Saved Queries

by Elżbieta Rutkowska, Iwona Kwiecień, Agata Raniszewska, Rafał Sokołowski, Joanna Bednarek, Karina Jahnz-Różyk, Andrzej Chciałowski and Piotr Rzepecki

Biomedicines 2024, 12(9), 2016; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12092016 (registering DOI) - 4 Sep 2024

Abstract

The neutrophils evaluation seems interesting in the initial qualifications of patients with various inflammatory processes. In this study, we presented analysis of neutrophils and new parameters of the complexity (NEUT-GI, NE-WX), maturation (IG), size (NE-FSC, NE-WZ), and neutrophil activities (NEUT-RI, NE-WY) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), lung cancer (LC), sarcoidosis (SA), and healthy controls (HCs). Peripheral blood (PB) was collected. The new parameters were examined by the Sysmex XN-1500. The mean absolute value for the IG parameter was the highest in the LC group. The differences in NEUT-RI value between COVID-19 and the HC group were observed. No significant differences were noticed between groups in the NEUT-GI granularity parameter. Neutrophil size assessed by NE-FSC parameter was reduced in all groups compared to HCs. The values of complexity (NE-WX), fluorescence (NE-WY), and size (NE-WZ) were the lowest in the HCs, whereas the highest median proportions of NE-WX, NE-WY, and NE-WZ were in LC patients. Patients from the SA group differed significantly from the HC group only for the NE-WZ parameter. We showed the usefulness of neutrophil parameters and their reactivity, morphology, and exhaustion. A more detailed analysis of blood counts may reveal trends that indicate a disease-specific immune response. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Immunotherapy)

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20 pages, 997 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Manufacturing and Pro-Environmental Behavior: Moderated Serial Mediation Modelling and Analysis

by Emily Opoku Aboagye-Dapaah, Michael Karikari Appiah and Joshua Caleb Dagadu

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7663; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177663 (registering DOI) - 4 Sep 2024

Abstract

Smart manufacturing encompasses a category of manufacturing that employs computer-integrated capabilities and technologies to enhance supply chain optimization, production efficiency, and recyclability. Yet, limited studies have been conducted to optimize these prospects from the perspective of low-resource countries where such innovative studies have not been adequately explored. This paper aims to examine the implications of smart manufacturing practices (Smart Procurement, Smart Supply Chain, Smart Production Planning and Control, Automation and Industrial Robot, and Supply Chain Configuration) on pro-environmental behaviour and develop a baseline moderated mediation model to explain the relationship between smart manufacturing and pro-environmental behaviour as well as the indirect effects of environmental awareness and green dynamic capability. This study employs a quantitative research approach, utilizing inductive reasoning and an explanatory design. Data from 382 manufacturing enterprises in Ghana were collected through a cross-sectional survey. We tested our hypotheses using SMART-PLS software version 3.8.9 and SEM technique. The study found a strong and positive relationship between smart manufacturing practices and pro-environmental behaviour. Additionally, the relationship between smart manufacturing and pro-environmental behaviour is influenced by green dynamic capacity and environmental orientation. The study’s implications involve the creation of a fundamental model that can assist policy makers, practitioners, and academics in understanding the connection between smart manufacturing and sustainable production in developing nations. Again, the social implication of the study includes the realisation of decent job and economic growth, responsible consumption, and production as well as actions taken to combat climate change. Full article

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17 pages, 1615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kawasaki Disease Diagnosis and Treatment in over 1000 Patients: A Continuum of Dysregulated Inflammatory Responses

by Stejara A. Netea, Giske Biesbroek, Diana van Stijn, Sietse Q. Nagelkerke, Kawasaki Study Group, CAHAL Group, KIRI Group, Irene M. Kuipers and Taco W. Kuijpers

