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Effectiveness of green public procurement in stimulating green products and resource efficiency in SMEs: empirical analysis of the EU industries
No full text© 2025 The Authors. Published by Wiley. 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/10.1002/bse.70102This study evaluates the effectiveness of green public procurement (GPP) in stimulating green products and resource efficiency in SMEs. The research uses sample data from 28 European countries (27 EU country members and the United Kingdom) to test two hypotheses, namely, one on the effects of GPP on green products and processes as well as another on the tangibility of the SME sector in stimulating green outcomes. Our original contribution centers upon the vital role of SMEs engaged in the green agenda and how effective GPP is in stimulating green products and resource efficiency. By contributing to the green policy agenda, our research informs policymakers on how effective GPP is in stimulating green outcomes in the SME sector. However, the reality of GPP is that these tend to be relatively high-risk projects over comparatively long periods of time that are prone to the problem of double externalities. Our research findings show that GPP has positive effects on the likelihood of green products and processes. However, there are mixed results about whether greater tangibility of the SME sector leads to a greater effectiveness of GPP in stimulating green products and processes.Published onlin
Preparation and characterization of triglycine-containing 3D-printed PBAT/PLA specimens
No full text© 2025 The Authors. Published by ACS. 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/10.1021/acsomega.5c03205This study explores a novel additive─0.2 wt % monodisperzed H-Gly-Gly-Gly-OH (triglycine)─to poly(1,4-butylene adipate-co-1,4-butylene terephthalate)/polylactide (PBAT/PLA) blend. The triglycine-containing PBAT/PLA was extruded into uniform filaments with a diameter of 1.74 ± 0.02 mm by using a single-screw extruder, which was subsequently employed to fabricate specimens via material extrusion (MEX) technology at nozzle temperatures (T) of 155 and 190 °C. In the present study, the fabrication of triglycine-containing specimens was investigated with a focus on elucidating their thermal behavior and mechanical properties. The influence of print temperature on these properties was also evaluated to establish correlations between processing conditions and material performance. Results indicated that all specimens could be printed smoothly at 155 and 190 °C, regardless of triglycine presence. The addition of triglycine did not significantly affect the melting temperature of the specimens, but it did reduce the difference in glass transition temperature between PLA and PBAT. SEM analysis did not display any significant differences between the specimens across all nozzle temperatures. Specimens without triglycine displayed consistent mechanical properties across temperatures, achieving a high tensile modulus (E) of 261.5 MPa for specimens printed at T = 190 °C. Conversely, triglycine-containing specimens printed at the same temperature exhibited a significantly lower tensile modulus (E = 159.5 MPa). However, the triglycine inclusion enhanced the ultimate tensile strength at lower print temperatures, with values of 15.03 ± 0.11 MPa for specimens printed at T = 155 °C compared to 10.16 ± 1.65 MPa for specimens printed at T = 190 °C.The authors acknowledge support for this work by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement no. 872152, project GREEN-MAP, an international project cofinanced by the program of the Minister of Science and Higher Education entitled “PMW” in the years 2020–2024, contract no. 5092/H2020/2020/2.Published onlin
The health-related benefits of practicing dance and tai-chi among non-clinical adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
No full textThis is an author's accepted manuscript of an article published by Springer Nature in Ageing International, available online: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12126-025-09623-x.
The accepted manuscript may differ from the final published version.
For re-use please see Springer's terms and conditions.Objectives: Dance and Tai Chi have become increasingly used as health promotion interventions. This review and meta-analysis examines their efficacy in improving physical and mental health in non-clinical populations.
Research questions: Do dance and Tai Chi practices benefit physical health and psychological wellbeing?
Method: This review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022309436) and followed PRISMA (2020) guidelines. A comprehensive search was undertaken across eight databases.
Results: The primary search identified 9228 studies. Following title, abstract, and full-text screening, 38 studies met the inclusion criteria; 26 were Tai Chi-focused and 12 were dance-focused. The Kmet quality assessment tool produced a mean total score of 20±3.87 and mean summary score of 0.77±0.14 (range 0.46-1.0). Nineteen (50%) studies scored inadequate on its replicability, due to poor methodological details. Twenty-seven (71%) studies purposefully recruited participants over the age of 60. Participants in the included studies were predominantly female, with the proportion in each study from 65% to 95.1%. Meta-analysis indicates significant balance and mental health benefits from dance and Tai Chi interventions (p<0.01), one set of Tai Chi data reported a negative effect on balance (p=0.01).
