and both are essential for the creative destruction process.

Genesis of regional innovation ecosystems: review and modern interpretation

The article deals with problems in the application of the innovative ecosystem concept. The research is based on systems theory, innovation system theory, the theory of regional innovation systems, and the concept of open innovation. The purpose of the study is to determine the theoretical basis for applying the ecosystem concept to the development of innovation systems in regions. In the course of the study the preconditions for the formation of innovative ecosystems in the regions (acceleration of innovation; complexity of the innovation process and interdisciplinary approach to innovation; application of the concept of open innovation; acceleration of introducing the innovation to the market; possibility of functional complementarity and cooperation; possibility of joint and more efficient use of resources and infrastructure; regional differentiation; innovation risks sharing) were identified. During the work the approaches to the concept of innovation ecosystem that reflect the multidimensionality of innovation ecosystems were revealed. The article clarifies the features of the innovative ecosystems (complexity, openness, interdependence and complementarity of elements, dynamism, non-linearity) and the innovative ecosystems principles (emergence, synergy, adaptability, self-development, sustainability, self-organization, co-evolution). The study highlights the mechanisms of interactions among subjects of the innovation ecosystem (cooperation, competition, coordination, regulation, joint management) that lead to a synergetic effect for the actors of the innovation ecosystem. The obtained results systematize knowledge about innovative ecosystems and form a theoretical basis for the features of their formation and development in the regions, which can find practical application when identifying instruments of regional innovation policy.

Mechanism of green and knowledge process toward minimizing innovation risks: A direct and configuration approach

Mechanism of green and knowledge process toward minimizing innovation risks: A direct and configuration approach

Advancements in Incident Heart Failure Risk Prediction and Screening Tools

Heart Failure (HF) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in the United States that carries substantial healthcare costs. Multiple risk prediction models and strategies have been developed over the past 30-years with the aim to identify those at high risk of developing HF and implement preventive therapies effectively. This review highlights recent developments in HF risk prediction tools including emerging risk factors, innovative risk prediction models, and novel screening strategies from AI to biomarkers. These developments allow for more accurate prediction but their impact on clinical outcomes remain to be investigated. Implementation of these risk models into clinical practice is a considerable challenge, but HF risk prediction tools offer a promising opportunity to improve outcomes while maintaining value.

Cost-sharing incentive for collaborative innovation between main manufacturer-core supplier based on risk factors

This paper considers the “main manufacturer-supplier” model in collaborative cooperation among firms which requires the leader to invest significant resources and bear huge risks. However, few scholars simultaneously consider innovation risks and incentive issues under the model. We construct a Stackelberg game incentive model with different cost-sharing ratios under the risk of technological innovation. We characterize the equilibrium of the model and highlight the key role played by the main manufacturer and supplier. The results are as follows: (a) Main manufacturer can implement the cost-sharing incentive strategy under certain conditions, which is, its profit coefficient is greater than 0.75 times that of supplier and the cost-sharing ratios expected coefficient is greater than the minimum threshold. (b) The optimal cost-sharing ratio is directly proportional to the profit coefficient of the main manufacturer, inversely proportional to that of the supplier, and shows an inverted U-shape function with the probability of successful technological innovation. (c)This strategy can motivate suppliers to invest more resources, reduce the investment of the main manufacturer, simultaneously increase the profits of the main manufacturer and supplier in the certain ranges of innovation success probability and profit coefficients, with significant incentive effects.

How Does University-Industry Collaboration Drives the Green Innovation?

Breaking through the company’s own green knowledge barriers through school-enterprise cooperation has become an important means for companies to expand market competitive advantages and environmental governance. This article uses China’s non-financial listed company data from 2010 to 2021 to study the causal effect of school-enterprise cooperation on corporate green innovation. The results passed a series of robustness tests and confirmed that school enterprise cooperation can improve the level of green innovation of enterprises. This paper also uses the instrumental variable method to mitigate the causal relationship between the two. The results show that school-enterprise cooperation can still significantly improve corporate green innovation. The results of the mechanism test confirm that school-enterprise cooperation will promote corporate green innovation by reducing corporate green innovation risks and easing corporate financing constraints. At the same time, the heterogeneity analysis results show that school-enterprise cooperation has a better effect on improving green innovation for enterprises in heavily polluting industries, enterprises in years with low economic policy uncertainty, and enterprises with a high degree of government-enterprise connection. The findings of this article help to understand the intrinsic mechanism between school-enterprise cooperation and corporate green innovation, and confirm that school-enterprise cooperation can improve the climate and environmental innovation system, which has important practical significance for the construction of the industry-university-research system.

