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The Vietnamese government announced the National Digital Transformation Programme by 2025 to invest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) development, to become one of the top players in Southeast Asia by 2030, challenging frontrunners like Indonesia and Singapore. Through educational policies such as establishing AI and data science majors in public universities, the country has started to nurture a domestic talent base. Research labs both within university systems as well as at private industry labs such as VinAI and FPT have recruited Vietnamese nationals as well as international researchers to bolster AI research that puts Vietnam on the global map of AI development. However, the country's pursuit is facing obstacles. Issues involve an AI talent shortage, weak intellectual property laws for solid and safe innovation, and unstable global venture capital funding. We argue that Vietnam could benefit from more policy learning on AI from other jurisdictions such as the European Union and China. Drawing on policy documents from these three jurisdictions, this paper aims to elucidate the core issues shaping the nation's AI development and governance strategies. Our findings shed light on the areas Vietnam should prioritise in order to propel itself into a significant role within the regional and international AI spheres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Realizing cultural diversity's impact on regional entrepreneurial activity has become crucial for scholars and policymakers. As a step in this direction, this study integrates insights from creative cognitive psychology and the knowledge spillover theory of entrepreneurship to examine this effect and the boundary conditions explaining it. Based on a six-year multisourced panel dataset for the 50 U.S. states, the analyses support the proposed arguments in that they indicate that cultural diversity is positively associated with entrepreneurial activity, and this relationship is moderated by regional immigration policy and regulatory framework. Specifically, the effect of cultural diversity on entrepreneurship is more substantial when a region's immigration policy climate is more inclusionary than exclusionary. In addition, this relationship is also more robust when a region's regulatory policy is more conscientious than more lax. These findings make novel contributions to our knowledge of how and when contextual conditions regulate (i.e. stimulate or hinder) the effect of cultural diversity on entrepreneurship. The manuscript draws vital implications for policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study critically assesses the regulatory challenges faced in Brazil for mechanical ventilators amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It evaluates the effectiveness of expedited regulatory actions, compares strategies with other countries, and proposes future optimization in emergency conditions. Methods: Premarket submissions of mechanical ventilators were surveyed, involving accompanying certification documentation, rejections, approvals, and cancellations. Postmarket occurrences were surveyed until June 2023, evaluating their incidence and presence of certifications. Regulatory pathways in other countries were reviewed for comparison. Results: Brazil's regulatory strategy increased its ventilator supply capacity 17 times in 10 months. However, the absence of essential certifications in 95.52% of the premarket submissions, such as the Certificate of Conformity issued by the Brazilian Conformity Assessment System (CC-SBAC), raised safety and performance concerns. Among temporarily approved ventilators, the main cause of cancellation (76.92%) was the absence of certifications after the temporal approval, notwithstanding the already installed devices maintaining authorization for use in health services. Postmarket alerts lacked CC-SBAC issuance in 75% of the cases when sponsors reported the occurrences. It highlighted the importance of ongoing technical assistance and monitoring, particularly for devices lacking proper certifications. Conclusions: The extraordinary regulatory conditions in Brazil significantly impacted ventilator premarket evaluation. However, lacking essential certifications led to post-approval cancellations. Postmarket occurrences emphasized necessary vigilance, with most alerts involving uncertified devices. Improved premarket evaluation, considering component shortages and real-world usage scenarios, as collaborative efforts from other countries and international bodies, is crucial for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of ventilators in public health emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A modular strategy is described for the testing and assessment (MoSt) of non-genotoxic carcinogenicity (NGTxC) that is suitable for regulatory applications. It utilizes and builds upon work conducted by the OECD expert group on NGTxC. The approach integrates relevant test methods from the molecular- to cellular- and further to tissue level, many of which have been recently reviewed. Six progressive modules are included in the strategy. Advice is provided for the iterative selection of the next appropriate test method within each step of the strategy. Assessment is completed by a weight of evidence conclusion, which integrates the different streams of modular information. The assessment method gives higher weight to findings that are mechanistically linked with biological relevance to carcinogenesis. With a focus on EU-REACH, and pending upon successful test method validation and acceptance, this will also enable the MoSt for NGTxC to be applied for regulatory purposes across different regulatory jurisdictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patch testing is the only clinically applicable diagnostic method for Type IV allergy. The availability of Type IV patch test (PT) allergens in Europe, however, is currently scarce. This severely compromises adequate diagnostics of contact allergy, leading to serious consequences for the