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15 pages, 1226 KiB  
Article
Functional Textile Socks in Rheumatoid Arthritis or Psoriatic Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Study
by Kirkke Reisberg, Kristiine Hõrrak, Aile Tamm, Margarita Kõrver, Liina Animägi and Jonete Visnapuu
Textiles 2025, 5(3), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles5030030 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 107
Abstract
There is limited knowledge about the benefits of functional textile in arthritis management. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of wearing functional socks in patients with rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis. Patients were randomized into an experimental group (n = 23) and [...] Read more.
There is limited knowledge about the benefits of functional textile in arthritis management. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of wearing functional socks in patients with rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis. Patients were randomized into an experimental group (n = 23) and control group (n = 18). The intervention involved wearing functional textile socks for 12 weeks. Sock composition was analyzed using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy. Outcome measures included the Numeric Rating Scale, Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index (HAQ-DI), and RAND-36 (Estonian version). At week 12, the experimental group showed significantly lower metatarsophalangeal and toe joint pain (p = 0.001), stiffness (p = 0.005), and ankle stiffness (p = 0.017) scores than the control group. Improvements were also observed in HAQ-DI reaching (p = 0.035) and activity (p = 0.028) scores. RAND-36 scores were higher in physical functioning (p = 0.013), social functioning (p = 0.024), and bodily pain (p = 0.006). Role limitations due to physical problems improved in the experimental group but worsened in the control group (p = 0.029). In conclusion, wearing functional socks led to some statistically significant improvements in foot and ankle pain and stiffness, physical function, and health-related quality of life. However, the effect sizes were small, and the clinical relevance of these findings should be interpreted with caution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances of Medical Textiles: 2nd Edition)
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26 pages, 828 KiB  
Article
Multi-Faceted Collaborative Investment Models and Investment Benefit Assessment Under the New Type Power System
by Peng Chen, Li Lan, Yanyuan Qian, Mingxing Guo and Wenhui Zhao
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4031; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154031 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 265
Abstract
Driven by the goal of “double carbon”, we propose an investment proportion optimization method based on cooperative game theory to optimize the investment of multiple entities and evaluate the effectiveness of the new power system. The asymmetric Nash negotiation model is introduced to [...] Read more.
Driven by the goal of “double carbon”, we propose an investment proportion optimization method based on cooperative game theory to optimize the investment of multiple entities and evaluate the effectiveness of the new power system. The asymmetric Nash negotiation model is introduced to balance the interests of each investment entity. At the same time, a comprehensive investment benefit evaluation index system covering economic, environmental, and social benefits is constructed, and the overall investment benefit evaluation is obtained by using the Delphi method, analytic hierarchy process, and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. Through the case analysis of the multi-energy complementary energy system project investment, the validity of the multi-subject investment proportion optimization model and the investment benefit analysis model are verified, and the feasibility of the project investment is demonstrated to provide theoretical guidance and practical reference for the research in related fields. Full article
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17 pages, 2008 KiB  
Article
The Comprehensive Benefit Evaluation of Urban Drainage Culverts and Pipes Based on Combination Weighting
by Weimin Geng and Zhixuan Cheng
Water 2025, 17(15), 2233; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152233 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 286
Abstract
The urban drainage system is a significant lifeline for ensuring the safe operation of a city. In recent years, defects and diseases in drainage pipes and their ancillary facilities have occurred frequently. Aiming to provide decision-makers with comprehensive benefit evaluation support, we chose [...] Read more.
The urban drainage system is a significant lifeline for ensuring the safe operation of a city. In recent years, defects and diseases in drainage pipes and their ancillary facilities have occurred frequently. Aiming to provide decision-makers with comprehensive benefit evaluation support, we chose to evaluate the security, environmental, social, and economic benefits of urban drainage culverts and pipes (UDCPs). An index system of 14 first-level indicators in four dimensions was established, and the indicators contain 28 influencing factors. The index weight was obtained by combining the analytical hierarchy process and entropy weight method, and the weights assigned to the security, environmental, social, and economic benefits were 0.448, 0.222, 0.202, and 0.128, respectively. The evaluation system was developed on the basis of a geographic information system (GIS), and the topological analysis of the GIS was applied in the calculation. To process the questionnaire results, this study adopted the automatic questionnaire analysis and scoring method combining natural language processing and optical character recognition technology. The method was applied in the study area in southern China, which contains 9 catchment areas and 1356 pipes. The results show that about 5% of the pipelines need to be included in the renewal plan. For UDCP renewal, the findings provide a decision-making tool of the comprehensive analysis for the selection of engineering technologies and the evaluation of the implementation effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Drainage Systems and Stormwater Management)
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21 pages, 1716 KiB  
Article
Research on the Comprehensive Evaluation Model of Risk in Flood Disaster Environments
by Yan Yu and Tianhua Zhou
Water 2025, 17(15), 2178; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152178 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 212
Abstract
Losses from floods and the wide range of impacts have been at the forefront of hazard-triggered disasters in China. Affected by large-scale human activities and the environmental evolution, China’s defense flood situation is undergoing significant changes. This paper constructs a comprehensive flood disaster [...] Read more.
