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Road safety of micro-mobility and vulnerable road users: Insights and issues from a world café
Full text link© 2025. The Authors. 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 on the publisher’s website: https://doi.org/10.1080/15568318.2025.2522370Road traffic incidents are responsible for the loss of ∼1.19 million lives annually and the 50 million people who sustain injuries. Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) account for a significant portion of these data, constituting 70% in Europe and 50% in the United Kingdom (UK). Addressing these alarming fatality rates requires initiatives such as the European Union’s Vision Zero, which aims at eradicating road collision fatalities and serving as a model for global action. Similarly, the UK is committed to realizing its transport vision 2050, emphasizing seamless, safe, net-zero, interconnected, cost-effective, accessible, and dependable transportation for all. Effective implementation of appropriate safety interventions hinges on understanding the challenges VRUs face. While previous studies have delved into challenges encountered by specific VRU groups, this research fills a gap by comprehensively examining difficulties encountered by various VRUs. Therefore, this study aims to adopt a co-creation process to expose insights and issues shared by VRUs across Oxfordshire, UK, and to identify collective solutions that could improve road safety. The study adopted a world café method, which fosters an environment where diverse perspectives and ideas are explored through open-ended conversations. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data identified critical areas for intervention: infrastructure, behavior, technology, environment, law enforcement, and awareness. Apart from the interventions, the research underscores the need for end-user involvement in mobility infrastructure planning, as safety requirements vary among VRU categories, emphasizing the urgency of adopting a human-centric design approach to reduce road injuries and fatalities and ensure equal accessibility and safety for all.The study was conducted as part of the SOTERIA project, which received funding from the European Commission’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme under Grant Agreement No. 101077433, as well as by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the UK government’s Horizon Europe funding guarantee [Grant Nos.: 10052969, 10058247, 10059948, and 10064506]
Revisiting oral travel narratives and the Egyptian circumnavigation of Africa: a decolonial approach
No full text© 2025 Vishvanatha Kaviraja Institute, India.This paper delves into the historical nuances of travel narratives, shedding light on the marginalisation of oral traditions within the broader travel writing tradition. Despite the temporal precedence of African travel narratives, they are often relegated to a belated and marginalised status within the travel writing genre, inextricably bound to colonial influences. The primary objective of this paper is to contribute to the decolonisation of the travel writing genre by scrutinising and validating the veracity of an oral travel account documenting one of the most disputed circumnavigations of Africa by ancient Egyptians. Through a thorough examination of historical evidence and sources, this research seeks to establish the factual basis of the Egyptian circumnavigation, thereby reshaping the narrative and affording oral traditions their rightful place in the annals of travel literature
The approaches carrying out research with organisation AX
No full textThis is an accepted manuscript of an article published by Palgrave Macmillan in Third Sector Organisations, Asylum Seekers and Refugees on 11/03/2025, available online: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-85137-7_2
The accepted version of the publication may differ from the final published version.This short Pivot explores the the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of the lived experiences of asylum seekers on the staff and volunteers of third sector organisations who assist and support them.
