8251 research outputs found
Sort by
Apathy and physical activity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textThis is an author's accepted manuscript of an article published by University of Toronto Press on 22/09/2025, available online: https://doi.org/10.3138/ptc-2024-0050
The accepted manuscript may differ from the final published version.Purpose: Patient motivation is essential for successful rehabilitation, so apathy may hinder physiotherapists’ interventions aimed at increasing physical activity. We examined the relationship between apathy and physical activity to identify the factors that influence it. Methods: Pearson product-moment correlations were pooled from eligible studies to examine the relationship between apathy and physical activity. Subgroup meta-analyses and meta-regressions were also conducted. Results: From the systematic review (28 articles) and main meta-analysis (22 studies; 12,541 participants), the results showed a negative correlation between apathy and physical activity ( r = −0.13; 95% CI: −0.18, −0.09; p < 0.0001 based on Pearson’s r-values; r = −0.40; 95% CI: −0.68, −0.02; p = 0.043 based on Spearman’s ρ-values). The correlation was statistically significant in patients with Parkinson’s disease and in older adults who were healthy, depressed, fallers, or had mild cognitive impairment. A meta-regression showed an effect of age, with a stronger correlation between apathy and physical activity in older adults compared to younger adults ( p = 0.003). Conclusion: Higher levels of apathy are associated with lower levels of physical activity, and this negative association is stronger with age. Therefore, apathy may limit exercise therapy efficacy and carry prognostic implications for patients whose condition requires physical activity.Matthieu P. Boisgontier is supported by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC; RGPIN-2021-03153), the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI 43661), and Mitacs. Ata Farajzadeh is supported by an Admission Scholarship, a Doctoral International Scholarship, and a Special Merit Scholarship from the University of Ottawa.Published onlin
An evaluation of the impacts of climate change on residential buildings in the United Kingdom
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the University of Wolverhampton for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.Housing environments, traditionally designed to provide comfort and security, are now under immediate threat from the escalating risks of climate change. The resilience of residential buildings is being significantly reduced, and the once liveable housing environments are now facing the urgent menace of global climate change. The built infrastructure, including buildings and houses, is continuously experiencing severe impacts, exacerbated by natural climate variability.
The research study used a sequential explanatory mixed method with two main stages. In the first stage, this study examined how climate change impacts the resilience of residential buildings, increases maintenance frequency, and the wellbeing and comfort of residents in UK residential buildings, which involved a household survey with 313 households in the UK. The instrument was designed to gather data on the frequency of maintenance, the wellbeing of residents and their perceptions regarding the impacts of climate change. The findings, revealed through regression analysis, showed a significant relationship between climate change and the wellbeing of the occupants of UK residential buildings. The rising cost of maintenance of residential buildings in the UK, due to the continuously reducing resilience of building fabrics caused by the impacts of climate change, is a significant concern. For instance, a recent increase in rainfall/storms resulted in unprecedented flooding, which damaged the fabric of some UK residential buildings, further escalating the maintenance costs.
In the second stage, qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews with ten experts in the UK construction industry. The interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and NVivo (V.14) software. The findings showed interrelationships between climate change drivers, changes to the climate system, building factors (such as location, age, orientation, types, and material integrity), impacts on UK residential buildings, and impacts on occupants. Collaboration between housing owners, community members, construction professionals, and policymakers is the best strategy to improve the resilience of UK residential buildings and minimise climate change impacts. Construction professionals are perceived to be more responsible for providing mitigation and adaptation strategies (such as improved insulation, flood-resistant construction, and sustainable energy solutions) to ensure more resilient residential buildings. The study adds to existing knowledge by offering a thorough understanding of how climate change affects UK residential buildings and strategies to increase their resilience, providing stakeholders with direction towards climate action and specific roles to minimise climate change impacts on residences and residents
Exploring the feasibility of PP1-docking motif-mimetic cell-penetrating peptides for modulating prostate carcinogenesis
No full text© The Author(s) 2025. Published by Oxford University Press. This is an open access article made available under a Creative Commons License: https://doi.org/10.1093/jncics/pkaf101Background
Once considered “undruggable,” protein phosphatases are now recognised as potential therapeutic targets. The serine/threonine-protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) regulates key cellular processes and enhances androgen receptor (AR) activity in prostate cancer (PCa), even under castration-resistant conditions, suggesting a role in disease progression.