Losses from floods and the wide range of impacts have been at the forefront of hazard-triggered disasters in China. Affected by large-scale human activities and the environmental evolution, China’s defense flood situation is undergoing significant changes. This paper constructs a comprehensive flood disaster risk assessment model through systematic analysis of four key factors—hazard (H), exposure (E), susceptibility/sensitivity (S), and disaster prevention capabilities (C)—and establishes an evaluation index system. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), we determined indicator weights and quantified flood risk via the following formula R = H × E × V × C. After we applied this model to 16 towns in coastal Zhejiang Province, the results reveal three distinct risk tiers: low (R < 0.04), medium (0.04 ≤ R ≤ 0.1), and high (R > 0.1). High-risk areas (e.g., Longxi and Shitang towns) are primarily constrained by natural hazards and socioeconomic vulnerability, while low-risk towns benefit from a robust disaster mitigation capacity. Risk typology analysis further classifies towns into natural, social–structural, capacity-driven, or mixed profiles, providing granular insights for targeted flood management. The spatial risk distribution offers a scientific basis for optimizing flood control planning and resource allocation in the district. Full article
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18 pages, 419 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Relationship with Meeting Physical Activity Guidelines in Preschool-Aged Children: A Systematic Review
by Markel Rico-González, Ursula Småland Goth, Ricardo Martín-Moya and Luca Paolo Ardigò
Pediatr. Rep. 2025, 17(4), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/pediatric17040079 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 270
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Physical activity (PA) during preschool is vital for supporting physiological development, enhancing cognitive abilities and fostering socio-emotional growth. However, consistent disparities in meeting PA guidelines have been observed. This systematic review aims to identify studies that compared preschoolers’ PA, as measured [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Physical activity (PA) during preschool is vital for supporting physiological development, enhancing cognitive abilities and fostering socio-emotional growth. However, consistent disparities in meeting PA guidelines have been observed. This systematic review aims to identify studies that compared preschoolers’ PA, as measured by technological devices, with recommended PA guidelines. Specifically, it examines (i) factors associated with meeting PA guidelines and (ii) the outcomes observed when children meet these guidelines. Methods: The search strategy was designed based on the PICOS framework. Then, a systematic review was conducted using four databases to identify studies that included children from 0 to 6 years old participating in PA sessions recorded through technological devices. PA is compared with guidelines, and correlations were reported. Results: Of the 52 studies reviewed, most found that meeting PA guidelines in preschool-aged children was linked to favourable outcomes across multiple domains. Children who met the guidelines tended to show better motor competence, emotional regulation and cognitive skills, particularly in areas like working memory and social understanding. However, the relationship with body composition and body mass index was inconsistent, suggesting that the benefits of PA in early childhood extend beyond weight-related measures. Conclusions: Meeting PA guidelines in early childhood is strongly associated with cognitive development, emotional regulation, motor skills and social behaviours. However, adherence varies significantly due to a complex mix of individual, familial, socioeconomic and environmental factors. Full article
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26 pages, 1792 KiB  
Article
Developing a Patient Profile for the Detection of Cognitive Decline in Subjective Memory Complaint Patients: A Scoping Review and Cross-Sectional Study in Community Pharmacy
by María Gil-Peinado, Francisco Javier Muñoz-Almaraz, Hernán Ramos, José Sendra-Lillo and Lucrecia Moreno
Healthcare 2025, 13(14), 1693; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13141693 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 278
