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Found 6374 publications
Axial strength of back to back cold formed steel short channel sections with unstiffened and stiffened web holes
Publication Name: Scientific Reports
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 15
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
The increasing adoption of back-to-back built-up cold-formed steel (CFS) channel columns in construction is attributed to their lightweight nature, versatility in shape fabrication, ease of transportation, cost efficiency, and enhanced load-bearing capacity. Additionally, the incorporation of web openings facilitates the integration of electrical, plumbing, and heating systems. These built-up sections are widely utilized in wall studs, truss elements, and floor joists, with intermediate screw fasteners strategically positioned at regular intervals to prevent the independent buckling of channels. Based on 18 experimental tests, this study demonstrates an excellent correlation between finite element analysis and the experimental results, confirming the accuracy of geometrically and materially nonlinear finite element modeling in predicting the axial buckling strength of built-up short columns. Furthermore, the design standards of the American Iron and Steel Institute and Australian/New Zealand Standards were found to underestimate the axial load capacity by approximately 12.5%. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the influence of various hole configurations, both with and without stiffeners, on the axial performance of built-up short CFS channel columns. A total of 180 finite element models were developed, examining four different unstiffened and edge-stiffened hole configurations, validated against experimental results from plain webs. The findings reveal that web holes and edge stiffeners significantly impact axial load-bearing capacity, while the specific shape of the openings has a negligible effect. Specifically, introducing a hole at the centroid of each web results in an approximate 8.5% reduction in axial load capacity in the absence of edge stiffening. However, the incorporation of stiffeners around the perforations mitigates this reduction and enhances both structural efficiency and load-bearing capacity. These results highlight the critical role of edge stiffening in optimizing the structural performance of perforated built-up CFS columns.
Open Access: Yes
A comprehensive narrative review on precision medicine approach to hypertension: exploring the role of genetics, epigenetics, microbiome, and artificial intelligence
Publication Name: Journal of Health Population and Nutrition
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 44
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Background: Hypertension (HTN) impacts approximately 1.28 billion individuals globally and poses a great burden of disease. The objectives of this study are to explore the role of genetics, epigenetics, microbiome, and artificial intelligence (AI) in the management of HTN. A thorough literature search was conducted across various databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science (WoS), and Medline to retrieve articles related to the role of genetics, epigenetics, microbiome, and AI in the precision medicine of HTN. Genes—including ACE, NOS3, ADD1, CYP11B2, NPPA, and NPPB—have a profound impact on blood pressure (BP) regulation in our body and polymorphism in these key genes can lead to HTN. Up or down-regulation of genes by epigenetic factors such as miRNA-155, miRNA-210, and miRNA-122 can significantly contribute to the development of HTN. These genetic and epigenetic factors can also be used as specific targets for gene editing and gene therapy for long-term management of HTN. However, the implementation of these techniques has not been possible in clinical settings due to lack of human studies and safety concerns related to unpredictable DNA alterations, nucleotide deletions, and loss of allele-specific chromosomes. Modulation of gut microbiome through oral supplements, fecal microbiota transplant (FMT), and dietary interventions has emerged as one the most effective and safe techniques for managing HTN in human models. AI-based cutting-edge models have helped curate personalized diet plans based on an individual’s unique microbiome, genomic information, and physiological conditions leading to a reduction in BMI, fat, BP, and heart rate while improving overall cardiac health and gut microbial diversity. Despite the significant advantages offered by AI-based medicine, ethical concerns—related to data privacy, bias, and discrimination—and ineffective models have led to limited integration of AI in precision medicine of HTN. The integration of genetics, epigenetics, microbiome, and AI-based models can play a key role in improving the current landscape of precision medicine of HTN. These cutting-edge techniques can lead to a shift from the current one-size-fits all approach to more personalized treatment plan however further research in human models is needed to determine the safety and true efficacy of these techniques. Additionally, new AI-models need to be developed that address ethical concerns and are effective in real-world clinical settings.
Open Access: Yes
Bridging the funding gap: advancing sustainable food security in West Africa to achieve SDG 2
Publication Name: Discover Sustainability
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 6
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
As the global population exceeds 8 billion, pressure on food systems is growing, especially in developing regions where funding gaps hinder progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 2. This study investigates sustainable food security in West Africa, focusing on the role of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB). A quantitative, secondary research approach is applied, combining a literature review with time series data. Three indicators are examined, undernourishment (2000–2022), food insecurity (2014–2022), and AfDB-funded projects (1970–2023), with a detailed focus on the overlapping period of 2015–2022. Findings reveal significant disparities across countries. From 2015 to 2022, undernourishment decreased in only seven of fifteen countries, while food insecurity rose in nearly all. In 2022, 17% of the population was undernourished, and 61% lived in moderate or severe food insecurity. Although Nigeria recorded a relatively low undernourishment rate, it had the highest absolute number of affected individuals due to its population size. Since 1970, AfDB has financed 339 food security-related projects in the region, with notable growth during the MDG and SDG periods. Ghana and Mali received the most projects, while Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria attracted the largest funding volumes. Per capita distribution reveals significant disparities, with Cape Verde and Gambia receiving proportionally more support. Over time, project focus evolved from rural development to climate resilience and value chain enhancement, showing the change in development priorities. The study contributes to understanding how long-term, targeted investments by development finance institutions influence food security outcomes in West Africa.