Methods
LNCaP and PC3 cells were treated with peptides mimicking PP1 docking motifs in AR, alongside known bioportides (MSS1 and mitoparan). Cellular uptake was assessed by confocal microscopy and fluorescence assays. Viability was measured with PrestoBlue™, and AR/PSA expression was analysed by qRT-PCR and Western blot.
Results
Androgen Receptor sequence contains three PP1 docking motifs: KVFF (Binding Site 1 (BS1), HVVKW (BS2), and KPIYF (BS3). BS1 and BS2 peptides were modified for better solubility, while BS3 was combined with the Tat sequence to enhance cellular uptake. Fluorophore-conjugated peptides successfully entered cells, with AR-BS3 showing the highest internalisation in LNCaP cells (p = .0495). Treatment with the three different AR-BS peptides individually reduced cell viability in LNCaP and PC3 cells (p = .0352 and p = .0298, respectively). Combining AR-BS peptides significantly reduced cell viability, particularly with all three peptides together (LNCaP: 68%, p = .0369; PC3: 80%, p = .0369). No significant changes in AR or PSA expression were observed.
Conclusion
Bioportides targeting PP1 docking motifs, especially when combined, decrease PCa cell viability, and additional PP1-interfering peptides such as MSS1 and mitoparan display potent cytotoxic effects. The absence of changes in AR/PSA expression highlights the need to further investigate their mechanisms of action.This work was supported by iBiMED (UIDB/04501/2020) and PPBI-LiM (POCI-01-0145-FEDER-022122). JF was funded by FCT (SFRH/BD/102981/2014), and VC by the HyTherCaP project (PTDC/MECONC/29030/2017).Published versio
Analysis of protective ability of pomelo peel against impact damage to apple for cushioning packaging design
No full textThis is an author's accepted manuscript of an article published by Elsevier on 13/10/2025, available online: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fpsl.2025.101644
The accepted manuscript may differ from the final published version.The design of high-performance cushioning structures plays a crucial role in preventing mechanical damage to apples during storage, handling and transportation. The impact test, microstructure observation and discrete element method were employed to assess the protective effect of pomelo peel on the damage resistance of apples. The results showed that the 'Red honey' pomelo peel was more suitable as a packaging material than the 'Shatian' pomelo peel due to its thinner structure and comparable strain resistance. The mesocarp of the 'Red Honey' pomelo exhibits a distinct reticular structure despite its reduced thickness. This architecture allows the peel to tolerate higher impact force (116.53 N) and elastic modulus (1.10 MPa), indicating that protective performance is governed by structural design rather than tissue bulk. Based on the cell structure and intercellular pore size characteristics of the pomelo mesocarp, a biological damage-resistant structure prediction model was developed. The results demonstrated that the predictive mathematical model exhibited a good fit (R²= 0.9003), with pomelo peel impact resistance prediction of 0.1766 ms. The factors influencing the damage resistance of the model's structural blocks followed the order: loading velocity (V) > porosity (P) > block size (S). Pomelo peel offers a structural model for protective produce packaging.This work was supported by a National Key Research and Development Program of China (2025YFE0108600).Accepted versio
Quantification of high-intensity change of directions and single leg decelerations between limbs within elite youth soccer matchplay
No full textAccepted author manuscript version reprinted, by permission, from International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 12 Feb 2026, https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2025-0381. © Human Kinetics, Inc.Purpose: Soccer requires repeated changes of direction (COD) and single-leg decelerations (SLD), which accrue considerable mechanical stress on the lower limbs. These actions place significant demands on the players' musculoskeletal system. An uneven utilisation of these actions between limbs, arising from disparities in neuromuscular control and skill acquisition, may lead to asymmetries and increased injury risk. This study aimed to examine the effects of player position and footedness on the frequency of intense CODs, SLDs, and the total sum of the 2 actions (TOT) performed by the dominant and non-dominant foot in elite male youth soccer players.
Methods: 25 elite English youth soccer players were grouped by their playing positions (lateral: full-backs and wide midfielders; central: center defenders, center midfielders, and strikers) and footedness (left or right footed). High-intensity CODs and SLDs were identified using video analysis and GPS data across 6 matches. The frequency and distribution of these actions were analyzed to assess the impact of player position and limb dominance.