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Early detection of cognitive decline (CD) is crucial for managing dementia risk factors and preventing disease progression. This study pursues two main objectives: (1) to review existing cognitive screening practices implemented in community pharmacy settings and (2) to characterize the [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Early detection of cognitive decline (CD) is crucial for managing dementia risk factors and preventing disease progression. This study pursues two main objectives: (1) to review existing cognitive screening practices implemented in community pharmacy settings and (2) to characterize the cognitive profile of individuals eligible for screening in this context. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in two phases. First, a scoping review of cognitive screening tools used in community pharmacies was carried out following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Second, a cross-sectional study was performed to design and implement a CD screening protocol, assessing cognitive function. Data collection included demographic and clinical variables commonly associated with dementia risk. Decision tree analysis was applied to identify key variables contributing to the cognitive profile of patients eligible for screening. Results: The scoping review revealed that screening approaches differed by country and population, with limited pharmacy involvement suggesting implementation barriers. Cognitive screening was conducted in 18 pharmacies in Valencia, Spain (1.45%), involving 286 regular users reporting Subjective Memory Complaints (SMC). The average age of participants was 71 years, and 74.8% were women. According to the unbiased Gini impurity index, the most relevant predictors of CD—based on the corrected mean decrease in corrected impurity (MDcI), a bias-adjusted measure of variable importance—were age (MDcI: 2.60), internet and social media use (MDcI: 2.43), sleep patterns (MDcI: 1.83), and educational attainment (MDcI: 0.96). Simple decision trees can reduce the need for full screening by 53.6% while maintaining an average sensitivity of 0.707. These factors are essential for defining the profile of individuals who would benefit most from CD screening services. Conclusions: Community pharmacy-based detection of CD shows potential, though its implementation remains limited by issues of consistency and feasibility. Enhancing early dementia detection in primary care settings may be achieved by prioritizing individuals with limited internet and social media use, irregular sleep patterns, and lower education levels. Targeting these groups could significantly improve the effectiveness of CD screening programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging Population and Healthcare Utilization)
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20 pages, 305 KiB  
Article
Sexual Roles and Relationship in Everyday Life Infrastructure and Well-Being: A Feminist Economics Perspective from the European Context
by Gloria Alarcón-García, Edgardo A. Ayala Gaytán and José Manuel Mayor Balsas
Sexes 2025, 6(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes6030037 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 300
Abstract
This article examines the impact of everyday life infrastructure on well-being through the lens of feminist economics, with a specific focus on gender disparities within the European context. Combining the capability approach (CA) and subjective well-being (SWB) theory, this study introduces a gender-sensitive [...] Read more.
This article examines the impact of everyday life infrastructure on well-being through the lens of feminist economics, with a specific focus on gender disparities within the European context. Combining the capability approach (CA) and subjective well-being (SWB) theory, this study introduces a gender-sensitive well-being budget indicator, the Well-being and Infrastructure by Gender Index, or just WIGI, to assess the differential impacts of public expenditures on women and men. Drawing on feminist critiques of infrastructure planning, it highlights how gendered patterns of access and use shape experiences of well-being. The literature review synthesizes recent contributions on well-being measurement, gendered capabilities, and the role of public infrastructure in supporting everyday life. The research utilizes the Benefits of Gender Equality through infrastructure Provision (BGGEIP) survey from the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) from 28 EU member states in 2015 to evaluate the contribution of key public services—such as transport, childcare, and healthcare—to individual capabilities and subjective well-being outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of integrating gender-sensitive methodologies into infrastructure planning and public policy to promote social inclusion and equitable well-being outcomes. This article concludes by advocating for feminist economics-informed policies to enhance the responsiveness of public investments to the lived experiences of women and men across Europe. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gender Studies)
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31 pages, 799 KiB  
Article
Exploring Determinants of Mediterranean Lifestyle Adherence: Findings from the Multinational MEDIET4ALL e-Survey Across Ten Mediterranean and Neighboring Countries