affected patients. Against this background, the European Society of Contact Dermatitis (ESCD) has created a task force (TF) (i) to explore the current availability of PT substances in different member states, (ii) to highlight some of the unique characteristics of Type IV vs. other allergens and (iii) to suggest ways forward to promote and ensure availability of high‐quality patch testing substances for the diagnosis of Type IV allergies throughout Europe. The suggestions of the TF on how to improve the availability of PT allergens are supported by the ESCD, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, and the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology and intend to provide potential means to resolve the present medical crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper delves into the intricacies surrounding consumer protection in the Indian insurance sector, focusing on the interplay between regulatory frameworks, legal provisions, and industry practices. Through a comprehensive analysis, the paper explores the Consumer Protection Act 2019, the Rights of Consumers under this Act, the Protection of Policyholders' Interest Regulations 2017, the recent judicial verdicts shaping consumer rights, and the overarching Insurance Act 1938. By examining key provisions, regulatory mechanisms, and case law, the paper aims to elucidate the challenges, implications, and potential remedies pertaining to transparency and accountability in insurance consumer protection. Through this exploration, the paper seeks to provide valuable insights for policymakers, regulators, insurers, and consumers alike, contributing to the ongoing discourse on enhancing consumer welfare and market integrity in the Indian insurance landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood cancer is a leading cause of death in children, and the increasing availability of digital healthcare data, coupled with rapid progress in artificial intelligence (AI), brings a transformative opportunity to revolutionise its diagnosis, treatment and ultimately improve patient outcomes by leveraging diverse data resources. However, the effective application of AI in childhood cancer requires strict adherence to regulatory and best practice guidelines for patient data preparation and AI model development. Currently, there is a lack of such regulatory and methodological guidance specifically tailored for the paediatric community. This review seeks to address this gap. Beginning with an overview of existing regulatory frameworks, it examines the types of data currently in use or with potential use in developing AI applications for childhood cancer. This encompasses data from traditional sources, such as patient data and electronic health records (EHRs), as well as emerging sources like social media data and social determinants of health. This review also outlines the rules and criteria for collecting, processing, and sharing these data. Informed consent and re-consent are required for data collection and re-use, and data quality, privacy, and security as well as data standardisation, harmonisation and interoperability are important for data processing. Additionally, this review clarifies the essential requirements and methodologies for developing AI models in childhood cancer and healthcare. It also emphasises the importance of AI being trustworthy, protecting privacy, and being accountable and validated in clinical settings. By systematically addressing these key components, this review aims to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical tools for the reliable application and implementation of AI in paediatric cancer to enhance AI acceptance and promote its widespread integration within the childhood cancer community. This, in turn, will lead to improved diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for children with cancer.

Background Access to medicine is crucial for the effective functioning of healthcare systems. A robust regulatory framework is necessary to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and availability. However, weak regulatory frameworks persist in many low- and middle-income countries, leasing to the circulation of falsified and substandard medicines as well as anti-competitive restrictions on registering poor-quality medicines, which poses a significant public health threat. This study evaluated the evolution of Zanzibar’s medicine regulatory system over the past two decades and identified the key factors contributing to its success by elaborating on the Zanzibar Food and Drug Agency, seeking the expertise of regional, continental, and global experts to assess its regulatory capacity and maturity level.Methods This study was conducted at the Zanzibar Food and Drug Agency (ZFDA) in Unguja, Zanzibar, using a retrospective cross-sectional review and qualitative approach. It thoroughly reviewed relevant regulatory documents, including Acts, policies, guidelines, and assessment reports. Data were collected using a standardised checklist and analysed to uncover patterns and insights regarding the evolution of Zanzibar’s medicine regulatory system.Results This study revealed substantial legal provisions, organisational development, strategic planning, and resource allocation improvements. Notable achievements include establishing a structured organisational framework, developing a comprehensive strategic plan, and implementing a Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2015 certified). The ZFDA also addressed human resource limitations by creating job descriptions and a staff scheme of service, enhancing financial resources through revised fee regulations and government support, and improving infrastructure with new office and laboratory facilities.Conclusion Zanzibar’s medicine regulations have evolved significantly, with marked regulatory capacity and infrastructure improvements. Future efforts should address the remaining challenges and foster collaboration with regional and international bodies to ensure the continued evolution and effectiveness of Zanzibar’s medicine regulatory framework.