Biomedicines 2024, 12(9), 2014; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12092014 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Background: Kawasaki disease (KD) is a pediatric vasculitis, leading to coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) in ~4–14%. Attention to the etiology and course of KD was generated by the close mimic of a SARS-CoV-2-induced phenotype, called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Methods: A total of 1179 cases were collected from 2012 with ~50% of cases retrospectively included. Clinical characteristics were described and risk factors for CAA (persistence) were investigated. Phenotypic patterns of the prospectively included KD patients were evaluated. These patterns were also compared to the seronegative KD and seropositive MIS-C cases identified during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Results: KD mostly affected boys and children < 5 years. IVIG resistance, CAAs, and giant CAAs occurred in 24.5%, 21.4%, and 6.6%, respectively. Giant CAAs were significantly more likely to normalize to a normal Z score in patients that were younger than 2.5 years old at the time of initial giant CAA (χ² test p = 0.02). In our prospective (SARS-CoV-2-seronegative) KD series, there was a diminishing male predominance over time, whereas the proportions of incomplete presentations (p < 0.001) and patients with circulatory shock (p = 0.04) increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Pre- and post-pandemic KD cases presented with different levels of C-reactive protein, thrombocyte counts, and hemoglobin levels over the years. Compared to pandemic KD, SARS-CoV-2-seropositive MIS-C patients were older (p < 0.001), and more often required intensive care admission (p < 0.001), with a gradual decrease over time between 2020 and 2022 (p = 0.04). KD carried a substantial risk of CAA development in contrast to MIS-C. Conclusion: the phenotypic changes seen over the last twelve years of our prospective follow-up study suggest a spectrum of hyperinflammatory states with potentially different triggering events within this clinical entity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)

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19 pages, 10184 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coupling Analysis between the Transonic Buffeting Flow and a Heaving Supercritical Airfoil Based on Dynamic Mode Decomposition

by Wei Kang, Bingzhou Chen and Shilin Hu

Aerospace 2024, 11(9), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace11090722 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

The coupling between a transonic buffeting flow and a supercritical airfoil with harmonic heave motion was studied. A parametric space of the heave frequency and amplitude was investigated using a verified fluid–structural interaction framework. The spatial-temporal flow pattern around the transonic airfoil was studied using dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) to unveil the physical coupling mechanism. The results show three types of flow responses under the heave motion: (I) A buffet frequency response with a

λ

-shape shock wave structure and recirculation zone at the shock foot. The aerodynamic performance was alike the scenario in the flow past the stationary airfoil. (II) A transitional response with a weakened shock and enhanced boundary layer. The aerodynamic performance deteriorated sharply at

f = f_{buffet}

and recovered after the frequency was past the buffet frequency. The flow pattern was characterized by a double-shock structure that interacted with the enhanced boundary layer. (III) A heave frequency response with the dominant heave motion. The variance in the aerodynamic loading increased significantly at

f > f_{buffet}

and there were higher heave amplitudes in this stage. The driving motion of the airfoil transferred the energy of the buffet mode to the boundary layer with a more even energy balance according to the energy contribution analysis of the DMD modes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transonic Flow (2nd Edition))

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30 pages, 27197 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Finite Element Analysis of the Bearing Component of Total Ankle Replacement Implants during the Stance Phase of the Gait Cycle

by Timothy S. Jain, Mohammad Noori, Joseph J. Rencis, Amanda Anderson, Naudereh Noori and Scott Hazelwood