by Achraf Ammar, Mohamed Ali Boujelbane, Atef Salem, Khaled Trabelsi, Bassem Bouaziz, Mohamed Kerkeni, Liwa Masmoudi, Juliane Heydenreich, Christiana Schallhorn, Gabriel Müller, Ayse Merve Uyar, Hadeel Ali Ghazzawi, Adam Tawfiq Amawi, Bekir Erhan Orhan, Giuseppe Grosso, Osama Abdelkarim, Mohamed Aly, Tarak Driss, Kais El Abed, Wassim Moalla, Piotr Zmijewski, Frédéric Debeaufort, Nasreddine Benbettaieb, Clément Poulain, Laura Reyes, Amparo Gamero, Marta Cuenca-Ortolá, Antonio Cilla, Nicola Francesca, Concetta Maria Messina, Enrico Viola, Björn Lorenzen, Stefania Filice, Aadil Bajoub, El-Mehdi Ajal, El Amine Ajal, Majdouline Obtel, Sadjia Lahiani, Taha Khaldi, Nafaa Souissi, Omar Boukhris, Waqar Husain, Evelyn Frias-Toral, Walid Mahdi, Hamdi Chtourou, Haitham Jahrami and Wolfgang I. Schöllhornadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Nutrients 2025, 17(14), 2280; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17142280 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 593
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Despite its well-established health benefits, adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle (MedLife) has declined globally, including in its region of origin, alongside a significant shift toward ultra-processed food consumption. Understanding the factors associated with MedLife adherence is essential for developing targeted interventions and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Despite its well-established health benefits, adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle (MedLife) has declined globally, including in its region of origin, alongside a significant shift toward ultra-processed food consumption. Understanding the factors associated with MedLife adherence is essential for developing targeted interventions and tailored policy recommendations. As part of the MEDIET4ALL PRIMA project, this cross-sectional study aimed to comprehensively examine geo-demographic, socio-economic, psychological, behavioral, and barrier-related factors associated with and potentially contributing to MedLife adherence. Methods: Data were collected from 4010 participants aged 18 years and above across ten Mediterranean and neighboring countries using the multinational MEDIET4ALL e-survey, which included the validated MedLife index, along with various other questionnaires. Results: Results indicate that only 22% of respondents demonstrated high adherence to the Mediterranean lifestyle (MedLife), with significant variability observed across countries, age groups, education levels, and health statuses. Spain had the highest proportion of participants with high adherence (38%). Factors associated with significantly higher adherence rates include older age, living in the Mediterranean region, higher education levels, a greater awareness of MedLife principles, lower perceived barriers, normal BMI, better health status, and stable economic and marital conditions (p-values ranging from 0.04 to <0.001). Additionally, individuals with high MedLife adherence exhibited more socially and physically active lifestyles and experienced less psychological strain (p < 0.001). Regression analyses identified MedLife awareness as the strongest positive predictor of adherence (β = 0.206), followed by social participation (β = 0.194) and physical activity (β = 0.096). Additional positive contributors include life satisfaction, sleep quality, living in the Mediterranean region, age, and education (β ranging from 0.049 to 0.093). Conversely, factors that are negatively associated with adherence include sedentary behavior, living environment, and barriers such as low motivation, taste dislike, price unaffordability, limited availability, and the time-consuming nature of preparing Mediterranean food (MedFood; β ranging from −0.036 to −0.067). Conclusions: These findings indicate that fewer than one in four adults across Mediterranean and neighboring countries demonstrate high adherence to MedLife, supporting prior evidence of suboptimal adherence even within Mediterranean regions. This study identified a range of behavioral, socio-demographic, and environmental factors—both positive and negative predictors—that can help guide the design of targeted, culturally adapted interventions to promote MedLife behavior. Future research should incorporate objective measurements and longitudinal monitoring to better understand underlying mechanisms, establish causality, and develop sustainable strategies for enhancing MedLife adherence in diverse populations. Full article
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34 pages, 3597 KiB  
Article
Human Factors and Ergonomics in Sustainable Manufacturing Systems: A Pathway to Enhanced Performance and Wellbeing
by Violeta Firescu and Daniel Filip
Machines 2025, 13(7), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13070595 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 504
Abstract
Human Factors and Ergonomics (HF/E) play an essential role in the development of sustainable manufacturing systems. By prioritizing worker wellbeing through the mitigation of occupational hazards and the enhancement of workplace health, HF/E contributes significantly to improved system performance. In accordance with the [...] Read more.