Broad consent is permitted by the South African National Department of Health Ethics Guidelines but appears to be prohibited by section 13(1) of the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013. Additionally, the Act mandates that all personal data (including biobank sample data) be collected for lawful, explicit, and clearly defined purposes. There is possibility for ambiguity in interpretation because of this discrepancy between the two instruments. Given the association between the transfer of samples and data, the long-term nature of biobanking, which makes it impractical to provide too much or enough information because it is simply not available at the time of sample collection, and the various ways that the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 have been interpreted, we aim to demonstrate that South Africa’s current regulatory framework should appropriately permit broad consent use for biobank research where the transfer of samples and their associated data are contemplated. In summary, the proposed amendments include removing regulatory ambiguity regarding broad consent use, ensuring adequate safeguards for research participants by specifying rules for data access and personal information processing, and incorporating consent form information requirements into the national Consent Template.

Agriculture has a strategic role in providing food for the population. This causes significant government intervention in this sector, and therefore the development of high-quality approaches to this process remains relevant. This study aimed to provide recommendations for this process in Ukraine, particularly in the context of economic digitalisation. To achieve this, graphical analysis, modelling, abstraction, and the method of logical reasoning were used. The role of digital technologies in achieving more effective results in the context of improving the efficiency of agricultural development was described in detail in the paper. In addition, a conclusion was made about the necessity of cooperation between the state and enterprises in this area. This is primarily associated with the challenges that may arise in companies implementing such practices. Understanding the presence of these challenges, the likelihood of further implementation of such type of technologies in enterprises decreases. Several approaches were proposed in the paper to reduce the negative impact on agricultural companies. Given the consequences of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, particular attention was paid to non-financial approaches, as well as to the problems existing within the current legislative framework. Furthermore, separate conclusions were drawn based on statistical data regarding the development of science and education in Ukraine overall. The study’s practical value lies in that the findings will enhance the efficiency of the state sector’s functioning in Ukraine in agricultural regulation

Abstract Seeds, as the initial products in agricultural systems, play a pivotal role in ensuring quality, fundamental to national food security and sustainable agricultural development. This study introduces a concept integrating public governance and evolutionary game theory to construct a quadripartite evolutionary game model involving seed companies, certification agencies, farmers, and governmental departments. It considers the strategic choices of these stakeholders under varying economic motivations and market mechanisms, as well as the influence of external regulation and incentives on game strategies. The existence conditions for evolutionarily stable strategy combinations are determined using the Lyapunov first method, and MATLAB is employed for numerical simulation analysis to validate the game analysis under initial conditions. The simulation results reveal two potential equilibrium points corresponding to different strategic choices among stakeholders. The study finds that producing high-quality seeds and the refusal of certification agencies to engage in rent-seeking are crucial for ensuring seed quality. Additionally, the cost–benefit ratio of seed companies, the speculative cost of certification agencies, and the rights-protection cost of farmers are key determinants in the evolution of seed quality assurance strategies. This research also holds practical significance in enhancing seed quality assurance mechanisms and fostering sustainable development in agriculture.