Results: No significant differences were found in the percentage distribution of SLDs or TOT between the central and lateral groups. However, central players exhibited a significantly greater imbalance in COD frequency compared to lateral players (51.8±31.5% vs 29.9±31.1%; p<0.05; d=0.70). Players performed more CODs in the direction opposite to their dominant limb, indicating a preference for using the dominant limb as the plant limb (4.6±3.2 vs 3.7±2.6; p<0.05; d=0.31).
Conclusion: The study highlights the mechanical and positional demands placed on soccer players, with central players showing greater COD frequency asymmetry
Assessing the viability of adopting the new engineering contract (NEC4) in the Nigerian construction industry: toward a framework for implementation
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the University of Wolverhampton for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.The construction sector in Nigeria faces numerous challenges, among the most critical being the limitations of the predominant Standard Forms of Contracts (SFC) used for projects, particularly the Joint Contract Tribunal (JCT) 1980-1990 edition as amended. This SFC is characterised by its non-collaborative nature and inherent weaknesses, leading to delayed projects, cost overruns, low product quality, and disputes. Motivated by these limitations, this study aimed to investigate the viability of implementing the NEC4 SFC, which is globally acknowledged for its clarity, collaborative and effective approach to project management. While the most recent JCT (2024) brings notable improvements in clarity, modern language and inclusion of collaborative procedures, NEC4 was selected as the principal modern benchmark based on structural and procedural innovation, philosophical alignment with performance-based contracting, contextual applicability, and global adaptability. This research adopted a pragmatic mixed-method approach, using a sequential design that began with quantitative surveys followed by qualitative in-depth interviews to explore construction industry practitioners’ perceptions of the SFCs used in the country and the possibility of a potential shift to NEC4. This philosophical stance allowed the study to explore both objective and subjective perspectives, depending on what best addressed the research questions. A total of 350 questionnaires were distributed and 153 (43.7%) were returned as valid responses. These were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques and SPSS tools. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 key industry stakeholders. The data gathered were analysed using thematic analysis with the aid of the Nvivo 12 Pro software. The findings revealed a consensus among practitioners on the JCT80-90 edition’s shortcomings, such as complexity, lack of clarity, rigidity in handling variations, reactive approach to dispute resolution, and lack of explicit provisions to manage costs effectively among contracting parties. All these culminate in extended legal battles and inefficiencies. In contrast, there is a significant preference for NEC4, with 66% of respondents advocating for its implementation in Nigeria. Respondents in the study expressed favourable views of NEC4, particularly appreciating its features like contract flexibility, collaborative ethos, legal clarity, and a proactive approach to dispute resolution. These aspects of NEC4 were seen as a solution to the major issues plaguing the current use of the JCT 80-90 edition and other non-collaborative contracts being used in Nigeria construction sector, such as the FIDIC_99 and some of its variants like the Bureau of Public Procurement form. However, the transition to NEC4 is not going to be void of challenges. Cultural resistance, lack of government support, corruption and economic factors were identified as potential barriers in this regard. To address these, this study developed a comprehensive framework for the adoption of NEC4, which proposes training programs, awareness campaigns, NEC4 pilot projects, government involvement and fostering a collaborative culture. A key limitation in this study is the reliance on professional perceptions, which may vary based on familiarity with NEC4. Nonetheless, the study concludes that the adoption of NEC4 in the Nigerian construction industry is highly viable and beneficial, as it aligns with the modern industry requirements, promising significant improvements in contractual administration and project management practices
Challenges in managing depression in clinical practice: result of a global survey
Full text link© 2025 The Author. Published by MDPI. This is an open access article available under a Creative Commons licence. The published version can be accessed at the following link: https://doi.org/10.3390/pharma4010005Background/Objectives: Despite an improved knowledgebase, effective intervention, and guidelines, many patients with depression do not receive adequate treatment and treatment discontinuation and non-response are common. It was intended to explore the challenges clinicians face while managing depression in their clinical practice and their suggestions for solutions. Methods: It was an online survey of 137 psychiatrists in 18 countries including both high and low economies, using a pre-designed questionnaire; with both quantitative and qualitative measures. Results: Antidepressant prescribing appeared close to the evidence-based guidelines. There was frequent use of other medications alongside antidepressants since treatment initiation. There were many challenges in managing depression, such as treatment non-response, resistance, and discontinuation; side effects, mostly sexual problems; inadequate psychological intervention; availability and affordability of treatment modalities; comorbidities, especially substance use and personality disorders; stigma; and lack of education and training. Suggested