BioMedInformatics 2024, 4(3), 1949-1978; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedinformatics4030107 (registering DOI) - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is a motion-preserving treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. An effective tool for analyzing these implants’ mechanical performance and longevity in silico is finite element analysis (FEA). An FEA in ABAQUS was used to statically analyze the mechanical behavior of the ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) bearing component at varying dorsiflexion/plantarflexion ankle angles and axial loading conditions during the stance phase of the gait cycle for a single cycle. The von Mises stress and contact pressure were examined on the articulating surface of the bearing component in two newly installed fixed-bearing TAA implants (Wright Medical INBONE II and Exactech Vantage). Six different FEA models of variable ankle compressive load levels and ankle angle positions, for the varying subphases of the stance phase of the gait cycle, were created. The components in these models were constrained to be conducive to the bone–implant interface, where implant loosening occurs. Our results showed that the von Mises stress and contact pressure distributions increased as the compressive load increased. The highest stress was noted at dorsiflexion angles > 15°, in areas where the UHMWPE liner was thinnest, at the edges of the talar and UHMWPE components, and during the terminal stance phase of the gait cycle. This static structural analysis highlighted these failure regions are susceptible to yielding and wear and indicated stress magnitudes that are in agreement (within 25%) with those in previous static structural TAA FEAs. The mechanical wear of the UHMWPE bearing component in TAA can lead to aseptic loosening and peri-implant cyst formation over time, requiring surgical revision. This study provides ankle replacement manufacturers and orthopedic surgeons with a better understanding of the stress response and contact pressure sustained by TAA implants, which is critical to optimizing implant longevity and improving patient care. Full article

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19 pages, 6880 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Wave Load Characteristics of Hovercraft Based on Model Test

by Zhihua Zuo, Geng Chen, Xueqian Zhou, Huilong Ren and Ning Liu

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(9), 1537; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12091537 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

The prediction of the wave load on a hovercraft is essential for the design of the hull structure and safety. However, theoretical methods for the prediction of wave loads are still not mature enough due to the unique and complex nature of the air cushion structure, and numerical modeling and simulation are challenging due to the complexity of the gas-solid-liquid three-phase coupling, so the study of wave loads on hovercrafts still relies on experimentation. In this study, we aim to analyze the wave load response characteristics of a four-chamber hovercraft by conducting a wave load model test under medium/low sea states. The load components and amplitude-frequency response characteristics were thoroughly analyzed based on the acquired data of the cushion pressure, acceleration, and bending moment. The main characteristics of the wave-induced response of the hovercraft were described in detail, and an analytical relationship between the cushion pressure and hull acceleration was derived. The reliability of the experimental results was confirmed through a comparison with the derived results. The relationship between the cushion pressure and cushion volume was investigated in terms of the observed geometric volume of the air chamber, and the relationship between the cushion pressure and flow rate was analyzed to validate the derivation of the theory of wave loads on hovercrafts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)

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18 pages, 4129 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Studies of Genistein Lipophilic Derivatives as Potential UV Radiation Protectors

by Magdalena Skonieczna, Kinga Plasa, Ewa Borowska, Agata Jakubowska, Wiesław Szeja and Anna Kasprzycka

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(9), 1166; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17091166 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

The major environmental factor responsible for skin cancer is ultraviolet (UV) radiation, present in sunlight. UV radiation is directly linked to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which accumulate in exposed cells and cause serious damage. The antioxidant systems present in cells cannot always sufficiently neutralize the ROS. Therefore, supplementation with exogenous antioxidants has been proposed. The antioxidant properties of some isoflavones, such as genistein, have already been well-proven. Genistein has limited bioavailability. However, its derivatives, with increased lipophilicity, could facilitate its transfer into cells, where they can expose its antioxidative potential. This study aims to investigate three genistein derivatives, with greater lipophilicity than the native compound, regarding their cytotoxicity, antioxidative properties, and effect on the cell cycle in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and a melanoma cancer cell line (Me45). Results showed that lipophilic modification of the genistein molecule changes the biological response of NHDF and Me45 cell lines to UV-C radiation, but the lipophilicity cannot be directly linked with the activity of the compounds. A comparison of the effects of the genistein derivatives on healthy and cancerous cells suggests that their mode of action strongly depends on the type of cell involved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Apoptosis as a Strategy for Developing New Drugs)