Net metering (NM) is among the potent regulatory tools used globally for supporting distributed generation and renewable energy sources. This paper examines the trajectory of NM in a developing country such as Pakistan, analyzing the impact of regulatory changes, confidence-building strategies, hindering factors, and technical/financial issues. The three-stage methodology involves three components, namely techno-economic analysis, stakeholder engagement surveys, and impact analysis of financing mechanisms. This study emphasizes the importance of clear regulatory and financial frameworks, grid upgrades, and public–private partnerships for technology distribution in the context of a developing country with weak grid utilities and an import–export energy ratio. It also explores the role of financial incentives, such as tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage investment in NM systems from the perspective of lucrative rates, impact on paybacks, and return on investments, and proposes concrete solutions to enhance financial inclusion for ambitious renewable energy goals. Until April 2023, over 56,000 NM/distributed generation facilities were commissioned, with an installed capacity of 950 MW. By May 2024, the number of NM consumers reached ~100,000, with a 1950 MW capacity, nearly doubling. However, the import and export ratio of IESCO changed most, with 61% exports and 39% imports, directly impacting the revenue stream. A total of 60% of banks have adopted actions linked with green banking criteria, aiming to limit their environmental impact. The change in tariff will result in reduced ROI for NM consumers to 20%, and increase the payback period from less than 4 years to 13 years. Government subsidies, tax breaks, and green financing frameworks are proposed to encourage investment, but have been abruptly halted, and were previously at a 6% interest rate. This research aims to provide insights into effective market evaluation methodologies for NM programs and offer policy recommendations to strengthen legislative and institutional frameworks governing NM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigatory framework of cybercrime is as essential as the legal and institutional framework governing cybercrime. This article argues that an effective investigation process is fundamental to the effective prosecution of cybercrime offences. Cybercrime investigation involves digital forensics, intelligence gathering, lawful interception, and use of communication data and internet networks. At its core, cybercrime investigation necessitates a comprehensive cybercrime investigation framework backed by a legal framework that ensures effective evidence collection, preservation, and analysis. This article evaluates the cybercrime investigation structure in Nigeria and highlights the gaps in Nigeria's regulatory framework. It identifies the challenges that hinder Nigeria's successful investigation and prosecution of cybercrime offences. The study adopts a comparative methodology by juxtaposing cybercrime investigation in Nigeria with the law and practice in the United Kingdom (UK). The UK has a robust cybercrime investigation framework, strengthened by its Cyber Security Strategy 2022. The findings show that, unlike the UK's Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act, 2000 and the Investigatory Powers Act, 2016, the Nigerian Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 and other laws, are silent on essential investigatory initiatives, steps and specialised powers. The study proposes a practical cybercrime investigation framework to implement Nigeria's effective prosecution of cybercrime offences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cyber Security & Data Governance is the property of Editorial Office of Information Technology & Network Security and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Nigeria's economy, marked by its diverse sectors and emerging markets, presents a landscape ripe for financial innovations aimed at fostering economic growth. This study delves into the multifaceted nature of Nigeria's emerging markets and explores the role of financial innovations in propelling economic development. By examining the evolution of financial instruments, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics, this research elucidates the transformative potential of innovative financial practices in Nigeria. Furthermore, it investigates the impact of technological advancements, such as fintech solutions and digital banking platforms, on expanding financial inclusion and accessibility across various segments of the population. Through empirical analysis and case studies, the study assesses the effectiveness of these innovations in addressing key challenges facing Nigeria's economy, including access to credit, capital formation, and risk management. Moreover, it examines the interplay between financial innovation, government policies, and institutional frameworks in shaping the trajectory of economic growth in Nigeria's emerging markets. The findings underscore the importance of fostering an enabling environment that encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable financial practices to drive inclusive economic growth and development. This research contributes to the discourse on financial innovation and economic development in emerging markets, particularly within the context of Nigeria's dynamic economic landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the impact of cryptocurrencies on international trade, focusing on the regulatory challenges in China, the European Union, and Serbia. Cryptocurrencies offer promising opportunities for cost efficiency and transparency, yet their adoption in global trade encounters legal complexities, particularly in anti-money laundering efforts. This study aims to underscore the importance of a shared regulatory framework to strengthen