Global modern slavery and sustainable development goals : does institutional environment quality matter?

Modern slavery is a persistent human tragedy and a growing organisational risk. The United Nations' sustainable development goals highlight the significance of governments in shaping firms' sustainability agenda and combating modern slavery. However, little is known about the effects of the institutional environment on modern slavery risk. This study, therefore, investigates the crucial policy question of whether the quality of the institutional environment has any effect on modern slavery and whether sustainable human development reinforces this relationship. Using data from 167 countries, we find that institutional environment quality is negatively associated with the prevalence of and vulnerability to modern slavery and positively associated with its modern slavery risk mitigation. Our results suggest that democratically elected governments operating in politically stable societies with higher quality of voice and accountability, higher levels of control of corruption, and stricter rule of law are more accountable and responsive to modern slavery risks. We also find that sustainable human development (HDI) has a moderating effect on the relationship between institutional environment quality and modern slavery, and this effect is mainly noticeable in low HDI countries. These results imply that governance reforms alone might not yield the desired effects for all countries and, hence, have significant implications for policymakers, companies, and societal stakeholders.Peer reviewe

An examination of UK companies' modern slavery disclosure practices: Does board gender diversity matter?

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals persuade governments and businesses to fight modern slavery as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The UK government took the initiative by introducing the Modern Slavery Act in 2015. Despite this, little is known about how companies disclose information about their efforts to tackle modern slavery as required by the Act and the role of corporate governance as a determinant of modern slavery disclosure (MSD) levels. This study, therefore, investigates the extent to which companies engage in MSD and empirically examines the impact of board gender diversity (BGD) on MSD. Based on a content analysis of FTSE 100 companies' modern slavery statements during the 2016–2020 period, we find that MSD improved over time but is still relatively low. Our results show that companies pay less attention to the core practices of modern slavery, such as key performance indicators (KPIs), due diligence procedures, risk assessment and management, and training. This evidence suggests that companies tend to comply with the Act by focusing largely on symbolic structures rather than providing a comprehensive disclosure of their impacts on modern slavery practices to minimise regulatory risks and manage stakeholders' perceptions. We also find that boards with greater female representation have a positive and significant association with MSD. This finding is consistent with the gender socialisation theory in that women are more sensitive to communal values and ethics. Consequently, companies with a greater proportion of female directors are more transparent about their strategies and actions related to fighting modern slavery. Furthermore, a critical mass of at least four female directors is necessary before any positive impact on MSD can be observed. Our findings shed new light on this under‐researched area and the role of female directors in addressing modern slavery risk and can be of interest to companies, policymakers, and other stakeholders

Practical Needs in Assessing Response to Therapy in Operated Brain High Grade Glioma According to Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology Criteria

Background: Tumors known as gliomas begin in the brain or spine's glial cells and might spread throughout the body.  An effort was made to improve tumor response evaluation and end point selection through the Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) working group. Objective: To standardize the assessment method and results reporting by applying MRI-RANO criteria in detecting glioma response to surgical treatment. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective cohort study included 12 patients (4 males and 8 females) whose mean age was 53.6 ± 15.1years. Included patients are those who were operated and pathologically proved as brain glioma grade IV (GBM). They underwent post-operative MRI within 48 hours and are available for follow up MRI after 3 months. Imaging modalities applied in both MRI exams were conventional magnetic resonance imaging, MRI diffusion weighted images, and contrast imaging. RANO criteria were applied. Results: According to RANO criteria, none of the lesions had pseudo response or pseudo progression. However, two thirds (66.7%) had progressive disease and one third (33.3%) had complete response. There was statistically significant association between MRI findings 3 months postoperative and RANO criteria as patients with compete response had statistically significant decrease on measurable solid components, diffusion restriction, post contrast enhancement and all lesions had grade I edema with no mass effect or midline shift compared to patients with progressive disease. 4 cases that showed complete response category had fulfilled all the RANO criteria, while 8 cases with category progressive disease had fulfilled more than one of the described RANO criteria. Conclusion: RANO criteria are an effective tool to be used in interpretation of MRI for follow-up of surgically operated glioma patients to detect their response