The understanding of the issues, challenges and barriers of frontline staff who work with asylum seekers by understanding how Covid-19 affected their support work is often overlooked and not widely reported. Many organisations work diligently and without much media attention and are motivated by their mission to help and support vulnerable individuals from marginalised social groups. This research adopts a Constructivist Grounded Theory (CGT) which is a qualitative research method that involves co-constructing theories with participants. It is based on the theory that we all form views based on our own life experiences. As this work is multi-disciplinary, this approach is justified and used in many examples of social science research. The views of staff are heard within the research to give meaning to the work that they do and understand how their work impacts the lives of asylum seekers and refugees. It also is used as a means of reflection as to their own emotions, and feeling based on their experiences during the pandemic helping others. Similarly, the views and opinions of asylum seekers are necessary as they describe the impact that the pandemic had on them and the way they were still accommodated by staff during the social restrictions which were in place at that time.Accepted versio
Emotional eating within a clinical and community population
No full textA research portfolio submitted in part fulfilment of the requirements of the University of Wolverhampton for the award of Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology.Introduction: Emotional eating literature has focused on those with a clinical diagnosis around eating difficulties, exploring emotional eating in response to ‘negative’ emotions. Limited studies investigate the prevalence of emotional eating within community samples, and evidence appears inconclusive as to the underlying reasons why individuals emotionally eat. Aim: This research explores emotional eating within clinical and community samples. A clinically obese binge eating disordered population in study one, and a community sample during the coronavirus pandemic in study two. The aims were to explore experiences of emotional eating, comparing and contrasting across the two populations and in doing so, provide recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Method: In Study one, in-person focus groups and telephone individual interviews were conducted with a clinically obese binge eating disordered population (focus groups n = 8 female, n = 2 male; individual interviews n = 5 female) recruited via two national health service weight management centres. In study two, semi-structured online interviews using Microsoft Teams were carried out with eight participants (male n = 5; female n = 3) recruited following engagement with a previous emotional eating based study (see Ruiz et al., 2023), and via an opportunity and snowball sampling to explore emotional eating during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed as the approach to understand the experiences of participants whilst allowing for the researcher to engage in reflection throughout analysis. Findings: For the clinical population four main themes were generated: ‘An awareness of eating in response to emotions’ which reflects an initial lack of awareness of eating in response to emotions with a growing awareness and moment of insight into this phenomenon. ‘Emotions eliciting emotional eating’ reflects the participants experiences of individual emotions eliciting an eating response. ‘Factors perceived as influencing eating behaviours’ reflects factors that influence eating behaviours such as environmental influences. ‘Recommendations for interventions’ reflects the need for interventions that identifies emotional eating and binge eating disorder. Within the community population four main themes were generated those were ‘The impact of the coronavirus pandemic’ highlighting the changes and effect of the pandemic on participants. ‘The influence of emotions on eating behaviours’ reflects the emotional antecedents of subsequent eating behaviours. ‘The function of eating beyond reaching satiety’ reflects the participants use of eating including emotional regulation and ‘the emotional eating cycle’. Conclusions: Emotional eating was present in both clinical and community populations. For the clinical population emotional eating occurred predominantly in response to unpleasant emotions and was used to manage emotions. Emotional eating in response to unpleasant emotions occurred in the community population but to a lesser extent. The community population were able to draw on a wider range of coping mechanisms including emotional eating. Pleasant emotional states appeared to align with eating healthier foods and wellbeing. Implications for clinical practice: At a community level exploration of emotions and eating behaviours could help avoid the development of clinical difficulties. Eating could be used in a conscious way to regulate emotions, and through being mindful of such uses, it can form part of a well-developed repertoire of emotional regulation strategies. When eating becomes a dominant emotion regulatory mechanism clinical difficulties and unwanted outcomes such as weight gain can occur
A plain language summary of the CEPHEUS study of daratumumab plus bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone for people with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who are not expected to receive a stem cell transplant
Full text linkThis is an author's accepted manuscript due to be published by Taylor & Francis in Future Oncology 07/10/2025, available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/14796694.2025.2560134.
The accepted manuscript may differ from the final published version.This manuscript was funded by Johnson & Johnson
Prolactin monitoring for patients on antipsychotic drugs: A narrative review of clinical relevance
Full text link© 2025 The Authors. Published by Scientific Scholar on behalf of Archives of Biological Psychiatry. 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://archivesbiologicalpsychiatry.org/prolactin-monitoring-for-patients-on-antipsychotic-drugs-a-narrative-review-of-clinical-relevance/Hyperprolactinemia is known to be a common side effect of antipsychotic drugs. It is associated with specific symptoms and long-term complications. There are inconsistencies in the monitoring of prolactin in patients taking antipsychotic medications. It was intended to review the recent literature regarding causes, symptoms of hyperprolactinemia, monitoring guidelines about antipsychotic drug-induced hyperprolactinemia, and suggested treatment approaches. There are multiple etiologies of hyperprolactinemia, which include side effects of a wide range of medications. While it is not recommended to monitor prolactin in all patients taking antipsychotic medication routinely, there are variations of approaches based on the antipsychotic drugs and the presence of hyperprolactinemia symptoms. Observations in this narrative review based on current evidence suggest careful clinical investigation and monitoring of hyperprolactinemia in psychiatric patients