Open Access: Yes
Improving battery safety and sustainability through testing material advances and industry developments
Publication Name: Discover Sustainability
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 6
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
The transition to renewable energy is essential for sustainable development, in which advanced energy-efficient storage solutions, in particular rechargeable batteries, play a key role. Batteries are becoming increasingly important not only for electric mobility and grid balancing, but also for industrial and residential applications. However, as energy density increases, so do safety risks such as thermal runaway, which can jeopardise user confidence. The aim of this study is to examine the battery technology value chain at a systemic level, with a particular focus on the role of safety testing and technological innovation. The research identifies three main gaps in literature: the lack of value chain level integration, the under-representation of AI-based safety technologies, and the limited comparison of regional (EU, US, Asia) regulatory regimes. By examining the interrelationships between material selection (cathode, anode), cell design, testing protocols and regulatory environment, the study highlights the complex challenges and development directions for battery energy storage. The study reviewed global industry trends and critically assessed forecasts and analyses from international consultancies such as Ernst & Young (EY). These concluded that thorough testing of lithium-ion batteries is key to ensuring long-term reliability, safety and performance by reducing operational risks and increasing product efficiency. Advanced testing infrastructure not only serves quality control and regulatory compliance, but also makes a fundamental contribution to increasing energy efficiency and supporting the green transition. For Europe in particular, it is of paramount importance to expand testing capacities to enable the continent to take a leading role in the safe and sustainable development of batteries.
Open Access: Yes
Pathways to asbestos-free and sustainable cities using multi-level perspective approach
Publication Name: Discover Sustainability
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 6
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Urban policymakers, researchers, and municipal planners increasingly face the challenge of managing complex sustainability transitions, particularly in contexts involving persistent environmental hazards such as asbestos contamination. This systematic review applies the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), which examines interactions between niche innovations, socio-technical regimes, and broader landscapes, to the underexplored area of asbestos-free urban transitions. The concept of an “asbestos-free city” is introduced in this paper as a novel analytical lens to describe urban transitions aiming to eliminate asbestos-related risks through systemic, sustainable interventions. The review was conducted through a structured qualitative analysis of peer-reviewed academic literature, guided by predefined thematic criteria and relevance to urban asbestos-related transitions. The review highlights the factors that enable or hinder the adoption of asbestos-free and strong sustainable solutions, as well as the role of various actors, such as policymakers, industry, and civil society, in driving these transitions. Despite the growing body of work on sustainability transitions, the integration of MLP into asbestos-related urban transformation remains limited. This paper fills that gap by offering a structured synthesis and proposing a roadmap for future research and practice. Our findings provide actionable insights for actors across policy, civil society, and industry seeking to accelerate transitions toward asbestos-free and sustainable cities.
Open Access: Yes
Seroprevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C viral infections among refugees in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan
Publication Name: BMC Infectious Diseases
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 25
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Background: Hepatitis B (HB) and Hepatitis C (HC) viral infections, with 328 million cases globally, represent a significant disease burden. Currently, Pakistan has 3.88 million HB and 9.31 million HC cases. High-risk populations like refugees are disproportionately affected by these infections. The objectives of this study were to determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) among Kashmiri refugees in Muzaffarabad, Pakistan, and to identify the key demographic and educational risk factors associated with the seroprevalence in this population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across eight refugee camps in the Muzaffarabad division, Pakistan. A six-membered team visited each camp to collect blood samples through venipuncture. The seroprevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV was determined using rapid immunochromatographic test (ICT) kits. Results: A total of 550 sera samples were collected from the refugee population in Muzaffarabad. The overall seroprevalence was 5.82% (32/550) for HBsAg and 4.73% (26/550) for anti-HCV. A higher seroprevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV was recorded among females 6.12% (15/245), and 6.53% (16/245), respectively, compared to males 5.75% (17/305), and 3.28% (10/305), respectively. A marked increase in seroprevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV was noted with an increase in age: 1–10 (2.44%) and (2.44%), 41–50 (8.20%) and (6.56%), and 51–60 (8.93%) and (8.93%), respectively. Chi-square test revealed a statistically significant association between age and seroprevalence of HBsAg χ² (degrees of freedom (df):6, N = 550) = 27.22, p = 0.000, and HC χ² (df:6, N = 550) = 15.23, p = 0.019.The level of education impacted the seroprevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV, resulting in a higher seroprevalence of HBsAg (6.9%) and anti-HCV (5.4%) among uneducated individuals compared to educated individuals (4.71%) and (3.99%), respectively. Conclusion: The seroprevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV is high among the refugee population of Muzaffarabad, Pakistan. There is a need for the implementation of a robust vaccination program for HB as well as the establishing a hepatitis micro-elimination program among the Kashmiri refugee population of Muzaffarabad, Pakistan.