Colchicine for primary prevention of atrial fibrillation after open-heart surgery: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Atrial fibrillation occurs frequently after open-heart surgery. It is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, longer hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Prophylactic administration of colchicine may mitigate post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF). Methods We searched PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov and CENTRAL databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that; (1) compared prophylactic use of colchicine to placebo, or usual care, in patients with sinus rhythm who underwent elective open-heart surgery and (2) reported POAF-incidence. We excluded trials focused on incidence of atrial fibrillation after percutaneous interventions or colchicine treatment of diagnosed pericarditis or post-pericardiotomy-syndrome. A random-effects model was used to pool data for POAF-incidence as the primary outcome and for drug-related adverse effects, major adverse events (death and stroke), and hospital length-of-stay as secondary outcomes. Results We included five RCTs (1412 patients). Colchicine treatment reduced POAF-events by 30% versus placebo or usual care (18% vs. 27%, risk ratio (RR) 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57 to 0.84, p = 0.0002). Adverse drug-related effects, especially gastrointestinal intolerance, increased with colchicine; (21% vs. 8.2%, RR 2.52, 95% CI 1.62 to 3.93, p < 0.0001). However, major adverse events were unchanged (3.2% vs. 3.2%, RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.95, p = 0.92). Length-of-stay decreased by 1.2 days with colchicine (95% CI -1.89 to − 0.44, p = 0.002). Conclusion Colchicine demonstrated superior efficacy versus usual care for prevention of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. Moreover, colchicine treatment was associated with shorter hospital stays. These benefits outweigh increased risk of adverse drug-related effects; although further work is needed to minimize gastrointestinal effects

Synthesis of a novel Ce(iii)/melamine coordination polymer and its application for corrosion protection of AA2024 in NaCl solution

ABSTRACT: We present the synthesis of a new cerium(III)–melamine coordination polymer (CMCP) by a mixedsolvothermal method and its characterization. Characterization techniques included Raman, Fourier Transformation Infra-Red (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), in which the change in the electronic environment and the crystallinity were tracked. The characterization results confirm the coordination of cerium(III) with melamine through –NH₂ groups, instead of the N atoms of the triazine ring, for which we propose a mechanism of interaction. In addition, Biovia Materials Studio package was applied to determine and investigate the molecular structure of the CMCP. All simulations were done using COMPASS force-field theory and atom-based method for summation of electrostatic and van de Waals forces. The application of the CMCP for the corrosion inhibition of AA2024 in 3.5% NaCl solution was tested using the potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The results point out that the presence of cerium as cerium(III) in the CMCP structure plays the fundamental role of inhibition, whereby the inhibition mechanism occurs by cathodic oxidation of Ce(III) to Ce(IV) and cyclic reduction of Ce(IV) to Ce(III) by melamine part of CMCP

Studying The Role Of Phase Change Materials In Improving The Thermal Performance Efficiency Of Adaptive Building Envelopes

In the context of unsustainable approaches, buildings are increasingly dependent on mechanical systems to ensure quality requirements of thermal indoor environment, which causes the need for more energy as well as rising the associated greenhouse gas emissions rates. This requires increased awareness towards energy conservation and reduction of energy consumption in conjunction with enhancing buildings sustainability. In this regard, we find that the building envelope plays a crucial role in reducing energy consumption; as well as its role in raising the performance of buildings as the regulating mediator in the reciprocal relationship between the internal and external environment, especially when applying appropriate technical solutions and energy-saving materials within the structure of the envelope, which enhances the concept of passive adaptation to the simultaneous environmental changes. So, Improving the efficiency of energy performance during the operational phases of the building envelope is a vigorous area of research; Organizations and responsible authorities are always seeking to come up with advanced technologies based on renewable energy sources in order to reduce buildings’ dependence on fossil fuels and provide cooling and/or heating energy requirements, as well as improve indoor thermal comfort in a more sustainable and cost-effective manner.In this regard, Thermal Energy Storage Systems (TES) are discussed as one of the most effective advanced technologies in managing the thermal performance of the building envelope with a particular focus on studying the role of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in raising the efficiency of the building's thermal performance. This study sheds light on the importance of applying phase-changing materials in the building envelope and its role in activating the principle of thermal adaptation to daily fluctuations. by discussing the nature of that category of materials, their types, and their distinctive properties in addition to studying its main working principle, then studying criteria for choosing the most appropriate. focusing on current studies and future scenarios for these materials to monitor their thermal behavior and examine their role in raising the efficiency of the building envelopes performance. The main results indicated that the phase change materials have a significant effect on reducing the cooling/heating load, saving energy and gaining thermal comfort