Intensified CO₂ absorption process using a green solvent: rate-based modelling, sensitivity analysis, and scale-up
Full text link© 2025 The authors. 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 on the publisher’s website: https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13123774Ionic liquids (ILs) are recognized as environmentally friendly solvents due to their high CO₂ absorption capacity, ease of recovery, and chemical stability, making them a promising alternative to conventional solvents for CO₂ capture. In this study, a rate-based mathematical model was developed for a rotating packed bed (RPB) absorber employing 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([bmim][PF₆) as the solvent. The model incorporates mass, energy, and momentum balances, coupled with a thermodynamic model whose parameters were determined using experimental data. The rate-based model was validated against experimental results obtained from the RPB absorber. To enhance predictive accuracy, a sensitivity analysis of various mass transfer correlations was conducted, and simulations were performed based on the outcomes of this analysis. The model provided detailed radial profiles of pressure, gas and liquid flow rates, CO₂ concentration, temperature, volumetric mass transfer coefficients, and both gas- and liquid-phase resistances. The results indicated that the CO₂ capture efficiency and mass transfer coefficients in both phases increased with rotational speed along the bed’s radial direction. Furthermore, the RPB was designed for a flue gas stream from a fired heater in a petrochemical unit containing 10.74 mol % CO₂. The optimal liquid-to-gas ratio at a large scale was found to be 0.3 kg/kg, achieving a CO₂ removal efficiency of 98%. Under these conditions, the required motor power at an outer radius of 1.55 m was approximately 24.6 kW. Furthermore, comparison with a conventional packed bed showed that the liquid-phase volumetric mass transfer coefficient in the RPB was significantly higher, confirming its superior mass transfer performance.Published versio
The role of struvite crystals and the necrobiome in estimating the postmortem interval for forensic investigations in the UK
No full textA thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the University of Wolverhampton for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.
Content warning: Photographs of porcine cadavers in Appendix 3 and at various locations in the thesis.Forensic taphonomy is a sub-discipline of forensic anthropology and has become a focal point for research in recent years to aid in the development of decomposition models specific to the United Kingdom (UK). Research in the UK has highlighted struvite crystal precipitation as a potential preliminary method for estimating the postmortem interval (PMI). The aim of this research was to investigate the use of struvite crystals and the microbial communities that precipitate them in estimating the PMI for forensic investigations in the UK.
An in vitro model was established through the development of a differential media to select and identify bacteria that allow for the formation of struvite crystals through the detection of urease enzyme activity. This successfully aided in the preliminary analysis of ureolytic bacteria by causing a statistically measurable colour change. Identification of these isolates was obtained by conducting matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS).
To confirm the identity of the crystals, samples were subjected to analytical tests to determine the elemental composition, molecular bonds and the morphological features. The results indicated that the samples grown from the isolates of interest and those which appeared on the surface of articular cartilage were struvite due to mirroring the features of identified struvite.
An alternative method of detecting the presence of ureolytic organisms was carried out through the sampling of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). VOCs were sampled in vitro from cultures to establish baseline profiles for each organism. Porcine cadavers were used in an outdoor environment; ex vivo measurements of VOCs were sampled during decomposition and compared to the in vitro bacterial profiles findings to determine whether organisms of interest could be identified. 1-Butanol, 3-methyl-, produced by Proteus spp. has been observed within the necrobiome. This provided an assessment of succession in ureolytic bacteria that suggests potential as a complimentary method for estimating the PMI.
In summary, findings from this research indicate that sampling and identifying struvite crystals in forensic investigations is a time-consuming, invasive and destructive process. This suggests that this is not feasible for real-world applications where non-invasive, evidence preserving and timely approaches would be preferred. Research has also shown that the focus should be on the postmortem community of ureolytic organisms, rather than struvite as this is a byproduct of the decomposition process. Exploratory findings suggest that it likely be possible to identify ureolytic organisms within the VOCs of the necrobiome. Further research can build upon these discoveries to establish a comprehensive framework for this complimentary model
Core stability of undergraduate collegiate dancers: an investigation of pilates on core stability and dance performance
No full textSubmitted to the Faculty of the Faculty of Education Health & Wellbeing of University of Wolverhampton in the United Kingdom in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the PhD in Dance Science.Core stability is crucial for dancers, who must execute complex movements while maintaining proper alignment. However, there is limited research on suitable core stability tests for dancers. This thesis aimed to: (a) develop a reliable, dance-specific abdominal test, scoring tool, and protocol for assessing the effects of Pilates training in intervention studies, and (b) contribute to understanding the impact of Pilates on dance performance, including both mat and apparatus work.