Open Access: Yes
Exercise Addiction: A Systematic Review of Neuroimaging Evidence
Publication Name: Current Addiction Reports
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 12
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
Purpose of Review: Exercise addiction (EA) is a maladaptive pattern of compulsive and excessive exercise that mirrors key features of behavioral and substance addictions. While psychological and behavioral characteristics of EA have been extensively studied, its neurobiological underpinnings remain underexplored. This systematic review aims to synthesize current neuroimaging evidence to identify brain structures and mechanisms implicated in EA. Recent Findings: Eight eligible studies using neuroimaging techniques were identified through a comprehensive search of five databases (PubMed, ProQuest, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar), following PRISMA guidelines. The findings indicate structural and functional differences in brain regions associated with reward processing, executive control, and emotional regulation, particularly the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), inferior frontal gyrus, and amygdala. Lower gray matter volume in the OFC was consistently linked to EA symptoms. Differences in functional connectivity within the default mode network and abnormalities in white matter tracts in frontal-subcortical circuits were also noted, resembling patterns seen in other behavioral addictions. Summary: Current neuroimaging evidence supports the view that EA shares neurobiological characteristics with other recognized addictive disorders. These findings reinforce the conceptualization of EA as a behavioral addiction. However, further longitudinal and experimental research is needed to clarify causal mechanisms and inform clinical recognition. OSF Registration: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/9USBP.
Open Access: Yes
The potential of the P-graph for optimizing public service processes
Publication Name: Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 27
Issue: 12
Page Range: 8461-8473
Description:
The European Union set out several directives and standards for governments and local authorities on environmental policy issues in the planning and management of public services. Public service provisioning is subject to both traditional expectations (such as customer-friendliness and efficiency) and new environmental stewardship and sustainability expectations. This paper analyzes public service processes, particularly the university enrolment process. Our analysis used public service models (Service Blueprinting, Business Process Modeling, Process Chain Network) and a mathematical model (P-graph). Our research aims to analyze the university enrolment process and its efficiency, considering sustainability aspects and expectations and identifying the points that can be modified and improved to make it more efficient, sustainable, qualitatively positive, and economical. According to our research, school administrators are overburdened during the enrolment process, often resulting in overtime work and a high turnover ratio. Our results clearly show the high inefficiency of this administrative process, as administrators can only partially meet their expected labor targets during their regular working hours. We found that the university enrolment process can be improved and made more efficient and sustainable. Using the P-graph, we have found the process’s optimal path and resource requirements in a way that was not feasible with previous models. Heartened by these results, we propose introducing and applying the P-graph as a new model to study other public service processes.
Open Access: Yes
Financial technology and environmental, social and governance in sustainable finance: a bibliometric and thematic content analysis
Publication Name: Discover Sustainability
Publication Date: 2025-12-01
Volume: 6
Issue: 1
Page Range: Unknown
Description:
The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles with Financial Technology (Fintech) has emerged as a pivotal mechanism for advancing sustainable finance. This study investigates the interplay between ESG and Fintech through bibliometric and thematic content analysis to uncover key research trends, thematic clusters, and existing knowledge gaps in this dynamic field. The research problem focuses on how FinTech innovations can support ESG-driven initiatives such as corporate social responsibility (CSR), financial inclusion, and sustainable development while addressing challenges like performance metrics and governance issues. By mapping the research landscape, the study identifies significant contributions from scholars, notably in China and the USA, and explores prominent themes, including the role of Fintech in ESG disclosures, corporate governance, and sustainability. Emerging technologies like AI and blockchain are also highlighted for their impact on ESG reporting. The findings reveal exponential academic interest in this domain but underscore critical industrial challenges, such as the absence of standardized ESG metrics and the limited application of Fintech in addressing sustainability issues. The study concludes by offering future research directions aimed at bridging these gaps and emphasizing the transformative potential of Fintech in driving sustainability across the financial sector.
Open Access: Yes