Biomimetics As An Analogical Reasoning Ideology In Architectural & Interior Design

Biomimetics approaches involve finding solutions to design problems by mimicking the functions and/or processes of biological systems, by applying an analog reasoning strategy from ecosystems to technology in a way that addresses the challenges of architectural and interior design in a more sustainable way. This is due to it is a sustainable creative thinking ideology producing more inspiring solutions that are most restorative and regenerative ecosystems ... The study assumes that mimicking the processes and functions of ecosystems enhances the structural efficiency of the building and stimulates the creation of innovative materials, urging synthesis of innovative materials, as well as providing more sustainable technologies in waste and water management, In addition to reducing energy consumption by adopting mechanisms that passively provide thermal comfort, in conjunction with maximizing the principle of generating energy from renewable sources ... This study was presented to verify the ability of Biomimetics as an analogue ideology in raising the efficiency of the operational building performance from a structural efficiency perspective, and reduce energy consumption.Therefore, this study included evaluating the efficiency of applying that intellectual methodology based on analog transfer of functions and processes of biological systems in providing the building environment with the characteristics of innovation and sustainability, as well as studying the ability of that intellectual methodology to raise the structural efficiency of the building, and discuss the impact of its activation on the synthesis of advanced materials in conjunction with a study of its ability to improve water and waste management, in addition to enhancing the thermoregulation of the indoor environment within a sustainable environmental framework; corresponding to the operational performance of the ecosystem enhanced by the regenerative design in architecture that promotes the repair and renewal of surrounding ecosystems

Medical prospects of cryptosporidiosis in vivo control using biofabricated nanoparticles loaded with Cinnamomum camphora extracts by Ulva fasciata

Background and Aim: Global efforts are continuing to develop preparations against cryptosporidiosis. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of biosynthesized Ulva fasciata loading Cinnamomum camphora oil extract on new zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs shorten to ZnNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as alternative treatments for Cryptosporidium parvum experimental infection in rats. Materials and Methods: Oil extract was characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, loaded by U. fasciata on ionic-based ZnO and NPs, and then characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Biosafety and toxicity were investigated by skin tests. A total of 105 C. parvum oocysts/rat were used (n = 81, 2–3 W, 80–120 g, 9 male rats/group). Oocysts shedding was counted for 21 d. Doses of each preparation in addition to reference drug were administered daily for 7 d, starting on post-infection (PI) day (3). Nitazoxanide (100 mg) was used as the reference drug. After 3 weeks, the rats were sacrificed for postmortem examination and histopathological examination. Two blood samples/rat/group were collected on the 21st day. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid blood samples were also used for analysis of biochemistry, hematology, immunology, micronucleus prevalence, and chromosomal abnormalities. Results: C. camphora leaves yielded 28.5 ± 0.3 g/kg oil and 20 phycocompounds were identified. Spherical and rod-shaped particles were detected at 10.47–30.98 nm and 18.83–38.39 nm, respectively. ZnNPs showed the earliest anti-cryptosporidiosis effect during 7–17 d PI. Other hematological, biochemical, immunological, histological, and genotoxicity parameters were significantly fruitful; hence, normalized pathological changes induced by infestation were observed in the NPs treatments groups against the infestation-free and Nitazoxanide treated group. Conclusion: C. camphora, U. fasciata, ZnNPs, and AgNPs have refluxed the pathological effects of infection as well as positively improved host physiological condition by its anticryptosporidial immunostimulant regenerative effects with sufficient ecofriendly properties to be proposed as an alternative to traditional drugs, especially in individuals with medical reactions against chemical commercial drugs