The literature review highlighted the lack of research on Pilates’ impact on dance training, with mixed results. Study 1 compared a traditional abdominal endurance test, FITNESSGRAM curl test (FGCT), with Pilates-based exercises (e.g., Legs Up, Legs on Diagonal) and found no significant differences in lower rectus abdominis engagement. However, pelvic alignment issues in the FGCT may have influenced results, as it does not consider dance-specific alignment.
Study 2 explored the effects of a Pilates Mat routine on modern dance performance and core stability. Although statistical data was limited, participants showed a mean of 75% improvement in plank tests, improving on the plank scoring test with participants reaching the average rating. The movement phrase, scored by three independent evaluators with 67% inter-reliability, showed that dancers improved in the dance movements from pre to post testing, with the largest improvement seen in handstand performance. Using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis three themes were developed: (1) Core Strength and Control, (2) Body Awareness, (3) Support for Dance Practice. Participant responses supported perceived impact of Pilates on core control, body awareness and improved dance training.
Study 3 investigated the effects of a Pilates wall unit on dancers, focusing on pelvic alignment and core stability. The intervention group showed a significant improvement in the lower abdominal test (+12.3%), with moderate improvements in other tests for pelvic alignment and core strength. The intervention groups improved consistently in the active neutral test with a mean improvement of 40%. Both groups showed improvements in leg angle performance during the lower abdominal test, however, the intervention group demonstrated more consistent gains, potentially attributable to the structured Pilates-based core training. Qualitative data assessed dancer perception of the impact of Pilates on core stability and dance training. Through the coding process and theme development, two key themes emerged: (1) Strength and Progression, (2) Awareness and Control. Dancers perceived improvement in core strength and stability, body awareness and more control in dance movements.
The findings suggest that current abdominal tests are not fully applicable to dancers, as they do not account for alignment. While this thesis did not develop a new test, it provides foundational insights for further research. The Dancer Conditioning Impact Assessment Protocol, a three-step approach to analyzing training impact, offers a framework for assessing dance performance. Overall, Pilates may improve dancers' strength, balance, and flexibility, but cross-training with other conditioning methods may be essential for optimal performance
Metabolic, androgenic, and physical activity profiles in women aged over 40 years with polycystic ovary syndrome: A comparative analysis using UK Biobank data
No full text© 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/10.1177/174550572513858Background:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive-aged women, linked to metabolic, hormonal, and psychological issues. Management typically involves lifestyle changes, including increased physical activity and reduced sedentary behaviour.
Objectives:
To compare the health profiles and behaviours of women with and without PCOS.
Design:
This study analysed data from the UK Biobank, which is a prospective cohort study.
Methods:
Women with PCOS in the UK Biobank were identified, while age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls were randomly selected. Data on factors associated with PCOS severity and self-reported lifestyle behaviours were analysed. Group differences were tested for significance, and participants were categorised by health behaviours to assess morbidity risk.
Results:
The study included 319 women with PCOS (mean age: 43.9 years) and 638 in each control group. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in anthropometric (e.g. body weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference, and body fat), cardio-metabolic (e.g. blood pressure, triglycerides, and glycated haemoglobin), and androgenic (e.g. sex hormone-binding globulin) indices. Differences were most pronounced between PCOS and age-matched controls but remained when BMI was also considered. Women with PCOS engaged in less vigorous physical activity and had higher screen time and sedentary behaviours. Those with the lowest physical activity and highest sedentary time had the worst health profiles and highest morbidity risk, regardless of group.
Conclusion:
Women with PCOS exhibit poorer health despite only slight lifestyle differences. Across all participants, lower physical activity and higher sedentary behaviour were linked to increased health risks. Further research is needed to clarify causal relationships between lifestyle factors and PCOS.The authors disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: This study was completed as part of a funded PhD project (CK) through Aston University.Published versio