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19 pages, 2049 KiB

Open AccessReview

TP53 Mutation-Mediated Immune Evasion in Cancer: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

by Chuqi Wang, Jordan Yong Ming Tan, Nishtha Chitkara and Shruti Bhatt

Cancers 2024, 16(17), 3069; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16173069 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Mutation in p53 is the most frequent event in cancer development and a leading cause of cancer therapy resistance due to evasion of the apoptosis cascade. Beyond chemotherapies and radiation therapies, growing evidence indicates that p53-mutant tumors are resistant to a broad range of immune-based therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This highlights the role of p53 mutations in driving immune evasion of tumor cells. In this review, we first summarize recent studies revealing mechanisms by which p53-mutant tumors evade immune surveillance from T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages. We then review how these mutant tumor cells reshape the tumor microenvironment (TME), modulating bystander cells such as macrophages, neutrophils, and regulatory T (Treg) cells to foster immunosuppression. Additionally, we review clinical observations indicative of immune evasion associated with p53 loss or mutations. Finally, we discuss therapeutic strategies to enhance immune response in p53 wild-type (WT) or mutant tumors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer: Promises and Challenges)

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12 pages, 5675 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Two Sugarcane Expansin Protein-Coding Genes Contribute to Stomatal Aperture Associated with Structural Resistance to Sugarcane Smut

by Zongling Liu, Zhuoxin Yu, Xiufang Li, Qin Cheng and Ru Li

J. Fungi 2024, 10(9), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10090631 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Sporisorium scitamineum is a biotrophic fungus responsible for inducing sugarcane smut disease that results in significant reductions in sugarcane yield. Resistance mechanisms against sugarcane smut can be categorized into structural, biochemical, and physiological resistance. However, structural resistance has been relatively understudied. This study found that sugarcane variety ZZ9 displayed structural resistance compared to variety GT42 when subjected to different inoculation methods for assessing resistance to smut disease. Furthermore, the stomatal aperture and density of smut-susceptible varieties (ROC22 and GT42) were significantly higher than those of smut-resistant varieties (ZZ1, ZZ6, and ZZ9). Notably, S. scitamineum was found to be capable of entering sugarcane through the stomata on buds. According to the RNA sequencing of the buds of GT42 and ZZ9, seven Expansin protein-encoding genes were identified, of which six were significantly upregulated in GT42. The two genes c111037.graph_c0 and c113583.graph_c0, belonging to the α-Expansin and β-Expansin families, respectively, were functionally characterized, revealing their role in increasing the stomatal aperture. Therefore, these two sugarcane Expansin protein-coding genes contribute to the stomatal aperture, implying their potential roles in structural resistance to sugarcane smut. Our findings deepen the understanding of the role of the stomata in structural resistance to sugarcane smut and highlight their potential in sugarcane breeding for disease resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics of Fungal Plant Pathogens, 3rd Edition)

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13 pages, 734 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Cellular Response to Mercury in Non-Farmed Fish Species Based on Mitochondrial DNA Copy Number Variation Analysis

by Marta Giuga, Venera Ferrito, Giada Santa Calogero, Anna Traina, Maria Bonsignore, Mario Sprovieri and Anna Maria Pappalardo

Biology 2024, 13(9), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13090691 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Mercury (Hg) pro-oxidant role on biological systems and its biogeochemical cycle represent a serious threat due to its persistence in marine environment. As the mitochondrial genome is exposed to reactive oxygen species (ROS), the aim of the present study is the validation of the variation in the number of mitochondrial DNA copies (mtDNAcn) as biomarker of oxidative stress in aquatic environment. During summer 2021, three selected fish species (Mullus barbatus, Diplodus annularis and Pagellus erythrinus) were collected in Augusta Bay, one of the most Mediterranean contaminated areas remarkable by past Hg inputs, and in a control area, both in the south-east of Sicily. The relative mtDNAcn was evaluated by qPCR on specimens of each species from both sites, characterized respectively by higher and lower Hg bioaccumulation. M. barbatus and P. erythrinus collected in Augusta showed a dramatic mtDNAcn reduction compared to their control groups while D. annularis showed an incredible mtDNAcn rising suggesting a higher resilience of this species. These results align with the mitochondrial dynamics of fission and fusion triggered by environmental toxicants. In conclusion, we suggest the implementation of the mtDNAcn variation as a valid tool for the early warning stress-related impacts in aquatic system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mitochondria: The Signaling Organelle)