Discussion: Dance and Tai Chi produced multiple benefits for physical and mental health among non-clinical populations. Their lack of intervention details, however, prevents future studies from replicating. The included studies highlighted a focus on fall prevention focusing mainly on an elderly female population. We recommend that future research assesses independent variables beyond balance and fall-related issues, and is conducted with young participants as well as male participants
Effect of poly-γ-glutamic acid molecular weight on the properties of whey protein isolate hydrogels
No full text© 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/polym17121605Whey protein isolate (WPI) hydrogel is a promising candidate as a biomaterial for tissue engineering. Previously, WPI hydrogels containing poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) with a molecular weight (MW) of 440 kDa demonstrated potential as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. Here, the study compares different γ-PGA preparations of differing MW. WPI-γ-PGA hydrogels containing 40% WPI and 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10% γ-PGA were synthesised. Three γ-PGA MWs were compared, namely 10 kDa, 700 kDa, and 1100 kDa. Evidence of successful γ-PGA incorporation was demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Increasing γ-PGA concentration significantly improved the swelling potential of the hydrogels, as demonstrated by ratio mass increases of between 85 and 90% for each 10% variable group. Results suggested that γ-PGA delayed enzymatic proteolysis, potentially decreasing the rate of degradation. The addition of γ-PGA significantly decreased the Young’s modulus and compressive strength of hydrogels. Dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells proliferated on all hydrogels. The highest cellular growth was observed for the WPI-700 kDa γ-PGA group. Additionally, superior cell attachment was observed on all WPI hydrogels containing γ-PGA compared to the WPI control. These results further suggest the potential of WPI hydrogels containing γ-PGA as biomaterials for bone tissue engineering.The Faculty of Science and Technology, Lancaster University, United Kingdom, is thanked for financial support to D.K.B. The research work was supported by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (H.F.R.I.) under the “First Call for H.F.R.I. Research Projects to support Faculty members and Researchers and the procurement of high-cost research equipment grant” Project Number: HFRI-FM17-1999 to M.C., V.P., and N.N.T. This study was supported by the programme “Excellence Initiative—Research University” for the AGH University of Krakow: Z.P.-L. This work was also partially supported by the University of Wolverhampton Research Investment Found (RIF4).Published onlin
Relics of the past and symbols of modernity: the cultural practices of coal mining communities in post-war Britain
No full textThis is an author's accepted manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis on [date tbc], available online: [link tbc].
The accepted manuscript may differ from the final published version.This article challenges popular representations of post-war British coal mining communities. Such localities are often imagined as displaying cultural practices belonging to a previous age that were subsequently fragmented by the economic and social changes of the 1980s. Such images and tropes have been further reinforced by the somewhat heroic construction of miners as archetypal proletarians in the strike of 1984/5, and through films such as Brassed Off (1996) Billy Elliot (2000) and Pride (2014). Through a focus on cultural activities in miners’ welfare clubs, geographical mobility and holidays/vacations, youth subcultures and music creation and consumption at a number of different colliery sites, it is argued that as well as being bearers of a mythologized industrial past, mining communities were also symbolic of affluence and modernity in the changing cultural landscape of Britain from the 1950s through to the 1990s. The research draws substantially on a material from the archives of the National Coal Board (NCB) and National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and an oral history project that conducted interviews with 96 former miners. It complements recent interventions on the history of mining communities that have sought to unpick the complexities of the rise and fall of British coal.The research for this article was supported by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, grant number AH/P007244/1
A maturity assessment model for metal additive manufacturing: additive manufacturing readiness levels
No full textThis is an author's accepted manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis on 25/10/2025, available online: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2025.2571203
The accepted mansucript may differ from the final published version.Despite many promises, metal additive manufacturing (MAM) adoption is still limited within the industry. To effectively and successfully implement MAM, companies need to assess their maturity status quo, combined with the MAM technology maturity, at both organisational and operational levels. However, existing maturity models (MMs) are either only dedicated to just one of these levels or are not adapted to MAM. Thus, this paper proposes an original and tailored MM: the Additive Manufacturing Readiness Levels (AMRL), a multicriteria MM to evaluate the maturity of a MAM technology coupled with a use case, offering a context-aware approach that bridges technological capability and operational applicability. The model features 8 dimensions, divided into 22 sub-items to be assessed, referring to Industry 5.0 pillars, including environmental and social considerations. To develop and validate the proposal, an iterative methodology is followed where the AMRL is applied to compare the maturity of three Directed Energy Deposition technologies coupled with nine use cases in the context of a French Technology Transfer Centre. Direct interviews with experts and measures of agreement granted validation. AMRL aims to contribute to the adoption of MAM by assisting decision makers. Future research could investigate its use in different industry sectors and decision configurations.This research was conducted with support from ESTIA, France, the University of Wolverhampton, UK. This research project was undertaken with the assistance of resources and services from the ADDIMADOUR platform, Additive Manufacturing Solutions.Published onlin
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
Robust local governance responses in the context of turbulence: the case of collaborative and co-created COVID-19 pandemic responses in two local authority areas in England
Get PDF© 2025 The Authors. Published by Wiley. 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/10.1111/spol.13126The COVID‐19 pandemic required local and national governments to respond urgently and rapidly to new and unprecedented challenges. According to an influential strand of literature within public administration, public agencies must exhibit robust governance strategies to tackle the unpredictability, instability and complexity of a turbulent event such as the COVID‐19. In the face of turbulence, robust governance is characterised by adaptability, agility and innovation and co‐creating with partners and communities, while governance systems must evolve so that they perform more effectively in the future. This paper examines how two local authorities in England responded to the pandemic. We draw upon a novel qualitative dataset obtained through privileged access to senior council staff, elected members and council partners. Both ‘Metaltown’ (North West) and ‘Milltown’ (West Midlands) were poised, at the outset of the pandemic, to be badly hit by COVID‐19 due to their population characteristics, relative deprivation and occupational structures, and the areas did experience some of the highest numbers of infection rates and coronavirus‐related deaths. The two local responses both entailed multi‐agency action with the local authority working alongside partners in the police, emergency services, health, education, transport and housing sectors, with private enterprise and with community groups to manage the challenges. Although we observed robust governance strategies, this occurred in the absence of any deliberate policy design at the national level. Instead, the responses were locally determined, fit for purpose and adaptive in response to challenges that emerged on the ground. The findings suggest a need to modify the robust governance framework to better account for contextually specific circumstances. This has implications for how local and national governments respond to current and future challenges, such as the ongoing cost‐of‐living and climate crises.Published onlin