Perspective Chapter: The Toxic Silver (Hg)

In the late 1950s, residents of a Japanese fishing village known as “Minamata” began falling ill and dying at an alarming rate. The Japanese authorities stated that methyl-mercury-rich seafood and shellfish caused the sickness. Burning fossil fuels represent ≈52.7% of Hg emissions. The majorities of mercury’s compounds are volatile and thus travel hundreds of miles with wind before being deposited on the earth’s surface. High acidity and dissolved organic carbon increase Hg-mobility in soil to enter the food chain. Additionally, Hg is taken up by areal plant parts via gas exchange. Mercury has no identified role in plants while exhibiting high affinity to form complexes with soft ligands such as sulfur and this consequently inactivates amino acids and sulfur-containing antioxidants. Long-term human exposure to Hg leads to neurotoxicity in children and adults, immunological, cardiac, and motor reproductive and genetic disorders. Accordingly, remediating contaminated soils has become an obligation. Mercury, like other potentially toxic elements, is not biodegradable, and therefore, its remediation should encompass either removal of Hg from soils or even its immobilization. This chapter discusses Hg’s chemical behavior, sources, health dangers, and soil remediation methods to lower Hg levels

Cobalt chromium stents versus stainless steel stents in diabetic patients

The clinical outcome in diabetic patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is inferior to that in non-diabetic patients. Several aspects of diabetic coronary artery disease appear to be responsible for this observation. In comparison with stainless steel stent, cobalt chromium stent has a higher radial strength and radio-opacity for similar electronegativity, this allow for the production of thinner struts with a similar radiological visibility. Therefore we studied and compared six-months prognosis of cobalt chromium stent versus stainless steel Bare metal stents in diabetic patients undergoing PCI. Methods and Results: Our study included seventy diabetic patients with Ischemic heart disease amendable to percutaneous stenting with stents ⩾3 mm in diameter and ⩽25 mm length. They were randomly assigned to cobalt chromium stents (Group I) or stainless steel stents (Group II). PCI was done with initial success and we excluded patients with unsuccessful PCI or complications during intervention, using stainless steel stent and chromium stent in the same lesion, left main stem lesions, osteal and bifurcational lesions. Our primary end point was Major adverse cardiac events (death, Myocardial infarction, unstable angina, emergency CABG or target lesion revascularization); over period of 6 months and our secondary end point was in-stent restenosis assessed by coronary angiography at 6 months in the follow up period. Total MACE in group (I) was 9 patients, coronary angiography was done for those patients after the cardiac event, that showed 7 patients with ISR and 2 of them showed patent stents. Patients without MACE whom undergone follow up coronary angiography after 6 months, revealed 6 patients suffered ISR out of 23 patients. While total MACE in group (II) was 5 patients, coronary angiography for those patients showed 4 patients with ISR and 1 of them showed patent stent. Patients without MACE whom undergone follow up coronary angiography after 6 months revealed 10 patients suffered ISR out of 28 patients. So as a result for all patients included in our study, 13 patients from group (I) suffered ISR in the period of 6 months follow up period, they represented 40% of the group, while 14 patients in group (II) with a percentage of 42.4% of the group suffered ISR at 6 months. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups as regard the incidence of ISR at follow up. (P > 0.05). Conclusions: We concluded that no significant statistical difference was found between the two stents (cobalt-chromium alloy bare metal stent versus conventional bare metal stainless steel stent) in diabetic patients regarding (initial procedural success, in-hospital complications, the incidence of ISR at follow up, event-free survival at follow up)