10 pages, 842 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Addressing the Ethnicity Gap in Catechol O-Methyl Transferase Inhibitor Trials in Parkinson’s Disease: A Review of Available Global Data

by Karolina Poplawska-Domaszewicz, Naomi Limbachiya, Mubasher Qamar, Lucia Batzu, Shelley Jones, Anna Sauerbier, Silvia Rota, Yue Hui Lau and K Ray Chaudhuri

J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(9), 939; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14090939 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitors (COMT-Is) have significantly improved the quality of life and symptom management for those at advanced stages of Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Given that PD is one of the fastest-growing neurodegenerative diseases worldwide, there is a need to establish a clear framework for the systematic distribution of COMT-Is, considering inter-individual and intra-individual variations in patient response. One major barrier to this is the underrepresentation of ethnic minority participants in clinical trials investigating COMT-Is. To investigate this, we performed a narrative review. We searched PubMed for clinical trials investigating COMT-Is in patients with PD and examined the ethnic diversity of cohorts. A total of 63 articles were identified, with 34 trials found to match our inclusion criteria. Among the 34 trials meeting our inclusion criteria, only 8 reported participants’ ethnic backgrounds. Our findings reveal a consistent underrepresentation of ethnic minority groups in trials investigating COMT-Is in PD cohorts—a trend that reflects broader concerns across clinical research. In this review, we explore potential reasons for the underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in clinical trials and propose strategies to address this issue. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Methodology, Drug and Device Discovery)

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16 pages, 1143 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Vibration Therapy and Passive Rest on the Recovery of Muscular Strength and Plasma Lactate Levels in the Upper Limbs after Intense Anaerobic Exercise in Elite Boxers and Kickboxers

by Wiesław Chwała, Wacław Mirek, Tadeusz Ambroży, Wojciech Wąsacz, Klaudia Jakubowska and Łukasz Rydzik

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(17), 7820; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14177820 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Background: High-intensity anaerobic physical training frequently leads to muscle fatigue among boxers and kickboxers. Vibrational therapy (VT) and passive rest (PR) have been employed as methods to enhance muscular recovery and performance. This study evaluates the effectiveness of these two recovery methods on upper limb muscle strength and lactate levels in plasma after high-intensity exertion. Methods: Eighteen elite boxers and kickboxers, aged 19–32 years, underwent tests employing VT and PR as recovery methods in a controlled, crossover study. Muscle performance was assessed via isokinetic dynamometry, and lactate levels were measured pre-exercise, post-exercise, and post-recovery. The study adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki guidelines and was approved by the relevant bioethics committee. Results: The results showed that VT led to a faster recruitment of muscle fibers and improved muscle endurance as indicated by decreased fatigue work indices compared to PR. However, no significant differences were observed in peak torque or lactate levels between the two recovery methods. The VT group exhibited quicker recovery times in torque generation and better performance in fatigue resistance. Conclusions: VT appears to provide superior muscular recovery compared to PR following intense anaerobic effort, particularly in terms of muscle strength endurance and activation speed. These findings support the potential of VT in sports recovery protocols, although similar lactate response suggests that metabolic recovery rates are not significantly affected. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Performance: Data Measurement, Analysis, and Improvement)

26 pages, 355 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance Disclosure on the Performance of Saudi Arabian Companies: Evidence from the Top 100 Non-Financial Companies Listed on Tadawul

by Maha Abu Hussain, Maha Faisal Alsayegh and Helmi A. Boshnak

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7660; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177660 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure and the performance of Saudi Arabian companies. We analysed panel data from the 100 non-financial companies listed on the Saudi stock exchange (Tadawul) from 2017 to 2022. Using fixed effects, random effects, and generalised method of moments (GMM) models to account for endogeneity concerns, we examined the impact of ESG disclosure on the return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), and Tobin’s Q. An ESG index was constructed through a principal component analysis of individual environmental, social, and governance scores. Our results indicate a significant positive relationship between ESG disclosure and companies’ key performance variables across all models. These findings are consistent with stakeholder theory and signalling theory, suggesting that comprehensive ESG practices can lead to better financial performance and serve as a positive signal to stakeholders. The study also reveals sector-specific differences, with non-manufacturing firms showing stronger positive relationships between ESG disclosure and performance measures compared to manufacturing firms. Additionally, we find that firm size, age, and liquidity are important factors influencing the ESG–performance relationship. This research contributes to the growing literature on ESG and corporate performance in emerging markets, offering valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and corporate practitioners in Saudi Arabia’s evolving sustainable business landscape. Our findings underscore the importance of ESG disclosure in driving sustainable and responsible business practices in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue ESG Investing for Sustainable Business: Exploring the Future)

29 pages, 1357 KiB

Open AccessReview

Revolutionizing Drug Discovery: The Impact of Distinct Designs and Biosensor Integration in Microfluidics-Based Organ-on-a-Chip Technology

by Sheng Yuan, Huipu Yuan, David C. Hay, Huan Hu and Chaochen Wang

Biosensors 2024, 14(9), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios14090425 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

Traditional drug development is a long and expensive process with high rates of failure. This has prompted the pharmaceutical industry to seek more efficient drug development frameworks, driving the emergence of organ-on-a-chip (OOC) based on microfluidic technologies. Unlike traditional animal experiments, OOC systems provide a more accurate simulation of human organ microenvironments and physiological responses, therefore offering a cost-effective and efficient platform for biomedical research, particularly in the development of new medicines. Additionally, OOC systems enable quick and real-time analysis, high-throughput experimentation, and automation. These advantages have shown significant promise in enhancing the drug development process. The success of an OOC system hinges on the integration of specific designs, manufacturing techniques, and biosensors to meet the need for integrated multiparameter datasets. This review focuses on the manufacturing, design, sensing systems, and applications of OOC systems, highlighting their design and sensing capabilities, as well as the technical challenges they currently face. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microfluidics for Biomedical Applications (Volume II))

35 pages, 452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Social Responsibility on the Performance of European Listed Companies

by Roberto Rocha, Ana Bandeira and Patrícia Ramos

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7658; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177658 - 3 Sep 2024

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the impact of social responsibility (SR) on the performance of 216 European companies from 2017 to 2021. The objective of this research is to determine how the operational, financial, and market performance of companies is influenced by social responsibility practices. The methodology adopted is quantitative in nature, using the estimation of models for panel data. To quantify corporate performance, this study uses the return on assets (ROA), the return on equity (ROE), and finally Tobin’s Q ratio. Additionally, environment, social, and governance (ESG) and United Nations Global Compact (GC) scores are used to quantify SR. Our findings indicate a complex relationship between SR and corporate performance. While SR positively impacts market performance, it negatively affects operational and financial performance. This disparity becomes more pronounced when comparing companies with the highest and lowest SR scores. Further analysis reveals that the environment, social, and governance dimensions of ESG negatively correlate with ROA and ROE, but positively correlate with Tobin’s Q. The GC’s anti-corruption and environment scores exhibit a negative relationship with Tobin’s Q, the human rights dimension negatively correlates with ROE and ROA, and the labor law dimension positively influences ROE. Notably, firm size amplifies these relationships, whereas firm age has a dampening effect. This research offers significant contributions to the literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of the impact of social responsibility on corporate performance based on ESG and GC scores. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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