trust and facilitate seamless cross-border transactions between China and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) for win-win cooperation. Through a comparative analysis of the regulatory landscapes, this study offers insights into aligning legal frameworks to navigate the intricacies of cryptocurrency adoption in global commerce. It argues that a unified approach to cryptocurrency regulation can significantly streamline trade, promote transparency, and strengthen economic relationships. By proposing harmonized regulatory measures, this research emphasizes the potential of cryptocurrencies to reshape international trade dynamics, while also stressing the importance of comprehensive legal structures to address the challenges posed by the digital financial landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of the 'Carol I' National Defence University / Buletinul Universitatii Nationale de Aparare 'Carol I' is the property of Carol I National Defence University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Despite the prominent role that the Islamic faith plays in shaping the social and regulatory aspects of Arab countries and the constitutional recognition of Islamic law (Sharīʿah) as a main source of legislation in most of these countries, judicial precedents regarding Islamic finance contracts remain scarce in the Arab world. This article sheds light on the judicial treatment of the validity and characterisation of Islamic finance contracts. It examines the economic and regulatory backgrounds of the Islamic finance industry in Egypt, Kuwait, and Oman. This examination provides a necessary prelude to the article's discussion of the Islamic finance contract from jurisprudential and regulatory standpoints. It also provides a foundation for the analysis of noteworthy judicial precedents on the validity and characterisation of the Islamic finance contract. Following such analysis, this article makes recommendations to enhance the regulatory and judicial appreciation for the distinctiveness of Islamic finance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The travel and tourism industry in India is one of the country's most vibrant sectors, significantly contributing to economic growth, employment generation, and cultural exchange. Despite its immense potential, the industry faces numerous challenges that hinder its sustainable development. This paper critically examines the challenges of travel and tourism management in India, including infrastructural deficits, environmental concerns, regulatory complexities, seasonality, lack of skilled workforce, and the impact of socio-political factors. It explores how these challenges affect the tourism sector's growth and offers insights into potential solutions and strategic approaches for effective management. The study draws on data from various reports, academic literature, and case studies to provide a holistic understanding of the multifaceted issues plaguing the industry. In conclusion, the paper emphasizes the need for a collaborative effort between government, private sector, and community stakeholders to overcome these challenges and ensure the sustainable development of tourism in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mexico has the in-house technical and regulatory capacity to undertake human genome editing (HGE) governance. However, its regulatory framework must be reformed to be more targeted and govern the application of any emerging HGE technologies, leaving no room for unethical or unsafe practices for reproductive purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unexpected collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) on March 10, 2023, sent shockwaves through the tech industry. SVB, a long-standing financial institution serving tech startups for nearly four decades, suddenly shifted from solvency to insolvency within 48 hours, marking the second-largest bank failure in U.S. history. This event provides an excellent opportunity to test the Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH), particularly its semi-strong form, which posits that rapid information absorption prevents significant stock price gains in response to new information. This research uses the standard event study methodology in the finance literature to investigate SVB's collapse and its impact on the stock prices of 30 banks traded on the New York Stock Exchange. The study aims to discern whether stock returns exhibited reactions prior to, on, or after the public announcement of SVB's failure, thereby assessing market efficiency. Using historical stock and S&P 500 index data, the study analyzes holding period returns, performs regression analyses for pre-event periods, and calculates average excess returns. Results indicate statistically significant negative impacts on stock prices surrounding and on the event date. Furthermore, consistent with behavioral finance theory, a decline in adjusted stock prices approximately 7 days before the event suggests anticipatory market behavior, in line with semi-strong market efficiency. SVB's case emphasizes the role of external factors, regulatory changes, and industry concentrations in shaping market responses. This research contributes empirical evidence to the discourse on market efficiency, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of market behaviors during crises. Lessons from SVB's collapse will inform regulatory and risk management strategies, impacting future discussions on market efficiency. Likewise, the study results support the semi-strong form efficient market hypothesis and suggest the possibility of trading on this information up to 7 days prior to the announcement consistent with the behavioral finance literature (Bacon & Howell 2021). This study provides valuable insights into market dynamics during unprecedented events, influencing future discussions on regulation, risk management, and market efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores some of the shortcomings of the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) in regulating and effecting control over the Private Security Industry (PSI) in South Africa. In South Africa, all Private Security companies must comply with PSIRA by registering as security providers, however this study revealed a non-compliance. This shortcoming is demonstrated by flyby- night security companies that provide security services at shopping centres and shopping malls particularly in the parking areas who fail to comply with PSIRA in terms of registration. The main aim of this research was to analyse whether the PSCs comply with the regulatory framework as per the Private Security Industry Regulation Act 56 of 2001 in South Africa in Gauteng Province. A qualitative research design was applied to determine whether PSIRA enforces compliance as per regulatory framework and to establish whether the current private security service providers are registered with PSIRA. The population of the study involved security managers and owners of the private security companies in South Africa. The findings revealed that there is non- compliance to PSIRA by Security providers. It is recommended that the regulator be capacitated with resources to improve its compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management and reconstruction of critical-sized segmental bone defects remain a major clinical challenge for orthopaedic clinicians and surgeons. In particular, regenerative medicine approaches that involve incorporating stem cells within tissue engineering scaffolds have great promise for fracture management. This narrative review focuses on the primary components of bone tissue engineering—stem cells, scaffolds, the microenvironment, and vascularisation—addressing current advances and translational and regulatory challenges in the current landscape of stem cell therapy for critical-sized bone defects. To comprehensively explore this research area and offer insights for future treatment options in orthopaedic surgery, we have examined the latest developments and advancements in bone tissue engineering, focusing on those of clinical relevance in recent years. Finally, we present a forward-looking perspective on using stem cells in bone tissue engineering for critical-sized segmental bone defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces a novel approach to enhancing mobile network operator (MNO) performance ranking in Nigeria through the development and implementation of a Quality of Service Key Performance Indicator (QoSKPI) Index. As mobile technologies evolve and reliance on mobile services increases, the need for robust and comprehensible network performance metrics becomes critical. This study addresses gaps in current methodologies, which often assess Quality of Service (QoS) parameters independently, by aggregating multiple QoS Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) into a single comprehensive metric. By applying the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), the research develops a QoSKPI Index that combines various network performance indicators into a unified ranking system. This index is validated against consumer complaints and empirical data to ensure its relevance and accuracy in reflecting the actual network performance experienced by users. Significant findings illustrate the utility of the QoSKPI Index in benchmarking MNOs' QoS performance, providing a clear empirical basis for ranking that can influence user choice and regulatory strategies aimed at enhancing network quality across Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seeds, as the initial products in agricultural systems, play a pivotal role in ensuring quality, fundamental to national food security and sustainable agricultural development. This study introduces a concept integrating public governance and evolutionary game theory to construct a quadripartite evolutionary game model involving seed companies, certification agencies, farmers, and governmental departments. It considers the strategic choices of these stakeholders under varying economic motivations and market mechanisms, as well as the influence of external regulation and incentives on game strategies. The existence conditions for evolutionarily stable strategy combinations are determined using the Lyapunov first method, and MATLAB is employed for numerical simulation analysis to validate the game analysis under initial conditions. The simulation results reveal two potential equilibrium points corresponding to different strategic choices among stakeholders. The study finds that producing high-quality seeds and the refusal of certification agencies to engage in rent-seeking are crucial for ensuring seed quality. Additionally, the cost–benefit ratio of seed companies, the speculative cost of certification agencies, and the rights-protection cost of farmers are key determinants in the evolution of seed quality assurance strategies. This research also holds practical significance in enhancing seed quality assurance mechanisms and fostering sustainable development in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Union, like many other nations and governments, is counting on hydrogen to play a big role in the energy transition. The EU has set ambitious import targets for hydrogen. This article will examine and comment on select parts of the EU framework that impact the EU’s plan for importing 10 million tonnes of hydrogen. This framework could have the effect of frustrating trade with third countries. Using the United States as an example of an importer, this article looks at (i) guarantees of origin, (ii) electricity market design, (iii) state aid, (iv) eligible carbon dioxide rules, and (v) the carbon border adjustment mechanism, with a view to ascertaining their effect on imports into the EU. The