Resilience and sustainability of supply chains in the face of natural disasters and climate change

In the fast-paced global business, characterised by increasing competition and the necessity of being sustainable, the agility of supply chains (abbreviated as SCR) with their capability to withstand natural hazards and climate change have emerged as critical factors. This paper analyses the strategies and methods that are used to overcome the problems connected to SCR and sustainability in detail. A review of literature shows a wide variety of strategies of which some are comprehensive development plans, innovative risk management techniques, infrastructure adaptation measures, data analytics integration, adherence to quality management principles, strategic management approaches, collaborative efforts, stakeholder engagement initiatives, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and adoption of advanced technologies. With the use of a mixed method research approach, applying both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, this study evaluates the strategies’ effectiveness and their contribution towards SCR and sustainability. The results show the importance of the immediate implementation of the necessary measures and the joint work to reduce the risks and to guarantee operational resilience. Additionally, the paper examines the interdependency across sectors, which demonstrates the significance of collaborative governance, stakeholder involvement and the linkage with regulatory frameworks in building resilient and sustainable supply chains.

The Construction of Order for Social Organizations to Carry out Social Innovation: Evolutionary Logic, Operational Mechanism and Path Choice

Social innovation refers to the innovative phenomenon of bringing new solutions and development opportunities in the field of social development through changes in the way of thinking, technical means and management mode by means of social forces such as organizations, institutions and social groups. During the 30 years of reform and opening up, the innovation practices led by social organizations and the social networks they build have gradually become an important main body of social innovation in China. The article analyzes the course of change of the management system of social organizations from the perspective of historical institutionalism, places the social innovation led by social organizations in the three-dimensional analytical framework of “system-course-behavior”, and examines the logical evolution of the order of social innovation and the mechanism of social innovation along the trajectory of the interaction between the government and social organizations. Under the operating mechanism consisting of the institutional arrangement of the authoritative body, spontaneous exploration and dynamic strategic choice of social organizations, the benign interaction between the government and society can reduce the cost and risk of social innovation, reduce the loss of resources and vicious competition, and achieve the balance and stability of social innovation order.

Small, Medium, and Micro-Sized Enterprises Strategies for Dealing with Contemporary Management Issues in Post-COVID: A Conceptual Framework

Purpose: Small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) are integral to global economies, contributing significantly to employment, innovation, and economic growth. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to most SMMEs around the world, reshaping their operational landscape and management strategies. This conceptual study seeks to review the available information in detail on contemporary management issues affecting SMMEs in the post-COVID-19 era. The study further assesses the management processes adopted by SMME managers to address these issues and provide a clear and easily understandable conceptual framework for SMMEs to survive post-COVID-19 challenges. Design/Method/Approach: The study rigorously analysed 1,105 peer-reviewed articles from reputable databases and adopted an interpretive qualitative approach and the systematic literature review technique. In this regard, a thematic analysis identified the recurring themes, thereby forming the basis for the conceptual framework. Findings: The identified themes include financial disruptions, shifts in consumer behaviour, resilience, and survival, rapid digital transformation, and remote work dynamics. A conceptual framework was developed, emphasising emotional intelligence, customer-centric adaptations, innovation risk management, financial resilience, technological innovation, adaptive leadership, sustainable business models, and remote workforce management. Theoretical Implications: Contribute to expanding conceptual knowledge base regarding SMMEs post-COVID-19 strategies in dealing with contemporary management issues. This includes the integration of organizational learning theory, which shows how SMMEs can learn from their experiences and adapt to the shifting business dynamics in the contemporary era. Practical Implications: The policy implication for these findings is that governments should develop targeted interventions, fostering a resilient environment for SMMEs. The findings of this study can enable SMMEs to Collaborate among stakeholders so as to propose essentials for creating sustainable solutions, ensuring that SMMEs continue their vital contributions to economic growth and innovation. Originality/Value: Theoretical perspectives on SMMEs post-COVID-19 strategies in dealing with contemporary management issues. The COVID-19 crisis has placed reliance on SMMEs to generate strategies for urgent management challenges, financial resilience, and an improvement in revenue streams. Research Limitations/Future Research: This research was limited to conceptual review and thus created the need to develop a conceptual framework that researchers can utilize to obtain empirical data on SMMEs post-COVID-19 strategies in dealing with contemporary management issues across the globe. Future research could also delve deeper into developing a more robust framework that shows the micro and medium-sized enterprise innovations, industry associations, and capacity-building initiatives that empower SMMEs to navigate the dynamic business landscape in the post-COVID-19 era. Paper Type: Conceptual JEL Classification: G32, L25, L26, M21