Human Factors and Ergonomics (HF/E) play an essential role in the development of sustainable manufacturing systems. By prioritizing worker wellbeing through the mitigation of occupational hazards and the enhancement of workplace health, HF/E contributes significantly to improved system performance. In accordance with the principles of Industry 5.0 and Society 5.0, which emphasize human-centered design and wellbeing, organizations that effectively integrate HF/E principles can achieve a competitive advantage on the market. Based on a globally recognized ranking system utilized by investors in making informed decisions, the study focuses on manufacturing companies ranked by their occupational health and safety (OHS) scores, a key criterion for assessing the social dimension of company performance. This research aims to identify and analyze top-ranked companies that explicitly highlight HF/E-related benefits within their public documents and sustainability reports. The paper investigates aspects related to the integration of AI and digital technologies to enhance safety and health in manufacturing systems, with a specific focus on human presence detection in hazardous zones, improvements in machines and equipment design, occupational risk assessments, and initiatives for enhancing worker wellbeing. The findings are expected to provide compelling evidence for companies to prioritize HF/E consideration during the design and redesign phases of sustainable manufacturing systems. The paper provides significant value to non-indexed companies by offering a dual approach for improving OHS performance, based on an empirical evaluation assessment method and practical strategies for effective OHS implementation in different manufacturing industries and countries. Full article
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13 pages, 1986 KiB  
Article
Ecological Status Should Be Considered When Evaluating and Mitigating the Effects of River Connectivity Losses in European Rivers
by António Tovar Faro, Gonçalo Duarte, Tamara Leite, Maria Teresa Ferreira and Paulo Branco
Hydrobiology 2025, 4(3), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrobiology4030018 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
The deterioration of European freshwater ecosystems, driven by habitat fragmentation and connectivity loss, seriously threatens biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. While restoration efforts often focus on reconnecting river networks, ecological assessments tend to overlook the broader concept of connectivity. This study highlights the need [...] Read more.
The deterioration of European freshwater ecosystems, driven by habitat fragmentation and connectivity loss, seriously threatens biodiversity and ecosystem integrity. While restoration efforts often focus on reconnecting river networks, ecological assessments tend to overlook the broader concept of connectivity. This study highlights the need to incorporate ecological quality into connectivity assessments, ensuring more effective restoration that is aligned with European Union (EU) conservation policies. Using the dendritic connectivity index for potamodromous (DCIp) species, we analysed seven connectivity scenarios, integrating natural and artificial barriers to assess both structural connectivity and quality-weighted connectivity. These scenarios included: (1) structural connectivity considering only natural barriers (S_NB) and (2) all barriers (S_AB); (3) quality-weighted connectivity considering natural barriers (W_NB), and (4) all barriers (W_AB); three enhanced scenarios considering all barriers with (5) improved quality (W_AB_IQ), (6) improved probability of connectivity (W_AB_IC), and (7) improved quality and probability of connectivity (W_AB_IQC). Connectivity values varied across scenarios, with the natural baseline (S_NB) showing the highest connectivity values (mean = 0.98). When the natural baseline was weighted by the GES probability (W_NB), connectivity values dropped considerably (mean = 0.30). Incorporating all barriers (W_AB) further reduced the connectivity values (mean = 0.26). The improved scenario W_AB_IQC showed notable connectivity improvements (mean = 0.40). This study underscores the importance of integrating ecological quality into river connectivity assessments. It demonstrates that restoring habitat quality alongside connectivity restoration can substantially enhance river ecosystems. Prioritising restoration in high-quality areas maximises ecological and social benefits, supports sustainable river management, improves connectivity, and promotes biodiversity conservation. Full article
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21 pages, 759 KiB  
Article
Exploring How Corporate Maturity Moderates the Value Relevance of ESG Disclosures in Sustainable Reporting: Evidence from Bangladesh’s Developing Market
by Saleh Mohammed Mashehdul Islam
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 5936; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17135936 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 591
Abstract
This study investigated how corporate maturity—measured through firm age and lifecycle stage—moderates the value relevance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosures in a frontier market context, using Bangladesh as a case study. Drawing on panel data from 2011–2012 to 2023–2024 for 86 [...] Read more.