approaches for solutions included personalized treatment, quicker follow-up, psychoeducation, blending psychological intervention into routine clinical practice, improving continuity of care, and preventing treatment discontinuation. Support from governments for improving access, making interventions affordable, and providing socio-occupational support is essential. Training and development of professionals, public education providing information, and dealing with stigma are still relevant. Conclusions: The results indicated a need for reviewing current practices in managing depression, optimizing it with available resources, and preventing treatment discontinuation, and non-response. Making treatment available and affordable, public education fighting stigma to improve treatment acceptability, and research addressing gaps in interventions, especially for treatment resistance and psychotherapy are other approaches that may improve depression management
Co-producing social work knowledge: collaborative approaches between communities, practitioners and social work educators
Full text link© 2025 The Author. Published by Taylor & Francis. This is an open access article available under a Creative Commons licence. The published version can be accessed at the following link: https://doi.org/10.1080/02615479.2025.2462554This paper addresses how social work education can promote concepts of community, trust, and the development of sustained professional and community-engaged relationships. We use case studies to highlight collaborative practice with stakeholders and emphasize how insider knowledge plays a crucial role in the design and implementation of more inclusive interventions. This new knowledge moves away from problem-oriented social work interventions and embraces a holistic community development approach. Drawing on our empirical work and international social work we show how and why it is important to include these approaches in social work education utilizing co-produced digital methods such as seminars, podcasts and videos. Drawing on two localities in England we highlight how through collaboration and building trust, new, co-produced knowledge can lead to a shift toward a more holistic approach to social work concerns including Social Work education and practice. We argue this matters because in the recent past social work and other statutory organizations practice with communities and regarding safeguarding fell short (Independent Inquiry into Telford Child Sexual Exploitation IITCSE, 2022). In this paper we emphasize implications of co-produced knowledge and applications in social work education. Moreover, we show how collaborative practice can address discrimination, exploitation and violence and social work education be enhanced.Safer Streets 4 was funded by the Home Office. Mend the Gap was funded by the West Midlands Social Work Teaching Partnership
Robots to the rescue: robot discouragement reduces young adults' risk-taking
Full text linkThis is an author's accepted manuscript published by SAGE in Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology on 08/07/2025, available online: https://doi.org/10.1177/17470218251359985
The accepted manuscript may differ from the final published version.A large body of evidence shows that peer pressure can increase risky behaviour, with more limited evidence indicating that peer pressure can also reduce risky behaviour. However, whether robots can extract similar influence is an open and important question. To study this problem, 172 participants completed the balloon analogue risk task (BART) under three conditions: Control (no robot present), the presence of an encouraging robot, and the presence of a discouraging robot. Participants also completed a self-report measure evaluating their risk attitude and one designed to assess attitudes toward robots. Our data revealed that participants in the robot-discouraging condition exhibited significantly reduced risky behaviours compared to those in the robot-encouraging and control conditions. They pumped significantly fewer times, experienced significantly fewer balloon explosions, and earned significantly less money compared to the control or encouraged condition. However, we did not find a significant effect between encouraging and the control conditions. Moreover, a more positive impression of the robot increased the effect of the robot's discouraging statements on risk-taking. The results of our study open new possibilities for the employment of robots in preventive programs designed to reduce or alter risky behaviour.The work was partially supported by the UKRI TAS Trust Node and the Horizon/UKRI grants MUSAE and MSCA DN TRAIL
Shrovetide memorial: The Stonyhurst College 1930 production of Journey’s End
Full text link© 2025 The Authors. Published by SAGE. This is an open access article available under a Creative Commons licence.
The published version can be accessed at the following link on the publisher’s website: https://doi.org/10.1177/00125806251322101This article considers a school production of R. C. Sherriff’s 1928 anti-war play Journey’s End, at Stonyhurst College in 1930, under the direction of a Jesuit priest who had served as an army chaplain during the First World War. The production was presented on the occasion of Shrovetide which, the article argues, in tandem with a wider tendency of the beginnings of memorialisations of the war dead, effectively allowed for the production to be read in Catholic liturgical terms. Thus the production is considered as an intervention which sought to concentrate young minds on questions related to religious worship and commitment at the point of a rapidly changing world, and in anticipation of their own pending roles in the Second World War. In these respects, the article concludes, the production anticipated the concerns for liturgical renewal of Vatican II.This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors