Search Results (2,348)

Urban flood disaster management is an interdisciplinary field that integrates hydrology, geology, engineering, and urban planning, with prediction, assessment, and optimization serving as its core components. However, a comprehensive and systematic synthesis of recent developments in this domain remains limited, constraining both theoretical understanding and practical advancement. To address this gap, this study conducts an in-depth analysis of urban flood management research as a systematic review, with a particular focus on advances in prediction, assessment, and optimization. Utilizing a multistep holistic review, combining bibliometric and scientometric analysis with structured literature categorization, the research critically examines and synthesizes relevant findings. This study analyzed 166 research papers related to urban flood management within the Web of Science database. Through co-citation and keyword co-occurrence analyses, five dominant research dimensions are identified: physics-based simulation methods, data-driven approaches, risk assessment tasks, optimization strategies, and miscellaneous emerging topics. Based on these insights, we propose a task-oriented framework that systematically integrates prediction, assessment and optimization across the four phases of disaster management: mitigation, prevention, emergency response and recovery. This framework aids scholars and practitioners in understanding and implementing effective techniques and strategies. The study’s findings shed light on key trends and potential future directions, providing a roadmap for further exploration of urban flood management and guiding professionals in related fields. Full article

Background and Objectives: Behçet’s disease (BD) is a multisystem inflammatory disorder with significant physical, psychological, and social burdens. However, patient-reported outcomes and subjective symptom experiences remain under-recognized in clinical practice. This study aimed to provide a patient-centric analysis of the disease burden, treatment challenges, and unmet needs in BD. Materials and Methods: A multinational cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire among 528 BD patients recruited from online support groups and a specialized clinic. The questionnaire gathered information about participants’ backgrounds, medical histories, how symptoms affected them, psychological and social factors, side effects of treatments, and their suggestions for better care. Data were analyzed descriptively. Results: The mean age of the participants was 41.4 years, and 69.3% were male. The most common symptoms that significantly affected daily life were severe fatigue (82.8%), joint pain and swelling (79.0%), and neurological issues (74.1%). Nearly half of patients perceived that fatigue (49.1%) and neurological symptoms (45.1%) were underestimated by healthcare providers. Psychological distress was prevalent, with 74.1% of participants reporting either depression or anxiety. Side effects related to treatment were frequently encountered (56.3%), resulting in treatment discontinuation for 53.4% of the individuals. The main unmet needs identified were fatigue reduction (59.1%), pain management (43.0%), and the minimization of side effects (59.1%). Furthermore, patients expressed a desire for enhanced communication (62.9%), validation of their unobserved symptoms (74.1%), and comprehensive disease education (67.6%). Conclusions: BD imposes a profound multidimensional burden, with a significant disconnect between patient experiences and their perception of clinical recognition. Fatigue, pain, psychological distress, and treatment-related challenges contribute substantially to unmet needs. A patient-centered approach emphasizing communication, symptom validation, and holistic support is essential to improving care and quality of life in BD. Full article

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves complex physical, cognitive and behavioral challenges that collectively affect quality of life. Integrating lifestyle components such as sleep optimization, dietary behaviors, stress management, and self-management strategies into rehabilitation may enhance outcomes beyond traditional approaches. This scoping review aimed to map rehabilitation interventions that combine psychomotor, cognitive, lifestyle-focused, or multimodal elements and assess quality of life in adults with MS. Methods: This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, which guided the identification, screening, and selection of studies. Screening and data extraction were conducted independently by two reviewers. From 135 records, nine primary studies and four secondary evidence sources were included. Results: Most studies involved adults with mild-to-moderate disability and predominantly relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. Physical or motor rehabilitation interventions were examined in five studies, while two studies evaluated multimodal rehabilitation programs, one study focused on cognitive rehabilitation, and one study investigated lifestyle-oriented or self-management-integrated approaches. Quality of life was assessed in all included studies, with improvements reported across multiple domains. Fatigue-related outcomes were reported in four studies, sleep-related outcomes in three studies, and digitally delivered or hybrid rehabilitation interventions were implemented in three studies, indicating an emerging trend toward technology-supported rehabilitation approaches. Conclusions: Contemporary MS rehabilitation is moving toward multidimensional, holistic models that integrate lifestyle components. Standardized outcomes, inclusion of more diverse MS phenotypes, and rigorous evaluation of integrated frameworks are required to strengthen the evidence base and inform clinical practice. Full article

African American (AA) women often experience earlier onset and more severe menopause symptoms, especially vasomotor symptoms (VMSs) like hot flashes, compared to other groups. However, limited research has examined the effectiveness and acceptability of menopause treatments in this population. This scoping review synthesized evidence on pharmacological (e.g., hormone replacement therapy [HRT], SSRIs, venlafaxine, nitroglycerin) and holistic (e.g., dietary changes, physical activity [PA], supplementation) approaches for managing menopause symptoms in AA women. Using Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a scoping review was conducted, guided by the PCC framework. Four databases (CINAHL, PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus) were searched for English-language studies (2010–2025) involving AA women aged 40–65. Eligible studies included RCTs and observational designs with ≥10% AA participants. Data were charted and synthesized descriptively. Fourteen U.S.-based studies (11–53% AA representation) were included. Pharmacological treatments—especially HRT and SSRIs—were effective for VMSs and mood symptoms. Holistic approaches showed mixed outcomes; PA and magnesium offered modest benefit, while phytoestrogens sometimes worsened memory. Race-specific results were rarely reported. Effective pharmacological options exist, but evidence tailored to AA women is lacking. Future research must ensure greater AA representation and culturally responsive approaches to menopause care. Full article

Ageing is a dynamic biological process involving interconnected physiological, psychological, and social changes, making the promotion of healthy ageing a global public health priority. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines healthy ageing as the process of developing and maintaining functional ability that enables well-being in older age. The WHO’s Decade of Healthy Aging (2021–2030) outlines four key action areas: changing attitudes toward ageing, creating age-friendly environments, delivering integrated and person-centred care, and ensuring access to long-term care. This Perspective examines yoga, a holistic mind–body practice integrating physical postures, breath regulation, and mindfulness, as a potentially safe, adaptable, and scalable intervention for older adults. Evidence suggests that yoga may improve flexibility, balance, mobility, and cardiovascular function, reduce pain, and support the management of chronic conditions commonly associated with ageing. Psychological and cognitive research further indicates reductions in stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, alongside potential benefits for attention, memory, and executive function. Improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) have been reported across physical, psychological, and social domains, with benefits sustained through regular practice. Adaptations such as chair-based practices, restorative postures, and the use of props enhance accessibility and safety, allowing participation across diverse functional levels. Mindfulness and breath-focused components of yoga may additionally support emotional regulation, resilience, and psychological well-being, particularly among older adults experiencing stress or limited mobility. Yoga interventions are generally well tolerated, demonstrate high adherence, and can be delivered through in-person and digital formats, addressing common access barriers. Despite this growing evidence base, yoga remains underintegrated within health policy and care systems in the US, UK, and India. Strengthening its role may require coordinated efforts across research, policy, and implementation to support healthy ageing outcomes. Full article

The proposed research aims to analyse the effects of the relationship between Sustainability Governance (SG) and Climate Impact (CI), taking into consideration Green Finance (GF). Furthermore, it examines how Institutional Support (IS) enhances the governance systems governing these variables. The research provides a holistic approach for analysing the effects of financial dynamics on climate impacts. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed in this research study. The data were collected from various industries using a standardised questionnaire. The structural model examined the direct and indirect relationships between variables such as GF, SG, and CI. IS emerged as the moderated variable. The outcomes of the study confirmed that “GF has an important and direct as well as indirect (through SG as the mediator) impact on CI. IS significantly increases SG and thus exerts an overall enhancing effect on the impact of GF on the climate.” The study has supported the research objectives and aims. The limitations of this study comprised constraints related to both time and cost. The researchers encountered limitations in accessing senior managers and directors of various organisations for the study. IS emerged as an important intermediate factor that can significantly link various actions and activities that impact the climate. This study supports both global and local research objectives. The study offers significant insights, underscoring the critical role of SG within Green Business (GB). Additionally, IS emerges as a vital enabling tool that strengthens the overall governance framework. The study contributes significantly to the development of integrated frameworks for institutions seeking to effectively address environmental challenges. The implications for action indicate that furthering entrenched institutional structures and instilling good governance practices can add tremendous value to the transformation potential of GF and usher in accelerated efforts to achieve national and international objectives on climate change. Full article

Background: The role of cognitive load theory (CLT) in understanding effective pedagogy has received increased attention in the fields of education and psychology in recent years. A considerable amount of literature has been published on the CLT construct as foundational guidance for instructional design by focusing on managing cognitive load in working memory to enhance learning outcomes. However, recent neuroscientific findings and practical critiques suggest that CLT’s emphasis on content-focused instruction and cognitive efficiency may overlook the complexity of human learning. Methods: This conceptual paper synthesises evidence from cognitive science, developmental psychology, neuroscience, health sciences and educational research to examine the scope conditions and limitations of CLT when applied as a general framework for K–12 learning. One of the major theoretical issues identified is the lack of consideration for the broad set of interpersonal and self-management skills, creating potential limitations for real-world educational contexts, where social-emotional and self-regulatory abilities are as crucial as cognitive competencies. Results: As a result of the critique, this paper introduces the Neurodevelopmental Informed Holistic Learning and Development Framework as a neuroscience-informed construct that integrates cognitive, emotional, and interpersonal dimensions essential for effective learning. Conclusions: In recognising the limitations of CLT, the paper offers practitioners contemporary, neurodevelopmentally informed insights that extend beyond cognitive efficiency alone and better reflect the multidimensional nature of real-world learning. Full article

Achieving the ambitious EU goals of zero-waste manufacturing requires innovative tools and methodologies that address both efficiency and environmental sustainability. This study presents a comprehensive methodology for assessing the efficiency and eco-efficiency of industrial processes, in order to support zero-waste manufacturing strategies. The proposed approach assesses critical performance metrics while integrating environmental-impact analysis to provide a holistic view of process optimization. The methodology was applied to two industrial use cases in the composites sector, a field with significant environmental impact due to the resource-intensive nature of composite manufacturing and challenges associated with the end-of-life management. By implementing this dual assessment, the study identifies key areas for improvement in operational performance and sustainability, offering actionable insights for process optimization and waste reduction. The results reveal that labor costs emerged as the primary contributor to the total costs for both use cases, more than 50%. On the other hand, the resin infusion phase accounts for the majority of the environmental impacts, accounting for more than 70% of the total impacts. This analysis highlights that eco-efficiency assessments, integrating environmental and cost data, allow the identification of inefficiencies, helping industries to prioritize improvement areas. In this specific case, the high environmental impact of resin infusion needs enhanced waste monitoring and process optimization, while the labor-intensive operations need streamlined workflows to reduce operational time and associated costs. The present methodology intends to serve as a practical tool for industries aiming to balance high-performance manufacturing with reduced environmental impact. Full article

The aim of this article is to present the social–ecological system (SES) as a unit of analysis for sustainable water management under conditions of anthropogenic pressure in Poland. In the face of accelerating climate change and growing human impacts, Polish water systems are exposed to increasing ecological stress and to material and immaterial losses affecting local communities. The SES approach provides an integrative analytical framework that links ecological and social components, enabling a holistic view of adaptive and governance processes at multiple spatial scales, from municipalities to areas that transcend administrative boundaries. Methodologically, this study triangulates three complementary approaches to strengthen explanatory inference. This conceptual SES review defines the analytical categories used in the paper, the bibliometric mapping (Scopus database with VOSviewer) identifies dominant research streams and underexplored themes, and the qualitative Polish case studies operationalize these categories to diagnose mechanisms, feedbacks, and governance vulnerabilities under anthropogenic pressure. The bibliometric analysis identifies the main research streams at the intersection of SES, water management and sustainable development, revealing thematic clusters related to climate change adaptation, environmental governance, ecosystem services and hydrological extremes. The case studies - the 2024 flood, the 2022 ecological disaster in the Odra River, and water deficits associated with lignite opencast mining in Eastern Wielkopolska - illustrate how anthropogenic pressure and climate-related hazards interact within local SES and expose governance gaps. Particular attention is paid to attitudes and social participation, understood as configurations of behaviors, knowledge and emotions that shape decision-making in local self-government, especially at the municipal level. This study argues that an SES-based perspective can contribute to building the resilience of water systems, improving the integration of ecological and social dimensions and supporting more sustainable water management in Poland. Full article