This study investigated how corporate maturity—measured through firm age and lifecycle stage—moderates the value relevance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosures in a frontier market context, using Bangladesh as a case study. Drawing on panel data from 2011–2012 to 2023–2024 for 86 publicly listed non-financial firms, the study employed a modified Ohlson valuation framework, panel regression analysis, and multiple robustness techniques (2SLS, PSM). ESG disclosure was measured using a researcher-developed index aligned with international reporting standards (GRI, SASB, TCFD, UN SDGs). ESG disclosures are positively associated with firm value, but this relationship is significantly moderated by corporate maturity. Younger firms exhibit a stronger valuation effect from ESG transparency, driven by higher signaling and legitimacy needs. In contrast, mature firms experience a diminished marginal benefit, reflecting routine compliance rather than strategic differentiation. These findings challenge the uniform application of ESG assessment models and suggest the need for lifecycle-adjusted disclosure ratings, particularly in nascent regulatory environments like Bangladesh. Investors and regulators should tailor ESG evaluation criteria by firm age and industry sustainability exposure. Younger firms, often overlooked, may carry outsized ESG signaling value in emerging markets. Enhancing ESG transparency among younger firms can foster greater stakeholder trust, support inclusive growth, and strengthen social accountability in emerging economies. This study contributes to the ESG literature by introducing corporate maturity as a key moderating variable in value relevance analysis. It provides new empirical insights from a developing economy and proposes lifecycle-based adaptations to global ESG rating methodologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Business Model Innovation and Corporate Sustainability)
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21 pages, 1681 KiB  
Article
Analytical Decision Support Systems for Sustainable Urban Regeneration
by Benedetto Manganelli, Vincenzo Del Giudice, Francesco Tajani, Francesco Paolo Del Giudice, Daniela Tavano and Giuseppe Cerullo
Real Estate 2025, 2(3), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/realestate2030008 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 260
Abstract
The rapid urbanization of contemporary cities represents one of the most complex challenges of the 21st century, with profound implications for the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of territories. In this context, urban regeneration emerges as a strategic approach to territorial transformation. The [...] Read more.
The rapid urbanization of contemporary cities represents one of the most complex challenges of the 21st century, with profound implications for the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of territories. In this context, urban regeneration emerges as a strategic approach to territorial transformation. The complexity of urban dynamics requires the adoption of innovative paradigms and systemic approaches capable of guiding decision-making processes toward eco-sustainable and resilient solutions. This research develops advanced decision support tools for urban regeneration, using the city of Potenza (Italy) as a case study. The main objective is to identify key indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of urban regeneration interventions in advance (ex-ante). The methodology develops a composite economic-financial risk index capable of providing an accurate picture of existing conditions while adapting to the territorial specificities of the analyzed area. This index, which uses the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique to integrate elementary economic-financial indicators in order to assess the sustainability level of urban redevelopment projects, is able to synthesize complex economic variables into a single parameter of immediate comprehension, strategically guiding investments toward a sustainable urban development model. The analysis of results highlights a peculiar territorial configuration: semi-central areas present the greatest criticalities, while there is a progressive decrease in risk both toward the central core and toward peripheral and extra-urban areas. The study represents a significant methodological contribution to future urban regeneration initiatives at the local level, promoting an integrated vision of sustainable urban development for the benefit of current and future generations. Full article
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16 pages, 789 KiB  
Article
Social Capital and Family Well-Being Among Immigrant Chinese and Native Japanese Families Raising Children in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Qiting Lin, Takafumi Soejima, Shiqi Zhang, Hisashi Nakaguchi, Satoshi Takatani, Junko Honda, Naohiro Hohashi and Noriyuki Nishimura
Healthcare 2025, 13(13), 1518; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13131518 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Although several studies have examined the importance of social capital to individual health, the relationship between social capital and family well-being remains unclear. This study examines the relationships among social capital, parental depressive symptoms, and family well-being, and evaluates whether parental [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Although several studies have examined the importance of social capital to individual health, the relationship between social capital and family well-being remains unclear. This study examines the relationships among social capital, parental depressive symptoms, and family well-being, and evaluates whether parental depressive symptoms mediate the association between social capital and family well-being in immigrant Chinese and native Japanese families. Methods: A cross-sectional study using Google questionnaires was conducted between January and April 2024 among parents of local Japanese and immigrant Chinese families with children. The survey assessed demographics and social capital using the PSCS-16 and K6 Scale, family well-being using the General Functioning Index of the Family Assessment Device, and family life satisfaction using the New Brief Job Stress Questionnaire. Multiple-group structural equation modeling clarified the association between bonding and bridging social capital and family well-being. Results: The survey data was collected from 133 parents (75 Japanese and 58 Chinese) of preschool children aged six years and under. About 81.2% of respondents were mothers and 18.8% were fathers, with the majority aged between 30 to 39 years (63.9%). Bonding social capital was positively associated with family well-being among Japanese families. In Chinese families, bonding social capital was indirectly associated with family well-being by reducing parental depressive symptoms. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of enhancing bonding social capital to benefit both native and immigrant families. Besides, policymakers should consider tailored strategies that reflect the differing needs of both groups. Full article
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23 pages, 468 KiB  
Article
The Role of E-Commerce in Promoting Sustainable Local Employment in Rural Areas: Evidence from China
by Shanxin Tao, Qin Wang and Tingting Zhu
Sustainability 2025, 17(12), 5641; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17125641 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 573
Abstract
Addressing the outflow of rural labor remains central to achieving inclusive and sustainable development in many emerging economies. This study investigates how rural e-commerce—encompassing both trade- and finance-oriented platforms—affects local employment dynamics. Drawing on panel data from 28 Chinese provinces between 2012 and [...] Read more.