Аnalysis and systematisation of the influence of risks on the innovation and investment activities of the enterprise in the conditions of post-conflict transformation

Despite the fact that the situation in Ukraine's economy remains challenging, as the economic environment does not create reliable preconditions for economic growth, economic and social problems continue to persist, deepen and exacerbate. The country's economy is currently characterized by a pronounced raw material-based economy with an underdeveloped manufacturing industry. Ensuring qualitative transformational changes in the economy is not possible without consistent capital accumulation of enterprises on a simple and expanded basis. The tools used by domestic enterprises (traditional instruments and methods) to manage innovation and investment activities are imperfect, as they do not allow timely identification and forecasting of possible risks, accurate assessment of the decline in innovation and investment potential and economic sustainability of enterprises. Identification of the cause and effect relationships of crisis phenomena ensures the implementation of the anti-crisis management mechanism in a transformational economy. For successful innovation and investment activities of an enterprise in the context of post-conflict transformation, a qualitative analysis and systematization of the impact of risks is necessary. The aim of the article is to analyze and systematize the impact of risks on the innovation and investment activity of enterprise in the context of post-conflict transformation. To achieve this goal, all types of risks of innovation and investment activity were systematized according to certain features and depicted schematically. The article analyses approaches to risk definition, investment risks, innovation risks, specific risks, innovation risks according to the subject of innovation, and risks of entrepreneurial activity. It is noted that the analysis of risk impact contributes to the further development of the theory of riskology. It is concluded that systematization of the impact of risks on the innovation and investment activities of enterprise in the context of post-conflict transformation is necessary to formalize the risk management processes at enterprises. The author notes that in the context of military conflict and post-conflict transformations, new types of risks may arise, so this issue requires further research.

DEA-driven risk management framework for oil supply chains

This paper develops a comprehensive risk management framework to optimise the Nigerian oil supply chain risk mitigation strategies. Given the complexities of the oil supply chain, this framework aids researchers and decision-makers in navigating innovative risk management approaches and considering the implementation of associated challenges. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is initially employed to prioritise risk factors, and based on obtained results, optimal response strategies are determined. The study's findings reveal that criminality and terrorist attacks are the paramount Nigerian oil supply chain risk factors. Additionally, the research identifies practical mitigation strategies, such as risk transfer, safety planning, alternative energy carriers, improved energy efficiency, emergency rescue plans, expected shortages, and diplomatic relations. This research contributes valuable insights to both academia and industry, fostering a deeper understanding of risk dynamics in the Nigerian oil sector. The framework presented offers a powerful approach to risk management, providing a foundation for informed decision-making and strategic planning in the ever-evolving landscape of supply chain dynamics.

Transcriptomic profiling and risk assessment in bladder cancer: Insights from copper death-related genes

BackgroundThe study aimed to investigate the role of copper death-related genes (CRGs) in bladder cancer (BC) for improved prognosis assessment. MethodsMulti-omics techniques were utilized to analyze CRG expression in BC tissues from TCGA and GEO databases. Consensus clustering categorized patients into molecular subtypes based on clinical characteristics and immune cell infiltration. ResultsAn innovative risk assessment model identified eight critical genes associated with BC risk. In vitro and in vivo experiments validated LIPT1's significant impact on copper-induced cell death, proliferation, migration, and invasion in BC. ConclusionThis multi-omics analysis elucidates the pivotal role of CRGs in BC progression, suggesting enhanced risk assessment through molecular subtype categorization and identification of key genes like LIPT1. Insights into these mechanisms offer the potential for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for BC patients.