Introduction: Patients with colorectal cancer who undergo ileostomy surgery confront multifaceted challenges that significantly impact their daily lives and cause symptoms of anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was to explore the anxiety and depression experienced by colorectal cancer patients undergoing ileostomy with three assessments. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal study included 96 patients with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer who underwent scheduled ileostomy surgery at two public hospitals in Attica. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADs) was used, which included patients’ characteristics. Measurements were collected at three distinct time points: preoperatively (Time 1), postoperatively between the 12th and 14th day (Time 2), and after stoma closure, approximately one year later (Time 3). Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 26.0 statistical package and the statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results: The proportion of participants reporting moderate levels of anxiety (scores 8–10) was 15.6% at Time 1, which increased to 27.1% at Time 2, and had a slight increase to 28.1% at Time 3. The increase was statistically significant between Time 1 and Time 2 and at Time 1 and Time 3 (p < 0.001). Regarding high levels of anxiety (scores >11), the percentage of affected individuals increased from 13.5% at Time 1 to 17.7% at Time 2 and reached 15.6% at Time 3. The comparison between Time 1 and Time 2 revealed a statistically significant increase (p = 0.016), while the subsequent decrease between Time 2 and Time 3 was not statistically significant (p = 0.508). In terms of depression, at Time 1, 84.4% of patients had low depression, which decreased significantly to 56.3% at Time 2 and 39.6% at Time 3 (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). The percentage of patients who were moderately depressed at Time 1 was 9.4%; this percentage increased significantly to 32.3% at Time 2 and remained high, reaching 29.2% at Time 3. Finally, the proportion of patients who had high levels of depression at Time 1 was 6.3%, a figure that rose to 11.5% and 31.3% for Time 2 and Time 3, respectively. Conclusions: Anxiety and depression experienced by colorectal cancer patients undergoing ileostomy surgery escalate postoperatively and remain at high levels after ileostomy closure. Understanding these mental health challenges is crucial for providing comprehensive patient care. Further research is needed on the early recognition and management of these emotional difficulties, which are key elements of holistic oncology care. Full article

This study investigates the determinants of turnover intention among real estate sales professionals in Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), two markets that represent contrasting economic realities within the MENA region. Drawing on Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, Vroom’s Expectancy Theory, and March and Simon’s Push-Pull Model, this study adopts a multidimensional framework to assess the effects of compensation, job stress, career growth opportunities, and work–life balance on employee retention. A quantitative method was employed using a structured questionnaire administered to 832 respondents (425 in the UAE and 407 in Lebanon), and data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling. The results reveal that job stress is the most influential predictor of turnover intention, particularly in Lebanon, followed by work–life balance, compensation, and career growth opportunities. These findings underscore the importance of psychological well-being and structural incentives in talent retention. By offering empirical evidence from an underexplored regional labor market, the study contributes to the global turnover discourse and provides comparative insights into the labor dynamics of both a crisis-prone and a high-growth economy. The results carry significant practical implications for HR managers, firm owners, and policymakers, highlighting the necessity of adopting holistic and context-sensitive retention strategies that extend beyond financial rewards to include flexible work arrangements, career development frameworks, and supportive workplace cultures. Full article