article finds that the EU framework causes unnecessary barriers to trade and may need to be tweaked to enable trade to fulfil its legislative targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled technologies in the MedTech sector hold the promise to transform healthcare delivery by improving access, quality, and outcomes. As the regulatory contours of these technologies are being defined, there is a notable lack of literature on the key stakeholders such as the organizations and interest groups that have a significant input in shaping the regulatory framework. This article explores the perspectives and contributions of these stakeholders in shaping the regulatory paradigm of AI-enabled medical technologies. The formation of an AI regulatory framework requires the convergence of ethical, regulatory, technical, societal, and practical considerations. These multiple perspectives contribute to the various dimensions of an evolving regulatory paradigm. From the global governance guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO) to national regulations, the article sheds light not just on these multiple perspectives but also on their interconnectedness in shaping the regulatory landscape of AI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many jurisdictions require ecological risk assessments for terrestrial wildlife (i.e., terrestrial vertebrates) to assess potential adverse effects from exposure to anthropogenic chemicals. This occurs, for example, at contaminated sites and when new pesticides are proposed, and it occurs for chemicals that are in production and/or proposed for wide‐scale use. However, guidance to evaluate such risks has not changed markedly in decades, despite the availability of new scientific tools to do so. In 2019, the Wildlife Toxicology World Interest Group of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) initiated a virtual workshop that included a special session coincident with the annual SETAC North America meeting and which focused on the prospect of improving risk assessments for wildlife and improving their use in implementing chemical regulations. Work groups continued the work and investigated the utility of integrating emerging science and novel methods for improving problem formulation (WG1), exposure (WG2), toxicology (WG3), and risk characterization (WG4). Here we provide a summary of that workshop and the follow‐up work, the regulations that drive risk assessment, and the key focus areas identified to advance the ability to predict risks of chemicals to wildlife. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:645–657. © 2024 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC). Key Points: Emerging methods and science that support problem formulation, conceptualizing the problem relative to regulatory statute and management goals in wildlife ecological risk assessment, provide opportunities to improve accuracy and make sound environmental decisions.Development and use of a priori, scenario‐based approaches, operationalization of animal‐friendly techniques for exposure assessment, and establishment and implementation of postregistration, remediation, and/or restoration monitoring guidance will improve exposure assessment in wildlife risk assessment.Effect assessments for wildlife would benefit from addressing critical knowledge gaps in the sensitivity of amphibians, reptiles, and bats in addition to birds and mammals, and from further development of regulatory guidance on holistic effect assessment at individual and population level in wildlife.Development and implementation of weight of evidence approaches may help address uncertainty in risk characterization, which may be supported by developing probabilistic approaches and systematic reviews and improved evidence‐integration techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the application of the principles of Good Environmental Governance (GEG) in handling beach abrasion in Bengkalis Regency. The research method used is a qualitative phenomenological approach. This research involves collecting in-depth and descriptive data through interviews with relevant stakeholders, such as local governments, environmental institutions, local communities and related experts. A phenomenological approach allows researchers to understand individual views and experiences regarding handling coastal erosion, as well as look for thematic patterns that emerge from the various narratives provided. The collected data was then analyzed using an analysis tool, namely Nvivo 12 Plus. The study results show that implementing Good Environmental Governance (GEG) in handling beach abrasion in Bengkalis Regency has great significance and urgency. GEG principles, such as a strong rule of law, active participation of all stakeholders, access to information, transparency, accountability, decentralization, and justice, provide a comprehensive framework for maintaining coastal environmental sustainability. The principles (GEG) are implemented through cross-sector collaboration, effective coordination between related parties, and increasing stakeholder awareness of environmental interests. Apart from that, the application of risk management is also an integral part of enabling rational and effective decision-making in managing coastal erosion. Barriers such as ineffective coordination, limited resources, low awareness, and conflicts of interest are highlighted, providing insight into the challenges in implementing GEG. The contribution of this research lies in providing an adapted framework for sustainable and equitable coastal management in Bengkalis Regency. Although valuable, this study has limitations, including the regional data focus and interview subjectivity. Future research should broaden the scope and explore socio-economic impacts and the role of technology in mitigating coastal abrasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]