Addressing the outflow of rural labor remains central to achieving inclusive and sustainable development in many emerging economies. This study investigates how rural e-commerce—encompassing both trade- and finance-oriented platforms—affects local employment dynamics. Drawing on panel data from 28 Chinese provinces between 2012 and 2020, we construct a composite index of rural e-commerce development and apply a two-way fixed-effects model to assess its impact on labor retention. Based on a nationwide regression analysis of Chinese survey data, we find that rural e-commerce significantly increases intra-county employment, with estimated effects robust across model specifications. Specifically, a one-unit increase in the e-commerce development index is associated with a 0.1 increase in the likelihood of local labor retention, significant at the 1% level. However, benefits are unevenly distributed: positive impacts are concentrated in eastern and central regions, while western provinces experience adverse effects, and northeastern areas show no significant change. These findings underscore the role of rural e-commerce as a driver of digital inclusion and local economic resilience, while also revealing structural barriers that hinder equitable access to its benefits. By identifying the enabling conditions, this study contributes to a more context-sensitive understanding of how platform economies can support spatially balanced and socially just rural development. Policies that promote rural e-commerce are thus likely to facilitate the local redeployment of rural labor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)
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12 pages, 679 KiB  
Article
Systematic Intervention with Formal Caregivers to Promote Nutritional Health of Older People with Dementia: An Impact Evaluation Study
by Paola Sarmiento-González, María Elisa Moreno-Fergusson, Alejandra Rojas-Rivera, Juan Alcides Cuadros-Mojica, Bibiana Ramírez-Pulido and Beatriz Sánchez-Herrera
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(6), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22060849 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 657
Abstract
Nutritional health is essential for older people with dementia. Their feeding is a challenge for which caregivers are not always ready, and an intervention that supports them may have a significant social impact. The aim of this project is to design and evaluate [...] Read more.
Nutritional health is essential for older people with dementia. Their feeding is a challenge for which caregivers are not always ready, and an intervention that supports them may have a significant social impact. The aim of this project is to design and evaluate the impact of systematic nursing intervention with formal caregivers to promote nutritional health for older people with dementia. This is a “Nursing Methodology Research” study conducted with formal caregivers of older people with dementia in four Colombian nursing homes. It includes three consecutive phases: (1) systematic intervention design under Whittemore and Grey’s parameters, (2) intervention validation with seven international experts, and (3) measurement of intervention impact, which included a quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test design. The “Nurturing Neurons—Formal Caregivers” intervention met the criteria of systematic health interventions. In response to the work and personal requirements of formal caregivers, the intervention used a tele-support modality. Its content validity ratio (CVR) ranged from 0.88 to 0.92; its content validity index (CVI) was 0.90. The experience was positive for the participant caregivers (94.9%) and professional providers (92.5%). The overall caregivers’ caring competence changed from the medium, 78.1, to the high category, 91.5 (p < 0.001). Their perceived burden of care changed from 70.4 to 63.6 (p < 0.001). In conclusion, “Nurturing Neurons—Formal Caregivers” achieved a positive impact, with changes in the structure, processes, and outputs to promote the nutritional health of older people with dementia. It led to a significant improvement in formal caregivers’ caring competence and decreased their perceived care burden. Its cost–benefit was favorable; it generated health equity for a vulnerable population and achieved unexpected benefits in the context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Advances in Nursing Practice in Latin America)
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