Weeds pose a significant threat to crop yields, both in quantitative and qualitative terms. Modern agriculture relies heavily on herbicides; however, their excessive use can lead to negative environmental impacts. As a result, recent research has increasingly focused on Integrated Weed Management (IWM), which employs multiple complementary strategies to control weeds in a holistic manner. Nevertheless, large-scale adoption of this approach requires a solid understanding of the underlying tactics. This systematic review analyses recent studies (2013–2022) on herbicide alternatives for weed control across major cropping systems in the EU-27 and the UK, providing an overview of current knowledge, the extent to which IWM tactics have been investigated, and the main gaps that help define future research priorities. The review relied on the IWMPRAISE framework, which classifies weed control tactics into five pillars (direct control, field and soil management, cultivar choice and crop establishment, diverse cropping systems, and monitoring and evaluation) and used Scopus as a scientific database. The search yielded a total of 666 entries, and the most represented pillars were Direct Control (193), Diverse Cropping System (183), and Field and Soil Management (172). The type of crop most frequently studied was arable crops (450), and the macro-area where the studies were mostly conducted was Southern Europe (268). The tactics with the highest number of entries were Tillage Type and Cultivation Depth (110), Cover Crops (82), and Biological Control (72), while those with the lowest numbers were Seed Vigor (2) and Sowing Depth (2). Overall, this review identifies research gaps and sets priorities to boost IWM adoption, leading policy and funding to expand sustainable weed management across Europe. Full article

The study investigates the presence of emerging contaminants in a river within a watershed located in the Brazilian semiarid region, specifically within the Caatinga biome, emphasizing the importance of environmental monitoring in areas that have historically been underrepresented in scientific research. The analysis focused on the associations between microplastics and pharmaceutical compounds, demonstrating that the discharge of untreated domestic effluents and the low efficiency of sanitation systems increase water resource contamination and threaten water security. The interdependence between these variables underscores the need for integrated public policies for waste management, complemented by environmental education strategies and technological innovations. The work makes an unprecedented contribution to expanding knowledge about emerging pollutants in semiarid environments, highlighting the urgency of holistic approaches, continuous monitoring, and strengthening environmental governance to ensure the sustainability and resilience of ecosystems like the Caatinga in the face of the challenges posed by global environmental change, urban growth, and those outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifaceted metabolic disorder marked by impaired insulin action, pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, and the involvement of several interconnected mechanisms, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and epigenetic alterations. Despite progress in conventional therapies, achieving durable glycemic control and minimizing complications remain major challenges. This review discusses the emerging role of bioactive phytochemicals—such as curcumin, berberine, resveratrol, flavonoids, and polysaccharides—in modulating essential molecular pathways including AMPK, PI3K/AKT, and cAMP/PKA, which contribute to enhanced insulin sensitivity, glucose regulation, and β-cell protection. These natural compounds also influence gut microbiota modulation and epigenetic mechanisms, offering additional metabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits. This review synthesizes evidence from peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024, incorporating bibliometric trends showing an increasing research focus on phytochemicals for T2DM management. However, limitations such as low solubility, instability, and poor absorption restrict their clinical application. Advances in nanotechnology-based delivery systems, including nanoparticles, liposomes, and nanoemulsions, have shown potential to overcome these barriers by improving stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of phytochemicals. The integration of gut microbiota modulation with nanocarrier-enabled phytochemical therapy supports a precision medicine approach for managing T2DM. Preliminary clinical evidence highlights significant improvements in glycemic control and inflammatory status, yet further large-scale, well-controlled trials are essential to ensure safety, optimize dosages, and standardize combination regimens. Overall, phytochemical therapies, reinforced by nanotechnology and microbiota modulation, present a promising, safe, and holistic strategy for T2DM management. Continued interdisciplinary research and clinical validation are crucial for translating these advances into effective therapeutic applications and reducing the global diabetes burden. Full article

China’s traditional courtyard drainage systems have evolved over millennia, embodying distinctive wisdom in sustainable rainwater management. This study aims to clarify the evolutionary logic of these systems, which shifted from relying on surface runoff to adopting more systematic drainage approaches. This addresses a gap in existing research on the systemic evolution of micro-scale units. From a sustainability perspective, the study also explores the relevance of traditional drainage practices to contemporary sponge city development. This research examines traditional courtyard drainage systems through a comprehensive methodology that integrates literature reviews, historical evidence analyses, and comparative historical research. The results reveal an evolutionary trajectory from localized and passive interventions to more holistic and systematic regulation. This process was driven by three interrelated factors: the natural environment, socio-technical conditions, and ritual–cultural systems. Based on this analysis, the study elucidates the logical connections between historical experiences and contemporary practice across three dimensions of sustainability: environmental, technological, and sociocultural. The findings offer both theoretical and practical insights for improving modern urban stormwater management. Full article